From the beaches of Faro to the cork plantations of Alentejo, Portugal is filled with endless natural wonders. For travelers looking for more nature-focused and sustainable accommodation, eco hotels in Portugal are the way to go.
We love travel that can have a more positive effect on our beautiful planet. So eco-friendly accommodation is a way we can run with two of our biggest passions: travel and sustainability.
And, damn it, we love Portugal! This country is something special.
These eco-lodges are going in the right direction, with more of them than ever using eco-friendly practices such as solar energy or building from recycled materials. While eco hotels preserve all the comfort and luxury you could hope for in a vacation home.
If you’re interested in finding great unique accommodation, then you’ve come to the right place. In this list, we’ll go over our picks for the top eco hotels in Portugal, and how to pick the right spot for you to enjoy your travels.
Cocoon Eco Design Lodges
- > $$$
- > 4 guests
- > Swimming pond
- > Free bikes
Pestana Troia Eco Resort
- > $$$
- > 2 guests
- > Indoor and outdoor pools
- > 5 minutes to the beach
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
- > $$$$
- > 2 guests
- > Private balcony
- > 10 restaurants onsite
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Staying at an Eco Hotel in Portugal
Accommodation in Portugal is known for it’s high-standards, and eco hotels are no exception. Most sustainable hotels tend to have a secluded atmosphere and won’t be in central downtown areas. However if you do prefer to stay closer to the action, we have a couple of properties lined up.
Some people visit Portugal for the incredible cities and other people just want to kick back near the beach. Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting Portugal’s islands too.
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Let me tell you, none of these are bad options. Thankfully there are a tonne of sustainable eco-resorts right across the country.
Sometimes, eco features aren’t readily noticeable (and these can be the best ones), such as using solar panels or sourcing with local materials. Other places incorporate sustainable measures such as locally sourced food, an organic vegetable garden, and making use of natural light to reduce need for electricity.
Eco hotels range from simple and basic to high-end luxury resorts. Whatever your travel style, you can contribute to the local community with a sustainable lifestyle.
There’s also a lot of variety in the style of eco accommodation options offering a different kind of sustainable tourism. So you don’t have to adjust who you are or what kind of vacation you want to have.
The Top 15 Eco Hotels in Portugal
Choosing where to stay in Portugal can be tricky: there are so many good options. So we’ve narrowed it down but kept a good variety of eco-friendly hotels, resorts, and hostels that suit all kinds of travellers.
Here are Portugal’s best eco resorts!
Best Portugal Eco Resort – Cocoon Eco Design Lodges
Cocoon is one of those special places in the world whose sustainable practices are setting an example for the rest to follow. Located on a private 30 acres of land outside of Carvalhal, these fun and unique eco-lodges are like your own private nature retreat. Each unit has its own kitchen, porch, and large windows so you can enjoy the surroundings.
Take a dip in the biological pool or grab one of the free bicycles to head out and explore the well-preserved flora. The eco-retreat feels entirely secluded, but beaches, restaurants, and town amenities are just a 15-minute drive away.
Best Eco Lodge for Couples – Pestana Troia Eco Resort
Make a romantic vacation to the beautiful beaches of Portugal a bit more special by staying at the Pestana Troia Eco Resort. Each private villa has its own outdoor seating area, equipped kitchen, plus access to the swimming pools and communal terraces.
It’s only a five-minute walk to the beach, and there are numerous coastal hikes in the region where you can enjoy the spectacular scenery. After a day of exploring or swimming at the beach, you can enjoy a fresh and traditional Portuguese meal at the restaurant onsite.
Over-the-Top Luxury Eco Resort – Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
It’s hard to beat the luxury and style of the Vila Vita Parc Resort. Located in Armacão de Pera just west of Albufeira, this ultimate vacation resort features a huge infinity pool, landscaped gardens, and numerous bars and restaurants serving both local specialities and international cuisine.
Top beaches like Tremocos and Beijinhos are within easy walking distance, so you can spend as much time as you want to relax on the sand. When you’re done at the beach, book a session at the onsite spa heading to your private balcony to enjoy watching the sunset. It’s not a specific yoga retreat in Portugal but you can take yoga classes in a beautiful setting!
Most Sustainable Eco Lodge – Nômade Melides Eco Lodge
As far as sustainable practices go, Nômade Melides Eco Lodge really set the standard. They take sustainable tourism very seriously here so you can wind down your mind and your carbon footprint while you’re travelling through Europe.
Enjoy their beautiful garden and surrounding nature trails and cool off on those hot days in the large bio pool. Vegetarian breakfast is included which is mainly sourced organically, from the local community.
Family rooms are available. Plus there’s loads of space for kids to run wild in the surrounding area, making it a perfect retreat for you and your little ones.
Apple Beach
Families with kids of all ages will love this fun eco-hotel with luxury glamping tents. The beach is just under a 10-minute walk away, and kid-friendly free yoga classes are offered onsite. There’s also a huge playground for the kids.
Fun activities like pizza nights are regular at the Aldeia, so there’s always a chance to socialize and meet other travellers. Guests also have access to a communal kitchen where you can satisfy the needs of any picky eaters.
