An African safari is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Whether you’re trekking with gorillas in the mountains or driving across the savannah in search of lions, elephants, and more, the excitement is almost indescribable. 

There are countless ways to experience Africa’s wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities, but staying at an eco sustainability safari lodge can help you stay more eco conscious, and limit your carbon impact while supporting conservation efforts.

Experience it With Luxury Gold: We invite you to seek out the Big Five in Kruger National Park on Luxury Gold’s Spectacular South Africa Journey. You’ll spend two nights in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve near a waterhole where animals roam day and night. Go on game drives and bush walks where you may spot the Big Five, hippos, crocodiles, and cheetahs.

Top Safari Lodges For Eco Sustainability 

Discover the wonder of Africa’s wildlife while staying at these eco conscious safari lodges that prioritize sustainable practices. As with any stay around the world, do your diligence to determine how truly an eco sustainability property truly is. Taking the extra steps to research the property’s sustainability credentials, its conservation projects, and eco conscious actions such as supporting local communities can help ensure that your travels are limiting your carbon footprint while helping to regenerate our world.

Private Game Drives and Five-Star Stays: How Luxury Gold Does Safari Differently

Cheetah Plains | South Africa

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve (@cheetahplains)

Within the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, Cheetah Plains is the first eco friendly business to offer a zero-emission game drive in the reserve. Their safari lodge runs entirely on solar power and a carbon negative property, which means you can offset part of the carbon footprint your travels create just by staying at Cheetah Plains. 1200 solar PV panels offset over 500 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year by generating an average of 550WMh per year.

Campi Ya Kanzi | Kenya

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Campi ya Kanzi (@campiyakanzi)

Accountability is critical in maintaining a true eco friendly business, which is why every night spent at Campi Ya Kanzi directly benefits the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust. The trust benefits local Maasai communities through actions like reimbursing tribes when they lose livestock due to predator attacks; this encourages the tribe not to retaliate by hunting the predator, thus keeping the human and animal populations sustained. From an eco sustainability perspective, the lodges at Campi Ya Kanzi are 100% photovoltaic. Harnessing solar power to cut carbon emissions to zero, which leads to carbon neutrality via offsetting with the Chyulu REDD+ Carbon Project.

Usangu Expedition Camp | Tanzania

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Expert Africa (@expertafrica)

Similar to the way the Cheetah Plains uses solar power to lead its safaris, the Usangu Expedition Camp in Tanzania is the safari lodge in Ruaha National Park to prioritise eco sustainability by creating safari vehicles that run on ethanol instead of diesel fuel. The ethanol is taken from the molasses production in the south of the country, giving the vehicle a candy-like scent as they drive. This eco conscious camp is near the Douglas Bell Eco Research Station and encourages travelers to help in the wildlife conservation efforts by placing camera traps, tracking lions, and identifying predators in the area. 

How to Safari in Style: The Ultimate Packing Guide

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp | Namibia

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ecoluxury Retreats of the World (@eco.luxury)

Eco sustainability in all of Africa is important, including places like the Namib Desert where an astounding number of biodiverse species thrive. The Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is a luxurious desert oasis and leverages its sun exposure to operate 100% on solar power. Guided walking safaris are an available alternative to game drives to further reduce your impact in one of the world’s oldest deserts. An on-site research center allows you to assist conversation efforts by helping staff track the endangered desert-adapted black rhinoceros. 

Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

Mount Gahinga Lodge | Uganda

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Volcanoes Safaris (@volcanoes_safaris)

Eco sustainability discussions tend to focus around our natural world, and while the protection of the mountain gorillas is a priority, Mount Gahinga Lodge is also working to sustain the native Batwa tribe that was displaced when the Virunga Mountains were annexed for conservation. The Lodge’s founder built a permanent Batwa settlement where 150 people live off of the land in their own, safe community. You can visit this settlement and support the Batwa people when you stay at Mount Gahinga Lodge, with opportunities to also track gorillas and golden monkeys. 

Read next: Walking With the King of the Big Cats in India’s Royal Hunting Grounds

Don’t limit your safari to one continent. Venture into Ranthambore National Park in search of Bengal tigers on the Luxury Gold Essence of India journey. 

Not only does this 8-day adventure check-off bucket-list visits to the Taj Mahal and the Pink City of Jaipur, it also offers the chance to see tigers in the wild. Your safari through the former private hunting grounds of the maharajas of Jaipur takes you across lakes and palace ruins where the elusive tigers roam. 

Lisbon’s cobblestone hills are a pathway through a rich history of occupation, which includes the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and the Romans. Following in the footsteps of these famous civilisations, we recommend that you call Portugal’s capital home, too, if even for a few nights. 

Spoiled for choice for exceptional places to stay, some of the best luxury hotels in Lisbon are also some of the most historic. Many are housed in centuries-old palaces, set next to ruins and shrouded with modern splendor. We’ve selected seven sensational historic Lisbon hotels to what your appetite for a visit to this enchanting city. 

