How the Rural Holiday Home Marija became a synonym for sustainable holidays in Podravina

The owners of the Rural Holiday Home Marija decided to renovate a family-run property with a clear vision: to create a space that would preserve tradition but also offer something new in the Podravina region. This vision was their foundation for creating accommodation that, in addition to vacation, also provides an experience that connects guests with nature, local culture, and a sustainable lifestyle. Through carefully designed details and a commitment to environmental preservation, the hosts have transformed old walls into a warm and inspiring story.

When decorating the accommodation, they placed special emphasis on the use of natural and recycled materials. Old oak beams that were part of the family heritage became the basis of the new design. Their goal was to use as much of the old wood they already had as possible. For example, the terrace is made of a combination of oak lumber and old bricks known as "single bricks". In this way, they recycled old materials and created a functional, aesthetically pleasing space.

We must mention the most interesting detail: the tables made from the remains of beams and boards that have retained their natural shape and all their imperfections. “The imperfections of the wood actually tell a story about its history, giving the space an authentic feel,” they explain. Such details show how old can be transformed into new and how tradition can retain its place in contemporary design.

To reduce energy consumption, they relied on natural resources and smart solutions. The house is well insulated, which significantly reduces the need for heating and cooling, where the summer heat is mitigated by the forest surrounding the accommodation, creating natural shade and freshness. Their goal has always been to use natural resources to create a pleasant and sustainable atmosphere for guests. However, sustainability in this house does not stop at the walls.

One of the key aspects of the sustainability of this accommodation is the use of collected rainwater. The property grows various fruits such as blueberries, pears, and currants, which require regular watering in the summer. In addition, the flower beds and potted plants that adorn the accommodation are watered with rainwater. This year, in addition to flowers, the owners can also boast of growing various types of pumpkins and vegetables, where rainwater allows them to reduce their water consumption from the water supply and at the same time support the healthy growth of their plants.

The orchard, which extends over two hectares, is their true pride. During the season, fresh fruit such as apples, pears, and berries are included in welcome baskets for each guest. In winter, when fresh fruit is not available, the hosts offer natural juices that they produce themselves. Their juices have no added sugar, colors, or preservatives, and are the pure taste of nature. Apples, aronia, and raspberries are combined to create flavors that satisfy even the most demanding palate.

One of the most fascinating stories from the estate is the way the hosts approach agriculture. Nothing goes to waste here. First-class fruit is sold as a consumer product, while the less-than-perfect is used to make juices and jams. The goal is to close the circle, that is, to use everything available, without throwing it away. This approach, in addition to being sustainable, also contributes to the creation of quality local products.

The owners are also pleased to hear that many guests ask about their waste separation practices when booking. The property separates waste into three recycling bins, and there is also a composting facility. In addition, guests are informed about using large packaging of shampoos, conditioners, soaps, and other products to reduce the amount of plastic waste. The owners are enthusiastic about educating guests about environmental protection and the importance of cultural heritage, because small changes can have a big impact, and their guests appreciate that.

Of course, sustainability comes with challenges. One of the biggest is further reducing the amount of waste, where there is always room for improvement, which leads to thinking about how to further optimize practices and encourage guests to behave sustainably during their stay.

Plans also include the installation of a solar outdoor shower that would use solar energy to heat water and an increase in rainwater tanks. Innovations like these are part of their vision for an even greener and more sustainable property in the future, which will further reduce the accommodation's impact on the environment and give guests even more reasons to return.

The Rural Holiday Home Marija is proof that sustainability does not necessarily mean sacrifice, but creativity and adaptation, where small but significant steps create a better tomorrow. Guests who stay here do not come just to relax, but to feel a connection with nature, learn something new, and enjoy authentic flavors and stories.