As they say there’s no wi-fi in the forest- but you’ll find a better connection whether that’s with yourself or with whoever you’re choosing to adventure with. Hustle culture, packed schedules, social media, and commutes — all things that we need to take space from time to time and what better way to do it than with an off grid eco escape in the wild.
The rise of eco escapes has been putting sustainable travel on the map, a growing trend of stays designed around being immersed in nature with minimal environmental footprint. Local eco escapes are a way for the environmentally conscious to shift the way they travel in favour of the planet whilst enjoying slower-paced, nature-focussed adventures that invite them to completely disconnect from the usual day to day grind and indulge in a digital detox.
To help you plan a getaway that won’t cost the earth to soak up the best of what nature has to offer your mind, body and soul we’ve wrapped up our pick of eco escapes across NSW.
Unyoked — Northern Rivers | Central Coast Highlands | South Coast
Searching for a place to completely switch off? Modern man has defined the term ‘peace’ as “no wifi”. Okay, we may have made that up, but you’ll probably want to leave your phones at home for this one because you won’t find reception at these cabins. Unyoked is as much an Aussie start-up as it is a movement towards un-busyness and unplugging, and you’ll find these tiny cabins nestled in the rainforest, bush, or on private properties just a couple hours away from major cities, offering a wilderness experience that isn’t too far away from home. Every cabin runs completely on solar power, and their designs literally encourages guests to get out and explore their natural surrounds. All your basic needs are covered, including hot showers and a kitchen stocked with utensils, and many of the cabins have fire pits and outdoor baths to help you truly switch off and soak in the stillness and beauty of nature.
Wild and Seek — O’Connell | St Albans
For any city slickers looking to escape the hustle and grind without sacrificing creature comforts, this one’s for you! Wild and Seek allows you to immerse yourself in nature while offering a more luxe experience of the eco-friendly life. This solar-powered, off-the-grid cabin was built with sustainable materials to be completely environmentally-friendly and self-sufficient. You can expect all your fundamentals, including a comfy bed, hot shower and kitchen stocked with utensils, pots, pans and crockery, as well as a few more thoughtful touches like board games, a portable speaker and even Yoga mats for a serene stretch session on the deck or grass. If you can’t go without your phone, the cabin also has charging ports for low-wattage devices (however be warned that they may not be able to handle your heavy duty gadgets like laptops or hair dryers).
In2thewild — Multiple locations
Tiny homes may just be the houses of the future — they’re land-saving, and the reduced use of materials used to build them means they’re much more sustainable for the environment! Until they become more mainstream, In2thewild offer multiple tiny escapes across the state for you experience the magic of off-grid, tiny home living. Born out of a need to slow down and disconnect, each stay has a unique, rural setting, from boutique farms to the natural Aussie bush, so you can take your pick. All amenities are included and each home comes with a BBQ, fire pit, outdoor stove, books and games. Pack that novel you’ve been meaning to finish and get ready for some serious relaxation time in nature.
JR’s Ecohut — Nangus
A tiny hut with 360 degree panoramic views, JR’s Ecohut is perched high atop its own hill looking out over the Murrambidgee river flats and the magnificent Kimo valley. Made with locally sourced timber, steel and galvanised iron, this getaway has everything you need for a comfortable, peaceful stay, including breakfast provided daily. Warm up beside the indoor fire on a cold night, stargaze at the clear night sky, unplug from all devices and wifi and spend your days rejuvenating and immersing yourself in the endless mountain ranges.
Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat — Crystal Creek
If the lush rainforest of northern NSW is calling your name, a stay at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is the perfect getaway for yourself and a significant other. Surrounded on three sides by Numinbah Nature Reserve imagine floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking straight out into the lush green of the rainforest. The retreat owners’ partner with National Parks and Wildlife Service to help manage and conserve the land and sets aside 60% of the 102-hectare property as a buffer to the adjacent nature reserve, serving as a gene pool for regeneration of flora and fauna for the planet. The accommodation itself minimises its footprint wherever possible through the likes of LCD televisions, elevated buildings to minimise the physical footprint on the earth, insulating glass and toxin-free cleaning agents. You can choose the level of luxury you’re after, with Crystal Creek offering five different types of accommodation for various budgets. Marvel at the rainforest by taking a forest walk, going birdwatching or explore the orchard and try the delicious organic fruit!
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