10 adorble Airbnb stays in undiscovered tiny towns you need to visit

From quaint outback towns to relaxed coastal havens, these tiny towns are the perfect choice for a weekender.

Ahhh, Australia. The land of gold-standard coffee, infamous public transport and… around 1700 small towns? According to recent research by YouGov nearly 80 per cent of Aussies want to visit a small town they’ve never been to before. And around 44 per cent of us are even willing to travel up to four hours to find one.

This is great to experience Australia, but also to boost local economies. In fact, in the 12 months to March 2023, guests who stayed at an Airbnb in Australia spent more than $12.3 billion in local communities.

Luckily, Airbnb has just launched its Tiny Towns Guide, which lists 50 tiny towns (less than 3000 residents) all within an easy drive from major cities. It’s also serving up five $30k grants to community groups to help them continue their work and attract more visitors to their town and foster community spirit.

To be part of the action, we have put together our top 10 tiny towns that may be just the break you need for your next free weekend.

1. Maclean, NSW

Population: 2778

Forget the wind-swept cliffs of Scotland, instead visit the tiny township of Maclean in New South Wales. Known as the ‘Scottish Town in Australia’, even the power poles and street signs are wearing tartan.

Immerse yourself in highland cow tea towels and even teddy bears in kilts at the Maclean Scottish Shop, or visit in April to be part of the famous Maclean Highland Gathering. Think: Scottish games, highland dancing and, of course, bagpipes.   

Where to stay: For far-reaching views and luxury surrounds, stay at The View, Maclean. It’s a guest favourite for a reason. Or experience the heritage-listed home, Old Clarence Brewery, Maclean, built in 1881.

2. Scamander, TAS

Population: 643

Home to champagne-coloured beaches, wildlife-filled nature reserves and the lively Scamander River, this inviting tiny town is the perfect laid-back base.

Whether you’re keen to fish at the mouth of the river, spend the day on the beach or even play a round at the Scamander Golf Club (one of Australia’s most scenic courses), a weekend in Scamander will show you another side of Tassie.

Where to stay: A converted 40ft container surrounded by wilderness, Cntnr 1.0 has overtones of a Frank Lloyd Wright design. Relax on the porch and to feel enveloped by the gum trees.

3. Monto, QLD

Population: 1000

Celebrating the history of Australian rural life, Monto in Queensland’s Wide Bay-Burnett region not only has an Instagram-worthy historic main street, but it’s covered in art. Literally.

As part of the Australian Silo Art Trail, local artists have created three town centre murals and three water tank artworks. Grab a local pie or a coffee and take a stroll. Then head out to Mount Walsh National Park, where experienced hikers can scale the rugged Mount Walsh summit route — bring your rock scrambling skills.

Where to stay: Situated on a 20,000 acres organic beef cattle farm, Bloodwood Cabin is sustainable eco-living at its finest. Leave your devices at home and soak in the natural surroundings.

4. York, WA

Population: 2400

One of the larger tiny towns on our list, York is the oldest European inland town in Western Australia dating back to the 1830s. Even though it’s only one hour from Perth’s busy CBD, this Wheatbelt township is a hive of calmness.

The main street a masterclass in restored Victorian and Federation architecture and the town is unashamedly charming. Don’t miss the York Motor Museum, the local markets, and the historic Avon Valley.

Where to stay: Sleeping up to six people in Talbot Lodge is the perfect family or friends getaway. Think cathedral ceilings, two fireplaces and views for days across 15 acres of Sandalwood trees. Or cosy up at appropriately named Solace at Jam Tree Hill, a comfortable sustainably built, off-the-grid tiny home, made from an old shipping container.

5. Myrrhee, VIC

Population: 280

Victoria’s high country is calling on all foodies. Specifically, the tiny (and we mean tiny) town of Myrrhee, which is fast becoming a food-lovers not-so-secret getaway. From Dal Zotto Wines and King Valley Walnuts to roadside stalls selling farm produce directly, the Myrrhee valley delivers on taste.

If you need to exercise your mind, get lost in the famous Brookfield Maze, and if your eyes need a treat, don’t miss the panoramic views from nearby Powers Lookout, a rocky escarpment high above the green rolling King Valley.

