Abandoned ancient tracks become new walking routes, trails that meander in nature, away from traffic. Discover the Greenways!

Greenway in Spain, photo by Por los caminos de Málaga via Flickr

The first ecological ways born from the restoration of disused railway lines are located in the United States. It is precisely here that in the first half of the ’60s the first greenways, and in 1986 the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy came to life, an association that promotes the recovery of the immense disused railway heritage. The US is therefore the pioneers of the greenways, with their 1931 rail trail, for a total of 37,750 kilometers.

There is the John Wayne Pioneer Trail, which passes from the state of Washington and is the longest one with 480 km. Then there is the W&OD Railroad Trail in Virginia which is one of the busiest with an average of 3 million users per year.

John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Photo by Brian Burger via Flickr

We move to Europe where the first greenways were born in the late ’80s, in the United Kingdom. Here you can walk or cycle along the Bristol&Bath Railway Path, which was among the first work of recovery of a disused railway. Also Spain and France have over the years invested in greenways: the Via Verdes are 117, while the French Vélorail are 90.

Vía Verde del Plazaola (greenway in Spain). Photo by Celes Pellegrini via Flickr

Features and benefits of greenways

The greenways around the world have in common several aspects: being separated from the ordinary road network (they are almost always abandoned railways, but can also be towpaths of rivers or other paths) and dedicated exclusively for non-motorized users, they are safe and accessible; thanks to general moderate slope, it’s easy to enjoy the trails in a slowly way; besides recovering rail lines also the service facilities along the way will be recovered and so, for example, the train stations become dining options.
And the benefits? They are many, and we start with the promotion of a new form of tourism, an active, responsible and sustainable one. But greenways also contribute to the development of the less-known, far from mass tourism, region and they give citizens new spaces for outdoor activities with beneficial effects on their health.

Vía verde de Olvera, photo by Por los caminos de Málaga via Flickr

The Greenways in Italy

If the greenways around US and Europe are now well established, what is the Italian situation? The railways that are no longer used in the Italian territory are so many, but still a few have been made accessible in sustainable way. There are some individuals engaged in the promotion of the greenways in Italy, such as the Italian Greenways Association Onlus, but there’s not a national vision that would make possibile the recovering of disused railways and the promotion of sustainable tourism in the country, with huge economic and environmental benefits. Among those greenways that have been created, we recommend you the former Treviso-Ostiglia railway, transformed into a beautiful cycle path. It is 118 km long and runs throughout Veneto region, to arrive at the edge of the Po river. But there is also the Spoleto-Norcia in Umbria, or the Ospedaletti-Imperia,  in Liguria.

Spoleto-Norcia Greenway, photo by Sara Poluzzi via Flickr

Cover photo by Dan Benton via Flickr

The article Traveling along the greenways was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Today we reach the beautiful Turkey, which is a natural bridge between East and West and has a long history, from the Hittites to the Ottomans. We go up to the south-west of the country, where incredible and pristine beaches, lively towns and impressive monuments await us.

Ancient rock Lycian Tombes, photo by miquitos via Flickr

Ready? We leave together for an unforgettable travel in Turkey, between seaside resorts where in summer tourists flock, rural locations where you can enjoy nature and authenticity, and amazing food everywhere you turn. Our destination is Kaya Valley and the nearby coast, also known as the Turkish Riviera.

To get there, the easiest way is certainly to arrive at Dalaman airport, not far from the villages of the area and the sea. Things to do, live and experience are many and it is not easy to tell about them: walking among the scents and colors of the bazaars, being amazed by the view of the islands of Fethiye, seeing the ghost town of Kayaköy, walking in nature that hides ancient tombs, dive into the blue sea. This area of ​​Turkey is sure to get exciting, but let’s go with order and discover some of the things not to be missed.

The villages, the authentic Turkey

Here you can feel the essence of local life of these areas; they are small villages surrounded by mountains and greenery where life proceeds at a slow pace, in a relaxed atmosphere. But in Kaya, Hisaronu, and in the other towns there is still a large number of restaurants and bars, where you can taste local delicacies and watch the world goes by.

