The Blue Mountains are a rugged wilderness area named from the blue haze created by the vast eucalyptus forests found here. Situated just outside Sydney in Australia’s New South Wales, the area has rich Aboriginal Heritage and immense natural beauty. Here, you’ll find scenic lookout points, waterfalls, valleys, and caves.
With so much to explore, a visit to the Blue Mountains is not only good for the soul but the body, too. There are many exciting activities on offer, from walking trails to climbing and even abseiling. When deciding where to stay, you’ll get to choose from the wide range of unique accommodation in the Blue Mountains. These range from renovated barns to geodesic domes and rustic chalets.
Within this diversity of accommodation, you’ll also find a growing number of eco-lodges in the Blue Mountains. These offer a comfortable stay that leaves a minimal impact on the environment.
We’ve put together this list of some of the best eco-lodges in the Blue Mountains to help you find the perfect retreat for your trip, no matter what your travel style.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Blue Mountains for One Night
Dome Sweet Dome
Dome Sweet Dome is an innovative, handcrafted eco-lodge constructed from recycled and natural materials. It's ideally located for guests to explore the mid-mountains.
- Wentworth Falls
- Three Sisters
- Katoomba
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Why Stay in an Eco Lodge in the Blue Mountains?
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Struggles with drought and wildfires have cast a harsh spotlight on the impact we’re having on our planet, and the people of Australia know the value of its natural resources. In addition, vast tracts of this continent are fairly remote, leading residents to be more self-sufficient and live in harmony with the sometimes harsh environment.
Choosing to stay in an eco-lodge in Australia offers you the chance to get closer to nature, while still enjoying comfort and style. Many eco-lodges will offer modern conveniences and unique accommodation without impacting your level of comfort. You’ll rest easy in the knowledge that your chosen accommodation has taken steps to minimize the impact that your stay is having on its surroundings.
What is an Eco Lodge?
An eco-lodge is any accommodation that strives to be environmentally conscious in its operation. Popular methods include using renewable energy from solar panels, harvesting rainwater, or using a waste management system. Other initiatives include reducing the use of single-use plastic, recycling waste, and using organic produce.
In addition to taking care of the planet, eco-lodges also aim to uplift and empower local communities through promoting and supporting their businesses and artists. This creates the opportunity for visitors to learn more about local culture and heritage.
Dome Sweet Dome
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Spacious, geodesic dome
- > Constructed using recycled and natural materials
The Gatehouse at Mirimiri
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Hand-built limestone cottage on a permaculture property
- > Rustic charm with modern amenities
Eco Woolshed Cabin
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Compact eco-friendly cabin with amazing views
- > Stylish, architect-designed cabin
The Inner Space Eco Lodge
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Contemporary and stylish design
- > All the luxury while eco at heart
Kanimbla Mist
- > $
- > 6 Guests
- > Unique, architect-designed house in a scenic valley
- > Peaceful location within easy access of top sites
Architectural Mountain Eco Pod
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Ecologically sustainable rural luxury retreat
- > Rugged, natural setting
Kanimbla Valley Willow Tree Bend
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Compact eco-cabin with spectacular views
- > Wildlife, vineyards, and stargazing
The Top 10 Eco Lodges in the Blue Mountains
In this list, we’ve included eco-lodges to suit any travel style and budget. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or anything in between – we’ve got you covered.
Overall Best Value Eco Lodge in The Blue Mountains – Dome Sweet Dome
The handcrafted Dome Sweet Dome is a spacious retreat set among beautiful gardens in the Blue Mountains. Split between two floors, the lodge features two bedrooms, a covered verandah, and all the usual comforts of home.
The dome has been constructed using mainly recycled and natural materials. Guests are provided with eco-friendly cleaning products and toiletries to minimize chemical pollutants.
Guests can explore the many attractions in the area including Wentworth Falls and Lawson, where you’ll find thrift stores, restaurants, and cafes. There is a range of scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and bushwalks in the area, including the Wentworth waterfalls and the Three Sisters.
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Best Value Eco Lodge in The Blue Mountains – The Gatehouse at Mirimiri
The Gatehouse at Mirimiri is a warm and welcoming hand-built limestone cottage located on a 10-hectare permaculture property. The cottage has a modern kitchen, as well as a private garden and a barbeque area.
The cottage is built entirely from natural materials, either recycled or reclaimed. It also runs on solar power and uses a water recycling system. Guests are encouraged to use electricity and water sparingly.
Wentworth Falls Lake is a short stroll from the cottage. You’ll also have the Country Club with its 18-hole golf course, restaurant, and bar nearby. There are various scenic walking trails through the region to suit any trekking ability, as well as a variety of lookout points where guests can enjoy the view.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Blue Mountains start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Eco Lodge for Couples – Eco Woolshed Cabin
Woolshed Cabin is one of two architecturally designed eco-cabins situated on a tranquil 250-acre property. The cabin features modern interiors and large windows offering views of cattle and horses grazing on the escarpment.
Made mostly from timber, corrugated sheeting, and glass, the cabin blends with the surroundings while offering a modern edge. Rainwater tanks, solar water heating, and environmentally friendly toiletries add an eco-friendly touch.
Guests can relax on the private deck and enjoy the views of the mountains in the distance. Horse-riding is available at a nearby property for those keen to explore further on horseback. There’s no wifi or tv – perfect for couples wishing to disconnect from the world for a while.
Most Ecological Eco Lodge in The Blue Mountains – The Inner Space Eco Lodge
Inner Space Eco Lodge is a contemporary retreat with open-plan living. The outdoor bushland setting of ponds and waterways attracts plentiful birdlife and small wildlife.
