eco hotel travel

16 stunning eco-hotels for the environmentally conscious traveler

Feb 21, 2022 • 13 min read

The carbon neutral Pikaia Lodge on the Galápagos Islands © Pikaia Lodge

Kick your feet up and relax with ease: you’re lounging in a hammock that was made with sustainable, locally sourced materials. And that cocktail you’re sipping? That’s got 7 ingredients all procured from within a 5-mile radius.

A new era of resorts goes beyond trend to offer deeply-seeded sustainable practices that don’t compromise luxury. These low-carbon, solar-powered, community-friendly accommodations are the perfect mix of natural living and  luxury , making the prospect of low-impact travel not only a hope but a reality. 

If sustainable travel is at the forefront of your mind, here are some of the world’s most sustainable hotels to experience in 2022. 

Svart: Meløy, Norway

How to get there: Directions to the exact location are still TBD but it will likely involve a flight into the tiny and remote Mo i Rana Airport. 

Set to launch sometime in 2022, Svart in Meløy, Norway is as sustainable as it is stunning. When Svart opens, it will be the world’s first and only energy-positive hotel. The resort will be totally off-grid with its roof solar panels and energy-saving measures, which will produce 160 percent of its energy needs within 50 years. The hotel is a modern marvel of sustainable design and promises to deliver spectacular views of its main attractions: the surrounding glacier and the northern lights . 

Expert tip: It’s pretty much cold year-round when you get that far north in the Arctic Circle but a few weeks in July temperatures can climb up to 59° Fahrenhite. 

Explore 8 of the world’s most sustainable cities   

The Points Guy:  Carbon offsetting: How to calculate your carbon footprint when you travel

Mashpi Lodge: Quito, Ecuador

How to get there: Mashpi Lodge is remote and offers transfers that take about 2:45 from Quito. 

There’s disconnecting for a relaxing vacation and then there’s the kind of going off the grid that a place like Mashpi Lodge offers. Deep into the Ecuador rainforest , Mashpi has real Jurrasic Park vibes, especially with its own research lab attached. Though discoveries they’re making are more historic than prehistoric; the researchers often discover flora and fauna . When it comes to an eco-luxe getaway, the premises exude an eco-mindfulness that never lets you forget you’re in a jungle. Highlights of the facility’s sustainable initiatives include a modern wastewater treatment plant, 100% energy-efficient light bulbs and most unique of all, adding its employees as stakeholders of the business so they’re able to share in the Lodge’s earnings. 

Expert tip: Don’t pass up the chance to ride on the resort’s Sky Bike . The 10-minute trip offers an incredible perspective throughout the canopy of the rainforest.

Ecuador's best national parks are wild wonderlands

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Aruba

How to get there: A quick 15-minute drive from Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport. 

There’s real cred in earning the title as the first and only Caribbean resort to be a designated Carbon Neutral Resort and Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort doesn’t stop there. The resort’s eco-friendly practices are wide-ranging and impressive: solar panels for water heating, water reducers that cut down the water flow in showers by 60% to a water-recycling system that treats and reuses sink and shower water in the gardens. Though perhaps our favorite feature is the world's first-ever Carbon Offset Concierge that helps guests to find programs that offset emissions from air travel, airport transfers and even any island excursions. With best-in-class sustainability initiatives and programs (detailed extensively  here ), you can rest a bit easier knowing the resort is doing its part to stay eco-friendly.  

Expert tip: The resort sells out faster than most so plan far in advance. 

Top 7 beaches in Aruba

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge: Brooklyn, New York

How to get there: From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to the A train for a total of about an hour trip.

Brooklyn’s eco-vibes are helping to bring New York City into a new era of eco-consciousness and 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge standouts as a leader for prioritizing eco-friendly practices. The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is LEED Gold Certified with green initiatives, sourcing local and sustainable materials for all public spaces and guest rooms. Check out the towering green wall in the lobby where plants and vines help to ease the frenzy of the city. A favorite is the stylish filtered water station in each room that helps to cut down on plastic bottle use.

Expert tip:  Check out Lonely Planet’s great guide to Brooklyn’s hip, cool scene including favorites like the pizza at Di Fara and the pierogis at Karczma .

8 of the best vegan restaurants in NYC that are a fraction of the price of Eleven Madison Park

Tri Lanka: Sri Lanka

How to get there: Remote and further than most on the list, Tri Lanka is about a 2.5-hour drive from Sri Lanka’s largest airport, Bandaranaike International Airport. 

When you get this far off the grid, it’s comforting to know that you’re doing so sustainably with a resort that aims to improve its surroundings. Tri Lanka shows its care with its motto to “create more, consume less.” The resort features multiple living plant walls, green roofs that help cut down on electricity use and facilities build with 100% recycled wood. The rooms are simple yet well-appointed, most with excellent views of Koggala Lake , Sri Lanka’s largest natural lake. 

Expert tip: Bring flexible clothing so you can join in on the resort’s excellent yoga program.

Onboard Sri Lanka's most epic train journeys

The Springs Resort: Pagosa Springs, Colorado, USA

How to get there: Fly into Durango-La Plata County Airport and then drive west for a little more than an hour. 

On the banks of Colorado’s San Juan River, you’ll find The Springs Resort , home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring. The deep hot spring known as the Mother Spring has been used by Indigenous tribes for healing for centuries and the resort takes pride in preserving that legacy. That is just one of the 25 geothermal pools that dot the resort’s property, with the distinction of having 24-7 access to the soaking pools. The resort’s newest suites are built to LEED Gold standards and the whole property uses geothermal water as a primary hot water source. 

Expert tip: Once you’re done soaking for the day, head down the road for some tasty beers and hearty bites at Pagosa’s Riff Raff Brewing Company .

5 US ski towns you can enjoy without hitting the slopes

Arenas Del Mar Beach & Rainforest Resort: Costa Rica

How to get there: Hop a 20-minute flight from Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaria International Airport to Quepos Airstrip. From there it’s a 15-minute drive to the resort. 

Set within its own 11-acre nature preserve, Arenas Del Mar is the resort for an eco-friendly rainforest escape. With conservation a priority, the resort has planted over 7000 native trees and returned thousands of endemic plants back to the area. The resort has a no plastic policy which prohibits single-use plastic water bottles, harvests food for the dining experiences regularly from its hydroponic vegetable garden and prides itself on taking good care of its staff. 

Expert tip: Consider booking a tour with one of the resort’s resident naturalist guides to get closest to the wonder of the rainforest. 

Discover Costa Rica's most unique tree houses

Bardessono Eco Resort and Spa: Yountville, California, USA

How to get there: About a 1:15 drive north from San Francisco International Airport, depending on traffic. 

Bardessono Eco Resort and Spa is a winning example of cutting-edge sustainability. Benefiting from its proximity to Silicon Valley , eco-tech can be found throughout the grounds - literally - there is an underground geothermal system heats and cools the premises. Almost completely off the grid, the resort relies on solar panels to keep the lights on along with sensors that detect movement in guest rooms to decrease energy consumption when unoccupied. These are just a few of the many eco-initiatives the resorts oversee to ensure your stay has a minimal impact. 

Expert tip: The onsite restaurant Lucy has an excellent weekend brunch - don’t pass up the fresh pastry basket or the chilaquiles. 

Why you should drive California's scenic Highway 395

Naladhu Private Islands Resort: the Maldives

How to get there: Naladhu Private Island Maldives is a 30-minute speedboat from Velana International Airport. 

Fresh from a major renovation in November 2021, Naladhu Private Islands Resort in the Maldives finds balance with its luxury and preservation efforts. The redesign is airy, open and offers plenty of remote island privacy. The resort’s water conservation includes converting seawater to potable water through their own reverse osmosis plant as well as bottling their own drinking water. 

Expert tip: The resort has a flexible, dine anywhere policy which includes the chance to take advantage of a floating breakfast in the pool or s’mores under the moonlight. 

How to choose the best Maldives island for your travel style

El Nido Resorts: Philippines 

How to get there: Hop a 55-minute flight from Manila to El Nido, Palawan .

Four different eco-friendly experiences await at El Nido Resorts in the Philippines : eco-luxury, eco-adventure, eco-sanctuary and eco-discovery. These resorts are well-versed in what it means to be respectful of their surroundings and keep a low carbon footprint. Among their most commendable efforts in keeping green is their sewage treatment facilities which ensure no raw sewage or greywater is discharged into the sea. The resorts also are efficient at capturing and storing rainwater for use throughout each resort. Encouraging low-impact activities, the resorts do not have jet skis or offer motorized marine sports. Besides, there’s plenty of wind to catch in your sail. 

Expert tip: If you’re going to make the journey, consider splurging for the serenity and bliss of one of the resort’s overwater bungalows. 

The 12 best beaches in the Philippines

Pikaia Lodge: Ecuador

How to get there: From Quito, you'll hop a 1:40 flight to Galapagos Baltra Airport. 

Located on Santa Cruz, one of the central islands within the Galápagos Archipelago is Pikaia Lodge . This 29-room eco-hotel is carbon neutral, provides hot water to guests through solar-powered heaters and even participates in a reforestation program to offset any CO2 emissions produced by the property. One of the main concerns addressed by Pikaia Lodge is the impact that tourism could have on the extremely fragile yet diverse ecosystems that thrive on the famous Galápagos Islands. This luxurious lodge works with the National Park Service to achieve sustainable tourism in many ways, including limiting the areas in which tourists can visit and managing tourist numbers yearly. 

Expert tip: July through November is the Island's cooler, dry season and also the time of year you're more likely to see wild giant tortoises. 

First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

Camp Glenorchy: New Zealand 

How to get there: Prepare for a stunning drive along the coast that takes about 40 minutes from Queenstown or 55 minutes from Queenstown Airport. 

Take in the stunning views of the New Zealand Richardson mountains from the Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat . This net-zero accommodation was built in line with the Living Building Challenge, which holds some of the most thorough sustainability standards in the world. Well, it paid off, because Camp Glenorchy now uses 50% less water and energy than other accommodations of a similar standard, and generates 105% of its own energy on site. Camp Glenorchy gives guests a chance to celebrate the natural environment and New Zealand culture in eco-friendly luxury. 

Expert tip: Consider getting to the heights faster by hopping on a helicopter, getting dropped off on a local mountain's peak and enjoying the scenic hike down.

Top 11 national parks in New Zealand

Langdale Hotel and Spa: England

How to get there:  Langdale is about a two hour drive north of Manchester or three hours south of Edinburgh. 

Located in the heart of the Lake District  Unesco World Heritage Site, the Langdale Hotel & Spa is leading the way to sustainable tourism. This eco-hotel runs on low-carbon emissions, with energy produced through two biomass boilers and contribution from the traditional water wheel located outside the property. Water waste is reduced throughout the accommodation with the use of aerated water supply, and the hotel manages to successfully send zero waste to landfills. The history of the Lake District is built on strong community values and traditional farming, so locally sourced produce is also used in the hotel’s restaurants and bars in support of the community and residents.

Top 9 road trips in England

Soneva Kiri: Thailand

How to get there: Fly from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport and take a 90-minute flight on a private 8-seat plane to Koh Mai Si, Soneva Kiri’s Airport Island.

Relax in complete luxury at the Soneva Kiri , a 100% carbon neutral eco-resort located on Ko Kut , one of Thailand’s least populated islands. This barefoot resort focuses on sustainable tourism in all areas, from developing partnerships with local communities to ensuring the natural beauty surrounding the resorts is cared for and protected. Soneva Kiri also has an organic garden, where fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits are grown for the restaurants, and, as a conscious effort to reduce plastic waste , all branded bottled water is banned from the accommodations.

How to choose between Thailand’s gorgeous gulf islands

Aquila Eco Lodges: Australia

How to get there:  Aquila Eco Lodges is about a three-hour drive west of Melbourne. 

At the foot of Mount Abrupt and tucked away in the Southern Grampians National Park of Australia is Aquila Eco Lodges . This is the perfect place to witness Australian wildlife in all its glory in accommodations that enhance and promote an environmentally responsible way of life. Aquila Lodge generates all its power on-site through the use of solar panels and the promotion of energy conservation. All waste is sorted and recycled locally, and food waste is composted naturally. Aquila Eco Lodges has won awards for its efforts in environmental management, and this conscious effort allows guests to experience truly sustainable living.

Expert tip:  The internet is spotty and unreliable in this remote part of Australia so make sure you're ready to disconnect and that you've downloaded all of your content ahead of time. 

Top 15 beaches in Australia

&BEYOND  Phinda Private Game Reserve: South Africa

How to get there: The resort offers a few daily quick flights from Johannesburg to &BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve. 

With the protection of local species at the heart of this eco-retreat, the &BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve is a conservation haven. The reserve, located in KwaZulu-Natal , covers 28 thousand hectares and is home to animals in much need of protection, including rhinos, cheetahs, and pangolins, among others. Protected for over 30 years, this Private Reserve now focuses on sustainability through energy-saving initiatives and eliminating the use of plastic on site. The Phinda Reserve also works closely with local communities, providing employment opportunities and investments in welfare and education in the local area.

Expert tip:  There's a lot to know and keep in mind when planning your first safari. Check out Lonely Planet's top tips here . 

See the best of South Africa on these epic road trips

You might also like:  How to find a sustainable hotel How zero-waste travel is becoming a reality    How to choose a sustainable volunteering project   

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

This article was first published October 2020 and updated February 2022

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15 of the best eco hotels in the world

By Juliet Kinsman

Sustainable travel  is a compelling way of shifting perspectives, distributing wealth to those most vulnerable to the climate crisis, and a vital form of funding regenerative and restorative wildlife initiatives. Sustainability editor Juliet Kinsman recommends a few of her favourite sustainable-luxury stays as featured in her latest book,  The Bucket List Eco Experiences: Traveling the World, Sustaining the Earth,  published by Rizzoli. This beautiful directory of a thousand eco-friendly activities and adventures includes far-flung positive-impact places to visit – from nature-positive day trips close to home to flight-free European itineraries alongside paradise-island eco-lodges. An essential guidebook for planning greener getaways, it'll help you plan eco-minded escapes that help support communities and conservation every step of your journey.

South America

Pousada Trijunção, Cerrado, Brazil

Big up the biodiversity in the Cerrado

Stay in one of seven suites with all the luxury trimmings at Pousada Trijunção, on the 81,544-ac (33,000-ha) conservationist farm, Fazenda Trijunção. As well as allowing much of its land to run wild to act as a critical ecological corridor to the neighbouring Grande Sertão Veredas National Park, it works in partnership with the NGO Onçafari on a research project dedicated to the endangered maned wolf. Brazil is a land of immense biodiversity, beauty and devastating fragility – it has also seen catastrophic deforestation. Time here models environmental impact made possible by sustainable luxury travel and letting you experience hands-on citizen-science conservation: track jaguars and maned wolves, investigate blue hyacinth macaw nests and trek through the rainforest at sunrise.

Address: Pousada Trijunção, Estrada Formoso - MG/Cocôs - BA KM 25, Rodeador, CEP 47680-000, Brazil

North America

GoldenEye, Oracabessa, Jamaica

Live and let live at GoldenEye

Once the home of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, where he wrote all fourteen books of  James Bond's  adventures, it's well known now as the pride of Island Records founder Chris Blackwell. The  villas , cottages, and beach huts honour its heritage and link with music, movies, and literature while looking to the future. There's an organic farm nearby, sustainable fishing practices, sea turtle protection,  coral reef restoration , and the open-air lagoonside FieldSpa. During the pandemic, the GoldenEye Foundation helped nurture alternative livelihood opportunities for those whose employment had been directly affected. They set up an agriculture-based initiative to aid locals in creating farm businesses, helping with supplies and a nine-month training program. Chris's Oracabessa Foundation shows a solid commitment to improving the lives of the local community and restoring the coral reef and a new dive shop open to locals and hotel guests.

Address: GoldenEye, Oracabessa, 00000 Oracabessa, Jamaica

Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland, Canada

Discover the fishing heritage of a far eastern island

Fogo Island Inn is a design hotel situated on a tiny rocky island off the coast of Newfoundland which has set the benchmark for all-important transparency around its financials – as well as an approach to design, architecture and the arts that's all about locally sourced talents. The inn's founder,  Zita Cobb , is a seventh-generation islander born into a long line of fishers lured by waters once full of cod. Unfortunately, drastic overfishing saw the industry evaporate in the 1990s, so the inn is her attempt to reinvigorate the economy of this remote community. Just as food labelling breaks down calories or carbs, utter transparency is provided on where all the revenue goes through the inn's Economic Nutrition Certification Mark. While staying here, you'll have the chance to learn about the fishing industry and this community's unique stories from onboard a docked crab-casting boat.

Address: Fogo Island Inn, 210 Main Road, Joe Batt's Arm, NL A0G 2X0, Canada

Jicaro Private Island, Lake Nicaragua, Nicaragua

Get energised naturally at an island eco-lodge

On a tiny island in  Lake Nicaragua , a 15-minute private boat ride from Marina Cocidulce, is Jicaro Island Lodge. It's a solar-powered Cayuga Collection escape designed with the environment in mind at every turn. Only nine casitas were constructed using locally sourced materials, including timber salvaged from 2007's Hurricane Felix. Water is sourced from the lake, and Jicaro partners with a neighbouring pig farm that converts its animal waste into biogas for fuel. Sweet nothings more likely to seduce you, though, are those that speak of how you can stretch and spa in the middle of the lake. Envisaging Jicaro's floating deck with views of Mombacho Volcano feels healing. The massages offered at the Jicaro Wellness Center take it to another level. It's hard to beat a yoga session on the deck or a whirl in one of the two open-air treatment rooms overlooking this soul-uplifting watery paradise.

Address: Jicaro Private Island, NN-300 Jicaro Island, Lake Nicaragua, Jicaro, Nicaragua

Forestis Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy

Luxuriate in nature in the Dolomites

Accessed only by a twisty-turn mountain road and at 5,905 feet (1,800 m) above sea level, fresh mountain air and tranquil luxury are at the heart of 62-suite sanctuary  Forestis Dolomites . A modern reinterpretation of the traditional Alpine retreat, enjoy a stylish stay in dense woodland beneath the striking jagged peaks and majestic rock formations of the Dolomites. Teresa Unterthiner and Stefan Hinteregger are the pair who created this escape, and they share a 360-degree eco-friendly perspective around conserving nature. The retreat is carbon-neutral in its construction and operations, and nature inspires all – from the menu to the understated interiors. Two seedlings were planted for every tree affected, creating this new wellness retreat from the hotel's transformation from an Austrian royal sanatorium to a Vatican-bequeathed retreat. Everything is as local as can be – from the chef himself to the ingredients he sources. Roland Lamprecht's 'forest cuisine' showcases foraged. The all-natural spa and bathroom products celebrate the native trees, and even the drinking water is sourced from the purifying Plose Mountain.

Address: Forestis Dolomites, Plancois 292 - Palmschoß 292, 39042 Bressanone, Italy

Hidden Hotel, Paris, France

Soothe your senses in the 17th Arrondissement

A good green city stay is hard to find. And it's hard to imagine such an eco-aware boutique hideaway exists in the French capital , but a short stroll from the Arc de Triomphe. Green Globe-certified Hidden Hotel showcases all the textures of handmade, traditional craftsmanship through organic, natural materials in a wholesome yet stylish way right in the hygge-ensuring communal hangout areas. It strikes the right note in natural textures and tones, and this demure, diminutive two-building hotel has lots of uplifting little touches that convey its care for the environment. (We love it when hotels say they're 100 per cent LED – these light-emitting diodes work in a way that the bulbs convert 95% of their energy into light with only 5 per cent wasted as heat, requiring less power than trad lamps, plus they last 25 per cent longer, so there's a less physical waste.) The spaces are mostly on the snug side, but there's all you need, from the bottles of filtered water to oh-so-organic Cocomat bedding.

Address: Hidden Hotel, 30 Rue de l'Arc de Triomphe 28, 75017 Paris, France

Heckfield Place, Heckfield, England

Feel at home in a biodynamic refuge

Improving soil health is one of the top environmental priorities today – but not a focus many refined country retreats can lay claim to honouring so significantly. This cultured hideaway is inextricably linked with its do-gooding grounds. Home Farm's clever lunar-calendar-planting ways also made Heckfield Place the first luxury hotel in the UK to achieve biodynamic status. The Michelin Green-Starred restaurants Hearth and Marle, under the lead of culinary director Skye Gyngell, have been reason alone to check out the results of what's being achieved here – and now they've gone a step further in making this stylish stay super restorative thanks to the long-awaited world of wellness opening in 2023. Inspiring all of us to live life more slowly and heal through a deeper connection with nature and the elements, from forest bathing to cold water immersions and input from those purveyors of plant-potent skin nourishers, Wildsmith Skin. The Bothy by Wildsmith at Heckfield Place has six treatments set in the original walled garden with open-air hydrotherapies, healing thermal experiences, and Skye's nourishing plant-based spa menu to enjoy in the Sun Room.

Address: Heckfield Place, Heckfield, Hook RG27 0LD

Africa and the Middle East

&Beyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Tend to the turtles

Barefoot  private island luxury  and breathtaking marine wildlife are the main selling points of Mnemba Island, which is comprised of only 12 'bandas' off the coast of  Tanzania  – but it's also an important breeding site for green and hawksbill turtles. Participate in sea turtle tagging and observation programs with Oceans Without Borders, a collaboration between &Beyond and the Africa Foundation. This partnership has been going strong for more than three decades. Or you can enjoy the magical sight of turtle hatchlings making their way from their sandy nests into the ocean. Better still, take advantage of the island's PADI dive school and hit those waters surrounded by an atoll of coral reefs in one of the world's most compelling dive sites.

Address: andBeyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Hotel Roça Sundy, Santo António, São Tomé and Príncipe

Cosy up in an ex-cacao plantation

Thirty miles off the coast of Gabon in the Gulf of Guinea, Principe is the northern and smaller island of Africa's smallest country. HBD Príncipe (short for Here Be Dragons) has repositioned these coordinates as an upscale eco-destination thanks to extensive investment from South African techpreneur, Mark Shuttleworth. Stay in Roça Sundy, and you'll be at the very location where Einstein's General Theory of Relativity was proven. The restoration of this working plantation was undertaken entirely by locals using recycled materials. Tours for various experiences are possible at the Biosphere Reserve, with Sundy Praia the most upmarket option for accommodation. A five-star collection of tented villas right on the beach where service isn't perfect and polished as can be, but the positive social impact is measurable. Extra marks for the zero-km menu.

