You don't need to leave East Gippsland for a weekend getaway. Save on fuel, forget hours in the car, and find a little slice on bliss closer to home with these unique accommodation options
Looking for somewhere a little different to stay? East Gippsland is home to some truly unforgettable accommodation, from tiny homes tucked beside mountain streams and cosy cottages in historic country towns to coastal cabins surrounded by native bushland.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a family adventure or simply need an excuse to switch off for a few days, there’s no shortage of unique places to rest your head.
The best part? These stays aren’t just somewhere to sleep. They’re part of the experience.
Wake to birdsong in the High Country, watch kangaroos graze from your deck, explore ancient caves, wander coastal trails or simply sit back with a local wine and enjoy the view. Sometimes the accommodation ends up being just as memorable as the destination itself.
If you’re ready to swap the ordinary for something a little more special, here are some of our favourite unique stays across East Gippsland.
Have you stayed somewhere you’d love to recommend? Tag us on Instagram at @VisitEastGippsland and let us know why we should it include it in this article.
1. The Little Drift in Cape Conran
Hidden among the coastal bushland near Cape Conran, Little Drift is the kind of place designed for slowing down. This beautifully crafted tiny home offers all the comforts you need while keeping you connected to nature, with native wildlife often passing by and some of East Gippsland’s most spectacular beaches just minutes away.
- Closest town: Marlo
- Closest attraction: Cape Conran Coastal Park & Sailor’s Grave Dunetown
- Dinner recommendation: Marlo Hotel
- Best for: Couples and nature lovers
- Don’t miss: Salmon Rocks, West Cape boardwalk and Cape Conran beaches
To book, contact Hannah at The Little Drift.
2. Little Livingstone in Omeo
Perched in the heart of East Gippsland’s High Country, Little Livingstone delivers a memorable tiny-home escape surrounded by mountain scenery.
Whether you’re visiting to tackle the region’s famous 4WD tracks, local walks, cycle the mountain bike trails, fish the rivers, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life, this cosy retreat provides a comfortable and stylish place to return to after a day of adventure. On clear nights, the star-filled sky is reason enough to stay.
Key information:
- Closest town: Omeo
- Closest attraction: Omeo Mountain Bike Park
- Dinner recommendation: Hilltop Hotel
- Best for: Adventure seekers and couples
- Don’t miss: Oriental Claims Historic Area and nearby High-Country drives
3. The Hideaway in Marlo
True to its name, The Hideaway offers a peaceful retreat where river, ocean and wilderness meet. Located in the laid-back coastal town of Marlo, it’s perfectly positioned for visitors wanting to explore pristine beaches, paddle the Snowy River estuary or watch the sunset over the water.
Quiet, comfortable and surrounded by nature, it’s the sort of place where a weekend can easily turn into a much longer stay.
Key information:
- Closest town: Marlo
- Closest attraction: Snowy River Estuary
- Dinner recommendation: Marlo Hotel
- Best for: Coastal escapes and fishing trips
- Don’t miss: Mots Beach, the Snowy River mouth and estuary walks
Book your stay at The Hideaway.
4. Idle Lakehouse in Lakes Entrance
With uninterrupted views across the water, Idle Lake House invites guests to settle into Lakes Entrance’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. The property blends contemporary comfort with a front-row seat to one of East Gippsland’s most iconic waterways and is walking distance to plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Spend your days wandering the Ninety Mile Beach, cruising the Gippsland Lakes or enjoying the town’s thriving food scene before returning to watch the sun set over the water or enjoying it on a SUP with Venture Out Tours.
Key information:
- Closest town: Lakes Entrance
- Nearby attractions: Koho Sauna, Griffiths Seashell Museum
- Dinner recommendation: Sodafish
- Best for: Couples, families and waterfront getaways
- Don’t miss: A lake cruise, lunch at La Catrina overlooking the water, and Main Beach
Contact Idle Lakehouse to book.
Read more: 8 Best Cruises in Lakes Entrance
5. Buchan Log Cabins
Nestled among gardens and native bushland, Buchan Log Cabins offer a classic country escape with plenty of charm. The handcrafted timber cabins provide a warm and welcoming base for exploring one of East Gippsland’s most fascinating natural attractions.
