Madrid is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. While it’s known for its rich tapestry of museums, bustling markets, and lively street life, exploring Madrid doesn’t have to break the bank. The city offers many free attractions that allow budget-conscious travelers to soak in the essence of this remarkable destination without spending a dime.

If you’re planning a visit to Madrid on a budget, fear not! In this article, we’ll guide you through five brilliant ways to make the most of your experience by highlighting five free must-visit places that showcase the city’s diverse offerings without denting your wallet.

Retiro Park: A Green Oasis in the Heart of Madrid

Retiro Park is usually the most popular tour of Madrid. It is a verdant sanctuary, offering respite from the bustling urban energy that defines the Spanish capital. Sprawling across 125 hectares, this expansive green space is not merely a park; it’s a haven where nature, art, and history converge to create a truly enchanting experience for locals and visitors alike.

Retiro Park, originally a royal retreat in the 17th century, has evolved into a picturesque landscape featuring a harmonious blend of manicured gardens, towering trees, and open lawns. The park’s allure lies in its diverse ecosystems, which include the elegant Rosaleda rose garden, the contemplative Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez, and the tranquil Estanque Grande, a large ornamental lake where visitors can rent rowboats for a leisurely paddle. The calming presence of nature permeates every corner, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solace amid Madrid’s vibrant urban life.

Beyond its natural beauty, Retiro Park boasts architectural gems that add a touch of grandeur to the landscape. One such marvel is the Crystal Palace, an iconic glass structure on the lake’s edge. Originally designed to house exotic plants, today, it serves as a venue for contemporary art exhibitions, seamlessly blending the historical with the modern. The park is adorned with statues, fountains, and monuments, each telling a story of the park’s rich history and cultural significance.

Puerta del Sol: The Heartbeat of Madrid

Puerta del Sol is not just a bustling square; it is the very pulse of the city, where history, culture, and contemporary life converge in a vibrant display. Puerta del Sol has witnessed centuries of events as one of the most iconic and symbolic locations in the Spanish capital, making it an indispensable destination for locals and tourists.

The name “Puerta del Sol” translates to “Gate of the Sun,” the square has long served as a central point for various historical and social gatherings. One of its most iconic features is the “Kilometer Zero” marker embedded in the pavement – a reference point from which all radial roads in Spain are measured. This small but significant marker symbolizes the country’s center, adding a touch of historical weight to the square.

Surrounded by historical landmarks, Puerta del Sol is a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts. The Real Casa de Correos, an impressive building dominating the square, serves as the seat of the President of the Community of Madrid. Its clock tower, adorned with a bronze bell, has become a symbol of the New Year’s Eve countdown, attracting thousands to celebrate in the square. The equestrian statue of Charles III and the Tío Pepe sign atop the building of the same name further contribute to the square’s distinctive charm.

El Rastro: Madrid’s Famous Flea Market

The city’s famed flea market. Nestled in the historic neighborhood of La Latina, El Rastro comes alive every Sunday, transforming the cobbled streets into a bustling panorama of stalls, vendors, and eager shoppers. This iconic market is not merely a place to shop; it’s a dynamic and immersive experience that captures the essence of Madrid’s lively street life and rich cultural heritage.

El Rastro’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it originated as a traditional open-air market for second-hand goods. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a sprawling marketplace that attracts locals and tourists alike. The name “El Rastro” is believed to have originated from dragging refuse, or “rastro,” along the streets. Today, the market continues to reflect its historical roots, offering various goods ranging from antiques and vintage items to clothing, accessories, and quirky knick-knacks.

Templo de Debod: Sunset Views Overlooking the City

In the heart of Madrid, an unexpected and ancient Egyptian gem awaits those seeking a serene escape and breathtaking views – the Templo de Debod. Nestled in the Parque de la Montaña, this temple, originally located in southern Egypt, was dismantled, transported, and reconstructed in Madrid as a gesture of gratitude from the Egyptian government for Spain’s help in saving the Abu Simbel temples. Today, Templo de Debod stands as a cultural bridge, offering visitors a tranquil retreat and a front-row seat to one of the city’s most spectacular sights – the sunset over Madrid.

The Templo de Debod dates back to the 2nd century BC and is dedicated to the goddess Isis and the god Amun. Its original location was near the Nile River in Lower Nubia. The temple features characteristic Egyptian architectural elements, including papyrus-shaped columns and beautifully carved reliefs depicting scenes of religious rituals. Visitors approach the temple and are transported to a different time and place, experiencing a fascinating blend of cultures between ancient Egypt and modern Spain.

Street Art in Lavapiés: A Canvas of Urban Expression

Lavapiés has emerged as a vibrant and dynamic canvas of urban expression. What was once a working-class district has transformed into an open-air art gallery, where the narrow streets and building facades serve as the backdrop for a diverse range of street art. Lavapiés, with its eclectic mix of cultures, social activism, and creative energy, has become a haven for artists seeking to make a statement, share their stories, and infuse the neighborhood with a burst of color and creativity.

Lavapiés boasts a street art scene as diverse as the community. Walking through its streets, visitors are treated to an ever-changing panorama of murals, graffiti, stencils, and installations. The art in Lavapiés reflects the neighborhood’s rich history, social struggles, and the unique blend of cultures within its borders.

The article 5 Brilliant Ways You Can Enjoy Madrid on a Budget was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Castilla La Mancha is a region in central Spain that is famous for its rich and diverse cultural heritage, its natural beauty, and its grape products. Grape production is one of the oldest and most important agricultural activities in the region, and it has shaped its history, culture, economy, and society.

Grape and its derivatives are also one of the main attractions and sources of income for tourism in Castilla La Mancha, as they offer a unique and authentic experience to visitors who want to discover the region’s traditions, flavors, and landscapes.

Not only that, grape products have an incredible impact in different industries, local companies like Vinumar make use of the grape to its max, taking advantage of every component and making something useful out of it while being eco-friendly, and reducing waste.

