4 Cool Eco Adventure Vacations
Some people I talk to think eco sustainability meant giving something up. But on these trips, we've found the opposite: more connection, more wonder, more space to breathe. I'm sharing my favorite green vacations from my personal travel notes that I hope you will love too.
Blue Lagoon, Grindavík, Iceland
If you want an eco adventure with a wow factor, head to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. It's located about 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport and roughly 45 minutes from Reykjavik.
You'll find blue geothermal waters contrasted by black lava fields here which was super awe-inspiring. Iceland is cold (yes, even in the summer temperatures stay in the 60s) so getting into the mineral-rich steamy pools is nothing short of blissful. It's my favorite eco adventure because everything feels so natural here, starting with warm water straight out of the earth!
I love that the water in the Blue Lagoon stays warm year-round at around 100–104°F (38–40°C). This is why the pools stay open year-round, so you can actually bathe with snow all around you.
The lagoon is famed for its skin healing properties. Covering your face in the white silica mud is especially popular.
Visiting on a day trip is the most affordable option. You can drive or hop on a tour. I have to warn you that it's expensive if you stay overnight. Our room for two days was in the Silica Hotel (around $792/night). The views are incredible There is also complimentary breakfast, One Premium admission to the Blue Lagoon for each guest, and Unlimited use of Silica Lagoon.
What I loved best:
Soaking in the rich mineral waters was my favorite!
The Carter Company, United Kingdom
This is one of the coolest adventure getaways right in the heart of Scotland!
The Carter Company lets you choose from different walking vacations across England, Scotland, and Wales. For best views, their walks often follow rivers and coastlines (but also plenty of countryside trails).
I think it's convenient how luggage is transferred ahead while you walk. Along the way, we admired stone villages and magical woodland paths.
I think it's a fantastic eco adventure and romantic too. Why? Each night, you stay in charming inns and eco-minded hotels.
What I loved best:
My favorite moment? A picnic by the River Thames with local cheese and fresh-baked bread. After all, after walking, we were very hungry, and eating local foods added to our green vacation experience.
Pikaia Lodge, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
Everyone I talk to about the Galapagos Islands thought this vacation was super unique. For one of the best eco adventures, check into Pikaia Lodge. Not only you'll get amazing views of the Pacific, the choice of adventures here is fantastic. You can go snorkeling, spot sea lions, watch scenic sunsets. Or just relax next to the infinity pool.
I loved how green and sustainable the lodge felt with solar-powered energy. They are very focused on preserving the islands and educating visitors.
Good Day Out - Wildlife Experiences in Wales
Chris and I both absolutely love Wales and have visited many times in the summer. Good Day Out is special because they've designed ethical adventures that introduce you to the beauty of Welsh landscapes.
Some of the cooled adventure vacation options with Good Day Out include herding sheep with a farmer, wildlife sketching, or learning about re-wilding efforts in the hills!
