Eco-Lodges in North Queensland, Australia

Thala Beach Lodge

Tropical cocktail served in a coconut upon arrival? Check. Private beach with resident turtles? Check. Ginger hot stone massages at the day spa? Check. While Thala Beach Resort, just south of Port Douglas, relishes its 5-star status and all of fixings this eco-lodge embodies sophistication with out the pretension. This isn’t an over-the-top indulgence, however. The bungalows are simple but elegant, and they go easy on the “pampering” phraseology that seems to pervade other luxury resorts. Yes, there are gourmet meals and you can be chauffeured around in golf buggies, but the resort also makes a concerted effort to be low-key and nature-focused. A stay at Thala is not cheap, but there are fun free things thrown in, like astronomy lessons with a huge telescope, private nature walks with the on-site naturalist, and guest speakers like elders from the local aboriginal tribe.

Red Mill House

Red Mill House is neither red nor a former mill, but rather is a B&B eco-lodge well known as a birdwatchers paradise. Located in Daintree Village just outside Daintree National Park, Red Mill House boasts an incredible location that attracts a host of rainforest birds and repeat guests from around the world. Run by a jolly Australian couple who are quick to laugh, refill your cup of tea and passionately describe the creatures that inhabit their rainforest property, Red Mill House is perfect for slower-paced travellers looking for a family atmosphere. The rooms are comfortable and airy, but the veranda and common areas are where you’ll spend all of your time. Several restaurants and shops sit on the Daintree River just out the lodge’s front door, and other conveniences aren’t too far away.

Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat

Rose Gums is central to nothing. And this is what makes it so appealing. You will definitely need your own car to get to these pole and timber “treehouses” in the Atherton Tablelands, but once you arrive you won’t want to leave. The lodge’s nature trails lead you down to the creek, and give you access to wildlife sightings you might now get elsewhere, like the elusive duck-billed platypus. You can grill out on your veranda, take a spa bath with a view out over the forest, and cozy up next to the fireplace in the cooler months. The little touches—like knitted quilts and flower arrangements, make you feel like you’re at mom’s place. Eggs, toast, tea and jam come in a breakfast hamper delivered to your door, and most people eat dinner in the on-site Asian restaurant. Best of all is knowing that you are staying on a tract of land that was once degraded, but now flourishes after owners Peta and John planted over 10,000 trees.

Daintree Wilderness Lodge

If you’re looking for the quintessential rainforest accommodation, Daintree Wilderness Lodge is it. Located near Cape Tribulation, where nothing is connected to main power lines, the lodge uses both solar power and a generator for electricity. Have no fear—unlike other lodges, Daintree Wilderness turns off the generator at night so all you hear are the squawks, cheeps, and ribbitts of the rainforest. A series of bungalows, connected by a timber walkway, ensure guests don’t trample the jungle floor. Glass viewing roofs in each room let you look up at the rainforest from your bed. Despite its wilderness setting, the lodge offers internet, a pool, personal DVD players and 3-course gourmet dinners. In the evening, managers Melissa and James are likely to sit out on the veranda and have a glass of wine with you. Look for the endangered ostrich-like cassowary and forest dragons (which really do exist!)

Sanctuary Retreat

The Sanctuary Retreat: think Tibetan prayer flags, yoga classes and fruit smoothies. Leave your shoes and your stress at the door. Set in the rainforest overlooking the ocean, The Sanctuary is an affordable haven even for cheapskates like me. Choose from stylish cabins with timber floors, showers looking out to the rainforest, and a mini bars with Australian wine or a more "eco" experience in a simple elevated private hut with only screens between you and the tropical jungle. Owners Peta and Paul have lovingly maintained this special place using solar power, gray water, composting and gentle cleaning chemicals. Cyclone Larry a couple of years ago actually did them a favor: the winds opened up the views to the Coral Sea. Take a walk to the beach or look for wildlife on their nature trails, strum a guitar or play games in the lodge, and cook your own meals or dine on succulent favourites like avocado and pumpkin salads, macadamia barramundi fish, and fettuccini con scarola. This place is truly a gem, and the price makes the stay all the sweeter.

Eco-Village Mission Beach

While Eco-Village Mission Beach is probably the least “eco” in practice of the lodges listed here, it boasts a fantastic location on the water and within walking distance of the town. Massive bungalows are tucked away among lush green foliage, and you have your own splash pool with waterfall just outside your door. If you haven’t had enough of the water, take a soak in the room’s fantastic spa bathtub and help yourself to a bottle of the in-room Cabernet Sauvignon.