Discover the charming world of Case Caro Carrubo! It’s a rustic bed and breakfast located in the countryside close to Chiaramonte, Ragusa, Sicily. This eco-sustainable B&B tells a love story for the Sicilian land. It embraces the simplicity and tranquility of country life, offering a unique connection with nature through sustainable practices. We interviewed Renate Brutschin, who shared the story of the B&B, which she manages since the early 90s.

Case Caro Carrubo was born from her love for Sicily, a land she has adopted for over 25 years. Driven by the fight against missiles in Comiso, Renate landed on this enchanting island and was captivated by it. Especially by the hill that hosts her B&B. She has always loved the simple and quiet country life, immersed in nature. Also desired to create a place where guests could find their balance, stepping away from the chaos of everyday life and reconnecting with the earth. Thus, Case Caro Carrubo was born, a refuge where nature reigns supreme and where the slowness of time sets the rhythm of life.

What environmental measures have you adopted?

Case Caro Carrubo is a concrete example of eco-sustainability. We have adopted several measures to reduce our environmental impact. First and foremost, we chose to use solar energy for lighting and hot water. We also reforested the hill with about 1000 plants, turning it into a small woodland after thirty years. Finally, we use only biodegradable detergents for cleaning rooms and common areas, minimizing environmental pollution. Thinking globally and acting locally is the basis for our daily activities. We seek to support the local, organic, and fair trade economy.

What do your guests appreciate most?

Our guests appreciate, above all, the direct contact with nature, tranquility, and the strategic location. It allows for easy exploration of the Monti Iblei and the surroundings. From Case Caro Carrubo, you can set out on foot to discover the trails and landscapes of the area, or for those more sporty, by bike. Nearby, there is a stone mill that was one of the first to be interested in saving ancient grains. There is also the Pagoda for Peace in Comiso, the only one in Italy and one of four in all of Europe. It was established in1998, after years of perseverance, right in front of what would become the NATO nuclear base in Sicily, later dismantled in the early ’90s.

What does it mean for you to be part of Ecobnb?

I feel represented on a site like yours. I am glad to be able to communicate with real and committed people who share my passion for nature and who choose to travel in an ethical and sustainable way.

Case Caro Carrubo is a special place to find inner peace, savor the taste of slowness, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. A perfect retreat for those seeking an authentic and sustainable experience, away from the chaos of everyday life. Case Caro Carrubo awaits you, where nature and hospitality come together to offer unique and regenerating experiences.

The article Case Caro Carrubo Rustico B&B: An eco-sustainable refuge in the Iblean Mountains was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The effects of climate change and global warming are increasingly visible to everyone. The devastating fires that affected Sicily this summer may be the most clear example of this. Palermo-based artist Igor Scalisi Palmintieri shows how art can be a means to raise awareness about these catastrophic events. Fires and climate change are the main topics of his murals known as “The Triptych of Hope“. Let’s discover them together!

The Murals of Monreale

“After the fires that took place last summer, which impacted me a lot, I thought about telling everyone what’s going on in our territory” – the artist explains. With this in mind, the street artist Igor Scalisi Palmintieri, who is well-known in Palermo for his artistic and social commitment, decided to create “The Triptych of Hope”.

The artwork consist of three vibrant murals located in three different hamlets of the municipality of Monreale (Pioppo, Aquino and Grisì), which have in common the themes of fire and hope. Using the author’s words: “Men have disappeared, only the damaged nature remains. However, Mother Earth is still there, giving us hope“.

Palmintieri reveals that he has freely drawn inspiration from the mosaics of the Monreale Cathedral. However, he used different interpretation keys. As a matter of fact, the ark represents the Church in the Cathedral’s mosaics, while in “The Triptych of Hope” it becomes a symbol of the Community understood as dwelling, as “protection, like the houses that burned last summer“.

Art as a Way to Raise Awareness

The key element of the artwork is hope, as suggested by its title. In fact, even though at first glance it might convey an apocalyptic perspective, it carries a profound message of trust, which necessarily involves raising awareness about these crucial and current issues.

Through the creation of “The Triptych of Hope”, Palmintieri aims to make people reflect on the consequences of climate change and global warming. As a matter of fact, in addition to the presence of fire, which represents the devastating fires that have ravaged the island, the theme of water is also recurrent, indirectly alluding to glacier melting.

The sensitivity and growing awareness of environmental issues are first and foremost demonstrated by the municipality of Monreale itself. It was indeed the residents who commissioned this project through Participatory Democracy tools.

