This 2nd place alone would be reason enough for Berchtesgaden's hotels to celebrate. In addition, the Berghotel Rehlegg could be pleased about another award, which comes from the guests themselves: With 5.7 out of 6 points, the Berghotel Rehlegg is one of the best rated hotels worldwide on HolidayCheck.

We congratulate!

The Importance of Authentic Communication of Sustainability

According to a consumer survey from 2021, every second German has already changed his or her behavior or is willing to do so for sustainability reasons. This is also confirmed by booking.com's sustainability report: More than two-thirds of travelers want to travel more sustainably and 38% even actively search for information about accommodation and activities as well as their sustainable initiatives.

This is where honest and authentic sustainability communication comes into play. The goal is not only to communicate the initiatives and commitment of the accommodation in an understandable way, but also to back them up with facts and figures and make them credible.

Greenwashing in Tourism

One reason why almost half of the consumers in a study by the Capgemini Research Institute say they do not believe sustainability promises is because of so-called greenwashing. This is where consumers/travelers are deliberately misled with inaccurate or false marketing claims. In the travel industry, one detail is often overemphasized for this purpose (popular: the beehive on the roof), while the rest of the business is run conventionally and unsustainably.

How to Communicate Sustainability in Tourism?

Responsible sustainability communication is authentic, transparent and honest. It not only shows what has been achieved but also the path to get there as well as future visions and plans. Most importantly, it is verifiable. In practice, sustainability communication can take different forms.

Examples from sustainable hotels and accommodation of the Green Pearls® network

Online Communication

Even before choosing a sustainable hotel, travelers are increasingly searching for information on the sustainable initiatives of their favorite destinations. It is a good idea to set up a sub-page on your own homepage. The goal of the page should not be a mere listing of activities, but to provide an outline of the journey taken to sustainable accommodation.

A website alone is not enough for the Berghotel Rehlegg. The team openly communicates its ecological and social philosophy on the web, in social media and in interviews.

At the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, the hotel's own sustainability is not only showcased on their website but also via social media channels. In addition, the luxurious hotel relies on events such as the Sustainable Day in Zermatt and panels at its own A Love Beyond Festival. Since spring, there has also been a sustainability ambassador in each department. This allows them to explore the potential for improvement and encourages a regular exchange of ideas.

In addition to tangible and visible measures (e.g. compostable coffee capsules or encouragement to opt out of room cleaning), Hotel Das Rübezahl informs guests about sustainability measures in the boutique hotel in the daily "Morgenpost" (on recycled paper, of course). The team also addresses the topic again and again on booking confirmations and in blog posts.

Online, but also directly in the hotel, the Pichler family of the Weihrerhof provides their guests with information about their sustainability mission. Notices and signs not only provide a wealth of useful information, for example about the combined heat and power plant but also encourage guests to change their own behavior, for example by pointing out that towels can be used more than once.

Reviews and Reports

An important component of sustainability communication is verifiability. Too many fancy words tend to arouse distrust among interested parties and guests, and the suspicion of greenwashing arises.

Most sustainable hotels and accommodations counteract this with reports and transparent media coverage. The Naturhotel Outside is currently developing a new sustainability report. The last one, from the year 2020, lists the various types of consumption of the East Tyrolean hotel as well as individual measures that have been achieved and those that are planned.

Sustainability reports can also be prepared by third parties. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb relies on two standards at once: the German Sustainability Code and the Baden-Württemberg WIN! Charter. The annual CO2 balance is determined in cooperation with Climate Partner. All certificates can be viewed in the hotel lobby or on the website.

The Black Forest Hotel likes to take its guests with them on their own journey and, for example, shows sustainable projects, upcycling products and awards on social media. There is also the option of climate-neutral stays, celebrations and meetings at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The special offers also generate awareness for sustainable tourism.

Physical Communication in the Hotel

In addition to digital communication, some Green Pearls® partners also rely on a physical representation of their commitment that goes beyond brochures or flyers. At the beginning of the year, for example, the Wall of Change was created in the entrance area of the Creativhote Luise in Erlangen (We previously featured it here). Here, the hotel's more than 200 large and small sustainability measures are displayed engraved on wooden sheets.

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld has taken the Wall of Change as an example and is planning its own interactive wall. It will be three-dimensional and take guests along on the path to climate neutrality, as well as providing regular updates on progress.

Conversations with Guests and Being a Role Model

Especially in tourism, hardly anything beats direct communication with the guests. Of course, this only takes place once a booking has been made. Nevertheless, it is a valuable instrument to sensitise guests and to inspire sustainable choices.

The Naturgut Guntrams has found a special approach and launched a photo competition under the slogan "Beauty of Diversity". The aim is to capture the biodiversity of the region and to encourage visitors to be conscious of even the little things. In addition, guided tours for guests through the organic herb and vegetable garden and across the orchards have proven to be a good communication opportunity.

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Balderschwang in the Allgäu, it is the hotel excursions with the hosts Karl and Marc Traubel that repeatedly stimulate conversations about sustainability. Guests can sign up for these as part of the activity program.

Sustainability is a topic right from check-in at the Keemala in Thailand. During the first guided tour through the luxurious jungle resort, the team explains the sustainable LIFE cycle philosophy to the guests and also points out special features regarding the architecture, the use of water and the avoidance of plastic.

Direct communication with the guests has the advantage of creating a sense that sustainability is a matter of the heart and not just lip service. This is another reason why it is extremely important for the entire STURM team. Besides brochures and the welcome booklet, it is primarily the conversations with the guests and actively living their own philosophy that authentically conveys the hotel's sustainability mission.

Participate in Projects

The Croatian Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club on Korcula communicates its passion and commitment to sustainable tourism actively and with the involvement of its guests. For example, guests can take part in a free boat tour to the uninhabited islands - provided they help clean up the beaches of these islands at the same time. The Dreamer's Club team also encourages people to clean the unspoiled beaches of Korcula from rubbish. The aparthotel offers a drink at the bar for every full bag of rubbish brought in. In this way, guests will not only actively participate in shaping sustainable tourism, but also make connections with each other and preserve the beauty of the planet together.

Communicating sustainability, like any form of communication, is complex. Even though we have highlighted some of the various possibilities in this newsletter, in the end it is always a combination of communicating the initiatives in a credible way that will convince and inspire guests.

What do climate-neutral and climate-positive mean?

In connection with discussions and demands concerning the climate crisis, the terms "climate-neutral" and "climate-positive" are used more and more frequently without any clear understanding of what they mean. At first glance, it seems quite simple: climate-neutral means that only as many greenhouse gases, for example, carbon dioxide or methane, are emitted as can be absorbed in so-called carbon sinks. In purely mathematical terms, we would then have achieved net zero emissions.

The problem is that the natural carbon sinks, i.e. forests, oceans and unsealed soils, cannot absorb the level of emissions we are currently producing. And artificial carbon sinks that actually contribute to the absorption of greenhouse gas emissions do not yet exist.

Reduction is the Key

In order to achieve climate neutrality (uptake = emission) or even climate positivity (uptake > emission), emissions must first be significantly reduced, incidentally not only from a local perspective but also globally. Only then can compensation measures be considered. This first step is part of everyday life for most of our partners, as it involves observing, reflecting on and optimizing their own processes and circumstances. These are essential for sustainable action in any case.

When determining emissions, we divide them into direct and indirect emissions and into three so-called scopes.

• Scope 1 includes the direct emissions of the hotel or holiday home. This includes, for example, the vehicle fleet and emissions caused by the hotel itself.
• Scope 2 refers to emissions that are caused elsewhere and are "imported" into the hotel, for example via electricity or heat.
• Scope 3 includes indirect emissions that lie outside the boundary of the first two scopes. This includes, for example, business trips or travel by employees.

How to become climate-neutral?

Once you know your own emissions, it is time to optimize and reduce them. This reduction can take place in different places and in different ways. The Green Pearls® properties show how different the path to the destination can be.

By the Power of the Sun - Renewable Energies in Sustainable Accommodation

Several photovoltaic systems, a solar thermal system, a heat pump with geothermal energy and its own combined heat and power plant - the list of energy-related measures that the STURM in the Rhön has already taken seems never-ending. The team is particularly proud of the garden view rooms completed last year. These are built in accordance with the latest energy standards and have a climate-neutral energy balance thanks to their own photovoltaic system and the aforementioned heat pump. In the future, two industrial battery storage units will enable an energy-saving circular economy and provide environmentally friendly energy even on bad-weather days and at night.

Furthermore, one of the hurdles on the way to climate neutrality was the preservation and modernization of the existing building from the 1970s. The goal here was a balancing act between climate protection and design, which was achieved with the help of architect Matthias Loebermann. By not demolishing the building, it was possible to save a lot of resources and avoid waste, which in turn benefits the climate.

When we asked if they were climate neutral, Alexander Thurm, junior manager at Hotel Das Rübezahl, answered with a smile: "Unfortunately, not quite yet". In the romantic alpine hotel opposite the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, about 90 % of the electricity required has been generated by the photovoltaic system and a combined heat and power plant since 2021. The Thurm family uses green electricity for the rest of their needs. The pool and whirlpool are heated using heat recovery from the cold stores. The Thurm family also encourages their guests to travel by public transport or to explore the local area. The latter can be done easily on foot and the numerous, in some cases rare, plant species in the natural compensation garden near the hotel can be better viewed from this angle anyway.

One characteristic that distinguishes sustainable hotels is the constant pursuit to better themselves. Daniel Ganzer from Naturhotel Outside, for example, notes that despite district heating, electricity from renewable sources and their own photovoltaic system, as well as many other small measures, they are still not climate-neutral or climate-positive. "But we are gradually getting closer to this goal," he adds.

For example, the hotel in the Hohe Tauern National Park has some construction work coming up this year and next, such as expanding the photovoltaic system to about 100 kW peak and replacing the old windows and balcony doors with highly insulated wooden windows and doors.

At A' Cràpa Mangia, the corks really popped at the beginning of the year. After years of struggling against planning laws, a photovoltaic system will finally be allowed to be installed on the historic estate in the autumn. Of course, care is taken to ensure that it does not interfere with the complex, but blends in harmoniously and, for example, provides shade in the car park. Hot water has already been generated for the most part with the help of solar collectors for years.

Short Routes for Food

At Gut Guntrams, climate protection is part of everyday life. "It is not our style to loudly announce any measures we take for the climate," the team of the natural estate writes to us. Unfortunately, climate-neutral and climate-positive are buzzwords that are increasingly being "misused". Those who spend their holidays at Gut Guntrams can be sure that the green spaces are managed carefully and organically. With an electric tractor, of course. The farm's own products, when not sold in the farm shop, are delivered by an e-van and the food that ends up on plates in the restaurant does not have long journeys behind it. Instead, they often come from the immediate surroundings. Products such as seafood are avoided altogether.

