A project started in 2005, that now is showing the first amazing results, and that makes Norway even more beautiful to see: it is the National Tourist Routes, a sustainable initiative that combines art, design, and nature.

Atlanterhavsvegan National tourist Route, photo by Kjetil Scølberg via visitnorway.com

The best architects and designers of Norway, including Snøhetta, Margrete Friis, Peter Zumthor, Jensen & Skodvin, and Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk, have created the world’s unique panoramic roads for a total of 1859 kilometers, divided into 18 routes.
In western, Central, and North Norway, along the coast and in the mountains, rest areas, and panoramic viewpoints were created that do not destroy nature, but rather enhance the experience of travelers who live in it.

Rest area along the Helgelandskysten National Tourist Route, photo by Vegas Moen via wisitnorway.com

There are many who choose to make a road trip to Norway; (I recommend, with an electric car!) and now the experience will be even more incredible. If panoramic roads exist in many other countries, these Norwegians remain unique in the world, because architecture and nature intertwine harmoniously, in a way perhaps never seen before.

There is, for example, the National Tourist Route Sognefjellet of 108 kilometers, 1,434 meters above sea level, that crosses the highest mountain pass in Norway, and that now allows you to see like never before its longest and deepest fjord.

You can travel the 230 kilometers of the National Tourist Route Lofoten and be amazed by the stunning landscapes of the Lofoten archipelago, or you remain breathless, across the Arctic Circle, passing the world’s largest tidal maelstrom, the unique Torghatten mountain, and the UNESCO listed Vega islands, along the incredible Helgelandskysten National Tourist Road.

The National Tourist Roads in Norway rethink the architecture and design, which now is at the service of nature and of the travelers who want to live it fully. In some cases, the architectural gestures can almost go unnoticed, but they do change the face of the country, which, while remaining sustainable, re-evaluate the concept of tourism. The architectural gestures call the attention of travelers and distracted tourists, and emphasize the cultural and historical heritage of the spaces, making the experience unforgettable travel.

Some of these national tourist routes are closed in winter, so we recommend checking the website nasjonaleturistveger.no before departing.

Cover photo by Unsplash

The article Norway aims on sustainable architecture 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.

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.

Every journey leaves a footprint, but you can choose if it will be green! Join us in a unique adventure that combines the convenience and low environmental impact of Trenitalia’s regional train with the environmental commitment of Ecobnb’s accommodation. Be inspired by the beauty of sustainable travel. Discover the universe of green Italy by train with our initiative that refunds your ticket.

The Perfect Pair: Ecobnb and Trenitalia

Ecobnb, our network of sustainability-oriented accommodations, has partnered with Trenitalia to promote a slow and responsible way of exploring Italy. By choosing Trenitalia’s regional train, not only will you experience a comfortable and scenic journey, but you’ll also make an eco-friendly choice compared to more polluting means of transportation such as planes and private cars.

Italy Green by Train: How the Initiative Works to Make You Travel and Save

The Green Italy by Train initiative is an invitation to travel responsibly, choosing eco-friendly accommodations and opting for a train journey, which has emissions 3.7 times lower than a road trip and 4.3 times lower than air travel. The formula is simple. Book your stay in an Ecobnb participating in the initiative and arrive with Trenitalia’s regional train to receive a refund.

For one-night stays, Ecobnb refunds the amount spent on tickets, up to a maximum of 10 euros. For those who wish to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in a sustainable experience, we offer an even more special discount. In fact, for stays of at least two nights, you will receive a refund on the Trenitalia regional train tickets used to reach the destination, up to a maximum of 20 euros.

Participating in the initiative is easy and fast. Just book a stay at one of the participating properties here and purchase your Trenitalia regional train tickets to reach the destination. After your stay, within 30 days, you simply need to submit your request by filling out this form. In a short time, you will receive your refund via bank transfer, PayPal, or by redeeming an Ecobnb Gift Card.

Why Choose to Travel Green Italy by Train

1. Environmental Sustainability. Choose Trenitalia’s regional train for eco-friendly travel and reduced carbon emissions.
2. Economic Savings. Ecobnb offers refunds for train journeys that can help you save money. Take advantage of these financial benefits today.
3. Unique Experience. Discover the wonders of Italy from a new perspective, through sustainable travel, contributing to the well-being of the planet.

