
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa. Meld je aan voor onze nieuwsbrief en ontvang inspirerende reistips en routes voor je volgende groene reis.
Hiking Around Saimaa: The Most Beautiful Nature Trails and National Parks Near Mikkeli Nowhere else in the world can you find the “Saimaa seal,” a freshwater seal that became trapped in this labyrinth of lakes after the last ice age and has since evolved into its own...
Bear Watching in Slovenia: An Evening in the Observation Hut Near Postojna Bear watching in Slovenia might be closer than you think: in the forests near Postojna, just over an hour from Ljubljana. Nathalie joined us in the observation hut one evening. Slovenia is...
8-day hiking trip Rota Vicentina: the Fishermans trail with local specialist Self-guided, fully taken care of by a local specialist: Fishermen's Trail from Cercal to Odeceixe On day five you board a boat to cross the mouth of the Mira River. No bridge, no timetabled...
Cycling or taking public transportation along the Romantic Road: a road trip through Bavaria without a car Cycling or taking public transportation along the Romantic Road sounds like a contradiction: after all, the word “Strasse” practically screams “car.” Yet this is...
Hiking across smoking volcanoes: an organized hiking tour of the Aeolian Islands On Vulcano, you know you’ve arrived before you even set foot on shore. The sulfur already hangs over the harbor. A smell that hovers somewhere between a match and a boiled egg—and one you...
Cycling the Lake Route: 227 kilometers through Switzerland at a leisurely pace The first thing you hear isn’t traffic, but a cowbell. You’re standing in Vevey, on the shores of Lake Geneva; you’ve just dropped off your suitcase at the baggage counter, and for the next...
Lübeck & Travemünde: a green city break along the Baltic Sea Sleeping in an old Kellogg’s grain silo, having breakfast without cornflakes the next morning, and a day later searching for kingfishers on a river that once ran right through the Iron Curtain. Our short...
Europe's Most Beautiful Hidden Natural Spots: Request Your Free Guide The spots you won't find in any travel guide. Curated for free by a nature travel specialist. What would you do if you knew of a place where nature still thrives as it always has? Without parking...
Camino Lebaniego: Hiking from Santander to the Picos de Europa The Camino Lebaniego is a beautiful multi-day hike where the landscape gradually changes along the way; over the course of about seventy kilometers, you’ll walk from the Cantabrian coast near San Vicente...
RE-LIEF Spain: A Transformative Retreat at Finca EcoVida in the Mountains of Alicante You know how it is: your mind is always racing. Thoughts. To-do lists. Responsibilities. Somewhere deep down, you know you want to live differently, but how? RE-LIEF is neither a...
Bodø and Ronvikfjellet: Why You'll Want to Visit You drive into Bodø along a straight coastal road and think: is this it? Flat, modern by Arctic standards, and the wind is almost blowing you off your feet. But then look up. On the outskirts of the city rises...
Hiking in Langsua National Park: An Eight-Day Hut-to-Hut Trek Through Norway’s Best-Kept Secret Less than an hour’s drive from Jotunheimen, Norway’s most famous mountain region, lies a national park that most travelers completely overlook. Langsua National Park is...
6-day hike through Femundsmarka National Park on the border between Norway and Sweden Reindeer on a white sandy beach, pine forests giving way to open tundra, and on the fifth day, you’ll literally walk from Norway into Sweden. Femundsmarka is the largest contiguous...
8-day self-guided trek through Rondane and Dovre for experienced hikers Imagine this: eight days of hiking through a landscape that has remained virtually unchanged for thousands of years. No cars, no signs of civilization—just you, a backpack, narrow trails through...
Vesteralen: Northern Norway's best-kept secret I have to admit, I hardly knew anything about Vesteralen before this trip. You always hear about the Lofoten. Vesteralen is the archipelago that lies just beyond it. Less prominent on the map, less prominent on Instagram....
Arctic Awakening: A Slow Travel Tour of Lofoten and Vesteralen in the Spring Everyone I spoke to said the same thing: go in the summer or the winter. Summer for the midnight sun. Winter for the northern lights. Spring wasn’t really an option. I ended up going in April...
The Lofoten Islands in the spring: fishing, hiking, and Slow travel away from the crowds I’d heard a lot about the Lofoten Islands. But people always talk about winter or summer, the Northern Lights or the midnight sun. What nobody tells you is that spring is actually...
Central Norway: 7 Days of Snow, Silence, and Unexpected Adventure There is a side of Norway that most travelers never see. Not the fjords near Bergen, not the famous Lofoten Islands, but the vast, quiet heart of the country. Nestled between Oppdal in the north and...
Serra da Estrela, a protected nature reserve in central Portugal Portugal is all about sun, sea, and pastel-colored towns. That's true. But if you take the highway inland and head toward Central Portugal, you’ll discover a completely different country. A land of...
Avno Oasis: Staying in an eco-community on a former Danish military base On the Avnø Peninsula, right on the Danish coast near Lundby in South Zealand, lies a place you won’t soon forget. What was a military base for decades is now Avno Oasis (Avnø Oasis): a growing...
4-Day Hiking Trip in the Haut Jura: Along Lakes, Waterfalls, and Mountains There are few regions in Europe where nature is as unadorned and as distinctly present as in the Jura. Not the Jura you might know from cheese platters and wine lists—though those certainly...
4- or 5-day hiking trip in the Jura Mountains: Echappée Jurassienne There are some trips where every step is a reward. The Echappée Jurassienne hiking tour through the Jura Mountains is one of them. For four or five days, you’ll hike through a landscape that’s...
8-Day Hiking Tour of Sardinia Along the Southwest Coast: Unspoiled and Surprising Nature Hiking in Sardinia means the scent of the macchia, the breeze from the Mediterranean Sea, and a trail that winds past rugged granite cliffs. Views of turquoise water you’d only...
Catalan Pyrenees: Hiking Through the Mountains, Villages, Nature, and Gastronomy This hiking tour through the Catalan Pyrenees takes you through beech and oak forests, along centuries-old shepherds’ trails, picturesque mountain villages with Romanesque churches, and...