At Lake Weissensee in Austria, the topic of "food without long transport routes" is the most significant part of the philosophy at the gourmet hotel Die Forelle. Hotel owner and head chef Hannes Müller describes his philosophy as being import-autonomous. Almost all food comes from the local region, from farmers and producers Müller knows personally and from his own garden. Moreover, hardly anything is thrown away. Instead, they are pickled, fermented, frozen or otherwise preserved. This also applies to shells and peels.

The luxurious Swiss hotel CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt follows a similar approach. Only a few products do not come from the region or have a journey longer than 150 kilometers. CERVO consistently ensures that all its suppliers comply with ecological (and social) criteria and goes the extra mile for the climate. This also means that meat dishes and the “house beer” have a surcharge to compensate for the emissions.

By the way: The electricity in the CERVO comes entirely from the Zermatt hydroelectric power. A heat pump with a heat recovery system generates almost all of the hotel's heating needs, so they can do without fossil fuels as much as possible. Guests are also involved in the process of climate protection by being able to compensate for their stay by paying a small surcharge. For this, CERVO cooperates with MyClimate.

CO₂ Compensation: Yes or No?

With this, we have already addressed the last sector or the last step on the way to climate neutrality: the compensation or offsetting of unavoidable emissions. The emphasis here is on “unavoidable” because as the Creativhotel Luise correctly points out, CO2 compensation should be viewed critically. It is often seen as a modern indulgence trade, says the team of the Erlangen hotel who would therefore like to emphasize above all the measures that are used to reduce greenhouse gases. This includes, for example, the fact that electricity is generated entirely from solar energy from the hotel's own photovoltaic system and hydropower.

The Creativhotel Luise was also the first hotel in Germany to be certified as "climate positive" by Viabono, which means that more emissions are offset than the hotel actually produces.

The unavoidable emissions are currently compensated for through the climate forest. This is being created on land once cleared for cattle breeding in Panama and, in addition to new habitats for native animals, also creates jobs and educational opportunities for the local population.

Berghotel Rehlegg also offsets the remaining emissions that cannot be avoided despite photovoltaics and a combined heat and power plant. This is done in cooperation with Positerra through active hummus cultivation, i.e. the capture of greenhouse gases such as CO2 in the soil. Furthermore, a reforestation project is supported, also in Panama, and employees also regularly plant trees directly on the company's doorstep in the Berchtesgaden National Park.

"Measuring one's own footprint is a challenge," says Klaus Pichler from the Hotel Weihrerhof thoughtfully. One goes into details that have never really been considered. But that is precisely the secret to finding new adjustments and constantly improving. Be it in the choice of regional suppliers, the journeys of the employees or the generation of energy through photovoltaic systems and a combined heat and power plant, as is the case in the Weiherhof. "Actually, we would be climate-positive, given that we do not cultivate our forest with its seven hectares and it, therefore, stores a lot of CO₂," Klaus Pichler says with a laugh. 

In addition, all unavoidable emissions are offset by Gold Standard climate protection projects, which always have something to do with water. The lake on their doorstep is the inspiration for this and at the same time a reminder of why climate protection is so important. 

Training in the Hotel Industry – Overtime and Lack of Quality

When it comes to training, the hospitality industry paints a bleak picture. For years, hoteliers have been crying out over the lack of prospective trainees. Existing apprenticeships are not being filled and the reputation of the industry is more than just tarnished. The latest apprenticeship report from the German Federation of Trade Unions, for which average young people were asked about their apprenticeship, confirms this.

In almost all points considered, but especially in the quality of training and overtime, the hospitality apprenticeships for hotel managers and chefs scored the worst. Accordingly, both professions ranked poorly in the overall assessment.

No wonder that only half of the surveyed hotel management trainees are satisfied with their training. For comparison: industrial mechanics, at the top end of the list, have over 80 per cent satisfaction.

Something Needs to Change

In addition to the lack of trainees, more and more skilled workers are leaving, especially to the industrial sector, notes the STURM in the Bavarian Rhön. "A calculation that does not balance and, above all, is not sustainable," they summarise.

Sustainability in training - However, this does not only mean imparting values and teaching material but also treating the team fairly, paying overtime, setting working hours, and providing high-quality training. According to the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau, it is important that the negative image of apprenticeships is improved. This is what the romantic hotel, which has been named a top training company by DEHOGA, is fighting for with high-quality training.

Good Apprenticeship = Sustainable Apprenticeship?

So what constitutes good training in the hospitality industry? Much can be concluded from the training report and the demands expressed within it, including overtime as an exception, not the rule, guaranteed employment after training, and more involvement for trainees.

We asked the sustainable hotels in the Green Pearls® network how they experience the situation, what they value in training, and how they ensure the quality of training in the long term.

Sustainable Apprenticeship

The Berghotel Rehlegg explains that communication and their relationships with the guests are what makes their industry special. Therefore, the apprentices are directly involved in the work with and for the guests from day one. The hotel in the Berchtesgaden National Park wants to prepare its trainees for their professional life in the best possible way. This also includes that the young trainees have the chance to experience all departments that are relevant to their apprenticeship. The Berghotel also wants to convey that even small habitual changes in one's own everyday life do something good for nature. Be it in saving waste and plastic or in the quality of one's own food.

Apprenticeships at the Tyrolean Hotel Klosterbräu are based on the hotel's YOUNIQUE concept: YOU = you, the guest & the employee and their wishes and UNIQUE = the uniqueness of the hotel and its services.

Building on this, the focus is on a familiar, warm and friendly atmosphere. Honest and authentic hospitality is a guiding principle in all areas, including apprenticeships. It takes precedence over all other skills and makes the Klosterbräu a special place for holidaymakers and staff alike.

By the way, the hotel's staff accommodation is within walking distance, so there is no need for a car to get to work. Seefeld also offers very good bus and train connections for commuters.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl in Allgäu has set itself the goal of retaining apprentices in the industry. Essential for this is high-quality training and a better image of the industry. A big task, but at least at Hotel Das Rübezahl it seems to be succeeding: Almost 10 percent of the hotel team are apprentices or dual students. And the fact that they feel at home is evident in numerous projects. Alexander Thurm, owner of the hotel, proudly reports, for example, about the last independent project of the trainees. In the “Herzensaktion zum Weihnachtsfest” (Action of the heart for Christmas), the apprentices organised the Christmas campaign for Schwangau's St. Nicholas market and for the citizens of Schwangau. In addition to baking biscuits and making chutneys, the trainee team also took care of the overall organisation.

In addition to the apprenticeship in the hotel, the Hotel Das Rübezahl also offers another special training location. Based on the apprenticeship in cooking or restaurant management, an apprenticeship as a mountain hut caterer can be realised at the hotel's own alpine hut. In addition to the mountain air and the magnificent panorama, this training offers a lot of variety, as you have to be much more of an "all-rounder" than you would down in the valley, Alexander Thurm describes with a twinkle in his eye.

The focus of the apprenticeship at the Bavarian Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway and Spa is clearly on an added social value. A warm atmosphere and respectful interaction are very important, writes the hotel. The result: a familiar working atmosphere and flat hierarchies that exist not only on paper. From the very beginning, trainees are encouraged to contribute their own ideas and suggestions. Trainee projects such as the Christmas raffle for a good cause or the tea training, which was subsequently filmed and edited for social media, provide a protected space in which trainees and dual students can take on responsibility and organization.

During training and work at the Klosterhof, the focus is on the individual with his or her abilities and interests. Communication and exchange in trainee meetings, development discussions, and everyday business are just as much a part of the framework as gaining comprehensive knowledge of the tourism industry and the work processes in the hotel and hospitality sector. The fact that this works and is well received is proven by the Klosterhof's current award on the kununu platform as a "Top Company".

A particular concern is to inspire young people about the industry and their own sustainability philosophy, Lisa-Marie Standl from the Klosterhof summarizes. In this way, they hope to counteract the negative trend among young people.

By the way: The Klosterhof is a year-round business. So unlike in other tourism businesses, there are no seasonal fluctuations and insecure working conditions, but rather year-round, secure employment.

Apprenticeship in Sustainability

Enjoying your work and being passionate about it is the focus of the apprenticeships at the STURM. The family-run hotel wants to be a second home for its employees, and thus also for its apprentices.

The clear focus on sustainability and organic quality is also reflected in the fact that the training in these topics goes far beyond the curriculum. The large snack garden is the basis on which the trainees learn everything about growing, harvesting, and processing herbs, berries, salads and vegetables. The apprentices are also involved in the selection of new, sustainable products and in ordering processes.

At Gut Guntrams, too, the apprenticeship goes beyond the curriculum. All employees are trained to consciously use their senses. Not only the sense of sight but also the sense of smell and taste. In this way, the nature hotel with its neighboring organic farm consistently realizes its philosophy of mindfulness for nature.

Looking to the Future – Wishes for Apprenticeships

The apprentices are often asked about their expectations. What do they want to see in their training, what is important to them? We turned the tables and asked the sustainable hoteliers what they would like to see. Not necessarily from the apprentices, but from the curriculum in schools and vocational institutes, from society and generally what they would like to see in an apprenticeship as a sustainable hotel manager.

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Balderschwang, Germany

Have a look at the hotel. 

Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Austria

Have a look at the hotel. 

STURM in Mellrichstadt, Germany

Have a look at the hotel. 

Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayrisch Gmain, Germany

Have a look at the hotel. 

Summary

For years, apprenticeships to become hotel managers or chefs have been among the worst-rated and most unpopular apprenticeships. This was once again shown in the current training report of the German Trade Union Confederation. The industry itself is aware of the problems and is trying to improve its image through high-quality training and communication. Especially in sustainable hotels, values are taught that go far beyond the normal curriculum and are not only important for the work in the hotel.

In line with the sustainable orientation of our Green PearlsⓇ partners, the "well-being of people" is usually defined by the hotels and holiday accommodations in such a way that design acts as a link between people and nature. This includes natural materials, green roofs, long-distance views, and playing with the elements. In this newsletter, we present a number of different design concepts, approaches, and detailed solutions of the sustainable tourism industry.

CERVO Mountain Resort wins the German Design Award 2023 for Interior Design

To start with, we would like to highlight our Green PearlsⓇ partner, CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. The Alpine Swiss hotel was recently awarded the German Design Award 2023 for its "ambiance designed for well-being" in the category "Interior Architecture". According to the jury, it succeeded in "combining regionality, sustainability, and nature on a luxurious level".

The CERVO Mountain Resort itself explains the design concept as follows: " A view of the outside world, yet closely connected to the immediate surroundings". The environment and the view are of course fantastic in Zermatt - the resort has a direct view of the Matterhorn.