Origins and evolution of grape cultivation in the region

Grape cultivation in Castilla La Mancha dates back to ancient times, when the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Arabs introduced different grape varieties and techniques to the region.

It is a blessed region due to its climate, soil, and topography being ideal for grape growing, as they provide a wide range of conditions and microclimates that allow for the development of diverse and distinctive grape products.

The grape cultivation, production, and more got world-known appreciation thanks to the efforts of cooperatives, associations, and institutions like Vinumar that improved the quality and recognition of grape products, and promoted their exportation and consumption.

Diversity and quality of grape varieties and products

Castilla La Mancha is the largest grape-producing region in the world, producing at least a third of the country’s output.

In the region, you can find a great diversity of grapes, both native and foreign, that give rise to a wide range of grape products that are used in other industries, from alcohol and wine extracts to seed and skin extract as well as polyphenols and more.

Many of those products are used in different industries. For example, some extracts are used to make oil or vitamins; the alcohol is often used for liquor or used by the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Main attractions and activities related to the grape in Castilla La Mancha

The wine routes and wineries

One of the most popular and attractive ways to enjoy and learn about grapes in Castilla La Mancha is to follow the wine routes and visit the wineries that are scattered throughout the region.

The wine routes are thematic itineraries that allow visitors to discover the different grape varieties, products, and regions of the area. They offer an immersive experience since most tours include not only visits to the vineyards and wineries, but also to other places of interest, like museums, monuments, natural parks, and more.

Some of the most famous and recommended wine routes in Castilla La Mancha are:

• La Mancha Wine Route
• Ribera del Júcar Wine Route
• Uclés Wine Route

The festivals and events

Another way to enjoy and learn about grape products in Castilla La Mancha is to participate in the festivals and events that are organized throughout the year in different locations of the region.

The festivals are an opportunity to have fun and socialize with the locals and other visitors while enjoying the music, dance, art, and entertainment.

Some of the most famous and recommended festivals and events related to grape products in Castilla La Mancha are:

• Fiesta de la Vendimia de Valdepeñas
• The Wine Fair (FENAVIN, Ciudad Real)

The gastronomy and cuisine

By far the best to learn and enjoy the grape products of the area is to explore the gastronomy and cuisine of the region, which are strongly influenced and enriched by the grape products.

The gastronomy of Castilla La Mancha is based on the use of local and seasonal ingredients, that are cooked in simple and traditional ways.

Grape products, especially wine, are essential elements of the cuisine of the area since they are used to accompany, enhance, and complement the dishes, as well as ingredients.

A good example is the Perdiz escabechada, which is a partridge combined with different seasonings, vegetables, and a strong presence of dry white wine and white wine vinegar.

Cover image: photo by Maja Petric, via Unsplash

The article How Grape Products Help Tourism in Castilla La Mancha, Spain was originally posted on Ecobnb.

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.

The long and rugged Basque coast offers countless opportunities for surfing or visiting picturesque fishing villages. It also allows you to explore beautiful green routes between the majestic hills and rocks, and the blue of the Cantabrian Sea. If you are a fan of slow travel, whether on foot or by bicycle, here are 3 beautiful itineraries along the Basque coast that you shouldn’t miss!

The coast of Euskal Herria or Basque Country

Euskal Herria, or the Basque Country, is a charming and diverse territory. The landscape ranges from the contemporary architecture of Bilbao to the beauty of San Sebastian, from the golden beaches of Hendaye to the elegance of Biarritz. In particular, this region hides a green rural paradise, overlooking the ocean, which you can explore on foot.

Comprising the four Spanish provinces of Bizkaia, Gipuzkoa, Alava, and Navarra, as well as the three French provinces of Labourd, Basse-Navarre, and Soule. This this territory forms what the Basques call “Ipparalde,” which means “lands of the north”. Its French counterpart, “Pays Basque”, has gained administrative significance only in recent years.

This corner of the Basque coast is still relatively undiscovered by tourists and can be enjoyed slowly along beautiful green routes.

When to Visit the Basque Coast

Climate is certainly a factor to consider when deciding the best time for your trip. Spring brings the blooming of nature while summer is the warmest period. Autumn offers unforgettable colours in the vast forests of the region and more frequent sunshine than in summer. July and August are the busiest periods and are best avoided.

3 Green Itineraries Not to Miss on the Basque Coast

1. The Camino del Norte

The most fascinating green itinerary in terms of landscape is the Camino del Norte, along the northern Basque coast of Spain. It starts in Irun and passes through San Sebastian, Zaraust, Deba, Guernica, Bilbao, and Portugalete before entering Cantabria. This route retraces the path used by pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela to reach the saint’s tomb. In fact, it was easy for ships coming from Northern Europe to dock in the ports of northern Spain and walk along this route. It unfolded entirely in territories controlled by Christian kings and princes. During this time other parts of Spain were occupied by the Moors at the time.

One of the most picturesque stretches of the Camino del Norte is the one that goes from Zumaia to Deba. Here is where we can enter the Geoparque de la Costa Vasca (the Geopark of the Basque Coast). At first glance, it may appear as a beautiful, but typical route. It is characterised by the thousands of shades of green that extend to the Cantabrian Sea.

“Flysch” phenomenon

The rote’s uniqueness lies in its geological formation. The different layers of rock, formed by sediments over millions of years. Instead of horizontally, they are vertically oriented due to the collision of the Pyrenean tectonic plates. They are exposed thanks to the erosive action of the sea.

“Flysch” is the name of this interesting phenomenon. Thanks to it, there’s no need for excavation to gather geological information about what happened in different eras. For example, a thin layer of black color testifies to the impact of an asteroid on our planet. Another layer reveals the causes of the disappearance of dinosaurs.

The 13 km of the Basque Coast included in the Geopark can be explored with hikes, boat rides, or horseback riding. Besides the Flysch phenomenon, you can admire natural beauty and charming rural areas with grazing animals along the road.