The ghost town of Kayaköy. Photo by Panegyrics of Granovetter via Flickr

The beaches, pristine blue

Again, the choices are many, and it depends on personal taste: those who prefer more secluded beaches will find heaven in Gemiler, a set of marvelous bays and coves where there are also interesting archaeological finds; those who enjoy more the beach life, will choose the Fethiye Bay from which you also admire twelve beautiful islands. But how not to mention the Patara beach, south of Fethiye, with its 18 kilometers of beach and the chance to see loggerhead turtles, and of course the most photographed beach in Turkey, the one of Oludeniz, the Blue Lagoon.

Fethiye, tourism, and archaeological sites

With its 147,000 inhabitants, it is the largest city in the area. It is located in the ancient Telmessos and is one of the most popular tourist centers in Turkey. My advice is to spend a day or two to visit the city, but never in August when tourists rush here. Although far from the authenticity of the inland villages, the city offers precious glimpses. Among the many restaurants and clubs, there is a lively and wonderful weekly market that retains its turkish character. Besides the aforementioned beaches and islands, Fethiye offers historical evidence that worth visiting, from the Telmessos rock tombs, the theater and the remains of the fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes.

Photo by Oceanwide Properties via Flickr

The Lycian Way

One of the best ways to discover the area is walking along this trek, one of the most popular in the world. It is 540 km route, very challenging in some points, that goes from the sea to the mountain, representing a portal to the past. In the journey from Oludeniz to Antalya there are many ancient buildings, rock Tombs, and archaeological ruins dating back to the period of the Lycian people.

Along the Lycian Way. Photo by Warren Talbot via Flickr

Where to stay in this unspoiled corner of Turkey

In the village of Kaya, not far from Fethiye and the Blue Lagoon, you can stay in a beautiful eco-sustainable accommodation. The Fig Garden offers travelers 2 beautiful and rustic cottages surrounded by a garden of fruit trees. You will be welcomed with a basket of local products and this is the perfect place for spending some relaxing days, without any stress. The cottages, which are equipped with solar panels and low-energy light bulbs, can be rented together or separately. Both have beautiful private terraces with a barbecue and they share a pool.

Cover photo by Chris_Parfitt via Flickr

The article Turkey trip, between the bays and the Lycian Way was originally posted on Ecobnb.

In a world where wanderlust and the desire to make a difference collide, voluntourism emerges as a remarkable opportunity. This is the essence of voluntourism, a captivating fusion of travel and altruism that has captured the hearts of adventurers worldwide. Exploring voluntourism is about rolling your sleeves, immersing yourself in local communities, and dedicating your time and skills to uplift those in need.

Choosing the right opportunity when exploring voluntourism

Choosing the right voluntourism opportunity is a crucial step in ensuring a fulfilling experience. When exploring voluntourism, researching and selecting the right project should be your priority. Dive into the details of various projects, understanding their objectives and the communities they serve. Consider your skills and interests to find a project where you can make a meaningful contribution. Whether you have a knack for teaching, construction, healthcare, or environmental conservation, there’s a voluntourism project out there that can benefit from your expertise.

Equally important is ensuring the legitimacy of the organization or project you choose. Take the time to verify their credentials and track record. Look for transparency in their operations and finances. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous volunteers can provide valuable insights into their reputation and the impact of their work. Volunteering is a unique opportunity to give back and explore new horizons. To make the most of it, align your skills and passions with a reputable, ethical project. This careful selection process will not only enhance your personal growth and satisfaction but also contribute positively to the communities you aim to support. So, take the time to research, identify, and verify to embark on a voluntourism journey that truly makes a difference.

Preparing for a voluntourism trip

Start by making necessary travel arrangements, including visas, flights, and accommodations. Ensure you have all the travel documents and insurance to cover unexpected situations. Learn some basic phrases in the local language, as it can go a long way in building connections. Also, research local customs, traditions, and etiquette to show respect and avoid unintentional cultural faux pas. When packing, try to pack light but wisely. So, bring essentials like comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and any specialized gear needed for your volunteer work. Don’t forget power adapters and chargers for your devices, and consider packing a reusable water bottle and eco-friendly toiletries.

