The travel industry is constantly growing, and many hotels are making a conscious effort towards a more sustainable environment. From hotels using sustainable materials, serving regional produce, and reducing their environmental impact, these are just some of the ways the hotels below are participating in sustainable tourism and creating an eco-friendly stay.
With this list of our favourite eco-friendly stays, taking care of the environment on holiday has never been so luxurious.
Elmley Nature Reserve
Elmley is a 3,300-acre estate situated on an island in the Thames. Each of their accommodation has its own individual charm but are all designed to create a perfect hideaway. Their shepherd huts and The Salt Box offer windows for walls so you can wake up to the sunrise and go to sleep watching the stars. They also have a very plush king size bed, and an indoor and outdoor shower. All the properties come with spectacular views of the water and countryside that surrounds you. These stylish and indulgent accommodations are the only places in England where you can spend a night in a National Nature Reserve. If you want to disappear from the world for a night or two then this is the place for you.
Heckfield Place
This Georgian home has been lovingly restored from its classic origins and sits on 400 acres of secluded Hampshire countryside. Heckfield Place is a handsome, historic, and eco-friendly estate with elegance and charm at its heart. They have many rooms for you to pick from and all are connected to the nature that surrounds the estate. From bespoke English oak furniture to mats handwoven from rushes harvested on the River Ouse. All the rooms have comfort and character and you can choose from rooms with views of the lake and estate, cosy rooms perfect for two, or your own lodge. They have 3 impressive restaurants and all are exquisitely designed and offer the best food and service around. Wake up the next morning and visit the Little Bothy Spa, which offers all-natural treatments and yoga classes.
Old Lands
If you fancy an escape in the Welsh countryside where you eat what they grow, learn more about nature, and relax in the most delightful setting, then a stay at Old Lands should definitely be top of your list. They have 3 holiday cottages to stay in and all sit in or alongside the flowery yard. The rooms are beautifully designed with comfort and simplicity with each accommodation having its own character and features. If you are bringing children with you, then why not book them onto the Forest school. They will be encouraged to play, be creative, and explore the natural environment surrounding the estate. They have a community supported walled garden where the fruit and vegetables are sold in the on-site micro farm shop too. Without the use of pesticides or fertilisers, and as a wildlife-friendly garden, it supports the biodiversity of the Old-Lands estate.
Saorsa 1875
Known as the UK’s first Vegan Hotel, Saorsa 1875 is redefining the luxury hotel world by being dedicated to showcasing ethical luxury. Nestled in 2 acres of natural woodlands and gardens, the hotel has been designed for vegans, vegetarians, and the plant-curious. Their menu is completely plant-based and shares the very best of local, seasonal, and foraged produce. The building has been restored to show off the Victorian gothic origins while seamlessly complimenting modern amenities. All 11 bedrooms have been individually styled to create a calming combination of luxurious linens, bohemian styling, and antique furnishings. Downstairs, the lounge and restaurant are the perfect spot to get cosy and unwind around the roaring fire. The Hotel has won many awards for the outstanding work they do and has been named as the winner of National Geographic’s ‘Good Egg’ Award.
The Grove
Set in 300 acres of glorious Hertfordshire countryside, The Grove is the ultimate 5 star retreat. Not just a hotel, expect an award winning spa, championship golf course, and mouth-watering restaurants when you come to stay. Be amazed by their breathtaking gardens and outdoor pool and explore their own nature trails, created by the Wildlife Trust. The Grove now has a dedicated ‘Green Team’ who work on initiatives such as an ongoing partnership with local charity New Hope Trust, which aims to help aid the homeless or vulnerably-housed in the local area. They have also joined the ‘Clean the World’ programme. A charity that collects, cleans, and re-uses used guest soap and amenities in countries less fortunate than the UK. They have also recently won a Green Apple Award – Silver for Environmental Best Practice.
The Scarlet
Winner of ‘Seaside Hotel of the Year’ this laid-back hotel has everything you could want for a romantic and eco-friendly holiday. With magnificent views of the cliffs, sea, sand, and sky, prepare to be taken away by the surrounding natural beauty. The Scarlet offers many luxurious rooms with sea views so get ready to wake up to the sound of the sea. Their ethos is to ‘Cherish the World’ and have committed to reducing their waste and carbon footprint year-on-year, and source responsibly. They want to create escapes that literally don’t cost the Earth, so you can definitely relax and enjoy your stay here. The Scarlet has one of the most picturesque spas, with an indoor pool with the most insane views out to the sea and one of the most perfect hot tub locations, situated outside on the cliffside so you can really soak up all the views.
If you are looking to get closer to nature, then why not also check out our article all about unusual places to stay.
This is the right site for everyone who wishes to understand this topic.
You know so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I personally will need to…HaHa).
You certainly put a fresh spin on a topic which has
been written about for ages. Wonderful stuff, just excellent!
That is a really good tip especially to those fresh to the
blogosphere. Brief but very accurate information… Thank you for sharing this one.
A must read post!