We invite you to discover the website <a href="https://www.tourisme-responsable.org/voyager-responsable/" target="_blank">Agir pour un tourisme responsable</a>, a mine of information for better travel:

Généralité tourisme durable

Agir pour un Tourisme responsable

Nous vous invitons à découvrir le site Agir pour un tourisme responsable une mine d’informations pour mieux voyager :

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Acting for a responsible tourism

Do you want a break from time? Need to recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature? Discover with us Sant'Egle in the South of Tuscany. We stopped there after 7 days of road trip under the heat. It was for us a refreshing stopover.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you followed our road trip, we arrived here after a week on the Tuscan roads. We have :

passed through the heat wave with the highest temperatures in 20 yearsvisited Siena and Florencepassed many beautiful villages on our way

The time had come for us to settle down in a quiet place. Our stopover here was perfect. I am personally all the more happy to stop here as Sant'Egle has been referenced on the site since almost the beginning. So I am delighted to finally meet the owners with whom I regularly exchange on Instagram.

As with many beautiful stories, it was a desire for change that led Erika and Alessandro to take over Sant'Egle in 2010. Both city dwellers, they aspired to a more responsible life. They did not choose the south of Tuscany and this establishment by chance. It is indeed a historical inn, open since the 17th century. The goal was to offer responsible accommodation to travelers in the area. And it worked! Moreover, today, in addition to welcoming travelers, they also grow spirulina, saffron and truffles.

You can find all their products for sale in the bio shop located at the reception.

It is a superb farmhouse that has been renovated with great taste and attention. Indeed, all the modern comfort has been integrated without altering the original building. This agritourism is composed of 3 standard rooms, 4 suites and 2 glamping tents. To learn more about this trend, read our article.

We slept in a standard room and it was already a very nice room with a large room in which there was a large double bed, a work table, a space to store clothes, a fridge and a safe. There is also space to leave your suitcase on the floor without getting caught in the time for those who do not take the time to unpack it when arriving (this is the experience that speaks). The bathroom is also very spacious with a large basin and a beautiful walk-in shower.

The exteriors are very well done and very pleasant to rest in. Erika and Alessandro have also made many works of art in the garden with recycled elements. This gives a very nice visual set around the pool.

Discover more about this Ethik Hotels on <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/italie/agriturismo-biologico-santegle/">their dedicated page</a>.

Once again this Ethik Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy local food. Due to the circumstances of the Covid, we could not attend the pizza or bbq evenings. Nevertheless, the space dedicated to these moments in the garden let us foresee nice moments of sharing.

We were nevertheless able to taste Erika and Alessandro's cooking when we arrived and we had reserved some dishes to share with a good glass of organic wine. It was really very good.

For dinner you choose the place in the garden that you like best:

Numerous tables have been set up on both sides to give you a choice.

Choose not to be too far from the pool to enjoy the sunset on the fields.

What to do during your stay in southern Tuscany

It is a lesser known and less touristy region. This does not mean that it does not have treasures as well.

Without even moving from Sant'Egle you will have many possibilities to occupy your days. Indeed, Erika and Alessandro have thought of everything to make your stay a great success. Here is a non-exhaustive list of possibilities:

We took advantage of our stay in the south of Tuscany to discover some very nice places less frequented than the famous Montepulciano and Pienza for example. This does not mean that they are less worthwhile. So if you are in the area we recommend you to visit :

This town is ranked among the most beautiful villages in Italy. It is on the side of a cliff and is built around an interweaving of streets. This allows to keep the freshness and it is thus very pleasant to walk there. The view is also superb

The village itself, although pretty, does not deserve a stop, I would say that it has nothing extraordinary. Especially since it is quite small and therefore with the few tourists that pass through, the parking places are immediately taken by storm. On the other hand, 2km from the center, at the bottom of the hill, an Etruscan necropolis has been discovered. It is a bit like the valley of the kings in Tuscany. This burial site dates from the 3rd century BC and it is in the middle of the forest. It is nevertheless hot there, prepare your visit in the morning. You will be able to observe ancient tombs and impressive spans dug in the tuff.