Eco Hobbit House
A truly unique accommodation option in Portugal, this little dwelling lets you stay in your own hobbit house in the side of a hill. The space is simplistic but charming, and a great option for travelers who want to stay somewhere close to nature.
The excellent beaches of the Faro area are practically right outside the front door, and there are plenty of coastal hikes and activities to fill your day with adventure. You’ll also have access to an outdoor kitchen space, as well as a small swimming pool to cool off on hot afternoons.
Villa Epicurea
You’ll find this spectacular eco resort a little south of Lisbon, perched on a hill with amazing views of the Atlantic. The entire guest suite will be yours to enjoy privately. There’s also a communal lounge, infinity-edge swimming pool, and outdoor terrace with a seating area.
Breakfast is included in the room price, and you can also arrange to have other meals at the resort with prior notice. Nearby there are stunning beaches to explore, historic and cultural landmarks, and bike paths leading through mountains and villages.
Quinta das Relvinhas
This eco retreat is like the combination of a guesthouse and hostel, all with the benefit of environmentally friendly practices. Depending on your group size, you might want to book two or three of the budget-friendly rooms so everyone has their own personal space.
The renovated building maintains a historic charm while also providing comfortable modern accommodation. There’s plenty to see and explore in the Algarve region like wineries, hiking trails, and bike paths, plus a swimming pool and great communal lounge areas to relax in at the lodge at the end of the day.
Cork Oak Cottage
Using solar power for energy, this slightly off-grid eco lodge is a great way to escape city traffic and reconnect with nature. Set in the beautiful countryside of Algarve, there are two lakes for swimming, zip lines, and paddle boards available during your stay.
You’ll have the privacy of your own room, but the common area and pizza nights are great for socializing. If you’re in search of a place to rest and relax or have a great outdoor adventure, this cabin is a steal for the price.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
São Roque do Faial Guest House
Located on the beautiful island of Madeira, this budget-friendly eco-hotel is perfect for travelers looking for a place to stay after a day of hiking and exploring Madeira’s famous coastal treks.
Breakfast is included in the room price, and other meals are also available at the restaurant onsite. Although the accommodation is basic, the views are incredible and the price is right if you’re traveling Portugal on a budget.
If you’re staying in Madeira, you can’t look past this gorgeous eco-hotel.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Portugal start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Quinta das Rosas
Located in the popular Ribeira Grande region of the Azores, this is an excellent budget-friendly option for couples in search of a romantic retreat in Portugal. You’ll have the entire eco lodge to yourselves, complete with a terrace and swimming pool where you can enjoy the view.
Ribiera Grande is known for its stunning beaches and coastal scenery. During the day you can hike one of the shoreline paths, check out local shops and cafes, or take a day tour of whale watching off the coast before heading back to relax at the eco lodge.
Eco Ljmonade
Cascais is a popular spot for backpackers thanks to the great beaches, fun bars, and outdoor activities. Right in the heart of it all is Eco Ljmonade, an eco-friendly hostel using solar panels for energy and recycled building materials.
For solo travellers, hostels in Portugal are a clear winner. The fun and social atmosphere is a great place to meet other travellers with organized activities like kite surfing, game nights, yoga lessons, and pub crawls. Don’t worry though – quiet time kicks in after 11pm so you can still get a relaxing, full night sleep during your stay.
Gallery Hostel Porto
If you only have a weekend to spend in Portugal, it’s a good idea to stay in Porto. At the Gallery Hostel, you’ll be right near the center of the city and can enjoy the fun and artistic vibe of the property along with the eco-friendly measures in a historic setting.
Start your day with breakfast at the hostel before heading out on one of the daily walking tours to discover the top sites of the city. In the evening, you can enjoy local food at one of the weekly Portuguese dinners onsite, or just relax with guests in the shared lounge.
Zmar Eco Experience
Located within the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, this amazing eco resort combines sustainability with high-end luxury. Each private wooden bungalow uses solar energy, and all buildings were made from recycled materials.
In addition to the numerous incredible coastal hikes nearby, there are also plenty of activities to enjoy right at the resort. There’s a playground and hobby farm for kids, two swimming pools, and bicycles to rent for exploring the surrounding area.
Micro Cabana Rotavita
These little luxury glamping tents are the perfect choice for a solo adventurer looking for a unique place to stay in Portugal. The property is located a bit outside of Bragança, surrounded by nature and with lots of options for activities like hiking and cycling nearby.
During your stay you’ll also have access to a shared lounge where you can use Wi-fi or socialize with other guests. Cool off on hot afternoons in the outdoor swimming pool, then grab a bite to eat at the onsite restaurant or head into town to check out one of the nearby local venues.
Don’t Forget Your Portugal Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs about Eco Hotels in Portugal
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Portugal.
Final Thoughts on the Best Eco Hotels in Portugal
Whether you’re traveling to Portugal for a family summer vacation or as part of a long backpacking tour of Europe, eco hotels are great options for sustainable accommodation. But you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort! It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the natural side of Portugal, as well as support an environmentally-friendly business.
Keep in mind that budget accommodation in Portugal fill up quickly, particularly during peak tourist season in summer. If you’ve found a spot you like on this list, get it booked as soon as possible so you don’t miss out!
If you know of any other fantastic eco lodges in Portugal, we’d love to hear about it and share it with other travellers. Let us know in the comments!
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