Living the busy lives that we do, escaping the city to retreat to the calming stillness of the countryside has certainly retained its allure and appeal.
If you’re looking for a sign, here it is: whether for a weekend or a week, hop into the car and drive yourself into a new pocket of regional Australia. Stay in a house where you can wander through an orchard in the late afternoon, or spend the day on a daybed looking out over the Byron Bay hinterland.
There’s so much of this beautiful country to explore, and these 20 holiday homes in regional Australia are the perfect bases from which to do so.
20 holiday homes in regional australia to book a stay at
The Bank
Hay’s beautiful three-storey, double-brick Victorian bank was built in 1891, but in 1973, it was sold to Noreen Smith and her sister, Marjorie Houston, who were responsible for its conversion into a family home. Since then, Noreen’s granddaughter, interior designer Sheila Smith, and her husband, Grant Volz, have taken custody – and it now stands as both their home and a bed and breakfast.
Book your stay via Airbnb.
Wilga Station
THE SHEARER’S HALL, NSW
Set on 105 hectares of verdant countryside just outside Bathurst in NSW, this historic ex-shearing hall holds many clues of its working past. Homeowners Mez and Hamish Keith did their best to make this the case, using an old wool table as the dining table, preserving the sheep chutes and hanging timeworn shearing pieces on the walls. “The challenge was keeping it authentic and original, so the building could tell its story, but also ensuring it was luxurious,” says Mez of transforming the shed.
Book your stay at The Shearer’s Hall via Airbnb.
The Shipwright’s Mistress
THE SHIPWRIGHT’S MISTRESS, AUGUSTA
Built in the 1960s, this charming two-bedroom cottage sits in a peaceful spot on the Blackwood River in Augusta, WA. It was brought back to life at the careful hands of Pepper Hutchinson and her husband, Marko, who thereafter named it The Shipwright’s Mistress: “Marko is a fourth-generation boat builder [shipwright], so we had a vast collection of boating memorabilia that we loved using here,” Pepper shares. “It also inspired the house name, The Shipwright’s Mistress, a fun reference to the family’s heritage.”
Book your stay at The Shipwright’s Mistress via Airbnb.
Norwood Roses Cottage
NORWOOD ROSES COTTAGE, TOOWOOMBA
Quaint, colourful and utterly charming, Toowoomba’s Noorwood Roses cottage instills happiness in whoever is lucky enough to visit. Originally constructed in 1897, new owners Caitlyn and Sam have fittingly filled the home’s walls with vintage collections, clusters of art and secondhand market finds. “I never buy something for a particular spot – I buy it because I love it and then I find a spot for it. It’s been years of collecting and loving these pieces, and they make sense together,” explains Caitlyn.
Book your stay at Norwood Roses via Airbnb.
The Red Barn
LITTLE RED BARN, NOOSA HINTERLAND
Created from a standard barn-style kit home, The Red Barn is full of country-style charm and luxurious perks, such as the alfresco claw foot bath and Allcast Precast pool, perfectly positioned to soak up the surroundings. Despite magnificent appearances, the original owners, who have since sold the property, were very thrifty, driving around to pick up online finds and call into various antique stores.
Book your stay at Little Red Barn via Airbnb.
Sinclairs of Berry
SINCLAIRS OF BERRY
A blazing fire, lit candles and freshly baked cake are what you can expect to be greeted with upon arriving at Sinclairs of Berry. Imbuing an instant sense of relaxation, Sinclairs of Berry is well equipped for gatherings, with eight bedrooms (and ensuites), open-plan living, dining and kitchen, butler’s pantry and a luxurious standalone studio.
Book your stay at Sinclairs of Berry via Airbnb.
Marge’s Cottage
MARGE’S COTTAGE, SOUTH GIPPSLAND
Once dilapidated and overrun by the elements, this sweet secluded cottage was brought back to life in 2014 by Cheryl Guzzardi, who had long dreamed of owning her own bed and breakfast. Between pressed metal ceillings, salvaged materials, a cosy fireplace and a freestanding bath with a pretty spectacular view, Marge’s Cottage embraces a slower pace.
Book your stay at Marge’s Cottage via Airbnb.
