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                    <title><![CDATA[Green Pearls GmbH Newsroom]]></title>
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                    <pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:16:39 +0200</pubDate>
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                        <title><![CDATA[Green Pearls GmbH Newsroom]]></title>
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                        <title>Sustainability in tourism: Are we on the right track?</title>
                        <link>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/sustainability-in-tourism-are-we-on-the-right-track/</link>
                        <guid>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/sustainability-in-tourism-are-we-on-the-right-track/</guid><pp:caseid>814365</pp:caseid><description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:center;"><i><span>Is the tourism industry truly moving in a better, more sustainable direction, or is it just making the same promises over and over again? Over the past few weeks, we’ve been discussing this question within the Green Pearls® network with our partner properties, from South Tyrol to the Baltic Sea and from Bavaria to Croatia.</span></i></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><strong>From a niche topic to a general foundation</strong></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In the hospitality industry, sustainability has evolved from a niche topic to an integral part of business strategy. Major hotel groups have set ambitious climate goals, and many companies have signed the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism. However, there is a clear gap between these voluntary commitments and their implementation. More than three-quarters of the signatories did not publish their climate action plans by the agreed-upon deadline. Furthermore, major airlines and cruise lines—two key sectors of the tourism industry—have barely been represented thus far.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Furthermore, in light of economic uncertainties, practices that conserve resources are losing priority once again. According to a </span><a href="https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/about/press-room/cost-and-sustainability-fatigue-stifle-consumers-efforts-to-adopt-more-sustainable-lifestyles.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span>Deloitte survey</span></a><span>, only 45 percent of European hotel managers and investors cited environmental and social responsibility as one of the most important issues going forward in 2024 - down from 61 percent the previous year. Political and economic momentum is waning, even as the sense of urgency continues to grow.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>A interim assesment from the Green Pearls Network</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>This shift is known as the “mind-behavior gap.” Awareness of the need for greater sustainability is widespread today, as are numerous initiatives—many of which are privately driven. However, structural integration is still too often lacking. Stefan Bode, owner of the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/schwarzwald-panorama-bad-herrenalb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA</strong></span></a><span> hotel, agrees. While the industry continues to evolve and environmental protection has long since established itself as an important quality feature in tourism, both hoteliers consider it crucial to integrate individual measures into a holistic approach: one characterized by long-term thinking, regional value creation, transparent standards, and a willingness to continuously refine existing structures.</span></p><h3><span>Value-Behavior Gap: What guests actually book</span></h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/daten/umweltzustand-trends/private-haushalte-konsum/nachhaltigkeit-bei-urlaubsreisen#die-studie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span>2024 Sustainability Monitor</span></a><span> from the German Research Association for Vacation and Travel reveals a clear discrepancy between consumer expectations and behavior. While 49 percent of Germans prefer eco-friendly vacations — a seven-percentage-point increase since 2019 — and 61 percent support social responsibility, environmental protection often takes a backseat in booking decisions. In 2023, environmental protection was the deciding factor in only three percent of vacations, and a supplementary factor in 17 percent. While trips with sustainability labels were booked more frequently than in 2019, this trend has declined slightly since 2021.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The picture is somewhat more positive internationally. According to the latest Travel & Sustainability Report from Booking.com, which surveyed more than 32,500 travelers in 35 markets, 85 percent consider resource-efficient travel to be important or very important. Younger travelers express the strongest commitment to sustainability; however, they are less likely than older generations to translate this commitment into concrete actions.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Ana Grzincic, the hotel manager at </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-korinjak/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>Hotel Korinjak</strong></span></a><span>, has also noticed the discrepancy between attitudes and behavior. Although commitment to sustainability is growing, the tourism industry continues to struggle with the consequences of overconsumption and intense price pressure.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Alexandra Huber, owner of the tree hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/my-arbor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>My Arbor</strong></span></a><span>, already sees tangible progress thanks to certifications, resource-efficient concepts, and supportive policy frameworks. Still, reconciling environmental responsibility with high expectations for comfort, service, and profitability in the luxury hotel sector remains a challenge. Therefore, for her, the key is not to search for the perfect solution, but rather to find a credible balance. She emphasizes that true sustainability begins when contradictions are not concealed but communicated transparently and addressed consistently.