The long awaited vacations are here! You've been dreaming about it while sitting at your desk and looking out the window. You've even counted the days and hours between now and then. And then: it's the drama! The weather forecast announces wet weather and showers for your destination. How are you going to keep yourself busy on your rainy vacation? In this article, discover 7 ideas to keep smiling and enjoying your trip, even when clouds and gray skies are in the air.

#1 Treat yourself to a day of rest and cocooning

How many times a year do you take a day of rest without planning anything at all?&nbsp;If the snails are out, take advantage of it to stay inside and give yourself a well-deserved moment of relaxation!

On Ethik &amp; Trips, we propose you a selection of eco-responsible accommodations around the world. Several addresses invite you to rest and relax : why not take advantage of it ? Whether it is by providing you with books, board games or a pleasant spa, the hotel owners know how to put a smile back on your face, even when the rain showers fall from the sky. Discover 3 addresses that are perfect for a lazy day!

Welcome to Morbihan, a few kilometers from Vannes. This is where you will find the <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/le-gite-des-algues-2">Gîte des Algues</a>, a pleasant seaside address, perfect for exploring the riches of southern Brittany.

If the weather doesn't inspire you to hike the GR 34 or go kayaking, enjoy the comfort of the living room with TV, games consoles and movies to entertain yourself without the risk of getting wet!

A cocooning address on a reasonable budget

Looking for an unusual getaway in the South-West? Discover <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/pella-roca-2">Pella Roca</a>: an accommodation in the middle of nature in the Tarn-et-Garonne. Stay in a perched cabin with a private spa on the terrace.

Immersed in the water of the Nordic bath or wrapped up in the heat of the sauna, you will quickly forget the rain.

After your relaxing break, continue to warm up inside in front of the wood stove, admiring the magnificent view of nature and the rain falling through the window.

Welcome to <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement/en-france/ecolodge-in-the-vosges">Bleu Minuit</a>, an ecological accommodation in the heart of the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, one hour from Strasbourg. Stay in one of the 3 exceptional lodges and enjoy the nature that surrounds you.

On rainy days, treat yourself to a relaxing break in the sauna or the Patagonian bath with a view of the forest. To prolong your relaxation, book a pleasant massage.

Return to the comfort of your wooden cocoon open to nature, from which you will never tire of contemplating the rain.

#2 Take advantage of bad weather to meet the locals

For this, nothing better than to take refuge in a café, a pub or a restaurant and engage in a discussion with the other customers!

You'll probably leave with memories of great encounters and interesting discussions! Maybe you can even pick up some good ideas for activities to occupy your vacation in the rain from the insiders?

#3 Take advantage of the rain to indulge in a cultural activity

If you are staying in a large city, you should have no trouble finding an interesting cultural activity to do on a rainy day. The best way to do this is to go to the local tourist office to get an overview of the events that are taking place at the moment.

The hardest part may be choosing from the cultural offer! A visit to a museum, a play, a local cooking workshop: which activity will tempt you?

To limit the environmental impact of your vacation, avoid as much as possible the shopping session to pass the rain! Discover in our dedicated article why bringing <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/travel-memories">back a travel souvenir </a>is not without consequences.

If you're going to get wet, why not do it all the way? It's counterintuitive, but many water activities can be done in the rain as well as in dry weather!

If the water temperature is pleasant despite the downpour, you can go for a swim! However, you won't get your tanning session to dry off.

Otherwise, activities such as windsurfing, surfing or stand-up paddle can be practiced in the rain, when the sea conditions are suitable! Just remember to rent a wetsuit if necessary to avoid the cold.

Want to have a little photo session but the rain spoils the experience? It's time to let your creativity speak. Many places or landscapes are suitable for beautiful photographs, even in gray weather!

The mist can give an intense and mystical atmosphere, which can be interesting to exploit. Nature and flowers beaded with raindrops create interesting subjects for macro photography.

In the city, the reflections of puddles on the ground are conducive to captivating light effects. To prevent your equipment from getting wet, consider investing in a rain cover for your camera or a waterproof case for your smartphone.

If your accommodation has a kitchen, why not take advantage of it to prepare some tasty dishes to enjoy with your group of travelers?

