There's getting away from it all and then there's getting away from it all. The lodges, inns, luxury campgrounds and resorts on this list allow travelers to journey to the edge of the wilderness, where the beauty of earth meets with the wellness of an escape far from home. These eco-friendly, oxygen-rich retreats envelop their guests, putting them in the middle of everything, yet far away from anything.
Rustic Elegance
Wickaninnish Inn
Tofino, British Columbia
A short seaplane ride from Vancouver, the Wickaninnish Inn positions guests at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and a temperate rainforest biome. Plentiful oak, cedar and fir trees can be enjoyed via a hike or bike ride, or during a ride out to watch migrating humpback and gray whales, resident orcas and frolicking sea otters. Nearby Maquinna Marine Provincial Park features natural hot springs.
Nature's Edge
AutoCamp Yosemite
Midpines, California
The forest lining the road that leads millions of visitors to Yosemite National Park annually is also home to one of AutoCamp's outposts. Accommodations include Airstream trailers, cabins and tented campsites, all adjacent to a luxe clubhouse and pool area. Stargazing outings, mountain bikes and a hammock grove are designed to provide escape, while Wi-Fi helps visitors keep in touch if necessary. A daily shuttle to Yosemite is available.
Treetop Tourism
The Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare, Costa Rica
This lodge was built with minimal impact to its surrounds over three decades ago and currently serves as a luxe gateway to jungle adventures while focusing on sustainable tourism. Guests are invited to explore the forest via raft, canopy adventure or repelling into a canyon. Birdwatching and hiking are also on the agenda. In addition to hosting travelers from around the world, the lodge works with universities and researchers in Costa Rica to study and conserve wildlife.
Rainforest Retreat
Gaia Amazon Eco-Lodge
Ahuano, Ecuador
Pocketed into the Ecuadorian Amazon Basin, the low-impact accommodations of this lodge were designed to allow connection with nature. Guests can relax in a hammock and enjoy views of the Napo River, watch birds soar and see monkeys scamper from tree to tree. The lodge is surrounded by a cocoa tree plantation and specialty wellness-themed retreats. There are also plenty of opportunities to hike, interact with Indigenous people, visit an animal rescue center or canoe.
Between Rock and Sea
Secret Bay
Tibay, Dominica
This highly rated rainforest resort features villas for guests to rest and landscapes where they can feel like they're on the edge of the world. On one side, the Caribbean Sea. On the other, lush mountain peaks. The island is home to 365 rivers, three forests (including one that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and world-class snorkeling opportunities. Despite its location, Secret Bay is connected to the modern world, enabling your stay to be a home away from home.
Cultural Intersection
Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden, Germany
Just a few hours south of Munich near Austria, you'll find a luxury Alpine retreat. Swing on a hutschn (handmade swing), hike, mountain bike, ski, paraglide, enjoy a spa treatment or just relax on the lawn taking in the Bavarian surrounds.
Gorilla Trekking
Bwindi Lodge
Bwindi National Park, Uganda
Tucked into the hillside of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the lodge's thatched bandas provide luxe accommodations deep in the jungle. Going deeper into the forest on foot from the lodge allows for the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their native habitat. Birding and waterfall watching are also recommended activities for travelers looking to disconnect from the daily grind.
Eco-Oasis
Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa
Kandy, Sri Lanka
This escape sits at the edge of the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Though primarily an eco-friendly luxury getaway, the resort offers a number of wellness and rejuvenation programs to help you escape the rituals of daily living. The suites and villas are individual oases designed to relax your mind and body. Lounge by your private pool for a spectacular view of the Conservation Forest.
Backcountry Luxury
Four Seasons Tented Camp
Golden Triangle
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Situated on the northern border of Thailand near Myanmar and Laos, this remote location invites exploration. Guests are able to visit rescued elephants and hike mountain trails or bamboo jungles. They can also see the area from the confines of a restored, vintage Land Rover. Temple and tea plantation visits and fishing with locals can also be arranged.
Riverside Respite
Maruia River Retreat
South Island, New Zealand
Explore the relaxed pace of the natural world when you check in to one of the seven private villas that sit within a 500-acre rainforest estate. In addition to inviting outdoors exploration in the garden, river and surrounds, the retreat offers guests a Deep Sleep Experience and workshops on improving sleep, designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Yoga and wellness weekend retreats are also on their events calendar.
About the writer
Eileen Falkenberg-Hull leads the Autos team at Newsweek. She has written extensively about the auto industry for U.S. News & ... Read more
