Scalesia Galapagos Lodge

Ensconced by acres of bright blooms and leafy fruit trees, the lodge is totally tuned-in with nature. The two-storey main building is a melange of expansive terraces and swathes of glass, and affords generous views from the lounges, library and dining room. Breakfasts are buffet-style, while lunch and dinner are served in three courses - look out for the quinoa soup or grilled swordfish in a passionfruit sauce. After a day of exploring, there's nothing better than a dip in the hot tub at sunset.

Imported from South Africa, the canvas safari tents sit on wooden decks and are reached via winding, tree-lined pathways. Four have a King-size bed while a dozen more are furnished with twins. Taking its eco-conscious ethos seriously, the tents have no TVs or aircon, but a portable fan and mosquito net mean you're perfectly comfortable - and there's no better lullaby than the chorus of forest creatures. Bathrooms are well-equipped with piping-hot tempered glass showers, soft robes and a hairdryer.

Isla Isabela is a menagerie of endemic wildlife, from Darwin's finches to Galapagos penguins and you'll have the chance to spot them all from Scalesia. Hike to the sulfur mines of Sierra Negra, cycle down to the wetlands where you'll see the largest black mangrove tree in the Galapagos, and visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre to learn all about these protected creatures. Discover the archipelago's underwater wonders while snorkelling Los Tuneles or head to the Bolivar Channel where you're bound to see whales, dolphins and more.