It is an extremely important action that sends a message of hope, especially for young people. In fact, through his work, Palmintieri expresses his closeness to future generations.

“The Triptych of Hope” is a concrete example of how art can be an extremely powerful tool for reflection. In other words, it shows that the path of awareness is the right way to inspire communities and future generations to protect our planet.

The article Eco-Art in Sicily: The Triptych of Hope against Fires and Climate Change was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The Mediterranean Sea is located between three continents: Africa, Asia, and Europe. It receives this name because it comes from the Latin ” medi terraneum ” which means ” sea in the middle of the land “. That is, it is surrounded by lands of high extension. Through the Strait of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean Sea connects with the Atlantic Ocean and is characterized by its great biodiversity: it is home to between 4% and 18% of the world’s marine species and has a very high value both ecologically and economically.

Why are water resources so important?

The presence of seas and oceans is fundamental for life on Earth, as they provide most of the oxygen we breathe. They are also a source of food, life and are fundamental in regulating the climate.

From an economic point of view, activities such as fishing, tourism, and maritime transport are developed on the basis of water resources and allow the development of societies.

The Mediterranean Sea needs help 

Despite the economic and ecological importance of the Mediterranean Sea, currently and for many years it has faced major problems of anthropogenic origin, that are caused by human activities. 

Some of these activities are:

• Overfishing 
• Destructive fishing techniques
• Pollution
• Overpopulation on the coasts
• Mass tourism 
• Poor (or not) waste treatment 

Alarming figures

According to WWF Spain

“The Mediterranean accumulates only 1% of the world’s water and 7% of global microplastics” 

Europe dumps 500,000 tons of microplastics into the sea and 130,000 tons of microplastics 

Europe (the 28 members of the EU + Norway and Switzerland)  is the third largest producer of plastics in the world after China and North America 

Most of the plastics used in the countries are for packaging

In the Mediterranean Sea, more than 134 species (fish, sea turtles, mammals, and birds) are threatened by the ingestion of plastics.

Consequences of Plastics in the Sea 

Plastic waste pollutes the coasts and directly affects marine fauna. 

According to the European Parliament Research Service , the main people affected by their presence at sea are:

1. Marine life
2. Economy
3. Human health
4. Climate

The case of Sicily Island

Located in the South of Italy, Sicily is not only the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, also has a strategic geopolitical location, is rich in culture and history, possesses valuable natural resources, indescribable landscapes, and unique gastronomy. 

Different cultures have left their traces on this island throughout time and this can be seen in its diverse architectural styles, markets, temples, handicrafts, gastronomy, and creative environment in general.

That is why thousands of tourists visit the island every year and are attracted by this great cultural diversity accompanied by unique landscapes.

But unfortunately, it suffers from a serious problem that threatens its riches and its potential: the amount of garbage present in its terrestrial and maritime space, mainly the plastics that surround its coasts and are visible throughout the Island. 

Plastic pollution affects the most remote places in the world and harms both natural environments and people’s health.

In the places most visited by tourists, as in the least frequented of Sicily, cigarette butts and plastics are concentrated in large quantities.

Both the beaches, the mountains, and the streets of the cities are affected by the problem of plastic. The beaches look like garbage dumps and all that garbage ends up deposited in the sea. 

There are those who hold tourists responsible, but there is also a great responsibility on the part of various social actors such as municipalities, companies, and part of the local population in environmental contamination and the alarming amount of garbage that the island contains. 

During the months of high season, tourist cities multiply their in large quantities their population, therefore it is necessary a commitment from them, as well as from institutions, companies and citizens to regulate the use of plastics.

Look for alternatives to plastic products, control the separation of waste, prohibition of single-use plastics, correct recycling and reuse of plastics, and the daily cleaning of beaches and spaces in general.

The need for environmental education, awareness, and commitment is reflected in the large amount of plastics and garbage in general that are visible in the most beautiful landscapes of Sicily and countless natural areas around the world. This is generating irreversible consequences.

To achieve the true tourist and economic growth of these spaces, it is necessary to achieve sustainable development and in harmony with the environment, otherwise there will be no future or possible development.

Cover photo Via Canva Pro

The article The Mediterranean Sea spits up plastic was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Lipari is the main island of the Sicilian archipelago (South of Italy) of the Aeolian islands. The island is full of life, especially during the summer, and is suitable even for families with children. Is the perfect destination for whoever is looking for an eco-tourism experience and for whoever wants to relax, immersing himself in the culture and the island’s nature.

