Inside Palmer & Gunn hinterland Airbnb on the Gold Coast

The owner of one of the Gold Coast’s most wish-listed staycays - which has featured on magazine covers and in a TV series - has shared a hack to save money on a hinterland holiday.

Creek dips, starlight sips and picnics under a natural shade canopy – while holiday-makers gravitate to the coastline, locals know summer in the hinterland is the cooler choice.

Staying outside the region’s traditional tourist peak is also a chance to score a deal at its most popular properties, which are generally booked solid during winter.

Palmer & Gunn is one of the Gold Coast hinterland’s most popular Airbnbs. Picture: Luke & Jess @_aswewander

One of the Gold Coast’s most wishlisted Airbnbs – Austinville’s Palmer & Gunn Wee Tiny, which featured on the cover of Country Style and in Netflix series Irreverent – is running a stay three nights, pay two special for guests in January and February.

Owner Fiona Gunn says it’s time travellers discovered the hinterland’s year-round charm.

“The cooler mountain air, lush rainforests and crystal-clear creeks make it the perfect escape from the heat,” she says.

“One of our favourite things to do in summer is to picnic by the creek, soaking up the sounds of nature, and go rock-hopping through the water — it’s such a peaceful and refreshing way to spend the day.

“It’s always a toss-up between cooling off with creek swims during the day and relaxing in the hot tub under a blanket of stars at night.

The hot tub is a guest highlight. Picture: Luke & Jess @_aswewander

“Both experiences really capture the magic of staying here and leave guests feeling refreshed and reconnected.

“It’s all about slowing down and soaking in the peace and quiet.”

Fiona and husband Clancy Palmer bought the then-neglected Austinville property almost a decade ago, slowly coaxing its dilapidated farmhouse back to life.

They opened a separate creek-front tiny home in 2020 using reclaimed materials, antique fittings and furnishings and vintage treasures to capture the romance of rural life.

On the doorstep of Springbrook National Park, the petite property boasts a hot tub, high-pitched ceilings, a queen-sized bed swathed in French linen, airconditioning and an outdoor kitchen.

What it quite intentionally doesn’t have is a TV or WI-FI.

Score a private swimming spot at the creekfront Palmer & Gunn Wee Tiny. Picture: Luke & Jess @_aswewander

“We’ve added so many touches we love, but a few favourites stand out,” Fiona says.

“Soaking in the clawfoot tub is such a relaxing way to unwind, and cooking in the outdoor kitchen while listening to the birdsong is a simple joy that feels magical here.

“We also adore the fresh flowers from our farm — they bring such a warm and personal touch to the space and make it feel extra special.”

Alongside short stays, the tiny home hosts elopement and photo shoots.

“Our elopements are intimate, affordable and beautifully simple – perfect for couples who want something meaningful without the big price tag,” Fiona says.

“Our farm-style photo shoots continue to be a hit, offering a gorgeous, natural backdrop for creating lasting memories.”

Soak up the serenity in the claw-foot tub. Picture: Luke & Jess @_aswewander

The couple is now planning on branching out to help other potential Airbnb hosts show off the beauty of their own backyard.

“A big goal for 2025 is sharing what we’ve learned on our hosting journey,” Fiona says.

“We’re thrilled to be launching our first online course, teaching others how they can get started with hosting and create something as special as we have here at Wee Tiny.

“It’s shaping up to be an amazing year and we can’t wait.”

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The pay two, stay three special is for stays in January and February and only applies to direct bookings. Go to palmerandgunn.com for details.