Discover the most beautiful corners of the Alps, those that can only be reached on foot: views that only people who are willing to make an effort can admire. Experience the excitement of reaching the top of a peak, of breathing light and fresh air, of seeing chamois running through the meadows … Put on comfortable shoes and prepare the backpack: here are five recommended walking routes across the Alpine Pearls.

1.Tremis di Cermignon – France

Stéphane Enten via Flickr

This Pearl, at the border with Val di Susa is surrounded by the majestic mountain peaks of the Vanoise National Park with its glaciers. You can explore intact nature, walking along the approximately 350km of paths through the wilderness Maurienne Vanoise. An unforgettable round-trip through the entire region is the Grand Tour de Haute Maurienne. The route is divided into ten stages, each lasting from 4 to 8 hours walking, crossing the most beautiful corners, including alpine huts, clear pools and stone villages. Depending on your freetime (…and your fitness!), you can decide whether to follow it enterely or only along some of the stages.

2. Val di Funes – Italy

Nicola Bursi Gandolfi via Flickr

Here we are, in South Tyrol, in the heart of Puez-Odle National Park, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dolomites standing inbetween candid blue skies and fresh green lawns. Trekking routes through the valley are really a lot and of course, after the effort you can enjoy excellent traditional dishes in cozy alpine huts! I suggest an original idea if you are on vacation with your children. The Mineral Museum of Tiso has created some walking paths to explore the geological and botanical characteristic of the territory. One of these is the circular path to the pond called “Mesner Lake”. It starts from the central square of the village of Tiso, heading north, toward a small lake. A comfortable path, that can be easily followed by strollers and wheelchairs, goes around the pond. There are also many benches from which you can enjoy the sun, watching at dragonflies dancing and listening to the concert of frogs, while your children are playing all around. Some fragments of rocks tell the geological history of the area. You can decide to go back passing through the “Kårrner Waldele” playground and the hill of “Schelmbühl”.

3. Mallnitz – Austria

ffgc.slf via Flickr

Take a walk through Hohe Tauern National Park, a real paradise for trekking lovers, with its three valleys, crossed by 200km of trails and walking paths even at high altitude. An interesting path is the “Roman trail”. It starts from Mallnitz and reaches Sportgastein following an ancient Roman road. Along the way you will also find references to the history of the place. Merge yourself with the nature of the Hohe Tauern and discover the consequences of climate change on the territory, including rocky moraines of ancient glaciers.

4. Arosa – Swiss

chripell via Flickr

A walking holiday in Arosa is ideal for those seeking tranquility. The particular position differentiates this Swiss Pearl from other hiking areas in the surroundings. Between the village of Arosa and Weißhorn meet unique limestone cliffs. This unusual combination is ideal for life of over 900 species of flowers, ferns, mosses and mushrooms. 200 km of walking and hiking trails are waiting for you to enjoy the unique spectacle of nature. Get an hiking map and start your journey through beautiful forests, with crystal clear alpine lakes or pointing up into the peaks of 3000 meters. Arosa expect you with hiking tours for all tastes!

5. Ceresole Reale – Italy

Associazione Amici del Gran Paradiso via Flickr

Let us move to Piedmont, in the Gran Paradiso National Park, between glaciers, cliffs and mountain peaks. Start your walk from Ceresole and hike through the park: this is one of the stages of the Grand Tour of Piedmont, an hiking trail through the Alps, from the Tanaro Valley to Lake Maggiore! Here is an interesting route from Ceresole (1584m), to Lake Dres (2087m) in 3 hours, following an easy path! The trail starts from the paved road along the south side of Lake Ceresole, in near of Villa Poma. The wide path, after about ten minutes forks, from one side to the Passo della Crocetta, the other towards Lake Dres and Refuge Leonesi. After passing the main stream, the trail winds within one of the most interesting coniferous forests of the Park, including larches, firs and stone pine. It continues in a picturesque expanse of pastures in the presence of the Eastern Levanna and you will reach the glacial basin filled by the lake, near which you can spot the common frog, the species that lays its eggs in mountain lakes above 2500 m quote!

Cover image: max guitare via Flickr

The article 5 walking routes in the Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Are you looking for an original idea for your next holiday? I recommend ten wonderful destinations that can be reached directly by train in the Alps

From Germany to Slovenia, passing through Austria and Italy, experience the magic of train stations, amid the noise of the trains on the tracks and the chatter of tourists and commuters! It is even more magical, arriving in the most beautiful places of the Alps without the stress of traffic and many hours at the wheel. So pack your bags, grab a good book, and sit comfortably on a chair, possibly by the window… the journey is served! Next stop…

1. Interlaken – Switzerland

Interlaken, Switzerland is one of the best destinations for a holiday by train in the Alps. Photo by Mark Weston via Flickr

In the heart of the Bernese Oberland, in the Jungfrau region,  surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains, meet the beautiful Pearl of Interlaken, easily accessible from all the Swiss cities with regional trains, Intercity and Eurocity. From here you can easily get around by bus and train in the whole Jungfrau region and explore the magnificent alpine valleys, ideal for those who love trekking.

Where to stay: Alphotel Eiger, ideal for excursions in the Jungfrau region!

