We’re Esther and Joost, the duo behind Nelly & Woods Collective Stays, along with our toddler, Liam, and our four-legged adventurer, Hunter. Our journey to creating slow stays has been anything but ordinary, shaped by a love of travel, hospitality, and a deep appreciation for unique spaces.

Esther has lived all over the world, always drawn to the magic of exploring new places and the stories they hold. Joost, originally from the Netherlands, has spent most of his life in hospitality, creating experiences that bring people together. After years in London and Brisbane, we felt the pull of a slower, more intentional way of living, and in 2021, we made the Sunshine Coast hinterland our home.

For as long as we can remember, we’ve loved staying in places that feel special, where the surroundings, design, and little details come together to create something truly memorable. Nelly & Woods Collective Stays was born from this passion: a place where slow stays meet thoughtful design, and where every element has been considered to make your experience feel effortless and inspiring.

Our love of nature and wildlife has now taken us further afield to the Meander Valley in Tasmania, where we’re thrilled to open our third stay: Tiers Rest. It’s an extension of the ethos behind our Sunshine Coast retreats, combining the same attention to detail, comfort, and style with the stunning Tasmanian landscapes.

More than just a place to stay, Nelly & Woods Collective Stays is about the feeling you take with you when you leave. The slow mornings, the golden afternoons, the little moments that turn into cherished memories.

Sustainability and interior design are at the heart of what we do. We believe that beautiful spaces should also be kind to the earth, which is why we weave eco-conscious choices into every aspect of our accommodation. From locally sourced pieces to timeless materials, every detail has a purpose, to make you feel at home while treading lightly on the planet.

We hope you love it too, and we can't wait to host you! ♡

Our Story