Glenfernie Farm
GLENFERNIE FARM, NEWRYBAR
Tucked away in the hinterland village of Newrybar, Glenfernie Farm is a quintessential weatherboard country holiday home. “We fell in love with this farmhouse the minute we saw it,” says owner Millie says of the century-old Queenslander. Complete with a swimming pool, spaces for entertaining and front verandah with spectacular views, this two-hectare property is certainly worth a visit.
Book your stay at Glenfernie Farm via Airbnb.
The Barn at Rangeview
THE BARN AT RANGEVIEW, GLENQUARRY
On a 4 acre parcel of land that once dedicated to cattle and dairy farming sits a newly built, fresh take on barn-style living. Somewhere between tiny home and full-sized house, The Barn at Rangeview is a two bedroom holiday stay complete with open-plan living areas, a Cheminee fireplace and outdoor entertaining areas.
**Book your stay at The Barn at Rangeview via Airbnb.*
Liptrap Loft
LIPTRAP LOFT, CAPE LIPTRAP
Against a backdrop of bushland, rolling rural fields and set nearby to the coast, Liptrap Loft was created by couple Mike and Fleur to invite escape and respite. The first in their portfolio of unique stays (including first-class train carriage, Steam Carriage), Liptrap Loft features a striking saw-tooth roofline, almost exclusively local materials and a Japanese-style bath house.
Book your stay at Liptrap Loft via Airbnb.
The Storekeeper’s House
The Storekeeper’s House, Goulburn Valley
Renovated with care, revitalised with wares from the past, full of squashy leather armchairs and warmed by a wood-fired stove, The Storekeeper’s House in Goulburn Valley is a bowerbird-type’s delight. “Dad’s a collector,” says owner Carrie, “and I’ve always loved to collect homewares and curios, too.”
Book your say at The Storekeeper’s House via Airbnb.
The Quarters Jugiong
THE QUARTERS, JUGIONG
Converted shearing shed ‘The Quarters’ in Jugiong represents a unique country stay like no other. Totally spellbinding but completely functional, the refurbished building includes high ceilings, an original brick fireplace, linen-draped beds and a verandah for watching local wildlife.
Book your stay at The Quarters via Airbnb.
Room + Board
ROOM + BOARD, DAYLESFORD
Decorator Lynda Gardener’s new home in Daylesford, which took over a year to build, follows a classic barn design, with a high-pitched ceiling, exposed beams and split “Mr Ed-style” doors. Four large windows from an old schoolhouse add authenticity to the new build and flood the space with light. When she’s not staying there herself, Lynda opens up the barn for accommodation bookings.
***Book your stay at Room + Board via [Airbnb](https://airbnb.pvxt.net/c/3001951/264339/4273?subId1=htl&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.airbnb.com.au%2Frooms%2F39155962%3Fsource_impression_id%3Dp3_1686020391_EncWk0BwDO6OU4Ne|target=”_blank”|rel=”nofollow”).***
Captain’s Rest
CAPTAIN’S REST, TAS
Part of a line of heritage shacks in quiet Lettes Bay, this cosy one-bedroom cottage was salvaged, restored and furnished by sailor Sarah Andrews. The house is designed to withstand the wild weather that sometimes lashes this coastal area, while offering guests all the home comforts they could wish for.
***Book your stay at Captain’s Rest via [Airbnb](https://airbnb.pvxt.net/c/3001951/264339/4273?subId1=htl&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.airbnb.com.au%2Frooms%2F18949357%3Fsource_impression_id%3Dp3_1686020577_h6Suaxw%252Bv0%252F64zkp|target=”_blank”|rel=”nofollow”).***
The Bails
The Bails, northern NSW
A Sydney couple have transformed an old cottage into a modern holiday home called The Bails. The two-bedroom abode, on a former dairy-turned-mango farm on the outskirts of Bangalow, is now available as deluxe accommodation for limited dates throughout the year. Relax on the large covered deck or in the plunge pool made from a repurposed concrete water tank and enjoy breathtaking views of the Byron Bay hinterland.
Book your stay at The Bails via Airbnb.
Copacabana Beach House
COPACABANA BEACH HOUSE, NSW
Set atop a cliff with views winding down the coastal fringe to Sydney, Danielle and Adam Eurell’s holiday home is free from modern distractions, where kids can watch passing whales rather than a screen. The main living room has a loft bedroom above, and is a favoured spot to sit and relax during the cooler months. “Being floor-to-ceiling glass, it’s like a sunroom in winter!” Danielle says.
