The Top 12 Eco-Friendly Resorts in the World

 

For the environmentally conscious traveler, an Eco-resort is the perfect place for a sustainable escape. These days, a green getaway doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury, and many world-class resorts are implementing measures to cut back on water consumption, carbon footprint, and all forms of waste. Experience these phenomenal Eco-friendly resorts for a vacation that is restful for guests and the environment alike.

Perched above the quiet waters of Phuket’s serene northwest coast, Trisara is a divine tropical oasis boasting verdant grounds, jaw-dropping accommodations, and even a Michelin-star restaurant. Guests can relax in salt-chlorinated infinity pools overlooking the Andaman sea, knowing energy-saving sensors will shut off the A/C when doors are open. A combination of collected rainwater and waste gray water irrigate the resort’s luscious gardens, which guests can enjoy while riding a zero-emission electric buggy.

A beautiful harmony of sustainability and eco-luxury, the grounds of this tropical oasis has been constructed with natural materials like wood, palm leaves, and iluc grass to provide minimal disturbance to the existing vegetation of the surrounding coastal environment. Natural lighting is used whenever possible, all garden trimmings are composted, and waste water is biologically treated to protect the natural beauty of sunny Sri Lanka.

A self-described utopia, this gorgeous resort on the Laamu Atoll is as sumptuous as it is sustainable. The hotel has an on-site marine team dedicated to protecting the resident sea turtles, manta rays, and meadows of seagrass that share the resort’s crystalline waters. With private, cozy, and comfortable waterfront villas, as well as a spa and multiple options for dining on the beach, this sustainable paradise is one of the finest eco-friendly resorts in the Maldives.

This sanctuary of natural splendor is a far cry from the raging party scene in Playa del Carmen, offering plenty of measures to further green ambitions, like eliminating single-use plastics, implementing a towel reuse system, and working with a company that converts used vegetable oil into biodiesel. The opportunities for leisure are endless, with outdoor dining, in-house yoga classes, and exemplary service.

Secluded deep in the heart of the Central Highlands’ rainforest of Costa Rica, the lush tropical grounds of Pacuare Lodge are renowned for thrilling jungle adventures, natural beauty and exotic animal sightings, and an unparalleled commitment to sustainability. No trees were felled to construct the luxurious bungalows, which are lit with lanterns creating a natural warmth. All meals are made to order so that nothing is wasted, and electricity is generated with a turbine from a nearby stream. Guests can enjoy a dip in a solar-heated infinity pool, framed by the rainforest and the sounds of nature.

The extraordinary Mashpi Lodge is an eco-wonder set within the incredible foliage of the Chocó-Andean Cloud Forest. The charming resort was designed around the topography to prevent further damage to the trees of this rainforest paradise, and blends in perfectly with the environment. Guests can enjoy unobstructed views of Ecuador’s bountiful rainforest, and the hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, and jungle frogs that call it their home.

Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, is home to the adorable quokka, as well as a resort fully dedicated to conserving their environment, with carefully limited development, air-flow cooling, and waste water recycling. The gorgeous hotel exists in harmony with the surrounding flora and fauna, and has no fences or boundaries so that the quokka may roam.

Set on a striking foggy island, the Inn is a community friendly initiative with 100% of operating surpluses being reinvested into the community to help the people of Fogo Island prosper. Collected rainwater is used throughout the hotel, solar panels supply hot water, the furniture in the rooms is from the local woodshop, and even the elaborate quilts on the beds are produced by local craftspeople. For a resort vacation that is truly in touch with the local environment, look no further than Fogo Island.

This Georgian manor estate is straight out of a Jane Austen novel, set on 400 acres of sustainable farmland. Pigs, sheep, and chickens roam the grounds, while the vibrant gardens and orchards form the base of celebrated chef Skye Gyngell’s decadent cuisine. For a vacation that is elegant, natural, and sustainable, Heckfield Place is one of the finest eco-friendly resorts in England.

The unspoiled beaches and rolling hills of the British Virgin Islands are enrapturing, and Oil Nut Bay is committed to protecting them. The resort worked with the BVI government to make solar power legal, and now uses it to run everything from the air conditioning to the “turtle-friendly” lighting. Guests can explore the car-free community by electric golf cart, enjoying amenities like the pool, spa, and cozy multi-bedroom villas.

From the heart of Mendoza wine country comes a collection of quaint villas with an emphasis on clean living. The hotel features green rooftops, geothermal energy in the walls and floors, self-contained water systems, and solar panels powering the property. Guests can savor meals made from estate-grown products from the region’s sun-soaked vineyards, explore the fertile lands by foot, bike or horseback, and take a dip in luxurious mountain-view hot tubs.

Opening before the end of 2022, this futuristic waterfront construction is set to be the world’s first energy-positive hotel, and is cradled in the incredible Helgeland coastline, just above the arctic circle, where summer days last forever and winter nights are lit by the breathtaking Northern Lights. Secluded and serene, the resort is poised for hiking, skiing, and fishing, while the grounds offer a state-of-the-art wellness center and spa.