Luxury retreats to reconnect with nature

31 July 2024

Travelling is about experiencing the world in its most authentic form, and with the growing trend of eco-consciousness, more people are seeking accommodation that offer both opulence and a more sustainable stay. Enter a new era of the luxury resort—a harmonious blend of comfort, elegance, and environmental stewardship. Here, we’ve chosen four outstanding luxury places that embody this ethos and cater to the most discerning traveller.

Luxury retreats to reconnect with nature

Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sri Lanka

Nestled amidst a manmade wetland habitat, Jetwing Vil Uyana is a sanctuary of tranquillity and biodiversity. Located in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, this resort stands out for its commitment to sustainability and conservation, from reforestation efforts to supporting local agricultural practices. Using species native to Sri Lanka’s dry zone, this resort has been reforesting to create a lush and thriving ecosystem, with more diverse flora and fauna, which can be explored during a stay here thanks to guided nature walks and birdwatching.

The open-plan design of the resort’s restaurant, lounge, and library have reduced the need for artificial lighting and ventilation, thus reducing energy consumption, while four acres of land are dedicated to the paddy cultivation, ensuring that local agricultural practices are preserved and promoted.

Olas Tulum, Mexico

Located in the heart of Tulum, Olas is part of the 'Regenerative Resorts of the World,' dedicated to creating positive impacts on both the environment and the local community. This boutique resort is powered entirely by solar energy, with backup generators used sparingly, and champions sustainable living. All fruits, vegetables, eggs, and cheese used in their restaurants come from regional farms or local communities, including sourcing seafood from local fisherman, while rainwater is collected and used to feed the indigenous vegetation.

The resort’s main villa was designed half a century ago, making it the oldest structure on Tulum beach. Its architecture features a slight curvature of the walls to leverage natural breezes from the sea to cool guests, eliminating the need for air conditioning.

Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp, Kenya

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Laikipia Plateau, Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp offers more than just luxurious accommodation—it offers a deep connection to the land and its people. The camp is renowned for its conservation efforts and close ties with the local Samburu and Maasai tribes, with revenue from the camp supporting the conservation of the 230km private wilderness and community-oriented health, education, and enterprise programmes. The camp also has its own dedicated anti-poaching team, including highly trained sniffer dogs, to preserve the beautiful wildlife that resides there.

All of their camps feature state-of-the-art power systems to minimise emissions and fuel use, and all employ a strict recycling policy so that everything that can be recycled is – which, in turn, has helped reduce the amount of single-use plastic used by the resort dramatically.

Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel and Spa, Portugal

Situated in Portugal’s enchanting wine region, Six Senses Douro Valley is a pioneer in more sustainable luxury. The resort places a strong emphasis on education and guest involvement in its sustainability initiatives, with workshops and sessions about the projects supported by the resort's Sustainability Fund.

The resort has also banned single-use plastics, including plastic straws, and uses reusable glass bottles instead. With its breathtaking views of the Douro River and commitment to more sustainable practices, this resort offers an idyllic retreat for those looking to combine the best of both worlds when it comes to travel and caring for the planet.

For more inspiration around travelling more responsibly, click here.

Five unforgettable routes with Rocky Mountaineer

04 August 2025

Few travel experiences combine luxury and natural beauty quite like the Rocky Mountaineer. This world-renowned rail journey takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Canada and the US, offering panoramic views and exceptional service along the way. Whether you’re gliding past the towering peaks of the Rockies or the red canyons of the Southwest, every moment on board is sure to leave you in awe. With bookings now open for 2027, there’s never been a better time to plan your adventure with your Travel Counsellor.

Canada’s best national parks for summer adventures

28 July 2025

For those who love the great outdoors, Canada’s national parks are nothing short of extraordinary. With 37 national parks and 11 national park reserves, the country offers an endless array of natural wonders, from dramatic mountain ranges to peaceful coastlines. Each park has its own unique charm, making it easy to see why so many people return year after year. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve highlighted five parks that truly shine in summer and early autumn - perfect for wildlife spotting, scenic hikes, and moments of pure stillness surrounded by nature.

Indulge in ultimate luxury at Sandy Lane in Barbados

25 July 2025

Perched on the Platinum Coast of Barbados, Sandy Lane is the pinnacle of Caribbean luxury, where timeless elegance meets unparalleled indulgence. Set against a backdrop of turquoise waters and a pristine 1,000-foot crescent of white coral-sand beach, this legendary resort has redefined opulence for over six decades. Nestled within an ancient mahogany grove, Sandy Lane is more than a destination—it’s an icon, celebrated as one of the world’s most prestigious retreats. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a rejuvenating retreat, Sandy Lane offers an experience of exclusivity and sophistication that is simply unmatched.