Travel

Go Off-Grid with 23 Of The Best Farm Stays Near Brisbane

Written by:
Eliza Woods

Brisbane/Meanjin has more than its fair share of beautiful farm stays that'll help you to put those city stresses on the backburner.

We’re not talking pitching a swag by the side of a Queensland paddock here, we mean mountain cabins and heritage cattle farms—though if you're keen to BYO sleeping bag, there's ample opportunity to camp under the stars. 

Whether you're looking for tiny house vibes or a luxe villa with all the mod cons, there's an option for you. At Urban List, we don't think it's a proper farm stay without at least a few farm animals involved, so we're rounded up plenty of them too. Here's our guide to the best farms stays near Brisbane.

Thornton | Sleeps 11 Wildflower Mountain Haven

The dining table on the deck at Wildflower Mountain Haven one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Wildflower Mountain Haven | Airbnb

Resident cattle, 360-degree mountain views and 33 peaceful acres greet you at this charming Queenslander farm stay, tucked on top of a hill around 90 minutes’ drive from Brisbane. You can bring the whole team to this top spot because your Airbnb sleeps 11. Wake to the sound of birdsong before feeding hay to the three friendly cows—Bambi, Iceman, and Honey—and taking a dip in the lagoon-style pool.

There’s another kind of pool available to play here as this pad has a billiards table, as well as a dartboard and the spacious grassy grounds call out for cricket and badminton too. After all that fun, we reckon it's time to fire up the barbecue for a snack surrounded by those rolling hills and paired with a glass of vino. Prefer someone else to do the cooking? The local country pub is just ten minutes away, where a hearty meal awaits.

Kin Kin | Sleeps 6 Mayan Farm

A view of the plunge pool at Mayan Farm one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Mayan Farm | Airbnb

If you want the farm vibes but not the rustic accommodation, Mayan Farm is the spot for you. Sitting on more than 100 acres in the Noosa hinterland, the farm is home to cattle, horses, ducks and sheep, but it also now hosts those with only two legs, thanks to a luxe rammed earth villa on the property.

Picture an alfresco deck, pizza oven and a plunge pool (just to name a few of the amenities), all overlooking the farmland and countryside views. The villas sleep up to eight, so split the bill and take your whole crew. 

Peachester | Sleeps 5 Mango Hill Farm

An exterior view of Mango Hill Farm one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Mango Hill Farm | Airbnb

Another restored cottage, this Mango Hill retreat offers two bedrooms and lots of opportunities for exploring. Located in Peachester, there are views of the Glasshouse Mountains area and Mt Beerwah. If you head down to the forest walk near the creek you’ll most likely make some new friends with the hinterland creatures living in the area, from kookaburras to water dragons and finches.

The owners rescue and look after goats, alpacas, sheep and miniature horses so you’ll have the opportunity to hang out with their furry friends and really test out if farm life is for you. We’d just like to add that it also has a rotunda in the garden, and we can’t stop daydreaming about the tea parties that could be held in that space. 

Haigslea | Sleeps 2 The Forager at Twigley Farm

An aerial view of the tent and outhouse at The Forager at Twigley Farm one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: The Forager at Twigley Farm | Airbnb

Love yourself a little bit of farm stay glamping? The Forager at Twigley Farm is a seriously adorable Queensland spot—just 45 minutes from Brisbane—where fireside sips and outdoor soaks are the order of the day. Your home away from home is a fully kitted-out tent, but rest assured you won’t be slumming it here: a queen bed, an indoor fireplace and AC comes as part of the package. 

Roll on out to your outdoor deck and enjoy a cuppa while watching the mist linger over the paddocks where horses graze beyond. You’re welcome to visit the friendly farm animals, or perhaps a long hot soak in the clawfoot tub in the private outhouse tempts instead? You find Bondi Wash body soap to slather on, plus fluffy robes for post-bath snuggling in. Afterwards, you can whip up lunch in your little kitchenette —although there’s no judgement here if a visit to the chef-hatted restaurant at nearby Spicers Retreat is on cards instead.

