Tel. +44 (0)1273 600030 (UK)
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Environment:
We help promote green tourism in this part of Greece. Along with other accommodation providers, we want to encourage guests to enjoy the tranquility of mountain living and to bring vital income into the village.
The base is a restored, stone village house dating back to 1856. Within the refurbishment we have incorporated traditional styling as well as modern eco features. The house has been renovated with sustainability in mind. Water conservation being the main priority:
- Rain water is collected and stored for use both in the house and garden.
- All shampoos, and shower gels (available free to guests) are fully biodegradable as most of our grey water is re-used on the garden.
- Solar water heating.
- Energy efficient light bulbs.
- All cleaning products are fully biodegradable
- The house is fully double glazed, to maximise the natural temperature moderating effect of the stone house.
- The garden is fully organic (although not certified). Water conservation is paramount, with the use of mulches and drought resistant planting. The majority of fresh fruit and vegetables are from our organic garden. Most food is either organic or locally sourced.
- Garden produces, olive oil, vegetables, oranges, mulberries and walnuts.
- Composting of vegetable waste.
- Recycling of glass, plastic and paper waste.
- Information is available to guests about the recycling of water and waste in the house. People are encouraged to save water.
- Wherever possible paperless office practices are followed.
- Guests are encouraged to use Climate Care to offset the carbon emissions from their flights.
- Exochori is on the edge of the Taygetos mountain range which is a protected area and rare ecosystem. The unique nature of its plant life comprises 700 species, 28 of which are endemic solely to here. The diverse terrain means that many plants and wild animals flourish within a relatively small area. From mediterranean thickets, through conifer forests in the mountains, to the alpine zone in the highest peaks (above 2000m), the scenery is constantly changing.
A stay in Exochori provides a gateway to exploring the history, ecology and traditions of Mani.
Community: We are part of WWOOF (worldwide opportunities on organic farms), this is a volunteer network and we have volunteers come to work in the garden in exchange for accommodation and food.
Guests are encouraged to appreciate life in this village, the rituals and traditions of Greek life. We have an extensive range of books, guides and magazines that give good information on the area and its history.
Guests are encouraged to use the two restaurants in the village and the local shop, and so maximising the impact they have on the village economy. Where possible food is sourced locally, either from “home-made” producers in the village (olive oil, herb tea, vegetables, honey) or from nearby organic shop. Guests are encouraged to visit the local organic olive oil producing co-op.
The renovation of the house over a two year period utilised only local labour. If we need additional labour at the guesthouse we employ people in the village.
The network of paths from the village links to many other mountain villages. Guests are given maps and itineraries in order to explore these fully. These routes include suggested lunch stops in other villages.
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same holiday can have different views!