8-day hike in Salento along the coastal trail on Italy's southeast coast The Salento Coastal Trail, located at the southernmost tip of the “heel” of the Italian boot in Puglia, is one of Europe’s most authentic and undiscovered hiking destinations. Here, you won’t be...
Salento by Bike: An 8-Day Tour Along Two Seas in Puglia Imagine this: you’re cycling early in the morning along a narrow road lined with centuries-old olive trees. The sun is just beginning to rise, it’s still pleasantly cool, and the Adriatic Sea glistens in the...
Inland Algarve: Discover the Real Algarve, Away from the Crowded Coast If all you think of when you hear “Algarve” are crowded beaches, bustling boulevards, and English pubs, then you’ve missed exactly half of it. The real Algarve experience isn’t found on the coast,...
8-Day Hiking Tour of Puglia and Basilicata: The Most Beautiful Part of Southern Italy This 8-day hiking trip through Puglia and Basilicata is: waking up in the morning among the cave dwellings of Matera, hiking through the olive groves of the Itria Valley in the...
São Miguel, the lush green heart of the Atlantic Ocean If there’s one place in Europe where you can feel the raw power of volcanic nature, it’s São Miguel. The largest island in the Azores surprises visitors with a landscape that seems to be in constant motion:...
Terceira, an island of nature, agriculture, and traditions After the overwhelming greenery of São Miguel, Terceira (the second-largest island in the archipelago) feels different and more peaceful. Terceira has a character all its own within the Azores: less...
Hiking the Thames Path: A 5-Day Tour of the Highlights There are walking routes where you naturally start to slow down after just ten minutes. Not because it’s hard—quite the opposite—but because you keep seeing something that calls for a break: a lock with babbling...
West Highland Way Highlights: 5-Day Hiking Trip from Bridge of Orchy to Fort William Do you want to hike the West Highland Way, but focus mainly on the sections that are the reason you’re coming to Scotland? Endless high moorland landscapes, rugged mountain passes,...
Fife Coastal Path Highlights: 5-Day Self-Guided Hiking Trip from Leven to St. Andrews Want to experience Scotland at your own pace? This self-guided walking tour along the Fife Coastal Path is the kind of trip where you find yourself thinking every day: “Okay, one...
The Wild Southwest Coast of England: South West Coast Path from Minehead to Westward Ho! Discover the most beautiful coastal walking route in Great Britain Rugged cliffs, mysterious forests, seals along the coast, and tiny churches tucked away in the greenery. During...
Cycling in the Douro Valley: Exploring Terraced Vineyards, Wine Villages, and Viewpoints by E-Bike (8 days) The Douro Valley is one of those places where you automatically slow down. Not because you have to, but because you want to: terraced vineyards clinging to...
Cycling the Portuguese Coastal Camino (from Porto to Santiago): the leisurely pilgrimage route along the coast Want to experience a Camino adventure, but with the wind at your back and the Atlantic Ocean by your side? This self-guided Portuguese coastal Camino cycling...
The Grandes Traversées du Jura: The Most Beautiful Hiking and Biking Routes Les Grandes Traversées du Jura, commonly known as “GTJ,” comprise nearly 400 kilometers of spectacular trails in the mountainous region of eastern France. You can explore the trails on foot,...
Hiking Tour of the Peloponnese: the rugged Mani, the Viros Gorge, and fairy-tale Monemvasia There are places in Greece where you feel like you’ve accidentally stumbled upon a secret door. The Peloponnese is one such place. And especially the Mani: rugged, quiet,...
Authentic Peloponnese Tour: From Xirokambi to Poros on a 10-Day Hiking Trip Do you dream of a trip to the real Greece? Away from the crowds, surrounded by nature, with plenty of room for both relaxation and adventure? This unique tour takes you to three special...
Organic cuisine & locally sourced food: this is what a sustainable overnight stay in nature tastes like It’s a special feeling to wake up in a place where breakfast doesn’t come from a store shelf, but from the garden, the orchard, or the neighbors. Where the...
Cycling the Val de Zafán Greenway: From the Rugged Inland to the Ebro Delta (and the Sea) Are you looking for a cycling vacation in Spain that feels like slow travel—without heavy traffic, surrounded by nature, and with plenty of “wow, this really exists” moments?...
Hike & Bike Kefalonia: 8 Days of Hiking, Biking, and Tasting Wake up in Argostoli, grab a bike, and take a leisurely ride along the coast into town. Later in the week, you’ll also be at the summit of Mount Ainos (1,628 m) for sunrise. This 8-day hike & bike...
Friuli: Hiking from Forni di Sopra & Sauris In early September, I drove into the mountains toward Forni di Sopra. It immediately felt different from the familiar Dolomites: quieter, friendlier, less touristy. For a few days, I hiked above the tree line near Mount...
Agriturismo in Tuscany: Our 12 Most Beautiful Nature Retreats A stay at an agriturismo in Tuscany is much more than just spending the night in the countryside. It’s waking up among olive trees, eating food grown on the property, chatting with the owner, and feeling...
Stromboli: Life with an Active Volcano Stromboli isn't the kind of island you can just "pop over to." Everything here revolves around one dominant feature: the volcano. Day and night, it spews lava, visible from the sea and from the village. To me, Stromboli felt...
Ojos Negros: A Beautiful Bicycle Route Along the Greenway to Valencia Are you looking for a cycling trip that feels like one long succession of silence, open spaces, and “how beautiful is this?”—without heavy traffic every day? Then the Vía Verde Ojos Negros is a...
8-day bike tour from the Dolomites to Trieste: three countries, one epic finish by the sea Imagine this: you’re slowly winding your way down from the Dolomites toward wide valleys, crossing borders along the way as if it were nothing, and taking a fairy-tale break at...
Southwest Norway: Preikestolen, Hikes Through the Fjords, and the Most Beautiful Road Trip What draws many travelers to Norway is Preikestolen: the iconic rock plateau that juts out 604 meters above the steel-blue Lysefjord. But what many people don’t know is that...
