Catalonia hosts many privileged natural sites: from the wild coast to the singular sea landscapes that are unique in Europe and from the mighty and lively rivers to the playful high mountain streams. All of them have perfectly integrated cultures and inhabitants who settled in that territory and turned it into their lifestyle. Although talking about respect for environment may sound obvious these days, it’s worthwhile remembering that when you visit a natural site and walk on its landscape, you become responsible for its conservation.
And this is when the concept of ecotourism –which most of you already practise without knowing about all its specificities– gains in importance, because when you visit a small village from the plain or from the Pyrenees or when you hike through mountain cirques, you get involved in a model of sustainable tourism which respects the differential social and cultural characteristics of the region. During your visit or your hike, you both enjoy the charms of the natural spots and boost the local development and the growth of the local companies that give them life and economic activity.
Responsible tourists are the ones who can adapt to the customs and traditions of the places they visit –not the opposite. In doing so, as visitors, you enhance your experience more than you think. Let yourself drift by the proposals offered by all the hosts you will find around, immerse yourself in their customs and forget about your daily routine.
And be aware of the fact that a series of very simple actions can contribute to a respectful nature-based tourism that minimise the negative impact on the environment and on the Catalan destinations you visit. This means simple gestures such as travelling in public transport, by bike or on foot; having a special interest in eco-friendly companies and hotels; respecting the ecosystems of the places you visit, without leaving any footprint behind; and respecting the recommendations that rule most protected natural sites.
Contributing to local economy of the places we discover is also a way to practise a responsible tourism that is beneficial for all and to develop a model of a more respectful tourism which will both offer some added value and allow you to live amazing rural and natural experiences.