Cooking during your vacation is an opportunity to innovate by using local products that you are not used to. You can even try to recreate a local specialty to learn a new recipe!

#7 Make the most of your vacation despite the rain!

Whatever happens, try not to mope about the upcoming weather and enjoy your vacation anyway! You won't have any influence on the weather, even if you're brooding in your lodging: you might as well adopt a positive frame of mind.

Also, put the severity of the rain into perspective: unless a hurricane or storm is forecast, the worst that can happen is that you get wet! So dare to go on a trip anyway!

Try to reconnect with your childhood soul that surely enjoyed jumping into puddles. Enjoy the relaxing and soothing atmosphere of the rain! Who knows, maybe a lightning storm will appear and confirm your decision to go outside?

Also read: discover 10 ideas to escape in France and Europe for a <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/week-end-sans-voiture-2">weekend without a car.</a>

The most important thing to do in case of rain is not to be cold! Even if your top layers of clothing are wet but you stay warm, everything is fine.

Remember to pack a windproof waterproof jacket and rain pants before you leave. Sure, it's not incredibly fashionable, but if there are too many gusts of wind to open an umbrella, you'll stay safe from the humidity!

For your belongings, carry a waterproof backpack or a protective cover to put over it. Most hiking bags come with this type of equipment.

Don't neglect your shoes! Getting your feet wet is the first step towards the cold feeling you are trying to avoid.

Some rain pants also cover your feet, which can be very practical! Some hiking boots are waterproof and can become your best friends in wet weather. If you're going into town or don't want to burden yourself with a big pair of shoes, at the very least take shoes that dry quickly!

Also read: discover 4 exotic ideas for a <a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/blog/Autumn-weekend-in-France">fall weekend in France</a>.

So, are you ready to spend a great vacation in the rain? Even if the weather is grey, Ethik &amp; Trips guarantees you sweet nights for your next adventure: discover our selection of<a href="https://ethik-and-trips.com/en/hebergement"> ecological accommodations around the world</a>.

Travel inspiration - Activities

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Vacations in the rain

How will you keep yourself busy on your rainy vacation? In this article, discover 7 ideas to keep smiling and enjoying your trip, even when clouds and gray skies are in the air.

Do you want to change from downhill skiing for your winter vacations? Whether it’s because you’re tired of waiting in line at the ski lifts, because you want a more eco-friendly vacation or just to introduce a bit of novelty, a winter vacation in the mountains without skiing is totally possible! Strong sensations, grandiose landscapes or unusual escapades, discover 11 ideas of activities in the mountains in winter guaranteed without boredom. I promise you, you will always have the right to eat raclette at the end of the day!

Do we still need to introduce this superb winter activity&nbsp;? The&nbsp;snowshoeing hike&nbsp;is the guarantee to fully enjoy the calm of the mountain, the crunch of your footsteps in the snow and the nature. What more could you ask for&nbsp;? This is a sporty and soothing activity that will clearly appeal to walking enthusiasts.

For great itineraries, head to the&nbsp;resort of Luchon-Superbagnères, for example, in the Pyrenees, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Toulouse. You can even spend your nights at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/en/infrance/le-poujastou-2/" target="_blank">Poujastou</a>, a bed and breakfast a few miles away. Its owner is a mountain guide and will be happy to advise you on the best hikes in the area&nbsp;!

No need for chairlifts, ski lifts, groomed trails or even waiting in line to ski touring! It will be up to you to make the effort to climb to the top of the mountain. Thanks to grippy “sealskins” attached to the underside of the ski skates, your ascent is guaranteed to be slip-free. Just remove the skins before heading down the slope. You can now go downhill in the middle of nature and discover the mountain in all its authenticity!

Be careful, however, to be well informed about the risks of avalanches and to bring the necessary equipment before venturing off the beaten path.

Want to live a real polar expedition this winter? Why not leave for several days with your skis or snowshoes and a pulka? It is a sled of transport originating from the north of Europe. Attached to your waist and containing your equipment, you pull it yourself. It allows you to bring your tent, sleeping bag, food and everything else you need for a great micro-adventure in the wilderness.

