Voluntourism is the latest buzz word when it comes to ethical vacations, but take an eco-trip to West Wales and the only thing you'll have to volunteer to do, is take a leap off a cliff.
St David's is Britain's smallest city. Tucked away in Pembrokeshire National Park and blessed with miles of pristine beaches, scenic cliff top walks and more than its fair share of wildlife – which is why the city is becoming a top eco-destination.
Cycling, hiking, kayaking, surfing – most activities in the area are human powered, including the one activity the area is famous for creating – coasteering.
Whatever the weather coasteerers don a wetsuit, old pair of sneakers and a helmet, and take to the cliffs in an adventure sport that combines climbing, gorge walking, swimming and if you're up for it, a spot of underwater caving. Scrambling up rocks, leaping into the waves and getting very, very wet is all part of the fun, and it is, of course, an eco-friendly way to explore the coastline.
The TYF adventure company, who run the coasteering trips, are taking the lead in an effort to transform St David's into a eco-friendly vacation destination. As well as the activities TYF run Wales’ first organic certified hotel – a converted water mill with 12 rooms, stacked full of green features.
Rooms come with natural bathroom products and wind up radios and torches for guests to try, the honor bar is stocked with a range of organic beers, wines and spirits, the breakfasts are made with organic, locally sourced ingredients, and the entire hotel is carbon neutral.
TYF is also helping push forward the ‘St David's eco-city project’ which aims to make St David's Britain's first carbon neutral city – and considering the size of the city, (it only takes five minutes to cross), they do have a head start over their rivals. As part of the eco-city project a bio-diesel pump has been installed, the café at Whitesands beach is now part powered by solar and wind generators and plans have been drawn up for a tidal power generator.
What St David's lacks in size it certainly makes up for in innovation. Not settling with being the creators of coasteering, the town looks set to become one of Britain's greenest destinations.
Further information
Bed and Breakfast rates at the TYF Hotel start from $60 per night. TYF activities are available as half day, full day or weekend adventures.
Visit tyf.com for more details.
| < Prev |
|---|
