The summer holidays are fast approaching - it's the last moment to plan your summer trip with peace of mind. Are you a fan of ecology and travel? What if you combined both passions and visited a place where care for the environment goes hand in hand with breathtaking views?

Here is our rundown of the most attractive destinations for eco trips in summer 2025.

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a way of travelling to discover nature in an environmentally friendly way that supports local communities. It aims to be sustainable - combining the protection of nature with benefits for the people of a region. The main principles of such travel are care for the environment, environmental education and support for the local economy. Tourists choose eco-friendly modes of transport, local food and services, travelling responsibly and with respect for nature.

Iceland - land of ice, fire and renewable energy

Iceland is a unique place. The harsh climate, volcanic landscapes, glaciers and geothermal springs create scenery as if from another planet.

Nature is an important element of Icelandic national identity. The inhabitants live in harmony with nature, and glaciers are considered a national symbol - appearing in literature, art and everyday life. The country is active in protecting the environment, using renewable energy sources - mainly geothermal and hydroelectric.

When travelling in this country, take advantage of its natural attractions. Tourists can stay active by trekking the volcanoes or relaxing in the hot springs - the most popular of which is the Blue Lagoon and is a must-see on any visitor's list.

Diving enthusiasts will appreciate the unique attraction at Thingvellir National Park - the opportunity to dive between the meeting tectonic plates of Europe and North America.

Iceland also offers a wide range of accommodation in agritourism and organic farms. Also worth a visit is The Lava Centre, an interactive museum dedicated to volcanoes, earthquakes and geothermal phenomena. Exhibits also show the impact of climate change on the region.

Sweden - Scandinavian leader in sustainable development

Sweden is one of the leaders in green living and tourism. Only 3 per cent of waste ends up in landfill here - the rest is recycled and organic waste is turned into biogas to power buses and heating systems in cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg.

One of the pillars of Swedish ecotourism is the right to free access to nature (Allemansrätten). This means that anyone can hike and camp virtually anywhere - with respect for nature and the privacy of local people. 

Sweden has as many as 30 national parks and more than 4,000 nature reserves that offer hiking trails, viewpoints and nature trails.

A good way to discover Sweden is by water - the country is a true kingdom of lakes and archipelagos. The Stockholm archipelago alone consists of more than 30,000 islands! Ecological cottages and glamping in picturesque, rural regions await nature lovers. Tourists are encouraged to use trains instead of planes and special travel apps to promote green and responsible travel.

Azores - nature and tourist friendly islands

The Azores are nine volcanic islands belonging to Portugal, located in the Atlantic. The landscape here is filled with majestic mountains, lush vegetation and wildlife. Any lover of mountain hiking will fall in love with this place at first sight.

The Azores was the first archipelago in the world to be certified as a Sustainable Tourism Destination ('Sustainable Destination') by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This confirms their leading role in the development of environmentally friendly tourism.

More than 25 per cent of the islands are protected - there are national parks, biosphere reserves and Natura 2000 sites. Authorities restrict access to some sites to protect the unique environment and introduce visitor limits. Outdoor activities are promoted - hiking, bathing in hot springs, whale watching (as many as 27 species of these mammals live in the surrounding waters).

The Azores is investing in geothermal, solar, wind and hydropower. Small guesthouses and eco-friendly agritourism dominate, supporting local communities. The Azores also works with international organisations (including EarthCheck and Green Destinations) to develop sustainable tourism and protect the islands' unique ecosystems.

Slovenia - the green heart of Europe

Finally, we move to Slovenia, a country that has won international recognition for its environmentally friendly approach to tourism. The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism, which aims to promote eco-friendly destinations, plays a key role here.

Ecotourism is developing particularly intensively in the Triglav National Park area. It is one of the oldest and largest parks in Slovenia. It offers magnificent mountain trails, lakes and waterfalls, a paradise for lovers of active holidays.

Agritourism farms are popular throughout the country, offering organic meals and accommodation in harmony with the environment. Many of them use sustainable farming and production methods, which supports responsible food production.

An important aspect of ecotourism in Slovenia is also the support for local communities and the preservation of cultural traditions. Tourists are encouraged to visit small towns and villages where they can learn about local culture, customs and support local craftsmen and producers.