3 exotic ideas for slow tourism in Spain
Are you interested in slow tourism in Spain? In this article, we give you some tips to organize a responsible trip to Spain. Adopt the good practices of sustainable tourism and get the inspiration for an ecological vacation! From the sunny villages of Andalusia, to the eternal spring of the Canary Islands, to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees, explore the riches of the Iberian Peninsula while enjoying the pace of a slow trip to recharge your batteries. With our selection of Spanish ecological accommodations, you can enjoy a relaxing vacation with a change of scenery!
Slow tourism in Spain: instructions for use
It's possible to have a slow holiday in Spain! To slow down the pace and make a success of your eco-responsible vacation, here are some tips:
- Avoid running from one tourist spot to another. You're on vacation, so why not finally take the time? Slow down, go on an impromptu hike or relax by the pool;
- Choose to explore one region rather than the whole country. This is the secret to maximizing the relaxing effect of your vacation while minimizing your carbon footprint;
- If you have the opportunity, go during the off-season, especially in places that are victims of mass tourism (Andalusian coast, Canary Islands, Barcelona and Catalan coast);
- for eco-responsible accommodations that will offer you a great slow tourism experience with a reduced environmental impact.
Want more tips for your ecological vacation? Discover the 10 commandments of the responsible traveler.
Discover all the addresses of eco-friendly hotels in Spain referenced on Ethik & Trips.
#1 Discover Lanzarote, the authentic island of the Canaries
What to do in Lanzarote?
Lanzarote, also known as the island of a thousand volcanoes, promises captivating desert landscapes, charming typical Canarian villages and an authentic experience. This island is a pioneer of sustainable tourism in the Canaries. César Manrique has actively campaigned to limit concrete development and real estate speculation.
Consider staying at least a week on the island to enjoy its beautiful natural and cultural riches. Discover in particular:
- Timanfaya National Park. Admire the most iconic landscapes of Lanzarote, true witnesses of the volcanic activity. It is also the ideal place to put on your hiking boots. Take a trip to see some of the island's most beautiful views, including the one that awaits you at the top of the Montaña Colorada volcano;
- Playa Papagayo. Discover one of Lanzarote's beautiful beaches and take a moment to relax, swim and watch the sunset;
- Cactus Garden. This beautiful landscaped garden was designed by Cesar Manrique himself;
- Arrieta, Guatiza and Los Cocoteros. These typical Lanzarote villages promise a quiet and picturesque atmosphere. Take the time to stroll through the whitewashed houses.
Where to sleep in Lanzarote?
Spend your slow vacation on Lanzarote at the Eco Fisherman's Cottage. This ecological cottage typical of the Canary Islands and powered by solar panels can comfortably accommodate 2 adults and 3 children. Ideally located in the charming village of Arrieta facing the sea front, enjoy the local atmosphere without moderation. Stay at 2 steps from the village amenities for a successful slow vacation.
Book your stay at the Eco Fisherman's Cottage in Lanzarote.
#2 Explore the Catalan Pyrenees
What to see and do in the Catalan Pyrenees?
Just a stone's throw from France, far from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, discover the province of Lleida in the Catalan Pyrenees. This magical region will especially delight nature lovers, with many treasures to explore:
- The Gorges of Mont-Rebei. Take your binoculars to admire the rich biodiversity of this preserved place without roads or railroads. You may be lucky enough to spot a griffon vulture, a bearded vulture or a golden eagle. If you don't see any animals, you can console yourself with the beautiful scenery of the Pyrenees;
- Vall Fosca. This valley is home to over 30 natural lakes. Nestled among steep peaks reaching 3,000 meters above sea level, it's the perfect place to go hiking and recharge your batteries in nature;
- Aigüestortes and Sant Maurici National Park, the only national park in Catalonia, a must-see during your stay;
- Boumort National Game Reserve. Discover the rich fauna of the western pre-Pyrenees, home to chamois, capercaillie and foxes.
Where to sleep in the Catalan Pyrenees?
Between the Pyrenees and the Montsec mountains, nestled in the middle of nature, discover Casa Leonardo. This small ecological hotel in Catalonia offers 10 warm and welcoming rooms, as well as a memorable trip back in time to the beginning of the 20th century. You stay in a restored and preserved old boarding house. The old kitchen, living room and store are still there.
Book your stay at Casa Leonardo.
L'info en plus !
Bonne nouvelle : Casa Leonardo est accessible en transport en commun. Pour organiser votre séjour, découvrez comment se déplacer en Espagne.
#3 Grenada and Sierra Nevada
What to see and do in Granada?
Discovering a place as popular as Granada in slow tourism mode gives you time to get off the beaten track and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful multicultural Andalusian city.
- The iconic Alhambra, which you can reach on foot by taking beautiful walks;
- The Barrio del Realejo. This old part of the city is a testimony to Granada's rich history and past;
- The Albaicin district, perched on a hill and with a captivating charm. You will be immediately seduced by its flowery cobbled streets, its fruit trees and its ponds.
What to see, what to do in Sierra Nevada?
For a slow tourism experience in Spain, dare to leave the hustle and bustle of Granada and discover the Sierra Nevada National Park, a mountain range classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Explore its beautiful treasures:
- Los Cahorros Gorge, with a suspension bridge not to be missed;
- The Monachil River, along which you can walk while admiring the typical landscapes of the Sierra Nevada;
- The many hikes, such as the Star Route trail, which allows you to admire the most iconic peaks of the mountain range.
Where to sleep around Sierra Nevada?
To fully recharge your batteries, book an accommodation at the gateway to the Sierra Nevada, like the Almunia del Valle. This eco-friendly hotel is ideally located for exploring the National Park and also for excursions to Granada. Stay in a beautiful room facing the Andalusian peaks. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool fed by water directly from the mountains and the cozy bar for relaxing evenings.
Book your stay at the Almunia del Valle.
So, which slow tourism getaway in Spain appeals to you the most? Tell us in comments!
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Image by Enrique from Pixabay
