Eco-Hotel Experience

After a nice weekend in sunny California it was time for a quick drive north via I-5 back to Oregon. On previous trips up and down the mega-lane Canada to Mexico expressway, I had passed signs for the Gaia Hotel. As a growing eco-phile, my curiosity was peaked. Unfortunately the timing hadn’t made for an overnight, until now. I have to say the experience met my expectations. We relaxed with a nicely satisfying late dinner at the Woodside Grill, which is on the hotel property. My sense was good portions, reasonable prices, organic ingredients, and tasty dishes could be found throughout the menu. The wine list… they need to talk to the ConsciousWine Guy!

I liked the hotel’s amenities and available info regarding what an eco-hotel is.

Some things I noticed and appreciated:

• low-flow toilets
• solar light tube from the roof to capture daylight
• sensible landscaping choices for a seriously low water environment
• recycled grey water for landscaping
• no sign of styrofoam
• saline pool that’s solar heated

This hotel seems to be showing what’s possible with attention to environmental sustainability. Even though there’s areas for improvement, it made for a great nights sleep.

There’s one of these in Napa, even though I have not experienced it yet for myself. But, if you make it to the Gaia Hotel Napa, please let us know your story!