TasALERT real-time fire, emergency warnings | FUEL CHECK Tas
TasALERT real-time fire, emergency warnings | FUEL CHECK Tas
Home » Positive Impact »
Aquila Eco Retreat combines sustainable tourism with active conservation and support for the local community. Operating entirely off-grid using solar power and battery storage, Aquila incorporates water conservation, waste reduction, habitat restoration and extensive use of recycled and locally sourced materials throughout the retreat.
These practices have been recognised with Gold medals in the Ecotourism category at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards in both 2024 and 2025, together with Sustainable Tourism and EcoStar accreditation.
Aquila operates 100% off-grid, helping reduce the carbon footprint associated with each guest stay.
Aquila continues to restore native habitat across its 20-hectare property. Guests can become active participants in Aquila’s conservation story through its Plant-A-Tree Conservation Scheme, contributing to the planting of Eucalyptus morrisbyi, one of Tasmania’s most endangered eucalypts. This allows a stay at Aquila to leave a tangible, positive legacy beyond the visitor’s own experience.
Aquila actively supports the Coal River Valley and broader Tasmanian economy by sourcing goods, produce, services, experiences, artwork and guest offerings from local businesses wherever possible.
Guests are encouraged to explore nearby cellar doors, producers, makers and attractions through package deals and detailed itineraries on their website.
Aquila is also committed to inclusive tourism, with accessible accommodation and facilities supported by Quality Tourism Accreditation and Welcome With Pride Accreditation, helping create a welcoming environment where visitors of different abilities and backgrounds feel included, respected and able to fully enjoy their experience.
Interpretive signage around the retreat grounds shares stories of the area’s natural environment, cultural and agricultural history, local wildlife and conservation initiatives, encouraging visitors to develop a deeper connection with the place they are visiting.
Aquila offers three luxurious off-grid eco-pods and one accessible glamping tent, set within 20 hectares of native landscape just minutes from historic Richmond. Each accommodation has been designed to immerse guests in nature, with private decks, expansive views across the Coal River Valley, cosy wood fires and thoughtfully curated interiors. Two accommodations also feature private outdoor claw-foot baths, perfect for soaking beneath the open sky.
Guests can unwind at the communal Flame Space, featuring a wood-fired sauna, cold bucket shower, fire pit, BBQ and outdoor seating, or explore the surrounding region by e-bike or e-scooter. In-room massages, local hampers and nearby cellar-door experiences add to the sense of escape, while Aquila’s off-grid design and conservation initiatives allow guests to enjoy a luxurious stay with a lighter environmental footprint.
How you can help
Guests don’t simply stay at a sustainable retreat; they have opportunities to actively contribute to its conservation story.
Visitors can also make a positive impact by exploring the Coal River Valley sustainably by hiring e-bikes or e-scooters, supporting local producers and businesses, and choosing a stay powered entirely by off-grid renewable energy.
Positive Impact Regions
Positive Impact Tags
Article Details
The Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team is dedicated to bringing you the best insider tips, local stories, and up-to-date guides to exploring southern Tasmania.