Luxe living in nature's lap: This week's best regional homes for sale

This week's standout regional listings are more than just homes, they're lifestyle statements.

From the Southern Highlands to the Sunshine Coast, these properties blend architectural elegance with natural beauty, offering a special kind of luxury: the type that feels lived-in, warm, and grounded.

Whether it's a reimagined Edwardian estate, a glamorous treehouse, or a lakefront Victorian icon, each of these homes invite you to slow down and live well.

Read more: 'In good order, but very dated': Dozens of bids as Coniston home goes to auction

Southern Highlands, NSW: Timeless character through a modern lens

'The Pavilions' is a masterclass in architectural storytelling and refined comfort - it's what you imagine when you think of relaxed luxury country living.

Set on a leafy half-acre with a romantic facade, this five-bedroom residence has been reimagined into three interconnected pavilions, each brimming with organic elegance.

Inside, it's colourful, textural and sophisticated. Think hand-made Spanish tiles, dual Smeg ovens, underfloor heating in five wet areas, and a professional art installation system for a gallery feel.

It's a home that's as functional as it is beautiful - ideal for multi-generational living or hosting guests in style. Bonus sustainability points for the Tesla charger and 12.3kW solar system.

Step into history with this enchanting circa 1904 Gatekeeper's Lodge. Nestled in Burradoo's exclusive "Platinum Triangle," this five-bedroom home distills refined country living.

Period charm is abundant: high ceilings, polished floors, and a dramatic conservatory, while modern comforts like hydronic heating and a separate retreat above the garage make it versatile for families or entertainers.

The gardens are manicured perfection, and the location? Minutes from Bowral's cafes and Oxley College.

Lake Macquarie, NSW: Contemporary bush retreat

Completed in 2023, this architect-designed beauty is all clean lines and connection to nature.

Surrounded by native bushland on the coast, the three-bed modern home features a glass atrium entrance, burnished concrete floors and a self-contained wing perfect for Airbnb income or guests.

The black designer kitchen is fingerprint-resistant (yes, really), and every room frames a view of the gumtrees. Add a fire-pit, outdoor bath, and solar system, and you've got a home that's serene, stylish and smart.

Ballarat, Vic: Period grandeur with a flexible twist

Just one block from the lake, this five-bedroom home offers a compelling mix of Edwardian charm and contemporary flexibility.

The original four-bed residence features ornate detailing and generous proportions, while a modern extension introduces a versatile zone suited to guests or holiday lets with an extra bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom, study and deck.

With a double garage, workshop, and carport, so there's room for all the toys, while also being walking distance to local cafes and lake walking trails.

Daylesford and surrounds, Vic: Spa country sophistication

Karoo Crest Retreat is a bold expression of Australian modernism. Set on over 5700 square metres and bordered by Hepburn Regional Park, this three-bedroom stunner is all about texture and connection to its natural surrounds.

Polished concrete floors, stonework, an internal atrium garden, and a sunken concrete bath make this property feel like a boutique retreat.

Sustainability is also front and centre with 160,000 litres of rainwater storage, solar power, and and bushfire protection systems with fire sprinklers.

This Edwardian beauty has been extended and elevated to create a five-bedroom residence with sweeping views to Mount Franklin.

The main original home has four bedrooms and the likes of French oak floors, stained glass windows, and hydronic heating for a refined backdrop, while the layout includes two living zones and a separate studio with ensuite.

A modern and striking extension includes double glazing, plantation shutters, a powder room, laundry, mudroom and two-car garage. Landscaped gardens and a scenic walk to Daylesford town seal the deal.

The Coach House (circa 1854) is a lakefront icon. With five bedrooms, a sandstone exterior, and panoramic views of Lake Daylesford, it's a rare slice of history.

Inside, the residence has been restored and reimagined for contemporary living, without sacrificing period charm. You'll find ornate cornicing, open fireplaces, and a grand dining room that seats 14.

The lower level offers self-contained potential - perfect for a gallery, studio, or luxe guest suite - and you're surrounded by mature trees, established garden beds and extensive lawns.

Neil and Jessie Leggatt built The Coach House in 1854 to serve travellers between Melbourne and the Goldfields. After emigrating from Scotland, they settled in Daylesford, where they ran a general store and gold buying business before opening the hotel.

Following Neil's death in 1871, Jessie converted the property into her private residence. His name remains inscribed above the original front doors.

Sunshine Coast, Qld: Elevated living with elevated views

This elevated acreage property enjoys views over the Noosa Valley Golf Course, Castaways Beach, Lake Weyba, and stretching all the way to Peregian and Coolum Beach.

A glamorous four-bedroom pad offering a refined take on hinterland living, you'll find features like Blackbutt timber floors, a Brazilian granite kitchen island, and a saltwater pool - all creating a luxurious yet grounded atmosphere.

Sustainability features include dual solar systems, a Tesla battery, EV charger, and 68,000L of water storage. It's private, peaceful, and just minutes from Noosa.

A pole home with a modern twist, this five-bedroom property is all about indoor-outdoor flow.

Industrial blockwork meets polished concrete and sculptural finishes, while glass sliders open to a pool terrace and alfresco kitchen.

With ocean views, a spa, and a cocktail bar on the balcony, it's a resort-style haven. Bonus: secure parking for your boat or camper, and a stroll to the beach and local café.