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)

From cycling and comedy to boating and begonia appreciation, there’s an event in regional Victoria that’s sure to have you circling dates on your calendar.

1. Festival of Sails

the Melbourne to Geelong passage race, Festival of Sails 2025 — The Melbourne to Geelong passage race will be held for its 183rd year. (Image: Salty Dingo)

When: 24–26 January
Where: Melbourne and Geelong

This five-day regatta of sailing and onshore entertainment at Geelong’s waterfront includes Australia’s oldest sporting event, the Melbourne to Geelong passage race which, in 2026, will be held for its 183rd year. But you don’t have to be a yachtie, sailor or boat-enthusiast to enjoy the nautical excitement; there’s also a three-day line-up of entertainment, food and live music, including the anchoring of tall ships – ever a firm family favourite.

2. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

cyclists during the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race — Catch the best cyclists as they wind through Victoria’s coastal towns. (Image: Visit Victoria)

When: 31 January – 1 February
Where: The Bellarine Peninsula

Meandering (at pace) along the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast is this annual cycling event that welcomes everyone from families to serious athletes. Since its beginnings in 2015, the race has become a huge hit with spectators flocking along to cheer on Lycra-clad competitors. Starting and finishing in Geelong’s Velo Village, this is the hub of the non-race activity with food and drink, roaming performers, lawn games and face painting.

3. Riverboats Music Festival

the performers at Riverboats Music Festival, Murray River — The annual music festival is staged under majestic red gums by the Murray River.

When: 13–15 February
Where: Echuca–Moama

Get along to bop and sway under the canopy of red gums at this annual music festival . Hosted by the twin towns of Echuca–Moama, the stage is set for Murray River-adjacent revelling as historic paddlesteamers peacefully chug alongside the event. As well as music, there’s dancing, food trucks and plenty of atmosphere to absorb.

4. Neerim ArtsFest

the Neerim ArtsFest south sculptures — Admire stunning works at Neerim ArtsFest. (Image: Nicky Cawood)

When: 28 February – 15 March
Where: Gippsland

This biennial Gippsland festival celebrates sculptural artists with an esteemed award in two categories, large outdoor and small indoor. The public is invited to enjoy the works over the exhibition period as they’re placed throughout Neerim South and surrounding venues. For 2026, the theme ‘The Spirit Soars’ leads artists to create stunning pieces that explore the expression of freedom in a thrilling visual capacity.

5. ChillOut Festival

a street parade during the LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival — Think colourful street parades and burlesque performances.

When: 5–9 March
Where: Daylesford

Pride in the country has been cheered on every March in Daylesford since 1997 with the riotous annual LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival . This colourful regional spectacle is an inclusive celebration of diversity that plays out across a vibrant parade, burlesque performances, a bush dance and a carnival. Get bedazzled, find a wig and stick on the false eyelashes for this fun party.

6. Port Fairy Folk Festival

Missy Higgins at the Port Fairy Folk Festival — Celebrate folk music at the Port Fairy Folk Festival. (Image: Lucinda Goodwin)

When: 6–9 March
Where: Port Fairy

In 2026, this beloved festival will be one year shy of its 50th anniversary. From folk fans to festival-lovers, this long-running event brings plenty of good vibes to guarantee an incredible experience. While music is at the heart of the festival, there’s also a range of workshops, exhibitions and family entertainment across dance, film and folk art. For its 49th year, the line-up so far includes Blair Dunlop, Elephant Sessions, and the musical duo Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham.

7. The Ballarat Begonia Festival

a woman admiring flowers at The Ballarat Begonia Festival — Gasp at delicate blooms at The Ballarat Begonia Festival.

When: 7–9 March
Where: Ballarat

In bloom since 1953, this horticultural event places a collection of rare begonias at the centre of festivities, honouring the flower’s presence in Ballarat since the 1800s. During its history, the event has been visited by Queen Elizabeth II and, in 2015, it featured the launch of the largest outdoor Lego flower. Apart from a display of around 500 species of the flower of the moment, there’s also a begonia parade, entertainment, live music, food and presentations.

8. The Bendigo Easter Festival

Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance at The Bendigo Easter Festival — The majestic Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance is an annual tradition at The Bendigo Easter Festival.

When: 3–6 April
Where: Bendigo

Held in the city’s Rosalind Park, the annual Easter Festival has been a highlight of Bendigo’s calendar of events since 1871. A carnival of colourful activity, the festival welcomes everyone and rolls out the good times with everything from a Good Friday Easter egg hunt to live music and performances, a Rotary market and Gala Parade. Don’t miss the world’s longest imperial dragon rhythmically roaming the historic streets as part of the Easter Sunday festivities.

9. Grape Escape

a glass of wine at the Grampians Grape Escape — Enjoy a wine tasting experience. (Image: Anthony Evans Photography)

When: 1–3 May
Where: The Grampians

Backdropped by gorgeous Grampians/Gariwerd National Park, this much-loved bacchanalian-inspired festival of food, wine and music is a high-priority for gourmands. Held at Halls Gap Reserve, a Tasting Ticket includes a tumbler that unlocks free wine, beer and cider tastings and, if you are partaking, there’s a shuttle bus to get you back to your digs afterwards. Be sure to book your accommodation early for this one – its popularity is undisputed.

10. Comedy in the Vines

Comedy in the Vines at Cherryhill Orchards — Get the good times rolling at Cherryhill Orchards. (Image: Saige Prime)

When: 24–26 October
Where: Yarra Valley

The premise of Yarra Valley’s Comedy in the Vines , held at Cherryhill Orchards, is that wine and laughs pair well. Few arguments can be made, so get along this month (or next year), to have a giggle and a gamay. This year, taking the stage is the likes of Merrick Watts, Tommy Little, Ray O’Leary and Takashi Wakasugi. There are also masterclasses, a riesling and oyster shot bar, and plenty of food and music between gigs.

7 of the best eco-friendly retreats around Australia