Eco-Luxury Travel: Mauritius, Greece, Portugal and the Maldives Now Lead in Sustainable Tourism

Published on December 3, 2025

While the most recent evolutions luxury is fully integrated into the travel experience as a feature. There are a few exceptional travel destinations that are not just practicing sustainability but also they are redefining it. Premium hospitality that incorporates sustainable practices allows every guest to have a positive environmental and societal impact via their travel activity. These exemplary travel destinations are proving that positive social and environmental impact, indulgence, and luxury travel experience are not mutually exclusive and can actually work together to create unique travel experiences that are sustainable over time.

Mauritius: A Model for Sustainable Luxury in the Indian Ocean

Mauritius, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning lagoons, lush mountains, and rich multicultural heritage. However, what truly sets it apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Recognizing its ecological vulnerability, Mauritius has undertaken the Sustainable Island Mauritius initiative, a nationwide effort to transform tourism through responsible practices.

Mauritius is home to a variety of initiatives aimed at conservation and community upliftment. The island boasts the Blue Oasis label, a prestigious sustainability certification recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Additionally, a plastic bag ban and a mandate for businesses to allocate 2% of profits to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have been implemented.

The island’s biodiversity is also safeguarded through efforts such as the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, which protects endangered endemic plants and species. Notably, over 3,500 tourism operators have been trained in sustainable development, and more than 40 hotels on the island have been certified with global sustainability labels. With initiatives like Made in Moris, which uplifts local artisans, Mauritius continues to demonstrate that sustainable tourism is not a trend, but a fundamental responsibility for future generations.

Costa Navarino, Greece: Luxury Meets Environmental Stewardship

Costa Navarino, a world-class resort located in the unspoiled Messinia region of Greece, is a prime example of a luxury destination deeply committed to environmental preservation. Nestled in the southwest Peloponnese, this resort offers more than just luxury—it’s a perfect blend of ancient history and modern sustainability.

One of Costa Navarino’s most remarkable sustainability initiatives is its partnership with Europe’s largest olive tree transplanting program, where over 7,000 ancient olive trees have been re-planted. The resort operates on 100% renewable energy, eliminating single-use plastics, and uses its revenues to support the Navarino Environmental Observatory (NEO).

Additionally, Costa Navarino takes an active role in protecting local wildlife, especially the Loggerhead Sea Turtle, an endangered species found in the region. With its holistic approach to sustainable luxury, Costa Navarino is an exemplary model of how tourism can regenerate both the land and local communities.

Sagres, Portugal: Preserving the Natural Beauty of the “End of the World”

Located at the southwestern tip of Europe, Sagres, Portugal, offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty. This protected region, part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, is known for its rugged limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. It is a haven for nature lovers, surfers, and hikers, especially those exploring the famous Rota Vicentina trails.

The Martinhal Sagres Family Beach Resort, situated within this stunning natural park, sets the bar for sustainable tourism. The resort, which holds the Green Key eco-label, has integrated several sustainable practices into its operations. A key focus is water conservation, with the resort using desalinated water for irrigation across its extensive grounds—an essential practice in Portugal’s dry Algarve climate.

Furthermore, Martinhal Sagres employs energy-efficient designs, solar infrastructure, and ethical sourcing for dining and spa products. This commitment to sustainability ensures that the resort’s luxury offerings respect and preserve the remarkable natural setting of Sagres, making it a model for responsible tourism.

Sun Siyam, Maldives: A Luxury Destination Committed to Marine Conservation

The Maldives, renowned for its iconic overwater villas and private island escapes, is not only about luxury—it is also a place where responsible tourism is becoming the standard. The Sun Siyam Resorts are leading the charge with their strong focus on marine conservation, particularly through initiatives like coral nurseries and manta ray protection. As a low-lying island nation, the Maldives is especially vulnerable to climate change and coral bleaching, making conservation efforts all the more crucial.

The Sun Siyam Cares program, which emphasizes environmental stewardship, works on projects like Seagrass Protection and Plastic Upcycling. At Siyam World, the Maldives’ first large-scale plastic upcycling center was launched, converting hard plastics into useful products. Additionally, the resort is committed to turning organic waste into compost for garden use and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Sun Siyam Resorts also empower local communities through socio-economic programs, providing education and training for future hospitality leaders. With its multifaceted approach to sustainability, Sun Siyam proves that luxury can coexist with environmental and social responsibility, creating a model for responsible tourism in the Maldives.

The Future of Luxury Tourism: Embracing Sustainability Without Compromise

Travelers nowadays can indulge in high-end tourism that does not negatively affect the planet. With a greater focus on eco-conscience travel, these locations are the most progressive, demonstrating that responsible travel can be both comfortable and high-end. Indeed, this responsible travel offers a different kind of high-end service, one that helps protect the environment and serves the surrounding communities, allowing future generations to enjoy the stunning locations of this world.