Beautiful, well-designed landscaping sets a resort apart. It welcomes guests, supports relaxation, and makes every stay feel special. These days, smart landscaping isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating spaces that are hospitable, efficient, and true to the local setting. Here are ten ideas to wow your guests. Consider them for your next upgrade!
Before We Start: Plan for Professional Upkeep
A stunning resort landscape relies on more than just great plant choices. It needs the right planning and ongoing care. If you’re managing a large property, work with a landscape contractor who uses reliable, high-quality tools for budgeting, scheduling, and crew management.
For instance, landscape maintenance software solutions like Dynascape can help the team estimate costs, track maintenance, and avoid surprises. Over time, a reliable landscape expert will become a major component of your hotel team, so don’t underestimate the importance of choosing wisely!
Native Plant Palettes Add Authenticity
Choose local plants for beauty and natural charm. Native plants thrive in their own climate, resist local pests, and lower water bills. For example, in a Vietnamese resort, you might fill tropical gardens with native hibiscus, frangipani, and bamboo. These offer a fantastic welcome to international guests while giving locals something familiar to enjoy.
Low-Glare Path Lighting Keeps Guests Moving Safely
Functional walkways are key for navigating pools and gardens after dark. However, the last thing you’ll want is for your lights to disrupt the atmosphere. So, opt for warm, low-glare LED fixtures and place them to softly highlight stairs and bends, making the resort look magical at night—without blinding anyone.
Pollinator Gardens Attract Wildlife and Delight Visitors
Bright wildflowers, lavender, and herbs bring butterflies and hummingbirds, which captivate guests of all ages. Pollinator zones work especially well near outdoor dining or spa terraces, making every meal or treatment more memorable.
Water Features Create Calm
From koi ponds to modern fountains, water adds tranquility to any space. And, research even shows that these features can support overall mental health! However, when implementing water features in a luxury resort, it is important to prioritize sustainability and invest in smart filtration to ensure cleanliness, efficiency, and hygiene.
Kid-Friendly Play Zones Make Family Travel Easier
Provide a shaded, visible area with safe, modern equipment for children to play. Natural playgrounds—think sand pits bordered by logs or small climbing walls—blend into the landscape and give children space to explore while parents relax nearby.
Outdoor Co-Working Spaces To Improve The Experience of Modern Guests
Many travelers want to work in the fresh air and with a view! So, consider creating an outdoor co-working space by adding shaded tables, WiFi access, and storm-proof power outlets in quiet garden corners. For instance, an Italian lakeside resort might set up laptop-friendly terraces overlooking the water—ideal for both meetings and morning emails.
Meditation and Wellness Gardens Invite Relaxation
Create quiet nooks with benches, bamboo screens, or simple rock pathways. To add to the serene vibe, consider using calming scents—like rosemary or lemongrass. Many resorts now add yoga decks to meet the needs of today’s travellers. If this is you, consider bordering the deck with native shrubs or aromatic herbs that can create an even more peaceful area to practice.
Thoughtful Shade Structures Make Outdoor Living Practical
Shade is essential, especially in hot climates. Pergolas, sailcloths, and dense trees are essential to keep lounges and pools cool and comfortable. However, gardens that include these elements may not always be the easiest to manage and maintain. So, be sure to partner with an expert to understand how to use vegetation to create shade and comfort without obstructing views or creating a hazard during strong winds.
Crafting Memorable Outdoor Spaces for Every Season
Landscaping that targets guest experience—while fitting your region and resources—will always impress. Just as long as it is well designed and maintained! With smart choices, proper planning, and the right maintenance systems, your resort can offer memorable environments that guests love to return to, whatever the location or season.