Stay organized with a detailed itinerary that balances volunteering and leisure activities. Plan for downtime to explore local attractions, try traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the culture. Lastly, manage your expectations. Understand that voluntourism may present challenges, including cultural differences and emotional experiences. Be flexible, open-minded, and prepared to adapt to different circumstances. Thorough preparation ensures a safe, enjoyable, and meaningful voluntourism trip. By taking these practical steps and staying informed, you can make the most of your journey while positively impacting the communities you aim to serve.

Exploring new horizons through volunteering

Exploring new horizons through volunteering offers a multifaceted experience that goes beyond traditional travel. Immersing yourself in the local culture is at the heart of it. It means embracing local traditions, customs, and daily life. Whether participating in traditional rituals, savoring local cuisine, or celebrating festivals, this immersion adds depth to your journey.

Try to engage in conversations, listen to their stories, and gain insights into their way of life. Voluntourism takes you to off-the-beaten-path destinations, often untouched by mainstream tourism. It’s a chance to explore pristine landscapes, wildlife habitats, and historical sites few have seen. These destinations not only offer unique adventures but also support their conservation and preservation.

Balancing volunteering and travel

Balancing volunteering and travel when exploring voluntourism is the key to a fulfilling experience. To strike the right equilibrium, structure your itinerary thoughtfully. Allocate time for both volunteering and leisure activities, ensuring you have the chance to make a meaningful impact while also exploring your destination’s attractions. Creating memorable travel experiences while volunteering is entirely achievable. Use your downtime to explore the local culture, taste regional cuisine, and engage in activities unique to your destination.

Whether hiking through lush landscapes, taking cooking classes, or participating in cultural events, these moments add depth to your journey. Managing expectations is essential for a fulfilling trip. Understand that voluntourism may present challenges, from cultural differences to emotional experiences. The art of balancing volunteering and travel is about crafting a well-rounded experience that combines giving back with exploration and personal growth.

Overcoming challenges in voluntourism

Next, overcoming challenges in voluntourism is a vital aspect of the journey. Cultural differences and potential cultural shock can be significant hurdles. So, research and educate yourself about the local customs and traditions in advance. Additionally, be open-minded and respectful, embrace the differences you encounter, and seek to learn from them. Handling emotional challenges while witnessing difficult situations is an integral part of voluntourism.

When confronted with poverty, suffering, or other hardships, maintain emotional resilience. Support from fellow volunteers, mentorship from experienced volunteers or project leaders, and self-care practices like journaling or meditation can help manage these emotions. Navigating language barriers and communication issues can be another obstacle. Learning basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in bridging the gap.

Sustainable voluntourism practices

Finally, sustainable voluntourism practices are at the core of responsible engagement. Promoting long-term sustainability in volunteer projects means ensuring your contributions have lasting positive effects. It’s about building schools that continue to educate, healthcare initiatives that provide ongoing support, and conservation efforts that protect ecosystems for generations to come. However, remember to approach communities with respect, humility, and a genuine desire to learn from them. So, engage in meaningful dialogue, actively listen, and collaborate on solutions that address their needs and aspirations. True voluntourism should empower, not exploit.

Minimizing environmental impact during voluntourism is also important. Traveling responsibly means reducing your carbon footprint by choosing eco-friendly transportation, minimizing waste, and respecting natural habitats. Furthermore, support local efforts to conserve the environment and be mindful of your ecological impact, ensuring that your voluntourism adventure doesn’t harm the places you aim to help. Sustainable voluntourism practices are about making a positive, lasting impact on communities, fostering ethical connections, and preserving the environment for future generations. By embracing these principles, you can ensure that your voluntourism journey not only benefits others but also leaves a legacy of responsible, impactful engagement.

Exploring voluntourism is a great way to give back and travel at the same time

When exploring voluntourism, you’ll witness the transformative power of your efforts as your contributions ripple through time, impacting generations. Additionally, you’ll explore destinations that remain hidden from traditional tourists, uncovering the unspoiled beauty of our planet.

Author’s bio: Kate Roberts is a passionate writer who often collaborates with Pro Movers Miami to document her traveling adventures. With a nomadic heart and an adventurous soul, Kate has traveled the globe and lived all across the US.

Cover image: Photo by Julia M Cameron via Pexels

The article Exploring Voluntourism: Giving Back While was originally posted on Ecobnb.

In the heart of Apulia, Salento welcomes us with its unique atmosphere, with its scents and flavors, with its wild nature and its villages, and with indescribable natural pools.