2. Les Diablerets – Switzerland

Photo by Guy Mayer via Flickr

At 1200m of altitude, between Lake Geneva and Gstaad, lies this cozy mountain village, ideal for staying in nature and practice outdoor activities, from hiking to climbing, from canyoning to paragliding. Nearby, wonderful ski areas and many toboggan runs are waiting for wonderful holidays in the snow. This village, where you can still feel the mountain tradition, is easily reached by train. Direct lines depart from the major Swiss cities and arrive in Aigle, from where it continues with convenient connections, along the line Aigle – Sépey – Les Diablerets, crossing picturesque valleys.

3. Bad Reichenhall – Germany

Bad Reichenhall is one of the best destinations for a holiday by train in the Alps. Photo by beta.robot via Flickr

Bad Reichenhall is a picturesque town in southern Germany, known for its thermal baths Rupertus, ideal place for a holiday of relaxation and wellness. But this Pearl also offers charming trekking paths and an extensive network of bike paths, to enjoy the beautiful landscapes! The city is easily accessible by train, thanks to its central location and many railway lines that surround it.

Where to stay: Hotel Haus Amberger, rooms and apartments with views of the mountains!

4. Neukirchen – Austria

Photo by Simon via Flickr

At the foot of the Grosvenediger, in Hohe Tauern Natural Park, surrounded peaks over 3000m and fascinating glaciers, lies the Alpine Pearl of Neukirchen. Here you will find so much to do, both in summer and winter, in a territory rich in natural beauty and tradition. Leave your car in the garage you take advantage of the Pinzgau regional railway, which connects the railway station Zell am See to Neukirchen am Großvenediger.

Where to stay: Wanderhotel Gassner, for a stay in the scent of wood.

5. Hinterstoder – Austria

Hinterstoder is one of the best destinations for a holiday by train in the Alps. Photo by Speichersee Hösskogel – Peter Krimbacher via Flickr

Among the Alps in Austria, at the foot of the Totes Gebirge and the unspoilt nature of its valleys, lies this Pearl, with its small churches with rounded roofs and its pretty wooden cottages. Explore the Stoder valley with cross-country skis, along the 120 km of trails crossing it. Hinterstoder train station is easily accessible from the surrounding Swiss cities. From here, frequent bus services will take you to the village, located about 12 km. The guest card Pyhrn-Priel Card will make even the simplest movements.

Where to stay: Berghof Sturmgut, for a perfect holiday in the snow!

6. Bled – Slovenia

Bled is one of the best destinations for a holiday by train in the Alps. Photo by Tania Caruso via Flickr

In the heart of the Triglav National Park, nestled along the banks of a freshwater lake, lies the pearl of Bled, surrounded by peaks that only a few people know. It is here that the chain of the Alps begins! Thanks to the richness of the landscape, Bled is ideal if you like water sports if you are looking for exciting trekking routes. Bled is easily accessible by train. There are two railway stations: the Lesce-Bled railway station (4 km from the city center), situated on the international railway Monaco-Salzburg-Villach-Ljubljana and the national line Jesenice-Ljubljana. The Bled Jezero station (3 km from the city center) is on the line Villach-Jesenice-Nova Gorica-Gorizia and on the national line Jesenice-Nova Gorica.

7. Cogne – Italy

Are you planning to visit the Alps by train? Cogne is one of the best destinations. Photo by Anita Cason

A pretty alpine village, at the foot of the Gran Paradiso, surrounded by the nature of the oldest Natural Park in Italy. This is an untouched corner of the Valle d’Aosta, where the road ends and gives space to trails and cross-country skiing paths, which penetrate through woods and streams. Paradise of ice climbing and hiking, the valley is populated in summer as in winter. Not to be missed are the traditional dishes to be enjoyed in the warm wood and stone huts. Cogne is easily reached by public transport: by train to Aosta, and then from there, we enter the valley by bus.

Where to stay: Hotel du Grand Paradis, ancient charm, and typical Alpine atmosphere!

8. Limone Piemonte – Italy

David Boardman via Flickr

This Pearl is a beautiful destination, located at 1000m of altitude, at the border with France and the exclusive resort of Nice and Monaco. From here you can explore the Maritime Alps or enjoy skiing in the surrounding areas. The train station, on the international railway Turin-Cuneo-Ventimiglia, is located directly in the center of Limone Piemonte.

Where to stay: Hotel Bragard, quality, and services, feel at home!

9. Werfenweng – Austria

Joachim Götz via Flickr

This is the Pearl of electric mobility. This charming Austrian village in Salzburg area is easily reached by train, arriving to Bischofshofen station and then using the convenient service of the Werfenweng-Shuttle, free for owners of SAMO-Card. Exploring Werfenweng and the surrounding area is easy using bicycles, motorcycles and electric cars, waiting for you here for free! There are spacious areas for cross-country and track skiing, ideal for a perfect holiday in the snow and great adventures on dogsledges!

Where to stay: B&B Steinerhof, in the mountains of Salzburg.

10. Malles – Italy

Venosta Valley – st3c via Flickr

Malles is a beautiful Pearl in Venosta Valley, located on the valley floor surrounded by apple orchards and snowy peaks. The train arrives from Merano at the station in the city-center, passing through beautiful landscapes. Come to enjoy the warm hospitality of South Tyrol! After a day spent in nature, enjoy the saunas and the delicious local dishes.

