Inhabitat recently took a trip down to visit Ecoparque Uruguay; a sustainable conservation project located within around 100 acres of stunning unspoiled wilderness. It all began three years ago with the aim of becoming a rural hub for eco-tourism, as well as a space for non-profits that want to enjoy and help conserve the land. It is situated in the department of Canelones and is pretty isolated, even from the nearest village of Aguas Corrientes. But it is certainly comfortable, and the site is dotted with original buildings some of which already have access to solar heated water. Self sufficiency is at the core of the project, and a well designed vegetable plot makes full use of the organized space, with big plans afoot to ensure water is reused and energy use as efficient as possible.
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The not-for-profit side of the project is designed to demonstrate and experiment with organic gardening techniques, eco-wise construction, and energy collection from the sun, wind, and water. This is centred around the organic garden—an impressive stretch of land that, while being hard work, will provide food throughout most of the year. It could serve as a fantastic place to teach people about gardening and self sufficiency, and this, along with the hope of preserving the untouched landscape, is a primary objective.
The hospitality elements of the site are known as “Atalaya”, designed to manage the rental of the five houses on the property during the tourist season, and the “Clubhouse” (with a solar-heated swimming pool) for conferences and parties, all of which comes with access to activities such as boating, cycling, and hiking.
The Ecoparque’s wild landscapes lead down to the Santa Lucia river. This fortunately provides a stable water source for the fertile land, a diverse mix of eucalyptus groves, bamboo forest, and the wild fruits and mushrooms that spring up all over the land. As if that is not enough for anyone seeking some time out in the wilderness, there is even a natural butterfly reserve and sandy beaches lining the banks of the river.
For more information about the eco park take a look at the website.
+ Ecoparque Uruguay
Images via Ecoparque Uruguay and Helen Morgan
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