By Debra Bokur
As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, these forward-thinking spas are doing their share to be responsible stewards.
Since the healing therapies that make up a spa experience are based on concepts such as balance and holistic well-being, it makes perfect sense that these ideals should extend to the spa’s surrounding physical environment. Here, directors of some of the world’s most forward-thinking properties – varying in scope from remote lodges to luxury resorts – reveal the positive steps they’ve taken, and share their thoughts and advice on approaches to wellness that encompass not only the health of the traveler but also the welfare of our planet.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resorts & Spa
The Healing Grounds Spa at Floating Resort at Quait Bay and Wilderness Outpost at Bedwell River, British Columbia, Canada; www.wildretreat.com, (250) 726-8235
Adjacent to the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, these two resorts are located in a secluded area of Clayoquot Sound, surrounded by stands of old-growth temperate rainforest. Operating practices include the strong support of local communities as well as wildlife and rainforest awareness through education-based naturalist programs. Additionally, the resorts boast locally caught seafood, organic produce, natural thermal pools, and wind-generated energy.
“Ask questions. Eco is a term that can be used and perceived in many ways, and it’s important to determine that your experience will be the caliber you are looking for,” says John Caton, general manager. “Our remote location is an absolutely pristine environment located in the heart of the United Nations Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve designation. Our commitment to keeping it that way offers challenges ranging from waste management to using 100 percent organic products, to forging trails that will not disrupt the existing balance of nature. Not only do we have to practice environmentalism, but we must also teach it to our staff and share it with our guests in hopes that everyone comes away having left no footprints.”
In addition, Caton has developed ways for guests to leave behind their own positive legacy – one that helps them return to their daily lives with a sense of real contribution, and a better understanding of the environment they’ve just visited. “Stewardship opportunities range from tree planting,” he says, “to bear habitat mapping, to winter feeding ground rehabilitation, to raptor release and stream management.”
Devil’s Thumb Resort & Ranch Creek Spa
Tabernash, Colorado; www.devilsthumbranch.com, (800) 933-4339
This rustic, off-the-beaten track mountain resort was the 2004 recipient of an EPA award for its environmentally sensitive remodeling efforts and sustainable operating practices, which include geothermal heating in buildings and the spa pool, a sophisticated water-sand filtration system, support of local farmers, a menu of organic meats, and a commitment to always seeking green solutions first. The brand new Ranch Creek Spa continues the environmentally responsible vision of owners Bob and Suzanne Fanch, who eschewed the inclusion of water treatments on the spa menu in respect of ongoing water shortage issues facing this part of the state. Spa products were selected based on how they would affect the rivers and streams where used water is eventually discharged.
“Find out how a facility is impacting the environment in terms of water source, energy choices, recycling efforts, sustainable kitchen practices, and the overall impact on the specific physical location,” advises Suzanne Fanch. “I would encourage travelers to support properties that have made the environment an important part of their business practices.”
Elkhorn Resort & Solstice Spa
Manitoba, Canada; www.elkhornresort.mb.ca, (204) 848-8739
At Canada’s remote Elkhorn Resort, guests can take part in such environmental expeditions as Dogsledding and Snow Ecology, while gaining access to the area’s diverse wildlife population with Earth Rhythms eco-outfitters. Support of the local community is paramount, and the resort makes conscious efforts to minimize its impact on the surrounding wilderness through recycling and other green practices.
Spa director Breanna Hall feels strongly that a property set in an ecologically sensitive area has a responsibility to protect it. “Check to see if the resort is either affiliated with a national environmental organization, or striving towards this goal. At the very least, an eco-spa destination should be recycling, focusing on energy efficiency, and reducing daily laundry usage by guests. By keeping our facility smaller, we are able to have less impact on the surrounding land. It is each person’s responsibility to become environmentally aware. Don’t just take it for granted that a facility is environmentally responsible. Ask questions! The more demand made by consumers for environmental stewardship, the more chance that organizations and individuals will take actions to respect Mother Earth.”
El Monte Sagrado Living Resort
Taos, New Mexico; www.elmontesagrado.com, (505) 758-3502
Some of the environmental practices at El Monte Sagrado include recycling of waste water, geothermal heating and cooling, the use of natural fibers and sustainable woods, and support of local farmers. The resort also utilizes solar power, has a chlorine-free pool, and has its own biolarium where many of the restaurant’s herbs, fruits, and vegetables are grown.
Amy McDonald, director of spa and programs, urges travelers to fully explore the destination choices available to them. “Ask if the restaurant uses locally and organically grown foods,” she says, “and if the personal products offered for sale have natural ingredients or if they include hazardous materials common to mainstream personal care products. There are many non-toxic spa treatments and products available. Find out how ecologically friendly the water use is, as well as the interior décor, and the heating and cooling systems.”
McDonald adds that her spa offers a certified organic line of in-room amenities, and some spa products include ingredients wildcrafted from indigenous plants and flowers. “Our intention is for the indoor air quality to be as fine as the mountain air, full of natural light and living plants. It’s the integration of nature, nurture, and education in our programs that facilitates a profound transformation in our guests. Basically, nature does the work.”
Hotelito Desconocido
Puerto Vallerta, Mexico; www.hotelito.com, (800) 851-1143
The wetland estuary setting of this intimate resort makes it a popular destination. The property operates by solar power, with candlelight providing light after dark. Support of local farmers, seasonal release programs of protected Olive Ridley turtles, and wildlife education programs round out the resort’s commitment to sustainable practices.
“We live in this world, and we need to take the best care of it in order to preserve our home,” says manager Liliana Diaz. “Nature is the most pure form of beauty, and it belongs to every human being who is willing to save it. To that end, our spa uses biodegradable products, and because of our active water conservation program, we strongly recommend to our clients that they be extremely objective when deciding to send a towel for laundry. Care should be taken of the water supply.”
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