Ecotourism, responsible tourism, sustainable tourism …

 

Sometimes it’s easy to get lost with so many definitions and labels.

For us, enjoying nature means to learn, value and care for it. That is why we want to offer you an exciting and authentic experience in which you will be delighted with the environment, culture and rhythm of life in Sobrarbe, respecting the environment and contributing to the well-being of the local population.

 

We are convinced that this is the way to go towards a sustainable future and these are some of our actions:

 

Rehabilitation and maintenance:

Casa Marina was an old house located on the outskirts of the town of Buerba. It was restored following the architectural style of the region and using natural materials from the environment. Most of the furniture in the rooms and common areas is reused and restored, as well as the vases, glass bottles and other old elements that appear in the decoration.

Inside the house the insulation is made of sheep’s wool due to its thermal and soundproofing properties.

Currently, the annual maintenance of the exterior woods is done with biodegradable natural oils and the garden has different varieties of fruit trees and plants, mostly endemic.

 

Energy and water savings:

  • Contracting electrical energy exclusively from renewable sources.

  • Double glazed windows for better insulation.

  • LED or energy saving light bulbs throughout the building.

  • Reduction of the consumption of water and cleaning products, with the change of towels and bedding every four days.

  • Responsible management of water consumption in the garden

  • Periodic review and maintenance of facilities and appliances for better performance and lower consumption.

Waste reduction and management:

 

 

  • We work with the three R’s: reduce, reuse and recycle.

  • Preference for products with minimal or bulk packaging instead of packaged products.

  • Digitization of most documents.

  • Substitution of the traditional amenities in envelopes or small plastic containers for dispensers of shampoo and bath gel, as well as handmade hand soap without packaging.

  • Zero waste picnics with washable cloth wraps.

  • Selective separation of plastic containers and cans, paper and cardboard, glass, batteries and oil for recycling.

Organic products:

 

 

  • Eco-labeled shower gel and cleaning products. 

  • Locally produced handmade hand soap.

  • Food products of local origin and / or with an ecological label.

  • Homemade breakfasts and dinners with fresh products, made with great care and adapted to the needs of our guests.

Economic and social development:

  • We shop at local stores with a preference for family businesses.

  • We buy cleaning products in cooperatives that promote a solidary and social economy.

  • We are in contact with adventure activity companies and restaurants in the region.

Heritage awareness and conservation:

  • Specialized books about the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

  • Continuous training about the natural, cultural and geological heritage.

  • Members of the Sobrarbe-Pirineos Geopark.

  • Members of the Spanish Ecotourism Club.

  • Members of the neighborhood association “O ‘Cascabillo”.

How can you collaborate?

The moment you decide to stay at Casa Marina you are doing responsible tourism. Without any additional effort, you are supporting the local economy and choosing a healthy tourism that flees from overcrowding, respects the environment and has a more authentic experience.

 

In addition, we encourage you to actively participate in the conservation of the environment with the following suggestions, which you can also apply at home:

 

  • Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or washing your hands, and be sure to adjust it well after use.

  • Let us know if any faucet leaks in the bathroom so we can repair it immediately.

  • In the bathroom you will find a trash can in which to throw the wipes, intimate products and other items that should not be thrown in the toilet.

  • Let us know if you do not want us to change towels and / or bedding during your stay.

  • Turn off the lights when you leave your room and don’t leave chargers plugged in.

  • Bring reusable bottles or canteens for your excursions: we will be happy to fill them as many times as you want instead of buying plastic bottles.

  • Respect Nature and bring the garbage you produce during the day. If you intend to collect plastics and other garbage that you will find during your excursions, you will help us to keep the forest cleaner.

  • Take an interest in the education and conservation initiatives in the area: they will allow you to get to know the region in a different and deeper way.

  • Buy craft products made in Sobrarbe as souvenirs: they are unique and with this you benefit the population of the area.

  • And above all breathe, rest and reconnect with Nature and with yourself.

Flores blancas sobre la hierba