How to be an Eco-Tourist
Sustainable Ways to Enjoy Mallorca
Mallorca, our beautiful island with its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers the perfect backdrop for ecotourism—responsible travel that focuses on conserving the environment and improving the well-being of local communities. As you plan your visit, consider these eco-friendly activities and tips to ensure your trip leaves a positive footprint.
By Claire Miller
1/7/24
Choose Eco-Friendly Transport: Wherever possible, opt for walking or cycling to explore the natural beauty and reduce your environmental impact. For longer distances, try Mallorca’s excellent public transport network of buses and trains. Or alternatively rent an low-emission or electric car, taking advantage of the numerous car charging points throughout the island.
Birdwatching: Explore Mallorca’s diverse avian population by embarking on birdwatching tours, either solo or guided, through the island’s various natural parks. These tours offer a peaceful way to connect with nature while supporting local conservation efforts. The S’Albufera Wetlands in North Mallorca for example, is an ideal place to see diverse fauna and flora.
Sustainable sea activities: Kayaking, paddle surfing, and sailing are excellent ways to explore the coastline while minimising your environmental impact. These activities allow you to experience the marine environment in a respectful and sustainable manner. Snorkelling also allows you to discover Mallorca’s vibrant marine ecosystems and seagrass meadows. An excellent way to appreciate the island’s underwater beauty without disturbing the environment.
Hiking Trails: The UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains and numerous natural parks - S’Albufera Wetlands in North Mallorca, Sa Dragonera Natural Park in the South-West, Cala Mondrago Natural Park in the South-East and the Puig de Galatzó Nature Reserve all provide breathtaking hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer leisurely walks, these trails offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Organic Wine Tasting: Visit local vineyards that practice sustainable viticulture and enjoy organic wine tasting tours. These tours not only delight your palate but also support eco-friendly farming practices.
Cycling Routes: Explore Mallorca’s countryside and coastal areas on its extensive network of cycling routes. From olive groves and vineyards to charming villages, cycling offers a scenic and low-impact way to see the island.
Organic Farming Tours: Participate in organic farm tours and gastronomic agrotourism experiences. These offer farm-to-table experiences, allowing you to taste fresh, locally produced food and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Buying Local Produce: Skip the supermarket and visit local markets for your food shopping. Weekly markets offer high-quality local produce at reasonable prices, supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. Find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, honey, liqueurs, wines and more. For souvenirs, choose local artisan products instead of cheaper, mass produced items, helping local communities, fair working standards and your carbon footprint.
Where you stay: Accommodation that sources local & sustainable menus, and commits to recycling and avoiding food waste, further supports the island’s sustainability efforts. Consider a hotel, retreat or restaurant's eco-credentials before you book.
Organic Wine Tasting: Visit local vineyards that practice sustainable viticulture and enjoy organic wine tasting tours. These tours not only delight your palate but also support eco-friendly farming practices.
Cycling Routes: Explore Mallorca’s countryside and coastal areas on its extensive network of cycling routes. From olive groves and vineyards to charming villages, cycling offers a scenic and low-impact way to see the island.
Organic Farming Tours: Participate in organic farm tours and gastronomic agrotourism experiences. These offer farm-to-table experiences, allowing you to taste fresh, locally produced food and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Buying Local Produce: Skip the supermarket and visit local markets for your food shopping. Weekly markets offer high-quality local produce at reasonable prices, supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. Find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, honey, liqueurs, wines and more. For souvenirs, choose local artisan products instead of cheaper, mass produced items, helping local communities, fair working standards and your carbon footprint.
Where you stay: Accommodation that sources local & sustainable menus, and commits to recycling and avoiding food waste, further supports the island’s sustainability efforts. Consider a hotel, retreat or restaurant's eco-credentials before you book.
By adopting these eco-friendly habits, you’ll not only contribute to the preservation of Mallorca for generations to come, but also enjoy a more authentic and enriching travel experience on this beautiful Mediterranean paradise.
By Claire Miller
1/7/24
By adopting these eco-friendly habits, you’ll not only contribute to the preservation of Mallorca for generations to come, but also enjoy a more authentic and enriching travel experience on this beautiful Mediterranean paradise.