Where to stay: Alpin & Relax Hotel Das Gerstl, an elegant family-run hotel.

Cover image: Matteo Galli via Flickr

The article Traveling by train in the Alps: 10 must-see destinations! was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Green and Luxury: 10 ideas for a memorable holiday in the Alps

Let’s leave together for a journey through the most beautiful mountains in Europe, staying between luxury and nature, in beautiful hotels or resorts that have managed to combine maximum comfort with respect for nature.

Among wellness and Ladin culture

The fresh mountain air, the snow-covered landscapes or covered with greenery, and the profile of the Dolomites: the Active Hotel Olympic awaits you for an unforgettable holiday.
Why it’s green: powered by clean energy, this hotel uses local products, ecological detergents, and flow reducers for water.
Why it’s luxury: an exclusive spa, a gourmet restaurant to taste the flavors of the territory, and incredible suites make Active Hotel Olympic a true luxury hotel.
You can’t miss: Val di Fassa offers thousands places, from its nature to its traditions and its flavors. A perfect place for active holidays, including skiing and mountain biking!

Green and Luxury hotel between the Hohe Tauern

In Mallnitz, Austrian Alpine Pearl, you’ll find the 4-star Alpengarten. An intimate atmosphere and excellent cuisine will make your mountain holiday truly special.
Why it’s green: the hotel is committed daily to saving energy and water, with flow reducers and energy-saving light bulbs. It is also car-free accessible and prefers local products.
Why it’s luxury: not giving up the typical Austrian style, the hotel offers every comfort and a careful attention to each guest.
You can’t miss: Mallnitz is a small Austrian town in the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park. Here we recommend you to admire the Krimmler waterfalls.

The green & luxury dream of an enveloping wellness

We move in South Tyrol, to stop in Luttach, in the Ahrntal. Here is the Alpin & Spa Resort Schwarzenstein, a beautiful hotel dedicated to your wellness.
Why it’s green: the restaurant uses genuine, seasonal, and exclusively local products. The building has been recently restored following the principles of ecological design.
Why it’s luxury: 10 different saunas, 9 indoor and outdoor pools, 100 wellness treatments, a gourmet restaurant, and much more for all the luxury you are looking for.
You can’t miss: you must visit the valley of Ahrntal, every landscape will leave you breathless.

The luxury of a breathtaking view of Gran Paradiso

Here we are at the center of Cogne, one of the Alpine Pearls of Italy, at the 4-star Hotel Sant’Orso.
Why is green: the hotel is committed to protecting the environment, choosing local ingredients, buying energy-saving light bulbs and recycling. There also water flow reducers.
Why it’s luxury: it would be enough for the incredible view from your room to make you feel like a king, but the hotel also features a beautiful rooftop pool, set in a 500sqm spa.
You can’t miss: among the many wonders that Cogne offers, we recommend the beautiful fall from Lillaz and the Sant’Orso meadows.

A natural holiday in a modern designed hotel

The Austrian Travel Charme Bergresort, in Werfenweng, manages to give its guests the perfect blend of green & luxury, nature, and modern comforts.
Why it’s green: The restaurant serves delicacies made from regional products and you can rent bikes and electric cars.
Why it’s luxury: the interior of the hotel has been designed by the Italian designer Lorenzo Bellini, who created a contemporary and luxury setting.
You can’t miss: in Werfenweng you’ll find the largest ice caves in the world, truly impressive.

Directly on the slopes

Not only green & luxury but also direct access to the largest Austrian ski resort: the Ski Amade. We are in Wagrain, at Naturhotel Edelweiss Wagrain.
Why it’s green: the water is heated by the sun, and the rooms are clean with environmentally friendly detergents. The restaurant chooses local products. Here in 2010 the first built passive pool in Austria was inaugurated.
Why it’s luxury: the hotel has a really wonderful Green Spa (which uses only 25% of the energy compared to a traditional one), with panoramic views. Guestrooms also offer every comfort and the restaurant invites you to experience a true culinary experience.

The warmth of family hospitality and the luxury of the best hotels

We remain in Austria to discover Ischgl and Solaria Hotel, perfect for an active holiday, both in winter and in summer.
Why it’s green: the hotel, in green architecture, has solar panels, light bulbs, and eco-friendly cleaning products.
Why it’s luxury: the rooms in this hotel are full of charm, and the spa offers exclusive beauty treatments and excellent gourmet restaurants.
You can’t miss: this small Austrian town is famous for the nearby ski slopes and the many mountain bike trails. In addition, the summer is organized every year by the mountain bike race “Ischgl Ironbike” with three levels of difficulty.

Green and Luxury experience between tradition and modernity

Among the Austrian mountains, we can not miss the Hotel Übergossenen Alm, in Dienten, where we find incredible views and many opportunities to explore nature.
Why it’s green: the accommodation is committed to protecting the nature that surrounds it, using only local products and clean energy.
Why it’s luxury: a superb kitchen, 1800 square meters dedicated to your well-being, and rooms where modernity and tradition create the perfect place to rest.

