From Luxury Retreats to Hipster Tiny Homes: the 14 Best Yarra Valley Airbnbs

Visit Victoria Media Hub

Visit Victoria Media Hub

With picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and world-class produce, Victoria’s wine country is the ultimate playground. Trade the city life for a weekend escape at one of these incredible Yarra Valley airbnbs!


With its rolling world-class vineyards, quaint towns, and seemingly endless swathe of pristine Aussie bush, the Yarra Valley is one of the best weekend destinations Victoria has to offer.

And the best part? At just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, you can log off on Friday afternoon and be sipping wines at some of Australia’s best wineries by dinner time. Heavenly!

Part of the Yarra Valley’s charm lies in its variety; there are hipster eateries and trendy galleries, outdoor adventures to be had by leg or by spoke, gorgeous historic towns and old-world homesteads to explore — and of course, this extends to its huge selection of accommodation options too.

To save you the hassle of doing the same, we’ve sifted through the best (and worst) Yarra Valley Airbnbs to bring you a curated selection of the most unique and cosy homes for any occasion. Nothing daggy or dated here!

Whether it’s a cosy retreat for a weekend of romance, a spacious family holiday home, or a base for a weekend of vine-hopping with friends you seek, pack those bags and make haste to one of these awesome Yarra Valley Airbnbs.

 
MAY 2021 UPDATE | Since publishing this guide, Airbnb has closed their partner program. As such, we have updated some of the links below to exact alternatives on other booking platforms. If you choose to book using these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support, and happy travels!

14 INCREDIBLE AIRBNBS IN THE YARRA VALLEY


 

WHERE IS THE YARRA VALLEY?

Victoria’s famed Yarra Valley is located about 60km east of Melbourne’s CBD.

Known for its dense forests, rolling world-class vineyards, quaint historic towns and winding scenic drives, the Yarra Valley is the traditional land of the Wurundjeri people, who have called these lands home for over 30,000 years.

When European settlement occurred, the region became a hub for logging, mining, and farming - and its potential as world-class wine-growing landscapes was discovered. The first vines were planted in 1838, and the rest, as they say, is history.

These days, the Yarra Valley is one of the world’s premier cold-climate wine regions, with internationally renowned wineries including St. Huberts, De Bortoli, Yering Station and Oakridge.

It's also one of the most popular weekend getaways for Melburnians, luring tired city folk to its natural beauty with the promise of exceptional food and wine and the chance to relax amongst some of the Victoria's most picturesque surroundings.

READ MORE | Our guide to the best of the Yarra Valley

 

 

WHERE TO STAY IN THE YARRA VALLEY

When it comes to choosing the best Yarra Valley airbnb, you'll need to factor in what you're planning to do there and whether you'll have wheels of your own.

The distances between venues and attractions are relatively large, so depending on your sightseeing priorities, it's best to base yourself in a selected area.

We recommend either Warburton, Healesville, or Yarra Glen as they offer plenty to do in the local area, while also providing easy access to the Yarra Valley's best highlights too - we've included brief guides to why you should stay in each below.

 

 

HEALESVILLE AIRBNBS | THE BEST AIRBNBS IN HEALESVILLE

Over the last 10 years, this beautifully quaint town just an hour from the CBD has lured many a millennial Melburniansto its cosy streets with good food, trendy wine bars, and nature in spades.

With a culinary culture that’s second to none, world-class wineries right on its doorstep, and one of Victoria’s most spectacular drives within its reaches, Healesville really is the perfect day trip from Melbourne (or weekend getaway, if you’re that way inclined!).

These are our favourite Healesville airbnbs:

 
The_Common_Wanderer_Healesville_-25.jpg
 

#1 THE LOFT @ ALCHEMY DISTILLERS

Tucked down a little laneway in the heart of Healesville, Alchemy Distillers are the proof that cool laneway gin bars are definitely not exclusive to Melbourne's CBD.

