Summer is the perfect season to slow down, breathe fresh air, and recharge your batteries. But that doesn’t mean we need to get on a plane, travel halfway across the world, or visit crowded places. A sustainable getaway close to the sea and in tune with the environment can provide precisely what you need: rest, nature, and authenticity.
Are you looking for an alternative holiday plan? Here are some tips for organising a responsible getaway without complications so you can enjoy summer to the fullest.
1. Pick a Less Popular Beach
Spain is full of quiet, well-preserved coastal spots. Explore more secluded and less popular areas instead of the usual tourist spots. A few ideas:
- The coves of northern Menorca
- The wild beaches of Zahora and Bolonia, in Cadiz
- The coastline of Asturias or Galicia, perfect for combining countryside and sea
- Small Mediterranean coastal towns such as L’Ametlla de Mar or Calella de Palafrugell
The more you stay close to nature and steer clear of crowds, the more sustainable your trip becomes – and the greater your opportunity to disconnect.
2. Find Accommodation with Real Commitment
Choose small hotels, rural guesthouses, or locally run apartments that use clean energy, minimise the use of plastic, promote local products, and respect the natural environment. Many already do; you just need to look a little more closely.
A clue? Check to see if they offer filtered water, organic products, or suggestions that encourage you to walk or cycle. Those are encouraging signs.
3. Pack a Lighter (More Mindful) Suitcase
Avoid carrying unnecessary items and choose products that generate less waste. Some essentials for a sustainable seaside getaway:
- Reusable bottles
- A lightweight towel that dries quickly.
- A canvas bag for shopping and picnics
Travelling lighter gives you greater freedom. And it also helps the environment.
4. Eat Well, Eat Local
One of the best ways to promote more responsible tourism is to be mindful of where and what you eat. Look for bars, beach bars, or restaurants that use local and seasonal products. Avoid franchises or ‘tourist’ menus and go for the authentic stuff.
In addition, village markets are great places to find local fruit, bread, cheese, and preserves – perfect for a picnic by the sea.
A Simpler, More Natural Summer
You don’t have to travel far to truly disconnect. A quiet beach, comfortable accommodation, good local food, and time to relax can be more than enough. Sustainable getaways not only protect the environment, they also help you reconnect with yourself and enjoy summer from a different perspective that is simpler, more mindful, and more genuine.