25 ECO-certified accommodation options around Australia

For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified accommodations.

Sleep like a baby knowing the accommodation you’re staying at on your travels has the environment as high a priority as your comfort. Ecotourism Australia ’s ECO-certified experiences are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices, so travellers are sure to find high-quality nature-based tourism experiences no matter what their interests are. Here are some of our favourite ECO-certified accommodation options in Australia.

We’ve also covered the top ECO-certified attractions and tours in another article to help you round out your sustainable travel options.

1. Tarkine Wilderness Lodge Meunna, Tas

Escape to the magnificent Tarkine Wilderness Lodge . Located on the North West Coast of Tasmania, this unique lodge is nestled at the edge of the largest temperate rainforest in the southern hemisphere, The Tarkine.

Tarkine Wilderness Lodge is constructed from beautiful Tasmanian timber, nestled on 200 acres of privately owned land within majestic wilderness of takayna/Tarkine. (Image: Pete Harmsen) — Tarkine Wilderness Lodge is constructed from beautiful Tasmanian timber, nestled on 200 acres of privately owned land within the majestic wilderness of takayna/Tarkine. (Image: Pete Harmsen)

2. Wilpena Pound Resort, SA

A haven of outback hospitality, the Wilpena Pound Resort is an Adnyamathanha-owned resort located within the spectacular Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. The property complements its resort, glamping and camping accommodation offerings with 4WD tours, Aboriginal cultural experiences, bushwalking, cycling and scenic flights. Often referred to as Australia’s unknown icon, a visit to Wilpena Pound is a wonder to behold.

The Bendleby ranges (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission) — Wilpena Pound Resort complements its accommodation offerings with 4WD tours. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

3. Lorne Bush House Cottages + Eco Lodges, Vic

A unique bush and beach experience with an abundance of native birds and wildlife on the property plus magnificent beaches and walks to waterfalls and lookouts just minutes away. The cosy Lorne Bush House Cottages + Eco Lodges are a wonderful base from which to enjoy and explore Lorne, its hinterland and The Great Ocean Road.

4. Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, NT

Cooinda Lodge is located beneath a canopy of trees beside Yellow Water Billabong, home to world-renowned Yellow Water Cruises, where crocodiles and birds are seen on the flood plain amongst Paperbark, Pandanus and Fresh Water Mangroves.

5. Enjoy the lagoon swimming pool at Cooinda Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Cicada Lodge, Katherine, NT

Cicada Lodge is a unique luxury lodge overlooking the Katherine River within the Nitmiluk National Park. Cicada Lodge gives the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park.

Overlook the Katherine River within the Nitmiluk National Park at Cicada Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT and Peter Eve)

6. Broger’s End, Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Set on 160 acres of varying landscape, Broger’s End provides eco-eclectic accommodation for romantic retreats or family fun. An old milking shed, and massive farm shed has been lovingly restored using reclaimed and recycled materials.

The Shed at Broger's End has been lovingly and creatively transformed using recycled and reclaimed materials. (Image: Broger's End) — The Shed at Broger’s End has been lovingly and creatively transformed using recycled and reclaimed materials. (Image: Broger’s End)

7. The Cove, Jervis Bay, NSW

The Cove offers gorgeous little beach shacks nestled in the National Park and surrounded by the beauty of Jervis Bay. Just 2 hours from Sydney it is the perfect place to escape for the weekend and enjoy! It also made our list of the best Jervis Bay accommodation.

8. Tanja Lagoon Camp, NSW

Tanja Lagoon Camp sits on the edge of a wild coastal lagoon, surrounded by the Spotted Gum forests of Mimosa Rocks National Park on the Sapphire Coast of NSW. Featuring four self-contained luxury safari tents, two eco-cabins and a meeting place.

Stay in one of the luxury safari tents for an unmissable view. (Image: Tanja Lagoon Camp)

9. Noonaweena, Kulnura, NSW

Noonaweena is a sixteen-room boutique resort sitting high on an escarpment overlooking Mt Yango National Park. The aboriginal translation of Noonaweena means Resting Place in the Bush and it lives up to that name.

The entry to Noonaweena at Dawn (Image: Noonaweena) — The aboriginal translation of Noonaweena means Resting Place in the Bush. (Image: Noonaweena)

10. Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat, Dunbogan, NSW

The Treehouse Retreat is a boutique award-winning experience located on the mid-north coast of NSW. There are just two private and secluded Treehouses on a 13-acre property that has 400 metres of riverfront and is just a short walk to the beach.

A treehouse retreat. (Image: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat) — Stay in a treehouse! (Image: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat)

11. Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge, Margaret River, WA

Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge has natural beauty, a native forest setting and is within close proximity to the Margaret River wine region making it the perfect landscape for a truly relaxing adult retreat with all the personal touches of a privately owned and operated business.

