If you read my post last week , on how to cut down on your environmental impact, then wouldn’t you like to know that for your next holiday, you can stay at an establishment which is working to reduce the carbon footprint that we all leave behind?

If this sounds like something you’re keen to experience, then read on to see our short list of eco-friendly establishments to stay at, on your next holiday.

Nicorene B&B
Nicorene B&B is situated in the picturesque suburb of Yellowwood in Durban, overlooking the Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve. If you’re a fan of birding you won’t be disappointed, as the reserve is home to some 200 bird species, as well as a group of playful vervet monkey’s which often wander into the suburb. If you’re very lucky you may even glimpse some of the shy antelope and other wildlife while staying in one of their semi-self-catering rooms, or flatlets or backpackers unit.

At Nicorene the owners strive to reduce their eco-footprint without compromising on their welcoming hospitality. With two solar geysers in place, two rain water tanks, well-insulated rooms which prevent heat escaping, and the recycling of paper on-site, you’re certain to have a memorable eco-friendly stay.

Eco-Eden Bush Lodge
This tranquil, eco-friendly accommodation offers you far more than just the use of their elegant bush lodge. You could enjoy traditional foods under the boma, or even indulge in some star gazing late at night, when the sky fills out with dazzling lights. Being situated in the Croc River Mountain Conservancy (and also the Mpumalanga Birding Route) you will have an opportunity to spot various animals such as kudus, red duiker and a wide range of different birds. With hosts that love to spoil their guests, you need only ask and they will do their best to provide.

Destiny Inn
This private, eco-friendly resort is located off the beaten track in Polokwane, with beautiful surrounding scenery. Destiny Inn offers cosy but simple accommodation with a choice of backpackers’ rooms, chalets, camping areas, and several safari tents. They have all you require for a comfortable stay, as well as the added extras of a swimming pool to combat the summer heat, and a shuttle service to-and-from Polokwane.

Their eco-friendly offering includes rooms with solar heating, a no-chemical policy with their sewage system which is cleaned by bacteria, and they are also in the process of implementing a recycling depot on-site. Heni and Rina can even help you organise a customized tour tailored specifically for your interests. With all of these great facilities you will no doubt love your stay, while getting back to basics, without sacrificing necessary little luxuries.

Hitgeheim Country Lodge
This stunning country lodge is situated on an eco-reserve just outside of Addo Elephant Park in Sunland. From their warm hospitality on arrival, to the six-course meal that’s prepared each evening, you won’t feel anything lacking after a stay here. In the mornings you will awake to the call of the fish eagle, before stretching out in your extra-length bed and getting the coffee started in your cosy chalet.

You then have the opportunity to enjoy your coffee out on the wooden deck, overlooking the Sundays River. When you’re eager to go exploring, ask one of the on-site guides if they’d give you a tour of the reserve – or even lead you on an Elephant back safari! While at the reserve you’ll notice that they only use bio-friendly chemicals in their drains, sewage, and laundry areas. They also re-use their grey water, so nothing is wasted.

When staying at eco-friendly accommodations, it’s important to abide by the rules they’ve put in place, to avoid upsetting the fragile balance being created. If you’ve stayed at one of the above mentioned eco-friendly accommodations, tell us how you found the experience.

If you’ve stayed at other places which have eco-friendly systems in place, we’d love to know the three W’s – Who, What and Where!