</span></p><h3 style="text-align:justify;"><span>Greenwashing remains an issue</span></h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The discrepancy between claims and actions is precisely what creates room for greenwashing, a term that actually originated in the hotel industry: In 1986, environmental activist Jay Westerveld coined the term after finding signs at a resort in Fiji urging guests to reuse towels while new concrete bungalows were being built along the coast. Nearly forty years later, some measures still seem like a distraction from the actual sources of emissions, such as when a cruise ship with thousands of passengers eliminates plastic straws while its large diesel engines continue to run below deck.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Ursula Wagner, the managing director of </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/naturresort-gerbehof-lake-constance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>Naturresort Gerbehof</strong></span></a><span>, sums up the problem: "Guests today can hardly tell what sustainability promises are genuine." This is where the increasing regulation of environmental and climate promises comes into play. Based on new EU guidelines, such claims will be subject to stricter scrutiny in Germany moving forward. General terms such as "environmentally friendly" or "sustainable," as well as carbon-neutrality claims, must be clearly defined and substantiated in a verifiable manner. Sustainability labels must also not be misleading.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Marion Muller, of the SANDcollection, which operates two hotels — </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/sand-glow-sustainable-hotel-northern-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>SANDglow</strong></span></a><span> on the North Sea and </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/sand-nature-lifestyle-hotel-baltic-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>SANDnature</strong></span></a><span> on the Baltic Sea — views this shift as generally positive. She notes that audits and certifications create transparency and help curb greenwashing. However, she cautions against defining responsible tourism solely through formal credentials. While certifications are important guides, they could further increase the already high administrative burden and do not make a company’s attitude or long-term commitment measurable. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to take responsibility beyond regulatory requirements and drive sustainability based on their own convictions. Muller also views it as a positive development that more and more destinations are understanding their role beyond traditional destination marketing. These destinations are working with tourism service providers to ensure the sustainable expansion of infrastructure and offerings. Funding programs at the European level could support this transformation further and strengthen cooperation.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>The role of the destination</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Caroline Pescoll, the Sustainability Officer at <strong>ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges</strong>, notes that tourism dynamics vary greatly depending on the destination. While some regions that view their natural environment as a valuable resource have already integrated environmentally conscious practices into their tourism strategy, others initially focus on expanding infrastructure. Many established destinations are now managing their tourism more consciously, placing greater emphasis on quality than on mere growth.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Johannes Steinwender, the host of Hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-schloss-lerchenhof-carinthia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>Schloss Lerchenhof</strong></span></a><span>, believes that the development of these destinations is generally on the right track. However, he feels that it is not consistent enough yet.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Construction projects and grocery shopping in particular often do not benefit the region economically, even though local solutions could create more stable structures in the long term.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Marco Spiss of the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/vacation-rentals/summit-lodges-pfunds-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>Summit Lodges Pfunds</strong></span></a><span> makes a similar argument. He advocates linking value creation more consistently with regionally rooted experiences and local culture, as well as making balanced use of existing resources. Environmentally sustainable tourism, he argues, will only be successful if economic success and regional responsibility are understood not as opposites, but as a shared goal. Manfred Rinner, junior manager of the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-rinner/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><strong>APIPURA hotel rinner</strong></span></a><span>, is therefore actively involved beyond his own business as a group representative for tourism in the South Tyrol Bioland Association, as a member of the HGV’s provincial committee, and in the Sustainability & Innovation working groups, actively promoting the concept of resource conservation in South Tyrol.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>An honest interim assessment</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>So, are we on the right track? Yes, but not consistently enough. At least, that is the unanimous conclusion of the Green Pearls® hoteliers. We’re heading in the right direction, but not quickly enough. Too many initiatives remain fragmented, too many decisions are made last minute, and too many promises go unfulfilled. Meanwhile, external pressure is easing, yet the need continues to grow.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Green Pearls® network's key insight is therefore as simple as it is uncomfortable. Sustainability will only take hold when it is prioritized economically, structurally, and operationally. In the long term, the industry should shift its focus toward quality over quantity. Crucially, travel must bring economic benefits while respecting nature, resources, and the quality of life of the local population. Whether or not tourism contributes to the solution is not determined by individual measures, but rather by whether or not companies and destinations consistently consider their environmental, social, and economic impacts when making decisions and take responsibility for them.</span></p><p><strong>Our sources:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/about/press-room/cost-and-sustainability-fatigue-stifle-consumers-efforts-to-adopt-more-sustainable-lifestyles.