What does this have to do with Yarra Valley airbnbs, you ask? The Alchemy team have given a different meaning to 'drink till you pass out'; a super cool 2-bedroom loft airbnb is now available to book above the distillery itself. Here's to enjoying all the delights of the distillery, bar, and cafe without having too far to stumble to sleep off that gin-and-food-coma.

This character-filled loft is full of local history - the building is over 100 years old and enjoyed a former life as one of Victoria's oldest bakeries - while plonking you right in the heart of Healesville's trendy current hotspot. And as if all that gin wasn't already enough, the town's best eateries and bars can also be found a hop, skip, or stumble up the street too.

The loft sleeps 4 (2 beds), contains all the usual essentials, and the only thing to note is that the bathroom is accessed via the main bedroom (something to be aware of at night!).

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 4 (2 bedrooms)

Amenities | self-contained kitchen, two bedrooms, coffee machine, access to Alchemy Distillers

BOOK | THE ALCHEMY LOFT

 
 
The Alchemy Loft, Healesville - Image courtesy of Airbnb

The Alchemy Loft, Healesville - Image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#2 THE SHED, HEALESVILLE | A WAREHOUSE ESCAPE

The Shed by name and absolutely anything but by nature, this airy barn conversion is basically 'urban warehouse cool' meets 'manly outback escape' (just try and tell us that's not a style thing..!).

This open(ish) plan warehouse airbnb in Healesville is designed to impress, from the luxurious main bedroom with King-sized bed and a freestanding bath to the huge living area with slow combustion fireplace, perfect for relaxing with your day’s pickings from the region’s vineyards. The bathroom is also well-stocked with locally-made natural bath and body products too.

Given that the best of Healesville's gourmet scene is literally on your doorstep, the Shed isn't equipped with kitchen facilities, but there are tea and coffee facilities and a BBQ on the patio complete with the prep basics, plates, bowls and cutlery.

Best suited to 4 adults max, the semi-open plan does mean you'll probably want to know your travel buddies pretty well.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 4 adults (1 king, 2 double bunks)

Amenities | patio, smart TV, tea & coffee essentials, free-standing bath, slow combustion fireplace, A/C & heating, no kitchen.

BOOK | THE SHED, HEALESVILLE

 
 
The Shed, Healesville - image courtesy of Airbnb

The Shed, Healesville - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#3 KILLAWARRA HOUSE | GREAT FOR GROUPS

Whether it's a long-overdue family reunion, a friend's milestone birthday celebration, or that exciting final morning spent with your bridal party as you prepare to say ‘I do’ amongst the vines of the Yarra Valley, Healesville's Killawarra House is the ultimate Yarra Valley airbnb for those times you just want to be with your loved ones in a beautiful setting. Especially without the hassle of having to coordinate multiple homes!

The recently renovated 5-bedroom house sleeps 10 people and features a modern kitchen, huge living area perfect for entertaining, spacious and light-filled bedrooms, and even has your own private bar onsite, The Black Spur, complete with a pool table! (We do feel the need to point out that this isn't a party house though).

Nestled amongst gum trees and the natural beauty of the Healesville area, it feels like the ultimate tree escape - complete with friendly local Rosellas, Kookaburras, and the occasional Kangaroo dropping by to say hello! - while only being a couple of minutes' from all the action and hipster cafes of Healesville town itself.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 10 (5 bedrooms)

Amenities | Indoor fireplace, heating, modern kitchen, A/C, WiFi, patio and outdoor areas, hot tub

BOOK | KILLAWARRA HOUSE 

 
 
Killawarra House, Healesville - image courtesy of Airbnb
 
 
 

#4 ALSACE | A ROMANTIC RETREAT

This gorgeous Healesville airbnb takes tiny homes to a whole new level, a modern light-filled studio that brings a touch of France right to the Yarra Valley.

The Alsace Retreat might be small, but smart design means it still manages to fit all the essentials for a perfect stay; well-equipped kitchen, a coffee machine, heating and A/C, and postcard-perfect views over Mount Saint Leonard right from the comfort of your own bed! A separate bathroom has a bath and shower to soak your cares away too.