Your luxurious retreat in South Tyrol

Let’s go back in Luttach, in the heart of the Ahr Valley, where we are greeted by the 5 stars-hotel Alpen Palace.
Why it’s green: solar panels provide clean energy, and food is local.
Why it’s luxury: here you have, in a charming setting, free 24/7 room service, a 30.000m2 recreational park with swimming pools, alpine garden and relaxation islands, an elegant bar, a gourmet restaurant and the most exclusive Spa in the region.

Green & Luxury Untertauern, small Austrian village

Our journey among luxury hotels ends in the Austrian mountains, within walking distance of amazing ski slopes. Here there’s the 4-star Superior Wellnesshotel Lürzerhof that welcomes us with a welcome drink.
Why it’s green: the restaurant uses regional products. It is accessible without a car, the cleaning products are environmentally friendly and light bulbs are low consumption.
Why it’s luxury: the property boasts a large spa area with an outdoor swimming pool, 6 different saunas and steam baths, numerous relaxation rooms, and a wellness garden.

The article Green and luxury holiday among the Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

To discover foliage, the magic that transforms the trees creating colourful artworks, the woods under Pale di San Martino are the perfect place. Here you have 5 itineraries you cannot miss!

Autumn is one of the most charming seasons in the mountains. This thanks to the trees which lose thousands of colourful leaves and days that are chill in the morning and night, but warm during the day. The foliage of the trees during this period of the year takes different shades, from red to yellow and orange….is the magic of autumn!

Making you surrounded by the resin and musk smell. Hearing the crunch of the leaves under the feet and the noise of a stream that flows far away, walking among the warm colours of larches, firs, beeches and birches is a relaxing experience that makes you enter in contact with nature. Foliage is a show not just for the eyes but also for the soul. And if to this you add the beauty of the Dolomites, the result is astonishing! That’s why we suggest you five autumn itineraries in the Alpin Pearl of Primiero, San Martino di Castrozza.

1. Twists of time

This itinerary is more or less 7 kilometres long and it extends into the woods surrounding Sagron Mis. Is a place to discover – on foot or by horse – within the Natural Park Paneveggio Pale di San Martino and the National Park of the Bellunese Dolomites. To reach the path you can leave the car in the parking located close to Giasenei Chalet and Observatory Tower T3. Then you can enter the marvellous forest of firs and beeches. Here you can enjoy the colourful show of the leaves falling from the trees. This itinerary winds along old trails. Thanks to the 16 informative totems and 3 interpretative harps you can discover numerous stories and curiosities about the local population.

2. Cordognè San Giovanni

This path is located in half mountain. It goes up in the forests of one of the most charming villages in Italy: Mezzano. The itinerary has a ring shape and is possible to complete it in two hours and a half. We suggest you walk on this path during autumn since the foliage is spectacular during this season. Along the itinerary, there are various glimpses of Pale di San Martino, Pavione Mount, San Giovanni and the blue water of Val Nona lake. So this is the perfect place to take amazing pictures. Along the way, there are numerous benches where you can stop to enjoy this marvellousness.

3. Path of the giant trees

This path is named like that because it will make you discover secular trees, high 50 metres, that look like they are guarding Val Nona. Here you can find white and red larches, firs and beeches. These trees, during autumn, assume colours like fire and transform the landscape into a breathtaking view.
The path is divided into two parts, which both begin from the forestry house of Valpiana. The first itinerary is the shortest and is more or less 2,7 kilometres long. Is ideal for whoever wants to enjoy the silence and have a brief walk to enjoy the forest’s landscape. The second path is more or less 7,3 kilometres long. From it you can reach the pastures of Malga Val de Stua. This is for sure the most scenic point of the whole route. Here you can have the possibility to admire the landscape in the quiet and silence of nature. You will have an amazing view of the Primiero Valley with Pale di San Martino, Lagorai Mountain Chain and Feltrine Mountains in the background.

4. Capitel de la Fratta

This path is located outside of the most common routes, here is possible to find peace and silence. Anyway, you can find incredible glimpses also here. The path begins from the ancient rural village of Ronco Cainari, which makes you discover ancient traditions. Before entering the forest, you will find an ancient water mill that has been restored for educative purposes.

Later you will continue for an old path immersed in the wood. Here is possible to find various points where you can stop for a break and admire the surroundings. Larches, firs and beeches with their gold foliage create a suggestive scenario. Once you reach Capitello you can enjoy an amazing view of the Vanoi Valley on the spectacular Pale di San Martino.

5. Muse Fedaie’s path

This path is located in Val Canali. It extends into the surroundings of Villa Welsperg, the headquarters of the park Paneveggio Pale di San Martino. This itinerary is named like that because along it there are different “legni”, points dedicated to the goddesses of Greek mythology. These panels invite the hiker to think about biodiversity. They are meant also to have a break moment to admire the beauty of Pale di San Martino, which forms a natural amphitheatre.

Walking along this path is healthy for the soul and mind: here you can find an area where is possible to experiment with the Kneipp method. Here you can find also a sensorial path dedicated to the geological peculiarities of the place, where is possible to walk barefoot on 250 million years old rock. You cannot stop also at Welsperg lake. Here the Dolomites reflect in this little alpine lake, creating an amazing view with autumn colours.

So, are you impatient to enter the forest for a walk in the thousands of shades of foliage? Don’t forget your camera and leave for the adventure!

