With each new year that passes, the natural environments in which we travel too are becoming more scarce and fragile. It follows that, in recent years, we have begun to see travellers become more aware of their environmental impact, and increasingly mindfully about leaving a positive footprint.
As a result, more and more eco-friendly hotels have popped up around the globe, catering for consumers that expect only the most exclusive and authentic experiences. Today, even the most discerning traveller expects a resort to adopt green and eco-friendly initiatives and principles, to reduce its carbon footprint where ever possible and to implement its own green/sustainability policies where they can. Thankfully, hotels are starting to listen and we beginning to see hotels, homes and resorts around the world using sustainable construction materials, recycling waste materials, conserving water, and working with local organisations and communities to preserve biodiversity and protect fragile ecosystems.
In light of this, we have carefully selected an elegant collection of eco-stays so you can enjoy a guilt-free holiday while indulging in a dash of luxury.
Not only does this stunning list of eco-luxury hotels put the planet first by using responsible designs and eco-technology, but here at GoKo Travels, we have also gone the extra mile. If you book any of the below hotels with GoKo travels (or find another eco-hotel that we have missed from the list) we will carbon balance this trip in full and donate 3% of your sale to our very own GoKo Earth Preservation Foundation.
So, let begin:
Located on the private island of Lankanfushi, Gili is a magical all-water villa resort crafted from natural materials and inspired by tractional design.
An embodiment of rustic chic, Gili Lankanfushi effortlessly combines simplicity and opulence like no other. Its core philosophy of barefoot luxury means casual dress is met with lavish amenities and five-star services.
Offering over 45 world-class water villas, Gili Lankanfushi was once voted the best hotel in the world at the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. All villas and residences are generously set apart with a feature water garden and private deck. Enjoy infinity swimming pools, spacious sundecks, and ocean-view rooftops in the villa options, or be amazed by couple’s spa pavilion, sauna and steam rooms, air-conditioned gymnasiums, home cinemas and fully stocked bars in a selection of Private Residences and Reserves.
Sustainability: Gili Lankanfushi is committed to sustainability, with a particular focus on preserving the natural environment and defending fragile marine ecosystems. Designed in a genuine style, constructed with environmentally friendly materials and blended seamlessly into the breathtaking landscape of a natural environment, Gili Lankanfushi established a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere where guests may feel completely at ease. The architecture is built with responsibly sourced plantation teak, palm wood, bamboo, and palm fronds (much of which was gathered during the island regeneration process) in addition to reused telegraph poles. All rooms include biodegradable toiletries in refillable earthenware jars to reduce pollution. All hotel guests receive bottled still and sparkling water from the island’s unique desalination plant. Much of the restaurant’s foods are also picked from their organic gardens.
Infused with a contemporary feel, this elegant boutique invites you into a deep state of relaxation, where wellness and tranquillity play a leading role.
Located in the heart of Comporta’s idyllic and untouched natural reserve, Quinta da Comporta was built with a genuine connection to nature and and boasts the perfect setting for an authentic experience.
A stunning tribute to the cultural heritage of Comporta, this luxury retreat is deeply connected with its natural surroundings and was build with love and care for the environment that embraces it. Providing exclusivity, authenticity and high-quality services, Quinta da Comporta’s seventy-three spacious Pool Villas, Townhouses apartments, Suites and Rooms, create the perfect resort for a genuine journey to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. Featuring an exclusive in-house Oryza Spa, garden to plate inspired Restaurant & Lounge Bar, an Exterior 40m long Swimming Pool, Rice Field views, clubhouse with Business Center and Library, Biogardens and a Yoga Shala, this is the retreat your soul has been searching for.
Sustainability: Based on his personal connection to the region, Miguel Câncio Martins designed this magnificent piece to protect and preserve the authenticity of the region. In regards to preserving the region’s genuity, Quinta da Comprta was constructed to preserve natural landscapes, while integrating local architecture, supporting local communities, and maintaining the unique character and history of the land.
Consequently, all aspects of the development process were thoughtful and dedicated to a low impact construction concept. Furthermore, solar panels are used to create sustainable energy, and treatment processes are implemented to re-use residual water in the gardens. The resort also uses bikes and electrical buggies within the property to reduce emissions, and controlled mosquitoes by using cutting-edge methods to protect the natural environment.
Fringed by six miles of golden sand overlooking the Cerulean Sea, Calilo is home to one of the largest private holdings of unspoiled beach-front land in the Mediterranean.
