AUSTRALIA’S SOUTH WEST DESTINATION OF THE MONTH WEEK 4 OF 5
As a destination with some of the most pristine coastline and natural landscapes this side of the equator, there’s no wonder ecotourism is at the forefront of travellers’ and tourism business owners’ minds.
In fact, the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River is Western Australia’s first Certified Eco Destination, and one of only four in Australia. The rigorous certification process by Ecotourism Australia is recognised globally and is awarded based on all aspects of local sustainability, assessing efforts from the entire community, local government and the tourism industry.
With this in mind, here are some Eco Accredited luxury experiences in the Margaret River region & beyond in Australia’s South West that will have visitors feeling good about their contribution to sustainable travel.
Up Close with Wildlife
Extending 1.841 kilometres over the protected waters of Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Heritage-listed, the jetty also features a solar-powered electric train to ferry visitors to its end, where they will discover the Underwater Observatory. Descend 8 metres below the waves to view Australia’s greatest artificial reef on the piles, watching the marine life in awe through eleven viewing windows at various levels within the 9.5 metres diameter observation chamber. Think vividly coloured tropic and sub-tropical corals, sponges, fish, invertebrates and much more – all while staying dry.
Servicing the entire Margaret River region, South West Eco Discoveries takes visitors on nature and wine tours that showcase the best of the region. Owned and run by brothers who have lived in Busselton and Dunsborough their entire lives, they offer a unique guided insight into the marine environment, flora, fauna, geography and history of Geographe Bay and Cape Naturaliste. Their Nocturnal Animal Tour in particular is a favourite – giving guests the chance to observe critically endangered Woylies (Brush-tailed Bettongs) and other night animals on an evening tour in the Australian bush.