Sustainability in Architecture

Architecture with Distant Views

These days, we do not look into the distance often enough. Instead, our eyes have "screen stress", which significantly affects eye health. A number of studies show that the eye relaxes when looking into the distance.

Conceptual physician Dr. Andreas Färber is not only the owner of the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, in Bavaria, but also runs the Artemacur Health Centre there. When designing the hotel, it was very important to both him and his wife that the architecture enhances overall well-being. In addition to the large wellness area, this includes various long-distance viewing areas. For example, there is a panorama sauna with a view of the vast nature, or a sofa in the library which was deliberately placed so that the guests can enjoy the distant vistas.

Sunlight as Lighting

Another architectural trend is to let as much light as possible into the rooms. No matter what lumen intensities and colors of light we can realize with LEDs today, the human eye sees best in sunlight.

At the sustainable luxury resort Keemala in Thailand, the villas and suites were built so that sunlight illuminates the rooms naturally. This is part of the overall concept of "Harmony with nature" and at the same time sustainable, as electricity is saved.

Modern Timber Architecture

Part of the biophilic design trend is to surround people with as much nature as possible. In addition to air and light, this also includes water and plants. Timber as a material has a special significance. It is a naturally grown raw material that lives on as a piece of furniture and offers a positive influence on the room’s climate. What is important here is that it is solid wood and has a natural finish.

At Gut Guntrams near Vienna, three garden lofts "float" some three meters above the apple trees. During construction, the focus was on implementing modern timber architecture that blends into the landscape without obstructing the view. Inside, "calm" (without many knots) spruce timber was chosen. Since the wood is untreated, it can breathe and releases the calming scent of the essential oils contained in the wood into the ambient air. From the outside, the lofts have seamless pine cladding that has only been treated with eco-friendly acetic acid.

An almost 300-year-old tree slice in the lobby of the Naturhotel Outside in a prime Alpine location in Tyrol is the hotel's signature design element. The ash tree grew here as early as 1725! Regional materials such as stone, leather, and wood are part of the straightforward design concept of the Naturhotel.

The timber of the ADLER Lodge RITTEN comes from European varieties such as larch, spruce, and fir. Only timber from sustainable forestry with the FSC or PEFC seal has been used, and it has been crafted by master carpenter Michl Harder, especially for the ADLER Lodge by hand in his Seiser carpentry workshop in South Tyrol. He has been working for the 5-star hotel for 20 years and guests can see his signature in every corner of the resort: the wooden ceiling in the lobby, the wood-clad lift in the Main Lodge, and the wooden furnishings in the wooden chalets.

Natural Materials with Energy-Saving Properties

While forests and therefore timber are typical features of South Tyrol, things are different in the south of Italy. At the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA in Sicily, many rooms are lined on the inside with terracruda (raw earth/clay). This is not only a natural building material, but also a moisture regulator typical of the country, as the material stores moisture and releases it again when it is dry. Furthermore, tuff stone is often used in the various buildings of the resort. The volcanic rock is found in Sicily around the volcano Etna. Tuff stone keeps rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. The natural materials chosen are therefore not only sustainable and regional but also energy-efficient.

Even if it is not as warm in Austria as it is in Sicily, natural climate regulation makes sense here too. The new natural rooms and suites at Hotel Klosterbräu, Tyrol, now also feature clay walls. In addition, the existing wood has been reused! "We tend not to be minimalist," says the owner family Seyrling. Instead, they like to use vintage objects, such as the ancient church bell at the new outdoor pool.

Design connects Hotels with Culture and History

Design trend: Style Blend with restored Antiques

As far as room furnishings are concerned, many of our partners maintain a mix of styles combining modern furnishings and antiques. At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, the main house and rooms are furnished in traditional Alpine style with antique furniture from the region, while the wellness area Mountain Spring Spa has sleek, modern architecture.

There is also a mix of styles and a great deal of art at Gut Sonnenhausen south of Munich. Landlord Georg Schweisfurth is an art collector, author, and eco-pioneer with heart and soul. The manor house offers a casual atmosphere around the works of art. To establish the regional reference, there are originally restored farm cupboards in the renovated farmhouse.

Nachhaltiges Design meets Geschichte

In keeping with the view of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Bavarian royal castles, the décor at Hotel Das Rübezahl is "romantic and regal" with a mix of modern-alpine. The boutique spa hotel is therefore also considered a Romantic Hideaway. 

Another equally romantic property is the Relais del Maro in Northern Italy, which Elena Scalambrin built as an Albergo Diffuso in the picturesque village of Borgomaro in several houses from her childhood. Guests stay here among the villagers in various rooms - the furnishings include restored furniture from Elena's grandmother.

In Peru, you can find authentic Inca masks at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a sustainable and modern 5-star hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The hacienda-style hotel is located near Cusco and Machu Picchu and showcases the cultural history of the region with handcrafted woodwork. Some of the furniture dates back to colonial times and could be seen in a museum!

The atmosphere at Eco-Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony is similarly private. Here, the interior design is how the Okelmann family themselves prefer it to be. "Nowhere else looks like our place," says the family, who also have handmade oak cabinets from great-grandma Okelmann's dowry in the hotel. New furniture is crafted in the local carpenter's workshop.

"At the Rehlegg, you will find great furniture made of old timber or in some cases, real antiques in almost every corner and every room," describes our partner, the Berghotel Rehlegg. The hotel is about 30 minutes away from Salzburg and is located in the middle of the Berchtesgaden Alpine National Park. In keeping with the alpine culture, you will find checked bed linen, traditional wooden stools, and stag antlers on the wall at the Berghotel. The highlight is that the traditional items are given a modern touch by being placed in large, light-flooded rooms.

Hotel Transformation according to new Design Standards

The mixture of old and new was also a challenge for Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff, who transformed an existing 1970s building into the modern Hotel STURM. They succeeded in doing so in collaboration with the Nuremberg architect Prof. Dipl. Eng. Matthias Loebermann, who, among other things, gave the building the Paravent-like Loebermann façades for which the architect is known today. (The STURM has also been an important project for Professor Loebermann, who likes to include it in his portfolio).

In the interior design of the STURM, new colors and special lighting, for example, help the preserved Swiss stone pine parlor with cabin seating and tiled stove to look "fresh and homely at the same time" today.

Design as a Reflection of the Landscape

Some of our Green PearlsⓇ partners connect their accommodation with the environment by letting the interior design reflect nature. At the boutique hotel Casa León Royal Retreat in Gran Canaria, for example, the color scheme is coordinated with the elements of sand, sea, and mountains.

At Paradiso Pure.Living in South Tyrol, Italy, the aim is to express the "natural beauty of the unique surroundings" in interior design. The hotel is located at 2020 meters above sea level on the Alpe di Siusi in the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites. The pieces of furniture and lighting designed especially for the hotel are intended to convey "tranquillity" and "craftsmanship".

Feng-Shui and TCM

The connection to Far Eastern design concepts is also intriguing for some hotels. In the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, the entire hotel is designed according to Feng Shui principles. "Feng" and "Shui" are Chinese for "wind" and "water". Fundamental to Feng-Shui is that the life energy "Chi" can flow unhindered through spaces and thus keeps them vibrant, which should provide guests (regardless of whether they believe or not) with a positive atmosphere and sense of well-being.

Feng Shui is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). There is even a special TCM by KURFÜRST institute for this at the LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten on the Mosel. Colors and shapes are also chosen here so that the "Chi" flows freely through the rooms. Visually, owner Heiner Buckermann describes the style of the hotel as "retro-chic-stylish".

Upcycling Design in Hotels

As a last important design trend, we would like to introduce upcycling, which we particularly endorse due to its high degree of sustainability. In the Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten, South Tyrol, the furniture is to be upcycled in 2023 for the first time during the planned hotel renovation. "Let's see how this goes down with our guests," says host Klaus Pichler, "but we are convinced of the idea.

Klaus Förtsch has been active in the eco-movement at the Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen since the 1980s and is considered one of the pioneers of sustainable hotels in Germany. Upcycling and recycling also have a high priority for his son Ben Förtsch in the green city hotel. In the new Zimmer 20 Lounge, guests will find homemade furniture made from timber offcuts, decorations made from old beer barrels, lamps made from former wine bottles, a shelf made from old drawers, and other unique accessories. "We do a lot ourselves in order to use what we already have and to pursue the idea of recycling," says the Creativhotel.

As you can see: Creative design solutions for the "well-being of people", as International Design Day calls for, are in abundance at the Green PearlsⓇ properties. We hope we have been able to inspire you with our selection. You may copy, use, and publish parts of this press newsletter. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

The Problem with Supply Chains

Let's start with supply chains, though. It is not just about where the food comes from, but also who was involved. Where does cotton or linen for the bed sheets come from, where do the seeds, fertilizers, and animal feed come from, where was the wood for the furniture cut and, above all, who worked there and under what conditions?

The longer a supply chain is and the more stages it has, the more difficult it becomes to track and monitor from start to finish. Nevertheless, this is precisely the responsibility of hotels and businesses. Therefore, until the beginning of the year, there was a voluntary due diligence program in place for companies in Germany. This was made more rigorous and mandatory with the Supply Chain Act, which came into force in January.

Initially, it will only affect the 700 or so companies with more than 3,000 employees in Germany. From 2024, it will also apply to companies with only 1,000 employees. The law obliges companies to take their responsibility for respecting human rights seriously, not only on their own premises but also where suppliers and producers are concerned. In addition, companies must establish a risk management system to minimize and prevent not only human rights violations but also environmental damage, as well as a complaints procedure. Workers from supplier factories can then more easily report human rights violations and receive compensation.

Regional or In-House Production – This is how Green Pearls® accommodations ensure sustainability throughout the supply chain

Most sustainably operating companies and hotels, however, do not need this law to fulfill their duty of care. No matter how large they are and how many employees they employ, transparent supply chains, direct contact with manufacturers, and short transport routes are deeply embedded in the philosophy and day-to-day operations of many of them.

The Green Pearls® criteria also include keeping an eye on one's own supply chains and keeping them as short as possible. The shorter the supply chain, the easier it is to monitor it and report possible damage to the environment or human rights violations. And it's better for the environment, too. The methods for such reductions are as diverse as the Green Pearls® businesses themselves. Here we showcase a select few of them.

Farm to Table: It does not get closer than this

When Hannes Pignater, head chef at ADLER Lodge RITTEN, needs a few more tomatoes or a bunch of fresh herbs, he simply steps outside the kitchen door. In a large farmer's garden, vegetables, herbs, and, to some extent, even grains grow and flourish. Planted close to nature so that it serves as food not only for people but also for insects, it provides the hotel kitchen with the freshest ingredients possible. Everything that cannot be grown or produced by the hotel itself comes from regional partners, usually even from within the neighborhood. Guests can recognize these products by the Regional Partner label, which ADLER Lodge RITTEN introduced on its menus last year.

