EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPES
ECO BOUTIQUE Hotels That Are Destinations in Themselves
Have you ever been so captivated by a hotel that it becomes the sole reason for your journey? This is a travel style we wholeheartedly endorse. Exceptional hotels can lead you to hidden corners of the world you might never have otherwise discovered. And as we often emphasize, the right hosts can transform a good trip into an unforgettable one.
We believe every hotel we feature is a journey worth taking, but some are so exceptional they justify traveling to the farthest reaches of the globe. It could be their breathtaking location, an unparalleled offering, their dedication to environmental conservation, awe-inspiring design, or their deep connection with the local community. The best experiences combine all these elements – and it's these places that truly make our hearts race, reminiscent of falling in love.
In this edition, we've handpicked a selection of hotels from around the globe that embody these ideals. Each one is a testament to what makes travel so enriching and exhilarating. We invite you to consider these destinations for your next significant trip – because sometimes, the accommodation is not just a part of your journey; it is the journey.
KURULU BAY
AHANGAMA, SRI LANKA
Photo Credits Kurulu Bay
Imagine a place where the whispers of nature blend with architectural elegance - welcome to Kurulu Bay in Sri Lanka. Perched by the serene Koggala Lake, this private haven is a retreat into tranquility. With only 14 uniquely crafted suites and cottages, including enchanting treehouses nestled among the treetops, each space is a nod to tropical modernism, harmonizing with the lush surroundings. The spa, an oasis within this oasis, melds Eastern and Western therapies, while yoga classes take place amidst the soothing embrace of frangipani canopies. Dining at The Kitchen is an open-air affair, where each meal is a celebration of the lake's bounty, embodying a sea-to-table ethos amid gentle breezes and captivating views.
From: €237
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
Guaranteed 1pm late check-out
Welcome treat in room on arrival
25 USD hotel credit per room, per stay
SOLO PALACIO
ASTURIAS, SPAIN
Photo Credits Solo Palacio
Solo Palacio, nestled in the verdant mountains of Asturias, redefines rural luxury through the lens of wabi-sabi – embracing the beauty of imperfection and the passage of time. This 16th-century palace, more rustic hideaway than grandiose estate, invites guests to experience luxury in its most unpretentious form. The accommodations blend modern sensibilities with antique charm, creating spaces that are both contemporary and steeped in history. Set against the backdrop of Las Ubiñas Natural Park, Solo Palacio is committed to environmental stewardship, operating as a non-profit supporting local conservation and development initiatives. Wellness offerings at Solo Palacio include a sauna, jacuzzi, and an infinity pool, each offering a serene view of the forested valley. For fungi enthusiasts, their dining experience shines a spotlight on the mushroom, offering an inventive celebration of the local varieties.
From: €265
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
Guaranteed 2pm late check-out
Welcome treat in room on arrival
20 EUR hotel credit per room, per day
HOLMEN LOFOTEN
LOFOTEN, NORWAY
Photo Credits Holmen Lofoten
Holmen Lofoten in Norway is not just a hotel, it's a journey back to our primal roots, nestled above the Arctic Circle. This family-run property, open from mid-February to December, is a sanctuary for those seeking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature, themselves, and the essence of community. Ingunn Rasmussen, who grew up playing along these quaysides, infuses the essence of her childhood into every aspect of Holmen, from fishing and foraging to the familial warmth that greets every guest. Set in the spellbinding Lofoten Islands, where rugged mountains meet serene beaches, Holmen stands out with its Kitchen On The Edge Of The World event. Here, amidst the raw beauty of nature, guests are invited to engage in fishing, hiking, and foraging, culminating in feasts that celebrate the close bond between our environment and our sustenance.
Starting Price: €275
ZANNIER SONOP
HARDAP, NAMIBIA
Photo Credits Zannier Sonop
Perched atop granite boulders, Zannier Sonop is a tented camp set across 13,800 acres of pristine desert, offering an unparalleled escape into the desert of Namibia. Each of the ten tents is a treasure trove of antiques and explorers' essentials, from binoculars to telescopes, creating a narrative of adventure and discovery. Guests can indulge in horse-riding, wellness experiences, or soar over dunes in a hot air balloon. As night falls, the magic of Sonop intensifies with gala-style dinners, open-air cinema, and stargazing sessions under the boundless African sky, making every moment at Zannier Sonop an encounter with the timeless soul of the desert.
From €439
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Guaranteed 2pm late check-out
Welcome treat in room on arrival
25 USD hotel credit per room, per stay
HECKFIELD PLACE
ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
Photo by Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place, just an hour from London, is a stunning portrayal of English history redefined as a modern hotel. Each bedroom, nestled in the House and its Corridors, offers a unique connection to the verdant grounds, with bespoke English oak furniture and handwoven mats from River Ouse rushes adding to their charm. The land, sculpted over centuries by ancient heather, woodlands, gardens, and meadows, presents a harmonious blend of the gently wild and the elegantly tamed. The Georgian splendor of the House, with interiors that marry classic grandeur and contemporary design, complements the beauty of its secluded estate. The culinary journey at Heckfield Place is directly nourished by its own home farm, kitchen gardens, and orchards, feeding into the imaginative creations at Marle Restaurant and the Hearth. Experiences at The Bothy by Wildsmith transport you back to simpler times amidst Heckfield's hidden landscape.
