From dreamy coastal escapes to swoon-worthy luxe lodges.
Something about staying at a holiday home makes a getaway feel extra special – the privacy, the space, the sense of escape. If you’re dreaming of your next trip, the reveal of Stayz’s 2025 Holiday Homes of the Year list is your cue to start planning. This year’s list showcases the crème de la crème of holiday rentals – each a perfect setting for your next unforgettable escape.
Handpicked from over 50,000 listings, these 10 private Aussie rentals have guest ratings of 9.8 and above and are the stuff holiday dreams are made of. Think chic country escapes, jaw-dropping coastal stays and dreamy architectural retreats, all handpicked for their luxe factor and stellar guest reviews.
1. Abercorn, Buckaroo, NSW
Enjoy an authentic farm stay at Abercorn.
An architect-designed countryside retreat near Mudgee, Abercorn offers guests stylish, light-filled interiors, lush veggie gardens and a charming herd of Belted Galloway cows for a genuine farm-stay experience.
2. Mountain Lodge, Sassafras, Vic
Stay among the treetops at Mountain Lodge.
Perched among the treetops of the Dandenong Ranges, this lodge features a spectacular rooftop viewing deck – ideal for evening drinks and nature gazing in serene luxury.
3. Carpe Mykonos, Margaret River, WA
Step into Greece at Carpe Mykonos.
Experience a Mediterranean-inspired getaway on just over three picturesque hectares in Margaret River at Carpe Mykonos, complete with a private tennis court, fire pit and expansive views from a spacious outdoor deck.
4. The Cape House, Dover, Tas
This luxurious property is found at the southern end of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.
Nestled on a 100-hectare private estate near Dover in southern Tasmania, this luxurious farmhouse blends modern comfort with old-world charm, offering panoramic water views and a heated outdoor hot tub.
5. The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat, Gold Coast, Qld
Hamptons Hinterland Retreat is perfect for large get-togethers.
This sprawling luxury estate accommodates up to 14 guests and includes a 16-metre saltwater pool, designer kitchen and multiple lounge areas, all just 20 minutes from the Gold Coast’s vibrant centre.
6. Frogwell Hollow, Stirling, SA
Stay at Frogwell Hollow in autumn.
A charming countryside escape in the Adelaide Hills, Frogwell Hollow features a wildlife-rich garden, sunlit conservatory, wood-fired oven and fire pit, perfect for peaceful getaways.
7. The Bahama House, Port Douglas, Qld
This Caribbean-inspired home is in Australia’s tropical north.
Steps from Four Mile Beach, one of Port Douglas’s best beaches, this Caribbean-inspired home boasts a large pool, gourmet chef’s kitchen and alfresco dining. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Tropical North Queensland.
8. Oliver’s Cottage, Yarra Glen, Vic
Run yourself a bath in Oliver’s Cottage.
Set in the beautiful Yarra Valley, this spacious six-bedroom farmhouse offers a cosy gas fireplace, outdoor spa, cedar barrel sauna and panoramic mountain views.
9. Braeside, Kangaroo Valley, NSW
Braeside is a luxury retreat in Kangaroo Valley.
This two-hectare luxury retreat in Kangaroo Valley features a 12-metre saltwater swimming pool, wraparound decking and an inviting outdoor firepit, all within a tranquil, wildlife-rich setting.
10. Le Chateau, Holgate, NSW
Bring your friends to Le Chateau.
Inspired by a French chateau, this grand mansion on the Central Coast accommodates up to 18 guests and features an infinity-edge pool, billiard room and an exquisite private art collection.
