‘Immersed in nature': Hidden Airbnb Aussies are obsessed with
Set among trees, perched in a tropical oasis is a romantic and secluded cabin overlooking a creek in Main Arm, located in the Northern Rivers Region.
The 'Balinese feel' property has been branded a 'magical paradise' by guests.
But owner Peta said the cabin, which was built in the 1980s, never looked like this before.
It was originally a 25-seat restaurant and once the previous owner moved out, Peta and her husband Mick gave it a complete makeover that took two years to complete.
'It was really run down and needed a bit of work,' Peta told news.com.au.
'We initially were going to just rent it again to another long term tenant, but my cousin who was already a host of Airbnb, introduced us to the idea of being a host too.
'We saw the uniqueness in the space and decided it needed to be shared with others.'
The property located in the Byron Shire is currently New South Wales' Most Wished Airbnbs.
It has a rating of 4.98 per cent based on 986 reviews, making it a 'guest favourite'.
Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager, Airbnb Australia, said the listing is so popular because the hosts go above and beyond to ensure their guests have a standout stay.
'The peaceful setting in nature is also a drawcard for those looking to escape for a quiet getaway,' Ms Wheeldon told news.com.au.
The cabin is in the top 5 per cent of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews and reliability.
It has a perfect five out of five record for cleanliness, accuracy, check-in, communication and location. Value isn't far off at 4.9.
'We are really thrilled to be considered such a high honour, but also not so shocked as we know just how special and unique the cabin and location is,' Peta said.
'Year after year we get such positive feedback from guests and have so many returning. Even after 10 years of hosting, we still take a moment during a regular cabin clean to stop and take in the magic of the place.'
As part of the renovations, Peta and Mick turned the basic restaurant kitchen and outdoor customer male/female toilets into a bedroom and ensuite. The kitchen was then built into the open plan living space.
'There are a lot of factors that the guests love about the cabin,' she said.
'The wooden bridge with fairy lights always gets the first biggest reaction. The location is completely immersed in nature which is another major hit as a lot of guests are looking for a nature based getaway from the city, but still with comforts and close to town.
'The woodfire is always popular in the cooler months and glow worm spotting along the creek bank adds an extra bit of magic guests love to discover.'
Peta added that the creek changes with each season with the 'magic of fireflies and glow worms'.
'The location is secluded and immersed in nature,' she said. 'I love sitting on the veranda, overlooking the creek, watching and listening to the birds, feeling connected to nature.'
She said guests predominantly stay for two or three nights.
'The majority of guests are couples, some celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons and even preparing for marriage proposals. We also get singles staying for a solo getaway and recharge and best friends.'
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