San Vito Lo Capo: Hiking on the Edge of Paradise The first time I visited San Vito Lo Capo (1999), what struck me most was the azure-blue, rippling coastline: crystal-clear water lapping against the rocks, the scent of thyme and sea salt wafting toward you, and you...
Wolf Spotting in Abruzzo: A 4-Day Eco-Expedition in the Central Apennines Why go wolf-watching in Abruzzo? The Central Apennines are a key habitat for *Canis lupus italicus*. After centuries of persecution, the species has returned here and now has a stable...
Cycling in the Langhe: A Culinary Journey Through Piedmont Cycling in the Langhe, Monferrato, and Roero—it sounds like a poem. These three neighboring, hilly wine regions in Piedmont, in northern Italy, are collectively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In late...
Cycling in the Cuneo Alps and the Alta Via del Sale I went cycling in this rugged and surprisingly peaceful region of Piedmont, where mountain passes give way to fragrant valleys. It turned out to be an ideal destination if you enjoy hiking or mountain biking; though...
The most beautiful hiking vacations in Europe. Multi-day routes you can plan yourself or book through a local specialist. Includes accommodations, GPX files, and luggage transport. Get inspired and book direct!
Along the Camí de Ronda: Costa Brava Hiking Trip (S’Agaró–Begur) The Camí de Ronda on a 7-day independent hiking trip. Hike one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal trails: from elegant S’Agaró to charming Begur. Azure-blue bays, pine trees, fishing villages, and...
5 Dark Sky Sites in Europe: From the Wadden Sea Coast to the Alentejo Best months: September through November and February through April (long, clear nights) Where is it truly dark? Terschelling (NL), Lauwersmeer (NL), Alqueva (PT), Ainos (GR), Exmoor (UK) Getting...
Twente—surprisingly close to home, of course So close to home, and yet you feel like you’re in another world. In the municipality of Hof van Twente (Delden, Diepenheim, Markelo, Goor, and Hengevelde), you’ll find the charming “coulissen” landscape—a patchwork of...
Liechtenstein Hut Hike: Route 66 Panorama Trail, Mountain Huts & Hiking Adventure Liechtenstein on foot. I went on a 4-day hut-to-hut hike along the Route 66 Panoramaweg, from the Gafadurahütte to the Pfälzerhütte. Narrow mountain ridges, breathtaking views, and...
Hiking in Andalusia: A 7-Day Hiking Vacation Near Málaga When you think of Andalusia, you might think mainly of beaches, flamenco, or the city of Seville. But the mountains around Málaga really surprised me. In Andalusia, you can go hiking in the Sierra de Tejeda,...
Hiking in Valle Maira: An 8-Day Hiking Trip Through the Italian Alps Quiet mountain villages, green alpine meadows, majestic peaks, and the feeling that you’ve discovered a place where time has stood still. That is the Valle Maira, a hidden gem in the southern Italian...
Val d’Orcia Hiking Vacation: From Montepulciano to Siena in 8 Days 8-day hiking trip from Montepulciano to Siena Hills covered with cypress trees, medieval towns, vineyards with Brunello grapes: welcome to the Val d’Orcia. During this 8-day self-guided hiking tour...
Winter Vacation in Sweden: 8-Day Active Adventure in Fjällnäs Want to spend a week feeding reindeer, driving a husky sled yourself, and skiing—both downhill and cross-country—through the white heart of Sweden? In Fjällnäs, that dream will come true this winter. In the...
Valle dei Laghi: Where Lakes, Wine, and Gentle Adventures Come Together Why visit the Valle dei Laghi? Love the lakes in northern Italy, but want to see something different? Between Trento and Lake Garda lies a green-and-blue valley full of shimmering lakes, castles,...
Road Trip from the Black Forest to Burgundy: 7 Days of Slow Travel Filled with Nature, Culture, and Flavors We wanted a short, sustainable road trip not too far from home. In about a five-hour drive from the Dutch border, you’ll find yourself in the dark forests of...
How Your Trip Contributes to Greater Biodiversity in the Netherlands At Nature Travel Lab, travel isn’t just about beautiful nature experiences—it’s also about protecting nature. That’s why we’re proud to announce that we’re an official partner of Deltaplan...
Taking the Night Train to Děčín: A Nature Reserve in the Czech Border Region There are few ways to travel that feel both as nostalgic and as sustainable as the night train. When I boarded the European Sleeper in Amsterdam on a Monday evening, it felt as if I were...
The Most Beautiful Hiking Trails in Aigüestortes National Park Discover the most beautiful hiking trails in the Aigüestortes Natural Park in Catalonia. I recently returned to this park after visiting it years ago. Read about my experiences, tips, trail descriptions,...
Nature-Filled Adventure in Lombardy: Valle Trompia & Valle Sabbia A hidden gem in Northern Italy When you think of northern Italy, you think of Lake Garda. But if you look a little further, you’ll also discover a surprising region full of tranquility, nature, and...
Costa Verde, Portugal: A Hiking Trip Along the Green Coast of Northern Portugal Escape the hustle and bustle for a week and discover the Costa Verde, the green coast of northern Portugal. A peaceful, self-guided 8-day hiking vacation. Hike at your own pace along...
St. Cuthbert's Way, a hiking trail through nature, abbeys, and history We’re going on a pilgrimage in the border region between England and Scotland. The long-distance St. Cuthbert’s Way trail is 100 kilometers long. Abbeys, nature, and delicious food take center...
Val de Lleida Road Trip, Spanish Pyrenees: Tips and the Most Beautiful Route In May, I took a special tour through the Val de Lleida, a little-known but surprisingly diverse region in northern Spain. This valley lies at the foot of the Spanish Pyrenees and was...
Zurich by Train: Swimming, City Honey, and Green Hotspots Early in the morning, I board the train in Amsterdam with a hot cup of coffee in my hand. Around three o’clock, I arrive in Zurich, feeling relaxed. Sustainable travel—comfortable and with beautiful views. It’s...
