From wildflower meadows in Romania’s Eastern Carpathians to coastal retreats and mountain hideaways across Europe, the EU Ecolabel helps travellers find accommodation with credible green credentials. As some of Europe’s most visited destinations grapple with mounting visitor pressure, an increasing number of travellers are looking beyond the traditional tourist trail. Nature, authenticity and sustainability are becoming key factors in destination choices, particularly among younger generations. Zenzia Glamping is one example of how EU Ecolabel certified destinations can offer both environmental excellence and unforgettable travel experiences.
When planning a trip, travellers often face a familiar challenge: how can they tell whether a destination’s sustainability claims are genuine? The EU Ecolabel helps make that choice easier by identifying accommodation providers that meet high environmental standards. For those willing to look beyond Europe’s most visited destinations, it can also open doors to places that might otherwise go unnoticed. In this way, the label helps travellers discover more sustainable stays in regions that are often overshadowed by Europe’s better-known tourism hotspots.
Discovering a different side of Romania
Located in northeastern Romania, Zenzia Glamping offers a glimpse of what travellers can discover when they take a different route. The Neamț region, home to the glamping site, offers forests, protected natural areas, monasteries and traditional villages, far from the crowds often associated with Europe’s better-known destinations. “When travellers choose greener accommodation in lesser-known regions, more economic benefits remain within local communities,” says Dumitrița Luncanu, owner of the establishment.
At Zenzia, white geodomes sit among meadows and rolling hills, creating a setting designed for travellers seeking nature, tranquillity and a slower pace of life. The experience reflects a growing interest in travel centred on wellbeing, authenticity and meaningful connections with local environments. “What I love most about the region is that it still feels authentic,” the owner says. “People come here to slow down, enjoy the fresh air and reconnect with nature. Many guests leave saying they’ve discovered one of the country’s best-kept secrets.”
Why visibility matters
The EU Ecolabel Tourist Accommodation Catalogue currently features over 950 establishments across Europe, helping visitors identify accommodation providers that have committed to recognised environmental standards.
For travellers, the catalogue acts as a practical tool for finding trustworthy green accommodation. For destinations such as Zenzia, it offers an opportunity to increase their visibility among environmentally conscious visitors. “Sustainability has always been part of our vision, so applying for the EU Ecolabel felt like a natural step. We wanted an internationally recognised certification that would show we were walking the talk and that would challenge us to improve.”
Traveller expectations are also evolving. According to Booking.com’s Sustainability Report, 73% of travellers surveyed want their spending to benefit local communities. As interest in responsible travel grows, trusted third-party certifications can help visitors make more informed choices.
Sustainability in practice
The real value of the EU Ecolabel lies in the actions behind it. “We collect rainwater in dedicated tanks, which we use to irrigate our gardens and orchard,” explains the owner. “The facility relies on solar energy, A+ energy-efficient appliances and controlled heating systems to reduce firewood consumption, while rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures help conserve water.”
Waste reduction and responsible procurement are also integrated into day-to-day operations, alongside a strong focus on local supply chains. “The food we serve comes exclusively from local producers, helping the regional economy while reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transport.”
The property has also welcomed youth groups interested in sustainability, offering guided visits that demonstrate how environmental principles can be translated into practical decisions.
Choosing accommodation you can trust
Travellers today are increasingly looking for experiences that align with their values. But with so many environmental claims competing for attention, identifying genuinely greener accommodation can be difficult. This is where the EU Ecolabel plays an important role. Rather than asking visitors to rely solely on marketing messages, it provides a recognised framework that helps them find accommodation providers committed to high environmental standards.
At Zenzia Glamping, this commitment takes the form of nature-based experiences, responsible resource management and support for local producers. For visitors, it offers something equally valuable: confidence that sustainability is more than a promise. In the owner’s own words: “Some of the most memorable experiences happen in places that aren’t on everybody’s travel list. Travelling slowly creates a richer experience for visitors.”
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or searching for your next nature-based adventure, the EU Ecolabel can help you discover greener accommodation you can trust, sometimes in places you might never have considered visiting.
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