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span>Deloitte: Cost and sustainability fatigue stifle consumers’ efforts to adopt more sustainable lifestyles</span></a></li><li><a href="https://travelwithpurpose.hilton.com/our-progress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span>Hilton: Our Progress – Travel with purpose</span></a></li><li><a href="https://partner.booking.com/en-us/click-magazine/trends-insights/travel-sustainability-report-2026"><span>Travel & Sustainability Report – Booking.com</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/daten/umweltzustand-trends/private-haushalte-konsum/nachhaltigkeit-bei-urlaubsreisen#die-studie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Umweltbundesamt: Studie Nachhaltigkeit bei Urlaubsreisen</a></li><li><a href="https://reiseanalyse.de/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/123_2025_texte.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forschungsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Reisen e.V.: Abschlussbericht Nachhaltigkeit bei Urlaubsreisen</a></li><li><a href="https://plana.earth/glossary/greenwashing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plan a glossary: Greenwashing</a></li></ul>]]></description><pp:quotes><pp:quote>
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                    <pp:quotetext><![CDATA[<i>True sustainability requires structural change and the realization that responsible travel may not always be the cheapest option.</i><strong>Hotel Korinjak</strong>]]></pp:quotetext>
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                    <pp:quotetext><![CDATA[<i>Sustainability is increasingly becoming a topic of discussion; nevertheless, in practice, revenue growth and short-term cost optimization often continue to take precedence over truly circular economy-oriented approaches that strengthen regions in the long term.</i><strong>Johannes Steinwender, Host from Hotel Schloss Lerchenhof</strong>]]></pp:quotetext>
                </pp:quote></pp:quotes><category><![CDATA[newsletter,Schwarzwald Panorama,ADLER Ritten,ADLER Sicilia,APIPURA hotel rinner,Naturresort Gerbehof,Hotel Korinjak,Hotel Schloss Lerchenhof,Summit Lodges,Hotel My Arbor,Hotelier,Sustainability,sustainable tourism,sustainable hoteliers]]></category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 13:30:00 +0200</pubDate>
            <pp:lastModified>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:16:39 +0000</pp:lastModified>
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                        <title>The location shapes the architecture—and the hotel experience</title>
                        <link>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/the-location-shapes-the-architectureand-the-hotel-experience/</link>
                        <guid>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/the-location-shapes-the-architectureand-the-hotel-experience/</guid><pp:caseid>763146</pp:caseid><description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:center;"><i><span>Authenticity has become a key differentiator in the hotel market. Those that speak the language of their location are gaining importance. According to hotelaktuell.ch, hotels that highlight their regional identity through their architecture, materials, and atmosphere establish a stronger emotional connection with their guests. The location becomes tangible; the hotel itself becomes an experience.</span></i></p><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:center;"><span><strong>Hotels as a gateway and link to the region</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>When choosing a hotel or vacation rental, travelers now look for more than just comfort and a place to sleep; they also want a sense of place and authenticity. The desire to fully immerse oneself in a destination is increasingly influencing travel decisions. Architecture deeply rooted in local conditions and respectful of the landscape lays the foundation for such an experience.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>However, a regional architectural style has more than just atmospheric implications; it also results in measurable ecological benefits. Using local materials, such as natural stone or wood, shortens transportation distances and reduces emissions from logistics. Involving local craft businesses provides site-specific knowledge and strengthens local economic cycles. And architects who incorporate a site’s topography, climate, and vegetation into their designs create buildings that require fewer technical compensations, such as cooling, heating, or maintenance:</span></p><ul><li data-list-item-id="ede7a79381ffd57a5105d7cc31a8eeeeb"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Natural shading instead of permanent cooling</span></p></li><li data-list-item-id="ecb23b4c85e162d6ef0e6e80bcde66673"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Wall thicknesses that store heat rather than heating systems that have to compensate&nbsp;</span></p></li><li data-list-item-id="ee40e94a2e16b40908bcdee424fb89f38"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Traditional roof structures that have been optimized over centuries to suit the local climate conditions</span></p></li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>This technical intelligence embedded in the design is becoming increasingly relevant in today's context of decarbonization and resource conservation.</span></p><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:center;"><span><strong>Architecture forms the foundation of a responsible hospitality industry</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In this sense, the Green Pearls® partners do not view architecture (merely) as a matter of style, but rather as the structural foundation of responsible business practices. The following examples, from the South Tyrolean Alps to the southern coast of Sicily, the Black Forest, and a Croatian island, illustrate what this means in concrete, individual terms.</span></p><h3><span>At the heart of brand identity</span></h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Since 1810, the Sanoner family has run the ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges in accordance with this philosophy, now in its sixth and seventh generations. What began as an inn in St. Ulrich, South Tyrol, has grown to include seven properties stretching from the Dolomite high plateau to the southern coast of Sicily, all of which feature landscape-inspired architecture and a deep connection to nature, among other things.