words by NIA TOPALOVA
Many hotels are worth visiting for the destination alone, but some make the case for travelling somewhere you might never have considered in the first place: sleeping in the middle of a Norwegian forest, waking up to the vast, untouched landscape of Antarctica, or spending a few days overlooking the Aegean Sea. For those looking to trade crowded cities for a quiet retreat, we’ve rounded up the nature-focused hotels that make their natural surroundings an integral part of the stay, through thoughtful architecture, remote locations, and rooms that offer an uninterrupted view of the landscape.
THE WILD COAST TENTED LODGE, SRI LANKA
The Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Sri Lanka, a UNESCO Design Award winner, is a luxury tented camp hidden between the jungle of Yala National Park and the endless Indian Ocean. Nestled in the wilderness, it offers 28 Cocoons scattered around watering holes, right next to the rugged secluded beach. The experience includes guided walks, ocean-side dining, and sunset drives, allowing the guests to immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Sri Lanka. Experiencing local cuisine is an essential part of visiting Wild Coast Tented Lodge, offering the flavours of the island’s freshest ingredients.
MASHPI LODGE, ECUADOR
Mashpi Lodge is nestled in the heart of Ecuador’s breathtaking cloud forest, within the Metropolitan District of Quito’s parish of Pacto, about a three hour drive northwest of the Equator monument. Set at an elevation of 3,117 feet (950 meters) above sea level, the retreat offers an unparalleled adventure experience for nature enthusiasts. The rainforest hotel offers an incredible location on a scenic plateau, featuring breathtaking views of the forested mountains and their unique ecosystems.
ECHO BASE, ANTARCTICA
Inspired by the golden age of space exploration, Echo Base is an extraordinary polar sanctuary offering an experience of the untouched wilderness of Antarctica. Its six Sky Pods feature heated interiors, private en-suite showers, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sweeping views of glistening glaciers and rugged mountain peaks. A central gathering space houses elegant dining and lounge areas, creating an intimate retreat amid one of the most remote landscapes on Earth.
THE MURAKA, THE MALDIVES
The world’s first undersea residence, The Muraka, is an extraordinary two-level sanctum where an underwater suite with a 180-degree acrylic dome immerses you beneath the ocean’s surface. It features underwater master bedrooms, an infinity pool, ocean-facing bathrooms, spacious living areas, a private arrival jetty, and full butler service. The bedrooms are located 16 feet below sea level in the Indian Ocean, cocooned by living coral and the rhythm of marine life drifting past your windows into sleep.
AMANOI, VIETNAM
Amanoi is a natural paradise overlooking Vinh Hy Bay, claiming a spectacular stretch of Vietnam’s coastline within the verdant embrace of Nui Chua National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Offering a secluded location with a rich and diverse mosaic of ecosystems, the resort’s clifftop restaurants and pool, lakeside Aman Spa and private golden sand beach, features many opportunities for outdoor exploration, cultural immersion and a well-deserved time out.
TREEHOTEL, SWEDEN
Just south of the Arctic Circle, the Treehotel is one of the icons of alternative accommodations, suspended from trees and located in the town of Harads, populated by only 600 people. There are several treehouses to choose from, such as the Oasis, the Biosphere, the Mirrorcube, the Bird’s Nest, the Cabin, the 7th room, the UFO, the Dragonfly, and the Blue Cone, all offering an authentic Swedish experience whether you’re looking for an adventure or to wind down in nature. The hotel features restaurant, bar, shared kitchen, a Forest Spa with a sauna and whirlpool plunge bath and open-air hot tub.
FOSSHOTEL GLACIER LAGOON, ICELAND
Positioned between the awe-inspiring Skaftafell National Park and the enchanting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a great location for spotting the Northern Lights of Iceland. This area, surrounded by expansive mountains and secluded countryside, presents a retreat filled with spectacular landscapes, waterfalls, serene icebergs, and excellent opportunities for trail exploration. The hotel also offers complimentary spa service to all guests on a first-come, first-serve basis.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT TAMARINDO, MEXICO
At the spirit of Mexico’s coastline is the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, set apart from the busier resort regions. The resort lies within a private 3,000-acre nature reserve, reached through a single gated entrance staffed around the clock, with an on-site team ensuring a secure, tranquil setting. Costalegre offers a serene environment that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The region is home to welcoming local communities and vibrant traditions, providing an authentic taste of Mexico through art, music, culture and cuisine.
CANAVES OIA EPITOME, GREECE
Overlooking the Aegean Sea on the edge of Oia, Canaves Oia Epitome is a gorgeous secluded retreat that combines traditional Cycladic architecture with contemporary design. The hotel features private villas with pools, spacious terraces, and sea views, alongside an infinity pool, a spa, and Mediterranean dining. Set apart from the busy streets of Oia, it offers a quieter side of Santorini, with front-row views of the island’s beautiful sunsets.
JUVET LANDSCAPE HOTEL, NORWAY
Nestled within the untamed wilderness of Norway’s Valldal valley, Juvet Landscape Hotel is an extraordinary architectural retreat. Its secluded glass-walled cabins, elevated above the forest floor, offer views of ancient birch trees, moss-covered boulders, towering mountains, and the rushing Valldøla River. Designed by Jensen & Skodvin Architects to exist in harmony with the landscape, each room frames its own private panorama, with minimalist dark interiors.