Carved out of the native rock and cradled by over 1,000 acres of protected land, sits the majestic Calilo Hotel. Fringed by six miles of golden sand overlooking the Cerulean Sea, Calilo is home to one of the largest private holdings of unspoiled beach-front land in the Mediterranean.
Nestled quietly in a remote corner of Ios, in the heart of the Cyclades, Calilo was developed based upon environmentally friendly design and construction; working only with local communities to ensure economic benefits and responsible tourism.
Just a pebble’s throw from party islands Mykonos and Santorini, this 30-suite sanctuary offers an escape from the clamour and the crowds. Think sun-drenched seclusion, surrounded by an ancient olive-pricked landscape, creative design and warm ocean breezes.
Sustainability: Calilo is a part of the incredible LuxurIOS – a Greek-owned tourism project that develops, owns and operates hotels, beach estates, villas and lounges. This project was born out of the local’s love for their country, with a vision to promote sustainable tourism throughout Greece; contributing mental, emotional and financial resources to protect and promote the cultural and natural heritage of Ios.
The aim on this particular project was to use a very low-impact, environmentally sensible approach to sustainably develop a very small portion of the land – leaving 99% of it undeveloped. As a result, Ios’ natural beauty, unspoiled beaches, sense of place and Greek island cultural heritage will continue to thrive for future generations of locals and visitors alike.
Engulfed by pine forests overlooking Maslinica Bay and the Adriatic Sea, Maslina Resort is sustainable luxury at its finest.
Engulfed by pine forests overlooking Maslinica Bay and the Adriatic Sea, Maslina Resort is sustainable luxury at its finest. Located in Stari Grad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Maslina Resort was heavily inspired by the surrounding pine landscapes. As such, all 53 rooms, suites and villas were designed with nature in mind and boast seafront living, private gardens or plunge pools.
The hotel’s heated outdoor pools and sun decks, in accordance with its ideals, provide panoramic sea views; while the beach garden with private sunbathing areas, a juice bar, and pebble stone beaches offer unrivalled swimming possibilities for all of its guests. What’s more, the Pharomatiq Spa may be utilized for a variety of therapies, massages, Turkish hammam or Finnish spa treatments.
The cuisine at Maslina Resort respects local ingredients and producers, and recognises seasonality, with many ingredients harvested from the 7,000 sqm Organic Garden.
Sustainability: The resort, which is dedicated to preserving the island of Hvar’s natural and cultural heritage, was founded on ecologically and responsible management principles. Every element of the guest experience reflects the Hotels’ beliefs; their non-intrusive design complements the island setting; they have reforested and protected native species, and their interior and exterior blend together to represent a sustainable world in which nature may flourish.
Mindful Luxury also strongly encourage energy efficiency and procurement practices that promote local and regional suppliers, while their cuisine delights the senses thanks to organic and seasonal ingredients. Finally, the signature in-room guest amenities and natural spa cosmetics are locally designed, non-toxic, and made without any plastics.
Perched on top of a valley, with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, sits the multi-award-winning Kasbah Tamadot- first bought by Sir Richard Branson in 1998.
Perched on top of a valley, with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, sits the multi-award-winning Kasbah Tamadot.
Boasting 28 rooms and suites, including ten luxury Berber tents, some with a jacuzzi, Kasbah Tamadot blurs the lines between lavish adventure living and a luxury lifestyle like no other. Whether you are looking to relax in the traditional hammam spa, soak up the Moroccan sun by the outdoor infinity pool, sip on traditional mint tea in the courtyard, or embark on a trail hike through the Atlas Mountains, there is a range of activities to keep you busy during your stay in Kasbah Tamadot. As the sun begins to set, relax by the fireplace in the lounges before taking yourself on a mouthwatering culinary journey to the Kanoun restaurant – where the chefs produce some of the best local and international cuisines in Morocco.
Sustainability: When Sir Richard Branson bought Kasbah Tamadot, he also began offering free English lessons to the local people, regardless of whether or not they wanted to work at the hotel. In a number of cases, the team had never been formally employed before and so Kasbah Tamadot had to start from scratch, believing that in the long run they would only profit from focusing on the resources within the local region.
Supporting the local community is strengthened even further through projects such as The Eve Branson Foundation, which aims to improve living standards in the Berber communities surrounding Kasbah Tamadot. The objective is to increase the level of awareness about environmental protection amongst tourists, so they are more aware of how their actions affect the environment when travelling. They also believe in sustainable development of the local tourism industry and are conscious of their duty towards the environment and the local community. Consequently, Kasbah Tamadot are continually looking to identify new methods for waste disposal, recycling and energy saving.
