Buried in the heart of the Landes Forest, on the edge of the Atlantic, in Hossegor (France), The Natural Surf Lodge remains unaffected by the haze of pollution...

Written by: Lauren Konrad (France Correspondent) 

April 25th 2008 

In a world that chooses to play in the great indoors, riding elevators and taking turns in revolving doors of high-rises, has become inescapable activities. The cement playgrounds in which we live, our city lives; have created thick clouds of pollution that have blinded many from seeing the importance of working to sustain a natural and healthy environment. However, buried in the heart of the Landes Forest on the edge of the Atlantic in Hossegor, France, The Natural Surf Lodge remains unaffected by this infectious haze.

Built in 2004, by Claire and Stéphane Becret, this eco-friendly lodge and surf camp is truly committed to its natural environment. Having the ocean and surf as their primary influences, the couple created a setting that allows its visitors to feel at one with nature by simply participating in every-day activities to help minimize over-consumption and reduce waste. Their "back to basic" mentality is reflected in every inch of the hand-built architecture and creative décor using strictly natural and local materials.   

Self-sufficiency is encouraged in each aspect of the lodge setup. All water used to shower and maintain the Spa Therapy Pool is heated by solar panels and a geothermic water system. After the preparation of meals in the communal kitchen and lounge area, lodgers are expected to recycle all paper, plastic and glass and participate in the composting fruits, vegetables and natural products to help enrich the land.

For Claire "Surf is an open air activity that demands that you respect yourself and your natural environment.  Surfing offers more than just physical activity, it teaches humility regarding the elements and encourages one to discover, share and preserve all parts of the world.  The ocean is your Nature".

The simplistic ways of the lodge give new meaning to the word vacation. The peaceful setting allows one to experience the perfect balance of surf and nature.  Packages include transportation, morning and afternoon surf lessons given by the certified couple and full use of the facilities which also include a private skate park, billiards, hamman steamer, spa therapy pool, trampoline, tree house and video games room.   

For Stephane and Claire, working to keep our world green is not only a choice, but a lifestyle. "C'est le bon vie!" For some simple every-day tips on how to become an active eco-friend please visit www.ecoloinfo.com. To check out more details about the lodge or to book your surfing experience go to www.naturalsurflodge.com.