A Guide to Ecotourism in the Blue Mountains by Australian Ethical Super
At Ecotourism Australia, we understand that ethical decisions don’t just apply to the choices we make to help people, communities and the environment, but also to how and where we spend our holidays.
Together with Australian Ethical Super, we’ve started a series of articles highlighting ecotourism products and places around the country. The first article released covered the Whitsundays, highlighting some of the best ECO Certified experiences and adventures the Queensland islands have to offer. Now we’re excited to announce the release of the second article – the Guide to Ecotourism in the Blue Mountains. Covering over 10,000 square kilometres of dense rainforest, rugged peaks and charming local towns, the region is a world-class tourist destination. Luckily, Ecotourism Australia’s members make it possible to visit amazing places like this – without the worry of making a negative impact on the environment.
Surrounded by World Heritage listed wilderness, the Blue Mountains is a natural wonderland less than two hours drive from Sydney. Fortunately, it’s also brimming with eco-friendly tours, accommodation and attractions that meet our globally recognised ecotourism certification.
With a blue-haze horizon of Eucalyptus trees and staggering escarpments, the atmosphere in the Blue Mountains is breathtaking no matter what direction you’re looking in. From the iconic Three Sisters to Wentworth Falls, to the glow-worm tunnels of Jenolan Caves, the region is rich in geological awe and Aboriginal significance. And with over 1,500 species of plants and animals to discover, let’s just say there is plenty of nature on show.
Whether by bushwalk, mountain bike, or suspended cableway, there are many ways to explore the Blue Mountains. The good thing is, there are just as many tour operators committed to sustaining the environment and educating those who visit. Immerse yourself in an interpretive bushwalk with Tread Lightly eco tours – learning about the region’s local ecology, fauna and flora, and indigenous history. Take the family to Scenic World to ride the world’s steepest passenger railway, or glide between cliff tops on the glass-bottomed Scenic Skyway. And for something more relaxing, listen to stories of the early botanists at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, or something a little longer, you’ll find a range of eco-friendly accommodation options. The ECO Certified Billabong Retreat is a 30-bed yoga sanctuary offering organic whole food cuisine, resort-style facilities, and of course, transformative experiences in yoga, mindfulness and meditation. Other fantastic options include the romantic Sangoma Retreat or a four-day trip with Aussie Farmstay and Bush Adventures.
No matter what the season, where you decide to stay, or what activities you end up experiencing, there are many ways to explore the Blue Mountains responsibly and sustainably. This means when it’s time to take a break, you can do it the right way.
Read the ‘Guide to Ecotourism in the Blue Mountains’ here.
For more:
Check out Ecotourism Australia’s ‘Green Travel Guide’or head to the Visit Blue Mountains website for general visitor information about the Blue Mountains.