A Guide to Sustainable Hospitality: Our Commitment to a Greener Frigiliana

Introduction: Our Love for This Place

Sustainability at AMARA isn't just a policy; it's a heartfelt expression of our love and respect for the unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community of Frigiliana. It’s about ensuring the magic of this place—the glow of whitewashed walls in the Andalusian sun, the scent of jasmine in the alleys, the breathtaking views of the Sierra de Almijara and the azure Mediterranean—endures for generations to come.

Our commitment is to offer more than just accommodation; we aim to provide a space that exists in harmony with its surroundings. The sustainability efforts detailed below are woven into a holistic approach that enriches your experience. A stay with us isn't about sacrifice; it's about a deeper, more authentic connection to Andalusia. We invite you to be not just a tourist, but a temporary guardian of this beautiful corner of the world.

Section 1: Conscious Comfort: Sustainability Inside Your Apartment

We believe that true luxury is thoughtful. Every detail in our apartments has been chosen to enhance your comfort and well-being while minimizing our environmental impact.

The Power of the Andalusian Sun: Our Energy Strategy

Harnessing the power of Andalusia's most abundant resource is the cornerstone of our energy plan.

• Solar Hot Water: We use solar thermal panels to heat your water, powered directly by the sun.
• 100% Renewable Electricity: We have switched to a certified green electricity provider, ensuring that all power used in the apartments comes from renewable sources.

  
  

• Energy-Efficient Lighting: All our lighting has been converted to low-energy LEDs, which use up to 90% less electricity and last much longer, creating less waste. Dimmers in key areas allow you to create the perfect ambiance while saving even more energy.

  
  

• High-Efficiency Appliances: From the refrigerator to the dishwasher and washing machine, all our appliances are rated A+++, the highest class for energy efficiency.

  
  

• Smart Climate Control: Smart thermostats allow us to efficiently pre-cool or pre-heat your apartment, ensuring your comfort upon arrival without wasting energy. High-quality insulated windows and traditional shutters help maintain a comfortable temperature naturally.

  
  

Every Drop Counts: Responsible Water Use

Water is a precious resource in Andalusia, and we treat it as such. Every water-saving measure is a direct response to the region's ongoing drought.

• Water-Saving Fixtures: We've installed aerators on all taps, which reduce water flow by up to 60% without sacrificing pressure. Our low-flow showerheads provide an invigorating shower while using significantly less water.

  
  

• Dual-Flush Toilets: Our toilets feature a dual-flush system, allowing you to use less water when appropriate.

  
  

• Proactive Maintenance: We have a strict maintenance schedule to fix any drips or leaks immediately. A single dripping tap can waste thousands of litres of water per year.

• Rainwater Harvesting: We collect rainwater to irrigate our plants, creating a small-scale circular water system.

  
  

Minimising Our Footprint: Waste Reduction & Conscious Consumption

Our goal is to make reducing waste simple and intuitive for our guests.

• Easy Recycling: We provide a clearly labelled, multi-bin system for paper, plastic/metal, and glass. A simple guide in your guestbook explains how it works.

  
  

• Fighting Single-Use Plastic: You won't find tiny plastic bottles here. We provide high-quality, refillable dispensers with locally sourced, biodegradable toiletries.

  
  

• Capsule-Free Coffee: Enjoy a delicious coffee from a classic French press or Moka pot, avoiding the waste of single-use coffee pods.

  
  

• Sustainable Shopping: We provide reusable shopping bags and traditional baskets for your trips to the local market, helping you shop like a local and avoid plastic bags.

  
  

• Thoughtful Furnishings: Our apartments are furnished with high-quality, durable pieces, many sourced from local artisans or lovingly upcycled. Our linens and towels are made from organic cotton for a healthier, chemical-free experience.

  
  

Section 2: Rooted in Andalusia: Protecting Our Precious Environment

Our sustainability efforts are deeply connected to the local context. Here’s why these actions matter so much in Frigiliana.

The Gift of Water: Responding to Regional Drought

Andalusia is facing a severe, multi-year drought. Reservoirs are at critically low levels, and many communities have water restrictions. It's a known fact that tourists, on average, use significantly more water than local residents.

This reality is the driving force behind our water conservation measures. That efficient showerhead isn't just an eco-friendly feature; it's an active contribution to safeguarding the water supply for local farms, communities, and nature. By staying with us, you become a partner in this crucial effort.

Guardians of the Sierra: A Tribute to Our Natural Park

Frigiliana is nestled at the edge of the magnificent Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, a protected area of immense natural and historical importance. Its landscape is defined by dramatic dolomitic marble mountains, deep ravines, and the iconic Iberian ibex (mountain goat), which has one of its most significant populations in Spain right here.

Our practices are directly linked to protecting this natural jewel. Using biodegradable cleaning products prevents harmful chemicals from entering the park's waterways. Promoting responsible hiking helps preserve its fragile ecosystems. Every drop of water saved in the shower is a drop that remains for the wildlife of the Sierra.

Section 3: Experience the Authentic Axarquía: Supporting Our Local Community

Sustainability is also about people. We are passionate about supporting the local economy and preserving the traditions that make this region so special.

The Taste of the Region: A Guide to Local & Organic Products

The Axarquía region is a treasure trove of agricultural delights. We encourage you to discover them and provide a curated guide to the best local producers.

• Olive Oil: Discover the local "liquid gold" from Verdial and Hojiblanca olives, sourced directly from cooperatives in nearby Periana or Cómpeta.

  
  

• Wine: Taste the region's famous sweet Moscatel wine at a family-run bodega in Cómpeta or Sayalonga.

  
  

• Honey: Don't miss the unique "Miel de Caña" (sugarcane honey) made right here in Frigiliana—the last of its kind in Europe.

  
  

• Local Markets: We provide a guide to the vibrant weekly markets where you can buy the freshest produce, practice your Spanish, and immerse yourself in local life.

Day of the Week	Market Location	Specialties & Atmosphere
Monday	Torrox Costa	A seafront market perfect for fresh produce and daily goods.
Tuesday	Nerja	A large, lively market with clothes, shoes, local produce, and bargains.
Thursday	Frigiliana	In the heart of the village, offering local goat cheese, herbs, and artisan crafts.
Saturday	Cómpeta	A mountain village market with artisan goods and stunning views.
Sunday	Nerja (Rastrillo)	A flea market for second-hand treasures and antiques. Arrive early!.

Section 4: Partners in Preservation: How You Can Join Our Journey

We invite you to be a part of our sustainability story. Your small actions can make a big difference, and we've made it easy to participate in a way that is empowering, not demanding.

Your Guide to a Greener Stay

In your digital guestbook, you'll find friendly, positive guidance:

• Recycling: A simple visual guide explains our easy-to-use recycling system.

  
  

• Mindful Consumption: Simple reminders like "Please turn off lights and A/C when you leave" help us conserve precious energy.

  
  

Explore with a Light Footprint

We offer a curated list of low-impact activities to help you discover the area responsibly:

• Hiking: We provide information on marked trails in the Natural Park for all fitness levels.
• Local Exploration: We encourage you to explore Frigiliana's historic Mudéjar quarter on foot.
• Sustainable Transport: We provide up-to-date information on local bus services to Nerja and Málaga, making it easy to leave the car behind.

  
  

Conclusion: A Greener Stay, a Richer Memory

Choosing to stay with us is a choice for a different kind of travel—one that is deeply connected to the place, its community, and its environment. It is an investment in preserving the beauty of Frigiliana and an opportunity for a more authentic and unforgettable Andalusian experience. We warmly invite you to join us on this journey.