As proud members of Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that allows travellers like you to make a lasting impact in the community at your travel destination. If you save a few kilos on your luggage and bring supplies to schools or medical clinics that need them, you will have made an immeasurable difference in the lives of the local children and families.
Located on a secluded stretch of shoreline, on Portugals Silver Coast, Areias do Seixo combines bohemian-chic ambience with a techno-eco experience.
The magical Areias do Seixo, surrounded by pine trees, sand dunes and rugged coastlines is luxury eco-living at its finest. Located on a secluded stretch of shoreline, on Portugals Silver Coast, Areias do Seixo combines bohemian-chic ambience with a techno-eco experience.
Each of the 14 romantic rooms and 1 charm tent are admirably creative, drawing on Indian and African aesthetics while blending them with modern minimalism and creativity, to fashion gorgeous colour schemes and innovative design. Think of olive trees inside bathrooms, secluded landscaped rooftops, and large windows to gaze over the sandy dunes. The ultra-modern concrete-and-glass exterior is an architectural delight, while the interior amenities such as suspended fireplaces, sheepskin throws, and sea-facing terraces promise to take your breath away.
Throughout your stay, make the most of the outdoor swimming pool, the on-site restaurant which features organic produce sourced from the hotels organic vegetable garden, and the decked path leading to the sand dunes and private beaches.
Sustainability: Boasting strong environmental awareness, the hotel was inspired by a vision: to create a place that looked out over the sea and could welcome people from all over the world, that evoked emotions and touched people’s souls.The site and the concept were designed with a great deal of environmental consciousness in mind, as they wanted to ensure harmonious integration.
An organically cultivated garden packed with fruits, veggies, eggs, fragrant herbs, flowers, and a variety of natural goods that is all used at the hotel – including fibrous plants for bindings; leaves and stalks for decoration; and essential oils for massages.
As a whole, Areias do Seixo is a space that uses principles of sustainable tourism, including:
- Use of renewable energies and use of natural resources.
- Reducing Waste management by reducing, then reusing and finally recycling.
- In the kitchen, they try to buy large and returnable packaging. Also, to privilege local suppliers.
- The organic waste is sent back to the composting centre to produce a natural fertilizer to feed the farmland healthily.
- In the Garden, they use clean and chemical-free fruits, vegetables and herbs grown daily, giving a unique and healthy flavour to the dishes created in the restaurant.
300 metres above the stunning Elia Beach, Mykonos, sits the impeccable Myconian Utopia Relais & Châteaux Resort.
300 meters above the stunning Elia Beach, Mykonos, sits the impeccable Myconian Utopia Relais & Châteaux Resort.
Perfect for couples and honeymooners seeking a romantic getaway, all rooms boast opulent custom-made furnishings, designer bathrooms, and a private balcony or terrace overlooking the stunning Elia beach. What’s more, some rooms even come with a Jacuzzi or infinity pool for those extra special occasions.
Pure luxury and maximum comfort are complemented with fantastic entertainment areas, offering a variety of dining options, bars, Thalasso spa treatments, gyms and more. From sunrise to sunset, pampered guests will find themselves drifts from one luxury temptation to the next. Whether you’re after sun lounger lazing, infinity pool diving, opulent lunchtime grazing or cocktail sinking, you can relax knowing a holiday at the Myconian Utopia Relais & Châteaux Resort will deliver on them all.
Sustainability: Not only does this resort boast sophisticated hospitality and sheer natural beauty, but the Myconian Utopia resort was built with sustainability in mind. A ‘green conscience’ underpins the structural use of locally sourced, hand-cut stone, exotic woods, and sustainable materials; making the iconic design and ultra-glamorous finish that ever so much more rewarding.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is an idyllic haven, nestled amongst lush emerald rice fields of the mystical Mae Rim Valley.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is an idyllic haven, nestled amongst lush emerald rice fields. Located in the ‘Rose of the North’, this sanctuary acts as the perfect place to rekindle your love with mother nature and discover your own path to wellbeing.
Set overlooking the sprawling paddy fields and tropical gardens of the mystical Mae Rim Valley, you can choose from 99 pavilions, villas and private residences each with vaulted ceilings, polished teak floors and outdoor salas. For those wanting to take their holiday to new heights, pick from the residence with private pools. With six different dining options within this resort, Chef Liam is dedicated to sourcing the best ingredients and bringing a fresh approach to each menu. For those with a more sophisticated palate, dine at the Thai-inspired ‘Khao’ restaurant or under the stars at ‘North’.
