Guests visiting the Green Key awarded Kolarbyn Eco-lodge contribute to the nature and culture of Skinnskatteberg municipality (Sweden). The hostel is an environmentally friendly accommodation built in natural materials, avoiding chemicals and toxins. Part of the profits received by the Kolarbyn goes directly to the conservation of nature and culture in different projects.

Sauna at Kolarbyn Eco-lodge. Picture taken by Lennart Trollvad.

The twelve huts are located in the middle of the wilderness, but just a 45-minute walk from Skinnskatteberg, the nearest town. There is no electricity or running water but the guests can relax in front of a crackling fireplace right next to their hut.

In August 2004 Kolarbyn started a project to reintroduce the tradition of charcoaling, an old-fashioned method of producing charcoal. This method has been used in the area for more than 400 years. The hostel is constantly working on developing additional opportunities to conserve charcoal culture for future generations.

Charcoal hut at Kolarbyn Eco-lodge. Left picture taken by Malin Bruce, right picture taken bu Andreas.