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)

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au