Green Places to Stay
A new book highlights eco-friendly accommodation around the world
Green Places to Stay, published by Alastair Sawday Publishing in the UK and Globe Pequot in the USA, includes a selection of eco-chic UK and Ireland accommodation
GREEN PLACES TO STAY
Global warming, pollution and environmental sensitivity mean that we should all think twice about how we travel, and what we do when we get there. Green Places to Stay is a new book that lists 'inspiring places striving to be environmentally and socially responsible'. These range from tipis in Cornwall to beach huts and eco-chic hotels, and although it covers the whole world, it's good to see some interesting green places to stay if you're visiting the UK or Ireland.
Well, make that the UK apart from Scotland, as there's nowhere listed north of the border. Curiously enough, though there are green places in Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, the USA doesn't merit a single entry either. Don't take it out on me, as if you want to nominate somewhere you can email the editor, Richard Hammond.
That aside, the green places in the UK and Ireland include some that I definitely want to visit. Each entry gets a full page, a couple of colour photos, all the practical info including prices, and a lengthy review that gives you a real feel for the properties and the people behind them. In Ireland there's Ballin Templein County Carlow, run by Irishman Tom, whose family home this has been for generations, and his Canadian wife Pam. They have organic gardens, free-range chickens and holistic and yoga retreats.
In Northern Ireland how about Anna's House in County Down? It has geo-thermal heating from a lovely green field in front of the house, solar panels (yes, in Ireland!), a two-acre organic garden and much other good stuff besides. My favorite place from the several England choices is Strattons in Swaffham, Norfolk - not too far from where I live. It's one of the most eco-friendly hotels in England, which the artist-owners have filled with funky artworks, while also using 100% organic produce, all bought locally, and they also operate a strict recycling policy.
Finally, Penpont in Wales is a place I definitely want to visit. It's a miniature stately home right by the River Usk in the heart of the stunningly beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park. The owners have planted 60,000 trees, an organic vegetable garden, and are fully integrated in working with the local community. 'One of Wales's finest places to stay,' declares the guide. Being eco-friendly and environmentally responsible doesn't mean you can't have fun and comfort too.
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GREEN PLACES TO STAY is published by Alastair Sawday Publishing in the UK at £13.99 and by The Globe Pequot Press in the USA at $21.95
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Read my review of ORGANIC PLACES TO STAY IN THE UK by clicking here.
