Luxury retreats to reconnect with nature

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.

Why you should consider Thailand during green season

21 August 2026

When most people think of Thailand, they picture the dry, busy months - the packed beaches, the long queues at temples, the peak-season prices. But, outside of these peak months, Thailand’s green season reveals a softer, more atmospheric side of the country. The landscapes deepen in colour, the pace eases, and familiar places begin to feel more spacious, from temple courtyards and hillside trails to palm-fringed beaches.

A fresh look at Iberostar Waves Tucán & Quetzal

21 August 2026

For families planning a Riviera Maya holiday, Iberostar Waves Tucán and Iberostar Waves Quetzal are returning with even more reasons to stay. Reopening in December 2026 after an extensive renovation, the sister hotels have introduced new family accommodation, upgraded pools and water facilities, and a refreshed line-up of places to eat and drink. Best of all, families staying at either property can enjoy the common areas and restaurants across both hotels, giving everyone more choice without having to travel anywhere else.

6 ways to holiday with Iberostar in Spain

21 August 2026

From adults-only hideaways made for two to easy-going family resorts by the beach, Iberostar offers plenty of ways to holiday in Spain. Across Ibiza, Mallorca, Fuerteventura, and Tenerife, its hotels pair standout coastal locations with excellent dining, inviting pools, wellness facilities, and thoughtful extras. Whether you want a quiet week with your partner, a family break where everything is taken care of, or a more indulgent stay with personalised service, these six Iberostar hotels each bring something different to the table.

Villas 1 Awali Background Colour Banana Island 3 (2)

Finding your match...

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.