Art and Nature in Seurí: How Santi Moix Brought a Forgotten Pyrenean Village Back to Life After a 3.5-hour drive from Barcelona, I arrive. At an elevation of 1,210 meters, in a hamlet in the Val de Lleida in the Spanish Pyrenees. Seurí. Yeah, just look at the map...
Faia Brava: Discover Birds in Peace and Quiet in the Côa Valley During my visit to the Aldeias Históricas , I spent the night in Castelo Rodrigo, one of the 12 historic villages. From there, Faia Brava is about a half-hour drive away. I was there in May, and it was...
Vitoria-Gasteiz, the authentic and green capital of the Basque Country Vitoria-Gasteiz may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the Basque Country in northern Spain. But this green city, full of charm, history, and pintxos, surprised me in every...
The Grande Traversata Elbana: an eight-day trek across the island of Elba from east to west Napoleon was already familiar with the island. In 1814, he was exiled to Elba and spent nine months at Villa San Martino, overlooking the same maquis-covered slopes that hikers...
O Salnés Camino Portugués: the spiritual route from Valença This version of the Camino Portugués combines the Portuguese Camino with the Translatio route (also known as the Ría de Arousa–Ulla River route). This route is the historical origin of all the St. James...
Cycling in Puglia: A 8-Day Tour of the Highlights Puglia, in the heel of the boot, is an ideal place for cycling. The terrain is fairly flat and rolling. It’s especially wonderful to visit here in the spring and fall. Pleasant temperatures, varied natural scenery,...
Hike the Via di Francesco from Tuscany to Umbria The Via di Francesco (St. Francis Route) is not a true pilgrimage route. Until a few years ago, there had never even been any pilgrims following in the footsteps of St. Francis. The route simply connects the places that...
9-Day Hiking Vacation in the Aosta Valley: The Serene Beauty of the Italian Alps Discover the most beautiful hiking trails in the Aosta Valley during a 9-day self-guided hiking vacation. We describe this wonderful trip, including a day-by-day itinerary, practical...
Ferrara, Comacchio, and the Po Delta: Nature, Art, and Tranquility Do you love landscapes where sky, light, and water take center stage? Do you prefer to travel at a leisurely pace rather than get swept up in the crowds? Are you looking for a peaceful blend of...
Packrafting in the Eifel: A Microadventure in Nature Eifel National Park, just across the border Just a few hours’ drive away lies Germany’s Eifel National Park: a rolling landscape of deep forests, tranquil rivers, and challenging hills. Here, we’ll experience the...
Central Portugal: Surprisingly Diverse Nature and Culture Central Portugal has a lot to offer. In addition to the often surprisingly rugged Atlantic coast with its beautiful sandy beaches, the inland region boasts a wide variety of natural landscapes, authentic...
Le Marche at its purest: Slow travel from a historic country house Sometimes you don't need much to truly travel. A pair of sturdy hiking boots, a good glass of local wine, and a place where time seems to stand still. That's exactly what you'll find in Le Marche, in...
Hiking in Albania: The Most Beautiful Areas and Hidden Gems More and more often, I hear travelers talking about Albania—and rightly so. This country, with its rugged natural beauty, authentic villages, and hospitable people, is a wonderful destination for hiking...
Norway & Sweden Tour: From Oslo to Värmland A tour of Norway and Sweden focused on nature and culture. I took this trip in May and discovered a combination of nature, tranquility, and culture with deep roots in tradition. Read about my experiences and tips....
How to Combine Long-haul Travel and Sustainability I recently spoke with Valerie from Wild about Earth in Belgium. She offers trips to far-flung destinations with a sustainable impact. I asked her about her choices as a sustainable travel provider that also offers...
Marais Poitevin, a nature reserve for birdwatchers on the Vendée coast The Marais Poitevin, France’s second-largest marshland, lies roughly between the well-known port city of La Rochelle and Brittany. I’m here in the southern part of the Vendée department. Read my...
Cycling Around Lake Trasimeno: A Loop Around the Lake and the Surrounding Area Lake Trasimeno in Umbria is a beautiful area to explore by bike. Here are a few tips about the route I cycled and alternative routes in the area that connect the lake with the surrounding...
The Most Beautiful Spots Around Lake Trasimeno: Nature Park and Ancient Culture If there’s one place that’s green, it’s Umbria. It had been years since my last visit to Lake Trasimeno. Time for a fresh look. I went in May and was pleasantly surprised by the...
10 Days in Iceland: From Hiking Along High Cliffs to Insider Tips for the Northern Lights Iceland is ideal for a self-drive trip. We visited the country in March. Since Iceland has long winters, a visit to the south coast at this time of year is a natural choice....
Discover Fairytale Sweden by Bike Cycling in Smaland is the purest way to discover Sweden. Rolling landscapes, deep forests, wooden houses, and the scent of pine. As soon as you start cycling through Smaland, you’ll understand why this region was such a great source...
City Trips by Train: From Berlin to Krakow and Ljubljana City trips by train? Want to explore Europe in a relaxed and sustainable way? Then an Interrail city trip is a great choice. In this article, I’ll share my travel experiences from a 3-week Interrail itinerary I...
Douro Valley Hiking Trip: A Week Exploring the Less-Known Side of the Wine Region Escape the crowds and discover a different side of the Douro: secluded trails, charming villages, and small-scale winemaking. This self-guided walking tour takes you from Porto to the...
Douro International & Côa Valley: 8-day self-guided hiking trip in northeastern Portugal Explore this prehistoric landscape featuring impressive cliffs, Paleolithic rock art, endangered birds of prey, and authentic villages. From the Douro International Natural...
City Trip to Ålesund: Nature & Art Nouveau Ålesund is perhaps one of Norway’s most charming towns. Located on the west coast, it was completely rebuilt in a stunning Art Nouveau style within a few years after a devastating fire in 1904. To this day, this laid-back...
Western Norway: Ålesund, fjords, and a surprising coastline When taking a road trip through Norway, we often want to see as much as possible. And that’s a shame. Western Norway along the coast near Ålesund is therefore somewhat of a forgotten area, because it’s not on...