Address: Hotel Roça Sundy, Hotel Roça Sundy, Santo António, São Tomé and Príncipe

Tswalu Kalahari: Private Wildlife Reserve, South Africa

Support a reserve that trains trackers

A scuff in the sand here leaves missing from the lower branches of a tree there – an experienced tracker can read the earth like a book, interpreting signs from the wild to help safari guests and conservationists find even the rarest animals. Although these skills have been passed down orally among the Indigenous peoples of southern Africa for 10,000 years, they're quietly fading away. For younger generations with limited opportunities to pursue a traditional lifestyle, Tracker Academy (a division of the SA College for Tourism) is an excellent opportunity to reconnect with their culture and earn a qualification that will practically guarantee them a job in ecotourism. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is home to one of the academy's three campuses in the Kalahari Desert. Its 386 sq mi (1,000 sq km) provides more than enough opportunities for field trips sure to inspire a lifetime of conservation. So when you search for signs of aardvarks among Tswalu's red sands, you're helping support the education of future trackers.

Address: Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa

Sussurro, Nhamabue, Mozambique

Play castaway by a peaceful secluded saltwater lagoon

Stay in a waterfront bungalow surrounded by pristine nature at the Indian Ocean retreat of off-grid Sussurro in Southern  Mozambique . The six thatched accommodations were inspired by traditional Indigenous architecture. Every aspect of the interiors and design celebrates African talents through work with local designers, builders, artisans, and growers, weaving workshops with the local community and artisanal fishing experiences on local dhows. Thanks to Sussurro's creators, Adam Humphreys and Sarah Birkett, each room has personality with exciting reads and trinkets and 'ocean to table' dining.

Address: Sussurro, Mozambique

Six Senses Zighy Bay, Musandam Peninsula, Oman

Deepen your knowledge of sustainability at an environmental education centre

Straddling the dramatic Musandam Peninsula, Six Senses Zighy Bay already had a stellar reputation as a luxury eco-resort – it went one step further with the Earth Lab – an ecology and sustainability centre open to all its guests, the signature of Six Senses resorts. Visit to learn about its development projects both on- and off-site and to pick up handy skills to make your life more sustainable when you get home. Think composting, foraging, and low-impact food choices… but if that isn't what gets you excited about holidaying here, this village-inspired resort sits between rugged mountains and powder-soft sand beach is also renowned for its wellness delights – how do Arabic-style hammams, an ice cave, sunrise yoga and a jungle gym sound?

Address: Six Senses Zighy Bay, Musandam Peninsula Sultanate of Oman, 800 Dibba, Oman

Cempedak Island, Indonesia

Relax in a granite-perched spa

Here in the Riau Archipelago, named after a jackfruit-like tree pronounced 'chem-puh-dak', this bamboo adults-only island resort in the South China Sea treats its residents to their own open-air villa and private pool. It's only a short stumble along the path to the bar, restaurant or spa, and the only inhabitants you're likely to meet are sea otters or silver-leaf monkeys. Rock Spa houses three double treatment rooms on top of Cempedak's granite boulder formations at the bay's edge. The menu of facials, scrubs, manicures, and pedicures strikes the right note in a sustainability sense. Many hyper-locally sourced ingredients are homegrown – local villagers produce virgin coconut oil as part of a social enterprise. Fall into a deeper state of relaxation to the therapeutic sound of the sea. An exciting development on their sister island of Nikoi, too, is an exciting tribute to the local indigenous people and is proving to be a crucible for creativity. Ubah Rumah – which means 'Home of Change' – is a tribute to the culture of the nomadic seafaring Orang Laut community via a studio open to visiting artists, scientists and researchers to pause in residence. It's also intended to prompt more climate-solutions conversations and showcase how we can adapt to our changing world.

Address: Cempedak Private Island, Indonesia

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

Gangtey Lodge, Gangtey Valley, Bhutan

Hike in Bhutan's green valleys

Gangtey Lodge's namesake location is a wide, flat glacial carving of such extraordinary beauty that it is the favourite valley for many Bhutanese. Head to the twelve-suite retreat of Gangtey Lodge, and you'll find a seventeenth-century monastery on your doorstep and endless paths through the Black Mountains to follow. Peel yourself away from your picturesque retreat to spend time with the warm, welcoming families of local farmers and join them in making butter and cheese in the traditional way. Hand-making cheese with a farmer at Gangtey Lodge promises a taste of local life. Helping with the harvest and experiencing their way of life first-hand is humbling and heartening. If being a more sustainable traveller is to truly engage with locals while only having a light physical footprint, the last remaining Buddhist kingdom is as compelling as can be. Since the country has a minimum daily package rate, there is a more targeted approach to inbound tourism, and the lucky few visiting are welcomed into this compassionate, inclusive community, with few barriers between the Bhutanese and foreign guests. Wherever you book to stay, your hotel can arrange for you to participate in blessing and breakfast ceremonies, butter lamp rituals and the flying of prayer flags.

Address: Gangtey Lodge, Just below the Monastery, Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley, Bhutan

Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sri Lanka

Stay in a sustainable wetland resort

Sited in an artificial wetland habitat, Jetwing Vil Uyana opened its doors in 2006, when ecotourism wasn't yet a thing. So kick back in this eco-resort where everything spells sustainability – from its open architecture across common areas (reducing the need for lighting and ventilation) to using natural materials, zero-emission transportation options, and wood and biomass stoves in the kitchens. Its man-made lakes are filled with rainwater, and all wastewater is treated on-site and used for irrigation. Reminding us that responsible hosts care as much for the community as conserving energy, Jetwing also identified a social challenge they could tackle through their hospitality – giving middle-aged women much-needed career opportunities. Their programme invited women to work in the kitchens and buffet areas, creating authentic home-cooking-style dishes – such as hoppers and buffalo curd. This heart-warming hospitality initiative has proven a great gender-sensitive solution to overcome the difficulties of attracting female talent, too.

Address: Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sigiriya, 21120, Sri Lanka

The Bucket List: Eco Experiences is published by Rizzoli and is bursting with addresses all over the world to inspire good times that do good, with contributions from travel writers such as Shivani Ashoka, Shafik Meghji, Imogen Lepere, Sarah Reid, who joined Juliet in sharing secrets to the most special eco escapes and positive-impact adventures. Camp in the dunes, sign up for social-enterprise surf schools, plan slow-travel train journeys, pop by Indigenous-run art galleries – there's a whole lot of good to do in this world: get ticking off that bucket list and make every trip count.

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Taking a vacation is often seen as the ultimate solution for all your problems. As a traveler who is environmentally conscious, you may have thought about the impact your trips have on the planet and society. Perhaps you may want to contribute to the communities you visit or reduce your carbon footprint due to the growing climate change concerns. This is where the concept of Eco travel comes in!

To help you plan your next green vacation, in this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts. We will explore the key differences, sustainable practices, and the benefits they offer to travelers and the planet. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and resources to embark on an eco-friendly vacation.

What is Eco-Tourism?

According to The International Ecotourism Society , the definition of ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people and involves interpretation and education” with an emphasis on educating staff and guests. 

Or, in simple words, we can say that ecotourism is tourism centered around the conservation of the natural environment while supporting the local communities, educating travelers about the importance of the environment, and imparting knowledge about the cultural heritage of the locals. 

Research shows that global interest in ecotourism has grown rapidly in recent years. The Travel Trends & Statistics report by the Center For Responsible Travel reveals that 21% of consumers are willing to pay a higher price to travel with a company that has a strong environmental and social record.

Why Choose Eco-Tourism?

Tourism has experienced significant growth over the years. In 1950, there were only 25 million international arrivals, but by 1990, this number had increased exponentially to 435 million. From 1990 to 2018, international arrivals tripled to 1.442 billion. And by 2030, this number is expected to reach 1.8 billion unequivocally. This tremendous growth has significant economic benefits for the country but also poses substantial challenges to the local communities and the environment.  

For this reason, Eco-travel has emerged as a powerful movement in the tourism industry with increasing concerns about environmental conservation and the desire to minimize the negative impact of travel. Eco-travel offers a way for individuals to explore the world while supporting sustainable practices. 

The concept of ecotourism /travel goes beyond simply reducing carbon emissions. It encompasses a holistic approach that embraces sustainable principles, such as conserving natural resources, supporting local economies, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering community engagement. By practicing eco-travel, travelers can make a positive difference while experiencing an enriching and authentic travel experience.

What are the Ecotourism Principles and Practices?

Ecotourism involves bringing together conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. To achieve this, those involved in implementing, participating in, and marketing ecotourism activities should adhere to the following ecotourism principles :

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

Practices in Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

Characteristics or practices’ of any eco-friendly accommodation will be more or less the same and focus on environmental conservation and sustainable use of natural resources while also supporting the local communities. These are but not limited to the following:

• Eco-accommodations contribute to the local economies and help demonstrate that ecotourism is a more sustainable approach for travelers.
• People who are trained in biology or have significant knowledge are employed as nature guides. They can provide educational tours to tourists about the local ecosystem and culture.
• These accommodations have a sustainable infrastructure, and rainwater harvesting tanks, and are certified by various national and international organizations focusing on green travel.
• Some of the newly constructed buildings are made of natural products like bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, or plastic.
• Food is sourced locally and is usually organic, and crockery is non-disposable.
• They frequently employ energy-saving strategies, and energy-efficient lighting, and may utilize renewable energy technology.
• All the products are sustainable: sheets and linens are organic, and toiletries are reusable/refillable & ordered in bulk from organic vendors to reduce waste.
• Gray water recycling is done; this water is then used for gardening and landscaping.
• They have Strict solid waste management rules.

Differences Between Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

The concept of ecotourism is centered around responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, engaging in eco-friendly practices, and improving the well-being of local communities. 

The primary difference between an eco-resort, eco-lodge, and eco-hotel is the settling in which you’ll find them. Eco resorts and lodges are located in pristine natural environments, and the difference usually is the amount of services provided in them and the size of the property. Eco-resorts are usually located in large properties like isolated islands, mountains, etc., and provide many amenities like spas, choices of restaurants, and local tours. However, these terms are used interchangeably. Eco hotels are often associated with cities and towns, but that’s not the case always. In the past, these hotels were commonly referred to as eco-lodges due to their location in jungles and their use of traditional building methods crafted by skilled locals.

The best eco-accommodations offer recycling services, eco-friendly toiletries, energy efficient and well-illuminated infrastructure, source their food locally, have organic linens, non-toxic cleaning supplies, reusable crockery, water conservation methods, operate on renewable energy, and have various other initiatives focused on sustainable living practices. 

Therefore, eco-hotel, eco-lodge, and eco-resort all have one thing in common, i.e., they are all “green” accommodation options emphasizing elements such as environmental responsibility and minimizing the negative impact of tourism. So you can choose whatever option you want, but as long as it’s “green,” you’re good to go!

Benefits of eco-travel for Communities and the Environment

Ecotourism offers a plethora of benefits not just to the environment but to the local communities as well. While as a traveler, you can have an experience of a lifetime, indulging in the rich cultural heritage of the locals and having an overall immersive experience. Some of these benefits are listed below:

• It helps combat climate change as the concept revolves around the conservation of natural resources; thus, by supporting responsible travel, you can help lower carbon emissions. 
• Ecotourism often provides incentives to enhance conservation efforts for biodiversity protection and preservation of natural resources.
• Responsible travel will help boost the income of locals and address problems like poverty while empowering the indigenous communities by creating employment opportunities.
• Ecotourism activities promote environmental awareness among travelers and locals by educating them about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
• Ecotourism offers a more authentic travel experience than simply visiting landmarks, museums, and other popular sites. It allows travelers to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
• Both visitors and locals have the opportunity to share and learn about each other’s cultural values and traditions. Additionally, travelers have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of the world.

One example is the tropical forests in Tambopata, which are currently under threat of deforestation. However, local lodge owners have recognized the potential for profits through ecotourism and have invested in preserving forested lands while implementing conservation efforts to ensure continued forest cover.

Overall, ecotourism is a great alternative to traditional tourism, which often has a huge carbon footprint and pollutes the environment while also affecting local communities. 

What are the Famous Ecotourism Activities?

Many people enjoy ecotourism activities as a way to interact with nature responsibly and sustainably. By minimizing the impact on the natural environment, ecotourism allows for an authentic and immersive experience that fosters a growing appreciation for the natural world. As a result, ecotourism is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry. Some of the fun activities you can do are:

Hiking or Trekking Through Nature

Engaging in ecotourism through hiking and trekking is one of the best activities you can do. You can opt for beginner-friendly or advanced options depending on your skill level. You can choose to go on single-day hikes or embark on multi-day expeditions to explore diverse terrains such as deserts, jungles, and mountains.

A Small-Group Eco-Tour 

Small-group tours are an excellent option for exploring the natural world if you’re interested in nature, ecotourism, and adventure. These tours are designed to be ethical and immersive, allowing travelers to witness some of the world’s most incredible wildlife in a responsible manner.

Ecotourism activities are gaining popularity, and cycling holidays are among the top choices. The biggest plus point? It combines exercise with the beauty of nature. The freedom of strapping your bag to the bike and cycling off allows you to explore places inaccessible by cars, such as mountain trails and off-road routes!

Diving or Snorkeling

Exploring the marine world is an unforgettable experience. Life underwater is diverse and colorful, with corals and fishes of hundreds of different types. But be careful not to damage these extremely fragile ecosystems. Also, sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage corals, so make sure you’re wearing a coral-safe sunscreen.

Dolphin or Whale Watching

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you get to see a dolphin or a whale. But ensure that you do not feed or touch them as these species are wild; any human interference is a no. Also, choose responsible travel guides and take care of your safety if you are planning on doing such activities. 

There are plenty of other activities that you can do depending on the location you’re traveling to and the kind of landscape there. If you plan to engage in activities like diving or whale watching activity, make sure to select travel companies that prioritize responsible practices. Look for those with marine biologists on board or donate some of their profits towards conservation efforts. Overall you will have plenty of eco-friendly activity options to keep you engaged!

Exploring Eco-Lodges, Eco-Hotels & Eco-Resorts

Typically, these establishments have fewer than 30 rooms, making them smaller and less impactful on the environment. Eco-lodges are usually located in isolated locations in jungles and forests and can be found around the world, especially in African countries, Indonesia, Gambia, and Costa Rica. These accommodations are found in areas that are much more nature-focused.

Best Eco-Lodges For Your Next Travel:

Sarinbuana eco-lodge , bali.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bali, Sarinbuana Eco-Lodge offers a tranquil and sustainable haven for eco-conscious travelers. This eco-lodge embraces a harmonious blend of traditional Balinese architecture and modern eco-friendly practices. From its eco-friendly accommodations made with natural materials to its organic farm-to-table dining, baliecolodge.com strives to minimize its environmental footprint while providing guests with a memorable and rejuvenating stay.

Terragna Mountain Hut , Italy

Terragna Mountain Hut, a captivating destination offered by Wildlife Adventures, is a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking Italian wilderness. Surrounded by stunning vistas, lush forests, and captivating wildlife, Terragna Mountain Hut provides a tranquil haven where guests can indulge in hiking, wildlife observation, and peaceful relaxation.

Eco Camp , Patagonia

Eco Camp is an exceptional destination that combines sustainability and adventure in one unforgettable experience. With a commitment to preserving the environment, Eco Camp provides guests with immersive opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park. From guided treks and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and gourmet cuisine, this remarkable destination allows travelers to connect with nature while leaving a positive impact on the planet.

They usually have fewer than 50 rooms. Are surrounded by nature and have a tranquil feel. Eco-hotels are more or less similar to eco-lodges but are sometimes associated with cities and towns though not limited to these. These eco-friendly accommodations follow strict policies regarding waste management, the use of chemical-free cleaning, and the conservation of local biodiversity. 

Las Neubes Holbox , México

Las Nubes Holbox is a captivating beachfront resort nestled on the pristine shores of Holbox Island in Mexico. The resort features luxurious accommodations, including stylish bungalows and spacious suites, providing guests with a tranquil and comfortable retreat. With its emphasis on sustainability, Las Nubes de Holbox offers eco-conscious amenities and practices, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with the island’s natural beauty.

Kura Design Villas , Costa Rica

Kura Costa Rica is a luxury eco-resort nestled in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. With its stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and its commitment to sustainability, Kura offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. From its beautifully designed accommodations and infinity pool to its farm-to-table dining experiences and curated adventure activities, Kura Costa Rica is a haven for those looking to connect with nature and indulge in luxurious comfort.

Kawilal Hotel , Guatemala

Kawilal Hotel is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Guatemala, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its soothing thermal waters and luxurious spa facilities, Kawilal Hotel provides a unique wellness experience. Guests can indulge in a range of therapeutic treatments, immerse themselves in thermal pools of varying temperatures, and unwind in the lush gardens.

Eco-Resorts

Eco Resorts are located in large pristine areas like isolated islands, mountains, or pristine natural surroundings and have over 100 rooms. The amenities provided are many compared to eco-lodges and hotels and include spaces, restaurants, sports courts, gyms, libraries, pools, bars, etc. 

Various activities are carried out like hiking, trekking, cycling, educational tours around the site, yoga sessions, eco-volunteering opportunities, cooking sessions and, live music, keeping in mind sustainability and making sure that no harm is done to nature or local communities. 

Best Eco-Hotels For Your Next Travel:

Bawah reserve , indonesia.

Bawah Reserve is a breathtaking private island resort nestled in the Anambas Archipelago of Indonesia. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, and pristine white sandy beaches, it offers an idyllic getaway for discerning travelers. The resort boasts luxurious eco-villas and overwater bungalows, each designed with sustainable materials and offering stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. Guests can indulge in world-class dining experiences, explore vibrant coral reefs, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind at the serene spa.

Picocanoa Rodavento , Mexico

Pico Canoa Rodavento is a captivating adventure retreat located in the heart of Mexico’s stunning Valle de Bravo. From zip-lining through the treetops and exploring the scenic hiking trails to kayaking on the tranquil lake and embarking on thrilling mountain biking adventures, Pico Canoa Rodavento provides endless opportunities for adventure and adrenaline. With comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, it is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor escape.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa in Nusa Dua, Bali, is a prestigious hotel offering a captivating blend of elegance, luxury, and natural beauty. Situated on a pristine beachfront, the resort boasts stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and lush tropical gardens. With its spacious and beautifully designed rooms, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, The Laguna provides an unforgettable retreat for discerning travelers seeking tranquility.

What are the Top Green Accommodation Certifications?

LEED. The LEED program acknowledges buildings that are constructed with sustainable practices, starting from the ground up. It’s important to note that this program only applies to newly built buildings, so it may not be relevant for everyone. However, if you are currently undergoing a major renovation, it’s worth considering the LEED certification standards to see if you qualify. This is a valuable credential that showcases your commitment to sustainability to environmentally conscious travelers.

EarthCheck. EarthCheck is a global organization that has been providing consulting, software, and certification services since 1987. They offer certification for all types of accommodations, from small lodges to large resorts. The certification process is thorough and covers various criteria, such as land-use patterns, waste management techniques, reduction of greenhouse gases, and management of the local community and culture.

Green Seal. The non-profit organization Green Seal empowers consumers, purchasers, and companies to create a sustainable world through science-based programs. Their certification process, which involves annual compliance monitoring and a commitment to continuous improvement, is rigorous.

Audubon Green Lodging Program. Audubon International is a non-profit organization that focuses on the sustainable use of natural resources and environmental education. They also certify hospitality properties through their Audubon Green Lodging Program. This program verifies hotel properties that meet specific environmental standards, with a strong emphasis on water quality, resource conservation, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

There are also numerous other certifications like Green Tourism Active, Green Key Global, TripAdvisor Green Leaders, and Travelife, which provide certification for eco-friendly stays around the world to make it easier for you to choose the best eco-friendly stay for your next vacation.

When we travel, we have the chance to support sustainability and improve the lives of indigenous communities. By staying in eco-friendly accommodations like eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts, we can make a positive impact. Each of these options prioritizes green living with some slight variations. Embracing sustainable and responsible tourism on your next vacation can have tremendous benefits and contribute to making the world a better place. So on your next trip, choose your accommodation wisely. Have a wonderful trip, eco-champion!

For more eco-friendly inspiration, be sure to check out our Home and Lifestyle section. Discover sustainable tips, green ideas, and innovative solutions to make your daily life more environmentally conscious.

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Shruti Jagani

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The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World (2023)

Looking for the comforts of a luxury resort and want to stay eco-consciously? Welcome to the best eco-resorts in the world to stay at this year.

This is where eco-resorts come into play. These resorts embody sustainable tourism, working to preserve the environment and often contributing to the local community. Eco-resorts are becoming more popular as travelers care more about the environment and want to explore responsibly.

Most of these eco-friendly hotels and resorts are set in secluded areas. This not only lets you engage with nature intimately and harmlessly but also offers an opportunity to unwind and disconnect from the buzz of everyday life.

If you’re intrigued about venturing into the world of eco-resorts or are a seasoned visitor seeking your next eco-experience, here are my top choices for the world’s best eco-resorts. A visit to any of these resorts promises a memorable and fulfilling vacation.

What is the concept of eco-resorts?

An eco-resort is similar to any other resort with good accommodation and hospitality, but it also focuses on sustainability. These resorts are deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and making a positive difference—and in many cases, inspiring guests to do the same.

What is the difference between a resort and an eco-resort?

Eco resorts are like regular resorts, but they also focus on being environmentally friendly. They aim to have no carbon emissions and protect the environment around them, as stated by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

What makes a good eco-resort?

Good luxury eco-resorts and eco-friendly hotels will meet all your standards for service and amenities while implementing real sustainability practices. Some in the travel industry try to profit from misleading claims of being environmentally friendly. To avoid falling for this, research and ensure that the green hotel’s actions align with its marketing and values.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Eco Resorts in the World:

• Turtle Bay Resort Oahu , for the best Hawaii eco resort
• Soneva Kiri Thailand , for the best honeymoon eco resort
• The Stanford Inn by The Sea , for the best California eco resort
• Olas Tulum , for the best Mexico eco resort

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World

1. playa viva (mexico).

An hour south of Zihuatanejo is Playa Viva , with 19 rooms and an award-winning oceanfront treehouse-style property. The B-Corp Certified resort offers numerous ways to both relax and give back while on the property, including volunteering at its turtle sanctuary. Book the best rates here .

