Our approach in the Cévennes
Whoever discovers the Cévennes quickly notices the strong bond between the local people, their land and the surrounding nature.
For centuries, life here has been demanding: steep mountain slopes, strong erosion and very little water. To be able to farm these hillsides, generations of farmers built dry-stone terraces, called “bancels” or “faïsses”.
Everything was done by hand, as mechanisation is almost impossible in this rugged landscape. Water and energy were naturally used with great care.
This history has shaped frugal, proud and hard-working inhabitants who are keenly aware of the fragile nature that surrounds them.
The Daumet family at Mas Cauvy comes from a farming background and from villages around Saint-Jean-du-Gard. From generation to generation, we have learnt to respect the environment and to use natural resources sparingly – long before the word “eco-friendly” became popular.
At the same time, we believe it is important to keep improving what we do. That is why we are structuring our approach, recording our actions and measuring our progress step by step.
We are supported in this by ADEME (the French Agency for Ecological Transition) and Cévennes Tourisme, the tourist office of the Alès Agglomération.
We have consciously chosen a path of sustainable tourism, and we invite you to join us in your own way during your stay.
Eco-label & action plan
The Cévennes tourist board has created a sustainable tourism label.
The aim of this label is to promote ways of travelling that respect the environment and the values of the Cévennes National Park.
After a thorough audit, the committee awarded Mas Cauvy the level “eco-motivated” – a great recognition for the steps we have already taken.
Our main objectives:
- Limit the impact of tourism activities on the environment through simple, concrete actions.
- Encourage a more environmentally responsible way of going on holiday.
- Offer accommodation for guests who consciously choose eco-friendly habits.
- Gradually reduce our energy and water consumption.
Concrete actions on the campsite
- Selective waste sorting, with food scraps going to our chickens.
- Low-energy light bulbs and outdoor lighting with motion sensors.
- Water-saving systems (flow reducers on taps and showers, dual-flush toilets, insulated pipes).
- Collection of rainwater for irrigation.
- Bed and bath linen with the Oeko-Tex label.
- Wastewater treatment using plants (phyto-purification system).
- Use of recycled toilet paper.
- Preference for digital communication instead of printed brochures.
- Planting of local, drought-resistant species.
- Actions to protect biodiversity on and around the campsite.
- Preservation and enhancement of local heritage.
- Switching to recycled paper for our printed material.
- Increasing use of eco-friendly cleaning products.
- Use of a night cover on the swimming pool to keep the water warm and reduce evaporation.
- Investment in more efficient, energy-saving washing machines.
- Renovation and better insulation of the reception building roof.
- Creation of a shaded, planted pergola as a natural source of coolness.
- On-site composting of organic waste.
- Installation of insulated French doors for the guest rooms.
- Homemade jams prepared with fruit from our garden.
- Official LPO refuge (French Bird Protection League).
Ongoing projects
- Improving the management of recyclable waste, in line with the new instructions from the Agglomération (paper/cardboard containers).
- Carrying out a feasibility study for solar thermal energy.
- Continuing roof renovation with additional insulation.
- Making our eco-actions more visible on the campsite and in our communication.
- Highlighting short supply chains and local producers even more.
How can you help?
You can also support this sustainable approach with a few simple gestures:
On site:
- Use water sparingly.
- Close doors, windows and shutters during the day to keep the heat out.
- Do not leave fans or lights on unnecessarily when you are away.
- Sort your waste using the containers available on the campsite.
- Do not throw sanitary towels, cotton pads or wipes in the toilet.
During your outings:
- Do not leave any litter in nature.
- Avoid loud music in quiet natural areas.
- Respect wildlife and their habitats.
- Take the time to observe and appreciate the natural environment around you.
- By the river: if you build a small dam with pebbles, remember to remove it before you leave so fish can move freely.
- Favour local and artisanal products.
- Use a reusable water bottle instead of multiple plastic bottles.
Sustainable mobility & local products
Try out sustainable ways of getting around:
- Bus line 60 St-Christol-lez-Alès ⇔ Alès (“Mas Cauvy” stop, 600 m from the campsite).
- The Navette des Gardons shuttle in the summer season.
- Shuttle, bus or carpool with Ales’Y.
- Regional trains and buses with SNCF liO.
- Bike rental options in the area.
- Shuttles for the Stevenson Trail, and more.
Our partners
- The Gard Chamber of Commerce, which helped us carry out a full environmental diagnosis and draw up our action plan.
- ADEME and France Relance, which enabled us to finance the necessary investments.
- Cévennes Tourisme (our local tourist office), thanks to their personalised support focused on 100% sustainable tourism.
Want to know more about Mas Cauvy and the Cévennes?
Find out how to reach us, what to see and do nearby, and feel free to ask any questions about our eco-friendly approach.
👉 Practical info: how to get to Camping Mas Cauvy
👉 Discover the Cévennes around Mas Cauvy
👉 Contact us with any questions about our eco approach
