Traveling sustainably in Europe doesn’t have to mean giving up comfort. In fact, some of the most memorable boutique hotels and retreats are the ones doing sustainability best—through renewable energy, organic food, and design that respects the land around them.

But here’s the catch: not every place that calls itself “eco” truly is. That’s why we’ve handpicked five eco-friendly hotels in Europe that go beyond green labels. These are stays where the commitment to sustainability is real—from historic villages brought back to life, to off-grid cabins that reconnect you with nature.

If you’re a traveler who values slow mornings, low-impact living, and authentic local experiences, these hotels are worth bookmarking for your next trip.

Manon Les Suites: Eco-Luxury Hotel in Central Copenhagen

If you want to stay sustainable without compromising on style, Manon Les Suites in central Copenhagen delivers big time. This hotel feels like a tropical greenhouse meets urban sanctuary—with its central indoor pool, jungle-style greenery, and rooftop terrace with views across the city.

The hotel is part of the Guldsmeden Hotels group, known for their strong sustainability ethos: organic produce, chemical-free cleaning, and 100% renewable energy across all properties. Every detail here is intentional—from recycled building materials to eco-certifications that go beyond surface-level.

Stay here for the perfect mix of boho design, Danish wellness vibes, and an actual sustainability plan that holds up.

Sextantio Albergo Diffuso: Sustainable Heritage Hotel in Abruzzo

Sextantio isn’t just a hotel—it’s a living preservation project. Located in the almost-abandoned medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio in Abruzzo, this albergo diffuso (or "scattered hotel") breathes new life into historic homes, restoring them using local materials and artisans.

The interiors keep their original charm with stone walls, antique furnishings, and handwoven linens—but the hotel operates with minimal environmental impact and a deep respect for the local community. You’ll be staying in a 13th-century home but enjoying underfloor heating and locally sourced breakfasts.

This is slow travel at its best: heritage conservation meets quiet mountain magic.

Vila Planinka: Eco-Friendly Alpine Retreat in Slovenia

Tucked into the remote alpine valley of Jezersko, Vila Planinka is the kind of place where time slows and nature speaks louder than WiFi signals. The boutique hotel runs on a 'no-waste, no-hurry' philosophy—focusing on clean air, spring water, and seasonal, hyper-local cuisine.

Everything here supports a lighter footprint: wooden interiors crafted from local forests, organic bedding, plastic-free policies, and zero single-use items. There are no TVs in the rooms—just views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and nature trails that start at your doorstep.

Vila Planinka is the reset button we all need, especially for travelers seeking luxury that respects its surroundings.

Ecocamp Glenshee: Off-Grid Eco Glamping in the Scottish Highlands

This off-grid glamping retreat in the Scottish Highlands is all about simple pleasures. Located at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains, Ecocamp Glenshee offers eco-pods, cabins, and bell tents heated by wood stoves and lit by fairy lights.

They use solar power, composting toilets, and rainwater harvesting—and even the breakfast is locally sourced and organic. You can spend your day hiking, stargazing, or cozying up under wool blankets in total silence.

This is the kind of place that makes you forget what day it is—in the best way. A proper digital detox with zero pretension and a whole lot of warmth.

L’Auberge de la Source: Sustainable Farmhouse Hotel in Normandy

Just a short drive from Honfleur and the Normandy coast, this restored farmhouse offers a dreamy countryside stay with authentic eco-credentials. Think cozy fireplaces, big windows overlooking green fields, and food straight from the garden.

The hotel champions local and seasonal ingredients, avoids plastic use, and runs on renewable energy sources. Their partnership with local conservation projects means your stay directly contributes to preserving Normandy’s rural heritage.

Come here for slow mornings, garden walks, and rustic comfort done right.

How to Choose a Truly Sustainable Stay in Europe

Each of these hotels proves that sustainability can be stylish, cozy, and deeply meaningful. Whether it’s a heritage hotel in Abruzzo, a design-forward eco-stay in Copenhagen, or a quiet farmhouse in Normandy, the real difference is transparency. They’re not just cutting plastic straws—they’re rethinking energy use, supporting local farmers, and weaving eco-values into every detail.

When planning your next trip, look for properties that:

Share exactly how they source energy and food.
Work with local communities, not against them.
Offer experiences that bring you closer to nature and culture.

The bonus? Stays like these don’t just lighten your footprint - they also make your travels richer, slower, and far more memorable.

You Might Also Like

If sustainable stays are your kind of travel, these guides will give you even more inspiration for eco-friendly escapes across Europe:

Sleep Stays in Sweden: Cozy, Sustainable Escapes in Nature
From forest cabins to lakeside lodges, Sweden is full of stays where design and sustainability go hand in hand.
Tuscany’s Secret Vineyards: Where Wine, Art, and Culture Meet
Explore Tuscany’s lesser-known side with vineyard stays that combine local wine, history, and a slower pace of life.
In Bloom and Under the Radar: A Quiet Spring Weekend in Périgord Noir, France
A peaceful French escape where spring markets, stone villages, and countryside walks set the tone for slow travel.

FAQ: Sustainable Hotels and Eco-Friendly Retreats in Europe

How do I know if a hotel in Europe is truly sustainable?
Look for transparency. Genuine eco-hotels list their renewable energy use, zero-waste policies, and sourcing practices. Certifications like EU Ecolabel, Green Key, or BioHotels also help verify.

Are sustainable hotels in Europe expensive?
Not always. Options range from affordable eco-glamping in Scotland to luxury eco-retreats in Slovenia. What you’ll find is that the value often comes in quality food, thoughtful design, and unique experiences, not just the price tag.

Do sustainable hotels work for slow travel?
Yes, perfectly. Many eco-retreats are located in small villages, mountain valleys, or rural areas—ideal for travelers who want to move at a slower pace, connect with locals, and stay longer.

Which countries in Europe are best for eco-friendly retreats?
Some standouts include:

Denmark (urban eco-hotels in Copenhagen)
Italy (heritage villages like Abruzzo)
Slovenia (luxury alpine eco-retreats)
Scotland (off-grid nature glamping)
France (rustic farmhouses with strong local sourcing)

Can I reach these eco-hotels without flying?
Yes. Many are train-accessible or close to major European hubs. For example, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso can be reached via Rome, and Vila Planinka is just an hour from Ljubljana.

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Eco-Friendly Retreats in Europe: 5 Sustainable Hotels Worth Booking