Within the world of luxury hotels, it has become a trend to place a greater emphasis on sustainability. Many of the world’s leading hotels in various destinations have enforced strategies in order to educate, reduce waste and become more self-sufficient. Along with hotels, guests are also recognising the importance of seeking accommodation that supports giving back to the beautiful world we live in. We have scoured the world and bring you our top five unmissable eco hotels and resorts…
The Brando, Tetiaroa, Tahiti
The Brando is situated within the pristine atoll of Tetiaroa, 33km north of Tahiti in the South Pacific. The Brando is almost fully self-sustainable and carbon neutral, The Brando’s values are hugely eco-centric. All energy they produce is renewable, such as the rainwater which is collected and stored to supply all of the toilets and the laundry on the island. They also have SWAC, Sea Water Air Conditioning, on the island where cold water is taken from deep in the ocean and piped to land to convert it for use at the hotel. The Brando team encourage guests to get involved and learn about these initiatives during their stay through behind-the-scenes tours.
The Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania, Australia
Stunningly positioned on the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast is The Saffire Freycinet. Not only does Saffire provide one of Australia’s most luxurious hotel experiences, it is also a leading eco-hotel globally. The Saffire was created for the purpose of rejuvenating an area which had previously been damaged. What was once the site of a degraded public caravan park is now home to Saffire In order to maintain and protect the area, the hotel implemented many sustainable practices, such as installing energy efficient water usage and lighting. The staff also spend time helping to bring the native species back.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Located in the Koh Rong archipelago are two small islands which make up Song Saa. This luxury hotel is inspired by a passion for Cambodia and a commitment to sustainable development. They have built one of Cambodia’s most efficient waste management centres and launched the Song Saa Foundation, which runs projects focussed on improving the wellbeing of the local communities and natural environments of the Koh Rong Archipelago and further afield.
Nihi Sumba, Indonesia
Sumba island, located off the east coast of Bali, is home to Nihi Sumba. Over thirty years ago, when the original owners first fell in love with the island, their vision for Nihi was to create the vision of a truly sustainable resort. This island, is where rugged luxury meets breathtakingly natural beauty, allowing guests to reconnect with nature. All villas have been built using sustainable materials in keeping with the natural environment. They have committed to being a carbon neutral resort and it is one of the only hotels in the world powered by bio-fuel products, made from coconuts at its own bio-diesel factory. Nihi Sumba is dedicated to fostering community based projects through its Sumba Foundation, establishing access to clean water, creating educational programs and lessening the effects of Malaria on the island.
Soneva Fushi, The Maldives
Hidden within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in the Maldives is Soneva Fushi. Effortlessly blending luxury with forward-thinking sustainable practices. Environmental and social responsibilities are at the core of the resort’s philosophy and the team do everything they can to ensure guests are aware of this. Soneva Fushi is home to one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives. Food is grown on island where possible, and if not it is sourced locally, and some food is imported as a very last resort. All waste materials produced on the island are recycled and the team are hugely focussed on preserving their surrounding ecosystems. They have two natural reserves on site where turtles can safely nest. There is also a glass studio where waste glass is turned into valuable works of art and are on sale to guests in the islands gallery.