Our favorite place in southern Tuscany. I don't know if it's because we were there at the end of the day on a Friday, but the atmosphere immediately seduced us. The streets were lively: children playing there, adults sitting on the steps in front of their house having a drink with the neighbors there... It was very relaxed, we felt good. In addition, the village is also very pretty. It is also built on the side of a cliff, with a labyrinth of streets on several levels. It is a real pleasure to get lost in it. There is also a church with a panoramic roof that offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings and the roofs of the city. Moreover, if you want to eat there we can only recommend Ristorante Da Fidalma and, for a meal on the go, the cantina dei Sapori.

If you make the same journey as us, when we left we took the road towards the sea with the objective to visit this garden created and imagined by Niki de Saint Phalle. We are really immersed in her universe, it is exceptional. I really advise you to go there.

The garden is only open in the afternoon from 2:30 pm to 7 pm and it's better to reserve your places in advance because it's very crowded.

Find all the information to organize your visit on the website of the garden.

On the way to the Jardin des Tarots, in order to occupy our morning we decided to make stops in these two villages. These were stops that we had not planned and a bit forced by the timing. We had chosen these ones because they were on our route but we didn't know what to expect. Well it was for both of us a very good surprise:

So are you ready to get away from the tourist trails and discover the south of Tuscany, another facet of this famous region?

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Southern Tuscany: less touristy, more authentic

Do you want a break from time? Need to recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature? Discover with us Sant'Egle in the South of Tuscany. We stopped there after 7 days of road trip under the heat. It was for us a refreshing stopover.  

Between land and the Atlantic Ocean, Brittany's Morbihan region offers a variety of landscapes and activities to satisfy the desires of all travelers. From the mythical alignments of Carnac to the small islands of the Golfe du Morbihan and the heavenly coves of the Île de Groix, the Breton département has plenty to surprise you. In this article, find out where to stay in Morbihan. Youth hostels, campsites, hotels, vacation rentals: we present 7 addresses for eco-friendly accommodation, so you can explore the most beautiful corners of Morbihan and participate in sustainable tourism in Brittany.

#1 Nature campsite in the Gulf of Morbihan

Looking for an ecological vacation in the heart of nature? Then book your pitch or unusual accommodation at Camping La Fontaine du Hallate. Sleep in your own tent or opt for an authentic Mongolian yurt, a cosy wooden pod, a Lappish kota or a more traditional mobile home.

Simplicity and nature are the order of the day during your stay in Morbihan. Here, the swimming pool is replaced by a convivial communal area and a pleasant vegetable garden for a calm and serene atmosphere.

Take advantage of an ideal location in the heart of the Golfe du Morbihan Regional Nature Park to explore its treasures, including :

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/camping-nature-gulf-of-Morbihan">Camping nature in the Gulf of Morbihan | Camping La Fontaine du Hallate (ethik-and-trips.com)</a>

Also worth reading: discover our guide to <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/ecotourisme-bretagne-2">ecotourism in Brittany</a>, a committed region full of surprises.

On the banks of the Etang du Ter, in a green setting not far from the city center, discover HI Lorient youth hostel.

Stay in friendly, human-scale accommodation, with rooms for 1 to 5 travelers, to be shared or privatized. Take advantage of the hostel's friendly facilities, including a bar, garden with barbecue and independent kitchen, before exploring the streets of Lorient by bus or bike.

In this Morbihan town, discover a rich heritage still marked by the aftermath of the Second World War. Don't miss Lorient's marina and roadstead, which hold many surprises in store for you: 

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/fr/hebergement/france/auberge-de-jeunesse-lorient">HI Lorient youth hostel.</a>

Welcome to Groix Island, a Breton nugget not to be missed during your stay in Morbihan. Accessible by boat from Lorient, you'll find charming nooks and crannies between beaches, cliffs and villages. Discover its riches on foot, by bike, paddle or kayak. You'll be amazed by its turquoise coves, picturesque harbours and numerous menhirs and dolmens.

HI Île de Groix youth hostel welcomes you in a former blockhouse with an unusual atmosphere. Stay in a shared room or opt for a night in a tent, with your own equipment or that already set up by the hostel. Take advantage of an ideal location 2 steps from the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and a pleasant garden with terrace for unforgettable moments of conviviality between travelers.

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/fr/hebergement/france/auberge-de-jeunesse-hi-ile-de-groix">HI Île de Groix youth hostel.</a>

Read also: discover the story of a<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/farniente-on-the-island-of-groix"> weekend on the Île de Groix</a> and get inspiration for your next Breton getaway.

