Travel packages and award-winning hotels with a commitment to sustainability and local communities make the perfect gift this Christmas.
ADVERTISEMENTThis Christmas gift memorable moments and new discoveries around the world with this curated list of travel experiences and unusual hotels that embed eco-consciousness and responsible tourism in their core.
QO HOTEL, Hotel Stay, Netherlands, from €307.50 per night
The perfect spot for an European weekend getaway, QO hotel Amsterdam merges luxury, design and sustainability. A urban retreat to unwind after a busy week at work, either in one of the designer minimalists bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and premium beds or at the Persijn Dutch Eatery, the restaurant serving organic produces from the rooftop greenhouse. Electrical taxis are on standby to bring you to all the point of interests in the city and experience everything Amsterdam has to offer.
ARISTI MOUNTAIN RESORT & VILLAS, Trekking Adventure Package 3 night/4 days tour, Greece, €672
Based in Zagori, Greece, this property is under consideration for the UNESCO world heritage list and allows guests to immerse themselves in an untouched part of Greece. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a casual nature walker, the Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas offers countless trails from 45 minute long walks through brook valleys to 8 hour long hikes up the mountains to the alpine lakes. This particular package sees you start with a 6 hours trek through Vikos Gorge, which is also the deepest canyon in the world.
VIVID TRAVEL, Romance in the Rainforest, Costa Rica, 15 days, €4,475
Known as the pioneer of eco-tourism in Latin America, Costa Rica is as eco-friendly as it can get with the country running on 100% renewable energy. This is an opportunity to immerse in luxury relaxations whilst taking part in conservation-focused tours. Vivid Travel’s package “Romance in the Rainforest” is designed for honeymooners and offer couples the chance to discover the active Arenal Volcano and uncover the Mistico Hanging Bridges in a private setting.
VICTORIA JUNGFRAU, Spa Nescens - Better Aging Programme, up to 14 days, Switzerland, from €2825
The ideal wellness package for a post-holiday detox, the Better Aging Programme is a tailor-made holistic approach to health and wellbeing. On the shores of lake Thun in central (german-speaking) Switzerland, the Spa Nescens is a masterpiece of art deco boasting 500 sq meters of pools, saunas, steam rooms and outdoor jacuzzis. The programme encompasses nutrition, physical training indoor and in nature and, of course, massages with 3 hours of treatment per day.
PALÉ HALL, Gourmet Package, Wales, price upon request
Awaken your taste buds by savouring the gastronomic delights of a wonderfully balanced ten-course tasting menu created by Head Chef Gareth Stevenson accompanied by a matched wine flight in a pure country house Relais & Chateaux. Palé Hall in Dee valley (North Wales) is the only 5 AA Red Star hotel in the country. Ecologically sound, it is largely powered by its own hydro-electricity system and ensures all produce for meals is sourced from within a short distance of the surroundings.
