As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, many travelers are seeking out accommodations that prioritize sustainability. Green hotels, which focus on eco-friendliness and minimizing their environmental impact, have become increasingly popular in recent years. In this Virginia Woolf style post, we’ll explore some of the best green hotels around the world.
One standout option is The Brando in French Polynesia. This luxury resort is located on a private island and was designed with sustainability in mind from the outset. The entire property runs on renewable energy sources like solar power and coconut oil biofuel, and even the air conditioning utilizes seawater instead of traditional refrigerants. Guests can enjoy organic meals made from local ingredients at one of the resort’s restaurants or relax in an overwater bungalow complete with a private plunge pool.
Another standout green hotel is Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport in South Africa. This hotel has achieved Platinum LEED certification thanks to its impressive list of eco-friendly features such as a greywater recycling system, rooftop solar panels, and electric vehicle charging stations. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary bicycles to explore nearby attractions or enjoy sustainable cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant.
If you’re looking for a stylish stay in Europe that won’t harm the planet, look no further than Casa Bonay in Barcelona. This boutique hotel boasts minimalist decor featuring locally-sourced furniture and artwork created by local artists using recycled materials. Energy-efficient lighting illuminates each room while guests can indulge in natural skincare products made by Spanish brand Natura Bissé.
In California’s Sonoma County wine region lies another green gem: Gaige House + Ryokan. This Japanese-inspired inn offers guests luxurious amenities like soaking tubs and cozy fireplaces while using eco-friendly practices such as low-flow toilets and water-saving showerheads to reduce water waste. A unique feature is that breakfast consists entirely of fresh produce sourced from local farms—organic eggs are delivered daily from just down the road.
If you’re looking for a green hotel that’s closer to home, there are plenty of options in the United States as well. The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in New York City is a prime example of eco-luxury where guests can soak up views of the Manhattan skyline while staying in rooms featuring organic cotton mattresses and reclaimed wood accents. The property also offers complimentary Tesla car service within three miles and has an on-site farm-to-table restaurant.
In Portland, Oregon, the Jupiter Hotel has become known for its commitment to sustainability. This chic boutique hotel features unique decor elements such as murals painted by local artists using non-toxic paint, and each room boasts energy-efficient lighting and low-flow fixtures. Guests can even rent bikes on-site to explore the city or take advantage of composting bins located throughout the property.
For those seeking an eco-friendly staycation option in Texas, look no further than The Treehouse at Oak House Montrose in Houston. This cozy retreat is perched atop a 100-year-old oak tree and features solar panels for electricity, rainwater harvesting systems, and recycled denim insulation to keep guests cozy during their stay. A portion of all bookings goes towards supporting local environmental initiatives.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning one more international option: Soneva Fushi Resort & Residences in the Maldives. This luxurious resort takes sustainability seriously with environmentally friendly practices like using filtered seawater instead of bottled water and planting thousands of trees on nearby islands to offset carbon emissions from guest travel. Guests can indulge in organic meals made with ingredients from the resort’s own gardens or relax at one of the many natural swimming pools dotted around the island.
As travelers become increasingly aware of their impact on the planet, choosing a green hotel is a simple way to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort or luxury during your travels. With so many incredible options available around the world, choosing a sustainable place to stay has never been easier or more stylish.