Peneda-Gerês National Park: A Hiking Trip Through Mountains and Traditional Villages This 8-day self-guided hiking trip in Peneda-Gerês National Park takes you through impressive mountain landscapes, enchanting forests, and highland villages in northern Portugal. You...
A Leisurely Walking Vacation in Piedmont: Through the Barolo and Barbera Wine Country Hiking in Piedmont through famous vineyards and medieval villages. Discover Piedmont on foot during this 8-day independent hiking trip from Alba to Cortemilia. Enjoy hiking, wine,...
The Northern Vosges? A little-known paradise for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. For many Dutch people, the Northern Vosges is a blind spot. And that’s a shame! More than half of this region is covered in forests. There are countless biking and hiking trails,...
Ecohotel: Sustainable Accommodations with Comfort Demand for eco-friendly travel options is growing rapidly. If you want to travel responsibly and enjoy the beauty of nature without leaving a footprint, eco-friendly hotels offer the perfect solution. These...
Hiking in Umbria Through the Art Cities In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Umbria is best known for its magnificent art cities. Discover the green heart of Italy on foot and visit its beautiful art cities. We describe the hiking route, which you can explore...
Hiking in the Castricum Dunes in the North Holland Dune Reserve The Castricum Dunes are part of the beautiful North Holland Dune Reserve. It’s my favorite place to walk and run. I was allowed to accompany the forest ranger to the restricted area of the dune reserve...
8-Day Hiking Tour: Lake Como & Beyond from Lugano Hiking through the Italian lake region of Como and Lugano is a journey through the stunning natural beauty and rich culture and art of Lombardy. We describe this beautiful route as an 8-day trip. You can simply...
A gravel bike adventure through the highlights of Tuscany and Umbria Admiring the endless beauty of Umbria and Tuscany from the saddle of a gravel bike is a unique experience. In the itinerary below, we describe an 8-day trip from Assisi to Siena. This trip is offered...
By Train in Italy: Traveling Within the Country Once in Italy, the train is often one of the best ways to explore the country. The network is extensive, tickets are affordable, and the connections are fast. Read all about the different types of trains and the most...
Hiking in Madeira: A 8-Day Tour Around the Island Madeira is the ideal destination for your hiking vacation all year round. What’s more, it offers challenges for both beginner hikers and experienced hikers. Madeira has no fewer than 27 PR hiking trails. These are the...
Train Trip to Puglia with an Electric Car This exclusive “ ” train-and-electric-drive tour takes you to the most beautiful spots in the “heel of the boot,” through the natural landscapes of both northern and charming southern Puglia. Discover this wonderful...
Train Trip to Piedmont with an Electric Car A lavish yet sustainable train trip to Piedmont: by train and electric car. Enjoy exquisite wines, picturesque landscapes, and authentic Italian hospitality. Travel by train to Milan, pick up your electric rental car there,...
Monte Amiata: A Road Trip Through a Hidden Gem in Tuscany Monte Amiata is a somewhat lesser-known, mountainous region in Tuscany, but it’s so worth the visit. It’s a very fertile area situated on an extinct volcano. The summit of the mountain is at an elevation of...
Alpe Adria Trail and Juliana Trail: Hike Along the Highlights of Slovenia’s The Alpe Adria Trail, featuring Slovenian highlights, and the Juliana Trail in Slovenia are combined in this 8-day hiking trip. Of course, you can arrange this trip on your own. We organized...
Winter Hiking in Isère: Spend the Night in a Mountain Hut Isère, surrounded by nature, far from civilization. No skiing. In winter, the French Alps are actually a wonderful place for hiking. In the snow-covered mountain landscape, you’ll experience peace and space....
Wadzilt: Discover Texel’s Seafood Cuisine We regularly go to Texel for a day of biking. We take the ferry to the island with our bikes on board. It really feels like a vacation, and it’s so close by. Some parts of the island get crowded, but outside the villages, you...
Parc du Pilat: Cycling with a View of the Rhône Valley Parc du Pilat, officially known as the Parc Naturel du Pilat, is relatively unknown among the Dutch. The wines, goat cheese, and fruits from this region enjoy star status in France itself. This nature park,...
The Haute-Loire: A Highlight for Hikers in the Lush South of Auvergne The Loire River can truly be called the queen of rivers. The longest “wild” river in France has its source in the Haute-Loire, a department located between the cities of Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand....
Cycling the Caminos de Pasión: Explore the Unspoiled Heart of Andalusia We’ll delve deep into the region of Andalusia—into the authentic heartland of the Granada-Córdoba-Seville triangle: here, the Caminos de Pasión (GR341) winds through a landscape that retains...
Unique and Sustainable Accommodations: The Most Beautiful Spots in Nature Find your special place to stay—one that feels right and does you good. In a nutshell: Why choose Nature Travel Lab? Truly sustainable: we base our selection on independent frameworks (GSTC...
Hiking in the Texelgruppe Nature Park along the Meraner Höhenweg The Texel Group is South Tyrol’s largest nature park. The area is bordered to the south by Merano, to the west by the Schnalstal Valley, to the east by the Passeiertal Valley, and to the north by the...
Enna: Slow Tourism in the Heart of Sicily Enna? I’d never heard of it either. I know Sicily pretty well, but this city and its surroundings—the very center of Sicily, no less—were unknown to me. It’s also sometimes called the navel of Sicily. I spent a few days...
Hiking in Laax: Face to Face with the Formation of the Alps By Train to an Alpine Paradise After a relaxing train ride from Amsterdam—still basking in the late summer sun—to Laax, Switzerland, we’re greeted by the crisp mountain air of Graubünden. At that moment, I...
Take the Night Train to Prague: A Green City Trip Sustainable travel in the literal sense of the word is, of course, traveling by train. Not only is it good for the environment, but it’s also relaxing. As the landscape rushes by, you can read a book, doze off, and...
Himmerland: Experience the ultimate in peace and space in an undiscovered region of Denmark The region with the fairy-tale name Himmerland is located in northeastern Denmark and is an ideal destination if you’re looking for peace, space, and nature. Himmerland is...
