Hey there, lovely couples! It’s Morgan here, your go-to travel guru, ready to whisk you away on a journey to find the perfect eco-friendly resort for your dream destination wedding. If you and your partner are passionate about the environment and want to start your new life together by celebrating in a sustainable way, then you’ve landed in the right place. Let’s dive into my top seven picks for eco-conscious resorts that promise not just a wedding, but an unforgettable experience that respects and honors Mother Earth.
**1. Soneva Fushi, Maldives**
Imagine exchanging vows on a pristine beach with the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean as your backdrop. Soneva Fushi is the epitome of barefoot luxury and sustainability. This stunning resort is located on a private island and is completely committed to minimizing its environmental impact. They have a state-of-the-art Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth program that recycles 90% of their waste. Plus, their organic gardens supply much of the produce used in their restaurants. A wedding here is as magical as it is mindful, with options for an intimate beach ceremony or a grand affair under the stars. And hey, the overwater villas are perfect for a honeymoon you’ll never forget!
**2. El Nido Resorts, Palawan, Philippines**
If you’re dreaming of a lush tropical paradise, El Nido Resorts in Palawan will steal your heart. Nestled within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this resort takes eco-consciousness to a whole new level. They have a strong commitment to conserving the natural beauty of their surroundings, from their zero-waste policy to coral reef conservation efforts. Picture saying “I do” on a secluded beach or in a serene forest setting. After the ceremony, treat your guests to authentic Filipino cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. El Nido’s dedication to preserving the environment while offering top-notch service makes it an ideal choice for eco-friendly couples.
**3. Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat, New Zealand**
For those who crave a rustic yet luxurious wedding, Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat in New Zealand is a must-see. Located at the head of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, it’s designed following the Living Building Challenge framework, which is the most rigorous sustainability standard in the world. The retreat uses solar energy, features composting toilets, and has extensive native plantings. A wedding here means being surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and a community that genuinely cares for the environment. Your wedding photos will be nothing short of spectacular with the stunning landscapes as your backdrop. Plus, the cozy eco-cabins are perfect for unwinding after the big day!
**4. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru**
For an unforgettable wedding with a touch of ancient history, consider the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Nestled in the cloud forest, this stunning resort is dedicated to sustainable tourism and conservation. The property features 12 acres of exquisite gardens and is home to a wide variety of birds and orchids. Imagine a wedding ceremony surrounded by lush greenery and the enchanting sounds of nature. The hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility includes a hydroelectric plant that supplies 80% of its energy needs. After your wedding, take the opportunity to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu, just a short train ride away. This is a destination wedding that combines romance, adventure, and sustainability perfectly.
**5. Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel, Switzerland**
For couples looking for a winter wonderland wedding, Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel in Switzerland offers a unique and sustainable experience. Set high in the Swiss Alps, this resort features cozy geodesic domes that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Heated by wood-burning stoves and designed to minimize energy consumption, these pods offer a perfect mix of comfort and eco-friendliness. Exchange your vows with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and then celebrate in the charming Swiss-style lodge. Whether you want a small, intimate gathering or a larger celebration, Whitepod provides a magical setting that’s both eco-friendly and unforgettable.
**6. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman**
This hidden gem on the Musandam Peninsula offers a unique blend of traditional Omani culture and modern luxury. Six Senses Zighy Bay is committed to sustainability, with initiatives that include a desalination plant, organic garden, and waste management program. This resort offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding, from its private sandy beach to the dramatic Hajar Mountains. Whether you choose a sunset beach ceremony or a mountaintop celebration, Six Senses ensures your big day is both beautiful and eco-friendly. And don’t forget to indulge in their world-class spa treatments to relax and rejuvenate before or after your wedding!
**7. Lapa Rios Lodge, Costa Rica**
Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism, and Lapa Rios Lodge is a shining example of this commitment. Nestled in a private rainforest reserve overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this lodge offers a truly immersive nature experience. The resort is dedicated to conservation and community, providing education and employment opportunities for local residents. A wedding at Lapa Rios means being surrounded by the vibrant sounds and sights of the rainforest, from colorful parrots to playful monkeys. Their sustainable practices, such as using solar energy and rainwater collection, ensure your wedding leaves a minimal carbon footprint. Celebrate your love in a place that’s as passionate about the environment as you are.
Now, the Caribbean and Mexico is my real expertise, so let’s move to some options within the Caribbean and Mexico.
Caribbean
- Tiamo Resort, Bahamas
- Nestled on South Andros Island, Tiamo Resort is accessible only by boat, ensuring a truly private experience. It’s built with sustainable materials and powered by solar energy, offering a luxurious yet environmentally responsible setting.
- Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
- Known for its stunning architecture that harmonizes with the surrounding environment, Jade Mountain has initiatives like chocolate production from organic, locally grown cocoa, and it uses tropical hardwoods from replenished forests in its construction.
- CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, Anguilla
- This resort is committed to sustainability with a solar-powered energy system, organic gardens that supply its restaurants, and a reverse osmosis plant for water conservation, making it ideal for an eco-friendly wedding with a touch of luxury.
Mexico
- Haramara Retreat, Sayulita
- Located near the quaint town of Sayulita, Haramara (“Mother Sea” in the native Huichol Indian language) offers eco-luxury at its best, with no electricity in the cabins, organic and local food, and buildings that are designed to blend into the natural environment.
- Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Playa del Carmen
- This eco-resort is dedicated to preserving its natural habitat. It is built around a natural cenote and offers eco-activities like guided eco-tours and animal welfare programs. Sandos Caracol uses solar panels and has a sophisticated water treatment system for sustainability.
- Playa Viva, Juluchuca
- A truly sustainable boutique hotel set on a private beach, Playa Viva has structures made from natural materials and operates entirely off-grid. It offers a unique Treehouse as a venue, made entirely from bamboo, perfect for an intimate and eco-friendly ceremony.
In conclusion, choosing an eco-friendly resort for your destination wedding is not only a beautiful way to honor your commitment to each other but also to the planet. Each of these resorts offers a unique experience that combines luxury with sustainability. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and let’s plan a wedding that’s as kind to the Earth as it is to your heart. I’m here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your special day is as perfect as you’ve always dreamed. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!
If you’re interested in learning more about these fantastic resorts or need help planning your eco-friendly destination wedding, feel free to reach out to me. I’m excited to help you embark on this beautiful journey. Until next time, happy travels!
