With more and more businesses and individuals embracing the sustainability movement, there is a growing demand for accommodation options that are in line with the eco-conscious ethos. In the Margaret River region, this trend has been adopted by several accommodation operators who are building eco-friendly housing options for travellers hoping to reduce their carbon footprint. One of the newest has even been architecturally designed to allow in natural lighting and cross ventilation, using rainwater and solar heating to keep its occupants comfy. Check out some of the most eco-friendly accommodation options in Margaret River for your next holid
Barn Hives, Yallingup
Located just a few minutes away from Smith’s Beach, Barn Hives is the perfect place for couples or singles to enjoy a getaway down south without leaving behind their mark on the environment. Named after the Barnyard Bees Farm on-site, this gem is surrounded by nature and the plentiful offerings of Margaret River. Inspired by nature, landscape and sustainability, Barn Hives offers evidence that hospitality can be sustainable.
With a progressive approach to design, Barn Hives incorporates contemporary and natural elements to create a unique experience for each guest in their two-story open-plan living space. Utilising natural lighting and cross ventilation, solar panels and rain-water collection, every feature has been built in with sustainability in mind. The ground-level living space is equipped with a kitchen, dining area, cosy lounge, bathroom facilities and an outdoor sundeck with a BBQ. On the top floor, you’ll find a large queen-sized bed, hanging facilities for clothing, cooling facilities and plenty of seats to lounge in and admire the view.
Operating with maximum consideration for the environment, eco-friendly individuals will be enticed by Barn Hive’s remarkable philosophy:
“Create more, consume less; embrace every opportunity to learn and improve; be innovative and committed; inspire others to positive change; and always look to nature, a richness of experience without over-consumption.”
While Barn Hives is not suitable for children under 12, their team is happy to discuss exceptions. Maximum occupancy per pod is two people.
To learn more about Barn Hives and their facilities or to book, see here
Petit Eco Cabin, Windows Estate
Overlooking the stunning Windows Estate vineyard, Petit Eco Cabin offers an idyllic and unique escape for eco-friendly singles and couples. Cleverly positioned to take advantage of the Northern sun and cooling sea breezes, the cabin is packed from top to bottom with eco-friendly features including rainwater collection, greywater recycling and solar hot water system. Timber inside the cabin comes from a family farm, milled by the owner’s father from trees that had fallen over the past two decades.
Disconnect from your hectic everyday life in this WIFI and TV-free cabin. Free of the distraction of the internet, you’ll find that there’s plenty of things to do. A host of incredible culinary experiences such as picnics, cheese tastings and vineyard tours are right next door!
Due to the delicate nature of the furnishings, lake and farm animals close by, the cabin is not suitable for children and pets. For more information and to book, see here
Margaret River Heartland, Cowaramup
Nestled in the heartland of the Margaret River region, this beautiful retreat boasts two accommodation options: a cosy, rustic, off-grid cottage called Settlers Rest, and a cute and quirky cabin, the Glampavan. Settled by the Leiper family who emigrated from Scotland in the 1930s, this is the perfect place to enjoy the simple joys of country life.
Nurture your body and soul in Settler’s Rest and appreciate the simpler things in life. Off-grid, device-free and providing uninterrupted farmland views, you’ll instantly feel refreshed.
The environmentally conscious will feel at home in this quaint little cottage, designed to be off-grid and minimalistic. With amenities such as a baker's oven fireplace, and old-style kitchenette and a modernised bathroom, Settlers Rest is the perfect country escape.
Quirky, eclectic and cute are just a few words to describe the Glampavan. Once a caravan accommodation unit for remote workers, now a completely refurbished cabin with stunning views of farmland, horse paddocks and a forest. Complete with a queen-sized bed, modern kitchen, day bed, cosy annex with fireplace, original art and gorgeous bathroom with a rain-water sky shower and a record player and soundbar for those who love to sing!
Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times due to electric fences, livestock and unfenced dams. For more information, see here.
Tree Chalets, Acton Park
Live amongst the trees in this serene and romantic accommodation powered by the sun and fed by rainwater. Embedded within a stunning Rosegum plantation, wake up to magnificent views each morning during your stay. Better yet, relax and indulge in the outdoor cast iron baths complete with hot water, complimentary bath salts and privacy screens. With the next chalet 100 metres away, you’ll have total privacy.
Constructed using Australian timbers grown on the farm, this luxurious getaway is packed with eco-friendly features for the environmentally conscious.
With plenty of amenities including a 55-inch Smart TV including free Netflix and Wifi, walk-in rainfall shower, luxury bed linen, dishwasher, cooktop, fridge and microwave in the kitchen, guests will feel right at home! Tree Chalets are also electric vehicle friendly and provides TESLA chargers on both chalets. If you decide to just stay in and relax, there’s even a library of books for you to curl up and read with.
Unfortunately Tree Chalets is not suitable for children or pets. For the full list of amenities or to book, see here
Yelverton Brook Eco Chalets, Metricup
Reconnect with nature in this tranquil accommodation situated within a wildlife sanctuary. With 100 acres of land protected by a predator fence, Yelverton Brook is home to abundant local wildlife including kangaroos, woylie and bandicoots and possums. This is the ultimate nature getaway for those who love wildlife watching!
Setting out to establish their tourism venture with sustainable approaches since 1988, owners Joy and Simon Ensor have made sure the chalets are crafted and built with a sustainable and natural approach. From the choice of land to the materials used, the Ensors aim to prove that comfort and environmentally sensitive design can cohabit together in harmony. Accredited by the Ecotourism Association of Australia, and multiple awards in tourism and environmental accolades, guests can enjoy this retreat with peace of mind about their eco-footprint.
With options to suit varying groups, Yelverton Brook is the perfect base for either your next romantic getaway or family holiday. The Spacious Studio, perfect for two people, is equipped with a queen-sized bed and a hot tub spa on the patio. The Premium Lodge sleeps 4 - 6 people and features two queen-sized beds (plus double sofa bed, cot and highchair on request). Book your spot here.