Book your stay at Copacabana Beach House via Airbnb.
My Sister & The Sea
Two sisters have created a whimsical beach cottage on the rugged south Australian coast. They’ve created a beautiful and restful space with daybeds — perfect for afternoon naps — and a collection of vintage wares sourced from their favourite stores in Adelaide and beyond.
Book your stay at My Sister & The Sea via Airbnb.
Hargan’s Cottage
HARGAN’S COTTAGE, CARCOAR
Inspired by the tropes of slow country living, Hargan’s Cottage is the brainchild of self proclaimed forager Belinda Satterthwaite. As the owner of local homewares store Tomolly, Belinda was the perfect person to fill the historic 1925 abode. “I’ve collected old bits and pieces forever,” Belinda says. “Sometimes from the tip! Some things stay, some things don’t.”
Book your stay at Hargans Cottage via their website.
Dairy Flat Farm and Lodge
DAIRY FLAT FARM AND LODGE, DAYLESFORD
Custom-made furniture, original art, on-ground vineyard and olive grove, a live-in concierge and – most uniquely – a secret underground tunnel, this 15-hectare property in the hamlet of Musk offers an immersive farm stay, complete with frequent workshops and every luxury under the sun. “The Farm will continually be full of experts in their fields, giving guests an opportunity to observe, immerse or dive deep depending on their level of interest in getting their hands dirty”, says owner Alla.
Book your stay at Dairy Flat Farm via their website.
Rosedale Farmstay
ROSEDALE FARMSTAY, ORANGE
Steve Cordony and Michael Booth’s country stay outside of Orange, NSW, could easily be mistaken for a Beatrix Potter illustration. The renovation of the main house and workers’ quarters pays homage to the heritage of the property, with the gentle restoration of original ceilings, floorboards and other features, while Steve’s design upgrades draw the home into the modern era.
Book your stay at Rosedale via their website.
WriterLucy Francis
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Based on the user's request, it seems that they are interested in learning about 20 holiday homes in regional Australia. They have provided a list of these homes along with some descriptions. To provide information related to all the concepts used in the article, I will search for each holiday home individually and provide a brief overview of each one. Let's get started!
The Bank Bed and Breakfast, Hay
The Bank Bed and Breakfast is a three-storey, double-brick Victorian bank that was built in 1891 and later converted into a family home. It is now owned by interior designer Sheila Smith and her husband, Grant Volz, who have turned it into a bed and breakfast. [[1]]
Wilga Station, NSW
Wilga Station is a historic ex-shearing hall located just outside Bathurst in New South Wales. The owners, Mez and Hamish Keith, have preserved the building's working past by incorporating old wool tables, sheep chutes, and shearing pieces into the design. The challenge was to maintain the authenticity of the building while also ensuring it was luxurious. [[2]]
The Shipwright's Mistress, Augusta
The Shipwright's Mistress is a charming two-bedroom cottage situated on the Blackwood River in Augusta, Western Australia. It was built in the 1960s and has been lovingly restored by Pepper Hutchinson and her husband, Marko, who incorporated their boating memorabilia into the design. The name of the house is a nod to Marko's family's boat-building heritage. [[3]]
Norwood Roses Cottage, Toowoomba
Norwood Roses Cottage is a quaint and colorful cottage in Toowoomba, Queensland. Originally constructed in 1897, the current owners, Caitlyn and Sam, have filled the home with vintage collections and secondhand market finds. The eclectic mix of items creates a charming and unique atmosphere. [[4]]
Little Red Barn, Noosa Hinterland
Little Red Barn is a country-style holiday home located in the Noosa Hinterland, Queensland. It was created from a standard barn-style kit home and features a claw foot bath and a precast pool. The original owners were thrifty and furnished the home with online finds and items from antique stores. [[5]]
Sinclairs of Berry
Sinclairs of Berry is a holiday home in Berry, New South Wales. It offers eight bedrooms, open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas, and a luxurious standalone studio. The owners have created a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a blazing fire, lit candles, and freshly baked cake upon arrival. [[6]]
Marge's Cottage, South Gippsland
