Taking care for nature isn’t just about ecology or activism—it’s a daily commitment to our own health and the well-being of future generations. And vacations are the perfect opportunity to practice this, whether with family, friends, or even in mindful solitude.
Enjoying a vacation in the mountains or natural spaces is one of the healthiest and most enriching ways to reconnect with yourself, others, and the environment. Hiking, forest trails, river swims, camping… Nature offers us physical, emotional, and mental well-being. But the same environment that gives us so much also needs our care.
Below, we’ve put together some tips and reflections to help you enjoy the mountains and natural parks while caring for nature every step of the way. Because respect for the environment starts with our own habits.
The impact of our vacations
Even though mountains, forests, and parks may seem “more resilient” than beaches or the ocean, the reality is that they also suffer from the pressure of growing, often careless tourism. Poorly managed waste, human-caused fires, noise pollution, and trail overcrowding are some of the most common forms of damage.
That’s why caring for nature means learning about the places we plan to visit, respecting the rules of each natural park, and acting with common sense—keeping in mind the environment and all who inhabit it: plants, animals, and local communities.
1. Know to respect
Before visiting a natural area, learn about its features, protected species, authorized trails, and basic rules. Many national and natural parks have visitor centers, apps, or information boards that provide everything you need to enjoy the area without causing harm. Caring for nature starts with understanding it: knowing what we walk on, which animals live there, how the ecosystem regenerates, and which human actions can put it at risk.
2. Leave everything as you found it (or better)
A simple yet powerful rule: whatever you bring, take it back with you. Bags, bottles, food scraps, wipes, cigarette butts… Even if something “seems biodegradable,” it often isn’t in the short term or in every environment. The best way to care for nature is to follow a “zero waste” philosophy. And if you go a step further and pick up litter you find (even if it’s not yours), you’ll be actively helping to improve the area. A small action with a big impact.
3. Mindful hiking
Walking is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural environment. But it’s important to stick to marked trails and avoid creating new paths, which can damage the soil, erode sensitive areas, or disrupt wildlife habitats. Whether you’re a regular hiker or out with kids on a trip, remembering these basic rules is essential for caring for nature without leaving a trace.
4. No fire, no risks
Every summer, wildfires caused by human negligence repeat: barbecues, improperly extinguished cigarette butts, “controlled” fires that get out of control. Avoiding these mistakes is a direct and urgent way to care for nature. In many areas, lighting fires is strictly prohibited during summer, but even in other seasons, caution must be absolute. Remember, one careless moment can destroy hundreds of acres.
5. Coexisting with wildlife (without disturbing it)
Seeing deer, foxes, birds of prey, or reptiles in the wild is a wonderful experience. But we must remember we’re not in a zoo: avoiding feeding, making excessive noise, or trying to touch animals is essential to care for nature and respect the rhythms of wildlife. Observe without invading, enjoy without disturbing—that’s the key.
6. Responsible and local tourism
Buying local products, supporting sustainable businesses, avoiding excessive car use, and choosing eco-friendly accommodations are all part of caring for nature. Your choices as a traveler affect the conservation of the environment and the economy of the communities living there. Supporting local means protecting the land.
7. Lead by example
Vacations are also an opportunity to teach (and learn) within the family. Showing children and teenagers how to respect the environment, pick up their trash, appreciate a forest, or admire an animal from a distance is a powerful way to educate about values. Caring for nature isn’t just an ecological act; it’s a way to relate to the world with respect and responsibility.
Take care of your home
The mountains and natural parks are some of the greatest gifts we have. Spaces of calm, fresh air, and connection to what really matters. But they are also fragile environments that need all of us to stay alive.
This vacation, we invite you to enjoy nature with all your senses… and with awareness. Every decision, every action, every step can make a difference. Because caring for nature doesn’t mean stopping enjoying it, but learning to do it better.