This new initiative is the perfect opportunity to explore our beautiful country sustainably, save on your journey, and contribute to environmental protection. Choose the Ecobnb and Trenitalia duo for an unforgettable adventure, characterized by responsible travel and eco-friendly experiences. Travel green and discover a more sustainable Italy!

The article Green Italy by Train: Ecobnb Refunds Your Journey on Trenitalia Regional Trains was originally posted on Ecobnb.

5 ideas for horseback riding and eco-friendly accommodations to escape from the city in the Tuscan beauties

Just one day, or maybe two, to get away from city life and find yourself in the midst of nature riding a horse in the mountains, surrounded by the hills or along the coast. Why not enjoy a special holiday in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy?

Tuscany is a treasure trove of history and art, its cities and its medieval villages tell a thousand-year history; is a treasure chest of scents and flavors that offers culinary delights and fine wines, but it is also a region rich in nature, which offers beautiful landscapes, hills, mountains and long beaches. The great natural heritage of Tuscany is the perfect premise for a riding holiday, full of wilderness and freedom that only a ride can give.

Horseback riding on Mount Mugello

In the pristine landscape of Mount Mugello, we can experience a horseback riding away from civilization: on hidden paths to discover the wild landscapes of the Apennines, between ancient Roman artefacts and traces of boars, deer and even wolves. In the area you can organize daily hikes or multi-day tours, to discover all the hidden treasures.

The routes of wine on horseback

Photo by Fabio Ingrosso via Flickr

In Tuscany 23 roads run through the hills covered with vineyards and olive trees, run into medieval towns, hidden churches, villas and farmhouses. They are the wine routes, paths leading into the rural heart of the region that will allow you to live in deep contact with nature. One way to discover these itineraries is definitely on horseback!

Horseback riding on Mount Amiata

Photo by Helena via Flickr

The mountains of southern Tuscany, eternal background of the Maremma: an enchanted forest countryside which hides many routes. Among these, there is the path, walking horse, which makes the mountain circumnavigation between 1000 and 1300 meters in altitude and cross forests of beech, fir, oak and chestnut.

 Along the coast

Photo by Giacomo Bindi via Flickr

We discover to our horse riding Rosignano. It starts from Paoggio Pelato, at Le Serre and you arrive in the resort Steccaia. We walk 30 km, admiring the Apennines, the contours of the Apuan Alps, the Tuscan Archipelago, the Medicean castle of Rosignano Maritime and hilly landscapes.

Among coal mines and marble quarries

Let’s start Cancellini Farm on the bridle path that immediately delves into the forests of oak and chestnut trees. The Horseback Trail passes close to a museum that depicts the life and customs of coal miners who worked in this area. The open landscapes of the surrounding valley and the metalliferous hills. After crossing the river Cornia, we dive through the olive groves and vineyards and among the marble quarries, some still active. Then we pass through the villages of Suvereto and finally we reach the Montioni Park.

Where to stay to fully enjoy Tuscany and live a riding holiday

For your horseback holiday in Tuscany you can choose a sustainable accommodation. Here are the farmhouses and the green hotels that have stables and/or organize horseback riding.

A farmhouse among the mountains

Bio Agriturismo La Colombaia is located in the mountains of Mugello and offers travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rural setting, made of small things, where they follow the rhythm of nature. Fully sustainable, it offers homemade food, comfortable rooms, and the possibility to organize tours in the surrounding area with the horses of the farm.

A farmhouse in Sansepolcro

La Conca farmhouse is surrounded by an immense private natural park that makes the location truly exclusive and evocative. Here you can stay in old stone houses. At guest’s disposal swimming pool, stable, archery, bowling alley, guided walks on foot, horseback, and mountain biking.

On the hills of Scandicci

Just 7 kilometers from Florence, Lebbiano Residence is an enchanting accommodation consisting of studios built according to the criteria of bio-architecture. It is surrounded by forests and meadows, and has a gazebo on the shore of the natural lake with barbecue and an ecological, non-chemical swimming pool. Just over a kilometer, you will find a riding school.

