Traveling without flying is an increasingly popular choice among those who want to reduce their environmental impact without giving up a holiday abroad. And now there is also the possibility to do it for free.
The tourist operator specializing in rail travel Byway has launched a competition offering a trip for two people to one of the most fascinating destinations in France, with transport and expenses included. An initiative that aims to promote the so-called “slow travel”, a more sustainable way of traveling that favors the train over the plane and invites you to experience the route as an integral part of the experience.
The destination is the “Venice of the Alps”
The winners will have the opportunity to reach Annecy, a splendid French town often nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”.
Situated between mountains and crystal clear waters, Annecy is famous for its historic center crossed by canals, pastel-colored houses, cobbled streets and a lake considered among the cleanest in Europe.
In recent years the town has become one of the favorite destinations for lovers of slow tourism thanks to the possibility of exploring it on foot, by bicycle or using public transport.
A journey entirely by train
One of the most interesting aspects of the initiative is precisely the means of transport chosen.
In fact, the journey involves a train transfer through France. The winners will first reach Paris with the Eurostar and then continue to Annecy with a second train connection.
A formula that allows you to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions compared to air travel and which allows you to cross some of the most evocative landscapes in Western Europe.
More and more studies show how rail transport represents one of the most sustainable alternatives for medium-distance travel, especially within the European continent.
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How to enter the competition
The ways to participate are quite simple.
To apply you must indicate a person with whom you would like to share the journey and briefly explain why they deserve this experience. The application is made through an online form prepared by the company.
Participants must also accept the subscription to the Byway newsletter and make themselves available to share content and testimonials of the experience which can be used on the brand’s communication channels.
Because slow tourism is conquering more and more travellers
The initiative comes at a time when the concept of slow travel continues to gain popularity.
In fact, more and more people are choosing to slow down the pace of their holidays, favoring less hectic itineraries and means of transport with a lower environmental impact. The goal is not simply to reach a destination, but to experience the journey in a more conscious way.
According to many industry experts, the train allows you to observe landscapes, cross different territories and reduce the stress often associated with airports, security checks and long waits.
Annecy is one of the most popular destinations in France
What also makes the prize particularly interesting is its final destination.
Overlooking the alpine lake of the same name, Annecy offers a perfect balance between nature and historical heritage. Its cycle paths, scenic trails and water activities attract thousands of visitors from all over Europe every year.
The historic center retains an atmosphere of times gone by, while the mountains surrounding the lake offer ideal settings for excursions and outdoor activities.
For this reason the town is often indicated among the most suitable European destinations for those looking for a relaxing, sustainable holiday away from mass tourism.
An opportunity to discover a different way of travelling
Beyond the prize itself, the competition also represents an opportunity to reflect on forms of tourism alternative to traditional ones.
With the growing interest in sustainable mobility and the reduction of transport-related emissions, the train is returning to the center of attention as an ideal way to explore Europe.
And while many people continue to consider flying their only option for international holidays, initiatives like this show how it is possible to reach some of the continent’s most beautiful destinations in a slower, but also more environmentally friendly way.