Further south in Italy, the historic and lovingly restored A' Cràpa Mangia estate also produces its own products such as olive oil, jams, or chutneys. Guests can purchase these products in the farm bar and take them home as souvenirs or enjoy them directly on-site on their own terrace. The team at A' Cràpa Mangia is also happy to reveal where guests can find more local products and recommend authentic and sustainable restaurants in the area.

At Naturresort Gerbehof, much of the produce comes from the farm's own certified organic agriculture and apple orchard. Guests can take a walk around the grounds and see exactly where the apples come from that are used to make the morning juice, for example. And in the fall the trailers with the organic fruit roll right past the farm's driveway.

(Organic) Certifications for Suppliers and Producers

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has been awarded the Bioland GOLD certification and partners only with certified organic farms, which do not use synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, keep animals in a manner appropriate to their species, and operate in a sustainable manner. In their own kitchens, too, food is handled with care and prepared gently. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA communicates all this to its guests transparently and honestly. Recently, it has also started to show the CO2 emissions generated in the production and preparation of each creation on the menu.

The sustainable hotel also relied on traceable supply chains and a conscious choice of materials when renovating the apartments. You can read more about this soon in our newsletter.

The products that end up on each plate at STURM travel a maximum of 150 kilometers. But it is not only regionality that is important to the owner family Schulze-Dieckhoff. As a 100% certified organic hotel and member of the Slow Food movement, organic quality and seasonality are also high on the list. They know most of the suppliers personally and are in constant contact with them. The short distances and the cooperative relationship also ensure that animal welfare is taken into account, especially with animal products.

In some cases, real friendships have even developed, so that employee outings, Christmas parties, and summer celebrations are directly linked to a visit to the brewery, the coffee roasting plant, or other businesses. In this way, the employees also get to know the partner companies and can then answer any questions the guests may have about the local products.

Thanks to the open kitchen concept in Restaurant Otto|s, communication with the guests takes center stage anyway. Transparency and openness are the order of the day; individual ingredients, information on the origin, and uncertainties are clarified in direct conversation with the kitchen team. Time and again, guests take advantage of the opportunity to speak directly with the producer, so they can stop by and stock up on bread or cheese for home.

Regional Purchasing with Long-Term Partners

Solid, long-term partnerships are also important to the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio. At the same time, the sustainable hotel of the Traubel family consciously supports the region and smaller, local businesses by featuring their suppliers on their website. 

Berghotel Rehlegg also offers its guests such a list, both physically in the hotel and on its website. Food products travel only short distances, and some even come directly from the neighboring farm.

Avoiding long transport routes and maintaining a personal relationship with farmers and producers is a top priority at Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony. The sisters have already visited many farms themselves and cordial cooperation and mutual respect are just as important to them as the high quality of the products. This is exactly what they share with their guests in personal conversations, but also on their website and social media.

At Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, local products are featured on the breakfast menu and the dinner menu. Even when it comes to drinks, there are more and more local specialties, for example, Tyrolean wine, the hotel's own mineral water, syrups, as well as whiskey or gin from the region.

People were paying more and more attention to this issue, asking questions and appreciating the transparency and commitment to only serving regional products on the plate or buffet, reports the Hotel Weiherhof on the Ritten (South Tyrol). On the breakfast buffet, guests learn from small signs where granola, eggs, honey, and more come from. Mostly directly from the Ritten or from South Tyrol, the rest from Italy.

At Naturhotel Outside, Daniel Ganzer and his team place great value on regional foods. Whenever possible, they buy directly from the farms and producers. This keeps the supply chain short and the hotel ensures that the products, whether food or furniture, have been produced under fair and environmentally friendly conditions. This closeness to the producers is also communicated to the guests by not only naming them on the buffet and on the menu, but also by introducing the people behind the products and telling their stories.

At Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi in South Tyrol, they see it similarly. In line with the Pure Philosophy and the focus on vegan-vegetarian nutrition, it is a natural progression for the Paradiso team to consciously select their suppliers according to high standards and ecological principles. This applies to food, as well as linens and furniture. In addition, both food and beverages, which, by the way, are all organic or biodynamic, come for the most part exclusively from Italy and, if possible, from the immediate surroundings.

The Relais del Maro near Imperia on the Ligurian coast takes a similar approach. Here, guests will not find any products that do not originate in Italy. Instead, there are local specialties and souvenirs such as printed cloths from friendly artisans.

Supporting the Zermatt region, sharing the distinctive characteristics and specialties of the Swiss region with guests, and thus providing them with an authentic experience - This is how the team at CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt describes their ethos. Their deep connection to the place at the foot of the Matterhorn is reflected in their underlying vision and commitment to always go the extra mile, shortening supply chains and bringing local partners on board.

Products for the kitchen, furnishings, and also services are sourced as much as possible from within a 150-kilometer radius. If not, the hotel intentionally handpicks sustainable companies. For example, honey comes from the Biner family, vegetables and fruit from Toni Julen GmbH, and cheese and other dairy products from Horu Käserei - all in Zermatt. CERVO has been working with most of its partners for many years and they support each other in their ecological and social commitments.

In addition to suppliers, CERVO is also committed to thoughtful value chains in its own hotel garden. The environment is designed according to permaculture principles, creating its own small system that produces food as well as energy.

If you would like to learn more about each Green Pearls® partner and their philosophies and initiatives, feel free to check out their microsites. We are at your disposal for inquiries and questions. You are welcome to copy and publish excerpts or complete verbatim versions of this newsletter.

Besides the cosmetic treatments and massages now available with Vinoble Cosmetics, guests also have something new to discover in the sauna. Three new infusions beguile the senses. The smell Rehlegger Leitn brings the sauna visitor directly on the hay meadows of the Alm. Breathe-free is perfect for the cold season with essences of spruce, rosemary, and juniper. And the Around the Wine infusion combines the cozy mood of a dinner evening with the new cosmetics line made from grapes and their seeds.

All three scents can be experienced not only at Berghotel Rehlegg, but can also be purchased for home at the hotel's Kramer Ladl or in the online store.

Also in the Naturresort Schindelbruch in the Harz mountains one is pleased about a special honor. The RELAX Guide awarded 17 points and three lilies, placing the hotel among the top 20 wellness hotels in Germany. The jury found words of praise for the "spaciousness, clarity as well as beauty with refreshing down-to-earth quality."

In the cozy room, those seeking relaxation are pampered with treatments from the Almwiesn Spa and can then continue to relax in private. How about a subsequent sauna visit in the Hydrosoft cabin, for example? Or pure chill out in the lounge with a drink?

The Spa Suite can be booked for 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your own needs. Included is a body treatment, the length of which depends on the time booked. You can find more information here. 

Green Pearls® hoteliers are also facing a new challenge. The rooms should be warm and in the spa area guests should be able to forget their own worries for a moment. At the same time, in the face of the climate crisis and rising energy costs, rethinking and action are urgently needed.

Sustainable energy concepts and creative solutions

The hotel sector contributes about 4% to the current consumption of energy resources. Savings are an inevitable step here as well. For our Green Pearls® partners, sustainable business in harmony with nature is in their DNA. In view of the current situation, they are implementing more sustainable energy concepts and creative solutions as a matter of course.

Even though the hotel sector represents only a small share of energy resources consumption compared to the manufacturing industry, it has a high potential for savings, especially in the spa area. Here, saunas, swimming pools and steam baths are constantly heated. The room temperature is higher and the lights burn longer than in the rooms. The Green Pearls® partners are aware of the high energy consumption, so they have emphasised energy-efficient concepts within their sustainability strategies from the very beginning. For the coming winter, almost all of them are planning to further adapt to the gas shortage and the current situation.

Book Spa areas exclusively and save energy

Under the motto "Weihrerhof goes green", a sauna at the Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten already remained unused during the summer. The Pichler family had decided to do this due to the high summer temperatures. And in winter the sauna times are shortened and they only run when they are actually being used.

The Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt has taken a similar approach. In summer, it opened the spa area only on request, thus reducing electricity consumption. For the upcoming winter, they are planning to reduce the spa hours or to start up only one of the two saunas. With a wealth of experience in the short-term, flexible implementation of new measures from the Corona crisis, the Bella Vista is optimistic about the upcoming winter season.

The Shepherd's Cart sauna at Hotel Okelmann's in Warpe, Lower Saxony, is also only heated when guests book it in advance. This efficiently conserves resources. The hotel's hot tub must also be booked individually in advance. Only then is it heated. Not with gas, however, but with dead wood from the hotel's own forest area.

Instead of a shepherd's cart, guests at the lifestyle hotel SAND on the Baltic Sea coast can expect a rooftop sauna with a view over the surrounding countryside. This sauna is only heated by prior arrangement and can then be used exclusively, and not only since the impending energy crisis. In addition to the exclusive operation of the sauna, the SAND also ensured optimal insulation during the construction of the building in 2017 by installing Cero sliding doors, among other things. There are also plans to heat and cool the Sunny Side building with geothermal energy and to build a photovoltaic system.

Customised Building Technology

At Hotel Das Rübezahl in Bavaria, nothing stands in the way of hotel operations, even in the event of a gas shortage. The pool and outdoor pool are already heated exclusively with waste heat from the hotel's own cold storage facilities. The regulation of the sauna, among other things, is adjusted manually by timers. In the future, an automatic system will adjust such energy-intensive facilities to the individual outdoor temperature and usage at specific times.

One such automatic system is Spa Control, which has been in use at Gut Nisdorf for several years. With the help of motion detectors, Spa Control only switches on the lights and sauna when someone is in the corresponding area. It was important to the team of the estate that the guests can use the wellness area in the afternoon without restrictions and without prior appointment. Nevertheless, energy should not be consumed unnecessarily.

Innovative and sustainable concepts

With modern and energy-saving technology, the Rehlegg also sets an example in the field of energy efficiency. The outdoor pool receives its heat via a solar thermal system, and already 50% of the electricity demand can be covered from the hotel's own production. In order to be prepared for the future, the Rehlegg is planning a photovoltaic system.

Electricity from the hotel's own solar system, two of its own combined heat and power plants for energy and heat - at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, the energy concept is designed for sustainability from front to back. Of course, this also includes the newly built Mountain Spring Spa.

Underneath the plunge pool in the sauna area and the natural bathing lake runs a collector field with cooling liquid. The coolness recovered there makes it possible to lower the floors of the saunas from up to 60 °C to comfortable temperatures. In winter, this system ensures that the plunge pool does not have to be heated up separately and does not freeze over.

