Congratulations to all 2026 Green Destinations Awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze destinations!

Ameland, Netherlands

Known for its wide beaches, dunes, tidal landscapes, and charming villages, Ameland is a destination where nature, community, and tourism exist in careful balance. Visitors are drawn to the island’s peaceful atmosphere, open spaces, and rich cultural heritage, reflected in its historic houses and churches dating back to the 18th century. Deeply aware of the importance of preserving its unique environment, the island promotes a sustainable approach to tourism that protects the Wadden landscape while supporting local life and the economy. Strong hospitality, responsible stewardship, and a clear island identity shape Ameland’s vision, offering authentic experiences rooted in nature, quality, and respect for the territory.

Çeşme, Türkiye

Located on Türkiye’s western Aegean coast, Çeşme is a leading seaside destination celebrated for its turquoise beaches, Mediterranean atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. From the historic Ottoman Castle and the stone houses of Alaçatı to renowned beaches such as Ilıca, Altınkum, and Boyalık, the region offers a unique blend of relaxation, tradition, and outdoor activities, including sailing and windsurfing. Çeşme Marina has been recognized internationally for its environmental initiatives, including the Green Apple Award. The destination continues to balance tourism growth with the preservation of its coastal landscapes, biodiversity, and local identity.

Forges-les-Eaux, France

Nestled in the heart of Normandy, Forges-les-Eaux is a peaceful countryside destination where nature, heritage, and well-being come together in harmony. Recognised as a “Station Verte”, the town is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, balancing environmental preservation with authentic visitor experiences. Surrounded by lakes, green landscapes, and the protected Bois de l’Épinay natural area, Forges-les-Eaux invites visitors to enjoy slow travel through hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities along the Avenue Verte London-Paris. With a rich thermal history and local culture, the destination also supports eco-friendly initiatives, raises environmental awareness, and preserves its natural and cultural heritage, offering a relaxing and meaningful escape near Paris.

Selçuk, Türkiye

With over 8,000 years of history, Selçuk is a remarkable destination where ancient civilisation, cultural heritage, and natural beauty come together. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus, the legendary Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the House of the Virgin Mary, and nearby traditional villages such as Şirince, the town offers an exceptional journey through time. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and rich archaeological treasures, Selçuk combines historical depth with vibrant local traditions and festivals.

Torroella de Montgrí-L’Estartit, Spain

Located on the Costa Brava in Catalonia, Torroella de Montgrí-L’Estartit is a destination where exceptional natural diversity, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism come together. Set between the Montgrí Massif, the Baix Ter plain, and a protected coastline facing the Medes Islands, the area lies within the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, a unique ecosystem covering most of the municipality. Alongside its rich landscapes, the destination is marked by strong historical identity, notably the medieval Montgrí Castle, built in the 13th century as a symbol of regional power.

Torres Vedras, Portugal

Located around 40 minutes from Lisbon, Torres Vedras is a diverse destination where coastline, countryside, and rich heritage come together. Its 20 km of Atlantic coast is marked by 22 beaches, many with long sandy stretches and strong environmental quality, offering a peaceful setting for nature-based tourism. Inland, the territory preserves a strong rural identity, reflected in fertile fields of fruit and vegetables, as well as protected natural areas such as the Paisagem Protegida Local das Serras do Socorro e Archeira, which combines natural, historical, and cultural richness.

Urla, Türkiye

Located on the Aegean coast of Türkiye, Urla is a destination shaped by over 7,500 years of history, where ancient heritage, fertile landscapes, and coastal beauty come together. Once home to important settlements such as Klazomenai and Liman Tepe, the region reflects deep archaeological and cultural roots. Its olive groves and vineyards define a strong local identity, especially along the Olive Route and Vineyard Route, where sustainable agriculture and gastronomy play a central role. Known for its vibrant culinary scene, art culture, and eco-conscious approach to tourism, Urla offers an authentic experience where history, nature, and responsible living are closely intertwined.

Amarante, Portugal

In northern Portugal, set between the River Tâmega and the Marão and Aboboreira mountains, Amarante is a destination where nature, culture, and heritage come together in a scenic and authentic setting. Known for its historic centre, river landscapes, and centuries-old traditions, the town offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities, cultural discovery, and local gastronomy. Closely linked to the legacy of artists and writers such as Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, Teixeira de Pascoaes, and Agustina Bessa-Luís, Amarante reflects a strong creative identity rooted in tradition and imagination. Surrounded by green landscapes and vineyards, and shaped by a welcoming spirit, the destination promotes a nature-based, responsible form of tourism in which heritage, wellbeing, and authentic experiences are closely connected.

