Calling all eco-conscious travellers. Are you looking for a place where you can indulge yourself, but not at the expense of your destination? Pillars of eco-tourism, these eco-lodges (such as El Monte Sagrado Taos, photographed by littlemoresunshine) are designed and run to have a positive impact on both their environment and local people.
El Monte Sagrado Taos – New Mexico
While luxurious, this high-altitude retreat has some serious eco credentials. It was largely constructed with recycled material from coal mines.
It mostly runs on solar power. There’s a filtration system built from natural materials that cleans water from a nearby brook for use in the hotel.
And guests are encouraged to employ the healing practices of local Native American tribe.
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge – Alaska
Gaze out the giant windows of the main building at this lodge and you’ll look across the calm waters of protected lagoon and awe-inspiring Pedersen Glacier in the distance.
Guests are told how to make sure they “leave no trace” when enjoying the 1,700 acres of Native-owned wildlife sanctuary that surround the lodge.
Highland Centre Lodge – New Hampshire
Part of the Appalachian Mountains, The White Mountains are a rugged set of partially forested hills, lakes and notches in New Hampshire. They attract hikers, horse-riders, kayakers and swimmers year round.
Built with recycled steel, made energy efficient with triple glazed windows and warmed with sustainable biomass and wood burning boiler, this lodge is a showcase of green design.
Alpine House Inn & Cottages – Wyoming
This mountain retreat in Jackson Hole is run by a couple that each represented the US at the Winter Olympics. With a commitment to eco-tourism in mind, they built their handsome lodge with reclaimed timbers.
Practices such as free bike hire have secured certification by Sustainable Travel International.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