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>A particularly striking example of this approach is the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/adler-ritten-south-tyrol/" target="_blank"><span><strong>ADLER Ritten</strong></span></a><span>. Located in a forest clearing on the South Tyrolean high plateau, the complex comprises a main building, outbuildings, and freestanding chalets that blend almost effortlessly into their surroundings. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, the lodge emphasizes subtle integration, making use of the site's natural layout. Dark wooden facades and regional materials define its appearance. Untreated spruce and larch wood were used for the facades, and oak floors inside convey warmth and quality. Artfully designed wooden panels in the lobby add distinctive accents. This was achieved by planing individual boards against the grain to create a relief-like, almost sculptural surface.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The black wooden cladding of the buildings ensures that the architecture blends seamlessly with the forest landscape. Rather than following an international design concept or imported aesthetic, the design speaks the language of the place. Its proportions, materials, and scale draw inspiration from a cultural landscape shaped by centuries of South Tyrol’s rural building traditions. Owners Andreas and Klaus Sanoner designed the ADLER Ritten in collaboration with South Tyrolean architect Hugo Demetz. Their concept shows how contemporary architecture can have a strong impact through restraint and connection to the local context.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In July 2022, the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/adler-sicilia-spa-resort/" target="_blank"><span><strong>ADLER Sicilia</strong></span></a><span> opened on the southern coast of Sicily. It is the Collection’s first Mediterranean property and its first seaside resort. The complex sits on a kilometer-long pristine beach near the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, right next to the WWF nature reserve Riserva Torre Salsa. The cedar wood and glass architecture is built on a hill and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. In total, the resort has 90 guest rooms with green roofs. Its interior design primarily features regional materials, such as tuff. The walls are plastered with "Terracruda," a red clay from Mount Etna that helps maintain a stable indoor climate thanks to its moisture-regulating properties<strong>.</strong></span></p><h3><span>Restraint as a guiding principle</span></h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-weihrerhof-south-tyrol/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Hotel Weihrerhof</strong></span></a><span>, located directly on Lake Wolfsgruben in Ritten, blends deliberately into its surroundings. Among other features, the building boasts the traditional Ritten roof shape, a design that has been characteristic of the high plateau and its landscape for generations. "We build with great restraint: as much as necessary, but as little as possible," says host Klaus Pichler, describing this approach. The seven-hectare property encompasses three hectares of meadows that have not been fertilized or cultivated for over twenty years.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Built on stilts above Brixen, the Hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/my-arbor/" target="_blank"><span><strong>My Arbor</strong></span></a><span> evokes the tall trees in the surrounding forest while preserving a large portion of the existing tree population. Wooden facades and natural materials reflect South Tyrol’s mountain forest landscape, creating an authentic atmosphere inside and out.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/naturresort-gerbehof-lake-constance/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Naturresort Gerbehof</strong></span></a><span>, located on Lake Constance, also connects with its surroundings through its choice of materials. The stones in the spa area come from the spot where the Rhine flows into Lake Constance. The wood used for the furniture and furnishings comes from the resort’s own forest and was handcrafted on site. No cross-continental transport; no anonymous supply chains.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In turn, the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/vacation-rentals/summit-lodges-pfunds-en/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Summit Lodges</strong></span></a><span> in Tyrol carefully integrate their natural log cabins into the hillside by building stone walls directly from the excavated material. What was dug up was reused. The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-rinner/" target="_blank"><span><strong>APIPURA hotel rinner</strong></span></a><span> in South Tyrol takes it a step further. During the renovation, clay soil was excavated and reused to create earthen pyramids in the hotel hallways. The hotel also features local Swiss stone pine and larch wood, regional Plima stone in the stairwell, and hay bales as decorative elements. Walking through the hotel is like walking through the region itself.</span></p><h3><span>Integration, not staging</span></h3><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Some buildings showcase nature, while others allow it to set the tone. The key question is how architecture can take a back seat, incorporate regional materials and traditional building methods, and become part of its surroundings instead of overpowering them.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>"Authenticity" is an overused buzzword in most cases. However, for the two luxury resorts operated by the independent Vietnamese hotel group The Anam, there is hardly a more fitting description. The architecture of the two five-star resorts, one on the Cam Ranh Peninsula and the other in Mui Ne in southern Vietnam, deliberately and consistently draws on regional building traditions. Guests will find traditional roof shapes and patterned tiles crafted by artisans from across the country, as well as artwork and décor reflecting a close connection to the resorts' respective regions. During construction, care was also taken to ensure the hotels would not tower over the surrounding natural landscape. The villas and buildings of </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/the-anam-cam-ranh-luxury-resort-vietnam/" target="_blank"><span><strong>The Anam Cam Ranh</strong></span></a><span> are nestled in a garden with over 3,000 palm trees, and </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/the-anam-mui-ne-luxury-resort-vietnam/" target="_blank"><span><strong>The Anam Mui Ne</strong></span></a><span> clings to the hills that slope down toward the beach like a cascade.