Many people dream of setting off to remote destinations, living in a log cabin for days on end, basking in the humbling presence of nature. Thanks to a selection of world-class hotels, this experience can be achieved after a few online bookings and calls. We’ve compiled a list of luxury lodges that pay homage to nature and offer a collection of rare experiences, relaxing stays, and the chance to discover and deeply connect with parts of the world not many get to know.
Awasi Iguazu, Argentina
Set in the middle of Iguazu National Park’s lush tropical rainforest, Awasi Iguazu promises a luxury stay in its private villas, fine dining restaurant, and world-class spa. Each villa comes with a sizeable deck where you can unwind and listen to the orchestra of myriad tropical birds – your very own slice of paradise. If you fancy an excursion to the park and the breathtaking Iguazu Falls,you can have it arranged with the hotel and a 4WD will be at your disposal. Awasi Igauzu is more than a hotel, it’s a perfectly curated experience, a refuge in the Atlantic Rainforest. It offers the once-in-a-lifetime chance to spot flaura and fauna that can only be found in the area.
Huilo-Huilo, Patagonia
Right across the Andes is another magical escape in South America’s last remaining frontiers. The Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve offers a new concept of living in the forest. Its main accommodation, the Montana Magica Lodge, appears like a volcano where a stunning waterfall cascades down the peak. Set in a native forest in the Chilean Patagonia, the lodge strikes a perfect balance between fine hospitality and ecological conservation. The lodges blend with the surroundings, built on stilts for minimal environmetnal impact, and handcrafted using lumber sourced in the area. Numerous activities await, from trekking and birdwatching, to horseback riding and moutain biking.
Tierra Atacama, Chile
Imagine relaxing under a blanket of stars, glittering by the thousands upon thousands across the clearest sky you’ve ever seen, illuminating the moon-like valleys, desolate mountaintops, and tranquil salt lakes below. Tierra Atacama, set high in the northern desert of Chile at roughly 2,407 meters above sea level, will leave you breathless in every sense of the word.From your own well-appointed lodge, comlete with a private terrace and infinity pool, you can watch the arching bulge of the Milky Way to your heart’s content. The lodge blends into the lava-sculpted valley and landscaped into native vegetation, but with all the luxuries of modern life inside, so you’ll have plenty of headspace to take in the scenery. But that’s just the beginning of an adventure of a lifetime.
Bambu Indah, Indonesia
Bambu Indah
Bambuh Inda in Ubud, Bali offers a taste of a luxurious eco lifestyle, minus the hefty price tag. The boutique hotel is only a 20 minute-drive from the city’s hectic centre, but the surrounding landscape of rice fields, tree-filled valley, lush gardens, and natural spring pools give it an otherworldly vibe. This architectural gem highlights traditional Javanese styles and materials with a modern twist – resuting in a boho-chic experience like no other. Every structure is made of wood and blends with nature, giving you a dream-like atmosphere anywhere you look. There are no TVs in each room, but the unique sounds of nature, natural swimming pool, and spa services will keep you occupied. And with a restaurant serving organic dishes straight from the kitchen garden and complimentary morning yoga, Bambuh Inda is a haven for eco-conscious travelers.
Longitude 131, Australia
Live in style in one of Australia’s farthest-flung regions – the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Longitude 131offers an exclusive exerience of the Australian Outback’s enigmatic landscape, rich cultual heritage, and history. This luxury wilderness camp boasts modern, well-appoined tents, modern facilities, and carefully-curated tours and services. Floor-to-ceilling windows give you extensive views of Ayers Rock. The camp is your launch point for discovering the sacred geography of the Red Centre. Longitude 131 is a pure example of an exceptional stay in an exceptional place.
X2 River Kwai, Thailand
Escape to the tranquil and picturesque Kanchanaburi province of western Thailand. The resort combines ultra-modern architecture set amid the stunning Thai countryside with the Kwai No river in the backgroud. Join the hotel’s guide to see Khmer-style ruins, museums, historical sites, waterwalls, and the storied River Kwai bridge. But central to the stay is the chance to slow down and connect with nature in absolute bliss – and the staff at X2 River Kwai won’t fail to deliver.
Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Kenya
The Fairmont Mara Safari Club(Masai Mara) takes tented luxury to a whole new level. The resort is set along the Mara River – a scenic jump-off point for a series of unforgettabe safari adventures. The camp has 50 private tents with expanded decks, private dining, and pillow-top beds overlooking the crocodile and hippo-filled river. The main camp features an indoor restaurant featuring the best of African cuisine accompaied by folk music. From balloon safaris and game drives, to savannah tours to witness the Great Migration, there’s no shortage of things to do in this new Wonder of the World.
Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Malaysia
Live the forest in traditional elegance and contemporary luxury at the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa. At reasonable prices, you’ll get the chance to coexist harmonioulsy with the unique flora and fauna thriving in Sarawak’s Mulu National Park. Lodges are built on stilts and in the style of ethnic longhouses, but equipped with modern coveniences, including Wi-Fi, cable TV, breakfast buffet, and fine dining. From the resort, you can explore the lush tropical rainforest via river cruising or hiking. Each accommodation offers an understated elegance with private views of the rainforest – all at reasonable rates. Plenty of activities await, including trekking through one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, adventure caving, and boating through the heart of the region.
The best part about each of these lodges is that it’s deeply rooted in its community and natural habitat, which resonates in the architecture, interiors, facilities, and experiences it offers. Each resort in this list is also dedicated to protecting the surrounding cultures and habitats. Find a way to stay in one or two of these hotels – they’re worth every cent.