After a day discovering underground wonders at the famous caves, there’s nothing better than returning to your cosy cabin and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. After a peaceful sleep you’ll have plenty of time the following day to enjoy the new Buchan Discovery Trail.
Key information:
- Closest town: Buchan
- Nearby attractions: Buchan Caves Reserve
- Dinner recommendation: Buchan Caves Hotel
- Best for: Families, couples and cave explorers
- Don’t miss: Buchan Caves, Caves Reserve walking tracks and local swimming spots
Contact Rosie and Peter at Buchan Log Cabins to book your stay.
6. Koala Cottage on Raymond Island
If spotting koalas is high on your East Gippsland bucket list, Koala Cottage couldn’t be better placed. Located on Raymond Island near Paynesville, this charming retreat puts you within easy walking distance of one of Australia’s best opportunities to see koalas in the wild. Make sure to download the Raymond Island Koala Trail App for a self-guided tour with heaps of information and recordings to listen to.
Life moves a little slower here, making it the perfect place to unwind, enjoy the birdlife and experience a uniquely local side of the Gippsland Lakes.
Key information:
- Closest town: Paynesville (via ferry)
- Closest attraction: Raymond Island Koala Trail
- Dinner recommendation: Sardine Eatery & Bar, Paynesville
- Best for: Wildlife lovers and couples
- Don’t miss: The Koala Cafe, koala spotting, sunset from the ferry
Contact Neil from Koala Cottage to book your stay.
Read more: Top 10 Things To Do in Paynesville
7. Forge Creek Farm Stay
For a taste of country life without straying too far from town, Forge Creek Farm Stay offers the best of both worlds. Set on a working farm just outside Bairnsdale, guests can enjoy wide-open spaces, fresh country air and a genuine farm-stay experience while remaining within easy reach of local attractions.
It’s an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors.
Key information:
- Closest town: Bairnsdale
- Closest attraction: East Gippsland Art Gallery
- Dinner recommendation: The Iron Vine Restaurant at Bairnsdale International
- Best for: Families and rural escapes
- Don’t miss: Howitt Park Market, East Gippsland Rail Trail and the Mitchell River Walking Track
Contact Nigel from Forge Creek Farm Stay near Bairnsdale to book.
Read more: One Day Itinerary in Bairnsdale
8. Guest House on the Gorge in Nowa Nowa
Overlooking spectacular bushland scenery, Guest House on the Gorge combines tranquillity with easy access to some of East Gippsland’s most scenic outdoor experiences.
Positioned near the East Gippsland Rail Trail and within reach of Lake Tyers Beach and the Gippsland Lakes, it’s a fantastic base for cyclists, walkers and nature enthusiasts. The sweeping views are reason enough to visit, but the peaceful atmosphere is what makes people want to stay longer.
Key information:
- Closest town: Nowa Nowa
- Closest attraction: East Gippsland Rail Trail
- Dinner recommendation: Lake Tyers Beach Tavern
- Best for: Walkers, cyclists and nature lovers
- Don’t miss: Nowa Nowa Wetlands Walk, fishing, 4WDing and more!
Contact Michelle at Guest House on the Gorge in Nowa Nowa to book.
When in doubt, book the getaway
Staying local means our small towns don’t just survive, but thrive.
Buy Local. Stay Local. Support Local
East Gippsland isn’t just somewhere to visit or live. It’s a place to connect with local people, discover regional stories and experience the things that make this part of Victoria unique.
Whether you’re heading out to explore a new corner of the region, sitting down for a meal made with local produce, picking up a handmade gift or stocking up on something delicious to take home, your choices can help support the local businesses and communities that make East Gippsland special.
So next time you’re here, look a little closer. Take the scenic route. Stop at the local shop. Meet the maker. Try something grown and stay at that tiny house overlooking the water. And when you find something you love, share it with someone else.
If you live here, try a weekend stay within the region but somewhere you’ve not been before. Is there something visitors always rave about that you’ve never actually seen? Maybe it’s time.
Explore local. Shop local. Eat local. Stay local. Love East Gippsland.
