While it’s rare to find destinations that are not only popular with tourists but also
environmentally, culturally, and socially responsible — Spain stands out! In this blog, we’ll
introduce you to the other side of Spain with a list of hidden gems that aren’t just
fascinating but equally responsible.

Here’s a curated list of some of the top sustainable destinations in Spain — offbeat,
naturally rich, and undeniably iconic. These green cities in Spain comply with good
environmental practices, making full use of their natural and cultural resources while
promoting local craftsmanship and products as key highlights.

Some of The Top Sustainable Destinations in Spain


Hop on to discover some of the most sustainable cities in Spain that’ll probably change
the way you take a holiday – away from the hustle & bustle of the city, clean and green
spaces and deeply rooted in nature and culture.

El Hierro (Canary Islands)

The smallest of the Canary Islands is a tropical gem unlike any of your popular tropical
destinations. It’s a stunning mix of diverse landscapes, from large cliffs, beautiful beaches,
and lush green forests to wonderful seabed – venture on a unique tropical holiday in El
Hierro. Titled a Biosphere Reserve in 2000, its use of electric vehicles, recycling programs,
and renewable energy makes it a popular sustainable destination in Spain.

Must-Visit Attractions

− Rock of La Bonanza
− Port of La Restinga
− Jinama Viewpoint
− La Maceta beach & Verodal beach
− La Laja Natural Pool

Top Sustainable Experiences

Hiking along the traditional paths
Scuba Diving
Cycling through Valverde to San Andrés
Dolphin/Whale Watching

Vitoria-Gasteiz (Alava)

The capital of the Basque Country is a city renowned for its exemplary urban design.
Vitoria-Gasteiz is packed with historical buildings, exceptional cuisine, Basque wines, and
a vibrant calendar of cultural events & activities. Remember, we talked about iconic
destinations. Well, Vitoria has been awarded as the ‘Global Green City’ for its gardens,
tree-lined boulevards, and endless greenery.

Must-Visit Attractions

− Cathedral of Santa María
− Plaza de la Virgen Blanca
− Palace of Villa Suso
− La Florida Park
− Ataria
− Green Ring

Top Sustainable Experiences

− Attend the Vitoria Jazz Festival
− Cooking workshops
− Bicycle and mountain biking
− Hiking

Formentera (Balearic Islands)

One of the smallest Balearic Islands, Formentera is the loveliest and most idyllic
destinations in Spain. With white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, lakes, salt pans, caves,
junipers or pine forests, and tiny villages, an exceptional holiday awaits visitors here. To
top it all off, the traditional culinary and shopping experience is just a walk away!

PS: Snorkel through the crystal-clear waters to watch Posidonia oceanica seagrass, an
indigenous Mediterranean plant that is the oldest living being on earth and covers 7,650
hectares of the island.

Must-Visit Attractions:

− Beaches: Es Migjorn, Ses Illetes, Platja de Llevant
− La Mola lighthouse
− Les Salines Natural Park
− Pujols
− La Savina

Top Sustainable Experiences:

− Scuba diving
− Kayaking
− Horse riding
− Over 30 natural hiking routes
− Cycling

La Garrotxa (Girona)

The land of volcanoes, La Garrotxa, is home to 40 volcanic cones and over 20 lava
casts, all covered by dense vegetation. It’s a stunning combo of volcanoes and lush
forests. Only two hours by car from Barcelona, this spectacular volcanic land
formation is one of the first destinations to join the Ecotourism Club in Spain.

Must-Visit Attractions:

− Olot
− Moixina Wetlands
− Romanesque Puente Viejo in Besau
− Vila Vella in Santa Pau

Top Sustainable Experiences:

− Hiking routes
− Horseback riding
− 4×4 mountain tours

Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve (Vizcaya)

Declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO (1984), Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a
wetland home to numerous ecosystems, including the Cantabrian oak forest, Atlantic
prairies and woods, marshlands, and open sea. What makes it a must-visit? It is the
greenest place in Spain, perfect for sustainable travelers.

Must-Visit Attractions:

− Urdaibai Bird Centre
− Euskadi Biodiversity Centre

Top Sustainable Experiences:

− Bird watching
− Beach hopping

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Conclusion:

Sustainable travel in Spain isn’t just a trend — it’s a responsible, rewarding way to discover
the country’s natural and cultural richness through zero-wastage policies, recycling
programs, and more. These sustainable destinations in Spain are just a few of the many
exceptional places this destination has in store for you. If this blog inspired you to travel
differently and explore the greener side of Spain – make sure to add these green places to
your next Spain itinerary.

Best Sustainable Destinations in Spain FAQs

Which Canary Islands focuses on sustainability?

El Hierro and La Palma are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. El Hierro runs almost
entirely on renewable energy, while La Palma is part of Spain’s Ecotourism Club, where
travelers can find environmentally friendly experiences.

Isn´t Bilbao the capital of the Basque Country in Spain?

No, Vitoria-Gasteiz is often overshadowed by the bigger Basque cities like Bilbao
and San Sebastián, but this charming green city is in fact the official capital of the Basque
Country.

What’s a good eco-destination in the Basque Country?

Head to Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve – perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and
visiting the colorful Oma Forest. It’s a peaceful, art-meets-nature spot near Bilbao.

How do I know if a beach is eco-friendly?

Look for the Blue Flag! Spain has over 600 beaches and more than 100 marinas
certified for clean water and eco practices – from Sanxenxo (Galicia) to Marbella
(Andalusia).

What is the must-try 100% sustainable experiences in Spain?

Here are the must-try 100% sustainable experiences in Spain:
• Bird watching
• Hiking
• Enjoying Geobotanical routes
• Visit the national parks on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback
• Indulging in sustainable gastronomy

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