Words Vidula KotianDate 21 October 2026
From Mexico to the Maldives, these six hotels offer a different way to experience the world’s most remarkable landscapes, where thoughtful architecture, local materials, and a deep respect for nature make the stay all the more rewarding.
Along the Mayan Riviera, Papaya Playa Project’s thatch-roofed casitas feature local, sustainable materials
Between the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea, Papaya Playa Project brings together raw, natural architecture and a commitment to coastal conservation. With 93% of its land preserved as jungle, the property’s rustic casitas, palapa-thatched roofs, and locally sourced materials connect the design to its surroundings, while solar energy, water treatment, recycling, and sea turtle conservation support its environmental efforts. Beyond the property, monthly donations to local families and regular beach cleans extend that commitment to the wider Tulum community.
On the pine-fringed coast of Halkidiki, Ekies All Senses Resort pairs contemporary interiors with a thoughtful approach to nature. Local materials, non-toxic paints, and Coco-Mat mattresses define the guest rooms. A minimal-waste philosophy extends beyond the interiors, while Green Key certification recognizes the resort’s environmental practices. Here, sustainability comes through in the material choices, the everyday details, and an architectural approach that draws on the surrounding pine forest and Aegean coastline.
Immerso is immersed in nature, with sweeping sea views throughout the hotel
Bright, airy guest rooms with bespoke furnishings that evoke a sense of calm
The hotel’s organic garden supplies Emme’s Atlantic-inspired cuisine
Tucked into the hills of Ericeira, Immerso Hotel offers a front-row seat to Portugal’s wild Atlantic coast. Its architecture follows the contours of the land, while interiors bring together locally designed furniture, handcrafted pieces, and reused materials. A seasonal organic garden supplies the restaurant, and electric vehicles, EV charging, and reduced single-use plastics support its sustainability efforts. Biosphere Certified, Immerso pairs a strong sense of place with considered design, local craftsmanship, and a lighter footprint on the landscape.
Set on the North Malé Atoll, Patina Maldives embraces a regenerative approach to island living
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands features contemporary villas by Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, each opening onto private pools, lush gardens, and sweeping ocean views. Beyond the stay, the resort has transplanted 16,800 trees and 320,000 shrubs, runs entirely on solar power during daylight hours, and transforms food waste into fresh produce through on-site gardens and biodigesters. EarthCheck Certified, Patina also supports coral restoration and marine conservation, helping safeguard the extraordinary marine life surrounding the islands.
On Zanzibar’s northwest coast, Zuri Zanzibar combines white-sand beaches, tropical gardens, and bungalow-style villas. Local materials, furniture crafted from recycled fishing-boat wood, and roofs made from Tanzanian grass or local timber root the design in its surroundings. Sustainability measures include on-site wells and desalination, in-house drinking water to reduce plastic use, and community initiatives in education and waste management. In 2019, Zuri became the world’s first hotel to receive EarthCheck Sustainable Design Gold Certification, recognizing its commitment to responsible design and construction.
Casa de la Flora’s villas bordered by T.R.O.P.’s sculpted topiary
Oversized windows blur the line between indoor and outdoor living
Casa de la Flora’s pool uses ozone purification and recycled water to reduce chemical use
La Aranya serves organic fusion cuisine with locally sourced ingredients
On Thailand’s Andaman coast, Casa de La Flora sets bold Brutalist architecture against a tropical landscape of private-pool villas. Its Living with Nature initiative supports energy efficiency, waste reduction, refillable drinking-water stations, and regular beach cleanups, while marine conservation efforts help protect the surrounding waters. As part of Green Growth 2050, the resort brings together striking contemporary design, barefoot luxury, and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Khao Lak.
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