Banca dati dei progetti dei PSR
Smart Solution for Small Farm Diversification into Tourism
Summary
A small farmer in the village of Méréaucourt decided to diversify into tourism activities by joining the “A bed in the meadow” association.
Background
“A bed in the meadow” (Un Lit au Pré) is a unique concept in France which allows tourists to stay directly in the nature while at the same time learn and participate in farming activities. Since its kick-off in 2008 near the Regional Natural Park of Cotentin and later near Omaha Beach, the concept has extended its offer. Nowadays, there are five destinations located in small family farms selected on the basis of their location and involvement in environment protection and enhancement.
Objective
The main objective of the project was to diversify the farm business into tourism. Specific objective was to adapt the farm to be part of the “A bed in the meadow”. According to this concept the main aim is to offer small farmers an option to diversify their activities, as well as to support people living in rural areas and preserve rural heritage.
Main activities
The financial support offered by EAFRD measure 311 ‘diversification into non-agricultural activities' allowed the installation of basic equipment and facilities for tourists including, for example, tents, showers and bicycles.
Results & Benefits
As a result of the project implementation, six tents became available for accommodating tourists on the farm. The destination became very popular among foreign tourists and urban residents, coming for short stays, during the weekend, or few weeks. Undertaking tourist activities enabled the farmer to increase his income and create job opportunities for other members of the family.
Lessons learnt
The experience from this project highlights the added value of using the support offered by EAFRD measure for the diversification of the farming activity in order to take advantage of existing development possibilities. Furthermore, the specific concept allowed undertaking on-farm tourist activities without sacrificing agriculture, which remains the main activity of the farmer.
Project location and other information
Méréaucourt village, in the Picardy region
Region
Picardie
RDP Territory
Hexagone
Total project cost (€)
45 790
EAFRD contribution (€)
9 158
Other funding sources (€)
9 158
Project website
Contact name
Emilie GORIAU
Telephone
+33 322335541
Languages for contact
French
At a glance
Country
France
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€20 000 - €99 999
Start date:
01/04/2009
End Date:
31/12/2010
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Rural economic diversification
311. Diversification into non-agricultural activities
Keywords:
Agri-tourism, Rural tourism, Tourism, Farm diversification
Last update
19/06/2014