1. Loch Ossian, Scotland
What? A 20-bed, single-storey hostel tucked between a clump of birch and rowan trees on the banks of the loch, flanked by peaks and forest.
Why? Electricity is provided by a wind turbine and solar panels. There's a multi-fuel stove and a reed-bed filtration system for waste. syha.org.uk
2. Yarde Bunkhouse, England
What? The only accommodation on Devon's magnificent Tarka Trail and Coast to Coast cycle routes. Simple hostel-style rooms and one family room in annexe.
Why? Sensitively built with organic café. yarde-orchard.co.uk
3. Grampians YHA Eco Hostel, Australia
What? A solar-powered hostel in Halls Gap in the heart of the Grampians National Park near Melbourne.
Why? A fully equipped kitchen with wood heaters, rainwater collection and recycling facilities. yha.com.au
4. Mosaic House, Czech Republic
What? Represents the new breed of eco-minded hostels.
Why? All electricity is from renewable sources. Water is recycled and motion-sensor lighting used. mosaichouse.com
5. Solscape, New Zealand
What? A collection of cottages, restored train carriages and off-grid teepees near Raglan on New Zealand's beautiful west coast.
Why? Solar-heated showers and composting toilets. solscape.co.nz
Richard Hammond is the co-author of Great Escapes and founder of greentraveller.co.uk.
