Eco-Friendly Travel in Europe’s Underrated North
Travelers targeting a sustainable summer getaway need not look further than the sprawling Nordics, a spectacular region of Europe that includes countries such as Denmark, the Faroe Islands, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden and values nature and cultural heritage like few others. Whether cycling the scenic coastline, dining on locally sourced ingredients with locals or staying the night in the original Icehotel, eco-conscious visitors to this part of the world are certain to learn and experience so much while leaving a minimal environmental footprint. While the possibilities are endless when it comes to traveling responsibly in the Nordics, each country offers something unique and inspiring. Here’s a look at some of what awaits this summer and beyond.
Denmark
Whether cycling, eating or island hopping, Denmark offers plentiful opportunities for visitors to vacation sustainably. The Tour de France Grand Depart will take place in Denmark this summer, but travelers can always join a guided cycling tour of Copenhagen or the country’s scenic coastline. Fuel up with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients on a guided food walk or an oyster safari at the Wadden Sea. What’s more, Denmark is home to two of the most sustainable islands in the European Union in Bornholm and Samso. Visitors to the former can stay at Hotel Green Solution House nestled between the forest and the beach.
Faroe Islands
Located between Iceland and Scandinavia, the Faroe Islands is a Danish archipelago ideal for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local culture. This is a destination that prides itself on hospitality, more specifically “heimablídni,” which translates to “home hospitality.” Visitors to the islands can look forward to dining in the homes of locals where they can sample traditional homemade Faroese food accompanied by interesting stories bringing them closer to their new surroundings.
Finland
Visitors to Finland can responsibly take in all that this country has to offer from high above via a sustainably-certified Helsinki Helicopter Tour before touring the destination in an eco-friendly fashion with Perille, a service that allows travelers to book flights, bus and train trips while comparing cost, distance and emissions. Travelers must also partake in Finland’s UNESCO-recognized sauna culture. Loyly in Helsinki is an ideal place to start as it’s the first building in Finland and the second in the Nordic countries to receive FSC project certification.
Greenland
Kayaking was invented in Greenland, and the island country offers a variety of tours and expeditions to suit all adventure and physical fitness levels. Plus, this timeless activity is best experienced during the summer, the season of the Midnight Sun, when kayakers can watch whales swimming along the shore and view flowing icebergs and fast-growing flowers and plants en route to an exhilarating hike through the backcountry.
Iceland
Iceland’s breathtaking Westfjords has been recognized by travel guide book Lonely Planet as the best region to visit in 2022 and for good reason. This awe-inspiring peninsula of just over 7,000 people boasts soaring cliffs and a splendid coastline making for gorgeous landscapes that can be experienced via scenic hiking paths and charming fishing villages. The Vestfjaroaleioin or Westfjords Way is one of the best ways to see and do the most in this region to ensure you don’t miss out.
Norway
Norway boasts UNESCO-recognized fjords that visitors can explore with Future of The Fjords, a fully electric, battery-powered experience that minimizes environmental impact. Travelers can also take in Norway’s majesty on a day tour aboard Brim Explorer, a hybrid electric cruise ship ideal for guilt-free travel. Havila Voyages’ epic coastal route from Bergen to Kirkenes is another can’t-miss sustainable adventure through Norway’s unparalleled landscape.
Sweden
Travelers can experience the original Icehotel year-round in Sweden. The one-of-a-kind property was hand-sculpted more than three decades ago and rewards summer guests with stellar ice suites ideal for enjoying the midnight sun. Meanwhile, foodies will absolutely love Sweden’s Edible Country, the world’s largest gourmet restaurant. Between May and October, travelers can book a table and enjoy meals crafted by Michelin-starred chefs in some of the country’s most serene environments, including relaxing forests and even lakeside.