Eco-Friendly Lodging: The Best Green Hotels Around the World

13 January 2026

Picture this: You wake up to the soft chirping of birds, fresh air flowing through your window, and the gentle rustling of leaves as the sun rises over a stunning landscape. Now, imagine all that while staying in a hotel that doesn't destroy the planet. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, wake up and pack your bags because eco-friendly lodging is real, and it’s taking over the travel world!

For those of us who love wandering the globe but cringe at the thought of our vacations leaving a massive carbon footprint, green hotels are a game-changer. These sustainable stays don’t just cut down on waste—they redefine luxury by proving that you don’t have to harm the planet to enjoy paradise.

So, if you're planning your next trip and want to sleep in a comfy bed without guilt, here's a list of the best green hotels in the world that are saving the environment one guest at a time.

What Makes a Hotel ‘Eco-Friendly’?

Before we dive into the top eco-retreats, let’s quickly break down what makes a hotel green. A truly sustainable hotel should have at least a few of these features:

- Renewable Energy Sources – Solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric power—you name it!
- Water Conservation – Low-flow showers, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling systems.
- Sustainable Building Materials – Think bamboo, reclaimed wood, and eco-friendly paints.
- Waste Management – Composting, recycling, and saying “no thanks” to single-use plastics.
- Locally Sourced Food – No mass-produced, imported nonsense—just farm-to-table goodness.
- Biodiversity Protection – Hotels that help preserve flora and fauna instead of bulldozing them.

Now that we’ve got our eco-checklist, let’s jump into some of the world’s most impressive green hotels!

1. Whitepod – Switzerland

Ever wanted to live in a futuristic igloo? Well, Whitepod in Switzerland is as close as it gets! These dome-shaped eco-pods are nestled in the Swiss Alps, running almost entirely on renewable energy. Staying here is like camping… if camping came with a cozy bed, a fireplace, and jaw-dropping mountain views.

Why it's amazing:
✅ Heated by wood-burning stoves
✅ Minimal-impact design that blends into nature
✅ Car-free zone to reduce emissions

Green Tip: Bring your hiking boots! This place is all about embracing nature, so be prepared to trek to your pod.

2. Soneva Fushi – Maldives

Ah, the Maldives. Crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and luxury resorts. But here’s the kicker: Luxury can be eco-friendly too. Soneva Fushi is proof of that. This breathtaking resort is basically what happens when a billionaire decides to save the environment while giving people the time of their lives.

Why it's amazing:
✅ 100% solar-powered
✅ Uses reclaimed materials for construction
✅ No plastic policy—bye-bye, pesky straws!

Green Tip: Try their zero-waste cooking classes. Who knew sustainability could taste this good?

3. Lapa Rios Lodge – Costa Rica

If Tarzan owned a luxury eco-lodge, Lapa Rios would be it. Located in a private rainforest reserve in Costa Rica, this place is a paradise for nature lovers. You’ll wake up to the sound of howler monkeys, spot toucans from your balcony, and walk along jungle trails leading to waterfalls—all while knowing your stay is 100% sustainable.

Why it's amazing:
✅ Built entirely from reclaimed wood
✅ Supports local conservation efforts
✅ No air conditioning—just the natural jungle breeze

Green Tip: Bring binoculars! Lapa Rios is surrounded by some of the most diverse wildlife on Earth.

4. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – USA

If you think sustainability and city life don’t mix, think again. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge proves that eco-friendly lodging isn’t just for remote destinations. Located in the heart of New York City, this chic hotel offers stunning skyline views while staying true to its green commitments.

Why it's amazing:
✅ Built from reclaimed materials
✅ Uses energy-efficient heating & cooling
✅ Locally sourced, organic food

Green Tip: Take one of their complimentary bikes for a ride across the Brooklyn Bridge instead of grabbing an Uber.

5. The Brando – French Polynesia

Leonardo DiCaprio’s favorite eco-resort? Check. A private island with untouched beaches? Double-check. The Brando, nestled in the dreamy paradise of French Polynesia, is the ultimate blend of luxury and sustainability. It was designed to be completely carbon neutral while offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Why it's amazing:
✅ Powered 100% by solar and coconut oil biofuel
✅ Home to an incredible marine conservation program
✅ Air conditioning that runs on deep-sea water instead of harmful chemicals

Green Tip: Spend some time with the on-site marine biologists to learn about ocean conservation. Who knows, you might spot a sea turtle while you're at it!

6. Feynan Ecolodge – Jordan

For those who love off-the-grid adventures, Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan is an absolute must-visit. Forget Wi-Fi and Netflix—this solar-powered lodge is all about disconnecting from modern chaos and reconnecting with nature. Tucked away in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, it offers breathtaking desert landscapes and a chance to live sustainably.

Why it's amazing:
✅ 100% solar-powered
✅ Candle-lit rooms (yes, no electricity!)
✅ Supports local Bedouin communities with fair wages and employment

Green Tip: Join one of their stargazing sessions. The desert sky at night is something else.

7. Gili Lankanfushi – Maldives

Yes, another Maldives hotel—because let’s face it, they’re leading the way in eco-luxury. Gili Lankanfushi is the definition of barefoot luxury, where guests get around on bicycles, eat organic food, and stay in overwater villas made from sustainably sourced wood.

Why it's amazing:
✅ No plastic policy and upcycled décor
✅ Marine conservation programs to protect the coral reefs
✅ Organic garden providing fresh ingredients for all meals

Green Tip: Try their ‘No News, No Shoes’ policy. Leave your shoes at check-in and embrace the island life.

Final Thoughts: Stay Green, Travel Happy!

Going on vacation doesn’t have to mean turning a blind eye to the planet’s health. These eco-friendly hotels prove that sustainability and luxury can go hand in hand. Whether you're sipping organic cocktails in the Maldives, hiking through the Costa Rican rainforest, or stargazing in the Jordanian desert, you can rest easy knowing your stay isn’t harming the world around you.

So, next time you're booking a trip, why not pick a green hotel? Mother Nature (and future generations) will thank you!