For years, the international foundation Green Destinations has been raising de the profile and recognition of destinations where sustainability and environmental responsibility are key pillars. If you are looking to go on a sustainable tourism trip in Spain, make sure to visit the seven green destinations that in recent years have obtained this certification.
Pallars Jussá: A place of contrasts in the Spanish Pyrenees
Our first stop is in Pallars Jussà, in the Catalan Pyrenees, selected in 2020 as one of the TOP 100 Sustainable Destinations thanks to the enhancement of its natural, cultural and gastronomic resources. You can start your visit to this region of Lleida on the Dels Llacs train, to enjoy a tour of the Pre-Pyrenees until you reach Balaguer. The entire Pallars Jussà is part of the Orígines Geopark, where you can observe the footprints of the last dinosaurs to live in Europe or learn about history through prehistoric caves. When night falls, gazing at the starry sky becomes almost mandatory due to the exceptional local atmospheric conditions.You can also enjoy the Descent of Fallas, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the hiking routes of El Cinquè Llac or a tasting of organic meat.
Terres de L'Ebre: Mediterranean life in the Lower Ebro
The Ebro river, the mightiest of the Iberian Peninsula, bathes all this land where tradition, gastronomy, nature and heritage come together to form one of the most beautiful green areas in Spain. The Delta L’Ebre Nature Reserve, the largest wetland area in Catalonia, and the Els Ports Nature Reserve, a seemingly endless mountain range, create a unique natural paradise where there is no shortage of fun activities. Discover the local fauna with bird watching, have fun with active tourism activities, such as rock climbing, diving and kitesurfing, or relax on one of its beaches and coves. In addition, the visitor centres and museums will guide you through local history, from cave paintings to the great castles.
Berguedà: A land full of opportunities
Approximately 2,000 km of paths will allow you to discover this area of inland Catalonia sustainably. If you are looking for long-distance paths, El Camí dels Bons Homes crosses the Pyrenees all the way to France, while Cavalls del Vent connects eight mountain shelters in the Cadí-Moixeró Nature Reserve on a circular route. You will also be able to do some stargazing from any point thanks to the clear sky. Alternatively, you can go to the Pedraforca Astronomical Centre to unveil the secrets of the cosmos in your green holidays. If you want to discover the local culture, you will find museums and guided tours about the history of Berguedà, like the Cercs Mine Museum, where you can venture into the depths of the earth, or the Fumanya mines, where you will discover the dinosaurs that inhabited the area 65 million years ago. And don't forget to try the wide variety of local ecological products, prepared following the traditions and respecting the quality.
Noja: spectacular beaches on the Cantabrian coast
This coastal town in Cantabria is part of the Santoña, Victoria and Joyel Marshes Nature Reserve, a natural space where wetlands welcome 130+ different species of birds to the park every year. Sustainability and responsible tourism are the pillars of Noja, where the beaches, cliffs and forests offer a multitude of activities to enjoy not only nature, but also gastronomy, culture and leisure.Trengandín and Ris are the best known beaches. White sand and clear waters, where you can relax or do sports such as windsurfing and SUP, a variation of surfing that involves keeping your balance on the board while paddling. And if you want an overview of the surroundings, don't hesitate to visit the Molino de las Aves, in the Victoria marsh, with a host of activities and resources, such as guided tours, an exhibition area or a children's information room, which will help you learn about various aspects of the place.
Menorca Biosphere Reserve: discover the heart of the Mediterranean
Culture, history and nature combine in this Biosphere Reserve where sustainable growth has resulted in a unique environment. Not only can you enjoy its coves and white sandy beaches like Cala Macarella and Arenal des Castell, you can also do a wide variety of water sports like diving, rowing or sailing. Explore the towns and cities that make up the island: each of them has different architecture and environment.
Torroella de Montgrí - L'Estartit: feel the wonder of the Costa Brava
Mountains, plains and beaches are the stars in this area of the Costa Brava. Responsible and ecological tourism have placed Torroella de Montgrí - l'Estartit among Catalonia's sustainable destinations. The large number of marine and land habitats create a unique environment to enjoy some eco holidays, surrounded by nature and wildlife. In addition to the natural surroundings, festivals and traditions centred primarily on music, such as the Torroella Summer Festival and the L'Estartit Jazz Festival, will make your trip a unique experience.
Baiona: sea and mountains combined in the north of Spain
This small city of Pontevedra integrates sustainable tourism into its local life by combining the best of the sea and the mountains to offer a top quality green destination. An environment with spaces for sports, nature, customs and culture.You can enjoy these natural surroundings at beaches such as Ladeira or the river paths of Molinos de Baredo and the Baíña river, without neglecting cultural tourism through museums and traditional festivals, such as the Museum of the Carabela Pinta or the Fiesta de la Arribada.
The list of these destinations is updated every year. You can consult current destinations on the website of Green Destinations.
