Tel. +44 (0)1273 600030 (UK)
We are the first hostel in Northern Ireland to have been awarded the Ecolabel in the tourist accommodation category by Defra, the UK Competent Body for the European Ecolabel scheme.
The hostel is committed to environmental protection and is striving for a zero carbon footprint in all its operations. Renewable technologies have been installed on site and include a (biomass) boiler for hot water and heating, and later on this summer (2007) the installation of solar panels for hot water. Plans are currently in place to incorporate wind, as part of our carbon neutral policy. All wilderness activities are carried out according to minimal impact codes of practice. There are 17 bird bat and insect boxes in place on the farm, and bird feeders right outside the hostel window. Our new wetland system will be commissioned in Autumn 2007.
The hostel is dedicated to helping people to learn about Ireland’s environment and culture and regularly run workshops relating to local history and focusing on sweathouses, megalithic tombs, ring forts and holy wells. Orienteering and environmental education is also taught to groups.
The hostel promotes the membership of conservation groups and is a member of the Ulster Wildlife Trust, The Organic Centre and Slow Food.
We run an annual fundraising event each year which proceeds are donated to a local voluntary group. Guests are encouraged to donate £1.00 towards offsetting our carbon production, which we plant 22 native trees a year.
In the past the hostel has worked with women with mental health problems offering volunteering opportunities in the gardens This gives a great opportunity for local people to get specialised training and hands on experience in horticultural and organic activities.
Currently we work with Omagh Community Arts group to promote Slow Food. This is an annual event based in the hostel grounds. Local scout and guide groups use our camping facilities for free. Each year we run 1 fundraising event for a local charity.
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!