Moreover, it is not necessary to go to the other side of the world to live this type of escapade. It is possible to go to the Vercors,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/pulka-dans-le-vercors/" target="_blank">discover Laëtitia’s experience</a>!

For mountain bike lovers in the summer, the adventure continues in the winter with the fatbike. These wide-tired mountain bikes allow you to ride through the snow without too much difficulty and explore the mountains by bike, even in winter! Many models are equipped with electric assistance, ideal to avoid exhausting yourself while climbing the peaks. To introduce you to this sensational sport, ski resorts like&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lessaisies-aventures.com/activites-hiver/fatbike-les-saisies-12.html" target="_blank">Les Saisies offer guided tours</a>.

Why not take advantage of your winter mountain vacation without skiing to indulge in the pleasure of ice skating&nbsp;?&nbsp;Skate at full speed on a frozen surface&nbsp;without too much effort and enjoy the fresh mountain air in complete freedom, that’s what makes for great memories. Many ski resorts offer outdoor ice rinks.

Even better, some Jura lakes are set up for ice skating in winter, such as at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.montagnes-du-jura.fr/hiver-et-neige-dans-les-montagnes-du-jura/bienvenue-dans-le-petite-scandinavie-francaise/le-top-des-lacs-geles-ou-patiner/" target="_blank">lac des Rousses</a>. Enjoy sliding on a frozen lake in complete safety thanks to a marked area and the presence of a ski patroller.

No need to go to Lapland to try this activity in the mountains in winter! Many French mountain resorts now offer this kind of outing. The organizers are often passionate about the dog breed and will gladly tell you all the stories about their four-legged protégés. So take a seat on your sled, enjoy the scenery and let yourself be transported by a team of cheerful dogs who are delighted to show you the mountains!

Do you want a little help for your next snowshoeing trip? If you also like the company of dogs, we recommend you try the cani-raquettes. A 4-legged friend is attached to your waist by a harness and helps you to move forward in the snow, to climb hills and to go a little faster. Something to delight animal and mountain lovers!

Do you have teeth chattering just from reading the title of this activity? Don’t panic, the idea is not to go swimming in frozen water. Well, yes, but you will be equipped with an adapted wetsuit so that you won’t feel the icy temperature of the water (around 2°C). Then, it is a silent and timeless world that awaits you under the ice. You can for example try this unusual and unforgettable activity at the lake of Tignes.

For the thrill-seekers among you, go and admire the magnificent snow-covered peaks from the sky during a paragliding trip! Take off with your skis, let yourself be carried by the wind and enjoy the splendid landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see under your feet.

#10 Tobogganing, a winter mountain activity not just for kids

Looking for a never-before-seen sledding&nbsp;? Have you heard of&nbsp;snowtubing&nbsp;? Take a seat in a big buoy and let yourself slide on the snow&nbsp;! The resort of Font-Romeu, in the Pyrenees, offers this activity for example. For your stay in this resort, we advise you to put your bags at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/en/infrance/orri-de-planes-2/" target="_blank">Orri de Planès</a>, an ecological gite, perfect to recharge your batteries after your day in the snow.

You can also try the&nbsp;snake-gliss&nbsp;: several sleds are hooked together and form like a snake on the snow. In addition to sharing this experience with others, you will be able to go down the snowy slopes at blistering speeds&nbsp;!

Finally, to discover the slopes like skiers, introduce yourself to the&nbsp;paret or yooner. The machine has a skate with a seat on it for you to sit on. A cross between a sled and a ski, this way you can hit the slopes with your skiing friends, even if you’re not a big pro at skiing.

For climbing enthusiasts in search of the unusual, why not try&nbsp;gravating an icefall&nbsp;? Armed with your ice axe, your equipment and the advice of your guide, it’s up to you to climb towards the summits&nbsp;! For example, you can indulge in this activity in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ubaye.com/activites/cascades-de-glace.html" target="_blank">Ubaye Valley in the Alps</a>.

For your stay, we recommend the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/en/infrance/the-gueyniers-family-house/" target="_blank">Family House of Gueyniers</a>, a bed and breakfast located in the heart of the valley, in Jausiers, the perfect place to warm up at the end of your day.