Sustainability: Four Seasons commitment to sustainability and preservation continues across Asia Pacific through local partnerships, sustainable practices, guest education and more. Four Seasons Resorts Asia recognises their responsibility in minimising their impact on the environment and engaging in conservation practices. Through local community partnerships, sustainable practices and education, the Resorts are committed to creating positive change and continuing to advance environmental initiatives.
At Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Thai rice farmers manage their paddies in the Resort’s grounds and teach guests the art of rice planting, while menus are rich with vegetables, tomatoes, figs, and salt from other nearby producers.
Set on a magnificent working farm and built during the 16th century, Masseria Cervarolo is a stunning example of Puglia’s oral history and ancient heritage.
Set on a magnificent working farm and built during the 16th century, Masseria Cervarolo is a stunning example of Puglia’s oral history and ancient heritage. Still using the traditional Trulli buildings – a typical Apulian rural home originally constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses by agricultural labourers – Masseria Cervarolo takes its local roots seriously.
This guilt-free getaway is a wonderful sanctuary away from the bustle and hustle of the real world and boasts a stunning outdoor swimming pool, an incredible glass-walled restaurant, ten hectares of resorted gardens and an ancient chapel.
Sustainability: Just 6km away from the splendid seaside town of Ostuni and sitting high up on an iconic hillock, this tranquil getaway has a strong ethos around sustainability and preserving the planet’s environment and natural reserves. Their genius for creative recycling is in evidence everywhere, from the reuse of the original farmhouse’s doors and the use of swept up driftwood to the restoration of original structures and eco-friendly toiletries. Masseria Cervarolo also generates its own solar power and protects the biodiversity within its lands.
Masseria Cervarolo’s main goal is to help protect our environment, preserve its natural reserves and safeguard the biodiversity of our planet. Masseria Cervarolo takes this matter very seriously and meticulously respect the following regulations:
- Obtaining clean energy from the photovoltaic installation for all needs of the hotel
- Reduction of air, water and ground pollution thanks to the use of eco-friendly products
- Recycling
- Protection of the biodiversity in the areas directly under the control of the receptive structure,
- Usage of local seasonal produce in all foods.
Blurring the lines between raw adventure and high-end luxury, Gorah Elephant Camp is an opulent 11-tented campsite surrounding a gracious manor house that overviews an iconic waterhole in the heart of the Addo National Park.
Located in the heart of Addo National Park, sits the luxurious Gorah Elephant Camp. The breathtaking natural world of Africa is flawlessly blended with period vintage charm and modern elegance, fashioning a unique 5-star adventure getaway.
Blurring the lines between raw adventure and high-end luxury, Gorah Elephant Camp is an opulent 11-tented campsite surrounding a gracious manor house that overviews an iconic waterhole in the heart of the Addo National Park. Experience the thrill and romantic mystique of an authentic African safari in a region that boasts the planets dentists elephant population.
You’ll never forget that one-in-a-lifetime buzz of quietly watching a herd of elephants stroll by as you sip tea from the veranda of a stately colonial manor house. The park is also malaria-free and is home to the Big 5.
BONUS HOTEL:
Simply furnished and lit only by candlelight, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is a perfect example of luxurious minimalism and conservational triumph; with Condé Nast identifying it as one of the “most beautiful hotels on the planet”.
Located in the heart of Matera, a UNESCO world heritage site and the capital of culture, sits the wonderfully unique Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. Nestled quietly within the stunning old Sassi quarters – a unique hamlet that is a phenomenally well-preserved example of a village where hundreds of caves were turned into dwellings, churches and palaces – Le Grotte della Civita is now a romantic haven and stunning cultural retreat.
Facing the spectacular Murgia park and its rock-hewn churches, this stunning boutique hotel is now comprised of 18 caved rooms, all renovated to retain their original features. Simply furnished and lit only by candlelight, this hotel is a perfect example of luxurious minimalism and conservational triumph; with Condé Nast identifying it as one of the “most beautiful hotels on the planet”.
Sustainability: As a way of maintaining the architectural heritage of this building, conservation was taken seriously during the restoration. It involved agreements between private companies and local government, a profound respect for the local history, and a focus on increasing employment within the region. The combined efforts of both the public and private sectors meant that long-term sustainable economic activity was put in motion to protect the heritage of the region.
When developing the wonderful Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, they stuck to 3 essential guidelines:
Maintaining the buildings original use, form and materials. I.e. the dimensions of doors and windows should not be changed, nor should the internal divisions of rooms.
Architectural fittings used to replace those which have been lost are sourced from the local area. Where possible, reclaimed materials should be placed in the same context.
Retaining any traces of life found in the fabric of the building.