A couple enjoy nibbles and wine by the fire. (Image: Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge) — Enjoy a grazing platter and wine by the fire. (Image: Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge)

12. Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, WA

Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge is exclusive to APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures’ guests and is the only permanent accommodation located on the Mitchell Plateau, close to the famous Mitchell Falls. Featuring just 24 tented cabins, the lodge offers truly intimate, small-scale accommodation in the wilderness.

13. Eco Beach Resort, Broome, WA

One of the world’s most remarkable destinations, Eco Beach is a unique eco-resort set in a pristine landscape just one hour drive south of Broome. Accommodation is provided through a variety of beautifully appointed, self-sustaining eco villas and safari-style eco tents. The centrepiece of the retreat is Jack’s Bar on the oceanfront featuring a restaurant and pool deck with an alluring infinity pool.

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)

14. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, WA

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is a beach-side safari camp nestled in the dunes of the Cape Range National Park. Each of the fifteen wilderness tents offers views of the surrounding bush and beach. At Sal Salis, you will discover the magic of true eco-luxe camping.

Aerial view of Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, near Exmouth (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — Camp beachside at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

15. Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge, WA

Spend a night in the heart of Purnululu National Park. Walk through 350-million-year-old gorges and amongst striped sandstone domes, then enjoy the Bungles Bar at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge .

16. Swell Lodge, Christmas Island, WA

The Swell Lodge resort is the national park’s only accommodation, and probably the island’s most famous. Not only is it highly luxurious and exclusive, but it’s also a fully-inclusive stay in one of two glass-fronted eco-chalets.

An aerial shot of Swell Lodge — Swell Lodge is luxurious and exclusive.

17. Daintree Ecolodge and Spa, Qld

Daintree Ecolodge and Spa , situated in the heart of the magnificent Daintree Rainforest, offers sustainable luxury in a breathtaking location. The tropical retreat is the only boutique accommodation in the World-Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest, boasting 15 eco-friendly bayans in an awe-inspiring setting that will revitalise all your senses.

Retreat rooms amongst the tree canopy.(Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — The eco-friendly bayans in an awe-inspiring setting will revitalise all your senses. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

18. Pumpkin Island, Yeppoon, Qld

Pumpkin Island is a private island escape for couples, families or groups. This tiny gem – just 6 hectares in total – offers eco-friendly accommodation for up to 34 guests in 7 self-catering units powered by the sun. All offer private decks and barbecues overlooking the sunset.

Lady walking in to the main area of Pumpkin Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — For privacy and luxury all in one. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

19. Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’gari, Qld

Kingfisher Bay Resort is a fully integrated eco-tourism hotel designed to give guests an enjoyable nature-based experience on World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) while creating minimal impact on the environment.

Family enjoying the sunset at Kingfisher Bay Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — The whole family can enjoy Kingfisher Bay Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

20. Habitat Noosa, Qld

Habitat Noosa is an eco-based tourism business located within 65 acres of the Great Sandy national park and perched on the edge of stunning Lake Cootharaba. With an array of accommodation options from camping to glamping, on-site bistro and microbrewery, water activities, walking treks, and daily tours to Australia’s only everglades it provides the ultimate accessible wilderness experience.

Eco-tourism accommodation in the Noosa Everglades (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Habitat Noosa brings all the vibes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

21. Heron Island Resort, Qld

Heron Island Resort is a PADI 5-star Dive Resort, situated on a natural coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area Marine Park boasting some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.

Aerial of Heron Island (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Get your dive on at Heron Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

22. Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, Qld

The most secluded island retreat in the Whitsundays, Elysian is a soulfully crafted oasis ecologically designed to inspire a serene sojourn. A blissful escape from the crowds on the southern point of Long Island with an emphasis placed on exclusively tailored experiences for a maximum of 20 guests.

An exterior shot of Elysian Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Relax at the ecologically designed island retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Canungra, Qld

Located in World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is the perfect nature escape. Discover a world of lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife.

Woman relaxing in a spa on the balcony of a Villa at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Relax in a spa on the balcony at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

24. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Tallebudgera Valley, Qld

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is a multi-award-winning wellness destination to help guests refocus on health. With innovative fully inclusive programs from two to seven days, this dedicated low-tech retreat provides spacious natural surrounds on 200 hectares, specialty spa treatments, organic cuisine and key wellness seminars.

Take a swim in the heated infinity edge lap pool at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

25. Orpheus Island Lodge, Palm Island, Qld

Orpheus Island Lodge is an unspoilt tropical paradise stretching across 11km of turquoise coastline surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Marine Park. Conservation is at the very heart of the Orpheus mission which is to safeguard the incredible natural surroundings.

Bathroom area in South Suite accommodation at Orpheus Island Lodge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Take an outdoor bath at Orpheus Island Lodge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Whales breaching, fires crackling and slow-cooked feasts that make the cold so cosy, one might wish it lasted longer. Winter is no time to stay at home in NSW.