Our tips for organizing a winter mountain vacation without skiing

Don’t&nbsp;neglect the safety aspect in the mountains&nbsp;and go prepared and equipped. For example, here are some aspects to pay particular attention to&nbsp;:

Find resorts that offer these activities in the mountains in winter

To find the resort that offers the activity you’re dreaming of, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.france-montagnes.com/guide-des-stations/stations-de-ski-france" target="_blank">France-Montagnes guide</a>. Choose your preferred geographical area&nbsp;: Northern Alps, Southern Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura, Vosges and Corsica. Then, you just have to filter according to the type of escapade that tempts you the most to find the resorts that offer it. If you want to go further discover&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/en/the_exploractors_blog/how-to-choose-an-ecological-ski-resort/" target="_blank">our tips for choosing an eco-friendly ski resort</a>.

You now have 11 ideas for&nbsp;activities in the mountains in winter&nbsp;to change from skiing&nbsp;! Which adventure would you like to try&nbsp;? Tell us in comments.

Did you like this article&nbsp;? Read on and check out all of our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/en/the_exploractors_blog/green-activities-all-our-ideas-for-your-vacations/" target="_blank">green activity ideas</a>, summer version, to keep under your elbow for the beautiful season.

Article written by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana%C3%AFs-maroteaux-0a3035a9/" target="_blank">Anaïs Maroteaux</a>, SEO web writer&nbsp;&nbsp;

Inspiration voyages - Activités

Une personne au milieu d'une plaine enneigée que l'on suit grace aux traces qu'elle laisse dans la neige avec ses raquettes

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11 ideas for winter activities in the mountains that are different from downhill skiing

A good pair of walking shoes and a backpack: isn't that enough to start a great adventure? In this article, we share with you 6 ideas of mythical treks around the world that can be done without a guide. From the Corsican scrubland to the Himalayas and the icy peaks of Chile, discover 6 great treks rich in discoveries. And because, at Ethik'Hotels, we are convinced that you don't necessarily need to go very far to be amazed, 2 of the proposed hiking trips are in Europe and depart from France. So which of this selection of the most beautiful treks in the world will seduce you for your next escapade ?

Perhaps one of the most beautiful treks in Europe, certainly one of the most demanding, the <a href="https://www.mongr.fr/trouver-prochaine-randonnee/itineraire/gr-20-a-travers-la-montagne-corse">GR20 </a>is not to be presented anymore! Crossing the Isle of Beauty from north to south, from Calenzana to Conca, it is not only famous for its technical passages and its 10 000 meters of cumulated difference in height. If so many hikers explore it, it is also for its splendid sunsets, its breathtaking panoramas on the Mediterranean Sea and on the steep Corsican peaks.

Before leaving, don't forget to book your places in the refuges, which are often crowded, especially in July and August. The GR 20 is mainly for experienced trekkers, as the stages are quite demanding and marked by delicate passages. If you want to train, go to our second idea of treks.

Before or after your trek on the GR20, why not take a break by the sea? It would be a pity not to take advantage of the Mediterranean water with its very pleasant temperature in this period. Discover <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/france/lescale-plage/">the Escale Plage hotel</a>, located on the coast between Ile-Rousse and Calvi and a few kilometers from the northern start of the GR20 in Calenzana.

The Tour du Mont Blanc between France, Switzerland and Italy

Here is a second idea of a European trek accessible from France. Contrary to the previous ones, the <a href="https://www.mongr.fr/trouver-prochaine-randonnee/itineraire/gr-tour-du-mont-blanc-a-saute-frontieres">GR TMB</a> does not present great technical difficulties and is accessible to good walkers. Count 4 to 6 hours of hiking each day to cover the 170 km of the complete itinerary. Variations in 7 days are also available if you are short of time. Between glaciers, mountain pastures, pine forests, green valleys and steep summits, hikers have no time to get bored. And that's without counting on the splendid panoramas on the roof of Europe and the unique experience of crossing borders on foot!

To go further, discover our ideas, tips and best practices for <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/tourisme-vert-france/">green tourism in France</a>.