Let’s dive into the crystal clear waters of Salento, in the deep south of Apulia, between the gorges and sea, where true natural pools are hidden, jewelry set among the rocks. Here are the 4 pools not to be missed this summer (and 5 beautiful green accommodations)!

1. Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry)

Photo by Giacomo Carena via Flickr

At Roca Vecchia, on the Adriatic side of Salento, in the marina of Melendugno, there’s an archaeological site where there is a sighting tower of the ‘500, a sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna of Roca, a castle, of which remains overlook the sea. In this beautiful location there’s the Cave of Poetry, one of the ten most beautiful natural pools in the world, a spectacular place that will leave you breathless.

2. Marina Serra’s natural pool

Photo by tutu via Flickr

We stay on the Adriatic side to discover this creek between the rocks, dug by the sea and the wind. Marina Serra is a small town in Salento, still not known by mass tourism. But its natural pool is worth the whole trip.

3. The mouth of Idume River

We are in Torre Chianca, a hamlet of Lecce. We follow the course of Idume River to reach its mouth, where a small natural swimming pool is created, rich in vegetation and characterized by fresh and crystalline waters. And so we are in front of a pristine natural paradise.

4. Monaca Cave

Legend has it that many years ago a monk seal lived here. This natural swimming pool is just 2 kilometers from Otranto and although it is not easy to reach it, we recommend that you try it. It is a pearl that leaves you speechless, where you can spend a day of total relax, lulled by the wind, the sun and the sea.

Best green stays in Salento

There are plenty of environmentally friendly accommodation in this corner of Puglia. Staying in one of these structures will help you discover the true and authentic Salento, enjoy local produce and not harm the environment.

Vegan holiday in Salento

Piccapane Organic Farm is a natural and relaxing place in the heart of Salento, suitable for those who love an environmentally friendly holiday. The vegan restaurant offers excellent dishes made with 100% organic ingredients, produced on the farm.

In the historic center of Tricase

Campacavallo is the ideal bed and breakfast for those looking for a cozy, quaint and cheap place to stay for a few days without sacrificing hospitality and a great breakfast.

A farmhouse with sea view

Masseria Bellolio Farmhouse is surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and is located on the last hill of Salento, in the countryside of Carovigno, a small medieval village, 6 km from the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve.

Natural and healthy luxury

Manfios Country Houses is a beautiful farmhouse offering its guests four villas immersed in a beautiful olive grove where you can relax and let yourself be inebriated by the scents of the countryside. You can also pick fruits and vegetables directly from the garden.

Between a thousand olive trees

At This farmhouse you can enjoy green, sea, tranquility and relax. At 2 km from the Salento sea you will be welcomed in a family and simple setting. The rooms have been restructured with the philosophy of creative reuse, energy comes from sun and vegetables and oil are organic.

The article Top 4 Natural pools in Salento was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Spring is just around the corner: nature awakens, everything is full of colors and the sun warms us. Every weekend, every holiday becomes the perfect opportunity to rediscover the pleasure of a walk in the woods, of an unusual night, to explore the world around us

Wanderlust grows in these beautiful days. Here are 5 suggestions to spend an unforgettable spring break, in full respect of nature.

Glamping, the luxury camping

The days get longer and the temperatures are perfect: spring is surely the right season to try glamping, the new frontier of camping that provides close contact with nature without giving up comfort and luxury. In the network of Ecobnb, you can book a romantic night in a yurt in a forest overlooking the city of Turin, a family vacation in a Berber tent in front of the sea, or a getaway for two in a mini-cottage within walking distance of Slovenian Lake Bled and more.

Spring break between the tulips in Holland

This spring is the perfect time to admire the Netherlands in bloom. You’ll find yourself in front of huge tulip fields, or in the midst of beautiful flower markets. An experience that brings cheerfulness and enhances if lived by bike. Here you can find the best eco-friendly accommodations in the country.

Easter in Greece, among the woods and the sea

Greece is another perfect destination for your spring break: the days are warm enough to enjoy the sea and the enchanting nature of this country. Here you will rediscover the colors: there is the white of the houses of Santorini, the blue sea, the green olive trees, and Mediterranean vegetation, which expands to meet the sea, the pink and red of the sunset, yellow of the sun. The perfect starting point to visit the area is the farm Lakazeza, just 30 minutes from Athens, but in pristine nature.

