European Eco-Holidays
The increasing global concern over climate change has led to a growing trend in sustainable travel. Eco-tourism is now a profitable industry, with thousands of tourists spurning traditional package holidays in search of more environmentally-friendly alternatives. New Zealand, Australia and Brazil are all attempting to attract visitors with their pristine environments, but green-inclined British holiday makers would do better to look closer to home.
Europe offers a wide range of eco-destinations – and, with cheap flights and a lower jet-generated carbon footprint, it makes sense to go short haul. You can also go with a budget airline such as Fly Monarch to cut your personal costs, so you’re free to offset money against your flight. Here are three of the best European eco-trips out there.
ECEAT – Poland
If you’re interested in organic food production, why not combine a trip to Poland with a few lessons in organic farming? The European Centre for Agriculture supports around 100 small farms in Poland which host visitors and teach them about rural Polish communities. Camp or stay in environmentally friendly lodgings, and enjoy organised tours of the farms while confident that your fee provides extra income for the farmer. You can also use the farm you stay at as a base to explore the surrounding area.
Adriatic Dolphin Project (ADP) – Croatia
The Adriatic Sea supports thousands of bottle-nosed dolphins, and now tourists are being given the opportunity to study them in their natural environment. Experience the beauty of the Croatian coast and help preserve the habitat of dolphins when you sign up as a paying volunteer with the ADP. Activities include counting the dolphins and describing their behaviour, as well as cooking, shopping and washing dishes. It’s a great opportunity to get involved with a region rather than visiting it simply as a tourist.
La Sabranenque – France
Those with a passion for all things French will be thrilled by the restoration holidays offered by a group called La Sabranenque. Based in southern Provence, the group leads on-going projects which they invite travellers to join. Live in a traditional stone village house, eat homemade family meals and spend your days learning about stone craft. You’ll find yourself engaged on restoring the architecture of the region, including that of local castles. La Sabranenque also offers programmes in Italy.