Words Vidula Kotian
Wake to the sound of the Caribbean Sea, follow a forest trail to the coast, or spend an afternoon in a villa surrounded by tropical gardens. 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.
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. EarthCheck certification reinforces the project’s commitment to protecting the natural environment that makes it unique.
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.
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.
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 wood, recycled fishing-boat furniture, and roofs made from Tanzanian grass and timber connect the resort to its surroundings. Sustainability efforts include an independent water supply, plastic-free drinking water, and community initiatives in education and waste management. The world’s first hotel to receive EarthCheck Sustainable Design Gold Certification, Zuri also participates in the Green Growth 2050 program, protecting the island’s environment and supporting local communities.
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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