Josu of Lurdeia Casa Rural, Ecotourism Pioneer in the Basque Country, Spain

Lurdeia en primavera, Agroturismo Pais Vasco

An oasis of tranquility founded by five friends 30 years ago, Lurdeia Casa Rural is a pioneer in ecotourism and organic farming in the Basque Country. This rural home is a great example of how a local business can balance nature and economic development, combining the benefits of sustainable development, eco-certification and environmental education. Josu tells us how it all began.

Ángeles Arroyo Sánchez of Agroturismo Arkaia, Basque Country

Vista des de fuera Agroturismo Arkaia Turismo accesibe Pais Vasco

Agroturismo Arkaia is a shining example of sustainability leadership in the Basque Country, excelling in accessible tourism. Just outside the city borders of Vitoria-Gasteiz and part of the city’s impressive Anillo Verde (Green Belt), the skillfully renovated farmhouse Agroturismo Arkaia is the work of Ángeles Arroyo Sánchez and her family. In this interview, Ángeles discusses their road to certification and why eco-certification should be a goal for all tourism businesses.

Mertxe Begiristain of Las Casas de EA Astei, Basque Country

Mertxe Begiristain, Las casas de EA Astei, sustainable rural house in Basque Country

Las Casas de EA Astei is a rural home in the Basque Country that is taking energy efficiency to the next level. This is the success story of both Mertxe Begiristain, who manages the tourism business, and her son, whose architecture, design and engineering skills have led to the creation of the first home in Spain to produce more energy than it consumes. Built primarily out of biodegradable, renewable and ecological materials, this rural home seeks maximum integration with its surrounding environment.