The United Kingdom is among the best countries for nature lovers to travel to in Europe, a new study by Uswitch can reveal.
With an abundance of stunning natural settings and renowned predominantly for the vibrant culture of its many historic cities, Europe is often overlooked as a home to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. From the picturesque coastline of Portugal’s Algarve to the rolling hills of Spain’s Camino de Santiago, Europe possesses an array of stunning nature to go alongside the hustle and bustle of its major cities.
New research indicates that greater exposure to nature is associated with better health and well-being, so it’s no surprise that many of us are considering travelling away from urban areas in search of greener spaces, fresher air, and a slower pace of life.
Experts at Uswitch conducted a study on 33 European nations to identify the best countries for nature lovers to live, looking at 6 categories:
- Forest coverage
- Water coverage
- Flatland coverage
- Number of unique wildlife species
- Number of trails per 100km2
- Average trail rating
The United Kingdom
With a score of 5.38 out of a possible 10, the UK is one of the best countries for nature lovers. Home to magnificent natural scenery, it is perfect for those who love walking in nature, due to its volume of total flatland and forest coverage (21.91%) and high average rating for its outdoor trails (8.56 out of 10). For those who enjoy being near wildlife, the United Kingdom is home to 753 wildlife species, including 558 distinctive birds and a combined total of 195 unique mammals and insects.
The Top 5 Best European Countries for Nature Lovers to Live
1. Switzerland
With its world-renowned mountain views and mesmerising Alpine scenery, it’s no surprise to find Switzerland at the top of the list. With over 14% flatland coverage and 767 unique wildlife species, the central European country obtained a stellar final rating of 7.22.
2. Slovenia
The Balkan nation of Slovenia was found to be the second-best European country for nature lovers. Achieving a final score of 6.65, Slovenia’s forest coverage score of 71.46% was the highest of all the countries in this study.
3. Croatia
Croatia is the second Balkan nation to feature in the top 5, thanks to its solid scores for average trail rating and number of unique wildlife species. Despite an impressive combined rating of 6.6, Croatia was prevented from an even higher ranking, with an underwhelming score of 0.21 in the category of trails per 100km2.
4. Austria
With a final rating of 6.15, Austria joins Switzerland as the second central European country to feature. Despite impressive scores in the categories of forest coverage and flatland coverage, Austria had its overall rating dragged down by a lowly score of 1.54% for water coverage.
5. Bulgaria
Bulgaria finished fifth in the study with outstanding scores in the categories of average trail rating and forest coverage. Despite the high placement, the south-east European country’s poor rating of 0.02 for the number of trails per 100km2 , reduced its final rating to 5.90.
Eco Resort Network
We’re proud to be hosting a hybrid eco hospitality event in Bled, Slovenia, in partnership with Eco Resort Network. With Slovenia being ranked as the #2 country overall, and as the #1 European country for those who want to be surrounded by green spaces and bodies of water, it only makes sense that this is where we will discuss and share best practice for eco hotels and resorts.
Invaluable for those setting up or already operating hospitality businesses, join us on the 1st & 2nd June 2022 either in-person or watching live from your home.
Find out more about Eco Resort Network at www.ecoresort.network