The tour of the 3 cirques in Reunion Island

Let's stay in France but leave the metropolis to go to Reunion Island! With 3 iconic hiking trails, Reunion Island is an island that can be walked wonderfully well. For this mythical trek, we advise you to discover the 3 cirques which surround the Piton des Neiges, the summit of the island. Culminating at more than 3000 meters of altitude, you will be able to take advantage of your stay to launch you to its ascent.

With this trek, you will be able to experience 3 very different facets of the island:

Hiking in Reunion Island is possible all year round but we advise you to go between April and November to avoid the cyclone season.

For your stay in Reunion Island, we do not have yet an Ethik'Hotel to propose you in the cirques. However, we have a nice selection on the coast. We particularly recommend <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/france/le-saint-pierre/">Le Saint-Pierre</a>, located in the town of the same name. At 2 steps from the beach, you can enjoy the pleasant temperature of the Indian Ocean.

You can also easily reach the bus station of Saint-Louis, the departure point of the bus 60 to Cilaos to start your trip on foot. You will be able to marvel at the prowess of the driver who will transport you on the mythical road with 400 curves in the heart of the cirque.

Tasmania, a small island off the coast of Australia, is a paradise for hikers in search of adventure. Among its many hiking trails, the Overland Track stands out. From Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, the deepest lake in Australia, this 65 km hike will surprise you with its variety of landscapes. Deep valleys, eucalyptus forests and alpine meadows are all part of the trail. For the more adventurous among you, you can extend your stay with the ascent of the highest peak of Tasmania, Mount Ossa, which culminates at 1617 meters.

N.B. Entry to Tasmania's national parks is not free. You will need to purchase an entry fee for the duration of your stay.

Also read: to change from hiking without giving up on slow tourism, discover all our tips for a <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/mobilite-douce/">vacation under the sign of soft mobility.</a>

Do you want to set out on one of the most beautiful treks in the world in the heart of the Himalayas? Even if it is feasible without a guide, this trek is long and is for hardy trekkers. With more than 2 weeks of walking to cover the whole trek and an altitude that climbs to 5400 meters at the Thorong La pass, this trek represents a sporting challenge in its own right. However, the seasoned trekker will be rewarded by a variety of landscapes and sometimes unseen in Europe: rice terraces, tropical plains, alpine landscapes. For your nuisance, lodges are accessible along the way.

Finally, for this last of the most beautiful treks of the world, direction the south of Chile. In the Torres del Plaine National Park, between the Andes Mountains and the Patagonian steppe, this trek is also known as the W trek. Indeed, the path followed by the itinerary has a shape that reminds the letter of the alphabet. On the program, a mythical trek of 80 km in a region cut off from the world that has preserved its unique natural wealth. As the route has gained in popularity in recent years, don't forget to book campsites in advance to take advantage of its breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

You now know 6 of the most beautiful treks in the world. Which ones make you dream? Do you know others to do at least once in your life? Tell us in comments!

Continue reading and discover our <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/vacances-actives/">7 ideas for an active and exotic vacation.</a>

Article written by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana%C3%AFs-maroteaux-0a3035a9/">Anaïs Maroteaux</a>, SEO web writer

Femme de dos avec des bâtons de marche face à des montagnes

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The most beautiful treks in the world: 6 ideas to dream and escape

Whether you're a weekend warrior or an experienced athlete, the vacations are the ideal time to devote more time to sports. However, going on vacation in an eco-responsible way does not mean putting all our efforts aside for this moment of relaxation. It is possible to combine sport and ecology even outside the house. To help you find the right practice we have selected for you X ecological sports to practice at home as well as on your vacation spot.

Hiking, the ecological sport par excellence

Hiking is indeed the first sport you think of when looking for an ecological sport. It has indeed many advantages that play in its favor:

For those who are in top physical condition and who find hiking a little too quiet, trail running is the ideal alternative. It is nothing less than running in the middle of nature. It is most often practiced on rough and steep paths. This will force you to alternate running and fast walking in order to pass everywhere.

