Sustainability at the Nordic Refuge

Nordic Refuge, accommodation, hotel in Dalsland Sweden, sustainable accommodation, eco tourism

Having conceived and running the B&B ourselves, we always have sustainability in mind.

At Nordic Refuge, sustainability is not an add-on — it’s part of how we live and host. We believe that travelling with care deepens connection: to place, to community, and to yourself. Here in Dalsland, where forests, lakes and quiet horizons shape everyday life, we strive to make choices that honour the land and the people who live here.

products

Nordic Refuge, accommodation, hotel in Dalsland Sweden, breakfast

using organic and mostly local high quality products.

people

Nordic Refuge, accommodation, hotel in Dalsland Sweden

respecting and working with people working locally.

territory

Nordic Refuge, accommodation, hotel in Dalsland Sweden

being part of the local network, respecting the environment, promoting local partners and fossil free activities.


Thoughtful Hospitality, Local by Design

We prioritise locally sourced and organic products wherever possible, from breads and preserves to coffee and seasonal produce. Supporting local growers and producers not only reduces food miles but also strengthens the small businesses that make life in West Sweden special.

 

Energy and Resources

Living sustainably means paying attention to the everyday choices that add up. At the Nordic Refuge, we manage energy and water with care — choosing efficient systems and mindful use — and encourage guests to join us in small but meaningful habits.

 

Respect for Nature

The quiet beauty of Dalsland is at the heart of the Nordic Refuge — and protecting it is central to everything we do. We encourage gentle exploration: walking, cycling, paddling, swimming and simply sitting by the water. We avoid unnecessary disturbance to habitats, keep waste minimal, and work with local partners who share our respect for this landscape.

 

Community and Collaboration

Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s also about relationships. We enjoy connecting with local producers, makers and guides, and we love introducing our guests to the cafés, farms and workshops that make this region unique. Responsible travel, for us, means mutual respect: for place, for people, and for the rhythms that make Dalsland home.

 

Small Actions, Lasting Meaning

We don’t measure sustainability in certificates or badges — we measure it in daily choices. If sustainability matters to you, we hope the Nordic Refuge feels like a refuge — calm, considerate, and thoughtfully connected to the place you’ve come to explore.

Here are a some concrete actions to be more sustainable:

 

- we serve organic breakfast with locally sourced products (Brukets Godaste bakery, Hansen coffee roastery,  Evenstorp Gård jam producer, Fröbacken for the eggs...), bought in bulk to avoid packaging.

 

- we propose skincare products from L:a Bruket, organic and made in West Sweden.

 

- we use eco-friendly detergents only (Svanenmärket, the Nordic eco-label).

 

- the sheets and towels are made of organic cotton (GOTS certified) and the laundry service has a high commitment in sustainability (fossil free delivery, ecological detergent, multiple eco-label, Svanenmärken).

 

- 95% of the furnitures of the rooms are second hands. The new furnitures (beds mostly) are made in Sweden.

 

- we are part of the local network to promote local and sustainable employment.

 

- we promote the local nature reserves.

 

- we promote low emission activities (cycling, hiking, canoeing).

 

- the garden is managed in such a way as to promote bio-diversity.

 

- the house is heated with locally sourced pellets (sawmill residue).

 

- during the renovation, materials have been reused when possible. New materials (like flooring) are mostly FSC certified and  made in Sweden.

We are part of Hållbarhetsklivet initiative for a more sustainable tourism in West Sweden


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All pictures: © Struzik François except those mentioned.