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/la-vimea/" target="_blank"><span><strong>LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel</strong></span></a><span> is nestled in a park-like garden in the heart of an Alpine valley in South Tyrol. The natural garden and pond are more than just decorative features; they are part of the hotel’s living environment. Guests can swim in the natural pond among water lilies. The terrace roof is completely covered with greenery, transforming it into a garden in its own right. At the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/green-spa-resort-stanglwirt-tyrol-austria/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Green Spa Resort</strong> <strong>Stanglwirt</strong></span></a><span><strong> </strong>in the Lower Inn Valley, the surrounding Alpine landscape of the Wilder Kaiser sets the standard. The organic building philosophy combines traditional Tyrolean architecture with the latest insights into resource-efficient construction: the hotel bar features ancient hewn timber, wooden truss ceilings replace steel structures, the interiors are made of local Swiss stone pine, and wooden bricks are bound with lime mortar instead of cement. What feels like natural Tyrolean hospitality is the result of consistent decisions regarding construction, materials, and operations.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/relais-del-maro/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Relais del Maro</strong></span></a><span> on the Ligurian Riviera, the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-outside-east-tyrol/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Naturhotel Outside</strong></span></a><span> in East Tyrol, and the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-das-ruebezahl-allgaeu/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Hotel Das Rübezahl</strong></span></a><span> in the Allgäu all share a similar philosophy: architecture is seen as an extension of the landscape. The Relais del Maro uses organic, natural building materials and traditional and, in some cases, even ancient techniques. The other two properties rely on regional materials, such as wood, stone, and natural fabrics, that define their architectural traditions. A defining feature of all three is their rejection of spectacular, signature architecture in favor of a restrained, site-specific design language. The interiors also remain true to this philosophy. Natural colors, materials, and regional references create seamless transitions between the indoors and outdoors, ensuring that nature becomes an integral part of the guest experience rather than a mere backdrop.</span></p><h3><span>The location determines the form</span></h3><img src="https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/712fcc02-d03a-4740-af09-6f0acf67ba24/1920_olm-aussenansicht-55x45-300dpi-marco-zanta.jpg?10000"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/olm-nature-escape/" target="_blank"><span><strong>OLM Nature Escape</strong></span></a><span> in Tauferer Ahrntal, which opened in 2023, shows that tradition and modernity are not mutually exclusive. The modern building's circular shape is unusual, yet its name, Alm, comes from the South Tyrolean dialect. The building's circular shape alludes to the endless cycle of time but also to the millstones of the mills that once operated there. Constructed using regional materials, the building features larch wood, ample glass, and natural materials. All of its energy comes from its own photovoltaic systems and geothermal probes, supplemented by hydropower. Since its opening, the building has been certified to the GSTC standard.</span></p><img src="https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/9a322264-79fb-446a-800e-bd56b8af23c7/1920_schwarzwald-panorama-circular-living-zimmer-waldklang-3.jpg?10000"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/schwarzwald-panorama-bad-herrenalb/" target="_blank"><span><strong>SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA</strong></span></a><span> in Bad Herrenalb is taking a related yet distinct approach. The Circular Living concept, which will be implemented throughout the entire building step by step, draws on the region’s existing resources and the principles of circular construction and interior design. The Black Forest is integrated into the project through the choice of materials and craftsmanship. Each design detail was evaluated based on recyclability, durability, and health and safety criteria. The materials used can be integrated into existing material cycles, and their origin and environmental impact are traceable. However, the connection to the local area is reflected not only in the choice of materials, but also in the design implementation. The Circular Living rooms were designed in collaboration with Black Forest hotel interior designer FRITZ SCHLECHT | SHL.</span></p><img src="https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/aaa0c7ca-a9f8-4a1f-9918-e62892c43df1/1920_view-of-croatian-island-town-and-hotel-korinjak-on-iz.jpg?89363"><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-korinjak/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Hotel Korinjak</strong></span></a><span> on the Croatian island of I</span>ž<span> was built in the 1960s when energy efficiency and sustainable construction were not integral to architectural planning. Nevertheless, the building blends seamlessly into the landscape today. With just two stories, an unobtrusive main building, and a clear, functional structure, the hotel does not overwhelm its surroundings. It neither towers over the coastline nor dominates the island’s characteristic landscape of pine trees, natural stone, and sea. Instead blending into the topography and scale of the site.</span></p><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:center;"><span><strong>What architecture achieves when it takes a back seat</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Why is all of this relevant? It is not because regional architectural traditions are more beautiful; it is because they have consequences that extend far beyond aesthetics. Using local materials means shorter transport distances and lower emissions. Local craftsmen ensure the transfer of knowledge. Traditional roof shapes and wall constructions have been tested by the climate and optimized over centuries for the specific conditions in which a building will stand.