We follow the “Ruta del flysch” stage from Zumaia to Deba. It’s about 14 km long and takes approximately 4 hours to walk. Also, this route coincides with the famous “Camino de Santiago” in the “Camino del Norte” variant. It offers enchanting views of the sea and hills, with various shades of green gently intertwining among the large flysch rocks. Above all, the path climbs in elevation, providing breathtaking panoramas from the heights of small villages and the coast. Upon arrival at small beaches or rocky outcrops, they offer the opportunity of a refreshing swim in the sea.

2. The Sentier du Littoral from Hendaye to Bidart

This path, between land and sea, winds from Bidart to Hendaye and can even continue to Bilbao following the Camino del Norte. The land of Labourd is often overlooked by tourists who crowd Biarritz and Bayonne. By this they are missing out on this rural paradise with breathtaking landscapes and idyllic villages.

One of the most picturesque stretches of the Sentier du Littoral is between Hendaye and Domaine d’Abbadia, that runs along a green hill overlooking the sea. The Pyrenees and the ocean have shaped this piece of land over millennia, where the Flysch phenomenon is also visible.

You enter a rural paradise, surrounded by crops, fruit trees, and old farmhouses that now serve the natural park. Along the trails, you’ll reach the Chateau-Observatory Abbadia, a palace built in the second half of the nineteenth century.

On the outside, the neo-Gothic building resembles a medieval castle. Inside you can discover the eclectic personality of the owner, Antoine d’Abbadie. He deeply connected to his Basque origins but also as a great traveler. He installed an astronomical observatory and numerous scientists used it until the 1970s.

The 25 km of green itinerary that winds through the Domaine d’Abbadia is within a protected area overlooking the sea, accessible only on foot, and where dogs are not allowed. The natural area has 7 gates and 6 information points. Here you can study about the flora and fauna, history, and geology of the place and starts from Hendaye. Later it crosses the municipalities of Urrugne, Ciboure, Saint Jean de Luz, Guéthary to reach Bidart.

3. The Border Between France and Spain by Bicycle

Above all, along the Basque Coast, you’ll find beautiful cycling paths. Among the various possibilities, we recommend the one that crosses the border between France and Spain.

Undoubtedly the bicycle route from Hendaye to Irun represents a fascinating cycling adventure along the beautiful Basque coast. Pedaling along this scenic route, the view of the ocean on one side, and the majesty of the hills on the other captivates you. Well-maintained trails and bike paths offer an easy route, allowing cyclists to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Basque region effortlessly.

Starting from Hendaye is the last French town on the coast before entering Spain. You can cycle onward on the 3 km bike path along the golden beach and continue for about 10 km to the Spanish town of Irun. The way follow the banks of the Bidasoa River that divides the two countries.

Another very suggested option for crossing the border between France and Spain is by sea. A ferry connects the shores of Hendaye’s port to the Spanish town of Irun approximately every twenty minutes.

As the blue waters of the Bay of Biscay gently embrace the boat, the natural beauty of the Basque Coast surrounds you. In addition, the huge cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque villages along the coast create a breathtaking scenery.

Upon arriving in Irun, you will dive in a welcoming and authentic local atmosphere. Indeed, this charming Basque city offers a unique blend of culture, history, and tradition.

Furthermore, the cobblestone streets, lively squares, and colourful buildings create a captivating environment for visitors. As you explore Irun, you can discover the region’s cultural heritage through its culinary traditions.

Among the most famous specialities is “pintxos”. It is a variety of snacks that they serve in local bars, offering amazing flavours with ingredients like fresh fish, exquisite cheeses, olives, spicy peppers, and seasonal products. “Bacalao a la vizcaína”, a dish made with cod prepared with a sauce of red peppers and tomatoes. It is an icon of Basque cuisine, as well as “txuletón”, a succulent grilled beef steak.

In conclusion, the best way to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Basque Coast is slowly, on foot, by boat, or by bicycle. Each of the three green routes we have described offers an authentic and engaging experience.

From walks along the Camino del Norte and the Sentier du Littoral to bike and boat routes along the Spain-France border, to exploring picturesque towns and local culinary delights, these itineraries allow you to embrace the true essence of the Basque Coast!

Original article written by Silvia Ombellini

The article Green Hills, Sea, and Cliffs: 3 Green Itineraries in the Basque Coast was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The chaos of urban life, the frenzy of everyday life in the metropolis, among work, study, and endless traffic puts your health to the test, both physically and mentally. Give yourself a break immersed in the nature of Andalusia, in southern Spain!

Andalusia is represented by a very varied territory, between the wide coastal plain of the Guadalquivir River and the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. It hosts internationally renowned cultural destinations of great charm such as Seville, Marbella, Granada, and Malaga, but that’s not everything! In fact, in recent years Andalusia has become a very popular tourist destination. However, you can still follow our advice and discover a less crowded destinations where you can relax and enjoy unique nature, culture and local traditions.

La Molina Eco Holidays

La Molina is situated in the central-southern part of the Iberian country and is a structure designed for those looking for a peaceful and at the same time ecological destination surrounded by nature.

It is located about 20 kilometers from the magnificent city of Ronda and is perfect as a starting point for excursions to the adjacent nature reserves, in order to adopt an active and eco-sustainable holiday.

From natural house to adventure camping

La Molina is perfect for various types of holidaymakers. Indeed, the property offers numerous accommodation options, all private and with their own terrace and garden:

• Casa Reskal: the house for families of up to 5 people
• Casita Azul: natural stone house for 2 people
• Casita Verde: for 2 or 4 people
• Caravana Higuera: caravan restored to accommodate travelers from all over the world
• Tent Pitch: for those who want to travel light, there are also spacious tents with the possibility to rent beds

Not to mention the fact that families can also choose a combined holiday. By doing so, adults can enjoy the comfort of a home, while their little ones can live the experience of “adventure camping”.

This option is particularly appreciated by families with children, to experience and immerse themselves in Andalusian nature in total comfort.