Romantic night in a tree house

If you’re planning a romantic getaway for this season, you must enjoy the unique experience of sleeping in a tree house and being children for a few days. A cross Europe wonderful accommodations built in harmony with nature, in the branches of tall trees.

Farmer for a day, spring break in a farm

Tired of city life? Why not try to get your hands dirty and follow the rhythms of nature? Press the olives in Tuscany or ride horses on Lake Garda. Learn how to make organic cheese in Piedmont or collect lavender in Sicily. Wake up early to milk the cows in Trentino, or build a straw house participating in a course of bio-architecture in Liguria… Here you can find lots of ideas for a vacation in the most beautiful farms that involve guests in their daily work.

The article 5 ideas for a sustainable spring break was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Travel is happiness and incredibly beneficial: it boosts intelligence and development, making our kids more empathetic and helping them adapt to changing situations. However, some parents are sometimes frightened by the idea of traveling with kids and avoid doing so. The book “Are We There Yet ?: Traveling More Responsibly with Your Children” is very useful if you are looking for tips to travel easier with children and to teach kids the principles of responsible travel.

Traveling responsibly is more than just travel: it’s about understanding how we can make better choices when seeing the animals we love, the communities we visit, and the things we buy or visit.

We interviewed the author, Rachel Dodds, and here’s what she told us:

What has inspired your book?

When I was a new parent I was often told I would have to buy a minivan and stop traveling the way I had for most of my life. I found so many people were nervous about traveling with children but I felt like it was one of the best gifts my parents ever gave me so wanted the same for my daughter. During the pandemic, myself and Richard Butler, who have produced academic books together were discussing how there is a need to reach the ’non converted’… hence the idea!

Traveling is a wonderful opportunity for kids and parents too. What do we have to consider to make travel more sustainable?

We can be more sustainable in many steps of the travel process. From packing less (less carbon) to taking alternative forms of transportation to traveling in offseason … from ensuring our animal encounters are ethical and non harming to ensuring we have a lesser impact on the earth.

The book discusses all steps of the process from planning, to choosing where you go and what type of holiday you choose to packing and even when you get home.

The key thing we want to get across is not to shame someone. We need to encourage parents, grandparents and aunts and uncles to celebrate even the small steps – we are all busy people and so even making one change is a positive!

Can you give us some tips to enjoy our travel with kids?

There are many.. the key one is to plan… if your kids are young, make sure you have snacks on hand which are healthier and avoid the ‘hangries’. If our kids are happy, we as parents or grandparents are also happy.

The second tip is to involve your children, no matter how young or old in the process. Give them buy in – let them choose the restaurant which is local, … the book has so many tips on how to engage your children as well as guide them to make better decisions.

Is there a memorable and sustainable travel experience with kids you suggest trying?

There are so many.. it really depends on what you like and where you wish to go. Exposing your children to new things – be it local food, or encouraging them to learn a few words in a local language – they may not always be perfect but when kids learn something, we as parents also learn!

I remember talking to my daughter about swimming with dolphins when she was four years old. When I asked her if dolphins lived in swimming pools or oceans – she realised how unfair it was to the dolphins…. After that trip – she decided, all on her own, to raise awareness about dolphins in captivity… It was a proud moment for me as a mum!

What do you think is really important to raise resilient and responsible kids?

Raising resilient and responsible kids leads to responsible and resilient adults. We can all improve and no one is perfect but if we all take a step in the right direction this is not only good for ourselves and our children but also the communities we visit and the environment around us.

Info: read more about the book

The book “Are We There Yet ?: Traveling More Responsibly with Your Children” is available also in epub version at the special price of $1.99. A percentage of the profits of this best-selling book will be donated to World Animal Protection. 

The article How to travel easier and more responsibly with kids was originally posted on Ecobnb.

In the beautiful setting of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, in a rural and rich in history setting, there are two of the best examples of the Italian community-based tourism, a new way to offer hospitality, which recovers its ancient meaning and aims at sustainable development of the territory, in full compliance with environment and traditions. Let’s find them out together!