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>And architecture creates a true sense of identity. When you arrive at a house that could be built anywhere, you don't know where you are. A building that reflects its location conveys a feeling that no marketing concept can replace: the sense of having truly arrived.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The hotels in the Green Pearls® Collection are as diverse as the regions in which they are located. However, they share a common philosophy: they view architecture not as a means of self-promotion, but as a responsibility. They do not build in opposition to their location; they build in harmony with it. Because responsible architecture does not arise from trends. It arises from listening.</span></p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span>Sources:</span></h4><ul><li data-list-item-id="eaf18f5bf58f11d09fc8cef54e8e3ae56"><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.architekturfotoblog.de/grundlagen-der-architektur/architektur-und-identitaet-regionale-einfluesse-in-der-zeitgenoessischen-gestaltung/" target="_blank"><span>Architekturfotoblog: Architecture and Identity – Regional Influences in Contemporary Design</span></a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e2db92f0519dfdbf94abef6e43bf86502"><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://plarchitekten.at/hotelplanung-architekten/" target="_blank"><span>Plarchitekten: How Hotel Planning Presents Challenges for Architects</span></a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="ea1718a2bb30f8fde1d181d2071aec32c"><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://hotelaktuell.ch/2025/11/06/lokale-handschrift-wie-regionale-identitaet-das-hoteldesign-staerkt/" target="_blank"><span>Hotel News: Local Flavor – How Regional Identity Enhances Hotel Design</span></a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e932d8fa9749f41b9d28792fca59be377"><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.htr.ch/story/hotellerie/das-gebaeude-als-spiegel-der-umgebung-43347" target="_blank"><span>htr: The Building as a Reflection of Its Surroundings</span></a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="eead6eeb201cf99db3730963b78c8320f"><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.architektenauswahl.de/architekt/2685-wie-pr%C3%A4gen-regionale-einfl%C3%BCsse-die-vielfalt-architektonischer-stilrichtungen/" target="_blank"><span>Selecting an Architect: How Do Regional Influences Shape the Diversity of Architectural Styles?</span></a></p></li></ul>]]></description><pp:quotes><pp:quote>
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                    <pp:quotetext><![CDATA[<i>In a world that is moving ever faster and where identities seem to be dissolving, individuals need places of retreat where they can reconnect with themselves. The ADLER Ritten is just such a place of retreat.</i><strong>Klaus Sanoner, Owner of ADLER Spa Resorts &amp; Lodges</strong>]]></pp:quotetext>
                </pp:quote></pp:quotes><category><![CDATA[newsletter,OLM Nature Escape,Hotel Korinjak,Schwarzwald Panorama,Relais del Maro,Naturhotel Outside,Hotel Das Ruebezahl,LA VIMEA,Bio- und Wellnessresort Stanglwirt,APIPURA hotel rinner,Summit Lodges,Naturresort Gerbehof,Hotel My Arbor,Hotel Weihrerhof,ADLER Sicilia,ADLER Ritten,regional,The Anam,The Anam Cam Ranh,The Anam Mui Ne,Architecture,interior design]]></category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:30:00 +0200</pubDate>
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                <pp:imageOriginal>https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/adler-spa-resort-sicilia-hotel.jpg?10000</pp:imageOriginal><pp:imageTitle><![CDATA[ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA]]></pp:imageTitle><pp:imageDescription><![CDATA[&amp;copy;AlexFilz . Adler Sicily 2022]]></pp:imageDescription></item><item>
                        <title>Slow Travel: Who sets the pace when traveling?</title>
                        <link>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/slow-travel-who-sets-the-pace-when-traveling/</link>
                        <guid>https://www.greenpearls.com/newsroom/en/slow-travel-who-sets-the-pace-when-traveling/</guid><pp:caseid>762610</pp:caseid><description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:center;"><i><span><strong>Have you ever stopped to think about what sets the pace of your daily life?</strong> How quickly things happen, and why? And when was the last time you lived entirely at your own pace anyway? Even if only for a day?</span></i></p><p style="text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:center;"><i><span>_____________________________________</span></i></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>Living and traveling in harmony—but in harmony with what?</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In our daily lives, calendars, push notifications, and to-do lists set the pace. The same is true for our free time: an appointment here, a message there. In order to actually take breaks, we have to schedule them into our daily plans. And on vacation? Even then, we rush from one activity to the next, working our way through our bucket list and bowing to the rhythm of the clock.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>We'd like to offer you an alternative. Maybe it doesn't have to be the clock or the bucket list that sets the pace of your vacation. Why not let the tides, the season, or the time you spend together shape your day or your trip? We've gathered a few ideas from Green Pearls® partner accommodations for you here.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>The River and the Sea</strong></span></h2><h2 style="text-align:center;"><i><span>When nature sets the pace</span></i></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>In particular, places and accommodations that are closely connected to their surroundings offer a unique vacation experience. Instead of following a set itinerary, you can adapt your daily routine to the rhythm of nature.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>At the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/canvas-and-orchids-retreat/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Canvas & Orchids Retreat</strong></span></a><span>, life revolves around the Tatai River. The glamping retreat is only accessible by river, and some of the luxurious tents are even situated on floating platforms. This allows guests to immediately begin their day in tune with the river’s rhythm. Rather than offering a fixed activity schedule, this Cambodian retreat provides flexible excursions into the rainforest, mangroves, and to see waterfalls. Boat rides and kayaking trips ensure you never forget what sets the pace.