The studio gardens are charming, and the airbnb is just a few minute's walk from the centre of Healesville and the boutique vineyard Boat O'Craigo (aka the source of a cheeky complimentary bottle of wine in your room!).

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2 (1 bed)

Amenities | Separate bathroom, kitchen, Nespresso machine, complimentary wine

BOOK | ALSACE

 
 
Alsace Retreat, Healesville - image courtesy of Airbnb

Alsace Retreat, Healesville - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#5 YARRA VALLEY TINY HOUSE | OFF-GRID ECO LIVING

We've all dreamed of packing it all in and going off-grid somewhere in the countryside, and now you can finally experience that dream at the Yarra Valley Tiny House.

Nestled on a lush private block of quintessentially Aussie bushland, this tiny house in Chum Creek (5-minutes drive from Healesville) is a truly immersive nature escape. Wake up with the sun, watch the stars twinkle as you enjoy the firepit, and enjoy the slower pace amongst the local wildlife and surrounds.

But don't think for a second that this means rugged and rustic; the solar-powered cabins are furnished with all the essentials you'd expect from a boutique hotel. From the queen bed and full kitchen to the hot showers and Bluetooth speakers, this tiny home is proof that a sustainable life and modern comfort can absolutely exist hand-in-hand. - proof that a sustainable life and modern comfort can exist hand-in-hand.

Note | If this particular tiny home isn't available for your dates, the owners also have this equally awesome tiny home just outside Warburton that's worth checking out.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2 (1 bed)

Amenities | Stovetop, fridge, queen bed, outdoor firepit, solar-powered hut

BOOK | YARRA VALLEY TINY HOUSE

 
 
Yarra Valley Tiny House - image courtesy of Airbnb

Yarra Valley Tiny House - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#6 VILLE D'SOUMAH | LUXURY WINE ESTATE

Okay so this one is technically 10-minutes drive from Healesville in the little wine-growing town of Gruyere (mmm... cheese), but we had to include it on the list because a) it's smack bang in the middle of the Soumah vineyard, and b) it's absolutely stunning.

Now, we feel we have to warn you that nothing we share here will do Ville D'Soumah justice, it's just one of those places you'll have to visit for yourself. The homestead-style property is super spacious, full of natural light and beautiful furnishings, and the views of the rolling vineyards from, well, pretty much every window are second to none.

The property has easy access to the delights of the Yarra Valley, or opt instead to enjoy a long, lazy lunch at the onsite Trattoria D'Soumah, which serves up deliciously authentic Italian fare, like spanner crab tagliatelle, zucchini and broad bean orecchiette. Nom!

From Monday to Thursday, the property is available to rent as a one-bedroom, one bathroom apartment (with kitchen access), while on weekends the entire four bedroom / three bathroom house is available for rent. The huge open plan kitchen is made for entertaining — or ladies, if you're planning a wedding and looking for the ultimate 'get ready' venue, this is definitely the one. Well, the other one.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | Up to 8 (4 bedrooms)

Amenities | 4 bedrooms, three bathrooms, full kitchen, indoor fireplace, onsite vineyard and trattoria

BOOK | VILLE D’SOUMAH

 
 
Ville D’Soumah, Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

Ville D’Soumah, Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 

 

WARBURTON AIRBNBS | THE BEST AIRBNBS IN WARBURTON

Sleepy Warburton has long held a special place in our hearts. Mark's dad has lived in the region for years, and we've spent many a day enjoying all that this quirky little village entails (you can read more about that in our dedicated Warburton guide - find it here).

With hiking trails galore, the Yarra River bubbling by, Mt Donna Buang looming overhead, and plenty of cute cafes, ye olde worlde antique shops, and quirky boutiques on the main street it's a great place for a weekender.

Here's our pick of the best Warburton Airbnbs:

 
 
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#7 ANCIENT FUTURE STYLE AT WARBY SABI | A DESIGN-FORWARD RETREAT

By far our fave Warburton Airbnb, this minimalistic Japanese-style retreat is an inspiring feast for the senses.

