Nature
A climate-neutral stay among butterflies, bees and our own picking garden on Ameland
CO₂-neutral & renewable energy
Since 2021 you can stay climate-neutral at De Vlindertuin. There are more than 100 solar panels on the roofs. These panels generate more than 35,000 kWh of green electricity per year, which covers our annual consumption. On top of that, we avoid 18,500 kg of CO₂ emissions per year. For hot water and heating of the buildings, 13 solar thermal collectors have been installed, heating two heat buffers with a combined capacity of 2,500 litres. The remaining heat demand, on cold cloudy days, is met with forest-compensated gas. For our guests there are two charging points for electric cars and sockets for e-bikes.
To reduce energy consumption further, parts of the building are being fitted with new cladding, window frames and doors made from recycled plastics. This means no trees need to be cut down for them and the use of new raw materials stays limited.
Green roofs & bee hotels
We are gradually installing green roofs on our flat roofs. This saves energy, as a green roof provides good insulation in both winter and summer. It improves biodiversity: these so-called sedum roofs offer space for rare insect species and provide food for bees and butterflies with their nectar and pollen. And on top of that, it looks beautiful!
The biggest threat to wild bees is a lack of food and nesting sites. With our bee hotels we offer extra nesting sites quickly and easily. In the hollow bamboo stems, the pine cones and the wooden blocks with holes, wild bees and pollinating insects can shelter, nest and overwinter.
Sauna & relaxation
Besides investing in our planet, your holiday should also be good for your wellbeing. In the inner garden there is a six-person sauna for shared use and a two-person infrared cabin. Swimwear is required. There are lounge chairs and a refreshing outdoor shower.
Gardening: vegetables, fruit & picking garden
De Vlindertuin has a spacious inner garden with lots of planting, suited to the island's ecology and, of course, butterfly-friendly. During your stay you can get busy in the vegetable and fruit garden. You are welcome to use the garden tools provided and enjoy some relaxed gardening. At the end of the day you literally reap the fruits yourself: mint, redcurrants, strawberries and eating apples make your holiday a healthy experience. Feel free to pick thyme, parsley and coriander for your BBQ evening on the shared terrace.
There is also a picking garden. Green fingers? Get stuck in to your heart's content in the vegetable and fruit garden: the garden tools are ready for you, and at the end of the day you pick the fruits yourself.
Pet- & child-friendly
De Vlindertuin is pet- and child-friendly. There is new play equipment made from sustainable materials, and plenty of outdoor toys.
Swap & share cupboards
Our swap and share cupboards encourage the exchange of belongings and are handy too: you don't have to bring everything to your holiday address. There is an extensive book swap and lending cupboard with books for young and old. Bad weather or time for a family game? In the lending cupboard you will find all kinds of games for indoor and outdoor fun. There is also a cupboard with practical items to borrow, such as umbrellas and a children's bath.
Linen included
Bed, bath and kitchen linen is always included with us. That way you need to bring less, and you don't necessarily have to take the car to the island.
