This title might sound like some eco-fantasy since the French are historically known for making delicacies out of various wild bird species but it’s as true as baguettes in a Parisian bakery. The bird-rich marshes of the Camargue in the southern part of the country amply demonstrate that conservation of wildlife has come a long way in France. The “Camargue” is the name given to the large and unique delta of the Rhone River. Wetlands, stony plains, and open, Mediterranean scrub provide a rich mix of habitats for several animal and plant species that don’t occur anywhere else in France.

Flamingos are common and easy to watch as they quickly stomp their feet in shallow, brackish waters of this national preserve. Hundreds and hundreds of gulls, terns, plovers, ducks, egrets, herons, and Marsh Harriers also thrive in the extensive reedbeds and shallow pools. Colorful Bee-eaters, Eurasian Rollers (a strange, open country bird dressed in different shades of blue), and Hoopoes (an even more strange pink and black bird with a thin, downcurved bill) are frequently seen in the area of the reserve, and semi-wild, black Bulls plow their way through the marshy landscape.

Other aquatic birds such as White Storks and stilts also hang out at the visitor center located just outside of the small, seaside village of Saint Marie de la Mer. This is also an excellent stop for learning more about the history and importance of this reserve. Other benefits of visiting France on an eco-vacation can also be enjoyed in the village in the form of fantastic Provencal cuisine but don’t expect to find wild birds on any of the menus; that practice was outlawed some years ago.

Further afield, the old Roman town and Van Gogh hangout of Arles appeals to the artistically oriented eco-traveler, whereas scrubby, fragrant hills around the old fortress town of Les Baux are a great place to go hiking and birdwatching.

The Mjolfjell Youth Hostel (don’t even begin to ask me how to pronounce that) is a place for people of all ages to experience the absolutely stunning scenery and fresh air of the Norwegian mountains.

Staying here is almost like camping without sleeping in a tent because the indoor accommodations are simple and comfortable while the main attractions can be found in the great outdoors. The moors and forests of this mountainous area are bisected by cold, rushing streams and make for beautiful hiking and horseback riding. Canoes and mountain bikes can also be rented to float on a nearby lake or zoom around on trails, and it’s an excellent place for cross country skiing during the winter.

The more adventurous visitors who want to challenge themselves or do their very own Norwegian dreamquest can also sign up for a wilderness survival course. Participants learn how to use a map and compass, how to survive in the wilds of Norway, and pass the night in a snow cave! I hope this last part is the graduation from the course because if not, the next step can only involve the building a Viking era boat or hand to hand combat with a bear.

For the less adventurous, (or for those who need to bring their core temperature back up to normal levels after the snow cave ordeal), there is also a heated swimming pool at the hostel. Although the pool is only open during the short summer, they make up for that with an outdoor Jacuzzi open and available to guests at all times of the year.

Green travelers will also be pleased to know that the Mjolfjell Youth Hostel gets all of its energy from its own hydro plant that runs with water from a nearby stream. Food is fresh, delicious, and includes such healthy local staples as trout and salmon.