Just a few minutes walk up the hill from Warburton village, the Warby Sabi Airbnb feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This design-forward space is full of thoughtful touches, with ample cookware, kitchen essentials, fresh herbs in the garden, plus thick wooden barn-style sliding doors and a comfy bed that faces the trees for the perfect morning wake up. There's also a cosy indoor fireplace and a TV projector - hello, epic movie night!

You'll enjoy the sounds of the creek and waterfall on-site, plus the lush green surroundings are an idyllic setting to relax in. If you manage to tear yourself away from the peace and serenity, the famous Warby Aqueduct trail (the O'Shannassy Aqueduct) and the Warburton rail trail are both nearby.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2 (1 bedroom)

Amenities | projector, sound system, indoor fireplace, outdoor firepit, kitchen amenities,

BOOK | WARBY SABI

 
 
Warby Sabi, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

Warby Sabi, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#8 19 ON THE HILL | PERFECT MOUNTAIN VIEWS

A great spot for couples, 19 on the Hill is a peaceful mountain retreat with everything you need for a cosy weekend away.

The self-contained 1-bedroom house offers up beautiful mountain views (the best are from the very large private bathtub!), a peaceful balcony visited by the odd local rosella or kookaburras, and an insanely comfy bed, along with all the usual creature comforts you could need. It's the perfect place to come back to after a day of walking the local trails, or just to unwind outside with bird calls and mountain views.

Located in the quiet hills just above the Yarra River, this Warburton airbnb is about 10-minutes walk from the centre of town — and if you happen to indulge in too much local produce while there, the steep hill it's located on will most certainly help you burn it all off again!

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2 (1 bedroom)

Amenities | indoor fireplace, self-contained kitchen, basic provisions (tea, coffee, milk, eggs), large bathtub with mountain views, A/C

BOOK | 19 ON THE HILL

 
 
19 on the Hill, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

19 on the Hill, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#9 WARBURTON DIGS | GREAT FOR GROUPS

Whether you're there to cycle the rail trail, stroll through the local surrounds, or indulge in some of the Yarra Valley's finest grape offerings together, Warburton Digs is perfect for a group weekend away.

Spacious, fully self-contained and with views over Mount Donna Buang, the house comfortably sleeps 9 people across 4 bedrooms, with 2 bathrooms, 3 separate toilets, A/C for summer and a cosy indoor wood fireplace during the cooler months. The open plan kitchen and living area are well-stocked with essential amenities, making it ideal for any catering plans you might have too.

The house is about 1km from the heart of Warburton village and has easy access to the Upper Yarra river. Grab a tube and bob your way downstream (a fave memory from our childhood school camps in the area), go for a refreshing swim, or wander along the idyllic riverwalk.

Keen cyclists will appreciate the proximity to some of the best riding trails in the area too - including the gruelling Mount Donna Buang ascent which can be accessed from the front gate!

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 9 (4 bedrooms)

Amenities | 2 bathrooms, 3 toilets, full kitchen, heating & A/C, indoor fireplace, bike shed and tools/wash,

BOOK | WARBURTON DIGS

 
 
Warburton Digs, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

Warburton Digs, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#10 MOUNTAIN TINY HOUSE | SUSTAINABLE TINY HOME FOR TWO

Our love for a tiny home might be showing now given there are a few on this list, but there's just something about paring things back to basics in a stunning natural environment that gets us every time. We have big dreams of finally having a tiny home of our own one day, but in the meantime, we're continuing to live vicariously through places like this Tiny Mountain House in Warby.

Nestled between the Redwood Forest and La La Falls, the cabin is a totally off-grid experience, powered entirely by solar, a water tank, gas bottles and compost toilet. There's no skimping on mod-cons either, with a fully equipped kitchen, big bathroom, queen-sized bed, TV and comfy vintage couch, a woodfire area and a spacious deck made for a morning coffee or relaxing afternoon beer.

It's surrounded by 2-acres of bushland, with plenty of friendly locals who might pop up to say hello, from Kookaburras to Lyrebirds, Cockatoos to Wallabies. Basically, it's the dream escape for couples who want to get away from it all for a while or enjoy a taste of the tiny home life for themselves.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2

Amenities | full kitchen, coffee machine, TV, woodfire pit, patio, sustainable off-grid power

BOOK | MOUNTAIN TINY HOUSE

 
 
Mountain Tiny House, Warburton Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

Mountain Tiny House, Warburton Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#11 MR OAK | MODERN GETAWAY FOR SMALL GROUPS

Mr Oak is one for lovers of modern design with unique touches, a stylish house that blends industrial design and vintage finds for a rustic vibe and cosy stay.

Great for either a couple on a romantic weekender or a small group getaway, this Warburton airbnb is full of natural light, with huge windows and a deck overlooking the epic mountain vista beyond. In summer, throw the doors and windows open and enjoy the warm breeze and views, or cosy up by the fire and watch the stars twinkle in winter.

There's an open plan kitchen and living area, two bedrooms, and an outdoor fireplace on the deck for those evenings when you can't quite tear yourself away from the changing scenery but the temperatures are dropping!

The river and main street of Warburton are just a short walk away. Do note that there's no wifi here (there is phone reception) - but a digital detox never hurt anyone!

There is also a new studio apartment that can be booked as an addition - check with the owners when enquiring.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 4 (2 bedrooms)

Amenities | indoor fireplace, outdoor fire, A/C, full kitchen, two bedrooms, no wifi.

BOOK | MR OAK WARBURTON

 
 
Mr Oak, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

Mr Oak, Warburton - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 

 

YARRA GLEN AIRBNBS | THE BEST AIRBNBS IN YARRA GLEN

The pretty town of Yarra Glen is just 10-minutes drive from some of the Yarra Valley's best-loved wineries like Stones of the Yarra Valley, Zonzo Estate, Coombe Estate, Yering Station, and Meletos, which makes it the perfect base for attending weddings, or enjoying a weekend of world-class winery-hopping with your buddies.

Here are our favourite Yarra Glen airbnbs:

 
 
Visit Victoria Media Hub

Visit Victoria Media Hub

 
 

#12 NISSEN HUT, DIXON’S CREEK | THE ULTIMATE RETREAT

If the idea of an idyllic hut-style getaway appeals but you prefer to have all the mod-cons of life while you're there (like say, electricity, a comfy bed, and a long soak in a spa bath), magical Nissen Hut is the airbnb for you.

Nestled into the picturesque wetlands of the working Glenlowren farm, about 10-minutes out of Yarra Glen, the hut simultaneously transports you miles from the world while also dropping you right on the doorstep of some of the region's best wineries and eateries.

Light-filled and airy, Nissen Hut's vaulted ceilings, indoor log fire, and indoor and outdoor hangout spaces provide the perfect setting to relax and soak up the scenery (with a bottle of Yarra Valley's export, of course!). Go for hikes, explore the wineries and galleries of the local region, curl up by a window with a book, or wander through the property; anything goes!

There's a modern kitchen equipped with all the essentials, luxury furnishings and appliances, a spa bathroom to unwind in, and everything you need for a cosy romantic getaway, a family escape, or a getaway with friends. Hosts Tinne and Pieter are also wonderful, going out of their way to make sure the fridge is stocked and providing a gourmet breakfast hamper each day with produce straight from the farm. What more could you want?!

If the Nissen Hut is booked out when you want to visit, the owners also have two other properties on their farm which are worth checking out. You can find the Garden Suite here and the Settler's Cottage here.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 4 (2 bedrooms)

Amenities | Indoor fireplace, modern kitchen, A/C, WiFi, patio area, spa bath

BOOK | NISSEN HUT

 
 
Nissen Hut, Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

Nissen Hut, Yarra Valley - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 
 

#13 YARRA VALLEY MAISON STAY | LUXURY DESIGNED TO IMPRESS

This Yarra Glen airbnb is pretty much all of Mim's boho-luxe future home dreams wrapped up in one beautiful holiday stay.

