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At Kisawa Sanctuary on Benguerra Island in Mozambique, luxury meets sustainability in a remarkable setting. The eco resort which opened in April 2021 is the first in the world to have been built using 3D-printed materials. The resort was built using local craftsmanship and sustainable supplies, with each of the 12 bungalows featuring custom handmade African furniture. Kisawa works with the Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies, an ocean observatory located at the opposite end of the island and contributes to its international scientific programs.
Tarifa is the kitesurfing capital of Europe, so a solar-powered, off-the-grid eco cabin like this one is the perfect base for a long weekend of watersports. The home was originally designed and built by award-winning Swedish Architect Thomas Sandell for Wallpaper* Magazine and it sleeps up to six guests across two bedrooms. Privately nestled amongst lemon and eucalyptus trees, this secluded accommodation is also a fantastic romantic option for couples who want a quiet escape in nature. The outdoor kitchen offers stunning views and a lovely little spot for al fresco homemade dinners.
Set within the rugged slopes of the extinct volcano Palo Huérfano, 20 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Miguel de Allende sits Casa Etérea. An art installation which is available to rent through Instagram, this sustainably-made dwelling draws all its power from solar energy, its water supply from collected rainwater, and uses a patterned ultraviolet coating on the mirror making it visible to birds while remaining reflective to the human eye. Guests can enjoy bespoke adventures led by residents of the local Alcocer community, venture into the beautiful arts city of San Miguel De Allende, or simply stay put and completely detach from the outside world.
Not only is Costa Rica known to be one of the happiest places on earth, it’s also an inspiring example of how nations can work to reverse the climate crisis through restoration commitments. Kasiiya, a tropical paradise in the northwestern province of Guanacaste follows suit. The delicate design of the eco-resort (by French studio AW²) takes conservation, sustainability and minimalism into account. Not a single tree was cut down during the construction of Kasiiya and with just seven tented suites, it makes for a peaceful and private stay. Nearby, there are three breathtaking beaches and walking trails and over 100 acres of unspoilt jungle to get lost in. Within the resort itself there is an organic restaurant, beach bar and relaxing spa. Kasiiya’s aim is to encourage guests to ‘rediscover the true value of time’, and you’ll most likely wish it would stop altogether while staying here.
agua is a place of immense natural beauty. Morgan’s Rock was the country’s first luxury eco lodge and 17 years on, it’s still well worth visiting. It is bordered by a mile-long beach and helps to protect the endangered turtles which reside locally. Working to counter deforestation and illegal logging, Morgan’s Rock continuously plants trees and uses solar panels for energy. They provide work for the local community who make up 90% of their hired staff and guests can enjoy wholesome activities such as tortilla-making and learning about organic farming.
Slovenia, with its many lakes and valleys is a fantastic place for outdoorsy travellers. It may be a small, but there is plenty to do here and after Finland, it’s the greenest country in Europe, with over half of its landmass covered by forest. Sustainable accommodation can easily be identified by the official ‘Slovenia Green Accommodation Label’ and one such location that’s on our bucket list is Urška Tourist Farm. With a wellness centre, restaurant serving organic home grown products and plenty of animals to interact with, this farm stay in idyllic surroundings offers lots of nature-led entertainment for guests of all ages.
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Marine North Berwick is the ideal place to experience and explore Scotland’s rugged nature. The hotel, which opens in August 2021, is situated along Scotland’s historic gold coast, so of course, this is the activity of choice here. The food at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant is locally sourced and is presented with a uniquely decadent take on farm-and sea-to table dining. Aside from perfecting your swing, there’s plenty of other ways to pass the time here. Take a walk on one of North Berwick’s various beaches, explore the ruins of the seafront Tantallon Castle, or observe the wildlife at the nearby Scottish Seabird Centre.