Mount Mee | Sleeps 4 Yajambee Farms

A view of the plunge pool at Yajambee Farms one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Yajambee Farms | Airbnb

If your head says farm stay, but your heart says luxury accomodation, you'll find the best of both worlds at this stunning bolthole near Mt Mee, just under 90 minutes' drive from Brisbane. The thoughtfully renovated cottage is kitted out with all the mod cons, including a fully equipped kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, outdoor entertainment area and barbecye and of course wi-fi.

Our favourite feature has to be the magnesium plunge pool overlooking the rolling hills where herds of Black Angus roam. If you're lucky, they might even mosey up to say hi while you're in the pool.

Glasshouse Mountains | Sleeps 6 Sunshine Coast Farm Stay

A view of the pool with the Glasshouse mountains in the background at Sunshine Coast Farm Stay one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Sunshine Coast Farm Stay | Airbnb

Looking for something with a bit more space for friends and family? This farm stay, just 40 minutes from Brisbane, has three king-size bedrooms, an enormous living area and a pool with incredible mountain views.

Bushwalking, mountain climbing and day trips to the beach are all a must to really take in the sights and sounds of the region. The owners will also provide picnic baskets filled with local produce or organise dinners under the stars if requested so you can make your stay as relaxing as you’d like. Of course, it wouldn’t be a farm stay without plenty of cows, horses and chickens to keep everyone thoroughly entertained. 

Ninderry | Sleeps 3 Cadaghi Cabin

An exterior view of Cadaghi Cabin  one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Cadaghi Cabin | Airbnb

Surrounded by a perfectly manicured five-acre property, Cadaghi Cabin is the definition of farm living. The owner handcrafted the house with antique windows and 100-year-old timber floors, so this is definitely not your average country cabin, but it’s kitted out with all the mod cons you’ll need.

Soak up the country sun on the back deck, set up by the outdoor firepit, or feed Taco the Shetland pony. Looking for outing options? The cabin is only a short drive to Yandina, and the renowned Spirit House Restaurant. And just so you know, it made the finalist list for Host of the Year in Airbnb’s 2022 Host Awards, so you know you’ll be looked after—the owners will even bring you freshly baked bread and farm eggs each morning. 

Fernvale | Sleeps 3 Rangeview Outback Hut

Rustic chairs on the deck at Rangeview Outback Hut one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Rangeview Outback Hut | Airbnb

We’ve got just the ticket if you’re looking for the best escape from the city noise, less than an hour from Brisbane. Step into a world of tranquillity and rustic charm at this remarkable self-contained accommodation, housed within a beautifully restored 100-year-old corn shed. Decorated with an array of vintage Australiana-style items, this cosy farm stay exudes a uniquely 'outback' ambiance. Your gracious hosts are there to ensure your every need is met, and they sweeten the deal with a delightful breakfast hamper.

Whether you're craving a campfire-cooked feast or simply wish to toast marshmallows while gazing at the starry expanse above, the choice is yours. Kids can feed and befriend the friendly farm animals, expend their endless energy on the sprawling property, or let their imaginations run wild in the cubby house and onsite playground. 

Mount Alford | Sleeps 2 Vanbery Cottage Host Farm

An exterior view of Vanbery Cottage Host Farm one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Vanbery Cottage Host Farm | Airbnb

Call a rosella farm home at this pretty country cottage at Mount Alford, less than 90 minutes from Brisbane, and your hosts can let you get some hands-on farming experience in the right season (January to June). Vanbery Cottage used to be an old school before it was moved to the property, and now it offers guests a place to relax and recharge while drinking in some epic mountain and valley views.

Bring your walking shoes, because this Airbnb has easy access to bush tracks, mountain paths and more—plus there’s a swimming pool to cool off in once you’ve worked up a sweat. There’s restaurants, cafes and wineries to explore if a day-trip takes your fancy, or you could just lie back in the hammock on the verandah back at base with a book and a glass of the good stuff. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, king parrots and kookaburras while you’re at it—you might even spot the two visiting koalas, Kevin and Ketchup, too.

