Enjoy a Sustainable Vacation With These 6 Eco-Friendly Homes

Earth Day may have passed, but here at HomeExchange, we’re passionate about protecting our planet everyday. A few years ago, we made a list of some eco-friendly homes on HomeExchange, and this year we decided to continue that tradition. To play a part in making the world a better place, we’ve put together another list of eco-friendly homes for you to consider for your next green adventure.

Home in the heart of the French countryside in Normandy, France

Enjoy a getaway from the bustling city life and give this countryside home in Normandy. Spend your days gathering eggs from the two hens on the property and spend your evenings gazing up at the stars.

“A real moment of relaxation and happiness. Well located to crisscross the west of Normandy, it allows you to wake up to discover nature with a little air of the South thanks to the smell of lavender and rosemary by hearing the sound of sheep on one side and a rooster in the distance. We leave thinking that we would like to come back.” —Hélène

Unique eco-friendly home with garden in Thurgau, Switzerland

Enjoy modern comforts in this wooden house equipped with sun collectors and a rainwater collection system. This home is also outfitted with a large conservatory where guests can relax and eat berries and vegetables from the garden.

“What a great experience being in Marianne and Hubi's home. I felt like living inside a tree in the middle of a forest. Their winter garden is also awesome!” —Denise

Charming, unique cottage in Quebec, Canada

Relax in Marion’s home knowing that you’ve chosen an eco-friendly accommodation for your trip to Quebec! This home was made with materials such as lime, clay, straw, bricks recovered from a former brick factory and wood recycled from a century-old local barn.

“Marion's cottage is splendid! The interior is particularly beautiful, tastefully decorated and warm. Beautiful and very functional with everything needed. The outside is very nice also with the covered terrace and the fire. Finally, it is ideally located about thirty minutes from the lakes and Mont Orford. Very nice experience!” —Alain

Modern smart home in nature in Schoten, Belgium

Get back to nature without sacrificing modern comforts in this Belgian home near Antwerp. Sit back and relax as you enjoy this home’s view of the forest from every angle.

“Exceptional house in a very beautiful area! The house looks amazing in photos, but in reality it's even better! This was exactly what I needed to get out of the city and to be able to enjoy nature! I really enjoyed working from the balcony looking at the trees and on the veranda surrounded by plants. Squirrels also like the area around, and you see them from time to time.” —Vladi

Clay and wood passive home in Žiar, Slovakia

Spend your eco-friendly vacation in this sustainable home. Constructed with wood, clay, and stray, Peter’s home is not short of beautiful views of the mountains and fields surrounding the village. Animal lovers should also keep their eyes open for the cows, foxes, storks, deer, and falcons that have been spotted nearby.

“We have spent 5 nights in winter time in Ziar. The home and the landscape are beautiful. We can recommend this place for everyone who wants to see beautiful nature and a nice home. Thanks for everything.” —Gyorgy

Modern, yet subtly farm style villa in Stanford, South Africa

Travel to this home in South Africa and have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay near a big cat sanctuary. However, the opportunity to hear lions from the safety of your home is not the only unique feature: ​​The whole property is completely self-sufficient and equipped with solar power and natural spring water.

“This is a gem of a place for a peaceful retreat and commune with nature and wildlife. The house is well equipped and has breathtaking views and stunning flora and fauna and whilst it is quiet and off the beaten track you have the quaint little village of Stanford nearby with wineries and arty shops and also there’s a big cat park. Our hosts were very helpful and welcoming and ensured that we had a lovely stay.” —Judy and Bram

Don’t hesitate to book an exchange with any of the eco-friendly homes and take part in protecting our planet!