Bitesized guide: Eco accommodation

Published on: Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Bitesized guide: Eco accommodation - feature

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Green holidays are officially ‘in', but how easy is it to take an eco break? In the first of a series of bitesized guides on holidaying the green way, here is our selection of eco-friendly accommodation across the globe that will enable you to have a beautiful break with a big conscience.

Trelowaren, Cornwall

Full of history, this 405-hectare (1,000-acre) private estate on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula provides a great eco-friendly base for exploring the beautiful surrounds. The accommodation comes in the form of converted old or abandoned buildings, as well as new-builds that are sympathetic to the natural environment, and the onsite swimming pool is naturally filtered. Trelowarren has won numerous awards for its Eco-timeshare scheme, with their objective being to create a carbon-neutral holiday option, which is self-sufficient in food and fuel.

www.trelowarren.com

Three Camel Lodge, Mongolia

Built in the heart of the Gobi, according to environmentally and culturally sustainable development guidelines, the Three Camel Lodge offers a blend of adventure and sophistication. Guests stay in gers – the traditional tents of nomadic herders – handmade from layers of felt and canvas by local artisans using locally sourced materials. All of the electricity used in the gers is supplied from solar panels and wind energy.

www.threecamels.com

Wolwedans, Namibia

With an ethos of setting a good example in responsible tourism, and commitment to the conservation of NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans is a prime example of eco-friendly splendour. Nestled in dunes, each camp ranges from rustic to a private camp for those looking for more refined surroundings. A highlight is Boulders Camp, which is tucked away amid large granite rocks for complete seclusion. Wolwedans provides a unique desert experience off the beaten track.

www.wolwedans.com

Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand

Situated in the heart of the Southern Alps and surrounded by Arthur’s Pass National Park, the lodge is a two-hour drive from Christchuch or Greymouth on State Highway 73 or the Tranz Alpine Train. Sat on its own 2,400-hectare (6,000-acre) sheep farm and nature reserve, the lodge is committed to protecting rare birds and plants. With a network of river, forest and mountain walks on the doorstep, guests can be at one with nature and embrace the great outdoors.

www.wildernesslodge.co.nz

Can Marti, Ibiza

Can Marti, in the north of Ibiza, is a 400-year-old estate which has four apartments to rent that were built and restored according to ecological principles. Heating is supplied by solar panels, rainwater is reused, and each apartment has recycling bins. The estate has more than 17 hectares (42 acres), where guests are free to roam around and explore nature. There is a working farm, which is run ecologically, and a farm shop selling homemade products and other organic items.

www.canmarti.com