#4 A seaside vacation rental in the Golfe du Morbihan

Welcome to the Gîte des Algues! This delightful accommodation, just 10 minutes from Vannes town center and 2 steps from the waters of the Golfe du Morbihan, offers an idyllic location from which to discover one of the most beautiful bays in the world!

Take advantage of 70 km of footpaths, including the famous GR34, to explore the surrounding area on foot. Discover Vannes, a fortified medieval town with authentic charm, beautiful narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses and superb townhouses. Come aboard a sailboat and discover the small islands of the Golfe du Morbihan with their evocative names: Île d'Arz, Île aux Moines.

After your days of discovery, recharge your batteries in a pleasant 42 m² house designed for 4 people, with plenty of entertainment for convivial evenings with family or friends in very peaceful surroundings.

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/le-gite-des-algues-2">the Gîte des Algues, a seaside gîte in Morbihan.</a>

Read also: discover how to spend an <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/ecological-holidays-sea">eco-friendly vacation by the sea.</a>

Discover the Morbihan off the beaten track by staying at the Roulotte Douar Diskuizh. Treat yourself to a cosy, unusual experience in an authentic old-fashioned gypsy caravan. Designed to accommodate up to 5 people, it offers every comfort, with ecological dry toilets and a shower whose waste water is purified to irrigate the soil.

Take advantage of your stay to explore the riches of the Breton countryside: 

Rochefort-en-Terre, listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, with its fine stone-built houses;La Gacilly, home to one of Europe's largest open-air photography festivals;Josselin, a charming medieval town with a Renaissance château and charming half-timbered houses.

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/unusual-accommodation-in-morbihan">the Roulotte Douar Diskuizh, an unusual accommodation in Morbihan</a>.

Also read: discover <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/fr/blog/itineraires-en-bretagne">4 itinerary inspirations in Brittany for a change of scenery in France.</a>

#6 Ecological camping in the Morbihan countryside

Welcome to Camping Le Lac Ô Fées, an ecological campsite and member of the Via Natura network. Located in Priziac, on the edge of a lake in the Morbihan countryside, it promises a relaxing stay, with hikes in the Pont-Calleck forest, sailing or paddle-boarding courses and pedal-boating on the nearby lake.

Choose from a wide selection of unusual and classic accommodations: 

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/ecological-campsite-in-southern-brittany">Camping Le Lac Ô Fées, an ecological campsite in Southern Brittany.</a>

On a cycling trip along the Canal de Nantes à Brest or a road trip in Brittany, why not stop off at the HI Pontivy youth hostel? Housed in a former flour mill and surrounded by greenery, it's the ideal place to recharge your batteries in Morbihan. Rooms with 1, 2, 3, 4 or 6 beds await you, with breakfast included in the price of your stay.

Take advantage of our ideal location to discover the historically rich town of Pontivy, which offers 2 very surprising faces. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the medieval town, dominated by the Château des Rohan, before discovering the Napoleonic town with its wide, straight avenues, now lively shopping streets.

Book your stay at<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/fr/hebergement/france/auberge-de-jeunesse-pontivy"> HI Pontivy youth hostel.</a>

See also: <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/sleep-in-a-youth-hostel">7 reasons to stay in a youth hostel,</a> a much-maligned form of accommodation, but one that can be a great surprise, without blowing your travel budget!

So, have you found the inspiration to sleep in Morbihan? Start planning your next stay in Brittany and let yourself be seduced by this region of countless riches.

  Image by Fabien - Pixabay Ambassador de Pixabay

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7 eco-friendly places to stay in Morbihan

In this article, discover where to sleep in Morbihan. Youth hostels, campsites, hotels, vacation rentals: we present 7 eco-friendly accommodation addresses that will enable you to explore the most beautiful corners of Morbihan and become a player in sustainable tourism in Brittany.

Peaceful stretches of water as far as the eye can see, enchanting mountain landscapes, colorful villages and dynamic cities: welcome to the Great Lakes region in Italy! At the bend of Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and Lake Como, discover the nuggets of this beautiful region in the north of the Big Boot. What to see, what to do, what budget to plan, where to sleep and how long to stay: we give you all our advice to prepare your road trip around the Italian lakes.