As highlighted above, the accommodation is perfect for every kind of traveller. La Molina offers all the comforts in case you want to stay to unwind from stress, but it also represents a perfect point to stay in case you want to undertake paths in the nearby territories.

Ecology

La Molina is a structure that is committed to creating a perfect mix of comfort for guests and attention to the environment. From this point of view, in fact, it adopts various practices to minimize the environmental impact, such as:

• Organic food at km0
• Waste sorting beyond the 80%
• Electricity from renewable sources
• Bioarchitecture
• Recovery and reuse of water

Attention paid to the environment is a prerogative for every kind of service offered by this green oasis. Since its construction, the idea has been to design it in harmony with the entorno natural, that is to say with the natural context. We have decided to recommend this structure precisely because of its shrewdness towards nature: in fact, it obtains an excellent score according to our ranking, reaching 4.5 leaves out of 5 (it has 9 requirements of environmental sustainability out of 10).

Hot spots in the surroundings

The culture of this territory hosts many places that still have traces of the past, often perfectly combined with the natural context. The location of the structure allows you to visit different landscapes in the surroundings; some of these are:

1. Ronda

Near “La Molina” we find Ronda, one of the most evocative villages of the entire region. It is located on a rocky promontory and is divided in two parts by the Guadalevin River. It will leave you flabbergasted thanks to the many views across the valley, especially from the Puente Nuevo, which connects the two sides of the 100m deep Canyon el Tajo.

2. Setenil de las Bodegas

It is unusual but at the same time a magnificent small village that we recommend you visit: Setenil de las Bodegas presents in its identity a perfect combination of houses and rock. The houses and shops are in fact set exactly in the rock, as the inhabitants used the caves as homes, trying to modify them as little as possible so as not to usurp this wonder of nature.

3. Sport in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park

This natural park is one of the most fascinating green areas of Andalusia. Beyond that, it offers various possibilities for fans of even the most extreme sports, such as sport climbing, paragliding, canyoning, and kayaking.

Travelling is a hobby that pools all people together, but why don’t we reconcile it with eco-sustainability? Follow our advice and don’t miss this pearl of Andalusia! Take advantage of it and visit La Molina, to enjoy the unique landscapes of the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula!

The article La Molina: Eco Holiday in Andalusia surrounded by Nature was originally posted on Ecobnb.

A mix of landscapes among a wide range of ecosystems and animal species: welcome to the Doñana National Park. In 1980 UNESCO declared it Biosphere Reserve and is one of the best preserved and most attractive natural spaces in all of Andalusia. Unique in Europe.

It is located in the province of Huelva, on the border between Cadiz and Sevilla, on the right bank of the Guadalquivir’s mouth. A location which offers an infinite number of activities, from birdwatching to adventure sports.

The history

Its particular name comes from Doña Ana, wife of the VII Duke of Medina Sidonia, who lived in the reserve. The National Park extends for 543 square kilometres (135 of them are protected areas) and it was established in 1969, with a decree law. It became a protected area, and they decided to expand it about 10 years later. In 1994, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and in 2005 a wetland of international significance.

Access to the park is controlled in order to avoid environmental damage.

What to See in the Doñana National Park

The peculiarities of Doñana, along with the dynamism of the environment, are its natural resources, the Mediterranean climate with an Atlantic influence, as it is located between two continents, and its immense productivity.

In this Park, you can come across any kind of scenery: coast, pine forests, shifting sand dunes, breathtaking beaches, marshes, woods, forests, plains, and lagoons. Moreover, it is a protected natural area that acts as a refuge, transit, and nesting place for more than 350 migratory birds, as well as a garrison for some at risk of extinction.

“Its proximity to Africa is among the main causes of the richness and variety of bird species. Birds with large wingspans, such as eagles and kites, cannot fly long distances over water: for this reason, they cross the Mediterranean at three points (the Dardanelles, Gibraltar and Tarifa) where the continents are closer. In preparation for the journey to West Africa, the Doñana marshes are a comfortable and essential place to rest and hunt”.

From “Wild Spain: a traveller’s and Naturalist’s Guide” by Frederic V. Grunfeld

Among the other animal species, we point out aquatic and migratory birds, not to forget the Iberian lynx, the emblem of Doñana. Then the deer, fallow deer, coypu, wild boars, foxes, storks, flamingos, the imperial eagle, and the griffon.

Whereas among the important flora, we mention: savin, stone pine, patches of grass and shrubs, Salicornia, heather, strawberry tree, cork oaks, rosemary, mastic, thorny broom, and sorghum.

Principal activities in the Doñana National Park

The particular territory of the Doñana National Park lends itself perfectly to birdwatching, thanks to the important and rich birdlife it hosts. Furthermore, you can discover all the other animals that inhabit it.

You can immerse yourself on horseback in the dunes, to appreciate every detail of the scenery, including the pine forest and the beaches.

Otherwise, you can use your bike: thanks to a dense network of cycle paths that allow you to discover the ecosystems of the area. On the saddle of a mountain bike, you can do fun and educational physical activity.

Not to mention the aquatic sports. The Park is entirely accessible by kayak, along the gentle waters of the Guadiamar River. To navigate easily among the most varied vegetation, many animals, and their sounds. In addition, you can swim and dive in one of the beautiful virgin beaches, from where you can also enjoy an unforgettable sunset.

You can explore the park independently on foot, apart from the protected area, through various paths and excursions, or with organized tours.

Inside the Park is located the hamlet of El Rocio, an important destination for devout Andalusian Christians. The pilgrimage is a particular event because it takes place on carriages, pulled by off-road vehicles or tractors, where people celebrate by drinking wine and dancing flamenco.

A marvellous environmental balance with different and amazing scenarios, to please everyone. Colours and landscapes blend together, like the never-ending play of the animals. Various aspects change based on the season, but they are always wonderful in their uniqueness.

The beautiful Doñana National Park is like a fairy tale, the perfect solution for an eco-friendly, rich, surprising, funny, educational, and dynamic holiday.

