Australia's top eco-friendly stays | Australian Traveller

Immerse yourself in nature at these seven unique and sustainable sanctuaries across Australia that are as relaxing as they are eco-friendly.

1. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

As the first resort in the world to achieve internationally accredited carbon-neutral status when it opened in 2009 – and the only resort in Australia with this standard of accreditation – the ultra-luxury conservation resort, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, is in a class of its own.

Located in the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains region, around a 2.5-hour drive outside of Sydney, you will be immersed in a luxurious nature experience like no other.

Sustainability is at the heart of the guest experience at Wolgan Valley: guests leave their cars at the gate and are transported to the resort, iPads are left in guest rooms in place of newspapers and books in the library, and guests are offered the option of travelling to the resort in hybrid and electric Tesla vehicles.

The resort is focused on delivering on long-term goals through its Environmental Management Plan which encompasses waste minimisation, water conservation and energy reduction, habitat regeneration, conservation and environment education, and more.

Surround yourself with the unforgettable views of Wolgan Valley from your private villa, dine on seasonal, sustainably-sourced cuisine, indulge in a spa treatment (or three!) and explore the pristine National Parks on foot, horseback or mountain bike.

The morning mist passing through Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. (Image: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley) — Marvel at the morning mist passing through Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. (Image: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley)

2. Eco Beach Resort, Broome

This multi-award-winding eco-resort is located in the unspoiled Kimberly region, an hour south of Broome, in Yardoogarra Country. All up, there are 25 eco villas and 30 safari-style tents at the oceanfront eco-resort , which are linked by elevated boardwalks on the pristine Kimberley coastline.

The solar-powered resort has bamboo floorboards, composite eco decking, and an energy monitoring system that enables guests to check their energy consumption. Each villa and tent faces the Indian Ocean and nothing is more luxurious (or environment-focused) than going to sleep to the soundtrack of soothing ocean sounds.

A woman relaxing at the pool at Eco Beach Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — Swim at the Infinity Pool at Eco Beach Resort (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

3. Freycinet Lodge, Coastal Pavilions, Tasmania

Nestled between the stunning Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park, it’s hard to think of a more ideally situated resort than Freycinet Lodge. Thoughtfully created with the local fauna and flora in mind, the Lodge was designed to blend into its environment. You’re guaranteed to fall in love with its quiet serenity, not to mention its striking curved Tasmanian-oak-clad walls.

To fill your days there are a plethora of bushwalks to choose from within the Freycinet National Park, while the more adventurous can enjoy scenic flights, quad-biking and sea kayaking. Choose between the three onsite restaurants offering locally-sourced, delectable cuisine and drink options.

For a spectacular sojourn, book one of their nine waterfront Coastal Pavilions. These architecturally designed rooms, which include a bedroom, bathroom and separate living area, also boast glass walls that let you gaze across the bay from your bed. And the best part? The private deck wrapped around each pavilion includes an outdoor bath.

An immersive accommodation experience within Freycinet National Park. Freycinet Lodge??s Coastal Pavilion offers a superb blend of natural simplicity and ultimate comfort. (Image: Melissa Findley) — Freycinet Lodge Coastal Pavilion offers a superb blend of natural simplicity and ultimate comfort. (Image: Melissa Findley)

4. Bamurru Plains, Northern Territory

Very few immersive eco-experiences could rival that on offer at Bamurru Plains in the Kakadu National Park. A three-hour drive (or short scenic charter flight) from Darwin Airport, the almost entirely solar-powered Bamurru Plains is the perfect place to hide from the world for a couple of nights.

Their 10 safari-style bungalows are modelled on the luxury glamping camps of Africa. The mesh sides immerse you in the sights and sounds of the wildlife around you without compromising on privacy. The catering and bar onsite offer ‘outback cuisine with a sophisticated edge.

Don’t miss out on a chance to take in the expansive surrounding plains on one of their safari tours which offer the opportunity to learn about the incredible local ecosystem. You can also book airboat trips along the wetlands, a Sampan River cruise for some croc spotting, quad-biking, bushwalking, and educational tours on the ancient Indigenous art and culture of the land.