To take advantage of a mild weather without big heat or crowds on the shores of big lakes, we recommend you to plan your road trip in spring or autumn. Avoid leaving between November and February, as many visits may be closed at this time of year.

What is the budget for a road trip around the Italian lakes?

Depending on the planned visits, the chosen accommodation, the choice of restaurants, the rented car and the possible transportation, the budget for your escapade in Northern Italy can vary greatly. In general, count on around 100 € per person and per day all inclusive for this kind of trip in this region. Beware: prices go up in high season!

How much time should I plan for a road trip in the Great Lakes region of Italy?

It will be difficult to see everything: the Italian lakes region is rich and full of surprises! However, if you want to discover the must-see places of the 3 main lakes, we recommend you to leave for a minimum of 7 days, ideally 15 days. This will give you time to explore without rushing and to adopt the slow rhythm of the Italian Dolce Vita.

Here is an example of a 10-day tour around the Italian lakes:

It's up to you to modulate your road trip as you wish! If you already know Milan, you can replace this stage by the discovery of Bergamo, the charming lake of Iseo or even go off the beaten track, for example to the Ledro valley. You can also extend the adventure and why not, push your excursion to Verona.

Milan is easily accessible by direct train from Paris, Lyon or Chambéry. It takes 7 hours by train from Paris Gare de Lyon and 4 hours from Chambéry. You can travel with the <a href="https://www.sncf-connect.com/ou-partir/italie/lombardie/milan">SNCF</a> or <a href="https://www.trenitalia.com/it.html">Trenitalia</a>&nbsp;both rail companies operate this route.

When you arrive, take the time to discover Milan, the largest city in Northern Italy, before renting a car or exploring the region by train!

Getting around the Great Lakes without a car

If you want to reduce the carbon footprint of your road trip in Northern Italy, why not consider traveling by train and boat between points of interest?

With the train, you can easily reach Stresa, Como, Lecco or Peschiera del Garda.

If you want to explore the lakes for a longer period of time without a car, a boat is the best way to get around, as there are no winding roads and no parking problems. The 3 big lakes offer crossings to reach the different coastal villages.

If you choose to travel by car, discover <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/prepare-road-trip-eco-responsible">6 steps to prepare an eco-responsible road trip </a>with peace of mind.

Where to sleep during a road trip in the Italian lakes region ?

Ethik &amp; Trips suggests 2 eco-responsible accommodation addresses near Lake Garda for a complete experience of sustainable tourism in Italy.

Located only 200 meters from the beach, in a green setting, Ambassador Suite Hotel offers the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation. The accommodations can be adapted to your needs with spacious rooms that can sleep up to 7 people. Enjoy a swimming pool and jacuzzi to relax.

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/italy/hotel-in-riva-del-garda">Ambassador Suite Hotel.</a>

B&amp;B Anna Maria, a guest house near Lake Garda

Want to get off the beaten track on your road trip around the great lakes? Then head to B&amp;B Anna Maria, located in the charming Ledro Valley, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.

Stay in an old hayloft restored with ecological materials and turned into a comfortable guesthouse. Rejuvenate in a spacious room with a private bathroom and a balcony with a magical view of the Ledro Alps.

Book your stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/italy/bb">the B&amp;B Anna Maria.</a>

The Italian lake district extends from Lake Orta west of Milan to Lake Garda near Verona.

The 3 largest lakes (Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda) are the most famous and therefore the most popular with visitors. If you want to extend the adventure or enjoy a visit a little more off the beaten track, the lakes of Orta and Iseo can be destinations of choice.

Best known for its magnificent palaces and gardens, Lake Maggiore offers 170 km of coastline, straddling Piedmont and Lombardy. A small part of the lake even runs into Switzerland!

If there is one excursion not to be missed during your visit to Lake Maggiore, it is to the Borromean Islands. You can easily reach them by boat from Stresa. Discover 3 unique islands:

Back in Stresa, don't miss the chance to take the cable car up to Monte Mottarone. On the heights, at about 1500 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.

