Forget the big-name hotels. One of these stunning houses and apartments for rent in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia is your prefect home-away-from home on your family vacation
December sees sub-zero temperatures in some parts of the world, while hot and sunny in others (like this part of the globe). But how many times can you go the Bali–Thailand–Philippines route? If sunshine is what you seek, take the family Down Under to Sydney or Melbourne, Australia (or both!), and check into one of these gorgeous accommodation recommended by our friends at TheLuxeNomad.com.
Esther Road House
What: Set within the boundaries of the Mosman suburb, Esther Road House has plenty going for it. The beautiful property is a quick hop away from one of Sydney’s insider beaches, and provides easy access into the city. Featured in Home Ideas magazine for being an architectural delight, it has an open-plan design with three bedrooms: a large master bedroom that overlooks the garden, as well as two double rooms (one of which features a snazzy loft bed). With white walls, polished timber floors and superior finishes throughout, Esther Road House is designed to please. If you wish to eat in, the sleek, modern kitchen has everything you need to rustle up a meal at home – and you take your meals indoors or out as the living area opens to the rear of the house.
Book it: Esther Road House, Mosman, Sydney
Insider tip: Head to the striking Bather’s Pavilion at Balmoral Beach (one of Sydney’s lesser known beaches) for Chef Serge Dansereau’s degustation menu. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, join the queue at Bottom of the Harbour for Sydney’s most popular (and expensive) Fish and Chips.
Brookview
What: This remarkable multi-level town residence boast a tranquil ambience, sophisticated spaces, and close proximity to the CBD and arts precinct. Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the stylish retreat presents both a private and peaceful escape in a world of its own. We love that it offers iconic views over the Hawthorn parkland, plus it’s just a short stroll from Richmond’s vibrant cafe scene. Delivering beautiful views at every turn, Brookview boasts three bedrooms, a versatile study area, open-plan living and dining spaces, as well as an integrated gourmet kitchen. Simply relax and enjoy the view on either of the homes’ two spectacular entertainment terraces.
Book it: Brookview, Hawthorn, Melbourne
Insider tip: Bridge Road’s many hipster cafes and the nearby Arts precinct are just a short walk away. Our favourite shopping spot? The vintage-styled Alannah Hill factory outlet!
Penthouse on High Street
What: Imagine a private, oversized entertainers balcony with panoramic views across Melbourne. This very cool, two bedroom penthouse apartment is located within walking distance of the iconic Chapel Street shopping precinct, where you will find designer fashion, funky homewares, day spas, and an endless supply of restaurants, bars and cafes. Only meters to both trams and trains, this apartment is the perfect place to base yourself and explore the very best of Melbourne. The apartment itself features a large, beautifully appointed open-plan kitchen, dining and living room. It’s comfortably and stylishly furnished with leather loungers, a large screen TV, and a retro dining area that seats six. The kitchen has stone benches and is fully appointed with stainless steel appliances.
Book it: Penthouse on High Street, Prahran, Melbourne
Insider tip: Traipse the backstreets of nearby Windsor for the ultimate in Vietnamese food and drinks. We love Saigon Sally’s Bottomless Brunch on Sundays, which come with six dishes, unlimited bubbles and Beer Hanoi, from only AUD75 per person.
Pyrmont Pool House
What: This three bedroom, waterfront accommodation is close to a slew of great cafes, bars and restaurants, which means you’ll never struggle to find a perfect spot for food and drink – that is, if you can pull yourself away from the comforts of the apartment. All bedrooms are all stylishly decorated with fantastic views, whilst the comfortable master bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom with a shower and a bath. The well-equipped kitchen comes will all the essentials, as well as extra touches such as an icemaker and Nespresso machine. There’s also a a fully equipped gym for you to work out day and night, but if you’re feeling slightly less active, the shared swimming pools might be where you head to. There are two to choose from, one of which is indoors that is ideal for cooler weather.
Book it: Pyrmont Pool House, Pyrmont Port, Sydney
Insider tip: For something out of the ordinary, book a cooking class at the Sydney Fish Market’s (very beautifully designed) Cooking School at Pyrmont Bridge. You’ll get to learn from the best in the Australian food industry!
The French Apartment
What: Situated in a boutique complex of only nine luxury apartments in South Yarra, this quirky yet beautifully designed apartment is the ultimate sanctuary for those who crave privacy. We love the stylish open-plan living area furnished in opulent styles and rich, tactile fabrics, which continues into the gourmet kitchen, fitted with only the best Miele appliances and stocked with all of the tools and accessories you could possibly need to cook a nice dinner. Small but well thought-out, the kitchen makes the most of the natural light streaming in through the high windows, and the breakfast bar area has chic bar stools so the cooking experience can be shared. Two large double bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom, follows in the theme of high end luxury, and are the perfect escape after a busy day out. There’s also a bright, airy sitting area that looks out to the private landscaped courtyard.
Book it: The French Apartment, South Yarra, Melbourne
Insider tip: The nearby Como House boasts a wonderfully manicured garden, which is perfect for strolling (free, and open throughout the week). The house itself (open on weekends) is an intriguing look into Melbourne’s history. You can also enjoy a meal at The Stables of Como café!
This article was brought to you by The Luxe Nomad, Asia Pacific’s leading luxury villa booking portal featuring book-anytime Best Available Rates, flash sales, personalised editorial content, and celebrity “nomads on-the-go” such as Australian blogger Margaret Zhang and Taiwanese actor Godfrey Gao.