The cabin is solar passive with rendered mud and straw bale walls that help to maintain a pleasant indoor temperature. Double glazing and a north-facing orientation ensure the cabin remains cool in summer and cozy in winter. The cabin collects and uses rainwater, while solar panels heat water and provide electricity.
Guests can relax on the terrace and enjoy a barbeque or try out the walk-in infra-red sauna. Katoomba town center is a 15-minute stroll from the cabin and offers easy access to Echo Point, the Three Sisters, and various walking trails.
Best Eco Lodge for Families Visiting The Blue Mountains – Kanimbla Mist
Kanimbla Mist is a unique property, designed by a renowned architect that combines eco-principles with a modern edge. From the open-plan living area and compact yet well-equipped kitchen to the two upstairs bedrooms and modern bathroom, the house has all the comforts of home close to nature. Family-friendly extras like a high chair, travel crib, baby bath, board games, and books for children are included.
The house offers a few eco-features, like innovative passive solar heating, a solar hot water system, and a climate garden with rock walls. The temperature inside the house is also regulated by its north-facing orientation, and reverse brick walls.
Guests can visit the historic village of Mt Victoria with its small museum and many scenic bushwalk trails. The house is ideally located close to various local attractions, including Megalong Valley, Jenolan Caves, the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, and the Three Sisters in Katoomba.
Another Great Eco Lodge for Families Visiting The Blue Mountains – Tarakuanna Chalet
Tarakuanna Chalet is a self-contained off-grid wooden cabin. Featuring a spacious living area with double-volume ceilings decorated in rustic style, it’s the ideal accommodation in the Blue Mountains for families. Safety features like a baby gate and a fireplace guard are included, as are books and toys, a crib, and a high chair.
The house is made entirely from wood, with stone accents and natural textures throughout. The cabin uses mostly solar power, with gas for heating and cooking. There’s also an orchard where guests can pick fresh fruit.
Guests can enjoy the tranquil picnic area located on an adjacent hill with beautiful 360-degree views of the valley. The renowned Jenolan Caves are a short distance from the chalet, as are the Kanangra Walls and Mayfield Gardens.
Amazing Luxury Eco Lodge in The Blue Mountains – Architectural Mountain Eco Pod
Tucked on a rugged rural setting in the Blue Mountains, the Pod is a stylish and modern luxury retreat, artfully designed by an architect. The retreat is equipped with all the modern conveniences that make for a comfortable and pleasant stay.
The Pod has an on-site biodegradable wastewater treatment system, so guests are provided with toiletries and cleaning products that will not harm this. Rainwater is harvested, filtered, and purified for use.
Guests have a lovely deck area to relax on and enjoy the views of the wilderness and the tranquil setting. Those wishing to head out and explore can visit Jenolan Caves, Hassans Walls Lookout, Lake Lyell, and the historic town of Rydal. The area also offers numerous walking trails, so make sure to pack your walking boots!
Best Eco Lodge for a Weekend in The Blue Mountains – Kanimbla Valley Willow Tree Bend
Kanimbla Valley Willow Tree Bend is a compact eco-cabin overlooking scenic vineyards and the Blue Mountain escarpment. The cabin is compact but has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay in this tranquil valley.
Ecological and sustainable principles are most noticeable in the bathroom where a waterless compost toilet helps reduce water usage. Biodegradable toiletries are available to ensure that greywater runoff does not harm the environment.
Guests can relax in the recreational area where there’s a fire pit, barbeque, and fridge, or enjoy walks by the property’s vineyards. The surrounding area offers a range of scenic locations, waterfalls, and walking trails for guests to enjoy.
Best Eco Lodge with an Epic Location – Long Alley Barn
The Long Alley Barn is just two hours from the bustling city of Sydney in a serene and beautiful location. The building is a former barn that has been lovingly restored to preserve its original old farm structure. Today, it offers a modern and comfortable retreat.
The Barn is entirely off-grid, deriving energy from solar panels and harvesting rainwater for use. A bio septic tank takes care of any waste.
The surrounding area offers many of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area attractions including Jenolan Caves, and Katoomba. There are various bushwalks and trails to enjoy throughout this scenic region, offering scenic lookouts. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also plenty of climbing opportunities.
Best Eco Lodge for Views – Lake View Cottage
Lake View Cottage enjoys a secluded setting overlooking Lake Lyell. Just 1.5 hours from Sydney, the cottage is an ideal getaway for those seeking a peaceful break. It’s also perfect for those who like to fish, kayak, or bird-watch.
Solar power generates energy for the cottage and all water comes from tanks, therefore guests should use both sparingly. There’s a fireplace to provide heating.
In addition to fishing, kayaking, and bird watching, guests at the cottage can enjoy barbeques on the outdoor entertainment deck with great views of the lake. Visit the historic mining town of Lithgow, with its museum and other notable historic sites. Jenolan Caves is just 40 minutes away while Bathurst is 45 minutes away.
Don’t Forget Your Blue Mountains Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on The Blue Mountains’ Eco Lodges
The Blue Mountains is an area of impressive natural beauty, and one of the best national parks in Australia. From incredible caves and geological formations to waterfalls and lakes, there’s so much to explore. Along with this beauty comes plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore it on walks and hikes that take in scenic lookout points. There’s also a rich history here of old mining towns and ancient Aboriginal settlements.
Whether you’re planning a family trip or are looking for something private just for two, there’s a wide variety of unique accommodation in the Blue Mountains to ensure you’ll find something to suit your needs. Some of the best eco-lodges in the Blue Mountains will offer the chance to enjoy this wilderness up close and a comfortable stay with a minimal environmental footprint.
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