Ahead of the opening of Leonardo DiCaprio's own eco resort, on a private island in Belize, discover our recommendations of the ultimate eco-chic retreats.

Svart Powerhouse Hotel, Norway

Floating at the foot of the Svartisen Glacier (in northern Norway), the Svart Powerhouse Hotel (named after the adjoining Svartisen glacier) is the first of its kind above the arctic circle. The hotel's main goal is to preserve the pristine natural environment of its Northern Norway location. It does so with a sustainable design and a minimal environmental footprint. Using solar panels and strategic positioning, the building harvests its own energy allowing it to operate on about 85% less energy than standard hotels while private terraces cast a shadow eliminating the need for artificial cooling. The circular structure is built on wooden stilts in order to reduce disruption to the landscape. Inspired by the local fishing heritage, the design pays tribute to vernacular architecture while also affording guests with 360-degree views of Holandsfjorden Fjord, the Northern Lights and the alpine landscape. Opening in 2021. 

The Brando, French Polynesia

The Brando Resort combines luxury and environmental sustainability to create one of the finest eco-friendly resorts in the world. Located on the Tetiaroa atoll, also known as Marlon Brando's private island, this resort is meant to carry out his vision and his legacy. Setting a new world standard, the resort is close to reach its goal of being carbon neutral and self-sustainable. It is 100% energy independent and supports a number of research and conservation initiatives and also uses a pioneering deep seawater air-conditioning system to reduce energy demands and rely entirely on renewable energy sources including solar power and coconut oil. The all-inclusive resort features 35 private villas (built using local materials) located along the coast of Motu Onetahi, set back from the beach for maximum privacy. Each one has been carefully designed with comfortable furnishings and deluxe amenities including private pools.

Song Saa, Cambodia 

Song Saa Private Island lies in the Koh Rong Archipelago, in the Gulf of Thailand, and is a gem of a Cambodian hideaway. It has an untouched, natural feel with tropical reefs, deserted stretches of beach and lush rainforest all on the doorstep, offering guests a true escapist experience. It spans two islands, connected by a footbridge over a protected marine reserve, and is as sustainable as possible, yet thoroughly luxurious. The guest accommodation is all on one island and there's a choice of Overwater, Jungle or Ocean View Villas, all of which have a private pool with amazing views. There's also a team of marine biologists on staff, recycling and waste initiatives in place, and the hotel is involved in sustainability projects in nearby villages and developing an eco-tourism city in Siem Reap that will include a Song Saa resort.

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Bucking the regional trend toward water villas, Soneva Fushi is the quintessential island paradise. Rustic in design, Soneva Fushi is the blueprint for barefoot luxury. Boasting a unique style and using natural wood and stone elements, the luxury villas are like elaborate tree-houses tucked within flora and fauna. This renowned private island is the perfect place to escape the modern world, and to embrace the rich natural attractions, such as the incredible marine life, lush tropical jungle and golden sands. When staying at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, choose from one of three eco-programmes focusing on land, sea or the local community with responsibility and sustainability the core of the resort’s philosophy. It has one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives, and food grown and sourced locally where possible, and there’s even a purpose-built centre for waste management and recycling, as well as a marine conservation programme.

North Island, Seychelles 

Described as the ultimate in 'Robinson Crusoe' living (although Crusoe didn’t get to arrive by helicopter), this private island combines the concept of barefoot luxury with a light ecological footprint. The resort received a National Geographic World Legacy Award for preserving and restoring natural habitat, in the "Conserving the Natural World" category, following several successful projects that include the reintroduction of native species into the island's eco system after many years of absence. With just eleven villas (built using natural materials that were sourced from the surrounding area) located a stone’s throw from the untouched beach - this destination is a true hideaway and the ultimate in tropical island luxury. 

Ideal For

Eco-friendly