I don’t know about you, but it certainly happened to me: finding myself looking at the sea and feeling more serene, in harmony with the world, perhaps even happier. And in fact science confirms this: observing the sea helps to activate a positive mental state. This was demonstrated by researchers from the University of British Columbia. They verified that the sea has an important effect on the release of serotonin, an hormone that controls anxiety and supports the central nervous system’s mood balances.
Not everyone is lucky enough to live on the coast and observe the sea every day, so why not take advantage of our holidays to enjoy the beneficial effects of water? Here are 15 eco-hotels in Europe perfect for looking at the sea, which one will you choose?
A house on the Venice lagoon (Italy)
You wake up, you look out onto the terrace and the Venetian lagoon wishes you a good morning. The apartment is cosy and equipped with every comfort, always respecting the surrounding environment. Bicycles are available at no cost to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Looking at the sea from a lighthouse (Croatia)
Is there anything more poetic than a lighthouse? In Croatia, you can stay in the Lighthouse Crna Punta, a unique place, ideal for getting away from everything and enjoying the sea and nature. It has a large terrace directly above the sea, with a lounge area for relaxing and a large table with a barbecue for eating. There’s also a private beach with sunbeds for enjoying the sea and sun.
An organic farm on the Greek sea
Lakazeza is only an hour and a half from Athens but seems to belong to another world. This organic farm is far from mass tourism, in a clearing surrounded by a large pine forest facing the Gulf of Corinth. The coast reveals small bays, beaches framed by pine, olive and almond trees. An earthly paradise with a truly incredible sea view and the chance to admire dolphins.
Along the Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland)
Here you are in Ireland, in what is considered one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Europe. Along the Wild Atlantic Way, wonderful cliffs alternate with spectacular white sand beaches, deep coves and picturesque villages. Overlooking the bay of Trawbreaga and the island of Doagh, there is Madra Rua, the starting point for exploring the area and, of course, looking at the sea.
Looking at the sea in Abruzzo (Italy)
La Casa di Rinaldo is a bed and breakfast located in a small town on the Adriatic coast, in Abruzzo. The family welcome, the love for the territory and the scent of the sea will make you feel really good.
An eco-resort overlooking the sea, in Liguria (Italy)
A magical corner of Liguria, between greenery and the sea, a few steps from the Cinque Terre. Sesta Terra Natural Resort is a peak above the sea and offers a truly magical view. The resort demonstrates how sustainability and luxury can coexist.
In the mountains looking at the sea (Spain)
In the Valencian mountains there is Casa Tarsan, a perfect place to relax and forget the everyday frenzy. The day can begin with a yoga class or a dip in the salt-water pool. The house, inspired by Gaudì, offers a 360° view from sunrise to sunset, on the green mountains and on the Mediterranean Sea.
Rural vacation with sea view in Portugal
Quinta Melilotus is located in 6.6ha of almond trees, figs and olive groves, a few steps from two villages and a few minutes from sandy beaches, secret coves, fascinating rock formations and caves. You will find serenity in front of the sea and stay in beautiful wooden cabins.
Relax on the French sea
If you prefer to observe the French sea, Les Pilotes can be the perfect solution. It is a hotel, however, able to make you feel at home. Vintage atmospheres, a warm welcome, the pleasure of small things and excellent cuisine; all in the bay of Somme.
Looking at the sea in Tanzania
A pristine beach and elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos and giraffes a few steps away: in this remote corner of Tanzania you will not just observe the sea and find serenity, but you will also be able to live unique experiences that are worth a lifetime. In the Ecolodge Tembo Kijani you will sleep in suggestive and ecological bungalows surrounded by indigenous coastal vegetation.
Surfing and walking in Cornwall (England)
The Croyde Breakers B&B overlooks a beautiful Devon beach in England, perfect for surfing. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves crashing under your window and being able to feel the sand between your toes in just 1 minute walk. At breakfast you can enjoy tasty eggs freshly laid from the free range hens and other local delicacies. Then you can walk or ride on quiet roads and kilometers of breathtaking paths.
A terrace overlooking the sea of Sicily (Italy)
Auralba Hotel is located in a quiet and panoramic area of San Vito Lo Capo, but a few steps from the center and the beach. Here it is easy to really carve out time for yourself, thanks to intimate spaces such as the splendid panoramic terrace. Here you can breathe the sea breeze and admire the extraordinary colors of the sky and the sea.
Relax in front of the Greek sea
Back in Greece, to enjoy the island of Tinos in a sustainable way. You can stay in two independent houses with all the comforts and a wonderful outdoor space that offers a beautiful sea view. While staying at the Eco Lodge you can relax in the shade of a pergola, on a stone bench heated by the sun or in a hammock under an oak tree. For those who love gardening, there is also a large vegetable garden.
Barefoot by the Italian sea
At the Residence Ancora you live between land and sea, between the green hills of the Cilento National Park and its crystal clear sea. At your disposal a modern and functional apartment from which you can walk to the center, the port, the beach. Do not miss an aperitif at sunset, observing the sea.
In a flower garden overlooking the Ligurian sea (Italy)
Here is the last stop to looking at the sea: an organic farm overlooking the sea, with a magnificent view of Gulf Paradiso. Close to the sandy beaches and the center of S. Stefano al Mare, it offers an excellent local breakfast and a large garden.