With the World Responsible Tourism Awards hitting its 11^th year, it seems as good a time as any to unpack the best destinations for eco-travel.

Responsibletravel.com has rounded up 10 award-winning locations, which offer not only an amazing holiday, but ensure your travels make a positive difference to local people and conservation efforts as well.

When it comes to escaping on holiday, more tourists are trying to go green and limit their impact on the environments they enter.

Explore the world from a greener perspective, and put winners of Responsible Tourism at the top of your travel bucket list.

Bonito, Brazil

This little known region is one of Brazil’s best kept secrets, with a wonderland of caves, crystal clear water, mountains and forest.

The location boasts an enterprising and innovative approach to sustainable tourism, winning Best Destination in the 2013 World Responsible Tourism Awards.

It sweetens the deal knowing that while you’re snorkelling through kaleidoscopic caverns and sneaking glimpses of its wildlife, you’re helping to protect them at the same time.

New Zealand

As the overall winner of the 2008 World Responsible Tourism Awards, New Zealand has a reputation for its nationwide efforts to minimise the impacts brought about by tourism.

New Zealand is an adrenalin-fuelled, outdoor playground, with mountains and glaciers rolling into staggering coastlines and lush forests.

Whether you’re into cycling or hiking, glacier walking or jet boating, New Zealand will have you entertained, excited and environmentally friendly.

Roros, Norway

Step backwards in time in this quaint little town, which once held ranks as a mining town, but is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roros has been using tourism to preserve local heritage for over 85 years, and offers activities such as cycling, hiking and canoeing in summer, and snowshoeing, husky-sledding and reindeer spotting in winter.

The North York Moors, UK

Winner of the Best Protected Area in 2004, the North York Moors are a stunning mixture of coastline, open moorland and unique, Georgian spa towns.

Take to the waters in Harrogate, or jump on two wheels to explore the open expanses, and you’re sure to find a hidden getaway full of awe-inspiring landscapes.

Cape Town, South Africa

In a region where animal safaris often win out over culture, Cape Town offers a unique fusion of old and new culture in amongst the townships.

Historical landmarks, lively scenery, and innovative town tourism projects make Cape Town a cultural melting pot that focuses on the benefits of tourism, as well as the purity of the environment.

The New Forest National Park, UK

Tucked away on the South Coast of the UK, this is a family friendly stretch of 900-year old woodland.

Explore the walking trails, quaint villages and New Forest ponies that won this place the award for Best Destination in the 2007 World Responsible Tourism Awards.

This location makes it easy to go car-free, with speedy bus connections and gentle cycling routes, adding to the eco-friendly objectives.

Tobago

Discover the real Caribbean in Tobago, miles away from all-inclusive resorts and beach parties.

The diversity of wildlife and habitats is a major drawcard for the region, with packages that take you on forest forays, snorkelling, and wildlife interactions. Responsibletravel.com offers this package for around AUD $3800, including flights.

St Kilda, Outer Hebrides, UK

In the remotest part of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, you will find St Kilda on an isolated, tiny island, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The natural and cultural significance of this destination makes it a fascinating holiday spot, with wildlife tours and cruises allowing you to get up close to sea birds and marine life.

Aspen, Colorado, USA

Ahead of the pack in terms of eco-friendly skiing, this mountain resort has a whole host of green accolades under its belt.

Explore its towering mountains and hiking trails in summer, and bask in the glory of its wintery wonders once the cold season rolls around, knowing that Aspen continues to work hard to minimise the tourism footprint.

The Lake District National Park, UK

Impressive scenery, crystal lakes and more outdoor activities than any adventurer could ask for, this national park gives travellers the chance to retreat into nature of a different kind.

Partnering its numerous tourism businesses with conservation organisations, the Lake District National Park ensures a positive contribution by all visitors, and keeps the lake beautiful for years to come.