Brisbane’s best Airbnb and Stayz lodgings

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Check out these 10 short-term rentals in Brisbane with a unique twist.

While an influx of new and innovative hotels has overtaken Brisbane’s city skyline, sometimes it’s nice to have it feel different from a hotel and instead, get into the groove of the city with a stay in someone’s home.

That’s where a getaway to an Airbnb Brisbane or Stayz Brisbane property comes in.

From beach shacks to eco-pods and even a converted church, we’re voting these the best of the river city’s private rentals.

1. The Old Church, Brisbane City

You’ll be hard-pressed to get Hozier out of your head when you step through the ornate breezeways of this heritage-listed church Airbnb in Brisbane City.

Built in the late 1800s, the entire home has been renovated in keeping with the tradition of the church that it once was.

You’ll love the attention to detail – the high ceilings, stained-glass windows, and appropriately themed furnishings blend in beautifully with a modern makeover, including all of the creature comforts that you’d expect from luxury accommodations.

With four beautiful bedrooms and two bathrooms, The Old Church is the ideal place to stay for a Brisbane family holiday. Within walking distance to Suncorp Stadium, South Bank, and the city, this holy abode is for those who want to stay close to the action.

Unique feature: A renovated old church

Price: Three nights minimum at $355 per night

The Old Church at Brisbane City, Airbnb Brisbane

This well-preserved heritage church is perfect for a luxury getaway.

2. Dolphins at Sunset, North Stradbroke Island

Whatever your previous notions of the Cast Away life might have been, scrap them, because this Amity Point beach house on North Stradbroke Island is about to change everything.

Sure, days spent to and fro-ing from the salty seas is enough of a reason to book a chunk of time at this luxury holiday home, but throw in sunset dolphin visits at your own private fishing jetty? Now that’s island living.

Boasting three spacious bedrooms sleeping up to six guests, it’s a home for the whole family to enjoy. Featuring wooden framed sliding windows throughout, along with a great kitchen that leads to an outdoor entertaining area, Dolphins at Sunset brings the outside, inside.

Unique feature: Resident dolphins splash at your backdoor

Price: Two nights minimum at $1020 per night

Dolphins at Sunset on North Stradbroke Island, Airbnb Brisbane

Catch sweeping sea views right outside your windows.

3. Inner City Haven Eco-pod, Spring Hill

An incredible example of enviro-luxury, this architectural masterpiece is one of the greenest homes in Brisbane and is located smack bang in the beating heart of the city.

Decked out with all things eco-friendly and sustainable, you’ll find patterned solar screens, organic oils in the bathrooms, and open-air light rooms. This is your chance to live the life of luxury, and to see how sustainability looks and feels.

The eco-pod is designed to be intimate and romantic – don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of your partner in the shower while you’re lazing around in the comfortable king-sized bed. You’re invited to embrace and revel in this openness.

There’s also an eco-plunge pool; superb on those steamy Brisbane summer nights.

Unique feature: Demonstrates the principles of sustainable housing

Price: Two nights minimum at $272 per night.

Inner City Haven Eco-pod at Spring Hill, Airbnb Brisbane

Experience sustainable living at Inner City Haven Eco-pod.

4. River House, Norman Park

Located just 4km from the CBD, this tropical Queenslander riverfront house has a beautiful lawn and deck entertaining areas right on the river with amazing city views and stunning sunsets.

With six bedrooms and three living sections, there is plenty of space without feeling like you’re on top of anyone. Add this house to your list if you have a group get-together coming up.

Unique feature: Tropical Queenslander with riverfront views

Price: Three nights minimum at $1200 per night

whitewashed interior at River House Norman Park, Airbnb Brisbane

Live your beach Boho fantasy at the River House, Norman Park.

5. Homey, Restored Queenslander Cottage, Auchenflower

If it’s a dose of history you’re looking for, kick back on the verandah of this 110-year-old heritage-listed Queenslander’s working cottage with stunning bird’s-eye city views and modern perks.

Boasting beautifully detailed features like paneling, ornate ceilings, and antique furniture abound, mixed in with bright, woven rugs on stripped wood floors, together they complete the vintage look. This charming, restored Queenslander is a wonderful option for friends and families.

Unique feature: A 110-year-old heritage-listed Queenslander

Price: 1 night minimum at $250 per night

charming cottage at Homey, Restored Queenslander Cottage, Auchenflower

A quintessential country cottage that conveys rustic comfort.

6. The Boho Hut Anstead Tiny House, Anstead

Set on three acres of bushland, gardens, and lawn, the Boho Hut is a unique timber slab hut that will encourage you to reconnect with nature.

With just one bedroom, an indoor log fireplace, and elegant decking with luxury and vintage pieces to furnish, it’s a cosy retreat for couples.

Wallabies graze on the grass most early mornings and king parrots, owls and kookaburras will be your visitors.

Unique feature: Timber slab hunt furnished with luxury pieces

Price: One night minimum at $175 per night

rustic home, The Boho Hut Anstead Tiny House, Anstead

A tiny rustic home in the middle of the forest.

7. Brookfield Retreat, Brookfield

This large 60’s inspired sanctuary is a huge resort-style home designed for entertaining and having fun on 2.5 acres, down a quiet lane.

You’ll find a log-burning fireplace and a wonderfully large retro Games Room equipped with a tournament-size billiard table (12ft) and a connecting cinema room.

Equipped with a bar, indoor heated spa, pool, outside entertainment area, and seven bedrooms, this space is best suited to corporate groups, friends, and families wanting to relax whilst surrounded by nature in a tranquil location.

Unique feature: A large 60’s inspired sanctuary surrounded by nature

Price: Five nights minimum at $1281 per night

swimming pool at Brookfield Retreat, Airbnb Brisbane

Loung by the side of the pool at Brookfield Retreat.

