Home to tranquil lakes, waterfalls and towering karri trees, Pemberton and the Southern Forests is a pretty magical spot for a relaxing weekend away.
You can go from wholesome country bakeries and tree-lined hikes to winery hopping and decadent truffle dinners, all before retiring to your cosy cabin stay for a few pinots by the fire. And thankfully, there are some seriously stunning little cabin stays around, each blessed with beautiful views, romantic vibes and extra touches like outdoor baths and fireplaces.
To inspire your next forest adventure, we’ve rounded up some of the best Airbnbs in Pemberton, Manjimup and the Southern Forests region. Get booking.
Millars By The Lake
Manjimup
Just a short drive from Manjimup (hello, truffles) you’ll find this secluded and heritage-listed cottage. Stargaze from the porch in the outdoor bath by night or bird watch and soak up the mill settlement views when the sun is shining. During warmer weather, we’ll be testing how youthful we really are with a few bombies off the pontoon in the private lake. Come winter, you’ll find us curled up by the fire inside, vino in hand. This is what the southern forests are all about.
The Woodsman
Dingup
To really embrace the cabin-core vibes, you have to check out The Woodsman. Originally built in 1939, a stay here feels like stepping back in time. The historic worker’s cottage is one of about twenty remaining sites within the old mill settlement, tucked deep in the forest between Manjimup and Pemberton. Spend your days chasing waterfalls and truffle hunting before cracking open a bottle of wine by the fire.
The Grove At Ryans Rest
Quinninup
This tiny house stay in Quinninup is the perfect spot to slow down and reconnect with yourself, nature and that nice bottle of red you’ve been saving for a special occasion. The special occasion being that you’re in a tiny house, equipped with a candle lit, woodfired bath. It’s the perfect end to a day exploring the three-kilometre walking trail through river, lake and farm landscapes. After your bath, sit next to the outdoor firepit and remember how great a country night sky is.
Glauder’s Cottage
Pemberton
A spa lies within the timber decking of Glauder’s Cottage, where you can sit back and take in the surrounding karri forest. In the late afternoon when the sun starts to filter through the trees, a few friendly kangaroos might pop out to say hello as you’re sitting back for a soak. This house is an old settlers' cottage built in the early 1900s, and since it can sleep up to eight guests, it’s a great option if you want to get a group of friends together to explore the quaint town of Pemberton.
Kushinga Cottage
Bridgetown
This charming couple's retreat is set on 17 acres of farmland, just a short five minutes from the eclectic little southwest town of Bridgetown. The quaint one-bedroom cottage has been lovingly renovated, fitted out almost entirely with recycled materials. Enjoy your morning cuppa from the adorable outdoor setting under the shady trees.
The Bootmaker's House
Nannup
This old workers cottage has been restored to become one of the most stylish accommodation options in one of our fave parts of the State. If you’re thinking of heading here, be sure to book in advance—it’s one of the region’s worst kept secrets. After walking through the main street of Nannup, cook up a hearty meal in the beautiful jarrah kitchen before settling in for the night in front of the fire.
Storyteller’s Rest
Bridgetown
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom 100-year-old cottage is one of the sweetest places you’ll ever lay eyes on. A fireplace, giant bathtub and private orchard where you can pick your own fruit will make this one of the most charming getaways you’ve ever had. The interiors are simply stunning, featuring ultra luxe linens, books, antiques and art. The garden with its firepit and views of nature are divine.
RAC Karri Valley Resort
Pemberton
Not an Airbnb, but we had to throw this gem in because there’s nothing like a lakeside view to wake up to. RAC Karri Valley Resort sits on the edge of Lake Beedelup, which is filled with trout if you happen to find fishing a bonding experience. From the front door of your room or cabin you’ll be able to stroll through Karri trees and head nearby to relax in the peaceful and charming Pemberton.
Settler’s Cottage
Pemberton
There are few stays as magical as the Settler’s Cottage at Ampersand Estates. Sleeping four, the restored heritage beauty is about as luxe as it gets, with super chic decor, a massive chef’s kitchen, fireplace and gorgeous bathtub to sink into after drinking too many vinos at the Estate’s cellar door. For an indulgent couples’ escape, this is where you want to be.
Now fill your days with all the best things to do in Pemberton.
Image credit: @fieldnotes / Millars By The Lake, The Woodsman, The Grove At Ryans Rest, Glauder’s Cottage, Kushinga Cottage, The Bootmaker's House, Storyteller’s Rest, RAC Karri Valley Resort, Shot By Thom / Settler's Cottage
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