Holidays: Ecotourism Will Save the World
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According to our Travel Trends Report, ecotourism – that is, responsible travel to natural areas – is set to be big in 2023. And, as well as being good for the environment, nature holidays are often less expensive too.
Since the pandemic, more of us have grown concerned about the environment and sustainability. In fact, our survey found that more than a quarter of people (28 per cent) feel that sustainable travel is more important now compared to pre-2020. Most us want to get out there and connect with our environment, too. We found that more people are planning to swap sunbathing for ‘forest bathing’ in 2023. Wildlife spotting and hiking make up two of the top three travel activities planned for next year.
Cost will also be a big factor in 2023 travel planning. Happily, many nature-based activities – like hiking and wild swimming – are accessible for those on a budget. Here are our picks of awesome nature-based adventures in 2023.
1. Ecotourism in Germany
Germany has been at the forefront of Europe’s ecotourism movement for decades. In fact, nature holidays have always been a big part of German culture. So it’s no surprise that you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure here in 2023. Hiking in Germany is excellent, with lots of signposted trails all the way from the North Sea beaches to the mountains.
One of the most magical spots for hiking in Germany is the Bavarian Forest National Park, with around 186 miles of marked trails to explore under the dark, evergreen canopy. Aside from the trails, the forest is completely untouched. If you’re up for spotting wildlife, head to Tierfreigelände. This nature preserve has no visible barriers, and provides a natural habitat for creatures like European bison, wild boar and lynx.
Another attraction in Bavaria is Walchensee, a crystal clear lake in the Bavarian Alps known for its pure water and excellent watersport opportunities. Hop in a kayak, try gliding along on a stand-up paddleboard, or simply splash in for a swim. Bavaria has lots of eco-friendly accommodation, including Biohotel Pausnhof. This nature-obsessed spa hotel has a small organic farm with a vegetable garden, and all food served in the restaurant is grown onsite.
2. Nature holidays in Egypt
Sustainability has become a big focus for Egypt over the past few years. After lots of investment, the country now has 21 protected areas. These include Ras Muhammad National Park, famous for its coral reefs and shark observation sites. Another is the unspoiled Nabq Protected Area, known for its mangrove trees. Bird watchers will get a thrill looking out for its migratory birds, gulls, terns and herons.
For those planning a shark dive in 2023, forget the commercial cages and try to spot the majestic creatures in the wild. Egypt’s Red Sea is one of the best places in the world to swim with sharks as well as other marine life like barracudas, manta rays, turtles and whale sharks. There are also some interesting wrecks to dive to, such as the sunken British wartime vessel Thistlegorm and Ghiannis D, a Greek ship that sank in 1983. At both, you can see how nature reclaims these manmade structures and turns them into lively reefs over time. Adventurous divers can try their hand at Dahab’s famous blue hole – a deep, natural sinkhole lined with coral.
For a sustainable stay, look for resorts have been applying for green certifications such as Green Globe. Current members include the all-inclusive Mercure Hurghada Hotel, which donates excess food from its four restaurants and has a towel and linen reuse programme. Another option is the Movenpick Resort Soma Bay, which stretches along one of the Red Sea’s white sandy beaches.
3. Ecotourism in Slovenia
Slovenia is becoming a really popular nature holiday destination, and for good reason. The scenery is spectacular – think snow-capped peaks, emerald rivers and old-growth forests. And let’s not forget the famous lakes, like Bled and Bohinj, or Cerknica – which only appears for eight months of the year. You can go brown bear watching in secluded forest hides, or visit in spring to hike among fragrant wildflowers that only grow in the Julian Alps.
Slovenia’s tranquil lakes and short stretch of Adriatic coastline make it a fantastic destination for Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP). The famous turquoise Soča River is a top destination for watersports, with plenty of tranquil stretches perfect for paddling (either on a board, or simply in your bathing suit). For cheap accommodation, base yourself at Soča Rocks Hostel. They can help to arrange adventure activities like canyoning, rafting and kayaking.
Another great way to get into the nature in Slovenia is to hire a bike and go cycling through the country’s vineyards. And yes, Slovenia has a long history of winemaking. During autumn, you’ll see vines weighed down with bunches of grapes. Fans of agrotourism can sign up to help with the harvest. If you’re feeling adventurous, work up an appetite on the 11-day Green Gourmet Route through the wine regions of Goriška Brda and the Vipava Valley.
4. Outdoors adventures in Scotland
With shimmering lochs, rugged mountains and very generous right-to-roam and wild camping laws, Scotland is an ideal ecotourism destination. There are lots of multi-day hikes to try, such as the West Highland Way – 90 miles from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William in the Highlands. Or there’s the Great Glen Canoe Trail, where you kayak cross-country along the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness. One of the most unique ways to experience Scotland’s nature is by staying in a bothy.
These small, empty cottages provide basic shelter – it’s basically camping without a tent, so bring a sleeping bag and take your rubbish away with you when you go. They’re scattered throughout the highlands and islands. One of the best bothy walks is the Bealach an Sgairne circuit in Kyle of Localsch. It takes you through peaceful glens between soaring mountains, with some of the most wild and dramatic scenery in the Highlands. The Camban Bothy – one of the most remote in Scotland – is around halfway. Want to incorporate wild swimming into your hike? There’s a small swimming hole near the bothy, and a gorgeous plunge pool on day two – around halfway up Gleann Gniomaidh.
Bookend your stay at Ratagan Youth Hostel. Set right on the banks of Loch Duich, you can watch otters play as you enjoy your morning coffee – or pop on some swimming boots and go for a dip in the crisp, clear water.
5. Ecotourism in Australia
For long-haul ecotourism holidays, you can’t beat Australia. The Land Down Under is famous for its natural wonders. Sadly, over the past few years there’s been a lot of sad news about the Great Barrier Reef dying. But by supporting local regeneration projects, you can play role in helping bring this UNESCO World Heritage Area back to life.
Choose low-impact activities to visit the Great Barrier Reef sustainably. For example, you can explore the Whitsunday Islands by kayak, and be mindful about which sunscreen you use while diving. There are lots of eco-lodges to choose from, and eco-sensitive resorts like Thala Beach Nature Reserve. As well as being set on a gorgeous stretch of coast, it also is committed to regenerating the former cane plantation which it sits on.
Tasmania is a must-visit ecotourism spot for nature lovers. This secluded island has animal and plant life that you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Go wild swimming or Stand-Up Paddleboarding on the tranquil turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay or head to quiet spots like Goat Bluff, Carlton Beach and Tinder Box by night to get a glimpse of the southern lights (Aurora Australis). A visit to Maria Island – a protected national park – offers the opportunity to see wombats, wallabies and Tasmanian devils in their natural habitats. Stay at Freycinet Lodge, with natural cabins that blend in with the local setting and a ‘leave no trace’ philosophy.
Make 2023 your most adventurous (and sustainable) year of travel yet
Good for the planet, good for your soul and good for your bank balance – what’s not to love about nature holidays? Whether you’re planning on heading somewhere exotic or supporting ecotourism here in the UK, you can always find the best deals with Skyscanner.
