Pikaia Lodge Hotel

Barrio El Camote a 100 m de Cerro Mesa Santa Cruz Island Galápagos, Ecuador

Given their equatorial climate and scientifically hallowed status, it’s easy to imagine the Galápagos Islands becoming a kind of Darwinian Disneyland. Instead, they are selectively granting permission for projects such as the Pikaia Lodge which, when it opens in September, will be the first carbon-neutral accommodation in the island group. It’ll also be one of the most secluded. Located on Santa Cruz island, on a plateau between two extinct volcano craters, its panoramic view of the South Pacific is shared between the 14 rooms and suites, not to mention the outdoor infinity pool. And while the Sumaq spa, with massage rooms, infrared sauna and gym, are geared up for winding down, there are also 3.5km of walking trails to stretch your legs on. Keep an eye out for the giant tortoises, who are thriving thanks to the hotel’s on-site reserve. If you’re itching to explore further afield, hop onboard their private 30m yacht, which runs day excursions to other nearby islands. Back at base, the Evolution restaurant serves up Peruvian-Ecuadorian fusion cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.