Enjoy the good life (From Free Press Series)

Enjoy the good life

Are you a 'good' visitor - one of a growing and significant number of 'conscience consumers' who choose goods and services for their environmental, political or ethical credentials?

If so, you can now you can go on line to find places to stay in the beautiful, unspoilt Wye Valley and Vale of Usk that have received the green stamp of approval.

Monmouthshire tourism businesses are at the forefront of a green revolution, with more gaining environmental accreditation in the county than in other parts of Wales. Now these businesses are featured on the first website in the Principality dedicated to promoting environmentally responsible accommodation.

Developed by adventa, Monmouthshire's LEADER + rural development programme, the website can be found at www.greenbeds.adventa.org.uk. It includes a wide choice of accommodation, from country house hotels to farm B&Bs and caravan and camping sites.

All have achieved Level 2 of the Green Dragon Environmental Standard, a stepped environmental management system administered by Arena Network.

Wherever you see the logo, you can be sure that the business is environmentally responsible and committed to supporting the local economy and culture.

Visit the website now and enter a prize draw, with the chance to win a luxury Gastro weekend at this year's prestigious Abergavenny Food Festival.

Book accommodation to the value of £25 through the website before the end of September and you will also qualify for a £5 voucher, redeemable against any purchase of a locally made item in participating Made in Monmouthshire outlets.

These include a choice of arts and crafts outlets throughout the county where visitors can buy a wide range of high-quality items including beautiful ceramics, exquisite textiles, contemporary jewellery, paintings, woodcarvings and locally produced wine and food.

Pick up a list of participating outlets from any Tourist Information Centre in Monmouthshire or phone adventa on 01873 736035.

All outlets are signed up to an initiative, spearheaded by adventa, which promotes items that are made locally from sustainable materials in an environmentally responsible way.

So for a unique memento of your visit or a truly memorable gift, why not 'buy local', knowing you are supporting the rural economy and protecting a very special environment.