With 2023 marking Earth Day’s 53rd anniversary, and a growing number of travellers in search of authentic and immersive experiences that connect them to the world on a deeper level, luxury hotel group Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts has launched a selection of purpose-led initiatives across the group’s portfolio. Spanning the brand’s resorts in Mauritius, Tunis, Zanzibar and the Maldives, programmes will showcase the destinations’ rich biodiversity and idyllic natural surroundings. Perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers alike, guests are invited to reconnect with nature and partake in an array of activities from meditative nature walks to bird watching and oil harvesting. These practices will be available to guests throughout the year as part of the group’s new initiative Nurture Nature – Nature Nurtures that aims to celebrate Mother Earth in all its glory.

Bird Watching at The Residence Mauritius

A beachfront paradise, surrounded by rugged mountains and lush tropical vegetation, The Residence Mauritius is a perfect setting for bird watching. Home to the pink kestrel pigeon, native to Mauritius, guests are invited to embark on a journey through the island’s lush surroundings to spot this precious but endangered species in their natural habitat. Back at the resort, they can learn to cook traditional Mauritian dishes with freshly plucked herbs and vegetables from the Earth Basket, the on-site kitchen garden that’s sustainably cultivated and showcases rich local produce. Guests can also assist the team with planting endemic trees and medicinal plants in the gardens, the produce of which is then incorporated into rejuvenating treatments at The Sanctuary, the resort’s temple of relaxation dedicated to the body and mind. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, travellers can wind down by sipping on fresh juices and refreshing cocktails whilst lounging on the beach.

Wildlife Encounters at The Residence Zanzibar

Nestled in 32 hectares of tropical gardens, fringed by an unspoilt mile-long beach, The Residence Zanzibar offers a true African hideaway. Guests are invited to embark on a conscious castaway adventure by exploring the nearby deserted islands of Pungwe and Kwale in the Menai Bay Conservation Area, surrounded by rich mangrove forests and pristine beaches, the conditions are perfect for snorkelling. Delve beneath crystal-clear waters to explore impressive coral reefs and encounter the region’s rich marine life. Those looking to further uncover Zanzibar’s underwater world can opt for an ocean safari, hop aboard a traditional sailing dhow to witness the beauty of humpback and bottlenose dolphins up close. For travellers who prefer to explore by foot, the resort can arrange a tour of the Jozani Forest, the last native forest in Zanzibar and home the red colobus monkeys – the rarest primates in Africa – or a visit to the nearby Kizimkazi Village to experience the local culture and authentic Zanzibari cuisine.

Meditative Nature Walks at The Residence Maldives

Guests of The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah and Falhumaafushi are invited to absorb the serenity and peace the archipelago is famed for with a meditative nature walk through the island’s paradisal surroundings. Designed to reduce stress and anxiety, the walks are a great way to unwind and absorb the allure of the Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Starting in the herb garden, guests are encouraged to let their senses guide them, observe the surrounding flora and fauna, listen to the waves, and breathe in the fresh air, before partaking in tree-hugging, a simple yet rewarding activity that can provide a range of physical and mental benefits such as improved immunity. All stress and tension can be relieved during the 45-minute walk followed by a reflexology session and Yoga Nidra class on the resort’s expansive pavilion. Guests may then choose from a selection of teas made from herbs plucked from the resort’s garden or embark on a beach clean-up to preserve the island’s beauty.

Oil Harvesting at The Residence Tunis

Set along the Mediterranean coastline, The Residence Tunis welcomes travellers to discover Tunisia’s hidden treasure, 50 hectares of verdant olive groves that provide the opportunity for guests to indulge their senses and discover the intricacies extracting liquid gold. Master the art of olive harvesting before enjoying a tasting session of the award-winning extra virgin oil, coupled with local culinary delights to cleanse the palette. Back at the resort, take a walk through the on-site Earth Basket to learn about the cycle of farming that includes a plant nursery and garden tour, animal feeding, compost making and herb-infused beverage tasting. Accompanied by the resort’s Chef, guests can pick their vegetables and plants before incorporating them into a delicious and nutritious lunch in a private cookery workshop.

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