8. Iconic pad with infinity pool overlooking city, Fortitude Valley

For a taste of luxury, head to this five-star resort in one of Brisbane city’s most iconic buildings, FV by Pepper.

The stylish and conveniently positioned apartment (moments from Brisbane’s best nightlife) comfortably accommodates up to four people and has access to the heated pool overlooking the city.

With fabulous restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, this city escape is a dreamy option for couples.

Unique feature: Set in a five-star resort right on the edge of the city,

Price: Three nights minimum at $159 per night

Iconic pad with infinity pool overlooking city, Fortitude Valley

Escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

9. Sea Cottage, Beachmere

Situated in the coastal village of Beachmere on the peaceful waters of Moreton Bay, the interior decoration of Sea Cottage is inspired by sea shells, driftwood, and the wandering beachcomber, designed to bring inside the surrounding white sandy beach and sea views.

With five bedrooms including a large sea-facing veranda and a ten-seater table, the house is cosy for one family but just as good for two families or friends.

Guests are encouraged to swim, kayak, windsurf, boat, paddleboard, fish, take a relaxing stroll, or sun-bake on the white sandy beach. This is a pet-friendly Airbnb in Brisbane.

Unique feature: Seaside theme, next to the beach.

Price: Three nights minimum at $195 per night

beachfront restaurant at Sea Cottage, Beachmere

Beachfront dining overlooking the gorgeous seascape.

10. African Escape, South Bank

If you’re looking for an Airbnb in South Bank Brisbane, check out this luxury home in the clouds filled with African charm.

With breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge from the 38th level, floor-to-ceiling glass which opens onto the balcony, and a convenient location near all the local attractions – this is the city accommodation jackpot.

The African decor is truly unique, adding a fun and interesting vibe. It’s the perfect romantic city break.

Unique feature: Luxury home on level 38 with African charm.

Price: One night minimum at $371 per night

bedroom with city views at African Escape, South Bank

Catch stunning views of the city from your cosy bedroom.

For more places to lay your head, check out this Brisbane accommodation guide.
Based in sun-kissed Brisbane, Jemma Fletcher is an accomplished writer, editor and content manager. Armed with a Bachelor of Journalism from The University of Queensland, as well as over a decade of tourism marketing experience, Jemma now specialises in freelance travel writing and has a soft spot for the beauty of Queensland. Her expertise has been honed through her previous roles as Chief Editor of Queensland.com and WeekendNotes.com and she is the passionate creator of High Cup of Tea, an online directory celebrating Australia's finest high tea experiences. After growing up in the UK (hence her love for tea and scones) and a delightful chapter in Sydney, Jemma loves to explore quaint towns with a rich history. Also high on her weekend list is tasting the local cafe scene, enjoying charming farm stays with her young family and deciding where her next travel adventure will be (half of the fun is in the planning!)
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A new 170-km hike and nature retreat are coming to Brisbane

    By Kassia Byrnes
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    Mt Coot-tha is set for a glow up with the announcement of a new hiking trail and nature retreat.

    Long a popular retreat for Brisbane locals, Mt Coot-tha Reserve is the city’s largest natural area. Just a 15-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, it’s already the place for unbeatable skyline views of the city. But now, it will be more than just a short break. Brisbane City Council appointed Brisbane Sustainability Agency to transform the area into a nature-based tourism and recreation hub, including a world-class Mt Coot-tha nature retreat.

    person making a heart from their hands at mt coot-tha lookout

    The view from Mt Coot-tha is already much loved. (Image: Visit Brisbane)

    The plan is to transform the location ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to be hosted in Brisbane, with the intention of developing a long-term strategy make it an an eco-tourism destination and protect the precinct’s native bushland while also enhancing the offerings and accessibility for the over one million visitors Mt Coot-tha already receives per year.

    In a press release, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated the revitalisation of Mount Coot-tha includes “a 170-kilometre wilderness walking trail with overnight huts, glamping, a botanic gardens night-time lights show and a reimagined tropical dome”.

    That tropical dome will transform the one that currently stands on-site to be reminiscent of green tourism destinations like Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay and Butchart Gardens in Canada, complete with botanic gardens and an immersive night-time light experience, a treetop walk and upgrades to the current summit lookout. The current Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is also slated for an upgrade. Visitors will be able to make the most of it by staying in the new nature retreat, with glamping spots.

    exterior render of Mt Coot-tha tropical dome after renovation

    A brand new dome, hiking trail and Mt Coot-tha nature retreat are coming.

    For those keen on a little more adventure than the retreat can provide, a key feature of the proposed improvements is the Brisbane Wilderness Walking Trail. This 170-kilometre track would connect Mt Coot-tha to Mt Archer. Drawing inspiration from longer hiking trails like Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain and New Zealand’s West Coast Wilderness Trail, the trail will enjoy features to make hikers more comfortable along their journey, like bush huts, way-finding signage, composting toilets, camping sites and refurbished picnic areas.

    “Brisbane is riding a wave of international popularity as a tourism destination and with the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games coming, now is the time to start planning more to see and do in our city,” continued Schrinner.

    “We have South Bank, the city, Howard Smith Wharves and Fortitude Valley for locals to enjoy and visitors to explore. I believe Mount Coot-tha presents an incredible opportunity for nature-based destinations and attractions, which is exactly what international visitors are looking for”.

    a render of the inside Mt Coot-tha tropical dome after renovation

    The current tropical dome will be transformed to match the likes of Singapore.

    What can you do in Brisbane while you wait for the Mt Coot-tha glow up? Try these experiences and these delicious restaurants.