By Debra Bokur
Travel the planet with a healing focus by choosing a resort, hotel or lodge that immerses you in the beauty of the natural world while supporting local economies, embracing renewable energy, and utilizing sustainable operating practices.
Travel Green
1. El Monte Sagrado Living Resort in Taos, New Mexico
A benchmark in the world of luxury eco-resorts, this resort emphasizes total harmony with nature. Within the holistically designed Biolarium, a self-sustaining eco-environment of water, botanicals, and native rock formations, guests are able to immerse themselves in the natural world. Designed with vaulted glass ceilings that allow natural light into the soothing treatment rooms, the spa’s waterfalls provide a soundtrack to an impressive selection of massages, body polishes, wraps, and holistic treatments. Special programs include sound and vibrational therapy, animal communication sessions, spiritual cleansing, Egyptian anointments, and life reading massages. For more information call (505) 758-3502 or visit www.elmontesagrado.com
2. Devils Thumb Ranch & Spa in Tabernash, Colorado
Proof that “eco-resort” isn’t synonymous with roughing it, Devil’s Thumb blends its green operating practices seamlessly with luxury accommodations and serious pampering. During the winter, the extensive grounds are the setting for cross-country ski races, with hiking, horseback riding, and cycling offered during the summer months. The rustic, Rocky Mountain décor incorporates a geothermal radiant heating system, reclaimed and recycled timbers, energy efficient features, support of local businesses, organic and sustainable cuisine, and an aggressive forest management program. The spa, located in the Broad Axe Barn, showcases local mountain botanicals with therapies ranging from facials and massages to bathing rituals in a burnished copper soaking tub. For more information call (800) 933-4339 or visit www.devilsthumbranch.com
3. Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California
Situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, Post Ranch Inn practices both environmental and social responsibility, including conservation programs that protect local rare and endangered species. Bio-structure architecture, organic linens, low flow water systems, and the use of water-based paints are a few of the other green operating practices. In addition to a full menu of massages, facials, and wraps, the spa offers craniosacral, Reiki, Native American Shamanic sessions, and energy-based therapies utilizing crystals and gemstones. Yoga, hiking, and guided meditation sessions are also offered. For more information call (831) 667-2200 or visit www.postranchinn.com
4. Xpu-Ha Palace, Xpu-Ha, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Whether you want a jungle, river, or beach, you’ll find it here. Cabana-style villas are constructed from indigenous materials, and the property caters specifically to nature lovers. Botanical tours led by area ecologists are available, and the nearby estuary is home to many exotic bird species. Water sports are non-motorized, and excursions to local Mayan ruins and the underground rivers at Xcaret can be easily arranged through the resort. World-class spa facilities at Palace’s adjacent property, Aventura Spa, offer rehydrating Egyptian Sun Worship Wraps, plus the ancient ritual of Temazcal. For more information call (866) 385-0256 or visit www.xpuha-palace.com
5. Rancho Encantado Eco Resort in Laguna Bacalar, Mexico
Night-blooming jasmine perfumes the air at this low-key hotel located on the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Twelve casitas featuring Mexican tile, thatched palm ceilings, hand-carved furniture, and porches overlook the water and tropical gardens. Spa treatments with local botanicals are administered in a thatched hut built over the water. Birding excursions and trips to nearby archeological ruins help put guests in touch with history and the lush natural surroundings, which is home to tapirs, crocodiles, and toucans. Regular workshops focus on yoga and personal growth, including the annual Goddess Getaway. For more information call (800) 505-MAYA or visit www.encantado.com
6. Kalani Oceanside Eco-Resort in Pahoa, Hawaii
On Hawaii’s Big Island close to Volcanoes National Park, Kalani is a year-round destination that both honors and embraces the environment. Elements of the surroundings are reflected in the accommodations, which include cozy cottages and tree houses. Nearby, black and green sand beaches are the setting for water sports, and the resort offers yoga retreats to develop communion with nature. A full range of bodywork therapies can be enjoyed in massage rooms overlooking a peaceful pond, and a sweat lodge constructed with native lava rock is accessible for healing ceremonies. For more information call (800) 800-6886 or visit www.kalani.com
7. Eco Tulum Resorts, Mexico
A collection of three environmentally conscious properties in Mexico, Eco Tulum’s operating practices include support of local economies, green building, eco-rustic cabanas, and organic and locally grown foods. Holistic treatments offered at the Maya Spa reflect the wisdom and spirit of traditional Mayan therapies, with wraps, massages, crystal therapy, energy treatments, Mayan baths, and Mayan astrology sessions. The unusual and meditative Sensorama experience allows blindfolded guests to be slowly led through an oceanside garden, experiencing the natural world from a unique perspective. For more information call (888) 898-9922 or visit www.ecotulum.com
8. Silverado Resort & Spa in Napa, California
Operated by Xanterra Parks & Resorts, Silverado is the only Napa Valley resort with membership in the Chef’s Collaborative, a national network promoting sustainable and environmentally appropriate cuisine. Under Xanterra’s Ecologix environmental management system, Silverado has implemented a Foodservice Energy Awareness Program, and is developing a Green Procurement program to ensure all paper products and chemicals used in foodservice operations are environmentally sound. Besides aromatherapy, maternity, Swedish and Tui Na massages, the spa offers a selection of treatments featuring indigenous ingredients including lavender and Chardonnay sugar scrubs, along with olive oil, seaweed, and ginger-based body therapies. For more information call (707) 257-0200 or visit www.silveradoresort.com
9. Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyoming
Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this resort offers a variety of outdoor activities including skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and swimming – all with magnificent mountain scenery. Founder of the Targhee Institute’s Environmental Foundation to support environmental programs in Teton Valley, the resort uses bio-diesel fuel in on-site equipment, has a 660-watt solar power system on its Ski & Snowboard building, and has committed to going 100 percent green with wind power and renewable energy over the next three years. The full-service spa offers salon services, massage therapies, reflexology, facials, scrubs, wraps and therapeutic baths. For more information call (307) 353-2300 or visit www.grandtarghee.com
10. Rancho la Puerta, Tecate, Baja California, Mexico
Serenity is the theme at this legendary resort, founded by fitness and spa pioneers Edmond and Deborah Szekely. An hour south of San Diego, Rancho la Puerta boasts its own organic farm, providing the restaurant’s kitchens with vegetables, fruits, and herbs. An art studio and guest workshop offer space for guests to express themselves; while Pilates, hiking, tennis, African dance, water classes, and yoga invite physical activity. Individually decorated cottages reflect the cheerful colors of Mexico. Ayurvedic and hydrotherapy massages, Thai massage, and reflexology are just a few of the many services offered. For more information call (800) 443-7565 or visit www.rancholapuerta.com
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