Eco-tourism: Organic places to stay
I remember the days when finding accommodation to suit even my vegetarian needs was difficult, let alone, any concern for the environment. But those days are long behind us, and wherever you're planning on visiting, there's now a wealth of affordable B&Bs with sustainable business principles at the heart of what they do. This new breed of green destinations is forging a whole new concept in holiday choices.
It's also becoming easier to identify the good ones, as accreditation bodies like the Green Tourism business scheme are now gaining wider recognition and prestige, as well as UK-wide guidebooks like 'Organic Places to Stay' from Green Books. I recently stayed at the Mount Pleasant B&B in Cornwall, one of the highest rated eco-friendly Bed and Breakfasts, with a Gold Green Tourism rating. Follow the jump for a review of my stay.
Mount Pleasant, situated near St Austell in the wilds of Cornwall but conveniently placed for attractions like the Eden Project, is at first glance a friendly and comfortable B&B with everything you'd expect from one. Look a little closer and you'll see that owners Jill Lucas and her partner Nick Bayly have done everything they possible can to make the house environmentally friendly.
In the rooms, guest are encouraged to recycle with bags left for the purpose, which the owners take away on their behalf. All soaps and washing products are eco-friendly, and the lightbulbs are low-energy. Nothing is left on in the house unless it needs to be, and there's even a special discount for vegetarians and vegans staying more than one night.
All meals at Mount Pleasant are organic, with the majority of produce coming either from local suppliers, or Jill and Nick's own garden. You're welcome to wander in the garden where you can meet the ducks and hens that lay the eggs you can have for breakfast. These are kept along with honey bees and two cats (who are very friendly, but not responsible for any foodstuffs!) There are also organic vegetable plots and an impressively large wormery that deals with any leftovers.
Mount Pleasant would make an ideal destination either as a B&B if you're planning to see the sights, beautiful scenery and sandy beaches nearby, or as a peaceful retreat. It's extremely reasonable price-wise, with rooms available for just £28 per night.