Of course, jogging/footing which has more and more followers is also a good alternative which combines sport and ecology. It is a good way to discover a city or your environment during the vacations. The ideal if you can put on your running shoes early before the crowd. This will allow you to discover the place from another angle. It's magical when the city starts to wake up!

Snowshoes the alternative to practice during your ski vacations

Hiking, in addition to being more intense, also has its winter alternative. It is about snowshoeing. We already talked about it in <a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/activites-montagne-hiver/">our article on ecological activities to practice in the mountains in winter</a>. It's really a nature sport that will allow you to enjoy the fresh air and, if you're lucky, to admire the animal tracks in the snow. It is magical!

You can mix the 3 activities with plogging. That is to say that for each of them you can leave with your plastic bag to collect the waste that you will cross on your return. This will have 2 advantages:

For all those who are already addicted to their bike all year round, it would be a shame to lose your good habits on vacation. Especially since you can also practice it during the day to discover your environment or by making it a central element of your vacations. That is to say, by going on a tour for several days or weeks to discover a region or a country. In any case, as for hiking, cycling is accessible to all levels. You just have to choose the right route and adapt it to your desire and physical condition. Especially now that electric assistance is available, it allows a wider public to enjoy it.

For those who want a thrill, you can also try mountain biking. The latter is to cycling what trail riding is to hiking. That is to say that it will require a better physical condition to tackle the turns and the descents; 

Canoeing the ideal combination of sport and ecology

Green sports are not only practiced on land. There are also solutions for water sports enthusiasts. Starting with canoeing and kayaking. It can be practiced in the sea, on a lake or in a river. If there is no strong current, this activity does not require a particular physical condition. It can also allow access to places not accessible by land, isolated beaches for example. 

Moreover, the canoe kayak allows you to get closer to nature without noise and to observe it from another angle. Moreover, the transparent canoes have brought a real novelty for the discovery of the sea bed without having to dive. An experience to try and that you can discover in the video below:

Once again there is a more sportive alternative: rafting. It is practiced on rivers with strong currents. Nevertheless it can be dangerous if you don't know the area well. We can only advise you to go with a professional.

The ideal sail to see the landscape from another angle

Sailing is the eco-responsible water sport par excellence. It allows, by moving away from the coasts, to admire the landscapes in another way. Moreover, being at sea brings calm and serenity. It can also be an opportunity to stop wherever you want to take a dip in the sea. However, be careful when you drop the ink because it can damage the sea bed. Find out before you leave where it is possible to make a stop without danger for the environment.

However, sailing requires experience and maritime knowledge. Do not venture out without being accompanied and/or trained. This will avoid disappointments that can sometimes be very serious. We can only advise you to be vigilant. To go further, check out these <a href="https://mersetbateaux.com/preparer-navigation-croisiere/">tips for preparing a sailboat cruise.</a>

The advantage of yoga is that it is an ecological sport that can be practiced anywhere. All you need is a mat that you will have slipped into your suitcase or that you will be able to find on site. Many establishments offer yoga activities for those who prefer to practice in class.

The real advantage of practicing it on vacation is to be able to do it in places that are a radical change from everyday life: on the beach, with a breathtaking view, on a paddle... the possibilities are endless! It brings an additional relaxation without any doubt.

For those who love horseback riding or want to discover the benefits of this sport, the vacations can also be the ideal time to ride. Indeed, you will have time in front of you to enjoy it serenely. If you are a beginner you will be available to take lessons and learn the basics of this ecological sport.

It will also be the opportunity to discover your environment differently: walk on the beach at sunset, nature rides, itinerant rides... here too the possibilities are endless and you can perfectly adapt it to your desires. However, to make sport and ecology rhyme, if it is not your own horse, make sure that your future teammate is well treated in his pension before leaving on an excursion with him.

magnet fishing, the most unusual ecological sport!

Many people enjoy fishing because it gives them peace and quiet. However, some people don't want to do it anymore because of the impact on the fish. What if we could tell you that you can continue to fish and have a positive impact on the environment? That's what magnet fishing is all about.