• Playa Viva is 100% off-grid, using solar energy and an onsite well for water.
• The resort uses reforestation to help improve soil quality and water retention. Then it captures carbon in the landscape’s soil.
• Playa Viva supports the community in various ways from offering everything from children’s English classes to environmental and recycling projects to spay and neuter clinics for dogs and cats.

Address: Juluchuca, Zihuatanejo, Playa Icacos, 40834 Gro., Mexico

2. Keemala Eco Resort (Thailand)

This enchanting rainforest property on the Thai island of Phuket is made up of hillside villas with pools overlooking the jungle landscape. Keemala’s focus on holistic living, organic dining, and wellness contributes to a retreat-like feel and helps preserve an air of tranquility around the property.  Book the best rates here .

• Methane from waste management is directed into the ground to reduce greenhouse effect gasses.
• Each villa has its own water treatment system, and the treated water released back into the environment is in line with or exceeds government standards.
• The property was designed to protect the existing ecosystem, with soil, trees, and natural water kept in their natural form or used with minimal disturbance.

Address: 10 88 หมู่ที่ 6 Nakanai Rd, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

3. Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu, Hawaii)

Located on the North Shore of Oahu , the expansive Turtle Bay Resort is an ideal family hideaway, with many curated activities for little ones. There are also endless activities for adults to enjoy, including award-winning golf and horseback riding. Pools, beaches, and the Nalu Spa are also at your fingertips for those seeking relaxation. Book the best rates here .

• Turtle Bay became the first Oahu resort with a solar roof in 2013. In the last 10 years, it has saved the equivalent of 4.3 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.
• A resort-wide recycling program has spurred an average increase of 1.8 tons of recycling over the last two years.
• Turtle Bay decreases water use with upgraded toilets and showers.

Address: 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

4. Olas Tulum (Mexico)

Sea turtles, cenotes, and the Sian Ka’an biosphere await at Olas Tulum , a boutique hotel and guesthouse in Mexico’s bohemian paradise. Visitors can relax on the beach or go to the roof for drinks or yoga with a view of the jungle. Book the best rates here .

• Rooftop solar panels power the entire property.
• Las Olas composts organic food onsite and uses it to feed the vegetation.
• An underground river system feeds water to the property from a nearby cenote.

Address: 10.6 Boca Paila Rd, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

5. Lapa Rios Lodge (Costa Rica)

Named for the majestic scarlet macaw birds that are found in the rainforest where the resort is situated, Lapa Rios Lodge has won several awards since its 1993 opening. 17 bungalows are a jumping-off pad for rainforest adventures, wildlife encounters, and ocean activities on the Osa Peninsula. Book the best rates here .

• 1,000 acres of the Lapa Rios property is a dedicated private nature reserve, providing sanctuary to some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna.
• Lapa Rios partners with the national university on a jaguar program, supporting the study of animals and other native species.
• The property provides local communities with employment opportunities, and 100% of staff are native residents.

Address: Puntarenas Province, Puerto Jiménez, Costa Rica

6. Tri by Amaya (Sri Lanka)

Get to know Sri Lanka and its stunning natural landscapes by staying at Tri by Amaya , an otherworldly hideaway tucked at the end of a dirt road ( Read about my stay at Tri by Amaya here ). The hotel features 11 suites set on a 6-acre hill, as well as a pool with mesmerizing views over Koggala Lake. Book the best rates here .

• Living roofs are planted with species such as water grass and dwarf bamboo.
• The resort was constructed of locally sourced materials including recycled jak wood, cinnamon sticks, and natural pebble.
• Tri implemented a mangrove planting and shoreline protection program to combat lakeshore erosion.

Address: Koggala Lake Aladuwa Watte, Pelassa, Thittha, Ahangama 80650, Sri Lanka

7. Bambu Indah (Bali)

This small boutique hotel captures what it calls “old-school Bali”—a tranquil and laid-back experience in harmony with nature. Spend your days at Bambu Indah in natural river swimming pools fed by waterfalls or in your accommodations, open-air bamboo structures on stilts above the rice paddies. Book the best rates here .

• There are no fluorescent bulbs on-property—only oil lamps and LEDs—in an effort to reduce light pollution.
• Mosquito nets around beds capture cool air as part of a cooling solution that avoids traditional air conditioning and lessens the carbon footprint.
• Banana leaves are used as plates and papaya stems as straws as part of the resort’s no-plastic policy.

Address: Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

8. Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort (Canada)

This remote, intimate, and family-owned wilderness resort sits in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Home to exceptional and customized wilderness, culinary, and wellness experiences, as well as opportunities to spot whales and bears. Book the best rates here .

• A hydro-powered water system fueled by streams and waterfalls provides clean drinking water and energy for up to 80% of the resort’s power needs.
• Nimmo Bay offers sustainable bear viewing to guests and partners on the Coastal Carnivore conservation and mapping project.
• The resort sustainably sources its culinary ingredients and supports local farms.

Address: 100 Little Nimmo Bay, Mackenzie Sound, Mount Waddington A, BC V0N 2R0, Canada

9. The Stanford Inn By The Sea (California)

The Stanford Inn in Mendocino paints a picture of wellness that extends beyond diet and exercise. Private classes and sessions in nutrition and healthy living, breathwork, Chinese medicine, mushroom foraging and more make up the onsite programming, and a large greenhouse houses a saltwater swimming pool for year-round use. Book the best rates here .

• The resort hosts students in its Environmental Leadership Field school, providing college students with 4- to 6-week explorations into sustainability.
• The property has been practicing sustainable organic farming for more than 30 years.
• The Stanford Inn offers 9 EV chargers on the property.

Address: 44850 Comptche Ukiah Rd, Mendocino, CA, 95460

10. Naturhotel Leitlhof (Italy)

If you’re looking for mountain views, you can’t do better than the Dolomites , specifically Naturhotel Leitlhof . Epic landscapes are studded with mountain peaks and lush forests that make this area of the Alps a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Nature preservation is at the core of the hotel’s mission. Book the best rates here .

• The hotel built its own wood-fired heat and power plant, consisting of a wood gasifier system and a rooftop photovoltaic system.
• The onsite Mühlhof Farm is home to a garden for fruit, vegetables, and herbs for use in the resort’s restaurant.
• The resort keeps its own Angus cattle in line with organic livestock production principles.

Address: Via Pusteria, 29, 39038 San Candido BZ, Italy

11. Aquila Eco Lodges (Australia)

Hidden away in Australia’s Southern Grampians is Aquila , a collection of modern-day treehouses surrounded by 100 acres of private bushland. Treehouses come with wood fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor patios. Elsewhere, trails and historic sights provide lots of opportunities for exploration. Book the best rates here .

• Aquila has committed to preserving its 100 acres of bushland and is regularly inspected by the Trust for Nature.
• The property uses low-wattage appliances and solar energy capture for power.
• Water is collected onsite and goes through a rainwater purification system.

Address: 586 Victoria Valley Rd, Dunkeld VIC 3294, Australia

12. Mashpi Lodge Quito (Ecuador)

400 species of birds, trees, frogs, and more unique to Ecuador live in the Ecuadorean rainforest that’s home to Mashpi Lodge . Conveniently located not far from Quito, the resort has programming for all ages, from day hikes to guided night tours. Book the best rates here .

• The lodge is constructed using sustainable techniques at the site of a former lumber mill.
• Mashpi has a conservation and resource management strategy based on findings from a biologist-led research project.
• The property has collaboration agreements with national and international conservation organizations.

Address: Reserva Privada Mashpi, Mashpi 150150, Ecuador

13. El Nido Resorts (Philippines)

Located on the Palawan archipelago in the western part of the Philippines, El Nido is a collection of resort gems. The properties span across Apulit Island , Miniloc Island , Lagen Island , and Pangulasian Island , each boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Book the best rates here .

• El Nido operates a sewage treatment plant to prevent raw sewage from being discharged into the sea.
• Marine sports guides accompany guests to supervise activities and make sure guests don’t damage or disturb the environment.
• To avoid competing with the local community for fresh water, El Nido operates its own desalination plant to be energy efficient

Address: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

14. Soneva Kiri (Thailand)

Just 90 minutes from Bangkok, within a tropical rainforest, guests can enjoy the unspoiled beauty and beaches of Soneye Kiri . The resort comprises 33 luxury pool villas with infinity pools ranging from one to five bedrooms. Night snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton and dining in a mushroom cave are just a couple of the unforgettable activities on offer. Book the best rates here .

• A 2% environmental tax on all stays goes toward the Soneva Foundation, which invests in various projects.
• Soneva funds the organization Care for Children, which opened a foster care training and resource center in Thailand.
• Partnerships with NGOs and other organizations help protect local marine life.

Address: 110, Tambon Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand

15. Mahali Mzuri (Kenya)

Mahali Mzuri , whose name means “beautiful place” in Swahili, is part of the provide Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the Maasai Mara ecosystem. It sits directly on the path of the annual great migration, offering guests unbelievable wildlife viewing opportunities. Book the best rates here .

• Guests can take tours to local villages to experience daily life. The tour costs go both directly to families in the community and to a trust that funds community projects.
• Solar panels heat the outdoor swimming pools.
• 100% renewable energy is used throughout the property.

Address: Masai Mara, Motorogi Conservancy, Kenya

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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11 Sustainable Hotels You Should Add to Your Travel Bucket List

From luxurious lodges to Caribbean villas, these are some of the best eco-friendly and sustainable hotels in the world.

These days, sustainability within the travel industry goes so much further than banning plastic straws or putting a recycling bin in your room. Resorts and hotels around the world are getting serious about renewable energy, conserving and protecting their local environments and minimizing waste production ( research estimates that hotels process 289,700 tons of waste each year!) in innovative ways that will benefit generations to come. From electricity-generating fitness equipment to native tree planting and onsite reverse osmosis centers, these hotels are leading the way for a more sustainable future. Here, some of the best eco-friendly and sustainable hotels around the world.

Calilo: Ios, Greece

Situated on the unspoiled island of Ios in the Greek Cyclades, this family-owned, 30-suite luxury resort was created with sustainability and ecotourism at the heart of their ethos. The family has worked to purchase a significant amount of beachfront land in Ios in order to consciously leave 99% of it undeveloped, so that the island can maintain its natural beauty for future generations. They’ve also launched the Elektra Olive Tree Project , a conservation initiative to restore the habitat that was previously burned by wildfires and deforestation. To date, they’ve planted more than 68,000 olive trees and bushes (including 550 ancient olive trees), and guests can “adopt” and name a tree then follow its life cycle.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Eagle Beach, Aruba

This adults-only oasis is the first certified Carbon Neutral resort hotel in the Caribbean, and the only hotel in the world to win the United Nations' Global Climate Action Award. Sustainability is a core tenant of every aspect of the property, showcased by using solar panels to heat water for guest rooms and laundry, as well as replacing gas stoves with induction burners and water reducers that cut down water flow by 60% in showers, faucets and toilets. Best of all, guests can get in on the sustainable practices in fun ways. The resort fitness center is outfitted with electricity-generating treadmills and bicycles so you can create clean energy while burning calories. A sustainability concierge is also on standby to help guests find other ways to offset their carbon output, or you can join resort staff for their monthly beach clean up.

Book Your Stay

ARIA Resort & Casino: Las Vegas, Nevada

The neon city of Las Vegas is probably not what comes to mind when one thinks about a sustainable destination, but the sunny, hot desert climate means buildings have had to learn how to be sustainable if they want to survive. AAA Five Diamond ARIA Resort & Casino has developed some unique ways to be sustainable without sacrificing the glamour of a Las Vegas getaway. For starters, 90% of the building's daytime power comes from solar panels, water conservation technology saves approximately 50 million gallons per year, and in the casino, slot machine bases serve as displacement ventilation units to cool guests from the ground up instead of cooling empty space from the ceiling.

The Ranch at Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach, California

Nestled between the sea and canyons, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a founding member of Beyond Green , a global collection of hotels, resorts and lodges that are committed to protecting the planet’s natural and cultural heritage through more than 50 rigorous sustainability indicators. One of their primary efforts is to preserve California’s water supply by irrigating their 87 acres of land with reclaimed water through a partnership with the local water district, saving 20 million gallons per year. Other efforts including LED lights to generate less heat, and recycling glass products in the onsite glass bottle crusher to create sand for the resort’s golf course bunkers, repair pavement and filter the pool. The half-acre Harvest Garden also utilizes wet food waste and paper waste as compost, preventing 20,000 pounds of food waste from entering landfills.

Vakkaru Maldives: Baa Atoll, Maldives

A 30-minute seaplane flight from Male International Airport transports guests to the secluded reef island of Vakkaru Maldives , where powdery sand, crystal clear ocean water and 113 luxury villas and suites await. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with sprawling coral reefs, unique marine biodiversity and 2,300 fully grown coconut trees. Sustainability is top of mind, thanks to an onsite reverse osmosis water treatment center that produces the still and sparkling drinking water served in reusable glass bottles in each guest villa and dining outlets. They also protect and foster the natural environment by inviting guests to plant coral using specially designed frames to attach fragmented corals.

Six Senses Douro Valley: Samodães, Portugal

Deep in the heart of the Douro Valley, the oldest demarcated wine-growing region in the world, the postcard-perfect Six Senses Douro Valley rises from the rolling countryside like a Medieval castle. The renovated 19th-century manor house overlooks vineyards, serene gardens and the majestic Douro River, and features a state-of-the-art spa, indoor and outdoor pools, fine dining and a wine library. The resort is intent on preserving their region as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by offsetting their carbon footprint through the Forest Restoration Project to nurse a community forest back to health for fungi, insects and birds. The hotel also has a sustainability fund where a percentage of revenue goes to funding underprivileged children and at-risk animals.

Four Seasons Resort Hualālai: Kona, Hawaii

When it comes to a Four Seasons property, luxurious accommodations, service and experiences are a given, but Four Seasons Resort Hualālai takes sustainability and their commitment to the environment to another level. The resort has planted more than 50,000 indigenous koa trees in partnership with Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative, hosts beach cleanups and they have a natural resources team to monitor the marine environment and water quality. They also employ five marine biologists who implement traditional Hawaiian practices from aquaculture to pond reclamation, and they’ve helped create a marine reserve off the resort’s coast. They recently debuted Boomerang, the brand’s first onsite, zero waste, closed-loop water bottling and filtration system, significantly reducing the use of single-use plastics and carbon emissions by 95%.

Rosewood São Paulo: São Paulo, Brazil

The glamorous Rosewood São Paulo is tucked among leafy parks and tree-lined avenues in the heart of the bustling city and serves as an example of a sustainable development model that blends old and new. The hotel is part of Cidade Matarazzo, a complex of restored buildings from the early 20th century utilizing upcycled and recycled materials. Thanks to solar panels and a partnership with Omega Energy, the hotel operates with 100% renewable energy, making it Brazil’s greenest hotel to date. Additionally, they maintain a waste management program to recycle all solid and organic disposables in their dedicated bio digester and glass crushing machine. Rosewood São Paulo is also free of single-use plastics and utilizes an in-house water filtration system to produce glass bottled water for guests.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge: Vancouver Island, Canada

In the lush, green wilderness of Vancouver Island is Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge eco-safari , where guests can camp in 25 luxurious white canvas tents along the banks of the Clayoquot Sound. Each tent features a generous king bed, spacious en-suite bathroom, locally crafted furniture and incredible views of the natural surroundings. Since 2001, Clayoquot has worked to help regenerate the declining salmon population by creating new spawning habitat on property and restoring native stocks to river systems. They’ve also established an Environmental Legacy program (through a 3% room rate surcharge) to support additional initiatives including an all-steel composter to manage organic waste, utilizing naturally falling trees as building materials and diesel generators that result in a 50% decrease in fuel consumption.

Blue Apple Beach: Tierra Bomba Island, Colombia

The charming 10-room Blue Apple Beach luxury resort recently achieved B-corp status, cementing the fact that their sustainable practices support not only the environment but their local community as well. The company offers a minimum wage that is 15% higher than the Colombian minimum wage, more than 85% of annual expenditure remains in Colombia and 65% of the company’s energy source is from solar power. The BIPOC, female-led company also launched the Green Apple Foundation in 2018, Cartagena’s first glass-recycling program that has diverted more than 180 tons of glass waste from landfills that are then used by artisans to craft glassware, lamps and souvenirs.

Cottar’s Safaris: Maasai Mara, Kenya

Since 1919, conservationism has been at the heart of Cottar’s Safaris company . Cottar’s 1920s camp, situated in the 7608-acre Olderkesi Conservancy, is one of only ten accredited Long Run Global Ecosphere Retreats in the World and certified at a Gold Ecotourism standard in Kenya. As a member of The Long Run, they follow the 4C impact guidelines of conservation, community development, cultural stewardship and commerce. The Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust has partnered with the African Wildlife Foundation to preserve the natural habitat and wildlife of the Maasai Mara National Reserve from poachers and cattle farming. The resort also built the Olpalagilagi Primary School for 200 students, paying teachers salaries and offering a school meal program.

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The best eco-friendly and sustainable hotels in the US

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• As we take a pause from world travel, Earth Day affords an especially meaningful time to reflect on responsible travel.
• For future travel, consider staying at a hotel noted for its commitment to sustainability and environmental friendliness, without compromising luxury or comfort.
• Our list of the most eco-friendly hotels in the country includes LEED-certified and other environmentally friendly properties packed with green amenities and include a wide range of prices to fit multiple budgets.
• Read all Business Insider reviews here.

A note from your Insider Reviews travel editor: Coronavirus has interrupted travel on a global scale  forcing travelers to cancel and reassess plans  in the coming weeks and months. We understand that right now is a challenging time to plan travel. But when this time passes and things return to normal, we know you'll be eager to explore the world again.

Whenever that happens for you, and we know it will, we hope our travel content helps you make informed, useful, and inspiring choices on the best places and hotels to book. So whether you use our reviews now, bookmark them for the future, or simply need an escape from the news, we'll continue to share the world with you. In the meantime, we encourage all travelers to stay safe, follow guidelines from the CDC website, and take precautions.

Earth Day is an ideal time to take stock of the sheer joy and optimism involved with travel. It is a privilege in the modern era to be able to wing around the globe and experience new people and places with only a few clicks, or a bit of patience through a security line.

As travelers the world over shelter at home this spring, Earth Day is also a time to reflect on the more intentional ways we might return to travel when it's safe to do so. Included in that introspection might be implementing a plan to more closely consider hotel properties that make sustainable efforts a priority. As such, we've put together a list of domestic properties demonstrating remarkable environmental commitments.

To learn about other best hotels in the United States, click on a link below to jump directly to more coverage

• The best beach hotels in the US
• The best hotels for families in the US
• The best bachelor and bachelorette destinations in the US
• The best hotels in New York City
• The best hotels in San Francisco
• The best hotels in Las Vegas
• The best hotels in Los Angeles
• The best hotels in Miami

To come up with our choices of the best eco-friendly US hotels, we looked at four- and five-star properties around the country with LEED and other formally recognized certifications, as well as those that have demonstrated other varied commitments to reduce waste, water, and power reduction, and repurpose locally-sourced materials.

Entry-level rooms at these hotels range between $74 and $528 per night to start. In addition to being eco-friendly, these hotels also boast excellent amenities, desirable locations, top-end service, intriguing design, and are well-loved by guests with top reviews and feedback on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor , as well as  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com .

These are the best eco-friendly and sustainable hotels in the US, sorted by price from low to high.

Aria las vegas - las vegas, nevada.

Book Aria Las Vegas starting at $74 per night

Located right on the Las Vegas Strip within the complex known as CityCenter, Aria is a glittering curvilinear property with a 150,000-square-foot casino, 16 restaurants, and more than 4,000 rooms.

And despite the sprawling footprint, the whole Aria Las Vegas campus reflects a truly committed environmental program. In fact, it's billed as one of the world's largest environmentally sustainable urban communities. It's earned six LEED Gold certifications and is the first in Nevada to receive the 5 Green Keys rating.

Sustainability efforts include the use of wood products from responsibly managed forests, high-efficiency water use, and an improvement of more than 30 percent in energy efficiency over standard building codes. 

Opened just a decade ago, rooms still feel fresh and new with high technology amenities. The one-touch room control system operates features like lighting and temperature, and I've luxuriated while making those changes from the comfort of bed without having to get up. Aria also has a massive spa with 62 treatment rooms, plus three pools.

Over 31,000 Trip Advisor reviewers give this property an "Excellent" 4.5 out of 5 rating.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 64 of 273 hotels in Las Vegas

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Pros: For a price point under $100, Aria feels highly luxurious, especially given the tech-driven room controls.

Cons: While rooms might be booked for bargain prices, critics complain that food options on property can be expensive.

Orchard Garden - San Francisco, California

Book the Orchard Garden starting at $169 per night

Although San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the country, Orchard Garden Hotel is known as a highly affordable option among budget-minded travelers. Included breakfast provides even more value.

It's also well known as an eco-friendly hotel, holding both LEED and Green Seal certifications. Situated centrally near the city's Financial District, Union Square shops, and many museums and attractions, Orchard Garden is totally central and walkable.

Roots Restaurant is open for breakfast daily, and also hosts meetings and events, while the hotel's rooftop terrace offers views of the world-famous San Francisco skyline.

Standard rooms start at around 230 square feet, and junior suites have about 374 square feet with a separate sofa.

Nearly 2,000 Trip Advisor reviews give this an overall "Excellent" rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 9 of 245 hotels in San Francisco

Pros: In addition to eco-friendliness and affordability, travelers to Orchard Garden appreciate personalized service, friendly staff, and guest-friendly policies like flexible check-in time, pending availability.

Cons: With prices starting at $169 in the heart of it all, rooms are more basic than opulent.

Virgin Hotels Chicago - Chicago, Illinois

Book Virgin Hotels Chicago starting at $176 per night

Virgin Hotels Chicago is located in the center of downtown Chicago, with a Trip Advisor walkability rating of 100 out of 100. In fact, the hotel also actively promotes walking tourism as just one part of its sustainable approach. Virgin is LEED Gold-certified, with green housekeeping, hotel-wide recycling, a soap-donation program, green roofs for better stormwater management, and guest-powered carbon-offset programs. It's also one of our top picks for the best hotels in Chicago .

The 250-room, 26-story hotel includes an impressive two-chamber lodging concept for each room where a set of sliding privacy doors separates a dressing area and closet space. Rooms also have ergonomic beds meant for comfort not just while sleeping, but also for lounging or reading. 

