Green Power: Hotels That Run on Renewable Energy
“There are no two ways about it: travelling has an impact on the environment, and more and more travellers factor it in when making their holiday decisions. Luckily, keeping your environmental footprint down doesn’t have to mean opting for a lesser accommodation experience. These five brilliant eco-hotels all use renewable sources of energy and water, from photovoltaic cells to power generated in the vodka distilling process (yes, really).
Landgut Stober, Germany
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This award-winning family-run hotel has found engaging ways to share their green innovations with guests. Renovated in 2012, Landgut Stober was the first organically certified hotel in Brandenburg. You’ll find onsite photovoltaic cells, rainwater collection systems for all bathrooms, and wood heating systems that all contribute to the hotel being energy self-sufficient. It isn’t short on style or service either. There’s a gorgeous spa, a lakeside restaurant serving local, organic produce, and a nurturing ‘family’ of staff there to help you make the most of the beautiful setting.Have a look at our hotels in Brandenburg page for more options.
Soneva Fushi, Maldives
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Soneva Fushi brings you all the luxury of an escape to the Maldives with a minimum of environmental guilt. Not only is this marvellous resort carbon neutral, it also offsets emissions from your flight. Its Waste to Wealth scheme converts almost all its waste into income, plus it offers employability training and swimming lessons to local youngsters. And as far as your holiday is concerned, expect barefoot luxury and amazing experiences in a divine location. Have a look at our hotels in Kunfunadhoo page for more options.
Hotel Geysir, Haukadalur, Iceland
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The clue is in the name at the Hotel Geysir in the town of Haukadalur, Iceland. In a country famous for its hot springs and the energy they produce, the Hotel Geysir harnesses the heat and warmth from below using their own, in-house geothermal system. This connection to nature is visible elsewhere in the hotel, with the choice of design materials reflecting the beautiful natural surroundings, while the in-house restaurants also use geothermal power to bake their famous rye bread, which is buried and baked in the ground for 24 hours.
Take a look at our hotels in Iceland page for more places to stay on the island.
Finolhu Villas, Maldives
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If you want proof that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive, then you’ll find it at the jaw-droppingly beautiful Finolhu Villas. The world’s first five-star resort to be completely powered by natural sunlight, it boasts 6,000 square metres of solar photovoltaic panels. Standing on stilts above aquamarine water and silver sand, it’s designed to have minimal impact on the environment. Everything on this unique island hideaway is elegant and thoughtfully designed, from gourmet restaurant and poolside bar, to leisure activities and discreet butler service.Have a look at our hotels in Kanifushi page for more options.
Gran Melia Rome, Italy
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You don’t have to head for the wilderness to find a certified eco-resort. Here’s one right in the heart of Italy’s historic capital, where it rubs shoulders with restaurants, bars, galleries, museums and iconic ancient buildings. The Gran Melia is part of a European chain that leads the way in eco-tourism, using 100% renewable electricity in all its hotels in Italy and Spain. Close to the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica, this magnificent urban resort boasts timeless luxury, cutting-edge style and impeccable service.
Have a look at our hotels in Rome page for more options.”
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