Eco friendly
Ecologically responsible accommodation as well as eco- conscious sites and businesses in the Dordogne Valley.
SPALAZEN NATURE ECO LODGES
Near Aubazine, bordering a forest, five eco chalets integrate seamlessly into the tree line. Through the windows views of the forest andcountryside surround each of these private buildings. This collection of tasteful 4 star accommodation has options for couples, friends or families and all include a touch of luxury with an individual private jacuzzi. www.spalazen-nature.com
LES COLLINES DE SAINTE FÉRÉOLE - ECO LODGES
10 minutes from Brive, this complex of 25 eco dwellings follow strict ecological standards in construction and sustainability. Buried part way into the hillside, these 4 star accommodation lodges are certified ‘European Ecolabel and refuge LPO’. Large bay windows provide plenty of natural light for the interior and the green roof (literally) provides insulation from both heat and cold saving energy. The complex caters for large family gatherings, business conferences/team building and each accommodation choice has private views of the countryside and forest. www.residencelescollines.com
THE ROCHER DES AIGLES ECO-PARK
Based in Rocamadour, the Rocher des Aigles is famed for spectacular bird shows where eagles, red kites and parrots soar over the canyon. At its heart though, this organisation is deeply committed to the protection and rearing of birds of prey and other endangered species. An accredited breeding and refuge centre, birds reared here are later released into the wild. The owner, Raphaël Arnaud, is also deeply committed to the preservation of flora and fauna
in Nanciyaga, Mexico. A land purchase in a Biosphere Reserve there is serving to further his passion for the protection of wildlife. www.rocherdesaigles.com
CHÂTEAU DE HAUTEFORT ECO-CONSCIOUS SITE
In 2016 the Château de Hautefort became the first eco-labelled château in France awarded the ‘NF Environnement Site de Visite’ label. Environmentally sustainable practises have been implemented in all aspects of its organisation, from maintenance to marketing. Eco-conscious work practises are at the heart of this historic site which has banned chemical use in the gardens and in the upkeep of the château too. The 19th century boxwood hedge gardens (covering three hectares)
are shaped and nurtured solely by hand to create a staggeringly beautiful and eco-friendly result. www.chateau-hautefort.com/en
CALVIAC ZOOLOGICAL RESERVE
The Calviac Zoological Reserve near Sarlat is home to some 200 animals from four geographical areas - Europe, Madagascar, South America and Oceania. Part of a network of reserves engaged in the conservation of endangered species and in the rescue of animals, visitors can watch them in their habitats crafted with care into the wooded site. www.reserve-calviac.org