Sustainable travel destinations around the world

Epirus, Greece

The magnificent Epirus coastline is one of the least visited in Greece, despite having the most accessible stretch of beaches. You can arrive with a ferry from Italy to Igoumenitsa and visit Parga, a historical town with incredibly transparent water and picturesque views. For the history lovers, don’t miss out on the theater in the ancient city of Nikopolis, founded by Octavian after his victory against Antony and Cleopatra.

Eigg, Scotland

Eigg is a remarkable and unique island in Scotland. It’s the first island in the UK to be self-sufficient in renewable energy. By balancing its own solar, water, and wind power, the community-owned Eigg Electric provides enough yearly power for its 100 permanent residents and 10,000 summer visitors.

Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

The endangered black-necked cranes, who annually migrate to the valley from China, are seen as good luck to the local culture. And thanks to a network of community-based eco-tourism homes, Bhutan’s Royal Society for the Protection of Nature is getting funding for the preservation of the valley and protection of the mighty birds.

Bardsey Island, Wales

Located in the Irish Sea off the Llŷn peninsula in north-west Wales, this island has been a place of tranquil worship and pilgrimage since the 6th century. With a ferry crossing from the mainland, you can make a pilgrimage of your own.

Julian Alps, Slovenia

Known for its beautiful nature, Slovenia is a dream for hikers and skiers. And now thanks to updated mapping of the Julian Alps, one can wander to less crowded areas, which will help support more local producers and showcase lesser-visited landscapes.

Tarragona, Spain

This elegant Mediterranean city is home to astonishing ancient monuments and, due in great part to its largely intact Roman amphitheater, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Luckily, Tarragona hasn't been lost to tourism, and with excellent restaurants available you can get some of the freshest seafood around.

Ericeira, Portugal

Located north of Lisbon, this surfing town is known for its incredible waves and sustainable lifestyle. With an abundance of hostels and guest houses, you can find the perfect accommodation for your wallet, be it budget or luxury.

Panauti, Nepal

Community homestays in the UNESCO-recognized village of Panauti tackles social, economic, and environmental issues. With overtourism in the capital of Kathmandu, these homes are hosted by rural women who received training in providing accommodation as well as offering a look into the local life and culture.

Lech-Zurs, Austria

With some of the best slopes in Europe and an extensive free ride terrain, Lech-Zurs is working hard on developing a more eco-friendly ski resort. By keeping guest beds capped at 10,000 and using local biomass heaters to provide heat and communal hot water, the resort is keeping it sustainable.

Molise, Italy

Mountainous Molise is a sparsely populated region in southern Italy, often overlooked by travelers. However, it contains some of the best that Italy can offer. From the scenery to the food, this uncharted territory is an explorer's dream.

Raukumara Forest, New Zealand

With 13 protected national parks, the Raukumara Forest on the East Coast of the North Island deserves special attention for its bond with the indigenous Maori people. The local community has received funding to invest in the regeneration of its precious trees and the protection of the rare species that live here, making it worthwhile to visit and give your support.

Prague, Czech Republic

With its parks and open spaces, Prague is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Discover this historical city by foot, or rent one of its city bikes to explore its natural surroundings.

Brittany, France

This French region is full of charming seaside towns waiting to be discovered. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the region boasts an enchanting coastline and a big passion for their local crop, seaweed. From seaweed-based beauty treatments to seaweed on the menu, they understand the ecological benefits of algae.

Helsinki, Finland

Known for setting the sustainability benchmark for decades, the Finnish capital is an architectural gem packed with history and culture. Make sure to also visit its forests, where you will have access to the clearest air and water in the world, making it an extremely eco-friendly trip.

Barbados

This paradise island in the Atlantic Ocean is one to watch for its transition to renewables. Prime Minister Mia Mottley is on a mission to lead by example from the front line of the climate crisis. With tourism being the main revenue, the island has set dramatic targets for a more eco-friendly approach due to climate emergencies and hurricanes.