Eco-Friendly Luxury Hotels

Soneva Fushi, Maldives
You'll likely find this destination on nearly every list of eco-friendly hotels; Soneva Fushi was one of the first luxury hotels to emphasize their dedication to sustainability without compromising the guest experience. Their environmental efforts include waste management (90% of their waste is recycled, including both plastic and organic waste), a move towards complete dependency on renewable energy by 2025 (they already have one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives), and small but meaningful changes, like incorporating more plant-based menu items and banning single use plastic water bottles from their property. Furthermore, the hotel didn't cut down any trees to build - instead, they planned the architecture around existing foliage, and plant new trees every year. In terms of service, guests can expect luxury beachfront villas ranging from 1-9 bedrooms, many with private pools, waterslides, steam rooms, and spacious patios. Choose from a range of activities, including glass blowing, surfing, diving, snorkeling, and outdoor movies - visit soon to take part in their limited partnership with Singapore’s three Michelin-starred restaurant Odette. Those with a reservation will zipline to a table among the treetops for a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience.

The Brando, French Polynesia
In the 1960's, Marlon Brando fell in love with the gorgeous island of Tetiaroa and purchased it. Since then, Brando and then his estate have worked rigorously to build a self-sustaining luxury resort. The hotel uses seawater for air-conditioning and relies entirely on renewable energy. As for the guest experience, the hotel is great for those seeking privacy - accessible only by private plane, guests reside in spacious villas with private pools, beach access, and dining rooms; you only need to interact with other guests if you choose to visit the bar or dining room. All experiences, including snorkeling, scuba diving, tennis, deep-sea fishing, Polynesian dance and music classes, and more can be booked privately or with other guests. The hotel's mission is to protect and preserve the biodiversity of Tetiaroa - ask of the staff members to hear more about the initiative and they'd be happy to share!

Habitas Tulum, Mexico
This stunning hotel, with both jungle and ocean views, is another great choice for a vacation with minimal impact on the environment; the suites are built with eco-friendly materials including natural papaya roofing. The hotel's entire supply chain is free of single-use-plastic and the restaurant uses all locally sourced ingredients. The hardest decision here will be whether to choose an ocean front room, a room with a private pool, or an accommodation that overlooks the rich Yucatan jungle. Habitas properties all have an emphasis on music and Tulum is no exception; they offer local live music weekly and host intimate concerts regularly. The resort also has a spa with a wide variety of treatment options, including their special Mayan Clay Ceremony.

Borgo Pignano, Italy
In the heart of Tuscany, you'll find a stunning, historic hotel devoted to sustainability and best environmental practices. The heating systems at the facility are fueled by solar energy and boilers that are fed with wood from the estate's forests. They grow most of the food served onsite and the farm even keeps bees - the hotel invites guests to visit the farm to learn more about beekeeping, medicinal herbs, and their organic produce garden. After a day exploring the outdoors, relax in one of their luxury suites, many featuring high ceilings, huge windows, working fireplaces, pianos, and views of the Mediterranean.