Away from the bustle of mass tourism and nestled on the edges of Spain’s enchanting Costa Blanca mountains lies one of Europe’s hidden gems: Refugio Marnes.
This rural house and eco-friendly guest farm, founded more than two decades ago by Dutchmen Richard Steenberghe and Willem Bevers, is not just an accommodation but a holistic lifestyle experience—one that preserves nature, celebrates tranquility, and embodies the very essence of sustainability.
From Vision to Reality
In an exclusive conversation, the hosts reveal how their vision came to life. Richard explains: “When we moved from the Netherlands to Spain 25 years ago, our dream was simple: to create a place that restores people’s connection to peace and nature,” as quoted by Ecobnb.
After years of dedicated work and careful restoration using local materials, Refugio Marnes officially opened its doors in 2002, becoming an ideal destination for travelers seeking serenity and harmony with the environment.
Hospitality in the Spirit of Nature
The retreat is distinguished by a unique blend of hospitality and environmental care. Richard, who comes from a background in food technology and hospitality, excels in preparing vegetarian meals using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients.
Meanwhile, Willem leads the sustainability efforts, emphasizing: “We generate our energy from the sun, manage water resources responsibly, and encourage guests to live mindfully during their stay.”
Authentic Environmental Activities
The uniqueness of Refugio Marnes goes beyond accommodation, extending to a variety of eco-friendly activities. Guests can enjoy hiking in the Sierra de Bernia, cycling through mountain and coastal trails, or visiting local markets and artisan villages.
A Green Travel Experience
What sets this retreat apart is that it goes beyond the traditional idea of hosting, offering instead a philosophy of living. Guests may initially arrive in search of comfort, but they leave enriched with inspiring experiences and meaningful memories. They are drawn to the slower rhythm of life, the beauty of small, intimate details, and the connections created through shared meals and communal activities.
A Call for Reflection and Sustainability
In an era where life moves at a relentless pace, Refugio Marnes offers a gentle invitation to pause and live in harmony with the earth. It is more than a guesthouse; it is a miniature school that redefines tourism through environmental and human values—where travel becomes a path to awareness, and tranquility a form of resistance in a turbulent world.
Alongside accommodation and ecological activities, Refugio Marnes provides indirect educational opportunities, recognized as a model of sustainable learning. Visitors—whether families, individuals, or even university groups—gain hands-on knowledge of natural resource management, such as how to use solar energy efficiently or recycle water responsibly. This educational dimension has made the green haven a preferred destination for sustainability enthusiasts and students seeking real-life examples of ecological architecture.
Moreover, its geographic location adds significant value, offering visitors the chance to combine the breathtaking mountain landscapes with the nearby Costa Blanca coastline. In this way, Refugio Marnes becomes a bridge—linking personal enjoyment with environmental awareness, and comfort with a commitment to a more sustainable future.
