DESTINATIONS FEATURED IN THIS GUIDE

The destinations featured in this guide are all awarded or recognised for their sustainability efforts. 

We encourage you to consider travelling a shorter distance, by choosing to explore destinations closer to home

Photo © Krivec Ales

Destination Recognitions

The destinations featured on this page have demonstrated progress and tangible actions toward building a more sustainable tourism industry.

Their recognitions include:

GD Certified

Certification against the Green Destinations Standard represents a high level of achievement in destination quality and sustainable destination management.Destinations that successfully comply with the GSTC-Recognised Green Destinations Standard and complete independent third-party verification may become GSTC-certified against the Green Destinations Standard.

GD Awards

The Green Destinations Awards recognise destinations that demonstrate notable initiatives and performance in defined sustainability themes related to tourism management and visitor experience.

Awards may be granted in one or more thematic categories, including:

  • Destination Management
  • Nature, Wildlife & Landscape
  • Environment & Climate
  • Culture & Tradition
  • Social Well-Being
  • Business & Hospitality

The Awards are based on documented submissions and evaluation against established award criteria. They do not constitute certification.

QC Awards

The QualityCoast Awards focus on coastal, seaside, and waterfront destinations. Particular attention is given to:
  • Waterfront and beach management
  • Bathing water quality
  • Coastal landscape conservation
  • Sustainable tourism practices in coastal environments
Awards are granted at four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.The QualityCoast Awards represent recognition based on assessment criteria and do not constitute certification.
TOP 100 - Logo No Year

Top 100 Stories Competition

The Top 100 Stories Competition highlights destinations that submit documented examples of innovative and effective sustainable tourism practices.The purpose of the competition is to share practical experiences and management approaches as learning examples for destinations, tourism professionals, and travellers.Participation and selection in the Top 100 Stories Competition represent recognition of submitted practices and do not constitute certification or formal conformity assessment.

Important Notice: Awards, seals, recognitions, and competition results presented on this website do not constitute certification unless explicitly stated as “GSTC-certified against Green Destinations Standard” following independent third-party conformity assessment.