Why Ikos Andalusia is setting a new standard for sustainable luxury on the Costa del Sol

09 July 2026

Luxury holidays and responsible travel are becoming increasingly connected, and Ikos Andalusia shows how the two can go hand in hand. Set on Playa de Guadalmansa between Marbella and Estepona, this award-winning resort pairs its renowned all-inclusive offering with ambitious environmental goals. Guests can still enjoy Michelin-starred menus, beachfront relaxation, and exceptional service, but behind the scenes, the resort is working towards net-zero carbon operations by 2030 while making meaningful changes that reduce its environmental impact.

Why Ikos Andalusia is setting a new standard for sustainable luxury on the Costa del Sol

Big changes behind the scenes

Many of Ikos Andalusia's sustainability efforts are designed to make a difference without affecting the guest experience. The resort is powered entirely by renewable electricity, while energy-saving measures such as heat pumps, smart-flow taps, and 99% LED lighting help reduce overall consumption. There's also been a significant push to remove single-use plastics and cut the amount of waste sent to landfill, proving that thoughtful changes behind the scenes can have a lasting impact. It's a practical approach that allows guests to enjoy a five-star stay while knowing the resort is actively reducing its environmental footprint.

A taste of Andalusia

Sustainability extends beyond the resort itself and into the surrounding region. More than 56% of the products used across Ikos Resorts are sourced locally, supporting farmers, artisan producers, and independent businesses. That commitment is reflected across the dining experiences, where regional ingredients appear throughout the menus, alongside authentic flavours inspired by southern Spain. Guests can also take advantage of the complimentary Dine Out programme, enjoying meals at carefully selected local restaurants in nearby Estepona, adding another way to support the area's hospitality scene while experiencing traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Exploring the Costa del Sol differently

One of the most distinctive inclusions at Ikos Andalusia is the complimentary Local Drive Adventure. Guests can borrow an electric MINI Countryman for the day, making it easy to explore the Costa del Sol with zero tailpipe emissions. The winding roads leading into the Andalusian hills reveal whitewashed villages such as Casares, while coastal routes connect Estepona's colourful old town with the stylish marina at Puerto Banús. It's a refreshing alternative to staying within the resort and encourages visitors to experience more of the destination at their own pace.

Luxury that looks beyond the holiday

What makes Ikos Andalusia stand out is that sustainability isn't treated as a single initiative but as part of the wider holiday experience. From investing in renewable energy and reducing waste to working with local suppliers and encouraging lower-emission exploration, every element contributes towards a more responsible way to travel. Combined with eight restaurants, extensive leisure facilities, beachfront surroundings, and the signature Unconditional Luxury concept, Ikos Andalusia offers a holiday where exceptional comfort and thoughtful choices sit side by side comfortably.

To book your next responsible escape to Ikos Andalusia, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Regnum Carya: Luxury on Turkey's Turquoise Coast with Sustainability at its Heart

09 July 2026

Turkey's Turquoise Coast has long been a favourite for sunshine holidays, but Belek offers far more than beautiful beaches. Fringed by pine forests and championship golf courses, this stretch of the Mediterranean combines warm seas with exceptional hospitality and easy access from Antalya International Airport. At Regnum Carya, luxury and sustainability go hand in hand, with a Luxury All-Inclusive experience that pairs first-class facilities with a genuine commitment to protecting the destination. From responsible resource management and biodiversity projects to supporting local communities, sustainability is woven into the everyday running of the resort, allowing guests to enjoy every moment while helping to preserve Belek's natural beauty for years to come.

5 European beaches you'll mistake for the Caribbean

07 July 2026

When you think of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, the Caribbean is probably one of the first places that comes to mind. But you don't always have to travel halfway around the world to find those postcard-perfect beaches. Across Europe, you'll find hidden bays, secluded coves, and stretches of coastline where the sea shimmers in every shade of blue. Some are tucked beneath dramatic cliffs, others sit alongside pine forests or tiny islands, but they all are guaranteed to make you look twice.

4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

07 July 2026

Europe is packed with iconic destinations, but some of its most rewarding holidays begin just beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. If you've already ticked off the big-name cities or simply fancy somewhere that feels a little different, there are plenty of places offering beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and memorable food without the queues. From medieval towns on the Adriatic coast to volcanic islands in the Atlantic, these lesser-known corners of Europe prove that sometimes the best trips are the ones you weren't expecting.