Marugame City, Japan

Surrounded by sea and mountains, Marugame is a compact yet vibrant destination in Japan where nature, history, culture, and traditional craftsmanship come together. Known as a former castle town, it is home to iconic heritage such as Marugame Castle and the famous handmade “Marugame uchiwa” fan industry, reflecting a strong local identity rooted in tradition and creativity. Committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, Marugame promotes a visitor experience built on participation and connection between locals and travellers. Its strategy focuses on extending stays, enhancing tourism infrastructure around key sites like the station and castle, strengthening tourism management with community involvement, and improving accessibility for international visitors through multilingual support. This approach aims to create a safe, welcoming, and resilient destination where culture, daily life, and tourism grow in harmony.

Menderes, Türkiye

Located in the south of İzmir, Menderes is a coastal and rural destination where the Aegean Sea, fertile agricultural lands, and rich natural landscapes come together. The coastal areas of Gümüldür and Özdere are known for their beaches and tourism appeal, while inland the district features forests, waterfalls, and nearby ancient settlements, creating a strong balance between nature and cultural heritage. Agriculture plays a central role in the local identity, with the production of grapes, olives, and mandarins shaping both the landscape and the economy.

Pornichet, France

Located on the Atlantic coast in Pays de la Loire, on the Guérande peninsula in Loire-Atlantique, Pornichet is a seaside town shaped by the ocean, fine sandy beaches, and a strong Belle Époque heritage. Born in 1900 from the merging of parts of Saint-Nazaire and La Baule-Escoublac, the town developed during the rise of seaside tourism, leaving behind elegant coastal architecture and a distinctive maritime identity along its 7 km of coastline. Today, Pornichet embraces a “slow life” approach rooted in sustainable development, balancing coastal identity, environmental protection, and year-round vitality. Through its ecological transition strategy, the city promotes responsible urban management, preservation of natural spaces, and harmonious living between residents and visitors, while supporting a dynamic local economy and a strong connection to the ocean.

Resende, Portugal

Located in northern Portugal, in the heart of the Douro region, Resende is a breathtaking destination shaped by dramatic landscapes, where the River Douro defines its northern boundary and steep hills rise towards the Serra de Montemuro. Overlooking vineyards, river valleys, and forested slopes, the territory offers ever-changing scenery, from cherry blossom in spring to chestnut forests in autumn, making every viewpoint unique. Known as a gateway to the Douro Wine Region, Resende combines natural beauty with strong cultural identity, archaeological heritage, and renowned gastronomy, including roasted lamb, traditional sweets, and its famous cherries.

Varaždinska County, Croatia

In northern Croatia, between the River Drava and the wooded hills of Ravna Gora, Kalnik and Ivanščica, Varaždin County is a destination where Baroque heritage, cultural life, and unspoilt nature coexist. The region is marked by elegant historic towns, a strong artistic tradition, and a landscape shaped by rivers, forests, and gentle mountains that define its identity and sense of place. Tourism development in Varaždin County is guided by a clear sustainability approach that prioritises the protection of natural environments and cultural assets while supporting local communities. The focus is on outdoor, low-impact experiences such as hiking, cycling, and rural stays, alongside the preservation of traditional crafts and local production. Through community involvement, careful spatial planning, and environmental awareness, the destination aims to maintain a balanced relationship between tourism, quality of life, and long-term ecological resilience.

Yoron Island, Japan

Off the southern edge of Japan lies Yoron Island, a small coral island encircled by luminous turquoise waters and reef systems born from uplifted limestone. Its coastline, often described as a “floating pearl,” is defined by rich marine ecosystems and a strong identity shaped by ocean life, making it a well-known destination for snorkeling, diving, and seaside relaxation. After experiencing the rise and fall of mass tourism in past decades, the island has gradually reoriented its development model. Rather than chasing short-term visitor growth, Yoron now places emphasis on safeguarding its fragile coastal environment, maintaining traditional ways of life, and regulating tourism activities to ensure harmony between residents, ecosystems, and visitors over the long term.

Zagreb County, Croatia

Encircling the capital of Zagreb, Zagreb County is a “green ring” of villages, vineyards, forests, and fertile plains, offering a calm contrast to the nearby urban centre. The landscape combines peaceful rural life with a rich cultural heritage, visible in traditional architecture, local festivals, historic traces, and a gastronomy shaped by regional wines and authentic cuisine, all supported by a strong culture of hospitality. Tourism here is closely tied to sustainability as a core strategy rather than an add-on. The destination focuses on protecting agricultural land, forests, and cultural sites while promoting local products and experiences rooted in the territory.

