Huon Valley, Latrobe and Central Coast friendliest stays in Australia

Three Tasmanian towns placed in the national top 10 for “most hospitable”. Find out what the top Airbnbs do differently.

Owners of Little Seed Studio Charlie Ebell and Peter Clark. (Airbnb)

Three Tasmanian regions and towns have been dubbed the “most hospitable towns in the country” by Airbnb, receiving five-stars for more than 90 per cent of reviews in the last 12 months.

The Huon Valley, Latrobe and Central Coast are among ten places around Australia topping the charts in hospitality based on listings.

The most five-star reviews were received between October last year and September this year.

The Huon Valley took top gong for the state, narrowly beaten by South Burnett in Queensland to come second nationally, followed by Latrobe in third and Tasmania’s Central Coast in fifth.

Airbnb announced the top 10 list of Australia's most hospitable towns and cities. (Airbnb)

Little Seed Studio in the Huon Valley is one of the five-star stays making the state’s tourism industry shine.

Owners Peter Clark and Charlie Ebell have a combined 35 years in the hospitality industry to perfect their tourist offering.

“The beautiful natural environment – the river, water and bush – just speaks for itself,” Mr Clark said about the Huon Valley region.

Huon Valley accommodation Little Seed Studio. (Supplied)

“You don’t have to do much to bring tourists down here, but it’s about the little things when creating a memorable stay.”

Awarded with one of Airbnb’s new titles of ‘guest favourite’ for the “most loved homes on Airbnb”, both Mr Clark and partner Mr Ebell take joy in leaving handwritten notes, lighting fires for arrival and making fresh batches of shortbread to ensure guests have that “homely touch” when staying.

Huon Valley accommodation Little Seed Studio. (Supplied)

“That’s what sets Tasmania and Tasmanians apart – we are just so welcoming,” Mr Clark said.

“We know how special this place is and are proud of the beautiful spot of the world we live in and in tourism – providers share that in their work.”

Tourism Tasmania CEO Sarah Clark said the placing of Tasmanian towns in the top 10 wasn’t a “surprising” result for her.

“Overall, Tasmanians all hospitable and welcoming,” she said.

“What people love about Tassie and hospitality at any establishments is the authentic experience we know how to provide.”

Ms Clark said the state’s tourism industry has had a few years of “dynamic recovery”, with domestic tourism numbers booming in 2022 before returning to normal lower visitor numbers for winter.

Yet, tourism is growing from strength to strength, this summer set to be a strong season again.

“Airbnb hosts and those that do well know how to represent our state,” Ms Clark said.

“They have top lists of attractions – including restaurants, things to do, see, where to shop – and recommend to visitors how to live like a local.

“Whenever providers like Airbnbs can provide a curated, personalised experience of our island state, Tasmania shines and for our tourism sector.”

Originally published as Huon Valley, Latrobe and Central Coast friendliest stays in Australia