Hiking for Everyone: Discover the Via Francigena for All The ancient pilgrimage route, the Via Francigena—a total of 2,496 km—runs from Canterbury to Rome. This route offers you a unique opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Piedmont. This is where two beautiful...
Valle Maira, an authentic mountain region in the Italian Alps Valle Maira is a valley about 45 kilometers long in the province of Cuneo in Piedmont. Valle Maira is a surprisingly beautiful and peaceful area with authentic villages nestled on steep slopes along rivers...
Monferrato: The Most Beautiful Routes and an Authentic Experience Monferrato? This region in Piedmont is much less well-known than the neighboring Langhe. The same goes for its wines. But it’s no less beautiful, and the cuisine and wines are delicious. That’s why this...
Take an off-grid vacation in Bognago, Piedmont Sara travels throughout Europe, visiting communities, off-grid (vacation) locations, and households where sustainability plays a role. At each location, she stays for about a month and works as a volunteer. She does this...
The Most Beautiful Places in Sardinia: A Complete Travel Guide and Map I’ve taken four round-trip tours of Sardinia, each lasting about 2 to 3 weeks, the last one in May 2024. In this article, I’ll take you on a tour of Sardinia’s most beautiful spots, along with...
Refugis del Torb: The Ultimate Hiking Trip in the Spanish Pyrenees Spanish Pyrenees: Discover the breathtaking Refugis del Torb. An iconic multi-day hiking route through the eastern Spanish Pyrenees in Catalonia. This adventurous trek connects majestic peaks, flowing...
Dutch Wilderness in the Drentsche Aa: Off-Grid on the Grid In the diverse forest area of the Drentsche Aa, Cabiner offers a unique way to spend the night in the Dutch wilderness. They have scattered eight cabins throughout this vast forest, kilometers apart from one...
Exploring the unknown region of Navarre in northern Spain The relatively little-known Navarre is a province within the autonomous community of the Basque Country. Navarre is a unique region with a rich history and surprisingly diverse natural landscapes. In the north,...
Retreat vacation: wellness, yoga, or meditation in nature With all the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, there’s a growing need for occasional moments of reflection. A retreat is the perfect opportunity to focus on your personal development and well-being during...
Traveling Alone: Why You Should Give It a Try Traveling alone is becoming more and more popular. And there are more and more options. Do you do it to escape the daily hustle and bustle of modern life, or to consciously experience other cultures and meet new people? So...
Salina, the green island with two volcanoes Of the seven Aeolian Islands, this enchanting island near Sicily captivated me the most. It’s surprisingly green and the most laid-back of them all. It’s a place where you naturally start walking at a snail’s pace and have...
Lipari: the main island and best base for exploring the Aeolian Islands Lipari is usually the first island you see in the Aeolian Archipelago. The ferry docks in a bustling harbor; the town climbs up the hills, and everywhere you look, you see boats coming and going....
Vulcano, untamed nature and an active crater Vulcano is the island where you can literally smell its Aeolian origins. Sulfur, steam, and hot rock set the tone here. Everything feels elemental: black sand, barren slopes, and a crater that constantly reminds you it’s...
Cycling Through Switzerland: A Travelogue and Useful Tips Last summer, Anita cycled around Switzerland. It was a beautiful route with some tough challenges along the way. Read her account here, along with some helpful tips. Cycling in Switzerland Every so often, we’re...
Traveling to Italy by Train: Many Roads Lead to Rome (Update 2026) Traveling to Italy by train is a comfortable and sustainable way to reach the country. No airport stress, coffee along the way, plenty of space to read (or just stare out the window), and you arrive...
Discover the Slovenian Alps on an 8-day hiking trip Meet local people and enjoy delicious Slovenian cuisine alongside your experienced hiking guide. That’s what you’ll experience when you choose the hiking tour through the Slovenian Alps described below. You’ll also...
Slovenia's Most Beautiful Spots: From the Mediterranean Coast to the Rugged Interior What a surprisingly green and friendly country. Slovenia, which has actually only existed since 1990 (before that, it was part of Yugoslavia), is a versatile destination for nature...
Hiking in Slovenia: The Most Beautiful Trails Slovenia is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts: unspoiled nature, spectacular mountain landscapes, and picturesque lakes make this country perfect for a hiking trip. On this 8-day hiking route, we’ll take you along the most...
The Most Beautiful Road Trip Through Southern Norway: Discover the Coast and the Fjords Southern Norway is a dream destination for a road trip. Although Norway is known for its scenic train routes, a road trip offers a unique opportunity to discover places that would...
The Wadden Sea Coast of Groningen and Friesland: A Sea of Space The Wadden Islands are the more obvious choice, but if you love peace and quiet, the other side—the Frisian and Groningen Wadden Coast—is definitely worth considering. Read about the unique landscape,...
City Trip to Trondheim When you think of a city trip, Trondheim might not be the first place that comes to mind. But if you love nature—and a little adventure—as well as great local cuisine, this is a fantastic destination for a green city trip. Sights in Trondheim...
Hiking in Madeira: 6 Beautiful Mountain Trails When winter casts its gray veil over Europe, you can head to a place where the sun shines and nature blooms all year round: Madeira. Thanks to its rugged volcanic mountain landscape, fertile green valleys, and pleasant,...
Historic Villages of Portugal, 12-Village Tour of Central Portugal Travel through a unique region in central Portugal. On the eastern side of the country, between Lisbon and Porto, you’ll find Portugal’s Aldeias Históricas. Twelve villages have joined together to form...
The most beautiful Italian lakes: we can't get enough of them The major lakes in northern Italy are now widely known. Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Idro, and Lake Maggiore are very popular with Dutch and Belgian vacationers. The surrounding natural scenery is also often...
Georgia Tour Judith, a good friend and Georgia expert, took a special tour of Georgia. I spoke with her about this trip and her connection to the country, its culture, and its people. Read her travelogue here, along with her tips for this wonderful tour, which...
