Europe
Spain
With its wide variety of beautiful scenery, its colourful fiestas and nightlife and its broad range of architectural and cultural delights, it’s no wonder that Spain is such a popular destination. As with many popular destinations, some of Spain’s coastal areas have been over-run with tourists and concrete. However, away from the mass market there are many wonderful places to visit, and by travelling in an eco-friendly way, you can help to preserve them for the future.
Tenerife
Located in the centre of the Canary islands, Tenerife’s volcanic origins are unmistakable in the formations of the vertical cliffs, and the black sand beaches. There is a contrast in scenery between the north and south parts of the island, with the northern parts being green and fairly humid, while the southern parts are considered to be dry and sunny. Although mass tourism has taken over on parts of the island, there are still areas where you can enjoy the great outdoors and experience the wildlife.
Portugal
Stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches, quaint towns and historic villages and lush green farmland blanketed in olive groves and vineyards make Portugal a great choice to get away from it all. The slow pace of life in this sunny land will make it easy to slow down and relax. With the negative impact of mass tourism clear in some of the more popular tourist destinations of Portugal, eco-tourism projects here attempt to preserve their natural environment.
England
England is a country known for its green, rolling hills, although travel further North and the terrain becomes more mountainous, whilst in the South it’s possible to find sandy beaches popular for surfing. In many English towns you will find historic buildings nestled side by side with contemporary design and if the modern, vibrant cities are not for you, you can still find quaint country villages. Eco-hotels and lodges in England aim to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment and conserve their natural surroundings.
Ireland
Breathtaking scenery, a rich cultural heritage, historic cities and friendly locals make Ireland a popular destination. The coastline is stunning and the patchwork countryside is lush and green, with many hiking and bike trails to explore. Cities to visit include the vibrant and friendly Dublin, the historic city of Derry with its walls and ramparts and Galway with its cobblestone streets and street entertainers. Eco-friendly accommodations in Ireland work to conserve their natural environment.
France
France is a country that has everything. If you’re a city lover, there’s none better known for romance than Paris. If you’re a food lover, you are bound to enjoy the gastronomic delights and the great wines. And if beautiful countryside is your thing, take your pick of scenery, from sandy beaches to rugged coastlines, from rolling hills to spectacular mountains, with quaint villages and medieval castles. Eco-friendly accommodations in France work to conserve the natural surroundings and local culture.
Italy
Think of Italy and there are limitless possibilities to the images you might conjure. From famous historical figures, ranging from da Vinci to Mussolini, to stunning architecture and Roman ruins. From the Mediterranean coastline, to the rolling hills of Tuscany, to the Alpine Mountains. From the romance of Venice to high fashion in Milan. Here in Italy, eco-friendly hotels work towards conserving the natural resources and surroundings.
Scotland
The beautiful and fascinating country of Scotland holds much of interest for its visitors. Loved for its rich history, strong cultural heritage, fine traditions and for exciting events such as the Edinburgh tattoo, Scotland is also renowned for its wild beauty. Here you will find rugged coastlines, deep lochs, the dramatic Highlands and abundant wildlife. Eco projects in Scotland work to safeguard the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.
Hungary
The small nation of Hungary is well known for its varied culture, its legendary hospitality and for having one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities - Budapest - renowned for its magnificent architecture, colourful festivals, music, arts and cafes. Another popular attraction is the therapeutic thermal spas which abound and are said to be beneficial to the health. Hungary is also a land of beautiful landscapes, dotted with Baroque towns and rustic villages and home to an abundance of wildlife. Rolling hills, springs, sinkholes and broad valleys are all waiting to be discovered.