An island rich in culture, with a millennial history

For whoever loves culture and history, but also for whoever wants to deepen his/her knowledge about the origins of the islands, is possible to visit the Archaeological Museum Luigi Bernabò Brea. In this museum is possible to find several artefacts from the Neolithic period until the Medieval age. The museum is located in an ancient fortified town, that includes also the Castle of Lipari.

The castle is located on the top of the Acropolis. Nearby is possible to find the cathedral of San Bartolomeo, the site of particular historic interest. The church was built by the Normans, following the reconquest of the island, for subtracting it from the Arab domain. Inside is possible to find different pieces of art, like for example “U Vascidduzzu“, a silver reproduction of a vessel that also contains a relic of the Saint.

Another place that you cannot miss is Belvedere Quattrocchi, one of the most famous places on the island, where at the sunset you can admire an amazing view. Belvedere Quattrocchi is located four kilometres away from the main town.

Other attractions of the islands are the Caoline Caves and the Thermal Baths of San Calogero. You can visit these places during one of the trek routes on the island, some of which will be suggested later.

A holiday for relaxing and hiking

Lipari is an island with rich flora and if you love nature you can’t miss visiting the reserves and natural parks. You can’t lose the opportunity to visit the Lipari volcano, in the Serra Pirrera Reserve, where you can admire the ancient crater that is not working anymore.

For whoever wants to combine relaxation on the uncontaminated beaches of Lipari with some healthy physical activity shouldn’t miss trying hikings. On the island there are different routes, accessible on foot and some of them even by bike or e-bike.

A trek that you cannot absolutely miss is the one on the tracks of antiquities that passes by the Caolino Caves and arrives at the ancient thermal baths of San Calogero. This is probably the most charming path on the entire island and from the west coast you can observe an astonishing landscape, surrounded by rich greenery. The duration of this path is more or less four hours.

Another mandatory itinerary is the one until Punta Della Crapazza, in the southern part of the island, which you can reach with a short walk. From this point you can admire an amazing panorama with an incredible view of the crater of Vulcano and the Peninsula of Vulcanello.

Another interesting hike is the one of Guardia di Pirata, on mount Guardia, which once was used as a surveillance spot and sighting pirates. The path has a duration of four hours and is surrounded by numerous species of plants and butterflies.

One last hike that we suggest is the one on the peninsula of Monterosa, a route that starts from Lipari and it ends in the village of Canneto. The duration of this path is approximately two hours and the hill offers a rich and varied blooming, especially during the spring.

An authentic cuisine, with food prepared with fresh ingredients

On the island is possible to find an ancient culinary culture, whose key elements consist of genuine products like capers, sun-dried tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, accompanied by fresh fish.

In Lipari, you can taste local specialities produced with these natural ingredients, like the eolian redfish soup, the swordfish rolls, the sweet and sour rabbit, the liparota salad, and the “cunzato” bread. This latter specialty consists of a slice of bread soak in extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with cherry tomatoes, cheese, basil, cappers, olives, anchovies in olive oil, and oregano.

About desserts, you cannot miss tasting sesamini biscuits, produced with sesame seeds, accompanied by a glass of Malvasia wine.

Eco-friendly accommodations, surrounded by nature

For what regards accommodation, we suggest you two eco-friendly facilities on the island that you can book via Ecobnb.

The Cottage Atollo Monte Rosa Lipari is a typical aeolian house from which you can enjoy an amazing view of the uncontaminated blue of the Sicilian sea. This eco-cottage is the ideal starting point for hikes so is suitable for whoever loves nature and trekking.

The house Al Numero Zero is an organic farmhouse surrounded by the aeolian countryside, among gardens and olive groves, where you can practice rural tourism on foot, by bike and even with a donkey.

If after reading this guide on Lipari you are curious about this amazing island, don’t hesitate and book your next holiday!

The article Lipari: a sustainable route trip discovering one of the pearls of the Mediterrean Sea was originally posted on Ecobnb.

From organic farmhouses in the countryside to glamping by the sea, discover the best destinations for a green holiday in Sicily.

Sicily is an island with so many beautiful places where you can spend your green stay in nature. Certainly, the pandemic and the lockdown have increased the desire to spend a few days close to nature, whether it is a weekend or a real holiday.

Are you looking forward to disconnecting from the stress of the city? Dream of journey among natural beauty and tranquillity? Discover 10 stunning locations in Sicily for a perfect green holiday surrounded by nature.

