Envision waking up to the melody of birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves—a rejuvenating departure from the usual urban routine!

Opting for an eco-lodge instead of a luxury hotel goes beyond mere travel preference; it may signify a deliberate choice to embrace firsthand experiences.

Nowadays, the allure of eco-lodges, or “Boomegardi” in Persian, is capturing the hearts of many travelers for many reasons, such as minimizing environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, cultural immersion, and economic benefits to local residents.

Ahmad Tavakoli, a 66-year-old traveler, believes that their rustic charm and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of nature make them a top choice for many travelers.

Many eco-lodges in Iran go beyond providing a place to sleep. Here, guests have the opportunity to interact with locals, gaining insight into their way of life, traditions, and customs.

“What could be more pleasant than sitting under a Korsi (a cozy heated blanket that Iranian families and friends gather around on cold nights and share stories during the winter)…. Or, staying in a nomadic tent during the summer,” Tavakoli said.

That may offer a unique and broad experience that luxury hotels with their star-studded amenities often fail to provide; spending a day in serene countryside settings, harvesting fresh fruits, walking along rice paddies, fishing along the seaside, and savoring traditional dishes, to name a few.

Mohammad Milani, 61, says: “Perhaps travel is about breaking away from our daily routine and embracing the extraordinary.”

“We’ve all likely experienced the warmth of staying in a local home, waking up on the first day of our journey to a unique and captivating landscape. What could be more delightful than opening our eyes to a distinctive view and breathing in the fresh air of a different environment?”

Maryam Asadi, a 42-year-old travel enthusiast, says she likes traditionally decorated rooms, adobe walls, wooden-beamed ceilings, domed structures, traditional ovens, water basins, and campfires that a typical eco-lodge unit offers. “They make a harmonious blend of affordability, proximity to nature, cultural immersion, and memorable experiences.”

In the realm of travel choices, the growing affection for eco-lodges in Persian hospitality marks a transformative shift beyond the conventional allure of luxury. As we delve into the opinions of seasoned travelers like Tavakoli and Milani, it becomes evident that the rustic charm and immersive opportunities offered by eco-lodges are resonating profoundly.

Asadi's appreciation for the unique features of eco-lodges, such as traditionally decorated rooms and adobe walls, highlights the harmonious blend of affordability, proximity to nature, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences.

The rise of eco-lodges on Iranian soil stands as a testament to the enduring allure of authenticity and connection in the world of hospitality.

AFM