Hiking and Biking in Kefalonia: The Ultimate Tips for Nature Lovers Kefalonia, the largest island in the Ionian Sea—and, in our opinion, by far the most beautiful—is a true paradise for hikers and cyclists. This lush, mountainous island offers not only exotic beaches...
Madeira's Nature: The Most Beautiful Hiking Trails and Practical Tips Madeira is a true paradise for nature lovers. This Portuguese island offers an unparalleled mix of mountains, cliffs, forests, and exotic flowers. Whether you’re looking for impressive walking and...
The Most Beautiful Spots on Lake Como: Nature, Villages, and Hiking Trails Away from the Crowds The beautiful Lake Como in northern Italy is known for its many stately villas and colorful villages. But the lake also offers stunning nature, peaceful spots, shaded...
Valle Brembana: An Undiscovered Hiking Area Near Bergamo Valle Brembana? Yeah, that’s what I thought. I know Italy pretty well, but I’d never heard of it before. This hidden gem is located in northern Italy near Bergamo and is a beautiful, lesser-known area for...
A tribute to the nature of Nordfjord and to family in the film *Songs of Earth* At the invitation of Visit Norway, we attended the premiere of the Norwegian film *Sounds of Earth* at the Eye in Amsterdam. Read more here about this impressive documentary/film, the...
Hiking from Bologna to Florence: the Via degli Dei A walk from Bologna to Florence, from Piazza Maggiore in Bologna to Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Two beautiful, bustling, and very different cities, separated by the enchanting Apennines. During this challenging...
Cycling in Tuscany: The Most Beautiful Routes and Tips Tuscany is perhaps one of the most beautiful regions in the world to explore by bike. From the rolling hills of Chianti to the coast, Elba, and the mountains above Lucca. Whether you’re riding a gravel bike, a...
Hiking near Málaga: Discover the Authentic Sierra de Tejeda Hiking in Authentic Spain Sierra de Tejeda? Among hikers, Málaga is best known for the Caminito del Rey. But there are so many more—and less crowded—Nature reserves to discover around Málaga that are just as...
Hiking the South West Coast Path: Tips and the Most Beautiful Section The South West Coast Path is one of England’s national trails. It is the longest signposted hiking trail in England. The total length is 1,014 kilometers along the entire southwest coast of England....
Discover the magic of Southern England Southern England: rolling hills covered in a patchwork of green, breathtaking chalk cliffs rising above the sea, and idyllic villages that look like they’ve stepped right out of a fairy tale. All this and more awaits you in this...
Faial: The Most Beautiful Spots and Practical Tips The beautiful island of Faial in the Azores is nicknamed Ilha Azul (the Blue Island) because of the vast number of blue hydrangeas that bloom there. It lies west of Pico, and on clear days, you can see the Azores’...
The Most Beautiful Train Trips in Europe from the Netherlands The 7 Most Beautiful Train Trips in Europe from the Netherlands There are too many beautiful European train trips to count on one hand, but we’ve selected our 7 favorite train routes through Europe that you...
Traveling to Italy in an Electric Car: Top Tips for a Sustainable Road Trip Traveling to Italy in an electric car isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also surprisingly easy and comfortable. Whether you’re planning a culinary tour through Tuscany, heading to the...
Southern Italy: The Ultimate Road Trip from Naples to Bari (Route & Tips) Discover the enchanting beauty of Southern Italy on a breathtaking road trip from Naples to Bari. This journey takes you through four unique regions: Campania, Basilicata, Calabria, and...
Cycling in Valencia: The Highlights Valencia is perfect for exploring by bike. The 2024 European Green Capital has more than 150 km of bike paths and relatively few hills. It’s the ideal way to get around the city and its surroundings. What’s more, in addition to the...
Valencia: Europe's Green Capital The natural environment in and around Valencia is beautiful and very diverse. Moreover, Valencia is a city that is very actively engaged in preserving nature both within the city and in the surrounding area. It’s no coincidence that...
Traveling to Spain by Train from the Netherlands: Routes, Tips, and Experiences (from the Netherlands) We took the train to Spain—and honestly, I only now truly understand why people say that the journey becomes part of the vacation. You board the train in the...
The Most Beautiful Train Journey Through Switzerland: The Grand Train Tour Switzerland is the land of spectacular mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. But did you know that you can explore this beautiful landscape in the most relaxing and sustainable...
Hiking in Sicily: An 8-Day Hiking Trail Through the West Hiking in Western Sicily means following a beautiful route dedicated to nature. As you walk along the trails on Sicily’s west coast, from Palermo to Trapani, you’ll discover the island’s most authentic region....
Sicily's Most Beautiful Natural Landscapes: Stunning Hiking Areas Sicily’s natural landscape is so diverse and full of surprises; here are a few notable Nature reserves and highlights. They’re perfect for exploring—mostly—on foot. Nature reserve Lo Zingaro Etna and...
Discover the best hiking trails in the Azores. Learn about the best hikes, practical tips for your hiking adventure, and the unique natural beauty of these Portuguese islands.
Peneda-Gerês: Portugal's National Park Northern Portugal is one of the most unspoiled and peaceful regions in Europe. Here, on the border with Spain, lies the impressive Peneda-Gerês National Park, designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. With its rugged mountains,...
Sustainable travel: Practical Tips for a Green Trip I’m Madelon, founder of Nature Travel Lab. For over 30 years, I’ve been traveling with a focus on people, nature, and culture. For me, sustainable travel isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a way of life. It’s about making...
Hike the Path of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast The Amalfi Coast is a stunning area to explore on foot. The hiking route below takes you along the stunning Sentiero dei Limoni (Lemon Trail) and the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). You’ll discover beautiful places...
Hiking the Cammino Materano in Puglia and Basilicata Hiking in Puglia and Basilicata. The Cammino Materano runs through both regions. The ancient Via Peuceta is the new, spectacular route that leads from Bari to Matera. The route has its origins in the distant past....
Hiking from Lucca to Siena: the Via Francigena in Tuscany The Via Francigena is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in Europe, running from Canterbury, England, to Rome. The section of the route in Tuscany is a hiking trail that, despite centuries of history, still...
