Stayz has announced its 2026 Holiday Homes of the Year, and it’s a reminder that the right house can make the whole getaway. From coastal showstoppers to quietly charming country stays, these homes set the tone from the moment you arrive.

Now in its fifteenth year, Stayz‘ annual list spotlights private stays that deliver on quality, consistency and design-led comfort. Think a working Berry farm with resident animals, a clifftop South Australian escape with an infinity pool and cinema, and a heritage Tasmanian homestead made for switching off.

And whether you’re planning a getaway or a reno, you’ll want to take a peek at what makes these homes so special to everyone who steps inside them.

Stayz 2026 Holiday Homes Of The Year

From Margaret River to the Mornington Peninsula, this year’s top holiday homes span right across Australia. Here are some of the standouts! See them up close at Stayz.

Collins Street House – Red Hill, VIC

Set in the wine region of the Mornington Peninsula, this home boasts a modern kitchen, wood fireplace, easy outdoor entertaining and two generous lounges ideal for board games and family feasts. Sleeping 14 across six bedrooms, it sits on a quiet street within walking distance of cafés and markets.

Skibo House – Margaret River, WA

Set across five acres, this property includes a cubby house, lawn games and a seasonal outdoor fire pit. It sleeps ten and features light-filled living spaces, three bathrooms, a kids’ playroom and a kitchen with a butler’s pantry.

One Eighty Marino – Marino, SA

With a 25m infinity-edge pool, home cinema, gym and 180° ocean views, this architectural escape is worth travelling for. It sleeps ten across six bedrooms and six bathrooms and offers direct beach access.

The Homestead at Bundara Farm – Berry, NSW

A beautifully designed country retreat, perfect for gathering friends or family. Sleeping up to 18, it features a vine-covered outdoor dining area, grand fireplace, games room, expansive grounds for play and resident chickens and horses.

Aminya – Kangaroo Valley, NSW

This restored American-inspired lodge with a year-round heated pool also features its own private lake. Surrounded by native forest and wildlife, it sleeps eight and offers sweeping valley views for truly tranquil days.

Berry Luxury Barn House – Berry, NSW

A purpose-built retreat set on a private acre overlooking farmland. Sleeping 20, it features a heated pool with a 3.8-metre waterslide, indoor sauna, outdoor fire pit, kids’ playground and expansive dining spaces for entertaining.

Southwinds – Hamilton Island, QLD

With an infinity pool, expansive deck and panoramic views, this is a true island escape. It includes dual kitchens and two living areas, and sleeps 16 across eight bedrooms and four bathrooms, with two golf buggies for exploring.

The Jasmine at Montville – Montville, QLD

This serene main home with a self-contained studio offers expansive decks, landscaped gardens and countryside-to-ocean views. It sleeps eight across four bedrooms and features elegant interiors, a wine and cocktail bar and a cosy lounge with a fireplace.

A Shore Thing – Sunrise Beach, QLD

With sloping ceilings, bi-fold doors and a private pool, this home epitomises modern coastal design. Sleeping six across three bedrooms, it blends relaxed style with contemporary comforts just minutes from Noosa’s hub.

Leighton House – Evandale, TAS

Set on 300 private acres, this restored 1840s Georgian homestead sleeps 12 across four bedrooms. Curated interiors, a beautiful courtyard and an outdoor cooking area pair with breathtaking views to tick every box.

_{Top image: The Jasmine at Montville, QLD via Stayz}

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