Sustainable stays on the Sunshine Coast

Around two hours from Brisbane at the edge of Kondalilla National Park in Montville, eight villas are nestled into nature. As an eco-certified property, Narrows Escape lives and breathes sustainability. They recycle villa wastewater, use biodegradable cleaning products, source local and seasonal produce, harness solar energy, mulch garden areas to conserve water in the soil and partner with other businesses that support the environment.

Each of the villas feature a king size bed, fireplace, barista coffee machine, private heated plunge pool or spa bath, fully equipped kitchen and barbeque. Wake up to tranquil birdsong and the complete absence of traffic noise before tucking into your breakfast hamper of local produce. The property is close to the national park where you can disappear into nature for short, half day or full day hikes. Discover secluded waterfalls and swimming holes or take a 25min drive to visit some of the Sunshine Coast’s best beaches. The peaceful town of Montville offers an array of boutiques, markets, galleries and dining spots.

Along the Kin Kin River in the Noosa Hinterland is Mayan Farm – a working farm of over 100 acres home to free roaming livestock. This is the place to come for an unforgettable farm stay experience with your besties. The farm’s exclusive bespoke luxury accommodation, Mayan Luxe Villas are sustainably constructed with rammed earth from the farm and sleeps up to 8 guests. The multi room villa features recycled and milled timbers throughout as well as railway sleepers from the property’s original slab hut. Take in the view from their outdoor bath and shower, cook pizzas in the pizza oven and hunt for shooting stars each evening beside the firepit. The beautifully landscaped space includes three alfresco entertaining areas and a plunge pool so there’s plenty of space to laze about and truly unwind over a few days.

In the heart of Noosa’s biosphere you’ll find Noosa Eco Retreat – a collection of luxurious self-contained eco-luxe yurts set on over 100 private acres complete with king-sized bed, ensuite and well equipped kitchenette. Surrounded by trees and with a glass wall to enjoy the spectacular view from the inside you feel entirely ensconced by nature.

The property offers direct access to the Tuchekoi National Park and Noosa’s trail network, perfect for hiking, climbing, mountain biking and soaking up the healing benefits of nature. There are private picnic areas, firepits and barbeques for preparing your own food and you’ll find a selection of cafes, restaurants and bars nearby.

Habitat Noosa is located right at the doorstep of the unique ecological sanctuary that is Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglades on the planet and a haven to bird, flora, fauna and marine life.

Predominantly a campsite, you can choose to pitch a tent, hook up your caravan or relax in comfort in one of the glamping tents at Habitat Noosa. The EcoCamp is 100% water sustainable, 80% energy sustainable and you’ll find a paddock to plate bistro and eco brewery on site – along with plenty of activities for both solo adventurers and families.

Perched on the edge of Lake Cootharaba, you can wander the 500 metres of beachfront or hire a stand-up paddleboard for a relaxed exploration of the calm waters. Habitat Noosa also operate exclusive daily guided tours of the Everglades on their purpose built eco vessel.