Thanks to the modern shading system in the HUBERTUS, blinds darken the hotel rooms and the spa area under certain conditions. In summer, this means that the spa needs to be cooled almost 30 % less.
 

Water from sustainable sources

The view of the HUBERTUS is characterised by the water that surrounds it in the form of an infinity pool, the diving pool and the natural bathing lake. The water used for this comes from the hotel's own mountain spring. This is also where the hotel gets the water for the gardens and the toilets in the spa area. The waste water is transferred via the regional sewage treatment plant in the valley to relieve the Balderschwang spring.

The Green Pearls® partners are looking ahead to winter with creative and innovative ideas. Guests can rest assured that everything is being done to reduce energy consumption and, at the same time, provide them with a relaxing stay. More information about the hotels, their sustainability concepts and initiatives can be found at www.greenpearls.com and on the hotels' websites.

The everyday life and the environment in which we live and travel is largely not designed for people with disabilities. This means that where they go, they encounter obstacles such as stairs, low-contrast signage or a lack of guidance sounds and signage systems. Today, we present Green Pearls® partners who enable people with disabilities to enjoy a relaxed holiday that is also as independent as possible. In addition, the partners reveal excursion destinations in their area that can be experienced without having to worry about barriers.

Barrier-Free Hiking and Wellness Getaway in Berchtesgadener Land

Under the motto "National Park for All", Berchtesgaden National Park offers a unique nature experience for all travellers. Especially in the Klausbach Valley, many points of the model management plan of the regional administration have already been implemented, which aims to advance the accessibility of the national parks. Numerous hiking trails run through the valley, almost all of which are accessible by wheelchair. Diverse paths ensure that people can adapt the routes to their individual needs. Benches invite visitors to rest and take a break every 200 metres or so, and cattle grids are designed with crossing plates. 

A special highlight is the barrier-free suspension bridge over the Klausbach stream and the wheelchair-accessible viewing platform at the game feeding area. Special guided tours for people with walking, visual or hearing impairments are also on offer. In summer, there is also a public low-floor bus in the valley, which also serves the most important sights. 

Sustainable and Accessible Hotels in Berchtesgadener Land

Barrier-free accommodation at the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa

Awarded the "Barrier-free for people with walking disabilities" label, the Hotel Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa offers a sustainable accommodation and wellness option for travellers with limited mobility.  

Two rooms are completely barrier-free and, with a few exceptions in the spa area, guests can enter all public areas without restriction or can access them with a wheelchair. This also includes the fact that the tables in the restaurant are wheelchair accessible. The detailed test report by "Reisen für alle" (Travel for all) is available here

Excursion tip from the Klosterhof:  "The boat trip on the Königssee." 

Please note: The entrance is not accessible by wheelchair. However, the boat staff will be happy to help.

All-round well-being at the Berghotel Rehlegg

The 25 rooms of the guesthouse at Berghotel Rehlegg are not marked as barrier-free, but can be enjoyed by people with disabilities with the help of an accompanying person. There are level showers in the bathroom and lifts also make the upper floors accessible.

Excursion tips from the Berghotel Rehlegg 

"Many attractions in Berchtesgaden and the Berchtesgadener Land are also barrier-free! These include the Jennerbahn, boat tours on the Königssee, the Haus der Berge, the Kehlsteinhaus, the Watzmann Therme, the hanging bridge at the Klausbachhaus, the Graßl gentian distillery, the circular path around the Hintersee or the Ramsau village path with spa garden and graduation house."

Barrier-Free Travel in the Allgäu

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, the 46 rooms of the Mountain Nest are located at ground level. Guests can reach the upper floors by means of a elevator. If the many noises and lights in the hotel restaurant cause problems, which can be the case for hypersensitive people, for example, this is also no cause for concern. These guests can escape the sensory overload by ordering their meals directly to their room. A call to the room service is all it takes.

Excursion tips from the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio 

"We recommend the Nebelhornbahn in Oberstdorf. This is the highest peak in the Oberallgäu region with a new cable car. Here there is a magnificent vantage point with a restaurant at the top station. In addition, some paths have been widened and are wheelchair accessible. Oberstdorf is also home to the ski jump. Here there are weekly barrier-free guided tours of the facility."

Traveling in Switzerland: Accessible and Sustainable 

"A trip to the Gornergrat is always something very impressive," says Fabienne Anthamatten from the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt. In the small sustainable hotel, one of the rooms is completely barrier-free. The breakfast room is also accessible without obstacles by people with walking impairments. The staff is trained and attentive, so there is always someone on hand should help or assistance be needed. 

The train takes you up to the Gornergrat, 3100 metres above sea level. The Matterhorn is in view the whole time and from the top you have a magnificent view over the 4000-metre peaks and the glaciers of the region. The train has low-floor carriages that are easily accessible by wheelchair and barrier-free toilets are available at the summit.

Inclusive, Sustainable, Accessible

A pioneer for inclusion and accessibility is the Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg on the edge of the Black Forest. People with and without disabilities work together here on an equal footing, so that accessibility is a matter of course in everyday work and hotel life. 

Situated on the edge of the almost car-free and self-sufficient district of Vauban, the Green City Hotel has also dedicated itself to sustainability from the ground up. This includes a green façade, a photovoltaic system on the roof, and close partnerships with regional (inclusive) businesses.

Various barrier-free city tours are offered in Freiburg. Tours can be tailored individually or you can opt for a thematic city tour, for example on art history or Freiburg legends and sagas. 

Sustainable travel should be possible for all. The Green Pearls® partners set an example by not only focusing on their environmental footprint, but also on travelers with and without disabilities.

• HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio
• ADLER Lodge RITTEN
• Gut Nisdorf
• Berghotel Rehlegg
• Biohotel Grafenast
• SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA
• Schlosshotel Blankenburg

Click here for the online edition of the Gourmet Journal (german only)
 

Hotel Das Rübezahl

By the middle of June, a jewel of the Hotel Das Rübezahl had already been partially reopened. The Rohrkopfhütte, a mountain hut on the Tegelberg, was extensively renovated and expanded and now welcomes guests again with culinary experiences and a unique panoramic view.

There are also some innovations in the hotel itself. Half of the four "Royal" themed suites have already been redesigned. The staff retreat on Lake Forggensee is also being expanded. This will ensure affordable living space for the Das Rübezahl team in the immediate vicinity. 

The hotel's garden area was enlarged and a massage and Ayurveda pavilion added. This is ideal for couple massages with a view of the royal castles, but can also be booked for romantic occasions such as marriage proposals or private dinners. More additions will gradually follow in the coming months.

Berghotel Rehlegg

The private spa suite at Berghotel Rehlegg also offers the opportunity to spend time as a couple and be pampered by the trained staff at Almwies'n Spa. Afterwards, you can relax in the private infrared sauna or cosy loung.

Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer’s Club

This year, the wooden outdoor lounges and the tree house at the Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club were given a new coat of paint. The seating areas in the common rooms were also renewed and given an additional protective coating. Attention was paid to the use of ecological, water-based paint and environmentally friendly materials.

There have been minor renovations in the flats, which repeat guests are happy to notice. In addition, a large terrace has been created, inviting guests to practise yoga, and there is also a new yoga programme and regular classes.

OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

The new Center of Healthy Motion at OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel has been open since 2019. Guests can exercise here on their own or with expert supervision. A bouldering wall offers a change from the training equipment and a yoga room flooded with light invites you to extended flows and guided yoga sessions.

Those who prefer to practise outdoors will feel at home in the Yoga Space on the roof terrace and will also be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Anaga Mountains.

In the conference room of the Health Centre, workouts can be complemented by seminars. And those who want to relax can spend time at the new infinity pool or end the day in the Rooftop Lounge. 

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

Since July 2021, guests of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio can enjoy wellness, yoga and relaxation on more than 4,500 square metres. The newly built spa temple offers everything your heart desires with various sauna options, an Alpine Zen garden, Japanese onsen pool, tea room, micro-salt room and an infinity pool with a view of the Allgäu mountains. Two couples' treatment rooms invite you to enjoy some relaxed togetherness. There are several relaxation rooms, a natural bathing lake and numerous offers for treatments and massages.

There are designated yoga platforms in both the indoor and outdoor areas, some with a lake view. For active holidays, the top-equipped Mountain Move fitness lounge is available.

Biohotel Sturm

The new Garden View Double Rooms at Biohotel Sturm combine a natural ambience and a climate-neutral carbon footprint. The Adults-Only accommodation units offer a private terrace with a view of the natural bathing pond and the lush garden landscape. Lots of peace and tranquillity for relaxing days for two.

When building the garden view rooms, great attention was paid to eco-friendly construction using locally sourced timber. The skylight not only provides light in the bathroom, but also ensures fresh air supply and circulation in all rooms. There is no television; instead, guests are consciously meant to use the time to decelerate, to listen to the frog concerts and the babbling of the stream.

ADLER Lodge RITTEN

At ADLER Lodge RITTEN, the farm-to-table principle is being taken to the next level. A garden and field paradise is currently being created on a site spanning 4,000 square metres, which will not only supply the kitchen with fresh vegetables, grains and fruit, but will also serve as an oasis of relaxation for the guests.

In addition to garden beds, curved paths, a pond and cosy seating areas will be designed and built. The garden is being created as a mixed culture with various vegetable and eastern species, summer wheat, herbs and flowers, which will also serve as varied food sources for the insect world.

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is also about to undergo major renovation work. The rooms are to be renovated according to the Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) principle with the highest ecological standards. The C2C design principle is based on the circular economy, in which raw materials are carefully selected and kept in a closed cycle. In other words, no waste is produced.

The hotel consciously selects the building materials, focusing on environmentally friendly resources, climate neutrality, the highest social standards and regeneration quality, among other things. After completion of the renovations, there will be three room types, each with different features and concepts. The Bohemian style combines the unconventional with vitalising and activating elements. Self-development and inspiration are the focus.

This is contrasted by the Waldklang concept with earthy and woody tones, which captivates guests with a kind of magical silence and invites them to deep relaxation. The third room type is called Falkenstein and recalls the powerful origins and a strong basic sense of security.

In addition to the renovations of the rooms, the construction of a panoramic outdoor sauna is also in the planning stage.

There are more information about the hotels on  www.greenpearls.com and on the hotels' websites.

The Mountain Cries for Help

The consequences of the high volume of tourists alone are enormous for the sensitive alpine ecosystem. They are further aggravated by the advancing climate change. This is true for tourism in summer, but even more so for the high season in winter. Shorter ski seasons, increased artificial snowmaking and thin snow cover make skiing an immense burden on the Alpine ecosystem. But also in summer, the many tourists are causing ecological and also social problems.

