Some of the world’s finest hotels and vacation getaways are also the greenest.
So if you’re in the market for an eco-friendly vacation spot (and you should be), you may want to check out one of these eco-friendly heavens.
Or hey, knock all eight off your bucket list. We’re pretty sure spring isn’t showing up anytime soon.
Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel
At the Whitepod Eco-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps, you forgo the hotel room and instead stay in pods set on wooden platforms. Each pod features a floor-to-ceiling window (complete with stunning views), an en suite bathroom, and a wood-burning stove. Each pod is designed as a “low-impact accommodation,” where minimal waste is produced, renewable resources are utilized, and electricity and water are preserved. The resort also features 7km of private slopes. If winter sports aren’t your thing, it’s just as picturesque in the warmer months too.
Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa
With the Park Hyatt name you know you can expect luxury. But what you may not have known was that you can also feel less guilty about splurging on your trip when it’s contributing very minimally to your carbon footprint. Set on its own private island, the award-winning hotel is the only resort in the Maldives certified for both design and construction by EarthCheck. It features 50 villas that are situated both over land and the Indian Ocean, which are designed to integrate the environment. The hotel comes complete with bragging rights for having the healthiest reef in the Maldives.
Daintree Rainforest Eco-Lodge and Spa
If you’re looking for a refined rainforest experience (and who isn’t?), Daintree Rainforest Eco-Lodge and Spa is worth the trip to Australia. Located in Queensland, perks include spa services under a dense canopy of vegetation, a dining menu that will rival some of your favourite 5-star restaurants, and getting to call one of 15 intimate rainforest houses home. The spot offers a convenient home base to explore the Daintree River, ancient rainforests, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Chole Mjini, Chole Island, Mafia Archipelago, Tanzania
Situated along the Tanzanian coast, the spot is essentially a simplistic jungle fantasyland. Within walking distance are ancient ruins and a vibrant and authentic village. Basically, they were doing the whole eco-tourism thing before it was even a thing. All of the hotel’s profits are directed into local eco-projects.
Shergarh Tented Camp
If you have a desire to get intimate with nature and a thing for tigers, hit the Shergarh Tented Camp in central India, near the Kanha Tiger Reserve. Guests stay in large furnished tents, just steps away from where some of the world’s most stunning wildlife roams. Bikes are available for exploring Kanha, which is renowned as one of the best parks in India, complete with wild tigers. Meals are prepared with ingredients used from their gardens or local markets.
Six Senses, Con Dao
You may want to save this one for your honeymoon. Protected as a national and marine park, Six Senses Con Dao, is a secluded beach resort in Vietnam that’s recognized as one of the world’s top – and most luxurious – eco lodges in the world. A true 5-star experience (complete with the price tag), villas, all made with sustainable material, feature panoramic views of the ocean, outdoor showers, very sex-worthy king sized beds, and private infinity pools. Other perks include complimentary yoga, top cuisine, a spa, and personal butlers.
Tenuta di Spannocchia
If you’re planning a Europe trip, you may want to schedule a few days in the countryside at Tenuta di Spannocchia in Siena, Italy. The working organic farm features both weeklong and bed and breakfast accommodation options. Activities include hiking, wine tasting, and getting as local as you can when it comes to cuisine. The farm features an education centre, and invites guests to explore its olive orchards, rolling hills and gardens, learn about cheese making, visit beehives and sample honey, take cooking classes, and learn about cultural traditions.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort
Canada’s own Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in Tofino, Vancouver Island, is glamping at its finest. Guests can connect with nature in a temperate rainforest, but indulge and pamper themselves in the process. This 21st-century safari-style retreat features 20 “tents,” complete with antique furnishings, luxurious Persian rugs, remote-controlled, propane-powered wood stoves, king-sized beds, and ensuite bathrooms. Perks include a spa, massive cedar hot tubs, a sauna, and gourmet 5-course meals. You won’t get bored either – activities include surfing, kayaking, fly fishing, hiking, whale and bear watching, shooting, archery, climbing and zip lining, and mountain biking.
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Cover image from: Park Hyatt
Shergarh image from: www.naturalhighsafaris.com
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