Our journey from a “normal” bed and breakfast to an eco-friendly Gîte in the Camargue
Step by step. Change needs time to take hold.
“Ecology and sustainability are the NEW luxury of tourism”.
Ursula had already made this statement at the end of 2017.
We are committed to creating an eco-friendly and sustainable experience whilst maintaining a high standard of service. This includes using renewable energy, operating in a lean way and working in the community to reduce our human impact on the planet.
Does the term ‘eco’ seem risky to you in a high-standard guest house? Can it really be professional and chic? We definitely say YES. We’re even convinced that ecology and sustainability are the new ‘luxury’ in tourism.
Forget the image of being dirty and out of this world. In our eyes, ecological or responsible action, right down to minimalism, is the logical trend for the future.
Envie de Sud is located in the Petite Camargue, which is part of an important ecosystem – shaped in the past by humans, of course. Tourism plays an important role, but we still have the opportunity to influence the way we do it.
We may be idealistic, yes, but we think it’s better to do something than to talk about it or wait for others to do it.
Organic products from the market
Priority to seasonal vegetables. A little poultry and fish. We have virtually no leftovers because we’re very experienced at calculating quantities. We immediately incorporate any leftovers into the next meal.
Recycle & transform
Antique furniture and objects add charm and are a more sustainable choice.
The zero-waste picnic
Our picnic in stainless steel boxes is stylish.
Bed linen & towels
Our guests decide how often they want to change their sheets and towels. We use an organic detergent based on an old homemade recipe.
Our customers appreciate our eco-responsible approach
We don`t impose anything – we inspire.
What, we ask ourselves today, prevented us at Envie de Sud in the Camargue from following this eco-responsible path so consistently from the outset?
Well, for economic and organisational reasons, we couldn’t change all the technology in the house overnight. Before investing a lot of money, we wanted to be sure that Envie de Sud would be successful and would be reserved. And very importantly, we wanted to familiarise ourselves with the house first. Such a large 1850 house with up to 19 guests in a climate new to us is complex to understand. A conversion has to be well thought out. And even then, there are surprises…
The fear that our guests wouldn’t accept the offer and would describe us as a shabby, uncomfortable eco-hotel probably played a part.
And finally, our knowledge of ecology has also grown considerably over the last 7 years. New projects were presented to us and we jumped into the deep end. This is how life is supposed to be: full of surprises and adventures. Lasting adventures.
Patience, everything comes at the right time
Meanwhile, we’re drinking tea
But we’re not giving up. No excuses!
