Farmer wants an upgrade
Luxury farmstays within easy reach are good reason to take the country road
Farmstays are rivalling beach breaks in popularity as travellers seek out serene staycays and more authentic experiences. Bookings for Stayz holiday homes in rural regions spiked by more than 90 per cent in 2023, and high-end haycations are sprouting on Airbnb.
Here are four of the best country getaways within a short drive of the Gold Coast.
THE ACREAGE AT SIXTY6ACRES Woombye
A three-bedroom country cottage with its own outdoor bathhouse is the newest addition to the Sunshine Coast’s Sixty6 Acres farmstead.
Owners Andrew and Jo Pitcher created the more spacious option after popular demand.
“We have had lots of inquiry from families with more than two kids and, as we are a family of five ourselves, we know how difficult it can be to find quality accommodation that comfortably sleeps us all together,” Andrew says.
“We’ve had repeat visitors, five-star reviews and lots of families wanting to smuggle Hugo (miniature horse) in their boot on departure.”
Jo says she loves stretching out on the Acreage’s four-seater lounge, looking through the pineapples to the horses in the far paddock as they jostle for attention and more carrots.
“The private outdoor bath house is a perfect place to switch off and soak under the stars after a long day exploring the best of the Sunshine Coast,” she adds.
HEARTWOOD FARM Federal
On a 100-acre cattle farm established in the early 1900s, this luxury country cottage is a step back to simpler times.
Owners Craig and Nicole Spencer set the scene for long soaks in the clawfoot bath, lazy summer picnics by the Wilson River and strolls through the hinterland’s rolling hills.
If you can tear yourself away from the heated plunge pool, the Byron locals also have plenty of tips for guests exploring further afield.
Doma Cafe, in the quaint village of Federal just four minutes’ drive away, is top of the list for lunch.
Heartwood Farm is cheapest to book direct at heartwood farmbyronbay.com
TINY FARM HOUSE ON THE HILL Peachester
Mini cows, sheep and alpacas dot the 180-degree view of the Sunshine Coast hinterland framed by this hilltop hideaway.
The hand-raised menagerie, which also includes horses, goats, mini pigs and chickens, make for an enthusiastic welcoming party, especially when rewarded with a feed through the fence.
Designed for its low footprint, the new tiny house on wheels has a queen bed with the pick of the panoramas, plus another secret loft queen bed.
They’ve also squeezed in an equipped kitchenette and patio barbecue, plus an outdoor fireplace.
Find it on Stayz and Airbnb.
FOXCROFT FARMSTAY Bilambil
Formerly known as Mt Gilead Farm and now under new ownership, this sweet Airbnb addition promises “less, but more of it”.
The one-bedroom tiny house – a cosy fit for two – doesn’t have a TV, but it does boast huge views, an outdoor bath and a big pile of books.
Hike to the creek, feast at Potager up the road and spend evenings around the fire.