Feynan Ecolodge is part of a growing “ecotourism” movement. You can instantly recognize it is an eco-friendly establishment. This is one of only two locations in Jordan where I saw this…

I am, as usual, being a smart-ass, but I am also telling the truth. Fortunately there are many other signs the lodge is serious about reducing its environmental impact. Feynan is completely off the grid, relying on solar power for hot water and electricity.

The lodge is situated in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and it manages to blend into its surroundings surprisingly well, given the relatively sparse vegetation.

It also uses traditional architecture techniques to create its own shade. The stones projecting out from the walls provide shade during the day, and help to radiate excess heat during the night. Simple, yet ingenious.

At night you can watch the stars in the desert sky, free from light pollution. As an interesting aside, at least to me, although the night sky was very dark, it was not half as dark as where I grew up in Saskatchewan. I think it’s completely fair to say that I grew up “in the middle of nowhere”.

Feynan has been rated one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world. It provides spartan, yet comfortable accommodation, and beautiful surroundings both outside and inside the lodge.

Ashoosh, who has gone completely native, describes Feynan Ecolodge as an “earth-muffin” experience, even though he absolutely adores the place. I wasn’t completely sure what an earth-muffin experience was, until I saw this, in the lobby of the hotel…

I will leave you with a final image from the lodge. I’m not sure what this has to do with ecotourism, but I like the photograph.

In case you’re wondering, I have no idea what it’s for.