Abolishing tourism in the Alps is not a solution. Too many people depend on travellers for their livelihood. After all, tourism is one of the most important sources of income in nearly half of the Alpine region. Instead, a solution is needed that combines environmental protection, the need for recreation and economic efficiency. This solution can be gentle tourism in the Alpine region.

Gentle Tourism in the Mountains

The ultimate goal of gentle or soft tourism is to minimise or eliminate negative environmental and social impacts. In addition to environmental protection projects and the expansion of public transport, this also includes supporting local communities and the local people.

Travellers themselves can make specific choices for the environment and more sustainable alternatives. For example, they take more time to travel to a region and explore the area more slowly and consciously, using environmentally friendly means of transport such as bus and train, a bicycle or hiking boots.

On the other hand, companies in the tourism industry have a great influence on the design of gentle Alpine tourism. Hotels are switching to resource-saving processes, increasingly sourcing products from regional farmers and thus supporting the local economy. Hiring locals instead of seasonal workers also contributes to gentle tourism with benefits for all involved.

How to do it is shown by our new Green Pearls in the Alpine region.

By Train and Bike Through the Allgäu - Hotel Das Rübezahl (Allgäu)

When booking a stay at Hotel Das Rübezahl, guests can offset their carbon footprint right from the word go. However, the hotel is continuously working to keep this footprint as small as possible. Since 2021, 90 percent of the hotel's required energy has been generated via its own photovoltaic system and the modern combined heat and power plant. The pool and whirlpool are heated to comfortable temperatures via heat recovery from the cold stores.

The hotel in the Allgäu also supports environmentally friendly travel by public transport. Travellers by train are of course picked up at the station. In general, guests of the Das Rübezahl hotel can use public transport free of charge.

The hotel's location opposite the famous Neuschwanstein Castle is also ideal for exploring the surrounding area by bike. Free rental bikes or e-bikes for a small fee are available. In addition, the hotel's active guide regularly offers tours into the mountains. Here, guests learn a lot about the local herbs and plants and thus become more aware and mindful of the nature of the mountains.

Renewable Energy and Regional Cuisine at the Waldhotel Fletschhorn (Switzerland)

The Waldhotel Fletschhorn is particularly well known beyond the borders of Saas Fee for its excellent restaurant. Regional ingredients and dishes that vary according to the season characterise the cuisine and make the heart of gourmets beat faster.

But it is not only in the kitchen that the Waldhotel focuses on a gentle and sustainable approach. Located in the middle of a spruce forest and just outside Saas Fee, the nature of the Alps can be felt very directly here. In order not to disturb the sensitive ecosystem, no pesticides are used. Pollutant emissions and waste production are also kept as low as possible. For example, the hotel relies on e-vehicles to transport the goods it needs.

For the guests, a Guest Card is part of their stay, with which they can also use the mountain railways in summer. In winter, the Waldhotel team recommends gentle alternatives to classic ski tourism, such as snowshoeing or ski tours.

Sophisticated E-Mobility Concept at Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa (Berchtesgadener Land)

You won't find seasonal workers at the Wellnesshotel Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa. The team of 100 employees was put together with a focus on long-term employment and contributes significantly to the implementation of the hotel's sustainable concept. In addition, the Klosterhof relies on a comprehensive e-mobility concept and has, for example, converted the entire hotel fleet to electric vehicles. There are charging stations for guests' vehicles and bicycles, and since autumn 2021 they have been able to borrow E-Smarts for day trips. Pollutant emissions are thus significantly reduced and the environment is protected.

Berchtesgadener Land also has a well-developed bus and rail network, so a car is not necessary for travel either. Guests are then brought the last few kilometres to the Klosterhof by e-bus.

This year, the Klosterhof was the first hotel in Germany to be certified with the EU Eco-Label for its continuously evolving and effective sustainability concept. The strict requirements of the label are recognised throughout the EU.

For the Green Pearls® partners in the Alpine region, sustainable action and a gentle approach to nature are a matter of course. They have been passing this understanding on to their guests for many years and communicate it to the outside world via the Green Pearls® platform. Their green initiatives are environmental protection, serve social coexistence, support the region and inspire others to follow suit.

Initiativen der Green Pearls® Partner in den Alpen

Gentle tourism in the Alps is a true benefit for tourists as well as for hosts and local producers. Above all, it protects the unique mountain environment that travellers, hotel owners and farmers value and love so much.

The Berghotel Rehlegg also knows this and offers its guests well-filled picnic baskets for their extended bicycle or hiking tour. These range from a simple, hearty "Brotzeit" to a gourmet picnic basket with champagne and cheese platter. And the matching hiking tour comes with it on top.

• HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio
• ADLER Lodge RITTEN
• Gut Nisdorf
• Berghotel Rehlegg
• Biohotel Grafenast
• SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA
• Schlosshotel Blankenburg

You can find the article here. 

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio - Mindful Feasting in Allgäu

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, no wishes are left unfulfilled. The room rate includes the complete feel-good culinary experience: in the morning and at lunchtime, a rich buffet and in the afternoon, home-baked cake. In the evening, guests of the HUBERTUS enjoy a multi-course menu, at the end of which a selection of cheese from the region is traditionally served. The only thing that is added is the cost of the drinks. However, this does not include coffee, which is served free of charge until the afternoon. A balanced diet is part of an all-round carefree holiday at the HUBERTUS. 

That is why there is always a hot dish at the breakfast buffet, such as porridge and fresh waffles, salty or sweet. The lunch buffet includes light cuisine with an Ayurvedic touch. The kitchen team uses only spelt flour for the cakes and strudels. In addition, there is always a gluten-free and vegan alternative. Guests who also attach great importance to conscious and healthy nutrition on holiday can choose the "mindfulness path". Their menu then contains particularly compatible foods and no heavy and greasy dishes.

ADLER Lodge RITTEN - With Full Service 

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN offers a classic all-inclusive arrangement. It includes a rich breakfast buffet, lunch on the sun terrace with light dishes and the evening à la carte gourmet delights in the Panorama Restaurant along with all soft drinks and a large selection of South Tyrolean wines and spirits. All products that are served as part of the all-inclusive offer come mainly directly from local farmers or are homemade in the ADLER kitchen under head chef Hannes Pignater. But it is not only in culinary terms that guests at the ADLER Lodge can look forward to all-round service. The daily outdoor programme and access to the wellness area are also included in the price.

Gut Nisdorf - Organic Delights from the Gutshof Kitchen

Guests at Gut Nisdorf on the Baltic Sea can go straight to the swimming pond to relax after breakfast, plan a walk along the Bodden coast or take the day to discover the beauty of the region, because they no longer have to worry about their meals. They simply help themselves to their heart's content at the breakfast buffet and pack enough provisions for the day. With such a large selection of bread, rolls, sweet pastries and fruit, this is easy. And if you feel hungry in between, you can take something from the fruit bowl throughout the day. 

Homemade cake is served with a cup of tea or a cappuccino on the terrace or by the fireplace, depending on the weather in the far north of Germany. For dinner, you can choose from a variety of meat dishes or vegetarian and vegan options from the organic buffet. 100% of the produce used at Gut Nisdorf is certified organic.

Berghotel Rehlegg - Impressive Selection of Regional and International Specialities

Coffee from the Bavarian roastery Dinzler, bread from the village baker with homemade jam, mountain farm cheese, bacon from their own smokehouse, sweet pastries and much more. The day at the Berghotel Rehlegg starts with a varied and rich breakfast buffet. Egg dishes can be ordered at the table according to your own taste. As the guests of the Berghotel Rehlegg return from their hikes in the Berchtesgadener Land, excursions in the wider surroundings or from enjoying a wellness treatment, the hotel offers a daily buffet from midday to the afternoon, which has something for every taste and is available over a longer period of time with light soups, a snack, salads and cakes. For dinner, two different options invite you to feast: in the "Lichtmanneggers" there is a daily changing "Rehlegger Genussbuffet" and in the à la carte "Almstüberl" the Rehlegger specialities are served as a menu.

Grafenast - All-Round Service Close at Hand

At the Biohotel Grafenast, the whole family can relax and leave the meal planning entirely to the hotel team. The organic catering includes a varied breakfast buffet, a take-away snack, a light meal at lunchtime and in the evening a 4 to 5-course menu or experience dinner. Various types of tea and water are available throughout the day in the herbal room and on the spa floor. Drinks for lunch and dinner are not included in the package. The motto "From the garden to the plate" is very important to the Grafenast team. This is reflected in the composition of the menus from regional products as well as in the choice of drinks, which also come from local suppliers. At the "Best of Bio" tastings, guests can get to know the suppliers personally or have the craft explained to them during a farm visit. For more than a quarter of a century, the Biohotel Grafenast has been awarded the "Grüne Haube".

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA - Full Board as Desired

Not everyone needs or wants a full board throughout the day. Sometimes guests want to take lunch only as needed. Those are in good hands at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb. The half board includes the delicious and sustainable breakfast buffet and the 3-course gourmet dinner in the evening. Attention is paid not only to regionality, seasonality and organic quality. Zero waste practices are also implemented as far as possible. This means, for example, that there is no waste at all at breakfast.

With half board, guests pay extra for lunch, small snacks in the Blue Salon, and drinks at dinner, so they can flexibly adjust their catering to the day of their vacation. Everything can simply be booked to the room and paid for on the day of departure. By the way, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is a certified Bioland hotel.  

Schlosshotel Blankenburg - Hiking Pleasures with Full Board

Most guests of the Schlosshotel Blankenburg also take advantage of the half-board offered with a breakfast buffet and a daily changing evening menu. As with the other Green Pearls® partners, the Blankenburg kitchen team also focuses on regional produce: the fresh fruit and vegetables come from the Staszat market gardens in Blankenburg and the organic cheese specialities from Harzer Höhenvieh and Westerhäuser Käsehof. The pork is supplied by the butcher Halberstädter Landwurst and the game meat from the Harz forests by the hunting community Wienrode. 

Only recently, the Schlosshotel restaurant was awarded the Greentable "Sustainable Gastronomy" certification for the first time. The certificate is awarded to businesses in the hospitality industry that act with above-average ecological and social responsibility. In addition to the classic half-board, there is also the option of booking the "Wanderfreuden" package. The catering package then includes a picnic rucksack filled with a packed lunch and a bottle of wine, so you don't have to worry about the next meal during the hike or cycle tour through the beautiful Harz Mountains. 

All-inclusive with drinks, indulgent board with coffee, tea and water, half board with a picnic basket or lunch on demand - the right all-round carefree package can be found for every need at one of the Green Pearls® partners. Further information on the featured hotels and other partners can be found at www.greenpearls.com.

Find complete article here.