1.Looking at the sea

Terre di Bea Cottage by the Sea. Green holiday in Sicily

A window on the enchanting Mediterranean Sea: you can do it in this wonderful eco-Cottage! In fact, it is situated in the heart of the Pineta Reserve of the Parco Delle Madonie and it’s perfect for a green holiday. You can relax in the greenery and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. In order to encourage local craftsmanship, you will also find beautiful handmade works of art that you can purchase. This supports the work of local artists and craftsmen. What are you waiting for?

Info: TERRE DI BEA COTTAGE BY THE SEA

2.At the foot of Etna

BagolArea EcoFarm sull’Etna. Green holiday in Sicily

Close to Catania and Messina, this organic farm will be perfect for live a unique experience. Organize your eco-sustainable holiday in this comfortable and green accommodation. The surrounding area is perfect for moments in contact with nature while respecting the environment. In addition to this, the owners of the farm will be available to show you places to visit and breathtaking landscapes, for example with the Etna train.

Info: BagolArea EcoFarm sull’Etna

3.Monti Iblei

Case Caro Carrubo Rustico B&B. Green holiday in Sicily

Think global and act local: this is the motto of the eco B&B located at the foot of the Monti Iblei between Comiso and Chiaramonte Gulfi. A perfect destination to enjoy your family holidays or a weekend of relaxation with your friends. Also a great spot for your sports in nature: trekking, hiking or rent bicycles are some of the services available. Discover this amazing destination surrounded by nature!

Info: Case Caro Carrubo Rustico B&B

4.Glamping surrounded by nature

Ciriga Sicily Glamping. Green holiday in Sicily

Are you wondering what glamping is? Simple! It’s a new way of experiencing a holiday in nature, staying in a structure that combines the authenticity of camping with the comfort of a traditional house. This is an eco-glamping where you can be disconnected from the stress of the city. In addition, you can choose from a wide range of activities, from wine tastings to cycling tours. This and much more awaits you in the beautiful Sicilian countryside!

Info: Ciriga Sicily Glamping

5.Holiday in the Masseria

Casa Farlissa. Green holiday in Sicily

An old farmhouse immersed in the Ragusa countryside a few kilometers from the sea. Surrounded by rich vegetation and friendly animals such as cows and horses. Moreover, there is the possibility to make fantastic activities such as horse-riding or play golf and tennis. This accommodation also has a small terrace with a splendid view of the surrounding countryside, it’s perfect for relaxing and live a unique experience.

Info: Casa Farlissa

6.Nebrodi’s Park

La Collina dei Nebrodi. Green holiday in Sicily

This green home is surrounded by the Nebrodi Park, with an incredible panoramic view of the vineyards and the sea. It is also perfect for enjoying an experience in the company of friends or family, with its 8 bedrooms each with a private bathroom. As an alternative to the swimming pool, there are also nature trails to explore the surrounding area.

Info: La Collina dei Nebrodi

7.Alcantara’s Park

Casale Romano. Green holiday in Sicily

Between Taormina and Etna in the heart of the Alcantara Gorge Park, there is this amazing green home. This wonderful estate is surrounded by nature and from here you can easily reach places like Noto, Messina, Taormina, and Giardini Naxos. There is also a wellness center, some games for children, a reading room, bicycles, and a restaurant!

Info: Casale Romano

8.Sustainable and Camping

Glamping Paradiso del mare Avola. Green holiday in Sicily

Another example of glamping, this time in the Syracuse countryside, is this beautiful campsite where you can combine sustainability and luxury. In fact, you will have the opportunity to sleep in nature without giving up the comforts of a traditional house.  It’s also perfect for your sports holidays: there are so many activities to do in the surrounding area!

Info: Glamping Paradiso del mare Avola

9.Find Balance in the Nature

Shauri Glamping. Green holiday in Sicily

In the Sicilian countryside, you can experience unforgettable moments in nature. The structures are made entirely of sustainable materials, guaranteeing minimal environmental impact. The landscapes you can admire from your glamping tent will transform your stay into a unique experience, marked by the sounds and rhythms of nature.

Info: Shauri Glamping

10.Inside Noto’s Countryside

Mille Mandorli B&Bio. Green holiday in Sicily

This country house is situated in a cozy and charming environment, 100% powered by clean and renewable energy sources. From the large veranda and outdoor lounge, you can relax and enjoy the unique flavours of Sicilian cuisine. Located between the sea and the hills of Noto, this location surrounded by nature is perfect for discovering the variety of Sicilian landscapes.