Peachester | Sleeps 4 Tiny Farm House On The Hill

The bed with a view at Tiny Farm House On The Hill one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Tiny Farm House On The Hill | Airbnb

There are two things we love in the world: farm stays and tiny houses. Lucky for us, this farmhouse combines both into one picture-perfect getaway. This modern two-bedroom farmhouse has all the amenities needed for a private getaway including kitchen, modern toilet, outdoor fireplace and patio (all tiny of course).

The view, however, is far from small and covers 180 degrees views of the rolling Sunshine Coast hinterland, mini cows, sheep and alpacas. You may even catch a glimpse of a platypus in the nearby creek if you’re lucky. You’re welcome to help yourself to the gardens onsite and snack on the seasonal organic fruit, veggies and herbs. Recharge, reset, and rejuvenate in this pastoral paradise less than 90 minutes from Brisbane.

Darlington | Sleeps 4 Darlington Grove

The bedroom at Darlington Grove one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Darlington Grove | Airbnb

This one-bedroom farm stay, an hour and a half from Brisbane, allows you to quite literally lie amongst farming history, as you’ll be sleeping in a former milking shed. If you’re thinking that doesn’t sound super comfortable, don’t panic, it’s been fully renovated and features a queen bed and two singles if needed.

This farm experience is super immersive, and you can get as hands-on as you like. If you choose to partake in farming duties, you’ll be able to feed the sheep, chicken, and ducks, collect and chop firewood, care for the sheep and check on the horse’s water supply. If you want a bit more relaxation, explore the olive grove and take a dip in the Albert River. 

Kenilworth | Sleeps 2 Old Glenroy Dairy

The living space with a cowhide rug at Old Glenroy Dairy one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Old Glenroy Dairy | Airbnb

This quaint homestay was built in the 1920s, and has since been restored, maintaining the original character that makes it unique. Located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, a two hour drive from Brisbane, you’ll be able to explore plenty of local towns while you’re there, including Maleny and Eumundi.

The property is part of a working cattle farm so you’ll catch plenty of cow glimpses and, on request, you can help out with the feeding jobs. The cottage promises misty views all the way down to the Mary River, an abundance of fig trees, and, of course, stunning sunsets to help you leave the work week behind and embrace rural life. 

Dayboro | Sleeps 6 Laceys Creek Homestead

A view of the dining and living space with woodburner at Laceys Creek Homestead one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Laceys Creek Homestead | Airbnb

Step back to the 1920s with this heritage accommodation option. The restored farmhouse embraces its past and really provides the ultimate regional farm escape. Walking in, you’re greeted by a constant breeze, beautiful wooden flooring, a fireplace, traditional oven and farm-style furnishings.

Limited phone reception allows you to relax and take in the unrivalled views of Lacey’s Creek valley on your private balcony and explore the many walking tracks. While you have the three-bedroom home all to yourself, you’re on an 80-acre working property so cattle, chicken and goat sightings are very likely. 

Boyland | Sleeps 3+ Clandulla Cottages And Farmstay

The cosy interior at Clandulla Cottages And Farmstay one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Clandulla Cottages And Farmstay | Booking.com

Clandulla Cottages and Farmstay has all the country charm you could dream of. Located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, these cottages are a quick one hour drive from Brisbane and offer all of the traditional farm stay activities, including collecting eggs and fussing over a variety of baby animals.

Adrenaline junkies may like to venture outside of the property to hang glide from the top of beautiful Mt Tamborine, or catch hot air balloon across the Scenic Rim. There are also plenty of slower options to suit your speed, including a visit to the nearby rainforest skywalk, local galleries, shops and cafes. If you’re aiming for total relaxation, kick back in your suite and sun yourself on the terrace. Kids will love the idea of roasting marshmallows in the firepit each night (rest assured they will sleep well after a day outdoors on the farm). 