The article Foliage, what a passion! 5 autumn itineraries among Pale di San Martino, North Italy was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Do you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Italian Alps combining relaxation and nature? Discover 10 eco-sustainable houses ideal for your vacation

The Italian Alps are one of the most charming mountain chains in Europe. Here combined relaxation, sport and amusement give life to an unforgettable holiday. If you are planning a vacation within this amazing and wonderful mountain chain, we suggest you 10 beautiful and eco-sustainable houses in the Alps. You can choose among eco-chalet, ancient farms, wooden houses and villages renovated in a green way. In short, there are houses for every taste.

1. In Valdosta style – Independent house with garden

This typical house made of stone and wood is located in Villeneuve in the Valle d’Aosta region. This eco-sustainable house is located in the context of a typical mountain village. It has also a garden where you can find peace. The house is located in a strategic zone, far away just 10 minutes from Aosta. It is also an excellent starting point to visit castles, Prè St Didier thermal baths and other villages such as Cogne, Rhemes Notre and Dame.

2. Under the “Pale di San Martino” – Casa Partel

This immersed in nature eco-friendly apartment is located exactly in front of the astonishing Pale di San Martino (Siror, province of Trento). The apartment is located on the first floor so is easily accessible by everyone. You can also relax in the wide garden equipped with a barbecue, deckchair and umbrella. Moreover, if you are passionate about bikes or even a simple walk, nearby the apartment there is the cycle path.

3. Eco-chalet near Stenico and Terme di Comano – Maso Azzurro Chalet

This eco-chalet is immersed in the wonderful nature of the Natural Park Adamello Brenta (Premione, Trentino). You will be amazed by the sight of the forest and the valley that you can enjoy from the two panoramic terraces. The terraces are equipped with hammocks and pillows. The breakfast, made with excellent, authentic and local products, is served on the terrace or near the romantic fireplace. This chalet is located just 5 minutes away by car from the centre of Stenico and Comano Terme, 15 kilometres away from Molveno lake and 22 kilometres away from Andalo. In short, is the ideal starting point for whoever wants to combine sport and relax among the natural beauties of Trentino.

4. Two eco-sustainable farms in Val dei Mocheni

Odomi Maso: this eco-chalet is immersed in a wide property, in Val dei Mocheni, precisely in Sant’Orsola Terme (province of Trento). Here you can find peace, relaxation and nature. You can also participate in the numerous activities that are organized during various periods of the year for adults and children. The farm is an ideal starting point for hikes, moreover, the centre of the village is just two kilometres away.

Maso del Fieno: this ancient mountain farm, is located in Sant’Orsola Terme as well, and has been renovated in an eco-sustainable way. This eco-chalet immersed in nature is equipped with various comforts such as a sauna and barbecue. The peculiarity of this farm is that the beds are made with ancient wood and as a base for the mattresses hay bales have been used. So if you want to discover ancient farmer traditions, this place is the one right for you. The farm is also an ideal starting point for eco-tourism itineraries, to walk on foot, by horse or by bike in summer. In winter you can also have fun on skiing tracks. Caldonazzo lake is located just 15 kilometres away, Levico just 21 and Trento 25.

5. In the Alpin Pearl of Primiero San Martino – Casa Faoro

This eco-house is located in Transacqua, in the amazing Alpin Pearl of San Martino di Castrozza (province of Trento). You will be amazed by the wonderful sight you can enjoy from the terrace on the Pale di San Martino, either in summer or in winter. The village of Fiera di Primiero is located just 10 minutes away on foot. You can reach it by walking along the torrent Cismon. During summer you can relax in the wide garden, while during the winter you can reach easily the skiing tracks.

6. Ancient village in Valle Maira – Borgata Sagna Rotonda

This eco-sustainable village is immersed in the uncontaminated nature of the Piedmontese mountains, in the village of Sagna Rotonda. The village has been abandoned for years, and it has been recovered in an eco-sustainable way. The purpose of the renovation was bringing back its original splendour and building 13 apartments. Here you will have the opportunity to discover a valley on the border with France that is still a little bit unknown but rich in charm. It’s the ideal place for lovers of hikes and treks. Here you can pick up freely vegetables from the organic garden. You can also taste the local products in the little shop of the village. This ancient village is the right place for you if you want to reconnect with the traditions of the past and nature in an eco-sustainable way.

7. In Carnia – La Finestra sulla Contea

This eco holiday house is born from the renovation of an old farm to make its guests live like a typical inhabitants of Carnia (province of Udine). The house is a plastic-free and pet-friendly facility. So, if you want to bring your pet with you, you are in the right place. The house is located near the village of Ovaro. Here you can find numerous shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas and a gym. So, if you are looking for a place you can relax or do remote work in peace, this house is the perfect one for you.

8. In the Natural Park Adamello Brenta – Casa Natura Villa Santi

This recently renovated ancient rural house is an example of sustainable architecture. This house is immersed in the greenery of the Natural Park Adamello Brenta (Montagne, Trentino). Here you can live a formative experience participating in different educational projects. Here you can find demonstrative laboratories on milk and honey processing and learning green building techniques. There are activities such as the thematic laboratories on wild herbs or garden cultivation. Furthermore, you can enjoy organic meals prepared by the chef with typical and local products. So, if you are looking for a relaxing holiday, but you want also to learn something new, you cannot miss this eco-friendly house.