Belsh, Albania

Set in the Albanian lake landscape, Belsh is a destination where natural lakes, rolling hills, and ancient heritage sites shape a strong local identity rooted in both history and everyday life. The region is known for its Illyrian archaeological traces, traditional rural landscapes, and family-run olive groves and vineyards, offering visitors an authentic connection to land, culture, and community. Belsh’s vision for tourism is firmly based on protecting its natural and cultural foundations while ensuring long-term benefits for local residents. The municipality prioritises the conservation of lake ecosystems, the safeguarding of archaeological heritage, and the promotion of low-impact, community-led tourism experiences. Local farmers and producers play a central role in shaping tourism development, ensuring that economic activity remains closely tied to traditional practices and local values.

Belterra, Brazil

Located in western Pará, Belterra is a unique Amazonian destination where natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and an unusual historical legacy come together. Known as the “Princesa da Serra,” the town is closely linked to the early 20th-century rubber cultivation projects initiated by Henry Ford, with remnants of its planned settlement still preserved and recognised as heritage. Beyond this historical layer, Belterra is surrounded by the Amazon rainforest and the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós, as well as river beaches such as Aramanaí, Cajutuba, and Pindobal, which appear during the seasonal ebb of the Tapajós River. The destination is increasingly focused on sustainable and community-based tourism, prioritising forest conservation, river ecosystems, and the development of local bioeconomies rooted in “terra preta” soils. Belterra promotes authentic visitor experiences that support riverine communities, encourage environmental education, and reduce ecological impact through better waste management and responsible use of natural resources, reinforcing its identity as a green, living Amazonian territory.

Beypore, India

Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River in Kerala, Beypore is a historic coastal town where maritime heritage, cultural traditions, and river–sea ecosystems meet. For more than 1,500 years, it has been known as a major port connecting the Malabar Coast with the Arab world, and today it remains celebrated for its traditional Uru shipbuilding tradition, where handcrafted wooden vessels continue to be built using ancestral knowledge. Its coastline, backwaters, and river landscapes are complemented by rich literary and intangible heritage that reflect Kerala’s cultural depth. The destination promotes low-impact experiences such as heritage walks, homestays, local cuisine, and engagement with traditional artisans, ensuring that tourism directly benefits local communities.

Geoparque Seridó, Brazil

In the semi-arid northeast of Brazil, the Seridó UNESCO Global Geopark brings together remarkable geological heritage, the Caatinga biome, and six local municipalities including Currais Novos and Carnaúba dos Dantas. The territory showcases landscapes shaped over millions of years, alongside rural communities with strong cultural identity and traditions adapted to the semi-arid environment. As a UNESCO Global Geopark, Seridó is committed to protecting its geological sites, fragile ecosystems, and water resources while promoting restoration of degraded areas. Tourism is developed in close connection with local communities, supporting income generation, environmental education, and cultural preservation. Through participatory governance and low-impact practices, the destination ensures that tourism contributes directly to both ecosystem conservation and the well-being of residents.

Othe-Armance, France

Between the rolling landscapes of Burgundy and Champagne in France, the Othe-Armance area is a rural territory defined by wooded valleys, orchards, and rich biodiversity. Its identity is strongly tied to local production, including traditional cider made from specific apple varieties and the AOP Chaource cheese, both of which reflect long-standing agricultural know-how and a close relationship with the land. The destination’s tourism vision is built around slow and responsible travel, focusing on preserving natural habitats, supporting short supply chains, and strengthening ties with local producers. Visitors are encouraged to explore the countryside, villages, and heritage sites at a gentle pace, contributing to a model of tourism that protects the environment while reinforcing rural vitality and local economic resilience.

Pachmarhi, India

Known as the “Queen of Satpura,” Pachmarhi is the only hill station in the state, set within the Satpura Range at an altitude of over 1,000 metres. Part of both the Satpura Tiger Reserve and the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, the destination is defined by dense forests, waterfalls, caves, and panoramic viewpoints such as Dhoopgarh, the highest point in Madhya Pradesh. Rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, Pachmarhi also features ancient cave shelters like the Pandav Caves with rock paintings and traces of its colonial-era cantonment history. The destination attracts nature lovers and hikers with its cool climate and extensive trail network, while its protected ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna. Tourism here is closely linked to conservation, balancing visitor access with the preservation of its fragile mountain environment and ecological richness.

Rurrenabaque Madidi Pampas, Bolivia

Located in the Amazonian region of Bolivia, the Rurrenabaque–Madidi–Pampas destination brings together two extraordinary landscapes: lush rainforest and vast pampas, forming one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth. At its core lies the Madidi National Park, internationally recognised for its exceptional richness of plant, bird, mammal, amphibian, and reptile species, making it a global conservation priority. Covering over 80,000 km² across the departments of La Paz and Beni, the destination spans multiple municipalities and communities deeply connected to their natural environment. Its vision places conservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage at the centre of development, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Tourism is promoted as a collective responsibility, encouraging visitors to engage respectfully with nature and local cultures while supporting conservation efforts and community well-being, ensuring that this unique Amazonian region remains viable for future generations.