4 of the World’s Best Eco Resorts forYour Wish list

Many of the world’s most luxury resorts are donning their eco warrior hats in a bid to make a sustainable difference. Here are four eco-friendly resorts around the globe doing things differently. 

Our interests in accommodation are changing as we each strive to do our bit to live more sustainably. We’re eager to visit eco-friendly destinations with nature-inspired interiors, ocean views, and sustainable programs.

1. ION Adventure Hotel, Iceland

Located less than an hour’s drive from the hustle and bustle of Reykjavík and set against a backdrop of majestic mountainous lava fields, the ION Luxury Adventure hotel is true to its name. Luxurious nature retreat near UNESCO park with drifting tectonic plates, volcano, hot springs, and more.

Taking up residence in an abandoned building of the nearby geothermal power plant, the hotel was sustainable from inception and continues to be today. Eco-friendly retreat repurposes materials with old tire sinks and recycled wood furniture.

Adventuring and exploring are complemented by a sublime hotel equipped with an outdoor spa, elegant restaurant, and award-winning ‘Northern Lights Bar.’

Take a peek inside:

2. Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji was one of the world’s first eco-luxury hotels, and a pioneer example of the eco-tourism industry. The resort’s founder, Jean-Michel Cousteau, is a world-recognised explorer and environmentalist. The resort’s website states that Jean-Michel Cousteau and his conservation team admire Fijian’s sustainable agricultural and fishing practices.

The luxury eco-friendly, family friendly resort is dedicated to the preservation of Fiji’s pristine environment. For example, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Centre is a flagship dive operation located at the resort which aims to further expand awareness of ecological tourism.

Throughout the resort, sustainability is practised everywhere: there are chemical-free spa lotions and ointments used at the onsite spa; non-phosphate cleaning products used.

Take a peek inside:

3. Tri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Nestled amidst lush, cinnamon-scented foliage with a view of Koggala Lake, Tri in Sri Lanka captures attention. Conceptualized by owner Robert Drummond and designed by architect Raefer Wallis of A00 architects, this eco-resort embraces environmental sensitivity and luxurious minimalism.

One’s initial encounter is awe-inspiring: striking, geometric lines define the outline of the modern, all-white, open-air dining area, featuring a 10-meter cantilevered roof. The inner wall is adorned with comfortable daybeds, enhancing the lounging experience, while wooden accents infuse warmth and establish a seamless connection with nature that envelops the entire site.

The use of natural materials further enhances the resort’s ambiance. Recycled local jak wood, white polished terrazzo, local granite, and earth-rendered walls exemplify the integration of nature-inspired elements. Additionally, cinnamon stick cladding not only ensures privacy but also aids in temperature control.

Take a peek inside:

4. Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland, Canada

Fogo Island Inn, situated on a remote Canadian island, is a luxury resort perched on ancient rocks dating back 420 million years. The resort showcases a design and construction that prioritize energy efficiency and ecological principles. The resort maintains ethical suppliers and implements sustainable initiatives, like cod potting, to preserve ocean ecosystems.

The Inn’s steel frame boasts exceptional insulation, while the windows feature the equivalent of triple-pane glazing. Roof-collected rainwater is filtered and stored in basement cisterns for use in toilets, laundry, and kitchen appliances.

This extraordinary resort offers a wide array of activities and educational experiences throughout the seasons. From berry picking to snowshoeing, whale watching, and beachcombing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along timeless coastlines. Experience jam bottling, berry ice cream making, or explore Fogo Island’s unique ecosystem with the resort’s resident geologist.

Take a peek inside: