Eco Beach was founded by Karl Plunkett, after a fishing trip to Cape Villaret in 1993 left a lasting impression upon him. It’s understandable really as the area is known for its wondrous rugged beauty and its long and colourful history.
Karl who is originally from the Isle of Man and already had two successful backpacker resorts under his belt, was keen to help pioneer Australia’s green travel movement and set about creating his remote eco-tourism “getaway”. He negotiated a lease from the government, gained permissions from the Yawuru aborigines and erected the first timbers of his project in October 1995. The simple design of the hut served as a prototype until July 1996 when it was refined by Perth based architect Paul Meschiati and was opened officially with 20 elevated timber chalets all linked by raised wooden boardwalks. It has grown and diversified significantly since those early days , even overcoming the tragic events of 2000 when Cyclone Rosita wiped out the resort. It took Karl nine years to rebuild and reopen with tent accommodation and villas in 2009. This will mark the resort’s 10th year in its new form. In further response to these events, Karl now builds tented accommodation all over the world for his business www.ecostructures.com.au.
Sustainably and Environmentally Focussed
Over 70% of the retreat was built from recycled or reused materials. This includes galvanised screws, nuts and bolts and even 1400 railway sleepers used for the walkway.
Environmental Consultant, Dr. Jan Talacko was employed to oversee the entire project from inception to completion to ensure Eco Beach’s commitment to environmental excellence through ecologically sustainable tourism practises was correct from the very start.
Accommodation
Offering 53 tents and villas, with a contingent of staff ranging from between 7 to 20 depending on the season peaks, the resort offers not only enviable views of the coastline but the opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing and luxury spas.
20% of their bookings come from returning guests, and increasing this percentage is a goal for 2019 as Karl sees this as an essential component of their growth and sustainability.
PRICE: Beginning from under $200, they have seasonal rates and only open on weekends from November to March as this is the local wet season. As mid-week is slightly quieter, they offer 2 nights for the price of one for Garden View Eco Tents.
WEBSITE: www.ramadaecobeach.com