Eumundi | Sleeps 5 Mediterranean Farmstay

A day bed on the porch at Mediterranean Farmstay one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Mediterranean Farmstay | Airbnb

Discover a revitalised farm stay just a short drive from the iconic Eumundi markets, and a 20 minute trip to the gorgeous beaches of Noosa. Your days here are destined for relaxation, overlooking breathtaking vistas. Picture yourself basking in the warm sun on the terrace, or losing yourself in a book atop the hand-carved daybed.

This one is a dream come true for animal lovers, with friendly horses, dogs, and a charming assortment of chickens, ducks, and geese. Fire up the barbecue and indulge in flavours from local market produce, while you make good memories in the al-fresco dining area. As the sun dips below the horizon, retreat indoors for a cosy evening of board games, or maybe you’d prefer to step outside and bask in the tranquil symphony of local wildlife. 

Currumbin Valley | Sleeps 8 Hillview Stables

A view of the pool at Hillview Stables farm stay near Brisbane
Image Credit: Airbnb | Website

Got enough annual leave in the bank for a 30-day farm stay? This restored stable block in Queensland’s Currumbin Valley, less than an hour and a half from Brisbane, invites you to ‘hang up your hat’ and settle in. Located in a remote corner of an historic dairy farm, Hillview Stables is awaiting council approval for short stays, but if your time off is mounting up it’s already yours for the taking. It’s a luxury spot, restored with more than a nod to the original design, and a hint of Yellowstone thrown in.

Expect two barns, one housing an open plan cookhouse and lounge with smoky leather couches. The other, boasting three king size bedrooms so there’s room enough for ten. You’ve also got a Western cowboy bathhouse with a custom stone bath, and outside you’ll find more than just horses you’re welcome to feed at carrot-munching time. There’s a luxe tiled Magnesium pool, a rustic outdoor bath,  a bocce court and of course the obligatory firepit for those starry, starry nights.

Cooran | Sleeps 2 Rosecliffe Melbourne Tram

The Art Deco interior of the Rosecliffe Melbourne Tram one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Rosecliffe Boutique Farm Cottages | Booking.com

You can call an antique Melbourne tram home on your next Queensland farm stay vacation with a stay at Rosecliffe. This retreat borders on Woondum National Park Rainforest and, yes, a historic tram that once ran on Melbourne's iconic Spencer St to St Kilda line is one of the actual accommodation options.

Expect an Art Deco carriage saloon with a Victorian overstuffed brocade couch for lounging on. There's brocade upholstered tub chairs, a mahogany butler's kitchen and a high-backed claw foot bath for soaking in too. The 93-acre property it sits on has a few alpacas and plenty of native wildlife, from wallabies to sugar gliders, koalas, cockatoos, and eagles. The estate also has a very sleek infinity pool which is just begging to be splashed around in. 

Washpool | Sleeps 2 The Chalet @ Darclo Farm

The Chalet @ Darclo Farm Stay near Brisbane living space
Image Credit: The Chalet @ Darclo Farm | Airbnb

Resting on an open grassy hillside, overlooking the valleys towards Mount Flinders in Queensland’s Scenic Rim you’ll find a spot that’s home to a happy herd of roaming Droughtmaster cattle. It’s your spot too, if you fancy a 100 per cent off-grid farm stay at The Chalet—and why wouldn’t you? It’s one of the best Airbnbs near Brisbane to embrace that faraway feeling.

Koala-spotting is almost mandatory at Darclo Farm and the peeps that own this place have made it easy for you to stroll through the paddocks, thanks to 5kms of marked and managed bush tracks. Once you’re done exploring for the day, grab a glass of red and go for a soak under the stars in the outdoor stone bath. There’s plenty of wood provided for stoking up a fire inside afterwards.