140 km of shoreline await you on this lake with its amazing shape. Do not miss to discover during your road trip around the Italian lakes: 

To go further, discover all our advices to <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/discover-the-lac-de-come">discover the lake of Como.</a>

The biggest of the 3 Italian lakes has some nice surprises in store for you and especially some charming villages, each with its own atmosphere: 

Ready to organize your road trip around the Italian lakes ? For more inspirations, discover other ideas of stays with ecological accommodations on Ethik &amp; Trips:

<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/road-trip-in-toscane">Road trip in Tuscany over 2 weeks </a>;

<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/fr/blog/road-trip-en-provence-2-idees-d-itineraires-entre-terre-et-mer">Road trip in Provence</a> ;

<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/road-trip-dominican-republic">Road trip in Dominican Republic</a>.

  Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

  Image by Sergio Cerrato - Italia from Pixabay

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How to prepare your road trip around the Italian lakes?

Welcome to the Great Lakes region in Italy! At the bend of Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and Lake Como, discover the nuggets of this beautiful region in the north of the Big Boot. What to see, what to do, what budget to plan, where to sleep and how long to stay: we give you all our advice to prepare your road trip around the Italian lakes.

Traveling without a plane is possible! It's even a way to discover Europe that promises a great adventure: you can get back in touch with distances, fully integrate the journey into your getaway and live new experiences. By night train, by bus or even by sailboat&nbsp;: low-carbon and slow vacations are yours! So where can you travel from France? Which destinations are accessible without taking the air route? We give you all our advice to organize your next getaway. Flying less is not the same as traveling less!

Before getting into the heart of the matter, we give you 3 reasons to make you want to rely less on air travel.

Limiting air travel is one of the most important actions to reduce your carbon footprint on an individual level.

The latest models estimate <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1352231020305689">the carbon footprint</a> of air travel at 200g CO2e per kilometer for a long-haul flight and 390g CO2e per kilometer for a short-haul flight.

If you want to calculate the carbon footprint of your last airplane trip, we recommend the <a href="https://bonpote.com/en/flight-calculate-your-carbon-footprint-in-3-clicks/">Bon Pote simulator</a> which also gives a lot of information to understand the calculation and what's behind the numbers.

Putting the journey back at the center of the trip

The carbon footprint is one thing. But this is not the argument that will convince you that travelling without a plane can be pleasant and exotic.

Traveling without a plane also means putting the journey back at the center of the adventure and giving it a place of its own! You stop over in Madrid during your train trip to Portugal: what if you took the opportunity to (re)discover the rich culture of the Spanish capital?

We'll take care of the accommodation: discover our addresses of <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-madrid">eco-responsible accommodation in Madrid</a>.

Traveling by plane also means a lot of little inconveniences to take into account:

Trains, especially when powered by electricity from low-carbon sources, as is the case in France, emit very little greenhouse gas during transportation.

The <a href="https://agirpourlatransition.ademe.fr/particuliers/bureau/deplacements/calculer-emissions-carbone-trajets">carbon footprint of trains in France</a> is thus

If you take a train powered by diesel or electricity from fossil fuels, you have to count about <a href="https://www.tourdumondiste.com/limiter-son-empreinte-ecologique-en-voyage#exemples-ditineraires-bas-carbone">80 g of CO2e per km</a>. This type of train still exists in some European countries.

The countries bordering France are very well served by trains from France. You can reach Amsterdam, Brussels, London, Milan, Barcelona, Geneva or Lausanne without any connection from Paris. With the night train, cities like Vienna and soon Berlin become easily accessible!

To plan your next adventure, discover where to <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/where-to-go-by-train-in-europe">travel by train in Europe</a> and <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/6-mythical-routes-for-an-unforgettable-sleeper-train-trip-in-europe">6 sleeper train trips in Europe.</a>

To go further, the<a href="https://www.chronotrains.com/fr?zoom=2.5&amp;lng=-0.83&amp;lat=38.45"> Chronotrains</a> website gives the cities accessible in less than 5 hours by rail from the major European stations.

Traveling by bus is often a cheaper alternative to the train to get around without flying. On the other hand, it pollutes more, at around <a href="https://agirpourlatransition.ademe.fr/particuliers/bureau/deplacements/calculer-emissions-carbone-trajets">100 g of CO2e per km</a> for a bus filled with 10 people. The impact decreases if the public transport is well filled.

The bus also has the advantage of serving small towns where the train does not necessarily go. It is therefore a good solution to travel on a regional scale.

