Sustainable Luxury Hotels

Sustainable luxury hotels play an important role in promoting responsible tourism. When considering sustainable travel, hotel accommodations are particularly important. Because hotels and resorts are such large tourism draws, they can have a significant footprint on the economy, culture, and environment. But staying in luxury doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice social and environmental sustainability. 

Hotels can offer guests a luxury experience while promoting sustainable practices. Hotels can opt for sustainable design (building with locally sourced or recycled materials), local construction, energy efficiency (solar power or energy efficiency), and community partnerships to reduce their carbon footprint. LEED certifications, commitment to sustainability, and overall guest experience contribute to a luxury hotel’s sustainability ranking. 
 

5 Sustainable Luxury Hotels In The U.S. 

1. Bardessono Hotel and Spa (Yountville, California): This LEED Platinum-certified hotel in California's Napa Valley boasts luxurious accommodations with a strong focus on eco-friendly hotels. They incorporate energy-efficient design, solar power, reclaimed materials, organic linens, and a commitment to local sourcing in their operations.  
2. 1 Hotel Central Park (New York City, New York): With eco-conscious design elements, such as reclaimed wood and sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems, 1 Hotel Central Park is a rare sustainable luxury hotel option in the big city. They also offer locally sourced organic cuisine and eco-friendly amenities and partner with environmental organizations to promote prioritizing sustainability. 
3. Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur, California): Post Ranch Inn is well-known for its stunning views and commitment to sustainability. The eco-friendly hotel features green roofs and natural materials, as well as energy-efficient systems and water conservation measures. Post Ranch Inn provides luxurious accommodations with minimal environmental impact and access to nature-based activities. 
4. The Resort at Paws Up (Greenough, Montana): Located on a sprawling ranch in Montana, The Resort at Paws Up offers luxury “glamping” (glamorous camping) experiences in a pristine natural setting. This green resort emphasizes sustainability through initiatives such as organic farming, wildlife conservation, and responsible land management practices. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations in safari-style tents, along with outdoor adventures like horseback riding, fly fishing, and hiking. 
5. Cavallo Point Lodge (Sausalito, California): The lodge features LEED Gold-certified accommodations, eco-friendly amenities, and organic dining options sourced from local farms. Guests can participate in wellness programs, outdoor activities, and environmental education initiatives during their stay.    

5 Luxury Eco-Friendly Hotels Abroad 

1. Six Senses Yao Noi (Phang Nga Bay, Thailand): The resort features eco-friendly villas with private pools, organic gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. Six Senses Yao Noi implements sustainable practices such as renewable energy, water conservation, and community engagement initiatives.  
2. Soneva Fushi (Baa Atoll, Maldives): Soneva Fushi is a luxury eco-resort known for its sustainable practices and barefoot luxury experience. Located on a private island, Kunfunadhoo, the resort offers spacious villas made from sustainable materials, organic cuisine sourced from on-site gardens, and a range of eco-friendly activities, including snorkeling, diving, and marine conservation efforts. 
3. Fogo Island Inn (Newfoundland, Canada):  Located on a remote island off the coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn is a striking example of one of the sustainable luxury hotels. The inn features a contemporary design inspired by local traditions, panoramic views of the North Atlantic, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. Fogo Island Inn supports local artisans and implements energy-efficient technologies to benefit guests and the local community. 
4. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley (Blue Mountains, Australia): Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is in the Blue Mountains and offers guests a luxurious retreat amidst a conservation reserve. The resort features private villas with plunge pools, gourmet dining using locally sourced ingredients, and a range of eco-friendly activities such as guided nature walks, wildlife safaris, and conservation experiences. 
5. Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel (Valais, Switzerland): Located in the Swiss Alps, Whitepod offers guests a unique blend of luxury accommodation and sustainable living. Whitepod emphasizes eco-friendly practices such as renewable energy, waste reduction, and conservation initiatives, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Alps while minimizing their environmental footprint. 
    

Traveling sustainably doesn’t have to mean rustically. These luxury sustainable hotels prove that you can have glamour along with conscientious tourism practices that give back to the community. 
 

How to Book Luxury Sustainable Hotels 

Before booking your sustainable hotel, consider: 

Research: Start by researching luxury hotels that are known for their sustainable practices. Look for properties that have received eco-certifications (LEED certifications) or recognition for their sustainability initiatives. 

Review Accommodation Websites: Visit the websites of potential luxury sustainable hotels to learn more about their eco-friendly initiatives, amenities, and accommodations. Look for information on energy-efficient design, renewable energy sources, water conservation measures, waste reduction programs, and local community involvement. 
 
Check Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings from other travelers who have stayed at the hotels you're considering. Pay attention to feedback about sustainability efforts, environmental practices, and overall guest experience. 
 
Contact the Hotel Directly: If you have specific questions about the hotel's sustainability practices or amenities, don't hesitate to contact them directly. Reach out via email or phone to inquire about their eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling programs, organic dining options, or green transportation services. 
 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Insurance Plan  

Because everyone’s travel plans, priorities, and budgets are different, we suggest you speak with our licensed travel agent today to hear about what plan is most suited to your needs.   

AXA offers travelers 3 travel protection policies: Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans, each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Compare plans here.  
 
Note: Non-domestic hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare. We suggest travelers to consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses while traveling outside of the U.S. 

Also Read: Most Expensive Places to Travel, Exotic Travel 

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