Australia’s most loved Airbnb stays revealed

From staying in a refurbished train, to an authentic farm getaway, and the ultimate renovated shop, these are Australia’s greatest and most loved short-term accommodations for 2023.

Taylor Troeth

3 min read

October 17, 2023 - 10:14AM

Australia’s best and most loved Airbnbs revealed.

From staying in a renovated train carriage to an authentic farm experience, Australia’s greatest and most loved short-term accommodation for 2023 have been revealed as Airbnb announce the winners of the annual host awards.

This year’s winners exhibit the best of the best when it comes to the different categories of stay and unique experiences available on Airbnb.

The winners were assessed based on guest scores, reviews and a designated panel of judges from across the country.

Best unique stay was taken out by ‘Steam’ a renovated 1920s train carriage located in Forrest, Victoria.

Fleur Leslie, the host of ‘Steam’ the converted train carriage airbnb in Forrest, Victoria.

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Taking you to a forgotten time, this unique stay appeals to train enthusiasts, history lovers and those wanting something a little different.

“Steam is a romantic homage to a simpler and slower time,” Fleur Leslie, the host of the Airbnb said.

Allowing couples to step into a pastime, or bring all the family aboard - ‘Steam’ hosts up to six guests.

Fully fitted with a kitchen, fireplace, and a bathroom with a bath.

The best sleep you’ll have on a train.

‘Mister Munro’ a restored Victorian terrace in the Southern Tablelands of NSW won the award for best design.

Named after the original owner of the Crookwell house, William Munro, the home was originally built in 1890.

Paying homage to it’s origin, the restored terrace combines contemporary living while accentuating the historic features.

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Mister Munro pays homage to its original owner and the history of the home.

Exposed brick and old paintings in the kitchen of ‘Mister Monro’.

Decorated with earthy warm tones, old pictures and furniture that nod to its pastime.

The home takes inspiration from Mister Munro, a tailor who was highly regarded by the local gentry for his expertise in the era’s fashion.

Inspired by the original owner, William Monro a tailor from 120 years ago.

A restored cottage homestead set on a 150 acre former dairy farm took the cake for the best nature stay.

Recognising stays that provide an authentic country experience in rural locations, the Dunmore Farm Cottage is located in Molyullah, just two and a half hours from Melbourne.

Nestled among breathtaking landscapes, guests can enjoy picking fresh farm produce, stargazing, animal feeding and chatting to hosts Bec and Angus McDougall about sustainable farming.

The Cottage at Dunmore Farm.

A real country experience.

The property has views of lush pastures with rolling hills, often boasting a beautiful sunset.

“Our stay provides a peaceful, idyllic country retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life,” Ms McDougall said.

The stay includes a rustic, cottage interior including an antique wood stove fireplace and can host up to six guests.

An authentic stove fireplace.

A relaxing spot in the cottage.

Winning gold for hosts of the year went to Veronica and Colin for ‘Down at the Dale’ creating the ideal getaway for two in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast region.

With handwritten notes, surprise treats and customised robes is what won the couple hosts of the year.

The listing states, “romance awaits” enticing couples to take some time away to experience privacy, nature and luxury in Conondale.

Guests can enjoy an outdoor fire or bath and take in the nature and views around the property.

Enjoying the fire down at the dale.

Customised fluffy robes.

A wine in the bath anyone?

Best new host was awarded to Sarah, with her spacious light filled loft in Fremantle, just 30 minutes south of Perth.

Championing the historic west end district of the WA city, the airbnb is tastefully decorated and only a moments walk from the ‘cappuccino strip’.

Perfect for a couple wanting to fit seamlessly in with the Freo lifestyle, Sarah offers the best recommendations around the area.

The loft is recently renovated and designed by a local architect with an urban style complimented with soft linen and wooden decor.

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The renovated loft in Fremantle.

Host Sarah Abbot on the lofts balcony.

Encapsulating the Freo lifestyle.

Airbnb introduced a new category this year of best room, highlighting hosts that share one room in their homes.

The boho styled ‘Sinjin’ was the winner, in Forrest Lodge near Sydney’s centre.

Guests can live like a local among the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s cafes and restaurants while enjoying a comfortable stay in a private and tastefully decorated room with vibrant shared spaces.