Nearly 2,400 Trip Advisor reviewers give this property an "Excellent" 4.5 out of 5 rating

Trip Advisor Ranking: 2 of 206 hotels in Chicago

Booking.com Rating: 9.3 out of 10

Pros: Guests love the modern look and feel of the hotel as well as the unusual and thoughtful use of space in the two-part accommodations. The hotel's location for convenience and walkability is also a major bonus. 

Cons: Critics complain of thin walls and ambient noise-causing disturbances.

Ambrose Hotel - Santa Monica, California

Book the Ambrose Hotel starting at $239 per night

Perhaps not surprising given its location, the Ambrose Hotel was the first LEED-EB certified hotel in the country (back in 2007). The property offers personalized service amid a calming retreat, utilizing green practices daily throughout the well-appointed, 77-room property. This includes an innovative cleaning program, low-flow showerheads and faucets, and a guest room recycling program with 75 percent of all waste recycled or composted.

Interiors resemble those of a sophisticated California craftsman-style residence. Rooms feature luxury linens and L'Occitane bath products. The property also has a 24-hour fitness center with a Peloton bike, EV and Tesla charging stations, and a Tesla Model 3 house car service for guests. 

Over 1,600 Trip Advisor reviewers give this property an "Excellent" 4.5 out of 5 rating.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 2 out of 38 hotels in Santa Monica

Booking.com Rating: 8.8 out of 10

Pros: Guests love the residential feel of this attractive property, which recently completed an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation.

Cons: Unlike a resort on a large scale, this intimate property has more of a boutique feel and does not offer a full-service suite of amenities, not even 24-hour room service.

Proximity Hotel - Greensboro, North Carolina

Book Proximity Hotel starting at $256 per night

The LEED Platinum-certified Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina boasts more than 70 suitability practices in place all over the property. Among them, the building uses nearly 40 percent less energy than a conventional one by using highly efficient materials and the latest construction technology. More than 100 solar panels cover 4,000 square feet of rooftop in order to heat water, and water usage is reduced by 33 percent overall through the use of high-efficiency Kohler plumbing fixtures. The hotel also has custom-designed furnishings and commissioned art throughout for an overall high-design look and feel.

Guest rooms are loft-like and modern and each includes a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities, as well as a flat screen TV, seating area, and desk.

Further encouraging green practices, the fitness center offers bicycles for guests to explore the surrounding area. 

Nearly 700 Trip Advisor reviews give this an overall "Excellent" rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 2 out of 80 hotels in Greensboro.

Pros: Guests love the hotel's over-the-top environmentally friendly practices, and the standout Print Works restaurant, which offers European-inspired fare with creekside dining and a lively bar.

Cons: Some critical reviews note spotty customer service.

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole - Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Book Hotel Terra starting at $297 per night

Hotel Terra is Wyoming's first LEED-certified hotel. Green materials throughout the hotel's construction and daily practice range from recycled steel to aluminum water bottles. Beds are 100 percent natural and organic, as are towels, bath mats, and robes. The hotel also employs water-saving systems such as low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, and native landscaping that requires no irrigation, for a total 34 percent reduction in annual water use.

The 132-room boutique property is located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. The slope-side location is mere steps to the resort's aerial tram and the area sees 500 inches of annual snowfall to skiers' delight. There's also a boutique spa, infinity pool, rooftop hot tub, ski valet, and a rustic Italian restaurant, Il Villaggio Osteria.

More than 1,200 Trip Advisor reviews give this an overall "Excellent" rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 out of 8 hotels in Teton Village

Booking.com Rating : 9.3 out of 10

Pros: In addition to commendable green components and luxury amenities, this hotel's location is a top choice for skiers. It's just steps from the aerial tram to the slopes.

Cons: Critics note small rooms for the price, which can soar in the high season.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge - Brooklyn, New York

Book 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge starting at $386 per night

The entire 1 Hotels group is built upon a foundation of sustainable design, throughout construction, and green operations. This includes a range of energy, water, and environmental design strategies aimed at keeping a small footprint. Plus, the group focuses on organized volunteer activities and paid volunteer days for staff, as well as advocacy and partnerships with such like-minded organizations as the NRDC.

So you can feel especially good about staying at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge — and not just for those reasons alone. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of Manhattan and (as the name suggests) the Brooklyn Bridge. Room design includes copious reclaimed wood, repurposed materials given new lives as clothes hangers or yoga mats, unlimited filtered water with cups for drinking, living green plants, eco-friendly toiletries, and an overall soothing neutral palette.

Every room also has a coffee machine with recyclable pods, plus mattresses with a hemp blend filling, and organic cotton sheets. Digital newspapers are available for download or viewing on in-room devices, and even room keys are made from recycled materials. Guests also have access to a house Tesla vehicle.

Over 1,100 Trip Advisor reviewers give this property an "Excellent" 4.5 out of 5 rating.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 10 out of 88 hotels in Brooklyn

Booking.com Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Pros: The chic design, stunning location, and waterfront city views are among the hotel's standout features. Rooms may be small, but thoughtful design makes good use of the available space so they never feel cramped.

Cons: If you're into privacy, you might find these bathrooms challenging: They afford little of it.

Read Business Insider's full hotel review of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

The ritz-carlton, charlotte - charlotte, north carolina.

Book the Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte starting at $439 per night

The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte is located right in the heart of downtown and is a LEED Gold-certified property with modern decor. Luxury meets sustainability through environmentally-minded features and practices that include a green rooftop with seasonal veggies and beehives, employee uniforms made of fabric derived from regenerated plastic bottle materials, and a bike valet.

The building itself incorporates many sustainable design and construction features, and there's a LEED staff person on-site dedicated to maintaining these practices. The hotel also uses 30 percent less energy than a conventional hotel through the use of ultra-efficient materials and construction technology, and on Saturday evenings, the hotel briefly dims its lobby lighting in a tribute to efficiency. 

Rooms are also luxurious, with 55- or 65-inch flat-screen TVs, work desks, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Facilities also include an indoor pool, spa, and wellness center with a whirlpool, five treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a pink Himalayan salt lounge, and a gym.

On property, BLT Steak offers steakhouse dining, while K Lounge offers light bites and drinks, and The Punch Room lounge offers craft punches and cocktails as well as small plates.

Nearly 800 reviewers give this property an "Excellent" 4.5 out of 5 rating.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 26 out of 204 hotels in Charlotte

Booking.com Rating: 8.1 out of 10

Pros: As expected from this trusted luxury brand, the hotel is luxurious, and the location can't be beaten for convenience. Trip Advisor gives the Ritz a 100 out of 100 walkability rating.

Cons: Critics complain of disruption from noise from the street and surrounding businesses.

Andaz Maui at Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

Book Andaz Maui at Wailea starting at $490 per night

Andaz Maui is Hawaii's first LEED-certified resort and includes a solar-thermal system to improve energy efficiency.

The eco-friendly philosophy is exhibited throughout the property. On checking in, you'll find a reusable water bottle and beach bag provided in your room, as well as non-alcoholic drinks, local snacks, and coffee machines all included in the price and intended to help reduce waste. Rooms have private balconies and 40-inch flat screens. Elegant bathrooms have rain showers. 

The property sprawls over 15 acres of Mokapu Beach, and has a family-friendly vibe, although it is also sophisticated. I traveled here on a multigenerational trip with my in-laws and kids, and everyone had their expectations met.

The visual centerpiece of the large property is the four infinity pools, which cascade to the sea, and two restaurants and a full-service spa are also worthy draws. 

Morimoto Maui restaurant from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto offers Japanese and American cuisine and specialty cocktails using local ingredients, and there are two poolside bars. Outrigger canoe, paddleboard, kayak, and surfing lessons and tours are all available and the fitness center offers yoga instruction.

Nearly 4,000 TripAdvisor reviews give this an overall "Excellent" rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 4 of 9 hotels in Wailea

Booking.com Rating: 9 out of 10

Pros: Maui is an expensive destination overall, but the Andaz's included local snacks add value and comfort. Plus, the property's pools are stunning.

Cons: There's a daily resort fee of $48. Some critical reviews note concern with the value for the price, given the destination's expensive reputation. 

Bardessono Hotel and Spa - Yountville, California

Book Bardessono Hotel and Spa starting at $528 per night

This five-star retreat in California's wine country is ensconced equally in both luxury and environmental friendliness. Bardessono Hotel and Spa is a peaceful Napa Valley enclave in Yountville that is proudly LEED Platinum-certified. It's also guided by a mindful approach where on-site venues such as Lucy Restaurant and Bar serves a garden-inspired, field-to-fork menu, and spa treatments are focused around both the needs and ingredients of a particular season.

Spacious suites feature private balconies, fireplaces, and sofas, plus 40-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and desks. Bathrooms are even designed as private spas with massage tables and come with naturally plush robes and slippers. Bardessono also has a rooftop pool, included bicycle rentals, and Saturday morning yoga classes.

Nearly 1,500 TripAdvisor reviews give this an overall "Excellent" rating of 5 out of 5.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 out of 6 hotels in Yountville

Booking.com Rating: 9.4 out of 10

Pros: This hotel is the ultimate in top-end responsible luxury — and wine, starting with the glass you're offered on check-in.

Cons: While the hotel is already expensive, there is still an eye-popping $68 resort fee, but it does include such luxuries as the use of the hotel's Lexus fleet.

Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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These Eco-friendly Hotels in Costa Rica Have Organic Gardens, Beachfront Pools, and National Park Views

The concept of the eco-lodge — now so prevalent around the world — has been perfected in Costa Rica over four decades. Meet the new generation of pioneers taking green tourism to the next level.

Where to Stay

Where to eat.

Jake Naughton

Sunlight filtered through the treetops as I surrendered my body to the harness. It would soon be time to drop back down to the forest floor, but for now I stayed put, spinning in a slow circle and marveling at the explosion of epiphytes — moss, lichens, and ferns in every shade of green — that surrounded me.

I was dangling from an enormous tempisque tree at Savia Monteverde, a 17-acre private reserve in the Costa Rican cloud forest. Savia is the latest project by the owners of Hotel Belmar , the oldest continually operated eco-lodge in the town of Monteverde , and my home for the first few nights of a 10-day journey through Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province.

The Belmar family designed Savia as a forest immersion: part ecology lesson, part meditation session, part thrill ride, and a tranquil alternative to the high-speed zip lines that scream through the canopy elsewhere in the region. “When we are in the trees, we are in an environment that is not our own,” said Savia’s cofounder, Andrés Valverde, as he dangled beside me in his own harness. He gestured to the sea of bromeliads that had taken root on the tempisque’s mossy branches. “It is like being in a coral reef.” On another limb we spotted a cluster of micro-orchids with flowers so small they can only be pollinated by a particular species of tiny, metallic-green bee.

As I began my descent, a blue-throated mountain-gem hummingbird darted into the foliage in an iridescent blur. In the distance, sheaves of mist swirled through the treetops. “We use awe as a catalyst for change,” Valverde said. He must have seen the look of wonder on my face. “With 17 acres, I’m not saving the world. But if every person who passes through here feels that connection, I think they will do something for conservation.”

Pura vida . Pure life. The phrase has been part of Costa Rica’s vernacular for decades, as both a greeting and a goodbye. It’s an expression of thanks, a way to say “No problem!” and a reminder to be present and live simply. For Costa Ricans, pura vida is a way of life.

This concept partly explains the country’s commitment to conservation. In 1948, it abolished the army, diverting the funds into education, health care, and environmental initiatives. In subsequent years, the country doubled its forest cover; protected more than 25 percent of its land by putting it into reserves, wildlife refuges, and national parks; and amended its constitution to include the right to a healthy environment.

Prioritizing people and nature has made Costa Rica an attractive destination for international travelers. In the 1960s and 70s, those travelers were mostly scientists drawn by the country’s biological riches. But it wasn’t long before word of those riches got out, and by the early 90s, Costa Rica had emerged as a plum vacation spot for nature lovers. Rustic lodges and guide services cropped up — some owned by Costa Ricans (or Ticos, as they call themselves), others by foreigners, laying the groundwork for a new, environmentally conscious style of travel called ecotourism.

But there was a caveat. Alongside the many businesses that implemented responsible tourism policies were others that rode the ecotourism wave simply by marketing themselves as “green.” In response, the country unveiled its Certification for Sustainable Tourism program in 1997, which set rigorous standards to evaluate a tourism entity’s sustainability practices. These days, many Costa Ricans in the travel industry are implementing creative initiatives that draw upon the lessons of the past while building a more sustainable future.

Surrounded by fruit trees and organic vegetable gardens on the edge of Monteverde’s cloud forest, Hotel Belmar is an oasis within an oasis. My room, lined with honey-colored wood, felt like a tree house, with a huge wraparound terrace and windows that opened to a real-life nature soundtrack. Early each morning a pale-billed woodpecker came rat-a-tatting at my window. Green parakeets produced a cacophony of squawks from the nearby trees.

If Costa Rica has become a global model for sustainable tourism, Monteverde is where that model began. In 1951, a group of Quakers arrived from the U.S. after refusing to register for the peacetime draft. They purchased 3,400 acres of land and divided it into individual homesteads for dairy farming and agriculture. They left the forested mountaintop untouched to protect their watershed, which burbled with springs that spilled into the Río Guacimal.

The little town quickly emerged as a magnet for biologists who wanted to study the teeming biomass of the cloud forest, particularly the now-extinct golden toad. The scientists shared concerns about the region’s unchecked deforestation with the Quakers, and in 1972 the two groups worked together to establish the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.

I spent a morning with Hotel Belmar’s founder, Vera Zeledón, at Finca Madre Tierra, her farm in the nearby hamlet of Alto Cebadilla. Small in stature but with a firecracker personality, Zeledón drove up in a rugged ATV wearing a baseball cap and muddy red-rubber boots. “When we first came here there was just a little Quaker pensione, ” she said. “That’s where I learned how to make bread, granola, and cheese.” In 1985, she and her husband, Pedro Belmar, built their own place — a Tyrolean-style guesthouse inspired by the decade they had spent working in Austria.

These days she spends most of her time at the farm — the first in Costa Rica to receive carbon-neutral certification. She started it with just a few cows and horses, but over the past 15 years it has grown to include coffee production, cheese making, and an extensive composting system. Produce, eggs, and cheese from the farm appear on the menu at Celajes, Belmar’s restaurant; in turn, the hotel’s food scraps fuel both the chickens and the compost heap, while spent barley from Belmar’s new microbrewery goes to the cows.

“Everything moves in circles here,” Zeledón said as we snacked on homemade tortillas with eggs and fresh cheese. “When people come to visit, we spread the seeds of ecological consciousness around the world. That’s our goal.”

Vera Zeledón, Hotel Belmar

When people come to visit, we spread the seeds of ecological consciousness around the world.

In 2004, National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner identified five places around the world where people live unusually long and healthy lives, dubbing them “blue zones.” The Nicoya Peninsula, on Costa Rica’s northwestern coast, is one of those places.

My next stop was Santa Teresa , a bohemian beach town on Nicoya’s southernmost shore. In the past decade or so the town has blossomed from a quiet fishing village into a haven for the surfers who ride its year-round breaks. Though I didn’t go for the swells, the ocean beckoned. As soon as I found my bungalow at Hotel Nantipa, I laced up my running shoes and headed for the beach. In the water, surfers straddled their boards, eyes on the horizon. On the shore, dogs splashed and chased. I ran until the sky streaked pink and then threw on my bathing suit for a sunset swim. The tide had retreated, revealing a deep pool where I floated on my back and decided that Santa Teresa was a place where I could happily grow old.

“Santa Teresa has something magical to it,” said Harry Hartman over dinner at the hotel’s Manzú restaurant. Born and raised in San José, Costa Rica’s capital, Hartman, who co-owns the hotel with his childhood friend Mario Mikowski, first visited the peninsula when his children were small. Eventually he purchased the wild, oceanfront property where we sat eating patacones — crispy plantain fritters — heaped with refried beans, guacamole, and fresh pico de gallo .

The friends wanted to create a place reminiscent of those free-and-easy days Hartman spent in Santa Teresa with his young family, upping the ante on luxury but not distracting from the area’s natural beauty. Nantipa, which means “blue” in the language of the Indigenous Chorotega people who once inhabited the peninsula, is the realization of that goal. Only six trees were removed during construction, despite permits to cut down 80. Later, Hartman and Mikowski developed robust sustainability standards that extend far beyond eliminating single-use plastics. They now support the efforts of multiple, often underfunded, initiatives that, as Hartman put it, “work with their fingernails.” They have forged relationships to make sure tourism dollars go directly into the pockets of local producers and providers.

Early the next morning I drove south to Malpaís to meet one of those local providers: Tico fisherman Jason Rodriguez Ugalde, who runs charters off the coast near Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve. In his bright turquoise boat we cruised over calm seas past Isla Cabo Blanco, an important nesting site for Costa Rica’s population of brown boobies. Overhead, the birds swooped and soared.

During high season Ugalde might go out two or three times a day — business that enables him to hire extra crew. On off days, he fishes with his wife. There’s never a shortage of fresh fish for his family, he told me. To prove his point, we spent the next couple of hours reeling in one fat yellowfin after another, until my arms began to ache from the effort.

That afternoon I walked through Santa Teresa, passing funky boutiques, surf shops, and hip, California-style juice bars. At a little family-owned restaurant called Soda Tiquicia, I met Camila Aguilar, Nantipa’s concierge, for lunch. Afterward we climbed into the hotel’s utility vehicle and joined the parade of ATVs and motorbikes bumping through the potholes on the town’s unpaved main drag. 

About eight miles up the coast, we arrived at the Caletas-Arío National Wildlife Reserve, where a stretch of shoreline is an important nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Between June and December, hundreds lay their eggs on the beach. “Only one will survive out of a thousand,” said Keylin Torres Peraza, a project coordinator at the Center of Investigation for Natural & Social Resources (cirenas), the organization that oversees the reserve. cirenas began its sea-turtle conservation program in 2018, enclosing a large, sandy area above the high-tide line in driftwood and mesh. Inside, roughly 200 nests contained eggs rescued from poachers and predators by staff and volunteers during their nightly patrols.

At Peraza’s feet sat a bucket filled with wriggling olive ridley turtles that had emerged from their eggs just a few hours earlier. Peraza tipped the bucket on its side. The hatchlings tumbled out and began their pilgrimage to the sea. Their progress, tentative at first, quickly grew purposeful, tiny flippers propelling them forward until, one by one, they disappeared into the surf.

In late December, just six weeks after my visit, an arson attack destroyed the hatchery. “Some people feel territorial about this beach,” Peraza told me over the phone. “They don’t like what we’re doing.” To soothe the friction, cirenas works with local schools, offering lessons in conservation and inviting the students and their families to join them on the beach for turtle releases. But with limited staff and resources, they can’t do as much of that as they’d like. For now, rebuilding the hatchery and increasing awareness about their work is the priority — efforts Nantipa helps to fund.

Whenever I told people in Costa Rica that I was headed to the Osa Peninsula, their reaction was always the same: “You are so lucky!” A holy grail for nature lovers, remote Osa is home to 2.5 percent of the earth’s biodiversity, while covering less than a thousandth of a percent of its surface. Intact primary forest makes up the majority of the landscape, an untamed wilderness that provides habitat for tapirs, jaguars, ocelots, giant anteaters, two-toed and three-toed sloths, and the largest population of endangered scarlet macaws in Central America. Separating the peninsula from the mainland is Golfo Dulce, one of just four tropical fjords in the world, where Pacific humpbacks come to breed and birth their young.

The last time I visited Osa I was on a small ship that cruised up the Pacific coast from Panama, stopping for just one day to explore a sliver of Corcovado National Park. This time I would get the full rainforest experience, staying for four nights at Lapa Rios Lodge, one of Costa Rica’s first — and most sublime — eco-lodges.

Lapa Rios was established in 1993 when Karen and John Lewis, avid birders from Minnesota, traveled to the Osa Peninsula intent on buying land and conserving it through tourism. “Costa Rica’s leaders knew they had beautiful, remote places full of tropical biodiversity,” Karen told me. “But when we told them what we planned to do, they said that nobody would ever come. Sustainable tourism as a concept didn’t exist back then.”

Inspired by their work in the Peace Corps, the couple forged ahead, developing relationships with the community, building a primary school, hiring local people to build the lodge and, later, training those same people as staff. In 2019, after three decades spent cultivating their vision, which included securing a conservation easement to forever protect Lapa Rios’s 1,000 acres of tropical lowland rainforest, they sold the lodge to longtime Costa Rican conservationists Roberto Fernández and Luz Caceres.

I arrived at Lapa Rios at dusk to find an environment so wild and raw that I could feel it pulsating. The rainforest reverberated with the chirps of thousands of nocturnal creatures. I woke the next morning to sounds coming from the tree beside my window: squirrel monkeys, their little white faces adorned with black goatees, chattering away. Outside my bungalow, one of 17 that sprawl across a ridge above the Pacific, I heard something hitting the ground with a thud. Then I spied a pair of scarlet macaws feasting on beach almonds. They dropped the thick husks onto the path.

The days I spent at Lapa Rios felt like rainforest summer camp, albeit with a dazzling wine list. Each evening during dinner, the lodge’s charismatic concierge, Andres Lopez, outlined the next day’s adventures — an early morning birding tour, a walk to a nearby waterfall, a visit to one of the secluded beaches that wrap around the end of the peninsula. One morning I set out with Danilo Alvarez Seguro, the lodge’s most senior guide, to hike the Ridge Trail. With keen eyes and ears, he identified armies of leaf-cutter ants toiling in the red earth, calamine trees oozing with skin-soothing sap, and tiny poison-dart frogs, their obsidian skins painted in Day-Glo swirls.

On my last evening at Lapa Rios, I sat at the open-air bar chatting with Angel Artavia while he mixed me a mojito with Cacique Guaro, a Costa Rican spirit made with sugarcane. “Once you work in a place like this you see how important it is to take care of nature,” he told me. “You see how everything is connected.” Inspired, Artavia studied biology and conservation basics with Danilo Alvarez Seguro. Now he volunteers with other members of the Lapa Rios staff to teach environmental education in the local schools. 

Artavia slid my mojito across the bar. “ Pura vida, Gina,” he said. Behind me, the sun dropped toward the Pacific, its final rays threading a light mist with strands of gold. I watched a pair of macaws glide over the ocean and disappear into the canopy. I heard the guttural calls of howler monkeys. Raising my glass, I smiled and took a sip. Pura vida, indeed.  