The article Doñana National Park: discover the biodiversity paradise was originally posted on Ecobnb.

A paradise island of unspoilt beauty: Formentera, the kingdom of untouched nature. In the middle of the Balearic Islands, this place offers ideal moments for relax, physical activity and enjoying the authenticity of the land and sea.

Famous for fun, but also for being a true jewel of the Mediterranean. Rich in green routes where you can forget a motor vehicle and move around in a totally eco-friendly way. To discover the island through country lanes, hidden and unexpected corners. A true wonder to explore.

There are no less than 32 green routes for walking and cycling with a total of 100 kilometres of routes, which use old, alternative and perfectly safe rural roads. There are no particular differences in altitude, as the land is rather flat. They are all signposted in different colours and with signs indicating distances, with no fear of getting lost!

Formentera green routes: practical tips

Before embarking on any itinerary, it is a good idea to make some small arrangements:

• comfortable clothes and appropriate shoes
  
• a hat and protective sun cream. The sun is often hot, so you avoid unpleasant sunburns
  
• plenty of water and something to eat because you may find yourself in the middle of nature, with no shady, equipped areas and refreshment points available.

If you decide on a two-wheeler, it is good to choose

• a bicycle with gears. You have greater safety and adaptability to terrain, even if it is not difficult.

If you opt for Nordic walking

• you can request the appropriate walking stick at the Sant Francesc tourist office.

5 must-see circuits

Let’s take a look at the best green routes in Formentera. For everything else you can consult the island’s official tourism website.

Camí d’en Parra

A circuit that starts at the junction from the main road at Cap de Barbaria. The area you encounter is called Can Parra and has some of the best preserved architecture on Formentera. You will discover the most intimate and rural part of the island, made up of stone houses and nature in the wild.

With a distance of about 2 kilometres on a stone path through pine forests, the first section is paved, ideal for cycling or walking.

Camí de Ses Illetes

Discover the most beautiful sea and the most famous beaches of Formentera. A 1,900-metre-long path inside the Ses Salines Natural Park, dotted with tall pine trees and gigantic, beautiful dunes.

Skirting the now disused salt pans, you can reach the beaches of Es Cavall d’en Borras or Levante, to name the best known. In less than 2 kilometres you can immerse yourself in one of the most evocative spots on the entire island.

Camí de S’Estany

A journey of about 4.5 kilometres starting from the port of La Savina, in the direction of Es Pujols, along the lake L’Estany des Falmencs (one of two on the island) with its beautiful, transparent waters. This is a non-bathing place but perfect for observing the migratory birds in the area. You can admire numerous species such as flamingos, seagulls or ducks and the pink-coloured salt marshes.

Before arriving at the beautiful tourist centre of Es Pujols, try turning left towards Sant Francesc Xavier. You will be able to visit one of the most impressive archaeological finds on Formentera: the dolmen of Can Na Costa.

Camí Vell de la Mola

A beautiful route linking Sant Ferran with the Ca Marì area is recommended to be cycled. It is about 12 kilometres long and is located in a very isolated and quiet area of Formentera.

Among fields and spectacular vegetation, you will immediately enter the wildest nature of the island and the placid and slow life of its inhabitants. On the way you will see not only fields, forests and vineyards, but also the lighthouse, the old mill known as Molí d’en Tauet and magnificent views of the sheer cliffs.

Camí de Ses Vinyes

A path that starts at the lively Es Pujols and arrives at San Ferrant. A path surrounded by large pine forests and olive groves, in an authentic and historic rural area, passing through the villages of S’Estaca and Es Caló. In just 1,300 metres you can admire the centuries-old vineyards owned by local families.

A pride of the area, a tradition that has a long history and produces wine of excellent quality. The wine of Formentera, in fact, is known for its characteristic and genuine flavour.

Discover Formentera from different points of view in contact with unspoilt nature. On foot or by bicycle, along paths that make you forget everyday stress. Let yourself be enveloped by a feeling of well-being in body and soul and explore the island in a green way, among agricultural circuits, pine forests and dunes.

Are you ready to be overwhelmed by the scents and colours of its magical nature? Formentera is waiting to kidnap your heart.

Cover image: photo by Resim Michel Bertolotti tarafından Pixabay’a yüklendi 

The article Formentera: the most scenic walking and cycling routes was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Sustainable tourism in Spain represents one of the most important development engines of the Country. A way of travelling, that respects nature, places and local communities are always more requested, not only in the Iberian peninsula but all over the world. In Spain, there are a lot of authentic and wonderful rural areas where ecotourism offers a real opportunity for social and economic development. Some of the particularly interesting areas include Asturian and Pyrenees, Catalonia (among Costa Brava and the hinterland), Andalusia, and the Canary and Balearic islands. Are you ready to discover 10 sustainable destinations in Spain perfect for a vacation in harmony with nature? From the North to the South of the Nation, here you have the most beautiful places for an eco-friendly holiday in Spain.

San Sebastiàn

The list of best sustainable destinations to not lose in Spain begins with one of the most known cities in the North of the Nation, in the Basque Country: San Sebastiàn. A wonderful location, rich in nature, art and history.

For breathing the culture you can explore the delightful alleys of the centre, observing the buildings, the mayor hall, the Deputación and Miramar Palaces, and the Costitución and Gipuzkoa squares. And then, the museums, the Victoria theatre, and the churches. The most characteristic one is the Buen Pastor Cathedral, in neo-Gothic style, built in 1897.

For hiking, some paths bring you to mount Urgull, where stands out Mota Castle. These paths are four and they all begin at different points, each of them hiding different surprises and unmissable views.

Just two kilometres away from the centre rise Donostia. From here you can organize hikes on the Igueldo mount, which you can reach on foot or by cableway, which still has the original coaches from 1912. You can cheer your eyes with the most suggestive glimpses of the city, enjoy an amusement park and reach the old lighthouse.