When the mercury drops, winter in NSW comes into its own. Beaches are quieter, the air is crisper and hearty food tastes even better when there’s ice on the windows.

Winter here isn’t for hiding away. It’s for long walks, deep baths, deeper reds and the kind of fireside lounging that feels simultaneously indulgent and entirely deserved after a day of exploring. From whale-watching up north to moodily lit bushwalks and pastry pilgrimages, we’ve mapped out your new favourite season.

a beach winter in nsw — From coastal walks to tasty delights, winter in NSW is a time to get out and about.

The Tweed

In winter, the NSW north coast has a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest migrations. From May to November, humpbacks cruise past the Tweed coast between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Spot them from the Cabarita Beach headland or get up closer with a boat cruise.

Inland, find the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre , which is home to a rotating cast of big-name exhibitions (including Monet).

Later, grab a table at Bistro Livi , where the modern Spanish menu features whipped salt cod on toast and spanner crab with curry butter and spelt flatbread. Stick around to poke through the artist studios and indie boutiques of M|Arts Precinct .

visitors at Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre — Browse the art. (Image: Destination NSW)

The next day, jump aboard the Indigenous Lunch Cruise with Tweed Escapes. You’ll cruise upriver listening to yarns from local Indigenous guides, stop at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Museum and tuck into lemon myrtle-crusted snapper.

Next, drive out to Farm & Co to pull apart some juicy smoked lamb shoulder with green olive tapenade while gazing out over the macadamia fields and avocado groves of this working farm.

End the day at Mantra on Salt Beach where you’ll enjoy beach access, a heated rock spa and a lagoon pool.

dining room at Bistro Livi — Taste modern Spanish at Bistro Livi.

Blue Mountains

The cold season is hands down the best time to visit the Blue Mountains. Temperatures are perfect – sunny enough for hikes, and crisp enough at night for snuggling up.

For a trip that equally soothes and stirs, start with a meditative meander through the national park’s eucalypts and Australian wildflowers. Brave the steepest passenger railway in the world, Scenic Railway , then hop the Skyway aerial cable car for unrivalled Three Sisters views.

Thaw out at the Japanese Bath House in South Bowenfels. Soak in steamy outdoor onsens filled with natural mineral water and mountain views, wander the rose and zen gardens, or sip hot drinks in the tea house.

group leader at Blue Mountains Stargazing — Rug up for Blue Mountains Stargazing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Afterwards, head to Ates in Blackheath, where everything revolves around a 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven – like the wood-roasted duck with nectarines and Szechuan spice. Or visit Tempus Katoomba , which leans experimental and sustainable, serving up dishes like braised fennel with cumin, spiced yogurt and Aleppo pepper.

Rug up and head into the night with Blue Mountains Stargazing . Sessions are guided by astrophysicists, helping you understand what you’re looking at as you look into deep space.

Wrap it all up at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery Collection . There’s a whiskey bar in the basement (and crackling fires that make a dram taste even better), indoor and outdoor pools and a day spa. Kids will love the mirror maze and ice rink, too.

dishes laid out on table at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains — End the day with delicious meals at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Southern Highlands

Good food and wine by the fire, experienced between sifting through second-hand treasures, is a winter vibe in Bowral.

Start with a lap around Dirty Janes , an antique and vintage market. Recover from your shopping frenzy at Bendooley Book Barn , where floor-to-ceiling shelves and a roaring fire set the tone for an afternoon of red wine or hot coffee.

When it’s time to eat, head to Hickory’s Restaurant & Bar , Peppers Craigieburn Bowral’s onsite restaurant. Try the crispy pork belly with Granny Smith crisps and apple gel, or ocean trout with wakame, lemon gel and pickled radish.

couple looking through Dirty Janes in bowral — Wander the antiques at Dirty Janes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another option, Onesta Cucina , does Italian with flair. For something more casual (with cocktails), Flour Bar swings between brunch and dinner, with an onsite bakery, over 400 wines and a hidden deli in the old bank vault.

Later, clamber Mt Gibraltar , where trails wind through eucalypt forest to views over Bowral and Mittagong.

Stay at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral , a century-old estate with open fires, elegant lounges and a nine-hole golf course.

woman and her dog winter in nsw at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral — Stay cosy at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral.

Penrith

Shake off winter inertia with an adrenaline boost out in Penrith. Kick things off with a kayak paddle on the Nepean River with Horizon Line, or head to Cables Wake Park , where cold-weather wetsuits take the edge off a wipeout.

For something a bit more cruisy, opt for the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler for slow-floating views and a hot cuppa.

kayakers on the nepean river in penrith — Head out on the Nepean River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Refuel at Marcel Bar & Bistro , where reimagined European comfort food – like seafood risotto in bisque with little neck clams and Moreton Bay bugs – is king. Then check in at the Pullman Sydney Penrith , the area’s first international five-star hotel, to enjoy your well-earned rest.

Start planning your NSW winter getaway at all.com.