Be the first to stay in these new off-grid tiny homes across Victoria

Small stays built for big escapes.

Every now and then, we all need to switch off – not just from our phones, but from the traffic, the deadlines, the noise of city life. One of those off-grid, no-reception kind of escapes that allow us to breathe a little deeper, sleep a little longer and return home feeling fully refreshed. Looking for an excuse? Tiny Away just opened six new tiny homes across Victoria.

All about Tiny Away’s latest tiny homes

Launched in 2017, Tiny Away was born from a simple idea – to give city dwellers a chance to escape the grind and recharge in nature. Nine years and over 500 tiny homes later, and the Victoria-based company are welcoming six new additions to the family.

Golden Hour Hideaway by Tine Away in Glenlyon, Victoria — Each new tiny home promises seclusion in nature. (Image: Supplied)

While each retreat offers something different, they all share a few common characteristics. Primarily, a serene location that promises seclusion, privacy and full immersion in nature. Each one is crafted with sustainable materials, designed to not only respect its surroundings but enhance them. Compact by nature, the tiny homes also consume less energy and use fewer resources, guided by a leave-no-trace philosophy.

“These new additions underscore Tiny Away’s commitment to creating low-impact, high-experience stays," said cofounder Jeff Yeo. “From forest hideaways to coastal sanctuaries, each home is thoughtfully placed to nurture both nature and guest wellbeing."

Hollow Mountain Getaway in the Grampians, Victoria — Off-grid living meets luxury at each Tiny Away retreat. (Image: Supplied)

But going off-grid doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Despite being small in size, the tiny homes are thoughtfully equipped with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a kitchenette with cooking essentials, split air-conditioning and a bathroom complete with toilet, hand basin and gas-heated shower.

Where are the six new tiny homes?

Tiny Away has retreats in both Australia and around the world, including all states bar the NT and ACT, as well as New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan and Europe. Luckily for Aussies, the six new additions will be on home soil, in Victoria to be exact. Here’s where to find them.

Bush Serenity by the Sea

It’s all in the name here – think bird-filled bushland just minutes from the coast. Bush Serenity by the Sea can be found in Bolwarra, just under an hour’s drive from Port Fairy. Grab a coffee in the historic town of Portland before exploring local boutiques or tackling the Great South West Walk . It’s one of the country’s best spots for whale-watching during migration season, so keep your eyes peeled!

Hollow Mountain Getaway

The Grampians National Park is already home to one of the most spectacular road trips in Australia. Now, it boasts one of the most spectacular tiny homes, too. Hollow Mountain Getaway sits at the base of the park’s iconic Hollow Mountain – hence its name. The beautifully designed tiny home may tempt some to stay inside, but head outdoors to discover scenic lookouts, towering cliffs, local wildlife and Indigenous rock art.

Heartstone Hill

Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Heartstone Hill in Wensleydale is in a prime position for access to the Great Otway National Park. While the tiny home itself is stunning (and boasts a gorgeous pool), waterfalls, hiking trails and the towering giants of Redwood Forest all beckon. Foodies should also check out the boutique wineries and distilleries along the Otway Harvest Trail .

Golden Hour Hideaway

Nestled in Glenlyon, a small town in the charming region of Daylesford, Golden Hour Hideaway is cradled by bucolic fields and rolling hills. Guests are encouraged to take full advantage of their bountiful surrounds, from the region’s destination hot springs to cellar door tastings and local markets. Don’t miss nearby Trentham Falls either, located in one of Victoria’s top towns of 2025.

Olive Sanctuary

Just outside the town of Taggerty in Victoria’s High Country, you’ll find the Olive Sanctuary . This rustic-chic tiny home is situated on a working farm and olive grove, offering firsthand insight into real country living. Whether you choose to while the weekend away onsite and sample the farm’s harvest or explore nearby Cathedral Range State Park , guests are spoilt for choice.

Celestial Haven

Celestial Haven isn’t deep in the forested region of Toolangi for no reason. With zero light pollution and uninterrupted views of the night sky, it was built with stargazers in mind. Whether you’re looking for the perfect base to watch the upcoming Perseid meteor shower or simply appreciate a star-studded sky, you’re in for a treat. Other drawcards include nearby vineyards, walking trails and the Healesville Sanctuary , home to a range of adorable native animals.

Bookings for all six new tiny homes, as well as other retreats across Australia, can be made via the Tiny Away website. Prices vary depending on location and date.

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.