A hotel on the banks of Lake Garda has been named the most environmentally friendly hotel in Europe – and with such stunning scenery, it’s no surprise that the hotel would strive to protect its natural surroundings. Travel website TripAdvisor recognized the Lefay Resort and Spa Lago di Garda in Gargnano for its bioarchitecture and commitment to eco-friendly energy. The hotel also ranks fourth globally at the EcoLeader Platinum level.
The Lefay Resort and Spa Lake Garda integrates itself into its environment, with a private garden and infinity swimming pools surrounded by mountains, olive groves and woods. One pool reflects the mountains behind it, resembling a lake, and another seemingly disappears into the lake. The 4,000-square-meter retreat has garden-view and lake-view balconies screened in with foliage, an indoor pool inside a grotto, and a luxurious spa.
ANSA reported that, in a survey conducted by TripAdvisor, 38% of Italians intend to make sustainable travel choices in 2017, and 15% intentionally chose an eco-friendly hotel in the last year. Italians’ commitment to reducing their carbon footprints also extends toward the rest of their vacations: when traveling, 88% try to eat organic and local foods, 31% use electronic boarding passes, and 28% take tours that use green transportation such as hybrid vehicles, bicycles, or walking.
Praise for the greenest hotel in the world went to Tambo del Inka at the Luxury Collection Resort and Spa in Urubamba, Peru.
–Kathy McCabe
