Normandy tour in comfort

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Throughout the trip, we will stay at the same château, departing daily for excursions without changing accommodations. Most of our day tours are within one to 2.5 hours drive, significantly reducing carbon emissions.

All dinners are homemade by our private chef at the château, using only seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. On one evening, we will serve a 100% vegetarian dinner, which further reduces our carbon footprint by lowering the reliance on animal agriculture.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

We prioritize working with local suppliers who are committed to preserving their environment and utilizing locally sourced products. Our hosts and local guides will help travelers engage with nature responsibly, ensuring a positive environmental impact. They will provide briefings on sustainable practices, such as using refillable bottles and daypacks instead of plastic bags, to minimize waste, as well as following local guidelines for waste disposal.

During the trip, travelers will visit Normandy’s lush countryside, including cheese factories and cider estates, where they will learn about artisanal, locally produced foods and sustainable farming and production practices. These visits highlight the careful stewardship of natural resources, such as water and soil conservation, and demonstrate how seasonal and local ingredients contribute to lower environmental impact.

We have chosen a château that, until 2009, supported an association dedicated to helping adolescents reintegrate into the community. Today, the château incorporates sustainability into its operations, following global responsibility protocols, including efficient water and energy management, waste reduction, and recycling efforts.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Throughout the trip, we collaborate with local businesses and partners to stimulate the local economy. Our goal is to promote a deeper appreciation for French culture while supporting the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. We prioritize hiring local tour leaders and guides, working with regional transportation services, and dining at locally-owned restaurants, ensuring that our spending directly benefits the community. Additionally, we visit artisan cheese factories, a cider estate, and a historic distillery, participating in hands-on workshops that highlight local production methods and contribute to the livelihood of small, family-owned enterprises.

Throughout our trips and day excursions, we encourage travelers to embrace the local way of life and engage meaningfully with the community. All activities are designed to take place in charming villages, towns, and family-run businesses, providing ample opportunities for authentic connections with local residents. We stay near a small village that remains largely unaffected by tourism, offering a truly immersive experience in regional culture.

While mass tourism has expanded travel opportunities, it can overwhelm popular destinations. To address this, we've chosen a more off-the-beaten-path location in France, allowing travelers to discover the country’s rich heritage without adding to the overcrowding in cities like Paris. This approach promotes sustainable tourism and helps preserve the unique charm of lesser-known regions.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

We ensure that all guides and vendors are paid fair wages and work in excellent conditions. To recognize outstanding service, we also offer bonuses to those who go above and beyond.

This trip, like all of our tours, is LGBTQIA+ friendly. We require that all travelers show acceptance and respect toward everyone. This commitment is strictly enforced through our booking process and participation agreement.