The Burren self catering cottage in Galway, Ireland
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
Wildlife:
I have established a ten-acre wildlife habitat by planting broadleaved trees and shrubs on a previously grassed site. i have added ponds to provide an aquatic habitat which has attracted frogs, newts, grey herons and mallard. The woodland and hedgerows have goldcrest, long-tailed tits, spotted - flycatcher, bullfinch, greenfinch, and many more common species who come to feed on the fruits and insects which the trees support. Fungi and fern species have become established as the woodland matures. I am committed to sustainable management of this habitat.
Waste:
All waste is sorted. Organic waste is composted and used for the garden. Most other waste is recycled at municipal waste facilities. Production of own vegetables reduces the waste of packaging and the carbon footprint of sourcing from distant places.
Energy:
The cottage is heated by a carbon-neutral range which also heats water for the shower and washing. the electrical appliances re all either A or A+ rated. All lighting is fitted with energy efficient bulbs.
The use of roof windows to provide daylight reduces the need for electric lighting.
The level of insulation is above the required standards standards and all windows and doors are double-glazed.
Buildings:
This farm building would have disappeared had it not been restored and converted. The basic structure has not changed its exterior character. The shower is operated by gravity, not a power pump.
Community
I have devoted my life's work to rural development because I believe that a healthy quality lifestyle in a rural environment should be a human right. Preserving rural communities is a means to avoiding urban social and physical problems. Unfortunately economic and social policies in Ireland have caused depletion of rural populations and continue to marginalize rural communities by reducing basic service provision. Positioning an enterprise in a rural backwater provides a counterweight to the current trends.
Friends and neighbours;
Leafyloft recommends the local walkers group Kilchreest Ramblers of which it is a member, the weekly Ardrahan Market (Saturdays 10-2pm), the weekly Kinvara Market (Fridays 10-2pm), The Gallery restaurant in Gort, The Olde Plaid Shawl restaurant and the Murphy Store cafe and craft shop in Kinvara and local organic produce sources.I keep local directories to link guests with services and guides in the area. The Woodville Walled Garden at a local farm is highly recommended during the summer months. Locally based musicians and dancers are on my contact list and we are members of Kinvara Music Collective (KAM). I am also a member of Birdwatch Ireland and have contacts for and schedules of local birdwatching events. I am a member of Irish Seedsavers which works to conserve fruit and vegetable diversity in Ireland. We are members of the Kinvara Bay Sailing Club and recommend events to our guests. Cycle repair shops in Kinvara and Gort are also recommended. In providing accommodation for guests in the local area Leafyloft contributes to demand in the local economy.
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