Are you looking for a place to relax and recharge? This little house in the hills of Alta Murgia is the perfect destination! Here, you’ll find a true oasis of tranquility, surrounded by unspoiled nature. Enjoy a range of activities, like hiking, horseback riding, and scenic cycling excursions through breathtaking landscapes.
The house is located in the Alta Murgia National Park, a protected area covering over 68,000 hectares of nature in the Bari and Barletta-Andria-Trani provinces, extending to Basilicata‘s borders. This unique setting reveals incredible landscapes best explored by bike, as well as quaint villages like Altamura and Gravina in Puglia.
Another special aspect? This property was recently nominated for the Ecobnb Award, an honor celebrating commitment to environmental sustainability and green hospitality. To learn more, read this interview with Manuela, who shares the story of this magical place. You’ll fall in love with this cozy cottage as soon as you step inside!
From Plastic to Nature: Manuela’s Journey to an Eco-Friendly Bed & Breakfast
What was the spark that ignited your passion for environmental sustainability?
I returned to my beloved Murgia after various study and work adventures. During that time, I was immersed in the production and sale of plastic, an activity that deeply sensitized me to the impact of human actions when resources are not properly managed.
Understanding the environmental consequences of this industry made me realize the urgent need to halt and reverse this kind of impact.
My passion for sustainability is the result of this awareness, partly a sense of guilt, but certainly a desire to change course.
Expertise, Networking, and Information: Key Pillars of Sustainability
What aspects do you consider essential in your journey toward eco-sustainability?
Expertise: Sustainability, in my opinion, is something you learn. It’s a continuous journey, made of adaptations, changes, evolutions, study, and continuous updates.
Networking: Being sustainable on your own is helpful but limited. To truly support the environment, we need to “infect” others with our passion and be inspired by theirs. A network of sustainable operators can achieve much more for a region than one individual ever could.
Staying informed and maximizing opportunities: I’ve won three grants for sustainable tourism in just a few months, which shows there are many resources to support a determined commitment to sustainability.
How would you describe your ideal “eco-traveler” guest?
I have many “ideal travelers” here with me, and I’ve learned a lot from them. Normally:
- They take off their shoes at the entrance to reduce the need for cleaning, causing less pollution.
- They buy local products, supporting the local economy.
- They talk to me about water-saving “olla” pots, which I’ve then adopted in my own garden.
- They use heating and cooling systems according to my guidelines, helping optimize the use of my solar panels.
- They gift me Palo Santo to avoid chemical air fresheners.
- They bring with them reusable shopping bags and the they return them to me. 🙂
What is the most meaningful review you’ve received, and what made it special?
“Manuela’s sustainable tourism initiatives need to be highlighted.”
This review is special because it recognizes my efforts and inspires me to communicate my values more clearly. It was a guest’s suggestion that has been incredibly helpful.
Sustainability that Rewards You
Let’s debunk the myth that eco-sustainability is necessarily more expensive. Do you think “eco-friendly” can also be “economical”?
Absolutely! Adding flow restrictors to faucets and dual-flush toilets saves water and cuts down on costs.
Negative reviews shouldn’t be feared: guiding guests on eco-friendly resource usage has a big impact.
Making good practices “normal” for guests—like washing laundry only as needed and using refillable soap instead of single-use bottles—raises awareness and reduces waste.
Communicating your environmental efforts effectively also allows you to justify a higher price.
What green initiatives have brought you the most satisfaction? Which ones have been the most appreciated by your guests?
I created a well-designed walking map to make it easier for guests to get around on foot or by public transport. This tool has been highly appreciated by guests, to the point that I’m working on making it available outside my property as well.
Adopting the Olla (an ancient osmotic irrigation system) has greatly reduced water usage in the garden, with excellent results.
How do the values and projects of Ecobnb resonate with those of your property?
I find the idea of tourism that respects both the natural and social environment to be very much in line with the philosophy of my eco B&B. This principle embodies the essence of my approach to hospitality.
In this small paradise among the hills of Alta Murgia, not far from Matera, sustainability isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a mission shared with every guest. Manuela’s bed & breakfast is not just a place to sleep; it’s an experience that inspires and engages.
Through nature walks, genuine food, and eco-sustainable practices, you’ll enjoy a rejuvenating break that will leave you with good memories and perhaps even some new green inspirations to take home. If you’re looking for a place that offers relaxation, authenticity, and respect for nature, this eco-B&B in the Alta Murgia Park is waiting for you!
