If you’re ready to pack your bags and head to the Old Continent, you should perhaps first read this article to learn which are the countries that have bested the core principles of ecotourism.
Of course, there are eco-friendly activities in countries outside this list, but if you want to learn about the countries most committed to providing ecotourist options, then this is the article for you. We will tell you how each of these countries has won its place on our list, as well as ecotourist spots you can visit there.
Iceland
The least densely populated country in Europe is a natural pretender as leader of ecotourism on the continent. Still, it would be a mistake to claim that the only reason Iceland took the first spot is because of its vast wilderness.
Iceland is truly committed to conserving each and every bit of its gorgeous landscapes and it does so with every piece of legislation it passes. For instance, Iceland is the cleanest energy user in the world with 75% of its energy generated from natural sources. It also has a plethora of government programs to curb pollution, greenhouse emissions, and deforestation.
Iceland even holds annual Environmental Awards that are given to the tourist accommodations that are committed to protecting its beautiful nature.
Our recommendation: Thingvellir National Park. This national park is located 40 km away from the capital, and it’s thus very easily accessible. Iceland used to hold its parliament there for 1,000 years, so the site is also of great historical importance.
Norway
Nordic countries are famously eco-friendly, so it’s no surprise that you see so many of them on this list. Norway, however, is specifically a leader of ecotourism.
The Norwegian company, Romsdal Aktiv, was established in 1982 with the idea to popularise ecotourism in the country by offering ecotourist activities such as tours of the famous fjords. The ecotourism industry in Norway is thus well established and you can rest assured that your impact on nature would be minimal.
Our recommendation: The Norwegian Fjords, naturally. Many tourists choose to see them while on a cruise, but cruise ships are among the biggest polluters, so we suggest you fly to Norway (or use a train/bus if you can) and then board a ferry to the fjords.
Sweden
Sweden is yet another Nordic country that has proven its excellence in preserving its natural beauty. The Scandinavian country holds the “Nature’s Best” certificate, awarded to states that have successfully implemented ecotourism principles. Sweden was one of the first countries to create a law regarding ecotourism.
The Ecotourism Society of Sweden provides valuable information about the best ecotourism spots in the country, as well as the many eco-friendly activities such as wildlife spotting. They also have a list of approved ecotourism companies that you can choose from.
Our recommendation: Aurora Sky Station. Everyone must see Aurora Borealis at least once in their lives and this is the perfect place to experience it. You can also spectate the famous Midnight Sun (when the day is 24 hours long) there.
Spain
Spain has been a supporter of ecotourism since the 1990’s and it’s already one of the biggest producers of wind energy (if you’re lucky you might catch Don Quixote fighting a wind turbine).
In recent years, the southern country has introduced a lot of green initiatives to its biggest (and most visited) cities such as Barcelona to combat pollution and deforestation. You can travel around by foot, bike, or green taxis on your way to eco-friendly restaurants offering sustainable food.
Alternatively, you can explore the lovely Spanish countryside that has so many ecotourist attractions to offer like visits to small towns where you can see lots of freely grazing cattle and you can get a taste of the delicious cheese they produce.
Our recommendation: The Cabrera Archipelago National Park. This area, covering many small isles, has been largely ignored by humans, which fortunately helped its preservation. The national park is home to unique flora and fauna that would make for an unforgettable trip.
Romania
Romania has recently become a hotspot for ecotourists due to the wonderful organisation known as the Romanian Ecotourism Association (AER). This organisation gives you extensive information on Romanian nature, as well as culture. You can find eco-friendly accommodation to experience the beauty of the Romanian Highlands and more.
There are many fun, and eco, activities as well. For example, you can mount a horse or ride on a horse buggy, or you can take a bike to explore your surroundings. There are also many ethnographic activities, which allow you to learn more about Romanian customs of the past and present.
Our recommendation: Bison Land. See the gorgeous European bison in their natural habitat that you help preserve by investing in Romanian ecotourism.