Eco-Friendly Accommodations: The Best Green Hotels and Resorts Around the World
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a movement that is reshaping industries worldwide, and the travel and tourism sector is no exception. As more travelers seek environmentally-conscious experiences, the demand for eco-friendly accommodations has skyrocketed. Green hotels and resorts are now at the forefront of the hospitality industry, offering eco-conscious travelers an opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint while enjoying luxurious and sustainable stays.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the best green hotels and resorts around the world that are committed to sustainability. From solar-powered resorts to energy-efficient buildings and waste-reduction practices, these properties are setting the standard for eco-friendly accommodations. Let’s explore how these sustainable destinations are shaping the future of travel.
1. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman
Nestled between the rugged mountains and the serene waters of the Gulf of Oman, Six Senses Zighy Bay offers an incredible eco-friendly luxury experience. This sustainable resort emphasizes environmental consciousness by utilizing solar panels to power its operations and minimizing energy consumption. The resort also has its own organic farm that supplies fresh produce to the kitchen, ensuring a farm-to-table dining experience.
What sets Six Senses Zighy Bay apart is its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area. The resort practices responsible tourism by conserving water, reducing plastic waste, and supporting local communities. Additionally, the resort offers guests a chance to take part in sustainability-focused activities like organic gardening workshops and sustainable fishing excursions.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Solar-powered energy systems.
- Organic farm that provides fresh, local produce.
- Water conservation measures and waste reduction strategies.
- Collaboration with local communities to support environmental and cultural initiatives.
2. The Green Hotel, Mysore, India
Located in the culturally rich city of Mysore, India, The Green Hotel is a standout example of how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into hospitality. This eco-friendly boutique hotel is situated in a restored heritage property and is committed to preserving both the environment and local culture. The Green Hotel uses energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and renewable energy sources to minimize its environmental impact.
The hotel also operates as a non-profit organization, with profits going toward local social initiatives such as education and community development. This adds a layer of social sustainability to its eco-friendly practices, making it an even more attractive destination for conscious travelers.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Water conservation systems, including rainwater harvesting.
- Solar panels for hot water and energy efficiency.
- Use of locally sourced, organic products.
- Non-profit status supporting community development projects.
3. The Brando, Tahiti
The Brando, located on the private island of Tetiaroa in Tahiti, is one of the world’s most luxurious eco-resorts. This exclusive resort combines luxury with sustainability, offering overwater villas that are designed to blend seamlessly into the pristine natural environment. The resort runs entirely on renewable energy, thanks to a combination of solar panels and coconut oil biofuel. This reduces the resort’s carbon footprint significantly while maintaining a luxurious experience for its guests.
The Brando is committed to preserving the island’s delicate ecosystem and biodiversity. The resort participates in extensive conservation efforts, including coral reef restoration and wildlife monitoring. Guests can also participate in eco-conscious activities, such as educational workshops on environmental preservation and sustainable fishing.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Powered by solar energy and coconut oil biofuel.
- Coral reef restoration and wildlife conservation programs.
- Use of sustainable materials and water conservation initiatives.
- Zero-carbon footprint operations.
4. Treehotel, Sweden
For travelers looking for a unique eco-friendly experience, Treehotel in Sweden offers treehouses that are both innovative and sustainable. Located in the forests of Harads, Treehotel is known for its architectural marvels, with treehouses that offer stunning views of the natural surroundings. The property uses sustainable building materials and energy-efficient designs, including green roofs and solar panels, to minimize its environmental impact.
Treehotel also encourages guests to connect with nature by offering guided tours that focus on the region’s wildlife, flora, and conservation efforts. The hotel itself is committed to maintaining the natural integrity of the surrounding forest and encourages guests to respect the environment during their stay.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Energy-efficient treehouses with green roofs and solar power.
- Use of sustainable building materials like wood and glass.
- Guided eco-tours to learn about local wildlife and environmental preservation.
- Commitment to minimizing carbon emissions and promoting eco-conscious travel.
5. Hotel Verde, Cape Town, South Africa
Located near Cape Town International Airport, Hotel Verde is Africa’s greenest hotel, and it truly lives up to its title. The hotel is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and eco-friendly building practices. Hotel Verde is powered by solar energy, uses a greywater recycling system, and has a commitment to reducing waste through recycling programs and composting.
In addition to its sustainable features, the hotel’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring Cape Town and its surrounding natural beauty. Hotel Verde also offers guests eco-friendly transportation options, including electric vehicles and bicycles, to encourage sustainable travel around the city.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Solar energy panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
- Waste management programs, including composting and recycling.
- Electric car charging stations and eco-friendly transport options.
