The private Tassie island paradise you can rent!
Picnic Island, Tasmania
IF being marooned on your own private island doesn’t impress the kids, watching the resident colony of penguins go about their business come nightfall sure will.
Given Tasmania is Australia’s fastest growing tourist destination, there are many reasons why Aussies and international visitors alike are flocking to the Apple Isle in droves - and Picnic Island is one of them.
Located just offshore from the Freycinet Peninsula within the Freycinet National Park, and around the corner from the famous Wineglass Bay, families can book the entire island for exclusive use for the ultimate immersive off-the-grid experience.
Designed by Tasmanian architect John Latham, the copper-clad lodge has five double rooms with king beds – which can be split into two singles for the kids if needed - in one of the two buildings and a common space, Birdhouse, housing the communal kitchen, dining area and bathrooms in the other.
The island is home to an abundance of bird and marine life and boasts arguably Tasmania’s most impressive views of the pink granite Hazards mountain range.
https://www.picnicisland.com.au
Dovecote, NSW
FOR a family holiday with lashings of style, it doesn’t get more idyllic than this.
Located two hours south of Sydney on the New South Wales scenic South Coast, Dovecote is an agricultural estate and working farm with sweeping views over Werri Beach.
There are two architecturally designed private holiday homes on the 150-acre property, The Headland [pictured] and The Range, which perfectly compliment the staggeringly beautiful landscape.
The Headland is the larger home and ideal for a family getaway boasting four bedrooms – including two with ensuites - a swimming pool, a full kitchen, spacious living areas and a living wing with a separate rumpus room for the kids.
There is a host of things to do in the region including fishing, coastal walks, exploring nearby rock pools and sea cliffs, surfing, wine tasting and sampling the local restaurants – an in-house concierge can assist with this - however with a fire pit, heated swimming pool and those panoramic views, there’s a fair chance guests won’t want to leave this stylish abode.
Injidup Bay House, Western Australia
WESTERN Australia’s Margaret River has put the South West on the world map for its wineries and gourmet food but a just short drive from Margaret River town, some lesser-known beachside enclaves provide the ultimate beach break for families.
Located on a 5.5 acre property surrounded by native bushland and overlooking the turquoise waters of Injidup Bay, the luxurious Injidup Bay House combines contemporary design with rustic charm.
Boasting six bedrooms, five bathrooms, indoor/outdoor living, a kids’ cinema room and a 20-metre lap pool complete with a log bridge, this is ultimate base from which explore all that this world-class region has to offer.
There are plenty of spaces to bond with the kids over a game of cards with daybeds and ample outdoor areas as well hanging chairs for relaxing by the pool and taking in the panoramic views.
https://www.privateproperties.com.au/properties/injidup-bay-house/
Imeson Cottage, Byron Bay
BYRON Bay’s bustling township may be just 10 minutes’ walk away but this unique absolute beachfront abode feels worlds away from civilisation.
Built in the early 1900s and used as a holiday shack for close to a century, this ECO certified two-bedroom cottage is nestled into a lush nook right on the sand at iconic surf spot The Pass in the Cape Byron State Conservation Area.
Having undergone a full renovation, the award-winning Imeson is ideal for a family of four with two bedrooms – a master and a twin-single – a beachfront kitchen, bathroom and a large deck with a barbecue and dining table for al fresco sunset dinners.
The piece de resistance, however, is those magical views across Cape Byron to Julian Rocks and Mount Warning.
https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/accommodation/imeson-cottage
Eliza Fraser Lodge, Queensland
Fraser Island is world famous for its fishing, camping and 4WDing but it is possible to enjoy the natural wonders of this World Heritage Site if camping isn’t your family’s idea of a relaxing beach break.
The remote Eliza Fraser Lodge at Orchid Beach is a two-storey eco-lodge, which offers a fully-catered, all-inclusive stay so all guests need to bring along is their clothes.
There are four bedrooms, sleeping up to eight guests, and the rate includes meals and nature-based experiences on the world’s largest sand island such as fishing and 4WD transport to some of the island’s most special spots.
The best access to Eliza Fraser Lodge is by the Manta Ray Fraser Island Barge that leaves from Inskip point at Rainbow Beach, or alternatively there is a vehicle ferry from Hervey Bay to Kingfisher Bay.