Indeed, we talked about plogging above. This practice allows us to collect visible waste but a large part of it is not visible because it is at the bottom of rivers and oceans. The objective of fishing with a magnet is to bring up all this hidden waste and then take it to the appropriate treatment sites. The icing on the cake is that you will also have to go in search of a treasure. It is indeed the great surprise each time you pull up your line: what will you find at the end.

This practice is forbidden in the departments Aisne (02), Mayenne (53), Meuse (55), Oise (60), Bas-Rhin (67), Haut-Rhin (68), and Somme (80). Because of the world wars, there are still many dangerous objects (grenades, shells...) that could cause serious damage if they were brought to the surface without supervision.

In addition, if you find any weapon you must notify the nearest police or gendarmerie.

Our advice on how to make sport and ecology work together

It is not enough to choose an ecological sport to ensure that you control the impact of your practice. Indeed, to be consistent here are some habits that you can take in parallel:

To go further, discover<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/les-10-commandements-du-voyageur-responsable/"> the 10 commandments of the responsible traveler.</a>

Are you ready to take the plunge into ecological sports during your vacation, thanks to our advice? Tell us in comments if you have already taken the plunge or if you will think about it for your next vacation.

sport écologique - homme de dos avec un coupe vent jaune courant sur un pont de signe au dessus des arbres

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Practicing an ecological sport is also possible on vacation

When we decide to organize a&nbsp;responsible vacation, we quickly think about our mode of transportation or our accommodation. However, we often forget to anticipate the activities that we will be able to practice on site. And, let’s face it, it would be a shame not to follow through and ruin our efforts. And yes, unfortunately, even today on the resorts, it is not the&nbsp;natural and responsible activities&nbsp;that are the most promoted.&nbsp;Sustainable tourism&nbsp;is not yet part of everyone’s habits. So to make it easier for you, we propose a selection of green activities that you can practice during your next&nbsp;eco responsible vacations.

Vacations are, above all, the time to take time. All year long we run after the watch. We run to pick up the kids at school, to arrive on time for the next meeting… So let’s take advantage of this moment that is offered to us to&nbsp;breathe and stop running. That’s why my first advice is to become a fan of&nbsp;Slow Tourism. This concept is fully in line with the sustainable tourism movement by encouraging us to move less and enjoy what is around us.

So the very first advice we can give you is to Live in the moment. One idea is to&nbsp;take a nap,&nbsp;reconnect with your biological clock. This will really recharge your batteries. It is not easy to fall asleep in the afternoon when you are not 5 years old anymore. The idea is to give yourself some quiet time, to live the present moment by&nbsp;listening to the sounds of nature, by reading a book.

Slow tourism: synonymous with reconnection

Also, don’t forget to&nbsp;disconnect&nbsp;from your computers and cell phones. This is the key to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. It can also be an opportunity to play some great board games with family and friends. And why not try some games about our planet for a change. Here are 5&nbsp;committed board games:

It is better to&nbsp;see less but better. The goal here is to stop running after your to-do / to-see list. We want to encourage you to reduce your To Do to a minimum and&nbsp;make the most&nbsp;of every moment. This way you will live fully from all the things you do. Your mind will really be here and now and not already on the next step.

Take advantage of the vacations to practice outdoor activities

After spending the year locked up in our workplace, we all aspire to enjoy the&nbsp;fresh air. To take full advantage of this and not give in to the ease of turning on the television, it is necessary to have in mind some ideas of&nbsp;natural activities&nbsp;that we can easily practice. And the good news is that you can do them at your vacation spot as well as at home if you don’t have the opportunity to leave.

Walking, an ecological activity par excellence

One of the simplest ecological activities is of course walking: no special equipment is required and it can be done anywhere. So if you are sporty, you will naturally turn to&nbsp;hiking. You can find easily accessible paths everywhere. In France alone, there are no less than 180 000 km of marked trails. I invite you to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ffrandonnee.fr/" target="_blank">the website of the French Federation of Hiking</a>. You will be able to discover many paths around your vacation place.

For the less athletic,&nbsp;walking&nbsp;does not require a particular technical level. It can be done over short distances, but it can also amaze us. The proof: many of us have rediscovered our neighborhood thanks to our authorized mile. Finally, you just have to&nbsp;open your eyes&nbsp;and miracle: it doesn’t cost anything, neither to our wallet, nor to the nature. So let’s take advantage of it!

