Serra de Estrela hotel, Portugal

Our Serra de Estrela hotel aims to contribute to the local economic development. This investment in a very poor region of Portugal was made giving preference to the local companies (from construction to the hotel equipment) whenever it was possible. The hotel employs people from the village and buys several agricultural products in the village. We give preference to the local producers of food, local markets and other shops. At the check-in, guests receive information about the nearby restaurants and also where to buy regional products and handicraft.

In the construction of the hotel, attention was given to the use of natural materials, namely granite, the use of biodegradable synthetic materials (paints and varnishes), the installation of systems conserving water (flux control taps; low water waste toilet), the installation of systems that avoid electricity waste (economic lamps, wall switch occupancy sensors), the use solar panels, systems for controlled garden irrigation and modern systems for thermal isolation of the building.

In the bathrooms there are warnings towards water consumption and the reuse of towels. Rubbish is separated for recycling (glass, plastics, metals, paper). In the garden, fertilizers and pesticides are not used. We have a close collaboration with the Center for Interpretation of Serra da Estrela. This collaboration is made at the personal level through our participation in the activities promoted by CISE, like exhibitions and workshops, and through advertisement of CISE in our website and to our guests at check-in. In the hotel the information concerning reservations, partnerships and advertising is electronically processed, thus avoiding the use of paper.

The hotel results from the recuperation of a building in ruins, respecting the architectural characteristics of the region, therefore adding value to the village patrimony. By employing three collaborators from the village for the reception, cleaning and kitchen, we combat desertification of the village (actually an important problem of the region). By bringing tourists to the village, we contributes to its dynamism and to the recognition of its natural value.

Through our Serra de Estrela hotel we actively contribute to the local festivities and cultural association, by supporting with donations. At the check-in, guests receive verbal and paper information (brochures) concerning the cultural and natural points of interest in the village and in the region. Our staff is from the village, therefore possesses good knowledge about the region’s culture. Furthermore, staff is actively trained to provide a high quality lodging service. We purchase many products in the village.