A Gentle Footprint: Leaders in Sustainable Travel
April 23, 2025 by Hidden Doorways
For those who love to travel, there’s often a deeper pull – a connection to landscapes that move us, cultures that ground us, and the quiet awe of places shaped by nature.
As we celebrate Earth Week, we turn our attention to the destinations that honor that connection. These are places where exploration and preservation go hand in hand. From reforestation efforts and marine sanctuaries to regenerative farms and seed-to-table kitchens, these are the hotels and resorts leading the way – not just by treading lightly, but by helping the world they inhabit thrive.
Sustainable Stewardship | The Brando, French Polynesia
Pioneers of luxury tourism with a conscience, The Brando aims to leave lasting memories for its guests while minimizing their impact on the atoll. With a deep respect for both the environment and Polynesian heritage, the resort brings together scientists at the on-site Ecostation to safeguard terrestrial and marine biodiversity. They were the first resort worldwide to be awarded the LEED Platinum Certification, and they operate on 100% renewable energy sources including solar power and a pioneering Sea Water Air Conditioning system that uses 90% less energy than traditional methods. Ingredients are sourced from their organic garden and local producers, and guests are invited to engage with the Tetiaroa Society to learn about marine science and conservation firsthand.
Awards for Innovation | The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, India
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts are known for their sumptuous design and graceful service – think rose petals gently scattered on arrival in Udaipur. But it was what happens to those petals afterward that earned them recognition from Travel + Leisure’s Global Vision Awards 2025. In collaboration with Indian wellness brand Phool, The Leela upcycles used floral arrangements into beautifully crafted incense sticks, turning more than 10 tons of flowers into fragrance. This circular economy initiative not only reduces waste but also supports marginalized women in employment through Phool’s inclusive workforce.
Wilderness Preservation | Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia
As soon as guests step foot into Shinta Mani Wild, they’re transported to a lifestyle deeply rooted in sustainability. From a wellness program inspired by the rainforest to menus featuring foraged jungle ingredients, every element reflects a connection to nature. Through a partnership with the Wildlife Alliance, the resort safeguards 865 acres of the Cardamom Rainforest — one of Southeast Asia’s last unfragmented jungles. This vital ecosystem is home to over 50 IUCN-listed species, protected by anti-poaching patrols that guests can help support simply by staying.
Community Spirit | Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Song Saa has long been a pioneer of sustainability in Cambodia. Most notably, the resort established the country’s first marine reserve – a groundbreaking conservation effort that set the standard for protecting Cambodia’s fragile coastal ecosystems. Through the Song Saa Foundation, initiatives are divided into “people, planet, and profit-for-purpose,” supporting both local livelihoods and environmental education. Their newest development – a cultural heritage eco-site on nearby Koh Rong – blends low-impact tourism with conservation and aims to celebrate and preserve Khmer traditions.
Every Last Drop | Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, Portugal
Proud owners of the Sustainable Travel Pledge seal promoted by UNESCO, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova not only provides a luxury setting to retreat from the daily grind but also a place to discover the deepest respect for all that nature has to offer. From an extensive vineyard where sustainable measures are implemented in the winemaking process to a hub of honey-yielding beehives and fresh organic vegetables in abundance – here, an appetite for sustainable luxury and organic produce go hand in hand. Notably, the estate’s restaurant has been awarded a Green Michelin Star, recognizing its commitment to sustainable gastronomy through the use of organic, estate-grown ingredients and support for local producers.
Seed-to-table Dining | Brush Creek Ranch, USA
Conscious dining continues to evolve, not only out of environmental concern but from a deepening respect for how food connects us to place. At Brush Creek Ranch – a working cattle ranch in Wyoming – this philosophy comes to life through their 20,000-square-foot greenhouse, which grows over 100 varieties of crops, from heirloom tomatoes to edible flowers. These ingredients fuel every menu served across their dining venues. Guests are also invited to Earth Day events inside the greenhouse, where they can learn about regenerative agriculture, composting, and sustainable food systems firsthand.
An Ode to the Wild Side | SUJÁN, India
Behind the SUJÁN group is a family whose passion for conservation has guided their every endeavor. At the heart of SUJÁN’s operations is a commitment to wilderness preservation and authentic experiences that uplift local communities. Through the SNS Foundation, established in 1976, they’ve supported education, health care, and economic self-reliance for over 30,000 people in rural India. Each SUJÁN camp contributes a share of its revenue toward conservation, while also employing local villagers, reducing dependency on forest resources and helping protect endangered species like the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and desert fox.
Protecting the Peace | Pikaia Lodge, Galápagos
Situated in one of the world’s most ecologically significant destinations, Pikaia Lodge operates with deep respect for the Galápagos ecosystem. It is proudly carbon neutral, powered by solar and wind energy, and uses a fleet of low-emission vehicles and hybrid yachts. Water is purified and reused through advanced treatment systems, and its reforestation program is restoring native plant species in the island’s highlands, helping to revive the natural habitat and reduce erosion. A locally sourced menu further minimizes carbon output, proving that at Pikaia, sustainability isn’t an afterthought – it’s a guiding principle woven into every detail of the guest experience.
A Regeneration Agenda | Gundari, Greece
Gundari’s sustainability approach begins with the land itself – repurposing excavated rock from the building site, replanting over 600 salvaged seedlings, and designing the property with natural light and insulation in mind. EarthCheck certified, the resort runs entirely on solar energy, uses 100% electric vehicles, and eliminates single-use plastics on property. Night-sky protection is also a priority, with minimized light pollution through smart controls that allow guests to enjoy the Aegean’s celestial views in their full brilliance.
Restoring Reefs and Reforestation | Kokomo Private Island, Fiji
Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and lush jungle, Kokomo Private Island is a leader in marine conservation. The island’s team of resident marine biologists oversees coral propagation programs, a “no-take” fishing zone, and mangrove restoration efforts. More than 60,000 coral fragments have been planted, and over 30,000 trees have been reintroduced to enhance the native ecosystem. Guests are invited to participate in reef monitoring dives and learn about sustainable farming on Kokomo’s 5.5-acre organic farm – experiences that make sustainability feel both tangible and luxurious.
From Past to Present | Vestige Son Vell, Menorca
Set on a 200-year-old estate in Menorca, Vestige Son Vell celebrates the preservation of history through a sustainable lens. The Vestige team collaborates with local artisans and architects to restore heritage buildings with traditional techniques, sourcing native materials whenever possible. A standout example is the painstaking restoration of the main staircase, where modern safety requirements were met without compromising original craftsmanship – the result of months of careful planning and design to honor the property’s past while shaping its sustainable future.
Finding Purpose in Paradise | Little Palm Island, USA
Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, Little Palm Island is committed to protecting its precious marine environment. Partnering with MOTE Marine Laboratory, the resort supports coral reef restoration, mangrove rehabilitation, and sea grass conservation. Their sustainability efforts also extend to the spa – which uses eco-certified products – and to landscaping, where native flora is used to reduce irrigation. A partnership with Capital One Travel plants two trees for every trip booked, allowing guests to contribute directly to reforestation efforts around the world.
Marine Mindfulness | Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives exemplifies barefoot luxury with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. At the heart of its sustainability efforts lies Gili Veshi, the resort’s marine research facility, where resident marine biologists lead initiatives such as reef cleaning, seagrass restoration, and data collection for organizations like the Manta Trust and the Olive Ridley Project. The resort has achieved Gold Certification for its sustainability practices, including the use of organic toiletries in refillable containers, glass-bottled water from its desalination plant, and villas constructed from sustainably sourced materials. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Maldives while contributing to the preservation of its delicate marine ecosystems.