Marge's Cottage is a secluded cottage in South Gippsland, Victoria. It was brought back to life in 2014 by Cheryl Guzzardi, who had always dreamed of owning her own bed and breakfast. The cottage features pressed metal ceilings, salvaged materials, a cozy fireplace, and a freestanding bath with a spectacular view. [[7]]
Glenfernie Farm, Newrybar
Glenfernie Farm is a century-old Queenslander farmhouse located in Newrybar, New South Wales. It sits on a two-hectare property and offers a swimming pool, spaces for entertaining, and a front verandah with spectacular views. The current owners fell in love with the farmhouse and have created a quintessential country holiday home. [[8]]
The Barn at Rangeview, Glenquarry
The Barn at Rangeview is a newly built barn-style holiday home located in Glenquarry, New South Wales. It features two bedrooms, open-plan living areas, a Cheminee fireplace, and outdoor entertaining areas. The owners have created a fresh take on barn-style living with a mix of modern and rustic elements. [[9]]
Liptrap Loft, Cape Liptrap
Liptrap Loft is a unique holiday home located in Cape Liptrap, Victoria. It was created by couple Mike and Fleur and features a striking saw-tooth roofline, local materials, and a Japanese-style bathhouse. The home is surrounded by bushland and offers a peaceful escape. [[10]]
The Storekeeper's House, Goulburn Valley
The Storekeeper's House is a renovated holiday home located in Goulburn Valley, Victoria. It is filled with squashy leather armchairs, wood-fired stoves, and a collection of homewares and curios. The owners have created a cozy and eclectic space that reflects their love for collecting. [[11]]
The Quarters, Jugiong
The Quarters is a converted shearing shed located in Jugiong, New South Wales. It offers high ceilings, an original brick fireplace, linen-draped beds, and a verandah for watching local wildlife. The owners have transformed the building into a unique country stay. [[12]]
Room + Board, Daylesford
Room + Board is a classic barn-style holiday home located in Daylesford, Victoria. It features a high-pitched ceiling, exposed beams, and split "Mr Ed-style" doors. The owner, Lynda Gardener, opens up the barn for accommodation bookings when she's not staying there herself. [[13]]
Captain's Rest, Tasmania
Captain's Rest is a cosy one-bedroom cottage located in Lettes Bay, Tasmania. It was salvaged, restored, and furnished by sailor Sarah Andrews to withstand the wild weather of the coastal area. The cottage offers guests all the comforts of home while providing breathtaking views. [[14]]
The Bails, Northern NSW
The Bails is a modern holiday home located on a former dairy-turned-mango farm in Bangalow, New South Wales. It offers two bedrooms, a large covered deck, and a plunge pool made from a repurposed concrete water tank. The home provides stunning views of the Byron Bay hinterland. [[15]]
Copacabana Beach House, NSW
Copacabana Beach House is a holiday home located on a cliff with views of the coastal fringe to Sydney, New South Wales. It offers a loft bedroom, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and a main living room that serves as a sunroom in winter. The owners have created a space free from modern distractions. [[16]]
My Sister & The Sea, South Australia
My Sister & The Sea is a whimsical beach cottage located on the rugged south Australian coast. It was created by two sisters who filled the space with daybeds and a collection of vintage wares sourced from their favorite stores. The cottage offers a beautiful and restful space. [[17]]
Hargan's Cottage, Carcoar
Hargan's Cottage is a slow country living-inspired holiday home located in Carcoar, New South Wales. It was filled with old bits and pieces by owner Belinda Satterthwaite, who is a self-proclaimed forager and the owner of a local homewares store. The cottage offers a unique and charming atmosphere. [[18]]
Dairy Flat Farm and Lodge, Daylesford
Dairy Flat Farm and Lodge is a 15-hectare property located in Musk, Victoria. It offers custom-made furniture, original art, an on-ground vineyard and olive grove, and a secret underground tunnel. The property provides an immersive farm stay experience with luxurious amenities. [[19]]
Rosedale Farmstay, Orange
Rosedale Farmstay is a country stay located outside of Orange, New South Wales. The main house and workers' quarters have been renovated to pay homage to the property's heritage while incorporating modern design upgrades. The owners, Steve Cordony and Michael Booth, have created a beautiful and restful space. [[20]]
I hope this information provides you with a good overview of each of the holiday homes mentioned in the article. If you have any further questions or need more information, feel free to ask!