Hotel Belmar

This 26-room carbon-neutral boutique hotel in the mountains of the Costa Rican cloud forest has been owned by the Belmar family since 1985. It has a microbrewery, lush flower and vegetable gardens, and rooms with sweeping views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Doubles from $319.

  Hotel Nantipa

In the boho town of Santa Teresa, this collection of 29 breezy suites and villas sits amid tropical rainforest steps from the Pacific Ocean. Doubles from $520. 

 Lapa Rios Lodge

One of four properties in the Böëna Wilderness Lodges collection, this luxurious eco-resort on the remote Osa Peninsula has 17 airy ocean-view bungalows set within a 1,000-acre private rainforest reserve. Doubles from $1,070, all-inclusive.

La Cuchara de la Abuela  

Tuck in to huge plates of casado and arroz con pollo at casem, a nonprofit artisans’ cooperative in the heart of the Monteverde cloud forest. Entrées $5–$10.

Soda Tiquicia

This open-air restaurant on Santa Teresa’s main road serves Costa Rican fare like gallo pinto, patacones, and tangy ceviche. Entrées $4–$12.

Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve

Two trails lead though lush, tropical forest at this protected area on the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Cooking classes, lessons in regenerative agriculture and permaculture, and sea-turtle releases are just a few of the visitor experiences on offer at this environmental-education campus on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Finca Madre Tierra

At this family-owned, carbon-neutral farm in the hills of Alto Cebadilla, visitors can tour the grounds on horseback before learning about sustainable agriculture, cheese making, and coffee production.

Jason Tours

This small, Tico-owned company in Malpaís offers snorkeling, whale watching, and fishing tours in the Gulf of Nicoya.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Established in 1972, Monteverde’s first nature reserve protects more than 10,000 acres of pristine cloud forest and provides habitat for 120 species of mammals, 658 species of butterflies, and 425 species of birds, including the resplendent quetzal.

Wander among massive old-growth trees dripping with epiphytes and climb high into the lush canopy of the cloud forest at this 17-acre nature reserve just a few minutes’ drive from Hotel Belmar.

Sun, Sea, Sand And Sustainability: 8 Of The Most Stunning Eco hotels

To help you with the old 'travel inspo' we've highlighted our favourite new eco-friendly hotels. start saving..

Written By Mollie Carberry

Published August 23, 2018

Think eco hotels are scratchy towels and not washing the bedsheets? Think again.

Embracing sustainability at every level, these eco-friendly hotels take being green to the next level – from structural build to circular waste systems.

Best of all, they’re absolutely gorgeous. So green hearted or not, these are not getaways to be sniffed at.

Top Eco hotels from around the world

1. bawah island, indonesia.

Nothing screams luxury like a group of tropical all-inclusive islands accessible only by private seaplane.  Bawah Island  is a pocket of paradise, consisting of 35 suites and bungalows made from sustainable bamboo, driftwood and other natural materials.

The resort also focuses on sustainability (we won’t mention the seaplane). It’s powered by a renewable microgrid, with solar water heating, fortnightly beach cleaning, a nursery to repopulate the forests and a permaculture garden.

Dabble in some chilled activities during your peaceful stay – try your hand at paddle boarding, kayaking, diving, stargazing, snorkelling or bird watching. If you prefer something even more chilled, unwind at the yoga pavilion or spa.

Image  Bawah Island, Indonesia is a true slice of eco chic paradise

2. Valsana Hotel, Arosa, Switzerland

When picturing the breathtaking Swiss landscape, glistening white snow springs to mind. The  Valsana Hotel  in Switzerland, has taken this one step further, by using ice to power the resort.

Yes, you read that right – the eco hotel is powered by a self-sufficient energy system called an ice battery, which draws waste heat energy from everyday devices and appliances.

The interior is thoughtfully decorated with gorgeous recycled furniture and coconut fibre mattresses. Each room even comes with its own vintage record player, a selection of handpicked books and you’ll fall for the stunning sauna.

Image  Are the mountains calling you this winter? Look no further than the eco-friendly Valsana

3. Peru EcoCamps, Peru

Prefer your holiday with a bit more adventure? Peru EcoCamps has got you covered. Located right in the heart of the Andes, the eco-domes are the perfect spot to access treks to the incredible Machu Picchu.

Each of the five one bedroom domes has a king-size bed, piping hot showers and woodburning stoves. If you’re feeling peckish, the lobby and dining domes have a bar and restaurant, stocked with  locally-sourced wines  to reward you after a long day’s hike.

The  Peru EcoCamp  caters to guests’ adventurous spirits by providing luxurious treks along the Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu. The route is less heavily trafficked than the busy Inca Trail so you have a less stressful experience.

Image  Have an offgrid eco experience while taking in the big ticket attractions of Machu Picchu

4. Taj Exotica Resort, Andaman Islands

Situated on Havelock Island’s gorgeous Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman Islands, the  Taj Exotica Resort  massively ticks the box for stunning scenery.

Discover 46 acres of jungle, forests and mangroves, the amazing island eco-system has been left untouched by the hotel – not a single tree was felled during construction.

Inspired by the stilted huts of the indigenous Jawara tribe, the 72 villas blend into the natural landscape – this is a true slice of paradise. It gets better, the resort has an onsite water bottling plant, converts waste into gas and  compost  and there’s no commercial fishing allowed. It’s also the luxury hotel Taj chain’s first  single use plastic free  eco-friendly hotel.

Fancy an educational afternoon? Guests can learn more about the surrounding jungle from the in-house naturalist, quietly kayak through the mangroves or dive the local reefs.

Image  If you can get to the Andaman Islands, this is what awaits you

5. Tivoli Évora Ecoresort, Évora, Portugal

The stunning  Tivoli Évora Ecoresort , just an hour’s drive from Lisbon in Évora, Portugal, is a nature-lover’s dream escape.

Shaded by old cork, oak and olive trees, the 56-suite eco hotel blends effortlessly into the sunny Portuguese scenery. The expansive grounds offer privacy, peace and tranquility – perfect for unwinding and soaking in the sunshine.

Making the most of the local resources, the resort is covered in cork, which acts as a natural form of thermal and acoustic insulation.

Even the heating is eco-friendly at this hotel – geothermal energy heats the building, and solar panels heat the water and pools.

Image  Relax in a quiet corner of Portugal and drink in the olive groves in front of you

6. Manon les Suites, Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark’s not short of an ecohotel or two. But new opening,  Manon les Suites , is a tranquil, modern haven – right in the heart of Copenhagen’s city centre.

If you want the convenience of a city break but still want to find somewhere relaxed and eco-friendly, the hotel is a breath of fresh air. All the food is organic, goods are recycled, and products are packaged sustainably.

The Green Globe-certified hotel has gorgeous interiors to match, too with living walls and a pared back colour palette. Combining effortless luxury with minimalist Scandi-chic, Manon les Suites will make your city break one to remember.

7. Gökçe Gemile, Turkey

Travelling with a big party or need some privacy? Over on the Turkish coast, on the Gemile Peninsula, three stunning houses Gökçe, Elmali and Gemile , can be taken individually or all together – and sleep 22 people in total.

These stunning properties from Fairlight Jones took three years to build and are completely free from plastic, as the craftsmen hand-built the houses with local stone, reclaimed wood and iron. Backed by forest and overlooking a private waterfront, this is a blissful retreat option.

The houses are built to embrace the incredible forest. Sea views mesmerise through impressive walls of glass,and all of the existing natural features have been maintained. One of the houses even has the original carob tree growing inside it.

And don’t forget to offset the carbon from your flights. 

8. Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia

This new  eco hotel from the Bensley Collection  is pretty serious about its sustainable credentials. Three hours from capital Phnom Penh, this luxury tented camp sits within the South Cardamom National Park, famed for its wildlife.

Choose to enter by Jeep or zipwire, this is an ecochic, 60s style channelling safari adventure featuring foraged food fine dining, kayaking the jungle, hikes, birdwatching and wild swimming.

There’s a permaculture farm, a team of on site naturalists and anti-poachers and views of the rich forested park that have to be seen to be believed.

What is an eco hotel?

An ‘eco hotel’ is a hotel that is one that is reducing its impact on the environment and has either been designed to be eco-friendly from the start, or has worked hard to make an older building as eco-friendly as possble.

Sustainability should be woven through everything from its purchasing policies to ensuring fair wages, from  no single use plastic  to acting as a guardian of its land.

What makes a hotel sustainable?

There are many ways a hotel can be sustainable and it’s not enough to just wash towels less or offer  plastic -free straws.

A sustainable hotel is one that ensures it makes environment as a priority in a number of ways. Here are some to look out for:

• Reducing its water, carbon and energy usage
• Has a responsible waste strategy
• Employs sustainable architecture
• Doesn’t use single use plastic as much as possible
• Uses renewable options as much as possible
• Support and promotes the local economy
• Engages, drives or funds local conservation
• Employs and pays fairly
• Helps guests access other eco-friendly intiatives,  restaurants , experiences
• Reduces its  food waste
• Offers sustainable, seasonal or local menus
• Supports biodiversity on its grounds in rhythm with the local climate

Greenwashing in hotels

Sadly, as in many industries, there are many hotels who allude to being sustainable without actually having a roadmap or journey to get there.

It’s not enough to not serve water in single use plastic or no longer stock minature toiletries and at the moment it’s often up to us as guests to do our research to ensure the accommodation we’re booking really is green.

A truly sustainable hotel will want to shout about its achievements, both consumer facing and beind the scenes and the more information it shares, often the more sustainable it really is.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions before you book or ask for verification.

Closing thoughts on some of the best eco hotels

The number of hotels which are choosing to look after the planet and their people is growing and eco hotels are becoming more widespread at every budget level, from solar powered hostels to seriously luxurious private retreats and resorts.

It’s a joy to see even those hotels who don’t necessarily identify as “eco” adopt more eco practices. All of this change comes from you, the traveller putting on the pressure so keep it up!

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The Knot's Top Eco Hotels and Resorts for 2024

With the global climate crisis making headlines regularly, more and more travelers are prioritizing eco hotels and resorts—and rightly so. In fact, one of the top honeymoon and travel trends of 2024 is intentionally sustainable stays and we're far from the only ones who are saying it. According to the Boston Consulting Group , "80% of consumers we surveyed say that they are concerned about the environment and that they considered aspects of sustainability when they last traveled.

The travel industry accounts for approximately 10% of global emissions, making it vital to reduce emission. But sustainability is about much more than just our carbon footprint. It's about preserving the natural environment and empowering local communities. These eco hotels and resorts are doing much more than just reducing their use of plastic. They're leading the way with a variety of sustainable initiatives and they're proving that being sustainable doesn't mean sacrificing quality. On the contrary, these eco hotels and resorts are some of the world's best hotels and resorts for a honeymoon , anniversary getaway , or couples trip.

In this article:

Best Overall Eco Hotel: Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

Best for luxury: nihi sumba, indonesia, best budget friendly: bambu indah, bali, best all-inclusive eco resort: nayara bocas del toro, panama, best eco beach resort: joali maldives, best rural eco hotel: casa di langa, piedmont, best urban eco hotel: 1 hotel brooklyn bridge, new york city, best glamping eco resort: singita sabora tented camp, tanzania, best eco safari lodge: chobe game lodge, botswana, best eco resort for spiritual seekers: habitas bacalar, quintana roo.

Thai brand Six Senses—now under the umbrella of IHG Hotels & Resorts—is a leader when it comes to creating sustainable hotels. Far from just eliminating plastic, Six Senses works to improve the environment and social fabric of each destination where they have a hotel or resort. In Portugal's famed wine region, the Six Senses Douro Valley occupies a restored 19th-century farmhouse with a sleek, modern design, a renowned spa, and plenty of activities, from cooking classes and wine tastings to workshops designed to teach you how to make all natural skincare products. They grow fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs in the on-site organic garden, study ways of being sustainable at the Earth Lab, and even partner with a donkey sanctuary to protect these animals that live in the countryside surrounding the hotel.

Quinta de Vale Abraão, Samodães, 5100-758 Lamego, Portugal

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World on the idyllic island of Sumba in the Indonesian archipelago, NIHI Sumba offers understated luxury for guests while improving the lives of the islanders. A collection of 27 thatched roof villas and treehouses is spread out over 500 acres of tropical jungles, mountains, and pristine beaches where horses wander freely. (There are also equine therapy retreats offered.) Notably, the resort partners with the Sumba Foundation, which has helped over 45,000 islanders gain access to clean water and reduced malaria on the island by up to 93%. Guests who are interested in learning more can take a Sumba Foundation tour.

Hoba Wawi, Wanokaka, West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia 87272

Deep in the jungle of Ubud, Bali's capital, Bambu Indah rises like a dreamscape out of The Jungle Book . Created by Canadian jewelry designer John Hardy, who moved to Bali in the 1970s, and his wife Cynthia, the property is a collection of antique Javanese bridal huts and bamboo treehouse-style suites set along the Ayung River and designed by Elora Hardy, John's daughter and a visionary architect known for her work with bamboo. The entire resort was constructed using natural materials, without any plastic, and all of the bath products are organic. The signature restaurant serves farm-to-table Balinese cuisine sourced from the property's gardens and the surrounding area. Bambu Indah is part of the Green Family, a collection of sustainably-minded initiatives that includes Green Village and Green School.

Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Nayara Bocas del Toro is the only resort on Frangipani Island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. This adults-only resort is a favorite among couples and honeymooners looking for the right balance of relaxation, romance, and adventure, with activities like kayaking and guided night swims on the bioluminescent bay. The resort comprises 16 overwater villas crafted by Balinese artisans and two fifty-foot tree houses designed by Elora Hardy's firm IBUKU and made with locally sourced bamboo and reclaimed wood from the Panama Canal. The resort operates completely off the grid, with solar energy and rainwater treatment. Nayara also supports the community by hiring locally and providing English classes, seminars on environmental and sustainability practices, and covering some of the costs of career development courses.

Isla Frangipani, 6QQH+7J Punta Laurel, Panamá

Occupying a private island in the Maldives, JOALI was conceived according to the principles of biophilic design, a scientific system of integrating architecture with nature, and comprises a variety of dreamy overwater villas and beach villas. The resort is silver certified by EarthCheck and is especially focused on preserving the marine environment that makes the Maldives such a unique and magical place. JOALI and its sister resort, JOALI BEING, partner with the Olive Ridley Project to protect sea turtles and guests at JOALI can join the resort's marine biologist in a coral regeneration project, snorkeling out to the coral farm to plant new coral and see the project's progress. As a woman-owned resort, JOALI also supports women's empowerment through the arts with initiatives like JOALI Art Week and by donating to Zero Waste Maldives, which empowers local seamstresses to create bags and other items using upcycled fabrics.

Muravandhoo Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives

Nestled in the rolling hills of Piedmont, the northern Italian region famous for fine wines, Casa di Langa is a member of Beyond Green, a portfolio of sustainable hotels, lodges, and resorts within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection. Overlooking 40 hectares of vineyards and countryside, the property was designed to be carbon neutral, with geothermal heating, solar panels, and recycled water for irrigation. The chefs at the hotel's gourmet restaurant Faulà use fresh ingredients from the property's garden and greenhouse and spa treatments incorporate local ingredients like honey and olive oil. Guests are encouraged to embrace the destination with activities like truffle hunting, wine tastings, and cooking classes.

Località Talloria 1, 12050 Ceretto Langhe (CN), Italy

Located on the DUMBO waterfront in Brooklyn Bridge Park, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge sets a shining example for sustainability at urban hotels. The hotel is LEED Gold certified, which means it meets stringent sustainability requirements. Aside from being plastic-free, it has energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, LED lighting, and occupancy-based thermostat controls. The rooftop, which boasts a pool with fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline, is planted with garden beds, shrubs, and trees that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the hotel offsets its inevitable carbon emissions through carbon offset projects. So go ahead, indulge in a zero-waste cocktail at the Osprey and admire the living green wall in the lobby lounge.

60 Furman Street, Brooklyn, NY, U.S.A.

One of Africa's leading safari operators, Singita is also one of the continent's sustainability leaders. The recently renovated Singita Sabora Tented Camp is set on the Grumeti Reserve, a 350,000-acre reserve near the Serengeti that represents an inspiring success story for African conservation. Years of hunting had decimated the wildlife population in the area, which the Tanzanian government turned into a protected reserve in 1994 and in 2002, the reserve's management was turned over to the Grumeti Community and Wildlife Conservation Fund, which succeeded in bringing the animals back. Aside from caring for the wildlife, Singita cares for the natural environment and the local community by adhering to Bioregional's One Planet Living framework. Guests staying at Singita Sabora Tented Camp can not only see the wildlife on game drives but also see the anti-poaching canine unit to learn more about wildlife conservation and visit a local school to learn how Singita supports the local community.

Grumeti Game Reserve, 31623, Tanzania

The only permanent lodge set within Chobe National Park in Botswana, Chobe Game Lodge was one of the first ten properties to be awarded the highest Ecotourism level by the Botswana Tourism Organisation. The distinction is especially impressive because the property is also the oldest five-star lodge in Botswana . In recent years, the lodge has converted the majority of its fleet to electric vehicles and solar-powered boats that ply the Chobe River. Behind the scenes, the lodge processes over 100 kilos of biodegradable waste and recycles 60,000 liters of gray water everyday, and around 95% of the lodge's waste gets sorted and recycled. Perhaps most inspiring, Chobe Game Lodge employs an all-female guiding team known as the Chobe Angels in an effort to empower women to work in the traditionally male-dominated safari industry.

Chobe National Park, Serondela, Botswana

Direction: Please source a photo of the property from the website if available

Guests checking into Habitas Bacalar , an eco-wellness resort set on Lake Bacalar—known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors—in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, are invited to begin their trip with a short intention-setting meditation session. That pretty much sets the tone at the property, where the roster of on-site activities includes sunrise paddleboarding on the lagoon, aerial yoga, sound meditations, and temazcal ceremonies. As a brand, Habitas is all about sustainability and has pledged its commitment to fulfilling the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals for 2030. All their resorts are created using modular building techniques that leave a light footprint on the landscape and other sustainability measures include a single-use plastic-free policy, waste management, and carbon offsetting.

Carretera Federal 307 Xul Ha, 77963 Bacalar, Mexico

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What is an Eco Hotel?

Part of the joy of going on holiday is finding the perfect place to stay. And though there seem to be options abound when looking into top destinations around the world, most hotels have yet to incorporate sustainability into their mission.

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If you are anything like us and sustainability is part of your travel decision-making process , you might not want to stay in accommodation that’s detrimental to the environment and the community.

That’s where eco-hotels come in! Eco-hotels (also known as “green” hotels, or environmentally friendly hotels) are properties that embrace environmental sustainability and have a positive impact on the community they operate in.  

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But what does an environmentally friendly hotel look like? What does it do? And most importantly, how do you go about finding one?

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to find eco-hotels around the world . Search engines like booking.com have not yet incorporated a “green hotel” filter in their system. So in many cases, eco-conscious travelers are forced to rely on their own research when deciding whether or not the property they are considering is “green.”

A simple Google search for “Eco hotel” or “green hotel” in the destination of your choice will often reveal a few options. But we’ve  come to realize that there are some great responsible accommodation options that simply don’t highlight this information on their website.

Evaluating an Eco-hotel

If your search has led to a few potential options, start by browsing the hotels’ websites searching for sections dedicated to sustainable commitment or environmental practices. Below you’ll find a list of helpful questions to keep in mind. 

What sustainability practices does the hotel have in place?

• Was the hotel built with consideration of the local climate?
• If the hotel has central heating/cooling, is there a thermostat in each room to allow guests to adjust the temperature to a reasonable level?
• How often does housekeeping clean rooms during your stay?
• Do they stress the importance of conserving water and reuse of bathroom towels?
• Does the hotel provide disposable toiletries or offer shampoo/conditioner in refillable containers instead?
• Does the hotel food/beverage services use reusable products (glass cups, ceramic plates, cloth napkins, etc.)?
• Is there a recycling program?
• Is there a solar energy system in place on the property?
• Does the hotel have a water separation system on the property?
• If the hotel has grounds, are the plants being treated with pesticides or natural fertilizers?

How does the hotel utilize the local environment and does it support the local community?

• Is the food locally sourced?
• Are the hotel staff locals?
• If the hotel offers tours of the area, are the tour guides local?
• Does the hotel embrace the local culture?
• Does the hotel offer bicycles for guests? Alternatively, does the hotel have information available for guests about public transportation in the area?

Grant the hotel a point for every “yes” to the questions above and choose a hotel that truly “walks the talk” when it comes to sustainability practices.

If You Can’t Find an Eco-Hotel…

If you’ve tried to find an eco-hotel in the destination you are planning to visit but couldn’t settle on a good option, don’t be discouraged! Use the opportunity to spark a conversation with the staff at the hotel about sustainable accommodation, and some simple practices they can put into place to immediately make the property more environmentally friendly.

Here are some of our suggested conversation starters :

• Start a recycling program on the property – start with separate bins for paper/plastic/compost/general waste in the lobby and kitchen, and then expand to guestrooms
• Switch from buying individually packaged guest room toiletries to buying in bulk with reusable containers for shampoo/body wash/hand soap
• Switch to non-toxic cleaning products
• Switch to manual gardening instead of motor-powered tools (If hotel has grounds)
• Consider adding solar panels to the roof or grounds of the hotel for water heating from Renew energy . 
• Eliminate individual bottles/cans in restaurant/bar of hotel and to minimize plastic use

And there are so many more! Once you’ve started to do your research about sustainable accommodation, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for in green hotels and what to suggest to hotels that aren’t there yet! 

Remember, the more guests ask about it, the more likely it is that hotel management will consider incorporating sustainable practices into the hotel’s business model. 

Tell us, have you ever stayed in an Eco-hotel before? What did you love most about your stay?

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

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Green Global Travel

World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. We share transformative Responsible Travel, Sustainable Living & Going Green Tips that make a positive impact.

How to Choose an Eco Hotel

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

There are many variables an eco-conscious traveler must consider when attempting responsible travel . B ut one that usually goes high on the list is the choice of accommodation. Living sustainably at home can be challenging enough, but it’s even harder when you’re putting that responsibility in someone else’s hands.

Gone are the days when merely reusing towels and energy efficient light bulbs were enough make a hotel “green.” Resorts that claim to be eco-friendly, but are in fact only aesthetically so (otherwise known as greenwashers ) are becoming more common.