Info: Mille Mandorli B&Bio

From natural parks to the sea: discover the best places surrounded by nature in Sicily. Choose one of the eco-friendly locations we have suggested and enjoy your holiday surrounded by greenery!

The article Green Sicily: 10 Stunning Destinations in the Nature was originally posted on Ecobnb.

We had already spoken about the benefits of Sicilian Manna, a typical product of Sicily cultivated between Castelbuono and Pollina, in the Madonie Park. Manna is a crystallized sap from ash trees, which are particularly numerous in that area.

This product is also known as “the nectar from heaven” because of its delicate sugary flavor. It is used to sweeten food instead of sugar. Besides, the manna performs a soothing and emollient action for your throat and bronchi, and it has an excellent depurative power for your intestine. These qualities make it suitable for your culinary and cosmetic recipes.

We propose you 5 recipes so that you can make the best use of the Sicilian manna both in your kitchen and for your skincare.

1. Delicious Biscuits with Manna

photo via Canva

Directions: To prepare your biscuits start by kneading 250g zero flour, 250g double zero flour and 250gr sourdough with 2 eggs and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Now add gradually to the mixture 250ml of whole milk, where you have already melted 8og of manna. Stir until you get a smooth and uniform mixture. Roll out the dough, give shape to your biscuits and bake them at 220° until they brown.

They are perfect to eat for a snack, maybe with a cup of tea.

2. Sweet Bread with Manna and Almonds

Photo via Canva

Directions: To prepare your sweet bread you first have to melt 100gr of manna in the same quantity of water. Then stir the water with 500gr flour, 50gr sourdough, some tablespoons of olive oil, chopped almonds and nuts. Add enough milk to get a smooth and elastic mixture. Let it rise until the dough is puffed, obtain your rolls and bake them at 230° for 15 minutes.

It is really tasty for breakfast with a layer of marmalade.

3. Pudding with Apples and Manna

photo via Canva

Directions: First of all you have to cook 1 kilo of apples in half a glass of white wine. Once the apples are cooked add to them 100 ml of milk, where you have already melted the same quantity of manna. Add also 3 egg yolks, a few raisins soaked in the brandy, and crumbled biscuits. Beat the egg whites until stiff and carefully mix them with the mixture. Pour the mixture in a buttered mold and cook it in a bain-marie in the oven for 40 minutes at medium heat. Let it cool and put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

Perfect for an easy and tasty dessert.

4. Ricotta and Manna Ice-Cream

photo via Canva

Directions: Beat 5 egg yolks. Add to them 500gr well sifted ricotta, half a glass of brandy or the liqueur you prefer, and half a glass of milk where you have already melted 60gr of Sicilian Manna. Pour the compound into the ice-cream maker.

Ideal at the end of a meal during warm summer days.

5. Regenerating Mask with Manna and Oat

photo via Canva

After having spent enough time in the kitchen you surely need a moment for yourself. A nice warm bath and a facial treatment will help you recharging your batteries. The mask we suggest you is made with Sicilian Manna and is perfect to deeply nourish and clean your skin.

Preparation: Melt 10gr of manna in 60gr of whole milk. Add to the mixture enough oat flour to obtain an easily spreadable compound. Leave it on your face and décolleté for about 15 minutes and then remove it with a dry damp cotton pad.

Do not hesitate to test our recipes with this precious product. We assure you will not regret it!

Featured Photo via Canva

The article Sicilian Manna: 5 Culinary and Cosmetic Recipes was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Discover some of the wonders of Italy while staying in suggestive historic houses turned into eco-friendly villas, Alberghi Diffusi or elegant, family-run b&b.

The elegance of Parma

photo by Angel via Flickr

Parma is a quiet and friendly town that embodies rich treasures: the beautiful Baptistery, the elegant gardens, numerous historic houses and the Farnesi Theatre, all wrapped in an incredible atmosphere. It is a city of art and good food, surrounded by an amazing nature.

Where to stay: a few steps from Piazza del Battistero, in the historic heart of the ducal city, a beautiful eighteenth-century palace has been converted into a stylish bed and breakfast where you can enjoy a tasty breakfast served in the room.

History and Nature in Caderzone Terme, Trentino

In the heart of Piedmont there’s a pearl set among thick woods and mountains.