Between the two mounts, there is Concha Beach, the symbol of the city, one of the most beautiful urban beaches in the world. A wide and sandy bay, that still maintains a wild part and in its centre there is the rocky island of Santa Clara.

Noja

If you want to spend a vacation in the middle of the wild and uncontaminated nature, the perfect sustainable destination is Noja, on the Cantabria coast of Spain.

Here there are a lot of guided paths which cross the beaches, dunes, swamps, countryside and forest, where you can immerse yourself in the green and admire incredible landscapes. The Santoña, Victoria and Joyel lagoon Natural Park is a heritage that encloses 120 different species of aquatic birds and a lot more animals.

Among the most famous beaches there are Playa de Tregandín and Playa de Ris, with their solemn cliffs and luxurious flora. They are ideal to practice every aquatic sport.

And then, you can visit architectural excellences with elegant palaces and historical residences, sanctuaries and churches. The symbol of the city is a roman bridge that crosses the wide lagoon of Las Huelgueras. Furthermore, Noja is part of the Santiago Way.

Gijón

Along the coasts of the “Green Spain”, on the shores of the Cantabrian sea, in Asturia, there is the vibrant Gijón. This sustainable destination in Spain has been a finalist in the program EDEN (European Destination of ExcelleNce) of the European Commission for sustainable tourism.

A naturalistic and cultural destination, to explore from the coast to the hinterland; rich in museums, squares, palaces and Roman ruins and you can’t miss the Clock Tower. There is also a promontory where it develops the fishermen’s neighbourhood of Cimadevilla, with a large park that extends into the ocean and shows incredible viewpoints.

Then there are a lot of paths, green areas, attractions for families, parks, lakes, mountains and walks along the sea. The most famous beach is Playa de San Lorenzo, long and sandy, with some isolated points with rocks and inlets.

Barcelona

The capital of Catalonia holds a primate. It has been the first city in the world to obtain certification as a sustainable tourism destination in Spain.

One of the most famous tourist destinations on the planet, symbol of overtourism, can be lived in a totally green way. You can enjoy the sun of the Mediterranean, the amusement and the local vivacities in the numerous green spaces with greenery and different styles.

You can move by bicycle, thanks to the numerous cycling tracks, or on foot, you can visit the centre and its palaces, the historical monuments, the squares, the artistic alleys, the architecture of Gaudí and the Rambla until the harbour. You can also visit the various parks, the hills of Tibidabo and Montjuïc and the numerous belvedere. Don’t forget to have a walk along the urban coast until the cleanest and crystal clear ones of Costa Brava.

Girona

Staying in Catalonia, among history and nature, we can talk about Girona, a little green and architectonic jewel.

Time ago the city was surrounded by medieval walls, now it develops along a maze of ancient alleys. here you can find the cathedral of Santa María, the museums and the colourful houses that appear on the shore of the river Onyar. Don’t miss the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, the churches and the ancient roman thermal baths. You can also walk on the archaeological path that brings you to the most important sites of the ancient city.

Among the natural parks you cannot miss the ones near the river Ter: La Devesa and Les Ribes del Ter, perfect for walking or doing sport. If you want to move by bike, follow the Greenways, and walk along the ancient railway tracks on two wheels.

Valencia

Another ideal destination for sustainable tourism in Spain is the bustling and ecologic Valencia.

A dynamic city, rich in culture and traditions, ancient and modern at the same time with an attention to sustainability. With its dense network of cycling tracks that connect the city and excellent service of bike sharing, you can move well everywhere.

You can cross the entire city along the old river bed of the Turia river, which now is a florid garden 9 kilometres long that unites the Parc de Cabecera with the City of Arts and Science. A nice walk by bike can bring you to exciting museums, monuments and rivers hidden inside.

You also can’t miss the nice beaches with clean sea, among the most famous ones there are Playa La Malvarrosa and Playa de Las Arenas.

To tone up your legs and enjoy a wonderful view you can access the Miguelete tower, attached to the cathedral in gothic style. Climb the 207 steps of the spiral staircase, reach the terrace of the bell tower and make you be surprised by the impressive view of the city and the countryside.

Moreover, a few kilometres away from the city centre there is the magical Natural Park of Albufera. On its inside, you can find the biggest lagoon of the entire nation, an ancient sweet and salty, born from the merge of the rivers Turia and Jucar with the sea. It’s also a shelter for unique species of aquatic birds.

Doñana National Park

Now we move to the south, among the provinces of Huelva, Cadiz and Seville, in Andalusia, in the spectacular Doñana National Park. This is one of the most beautiful and important areas of Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A marvellous place where you can find different ecosystems: swamp, lagoon, kilometres of beaches, mobile dunes, cliffs, pine forests and Mediterranean scrub. Here coexist different animals like birds, deers and wild boars. Some species are even in danger of extinction like the imperial Spanish eagle or the Iberian lynx. Here there is a total of 500 vegetal and animal species of great ecologic value.

A spectacular scenario that changes every season and that amazes you continuously, in a territory that is extended for 543 square kilometres and that can give you a green trip full of emotions.

Almería

With its Western landscape, Almería, in the heart of Andalusia, offers the possibility of an adventure out of this world.

A city of Arab origins, with a rich historic past and an undisputed wild nature, that gifts amazing views. Among ochre rocks and desert streets, you can observe the typical country houses (cortijos) and enjoy a regenerating peace. You can visit the centre with its cobbled alleys, the coast, the churches, the museum and the cathedral. And the Alcazaba of Almería, the magnificent fortress located on a hill, where you can admire at 360° degrees the city and its amazing gardens.

The beaches are pieces of paradise, like the special Cabo de Gata. A natural reserve with uncontaminated beaches, cliffs overlooking the transparent sea and deep inlets. It almost looks like a lunar atmosphere.

Then there is the Sierra Nevada National Park, with its unique landscapes and with its endless possibilities. In winter and summer, you can dedicate yourself to the sport: skiing, cycling, hiking and even horse riding.

