Two epic Queensland holiday homes ranked in Australia’s top 10

The holiday home awards are in their 13th year with criteria based on a 4.5 star or higher rating, positive guest reviews as well as standout amenities and spaces for relaxation.

Stayz travel expert Sarah King said this year’s list exemplifies the calibre of private holiday homes across Australia.

“What stands out to me is the variety in this year’s Holiday Homes of the Year… from outdoor baths and saunas to wine cellars and alfresco outdoor dining facilities.” she said.

Vacation Rentals VP of partner success Tim Rosolio said the hosts of these properties go above and beyond to offer an exceptional guest experience.

“This list of properties really raises the bar and sends a clear and compelling trust signal to travellers about where to find the best and consistent experiences…” he said.

“The Easton at Maleny”, an off-grid luxury Hampton’s style countryside retreat, took out fourth place in Australia’s best holiday homes this year.

Sleeping eight-guests and located only a minutes’ drive from the Maleny township, the home features acres of privacy and is surrounded by views of rolling hills.

The second Queensland home to make the top 10 is Hamilton Island’s “Lotus House”.

Accommodating up to eight-guests, this four-bedroom residence is situated on the northern tip of Hamilton Island with private and direct water access.

Property manager Pete Baumgart said the property’s view is unparalleled and offers incredible sights of the Fitzalan Passage.

“Whales, when they migrate north in the winter, go through that really skinny passenger [and] we had guests recently staying there who said… their only complaint was that they were struggling to sleep at night because the whales were breaching at night,” Mr Baumgart said.

“It’s only a small house but it’s just the location is second to none… it was bought only four years ago then totally renovated, to be more holiday friendly.”

1. KANGAROO VALLEY, NSW

Nestled on 70 acres adjacent to Morton National Park is “Robinsons Run”, an exceptional luxury country home and perfect for large groups of up to 12. Walking trails, landscaped gardens, and a bike track are on the grounds. The unique architectural design of this three-storey property enables guests to enjoy breathtaking nature views from every room. Impressive features include multiple outdoor entertainment areas, an infinity edge swimming pool, spa, fire pit, outdoor bathtub, and media room with video arcade.

2. SYDNEY, NSW

Relax in style at the incredible “Luxury Waterside Home” which showcases 360-degree water and district views, soaring ceilings, and an abundance of natural light. Spanning four levels, this stunning four-bedroom home in Kyle Bay offers seamless open-plan living and dining areas, a state-of-the-art kitchen with deluxe marble finishings, and oversized rooftop terrace perfect for entertaining. The home provides spectacular features including a premium gas fireplace, heated infinity pool, rumpus room, and even a lift.

3. MACMASTERS BEACH, NSW

Positioned a short 10-min stroll from Macmasters beach, “Casa Scenic”, boasts six bedrooms spread over two levels on a sprawling 1.6-acre private estate boarded by Bouddi National Park. This outstanding luxurious Hampton-style pet-friendly home provides the ultimate place to relax, unwind in nature and create a truly memorable group holiday. With terrific features including indoor and outdoor entertaining options, fire-pit, magnesium therapy pool and kids’ playground, the home is perfect for holidaying with family members of all ages.

4. MALENY, QLD

“The Easton at Maleny”, is an off-grid luxury Hampton’s style countryside retreat that sleeps up to eight guests. Located only a minutes’ drive from the famous Maleny township, this spacious holiday home is a unique stay in a tranquil setting with acres of privacy and surrounded by stunning views of rolling hills. Guests will enjoy the sprawling indoor living area that flows seamlessly to a large outdoor deck overlooking the pool, harvestable and manicured gardens with space for lawn sports. The home also boasts impressive features including an open plan chef’s kitchen, wine cellar, sun-drenched magnesium salt pool, sauna, fire pit, and large deck area with daybeds.

5. HAMILTON ISLAND, QLD

Accommodating up to eight guests, “Lotus House” is an extraordinary four-bedroom residence situated on the northern tip of the island offering incredible views of Fitzalan Passage with private and direct water access. Designed with a perfect balance of indoor and outdoor waterfront living, it offers a spacious living area inside seamlessly connected through bi-fold doors to an extensive outside entertaining space. Complete with two golf buggies and a sleek wet-edge pool, the home provides an idyllic retreat for families or groups seeking unparalleled beauty and relaxation.

6. BERRI, SA

A beautiful tree-lined driveway welcomes guests on arrival at “River Hamptons”. Situated on a vast estate in the heart of Riverland, this gorgeous private Hampton’s inspired homestead provides a sanctuary for family and friends looking to escape, indulge, and relax. With enough room to sleep eight, the home offers luxury living spaces inside, an outside pool area with whirlpool spa, tennis court with basketball hoop and sprawling garden oasis.

7. YALLINGUP, WA

“Sunrise Tranquillity” is a stunning four-bedroom rural stay overlooking Yallingup Hills with lush green landscaped gardens and tranquil water features. The home offers many great ways to entertain including a spacious indoor dining area with views or cosy outdoor kitchen complete with a fridge, stove, pizza oven and plenty of seating. Relax in the six-seater heated spa or unwind on the comfy lounges by the alfresco Ethanol burner. Big and little kids alike will also enjoy the fun games area housed in the garage with table tennis, foosball, and kayaks.

8. YALLINGUP, WA

Perched on over two glorious acres, “Inji Dreaming” is a luxurious secluded holiday home surrounded by native bushland in Injidup. This architecturally crafted minimalist-styled retreat radiates Australian allure. With space to sleep 10, it’s ideal for large groups seeking relaxation with alfresco dining and a designer kitchen. Located just moments from renowned beaches, wineries, and galleries, it promises the ultimate getaway.

9. ROWELLA, TAS

“Mount Edgcumbe House” showcases a grand luxury three-bedroom home on Pointe Rapide Estate nestled on 37-acres with botanical gardens, a vineyard and historical significance. Overlooking the Tamar Valley, this beautifully restored heritage home, built in 1835, was one of the first homesteads established in Tasmania. A fabulous stay for family and friends with space to sleep 8, guests will enjoy curling up by the cosy fireplace, cooking in the modern kitchen and sitting on the patio soaking up the spectacular views.

10. MOUNT BULLER, VIC

“Wild Fauna” offers a luxury eco-friendly getaway in a spacious modern

home surrounded by an abundance of Australian wildlife. Guests have reported sightings of

kangaroos, deer, and birds along with the occasional wombat and emu. With room to sleep up to 10, an expansive living, patio dining and kitchen area, it’s an ideal stay for family holidays.

Additionally, the property has a ski storage room which is perfect considering its proximity to

popular nearby Alpine ski resorts.