Hotel Avenida Palace

Photo credit: @hotelavenidapalace on Instagram

Built in 1892, Hotel Avenida Palace was one of Lisbon’s first grand hotels.  Michelin-starred restaurants, city sights and high end boutiques are within walking distance, but prime location isn’t the only reason you desire a stay at what discerning travelers consider the best luxury hotel in Lisbon. 

Royals, aristocrats and wealthy bourgeoisie from around the world have checked-in to this Rossio hotel. Live music fills the hallways throughout each month, the sounds of Fado, jazz and classical piano pieces often the soundtrack to guest stays. Evening tea at the Palace Lounge offers a moment to stop, sip and speculate on which distinguished celebrities, dignitaries or nobles have claimed the presidential suite. 

Read more about royal retreats: 7 Luxury Gold Hotels That Have Hosted Royals, Celebrities and More

Corpo Santo

Photo credit: @corposantohotel on Instagram

Discrete luxury is a specialty at Corpo Santo, one of the best luxury hotels in Lisbon for those who appreciate lavishness with a historical flair. A section of the Fernandina Wall, commissioned in 1373 by King Fernando, sits in the refined Fernandina Room where a good book, a strong drink and sweet silence are always welcome. Free walking tours provided by Corpo Santo lend more context to this ruinous hotel, though complimentary access to the Sense Spa is a much more relaxed way to let the historical environment seep into your every pore.

If you love luxury stays: Why Ireland’s Best Hotel is Made for a Holiday Season Escape

Hotel do Chiado 

Photo credit: @hoteldochiado on Instagram

The ever-popular Chiado neighborhood is one of Lisbon’s most historical. Hotel do Chiado’s plot of land has been occupied since the 1200s. Centuries of fires, earthquakes and other damages have lead to reconstructions and renovations, until this historic building finally became a laid-back, upscale hotel. As one of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon’s commercial artery, Hotel do Chiado is an ideal stay for first-time visitors getting acquainted with the city. Head to the rooftop bar for a Chiado Champagne or find a more iconic view from the Elevator de Santa Justa just one block away.

You may also enjoy reading: 10 of the World’s Most Famous Luxury Train Rides

The One Palácio da Anunciada

Photo credit: @theonepalaciodaanunciada on Instagram

The relatively new The One Palácio da Anunciada has yet to become one of the famed historic hotels in Lisbon, but has all the trappings and is sure to be a feature of the city for many years to come. Just behind the Praça dos Restauradores neighboring the Coliseu dos Recreios and Teatro Politeama, The One is minimalist luxury set within a 16th century building. 

Refined traditional Portuguese plates line the tables of the Condes de Ericeira restaurant. Original refurbished hand-painted frescoes and a dazzling coffered ceiling adorn your surroundings. Original wrought iron columns are featured in the Boémio Lounge lobby bar, tempting you to stay in and savor The One’s historical flavor despite being at the epicenter of Lisbon’s gastronomy scene.

Take a look at these artsy accommodations: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels 

Solar do Castelo 

Photo credit: @lisbonheritagehotels on Instagram

The stunning Solar do Castelo hotel is situated in the Alfama neighborhood tucked within the medieval São Jorge Castle. Built on the grounds of the former kitchen of the Royal Palace, a complimentary bottle of Port wine greets guests in each of the Solar do Castelo’s 20 romantic rooms. The garden courtyard showcases relics found during the hotel’s renovation, including the palace’s water tank dating back more than 800 years. Solar do Castelo is the sole hotel in the Castle Village, making it an exclusive escape for visitors who seek a retreat in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and to enjoy a decadent stay at one of the best luxury hotel in Lisbon.

Bookmark for later: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Photo credit: @tivoliavenidaliberdade on Instagram

Less than a century old yet still capturing the opulence of Portugal’s famed historic hotels, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa delivers the best luxury hotel experience in Lisbon, bar none. Private sailings on the Tagus, private chauffeurs for trips to Sintra and Cascais, and private helicopter rides over the city are just the tip of the lavish iceberg. 

Both the Presidential Suite and the Diplomatic Suite have Avenida views stretched out before their private balconies. Dozens of specialized treatments at the Anantara Spa cater to every skin type, stress level and soulful desire. The Sky Bar by SEEN is renowned as the trendiest rooftop bar for long Lisbon nights while the pool bar offers exclusive DJ sets for guests only.

Pousada de Lisboa

Photo credit: @pousadasdeportugal on Instagram

We invite you to experience one of Portugal’s historic hotels on Spain & Portugal In Style where you’ll spend two nights at one of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon, Pousada de Lisboa. Located in the historic Terreiro do Paço, the building itself is over two-centuries old and is adorned with artifacts loaned out from nearby museums. With an indoor swimming pool, exceptional spa, savory steakhouse, and unrivaled views from your suite, your stay will be a highlight of your trip.

With Magnificent Stays a hallmark of every Luxury Gold tour, every night is an experience in itself. For more exceptional hotels and destinations, take a look at our worldwide collection of small group journeys.

Indulge in the allure of royalty, from the ancient castles of Ireland to the fortresses of France. These european castles you can stay in offer a seductive glimpse into centuries of history and heritage. Relax in lavishly adorned rooms, stroll through manicured gardens, and dine like nobility in elegant banquet halls.  To sleep in a castle and wake up on a site that’s witnessed the greatest European empires come and go is an incredible feeling.

Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or a fairytale celebration venue, spoil yourself with fine dining, spa treatments and lavish amenities that even the former royal residents would even blush at.  So why not upgrade your vacation from ordinary to extraordinary with a castle stay on your next visit to Europe? To help you out, we’ve selected some of our favorite European castles you can stay in, sone of which are included on our Luxury Gold journeys.

Discover more about the exceptional hotels that bookend each day with Luxury Gold: Magnificent Stays

Ashford Castle, Ireland

Over 800 years of magnificence rests along the shores of Lough Corrib at Ashford Castle. The estate was once owned by the Guinness family and carries over the intimate yet unashamed luxury for its hotel guests to enjoy. The historic boathouse is an especially peaceful stay, located on the waterside as a stand-alone residence for guests who desire 24-hour butler service and total privacy.

Travel to Ireland with Luxury Gold and enjoy more centuries-old estates of Ireland and the United Kingdom, with the opportunity to call Ashford Castle home for two nights. Here, you’ll dine in the George V Dining Room, take a guided tour of the estate, and meet the birds of prey at Ireland’s oldest established falconry school.

Enjoy a decadent stay at Ashford Castle on: Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms

You may also enjoy reading: These Are the 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the World

Locanda Don Ferrante, Italy

Photo credit: @donferrante on Instagram

In Monopoli’s old town, a small fortress sits on the south side of the town’s defensive walls. History knows it as Charles V Castle, but locals and visitors alike only know the name Don Ferrante. One of the most fascinating European castles you can stay in, when you start your morning with breakfast in a 16th-century gunpowder store, you won’t help but wonder what stores these walls heard when the Viceroy of Bari called this luxurious seaside abode home. Wonder not when you hop in the hotel’s tuk tuk for a sightseeing tour of the old town, followed by a wine tasting, cooking class, and full immersion into the history of Bari written long before the castle walls were built.

Experience the best of Italy on: Ultimate Italy

Bookmark for later: The Luxury Gold Guide to Private Wine Tasting in Italy

Hotel de la Cité Carcassonne, France

Photo credit: @hoteldelacite on Instagram

The discerning traveler who wants to sleep in a castle yet desires doing so surrounded by refined French aesthetics will simply love Hotel de la Cité in medieval Carcassonne. There are fewer than 60 rooms in this 19th-century neo-Gothic luxury castle hotel in Europe, which means the garden terraces, outdoor pool and Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant are anything but crowded. Gaze at the ramparts from a superior suite and take in the medieval scenery. During the Luxury Gold Ultimate Southern France tour, you’ll stay in this castle when you’ve finished drinking in the Languedoc wine region’s vineyards and partaking in a traditional French cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef.

Stay here on : Ultimate France and Ultimate Southern France 

Meet the Travel Concierge who makes your journey exceptional: Sophisticated and Stylish: why Southern France is Unmissable

Glenapp Castle, Scotland

Photo credit: @glenappcastle on Instagram

When it comes to European castles you can stay in, Scotland is a treasure trove of once royal residences. Glenapp Castle is an exceptional example of the standard the castle hotels of Europe should aspire to achieve. Located in Ayrshire, the expansive castle penthouse suite spoils you with a personal butler, a private chef and a private rooftop terrace with 360° views of the coastline. Should you choose to live like a humble lord, you’ll be pleased to discover grand sea view suites that are just as comfortable, an award-winning restaurant with plates sourced only from the Ayrshire, and a host of lavish activities like falconry, croquet, trout fishing and a Hebridean sea safari.

Discover the highlights of Scotland on: British Royale

You may also be interested to read: The Ultimate Luxury Shopping Guide to Edinburgh

Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg, Germany

Photo credit: @schlossbensberg on Instagram

A Baroque castle in Cologne’s countryside, Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg was once known as the “Rhenish Versailles”. It was built as a hunting lodge for Prince-Elector Johann Wilhelm II of Dusseldorf as a hunting lodge and designed to resemble France’s Versailles. Today, this castle hotel in Europe is open to you, granting you exceptional views of Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine Valley. The 2-starred Michelin Vendôme serves a delectable dinner that is complimented by a nightcap of tea in the 4 Elements Spa’s sauna.

Take in more delights of Europe on: Harmony of Central Europe

You may also enjoy: 10 of the World’s Most Famous Luxury Train Rides

Palácio Estoi, Portugal

Photo credit: @pousadapalaciodeestoi on Instagram

Queens and kings have stayed at the only 18th-century palace hotel in the Algarve, and now you can sleep in this castle all the same. Pousada Palácio Estoi welcomes you to rest your feet in Faro at one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Make a note to visit the reception areas, both the old and new. The old Chapel hosts the new reception area, reminiscent of Spain’s Sagrada Familia design. The former reception area rivals its beauty with its own classic decor: Roman and Islamic exhibits curated in part by the Faro Municipal Museum. European castles you can stay in.

Enjoy the delights of Iberia on: Spain & Portugal in Style

Tantalize your tastebuds with this read: The Luxury Gold Guide to Portugal’s Fine Dining Seafood Restaurants