Finally, just half an hour away from the city, you can visit the desert of Tabernas, the only one in Europe, choosen by the movie director Sergio Leone, where he set his most famous movies. You can also enjoy the numerous trekking paths, in the middle of an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Furthermore, during the night you can admire an unforgettable starry sky.

Formentera

Not only the mecca of amusement but also a safe and ecologic island, ideal for doing an experience of sustainable tourism in Spain. Formentera, in fact, with its wide natural spaces, has uncontaminated places that are perfect for living numerous adventures.
The Consell Insular de Formentera is active for a lot of years to promote the island as as one of the best sustainable destinations in Spain, through numerous actions to protect the natural heritage.

The pearl of Baleares will bring you on a trip that will open all your senses. Among landscapes of rare beauty, colourful villages, and white and infinite beaches with crystal clear and blue water, you can practice a lot of activities. You can walk and hike on foot, by bike or with a horse, through the 32 green itineraries, and do every type of aquatic sport.

Moreover, you cannot miss making the route of the lighthouses and hills of the island, from the highland of La Mola to Cap de Barbaria.

El Hierro

El Hierro is a small island that is located more west than the Canary islands. With heavenly beaches, rich greenery, volcanos and a favourable climate and many naturalistic attractions, is a land of huge impact.

Moreover, the island distinguishes itself for its commitment to the safeguarding of the local ecosystem. Declared Biosphere Reserve, is a place where there are many hike paths, surrounded by various green and luxuriant forests. The waters are crystal clear and the spectacular ocean floors are full of life. The Marine Reserve La Restinga is an underwater temple, known at an international level and populated with numerous animals.

The island has approved time ago a sustainable development model, based on the recycling of waste, sustainable transportation, organic agriculture and on projects that regard the use of solar energy and hydrogen cars. It has been the first island completely self-sufficient thanks to the usage of renewable energy.

Breathe pure air, enjoy the belvedere on the sea and immerse yourself in the meditative peace that the uncontaminated nature can inspire you.

In conclusion, sustainability is one of the new pillars of Spanish tourism. We have suggested to you some of the most beautiful and sustainable destinations in Spain to travel respecting the environment, discover exceptional places, and live a unique and rewarding experience. Which will be your next green destination?

The article Top 10 Sustainable Destinations in Spain for your next green holiday was originally posted on Ecobnb.

On the border with Africa, in southern Spain, among desert, sea, and unspoiled nature, there is a little green jewel: Almeria.

The city is located on a promontory inside a large bay. It rises in all its magnificence above the waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by hills, where you can feel elegance, culture, and oriental flavors.

It is a mix of ancient and modern, with mountain landscapes, nature reserves, stunning beaches, great parks, history, and architecture. So if you are looking for a trip outside the tourist routes in the name of beauty, fun, and respect for nature, Almeria will charm you!

Let’s discover together its main attractions, for a sustainable and surprising holiday.

Natural Park Cabo de Gata-Nijar

It is a protected area that covers 800 square kilometers, protected and well conserved, located in the Province of Almeria. One of the few volcanic parks in the Mediterranean, with impressive geology for which it has received the Geopark distinction.

Known for its flora and fauna, with more than 1,000 animal and vegetal species, the Cabo de Gata Park contains a true desert and some of the most fascinating beaches in Europe.

Beautiful virgin coves that overlook the crystal-clear sea, such as the spiaggia de los Genoveses, the Spiaggia de Los Muertos, the Spiaggia de Mónsul or the Playazo de Rodalquilar.

You can also enjoy the view of the Cabo de Gata lighthouse, the Vigía Vela Blanca tower, or that of Los Lobos.

And then you find the Tabernas desert, an extended, arid landscape with rocky mountains and plains full of cactus, unique scenery, and set of many successful films.

The park is the ideal place for diving, nautical activities, water sports, and many excursions of differing difficulty.

The best beaches in Almeria

The coasts of Almeria provide enchanting shorelines almost untouched by a human presence that are perfect for relaxing swims, snorkeling, kayak,ing or windsurfing.

In addition to the previously mentioned beaches of Los Genoveses or de Monsul, are unmissable:

• Las Salinas

• Isleta de Moro

• San Miguel

• Cala Raja

Thin and golden sand or coarser, stones, rocks or coves, equipped areas or wilder ones. The choice is extensive but with the common denominator of the crystal-clear sea.

Sorbas Caverns

They are located in the Karst Natural Park in the Sorbas Chalks. An underground world with a network of galleries characterized by stalactites, stalagmites, and chalk crystals.

Almeria: inside art and history

Almeria is an ancient and rich city of Arab origin. Surely the exploration of the city center is a mystical experience that allows you to know its beauty. A combination of cultures is tangible in its monuments.

The Muslim domination, that lasted decades, can be observed in the Alcabaza fortress. An enormous Moorish fortification, reached by a walk along narrow streets and colorful houses. From the fortress, you can enjoy a splendid 360-degree view of the city. While from below you can access the picturesque Jardines del Agua, which is also featured in some scenes of the TV series Game of Thrones.

On the next hill, there is the Castle of San Cristobal, where you can admire the city port, one of the most important in Andalusia.

Of Christian origin is the Cathedral, which looks like a fortress. Gothic architecture with a Renaissance facade.

Then there are the churches of San Juan or Santiago el Viejo, examples of the transformation of mosques into churches or Christian holy places after the expulsion of the Arabs.

It is worth a visit to the picturesque Barrio de la Chana, among colorful houses carved into the rocks.

Parks

Nature and fun, a combination that you can easily find in Almeria, for example in the parks.

The Natural Park Sierra María-Los Vélez, in the north of the province, with its rocky cliffs, extensive flora and fauna and diverse landscape. Where you will encounter the caves of La Gitana, Sima de Los Rincones and magnificent springs such as Los Molinos, in Velez Blanco.