Organic Farmhouse in Volterra

Tenuta Orgiaglia is a splendid organic oasis in a strategic position between Volterra, San Gimignano, and Siena offering the typical Tuscan atmosphere and hospitality. You will know the 3 horses and the pony of the property and make beautiful hikes with them.

In Greve, in the Chianti wine region

Among the vineyards of Chianti, finally, there’s Hotel Giovanni da Verrazzano waiting for you. The accommodation has 10 rooms, each one different, some with views of the beautiful square, others, with a terrace, of the roofs that dominate the surrounding countryside. They organize an hour, half day or full day trips with horses. During the trips, you can book wine and local cheese tastings.

The article Horseback riding in Tuscany was originally posted on Ecobnb.

A garden to explore, a garden to feel nature under your feet and around you, a garden to feel good: here is some tips to create a beautiful sensory garden!

A sensory garden is an area where every sense is stimulated, where nature guides us in a harmonious path and plants and flowers have therapeutic effects on our body, our mind, our emotions.

Anyone with an outdoor space can design a sensory garden, which is for all, designed for children, or accessible to those with disabilities. Of course, bigger is better, but with a little imagination you can create a sensory garden even in a confined space.

How to start? Everything begins with the design and everything revolves around the senses, so let’s see what should not be missing in your sensory garden, along with your imagination.

Sight in a sensory garden

Let’s start with the simplest way to be stimulated within a garden. Your look has to be filled with color, shapes, play of light. The result becomes amazing when you plant flowers in contrasting colors, with shapes that vary. Long-stemmed plants move with the wind and are therefore perfect to create beautiful play of light and movement. Playing with colors of plants and flowers, it’s always good to remember their functions and what they represent:

• Red, orange and yellow represent happiness and vibrancy
• White, blue and lilac convey a sense of relaxation and invite meditation

Smell

Again the design is all: nature gives a thousand scents, but you have to choose well how to arrange them. The most fragrant plants and flowers should not be placed too close together, but among them is best if you place less intense plants. One good idea is surely to have herbs like mint and rosemary into the edges, along the way.

Hearing nature in a sensory garden

The chirping of birds, the sound of wind, the crunch of the leaves: sounds of nature will be already in your sensory garden, but to amplify the auditory experience you can install small fountains or ponds.

Touch nature in a sensory garden

Your garden must invite to touch: plants must be easily accessible, the best leaves are large, velvety or feathered. You can create short paths to go barefoot on the sand or gravel.

Taste in a sensory garden

In your sensory garden there must also be room for edible herbs, for fruit trees or tomatoes. It may surprise you how much you can enjoy taste a produce just picked from the land.

The entrance, the lounge areas and other small details for a perfect sensory garden

For your garden you have to think carefully also to other small things. Entrance is essential, it must give privacy and seem almost a door to another world. You should think about relaxation areas, you can put hammocks or comfortable benches, in a well defined area. It’s best to alternate along the route different materials, for example by establishing an area dedicated to sand and the next one to leaves. It is essential to create the trails with boardwalks that wind through the garden, to make the visit more pleasant and less distracting.

Ready to create your own piece of paradise, to fill complete through a journey of the senses?

The article How to create a sensory garden 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.

Have you ever dreamed of living a vacation on tiptoe, amidst breathtaking landscapes and wild nature? Bequia, in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, is the new destination that will fulfill your wishes. Imagine being at the luxury of Wild Lotus Glamping, just steps away from the majestic Caribbean Sea, sipping a fresh glass of champagne in your hot tub, surrounded by the magical starry sky and next to a crackling bonfire.

Here, you can spend relaxing days on the enchanting beach of Friendship Bay or explore Bequia from this fantastic location.

Nature Experiences: Sunrise Yoga, Massages, Thalassotherapy, Rhythmic Drumming, and CBD Therapies

Wild Lotus Glamping offers a new concept of wellness, where nature merges with luxury to provide rejuvenating and special moments. The resort offers a selection of experiences curated especially for you: you can indulge in detoxifying baths in the Caribbean sun-heated thalassotherapy pools, take a morning yoga class at sunrise, or try holistic treatments enhanced by the power of CBD and THC products.