In April they offer an Ultimate Wilderness Experience which is perfect for a family adventure, with free accommodation, food and a safari expedition for two children.

The infinity pool overlooking the wetlands at Bamurru Plains. (Image: Tourism NT and Jewels Lynch) — Swim in the infinity pool overlooking the wetlands at Bamurru Plains. (Image: Tourism NT and Jewels Lynch)

5. Wildlife Retreat Taronga, New South Wales

Sydney’s world-famous Taronga Zoo opened its exclusive Wildlife Retreat in 2019. The 62-room eco-retreat has been sustainably designed with luxury in mind. Set amongst the zoo’s bushland and overlooking the Australian wildlife enclosures , the property’s iconic location also boasts panoramic scenes of the Harbour.

With solar panel power, recycled water systems and timber structures – carefully chosen to limit their environmental impact – the Wildlife Retreat is one of the most sustainable accommodation options in Australia. Plus, your visit will be contributing to the Taronga Conservation Society Australia, which supports conservation and educational programs in Australia and around the world.

Choose from a range of uniquely Australian and locally-produced dishes at The Me-Gal restaurant on-site during your stay and don’t forget to make use of the complimentary access to the zoo.

The Wildlife Retreat accommodation at Taronga Zoo Sydney, Mosman. (Image: Destination NSW) — Immerse yourself in the Wildlife Retreat accommodation at Taronga Zoo. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. The Villas Barossa, South Australia

If you’re after a self-contained eco-retreat, look no further than The Villas Barossa in South Australia. The eco-friendly villas, located in the idyllic Seppeltsfield Road precinct just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, have been designed to fulfil the motto: ‘Peace. Beauty. Nature. Simplicity. Seclusion.’

Constructed with Eco Shelta for minimal impact on the environment, the exteriors are lit up at night by solar power and landscaped with indigenous flora to blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings.

Step inside to find the indulgent soak bath, generous-sized beds with soft linen sheets and a welcome hamper brimming with local produce and treats.

Perfect for a couple’s getaway, you can spend the day soaking in the view or enjoying the boundless space with walks, cycling, or delightful tours of the nearby cellar doors and gin distilleries. For the evening, the area offers ample premium dining options.

The accommodation at The Villas in the Barossa Valley.(Image: Thomas Schaefer - TCS Productions) — Relax at The Villas in the Barossa. (Image: Thomas Schaefer – TCS Productions)

7. The Byron at Byron, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, New South Wales

The Byron is undoubtedly Byron Bay’s most relaxing and eco-friendly retreat. It’s set amidst 45 hectares of rainforest and has been sensitively designed to feel at home in its untouched surroundings. Tallows Beach is a short stroll away through the surrounding rainforest and the retreat is located far enough away from Byron Bay’s town centre to feel removed but not out of reach.

If you can tear yourself away from the exquisitely furnished rooms, have a drink at the bar, laze by the pool and dine alfresco at their stylish restaurant – which also works in collaboration with local farmers. At the end of the day, surrender yourself to Byron’s signature spa treatment in the sanctuary of your room.

People relaxing by the pool at Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay. (Image: Destination NSW) — Relax by the pool at Crystalbrook Byron. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just over an hour from Melbourne, spectacular walking and hiking trails encompass ancient landscapes, forested ridgelines and volcanic peaks.

Just a short drive from the city, the urban sprawl gives way to rolling hills, mineral springs, and lush forests that will have you feeling like you’re in the bucolic countryside of France. Encompassing Daylesford , the Macedon Ranges, Castlemaine and the Central Goldfields, this pocket of Victoria is a region where nature, art, and wellness intertwine. Heritage towns hum with creativity, good food and wine, and welcoming locals. While Daylesford hikes, and those nearby, offer the chance to take a pause and reconnect with nature.

1. Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Etched into folklore, few places in Australia carry as much mystique as Hanging Rock. Rising dramatically from the plains near Woodend, this volcanic mamelon offers a beautiful nature walk. The walk begins at a gentle pace, weaving through shaded woodland before it gets a little steeper as the path starts to climb and twist to the summit. From here, you’ll have views that stretch across the Macedon Ranges. The walk is roughly 1.8 kilometres return, but the real reward lies in standing among the weathered boulders, feeling the age and energy of the earth beneath your feet.

2. Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

Macedon Ranges Walking Trail camel's hump lookout — Walk to Camel’s Hump. (Image: Clair Derwort)

The Macedon Ranges Walking Trail traverses around 19 kilometres of forest and mountain landscapes. The full trail is a six-hour circuit, with most of the walk being a grade three; however, you don’t have to tackle it all at once. There are shorter walks that will take you through the tall mountain ash forests, to tranquil picnic areas, and sweeping views from Camels Hump and the Memorial Cross. The best times of year to head out are autumn, when the mountain turns into a tapestry of crimson and gold, and spring, when wildflowers brighten the trail.

3. Mount Alexander Traverse

Towering above the goldfields near Castlemaine, Mount Alexander is a granite giant that offers some great bushwalking trails. The Mount Alexander Traverse winds along the mountain’s rocky spine through dry eucalypt forest that opens up in sections to reveal beautiful panoramas across Loddon Valley and all the way to the distant Grampians. Once a site of ancient volcanic activity (and later a gathering place for the Dja Dja Wurrung people), the mountain’s granite tors are now quiet and create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for a moment of reflection while walking.

4. Murmuring Walk

Murmuring Walk daylesford hikes — Circle the picturesque Sanatorium Lake.

Located an easy drive from Daylesford, Murmuring Walk offers something a little different. Circling Sanatorium Lake, this free audio-guided walk aims to immerse you in the rhythms of Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country by blending the sounds of nature with a multi-layered soundtrack. There are two routes to explore while you listen: a shorter loop around the lake itself and a longer circuit that extends deeper into the woodland.

5. La Gerche Forest Walk

Located in Creswick, the La Gerche Forest Walk honours the legacy of John La Gerche, a 19th-century forester who championed the regeneration of the then gold-rush-ravaged land. Today, over 100 years later, his replanting efforts have grown into a living cathedral of towering pines, oaks, and native gums. As you meander along the 2.2-kilometre circuit, you’ll find interpretive panels along the way that help tell the story of La Gerche’s vision, so you can learn as you wander.

6. Sailors Falls Loop

Just outside Daylesford, Sailors Falls tumbles through a fern-lined gorge, fed by mineral springs. Thought to be named after the sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush, the loop walk begins at the car park and descends through a cool, shaded gully to the base of the falls. From here, you’ll make the climb back via the mineral springs. It’s a short but enchanting walk – about 1.5 kilometres in total, so make a day of it by packing a picnic to sit by the springs; you’ll feel worlds away from the city.

7. Paddys Ranges Loop Walk

Further north, the Paddys Ranges State Park loop reveals a different side of Victoria’s Heartland – dry forest, golden light and hints of a gold-rush past. This protected reserve is a stronghold of box-ironbark woodland, providing vital refuge for endangered species. In spring, the forest floor is awash with the colour of over 230 species of wildflowers, so a springtime walk is a must-do. As you walk the 4.5-kilometre loop trail, keep an eye out for remnants of old mine shafts and rusted relics from the prospectors who once sought their fortunes here.

8. Mount Franklin Summit Walk

An extinct volcano turned picnic ground, Mount Franklin (known as Lalgambook to the Dja Dja Wurrung people) is one of the region’s quiet marvels. The summit walk follows a narrow, winding path through native forest to the crater’s rim, where you’ll get glimpses of farmland and forest below. It’s a moderate climb – just over an hour return, so it can easily be done if you’re camping in the surrounding reserve for a weekend nature retreat.

The trails of Victoria’s Heartland offer a chance to reconnect with the landscape, local history and yourself. Start planning your next adventure at daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au.

7 of the best eco-friendly retreats around Australia