If you’ve ever pondered between nature vs. nurture, we’re here to say – what if nature, could be nurture ?
Biophilia, a love of nature, has become increasingly popular as a design concept, emerging as a way of connecting architecture with natural and creating a feeling of relaxation and comfort.
Certainly, no strangers to this trend, IHG Hotels & Resorts has rounded-up a list of top destinations where nature can nurture your soul.
Kimpton Blythswood Square
Travellers looking for a dreamy, biophilic stay, are in for a treat at the Kimpton Blythwood Square in Glasgow, Scotland. La Chambre Verte is an immersive luxury hotel room experience, combining the psychological and physical benefits of biophilic design.
Echoing the ancient Japanese practice of forest-bathing, La Chambre Verte encourages guests to unwind in the green space of their hotel room, while observing nature’s beauty to reduce stress, increase happiness, and gain a better night’s sleep.
Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt
If you’re looking to take a break from the city while still staying close – then the garden oasis at Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt is a perfect choice.
A short walk from the city’s historic centre, in the “Margareten” district, flora and fauna are in abundance. Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” has widened its credentials in recent years – with a lively modern gastronomy and design scene. Around the district, visitors will notice a laidback and calming vibe, filled with secret gardens that bring a touch of botanic vibrancy– all reflected in the hotel’s design aesthetic.
From charming terraces to courtyards and a rooftop garden, Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt is a must-visit for travellers and locals seeking a moment in the sanctuary.
Mr & Mrs Smith Joali Being
Mr & Mrs Smith Joali Being in the Maldives was envisioned with biophilic design at its core. Unsurprisingly, the ocean is the star of this design concept, alongside conservation awareness of the turtle sanctuaries on the island. Hosting a coral nursery and helping to rebuild the lagoon’s reef, Joali Being is truly committed to nurturing nature.
Leave the clock behind, as time is measured by the rhythm of the ocean and the number of salty-skin sundowners you’ve consumed. Travellers will feel at one with the water and surroundings immersed in the hotel’s island-inspired aesthetic, but it goes a step further. Choose from a menu of tailored programs that encourage deep connections to yourself, your partner, and your environment – or simply take advantage of the sunrise yoga sessions, evening Pilates, and general zen of the island.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay
Ninh Van Bay, one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal areas, has an abundance of natural beauty. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay celebrates all that natural beauty making it an essential part of the stay experience. The hotel has a resident terrestrial biologist, offering travellers a hands-on opportunity to embrace their surroundings.
Guests can take guided hiking trips that educate about the forest life, conservation efforts towards the endangered langur monkey species, and of course, there are the soaring vistas and a verdant forest to take in before stopping for a picnic breakfast at the property’s private beach.
Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora
The healing power of water is at the heart of Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora in Hakone, Japan. Its serenity inspires residents and visitors alike, and the waters of this region can be seen everywhere from the Mountains of Gora to the décor in the hotel’s rooms and suites.
All rooms feature a modern Japanese-style tub, filled with natural onsen water – mineral-rich and sourced directly from local hot springs. Riverside or hillside views complete this bath experience that caters to all your senses. No attention to detail is spared, as even the carpets reflect the surrounding nature with design elements inspired by the Haya River and the boulders of the Mountains of Gora.
The restaurant offers wood-based cooking, and the waterside bar and lounge are the perfect places to enjoy traditional sake or tea made with local mineral water, offering an end-to-end biophilic journey.
