A recent adventure to Hobbitenango! An eco-resort and restaurant inspired by the J.R. Tolkien novels, in the mountains above Antigua, Guatemala. Speaking with the two founders of this magical retreat, they utilized a combination of natural building techniques and ingenuity to highlight the ‘hobbit home’ inspired blossoming resort. Most of the structures and homes for rent were built with eco-blocks, taking discarded plastic bottles, ramming them with trash and debris. These blocks form the walls, supported by wire mesh, waterproofing fabric, and a mixture of sand, clay, and lime for the stucco. The homes are built into the hillside, joining the roofing and landscape with green roofs throughout the grounds. All their power comes from a wind turbine and solar panels for the restaurant and resort. A cistern diverts rain water into a pool, to be dispersed throughout the grounds for gardening and plumbing use.
In the spirit of sustainability, the founders also began a non-profit for local children, where the public education system in the area ends at age 12. They provide scholarships to students to complete their high school degree. Every student that completes this program is offered a place of employment at Hobbitenango.
At Hobitenango, social responsibility, ecological awareness, and natural building, and stunning natural landscapes combine in the name of whimsy to create a truly magical place.