6 unforgettable holiday homes in Australia

From rainforest and the world’s largest barrier reef to desert and snow-capped mountains, Australia’s natural bounty is incredibly diverse. As a result, so is the range of travel experiences and kind of places you can stay.

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

The Pole House is a landmark of the Great Ocean Road, suspended 40 metres above the sands of Fairhaven Beach. When you stand on the walkway that leads to the front door, the house appears to defy gravity, jutting out into the azure ocean like an art installation. It was first constructed in 1978 by architect Frank Dixon but was rebuilt in 2014 to enhance the sea views.

The updated version of this unique, wheelchair-accessible home features cool, modern interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound balcony. Spend a spring or summer trip sipping sunrise coffee on the balcony and swimming in the sea at sunset. Or visit in autumn or winter for stormy ocean scenery and to make use of the fireplace.

The perfectly located Cape Beach House sits both right on Cape Byron and the beach, just a few minutes’ walk from the sea and the centre of town. The town in question is Byron Bay, a once sleepy town that’s become a surf holiday hotspot. Wake up to a fresh sea breeze and tuck into the beach house’s fresh morning muffins before an invigorating half-hour hike to Cape Byron Lighthouse.

The light and muted modern interior of the house makes it a great place to relax after a day of surfing or hiking. While the peaceful outdoor pool and deck shrouded in greenery provide a private oasis should 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; on a particularly handsome stretch of the New South Wales Pacific Coast, where clusters of gum trees sprout on rolling green hills that gently rumble down to the sea.

The eye-catching infinity pool and sun deck really maximise the appeal. Meanwhile, the interior also emphasises the impressive vista, with bedrooms that have fully retractable glass doors that slide open to offer a sweeping ocean view while you lie-in.

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 and prolific wine regions). The house is perfect for stellar sunrises, sunsets and stargazing, including the tranquil experience of watching the moonlight reflect off the lake from the private balcony.

You can also hike and bike along the many nearby trails, and partake in kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Or take a tour of one of the local wineries before reading a book by the lake house’s fireplace.

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

And the house isn’t bad either; spacious, sleek and modern with polished interiors, there’s also a huge wooden deck that offers an unblemished panorama of sea and sand.

For a slice of the Mediterranean Down Under, Mykonos in Sunshine Beach has you covered. Designed in keeping with traditional Greek island houses, it’ll make you feel like you’ve just stepped off the ferry from Athens – expect heavy wooden doors and whitewashed walls shaded by flowering pink bougainvillaea trees.

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