Background and goals
O Viso Ecovillage is the first rural tourism village 100% vegan in Galicia in the North of Spain. It is located in a large natural area of twelve hectares making it an ideal place to relax, to disconnect and enjoy the nature. But also, a place to change and help the planet and the animals.
The village was abandoned 30 years ago and it is estimated that all the buildings in traditional Galician architecture are about 200 years old. The rehabilitation started in 2018 and is based on the premise of ecological sustainability, with respect for traditional materials such as stone, wood or slate.
O Viso Ecovillage, consists of several traditional buildings and has eleven apartments and five bedrooms, common areas such as social lounges, pool area, and activities; as well as a vegan restaurant in which healthy and tasty plant-based cuisine is offered, valuing organic farming and local ingredients.
The concept is to offer a wonderful experience and seed for change in a 100% vegan village (from the materials used, to the decoration and the food offered), promote and spread veganism and expose people to an idyllic environment and organic vegan recipes.
Learning together
What were the biggest difficulties in implementing the project and how did you deal with them?
A lot of paperwork and permits; it helped coordinating thoroughly the project step by step
Which support is (or has been) essential for the success of the project?
Support from the project team and constant moral support from the vegan community
What would you do differently if you had to start all over again?
No substantial changes
In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle in promoting a plant-based diet in your country and across Europe?
Resistance to change in people’s mentality
How could scientific researchers support your cause? Which questions have not yet been answered?
Scientific researchers can help the cause bringing more evidence of benefits of a plant-based diet
Which scientific or political funding possibility would help your project?
Already received some funding for rural development
How can political figures/bodies support your project on a local, national or EU-wide level?
Making more exposure and visibility
Contact
Organization: O Viso Ecovillage
Name of contact person: Pascale Hardy
Website: https://ovisoecovillage.com/en/home/
Address: Lugar O Viso, 27865 OUROL, SPAIN
E-mail: info(at)ovisoecovillage.com
Phone: +34 682614714