Then there is the Park Natural Punta Entinas, located to the southwest of Roquetas del Mar. This is a 15-kilometer strip of protected coastline with dunes and beaches, freshwater lakes, and saline. These include the abandoned Cerrillos-Salinas Viejas, where there are around 150 species of birds.

The water parks of Roquetas de Mar and Vera Playa refresh yourself from the sun. Or the theme park of Fort Bravo and Western Leone, in the so-called Mini Hollywood, for film lovers.

And then there is the Sierra Nevada National Park with exceptional panoramic views, known all over Europe.

The province of Almeria also has 7 mountain ranges with beautiful wildlife and the beautiful Almanazora Valley with extensive olive groves, orchards, and characteristic Spanish villages, ideal for rural tourism.

Magical landscapes, unspoiled nature, and heat, both in the climate and in the people. A fun, cultural, and environmentally friendly holiday: are you ready for an unforgettable trip? Almeria is waiting for you!

The article Almeria: the Andalusian pearl to discover was originally posted on Ecobnb.

One of the actively developing ways to travel in recent decades has been ecotourism. The term “ecotourism” appeared in the 1980s. At first, it was used to describe travel routes where the last stop was a visit to ecologically significant locations such as tropical forests, waterfalls, caverns, and other natural landmarks. Through the contemplation of the natural beauty, these routes were intended to instill in travelers a conscious awareness of the need to protect the environment.

Today, ecotourism encompasses a wide range of intriguing activities in addition to this. Long hikes in untouched wilderness, mountain camping, encounters with animals in the wild, stays with locals where you may teach them crafts or assist with harvesting, stays in solar-powered hotels, and many more activities are included.

In all ecotourism practices, the idea of responsibility remains important. People must be aware of the consequences of the conveniences of modern global tourism and be willing (as much as possible) to sacrifice them.

Cies Islands

A great place for travelers ready for this kind of practice is the Cies Islands. The archipelago is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, 15 kilometers from Vigo, the capital of Galicia, a part of northern Spain that borders Portugal. Monteagudo, Faro, and San Martiño are the three islands that make up the Cies. San Martiño is separated from the first two islands by a strait, while they are connected by a sand spit. Notably, the islands, which are a part of Galicia, the rainiest region in Spain, rarely see rain because of their special geographic location.

The archipelago has been a designated nature park since 1980. From April to October, it is accessible to tourists. Galicia’s local government has been advocating for the islands’ inclusion on the list of the world’s greatest natural wonders since 2013. In light of this, specific guidelines for visiting the islands have been created that are directly tied to the values and principles of ecotourism:

• no more than 2200 tourists can be on the islands daily;
• It is forbidden to use any kind of transport in the archipelago;
• it is forbidden to make fires;
• tourists are required to take garbage from the products they brought with them;
• you can walk around the islands only along specially designated paths;
• you can stay on the islands for at least two and no more than 15 nights (however, a one-day visit is also possible).

How to get there

The only means of transportation to Cies is by ferry. The city of Vigo is the closest to them; the travel there takes around 40 minutes, and a round-way ticket there costs between 14 and 18 euros. There are nine daily departures from the port of Vigo during the hot season (July to September), compared to three during the other months.

The archipelago can also be reached from two other Galician towns, the small towns of Baiona and Cangas. The distance to the islands from each of them is about 20 km. The trip takes about an hour, the ticket will cost the same 14-18 euros. Due to the limited number of tourists, it is recommended to book tickets in advance.

The return ticket must also be purchased at the same time. For those who plan to stay on the islands for several nights, it is necessary to enter the camp reservation code when purchasing tickets, so decide in advance how much time you plan to devote to this place.

The ferry will leave you on the island of Monteagudo. Since the island of Faro is connected to it, it takes 40 minutes to get there. On the other hand, you cannot get to San Martiño by public ferry. It is accessible only to those who come to Cies by personal or rented in Spain water transport. However, you need to get permission from the park administration to get on San Martiño.

Camping in Cies Islands

Two to fifteen days are permitted on the islands from May to September. In Faro, an 800-bed tent camp has been established for this purpose. This is the only area that can accommodate guests on the islands of Monteagudo and Faro. If you intend to visit San Martiño, you are welcome to camp there in the wild.

You have a choice of using your own tents or pre-built tents when camping on Faro Island. It will cost between 5 and 9 euros a night for a space for your own tent. Some tourists do not know how to sleep in a tent but still want to participate in ecotourism. For them there are tents (2 or 4 people) with beds inside. A night in the tent will cost between 40-75 euros.

There is a restaurant 15 minutes from the campsite. There is a small supermarket on its territory, where you can buy basic “camping ration” products. For example bread, dairy products, canned foods, fruit, nuts, and water. Not far from the camp there is a shower with hot and cold water. But there is a charge for using it – 50 cents for each shower. For a fee (2 euros) you can get unlimited access to Wi-Fi and charge your own devices.

Things to do in Cies Islands

To enjoy beaches untouched by the tourism industry with azure waters of the ocean and white shiny sand is certainly one of the main goals of a trip to Cies. There are six of them in the archipelago. One of them – Rhodes (on the island of Faro) is annually included in the lists of the best beaches in the world. But beach vacation is not the only thing to do on the islands.

Monteagudo and Faro offer guests guided tours on four routes, two of which involve climbing up the mountain to the lighthouses. The tours are conducted in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. The guides will tell you about the history of the islands, the peculiarities of the local flora and fauna, the Galician traditions and beliefs related to the islands. If you prefer to explore on your own, don’t forget to pick up a map with walking routes on the ferry or from the campsite administrators.

Tourists spending several days on the islands are invited to take part in free night theatrical tours and photo walks, and watch the stars together. A separate educational and entertaining program is provided for the youngest guests of the islands. Information on all activities can be obtained directly from the campsite administrators.

Author: Helen Wilson is a professional content writer from Essaypay.com company. Her main spheres of specialization are Health, Productivity, and Self-development. She also studies psychology and marketing

The article Ecotourism On The Cies Islands was originally posted on Ecobnb.