In the heart of the Adamello Brenta Natural Park there is a pearl set between dense forests and mountains. It is the enchanting village of Caderzone Terme. Here, the thermal water with its ferruginous beneficial properties flows from the spring above the town. With its narrow and winding streets and its glimpses of the mountains, it will give you unexpected corners of beauty.

Where tostay: Palazzo Lodron Bertelli invites you to spend a romantic holiday in one of its suites with four-poster beds and whirlpools inside a fairy-tale palace, recovered in an eco-sustainable way.

Lemons and the Baroque Sicily

photo by Michiluzzu via Flick

The scent of lemon trees, baroque palaces, places of Montalbano and the most southern coast of Europe: doesn’t seem the perfect location for your next holiday? Discover Scicli, a picturesque village in Sicily, a place inhabited since prehistoric times characterized by rocky landscape, rich in caves. Baroque here has some of its greatest expressions, and is also why the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where to stay: some historic houses in this picturesque village have been converted into a beautiful Albergo Diffuso where you can fully enjoy the unusual atmosphere of this enchanted place.

A noble residence in the mountains

In the mountains of Friuli Venezia Giulia, a short distance from Pordenone, is a small town where art, history, nature and food come together, creating a small oasis. Polcenigo and its green surroundings offer travelers many attractions and secret destinations such as the Ecomuseum of the Friulian Dolomites, the lake-dwelling site of Palù di Livenza, the Museum of Cookery and the Rural Park “Europark” Saint Florian, the only example of the existing natural and rural park in Italy.

Where to stay: B&B Palazzo Scolari is in a noble residence of the sixteenth century.

Nature and cuisine of Emilia

photo by Roberto Ferrari via Flickr

Do you want to immerse yourself in the green? Visit Santa Sofia, Emilia Romagna, a small town surrounded by the nature of the Casentino National Park. It is a perfect destination for a gourmet holiday, you can’t miss the tortello alla lastra, filled with pumpkin and potatoes!

Where to stay: in a sixteenth century palace, former municipal hall of a town that no longer exists, where you will find comfortable studios.

Live an experience of the past, discover the Italian history and the cultural heritage traveling through historic houses, stately mansions and historical residences for unforgettable weekend of charm and fairy-tale atmosphere.

The article Guests at Palace: Charming Weekend in Historic Houses in Italy was originally posted on Ecobnb.

In San Vito Lo Capo, in a panoramic position a few steps from the center, there’s Auralba Hotel, an accommodation that is fully aware of its impact on the environment and is committed to respecting nature and promoting sustainable tourism.

There are rooms with every comfort, from the air conditioning to the minibar, the abundant breakfast, the dedicated services, but what the Auralba Hotel offers is worth much more. It is a mix of emotions: the unique taste of local goodness, the breathtaking view of the sea and the boats of the marina, the light of the sun that illuminates the morning and draws the profiles of the houses, the sea breeze that cradles you in the evening while you enjoy the sunset, the family management that will immediately make you feel at home.

The commitment to the environment of the Auralba Hotel

The owners of the Auralba Hotel strongly believe in a more sustainable world and in a different way of traveling, that cares about the environment. This is why they have implemented numerous actions to reduce the facility’s environmental impact. The rooms have flow reducers, smart light switch, LED lamps and soap dispensers. The water is heated by the sun through the panels. Thanks to the Up2you project, customers can also take concrete action on the environment during their stay. By giving up the rearrangement of the room you can plant a tree in your name. When it is necessary, cleaning is performed with ecological detergents.

The vision of sustainable tourism of the Auralba Hotel also concerns breakfast and appetizers. You will never find wrapped and industrial products: the accommodation avoids plastic and prefers homemade food. For this you can enjoy baked goods purchased every morning in San Vito Lo Capo bakeries, local cheeses, vegetables and fruit.

The hotel is accessible by public transport and also promotes green transport by making city bikes available to its guests to discover the surroundings. Finally, Auralba Hotel has always been partner and sponsor of Siciliambente, an international festival of documentaries, short films and animations related to environmental, sustainability and human rights issues.

The experiences to live in San Vito Lo Capo

Auralba Hotel is located in a corner full of greenery that seems to dive into the blue sea. It is the ideal starting point to discover San Vito Lo Capo, one of the most beautiful seaside destination in Italy.

San Vito Lo Capo, Photo by Théo Ménard on Unsplash

After the sweet and savory breakfast on the terrace, you can walk along the many paths, climb the cliffs, discover the seabed, bike to the lighthouse, walk in the city center admiring the Sanctuary, relax on the beach and get wrapped up in Sicilian lifestyle.

