The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo is the perfect getaway for animal lovers

Say "good morning" to a koala after waking up from a blissful sleep
  1. The bushland room
    Photograph: Supplied/Taronga Zoo
  2. Two people look out at koala outside room
    Photograph: Supplied/Taronga Zoo
  3. Outside on the balcony of one the Wildlife Retreat rooms
    Photograph: Supplied/Taronga Zoo
By Saskia Morrison-Thiagu for Time Out in association with Taronga Zoo
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Ok, hear us out: we’ve found the ultimate retreat for animal lovers and holidaymakers alike. The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo is an eco-retreat with luxurious rooms, high-end amenities, modern Australian dining, and breathtaking Sydney Harbour views. Sounds utterly blissful. 

The Wildlife Retreat is a great alternative to your typical hotel stay, and the best part is that Taronga Zoo is only a 12-minute Ferry ride into Sydney’s CBD. Not just a luxurious stay with amazing views, the Wildlife Retreat is an excellent option for those also looking to do some sightseeing of popular Sydney spots like Bondi Beach and Darling Harbour. The Wildlife Retreat is also great for Sydneysiders looking for a weekend getaway that’s different from what they may have experienced before. 

The Wildlife Retreat surrounds what is known as the Sanctuary, a beautiful green space that has been created exclusively for guests of the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga. This thoughtfully designed habitat envelopes guest bedrooms for a truly immersive wildlife experience. You may even wake up with a koala outside your window. 

Each day, from 3pm guests will have the opportunity to be led on a Sanctuary tour where you’ll get up close to some adorable Australian animals including, bettongs, echidnas, pademelons and wallabies. You’ll also get to listen to fascinating talks by expert guides that will deepen your connection with Cammeraigal Country. Guests can also book additional tours, like the Walk in the Wild night tour and Wollemi morning tour, that gives you the chance to explore the Zoo when it's not open to the public.

The Wildlife Retreat isn't just eco-friendly because it's surrounded by nature, it was designed with environmental sustainability in mind. There's rooftop mounted solar systems, recycled water and LED lights and timber cladding to reduce the building's carbon footprint. Hopefully, this will be one of many retreats that prioritise sustainability in the future.

Aerial shot of the Sanctuary
Photograph: Supplied/Taronga Zoo

While relaxing at the Wildlife Retreat, don't forget to visit restaurant Me-Gal for a truly wonderful dining experience. Be captviated by sweeping views of Sydney Harbour while you enjoy a distinctely Australian menu, complete with fresh local produce and native ingredients. The restaurant also pays homage to First Nations people, with its name coming from the Cammeraigal word for 'tears' — symbolic of the saltwater that surrounds the Wildlife Retreat.

If you're looking for an excellent stay in Sydney's CBD with a wonderful twist, then head over to the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo website for more information and to book your stay. 

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