Set within the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, Australia, the oldest rainforest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Daintree EcoLodge Rainforest Retreat & Spa offers nothing less than pure escapism. This is a place where visitors can enjoy the warmth of the tropical sun rays and inhale what has to be some of the cleanest air on earth. Immersion in one of the world’s unique ecosystems and most fascinating indigenous cultures is what awaits guests at this phenomenal eco-lodge.
The lodge is committed to the environment and has implemented several sustainable practices and measures to minimize its use of energy and its emission of greenhouse gasses. Its buildings are designed to optimally use sunlight and other climatic and natural elements to heat, cool, ventilate and light the facilities, effectively eliminating the need for energy for these amenities. Where energy is needed, it mainly comes from solar panels. There is also a biological wastewater treatment plant, as well as a rainwater catchment. Waste is recycled or composted. Furniture in the guestrooms and communal areas is made locally (or elsewhere in Australia), while locally grown and made, organic ingredients are used in the kitchen. Additionally, Daintree EcoLodge & Spa supports initiatives related to the protection and conservation of the ecosystems and biodiversity in the Daintree Rainforest.
Daintree EcoLodge also employs members of the local Aboriginal community, which, of course, helps the local economy but also gives guests the chance to learn more about the Kuku Yalanji culture, join local guides on interpretive Aboriginal walks and participate in Aboriginal art workshops.
At the lodge’s spa, treatments, which have been approved by local elders, involve the use of native herbs and plants that are well-known for their healing and medicinal features. All products used at the spa are natural and derived from native flora, minerals and the earth.
The many activities on offer are chosen because they are sustainable and have minimal impact on the environment. This unique landscape is fantastic for nature hikes, zip lining, river cruises, swimming and wildlife watching. The Daintree Rainforest is home to no fewer than 430 bird species, of which 13 are endemic to this corner of Australia. This region, which covers no more than 0.2% of Australia’s surface area, is home to 65% of the country’s butterflies and bats, 20% of its birds and 30% of its frogs.
In addition, Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is bordered by another, world-famous World Heritage Site—the Great Barrier Reef. The lodge lies right at the doorstep of this iconic reef system, thus also offering guests the chance to go scuba diving and snorkeling.
