Concordia Eco-Tents - St. John, USVI

Concordia Eco-tents is another one of environmental guru Stanley Selengut's eco-friendly projects. He took what he learned at his other three properties, which include the adjacent Concordia Condominiums, to experimental extremes here.

The eleven high-tech fabric and screen tents perched on platforms above the dramatic and arid southeast coast are filled with prototype projects. You'll find solar and wind power, of course, along with composting toilets. The tents have running water and beds, amenities seldom found when camping, and offer great views of the turquoise sea and hillsides. Each unit sleeps five or six people, depending on the size.

This spot is definitely off the beaten path. Coral Bay, the nearest town, offers only a few small grocery stores and a couple of restaurants. Stocking up in Cruz Bay, 40 minutes away, is a better bet. The public bus stops on the main road, giving you a chance to explore a few of the island's sites located along the main route to Cruz Bay. A car rented in Cruz Bay, some 40 minutes away, definitely offers you more convenience.

There is lots to explore in the immediate area. Salt Pond Bay with its great snorkeling and hikes to the see-forever-view at Ram's Head are a short hike along the paved roadway. If you start early before the sun gets too hot, you can trek off several miles to Lameshur Bay, a trip perfect for those hearty folks who don't mind hiking back uphill. The hike rewards you with two lovely bays and the ruins of an old plantation to explore. Several hiking trails start from this area.

A vacation at Concordia Eco-tents is perfect for independent folks who enjoy participating in cutting edge environmental technology and really want to get away from it all.