3 ideas for eco-responsible vacations in Italy
Looking for a change of scenery without going to the other side of the world? Head to Italy, a country that will delight lovers of relaxing vacations, sports activities and cultural discoveries. Hiking in the Dolomites, swimming in the Adriatic Sea, natural wonders in Sardinia: let yourself be seduced by the beauty and the Dolce Vita. With a great selection of eco-friendly hotels, lodges and campsites, spending an eco-responsible vacation in Italy becomes a breeze! Discover in this article 3 ideas of escapades in the 4 corners of the Big Boot and plan your next vacation!
Why opt for an eco-responsible vacation in Italy?
Italy attracts visitors from all over the world every year. Unfortunately, travelers tend to concentrate in certain popular areas that are beginning to suffer seriously from mass tourism. This is the case of Venice, for example, which has become a true symbol of overtourism. The city is beginning to take concrete measures to limit the flow of holidaymakers to St Mark's Square.
In high season, other regions of the country become the scene of tourist parades. This is the case of some areas of the Dolomites, the Cinque Terre, Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.
Discover in the following article 3 ideas for stays in less popular, but nevertheless magical areas to become an actor of sustainable tourism in Italy.
#1 The Dolomites off the beaten track
Welcome to South Tyrol in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. Green valleys, steep peaks and small mountain villages await you in this region of Italy, which oscillates between Mediterranean atmosphere and Austrian influences.
What to see and do in the Dolomites?
For this trip idea, we suggest alternatives to the mythical Tre Cime di Lavaredo to explore the western part of the Dolomite chain, in particular the Val di Fiemme and the Val d'Ega.
Discovering the Val di Fiemme
The Val di Fiemme is an unspoiled valley that is ideal for a beautiful nature vacation. It will seduce you in any season. In winter, enjoy unforgettable cross-country skiing itineraries, such as the Marcialonga trail, or magnificent snowshoeing trips.
Do you prefer downhill skiing? The Alpe Cermis resort offers several downhill ski runs, as well as ski touring routes.
In spring and early summer, the pastures are covered with beautiful flowers of all colors and the area becomes a dream playground for hikers and mountain bikers. Finally, when autumn comes, it's time to let yourself be seduced by the splendid golden colors of the larch trees and to enjoy the nature that is falling asleep as winter approaches.
Discover the Val d'Ega
To prolong your escapades in the middle of nature, head for the Val d'Ega, between Bolzano and the Costalunga pass. Don't miss the chance to go hiking in the middle of idyllic mountain landscapes. A pleasant feeling of change of scenery awaits you between lakes, steep peaks and small picturesque villages. Don't miss the chance to climb to the top of the Corno Bianco to watch the sunset or to explore the Rosengarten massif on foot.
Where to sleep in the Dolomites?
Discover Eco Park Hotel Azalea in Val di Fiemme. This ecological hotel in the Dolomites promises you a getaway between relaxation and discovery. Each room offers a pleasant interlude of relaxation.
Reconnect with nature by taking advantage of the many hikes starting from your accommodation or the revitalizing forest baths. Finnish saunas, yoga and meditation workshops await you for a true wellness vacation in Italy. Finally, enjoy tasty vegan cuisine prepared with ingredients grown on site or brought in through a short circuit.
#2 Seaside tourism in the Marche region
Still preserved from mass tourism, the Marche region offers you a beautiful alternative to the Tuscan coastline, in a preserved atmosphere.
What to see and do in the Marche region?
Do you want to do sports activities in the nature? Then head for the Furlo Gorges Nature Reserve, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and canyoning await you in the heart of a magnificent preserved nature.
Fans of farniente will take the direction of the coast to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Marche region and the lively seaside resorts. Discover in particular:
- Fano, for its sandy or pebble beaches. It is also here that you can rent a bike to head to the next town along the coast;
- Pesaro. Accessible by bike from Fano, it is worth a visit for its beautiful historical center;
- Senigallia. Don't miss its idyllic 13 km long sandy beach, nicknamed the "velvet beach". Take a good book, a tube of sun cream, your best sunglasses and let yourself be carried away by the Italian Dolce Vita.
Where to sleep in the Marche region?
For your stay not far from the Adriatic coast, put your bags down at La Forestale, a magnificent ecolodge in Italy. Nestled in the quiet of the Furlo Gorge Nature Reserve, the building has large terraces on which to lounge while enjoying the views of the area. Each room offers a unique atmosphere. The highlight of the show? The Royal Suite on the top floor, which promises breathtaking views of the region. For an independent vacation, you can also book the fully equipped apartment.
#3 An idyllic stay in Sardinia at Sant'Antioco
For this idea of eco-responsible vacations in Italy, let's go to Sardinia. More precisely, we take you to discover Sant'Antioco, a small island attached to Sardinia by a strip of land and an Italian nugget not to be missed!
What to see, what to do during your ecological vacations in Sant'Antioco?
Preserved nature, memorable hikes and heavenly beaches await you in Sant'Antioco.
Enjoy a wide range of sports and relaxation activities between the steep coast and the hilly terrain. There is no shortage of hiking and mountain biking routes on this small piece of land. Let yourself be tempted by a swim in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, a snorkelling session to discover the sea bed or an invigorating kitesurfing course.
Want to explore the surrounding area? The south of Sardinia is full of exceptional natural sites not to be missed during your stay:
- Scoglio Pan di Zucchero, an amazing rock formation in the middle of the sea;
- La Grotta di Santa Barbara. Accessible with a small train, the visit is a dive into the bowels of the earth, accompanied by passionate guides;
- Isola di San Pietro. Accessible by boat from Sant'Antioco, this small island is a privileged place to enjoy the riches of the sea. Tasting of freshly caught fish and walks along the coastline await you.
Where to sleep in Sant'Antioco?
For your stay in Sardinia, book at Erbe Matte Agriturismo. This pleasant ecological vacation rental offers you several accommodation options according to your desires:
- A vacation home for 5 people to rent. You will be immediately seduced by the sunny veranda and the breathtaking sea view;
- glamping tents with all the comforts for a stay close to nature. Enjoy the geodesic dome, a common area with a kitchen, a fitness area and a library.
Which eco-friendly vacation idea in Italy appeals to you? Browse our list of eco-friendly accommodations in the Big Boot and book your next getaway!
Image par Alessandro de Pixabay
Image par Daniele Pasqualini de Pixabay
Image par Udo de Pixabay