What is community-based tourism

The community-based tourism involves the entire community in the tourist offer. The inhabitants of a village or a valley commit together to creating opportunities to meet and share with tourists, accompanying them in the discovery of traditions and landscapes, culture, and agriculture. There, where commercialization is still far away and the environment and traditional values ​​have been preserved, from the bottom new tourist reality comes to life, offering the possibility to live deeper holidays, which are transformed into a journey of discovery. And the new travelers, avoiding hit-and-run holidays where destinations look the same and craving authenticity, find in this kind of hospitality what they need.

I Briganti di Cerreto

In 2003 a group of young people, residents in Cerreto Alpi, founded the Cooperative “I Briganti di Cerreto”, with the desire to continue to live where they grew up and enhance the environment and the local community. We are in the National Park of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, in a medieval village, built of sandstone and chestnut wood, immersed in an extraordinary landscape, which has entirely maintained its values ​​and traditions. The services that the community offers are many: educational activities for schools, environmental education, guided tours, hiking on foot, on horseback or by mountain bike, Nordic walking instructors, rental of snow shoes and bicycles. All while staying in a rural accommodation between the old mill and the barn converted into a lovely apartment.

Info: Cooperativa I Briganti di Cerreto

Valle dei Cavalieri

Succiso is a small village at 980 meters above sea level with only 65 inhabitants, and yet it attracts researchers from around the world, from Japan to Canada, that want to study what is perhaps the first community cooperative born in Italy. It all started 25 years ago when the only bar in the village closed. And for wanting to save their village 9 friends formed the Cooperative Valle dei Cavalieri. They opened a bar and a food shop in the old abandoned school, they started to sell the bread that they themselves produced, and then they opens a restaurant with 220 seats and a farmhouse with twenty beds, and recently also a small spa. Now the association involves 33 members, all volunteers, who during a single day change jobs, they accompany the children to school and then make the cheese, cut wood, and in the evening make pizza. And so tourists visiting Succiso have become 14,000 per year.

Info:Valle dei Cavalieri

The article Two examples of community-based tourism in Italy was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Let me tell you what it means for us of Ecobnb sustainable holiday, and how we dream of the future of tourism.

Spending a sustainable holiday isn’t as difficult as some people think.

Here I am: I’m ready, it’s time to leave. The bags are closed, inside there are only the essentials, to be lighter and to bring back some memories, but only local and handmade products. Train tickets are on my smartphone, to avoid wasting paper unnecessarily. Just missing some water for the trip: the plastic is banned, much better a convenient bottle that does not produce waste that kills our seas.

We get on the train, transportation means that nonetheless has not lost its charm. We leave towards our destination, watching the changing scenery from the window, reading that book that I can never finish, on my e-reader, because trees are precious.

We arrived at the station, now we must go to the B&B. We are not close but we have thought of everything: through a car-sharing service will share the ride with other travelers, to save money and reduce our ecological footprint.

The hospitality of the accommodation staff we have chosen is different from that of the great hotel, less cold and more personal. And so our journey of discovery begins, we encounter with the other and so we begin to know our destination through its inhabitants eager to share with us the places and stories.

Here every detail is designed to not weigh on the environment and resources are used responsibly. The building has been restored following the principles of green architecture, the water is heated by solar panels and energy comes from wind. The waste is transformed into compost or is separated, many objects are recovered and they found a second life, and so, in our room, an old door has become an original desk. In the garden native plants grow, there is a beautiful and fragrant organic vegetable garden and everything is watered with reclaimed rainwater.

The next day begins with a beautiful organic breakfast, I rediscover the flavors of the land, of the genuine products, the homemade ones with only local produce, I savor the typical local desserts that allow us to continue our journey of discovery.

Now it’s time to start exploring: the B&B give us some bicycles for the duration of our sustainable holiday and we cannot think of a better way to move: a responsible means, that doesn’t pollute the environment and this nature that we have so long dreamed of seeing; and it is so nice to ride and let the wind ruffle our hair!

Thus began the slow journey that will lead us to the discovery of pristine nature, of secret places, of the local life, away from the tourist track, to discover the most authentic corners.

At the end of our sustainable holiday we back home richer, somehow different, with new precious memories, and with the knowledge that we have traveled on tiptoe, without harming our planet.

