In Lamothe-Fénelon, Dordogne, La Clairière campsite has offered an eco-conscious option for travelers since its opening four years ago. Founded by Aurore and her husband as part of a professional career change, the site was designed from the beginning with environmental considerations in mind.
The founders integrated several ecological practices to reduce the campsite’s environmental impact. On-site measures include waste sorting, composting, and the use of eco-labeled products.
According to Aurore, composting alone reduces waste volume by approximately 30 percent. The campsite also maintains a car-free policy, keeping vehicles outside the premises to limit noise, visual pollution, and emissions associated with motorized travel.
La Clairière also implements strategies to support biodiversity. The property employs eco-grazing with donkeys to manage vegetation, and late mowing practices are used to preserve local flora and fauna. Nature-based activities are offered to visitors, aiming to raise awareness of the surrounding environment.
Aurore noted that the environmental focus is increasingly influencing guests’ decisions. “Many holidaymakers choose camping precisely for its ecological commitment and are happy to participate in everyday activities: sorting waste, composting, or using ecological facilities,” she told ICI.
Some visitors come from nearby regions such as the Dordogne or the Lot, reducing the carbon footprint of their travel. The campsite also encourages carpooling for tourists who visit local attractions.
For outdoor hospitality professionals, La Clairière demonstrates the potential benefits of combining environmental responsibility with guest experience.
By incorporating ecological operations into the design and management of a campsite, operators can attract environmentally conscious travelers while also reducing operational impact on the surrounding landscape.
This model reflects a growing trend in eco-tourism, where sustainability can become a distinctive value proposition for small and mid-sized campsites and glamping resorts.
La Clairière’s approach may provide insights for campsite owners and operators considering eco-friendly practices, particularly in regions where guests value nature-focused experiences.