Top Five Eco Resorts of Mexico
Posted in Mexico about 1 year ago, 0 replies
As the birthplace for ecotourism, Mexico has its share of green hotels, but catch what very well may grace the next top ten list for eco resorts- oil rigs. Thousands of decommissioned platforms in the Gulf of Mexico may have new life as exclusive, self-sufficient eco-resorts, literally transforming the old rigs from environmental hazard into environmental superstars powered by the use of abundant elements of wind, wave and solar. For now, we will have to settle for more ordinary land-locked, yet still charming hotels, such as these, the top five eco resorts of Mexico.
Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa
Touted as "Mexico's Best Green Jungle Resort and Eco-Spa Wellness Destination", this historical gem of hotel in situated in the Yucatan Peninsula. Hacienda Chichen is a place of elegance and serenity. It is a place for guests to connect with the Mayan culture- complete with mystical ceremonies, rich cuisine, and holistic herbal spa healing at the Maya Eco-Spa Wellness Retreat. Activities include taking in those great spa therapies, venturing out for exploration of the eco-cultural elements of Yucatan, or volunteering for the Maya Foundation In Laakeech, which brings environmental awareness and "green" economic opportunities to the young Maya people. The land of Hacienda Chichen includes a protected private Bird Refuge and Maya Jungle Conservation Reserve. Other green efforts include water and power conservation, including an impressive waste management program, and biodegradable amenities, cleaning and laundry products. National Geographic traveler magazine has included Hacienda Chichen in their "Traveler 2009 Stay List: Hotels We Love."
haciendachichen.com
Rancho Encantado
Close to the capital of Chetumal and the border with Belize, in Mexico's Quintana Roo, is the beautiful forty-mile-long "Lagoon of Seven Colors", Laguna Bacalar. Here, in the heart of Mayan country, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and exotic fruit orchards, is the seaside Rancho Encantado, the "enchanted Ranch". As one of the Yucatan's hidden treasures, this resort of twelve elegantly-appointed private cottages is nestled in an area unspoiled by development, allowing for over 150 species of tropical birds and a variety of orchids to share residence. Private and small group excursions led by expert guides can be arranged to newly excavated, little-known Mayan archaeological sites and rainforest preserves. After a day of jungle trekking or kayaking and swimming the lake, head to the newly created spa for an expert massage in a thatched hut over the water. Accolades include "One of the Best Retreats in the World" by Yoga Journal, and "One of the 10 Best Eco Resorts in North America and Mexico", according to Healing Lifestyles and Spas.
encantado.com
Hotelito Desconocido
Designed as the ultimate one-of-a-kind retreat, this eco-luxury resort was developed by the Italian fashion designer, Marcello Murzilli (Charro). Guests will find no electricity, telephones, flashy restaurants or buzzing nightlife. Instead, there are alternative powered ceiling fans, biodegradable, organic products and candle- or torch-lit rooms and pathways. Choose from two restaurants on-site for fresh and authentic cuisine. Dive, snorkel or bodysurf in the local waters, or take a tour around the village of Cruz de Loreto. Puerto Vallarta is just 95 kilometers away for a multitude of entertainment options.
hotelito.com
Centro Ecológico Sian Ka’an (CESiaK)
Immerse yourself in Mexico's wilderness- kayak, boat through mangrove channels, explore Mayan ruins, snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef just offshore, kayak, or birdwatch- all with professional guides to offer an ecological viewpoint. Two hours south of Cancun, on a peninsula within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve- a large UNESCO World Heritage Site- is CESiaK. Enjoy beachside palapas and an onsite restaurant run by local chefs; and know that, in addition to leaving a smaller footprint, your stay will also help fund conservation and education programs in the reserve.
cesiak.org
Hemingway Cabañas
When you need to truly get away, Hemingway's will get you there. The fine and snowy white sand of the beach stretches out to turquoise waters, providing a great view up and down the Riviera Maya's Tulum Beach. Sea Front, Sea View, and even Jungle View (garden) cabañas are all on the sand, with front porches, chairs, and a hammock. Each has a private bathroom with shower and classic Mexican beach style- flowing fabrics, tile work, and the occasional interior limestone wall for effect. Alternate energy provides a limited amount of power. The restaurant philosophy is to work only with fresh products, devising a simple and natural menu from what "the sea decides to give to us."
Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa
Touted as "Mexico's Best Green Jungle Resort and Eco-Spa Wellness Destination", this historical gem of hotel in situated in the Yucatan Peninsula. Hacienda Chichen is a place of elegance and serenity. It is a place for guests to connect with the Mayan culture- complete with mystical ceremonies, rich cuisine, and holistic herbal spa healing at the Maya Eco-Spa Wellness Retreat. Activities include taking in those great spa therapies, venturing out for exploration of the eco-cultural elements of Yucatan, or volunteering for the Maya Foundation In Laakeech, which brings environmental awareness and "green" economic opportunities to the young Maya people. The land of Hacienda Chichen includes a protected private Bird Refuge and Maya Jungle Conservation Reserve. Other green efforts include water and power conservation, including an impressive waste management program, and biodegradable amenities, cleaning and laundry products. National Geographic traveler magazine has included Hacienda Chichen in their "Traveler 2009 Stay List: Hotels We Love."
haciendachichen.com
Rancho Encantado
Close to the capital of Chetumal and the border with Belize, in Mexico's Quintana Roo, is the beautiful forty-mile-long "Lagoon of Seven Colors", Laguna Bacalar. Here, in the heart of Mayan country, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and exotic fruit orchards, is the seaside Rancho Encantado, the "enchanted Ranch". As one of the Yucatan's hidden treasures, this resort of twelve elegantly-appointed private cottages is nestled in an area unspoiled by development, allowing for over 150 species of tropical birds and a variety of orchids to share residence. Private and small group excursions led by expert guides can be arranged to newly excavated, little-known Mayan archaeological sites and rainforest preserves. After a day of jungle trekking or kayaking and swimming the lake, head to the newly created spa for an expert massage in a thatched hut over the water. Accolades include "One of the Best Retreats in the World" by Yoga Journal, and "One of the 10 Best Eco Resorts in North America and Mexico", according to Healing Lifestyles and Spas.
encantado.com
Hotelito Desconocido
Designed as the ultimate one-of-a-kind retreat, this eco-luxury resort was developed by the Italian fashion designer, Marcello Murzilli (Charro). Guests will find no electricity, telephones, flashy restaurants or buzzing nightlife. Instead, there are alternative powered ceiling fans, biodegradable, organic products and candle- or torch-lit rooms and pathways. Choose from two restaurants on-site for fresh and authentic cuisine. Dive, snorkel or bodysurf in the local waters, or take a tour around the village of Cruz de Loreto. Puerto Vallarta is just 95 kilometers away for a multitude of entertainment options.
hotelito.com
Centro Ecológico Sian Ka’an (CESiaK)
Immerse yourself in Mexico's wilderness- kayak, boat through mangrove channels, explore Mayan ruins, snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef just offshore, kayak, or birdwatch- all with professional guides to offer an ecological viewpoint. Two hours south of Cancun, on a peninsula within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve- a large UNESCO World Heritage Site- is CESiaK. Enjoy beachside palapas and an onsite restaurant run by local chefs; and know that, in addition to leaving a smaller footprint, your stay will also help fund conservation and education programs in the reserve.
cesiak.org
Hemingway Cabañas
When you need to truly get away, Hemingway's will get you there. The fine and snowy white sand of the beach stretches out to turquoise waters, providing a great view up and down the Riviera Maya's Tulum Beach. Sea Front, Sea View, and even Jungle View (garden) cabañas are all on the sand, with front porches, chairs, and a hammock. Each has a private bathroom with shower and classic Mexican beach style- flowing fabrics, tile work, and the occasional interior limestone wall for effect. Alternate energy provides a limited amount of power. The restaurant philosophy is to work only with fresh products, devising a simple and natural menu from what "the sea decides to give to us."
submitted by Heather