9. Within mountains and sea – Tir na nog natura e relax

In this chalet NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building), far away just a few steps from the Ligurian sea (Pontivrea, Savona). Each detail is handmade with care and attention to the balance with Mother Nature. Here you can decide to live a relaxing holiday in nature or have a more adrenalin experience since the area offers numerous activities such as mountain bike, speleology, climbing, snorkelling and canyoning.

10. Design chalet – Alloggio Rurale Eco-friendly

This design eco-house in Falcade (province of Belluno) is ideal for a family with kids. Here the kids will have fun playing in the garden with a house tree or learn how to recognize different vegetables they can pick up in the organic garden. During summer you can hike in the mountains, to admire the wild fauna, or go to the forest to pick up mushrooms. During the winter you can practice various winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. So if you are looking for a sustainable accommodation in the Italian Alps for your family, to practise sport in nature, this is the one right for you!

If reading this article has fascinated you and you want to try one of these accommodations in the marvellous Italian Alps, don’t wait anymore and book your next holiday in one of these eco-houses!

Cover picture: Beatrice Maffei

The article The 10 most beautiful eco-sustainable houses for your holiday in the Italian Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Thanks to amazing landscapes, epic rocky descents, and high-altitude trails, mountain biking is the perfect way to explore the Alps. Find out the best Alpine routes for your next green holiday!

There are more and more travelers who decide to enjoy nature with their mountain bikes. Panoramas, fresh air, adventurous descent among meadows and woods, pay off all the effort of the climbs… If you are planning a two-wheeler holiday or a shorter mountain biking weekend in the Alps, here are some tips

1. Col Lauson – Valle d’Aosta

Mountain biking route in Valsavarenche, Italian Alps – loveformylove via Flickr

We are in the Western Alps, in front of the Gran Paradiso, the magnificent Italian 4,000. Take the road to Valsavaranche and follow the trail crumbling on Col Lauson. It is an itinerary largely cyclable even uphill, with views over impressive peaks, between brooks and glaciers. A unique cyclo route in the Alps!

For a green stay: discover all eco-friendly accommodations in Valsavarenche and its surroundings

2. Passo S. Giacomo – Piedmont

Mountain biking path in Formazza Valley, Italian Alps – Alessio Maffeis via Flickr

We are now moving to Val Formazza in the extreme north of Piedmont. This pedal follows a panoramic ring that crosses three alpine passes and four artificial lakes, not far from the border with Switzerland, between the Passo S. Giacomo and Gries. The initial climb is long but slightly sloping, to continue with a long climb to the altitude, balcony on the Val Bedretto. The long descent is an exciting tortuous trail with tasty technical passes.

For a green stay: discover all eco-friendly accommodations in Val Formazza and its surroundings

3. Ponale Trail – Riva del Garda

Mountain biking route in Ponale, Italian Alps – Mattia Panciroli via Flickr

The mountain bike itinerary follows the ancient military road connecting Riva del Garda, a beautiful resort of Trentino overlooking Garda lake. Stunning views and winding roads over the water, partially excavated in the rock, will make you forget the fatigue of the climb!

For a green stay: discover all eco-friendly accommodations in Riva del Garda and its surroundings

4. Goldseeweg – Prato allo Stelvio

Landscape in the surroundings of Trafoi – John Mason

On the border between Venosta Valley and Lombardy, between Prato allo Stelvio and Trafoi, you will find many well-marked trails, dedicated to mountain biking, along the sunny side of the Alps.
Very interesting routes lead to Großmontoni-Montechiaro Masi, to Malga di Glorenza and Stelvio and to the Forcola hut over the Trafoi pond. From the beginning of April to the end of October, Bikeshuttle also offers the transport service to the most strategic starting points for your tours.

For a green stay: discover all eco-friendly accommodations in Val Venosta and its surroundings

These are just some of the many mountain biking trails you can find in our Alps. What is your favorite?

Cover image: photo via Canva PRO

The article 4 Amazing Mountain Biking Routes in the Italian Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

There are few places in the world like Sardona. Places where the force of nature, the history of the planet is so vivid and immediate. Sardona is there to tell us, with its beauty and peculiarity, about the orogenetic processes.

Sardona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Switzerland

Since 2008 Sardona has been one of the Swiss natural sites that have come under the protection of UNESCO; the reason immediately becomes clear when we find ourselves in front of this tectonic arena. The Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona, the official name of the place, allows us to observe in a truly exceptional way the history of the mountains and the traces of the collision of Africa with Europe which took place millions of years ago. It is a unique and spectacular example of orogeny by continental collision. The clear presence of imposing primordial rock layers overlapping much more recent rock formations have firstly represented a great mystery and then a decisive contribution to the understanding of plate tectonics.

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We are located in the Glarus Alps. The clear and truly impressive line is especially noticeable on the “Tschingelhoren“, with the famous “Martinsloch” between Elm and Flims, or on the “Foostock” in the “Weisstannental”. Its origins date back to 20-30 million years ago, when Africa and Europe collided: 270 million-year-old rocks from within the Earth overlapped younger rocks, dating back to 40 million years earlier. In front of such a singular and particular landscape we fail to find words.