If walking is not your thing but you still want to go out in nature, the second easy ecological activity is&nbsp;cycling. Whatever your level and your desire, you can find something to please you: mountain bike, VTC, road bike. There is really something for everyone. What is really perfect with the bike is that&nbsp;you can ride it everywhere: in town, on steep mountain roads, on country roads or to go to the beach! There are more and more bike rental companies on the vacation spots. A good reason not to miss this opportunity. It’s also a good reason to put down the car even for everyday use.

We know that today the&nbsp;electric bike&nbsp;is the must have. However, if you can do without it, we can only encourage you to do so. In spite of the considerable interest that it brings to the level of the facility, let us not forget that it is equipped with a battery and that it needs electricity to recharge itself.

The little extra tip:If you want to go for a day trip, don’t forget your zero waste kit in your luggage. You don’t know what I’m talking about? Check out our article “<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/vacances-zero-dechet/" target="_blank">Zero waste vacations: let’s take the challenge together!</a>“

Depending on where you are, you may also be able to practice other ecological sports activities such as&nbsp;climbing,&nbsp;paragliding…

Whether you are by the sea, in the mountains or in the countryside, you will probably have a water source nearby. It can be the sea, a river, a lake… You will then be spoilt for choice. As for the electric bike,&nbsp;we encourage you to prefer non-motorized activities.

At the sea&nbsp;the offer is very large. Here is an overview:&nbsp;windsurfing, surfing, sand yachting, sea kayaking, pedal boats, kite surfing, sailing, paddle, snorkeling… Get in touch with tourism professionals to find out what green activities are available at your vacation spot. Many beach clubs will be able to offer you courses of any level. They can also offer you to rent the equipment, so you can arrive with your hands in your pockets!

In the mountains and on the rivers you can practice activities with a bit of sensation like&nbsp;rafting&nbsp;or&nbsp;canyoning. If you prefer more gentle activities, think of&nbsp;kayaking. This allows you to discover the landscape in a different way. Indeed the point of view is completely different.

A little extra advice:Don’t forget to use a sun cream that respects the sea bed. If you don’t know any consult our article “<a href="https://www.ethik-hotels.com/fr/le-blog-des-exploracteurs/on-ne-bronze-plus-sans-creme-solaire-mais-pas-avec-nimporte-quel-creme-non-plus/" target="_blank">We don’t tan anymore without sunscreen but not with just any sunscreen either!</a>“

Regenerative tourism: the new ecological activities that are on the rise

Regenerative tourism&nbsp;is a concept that has emerged recently. It has emerged with the awareness of the impact of tourism on our environment. The objective is to leave the place visited in a better state than when we arrived. The visitor becomes a real actor of his vacations.

To achieve this regenerative tourism several solutions can be implemented:

Concerning these activities, there are more and more of them organized on the vacation places. It can be to&nbsp;plant trees,&nbsp;to clean up&nbsp;beaches or natural areas,&nbsp;to participate in a collaborative work camp… And if this type of action is not set up where you will be, nothing prevents you from doing it alone. You can indeed plan a day of cleaning nature near your home with your friends and family!

Once you have listed all these activities, you still have to find out where and how to practice them. Here again, many solutions are available to you:

We hope we’ve given you some ideas for green activities to make your next vacation even more responsible. What is the idea that interests you the most? Don’t hesitate to tell us in comments. In the same way, let us know if there is an idea missing in this proposal. We will update this article to share it with other explorers.

activités ecologiques - randonneur sur une crète surplombant un paysage montagneux spectaculaire. Des sapins recouvrent une coline

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Green activities: all our ideas for your vacations

When we decide to organize a responsible vacation, we quickly think about our mode of transportation or our accommodation. However, we often forget to anticipate the activities that we will be able to practice on site.

The Blog of the Explor'Actors are articles where we offer you good ideas, information, inspiration (…) about sustainable tourism and ecotourism. The objective is that we may everyone, everywhere travel more responsibly

Let's make your next trip an exotic, unique and eco-responsible experience!

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