When it comes to travel, nothing feels better than knowing your holiday isn’t just fun for you, but kind to the planet too. Imagine you’re sipping organic wine in sun-drenched vineyards or hiking through lush, protected landscapes. Eco-friendly escapes let you explore the world without leaving a heavy footprint behind. And guess what? They’re a lot more exciting than you think.
Here’s our guide to green getaways that let you go wild – sustainably.
What is a green getaway?
A green getaway is a sustainable holiday designed to minimise environmental impact, support local communities, and boost your wellbeing – and the planet’s. It’s about how you travel, where you stay, and what you do.
That might mean choosing eco-friendly transport, nature-based activities, and accommodation that uses renewable energy, reduces waste, and respects the local culture. Whether you’re hiking in protected landscapes, staying in a solar-powered lodge, or shopping at a local farmers’ market, green getaways help you travel better – not just further.
Why choose a green getaway?
Before we dive into dreamy destinations, let’s look at the why. Travel is one of life’s greatest joys – but it can leave a mark on the planet. By choosing sustainable accommodation, low-impact transport, and eco-conscious activities, you help protect ecosystems, support local communities, and reduce your carbon footprint – without sacrificing the fun.
It’s not about travelling less – it’s about travelling smarter.
Think: treehouse stays, solar-powered boutique hotels, rewilded hiking trails, and beach clean-ups that end with a cocktail in hand.
Key features of a green getaway
- Low-impact travel – Opting for transport options that create fewer emissions, like trains, buses, electric vehicles, or direct flights with carbon offsetting. Even better? Travelling closer to home.
- Eco-friendly accommodation – Staying in places that use renewable energy, conserve water, reduce waste, and often support local communities. Look for eco-lodges, green-certified hotels, or even off-grid cabins.
- Sustainable activities – Choosing nature-based, low-impact experiences – like hiking, cycling, kayaking, wildlife watching, or volunteering for a conservation project.
- Support for local communities – Eating locally sourced food, buying from local markets, and using local guides or businesses – so your money goes back into the place you’re visiting.
- Respect for nature and culture – Green travel isn’t just about emissions; it’s also about ethics. Green getaways encourage you to treat local environments and traditions with care.
7 Green getaways you’ll love
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s hidden green gem
Slovenia’s capital is a poster child for eco-conscious living. As a former European Green Capital, Ljubljana boasts a car-free city centre, clean rivers, and an abundance of public greenery. Stay in an eco-certified hotel like B&B Hotel Ljubljana Park and explore by bike or electric boat.
Did you know? Over a third of Slovenia is protected land – making it perfect for guilt-free outdoor adventure.
2. Costa Rica – Jungle bliss with a conscience
With over 25% of the country covered by national parks, Costa Rica is a biodiversity wonderland. Think sloths in the treetops, toucans overhead, and eco-lodges nestled deep in the jungle. Whether you’re zip-lining over cloud forests or surfing sustainably in Santa Teresa, it’s paradise – with purpose.
Green tip: Book tours with certified local guides who prioritise conservation and community.
3. The Azores, Portugal – Eco-luxe in the Atlantic
A volcanic archipelago that’s stunning, serene, and serious about sustainability. Whale watching is a highlight here – but only with local operators who follow strict eco-guidelines. Explore crater lakes, geothermal springs, and wildflower-covered trails, all while staying in carbon-conscious guesthouses.
Did you know? São Miguel Island is leading the way in renewable energy. Ask your host how your stay helps.
4. New Zealand – Nature, nurtured
From glow-worm caves to snow-capped peaks, New Zealand is nature’s playground – and they work hard to keep it that way. Their Tiaki Promise encourages all travellers to care for land, people, and culture. Stay in solar-powered lodges, explore by foot or bike, and leave nothing but footprints.
Green tip: Consider a low-emission campervan if you’re touring the North and South Islands.
5. Scotland’s Highlands and Islands – Rugged and responsible
Scotland offers wild landscapes and an even wilder commitment to rewilding. Community-led conservation projects, eco-crofts, and slow travel options make this destination a top pick for nature-first holidays.
Green tip: Skip the plane – take the Caledonian Sleeper train from London to Inverness for a scenic, sustainable start.
6. Bhutan – The carbon-negative Kingdom
A country where Gross National Happiness matters more than GDP? Yes, please. Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country, thanks to its pristine forests and strict visitor policies. Tourism here supports education and healthcare, and every visitor pays a Sustainable Development Fee to help preserve its beauty.
Green tip: Guided hikes, eco-lodges, and community-run guesthouses make sure your visit gives back.
7. Finland – The forest-filled escape
If your ideal green getaway involves serene forests, wild swimming, and the soft crunch of snow underfoot, Finland is a dream. With more trees than there are people on Earth and a strong commitment to sustainability, it’s perfect for slow travel. Stay in a lakeside log cabin powered by renewables, or go Aurora-hunting in a glass-roofed eco-igloo.
Did you know? Finland’s “Everyman’s Right” lets you roam freely through nature – just respect it in return.
Travel better. Feel better.
A green getaway isn’t just good for the planet – it’s good for you, too. Slower mornings, cleaner air, local flavours, and the peace of knowing your trip is leaving a lighter footprint. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in the Azores or cycling through forest trails in Finland, every eco-conscious choice adds up to something meaningful.
Wherever your green adventure takes you, InsureandGo travel insurance is here to help you travel smart and stay protected. From off-grid cabins to carbon-conscious city breaks, we’ve got the cover to match your journey – and your values.
Sustainable travel doesn’t mean giving up the things you love – it means enjoying them in a way that protects the places that make travel so special.