- Green building certifications and a focus on reducing the hotel’s carbon footprint.
6. The Farm at San Benito, Batangas, Philippines
The Farm at San Benito is a luxury eco-resort located in Batangas, Philippines, that focuses on wellness, sustainability, and organic living. This stunning retreat is set in the heart of lush greenery and promotes a holistic approach to eco-conscious travel. The resort uses organic, locally sourced ingredients in its restaurants and supports sustainable farming practices by growing its own produce.
The Farm at San Benito also places great emphasis on waste reduction and water conservation. The resort uses eco-friendly materials in its construction, incorporates renewable energy systems, and has a no-plastic policy to minimize its environmental impact. This eco-resort is perfect for travelers looking to combine relaxation, wellness, and sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Organic farming and locally sourced ingredients.
- Zero-waste policy and water conservation practices.
- Renewable energy systems and eco-friendly construction materials.
- Focus on wellness and holistic living in an environmentally conscious setting.
7. Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, Italy
Lefay Resort & SPA, located on the shores of Lake Garda in Italy, is an award-winning luxury resort that combines sustainability with opulence. The resort is built using environmentally friendly materials and adheres to high standards of energy efficiency. It operates with a low carbon footprint, using renewable energy sources such as solar panels, and also practices water conservation techniques.
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including the lake and its surrounding forested hills. The resort’s green spa focuses on organic wellness treatments and promotes sustainability by using eco-friendly products and natural ingredients.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.
- Water conservation systems and low-impact construction methods.
- Green spa with eco-friendly treatments and organic ingredients.
- Commitment to protecting the surrounding natural environment and biodiversity.
8. EcoCamp Patagonia, Chile
EcoCamp Patagonia, located in the heart of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, is one of the best examples of sustainable tourism in South America. This eco-luxury camp offers guests a chance to experience the stunning wilderness of Patagonia while minimizing their environmental impact. The camp uses solar power and wind energy to supply electricity, and its structures are designed to have a minimal environmental footprint.
The camp’s geodesic domes are built with sustainable materials and provide an intimate connection to nature. EcoCamp Patagonia also promotes eco-tourism by offering guided tours that focus on environmental education, wildlife conservation, and the preservation of the region’s fragile ecosystems.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Powered by solar and wind energy.
- Use of sustainable materials in construction and design.
- Educational eco-tours focused on conservation and sustainability.
- Minimal environmental footprint and eco-conscious tourism practices.
9. Nihiwatu, Sumba Island, Indonesia
Nihiwatu is a luxury eco-resort located on the pristine Sumba Island in Indonesia, and it is renowned for its sustainable practices. The resort has a strong commitment to environmental conservation and supports the local community through education and employment opportunities. Nihiwatu uses solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and efficient waste management systems to minimize its environmental impact.
The resort also offers guests the opportunity to engage in conservation activities, such as turtle conservation projects and sustainable fishing excursions. Nihiwatu’s focus on sustainability extends to its design, which incorporates locally sourced materials and blends seamlessly with the natural environment.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Solar energy and rainwater harvesting systems.
- Support for local community development and education.
- Wildlife conservation initiatives, including turtle protection programs.
- Sustainable building materials and environmentally conscious design.
10. Hoshinoya Tokyo, Japan
Hoshinoya Tokyo is a luxury ryokan that fuses traditional Japanese hospitality with modern eco-conscious design. The hotel emphasizes sustainability through energy-efficient technologies, including LED lighting, water-saving systems, and green building materials. It also incorporates eco-friendly practices in its daily operations, such as waste reduction and recycling.
Hoshinoya Tokyo is located in the heart of the city but offers guests a tranquil, nature-inspired retreat. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to preserve local culture and the natural environment, offering a true eco-luxury experience.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Energy-efficient lighting and water-saving technologies.
- Use of green building materials and sustainable design.
- Recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives.
- Focus on preserving Japanese cultural heritage and natural surroundings.
Conclusion
As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, eco-friendly accommodations have become an essential part of the tourism industry. These hotels and resorts around the world are leading the charge in sustainable hospitality by utilizing renewable energy, reducing waste, and supporting local communities. Whether you're staying at a solar-powered resort in the Maldives or a sustainable luxury retreat in Patagonia, these eco-conscious accommodations offer an opportunity to experience the beauty of our planet while minimizing your carbon footprint.
In 2025 and beyond, choosing green hotels and resorts will not only enhance your travel experience but also support the global movement towards more responsible and sustainable tourism. By staying at these eco-friendly accommodations, you are contributing to the preservation of our planet’s precious resources and helping to create a more sustainable future for all.