The Maison Stay is for those times when you just want to escape to somewhere cool with your girlfriends or another couple and enjoy a few days of living the good life. With floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, plenty of custom boho furnishings (like that beautiful tan leather couch!), a huge spa bath and dual shower, and a very inviting pool, this light-filled, modern space has absolutely everything you could need during your stay.

Not far from some of the best wineries in the region, the Maison Stay is also right next door to one of our fave cafes in the area, the Dark Horse (same owners), a must-stop destination in the area serving up fab coffee, delicious homemade sweet treats, and exceptional breaky made with local produce.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 6 (2 bedrooms, 3 beds)

Amenities | pool, custom furnishings, spa bath, dual shower, full kitchen, kids travel cot/tableware etc

BOOK | YARRA VALLEY MAISON STAY

 
 
Yarra Valley Maison Stay - image courtesy of Airbnb

Yarra Valley Maison Stay - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 

 

GLAMPING AIRBNBS IN THE YARRA VALLEY

#14 GLAMPING TENT IN AN ORCHARD, HEALESVILLE

We're a split party when it comes to camping; one of us would gladly go pitch a tent in 0c weather to enjoy a rugged and frosty night in the wilderness... the other likes the idea of camping without the hassle or discomfort of actually doing so (can you guess who's who?!).

This glamping tent just outside Healesville is the perfect middle ground for us; the chance to enjoy the simple things in life without actually giving up a warm, comfy bed or creature comforts! Set in a pretty orchard full of summer fruits, the deluxe bell tent is spacious with a queen bed, fan and heater, bluetooth speakers, a fridge, and BBQ & firepit outside.

The hosts are also exceptional and go out of their way to make it a one of a kind experience - even dropping off croissants and fruit for breakfast each day. You don't get that regular camping now, do you...!

The glamping site is just 10-15-minutes walk from all the delights of Healesville too.

THE DETAILS

Sleeps | 2

Amenities | queen bed, fridge, own bathroom with amenities, BBQ, firepit, wine and cheese package can be added, board games and books

BOOK | GLAMPING TENT IN ORCHARD

 
 
Glamping tent in Orchard - image courtesy of Airbnb

Glamping tent in Orchard - image courtesy of Airbnb

 
 

 

HOW TO GET TO THE YARRA VALLEY

BY CAR

Follow the Monash/Eastern/Eastlink freeway (M3) towards Ringwood, before following the Maroondah Highway (B360) towards Lilydale.

Once past Lilydale, veer left and follow the Highway towards Coldstream. Stay on the Maroondah Highway, passing the vineyards before slowly arriving into Healesville.

CAR RENTAL | We use Rentalcars.com

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

If catching public transport, jump on the direct train from the city to Lilydale, where the line ends. From there, it’s possible to catch the 685 bus which stops in Healesville (buses run every 30 - 45mins).

 

 

EXPLORE THE BEST OF VICTORIA WITH THESE ESSENTIAL POSTS

THE BEST OF THE YARRA VALLEY | Our complete guide to the Yarra Valley, all the very best things to do in Healesville, a guide to the beautiful Warburton, and the East Warburton Redwood Forest

THE BEST OF THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD | Everything to do on the Great Ocean Road, our guide to Hopetoun Falls, the mystical Otway Californian Redwoods, the ultimate guide to visiting Loch Ard Gorge, and the best Airbnbs along the Great Ocean Road

PHILLIP ISLAND ADVENTURES | The ultimate Phillip Island travel guide, plus 15+ incredible Phillip Island Airbnbs

LOCH VILLAGE | Our guide to Gippsland’s cutest little town, Loch

VICTORIA ROAD TRIP | Our ultimate 7-day Victorian road trip guide

DAYLESFORD | Our Daylesford and surrounds day trip & weekend getaway guide, plus all the best Daylesford airbnbs to stay in while you’re there

AIRBNB GUIDE | Our essential guide to getting the best out of Airbnb

 

 

PLAN YOUR VICTORIAN ADVENTURES WITH OUR GUIDES