<a href="https://www.flixbus.fr/bus?_sp=36f0490a-1330-419a-aaff-6121f1c07a0f.1666791884609&amp;atb_pdid=34db4897-c40a-4872-a70b-5236668ba3f7&amp;_ga=2.250491587.491851069.1666791871-1758852611.1666791871">Flixbus</a> and <a href="https://www.blablacar.fr/bus/destinations">Blablacar</a> are the main companies to travel long distances from France:

To find more local routes (and even organize your trip more globally), the <a href="https://www.rome2rio.com/fr/">Rome2rio</a> website shows you the best way to reach your destination with the different possible alternatives (bus, train, etc.). If you need to travel by bus within a country, this is an excellent site to find the bus companies that operate regional routes.

A ferry is a boat that carries both people and freight. It is therefore not a cruise ship only intended for the transport and leisure of people.

Although it is difficult to find reliable information on the carbon impact of cruise ships, it is probably worse than that of airplanes. Let's not forget that cruise ships are often real hotels moving on water, with vast cabins, swimming pools, sports halls, casinos, bars, restaurants. In this article, we only talk about ferries that also transport goods, accept to take your car and transport you from point A to point B.

As for liners, finding reliable information on the carbon impact of ferries is not easy. The level of greenhouse gas emissions depends on the size and comfort level of the vessel.

However, one thing is certain: ferries pollute and emit fine particles in port and on board that are dangerous to health. The carbon footprint of your trip can even be worse than flying per kilometer if you travel alone, take your car with you and take a cabin all to yourself.

On the other hand, if you share a cabin or book a seat only and travel as a pedestrian, the carbon footprint of your trip is significantly reduced.

To evaluate the greenhouse gas emissions of your ferry trip, <a href="https://bonpote.com/ferry-calculer-en-1-minute-son-empreinte-carbone/">Bon Pote</a> has published a simulator accessible to all. It's up to you to evaluate if it's a more virtuous solution than flying or not for your trip!

To give you a concrete example, let's suppose that you are going to Corsica for your vacations together and want to reach Ajaccio from Paris. Let's compare 3 solutions in terms of carbon impact:

Here is the carbon footprint of your round trip with the different solutions per traveler:

With this scenario, taking the ferry is in any case better than flying in terms of carbon footprint, as most of the kilometers are covered by land. It is therefore a good alternative to the air route to cross the seas and reach the islands.

To further reduce the carbon footprint of your vacation, consider taking the ferry without your car. You will reduce the impact of your ferry crossing by almost half!&nbsp;To help you, we have put together an article on car-free holidays in which we present the alternatives.

Even if they are quite marginal and often more expensive, less polluting alternatives to the ferry exist! This is particularly true for sailing boats and cargo ships.

Good news for sailboats: <a href="https://sailcoop.fr/nos-traversees/">Sailcoop</a> offers regular lines between the continent and Corsica with 2 departures per week between July and October.

If you are interested in these solutions, discover our articles dedicated to the alternatives for the ferry:

So, are you tempted by all the possibilities of airless travel? Which destination will you start with? Tell us in comments!

Image by Patrick SABATIER-VESCOVALI from Pixabay

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Travel without a plane

Traveling without a plane is possible! It's even a way to discover Europe that promises a great adventure: you can get back in touch with distances, fully integrate the journey into your getaway and live new experiences. By night train, by bus or even by sailboat : low-carbon and slow vacations are yours!

When we talk about Greece, the first images that come to mind are the caldera of Santorini, the acropolis of Athens, the festive atmosphere of Mykonos. Immediately after, the second vision is the horde of people that we can meet there. The good news is that the Hellenic Republic is not limited to these emblematic places. There are still some lesser known areas, still preserved. This is the case of the island of Astypalea, which we had the opportunity to discover this summer.

We have just spoken about it, as in the rest of the world, travelers&nbsp;focus on a small area of Greece while the country has more than 6000 islands and 227 of them are inhabited. There is therefore to discover places still authentic as it is the case in Astypalea. 

Presentation of the butterfly-shaped island

Astypalea is easy to spot in the middle of thousands of Greek islands, it is the one that is shaped like a butterfly. Seen from the sky it is superb with its isthmus of hardly 100 meters. Its surface is equivalent of Santorini, that is to say 75 m², but it receives much less tourists. Indeed the population can reach at the peak of the summer 70 000 people, nothing to with the 6.5 million of its cousin. Moreover, even if you are going to meet tourists know that they are mostly Greek tourists.The charm is always there and operates quickly.