Where to stay: Perched high above the King Valley, the architecturally designed Lookout by Mt Bellevue offers panoramic views from almost every window. This luxury eco-lodge even has a fire pit and outdoor bath for starry nights. Or get face-to-face with cute farm animals at The Lodge by Mt Bellevue – King Valley, an original red cedar cottage with a private vineyard 30 metres from the front door.

6. Taranna, TAS

Population: 167

Surrounded by untamed wilderness, convict history and wildlife, Taranna (on the scenic Tasman Peninsula) is a tiny town with a difference.

The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is a blueprint of how zoos could evolve in the future. Instead of animals in cages, this zoo features animals in the wild with barriers removed or concealed. It’s a humbling experience to say the least.

After your visit, treat your tired feet to a visit to the Chocolate Foundry, a small, family-owned chocolate factory producing delicious handcrafted chocolates made from local ingredients. History buffs will gravitate to the fascinating convict history of the area at Norfolk Bay Convict Station. Once serving as a station for the Port Arthur railway, today you can hike to Cape Hauy for views of Australia’s highest sea cliffs or kick back and enjoy the pristine beach views.

Where to stay: Set on 45 acres of bushland Three Capes and Tasman Lodge is designed for big groups, with six comfortable bedrooms, a fire pit and a wraparound deck to enjoy. Or settle in with a mate at the timber-built Three Capes Cabin, overlooking little Norfolk Bay. Glass of wine in hand.

7. Bremer Bay, WA

Population: 312

If you’re after indescribably beautiful beaches, then you’ll need a few days to visit the glassy coastline near Bremer Bay.

This coastal hamlet on the south coast of Western Australia is the perfect place to swim, surf and spot killer whales in the wild. Add on a hike through nearby Fitzgerald River National Park, which is home to about 20 per cent of Western Australia’s plant species and over 200 bird species alone.

Where to stay: If you’re looking for a completely off-grid beach cottage with ocean-front views, Little Blue Eco Beach House is for you. Or for an architect-designed long-house cabin on the beach, Native Dog Cabin features luxury accommodation for up to six.

8. Lake Bennett, NT

Population: 129

Just 80km south of Darwin, this tiny holiday hotspot was created as a result of the construction of a nearby dam. Lake Bennett is, not surprisingly, a local weekend favourite.

Stay in comfortable, lakeside cabins and holiday homes to stay in. And enjoy in the cool, clear waters while fishing, kayaking or swimming. For something a little more wild, explore the swimming holes of Berry Springs Nature Park, where native flowers decorate the way from March to April.

Where to stay: The newly rebuilt waterfront Light House at Lake Bennett has its own pontoon, boat and kayak for you to enjoy. Or relax in one of Australia’s most famous pieces of tropical architecture at The Rozak House where nature and architecture blend seamlessly.

9. Tumby Bay, SA

Population: 2817

With 29 street art murals, a famous jetty and croissant-shaped beaches looking out to the tranquil Spencer Gulf, the coastal town of Tumby Bay (just 45 kilometres from Port Lincoln) is packed with things to do.

Dive under the jetty, paddleboard or kitesurf just offshore or enjoy the gentle waters of Tumby Bay Beach. For something a little different, plan your visit to coincide with the popular Colour Tumby Festival and be entertained all weekend.

Where to stay: With complimentary use of kayaks, the beachfront home of Sea, Salt and Sand is geared up for you to enjoy the waterfront and relax by the white sand beach in style.   

10. Glen Alice, NSW

Population: 56

The tiniest town on our tiny town list, Glen Alice, is a welcoming holiday spot surrounded by World Heritage-listed wilderness.

Spend a couple of days here and you’ll be perfectly situated to explore the immensity of the 600-million-year-old Capertee Valley, the widest canyon in the world. As well as Wollemi National Park, where you can see ancient Aboriginal rock art, explore the Glow Worm Tunnel and hike to the Pagoda Lookout.

Where to stay: Get back to nature on 100 acres of regenerated farmland in the Greater Blue Mountains when you spend the night at Warramba – Luxury Australian Farm Retreat – a lovingly restored 1890s homestead. Or enjoy five-star private luxury off-grid accommodation on a working truffle farm at Truffle Experience Awaits – Capertee Valley.

Start planning your tiny town escape at airbnb.com.au.

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