As the green travel   industry grows, there are numerous factors to be considered when choosing your perfect eco hotel But any manager of a genuinely sustainable company should be able to answer your questions.

Here are 5 inquiries that will help you make  informed decisions the next time you travel responsibly:

Where Does Their Water Come From (& Is It Used Sustainably)? 

Most hotels these days have those cards in their rooms, where you can notify the staff not to clean towels or linens. But to be truly “green,” why not think about the other ways the eco hotel might use water unnecessarily?

Do they collect rainwater to keep their lawn green? Do they use low-flow toilets? If the resort is littered with decorative pools and fountains, consider where that water is coming from and if it’s draining on local resources.

What Kind of Energy Does the Eco Hotel Use?

It’s important to know the ways in which an eco hotel produces its energy, because it affects nearly all of the resort’s operations. Hotels that switch to alternative energy sources such as solar power are clearly making significant changes to the impact they have on the world around them.

Other methods of energy production are also becoming more popular, such as wind and geothermal. Does the hotel take advantage of these new methods of producing power?

Does the Eco Hotel Use Local Staff and Products?

The hotel industry is notorious for hiring foreigners in almost every country in the world, but one factor that contributes to a hotel’s sustainability rating is their use of local labor. The more a hotel hires from the indigenous population, the more it is contributing to the local economy and making it more self-sufficient.  

Is the eco hotel staff made up of locals or foreigners? Does the hotel use local suppliers for food and drink? Sourcing the food and drink they serve locally helps families in local communities support themselves and, in poorer countries, to survive.

Does the Eco Hotel Have a Recycling Plan?

One of the simple ways most of us become more sustainable at home is by recycling as much as possible. When you’re on holiday, it can be difficult to keep a handle on where your waste goes.

Especially when it comes to cooking, since you don’t get to see where all that food packaging goes. Does the hotel have recycling bins in rooms and lounge areas for guest use, as well as the waste from the kitchen, reception and other working areas?

What Does the Eco Hotel Do To Help The Surrounding Community?

It’s not just internal operations that make a hotel “green” these days. What does the hotel do to contribute to the sustainability of the area that surrounds it?

This is especially important when the hotel is located in an area that relies on conservation, such as a national park or rainforest. Does the hotel manage and help to protect the natural habitat around it? Does it have a positive impact on, and active role in, the community?

Aside from asking questions, another way to ensure green travel is to see if the hotel has LEED certification . Established by the U.S. Green Building Council , LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), is a standard by which the organization assesses hotels and awards them Silver, Gold, or Platinum status.

To achieve certification, the hotel must meet certain levels in six categories: Sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. However, be forewarned that some LEED-certified hotels have been known to make slip-ups, such as the use of styrofoam cups and plates. When in doubt, keep asking those questions! –Emma Higgins; photos by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

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Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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• Feb 11, 2023

What is Eco Travel? Everything You Need to Know

What is eco travel? Find out everything you need to know in this article, including how you can be a more sustainable traveler.

Travel has the power to connect us to new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, it's important to consider the impact that our travel can have on the environment and local communities.

That's where eco travel comes in - it's a way to explore the world while minimizing our impact on the planet. But what exactly is eco travel?

In this article, we'll delve into everything you need to know about eco travel, from its definition to the benefits it provides and the steps you can take to make your own travels more sustainable.

Jump Ahead: Everything You Need to Know About Eco Travel

What is Eco Travel?

The importance of sustainable travel.

How Does Eco Travel Differ from Traditional Travel?

What Are the Benefits of Eco Travel?

How Can I Travel More Sustainably?

Eco travel, also known as sustainable travel, is a type of travel that minimizes its impact on the environment and local communities.

It involves being mindful of how our travels affect the world around us and taking steps to reduce the negative impact while enhancing the positive.

Eco travel is not just about the destination, but also about the journey and the way we interact with the world during our travels.

As more people take to the roads, skies, and seas to explore the world, the impact of tourism is becoming increasingly apparent. From overcrowding and damage to natural habitats to exploitation of local communities and cultures, the impact of traditional travel practices cannot be ignored.

By choosing eco travel, we have the opportunity to reduce our impact and help preserve the world's most precious places for future generations.

How Eco Travel Differs from Traditional Travel

Eco travel is different from traditional travel in several key ways. While traditional travel may prioritize convenience, speed, and comfort, eco travel prioritizes sustainability and the protection of the environment and local communities.

Eco travelers may choose to stay in sustainable accommodations, take low-carbon transportation options, support local businesses, and engage in responsible tourism activities.

These actions help to reduce the environmental impact of travel and support sustainable development in destination communities.

The Benefits of Eco Travel

Eco travel has numerous benefits, both for the traveler and the world around them.

Firstly, it has a positive impact on the environment and local communities, preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of destinations for future generations.

Secondly, eco travel can enhance the travel experience itself, offering opportunities for more authentic, meaningful, and immersive encounters with new places and cultures.

Finally, eco travel can have a profound personal impact, helping travelers to develop new perspectives and connect more deeply with the world.

Whether it's learning about sustainable practices, supporting local businesses, or engaging in responsible tourism activities, eco travel can be a truly transformative experience for those who embrace it.

Steps to Make Your Travel More Sustainable

Making your travel more sustainable doesn't have to be complicated. By following a few simple steps, you can minimize your impact and help to protect the environment and local communities.

1. Research Before You Go

Before you even set foot on a plane, train, or bus, do some research on your destination. Learn about local customs and cultures, sustainable practices, and environmentally-friendly options for transportation, accommodation, and activities. This research can help you make informed decisions and minimize your impact.

2. Use Public Transportation or Low-Carbon Alternatives

Where possible, opt for public transportation or low-carbon alternatives such as cycling or walking. Not only will this help to reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also offer a more immersive and authentic travel experience.

3. Support Sustainable Businesses and Practices

Look for accommodations and activities that prioritize sustainability and have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. By supporting these businesses, you can help to promote sustainable practices and encourage other travelers to do the same.

4. Reduce Waste and Minimize Plastic Use

Minimize your waste and reduce your plastic use during your travels. This can include bringing your own water bottle, avoiding single-use plastics, and properly disposing of waste.

5. Engage in Responsible Tourism Activities

Consider engaging in responsible tourism activities, such as volunteering, conservation efforts, or cultural exchange programs. These experiences can be incredibly rewarding and help to promote sustainability in destination communities.

6. Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels

Another way to become a more sustainable traveler is to stay at eco-friendly hotels. Some accommodations are certified with organizations that recognize those companies that are taking measures to reduce their impact. Certifications like those from Green Globe, Earth Check, and Green Key mean that your hotel is doing a lot more than those without.

Eco travel is a growing trend that offers numerous benefits for travelers and the world around them. By embracing sustainable practices and minimizing our impact, we can help to preserve the beauty and cultural heritage of destinations for future generations.

Whether it's researching before you go, using low-carbon alternatives, supporting sustainable businesses, reducing waste, or engaging in responsible tourism activities, there are many ways to make your travels more sustainable.

With a little effort, we can all be part of the solution and help to create a better world for ourselves and those who come after us. So why not make eco travel a priority on your next adventure and see the world in a whole new light?

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10 Great Eco Hotels Perfect For Earth Day

by Michelle Peters | Mar 9, 2024 | Family Adventures , USA

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Earth Day is almost here, inspiring us to think more thoughtfully about how we, and the travel industry, connect with our planet and its natural beauty. Our children are some of the most in tune with what our world needs, having grown up in an age when we are moving toward environmental conservation and protection efforts. Plus, what greater gift to our kids is there than a healthy planet they can continue to explore through sustainable travel – most likely trips in their electric vehicle to some eco hotels?

These five eco-friendly, sustainable hotels and resorts are some of the best green accommodations in the world, striving to be as carbon-neutral as possible in their everyday operations while also offering programs that inspire little naturalists. Eliminating single-use plastic bottles, dealing with food waste in inspiring ways, and limiting water consumption are just a few of the sustainable practices already in the works at these eco-hotel options. Stay, get inspired, then continue these green initiatives in your own local community. 

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The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania 

This award-winning, eco-friendly hotel in the Pennsylvania State Park system gives overnight guests the choice between 16 rooms with sweeping lake views and modern amenities within an impeccable natural setting. Ideal for nature-loving families, much of the lodge life here is lived outside, with adventures available year-round. The 1,730-acre lake offers swimming, waterskiing, paddleboarding, fishing, and kayaking, while on land, you can spend days hiking and birdwatching. 

What Makes It Green

The lodge has gone to great lengths to blend right in with the natural surroundings through its design elements, stewardship practices, green amenities, and sustainable initiatives. While you’re there, look for little messages and signs throughout the inn and grounds explaining the lodge’s environmental impact and solutions. 

The LEED Gold-certified lodge relies on geothermal heating and cooling, low-flow plumbing fixtures, recycled glass in its floor and wall tiles, rain gardens, water-efficient landscaping, regional sustainable materials, and on-site renewable energy, including solar panels that assist with hot water generation. The guest rooms each have a monitor showing how much energy your accommodation uses. 

Get gleeful about green travel! Photo credit Vitolda Klein.

DON’T MISS! Make Precious Memories At 8 Fantastic Family Lake Resorts

The Breakers Palm Beach 

This landmark resort on the sands of Palm Beach was founded in 1896 and has been a leading character in their region’s story ever since. Stay and play in good eco-conscience as you enjoy four ocean-front pools, a fantastic family entertainment area, ocean swimming and snorkeling, world-class golf, tennis, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Get around the resort and check out nearby Worth Avenue on one of The Breakers’ bikes (remember your reusable water bottle), or sign up for an eco-tour to better understand your natural surroundings. 

To keep up with the evolving world and its local landscape, the hotel is diligently monitoring its environmental impact. 

To lower its carbon footprint, The Breakers Palm Beach implements energy efficient, water conservation and waste management methods while maintaining the luxury resort vibe guests expect. They continue to be committed to enhancing environmental programs that protect and preserve their regional natural resources. 

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii 

For those families eyeing Hawaii, the stunning 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is tops when it comes to sustainable tourism. Kids, or “Seedlings” as they’re called by the hotel’s youth club, enjoy playful experiences that draw upon the island’s natural surroundings, whether exploring vegetable gardens, learning about marine creatives, carving pineapples, or turning marine debris into works of art. Guests are encouraged to explore the island more widely on boat tours, guided hikes, and helicopter flights that further instill an appreciation for nature. For families, we suggest the connecting suites with a kitchen.

It’s an easy segway from the hotel’s mind-and-body wellness angle to healthy planet practices. After buying out the old St. Regis Princeville, the hotel eschewed a complete renovation in favor of a reimagining, saving 144.6 tons of materials from entering landfills and 73.8 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. The LEED-certified sanctuary also uses LED lighting, HVAC systems with energy recovery, green roofs, waste diversion, and other global carbon offset projects to keep its island oasis … well … an oasis. 

A front-row seat on some of nature’s finest work. Photo credit Rosalind Chang.

Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan 

Escape to a storybook island in northern Michigan where you’ll get about by horse-drawn carriage and bicycle (no cars here!), ancient rock formations take over for screen entertainment, and old-world charm meets 21st-century Mother Earth mindfulness. Between May and October, the family-centric Grand Hotel offers all manner of summer and fall fun, from duck races to a spooktacular Halloween event to round out the season. See the island’s natural attractions by bike, swim in the huge pool or soak in the hot tub, play mini golf (or “big” golf at The Jewel ), or check out the 18th-century Fort Mackinac.

The historic Grand Hotel’s car-free setting alone places it ahead of many in the hospitality industry. The state’s Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth has certified the hotel as a Green Lodging Michigan Leader. Among other initiatives, the Grand uses a state-of-the-art air-conditioning system that uses water to cool accommodations, which is then used to heat the outdoor pool. 

Dining on the island is largely island—or Michigan-sourced, and there is a robust composting program in addition to other eco-friendly activities. Recognizing that the health of local communities inspires better care of our surroundings, the Grand also supports the Mackinac Island Community Foundation to improve the well-being of island residents and visitors and expand environmental education. 

Going green in the “grandest” way. Photo credit Steve Saunders.

Viceroy Snowmass, Snowmass Village, Colorado 

Whether it’s snow or wildflower season, Viceroy Snowmass is ticking the boxes as a sustainable hotel – and it’s also a great choice for families. The V Team Kids program helps kids express creatives, explore the local culture and get playful, whether creating their own backpacks for hikes or painting a birdfeeder to take home. Those seeking an upscale stay in the midst of some of the finest scenery in the country will adore the 400-thread-count sheets, hydrotherapy shower, pool deck, and spa, while adventurous types can ski, take an ATV tour, or hit the hiking trails. 

The LEED Gold-certified resort is 30% more energy-efficient than many green hotels in the same category. Improved insulation, high-performance windows, efficient mechanical and electrical systems, non-toxic cleaning products and reusable shampoo and conditioner bottles are some of the methods Viceroy Snowmass is using to show love to its Rocky Mountain locale … and beyond. Families can get into the mix by participating in town clean-ups with local people or checking out the local fauna on a wildlife expedition.

DON’T MISS! 8 Best Colorado Resorts for Families

Take the kids’ appreciation for Mother Earth to new heights – literally – in Colorado. Photo by Ryan Milrad.

Check out these 10 eco-conscious hotels that are taking sustainable travel seriously and creating a better world for our kids.

And a Few More Besides

Beyond those listed here, you’ll find forward-thinking luxury hotels and eco-lodges from New York City to Costa Rica working hard to increase energy efficiency and limit negative environmental impacts. Can’t get enough eco-friendly travel. Good on you! Here are a few more favorites:

• 1 Hotel West Hollywood , California 
• Mohonk Mountain House , New Paltz, New York
• Inn by the Sea , Cape Elizabeth, Maine
• Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa , Whitefield, New Hampshire
• Blockade Runner Beach Resort , Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina 

Happy Earth Day!

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ECO & SUSTAINABILITY , HOTEL GUIDES , LUXURY TRAVEL , RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL · January 31, 2019 Last Updated on March 11, 2024

20 OF THE WORLD’S BEST LUXURY ECO HOTELS

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

The hotel business is inherently not eco-friendly, but there are hotels all over the world striving to lessen their carbon footprint and operate in more eco-friendly way. The 5-star hotels listed below all incorporate sustainable practices into their operations and are working to conserve resources, recycle waste materials, and offer guests a greener way to enjoy a luxury vacation.

Please note that no hotel is 100% eco-friendly, and just because a hotel is listed here does not mean that every aspect of the hotel is sustainable. This is a list of 20 of the world’s best luxury eco hotels that have implemented meaningful green practices without compromising on luxury.

1) Mumbo Island, Malawi

Mumbo Island could be the most underrated eco hotel in the world. Located on the expansive waters of Lake Malawi National Park, Mumbo Island is a rustic luxury hotel that gives you the chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature, yourself and other guests on the island.

It is a place that makes you realize that the best things in life are the simplest – beautiful surroundings, delicious food, and wonderful people. There is no electricity, no cell phone service and no Wi-Fi – which forces guests to do a much-needed digital detox. There is also no running water, but your hot shower will be brought to your lake view bungalow by bucket.

During our Malawi Safari & Charity Trip we spend two blissful days and nights on Mumbo Island. If you’d like to join us on our next Malawi trip (fall 2024) please subscribe to our email list to be notified when we open bookings. Highlights include hiking, kayaking, swimming, and a sunset cocktail hour on the crystal blue waters of Lake Malawi.

2) 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami, USA 

What happens when you seamlessly combine luxury with sustainability? Welcome to the 1 Hotel South Beach . Their mission is simple:  the world around us is beautiful and we want to do our best to keep it that way .

All the rooms at 1 Hotel South Beach are inspired by nature and offer luxe eco amenities such as bamboo speakers, closet hangers made from recycled newspaper and in-room water filtration systems to remove the use of plastic bottles, and offer an unlimited fresh supply of drinking water for guests.

1 Hotel South Beach also has one of the best (adults only) rooftop pools in Miami where guests can enjoy lunch, drinks and dinner poolside, or in a private cabana with sweeping views of South Beach.

3) Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand

I had the pleasure of staying at Six Senses Yao Noi several years ago and I was highly impressed by their dedication to sustainability and humanitarianism. Six Senses Yao Noi has its own water treatment and bottling plant on the property.

The resort produces drinking water through reverse osmosis and bottles it in reusable glass bottles. Proceeds from water sales are donated to help bring clean drinking water to people without access including two nearby schools.

Six Senses Yao Noi also supports local hospitals and churches. They also pride themselves on offering farm-to-table food by buying locally and growing produce in their own organic vegetable gardens.

This luxury eco hotel also incorporates numerous sustainable practices to reduce, reuse and recycle. And, as you can see from the photo below, they might have the best infinity pool on the planet.

4) Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia

Located on Sumba Island in East Indonesia, just a short one hour flight from Bali, Nihi Sumba Island  (formerly Nihiwatu) was voted the #1 hotel in the world in all categories by Travel & Leisure in 2016 and 2017.

As an avid surfer and someone who cares about sustainability, having the opportunity to be hosted at this amazing eco resort was a highlight of my travel blogging career thus far.

Nihi is dedicated to preserving the natural environment and Sumbanese culture. All 33 ocean view suites and villas are individually decorated and hand-built with thatched roofs by Indonesian craftsmen using sustainable materials.

Nihi is also committed to being a carbon-neutral resort and is powered by bio-fuel produced from coconuts at its own bio-diesel factory. A portion of profits from the resort are donated to supporting Sumbanese schools, hospitals, and farms through the Sumba Foundation , providing access to clean drinking water, creating educational programs and lessening the effects of Malaria.

For more information, you can read my Nihi Sumba Island review .

5) Soneva Fushi, Maldives 

Soneva Fushi effortlessly blends luxury with sustainability. This island hideaway, located on Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and has proudly pioneered luxury travel in the Maldives .

At Soneva Fushi luxury villas and private residences are hidden among dense tropical foliage. Many are built to resemble tree houses and all of them open to their own private stretch of white sand beach, and most have their own private seawater swimming pools.

Environmental and social responsibility are at the core of the resort’s philosophy. Soneva Fushi has one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives, and food is grown and sourced locally. Soneva Fushi also recycles waste materials, and it preserves ecosystems – there are two nature reserves on-site where sea turtles can nest.

6) Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Bawah Reserve is a private island retreat that offers its guests a luxury escape in Indonesia’s Anambas archipelago. Made up of 6 Islands, 3 Lagoons and 13 Beaches, Bawah is a lush tropical paradise that you will never want to leave!

Bawah is a luxury private island resort owned by Tim Hartnell and it is his vision that has allowed this eco-friendly luxury resort to be created with great respect for the natural environment that surrounds it.

“Bawah can be described as a luxury resort for those who want to have everything catered for them, but with this being done in a relaxed and natural way. It’s for the eco conscious traveller who wants to enjoy luxury amenities responsibly,” says We Are Travel Girls Co-Founder Becky van Dijk.

For more information, read our full Bawah Reserve review .

7) Hotel Forsthofalm, Austria

Hotel Forsthofalm is an environmentally-friendly ski-in ski-out hotel making use of a well-planned waste, water and energy concept. The hotel is built almost entirely of timber and glass, along with other natural, recyclable materials, which adds to its uniqueness and beauty.

Forsthofalm also creates some of its own energy from solar panels, and you will find energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the hotel. The hotel also prides themselves on serving organic, locally sourced produce and meats, and their spa and bathroom products are all made locally with locally sourced herbs.

During our Travel Girls Getaways Austrian Alps Ski Retreat we spent seven blissful nights at Hotel Forsthofalm. Highlights included world-class après-ski parties, a sustainability talk, gourmet dining, and of course excellent spring skiing! You can check out photos and videos from our trip on my IG stories and find the best rates at Hotel Forsthofalm . 

8) 1 Hotel Central Park, New York, USA

1 Hotel aims to make an impact by reinventing the industry standard for socially responsible hospitality. They aren’t just focused on making their hotels better, they want to make the world better, and aspire for 1 Hotels to be a platform to spark conversations that transform the hotel industry.

At 1 Hotel Central Park nature inspires everything from the eco-chic decor, the farm-to-fork dining, to the LEED-certified lighting. 1 Hotel Central Park is an eco oasis in the heart of bustling New York City .

9) Soneva Kiri, Koh Hood, Thailand

Soneva Kiri is located on Thailand’s least populated island, Koh Kood, in the Gulf of Siam, and is a 90-minute flight from Bangkok on the resort’s private plane. Soneva Kiri offers 36 expansive villas with stunning infinity pools, eco-chic furnishings, and personal electric buggies.

At Soneva Kiri guests can enjoy Cinema Paradiso – a nightly film screenings in an open-air, jungle cinema built over a rainwater reservoir that supplies the resort with fresh water.

The Soneva Group is a pioneer in sustainable luxury tourism, holding annual symposiums with leading environmentalists, and it endorses a concept they call SLOW life, which stands for Sustainable Local Organic Wellness Learning Inspiring Fun Experiences.

10) Song SAA Private Island, Cambodia 

Inspired by a passion for Cambodia and a commitment to sustainable development,  Song Saa owners Rory and Melita Hunter established the country’s first government-recognized marine reserve, built a community-sustained solid waste management centre.

They also launched the Song Saa Foundation , which creates and promotes projects that improve the wellbeing of the communities and natural environments of the Koh Rong Archipelago and beyond.

Song Saa offers 18 garden and beach villas, and nine overwater villas and is known for amazing service. This private island should be one of the eco-luxury hotels you consider booking if you are looking to get away from it all in a remote destination.

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11) Sx Senses Qing Cheng Mountain, China

Located at the picturesque gateway to the majestic Qing Cheng Mountains, Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain has been created to complement the UNESCO World Heritage & Natural Cultural site nearby Dujiangyan .

Drawing upon the renowned Six Senses perspective of responsible luxury, the resort has been brilliantly designed to incorporate regional architecture and landscaping, resulting in an extraordinary cultural offering with a strong sense of place wedded to contemporary attitude.

Guests are picked up in a Tesla Model S electric vehicle and whisked off to their suits that have private balconies or courtyard verandas with beautiful mountain views.

12) The Brando, French Polynesia 

The Brando is a unique luxury resort on French Polynesia’s breathtakingly beautiful private island of Tetiaroa – an atoll composed of a dozen small islands surrounding a sparkling lagoon 30 miles northeast of Tahiti.

The Brando offers carefree luxury in the midst of pristine nature. With access to the island by private plane, the resort features 35 villas on white-sand beaches frequented by sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds. The resort was designed to reflect Polynesian lifestyles and culture.

