Austria is a perfect destination for people looking to enjoy nature while minimizing their ecological impact. It's a country that offers many ways to travel in a responsible and environmentally-friendly way, whether exploring its mountains, cycling along the Danube or discovering its nature parks,

1- Sustainable infrastructure and transport

Austria is an easy country to get around, with a sustainable and reliable transport infrastructure. The country is well equipped in terms of public transport, with an efficient network of trains, buses and streetcars. Many cities, like Vienna, encourage the use of public transport (we had no trouble getting around on the metro with the kids).

Austria, with its central position in Europe, can be reached by car or train (if your departure city is in Europe). We liked the road-trip format because of its practicality for getting around as a family, but it's also possible to travel by train. Austria has a dense rail network that connects not only major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Linz, but also many smaller towns and rural areas.

2- Activities in harmony with nature conservation

The country offers many opportunities for outdoor tourism in its unspoilt natural landscapes, including the Austrian Alps, forests and national parks.

The Austrian Alps offer a wide range of hiking trails to suit all abilities. Austria also boasts several magnificent national parks, including Gesäuse National Park, Hohe Tauern National Park and Danube National Park. These protected natural areas offer the chance to discover the region's biodiversity in an environmentally friendly way.

Austria is home to a number of mountain lakes renowned for their beauty. Places like Lake Wolfgang, Lake Neusiedl and Lake Hallstatt offer bathing opportunities in unspoilt natural surroundings.

It's also possible to stay in eco-friendly accommodation.

3- Local and organic cuisine

Austria puts a strong emphasis on local and organic produce in the restaurant trade, and many restaurants offer menus that favor local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients. We often ate home-made desserts, artisanal ice creams, and feasted on local cheese. We were also able to taste wine from Austrian vineyards, including the famous cepage grüner veltliner.

4- A global eco-responsible lifestyle

We found Austrians to be very respectful of nature, which is an integral part of their way of life. Waste separation was well promoted in all the accommodation we rented, with different containers and color codes. It's very easy to find fresh, organic produce at the supermarket. The lakesides were always well landscaped, preserving the environment while retaining a practical aspect. We were seduced by this country and its gentle, harmonious way of life, which made for a serene and memorable vacation.