Discovering the history of the Alps

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To discover all the wonder of Sardona you can undertake a beautiful 6-day hike. About 100 kilometers long, the trail passes through the heart of the Sardona tectonic arena. It starts from Filzbach and then arrives on the Murgsee, climbs up to the Spitzmeilenhütte through impressive mountain panoramas, and along the impressive route from Elm to Flims. Emotions are guaranteed!
It is a tiring and demanding itinerary, so we recommend that you prepare in time before leaving for this adventure. Each stage is also suitable as a day trip.

The article Sardona: immerse yourself in the history of the Earth was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Between Italy and France there are the Alpes-Maritimes, with their peaks over 3,000 meters, lakes, grasslands, small glaciers, and plenty of alpine fauna – a unique environmental patrimony that you must discover soon. Why? Here are 10 reasons!

Photo by Jacques Dufrenoy via Flickr

A fascinating place for a sustainable holiday: the Alpes-Maritimes offer unique natural landscapes, but not only that. Let’s go to the discovery of these beautiful mountains, between nature, wolves and art museums.

On the wolf’s Tracks in the Mercantour

You walk for 10 days, starting from San Giacomo di Entraque, and then follow the traces of the wolf through the Park of the Maritime Alps in Piedmont and the Mercantour Park in France. It is a beautiful itinerary, with a fascinating history, among mountain refuges and beautiful mountains, lakes and forests, and that allows you to admire the wolves visiting the fauna centers of Entracque and Le Boréon.

Walk through chamois and marmots to the largest lake in Europe

Photo by Gilles FRANCOIS via Flickr

And here is another trail that allows you to admire the Alpes Maritimes in all their beauty. This fantastic trekking in the park of Mercantour (France) allows you to reach Lake Allos, Europe’s largest mountain lake, among chamois and marmots.

Travel by train from the Alps to the sea with the railway of wonders

Photo by David Abercrombie via Flickr

There is a train departing from Cuneo and passing in the Maritime Alps, among galleries, beech forests and rich vegetation. It is a magical journey between small characteristic village and alpine landscapes. Then you get to Limone Piemonte, an internationally renowned ski resort, and then cross the French border to discover the Roia Valley. Then, you begin to descend, you return to Italy arriving in Liguria, until you reach the sea of ​​Ventimiglia.

Discover the art of Marc Chagall

Let’s leave the summits of the Alpes-Maritimes to arrive in Nice, where there’s a beautiful museum entirely dedicated to the artist Marc Chagall. The complex was thought by the same painter in 1973, to accommodate in particular its 17 canvases depicting scenes from the Old Testament.

Walking along the sea

View from Sainte-Agnes. Photo by Marian Craig via Flickr

There are many trails in the French Maritime Alps that allow you to admire amazing landscapes, to walk up the sea, to see Corsica and the Italian beaches. There is, for example, the hiking trail of Sainte-Agnes, the highest coastal village in Europe, offering a breathtaking view of the ruins of the feudal castle.

Walk through wonderful works of art

Photo by Eric Huybrechts via Flickr

Second stage of art for our green holiday among the Alpes-Maritimes. The Maeght Foundation is a charming and special exhibition center dedicated to modern and contemporary art located in Saint-Paul de Vence, near Nice. The collection includes works by artists such as Braque, Calder, Chagall, Giacometti, Léger, Miró, Adami, Kelly, and Tàpies, and the center is a perfect example of harmonious integration between art and landscape.

Eco-friendly stays

There are many eco-sustainable accommodation facilities in the Alpes-Maritimes, both in Italy and France. You can choose from mountain refuges, eco-chic hotels, romantic B & Bs or still glamping and tree houses. In France, in Saint-Jeannet, there is the B&B La Maison Bleue, a typically Provencal home, with a relaxed and artistic atmosphere, with a beautiful garden.

Spectacular nature to discover by foot

There is no better way than walking to look inside yourself and admire nature, to find out all the beauty around us. Here, in the Alpes-Maritimes Park, we can face a fascinating four-day trek with a recognized Guide to the Park, following the dense network of mule trackers used for hunting by King Vittorio Emanuele II, crossing glacial lakes, alpine or wild prairies. Stamps, chamois, marmots, eagles will be the fellow travelers of this adventure.

Immerse yourself in contemporary art

We return to Nice to discover another beautiful art museum. This is MAMAC, a modern and contemporary art museum known all over Europe. The building was built by French architects Yves Bayard and Henri Vidale, and the collection pays special attention to Pop Art and Nouveau réalisme and is made up of paintings, photographs, sculptures and installations.

Walk along the panoramic route of the Pays Nicois

Between the Alps and the sea, the Pays Nicois territory offers numerous trails, between nature and enchanting medieval villages perched on the mountains.

Photo by Elisa Triolo via Flickr

The article Here’s why you must visit the Alpes-Maritimes was originally posted on Ecobnb.

There is in Friuli (Italy) a cycle route that from the Alps arrive to the Adriatic, passing beautiful landscapes and different territories, from the falls to the gentle morainic hills. It’s the Alpe Adria cycle route

You leave from Tarvisio and you arrive in Grado and, by pedaling, you enjoy every step, every lovely landscape surrounded by fairy mountains, every incredible glimpse of bucolic nature until you reach the sea. Alpe Adria is made up of 180 kilometers of truly unbelievable bicycle path, that you can’t miss and you must live fully. The cycle route crosses very different territories, so the cyclist can admire the lake, the rivers, the streams, the gentle morainic hills, lulled by the sound of lush waterfalls.

