Today, Stayz® has released the 2025 Holiday Homes of the Year, an annual collection of 10 standout private holiday homes across Australia.
The selected homes range from three to eight bedrooms, with nightly average rates between $600 and $1500, in some of Australia’s most in-demand destinations, including the Gold Coast in Queensland, Kangaroo Valley, NSW and Margaret River, WA.
"Every year, Stayz’ Holiday Homes of the Year aims to inspire travellers to book their next group getaway and the 2025 collection is no different,” says Sarah King, Stayz Travel Expert. "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 on Stayz from private pools to fire pits.”
Entering its 14th year, the Stayz Holiday Homes of the Year are chosen from more than 50,000 Australian listings on the Stayz app and undergo a thorough selection process based on what travellers desire most:
- Exceptional guest ratings: ratings of 9.8 or above and stellar reviews from former guests.
- Multi-bedroom accommodations: enough space for families or group trips; all homes have at least three bedrooms for guests to comfortably stay together.
- Standout amenities: homes that feature the most popular amenities on Stayz including a pool or hot tub and extra consideration was given to homes with unique features like a tennis court, pizza oven or private sauna.
- Premier Host* status: many of the properties featured are managed by Premier Hosts who have a proven track record of providing excellent guest experiences.
"Stayz hosts are ultimately the key to making a traveller’s holiday one to remember. Premier Hosts in particular are known to go above and beyond to offer exceptional, reliable and relaxing guest experiences.” says Tim Rosolio, Vice President of Partner Success. "With our rigorous Premier Host badging, we’re sending a clear and compelling trust signal to travellers about where to find the best and consistent experiences on Stayz.”
This year's collection of homes also embodies popular travel trends from Stayz's trend report, Unpack '25. This year, travellers are embracing JOMO (the joy of missing out) and these standout properties offer the perfect setting to enjoy quiet moments and reconnect with yourself or loved ones.
2025 Stayz Holiday Homes of the Year details:
Buckaroo, NSW - Abercorn is a beautiful, architect-designed country house set on a picturesque farm, just outside of Mudgee. Designed and built by a husband-and-wife duo, the house is spacious and stylish with light-filled interiors - many handmade or individually sourced. Sleeping up to eight, guests can make use of the property’s veggie garden and admire the property’s small herd of Belted Galloway cows.
Sassafras, Vic – Just one hour from Melbourne, in the Dandenong Ranges, Mountain Lodge is an outstanding setting for a weekend away. Sleeping up to eight guests, the house is a great option year-round, with a state-of-the-art hydronic heating system. While outside, the rooftop viewing deck puts you high among the treetops and is a spectacular place for evening drinks.
Margaret River, WA – Bringing a piece of the Mediterranean to Margaret River, Carpe Mykonos is set across eight acres and perfectly positioned between the Margaret River town centre and family-friendly Gnarabup beach. This beautifully appointed home accommodates up to 10 with a large outdoor deck overlooking the private tennis court, fire pit and Indian Ocean.
Dover, Tas – The Cape House offers an exclusive hideaway on a private peninsula with 250 acres of wilderness, wildlife and 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.
Gold Coast, Qld – Epitomising relaxed luxury, The Hamptons Hinterland Retreat sleeps up to 14 guests. Set on a 1.7-hectare block, it boasts a 16-metre saltwater pool, three lounge areas and a designer kitchen, perfect for family reunions and retreats. All while being located just 20 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast.
Stirling, SA – Nestled in the hills of Piccadilly Valley, Frogwell Hollow blends the charm of an English cottage with countryside tranquillity. 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 is the perfect base to explore the Adelaide Hills.
Port Douglas, Qld – 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, gourmet Chef’s kitchen and alfresco dining space with built-in BBQ and outdoor bar fridge. The ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Bahama Style with its Caribbean-inspired architecture, is your dream getaway in the tropical north.
Yarra Glen, Vic – 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 cosy indoor living areas with a gas fireplace. Outside, guests can also enjoy the fire pit, built-in BBQ, a 6-seater spa and a cedar wood barrel sauna, along with stunning views of the rolling mountains.
Kangaroo Valley, NSW – Braeside is an impressive 5-acre retreat offering privacy, tranquillity and stunning views, just 7 minutes from Kangaroo Valley village. The home sleeps eight, features a 12-metre saltwater swimming pool, wrap-around decking and four large ensuite bedrooms. Wildlife spotting, an outdoor fire pit and expansive lawns add to the charm, making Braeside the perfect destination for a peaceful escape.
Holgate, NSW – 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.