Book your holiday with 10% discount

Book your holiday at this link and enter the promo code ‘ECOBNB’ in the bar below: you will get a 10% discount!

The article Between sky and sea: a sustainable holiday at Auralba Hotel was originally posted on Ecobnb.

«The influence of the spanish culture is just the last of many: the first is the greek, then the saracen and norman. The Renaissance, it just saw a glimpse of it. Now spray water all over these cultural seeds, add a blinding sun, african soil, a pile of dust and beautiful greenery – and you will have Sicily».

Karel Capek

Sicily has much to offer and in the Trapani region, you can discover some sides of its soul and its glorious history. Among the magnificent cities of Segesta and Erice find on every corner there’s something to discover, beaches, temples, red hills or salt pans.

It’s hard to describe this incredible corner of the world because words can never do it justice, but trust me when I tell you that this is a journey, even for a weekend, that you must do this year.

Where to stay?

We’re in western Sicily, in a strip of land enclosed between two seas. Here there’s a place that is the perfect base for exploring the area. it’s the accommodation Case Colomba, an old renovated baglio, surrounded by Trapani’s countryside, and transformed into an organic and eco-sustainable farmhouse. You will sleep in large rooms of the typical farmhouses of 1800, surrounded by fruit trees and an Arabic garden. You will find a beautiful swimming pool, a sunny terrace, internet, a barbecue, a large lounge with a TV and also three kitchens so you can to independent, without losing the service of a good organic breakfast.

The location is perfect: from here you can quickly reach all the reserves, the best villages, the towns in the area. Hire a bike directly in the accommodation and discover this wonderful land!

What to do in Sicily, between Erice and Segesta?

History, troubled, glorious and rich, is always evident. Just walking through the countryside, the red hills of sulla blossom and on the hills made golden from the wheat you’ll find ancient Roman beams, houses of Arab, Norman feudal castles and Elymian and Greeks temples that dominate the valleys.

And if you are interested and want to discover more of this story just reach the numerous archaeological sites, we suggest you the Greek colony of Selinunte, the Phoenician island of Mozia, the striking Cave of Cusa and the Doric temple and magnificent Elymian theater of Segesta city.

Selinunte

Of course, you can not miss the medieval town of Erice. The main element is the stone and time seems to stand still. There is an unusual, fascinating silence and walking through the narrow streets of this village on top of Mount San Giuliano is really an incredible experience. Even the craft will amaze you with its colorful hand-woven carpets, its pottery and coral. From the Castle of Venus, surrounded by beautiful gardens, the view is amazing and you can already see the next destinations: the Egadi islands, the incredible salt pans of Trapani, the city and the coast with its stunning coves and crystal clear sea.

Among the places to visit there is also Marsala, to reach from Trapani along Stagnone where you can see the salt pans (which offer a breathtaking view at sunset) and windmills. In the city you can certainly not miss a glass of the famous wine.

Marsala’s Duomo

Where to dive?

Among fine beaches, beautiful bays and even free spa this corner of Sicily offers to the lovers of water an incredible choice. We suggest you the seaside town of San Vito Lo Capo where you will find wide beaches with a clean blue sea, the Guidaloca beach of Scopello and the caves of Favignana. If you are looking for some relax you can choose between the famous Thermal bath of Segesta in Castellammare del Golfo and the free hot springs in Ponte Bagni, where you will find small pools where the sulphurous water reaches even 46 degrees.

A recipe to savor again the land

When you return from your trip in western Sicily you will often hear the nostalgia of its colors, its inhabitants, its sea and its odors. But there is a recipe that somehow contains all this, you’ll taste it definitely during your vacation and upon return, you can relive those same feelings through it. It is an ancient and simple dish, it’s pesto alla trapanese. Get a mortar and the ingredients:

4 ripe tomatoes
a handful of almonds
a glass of extra virgin oil of Trapani
2 cloves red garlic of Nubia
1 bunch basil
coarse salt

First sear the almonds in boiling water for a minute, peel them and leave them to dry. Peel the garlic, coarsely chopped put them in a mortar. Begin to spin the pestle, gradually add the basil, always accompanied by the salt so that it doesn’t become black, and oil. When it is all mixed, add the almonds and then the tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Finally, add the oil and check the salt. The pesto is ready, the scent of western Sicily inebriates your home.

