If the La Niña put your summer travel on hold, consider bunking in one of these affordable tiny house retreats for much-needed rest and relaxation this winter.
As the warmer weather ends, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking the holiday period is over. In fact, winter is the best time to see many of the country’s top city break destinations as the warm, humid days make way for cooler, crisper weather.
There is a swathe of rural getaways, ready to welcome travellers looking for that perfectly quaint winter escape. With tiny eco-friendly houses perfect for travellers seeking unique accommodation. A step up from glamping, each tiny house offers hot showers, a cosy queen bed, and a kitchenette.
From coastal retreats to winery getaways, we’ve rounded up the best escapes within a stone’s throw of the city for a getaway with a difference.
New South Wales
Tiny House 888 is located on the award-winning The Vintry Country House in central Pokolbin, the heart of the Hunter Valley wine country. Nestled in a Shiraz vineyard, the house is within walking distance of Audrey Wilkinson Vineyards, Tulloch Wines, Usher Tinkler and Ben Ean wineries.
Although slap bang in the middle of Pokolbin, it’s also off the beaten path. Offering a perfect balance of seclusion while being close to all the Hunter Valley has to offer. That includes eateries, markets and with both the Hunter Valley Gardens and Brokenback Mountain Ranges nearby that are popular for long walks.
Victoria
Set on farmland in Wombat Forest, Central Victoria, The Ridge is surrounded by greenery, that includes a fruit orchard, veggie garden and avenues of trees and tall eucalypt forests. The farm is home to a small flock of sheep, chickens, a (very) friendly border collie, and abundant birdlife. The rear of the property has 5 acres of forest to explore with elevated views beyond the Wombat Forest. The nearby forest includes lush fern-covered gullies which form the headwaters of the Moorabool River.
Just 10 minutes from the house is the thriving township of Daylesford and close to all that the Macedon Ranges has to offer, including mineral springs, truffle farms, wineries, day spas, and fine dining.
South Australia
Lost Retreats latest architecturally designed, off-the-grid and eco-friendly cabin, Skyline, boasts sweeping views of Adelaide. Yet it is located just 15 minutes from the CBD. Surrounded by absolute wilderness and tailored to match the eco-system of its location. Timber finishes are made from recycled materials that gives off an alpine chalet feel. All made locally by certified master craftsmen.
Everything is custom-made. From hand-blown glassware to ceramics and soaps all created by local suppliers. Plus all the latest mod-con trimmings. A spacious bed, full kitchen, heating, outdoor dining and spacious deck plus board games. And with over 50 cellar doors to explore in the Adelaide Hills wine region nearby, there is one reason to venture beyond the retreats doorstep.
Queensland
Tucked in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Kookaburra Cabin opens onto lawns and forest that backdrop the 17-acre property. It’s far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Rather set in the heart of an arts and craft hub of Palmwoods with the house 3 minutes from the famous Rick’s Garage Diner and Palmwoods Pub.
Also close to the south-eastern gateway to the Kondalilla National Park, Kookaburra Cabin is just a short hop to Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Noosa beaches. Plus, the region’s bustling food scene, picturesque hinterland walks and the famous Eumundi Markets are all on your doorstep.
Western Australia
Located in picturesque countryside in WA’s famous wine region with access to a boutique cellar door. This fantastic tiny home is perfect for wine and nature lovers. This is the ultimate place to switch off from digital life and switch on to nature, nurture and nibbles. Each cabin is decked out with all the mod cons you need, so you never have to leave.
Plonked on a unique winery that boasts a one-of-a-kind wine experience – a sensory wine garden. It’s the only one of its kind in Australia where you you literally sip and sniff your way through a wine tasting with wine maker, Cathy. Whicher Ridge is a family-owned winery that specialises in small-batch, handcrafted wines all made on the property.
Tasmania
Cottesloe is a small farm located in the Meander Valley. The site has a beautiful cottage-style garden under trees where you can relax, unwind and enjoy the peaceful surrounding. Ewes and cattle happily graze the surrounding pastures, surrounded by gorgeous native trees.
There are many opportunities to bushwalk close by or further afield at Cradle Mountain. Or take a short drive into Launceston for some of Tassie’s best food and wine.
Looking for more inspiring Vacations & Travel stories? Try these…
