Green spa retreats around the world
Janet Brice discovers eco-luxury retreats from Costa Rica to Australia — where you can languish in volcanic lagoons, unwind in rainforest chateaux and soak in cliff-top hot tubs overlooking wild Atlantic seas.
- Feature: Sustainable luxury spa retreats worldwide
- Regions: Australia, Costa Rica, South Africa, Malaysia, UK
- Focus: Eco-conscious design, geothermal spas, organic wellness
- Ideal For: Conscious luxury travellers
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Australia
“One feels simultaneously immersed in nature and indulgent luxury.” — Hugh Jackman
Set across 500 acres in Queensland’s hidden Tallebudgera Valley, Gwinganna is Australia’s only fully organic health retreat. Perched high on a plateau with sweeping views towards the Gold Coast, the sanctuary blends eco-credentials with refined comfort.
The 33-room Spa Sanctuary features two pools, an elevated outdoor deck and the serene Crystal Steam Room. Early morning nature walks led by resident botanist John Palmer reconnect guests with the ancient rainforest surroundings.
Gwinganna — meaning “lookout” in the region’s Aboriginal language — encourages guests to slow down through its daily “Dreamtime” ritual, honouring indigenous wisdom and the art of mindful living.
Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort, Costa Rica
A natural thermal river cascades through the rainforest, forming 12 hot spring pools warmed by the Arenal Volcano.
Situated at the foot of Costa Rica’s iconic Arenal Volcano, this carbon-neutral sanctuary blends adventure with geothermal serenity.
The open-air Grand Spa is reached via winding stone pathways and arched bridges. Treatments take place in garden bungalows with private Jacuzzis, while volcanic mud wraps and hot stone massages harness the surrounding elemental energy.
Dining at Ave del Paraíso celebrates spa cuisine amid lush gardens, completing the rainforest immersion.
Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, Queensland
Known as the “most pampering eco lodge in the world”, the Aboriginal name Wawu-karrba means “healing of the spirit”.
Wake to the sounds of rainforest wildlife in your elevated tree-house villa before showering beneath a pristine waterfall. This north Queensland retreat partners closely with the Kuku Yalanji people, integrating indigenous wisdom into both treatments and organic product ranges.
The spa menu features botanicals native to the forest — from lillypilly berries to wattleseeds — while guided rainforest walks and cultural workshops deepen the connection to place.
Karkloof Safari Spa, South Africa
Nestled in KwaZulu-Natal’s rolling countryside, Karkloof combines wildlife encounters with destination spa indulgence. Expect views of giraffe and zebra from treatment rooms seamlessly integrated into the valley landscape.
Eco-conscious design features living roofs, recycled grey water systems and fully biodegradable spa products. The extensive hydrotherapy facilities and personalised detox programmes make this a serious wellness address.
The Chateau Spa & Organic Wellness Resort, Malaysia
Modelled after an 18th-century French castle yet nestled within Malaysian rainforest, The Chateau blends European grandeur with tropical biodiversity.
La Santé Spa offers Europe-inspired thermal facilities including salt grottoes, herbal saunas and mud chambers, while the resort’s philosophy centres on organic living and biodegradable materials.
The Scarlet, Cornwall, UK
Perched on the cliffs of North Cornwall, The Scarlet is an adults-only eco-hotel where Ayurvedic spa journeys meet wild Atlantic views.
A natural reed-filtered pool, sea-thrift green roofs and sustainable architecture allow the hotel to merge seamlessly with its coastal surroundings.
Here, the spa experience feels less like escape — and more like reconnection with the elements.
How Spas Are Becoming Greener
- Organic cotton linens, robes and natural lighting.
- Digital treatment menus to reduce paper use.
- Energy-efficient lighting, sustainable materials and low-flow water systems.
- Water recycling and managed laundry systems.
- LEED-compliant construction practices.
- Geothermal heating and cooling systems.
- Grey water recycling and biodegradable spa products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an eco spa?
An eco spa integrates sustainable building design, water conservation and organic treatments.
Are eco spas truly sustainable?
Leading eco spas use renewable energy, grey water recycling and biodegradable products.
Treatment availability may vary…