Sustainable Spain: Exploring the Country's Scenic Trails

"Spain is a top destination for eco-conscious travelers. The country is home to the most biosphere reserves in the world, is a global leader on Blue Flag beaches and is working towards protecting 30 percent of its marine areas by 2030. And, with the second-longest high-speed rail network in the world, low-impact travel between Spanish destinations is easier than ever."

"One of the best ways to explore Spain responsibly is on foot. Its extensive network of trails, welcoming villages and protected national parks allows travelers to slow down, reduce their environmental impact and connect with local wildlife and communities. Spain's 16 national parks, four of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites, showcase the country's extraordinary biodiversity. Many have extensive walking and cycling routes, allowing visitors to explore the country's most beautiful natural areas with minimal impact to the wildlife and local environment."

"Doñana National Park in Andalusia is one of Spain's most important wetlands, covering roughly 210 square miles across Huelva, Cádiz and Seville. It is home to over 400 bird species and endangered animals such as the Iberian lynx and Spanish imperial eagle. The national park is a fantastic place to explore the best of Spain on foot, with several well-marked walking trails suitable for all levels."

Travel habits are shifting toward greener choices such as scenic train journeys, eco-friendly hotels and activities that support local communities. Spain hosts the most biosphere reserves worldwide, leads on Blue Flag beaches and aims to protect 30 percent of its marine areas by 2030. The country's second-longest high-speed rail network enables lower-impact travel between destinations. Exploring on foot uses extensive trails, welcoming villages and protected national parks to slow travel, reduce environmental impact and connect travelers with wildlife and communities. Spain has 16 national parks, four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many offering walking and cycling routes. Doñana National Park covers roughly 210 square miles and hosts over 400 bird species and endangered animals including the Iberian lynx and Spanish imperial eagle.

Read at Elite Traveler