Taking time off to relax shouldn't cost the Earth. That’s why more people are choosing eco-friendly holidays as their go-to option for summer escapes. From solar-powered beach resorts to no-fly rail adventures and nature-based getaways, there's no shortage of sustainable travel ideas that combine fun with a lighter footprint.
Whether you’re looking for quiet countryside retreats, ethical wildlife encounters or carbon-conscious luxury, this guide brings you inspiration for greener summer getaways that still deliver everything you want from a great holiday.
Why Eco-Friendly Holidays Are Gaining Momentum
Travellers today are thinking about more than just sunshine and scenery. People want their holidays to reflect their values. Choosing eco-friendly holidays means reducing your environmental impact while supporting local communities and protecting wildlife.
Climate change, overtourism, and carbon emissions from flights have pushed many to rethink how they travel. The good news? You don’t have to give up comfort or style to travel more responsibly. You just need to choose carefully.
Rail travel, certified green resorts, and ethical tours are now widely available. Even better, they’re more accessible than ever.
The Benefits of Booking With Jamie Wake Travel
When you book with Jamie Wake Travel, you’re not just getting a holiday—you’re getting peace of mind. Every tailor-made trip we create is protected by
ATOL and backed by our membership with Protected Trust Services.
Here’s what that means for you:
- ATOL Protection covers your money and arrangements if your travel provider fails.
- Supplier Failure Insurance gives extra reassurance that you won’t lose out if a hotel or operator goes bust.
- Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance protects you if an airline suddenly ceases operations.
We combine this protection with access to over 200 trusted suppliers, personal advice, and flexible travel options. Whether you want an all-inclusive beach break or a bespoke rail adventure, we build holidays that match your values and lifestyle.
Explore Europe by Train: A Greener Way to Travel
Train holidays are one of the easiest ways to go green. Swapping short-haul flights for rail not only cuts your emissions but lets you see more along the way.
Try this route: London to Paris to Milan to Venice.
You get stunning views, iconic cities, and no airport queues. From Venice, you can loop down to Lake Garda or across to Slovenia for a mix of alpine landscapes and Mediterranean sunshine.
Looking for comfort? Many trains now offer first-class options with reclining seats, onboard dining, and plenty of space.
Want to build your own rail trip? We can tailor the route, hotels, and experiences to match your style.
Stay at Eco-Conscious Hotels With Real Impact
One of the easiest switches you can make is where you stay. Eco-certified hotels go beyond asking you to reuse towels—they make sustainability part of their core mission.
Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden, Tenerife
This 5-star gem is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and uses solar panels, water-saving systems, and local produce in its restaurants. It’s ideal for couples wanting luxury without the guilt.
The lush subtropical gardens and spa facilities make it a calming place to recharge.
We work closely with properties like this and have plenty of offers available depending on your travel dates and preferences.
Ask us what offers we currently have for this hotel and similar eco-luxury resorts.
Wildlife Holidays With a Gentle Touch
Wildlife holidays don’t need to mean intrusive
safaris or over-visited parks. We work with trusted operators who put animal welfare and conservation first.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
A world leader in sustainable tourism, Grootbos protects endangered species, supports local communities, and offers low-impact whale watching, fynbos tours, and guided nature walks.
Its luxury lodges blend seamlessly into the environment and run on renewable energy.
We can help you build a South Africa trip around this unique lodge and find the best dates and travel combinations.
Ask us about exclusive offers for nature-based luxury resorts that support conservation.
Island Escapes That Keep It Green
Some islands are leading the way in sustainability.
Koufonisia, Greece
This lesser-known Cycladic island avoids mass tourism. Most accommodation is run by local families, and transport is mainly on foot or bicycle. Think sandy beaches, farm-to-table dining, and warm hospitality.
It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed summer with minimal environmental impact.
We can suggest a range of small hotels and villas here that offer a traditional yet comfortable experience.
Ask us about offers for Koufonisia and other Greek islands that take sustainability seriously.