The island is part of the Dodecanese, it is the point of between these islands and the famous Cyclades. Although Astypalea is not part of these last ones architecturally speaking one finds much of similarities, especially in Chora.

There is an airport, for those who are in a hurry, which allows to Athens. We advise you to take the ferries instead. It is an opportunity&nbsp;to experience slow travel. You will have plenty of time to admire the different coasts and ports of the islands where

In short, this time is not wasted, it's a quiet time, perfect to experience on vacation and moreover it is more ecological especially if you don't take a car. I invite you to read our article on travel without plane.

Coming to Astypalea is a little more preparatory than going to Mykonos but it is not insurmountable. There are shuttles every 2/3 days from Naxos and passing through Amorgos. In short, Astypalea fits perfectly in a boat trip in the Cyclades.

For nature lovers it is the perfect place because on the island there are very few paved roads. And don't worry, it's quite easy to get around.&nbsp;If you don't want to bother with a car a scooter will do.

However, you should know that Astypalea has been selected to be the test city of a Volkswagen program called "Smart &amp; sustainable island ". The objective is to make it a showcase for green mobility by replacing all of the island's vehicles (1500) with their electric equivalent. It doesn't stop there, they are also setting up a car-sharing system (car and scooter) on the same principle as the Parisian Autolib' and a chauffeur service. In Paris and a chauffeur service. All this of course in 100% electric vehicles.

Last but not least, we come to the most important point for us: is it possible to sleep in an eco responsible hotel in Astypalea? Well, the answer is a big YES. We have found you a address in the heart of the island. This address ticks a lot of boxes to&nbsp;make sure you have a wonderful stay without compromising on your ecological footprint :

In short you will have understood it we advise you the eyes closed Kallicharon.

Here again the island itself is an invitation to slow travel. It is not big so take the time to live and discover.&nbsp;Here are some suggestions but do not hesitate to ask around you, when you arrive, to complete this list :

Visit the beautiful Chora. Like Fira, the city is built on the side of a is built on the side of a cliff. With its typical Greek architecture, its white and blue white and blue walls it is a real delight to get lost in the maze of streets. Especially since the latter often offer views of the coast. Explore the ruined Venetian citadel. For the record, the island was the victim of a violent earthquake and the citadel was completely destroyed at that time. In fact not completely! The only 2 buildings that remained standing were the two churches! These last ones, nicely painted in traditional white and blue, offer an exceptional panorama. It is really a free visit not to be missed if you come to Astypalea. Stroll around the windmills perfectly aligned and symbols of the island. The square is the place of animation of the city and it is here that you will find several restaurants.

After reading this article, are you tempted by an off the beaten track in the Greek islands? Tell us incomment if you know of any other places in Greece that are preserved from&nbsp; mass tourism!

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Discover Astypalea, an authentic Greek island far from mass tourism

When we talk about Greece, the first images that come to mind are the caldera of Santorini, the acropolis of Athens, the festive atmosphere of Mykonos. 

Located in northern Italy, the Dolomites are a unique mountain range that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. With their rocky, tower-like peaks, changing colors according to the time of day and magnificent green valleys, these mountains attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. If you're looking for a place to recharge your batteries, reconnect with nature and escape the urban chaos, a stay in the Dolomites is the ideal solution. Here's our guide to making the most of this exceptional experience

The Dolomites can be reached by various&nbsp;means of transport. If you're coming from abroad, Venice airport is the most convenient option, with direct flights from many European cities. Once in Venice, you can reach the Dolomites by car, train or bus by bus, depending on your preference. The distance between Venice and the Dolomites depends on the destination you choose, but varies between 2 and 3 hours by car. Another option is to fly direct to the airports of Bolzano Bolzano, Innsbruck or Verona airports, which are closer to the Dolomites.

Find out more, <a href="https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Paris/Dolomiti">compare means of transport</a>

The best time to visit and spend a holiday in the Dolomites&nbsp;is from June to September, when the weather is generally sunny and mild, with average temperatures around 22°C. This is also the season when most outdoor activities are possible, such as hiking, climbing, cycling and paragliding. In winter, the Dolomites are also very attractive, with renowned ski resorts, but weather conditions can be more extreme, with snow and sub-zero temperatures.