Indeed, Wild Lotus Glamping is the only resort in Bequia that harnesses the healing power of Cannabis, cultivated in the fertile lands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Here, CBD works in synergy with the surrounding natural environment, giving you a sense of peace and vitality.

Glamping: A Natural Experience with All Modern Comforts

The accommodations at Wild Lotus Glamping allow you to immerse yourself in Bequia’s unspoiled nature without sacrificing any comfort. Each tent, equipped with Wi-Fi, features a comfortable double bed that ensures restful sleep after a day of exciting adventures in the beautiful surrounding nature. It includes a full bathroom, a cozy seating area, a kitchenette, and a workspace for those who want to work remotely. Upon awakening, the sound of the waves and the panoramic view always provide magical moments.

The outdoor area offers additional comfort and relaxation. Some tents even have a beautiful hot tub, while all provide sun loungers and a cast iron barbecue.

Explore the Beauty of Bequia

Bequia is an authentic and rare gem hidden in the heart of the Caribbean. Located in St. Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, it captivates with its natural beauty and genuine charm. Its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush hills make it a true tropical paradise straight from a postcard. But perhaps what is most enchanting are the picturesque fishing villages, where the locals welcome visitors with warmth and authenticity, offering them rich and flavorful local cuisine, the traditions intertwined with the wild nature and surrounding environment, and the vibrant artistic and artisanal scenes, colors, and dances.

The crystal-clear waters of Bequia are ideal for snorkeling, sailing, and scuba diving. You can swim with marine turtles, explore colorful seabeds, and discover the rich biodiversity of the marine ecosystem.

It’s time to pack your bags!

The article Wild Lotus Glamping in Bequia: Luxurious Wellness in the Wilderness was originally posted on Ecobnb.

In Veneto, there is an area often underestimated by tourists but rich in charm and hidden treasures, with poetic atmospheres that are sometimes hostile but always full of beauty.

A journey through Fratta Polesine, Rovigo, the Po Delta, and the surrounding areas is a unique experience where the past intertwines with the present and nature offers enchanting landscapes and moments of calmness. In this article, we will immerse ourselves in the wonders of this region, discovering places to visit, activities to do, and food to savor for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Venetian tradition.

As a base for our journey in Polesine, we choose Castelguglielmo. It’s a small town perfect for relaxing at the end of our days. Here, we are welcomed by Andrea. He’s the host of La Piccola Casa di Via Ricotti, an eco–sustainable and recently renovated accommodation that provides every comfort and has a small forest in front of it.

Our journey in Polesine. First stop: Fratta Polesine

Fratta Polesine, which dates back to the Roman era, has a captivating and extensive history. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll come across remnants of the past in every nook and cranny, from the ruins of ancient medieval walls to the Castle of Fratta, a testament to the centuries of domination and struggles that have shaped the area’s history. The Civic Museum, situated in the heart of the historical center, showcases valuable archaeological artifacts and artworks that narrate the rich cultural heritage of Fratta Polesine. The necropolises of Frattesina, one of Europe’s most significant protohistoric sites, are a must-see.

However, the village’s centerpiece is Villa Badoèr, also known as La Badoera. It’s a UNESCO heritage site, designed by the renowned architect Antonio Palladio.

Rovigo, a City with Ancient Roots

Rovigo is a city with ancient roots that date back to Roman times. Walking through its streets, you can admire historic buildings, elegant squares, and monuments that narrate the city’s thousand-year history. Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, with the Palazzo del Governo and the Donà Tower, is the pulsating heart of Rovigo. A visit to the Museum of the Great Rivers offers an engaging experience about the importance of rivers in the evolution of this region. The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Succorso, with its octagonal Rotonda and the Longhena bell tower, is an attraction of great interest and a symbol of the city.

The Nature of Polesine, a Unique Territory Between Land and Water

Polesine is a unique territory characterized by the fusion of land and water. Crossed by the Po, Adige, and Brenta rivers, it is one of the most fertile regions in Italy, with enchanting river landscapes, marshes, and rice fields as far as the eye can see. The Regional Park of the Po Delta is an exceptional nature reserve and a paradise for nature lovers. Exploring its panoramic trails offers the opportunity to admire the numerous migratory birds that stop here and discover the rich flora and unique fauna. A boat trip along the canals of the Po Delta is a magical experience, allowing you to get closer to the natural beauty of this extraordinary area.

