The spectacular Australian holiday homes named the best of 2025 for groups – and they start at $650 a night

Those looking for the perfect space to unwind this year are in luck, with the top Australian holiday homes of 2025 announced this week. 

Stayz Holiday Homes of the Year is an eagerly anticipated collection for local and international travellers alike and features 10 standout private homes across the country. 

The houses range from three to eight bedrooms, have nightly average rates between $600 and $1,500, and span across in-demand destinations like the Gold Coast, Kangaroo Valley and Margaret River.

‘Every year we aim to inspire travellers to book their next group getaway, and the 2025 collection is no different,’ Sarah King, a Stayz travel expert said.

‘The homes on this year’s list reflect incredible guest ratings, experienced and dedicated hosts, and stunning spaces that offer some of the most requested amenities – from private pools to fire pits.’ 

The homes are selected from 50,000 Australian listings on the Stayz app and undergo a thorough selection process based on what traveller’s desire most.

This includes ratings of 9.8 or above, stellar reviews, at least three bedrooms, stand-out amenities (think saunas and pizza ovens), and ‘premier’ hosts who provide excellent guest experiences. 

The 2025 homes also embody the rising trend of JOMO (the joy of missing out), with more Aussies looking to enjoy quiet moments and reconnect with themselves and loved ones. 

Abercorn

Buckaroo, New South Wales 

Abercorn is a beautiful, architect-designed country house set on a picturesque farm, just outside of Mudgee. 

Built by a husband-and-wife duo, the house is spacious and stylish with light-filled interiors – many handmade or individually sourced. 

It sleeps up to eight and guests can make use of the property’s veggie garden and admire the property’s small herd of Belted Galloway cows.

‘The images don’t do this place justice, from the moment you arrive you feel like you are home, with every detail thought of across the property,’ a recent guest wrote.

‘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.’

Average cost per night: $825 

Mountain Lodge

Sassafras, Victoria 

Just one hour from Melbourne in the Dandenong Ranges, Mountain Lodge is an outstanding setting for a weekend away. 

Set in the peaceful forest with its own beautiful gardens, the lodge is walking distance to Sassafras & Kallista Villages, the Sassafras Tavern, Proserpina bakery, Gardens, Miss Marples tearooms and the popular Piggery cafe.

Sleeping up to eight guests, the house is also a great option year-round, with a state-of-the-art hydronic heating system. 

Outside, the roof top viewing deck is a spectacular place for evening drinks while the grassy terrace enjoys dappled shade and views of the waterfall.

Guests can also hire a private chef for the night for fuss-free, luxurious touch. 

‘This was the best accommodation I’ve booked online, so homely and comfortable and has everything you could possibly want,’ a recent guest wrote. 

Average cost per night: $855 

Cape Mykonos

Margaret River, Western Australia

Bringing a piece of the Mediterranean to Margaret River, this stunning home is set across eight acres and perfectly positioned between the Margaret River town centre and Gnarabup beach. 

Inspired by architecture from the Greek islands, the home promotes a feeling of ‘connection’ with the famous Greek Orthodox Church one kilometre down the road at Prevelly. 

This beautifully appointed home accommodates up to 10 and looks out over the tennis court and pavilion (which it shares with Carpe Vino, the adjoining property), to the Indian Ocean beyond. 

‘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 wrote.

Average cost per night: $902 

The Cape House 

Dover, Tasmania 

The Cape House offers an exclusive hideaway on a private peninsula with 250 acres of wilderness, wildlife, and sparkling water. 

This stunningly renovated turn-of-the-century farmhouse blends old-world charm with modern décor, sleeping up to six adults. 

The expansive timber deck is perfect for alfresco dining, and the heated outdoor hot tub provides panoramic water views or a private evening under 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,’ a guest wrote. 

Average cost per night: $662 

The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat 

Gold Coast, Queensland 

Epitomising relaxed luxury, The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat sleeps up to 14 guests and is nestled among the secluded foothills of the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Set on a 1.7-hectare block, it boasts a 16m saltwater pool, three lounge areas and a designer kitchen, perfect for family reunions and retreats. 

For the young (and young at heart), there’s a soccer field and numerous flat, grassy areas and cubby house to explore, plus a rear BBQ area overlooking the perfectly manicured gardens. 

It offers an ideal escape from reality but is just 20 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast.

‘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,’ a guest raved.

Average cost per night: $1,436 

Frogwell Hollow 

Stirling, South Australia  

Set in the hills of the Piccadilly Valley, Frogwell Hollow blends the charm of an English cottage with countryside tranquility. 

This retreat features a sunlit conservatory, a wildlife-rich garden, and a study overlooking a flowing creek, while outside guests are drawn to the wood fired oven and fire pit.

The double-storey house accommodates six and is the perfect base to explore the Adelaide Hills.

The pretty village of Stirling, just 20 minutes from Adelaide, is considered a key gateway for the region. 

Nearby attractions include wineries, Cleland Wildlife Park, Mount Lofty Summit, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Woodhouse Activity Centre and Warrawong Wildlife Park.

‘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,’ a guest wrote.

Average cost per night: $848

The Bahama House

Port Douglas, Queensland  

The Bahama House offers the ultimate tropical holiday experience just steps from Four Mile Beach. 

This family-friendly home sleeps 10 and features five bedrooms, a large pool, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, an alfresco dining space with a built in BBQ and an outdoor bar fridge. 

It’s the ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest and with its Caribbean-inspired architecture, it’s the dream getaway in the tropical north.

‘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 the unforgettable Bahama house experience,’ a guest wrote.

Average cost per night: $1,027

Oliver’s Cottage

Yarra Glen, Victoria  

Blending classic charm with luxury amenities, Oliver’s Cottage in the Yarra Valley is perfect for families or groups of up to 13. 

This house includes six bedrooms, a fully equipped farmhouse-style kitchen and cozy indoor living areas with a gas fireplace. 

Outside, guests can also enjoy the fire-pit, a built in BBQ, a six-seater spa and a cedar wood barrel sauna, along with stunning views of the rolling mountains.

The spacious deck is a true gathering haven with a plush 13-piece lounge set overlooking the gentle Yarra landscapes beyond.

‘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.

Average cost per night: $1,025 

Braeside

Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales  

Braeside is an impressive five-acre retreat offering privacy, tranquility, and stunning views, just seven minutes from Kangaroo Valley village. 

The home sleeps eight, features a 12m saltwater swimming pool, wrap-around decking, and four large ensuite bedrooms. 

Wildlife spotting, an outdoor firepit and expansive lawns add to the charm, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful escape.

‘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 wrote.

Average cost per night: $1,419 

Le Chateau

Holgate, New South Wales  

Le Chateau, in the Central Coast hinterland, is a secluded, luxurious retreat designed for relaxation and quality time. 

This French chateau-inspired property is set over three levels and accommodates up to 18 guests. 

It includes a billiard room, a large infinity-edge pool surrounded by lush greenery and an exquisite art collection.

Meanwhile on the top level, the large master suite features his and hers wardrobes, an ensuite and a two person spa bath.

‘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.

Average cost per night: $1,400