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)

The Great Ocean Road has captured the hearts of Australians with its astounding scenery since 1932, but going off-course can enrich your experience with untouched nature, foodie delights and charming towns.

It’s a chilly 16 degrees. My husband pulls on a steamer and jogs – as all seasoned surfers do – into the water. We’re at Bells Beach , the legendary break on Victoria’s Surf Coast that’s home to the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest-running event in competitive surfing. Each year, over the Easter long weekend, up to 40,000 people descend on the region for the event. Today, though, we have the beach almost to ourselves, and the less-than-favourable temperature doesn’t deter my husband from surfing this famous break.

Torquay to Anglesea and Aireys Inlet

The red dome of Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The nearby surf town of Torquay marks the starting point for the Great Ocean Road . Unfolding our map, which we have marked out with a highlighted route for our children to follow, we set off for lesser-known Anglesea, a chilled-out town 20 minutes south of here. Its wide, sandy beach is a gentler swimming option for our young family. Groms can learn to surf here with Go Ride a Wave, which also runs stand-up paddle boarding on the Anglesea River.

Split point lookout — The lighthouse overlooks the Shipwreck Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

After a couple of nights in Anglesea, we hit the road again, first stopping at Aireys Inlet. Here we stretch our legs at Split Point Lighthouse, which was made famous by the 1990s television series Round the Twist, before driving under the Memorial Arch that welcomes us, officially, to the Great Ocean Road.

This 243-kilometre coastal road was built by returned First World War servicemen and serves as a permanent memorial to those who fought and died during the war. Carved into rock using hand tools and horse-drawn carts, it was a huge engineering feat and provided much-needed access to isolated coastal communities.

Lorne to Birregurra

Lorne is a delightful beachside stop for lunch and browsing boutique stores. It’s also the gateway to Great Otway National Park , which comprises a varied landscape of old-growth forests, cool-temperate rainforests, heathy woodlands and rugged coast. With the highest rainfall in Victoria, the region is home to many waterfalls – 10 of which are within 10 kilometres of Lorne.

Turning slightly off the main drag, we wind along a gum-shaded road to Erskine Falls. Here, our son leads the way through the hyper-green rainforest and down 200-plus stairs to the cascade that drops 30 metres into a lush fern gully. We hop over large boulders to get closer to the falls, enjoying the entire place to ourselves; it’s worth the return climb.

From Sheoak Falls Picnic Area, there are walking trails to Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls, Won Wondah Falls and Kalimna Falls, some of which follow an old timber tramway from forest-logging days, which only came to an end in 2008.

You can follow your appetite north to the town of Birregurra, which is part of the Otway Harvest Trail that connects farm gates, markets, wineries, breweries and distilleries. It’s home to three-hatted modern Australian restaurant Brae , helmed by celebrated chef Dan Hunter, set among native gardens and an organic farm, and Otways Distillery, which produces small-batch spirits using local produce and botanicals.

Brae restaurant — Brae is a three-hatted restaurant in Birregurra. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Apollo Bay to The Otways

Back on track, the cliff-hugging stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay is breathtaking. At Teddys Lookout, we overlook the winding road ahead and St George River spilling into the ocean. We spend languid days in Apollo Bay, a buzzy seaside town that boasts a three-kilometre-long, crescent-shaped beach with a backdrop of rolling green hills. One evening, as the sun sets, we take the steep 10-minute walk to Marriners Lookout, which affords panoramic views of the ocean, hinterland and town.

A 15-minute drive along the road, Maits Rest is a lush rainforest gully that has been protected since the early 20th century. Wandering along the 800-metre boardwalk, we inspect the delicate moss-covered forest floor and the gnarled roots of 300-year-old myrtle beech trees, then crane our necks to see their canopies, some 50 metres above us. It’s therapy in nature.

Cape Otway to the Twelve Apostles

The southernmost tip of Cape Otway is a delightful detour, home to the 1848-built Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia. We climb the narrow winding staircase to the gallery deck, explore the keepers’ quarters and telegraph station, and enjoy a coffee and some ‘famous’ scones at the charming onsite cafe.

It’s a pinch-me moment to finally see the Twelve Apostles in person. This unmistakable cluster of limestone stacks rising abruptly from the sea were never 12, however. When coined this in the 1890s as a marketing ploy, there were only nine; today, only seven remain after two collapsed in 2005 and 2009. We admire these Aussie icons from the viewing platform, in awe of Mother Nature’s ever-evolving artwork.

The Grotto is another natural attraction within Port Campbell National Park. (Image: Carmen Zammit)

Edging the wild Southern Ocean, this part of the coast – dubbed Shipwreck Coast – is made up of many sea-carved natural wonders including London Bridge, The Grotto and Gibson Steps. After exploring the lookout trails of Loch Ard Gorge/Poombeeyt Kontapool – its English name taken from the site of the 1878 shipwreck – we nestle into the sandy beach encircled by towering sandstone cliffs, as our children splash about on the water’s edge, and soak it all in.

Port Campbell to Timboon

Timboon Fine Ice Cream is part of a regional foodie trail. (Image: C McConville)

Just north of Port Campbell National Park, the region of Timboon is part of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, filled with purveyors of delicious foodstuffs such as Timboon Fine Ice Cream , Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and Apostle Whey Cheese. As an antidote to the indulgence, the 20-kilometre Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail is a self-guided ride or walk between Port Campbell and Timboon through tall forests, over historic bridges and past sparkling lakes and farmland with grazing cattle.

Warrnambool to Port Fairy

Warrnambool building — A 19th-century building in Warrnambool. (Image: Peter Foster)

In Warrnambool, a town rich in maritime history, we take the four-kilometre Thunder Point Walk that traces the coast. The kids squeal when an echidna shuffles out from beneath the wooden boardwalk, and we stop to admire a seal lazing on a rock at the port.

Further along, the streets of quaint fishing village Port Fairy are lined with 19th-century cottages, old stone churches and Norfolk pines. Follow the historic walking trail to see some of the 60-plus National Trust buildings. Port Fairy is also home to Port Fairy Folk Festival (6-9 March), one of the country’s longest-running music and cultural festivals. You could time your road trip with the event for a fittingly celebratory end to any journey.

The Great Ocean Road can easily be done in three days, but we’ve spent a week on the road. The highlighted line on our now creased and well-worn map doesn’t follow the famous route precisely. It has sprouted branches in many directions, leading us to untouched rainforest and charming rural towns filled with culinary delights, and where we experienced some of our most memorable moments on the Great Ocean Road.

A traveller’s checklist

Staying there

The Monty is a highly anticipated, newly refurbished motel with a chic Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic set across the road from the Anglesea River. Basalt Winery in Port Fairy grows cool-climate wines such as pinot noir and Riesling in rich volcanic soil. Stay among the vines in its tiny home, complete with a kitchen, lounge area and outdoor firepit.

The Oak & Anchor Hotel has been a Port Fairy institution since 1857. Cosy up by the bar in winter or bask in the sunshine of the Lawn Bar in summer. The rooms are beautifully boutique with considered details, such as luxe baths for sinking into post-road trip.

Eating there

The Coast in Anglesea is a modern Australian restaurant focused on local ingredients. Grand Pacific Hotel has been a local landmark in Lorne since 1879 and recently underwent a restoration. It serves a mix of traditional pub and Italian fare alongside ocean views.

Graze is a cosy 40-seat dining room in Apollo Bay with a modern Australian menu complemented by regional wines. Apollo Bay Distillery offers tasting flights, a gin blending masterclass and serves woodfired pizzas.