Let’s meet Séréna FORTIN, owner of 2 “Labels Manche” (formerly Gîtes de France) 3 épis gîtes in Beauchamps le studio des Philautins and the écogîte “le Domaine des Philautins”.
Domaine des PhilautinsDomaine des Philautins|
Domaine des PhilautinsPresentation of the plant
We acquired his gîtes in 2017, the large one was already labelled ecogîte. To qualify for this label, you have to take into account the use of ecological materials right from the start of the construction or renovation of the building. As for the studio, it could not be awarded the label solely because the wood-burning stove could not be installed given the small surface area of the dwelling.
Examples of actions implemented
- For the building renovation: construction of a lime and hemp slab
- To protect the Beauchamps stone walls (local heritage): wood fiber insulation, fermacell partitions. The pellet stove as sole heating method, marmoleum flooring, use of natural paints, thermodynamic hot water tank are among the other sustainable actions put in place
- Energy: class A++ electrical appliances, LED light bulbs, solar outdoor lamps
- Selective sorting with installation of a composter
- Environmentally-friendly household products
- Water: wells (toilets + washing)
- Bicycles available to guests
- Educational mini-farm: rabbits, chickens, ducks, sheep of the “Avranchin” breed (preservation of local breeds), guests can even donate some leftovers (vegetable peelings…) to the animals
- Welcome basket in fine weather with vegetables and fruit from the kitchen garden
- Welcome booklet with reminder of sustainable commitments and display of ecogestures
- Project: installation of a charging station for electric cars
For me, it’s sharing with guests respect for the environment and passing on my values. I love spending time talking with them and I feel their need to exchange. And in return, the greatest gift is the loyalty of my customers, and sometimes I’ve even been surprised to receive a gift at the end of my stay.
I also like to give objects a second life, so I hunt for furniture, especially at flea markets, which I then restore to furnish my gîtes.
Testimony of Séréna Fortin (Owner)
Why did you get involved?
When I bought the gîte, its renovation was geared towards sustainability and corresponded to the label already in place. I wanted to improve and develop this offer. What’s more, I’ve always adhered to this philosophy of respect for the environment. Alongside running the gîtes, I manage a farm in conversion to organic farming.
Would you like to share?
Contact : Amandine Launay – Tél. : 06 40 67 26 74 – Email : a.launay@otgtm.fr
