The rhythm of city life, with its constant hum and hurried pace, can sometimes leave us longing for fresh air. We dream of escaping to a place where the stars shine brighter and the air is filled with the sounds of nature rather than traffic.
It’s a desire for a sanctuary, a place where we can truly unwind and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us, where everyday stresses simply melt away. Fortunately, havens within our beautiful country offer the perfect retreat from the urban rush.
For those with a penchant for the finer things in life, the Stayz Holiday Homes of the Year for 2025 have been unveiled. They offer a glimpse into the pinnacle of group holiday experiences across Australia.
The 2025 collection, handpicked from over 50,000 listings, showcases 10 exceptional homes that have garnered outstanding reviews and are hosted by individuals committed to providing an unparalleled guest experience.
These homes cater to various group sizes with nightly rates ranging from $650 to $1,500. They are in Australia’s most sought-after locations, including the Gold Coast, Kangaroo Valley, and Margaret River.
Sarah King, a Stayz travel expert, emphasised that the selection aims to inspire travelers to book their next group getaway, with homes with top-notch amenities such as private pools and fire pits.
These homes have been meticulously chosen based on traveler desires, including high ratings of 9.8 or above, glowing reviews, a minimum of three bedrooms, and standout features like saunas and pizza ovens.
King added that these homes embody the trend of JOMO (the joy of missing out) as more Australians seek to enjoy quiet moments and reconnect with themselves and loved ones in serene settings.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of these spectacular holiday homes that promise a slice of paradise for those looking to unwind in style.
1. Abercorn
In Buckaroo, New South Wales, Abercorn is an architect-designed country house on a picturesque farm near Mudgee. Designed by a husband-and-wife team, it features spacious, light-filled interiors with many handmade or individually sourced elements.
It sleeps up to eight and invites guests to enjoy the property’s veggie garden and the company of Belted Galloway cows. With an average cost per night of $825, Abercorn is praised for its homely feel and attention to detail.
‘We didn’t have the best weather for our stay, but that didn’t even matter. Abercorn was the perfect place to snuggle up near the fire, play indoors with our baby, and enjoy a wine or two over a board game,’ a guest wrote.
2. Mountain Lodge
Mountain Lodge in Sassafras, Victoria, is a tranquil forest retreat within walking distance to local villages and cafes. Accommodating up to eight guests, the lodge has state-of-the-art hydronic heating and offers a rooftop viewing deck for evening drinks.
The average cost per night is $855, and guests can even hire a private chef for a luxurious, fuss-free touch.
‘This was the best accommodation I’ve booked online, so homely and comfortable and had everything you could possibly want,’ a recent guest said.
3. Cape Mykonos
Cape Mykonos in Margaret River, Western Australia, brings a touch of the Mediterranean to the region. Set on eight acres, this home can accommodate up to 10 and offers views of the Indian Ocean. With an average cost per night of $902, guests can enjoy the tennis court, pavilion, and magical sunsets.
Drawing inspiration from the architecture of the Greek islands, the house fosters a sense of ‘connection’ with the renowned Greek Orthodox Church located one kilometer away in Prevelly.
‘Loved our stay here, the upstairs is great for entertaining, and the sunsets are magical. Highly recommend this spot for a getaway with friends and family members,’ a guest said.
4. The Cape House
The Cape House in Dover, Tasmania, is an exclusive hideaway on a private peninsula with 250 acres of wilderness and wildlife. This renovated farmhouse sleeps up to six adults and features a heated outdoor hot tub with panoramic water views.
The typical price per night is $662, and the hotel beautifully blends historic charm with contemporary comforts. The expansive wooden deck is perfect for outdoor dining, and the heated outdoor hot tub offers sweeping views of the water and a secluded atmosphere for a night beneath the stars.
‘A uniquely relaxing location and a lovely property that caters for your every need. A summer getaway or the perfect winter fireside escape,’ one commented.
5. The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat
The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat in the Gold Coast, Queensland, epitomises relaxed luxury for up to 14 guests. Set on a 1.7-hectare block, it features a 16m saltwater pool, a designer kitchen, and ample outdoor space for play and relaxation.
For those who are young or feel young, there’s a soccer field, several level grassy spaces, a cubby house to discover, and a BBQ area at the back. With a typical nightly rate of $1,436, this retreat is a perfect getaway just 20 minutes from the centre of the Gold Coast.
A guest described the property as ‘a light, airy, spacious home with every imaginable convenience. Loads of places to chill out inside and ample room outdoors to cater to the most adventurous play.’
6. Frogwell Hollow
Frogwell Hollow in Stirling, South Australia, combines the charm of an English cottage with the tranquility of the countryside. With a nightly rate of $848, this retreat sleeps six and is the perfect base for exploring the Adelaide Hills.
This getaway includes a sun-drenched conservatory, a garden teeming with wildlife, and a study with views of a meandering creek. Visitors can enjoy the wood-fired oven and fire pit.
‘Beautiful property – the photos online just can’t replicate the wonderful fairytale setting and house. Another world away, but only a short drive (or a nice walk) to everything you need,’ one guest said.
7. The Bahama House
The Bahama House in Port Douglas, Queensland, offers a tropical holiday experience near Four Mile Beach. This family-friendly home sleeps 10 and features a large pool, gourmet kitchen, and alfresco dining space.
The average cost per night is $1,027, making it an ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
A guest wrote, ‘Beautiful property, excellent presentation and architecture with everything you could possibly need for a family holiday. Perfect for our three generations. Thank you so much for the unforgettable Bahama house experience.’
8. Oliver’s Cottage
Oliver’s Cottage in Yarra Glen, Victoria, merges classic charm with luxury amenities for families or groups of up to 13.
The average cost per night for this property, which has six bedrooms, a farmhouse-style kitchen, and a gas fireplace, is $1,025. The spacious deck, outdoor spa, and sauna provide stunning views of the Yarra landscapes.
‘A very well set up and charming cottage with the benefit of six bedrooms and a great outdoor/alfresco area. Had everything you need to use as a base to enjoy the amazing wineries and restaurants of the Yarra Valley,’ a recent guest said.
9. Braeside
Braeside in Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales, is a five-acre retreat offering privacy and tranquility just minutes from the village.
The property can accommodate eight people and has a 12m saltwater pool and wrap-around decking. The average cost per night is $1,419. Guests can enjoy wildlife spotting and an outdoor fire pit amidst expansive lawns.
‘Braeside was better than expected. The house was beautiful and had everything that you needed. The kitchen was well stocked with every utensil needed to cook a lovely meal. The pool was great. The grounds were just lovely, very serene,’ a guest commented.
10. Le Chateau
Le Chateau in Holgate, New South Wales, is a secluded French chateau-inspired property that accommodates up to 18 guests. It has a billiard room, infinity-edge pool, and exquisite art collection, and the average cost per night is $1,400.
The master suite features a two-person spa bath, offering a luxurious retreat in the Central Coast hinterland.
‘A spectacularly located and well-maintained property. It was very clean and well prepared for all guests. The kitchen was a perfect size for all the cooking, the verandas perfect for soaking up the winter sun, the bedrooms quiet and comfortable, the downstairs billiard room and spa a treat to have,’ a guest raved.
Which one of these homes made it to your holiday plans this year? Have you stayed in a holiday home that blew your expectations out of the water? Or share a story of your favourite trip in the comments.
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