Although it is not completed yet, this cycle route is still viable with short alternative routes. It is easy to meet German and Austrian cyclists, considering that the continuation of Alpe Adria cycling goes to Strasbourg.

An incredible nature, which changes every few meters, but not only that. This cycle route also offers the chance to discover beautiful towns, villages and World Heritage Sites. For example, the capital of Friuli, an authentic treasure trove, the starred town of Palmanova, and the delightful Chiusaforte station, that has become a refreshment point for cyclists and small museums and the beautiful village of Venzone.

Photo by Andrea via Flickr

Photo by Marika Bortolami via Flickr

You leave from the state border (or for full experience you can leave from Strasbourg) and then go to the village of Malborghetto, at the foot of the masses of the Julian Alps, following the route of a disused railway. After the village of Venzone, one of the most beautiful in Italy, in the Natural Park of the Julian Prealpes, you reach Bordano which houses the Butterflies House, a museum of greenhouses where more than 400 species of butterflies live free. It also goes around the best area of ​​Italy for birdwatching, namely the Foce d’Isonzo Nature Reserve. Before reaching the beaches of Grado, you can admire the Archaeological Area of ​​Aquileia, a World Heritage Site.

Photo by Sebastian Rabe via Flickr

Between the meadows and orchids, between ancient Venetian palaces and city-fortresses, between spectacular tunnels and bridges, between streams and lakes, between the Alps and the sea, the cyclist enjoys all the beauty of Friuli, enjoying every moment of traveling.

Coverphoto by FUNActive Tours Italybike via Flickr

Cover Image via Canva Pro

The article A cycle route from the Alps to the sea in Friuli was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Christmas is already coming! Now more than everyone wants to travel. Obviously, the time to travel has not come yet. So, this is the perfect occasion to dream about your future travels. Christmas means also thinking about the people you love and how to surprise them. Why not making them dream about their next destination? Let’s see 5 Sustainable Christmas Presents perfect for Travellers.

1.  Ecobnb Gift Card: to give a green travel experience

from 10 €

A green Christmas present that allows living an unforgettable green travel experience. Who receives this present will discover organic agritourism, picturesque glamping, or a sustainable B&B, something special that will impress them. Each gift card is active for 12 months and can be redeemed to book a stay or a vacation on Ecobnb. The gift card is worth a pre-payed amount of money. You can choose between over 3000 sustainable facilities in Europe.

This gift is perfect for: those who want to travel and to discover what “sustainable tourism” means

Water bottle: for a plastic-free travel

from 7 €

Photo by Sarah Braid, Getty Images Pro, on Canva Pro

Everyone knows the huge damages that plastic waste is having on ecosystems. Every person can help the planet by using less plastic. A great way to start to reduce our plastic waste is to avoid plastic bottles. Sadly, too often during a stroll or a hike in nature, it is possible to see abandoned plastic bottles.

So, how to reduce our impact? It simple, by replacing all that plastic with a water bottle! It’s always easy to carry, very light, and it lasts many years. Using a flask is the perfect way to stay hydrated while respecting nature!

A perfect gift for those who appreciate useful Christmas presents.

3. Organic cotton mask with travel pattern: to give confidence

from 15 €

Photo via Canva Pro

Nowadays, it is important to always have on hand a mask. And, as we were saying before regarding plastic bottles, the number of produced, used, and wasted masks are huge.

Masks are absolutely useful to avoid the spreading of the virus. Hopefully, we will hug each other soon, without any danger. In the meanwhile, is it possible to use masks without wasting? Of course, it is, you just have to wear a reusable cotton mask. This kind of mask is machine washable and can be used much more than once.

Wearing a mask means not only to respect other people’s health but also to express oneself, like any other item of clothing. A travel pattern on a mask – for example – communicate one’s own curiosity, optimism, and will to travel again.

This gift is perfect for: those who can’t wait for their next adventure.

4. Powerbank: to recharge a phone, even on vacation

From 20 €

Photo on Canva PRO

During travels, hikes, or excursions, it happens to drain the phone battery too soon. Maybe even when it would be most useful. To avoid this to happen to a beloved of yours, you can give them a power bank for Christmas! It is light, small and, most important, useful. Of course, our green advice is to choose a solar rechargeable one. This present will make the device last much longer and allows it to travel without worries about the battery.

This gift is perfect for: those who love to travel, take pictures, and share them.

5. Ecobnb Gift Card: to discover green destinations in the Alps

From 10 €

To live nature on the Alps in a sustainable and safe way. This will be the next goal for those who will receive an Ecobnb gift card for Christmas. Discovering the Alps is a unique travel experience to get close to the beauties of nature. You will allow a person you love to experience the mountain, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, and to breathe the cleanest air they’ve ever breathed. You can customize and buy your gift card online, in only a few clicks.

This gift is perfect for: those who love mountains and active vacations in nature.

What are you waiting for? While projecting your next travel give special Christmas presents

The article 5 Sustainable Christmas Presents for Eco Travellers was originally posted on Ecobnb.