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Nowhere is the rhythm of nature more evident than by the sea. The sound of the waves, the wind, and the tides—all influence your rhythm, sometimes more clearly and sometimes with more subtlety. At the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/oceano-health-spa-hotel/" target="_blank"><span><strong>OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel</strong></span></a><span> in northern Tenerife, the Atlantic Ocean is ever-present. Right in front of the hotel is a Piscina Natural, a seawater pool bordered by rocks where you can feel the ocean’s waves while swimming in a protected area. Inside the hotel, you can enjoy thalassotherapy treatments that use sea salt, seawater, mud, and salty sea air to promote relaxation.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>On the North Sea, it’s the tides that set the pace for your day. During your stay at the lifestyle and boutique hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/sand-glow-sustainable-hotel-northern-sea/" target="_blank"><span><strong>SANDglow</strong></span></a><span>, you’ll quickly get into the habit of checking the tide tables to plan your mudflat hikes, beach walks, and afternoon swims. This habit of aligning yourself with the natural rhythm of your surroundings will give your vacation a different pace.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>The Tranquility</strong></span></h2><h2 style="text-align:center;"><i><span>When a place has its own rhythm</span></i></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>They really do exist—those places that have their own definition of time. One such place is the Croatian island of Iž. At the island's only hotel, </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-korinjak/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Hotel Korinjak</strong></span></a><span>, you can let your mind wander. No FOMO, no stress, and no need to be constantly available. Instead, you can enjoy the scent of pine trees, a morning yoga session, and an afternoon boat tour—where, with a little luck, you might spot dolphins.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Consciously slowing down is an integral part of </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/olm-nature-escape/" target="_blank"><span><strong>OLM Nature Escape's</strong></span></a><span> philosophy in South Tyrol. As a member of Slow Down Hotels, the hotel offers a customizable culinary concept that allows you to find your own rhythm. The Eco Spa, natural pond, and personalized hiking or e-bike tours let you experience the area without worrying about time. The Wi-Fi in your ApartSuite can be dimmed, allowing you to decide just how much digital connection your vacation requires.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/gut-sonnenhausen/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Gut Sonnenhausen</strong></span></a><span>, located near Munich, offers one thing above all else: the freedom and space to grow. Instead of TVs in the rooms, a lovingly curated library invites you to browse, and numerous quiet corners throughout the historic estate and park encourage you to relax and unwind. You won't find an activity program here; instead, it's all about rediscovering peace, nature, and the slow pace of life.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>At the vegan hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/la-vimea/" target="_blank"><span><strong>LA VIMEA</strong></span></a><span> in the Merano region, your daily vacation routine is defined by the park-like garden, yoga, and meditation. Since the hotel is adults-only, you’re surrounded by a unique sense of tranquility from morning to night—so much so that you almost forget the center of Naturns is just a few minutes’ walk away. Incidentally, the trip to the mountains is almost just as short—you can explore them on foot or by (electric) bike. At night, the Wi-Fi is turned off, which shifts your focus entirely to sleep and relaxation.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>The dining table</strong></span></h2><h2 style="text-align:center;"><i><span>When enjoyment is given time</span></i></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Traveling also means experiencing the flavors of a region: a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies, traditional products, or generations-old recipes. Those who take the time to eat may discover more about a place than what's written in a travel guide.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>As a member of the Slow Food movement, the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-sturm-bavaria/" target="_blank"><span><strong>STURM</strong></span></a><span> wellness hotel in Germany's Rhön region focuses on regional ingredients, traditional culinary arts, and mindful enjoyment. The open cooking station in the restaurant allows guests to watch the chefs work and chat with them. The ingredients used may be the same ones you saw and tasted in the snack garden that afternoon. And even the floral arrangements, made with seasonal "Slow Flowers," reflect the idea of working in harmony with nature and the seasons.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>At </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/sand-nature-lifestyle-hotel-baltic-sea/" target="_blank"><span><strong>SANDnature</strong></span></a><span> on the Baltic Sea, your day deliberately starts slowly. The late-riser breakfast, served until 1:00 p.m., includes sourdough bread from a nearby bakery, cheese from small producers, freshly prepared egg dishes, homemade jams, and seasonal ingredients from local farmers. A heartfelt invitation to start your day without rushing.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Regional products, high quality, and respect for food also define the cuisine at </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/okelmanns/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Hotel</strong> <strong>Okelmann's</strong></span></a><span> in Warpe, Lower Saxony. This family-run hotel focuses on authentic dishes made with local ingredients and handmade delicacies designed to pamper guests, rather than elaborate presentations. So it’s hardly surprising when a cake appears on the afternoon menu—even if it wasn't planned. Simply because Mama Okelmann felt like making it and had the necessary ingredients on hand.