The Brando is carbon neutral and almost 100% self-sustainable. All building materials used are of local or certified origin, renewable, or incorporate recycled components.

The Brando also uses a deep seawater air-conditioning system to reduce energy demands and utilizes renewable energy sources including solar power and coconut oil. Legendary actor Marlon Brando settled down here and the resort made headlines when President Barack Obama visited and when Pippa Middleton had her honeymoon here.

13) The Outpost Lodge, South Africa 

The Outpost Lodge accommodates 24 guests in 12 open plan, en-suite luxury spaces cantilevered on a hill overlooking the Luvuvhu River, on the edge of Kruger National Park.

The construction and operation of The Outpost Lodge is based on the principle that they want to make as little impact on the landscape and environment as possible, which they consider an ever-evolving process that grows more efficient with new technologies and practices each year.

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Sarah Bryant stayed at The Outpost Lodge recently and said

“It was evident from my stay here that they have a strong environmental awareness and their attitude towards protecting Kruger National Park is commendable.”

14) Aman Bali Resorts, Indonesia

Aman Resorts around the world have been renowned for their exceptional luxury accommodations coupled with unparalleled service. Aman Resorts also pride themselves on sustainability and their Bali properties best reflect this.

Aman offers five different, unique resorts in Indonesia that have implemented energy-saving and recycling programs in an effort to an effort to minimize their environmental impact. The Aman Bali resorts have also supported the Begawan Foundation  with the aim of saving the Bali Starling from the threat of extinction.

15) Longitude 131, Australia

Located in the barren desert landscapes of Australia’s Northern Territory,  Longitude 131° offers just 15 plush luxury tents built on stilts that leave the desert sand undisturbed, and the entire eco-resort runs on solar power.

All rooms have sweeping views of Ayers Rock, and the tranquil desert surrounding the resort. Guests at Longitude 131° can explore the nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park listed wilderness and escape the business of everyday life in the privacy and peacefulness of this unique luxury eco-hotel.

16) North Island, Seychelles, East Africa

North Island in the Seychelles offers just 11 opulent hand-crafted villas, each with a private plunge pool, overlooking pristine, powder-white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

This luxury eco-hotel received National Geographic’s 2017 World Legacy Award , which honours companies in the travel sector that are driving the positive transformation of the tourism industry, showcasing leaders and visionaries in sustainable tourism best practices.

Once used as a copra (coconut kernels) plantation, North Island’s Noah’s Ark Project is now dedicated to undoing the significant loss of flora and fauna that resulted from this, while restoring the island’s natural habitat. Because of North Island’s efforts many indigenous wildlife species have returned, including both green and hawksbill turtles.

North Island also made headlines around the world when Prince William and Kate had their royal honeymoon here.

17) Ariara Resort, Philippines

The Times Magazine voted Ariara Resort “the best private island in the world” and Architectural Digest praised that Ariara is where “low impact design meets five-star luxury.”

The journey to get to this remote destination in the Philippines is not easy – it takes either a four-hour trimaran cruise or a one-hour speedboat ride from the port of Coron – but it is well worth it.

This gorgeous 125-acre private island resort was designed by Filipino architect Jorge Yulo and it consists of eight gorgeous villas and cottages that are made with locally sourced woods and custom-made furniture.

Meals are prepared by a private chef using fresh local seafood, as well as herbs and produce picked from the garden and orchard.

18) Bisma Eight, Bali, Indonesia

Bisma Eight is a stylish and modern boutique hotel tucked inside the jungles of Ubud, that greatly respects the environment around it. Featuring minimalist eco-luxe decor, Bisma Eight incorporates eco-design elements and is constructed from sustainable materials such as bamboo and jute.

We Are Travel Girls Ambassador Amanda Twine , who stayed here recently and loved it, says

“The bathroom amenities are presented in clay pots, which are re-filled as needed, as opposed to using plastic bottles. The air-conditioning switches off automatically when you leave the room, and the breakfast features a menu made from locally sourced organic produce. They even have their own fruit and vegetable garden on site.”

Bisma Eight only has a 4-star rating but if you are looking for a luxury hotel in Ubud that cares about the environment this boutique resort is a great option.

19) Safire Freycinet, Tasmania, Australia

Saffire Freycinet offers just 20 intimate suites built using a framework of environmental sustainability, with the purpose of rejuvenating the area which had been previously damaged as a caravan park and backpackers’ accommodation.

This luxury eco-hotel was built with sustainability in mind using energy-efficient insulation, double glazing, highly energy-efficient hot water usage and lighting, natural cycle airflow systems, and LED lighting.

Tasmania is known for its wild and diverse topography and Saffire Freycinet has been constructed to complement the island’s rugged beauty.

20) Andaz Maui, Hawaii, USA

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is Hawaii ’s first LEED-certified hotel. The resort has a design approach that minimizes waste and harmful emissions, reduces energy and water consumption.

This eco-luxury hotel focuses on sustainable design as an integral component of its overall green strategy. Sustainable elements throughout the resort include a solar hot water system, variable speed chillers, motion sensor lighting controls and low flow plumbing fixtures.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers 290 guest rooms and suites, and seven residential villas perfectly positioned on the beautiful shores of Wailea.

20 Of The Best Luxury Eco Hotels Wrap Up

I hope this article has inspired you to choose one of these amazing luxury eco-hotels next time you take a luxury vacation. It is up to each of us to do our part to help protect the planet for future generations.

While travelling, in general, is not eco-friendly you can lessen your environmental impact by choosing to stay at an eco-friendly hotel. Thank you for caring!

If you have tips or questions, or know of any eco-luxury hotels that you think should be on this list please leave these in the comments below.

Want to write for We Are Travel Girls? Visit our Contribute Page  for guidelines and to submit your article.

Read More About Eco Travel

• 24 Ways To Easily Live & Travel More Sustainably 
• 6 Tips For Traveling More Sustainably
• Coral Conservation At Andaman Langkawi

We Are Travel Girls Co-Founder Vanessa Rivers Connect with Vanessa   Website | Instagram  |  Facebook  | Pinterest  |  YouTube

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Olivia says

February 2, 2019 at 6:08 am

Wow some of these look incredible! Thank you for sharing – it’s so important that we do anything we can to maintain this beautiful world, even if it’s just making mindful decisions to stay in eco-friendly spots!

Anonymous says

February 8, 2019 at 4:07 pm

Love this article!! I thought I would have seen Vidanta in Mexico in there but I guess they can’t all make the cut !

Vijay Patel says

July 25, 2019 at 11:16 pm

Wow! To be Frank, these are some of the best eco-hotels I have seen in my life. Actually, this term eco-hotels sounds unique to me. I have never heard of this term eco-hotels, but they are so good and so calm. I have visited Thailand and Bali, but never seen to these resorts. Other places I have not yet visited, but I will soon visit them and try out your suggested places. I really liked your blog. Thank you for sharing such a great post.

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The Best New Sustainable Hotels in the World: 2021 Hot List

By CNT Editors

This year’s annual Hot List of the best new hotels from around the world is a story of resilience. Despite enormous hardship in the travel industry, exceptional properties have continued to open across the globe (nearly a thousand last year in the U.S. alone). As always with this endeavor, each of the 69 picks on this year’s list was safely vetted by our international network of correspondents. But as we’ve learned in the past year, everything is connected, which is why we’ve also expanded the scope of hot to include restaurants, transportation, and destinations, as well as more news we’re excited about set for later this year. In spite of it all, these 16 sustainable hotels represent a success story all their own. We think they’re a pretty great way to mark the 25th anniversary of this list.

Clear here to see the entire Hot List for 2021 . 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Rockaway Hotel — Queens, New York Arrow

The Rockaway, when it was announced, seemed to be a tall order: a hip, boutique hotel in the heart of a community beach enclave (the Irish pub across the street is family-run and full of regulars). The community was skeptical; do we need to be bringing in weekenders from the city and farther afield? For them, The Rockaways has everything they need. But the owners—local boys done good in Manhattan —knew they could bring a cool hotel to the area that would both serve visitors and the community. The result? Sunny, blonde wood rooms and a chic poolside bistro all a few blocks from the beach. Indeed, judging from the number of locals who come in for breakfast, a bite, to say hi, or grab a coffee throughout the day, they've pulled it off. And the beleaguered guests coming in for short- or long-term stays, ready to plotz by the pool with a book, hit the rooftop bar for a drink, and join those locals with regular fitness classes, not to mention walk the boardwalk one block over, too. The Rockaway Hotel is bringing something new to the community—without replacing anything it already has. From $300 per night. —Corina Quinn

Azumi Setoda — Hiroshima, Japan Arrow

A sliding door in a jigsaw of dark timber beneath waves of gray roof tiles is the quiet arrival to Azumi Setoda. Located on an island famed for its lemons in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea , it’s as understated and exquisitely executed as you’d expect from Adrian Zecha, original Aman founder and godfather of hotel minimalism. The first opening for his new Azumi brand, co-created with Naru Developments, it aims to reinvent Japan’s traditional ryokan for contemporary times. Azumi Setoda has taken over a 140-year-old residence with a pared back modern renovation by Kyoto-based architect Shiro Miura. Doors open onto an intimate lobby, with exposed timber and a wall of sea blue plasterwork. The loosely communal restaurant is a central hub—citrus fruits piled high in ceramic dishes—surrounded by wooden tables, where chefs serve modern Japanese dishes with a Silk Road edge (from octopus sashimi to coriander and tofu), tapping into the island’s shipping route heritage. An inner garden is wrapped in 20-foot tall fences known as kakine— a signature design feature of interlocked cedar wood—showcasing a cherry tree and curved pines. Nearby is Azumaya—a meditative space on the site of the family’s teahouse, glass walls overlooking a fenced garden of exotic foliage. The 22 guest rooms are no less serene with light cypress and paper screens; low white beds; and hinoki bathtubs. But it’s no bubble: Azumi is rooted in community, reflected not only in activities (from lemon picking to Zen temple meditations) and local projects (the hotel repaved the main street). It’s perhaps best embodied by Yubune, its sleek new sento bathhouse, just opposite, where guests and locals can soak together in steaming pools, lemons bobbing on the surface. Rooms from $640. —Danielle Demetriou

Xigera Safari Lodge — Okavango Delta, Botswana Arrow

Sustainable, sophisticated safari camps in the Okavango Delta are nothing new, and then along came Xigera ticking boxes nobody had ever imagined. Take the triple-story, off-grid treehouse with an open-air rooftop bed, 33 feet high. It’s a star bed that doubles as a monumental baobab sculpture, one of many flights of fancy brought to life in the biggest, most ambitious African art collection ever commissioned in one hit for a single property. Toni Tollman, design custodian for her family’s collection of boutique hotels, collaborated with Southern Guild, the contemporary design gallery in Cape Town , to commission 80 artists, artisans, crafters, and designers from across Africa to produce a living gallery in the remote Moremi Game Reserve. It includes furniture sculpted on site from fallen trees and bespoke crockery collections by some of the continent’s edgiest ceramicists. Inspirational cues for everything from the bird-in-flight shape of the tented camp’s roofs to the lily pad design of the bronze-cast shower floors came from the bristling-with-life surroundings. Beyond its disruptive design, there’s no doubt that Xigera is the work of experienced, worldly hoteliers. The fastidious eye that tweaked every last detail in the 12 guest suites; the rosy glow emanating from the extravagantly embellished Ardmore bedside lamps; the deep-buttoned glamour of the clubby bar; menus that include lamb rogan josh but also plant-slant wholesomeness; and the first spa in Africa to offer organic, farm-to-face Tata Harper remedies. Xigera is a triumph not because it delivers on all fronts, including all-day, up-close animal sightings, or because it has the latest in Tesla solar-hybrid energy technology. What you’ll remember long after you’ve been delivered back to the airstrip by your private guide in a matte-cream vehicle is the largely Batswana staff, their warmth and enthusiasm more valuable than any of the heirloom art. From about $2,647 per person. —Jane Broughton

Es Racó D’artà — Mallorca, Spain Arrow

Architect and designer Antoni Esteva and his long-time builder and associate Jaume Dalmau are behind some of Mallorca’s most fascinating hotel projects, but this is their best yet. The traditional possessió , or estate, sprawls over 568 acres of glorious countryside in the island’s pristine, out-of-the-way northeast corner, with elements of monastic refuge, farm stay, nature reserve, and exclusive rural hideaway. The property’s core building, a fine Mallorcan mansion whose foundations date from the 13th century, has a fortress-like air. “Rustic minimalism” is Esteva’s stock-in-trade. This strikes first in the whitewashed interior, the predominant use of wood and natural fibers, and the total absence of clutter. Fine contemporary art hangs on the walls and locally-made craft objects are artfully positioned (a hat on a hook, a basket in a corner)—but the rest is silence. All-around wellness is the root of a stay. There is no computer screen on the plain wooden slab that serves as a reception desk, and, perhaps controversially, the mobile phone signal is deliberately blocked in all public spaces. Esteva knows that lip-service to green values simply won’t do anymore—the commitment to sustainability is across the board, and almost everything is biodegradable, locally-sourced, and organic, while the estate has its own biomass plant, solar and geothermal energy, and ecological water-treatment system. Fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, and wine comes from its vineyard. Commercial fizzy drinks are banned from the property; natural infusions and kombuchas are offered instead. If all this might sound too worthy and austere to be truly comfortable, the effect of a few days here is one of deep, transformative relaxation. Es Racó is somewhere, hopes its creator, from which you’ll emerge a changed person. From $630 per night. —Paul Richardson

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Marataba Conservation Camps — Thabazimbi, South Africa Arrow

This private-public collaboration with state-owned Marakele National Park is South Africa’s biodiversity hotspot you’ve never heard of, yet Marataba’s sustainable conservation model, since replicated across Africa, was endorsed by the late, visionary Nelson Mandela. Rhino, large elephant herds, big cats, pangolin, and prolific birdlife—it’s all here along with the hypnotic beauty of the 2.5 billion-year-old Waterberg escarpment. Water seeps from ancient aquifers deep within its sedimentary rock, spilling into gorges and converging into rivers with deep Coke-colored pools. Wild swimming, hiking, and overnight fly camping, all led by seasoned guides, will make any post-lockdown spirit soar. With the opening of Founders and Explorers camps in this 56,834-acre private concession, the idea of a conventional safari (twice-daily game drives) sounds old hat. While each booking with Marataba Conservation Camps comes with a private 4x4 and guide for guaranteed animal viewing, it’s when you get off the vehicle to participate in rhino notching, game counts, camera trap monitoring, snare patrols, or learn to use telemetry to locate a collared cheetah, that the fun begins. How you spend your time in camp depends on which one you book and the time of year. The four suites at Founders are right on the river, while the six-tented Explorers overlooks a very busy waterhole. Either way, you’ll feel part of the gang rubbing shoulders with the conservation team over lunch, from the vet to the head of anti-poaching, while tucking into venison pie and Ottolenghi-style salads from the community garden outside the park gate. From about $374 per person per night. —Jane Broughton

Habitas Namibia Arrow

On this 120,000-acre private estate, 15 tented solar-powered suites are scattered across a kopje (a small hill) that overlooks plains of camel-thorn acacias and twisted shepherd trees. Habitas, known for its community-minded retreat in Tulum, effortlessly moves guests’ focus among culture, well-being, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Head ranger Matheus Amunyela and guide Paulus Kambathi sit together in the jeep, taking turns discussing the wildlife, trees, herbs and their traditional uses. Safaris can include stories from Kambathi, a Khwe guide, and Perry Uatokuja, a Himba ranger, as well as healing experiences like a sound bath by a watering hole or yoga where a curious giraffe may wander by. You’ll also find white rhinos, hippos, and zebras; leopards and cheetahs are hard, but not impossible, to spot. The day might end with a bush braai, or cookout, and a drumming circle, or a tranquil new-moon meditation after the sun goes down. 

One&Only Mandarina — Riviera Nayarit, Mexico Arrow

This glossy, globetrotting hotel group might pick up new destinations as if they were passport stamps, but each is uniquely rooted in place. Here, along the Riviera Nayarit on the wild Pacific coast, that means drawing deeply on Mexico’s magic, with considered references to the Indigenous Cora and Huichol people. Bedrooms, whether oversized treehouses or ocean-facing villas, are a celebration of local culture, from the traditional textiles and pottery to the robes by contemporary Mexico-based label Candor. The spa, set in a natural volcanic-rock garden, is based on ancient healing practices and offers treatments including temazcal sweat-lodge rituals. The hotel has also tapped the country’s top chef, Enrique Olvera—of Mexico City’s Pujol —for Carao, where feasts begin with fresh ceviche and end on homemade cinnamon buñuelos. Meanwhile Alma, an open-air, garden-to-plate spot helmed by French-Mexican Olivier Deboise, is centered around wood-fired, Pan-American-meets-Mediterranean dishes. It might be a step up from the surf hotels down the road, but one that still feels very much in step with Nayarit’s spirit. 

Kinship Landing — Colorado Springs Arrow

“The people make the place.” It’s a sentiment a hotelier would usually express about a beloved, attentive staff. When Kinship Landing founder Bobby Mikulas says it though, that’s not what he’s talking about at all. Within its first months of opening, Kinship is already a true meeting place for both members of its Colorado Springs community and hotel guests, and it is facilitating the kinds of serendipitous moments between strangers that all but disappeared from hotel lobbies during 2020. At any given time, the population of the first floor is evenly split between guests and locals, more likely to be chatting over a hand pie than facedown in a laptop. The rooms embrace an everything-you-need-nothing-you-don’t ethos that Mikulas fell in love with during travels through Europe—built-in blond wood cubbies and shelves for stowing luggage and gear, sliding glass doors that open out toward the Garden of the Gods, and fiber optic internet that may be the fastest of any hotel in the country. And while the beds (including the bunks in the six hostel-style rooms) envelop you in a way that you might want to sleep until noon, the rest of the spartan private spaces nudge you downstairs to the greenhouse or outside to explore the nearby mountains. Kinship is a welcome addition to an increasingly energetic Colorado Springs, a city that has quietly amassed the largest growth of Millennials anywhere in the country over the last couple years. And the young families and adventurers you’ll meet milling around the hotel are a perfect encapsulation of a visit to the city. Rooms from $160. —Noah Kaufman

Villa Copenhagen Arrow

Undoubtedly the most significant opening in Denmark, if not all of Scandinavia, within the past year. Even pre-pandemic it was a bold move by owner Petter Stordalen, nicknamed the king of hotels, to spend four years and $275 million transforming the country’s former post-office headquarters. Adjacent to the Tivoli Gardens and Central Station, it is a 390-room statement property with a rooftop pool, in-house bakery, restaurants and bars. The redesign preserved the hefty marble columns, stucco ceilings and oak staircases of the original neo-baroque structure, and combined a sedate palette with quirky contemporary happenings, such as a pop-up piercing parlor in the lobby. Perhaps its greatest trick is to conjure such an exclusive atmosphere at a relatively reasonable price point, which has helped to turn the glass-ceilinged atrium into a destination in its own right. As Stordalen says, it could never have been created from scratch—it is rather the glorious rebirth of a forgotten landmark. From $220 per night. —Michael Booth

Gravity Haus Vail — Colorado Arrow

The second property from hotel-meets-membership club Gravity Haus is an elevated adventure base camp for the work-hard, play-hard crowd that has outgrown van life or packing into a seasonal rental home. The hotel took over the former Vail Mountain Lodge in the heart of Vail Village; an enviable location year-round that puts skiers and boarders, hikers and mountain bikers steps from the mountain’s Golden Peak base area. You do not need to be a member to stay here, but members have access to the gym and co-working space as well as rate breaks on gear rentals, ski lockers, and the 20 guest rooms, which have a mountain vibe without falling into the predictable alpine tropes (think glossy landscape photographs against sage green walls instead of faux fur and antlers). The club component means that out-of-towners are always mingling with locals, and the unparalleled access to the slopes means that there’s always an interesting cross-section of guests. Especially come happy hour at the Slope Room, the hotel’s sexy bar-restaurant, where the late 20s to early 50s crowd is a mix of local ski bums, Denver techies working remotely, and vacationers all kicking back on the blue-velvet banquettes with old fashioneds and bottles of small-batch Oregon pinot while snacking on Korean fried chicken wings and charcuterie boards. Rooms from $209. —Jen Murphy

Forestis — Brixen, Italy Arrow

Over a century ago, some hale and hearty Austro-Hungarian doctors realized that the south-facing slope of South Tyrol's Plose mountain was a particularly pleasant place to be. They didn’t delay in planning a sturdy wooden sanatorium for ailing people to come and soak up the sunshine and pure spring water. But as maps were redrawn and national allegiances shifted, it was almost forgotten. Until 2000, when hill-walking hotelier Alois Hinteregger spotted the building’s moss-covered roof hidden among the conifers. Now under the direction of his son Stefan and his partner Teresa Unterthiner, it has become a slick spa hotel. What’s most striking is the freshness of the property, fitted out in pine and larch, glass and stone: the air has the lung-clearing quality of a sauna; every gaze is directed to the snow-ringed fangs of the surrounding peaks. The wellness side of things is also nature-focused, with massages using evergreen wood and guided forest walks for barefoot meditation. “People are no longer looking for marble bathrooms and gold-plated taps,” says Unterthiner. “Instead they are seeking the simple, the original. It might just be a campfire where we sit and chat.” This turns out to be a fire-pit that’s lit every night for herb-spiked cocktails under the stars, rounding off a feast of beef tartare, nettle dumplings, and cured river trout in the peachy light of the amphitheater-style restaurant—that view is forever giving curtain calls. Doubles from about $470. —Grainne McBride

Paradero Todos Santos — Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Arrow

Though experience-based lodgings are old news in countries throughout South America and Africa, Paradero claims to be the first hotel brand to introduce the model to Mexico. Located on a previously unused 5.5-acre plot within a farming community in Baja California Sur’s Todos Santos, it’s become the mission of Mexico City -based founders Pablo Carmona and Joshua Kremer to preserve the over 160 acres of family-owned farms that surround the property. The resort, set in front of a palm tree oasis about 20 minutes from the beach, is made up of a series of brutalist-inspired structures designed by architects Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo. They took note of the landscape’s sunbaked hues and designed the property in golden shades to blend into the sandy natural surrounds. The buildings’ desert tones also allow the plants in the resort’s 100,000-square-foot botanical garden to pop: red sand verbena, Mojave yucca, and Shaw’s agave. Though the resort’s outdoor spa and half-moon shaped infinity pool make it hard to leave the grounds, it would be a shame to miss out on guided hikes through cactus fields to reach the deserted Las Palmas beach, taco tours of the best local spots in Todos Santos, or private surf lessons. The hotel has custom boards positioned in the open-air living room, an airy sanctuary where guests kick back and relax post-adventure in anticipation of seafood-centric meals prepared by chef Eduardo Ríos, an alum of Enrique Olvera’s Mexico City restaurant, Pujol . Rooms from $550. —Michaela Trimble