Local Culinary Traditions

A visit to these lands would be incomplete without savoring the local cuisine. Fratta Polesine, Rovigo, and the surrounding areas boast a gastronomic tradition of great value. From “bigoli” with duck to risotto with eels, but also mussels, clams, and various varieties of radicchio… There are many delicacies that delight the palate!

With its discreet charm and an extraordinary combination of history, nature, and culture, Polesine captivates the eyes and the heart. It is hard to forget the Po Delta’s landscapes, its people’s hospitality, and the discretion of Rovigo and the surrounding villages.

The article Fratta Polesine, Rovigo and surroundings: treasures to discover in the heart of Veneto was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Nature, charm, and unique flavors: let’s go to the discovery of the Farmhouse Sant’Egle and its magnificent surroundings for a slow holiday, while living in luxury

We are in Sorano, in the province of Grosseto, in the heart of Tuscany Maremma. Here wanting for us there’s a 5-star and eco-friendly farmhouse, where we can fully enjoy nature without sacrificing any comforts, where we are surrounded by Tuscan hills, beauty, art, and cultivated fields.

Sant’Egle, an organic farmhouse surrounded by Tuscan hills

Sant’Egle Farmhouse is a historic residence rich in legends, a customs of 1600 between the Pontifical State and the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. The charm of the building has remained, thanks to a careful and sophisticated restoration. So, now, it’s the perfect destination for those looking for an exclusive place, tastefully furnished, characterized by genuine hospitality and Tuscan flavors.

A truly sustainable farm holiday

Staying at Sant’Egle, our vacation will be CO2 free. 100% of the energy used is produced from renewable sources. All lights are led to help save energy. Heating, such as the hot water, is provided by the solar panels. Rainwater is used for irrigation of the garden and the agricultural part. All crops are organic, as are other products used in the restaurant. The accommodation also wants to preserve biodiversity.

Around Sant’Egle Farmhouse: starry sky and green Tuscan hills

Between luxury and rusticity

Every room, tastefully furnished, and every common space host objects and artifacts of artists from all over the world, making each room an art exhibition to live at all times.

The garden welcomes us with a porch furnished with sofas and comfortable cushions, with a centuries-old tree under which there are tables, chairs, chaise longs, hammocks, a gazebo to enjoy just moments of relax and a straw theater where in summer we can watch movies or performances of various kinds under the stars. There is also a bio-swimming pool, with salt water, surrounded by greenery and a heated wood-fired bathtub.

Live the farm

A course on Organic Synergic Agriculture, a course for making cheese and jams, a lesson of popular cooking in Tuscany, making bread and cakes with sourdough, and a day in the garden to learn to cultivate organic saffron: Sant’Egle Farmhouse allows you to experience nature in so many ways, even with dirty hands!

Additionally, at Sant’Egle Farmhouse there is a new holistic space with an incredible view among Tuscan hills, perfect for anyone wishing to organize a course, a cultural event, a show, or a spiritual retreat.

What to see in the surroundings

Within a few hours you can reach unique places in the world. Mount Amiata and its routes, Lake Bolsena, the natural hot streams of Saturnia for a few hours of relaxation: there is so much to do and discover in Maremma, a perfect destination for us eco-travelers.

In this magical Tuscan place we can admire a wide variety of environments and ecosystems: in a few kilometers we can pass from the hills to the sea, from the mountains to the lagoon. Our journey could start from Manciano, one of the most beautiful villages. From here we start biking and, through nature and its sounds, passing from Montemerano, we arrive at Saturnia hot springs. From here you can easily reach the wonderful village of Pitigliano, which will leave us breathless.

We can then discover the Etruscan Archaeological Park of Vitozza, then climb and explore the incredible Mount Amiata.

This is our recipe for a farm holiday, between luxury and nature!

The article A 5-star farmhouse in the Tuscan hills was originally posted on Ecobnb.