From €650
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
AMANEMU
ISE-SHIMA, JAPAN
Photo Credits Amanemu
Amanemu, nestled in the Ise-Shima National Park, redefines the concept of a Japanese country inn with its unique blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. This isn't just a rural escape; it's an architectural masterpiece by Kerry Hill, offering a contemporary yet unmistakably Japanese experience of tranquility. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of a nature reserve and breathtaking views of Ago Bay, each of the 24 spacious suites features a private onsen bath, while the expansive villas accommodate up to six guests in nearly 4,000 square feet of elegant space. The resort’s commitment to comfort is unparalleled, with attention to detail and a dedication to flawless service. Amanemu integrates traditional Japanese thermal-spring treatments within a modern wellness setting, complete with yoga and fitness studios. The culinary journey is equally impressive, offering a contemporary take on the traditional kaiseki dinner.
From €1004
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
CASA SILENCIO
OAXACA, MEXICO
Photo Credits Casa Silencio
Set in the rugged terrain of Oaxaca, Casa silencio is a reimagined distillery where rustic rammed earth, timber, and tile converge in architect Alejandro D’Acosta's vision of sustainable, contemporary design. Each suite, unique in layout and ambiance, unites under a theme of modern design and mysterious allure, featuring locally crafted Oaxacan artistry from distressed leather to hand-woven wool and artisanal copper accents. The retreat is a collaboration between D’Acosta and El Silencio founders Vicente Cisneros and Fausto Zapata, and stands as a modern monument to the Valle del Silencio. The culinary journey, led by Chef Daniel Robles, revives traditional Oaxacan flavors with fresh, on-site ingredients, complemented by an extensive variety of mezcals. Casa Silencio transcends its roots in spirit production, embodying a deeply immersive experience that draws from the world's oldest distilleries.
From €1180
BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN
TENNESSEE, USA
Photo Credits Blackberry Mountain
Perched in the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain, the Beall family's labor of love, is a sanctuary where conservation meets luxury. Spanning 5,200 acres the majority dedicated to preservation, this retreat is the embodiment of a deep respect for nature. As the sequel to the renowned Blackberry Farm, Blackberry Mountain carves its own niche, offering a blend of adventure and serene indulgence. Here, guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in nature, guided by some of the best in the field. Cabins crafted from reclaimed timber, offer a rustic yet luxurious escape, focusing on the beauty of nature with floor-to-ceiling windows. Culinary experiences at Blackberry Mountain are as unique as the adventures. Breakfast and dinner are included, offering a diverse range of nourishing, flavor-packed dishes designed to fuel the day's activities.
From €1475
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Complimentary Breakfast per night and per person
VIP Welcome
AWASI ATACAMA
SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA, CHILE
Photo credits Awasi
Awasi Atacama stands as a testament to the exquisite harmony of luxury and nature in the heart of the Atacama Desert. Nestled over 2,500 meters above sea level, this extraordinary retreat offers a unique opportunity to explore an otherworldly landscape that transcends the traditional notion of a desert. Here, llamas and alpacas roam, while vibrant crops like multi-colored corn and quinoa thrive, transformed into culinary delights by the skilled chefs. Awasi's commitment to preserving the land and celebrating local artisan crafts is evident in every detail, from handwoven baskets to elegant clay vases. Each night, guests are treated to small, handcrafted treasures that evoke a sense of wonder. Beyond its luxurious accommodations, Awasi Atacama invites exploration of the desert's ancient narratives through hikes, petroglyphs, and stargazing under the pristine night skies. It's a destination where nature and luxury coexist seamlessly, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Life changing.
From €1630
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom (already included in hotel rates)
Special Tasting Menu - Personalized 8 course menu highlighting the chef's creations, including a wine pairing for each of the main courses (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
KISAWA
BENGUERRA ISLAND, MOZAMBIQUE
Photo credits Kisawa Sanctuary
Kisawa is a sanctuary of unbreakable bonds between people and the untamed beauty of Benguerra Island, Mozambique. With a commitment to harmonize wilderness and wellbeing, Kisawa's generous and personalized hospitality emanates care at its core. The 300-hectare haven seamlessly blends innovation with tradition, uniting skilled artisans from Benguerra Island with cutting-edge 3D printing technology. Every decision has been made with environmental preservation in mind, ensuring a gentle touch on the natural landscape. Led by founder Nina Flohr, Kisawa's vision is rooted in a deep respect for Mozambique's people and its pristine surroundings, making it a place where the soul finds solace in nature's embrace. Be still my heart…
From €3600
Good Trips Goodies (when we book for you):
Daily A la carte breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the Main Terrace restaurant
$100 USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
One additional 60-minutes spa treatment, for two persons, during the stay (one is already included in the Kisawa guest experience for all guests)
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Packing it up
We hope this curated list has inspired and encouraged you to explore your dream accommodations while delving deeply into destinations you might not have considered otherwise. Whether you're drawn to the serene landscapes of Sri Lanka, the otherworldly of Atacama, or the unbreakable bond between people and place in Benguerra Island, each of these unique properties offers a gateway to extraordinary adventures and unforgettable memories.
Happy travels!
Note: While some of these selections fall into the high-end category and will be out of reach for many travelers, it's important to note that in several cases, there are more affordable alternatives nearby that embody a similar ethos, albeit without the high-end service. Sometimes, these more accessible options provide a desirable choice for those seeking a different kind of experience.
Katy HOogerwerf
Katy spearheads Good Trips, promoting design-centric and conscious businesses within the hospitality sector. Her professional background in holistic wellness, art & design, and responsible travel deeply informs her approach to curating unique travel experiences, crafting journeys that enrich lives and promote a deeper connection with travel.
The Good Trips editors only endorse businesses we genuinely love. If you end up booking with, or purchasing from links on this page, we may earn a commission.
