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You can now stay at a luxe cabin that overlooks a crocodile sanctuary

And it's all thanks to the Irwins.
crocodile hunter lodge new crocodile cabin with a frame building floor to ceiling windows and croc sanctuary out the front
(Credit: Instagram @crocodilehunterlodge)

Australia Zoo is already world-renowned, with the Crocodile show, an amazing variety of animals and, of course, the Irwins. It’s time to add another sight-to-see to the list, except this one is somewhere you can stay!

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crocodile hunter lodge with cabins big pathway and two kangaroos hopping across
(Credit: The Crocodile Hunter Lodge)

The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, which sits adjacent to the Australia Zoo, provides luxe accommodation to families and couples wanting to experience the QLD wild in all its glory. This boutique hotel is located in the spectacular Glass House Mountains and was originally created as a tribute to the late Steve Irwin by his family.

In November 2024, the Irwin family unveiled a set of new lodges, aptly named the ‘Crocodile Cabins’. Built with the idea of sanctuary in mind, these cabins are for both humans and animals, with endangered plant species, freshwater crocodiles, Mary River turtles and Coochin Hills grevillea all looked after in this new area.

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You can easily feel a part of the ‘Aussie wild’ when staying at the ‘Crocodile Cabins’, especially when you look out the window! Situated directly in view of the freshwater crocodile habitat, you’ll be able to get some one-on-one time with these beautiful (yet terrifying!) apex predators. Huge windows that span from floor to ceiling will definitely help you face any fears you have, while a lovely outdoor terrace will help you get up close and personal with them.

Sentiment can be found throughout The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, but especially in the new accommodation. The front doors, made from the original crocodile grandstand – that was built by Steve Irwin himself – really showcase the meaningful design. A copy of ‘My Steve’ by Terri Irwin is also available in your cabin, for when you’re ready to immerse yourself into the world of the wild.

Officially crowned as the ‘World’s Best Nature Hotel’

So, it’s no surprise that The Crocodile Hunter Lodge has received world renown by winning the title ‘World’s Best Nature Hotel’ in the Boutique Hotel Club Awards for 2024. These awards are often dubbed the ‘Michelin Guide’ for boutique hotels, and a panel of 30 luxury travel experts provide on-site reviews of each shortlisted stay before announcing final winners.

As the winner of the nature category, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge does a great job of balancing luxury with conservation. The expert review on the Boutique Hotel Club describes their stay as ‘An enchanting “pinch me” moment with nature.’

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It’s not just the design, or view that gave this hotel award status, it’s everything else that’s offered with your stay. Apart from exclusive access to native species, like koalas, kangaroos and crocs within the sanctuary, you also receive unlimited entry to the Australia Zoo itself. All we can say is, there’s no better way to experience Aussie wildlife than just how Steve Irwin wanted it.

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