In the heart of Tuscany, Agriturismo Sant’Egle stands as a pioneering structure in environmental sustainability and hospitality. Winner of the Ecobnb Award, this organic farm and glamping site is entirely powered by renewable energy and offers charming accommodations made from the eco-friendly restoration of a historic home. It’s not just a place to stay, but a destination that educates and inspires travelers to live in harmony with nature. Thanks to the passion and dedication of its hosts, Sant’Egle promotes practices like rainwater reuse, synergistic agriculture, and a diet based on zero-kilometer products. We interviewed them to discover what makes this off-grid gem so special and how their philosophy aligns perfectly with Ecobnb’s values.
What sparked your passion for environmental sustainability?
My grandparents had a permaculture farm and used synergistic agriculture, integrated pest management with insects, and biodiversity conservation. This was at a time when words like biodynamics, Fukuoka, soil regeneration, and respect for the planet weren’t yet common.
What do you consider fundamental aspects in your journey of eco-sustainability?
Being consistent in every choice, from the simplest to the most complex, in our business model. Never compromising on profit at the expense of the planet. We always say that Sant’Egle is a project that improves, not consumes, this planet.
How would you describe your ideal “eco-traveling” guest?
The ideal guest would be evolved and aware of the damage they can cause during a vacation. The real challenge, though, is hosting guests who are completely unaware that a single action or choice can trigger a chain reaction of damage to the environment and the place they visit. When such guests arrive, my mission is to plant a seed in their mind, showing them that there are alternatives to a lifestyle that destroys the planet. The greatest satisfaction is seeing them leave with a suitcase full of emotions and tools to start the change.
What’s the most meaningful review you’ve received, and what made it special?
Certainly, a negative review that clearly outlined everything we consider unsustainable. I responded point by point, explaining with great care our choices: not having air conditioning or a Coca-Cola, and how an entire food chain of animals prevents mosquitoes or other annoying insects. That review brought us wonderful clients who, thanks to my response, chose Sant’Egle for their truly green and sustainable vacation.
Let’s debunk the myth that eco-sustainability is necessarily more expensive. Do you think “Eco-friendly” can also be “Affordable”? What advice would you give to other structures to prove this?
Absolutely. Thanks to all the sustainable choices we’ve made since 2010, we’ve significantly reduced resource management costs (water, electricity, heating, etc.). Using EM (Effective Microorganisms) for cleaning has allowed us to cut costs by 99%. Moreover, managing only seasonal and zero-kilometer raw materials leads to significant savings in food management.
What green initiatives have brought you the most satisfaction? Which have been the most appreciated by your guests?
Among the many green initiatives we’ve adopted, those that have garnered the most success and satisfaction are described here.
How do Ecobnb’s values and projects resonate with those of your structure?
“We’re on the same wavelength, guys!“
Sant’Egle proves that truly green tourism is possible and that it can generate benefits for the environment, local communities, and travelers themselves. A destination that not only welcomes but leaves a positive mark on the heart and mind of those who visit.
Sant'Egle Eco BIO Resort & Glamping – Green Farm house in Sorano, Grosseto, Toscana, IT