A sustainable holiday is possible and must necessarily be our future, for a greener and more just world.

And if you want to travel in an eco-friendly way, book with us a green accommodation and follow our travel advice!

The article Sustainable Holiday is Possible was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Immersed in the fresh alpine air, located at 1020m above sea level, Tires al Catinaccio is a dream for all mountain lovers. In this cozy alpine destination of the South Tyrol, you can enjoy magnificent views on the Dolomites.

photo by gengish skan via Flickr

Around Tires there are also other little towns to visit: San Cipriano, Bagni di Lavina Bianca and Laghetto Aica di Fiè. Scillar, Catinaccio, Roda di Vael, Vajolet Towers are just some of the famous peaks that you can admire and explore in the surroundings.

1. Summer in Tires

Tires is the ideal place for an active holiday in the nearby Scillar-Catinaccio Natural Park: here hikers will find excursions of all kinds, along well-marked paths, towards alpine huts or towering peaks. Park guides will also take you to discover the natural beauties of these places. In the evening if you are lucky, you will be able to admire the Dolomites tinging with pink!

The Visitor Center of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Natural Park of Tires is set in an old water mill that operated an ancient sawmill. I recommend a visit, just to admire this testimony of the past!

During the summer, Tires streets are filled with mountaineers looking for adventures on the magnificent dolomite walls: from ferry routes, connecting isolated alpine huts to peaks, to climbing routes, from historic to modern ones. You can not miss the edges of the Vjolet Towers or the routes traced on the imposing south wall of the Catinaccio!

Not to be missed are the many events organized in Tires, the dolomitic country of mountaineers. One of them is the “Nights of Montanari”, street parties with music and culinary specialties in the area, which take place between the end of July and the beginning of August.

2. Winter in Tires

Fun in this Alpine resort is also guaranteed during winter. The surrounding landscapes are covered with soft snow and its candor makes it all the more fascinating.

Cuddled by the heat of wood stoves or the steam of traditional saunas, you can forget every stress. If you are looking for active holidays, Tres is the right place to start your exploration also in this season! Put on snowshoes and get ready to go hiking. The trail network includes 60 km of perfectly prepared winter itineraries and 50 km of marked paths for snowshoe excursions. Local guides also organize night tours to watch the stars.

On the Alpe di Siusi, not far from Tires, there is also the Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ski area with 175 km of slopes and 80 ski lifts, equipped with modern safety devices for children. Fun is guaranteed!

Cover image: Tiziano Sartori via Flickr

The article Tires al Catinaccio: in the heart of the Dolomites was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Wildlife is our world heritage, it represents biodiversity, essential for our health and that of the planet. Find out how wild animals can be preserved with ecotourism or wild tourism

Travelers are increasingly seeking to live experiences near wildlife. The World Tourism Organization estimates that 7% of tourism is related to wildlife and this type of tourism grows by 3% annually, even more in places like UNESCO Heritage. But what are the effects of this type of tourism on nature, local communities, and wildlife? The answer is ambivalent.

Tourism Threats

The threat to wildlife is mainly caused by illegal trade, but also by the loss of habitats, pollution, infrastructure, and climate change. As we know, tourism, if poorly managed, can have serious negative impacts on the environment, as seen in the Galapagos Islands, where a large volume of tourists is still a serious threat to the unique fauna of the islands. But on the other hand, tourism that respects the environment, ecotourism, can be a unique resource for the wild animals and the local economy.

Ecotourism Opportunities

An example is the Trust Northern Rangelands in Kenya, an organization that aims to protect wildlife and which employs over 1,000 Kenyans. Nearly 30% of project revenue comes from tourism and the organization involves the entire local population. The Northern Rangelands Trust has succeeded in decreasing elephant poaching in recent years and no rhinoceros have been killed for four years. In Kenya – such as in so many other places in the world – ecotourism is growing exponentially, bringing economic growth in a way that will benefit wildlife from the work of local operators and rangers.

Choosing to live an ecotourism experience means not only experiencing an unforgettable adventure, in contact with the most pristine nature, admiring beautiful wildlife, but also supporting local communities and organizations committed to the protection of local fauna.

The article Ecotourism: a resource for the conservation of wildlife was originally posted on Ecobnb.