What to do on a holiday in the Dolomites?

The Dolomites offer an endless array of outdoor activities to suit all ages and skill levels. Here are a few suggestions that will keep you happy during your stay in the Dolomites :

Day trips to <a href="https://www.getyourguide.com/-l34573/-tc172/?cmp=bing&amp;campaign_id=434111585&amp;adgroup_id=1251244854683816&amp;target_id=dat-2330002578457591%3Aloc-66&amp;match_type=b&amp;ad_id=78202963710365&amp;msclkid=07632052ef0f153dadb144d283343469&amp;loc_physical_ms=19295&amp;feed_item_id=&amp;keyword=www.getyourguide.fr&amp;partner_id=CD951&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_source=bing&amp;utm_campaign=ct%3Ddsa%7Cln%3D35%3Afr%7Ctc%3Dall&amp;utm_term=www.getyourguide.fr&amp;gclsrc=3p.ds">the Dolomites as a guide</a>

The cuisine of the Dolomites is varied and tasty, with traditional dishes based on local produce. The region's specialties include potato gnocchi, polentas, mountain cheeses and cured meats. Here are a few recommended addresses for discovering the local gastronomy:

Camina Cortina, a spa hotel in Italy's Dolomites

Camina Cortina is a luxury hotel located in the Dolomites, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's the ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and in the midst of nature.

The hotel's rooms are elegant and comfortable, with panoramic mountain views.

The hotel boasts a world-class spa, where guests where guests can enjoy a wide range of wellness and beauty treatments during a stay in the Dolomites. The spa also features an indoor pool sauna, hammam and jacuzzi, as well as a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts. for fitness enthusiasts.

The hotel's restaurant serves tasty regional cuisine prepared with top-quality local ingredients. Guest can also sample a range of renowned Italian wines in the hotel's lounge bar.

Stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/italy/camina-cortina-a-hotel-with-spa-in-the-dolomites-in-italy">Camina Cortina, a spa hotel in Italy's Dolomites</a>

Eco Park Hotel Azalea, an ecological hotel in the Dolomites

Located in Val di Fiemme, in Italy's Dolomites region, the Eco Park Hotel Azalea is an eco-friendly hotel that offers a sustainable, eco-friendly vacation experience during a stay in the Dolomites.

Rooms are equipped with geothermal heating systems, solar panels, triple-glazed windows and a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery. All this contributes to a considerable reduction in the hotel's energy consumption.

The Eco Park Hotel Azalea is therefore a perfect example of an ecological hotel that combines comfort and respect for the environment in an exceptional natural setting.

Stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/italy/an-ecological-hotel-in-the-dolomites">Eco Park Hotel Azalea, an eco-friendly hotel in the Dolomites</a>

Olympic Spa Hotel, a spa hotel in Val di Fassa in the Dolomites

The Olympic Spa Hotel is a spa hotel located in the beautiful valley of Val di Fassa, in the Italian Dolomites. The hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, surrounded by coniferous forests and alpine meadows.

Rooms at the Olympic Spa Hotel are comfortable and decorated in a classic Alpine style. All rooms have en suite bathrooms and balconies offering panoramic views of the mountain views.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an active mountain or an active mountain experience, the Olympic Spa Hotel is the ideal destination for your next stay in the Dolomites.

Stay at <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/italy/spa-hotel-val-di-fassa">Olympic Spa Hotel, a spa hotel in Val di Fassa in the Dolomites</a>

Want to discover other places in Italy? Here's our article,<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/eco-responsible-vacations-in-italy"> 3 ideas for eco-friendly vacations in Italy. </a>

A stay in the Dolomites is a unique experience, allowing you to get away from the stress of city life and reconnect with nature. Its breathtaking mountain scenery, varied outdoor activities and tasty local cuisine, this region of Italy Italy has much to offer visitors. Whether you're a a nature lover, a seasoned sportsman or a gourmet epicurean, the Dolomites will meet all your expectations. So pack your bags and and set off to discover this Italian gem!

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Staying in the Dolomites: A breathtaking experience

Located in northern Italy, the Dolomites are a unique mountain range that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. With their rocky, tower-like peaks, changing colors according to the time of day and magnificent green valleys, these mountains attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. 

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