Cover image: Segesta temple, photo by Moritz Lino via Flickr

The article To the discovery of Sicily, between Sagesta and Erice was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The vegan and vegetarian choice is now more and more widespread, in Italy and in the world. If until a few years ago eating out and spending holidays was not so simple, especially for vegans, now a large number of accommodation facilities offer menus dedicated to these special diets and some completely embrace the philosophy offering to all guests exclusively food of non-animal origin. So now organizing a vegan holiday is much simpler: just choose your destination, between sea, mountain and city.

Here you can find 10 addresses of bed & breakfasts, hotels and farmhouses in Italy where your vegan holidays becomes even more sustainable thanks to solar panels, recycling, organic food and green architecture.

Vegan holiday in Sicily

A homemade breakfast, with garden produces and organic ingredients, on request vegan or gluten free and then explore Mounts Iblei or the cities of Ragusa and Modica: this is the offer of Case Caro Carrubo B&B, rustic and familiar, surrounded by 4 hectares of meadows and olive groves. The accommodation is ideal for families and travelers who seek harmony with nature and contact with people and place; it uses the sun as a source of energy.

A vegan holiday in a mountain retreat

We reach the 2526 meters of altitude where there is the Sogno di Berdzè refuge, between the Gran Paradiso National Park and the Avic Park. The retreat, characterized by the typical and authentic mountain atmosphere, offers a healthy cuisine designed also for vegans, with delicious dishes made with local products.
The accommodation can be reached on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback through 3 beautiful paths.

Vegan and vegetarian breakfasts in the woods

Casa Payer is a bed & breakfast surrounded by wild nature, among the woods of Pellice Valley, in Piedmont. Here you can learn about a different life, the one lived in the woods, relaxing in hammocks among birch trees, making bread and pizza and enjoying rich vegetarian and vegan breakfast, both sweet and savory, in a suggestive room with a view. The accommodation, just one kilometer from the Urania Astronomical Observatory, recovers rainwater, has solar panels and uses environmentally friendly cleaning products.

In Lazio, for a regenerating holiday

The B&B Viaggiatori d’intento offers 3 bedrooms, 2 large teepees, reading lounge, a large room for courses, but above all the opportunity to experience a deep natural connection. Immersed in the countryside, it is possible to book holistic sessions and savor vegan breakfasts and meals on the porch of the house, which offers persuasive landscapes both at sunrise and at sunset.

Vegan holiday in Emilia Romagna

The green hills of the Parma Apennines are the background of the Vegetarian and Vegan Farm Podere Doglio. Here you can enjoy the silence and tranquility of the place, but also a friendly and familiar welcome. The rooms are spacious and enjoy a beautiful view, the restaurant is exclusively vegetarian (on request also vegan), follows the seasonal cycles and is characterized by typical dishes based on organic farm products or local and regional products.

Vegan Salento

The organic farm Piccapane is located in the heart of Salento, a stone’s throw from the crystal clear sea and the main attractions of this incredible corner of Apulia. The restaurant is 100% vegan and offers excellent dishes made with organic ingredients produced on the farm. The accommodation has solar and photovoltaic panels and a phytodepuration plant. Land, cuisine and hospitality are the main ingredients of this beautiful vegan farm.

Veg farm in the Marche region

Among the rolling hills of Marche you will find a refined vegetarian, vegan and ecofriendly farm ideal for a regenerating holiday. Coroncina Farmhouse, born from the love of nature and food, also features an intimate wellness center with sauna, swimming pool and numerous spa treatments designed for you.

Vegan holiday at the gates of the Belluno Dolomites Park

Campo di Cielo is a bed and breakfast built in solid wood, a emission-free accommodation that has a vegan restaurant, a sauna and a library. The rooms are characterized by the presence of wood and are equipped with every comfort.

A farm on Lake Garda

Le Novare is an ecological farmhouse whose rooms are housed in the old grandparents’ house, renovated with attention to water and energy savings. Each room has been furnished with care, preferring energy-saving or LED light bulbs, natural materials, water-based or ecological paintings. On request it is possible to have abundant and tasty vegan breakfasts, the ideal way to start a day to spend among the farm animals or discovering the charming villages within walking distance from the accommodation.

In the uncontaminated nature of the Garfagnana

Our last tip for your vegan holiday is in Tuscany and it’s Il Melograno Nano, an organic farm that offers a vegan, natural and macrobiotic breakfast. Guests have a synergetic vegetable garden at their disposal with a huge garden and comfortable bedrooms.

The article Vegan holiday in Italy: here’s where to go was originally posted on Ecobnb.