Secluded sanctuaries: Escape on the eco-adventure of your dreams
With pristine waters and local wildlife, your next exclusive eco-friendly escape awaits.
By Alina Dizik | April 3, 2025
From learning about coral reef conservation to soaking up the sun in an overwater villa, the world’s most exclusive resorts blend indulgence with sustainability. Many boast on-site farms, in-house marine biologists, and research centers, giving guests a behind-the-scenes peek at their eco-friendly efforts. Whether you’re planning a trip to Seychelles, the Maldives, or another tropical hot spot, these three unique resorts deliver deluxe experiences with a true commitment to nature.
Exclusive experiences
With its intricate Buddhist temples, calm azure waters, and lush rainforests, Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, is a dream destination for those with a sophisticated sense of adventure. Perched on a secluded hilltop overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Conrad Koh Samui offers a true retreat, with each of the resort's villas boasting their own infinity pool and sunset view. Immerse yourself in nature with kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling or tour Iris Farm. The on-site 2.5-acre (1-hectare) sanctuary supplies nearly 70% of the ingredients served at the resort’s six restaurants and bars. You can also learn about local environmental protection efforts at the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of uninhabited jungle-covered islands ideal for snorkeling and exploring by foot.
Island retreat
There’s nothing like relaxing on your own private island in one of the world’s most serene places. Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, offers pristine beaches and up-close encounters with local wildlife, including parrots and giant tortoises. Let Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island be your ultimate haven, with seaside villas featuring outdoor showers, private pools, and a personal concierge. Once a coconut plantation, Platte Island is now lush with tropical vegetation and seagrass to support the marine ecosystem. Guests can enjoy a variety of curated nature experiences, including coconut harvesting, a guided island tour with environmental insights, and tortoise feedings. Don’t miss the expert-led sunrise wildlife walk and a visit to the resort’s Discovery Centre, where guests can step into the role of marine biologists to learn about the area’s conservation efforts.
Rest and relaxation
Mahé island, the largest of the Seychelles archipelago, is best known for its powdery white sand, massive granite rock formations, and unique flora. Nestled into a private cove is Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts, a serene escape that makes guests feel pampered at every moment. After relaxing on the resort’s private beach, there are plenty of exclusive excursions to experience. Trek through palm forests, hike along rugged coastline, or take a semi-submarine to explore underwater reefs. Relax with an aperitif at Kokoye, the resort’s cocktail bar with sunset views and drinks incorporating local rums. Don’t leave without trying the Seychelles’ signature creole cuisine, made with ingredients from the resort's organic garden and served at Moutya, one of the four on-site restaurants.
Explore with intention
The stunning overwater villas that draw tourists to the Maldives have earned a place on many a bucket list — and rightly so. With the country’s fragile yet breathtaking ecosystem, it’s worth choosing a stunning hotel that’s also committed to conservation. If visiting the South Ari Atoll, stay at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, where multiple eco-conscious projects include expanding the resort’s banana plantation, which aims to supply at least 50% of the property’s needs, and a reef cleaning program. Or head to the picturesque Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. With 117 villas located across three private islands, guests can snorkel alongside nearby coral reefs or explore a growing coral reef regeneration program, which includes coral nurseries that are overseen by a trained marine biologist.
Fun in the sun
The jewel of Turkey’s Aegean coast, Bodrum combines world-class restaurants and culture with plenty of opportunities to take a dip in the sea. Beyond its vibrant nightlife and historic sites, the area is known for secluded coves, bazaars, and stunning panoramas. Settle in at Susona Bodrum, LXR Hotels & Resorts, an upscale retreat, where you can enjoy a glittering infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea or unwind on a plush day bed on one of the resort’s jetties. Rejuvenate at Spa by Spa Soul with a timeless Turkish hammam ritual or enjoy an exclusive exclusion to a nearby vineyard for a guided tour of the Urla wine region. Guests can also support the community by learning how local artisans meticulously craft traditional leather sandals or exploring Etrim village, just a short drive from the resort, and receiving an expert-led tutorial about Turkish carpet making.
Alina Dizik
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends, and dining. She lives in Chicago and has previously lived in New York, Europe, and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. Alina has visited more than 50 countries, and her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian, and other top publications.
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