King Scrub | Sleeps 8 Myola Estate Farmhouse

Myola Estate farm stay near Brisbane view inside
Image Credit: Myola Estate Farmhouse | Airbnb

Say hello to Myola. She’s an elderly lady—a quintessential Queenslander, sitting atop the rolling green hills of Dayboro, around an hour’s drive from Brisbane. The restoration of this gem of a property has been a labour of love, and now she’s a farm stay with a bit of quirk. Expect charming wraparound verandahs, high ceilings, french doors and hopscotch windows, plus three bedrooms, so there’s room for the whole crew.

Cook up a storm in the large country kitchen with its flower-patterned feature wall and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. Your bathroom has a clawfoot tub and a cute walk in shower, with complimentary toiletries provided. Come sunset, you’ll want to head to the firepit up the hill from the house and gaze at the views of Brisbane city and Moreton Island, glass in hand.

Scenic Rim | Sleeps 12 Tommerup’s Dairy Farm

Wellington boots sit atop a vintage-looking chest at Tommerup’s Dairy Farm one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Tommerup’s Dairy Farm

Tommerup’s Dairy Farm is an iconic Queensland farm stay experience. Jump boots ‘n’ all into an authentic experience on this sixth generation working farm. Your hosts are all about the farm-to-fork experience and are happy to give you the opportunity to help out milking the cows and picking produce. Don’t worry, it’s not all hard work—such fresh and organic local ingredients make for the perfect feast or picnic hamper.

We suggest kicking back and enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the picturesque Kerry Valley of the Scenic Rim. Cool off with a paddle in the river and finish the day with dinner on the deck under a blanket of stars. This is a limited offering, so it books out several months in advance. Don’t miss out, plan ahead now.

Palmvale | Sleeps 10 Luxury Woolshed Farm Retreat

The rustic interior at Luxury Woolshed Farm Retreat one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Luxury Woolshed Farm Retreat | Airbnb

Slide open the timber barn doors and give a warm welcome to Coolamon Station. Just 14 minutes from Cabarita Beach, and under two hours from Brisbane, this 105-acre farm is nestled in a secluded valley and perfect for your next country escape. The Woolshed is an architecturally designed home that has a spacious open plan living area with a gorgeous country-style kitchen.

Relax on the large undercover verandas, with amazing views over the cattle paddocks and rolling hills (perfect for a picnic). This working cattle farm also produces free range eggs, which are yours to collect daily from the pen for a hearty breakfast. Walk a short 100 metres for a splash in the private swimming hole and explore pockets of rainforest, where they even have their own Koala sanctuary area. 

Witta | Sleeps 4+ Wittacork Dairy Cottages

An exterior view of Wittacork Dairy Cottages one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Wittacork Dairy Cottages

Set on over 300 acres of pure Queensland rainforest, Wittacork is, to this day, a working dairy farm and is listed as a Land for Wildlife registered property, making it a haven for native fauna.

Spend a couple of days here and you'll certainly feel as though you've gotten back to nature; watch the farm's cows being milked, or hang on the banks of Lake Baroon (if you stay a night or two make sure to watch the sunset across the lake from your self-contained cottage). With kilometres of walking tracks and Obi Obi Gorge National Park to explore, Wittacork is the perfect farm homestay. 

Beaudesert | Sleeps 6+ Cedar Glen Farmstay

An exterior view of the property at Cedar Glen Farmstay one of the best farm stays near Brisbane
Image Credit: Cedar Glen Farmstay

Cedar Glen Farmstay is situated on over 1000 acres of lush green pastures, framed by the wild beauty of Lamington National Park. You will be spoiled for choice between various historic cottages located around the farm, separated by green fields and trees for privacy.

This is a spacious location with plenty of room to roam, birdwatch, and lose yourself among the foothills. Don’t miss out on the adventure, with a guided hike across the valley to explore five different caves. After all that walking, we recommend cooling off with a swim in the beautiful Albert river that runs through the middle of the farm. Here, you'll find warmth, homeliness, and a blissful escape from the worries of the world. 

Contributors: Katherine Davison

Image credit: Sixty6 Acres | Supplied

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