What is a lodge and what types exist?

Currently, with the boom and progress of the tourism sector, there are increasingly more types of tourist accommodations to choose from for a hotel business.
Lodge-style hotels are very common options in rural areas and are increasingly popular with tourists seeking direct contact with nature and wanting to disconnect by engaging in activities in the countryside.

What is a lodge?

A lodge is an accommodation located in natural settings such as national parks or rural areas. A lodge offers a closer experience to nature without sacrificing comfort. Lodges are typically designed with eco-friendly materials and architecture that blends seamlessly into the landscape, promoting sustainable tourism.

By 2025, lodges are expected to strengthen their commitment to sustainable tourism, seeking official tourism sustainability certifications that validate responsible ecological and social practices, aligned with the UN's 2030 Agenda. This not only attracts more conscious tourists but can also facilitate access to grants for energy-efficient renovations and infrastructure modernization.

Create the Guest Registration Form digitally and send it directly to SES.Hospedajes

Streamline the check-in process and digitize guest data registration for your accommodation.

Request more information

What is the difference between a lodge and a conventional hotel?

A lodge differs from a conventional hotel because it is usually more exclusive, with fewer rooms, and provides a more personalized experience connected with nature.

Features of a lodge hotel

A lodge hotel is the perfect balance between comfort and nature . It's the ideal type of accommodation for those looking to enjoy activities in the countryside without sacrificing certain amenities.

Lodge-style accommodations in 2025 are committed to clean energy and water technologies, efficient waste management, and the promotion of local employment, contributing to a responsible tourism model. Furthermore, many lodges are incorporating incentives to encourage the consumption of local products and enhance cultural integration and value, creating a more authentic experience for guests.

What are the characteristics that make a lodge-style hotel special?

• Prime location : Lodge-style hotels are designed so that the natural environment takes center stage.
• Rustic yet inviting design : They are usually built with natural materials such as wood or stone, blending seamlessly into the surroundings. Furthermore, many incorporate sustainable practices, such as the use of renewable energy or water recycling.
• Exclusive and relaxed atmosphere : Unlike traditional hotels, lodges usually have few rooms or cabins, which guarantees tranquility and more personalized attention.
• Unique experiences : From safaris and bird watching to hiking and boat trips, each lodge offers activities designed to connect with the environment and create unforgettable moments.
• Local cuisine : There are no generic buffets here. The food is usually prepared with fresh, local ingredients, often using traditional recipes from the area.
• True disconnection : Some lodges limit internet access and phone signal so you can fully enjoy the moment. Can you imagine a candlelit dinner without any phone interruptions?

What types of lodge hotels are there?

Depending on their location and the activities they offer, there are different types of lodge hotels. The most common are the following:

• Eco-lodges are sustainable accommodations, built with eco-friendly materials and utilizing renewable energy. They are often located in nature reserves or protected forests, where you can enjoy nature in an environmentally conscious way, reducing your carbon footprint. The "eco-lodge" has become an aspirational standard within the tourism industry, combining bioclimatic architecture with the active promotion of natural and social conservation. Many eco-lodges use renewable energy sources, advanced recycling systems, and low-impact environmental practices, making sustainability their main attraction and raison d'être.
• Safari Lodges : These are typical of Africa and combine the excitement of a safari with comfortable, and often luxurious, accommodations in the heart of the savanna. You can go wildlife watching and even be surprised in the middle of the night.
• Mountain lodges : These lodges are located in mountain passes or national parks. They are ideal for those looking to hike, climb, or simply relax with spectacular views. Some have fireplaces and a cozy atmosphere.
• Jungle lodge : Jungle lodges are designed to connect with nature, with activities such as bird watching, kayaking, or guided explorations.
• Lake or riverside lodge : These lodges are located on the banks of rivers or lakes, offering activities such as fishing, kayaking, or boating.
• Snow lodge : Located in cold areas, near ski resorts or snowy mountains, these lodges are ideal for winter sports.
• Desert lodge : These lodges are in the middle of dunes and arid landscapes, offering experiences such as camel rides, 4x4 tours or dinners under a starry sky.

Are you considering opening a lodge?

Opening a lodge can be a very interesting and profitable business idea, although, like any venture, it has its pros and cons.

Advantages of opening a lodge

A lodge is a business with personality, which can become a special destination that people want to return to, creating a recurring service .

More and more people are seeking getaways from the hustle and bustle of the city, authentic experiences, and sustainable accommodations. By creating a charming lodge in a unique location, you can attract a clientele willing to pay for it. You can also offer services alongside the accommodation, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, spa treatments, themed dinners, or adventure activities. This allows you to increase the value of each booking and differentiate yourself from traditional hotels.

In countries within the European Union, there are incentives for ecotourism related to compliance with the 2030 Agenda. In addition, there are travelers willing to pay more for sustainable and exclusive accommodation .

Disadvantages of opening a lodge

Since this is a project in a natural setting, you'll need to comply with environmental and tourism regulations , which can involve time and bureaucratic procedures. Furthermore, acquiring land in a natural environment , constructing the facilities, and equipping it with everything necessary can require a considerable sum. There are also long-term maintenance and staffing costs .
Success will largely depend on being in an attractive yet accessible location. If the accommodation is too remote , attracting tourists can be quite challenging, and logistics can become complicated. For this reason, it's important to consider whether the accommodation will be open year-round or only during specific seasons.

It is worth noting that implementing environmental regulations and obtaining green certifications can pose a bureaucratic challenge and require a high initial investment; however, this investment translates into greater added value and profitability, aligning with the growing demand for ecological and sustainable tourism observed in 2025.