Hiking in the Aeolian Islands: The Most Beautiful Trails on Each Island Hiking on the Aeolian Islands is beautiful and very varied. These islands off the coast of Sicily are a wonderful destination for a walking or hiking trip. During peak season, however, it can get...
By Train to Paris and Berlin In the mood for a weekend getaway, but would rather not fly? Fortunately, these days you can travel quickly, comfortably, and sustainably by train to top cities like Paris and Berlin. In this article, I’ll share my tips for an eco-friendly...
Practical Tips for Hiking from Coast to Coast in England Anita hiked the Coast to Coast trail in England. Read her travelogue and tips here. Preparing for a Coast-to-Coast Hike It had been years since we’d last gone hiking with a full pack. And although we knew how...
Travel by train through Germany and beyond for just €63 With the D-ticket, you can travel by train throughout Germany—and parts of Europe—for €63 a month. The German government launched this initiative to encourage more people to use public transportation. They hope...
The Most Beautiful Spots in Basilicata Basilicata is one of the few regions in southern Italy where you can experience the true, authentic Italy. It may be one of the poorer regions, but it is rich in nature, history, and culture. Discover why you’ll want to explore...
From Porto to Lisbon: A Beautiful Scenic Route Combine your city trip to Porto and Lisbon with a stunning route through nature. This trip (which we took in February) is a week filled with sunshine, picturesque cities, and unexpected discoveries in nature, as you...
Surprising Natural Beauty in Northern Portugal: From the Costa Verde to the Douro Northern Portugal is the country’s green lung: wild granite mountains, waterfalls flowing through ferns, and terraced vineyards clinging to the hillsides. In the villages, people still...
Hiking the Rota Vicentina: The Route and Practical Tips The Rota Vicentina Trail in Alentejo is one of the most beautiful coastal hiking destinations in Europe for spring and fall; it’s best to avoid the trail during July and August. Read more about the trail and our...
Road Trip and the Most Beautiful Route Through Alentejo The Alentejo region in Portugal is a wonderful place for a road trip. From historic cities and charming villages to breathtaking nature reserves and stunning coastlines. You’ll need at least a week to get a good...
Slow travel in Alentejo: The Most Beautiful Villages, Towns, and Natural Landscapes Are you looking for a quieter, more authentic part of Portugal? Then the Alentejo is a great destination. This vast region in southern Portugal is often overlooked by tourists who head...
Agriturismo in Italy: What Is It, How Do You Choose One, and What Are the Best Places to Stay? An agriturismo is a vacation rental on a working farm in Italy: you stay in the countryside and often get to sample what’s produced on the farm—from olive oil and wine to...
Hiking in Nature Is Good for the Body and Mind We all know by now that walking isn’t just fun—it’s also good for your health. A 15-minute walk every day does wonders for your body and mind. What’s less well known is that walking in nature is even better for you. A...
The Most Beautiful Hiking Trails and Treks in the Aosta Valley The Aosta Valley is an ideal hiking destination. Hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails are easily accessible and clearly marked. So there are plenty of trails even for inexperienced hikers. Would you...
Crossing the Alps: From Southern Germany Through Austria to Italy Crossing the Alps: Last summer, I finally had to make it happen. Conquering the Alps in 8 days, from southern Germany to northern Italy—a wonderful experience because I’d never seen the Alps without...
The Most Beautiful Spots in Tuscany: Slow travel and Unforgettable Experiences Tuscany is one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. I’ve been coming here for years, and I discover new gems every time. Of course, cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena are the well-known...
Val d'Orcia: The Most Beautiful Spots in the UNESCO World Heritage Landscape The landscape of the Val d’Orcia, an enchanting valley in southeastern Tuscany, is rightly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find rolling hills, fields full of flowers and...
Hiking in Tuscany: The Most Beautiful Trails from Elba to the Val d'Orcia I really love hiking through the Tuscan countryside. Tuscany is a dream destination for hikers. This Italian region is known for its rolling hills, medieval villages, cypress-lined avenues, and...
The Most Beautiful Driving Routes in Tuscany Tuscany is perfect for road trips: quiet, winding roads, cypress-lined avenues, medieval villages, and a view every 10 minutes that makes you want to pull over on the spot. In this article, you’ll find the most beautiful...
What Is Slow Travel? (Meaning, Examples, and 15 Tips for a Sustainable Vacation) Slow travel means traveling slowly and mindfully: you stay in one place longer, move around less, and opt more often for nature, local experiences, and a leisurely pace instead of...
Taking the Night Train to Vienna: A Green City Trip Traveling internationally by train is sustainable and lets you see a lot of the countries you pass through. But it’s often complicated, too—except when traveling to Vienna. The overnight train takes you easily and...
Ticino: Switzerland with an Italian vibe You step off the train in Locarno, and the first thing you see is a palm tree. No cow with a bell, no smell of fondue, no wooden chalet—just a palm tree. Welcome to Ticino, Switzerland’s southernmost canton, where they speak...
Intragna: The Weeds on Your Plate and on the Wall The train to Intragna is no ordinary train. It climbs and winds its way through the Centovalli, the “valley of a hundred valleys,” until you get off in a village that seems to be glued to the mountainside. I’m in...
Exploring the Valle Maggia by Bike: Along the River, Along the Old Railroad Track We set off from Locarno station, and within a few minutes the traffic fades away. The bike path curves down into the valley, partly following the route of a railroad line that once ran...
By Train to Ticino: Traveling to Southern Switzerland Without a Car The best way to get to Ticino is to take your time getting there. First, Germany glides by the window; then the train climbs into the Alps; and suddenly (after a long tunnel), the rooftops are orange,...
You step off the boat, and within ten steps you’ve forgotten all about the Alps. Palm trees, bamboo, giant ferns, a Japanese banana plant. On a tiny island of less than three hectares in the middle of Lake Maggiore, you feel as if you’re in the subtropics. And yet...
“Take a look at the world.
It’s even more amazing than
or any dream you could imagine.”