Baza danych projektów PROW

A small farmer in the village of Méréaucourt decided to diversify into tourism activities by joining the “A bed in the meadow” association.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Méréaucourt village, in the Picardy region

Picardie

Hexagone

45 790

9 158

9 158

https://www.unlitaupre.fr/

Emilie GORIAU

emilie.goriau@agriculture.gouv.fr

+33 322335541

French