Gentle Winter: Sustainable Winter Vacation without Skiing
Peaceful, snowy landscapes. Snow crunching beneath your feet. Relaxing solitude away from the hustle and bustle of the slopes. Winter vacations don't have to mean fast runs, crowded lifts, and loud music. Quiet hikes, culinary delights, or relaxing hours in the spa with a view of the snow-covered world – together with the accommodations of the Green Pearls® network, we show what a gentle winter vacation can look like.
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Why even take a Winter Vacation without Skiing?
The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, and the European Alps are no exception. Snow lines are shifting, winters are not as long and snow-sure, and ski seasons are ending earlier or being artificially extended with snowmaking. At the same time, many of us want to travel more sustainably. Ski vacation? Yes, please, but not at any cost! If you feel the same way, you are probably also looking for sustainable and "soft" alternatives for your winter vacation.
1.) Focus on Experiencing Nature
Whether snowshoeing through the snow-covered landscape of East Tyrol or exploring the Allgäu on cross-country skis, nature has a special charm in winter. At the Naturhotel Outside, snowshoeing and winter hikes are a regular part of the program, including guided tours in the Hohe Tauern National Park, where mountain guides introduce guests to the untouched winter beauty of nature.
By the way, did you know that it is very quiet in a snow-covered forest? Because the snow acts as a natural sound absorber, you can also experience the enchanting landscape of the National Park acoustically - just stop for a moment and listen.
- Are you ready to explore the National Park in winter? Then take a look at the seasonal offers of the nature and hiking hotel Outside.
At the wellness hotel HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu, an intensive connection with nature is the focus of the activity program. Whether it's "natural bathing" and snowshoeing in the winter forest, a torchlight hike through the Balderschwang Valley – or do you dare to take an ice bath in the ice-cold water of the natural pond? Under the guidance of cold and breathing trainer Martin Steurer, you will first learn the correct breathing technique according to the Wimhof method, before jumping into the water for a few minutes between ice and snow.
- Fancy a dip in the ice-cold water? Check out the winter specials at the Allgäuer wellness hotel.
2.) Slowing Down in Winter
When it's cold outside, maybe even snowing, and the sun is setting in the late afternoon, it gets cozy inside. A private wooden chalet offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and cozy time for two or with the whole family. Hygna Chalets in the Alpachtal in Tyrol is a small chalet village with 11 luxurious chalets. Each chalet is equipped with a sauna and freestanding bathtub, perfect for your personal spa moments. Alternatively, a private outdoor hot tub is available in two different categories. Or perhaps you would prefer to swim laps in the infinity pool in the former hay barn and enjoy the views of the snow-capped mountain slopes.
- Still not sure what to do for Valentine's Day? How about the Hygna Chalets couples offer? It includes a romantically decorated chalet, chocolates, and a crackling fireplace.
At Hotel My Arbor on the South Tyrolean Plose, personal relaxation is the focus. How about a forest bath, a guided winter hike, or one of the daily themed sauna infusions with sauna master Manuel Greifenberg, known for his "show infusions"? The choice is yours! At My Arbor, you are encouraged to find your rhythm – and yourself.
- Ready for a break? Then take a look at the hotel's current packages. For example, how about the "My Arbor Break" (including 2 massages)?
3.) Culinary Delights
Also in the Allgäu region is the romantic hideaway Hotel Das Rübezahl. Winter is the perfect season to sample the classics of regional cuisine. Whether choosing international or vegetarian dishes from Chef Erik Wendt's kitchen in the hotel restaurant or hearty classics in the hotel's mountain lodge - you are sure to experience special culinary moments.
Our tip: Cheese Spätzle. "You can't get more Allgäu on a fork," says Chef Erik. What makes his recipe so special is the blend of different Allgäu cheeses that make the fresh Spätzle extra creamy. Of course, they taste best after a winter hike to the hotel's own Rohrkopfhütte!
- Winter is a time for indulgence, so be sure to check out the "Culinary Pleasure Package". It includes a 5-course candlelight dinner and fondue evening at the Rohrkopfhütte.
At the Hotel Klosterbräu in Austria, the winter season is also a time for culinary delights. With several special dining venues, such as the Wine Cellar or the Romeo and Juliet Balcony, you can enjoy not only a culinary experience but also a fascinating atmosphere. After a day at the extensive spa with its heated outdoor pool and hand-carved wooden sauna, or on the surrounding winter hiking trails in Seefeld, the cozy vaulted cellars of the old monastery with candlelight and fresh delicacies are a highlight of indulgence.
- Stay more days: With the hotel's holiday offers, you get one night free (from 5 / 4+1 nights).
100% Experience, 0% Sacrifice
A winter without skiing isn't a sacrifice, it's an opportunity to experience nature differently, to create quiet moments for yourself, or to focus fully on the culinary delights of the region.
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TRAVEL: A SUSTAINABLE HIKING WEEKEND IN THE HOHE TAUERN NATIONAL PARK
Hiking concierge Karin Steiner from Naturhotel Outside knows East Tyrol like the back of her hand and provides valuable tips for a hiking weekend in Austria's largest and oldest national park, the Hohe Tauern National Park.
WELLNESS: EVERYTHING ABOUT SINGING BOWL MASSAGES
The singing bowl massage is a wellness trend that is spreading increasingly in sustainable hotels with mindful guests. You can find it in Green PearlsⓇ hotels worldwide, e.g., in Nepal, Cambodia, Thailand, Italy, or Germany.
CULINARY: PLAN YOUR SUSTAINABLE FASTING VACATION 2025
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