Green Hotels

As a follow up to our Earth Day blog, here are a few hotels that are not only LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) but also are making “going green” a priority…

1.      Proximity Hotel --Greensboro, North Carolina

This hotel was the first to obtain a LEED platinum certification.  It has over 70 different sustainable features including 100 rooftop solar panels, an elevator that generates electricity as it travels from floor to floor, and the majority of its furniture is built from local and salvaged walnut trees.  The spectacular green design allows Proximity Hotel to conserve 39% more energy and 34% more water than hotels of similar size.

Tip: They also have loaner bikes available for patrons to take a ride along the greenway!

2.       Inn by the Sea --Cape Elizabeth, Maine

This LEED certified hotel is constructed from recycled sheet rock.  The chef at their onsite restaurant, Sea Glass, coordinates with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute to provide sustainable seafood menu options.  In by the Sea’s pool is heated by solar panels and the property itself is heated with bio-fuels.  They also have a partnership with Crescent Beach State Park to protect the endangered North American Cottontail through habitat restoration efforts in the area.

Tip: They have a beautiful beach front lawn and offer yoga classes in the summer months!

3.       Bardessono --Yountville, California

This boutique hotel spans over 6 acres in the luscious Yountville wine country, and holds a LEED platinum certification.  The property is constructed with salvaged stone and reclaimed wood and also features an impressive underground geothermal system for heating and cooling.  With over 900 solar panels the property is nearly energy independent.  Satisfy your appetite at Bardessono’s onsite restaurant, Lucy Restaurant & Bar, which serves up locally sourced organic cuisine.

Tip: Lucy Restaurant & Bar holds happy hour Mondays-Thursdays from 4:30 –6:30 pm, you won’t want to miss their hand-picked wines!

A large incentive for hotels to “go green” is the increased efficiency that comes with it.  Whether reusing materials in the building’s construction or allowing guests to reuse their bath towels during an extended stay every effort counts!

To take a look at more green hotels visit: http://www.gayot.com/hotels/bestof/10best_greenhotels_us.html