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>At the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/paradiso-pure-living-dolomites/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel</strong></span></a><span> and the adjacent OMNIA plant-based restaurant in South Tyrol, Slow Food gets a modern makeover. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients form the basis of creative vegan menus and breakfast creations. While you're there, be sure to enjoy a multi-course dinner at OMNIA. This intimate restaurant has just 10 seats and offers a unique, emotional fine dining experience led by Chef Aggeliki Charami, featuring fantastic courses woven into a cohesive narrative.</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><strong>The Body</strong></h2><h2 style="text-align:center;"><i><span>When rituals become more important than one-time treatments</span></i></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Some things can't be rushed. Their effects unfold over time. This makes it all the more important for a wellness vacation to have a lasting impact; one that allows you to establish routines and rituals at home and find your rhythm in the long run.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>At the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/hotel-outside-east-tyrol/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Naturhotel Outside</strong></span></a><span> in East Tyrol, exercise and relaxation go hand in hand. After a day of hiking in the Hohe Tauern National Park or doing yoga with a mountain view, the Natur SPA beckons you to unwind. Holistic treatments with natural cosmetics and select aromatic oils offer brief moments of respite for the body and mind that have a lasting impact. And the saltwater bath with Deferegger healing water completes the experience.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/naturresort-gerbehof-lake-constance/" target="_blank"><span><strong>Naturresort Gerbehof</strong></span></a><span> on Lake Constance takes wellness a step further toward promoting health. Here, the focus is on mental well-being and stress relief. In addition to bioenergetic treatments based on Viktor Philippi’s methods, the resort offers healthy organic food and a tranquil, forest- and fruit-tree-surrounded setting to help you unwind.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/adler-ritten-south-tyrol/" target="_blank"><span><strong>ADLER Ritten</strong></span></a><span> and the </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/adler-sicilia-spa-resort/" target="_blank"><span><strong>ADLER Sicilia</strong></span></a><span> also tailor their stays to your individual needs and rhythm. Though the two hotels are quite different—one in the mountains of South Tyrol and the other on the rugged southern coast of Sicily—they share the goal of creating spaces where you can be completely yourself. Yoga, meditation, mindfulness activities, and spacious spa areas are designed to help you find your rhythm. Rather than a set schedule, the focus is on having the freedom to shape your day however you like.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>A place of relaxation and tranquility is also offered to you by the adults-only hotel </span><a href="https://www.greenpearls.com/hotels/my-arbor/" target="_blank"><span><strong>My Arbor</strong></span></a><span> near Brixen. Whether you're interested in dining, wellness, or activities—you set your own schedule. Breakfast until noon and lunch into the early evening? My Arbor makes that possible. In between, you can participate in guided tours, yoga sessions, sauna infusions, or forest bathing. Or, you can turn it into a whole </span><a href="https://green-travel-blog.com/a-sustainable-weekend-alone-me-time-at-my-arbor/" target="_blank"><span>"me-time" weekend</span></a><span>!</span></p><h2 style="text-align:center;"><span><strong>Taking a vacation at your own pace</strong></span></h2><p style="text-align:justify;"><span>Time is perceived differently in many parts of the world. Sometimes nature sets the pace, sometimes the seasons, and sometimes it's a long, shared meal. On your next trip, why not try going with the flow of your destination instead of bringing your daily routine with you?</span></p><p style="text-align:center;"><i><span><strong>#sharingiscaring</strong> | Who needs to read this and slow down for a bit? Forward this newsletter to them and remind them that taking time off isn't any less valuable just because they're doing "nothing."</span></i></p><img src="https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/be879f08-666d-4b4f-b2ce-b61d30a03afb/1920_gtl-favorite-blog-articles-en.png?10000"><p style="text-align:center;">Discover the GREEN TRAVEL BLOG editorial team's favorite articles from last month.</p><img src="https://content.presspage.com/uploads/2338/37cc8f65-ecb8-48e0-bb07-019cdddfc21f/1920_gtl-recommendations-en.png?10000"><p style="text-align:center;">It’s often stories that change the way we view travel—subtle inspirations that linger long after we’ve heard them. In our editorial office, we regularly discuss what has recently moved, inspired, or made us reflect. Whether it’s a book, movie, documentary, or podcast: Here, we share our personal recommendations with you—honest, handpicked, and always with a focus on mindful travel.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Here’s what Mara has been loving lately:</strong></p><p style="text-align:center;"><i>“You know those books you find yourself flipping through every now and then? That’s exactly the kind of book I’d like to recommend to you today: </i>Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls<i>. The book tells the stories of extraordinary women, illustrated by female artists from around the world. The short biographies are lovingly written, motivating, and encouraging. These aren’t just great bedtime stories for kids!”</i></p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/good-night-stories-for-rebel-girls-3-book-gift-set-elena-favilli/8b29a4d26d7b6878?ean=9781953424129&bkshp-astro=t" target="_blank">Take a look at the book series.</a> (unbezahlte Werbung)</p>]]></description><category><![CDATA[Okelmann&#039;s,Hotel Korinjak,OLM Nature Escape,ADLER Ritten,ADLER Sicilia,Hotel My Arbor,SANDcollection,SANDglow,SANDnature,OCEANO Health Spa Hotel,Naturresort Gerbehof,Naturhotel Outside,Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel,OMNIA plant-based restaurant,LA VIMEA,STURM,Gut Sonnenhausen,Canvas &amp; Orchids Retreat,Slow travel,slow food]]></category>
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