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ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL
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Pikaia Lodge
ECUADOR
T he location of pikaia Lodge, on the Ecuado-
rian island of Santa Cruz just a few miles off the
Galapagos, made sustainability one of the essential
requirements for the creation of this Relais & Châ-
teaux resort. At the top of the crater of an inactive
volcano, Pikaia Lodge was built exclusively with
eco-friendly recyclable materials. Cast in volcanic lava, the
luxurious baths in every room are impressive, as is the teak
and bamboo furniture from organic Ecuadorian farms. The
cleaning and hygiene products used are biodegradable, while
all water used on the premises is heated using solar panels.
The resort is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, as it
offers a wealth of activities around the Galapagos ecosystem,
which is unique in the world. Surfing, trekking, mountain
biking, catch-and-release eco-friendly fishing, and diving
are all recommended to the more adventurous visitors while
those looking for relaxation can charge their batteries at the
giant turtle refuge that envelops the hotel. pikaialodge.com
North Island
SEYCHELLES
I n north island, one of the most popular destinations
for premium travel, North Island, a Luxury Collection
Resort, manages to stand out by offering a high quality
stay experience crafted around both comfort and sus-
tainability. Under a similar moniker, North Resort in
the archipelago of the Seychelles can satisfy guests of
different profiles but always high expectations. Couples look-
ing to experience an unforgettable honeymoon, professionals in
need of relaxation and de-stressing, and families with children
can all find what they are looking for at North Island, which
offers unsurpassed wellness and fine dining services just a breath
away from the green-blue waters of the Indian Ocean. If they so
choose, guests can reserve the entire island to enjoy its charms in
full privacy. Having conquered the very first place in the ranking
of the 100 “greenest” resorts in the world in 2019, North Island
ensures guests’ activities are fully compatible with the aims of No-
ah’s Ark, the environmental program which works to rescue en-
demic animal species and their natural habitat. north-island.com
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