Nature really is the ultimate healer isn’t it? Almost nothing beats a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery, and our backyard is choc-full of gorgeous locations to unplug and reset. All you need is the perfect place to do it from.
That’s why we’ve found some of Australia’s best nature escapes for the ultimate green getaway.
1. Green Island Resort
Green Island, QLD
The name really says it all for this green getaway located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Green Island Resort is the ONLY stay on Green Island (yes, we’re talking about a private island here!) and has been a certified ecotourism spot for 20 years. The property generates its own solar power, converts 90% of its food waste into fertiliser and even has a glass crusher that turns bottles into sand (neat!). And, of course, Green Island itself is stunning. Explore the rainforest, snorkel on the reef or just kick back and enjoy the vibes 😎
2. Wanderers Retreat Port Stephens
Port Stephens NSW
Beach, bush and style? Yes, please! Just a 10-minute walk from One Mile Beach Reserve and a 10-minute drive from the actual beach, Wanderers Retreat Port Stephens is a wonderful family-friendly eco-lodge with that classic Aussie holiday feel. The eco cottages are adorable and sleep up to five people, but if you’re travelling as a couple treat yourself to a sweet treehouse or bush spa cottage – they’re made for laidback romance. Check out Samurai Nudist Beach if want to go seriously au naturale 😉
3. Eco Beach Resort
Roebuck, WA
A 90-minute drive south of Broome, Eco Beach Resort is a luxe eco getaway on the pristine Kimberley coast. It offers a mix of villas, beach houses and safari tents, all designed to offer maximum comfort with minimal impact on the environment. There’s also a full day spa, an infinity pool and daily yoga sessions on site. When they’re in season, there are whale-watching and turtle-nesting tours too 🐋🐢
Insider tip: Eco Beach Resort is a serious traveller fave. Make sure you book ahead!
4. Cooinda Lodge Kakadu
Cooinda, NT
Beneath the forest canopy, next to the Yellow Water Billabong, is Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, a green retreat that’s the perfect home base for exploring some of the park’s best natural and cultural wonders. Stay in a stylish glamping tent or a cute mini lodge – both options have air con, which is soooo good after a long day of tropical sightseeing. Cooinda has a real oasis vibe thanks to its inviting swimming pool. Make sure you go on a Yellow Water cruise to see some crocs 🐊
5. Bendleby Ranges
Flinders Ranges, SA
Don your Akubra for the 3.5-hour drive from Adelaide to Bendleby Ranges – a real working sheep station. There are charming private cottages or you can book a whole homestead or even the shearer’s quarters – perfect for big group getaways. Bendleby offers the kind of unspoiled nature we think of when we picture the outback, with 4WD tracks and loads of hiking trails.
6. Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats
Lorne, VIC
Just a two-hour drive from Melbourne and five minutes from the Great Ocean Road, Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats is a chilled-out green getaway the whole family will love. It’s set on 43 acres of private bushland, with tyre swings, an adventure ropes playground, and plenty of room for cricket, volleyball or just kicking a ball around. Keep your eyes peeled for the friendly resident cockatoos, kangaroos and echidnas 👀
7. Huon Bush Retreats
Ranelagh, TAS
Just a 50-minute drive from Hobart you’ll find a serious nature escape. Huon Bush Retreats is set in the stunning Huon Valley and is all about unplugging and making the most of its gorgeous surroundings. You won’t find any TVs or wi-fi here – instead there’s lush forest, inquisitive wildlife and blissful peace. The Deluxe Tents are some of the coolest you’ll ever see and many of the cabins have awesome outdoor soaking tubs on their balconies – check out the Romantic Studio for an example!
8. Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Oak Beach, QLD
Eco-friendly luxury is waiting for you just outside Port Douglas. Thala Beach Nature Reserve is set on 58 hectares of native forest and has its own private beach. It’s just the place for a romantic escape – each treetop bungalow feels like a little slice of paradise. Turn off your alarm and let the native birds wake you, then spend your days bushwalking, relaxing on the beach, lazing by a pool or being pampered at the on-site day spa.
Insider tip: Borrow some binoculars from reception to make the most of the view from Turtle Lookout.
9. Old Leura Dairy
Blue Mountains, NSW
Need a break from the Sydney hustle and bustle? Head to the Old Leura Dairy, just a 90-minute drive away. This unique property was converted from an actual dairy farm and is now completely self-perpetuating – we’re talking recycled water, composting, and even eco toilet paper! Stay in your own private cottage or farmhouse, each one oozing rustic country charm. Leura is famous for its gardens and natural beauty. Check out Echo Point lookout and the Three Sisters or take the kids to the Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum.
PLAN YOUR GREEN GETAWAY
