SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY AT CASAS DO RIO SADO
With a strong commitment to authenticity, Casas do Rio Sado promotes tourism that respects the region and ensures a genuine experience
We have remodelled the rural houses existing on the estate since 1955 using traditional construction techniques and local labour. Only the swimming pool area, including the events hall and reception, were built from scratch.
Furthermore, the décor includes artifacts from the farm and craft pieces bought from local artisans to help guests learn about the local culture.
Solar panels are used for heating hot water and Casas do Rio Sado is self-sufficient in terms of drinking and irrigation water. Additionally, we have photovoltaic panels that provide about one-quarter of the electrical energy consumed on the estate.
Regarding lighting, the west-facing courtyards, the pool area, and the parking lot are mainly illuminated by solar lamps and in interior spaces we use LED bulbs that waste less energy than other styles of lighting. Furthermore, we have selected warm-coloured, low-intensity bulbs to respect the circadian rhythm of people and animals and facilitate stargazing.
Whenever possible, our breakfast includes fresh fruit from our farm, Alentejo bread from a local bakery and organic foods (upon request).
Most of our staff is from the area, and we kindly ask our guests to reuse towels and dispose waste separately in the recycling containers.
We are committed to preserving the scenic beauty and biodiversity of the property and take pride in being a “non-hunting reserve.”
To reduce our carbon footprint, we have been reforesting with native trees, with approximately 7,500 cork oaks already planted, covering around 20 hectares of the property.
CERTIFICATION
As of 2019, Casas do Rio Sado was granted the NATURAL.PT Certification