Rehlegg: With all the power of nature

The Berghotel Rehlegg is nestled in the middle of the pristine nature of the Berchtesgadener Land. When you’re surrounded by meadows filled with flowers and mountain herbs - why not use what grows right on your doorstep? This sounds simple but requires sound knowledge about the properties and effects of the plants and the best way to prepare them. Doris Hasenknopf, the 'herb fairy' of the Berghotel Rehlegg, has this know-how. She has harvested, mixed and tested and last year launched the Rehlegger Kräuterfee Naturkosmetik (Rehlegger Herb Fairy) cosmetics line to the market!

The list of ingredients reads like the menu for the evening meal: Apricot, walnut, raspberry, rosehip seed oil, cucumber, coriander or mint. Add to this soothing plant extracts and nourishing active ingredients such as yarrow, beeswax, almond oil, urea, clay and kaolin. The Rehlgger herbal cosmetics are tested and mixed in the company's own laboratory, which meets the strict legal requirements and guidelines for the production of natural cosmetics. All products are handmade, absolutely freshly prepared and are well suited to even those with the most sensitive skin. Anyone who has wandered across the green meadows around the hotel in Ramsau near Berchtesgaden during the day and later looks over the shoulders of the staff through the peephole during production will experience a thoroughly natural cosmetic experience. The products are also used in the spa area, and are available via the online shop.

CERVO: Care for body and soul 

The Mountain Ashram Spa at CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt also uses its own natural, vegan, cruelty-free cosmetics line. Inspired and refined with the alpine herbs from the surrounding area and other local products. The synergy and effect of the products are inspired by Ayurvedic healing and have a calming, energising or detoxifying effect. The cosmetics and oils perfectly complement the holistic treatment approach of the Mountain Ashram Spa. There is a line for women with 'Alpine Woman Apricot Sensation' and even a separate cosmetics series for men with 'Pioneer Man Alpine Herbs'. In addition, there are other series such as the moisturising series 'Aloe Vera ', or the 'Flow and Ayurveda Massage Oils'. Further products are currently in development. The CERVO has equipped the hotel rooms and bathrooms of the restaurants with products from the sustainable Swiss manufacturer Soeder.

ADLER Spa: Nature, innovation, beauty

The ADLER SPA Aktiv cosmetics line relies on the best ingredients from three different regions of Italy, home to the ADLER Resorts & Lodges: Grapes and thermal water from Tuscany for their preventative and nourishing properties, flowers and plants from South Tyrol to protect and regenerate the skin cells, and citrus fruits, algae extracts and seawater from Sicily for cleansing and detoxification. Only raw materials from organically controlled cultivation are used for the ADLER cosmetics line, which are free of preservatives and dyes. Innovative technology ensures considerate cultivation, sustainable processing and the refinement of naturally pure raw materials into textures that are easily absorbed.

Maslina Resort: Healing plants from their own garden 

At the Maslina Resort in Croatia, most of the herbs and oils used in the care products in the spa and in the rooms come from the resort's own organic garden. Since the resort opened in 2020, organic vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants have been grown on an area of 8,000 square metres. Over the years, an aromatic paradise with delicious and healing plants for the kitchen and the spa area of the wellness resort has been created.

Well-known brands and great expertise

Many hotels that do not produce their own cosmetics line fall back on the proven competence of well-known manufacturers. The Schlosshotel Blankenburg, which provides sustainable cosmetics in the rooms as well as in the spa area, uses the natural care products of Pharmos Natur®. The Pharmos products make use of the regenerative effects of selected medicinal and rejuvenating plants and are particularly suitable for sensitive skin. The spa menu of the Schlosshotel includes many facial and body treatments according to the Pharmos Natur® method.

Guests at the Bio-Seehotel Zeulenroda also enjoy treatments with Pharmos Natur® products. The spa team of the green wellness hotel at the Zeulenrodaer Sea in Thuringia also rely on cosmetics from KURLAND® and DALTON MARINE COSMETICS in order to be able to use the right product for every skin type and concern. The Bavarian manufacturer KURLAND® draws on proven findings from natural medicine and herbalism and transforms these formulas into modern, contemporary products. 

Active ingredients from the sea

The base of DALTON MARINE COSMETICS products is Celumer sea extract. The company has many years of experience in the field of marine cosmetics. At the Bio-Seehotel Zeulenroda, the revitalising extract is used in a detox pack or a body scrub.

Guests of the Mawell Resort can book a very special 'Freshness Kick', because the wellness hotel in Langenburg offers facial treatments with THALGO products. THALGO is a combination of the Greek word for sea (Greek: thalasso) and the French word for algae (French: algues). For 50 years, the company has specialised in researching active maritime cosmetics with powerful active ingredients from the depths of the sea. THALGO is also part of the natural cosmetics line up used at the OCÉANO Heath Spa Hotel in Tenerife, especially in the spa facial treatments. The spa and health package of the health hotel is maritime through and through, which is only strengthened by its location directly on the Atlantic. The hotel uses the healing power of seawater, salts and algae not only for cosmetic products, but also in the form of various thalassotherapy treatments.

Small manufacturers - big sustainability pioneers

The Naturresort Schindelbruch has currently decided to break new ground and will soon be using products from Vinoble. The products are vegan, sustainable, intensively nourishing and unisex - and are produced in their own factory in Austria. The active ingredient cosmetics use the power of the grape and are based on the ancient knowledge of traditional European medicine with a focus on vinotherapy. 

For the Naturhotel Aufatmen in Leutasch, there were two important criteria when selecting their cosmetic products: organic and minimal travel distances. They therefore decided on the products of the Tyrolean company Pure Green Cosmetic. Pure, natural cosmetics that are vegan and produced without animal testing. 

A renowned smaller label is SUSANNE KAUFMANN TM Kosmetik, which is used at the Strandhaus Boutique Resort & Spa.The exclusive line from Bezau in the Bregenz region follows the holistic approach that the entire understanding of beauty, health and a general physical well-being is rooted in the power of nature. The aim of the skin care range is to strengthen the natural functions of the skin. The label also takes a pioneering role with regard to natural and organic production and sustainable packaging. All SUSANNE KAUFMANN TM products are also available at the spa reception of the boutique hotel which itself sits directly in the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve on the Spree River.

The possibilities to strengthen skin, body and soul with the help of nature are numerous and diverse. This can also be seen in other Green Pearls partners. For example, the products selected for spa treatments at CERF Island Resort are based on essential oils from plants found in the surrounding nature - a true organic product that uses the natural environment of the Seychelles as inspiration for its range of treatments. The Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa in Bali also focuses on 100% natural, with essential oil formulations made from regional products such as coconut oil, jungle honey, lemon, cucumber and banana, processed and applied with knowledge passed down through generations.

For more information on the Green Pearls® partners and their cosmetic products, please visit the respective hotel website or www.greenpearls.com.

Trend topic 1: Storytelling

Those who have the opportunity to talk with the leaders and masterminds of sustainable tourism destinations immediately become inspired and enthusiastic about the bold ideas, fantastic realisations and passion that the sustainable concepts bring with them. However, this often remains hidden from many - especially potential guests. Filling this communication gap is at the top of the to-do list for the coming year. ‘Do good and spread the word’ is therefore the motto for 2022.

Ilona Jeckelmann from the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt sees a different focus among the new generation of travelers: “Luxury and pleasure should go hand in hand with sustainability. The tool of storytelling is important here. We have a very large section on our website that informs guests about our measures, and we would like to expand this even further. We also want to use social media, our blog and the newsletter to better and more clearly convey our visions.”

Kristin Okelmann from Hotel Okelmann's in German Lower Saxony is also planning increased time and budget for social media, blogger relations and other distribution channels to report on the family hotel and its sustainable ideas in 2022. Only recently, the hotel created a more sophisticated concept, set up a yoga and sound massage room and invested in a wooden whirlpool. So, there’s plenty to talk about!

The Mawell Resort in Hohenlohe uses a mix of communication tools to promote the initiatives of the hotel, which is sustainable from the ground up. Internal guest mail introduces guests to the concept - from energy generation, to the use of certain foods, to the focus on nature - and raises awareness of sustainability in general. Social media, the second communication pillar, is to be further expanded in 2022 and optimised to suit the target group. This also includes a stronger presence within the regional network.

Hannes Müller from Genießerhotel Die Forelle on Lake Weissensee sums up his communication strategy in a simple formula: "We must live our operating philosophy 100% honestly. Guests have become brutally sensitive - greenwashing is recognized early on... That's why we are simply authentic in everything we communicate. Everything we communicate to the outside world must be felt by the guest on site. Personal recommendations - that’s the best marketing option for us!"

Trend topic 2: Digital guest communication

Digitalisation reduces paper consumption, especially when it comes to communication. However, digitalised communication also considers the changed behaviour of our time and enables a continuous exchange of information between providers and guests.

The Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea increasingly relies on digital guest communication and has reduced its paper consumption to zero. Paperless check-in, paperless questionnaires and paperless guest requests have already proven to not only be more efficient, but also 100% more environmentally friendly. This has been a great success for the hotel. In 2022, the SAND is further expanding digital communication with guests before arrival and after departure by using the "Customer Alliance" rating platform. As mobile phones are increasingly the communication tool of choice, the hotel is saying goodbye to the digital info folder via SuitePads and introducing the “Gastfreund app”.

Schloss Wartegg at Lake Constance particularly values the benefits of positive customer reviews: “With top ratings on Tripadvisor & Co, we have set ourselves apart from the competition. Of course, sustainability is a USP, which we try to communicate as often as possible via social media, newsletters and press coverage. We use sustainability labels such as Swisstainable and Green Pearls® so that guests can orient themselves to defined standards,” says Richard Butz.

Trend topic 3: Innovations in sustainable technologies

Sustainable business is an ongoing process that is constantly shaped by new ways of thinking, technological progress - and of course by the budget available. The Green Pearls® partners have ambitious plans for the coming year:

CERVO Mountain Resort is fully committed to the topic of energy and already started to optimise its energy concept back in 2020 - this development is to be continued. “Thanks to boreholes and geothermal probes, we have succeeded in covering 95% of our energy needs with geothermal energy. Likewise, all wastewater heat is reused in the plant to heat water. In addition, we are working on establishing the entire grounds of the resort as permaculture.” The SAND Lifestyle Hotel will also invest in energy efficiency in 2022 and has already had an energy consultation carried out.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has big plans. To achieve the goal of embedding sustainability through 100% of the value chain, from 2022 all 96 rooms are to be completely renovated and redesigned according to the cradle-to-cradle principle. This means that all materials are permanently part of natural cycles or closed technological loops.

Trend Topic 4: Sustainable Wellness + Health

In addition to the unbroken interest in sustainable spa and wellness offers, the Green Pearls® partners believe that the health focus will become more and more of a priority. The Mawell Resort is therefore planning an entirely new MediSpa hotel area with treatment rooms and therapy options in the long term. Health & prevention courses as well as individual fitness & nutrition advice are also to be included. In addition, the construction of a large indoor pool for the wellness area of the resort is in the planning stage.