Maslina Resort — Hvar, Croatia Arrow

The glitzy town of Hvar, on the Croatian island of the same name, isn’t exactly a new discovery as far as Euro hot spots go. But the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad (Old Town) is still low-key; just a short walk from the Maslina Resort , it’s a classy antidote to its high-wattage sibling, now overrun by yachters. Blend quietly polished design with a laid-back Mediterranean attitude and you get this 52-room hideout, distinguished by the larch-wood façade of its main pavilion that rises from one of the Aleppo pine forests that edge the Adriatic. Rooms highlight local stone from nearby Brač island, and tawny iroko wood and brushed-brass fixtures pop against a mellow palette of grays and greens, bringing the tones and textures of the surrounding rocky coastline, olive trees, and sage bushes indoors. The spa pulls from the surroundings, too, with gardento- skin treatments, as does the restaurant where chef Patricia Yeo (previously spotted on Iron Chef and Top Chef Masters) plucks sun-drunk tomatoes and edible flowers from the organic garden and taps local cheesemongers and fishermen for the Med-inspired dishes on her rotating menu. This is a new direction for party-hard Hvar, one that seems to channel just what everyone is craving. From $350 per night. —Anja Mutic

Montage Healdsburg — California Arrow

Northern California’s wine country retreats often model themselves on faraway places; destinations with longer traditions and more Old World gravitas. This is too bad, because their location, between the Pacific and the Mayacamas Mountains, is pure magic, and by this point on the domestic-wine timeline, there’s no need to apologize for who you are. This is why the arrival of Montage’s first property in the region, and Sonoma’s first large-scale luxury resort, is so exciting. It celebrates its own landscape, leaving the 22,000 live oaks in place and pulling a palette of dun and moss from the surrounding sun-soaked vineyards. The resort acknowledges that, as recent wildfires have shown, this is fragile terrain: Its 130 Cali-modern rooms are raised, to disturb the land as little as possible. The restaurant offers a bounty of Sonoma’s best, with everything—from the Pliny the Elder IPA to the lamb shank—sourced from within miles. And the local sixth-generation vintners who frequent the sprawling patio bar are happy to remind you that there is, in fact, plenty of history in these parts. Rooms from $995. —Rebecca Misner

Cielo Lodge — Golfito, Costa Rica Arrow

The first thing you’ll notice from this 1,600-foot-high eco-lodge emerging from thick Costa Rican jungles are the views. They stretch over neighboring Corcovado National Park, the country's largest, and out to the Pacific. It means there's always something to catch your eye from the open-air terrace of its six suites (and reason to order pots of hot local coffee for breakfast each morning to your room). But the whole point of being down here is to get into the thick of it all, and the team here can assemble whale watching tours, hiking trips, and private surf lessons down the hill at Pavones. You’ll find inspiration on what to do each night at Sunset Bar, where guests chit-chat about their day over piña coladas while the sun disappears into the ocean; good luck not booking the excursion to the tiny island of Puntarenitas when you hear all about its barefoot restaurants and swimming coves. Though the real draw may be the mission of the lodge itself. Dedicated to preserving Costa Rica’s rainforests, Cielo’s owners have already planted over 4,000 hardwood and fruit trees, bringing birds and mammals back to the area in a larger way. Along with the birdsong from the jungle, such knowledge can help each guest sleep just a little more soundly. From $486 per night. —Caryn Davis

The Lake House on Canandaigua — New York Arrow

Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region, a nine-county sweep of state parks and small towns, forests and farmland, has pulled vacationing families and nature lovers to its 11 slender, digit-like lakes for more than a century. But it's really only over the past decade that the area has come into its own as one of the country’s top wine regions, pulling a new crew of savvy visitors who come as much for the local vintages as for the Walden-esque natural setting. The newly reimagined Lake House resort on the north end of Lake Canandaigua, one of the loveliest (and toniest) corners of upstate, sits at the intersection of old guard and new. The expansive compound of recently built white gabled structures on the site of a former roadside motel retains some of the old local flavor but is casually upscale enough for well-heeled weekenders from Toronto and New York City . Rooms have a New England resort feel—plenty of white painted wood and four poster beds—and the food is excellent: the lively The Sands turns out the perfect lobster roll alongside potent classic cocktails while the more upscale Rose Tavern taps into the area’s local bounty. But, truth be told, you’re there for the lake: To watch it go from blue to pink-gold from the Adirondack chair on your balcony, to head out for the afternoon in a canoe with a picnic lunch, and to listen to it settle for the night from a shorefront fire pit as you toast marshmallows or sip a local off-dry Riesling—or, better yet, do both. Rooms from $250. —Jesse Ashlock

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6 of the world’s 10 most sustainable hotels are in europe, per tripadvisor reviews.

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Europe’s hotels dominated the rankings for sustainability. Here are the top six.

Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guidance platform, has unveiled the winners of its annual Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotels Awards. It reveals this year’s highest-rated hotels in the world, according to its global travel community.

The company analysed 12 months of review data for over 1.6 million hotels listed on the site. As well as the overall Top Hotels category, hotels were also judged under the rankings of All-Inclusive, B&Bs and Inns, Family-Friendly, Luxury and Small and Boutique. This year saw the launch of three new subcategories; Pet-Friendly, Sustainable and Wellness.

Europe’s Most Sustainable Hotel Is In Denmark

Coming third place in the global ranking, Hotel Kong Arthur lies in a small cobblestone nook, just off the road that runs around Copenhagen’s historic lakes. Located in the Nansensgade Quarter, the hotel is close to Torvehallerne, Copenhagen’s finest food marketplace, and near Nørreport, Denmark’s busiest train and bus station. The hotel serves a Nordic breakfast that they described as “just as delicious as it is sustainable.”

Greece’s Most Sustainable Hotel Lies Along A Private Coastline

Ikos Odisia is the second hotel of the group to open on the Greek island of Corfu. “Breathe in fresh, forest air and saunter along soft, velvet sands, as you soak up the sun and culture along Corfu’s dazzling Ionian coast,” the Tripadvisor description reads. The hotel sits in a secluded bay across from globally-awarded Ikos Dassia, elevated for dramatic views across a private coastline.

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The Monverde Wine Experience Hotel in Teloes comes in sixth in the overall ranking and top for Portugal. Surrounded by vine-draped hills visible from the rooms, the structure is a sleek wood and stone design. According to the owners, it is “committed to acting in full respect for nature.” Awarded an EU Ecolabel label, the hotel focuses on improving its environmental impact and energy efficiency.

UK’s Top Sustainable Hotel Praised For Eco-Conscious Efforts

The Hari is located in the upscale neighborhood of Knightsbridge, a stone’s throw from Harrods and the luxury shops of Sloane Street. All 85 glamorous bedrooms are the work of British interior designer Tara Bernerd, complete with plush velvet window seats, bespoke wooden flooring, Italian marble bathrooms and views of London's skyline. The luxury Belgravia hotel is Silver certified by EarthCheck, with several Tripadvisor reviewers commending the hotel for its ‘eco-conscious’ efforts.

Portugal Has Double Feature On The Most Sustainable Hotels Ranking

Another hotel in Portugal makes it into the top 10 sustainable hotels in the world. Vincci Ponte de Ferro in Vila Nova de Gaia has a rooftop pool with sweeping city views of Porto. Reviews say it has a comprehensive food waste policy and energy-saving light switches.

Croatia’s Most Sustainable Hotel Is Carved Into A Cliffside

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik, which underwent a complete refurbishment in spring 2019, is carved into a cliff-side with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the mesmerizing Adriatic sea. The five-star boutique hotel lies just around the bay from Dubrovnik’s magnificent 6th-century Old Town. Set on a 30m-high cliff on Miramare Bay, it feels “as if you’re on your own private ocean liner,” according to the hotel.

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Environmentally Friendly Vacations In The US That Are Totally Sustainable

Posted: December 13, 2023 | Last updated: December 13, 2023

Sustainable breaks

Farm-to-table food at Chatwal Lodge, New York

If you’re after eco-luxury and willing to splash out a bit, look no further than the hotly-anticipated Chatwal Lodge. Situated in 2,500 acres of pristine wilderness in Bethel, around 95 miles north of Manhattan, the resort is built in harmony with its stunning location. Its main restaurant, the Timber Lounge, serves up farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on hyper-seasonal and foraged produce. Plus, there are countless ways to engage with nature, from kayaking on the Toronto Reservoir to stargazing, birdwatching and hiking on local trails. 

World-leading plant conservation at New York Botanical Gardens

As the largest botanical garden in any US city, New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) allows visitors to discover a wealth of plant species while working towards their conservation. As well as being breathtakingly beautiful and endlessly fascinating, the historic greenhouse and gardens are also working hard to run as sustainably as possible. To that end, there are modernized, energy-efficient lighting, electric vehicles, composting restrooms, stormwater management systems and other measures to keep its carbon footprint as low as possible.

Energy efficiency at ARIA Resort & Casino Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas might not be the first place you think of when it comes to sustainability, but one hotel is looking to change that. ARIA Resort & Casino has not one but six Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certificates and has been awarded platinum by Tripadvisor’s Green Leaders program. It’s at the forefront of energy-efficient design, with measures resulting in a 30% energy reduction across the resort, including a state-of-the-art heat and power plant that captures excess heat to use for hot water. And it’s utterly luxurious to stay in, with spacious rooms offering breathtaking views of the city’s twinkly lights. 

Mangrove protection at Key West Eco Tours, Florida

The otherworldly emerald waters of Key West’s mangrove islands can be explored in a variety of ways. But whether you choose stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking, keep things green by booking with Key West Eco Tours. A family-run provider with a passion for preserving the local ecosystem, the company gets all guests to participate in a five-minute clean-up during their visit, while it also runs several clean-up days throughout the year and hires marine science students at Florida Keys College to help create its unique tours. 

Carbon offsetting and energy efficiency at Virgin Hotels Chicago, Illinois

Frequently listed as one of the greenest hotels in the US, Virgin Hotels’ Chicago resort has earned plenty of eco brownie points. It has energy-saving features throughout, including smart thermostats, water-efficient toilets and well-insulated walls. Guests can also pay a small extra fee to offset any further carbon emissions from their stay. What’s more, with its convenient location in the heart of downtown Chicago, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Windy City. 

Support for indigenous communities through whitewater rafting, various states

Thrill-seekers need look no further than ROW Adventures for a fun (and sustainable) way to get their adrenalin fix. The company offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing and other watersports along some of America’s most breathtaking waterways, including Idaho’s Salmon River, Oregon’s Hells Canyon and Montana’s Clark Fork River. As well as recognizing, and raising awareness of, the indigenous communities whose land it uses, it also supports the conservation of these areas through a number of initiatives. 

Solar electric and water at Proximity Hotel, North Carolina

The first hotel in America to gain a prestigious LEED platinum certification – a step up from gold – Proximity Hotel, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, certainly has impressive sustainability credentials. Its roof is covered in 100 solar panels which generate electricity and provide hot water, while the hotel’s energy-saving measures mean it uses 33% less water and 39.2% less energy compared to similar luxury hotels. It’s a joy to visit, too, with spacious loft-style rooms decorated with custom artworks, while in the vibrant restaurant you can enjoy farm-to-fork cuisine and choose from 75 different wines. 

Geothermal tech and rainwater recycling at Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania

Nature by name and nature by, er, nature, this stunning eco lodge sits in the heart of Bald Eagle State Park in Pennsylvania, overlooking a tranquil 1,700-acre lake. The hotel has just 16 rooms in total but each is an oasis of calm, offering lakefront views, sweeping balconies and natural-wood furnishings. It’s heated and cooled by geothermal technology, while a rainwater recycling system is used to flush toilets and recycled metal, glass and wood are used throughout. These adaptations, along with other energy-saving measures, have allowed it to achieve a 30% water use reduction and a 14% decrease in energy costs.

America’s Farm-to-Fork capital in Sacramento, California

It may have been declared the nation’s Farm-to-Fork capital since 2012, but Sacramento’s history of serving up uber-local produce goes back further than that. With some 1.5 million acres of farmland around the city, chefs and residents here have relied on local farmers’ bounties for generations. To get the full experience, head to the Farm-to-Fork Festival (pictured), which takes place each September. Attracting 100,000 visitors each year, the event is a full-blown celebration of sustainable, local farming, with a range of street food, regional wine and craft beer stalls, as well as cooking demos and live concerts.

‘Slow food’ and plastic-free rules at the Palms Hotel & Spa, Florida

To keep its stunning beachfront location as pristine as possible, Miami’s The Palms Hotel & Spa doesn’t use any single-use plastic. Instead, there are reusable takeout containers and paper straws at food and drink outlets, as well as refillable toiletry containers in rooms. At the hotel restaurant you’ll find dishes created with a ‘slow food’ ethos, which means sourcing local, seasonal ingredients where possible (some vegetables are even grown in an on-site garden). Meanwhile, the decor takes inspiration from its oceanside setting: think natural furnishings, fresh tropical flowers and sumptuous white bedding.

Biodynamic wine at Oregon’s wineries

As the region which is responsible for more than half of America’s biodynamic wine output, Oregon is leading the way in this eco-friendly method of producing wine. What does biodynamic mean exactly? Essentially, it’s a process that views the farm or vineyard as a whole organism and aims to create a self-sustaining system, doing away with chemical pesticides and fertilizers in favor of time-honored natural practices. There are lots of fantastic vineyards to choose from, but Maysara Winery, Beaux Frères and Brick House are all worth a visit. 

Impressive energy savings at The Allison Inn & Spa, Oregon

It’s hard not to be wowed by The Allison Inn & Spa. Perched on a verdant slope in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, the hotel’s well-positioned terrace, spa and restaurant allow guests to soak in the views (and sunshine, if you’re lucky). This LEED gold-certified hotel has more than just good looks to offer, though, with efficient measures achieving 50% energy savings across the board compared to similar resorts. Among other things, these actions include solar hot water and electric systems, LED lighting and eco-friendly cleaning and laundry practices.

Climate-conscious design and history at Hotel Andaluz, New Mexico

Not only is Albuquerque's Hotel Andaluz ultra-sustainable, it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and dates back to 1939. The LEED gold-certified resort saves on energy thanks to an award-winning motion-sensitive system, which detects when guests are in the room and adjusts light and heat accordingly. As for the energy it does use, 70% is from renewable sources. Throughout the rooms,1940s Hollywood-style decor provides a nod to its past, with plenty of gilded surfaces, antique wooden furniture and copper bathtubs. 

Off-grid energy at Earthship Rentals, New Mexico

If you’re after something a little quirky for your next break, look no further than Earthship Rentals. Situated in the heart of New Mexico’s desert, around 20 minutes from Taos, there are a number of different ‘earthships’ to suit various travel styles and budgets. According to its website, the ultra-eco accommodation is designed in such a way that it heats and cools itself without the need for fossil fuels, while each structure has its very own renewable power plant to provide light and electricity. Despite being completely off-grid, they feature all the mod-cons you could need, including Wi-Fi, TVs and washing machines. 

Epic vegan food in Portland, Oregon

In Portland, which regularly ranks as one of the best cities for vegans in the world, skipping meat and dairy doesn’t feel like a sacrifice at all. In fact, with so many vegan restaurants and food outlets, the only sacrifice is that you can’t possibly visit them all in a single trip. We’d recommend making a beeline for Plant Based Papi, which serves up meat-free comfort food and Cultured Kindness, a fully vegan cheese shop. Meanwhile if it’s sweet treats you’re after, Voodoo Doughnut is an unmissable Portland institution.

Off-grid and solar power at Nurture Through Nature, Maine

Looking to completely reconnect with nature? Consider booking a lodge or cabin at Nurture Through Nature, an off-grid, solar-powered retreat which makes the most of its incredible location within western Maine’s lakes and mountains region. To go completely back to basics, opt for a yurt, in which you’ll have no electricity but rely on olive oil lamps and solar lanterns for light and use a wood stove for warmth. For a (slightly) more luxurious option, the lodges and cabins are equipped with electricity and Wi-Fi as well as plusher furnishings. The real selling point here though is the tranquil woodland, which is the perfect backdrop for hiking and watersports, or taking part in the retreat’s yoga and meditation classes. 

Eco-friendly wineries on the Green Wine Trail, California

Thankfully, being climate-conscious doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the finer things in life. In California’s Napa Valley, almost a quarter of the county’s 500 wineries have the Napa Green certification, which recognizes them for sustainable growing and production methods, so you can sip away safe in the knowledge you’re doing the planet some good. Highlights in the Green Wine Trail include Ehlers Estate (pictured), a 100% organic vineyard in St Helena; Spottswoode, a female-led operation which uses biodynamic farming methods; and CADE Winery, the state’s first LEED gold-certified winery built from 98% recycled materials. Now the only thing left to decide is: red, white or rosé?

A sanctuary for wild horses in Hot Springs, South Dakota

Longstanding environmentalist and conservationist Dayton Hyde is the man behind the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. In 1988, he bought an 11,000 acre patch of land near Hot Springs, South Dakota and turned it into a sanctuary for rare and endangered wild mustangs which couldn’t be adopted. His legacy has endured to this day. Not only does the seemingly-endless patch of prairie support 350 horses, it’s also home to unspoiled natural landscapes, native plants and wildlife, as well as providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about conservation.

Grizzly bear conservation in West Yellowstone, Montana

Many people head to Yellowstone National Park for its amazing scenery, and rightly so. But if you’re eager to go off the beaten track and learn about how we can protect the region’s beautiful wildlife, make a beeline for West Yellowstone’s Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center (GWDC). At this not-for-profit sanctuary, visitors get to see bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and other animals which, for various reasons, are unable to survive in the world. As well as protecting these stunning creatures, the park provides a wealth of resources so guests can learn about the dangers they face.

World-leading sustainable wineries in Sonoma County, California

Even the most die-hard eco-warriors would be impressed by the vineyard-studded region of Sonoma County, California, where 99% of wineries are certified sustainable by a third-party organization. The area, which is on a mission to become the greenest wine-growing region in the world, is made up of small, family-run farms which focus on reducing emissions and preserving planet-friendly growing techniques. There are around 1,800 to choose from, but Donum Estate, Gundlach Bundschu, Hamel Family Wines and Scribe Winery are said to be the best of the best. 

Under-the-radar national parks easing overtourism

Perhaps one of the easiest – and most rewarding – ways to travel sustainably in the US is just by visiting a less popular national park. As well as avoiding the crowds associated with big hitters like the Great Smokies and Yellowstone, you’ll get to see epic landscapes and unique wildlife which far fewer people have experienced. Among the least visited are Washington’s North Cascades (pictured), Michigan’s Isle Royale, Florida’s Dry Tortugas, South Carolina’s Congaree and Alaska’s Kobuk Valley, Lake Clark and Katmai. 

Food with minimal carbon footprint at the Chicago Green City Market, Illinois

The food at Chicago Green City Market travels on average 65 miles to get there, which is just 5% of the distance traveled by produce in the average grocery store. The food market is also the first in the country to ensure all its stall holders are recognized by third-party sustainability organizations, including USDA Certified Organic, Animal Welfare Approved and Certified Naturally Grown. So if strolling through farmers' markets at the weekend is your thing, this incredible place alone might be enough reason to book a city break to Chicago.

A one-acre city farm at New York’s Javits Center

Those visiting the Big Apple shouldn’t miss a trip to the Javits Center’s seven-acre green roof – the second-largest of its kind in the country. As well as serving as a working urban farm which grows 40,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables, the rooftop is also home to a solar farm – the largest in New York City with more than 3,000 panels. Last but not least, it serves as a crucial habitat for bees, bats and birds.

Solar-powered luxury at Spirit wilderness retreat, Utah

One of the hottest debuts in the world of sustainable travel in 2023, Spirit will be a stunning luxury eco resort in Utah’s Zion National Park. Created by Nomadic Resorts, it will comprise 36 individual suites and four homesteads, whose unique leaf-shaped rooftops will be covered in 3.2kWh of solar panels and photovoltaic fabric to generate energy. Other planet-friendly features include an aquaponic greenhouse, where guests can check out a range of plant life, plus electric bikes for traveling around on. 

Next, check out the most eco-friendly hotels in the world

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Moscow City Walks and Areas

The best way to explore Moscow is to go for a walk in one of the central neighborhoods or parks.

Moscow Hotel & Travel Guide

Moscow, the entrancing capital of Russia, is a hub of science, culture, and education. Lingering monuments from the USSR era lend a fascinating glimpse into Russia's Soviet history, while remnants of its imperial past hearken back to the days of the tsars. Book yourself on one of many flights to Moscow , take your pick of the Moscow hotels, and prepare to be amazed by this dynamic and alluring city.

Out and About in Moscow

No trip to Moscow would be complete without a stop in the legendary Red Square. Gaze up at the candy-striped spires of St. Basil's Cathedral and stop by to take a picture of Lenin's Mausoleum. Visit the numerous museums and cathedrals within the red walls of the Kremlin, and even peek at the presidential palace. If you're in an artistic mood, the Tretyakov Gallery houses the finest collection of Russian art in the world, and the Bolshoi Theatre is renowned for its superlative ballet and opera. Even traveling between attractions and hotels in Moscow is an experience: The exceptionally beautiful and efficient metro is famous worldwide.

Eating and Drinking

You can find dining options for any budget along the Arbat, one of the most famous streets in the city. There are cuisines for any taste, but if it's traditional Russian food you're seeking, be sure to try some pelmeni (a type of dumpling), borscht (beet soup), or a shashlik (a Russian kebab). Blini, a sort of thin pancake, can be ordered with sweet or savory fillings and is a staple of the local cuisine. As for drinks, it isn't all vodka! Tea is one of the most common beverages, and you should also take the opportunity to try kvas, a fermented drink made from black or rye bread. Ready for your Russian adventure? Travelocity can help you find cheap hotels in Moscow and all the best Moscow vacation packages so you have more time to read up on all the great Russian literature before your trip.

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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