Tassie’s Calling: Airbnbs Worth Travelling Off the Mainland For

Modern houses can sometimes feel a little impersonal, but this architectural gem nails the blend of old and new. You’re right on the water, with expansive ocean views from almost every part of the house – including the bathtub. A beachside viewing deck and fire pit are a perfect way to get some fresh Tasmanian sea air as the evening winds down. And a fully equipped kitchen means you don’t have to go out unless you really want to. Sleeps six / minimum two nights / from $2039.

Bruny Island has dramatic scenery, artisan food and wine, wildlife at every turn, and some hidden accommodation gems. One of them is a minimalist, completely off-grid cabin surrounded by 99 acres of conservation forest. Inside it’s all blond pine and outside it’s a striking white, contrasting with the trees. There’s a small kitchen, living space and dining area. Narrow stairs lead up to the loft where there’s a king-sized bed. Sleeps two / minimum two nights / from $976.

Interior designer, scientist and teacher Sarah Andrews found this run-down heritage-listed coastal shack in 2016 and turned it into one of the state’s most popular stays. This one-bedroom haven in the secluded west coast fishing village of Strahan features a minimal kitchen, a claw-foot bathtub, a snug living space and a wood fireplace to keep the cosy vibes going. Wide antique windows overlook the ocean and a private jetty, giving you a tranquil view to go with your morning coffee. Sleeps two / from $409.

This Sandy Bay stay is full of character without being over the top. Pops of colour are prominent throughout and there’s a tasteful blend of mid-century, space-age and modern furniture – as well as a record player and nicely stocked vinyl cabinet. The backyard features a hot tub and a firepit, there’s a fully equipped kitchen and well-stocked bathrooms. Perfect for a staycation. Sleeps six / from $340.

This 1969-built home designed by David McGlashan (Heide Museum of Modern Art in Melbourne) seamlessly blends into the scenery of Mount Wellington with its sloped roof and levels that mimic the mountain. There are four bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area and two bathrooms. This Japanese-inspired abode has floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors that lead out to gardens where there are reflective pools and two courtyards. Sleeps six / minimum two nights / from $1005.

This six-bedroom house is just 10 minutes from Bicheno on Tasmania’s east coast and is made for big groups and extended family holidays. It has three private, separate areas: The House, which includes the master bedroom plus a full kitchen and dining space for everyone to congregate in; The West Wing; and The Loft. There are massive windows looking out onto a private beach and total privacy thanks to sand dunes that surround Maclean Bay. Sleeps 13 / minimum two nights / from $1754.

This airy, industrial cabin has its own private view of the bay from high up on seaside cliffs. Wood finishes, a fireplace and mid-century furniture make the space feel cosy. Enjoying the uninhibited views of the night sky, the ocean and, if you’re lucky, the southern lights is a wonderful way to spend a night. You’re a short drive from the Adventure Bay shops and beach but still secluded enough to feel like you’re in another world – one that you won’t want to leave. Sleeps two / minimum two nights / from $782.

This compact but mighty home is in secluded woodland and leans into the setting with plenty of timber. There’s a kitchen with a stovetop and microwave, a claw-foot bath and shower in the bathroom, and a queen bed in the loft with a skylight for stargazing. Outside there’s a firepit and woodfired hot tub, plus a bigger house nearby for more people. Sleeps two / from $489.

This lush farm stay with views of Mt Roland is set on 100 rolling acres just outside town. The two cabins can accommodate two people each and include either a king or twin bed, a generous bathroom and kitchenette, plus a shared barbeque area. There are goats, chickens and a resident pair of nesting sea eagles on the working farm, and possums and wallabies at night. Sleeps two / minimum two nights / from $466.

This Japanese-inspired home between Hobart CBD and Mona is the work of Tara Bennett (the owner of Sydney’s Provider Store) and Sydney-based architecture studio Trias. The three-level space with a reading room and a fully equipped kitchen is filled with antique and modern furniture. And we have to mention the ryokan-inspired wooden bathtub, crafted from Australian western cedar. Sleeps six / minimum two nights / from $1050.

If you’ve ever dreamt of living as a recluse by the sea, you’ll love this nautically themed home in Falmouth, two hours east of Launceston. The two-bedroom home exudes tranquil and luxurious seaside vibes. There’s a modern kitchen, a snug but exquisite living space, an open brick fireplace, thoughtfully selected decor and furnishings, lavish windows, and French doors that open to the wild ocean. Sleeps four / from $800.

This award-winning barn conversion in Hobart’s CBD – close to Battery Point and Salamanca – is another of Tasmania’s most popular places to stay. From outside it looks much like it would have when it was built in the 1820s, but inside it’s a modern home with sleek lines and materials that complement the exposed sandstone. There’s a small kitchenette and a workspace upstairs near the only bedroom, plus a fireplace and elevated views of the city from the small courtyard. Sleeps two / minimum two nights / from $720.

Despite being in the capital and just a short drive from the Salamanca waterfront, this two-storey house feels like a world away thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that face the bush and let nature in. Plush, colourful furnishings and a statement carpet in the living area contrast with the moody grey aesthetic. The bathtub is surrounded by ’70s-style orange tiles and there’s a king bed with treeline views. The well-stocked kitchen comes with complimentary bottled cocktails, and there’s a fireplace for maximum cosy vibes. Sleeps two / from $580.