environmental credentials are set to get an even bigger boost this June when the first of five ‘national parks’ will to be created, at Thy, on the West Jutland coast. A further four national parks at Mols Bjerge, Skjern Å, The Wadden Sea and Kongernes Nordsjælland having also just received approval from the Danish Government and will be rolled out during 2008 and 2009. For more details go to http://www.skovognatur.dk/Ud/Oplev/Nationalparker

Nature’s paradise: The new Thy National Park will cover an area of 24.3 hectares and stretch from Hanstholm to Agger Tange, along the West Jutland coast. It is a bird and natural watcher’s paradise of coastline, dunes, sand heaths, dune plantations and lakes, which attract millions of migratory birds that gather to rest and feed there en route to and from their breeding grounds twice a year, for the spring migration in April and May and the autumn migration in September and October. For more information on the migration visit www.beaksandbreaks.com

Taking the ‘green’ route: Visitors to Denmark can follow the Danes lead in keeping their carbon footprint to a minimum by exploring the Thy National Park on foot, bicycle, horseback (or even by car!). The West Coast Trail goes through the National Park and is suitable for both hiking and cycling with marked hiking routes following the coast and dunes; cycle routes are available further inland on smaller public roads and forest roads throughout the plantations. Travelling on horseback, it is possible to ride along the beach (except between 1 June – 31 August) and then detour into the plantations, joining forest roads and in certain areas using marked riding trails. By car it is recommended to follow the coast road and use the extensive parking areas to join the hiking trails. For more information on walking and cycling along the West Coast route and other parts of Denmark visit http://www.visitdenmark.com/uk/en-gb/menu/turist/inspiration/aktivferie/natur/hiking.htmAlternatively, to join a group of walkers see the Danish Ramblers’ Association website, which is one of the oldest and most experienced rambling organisations in Denmark at http://www.dvl.dk/352/68

Accommodation that won’t cost the earth: Staying under canvas is a ‘low carbon’ and inexpensive way to stay in Denmark. Throughout the country and all along the West Coast trail there are a number of campsites at regular intervals, only a day’s walk apart, where it is possible pitch a tent, make a fire and make use of the washing facilities. One of the best is Hanstolm Camping (www.hanstholm-camping.dk) which is beautifully positioned close to the sea and has a wide range of facilities including cabins. Or alternatively hire a cosy holiday cottage from Novasol. Prices are per cottage and start from £150 to £250 for up to six people, depending on the time of year (www.denmarkcottages.co.uk / www.novasol.co.uk or call 0870 197 6568).

Minimal miles on the plate: The Danes were one of the first countries to develop organic farming methods and have a wealth of locally produced food to savour. The west coast is one of the best areas to find freshly caught fish or marsh-reared lambs which impart a wonderful, salty tang. Across the country visitors will also see small dairies producing organic butter and cheese and fresh, whilst local produce appears on restaurant menus all over Denmark. Alternatively, it is possible to pick your own fruit from local farms and in certain areas Danes gather in late summer to go mushroom hunting. The best harvest is from July until the end of October. The Danish Forest and Nature Agency, the Danish Society for Nature Conservation or the local tourist offices can arrange guided mushroom tours. For more information organic gastronomy go to http://www.visitdenmark.com/uk/engb/menu/turist/inspiration/nydlivet/gastronomi/organic_gastronomy.htm
Or for more on mushroom hunting Denmark go http://www.visitdenmark.com/international/engb/menu/turist/inspirationaktivferie/natur/go-mushroom-hunting-in-denmark.htm#SubHeader5

Getting there: Travelling by sea is the low impact way to arrive in Denmark. DFDS Seaways offers a regular service of departures every other day between Harwich and Esbjerg, in West Jutland, during June, July and August and crossings three times a week between September and May. In March, prices start from only £406 for a family of four people in an inside cabin, including a car. Passengers simply drive on board and can then enjoy quality cuisine and facilities for the 18 hour crossing, which is overnight on each leg of the journey therefore making best use of the holiday time. For passengers with a ‘Camping Card Scandinavia’ caravans travel free from Harwich to Esbjerg on Sundays and from Esbjerg to Harwich on Thursday. Visit www.dfds.co.uk for further details or call 0871 8820886.

Alternatively, if you choose to fly Sterling has daily flights from Gatwick to Aalborg or Billund in Jutland and to Copenhagen on Sealand. Ease the environmental conscience with a carbon offsetting scheme and by knowing that Sterling has introduced the latest fuel efficient ‘Blended Winglet’ system to optimise fuel efficiency. The airline has also recently introduced 100% organic food on board, so that passengers can now tuck into fresh yoghurt, tastier sandwiches and organic chocolate muffins. Visit www.sterling.dk or call 0870787 8038 for more details. Other international airlines flying directly from the UK to Denmark include Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), bmi, RyanAir, EasyJet, Cimber Air, SunAir and British Airways – For more details go to www.visitdenmark.com under "transport" On arrival Europcar offers car hire rates from £145 per week. To book visit www.europcar.co.uk or call 01123 422 233.