6 unforgettable vacation homes in Australia

From rainforests and the world’s largest barrier reef to deserts and snow-capped mountains, Australia’s natural beauty is incredibly diverse. As a result, so is its range of travel experiences and places to stay.

Whether you want a Greek island-style mansion, a marvel of modern architectural, or a quintessential beach house in Byron Bay, here are six of the most unforgettable vacation homes in Australia.

The Pole House is a landmark of the Great Ocean Road, suspended 130 feet above the sands of Fairhaven Beach. When you stand on the walkway that leads to the front door, the house seems to defy gravity, jutting out into the ocean like an art installation. It was built in 1978 by architect Frank Dixon and rebuilt in 2014 to enhance the sea views.

The updated version of this unique, wheelchair-accessible home features modern interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a wrap-around balcony. Spend a spring or summer trip sipping morning coffee on the balcony and swimming in the sea at sunset. Or, visit in the fall or winter for stormy ocean scenery – and make sure to enjoy the fireplace.

The perfectly located Cape Beach House sits right on Cape Byron and the beach, a short walk from the sea and the center of town. Once a sleepy town, Byron Bay has become a surfing hot spot. Wake up to a sea breeze and dig into some fresh morning muffins before an invigorating half-hour hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

The house’s light and muted modern interior make it a great place to relax after a day of surfing or hiking. Plus, the peaceful outdoor pool and deck shrouded in greenery provide a private oasis if you want some quiet sunbathing or a break from the waves.

Ocean Farm is a secluded paradise. The property’s key selling point has to be its spectacular setting. It sits on a gorgeous stretch of the New South Wales Pacific Coast, surrounded by clusters of gum trees and rolling hills that reach down to the sea.

The eye-catching infinity pool and sun deck maximize the appeal. The interior also emphasizes the impressive vista, with bedrooms that have glass doors opening to wide ocean views as you relax.

Built right on the water, Maison du Lac is a home that showcases the natural beauty of Margaret River, one of Australia’s most scenic wine regions. Enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing, or watch the moonlight reflect off the tranquil lake from your private balcony.

You can also hike and bike along the many nearby trails, or go kayaking or canoeing. Take a tour of one of the local wineries, then relax by the fireplace with a good book back at the lake house.

The Roozen Residence is a dream come true for those who love the beach. It features a prime location on the Margaret River coastline just north Gnarabup, a popular surf town known for its warm turquoise waves and white sands.

The sleek, spacious house with polished interiors is equally impressive. There’s also a huge wooden deck that offers a pristine panorama of sea and sand.

For some Mediterranean charm down under, Mykonos in Sunshine Beach has you covered. With its traditional Greek island house design, it’ll make you feel like you’ve just stepped off the ferry from Athens. Get ready for heavy wooden doors and whitewashed walls shaded by pink bougainvillea trees.

Follow the cast iron staircase up to the steepled rooftop, where you’ll find a sun deck and a barbecue with ocean views. Another highlight is the swimming pool bordered by palm trees and lush flowers.