The FINANCIAL — TripAdvisor on April 13 announced the top 10 eco-friendly accommodations in the U.S. These properties have all earned “Platinum” status in TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders program1 that recognizes accommodations leveraging eco-friendly practices around the globe.
These top-rated businesses have delighted guests with their outstanding service, amenities and commitment to sustainability ranging from solar energy to composting and organic culinary programs, to electric car charging stations, according to TripAdvisor.
“Travelers seeking out eco-friendly hotels should look no further than these outstanding green properties that come highly recommended by the TripAdvisor community,” said Brooke Ferencsik, senior director of communications for TripAdvisor. “Travelers can feel good about booking a stay at one of these accommodations knowing that they leverage sustainable measures to reduce the impact on the environment, while still providing an exceptional guest experience.”
Top 10 Green Properties in the U.S:
1. The Gardens Hotel – Key West, Florida – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $375 2. Most affordable month to visit3: September ($247 per night)
Located steps from Duval Street, this eco-friendly property is set within the historic estate of the Peggy Mills Botanical Gardens, providing a tranquil oasis in the heart of Key West. In addition to serving as a floral sanctuary, this Floridian hotel does its part to protect the environment by using recycled products, solar powered energy and composts its food waste. “The hotel and grounds are beautiful and the wine bar is super cool. Location is perfect and the staff really makes you feel at home. Just book your reservation, you won’t be disappointed,” suggested one TripAdvisor reviewer.
2. Bardessono – Yountville, California – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $872. Most affordable month to visit: December ($697 per night)
Nestled in Napa Valley, this LEED-certified hotel is an ideal spot for environmentally-conscious travelers who want to experience luxury in California’s wine region. The state-of the-art property’s commitment to “deep green” is evident through features such as solar panels, a geothermal heating system and a fleet of hybrid Lexus vehicles. One TripAdvisor reviewer commented, “There aren’t many hotels that actually take your breath away, but the Bardessono does. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure you are treated like royalty, plus you’ll enjoy amazing views of hills and vineyards.”
3. Hilton Garden Inn Fayetteville/Fort Bragg – Fayetteville, North Carolina – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $128. Most affordable month to visit: December ($116 per night)
This 104-room property in the picturesque Sandhills region of North Carolina employs a variety of green practices including the use of biodegradable toiletries, tracking carbon emissions and a white roof to reduce energy needed for air conditioning. Guest amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, premium cable TV, signature “Garden Sleep System,” as well as access to an indoor pool and fitness facility. “The Hilton Garden Inn has an incredibly relaxing, yet clean and refreshing atmosphere. The staff were always pleasant and truly made it feel like home,” according to a TripAdvisor reviewer.
4. ARIA Sky Suites – Las Vegas, Nevada – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $700. Most affordable month to visit: November ($552 per night)
Known for its exclusive service and exceptional panoramic views, ARIA Sky Suites is a fantastic option for travelers looking for a lavish experience. From the construction of the building to its energy efficient operations and water conservation practices, this 442-room hotel is dedicated to sustainability. “This hotel was out of this world; from the entrance all the way through the casino, it was absolutely amazing! The rooms were luxurious and the view was just a dream,” commented a TripAdvisor reviewer.
5. Ponte Vineyard Inn – Temecula, California – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $314. Most affordable month to visit: December ($283 per night)
Seated on 300 acres of expansive vineyards, this spectacular property was designed to minimize sun exposure to each of its 60 guest rooms to ensure comfortable temperatures year-round. Other sustainable practices include solar panels for electricity, rain water irrigation, on-site laundry and the use of locally sourced organic products. “The Ponte certainly didn’t disappoint; it’s quiet, comfortable elegance. Great central location for all of the wine tastings. Book early as this is a very popular place,” noted a TripAdvisor reviewer.
6. Cedar Glen Lodge – Tahoe Vista, California – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $212. Most affordable month to visit: October ($202 per night)
The newly-renovated Cedar Glen Lodge evokes the natural serenity of Lake Tahoe with its stylish, rustic charm. Notable green features at this LEED-certified property include a Tesla and universal electric car charging station, eco-friendly flooring and carpeting, as well as furniture made with recycled materials. “We booked our stay in the studio cabin and from the second we arrived, I was thrilled with my selection. It has a rustic cabin feel, but everything was recently updated and clean. S’mores by the fire, continental breakfast and the friendliest staff made this my new spot to stay in Tahoe,” shared a TripAdvisor reviewer.
7. Allison Inn & Spa – Newberg, Oregon – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $435. Most affordable month to visit: December ($405 per night)
Set among the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, the Allison Inn & Spa combines lavish amenities with a host of eco-friendly practices. This modern 85-room resort uses solar hot water, eco-friendly Sedum plant roofing and has a locally sourced culinary program. “The location is ideal for exploring Oregon’s wine country and the building is totally spectacular down to every detail. However, it’s the service that truly makes this a spot that should be on everyone’s bucket list,” noted a TripAdvisor reviewer.
8. Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $1,313. Most affordable month to visit: November ($1,191 per night)
Perched atop a cliff overlooking the central California coast, the Post Ranch Inn “blends rustic elegance with luxury and comfort.” From renewable building materials and drought-resistant landscaping, to a biodegradable cleaning system and solar powered energy, this 39-room property makes sustainability a top priority. A TripAdvisor reviewer commented, “We spent two days in this magical place with inspirational design. Great location and amazing views. We loved the peaceful, secluded atmosphere and the swimming pools.”
9. Townsend Gateway Inn – Townsend, Tennessee – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $106. Most affordable month to visit: December ($104 per night)
Conveniently located near the popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this quaint accommodation is ideal for travelers looking to explore the outdoors. The 17-room property’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its green practices including a linen reuse program, Energy Star appliances, organic “Fair Trade” food and sustainable living education provided to guests. “I booked this property because of the reviews and it didn’t disappoint. We were allowed to check in early and were made to feel right at home. The room was updated and super clean and the staff was very friendly and caring,” shared a TripAdvisor reviewer.
10. Hotel Floyd – Floyd, Virginia – Bookable on TripAdvisor for an average nightly rate of $109. Most affordable month to visit: December ($103 per night)
Built in 2002 to bring responsible tourism to the area, this 40-room property aims to limit the impact on the environment with several sustainable measures including a geothermal energy heating and cooling system, electric car charging station, sustainable linens, eco-friendly soaps, and low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints. “The Hotel Floyd truly reflects and celebrates the unique beauty and character of the area. With its environmentally friendly design, it honors the respect and love for nature shared by locals and visitors alike,” commented a TripAdvisor reviewer.
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