Due to the enormous demand for wellness and cosmetic services, more space is also to be created for the Almwiesn Spa in the Berghotel Rehlegg with a new treatment room. This will allow the number of treatments to be increased and the spa offering to be expanded by several new facets.

In 2022, the Hubertus Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu Mountains will continue to rely on its Holistic Life concept to awaken new life energy. The holistic approach is being implemented in the hotel on three levels: Holistic Touch (spa + wellness), Holistic Spirit (coaching, mindfulness) and Holistic Food (slow food). From treatments to movement, relaxation and coaching sessions to nutrition, the offers are oriented to the seasons and thus also to the human biorhythm.

Wellness and health will continue to be important for the ALDER Lodge Ritten in South Tyrol. Actually, it will play an even bigger part in 2022. Apart from the already extensive range of offers in the spa, cosmetic and sports area, the hotel will work together with a local farmer. They plan to jointly manage a directly neighboring property for fruit and vegetable cultivation and animal breeding. 

Trend topic 5: Gentle city tourism

The topic of sustainability will also shape city tourism in 2022. Rail travel is on the rise and hotels that have already adopted a sustainable approach, such as the Hôtel Le Pavillon in Paris or the zero-emission Hotel Milano Scala in Milan, are facing increased demand with their range of e-charging stations, organic cuisine, zero-waste breakfast, special air filters and electrosmog-protected rooms. Innovative concepts such as Creativhotel Luise's regrowing Hotel Room® are attractive flagships for sustainable city tourism.Sustainability is also high on the agenda of companies, so the topic of green meetings & events continues to gain importance. The Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen is therefore expanding its business offer with two new conference rooms.

Contemporary guest communication, new technologies, sustainable wellness and business travel - the topics and plans of the Green Pearls® partners for the coming year are diverse. What they all have in common is that they are future-proof and consistently sustainably oriented – bring on 2022!

Read here Newsletter part 1: Sustainable Travel 2021 - A Review

Interest in sustainable accommodation has increased in 2021

The awareness around sustainability has increased significantly, especially with regard to regional tourism, which is a point that Kristin Vogel, Head of Marketing Mawell Resort Langenburg, notes. Guests are (re)discovering their home countries and the many great things they have to offer, and this is reflected both by longer stays along with a greater interest in regionality. In the restaurant sector, a strong increase in demand for vegetarian and vegan alternatives as well as regional and seasonal dishes is noticeable, adds Vanessa Baumann, Marketing & Sales Mawell Resort. The trend towards more plant-based dishes and healthier options has also been seen by Tammy Gan, Marketing Communication Manager of Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, “More and more guests are travelling with a stronger social and sustainable awareness. For example, they stay longer in one place and make fewer trips per year.”

Marion Müller from the Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea does not believe that the pandemic has greatly changed the awareness of sustainability among her target group, but has definitely strengthened it. Due to the travel restrictions, however, there was also demand from guests who are not normally concerned about sustainability.

Domestic tourism on the rise

Travel restrictions and an increased need for safety have made many people prefer to holiday in their own country. Ilona Jeckelmann, Project & Marketing Manager of CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, is pleased to see the increase in the awareness that one's own homeland has a lot to offer. As has the appreciation of local products and crafts. Fabienne Anthamatten, hostess of the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, confirms this: "Most of our guests are currently Swiss. And there we notice that there is a great appreciation for our sustainable thinking and actions in the business. However, we are explicitly appealing to sustainably-minded guests with our offer. We very much hope that 2022 will allow even more international tourists to find their way to Zermatt.

The high appreciation for sustainable accommodation from local guests has also given Schloss Wartegg on Lake Constance a healthy number of bookings. Richard Butz is sure that in the coming year, too, the hotel will be filled primarily by domestic tourists who value a safe and personalised journey, the hotel's hygiene concept, the beautiful nature and good, healthy food. The hotel is therefore currently hiring more staff. With a spacious marquee planned for aperitifs and small celebrations, Schloss Wartegg will also continue to provide an alternative to indoor celebrations in the long term.

Wellness & health were the winners of the year

The high demand for people to be able to simply switch off and take some time out for themselves has led to an enormous popularity in wellness and healthcare offers. Natural cosmetics, soothing massages, yoga and fasting offers were very well booked by all Green Pearls^® partners at the end of the year. Fabienne Anthamatten is therefore very pleased that the Hotel Bella Vista was able to expand its wellness area during 2021: “With the addition of our Arvenstube with waterbeds, the Alpine Spa Bella Vita is now complete and geared towards nature-conscious guests seeking relaxation.” The Naturresort Schindelbruch also appeals to this clientele with its brand new Landresidenz, which includes four private spa suites.

The Berghotel Rehlegg also boasts an update: the hotel has used the lockdown period to develop its own herbal cosmetics line. These are produced in-house under the strict conditions of the European Cosmetics Regulation. For the health of their guests, all mattresses in the hotel were also replaced. Every room now has Hästens mattresses, made entirely from sustainably sourced natural materials.

High demand for personalise offers

Holidays in your own holiday home or appartment: the trend of living the day according to your own rhythm and being independent of predefined hotel structures has strengthened in 2021 and will continue to do so in 2022 according to our Green Pearls® partners. No matter whether in front of an impressive mountain panorama, as with the Summit Lodges Pfunds and the holiday appartments of The Peak Sölden furnished in stylish alpine style, or the original holiday home complex MANOAH Häuser am See in Thüringen. The demand, especially for high-quality accommodation that fits authentically into its surroundings and offers a natural experience, is growing strongly. Günter Beer from the Pou de Glac holiday home near the French border and the Costa Brava notes: "We were able to realise our vision of sustainably built accommodation in the middle of nature and have already noticed after the first few months in operation that we have hit our mark. Our guests not only appreciate the secluded location and the historical ambience of the former estate, but are also very interested in our sustainable energy concept and the environmentally friendly restoration works.

Some of the Green Pearls hotel partners who offer separate accommodation units on the hotel grounds, such as the Hotel Sturm in the Rhoen Mountains with its kitchen house located in the middle of the hotel garden or the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, also focus on the trending topic of individuality and independence. Stephan Bode, Managing Director of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA confirms the high number of reservations of the self-sufficient accommodation units next to the main hotel and adds: “The demand for our flats was extremely high this year. We notice that guests, of course, still like to take advantage of the hotel's offers and want to be pampered in the wellness area or in the restaurant.”

Sustainability also scores in the luxury segment

The fact that ‘pampering’ and individuality go hand in hand is also evident in the luxury segment. Offers such as the LENI MOUNTAIN Chalet in Sölden, which includes its own natural swimming pond, sauna area and concierge service, or the villas of the Keemala on Phuket with their own pool were very well booked in 2021 – for as long as travel restrictions allowed. Tamm Gan from the sustainable luxury resort Gili Lankansfushi in the Maldives says: "In view of the ongoing pandemic, we have noticed that the demand for holiday destinations with open spaces has increased significantly. We have also seen that more and more families are booking together with us - travelling together but wanting to stay separately. However, there are also individual travellers who want to escape the stress of their everyday lives who have increasingly returned to enjoy what we have to offer.”

“We were able to score points this year, especially with the resort's generous space, plenty of privacy and our 'Mindful Luxury' concept. For our conscious interaction with nature and individual offers, we have received a lot of encouragement and were able to record an excellent booking situation, especially in summer,” explains to Denis Martin, General Manager of the 5* star Maslina Resort on the Croatian island of Hvar.

Trust and authenticity convince in all areas

The transparency of services, the appreciation of nature and a social togetherness are appreciated by guests of all sustainable accommodations. Kristin Okelmann from the eco-hotel Okelmann's is also of this opinion and summarises the development as follows: “More and more guests who are very interested in sustainability and have a corresponding lifestyle are coming to stay with us. In 2022, a sound hygiene and safety concept, a responsible approach to the pandemic, sustainability and individuality will continue to count. Nature, tranquillity and short travel distances have played a large role this year and will continue to do so next year.”

In part two of this newsletter on December 15, 2021, you can read about the trends in sustainable travel that the Green Pearls^® partners see in 2022.

Thanks to the hard-working staff, the Rehlegg shines and sparkles in pre-Christmas splendor. The fireplace crackles and the whole hotel shines in candlelight. The confectioner Franziska has been working in the bakery for days and the kitchen team is creating delicacies. You can be curious, the smell is in any case seductive.

And if you're excited celebrating Advent and Christmas in snow, you've come to the right place. Not only the Rehlegg wears its winter garb, also nature has wrapped itself in white. There is snow! The Hintersee is a little paradise, the forests are snowed in and the Watzmann and the Berchtesgaden National Park are in the depths of winter.

The entire team is excited to welcome and spoil guests. 

Environmentally friendly materials for a sustainable sleep

Few things are as important on holiday as a good night's sleep and the right feel-good ambience. The LA VIMEA in Vinschgau in South Tyrol does everything to offer its guests the best possible - and also natural - sleeping experience. All fabrics are made of 100% Fairtrade organic cotton and the extra-long duvet is made of Tencel fibres. The WaterLily mattresses found in all rooms are made from recyclable raw materials along with a blend of special herbal essential oils. Added to this, only water is used to create the foam in the mattresses.

When it comes to sleep, the Hotel Sand on Timmendorfer Beach favours COCO-MAT beds. All rooms are equipped with bed systems from the top Greek brand, which are produced in Greece exclusively from natural and renewable materials - excellent carbon footprint included.

Organic spelt flakes, Swiss stone pine flakes, selected wild herbs and trickling millet husks - what sounds like the ingredients list of an organic bakery are actually the ingredients of the pillows that Berghotel Rehlegg has in store for their guests. The 'pillow menu' includes eleven different types of pillows with natural and organic ingredients that have a relaxing effect just by reading the names such as the Kopf Frei (Head Free) Pillow, Alpine Stone Pine Pillow or Mountain Hay Pillow.

Guests will find an oasis of peace and a restful sleep at Hôtel Le Pavillon in Paris. Here, osteopathic, antistatic and electrically neutral mattresses ensure optimal sleeping comfort. Guests with particularly sensitive sleep have the option of staying in one of the three specially shielded rooms for electro-sensitivity with protection against low and high frequency radiation. All room windows are protected from high-frequency radiation and Weber bio-technology ensures electro-smog is harmonised.

Natural fabrics and regional craftsmanship turn hotel rooms into cosy “homes away from home”

The ideas and possibilities for designing and furnishing hotel rooms according to sustainable criteria are incredibly diverse and often regionally influenced. At the Hotel Sand, maritime, natural materials such as beach grass, driftwood, shells and sand are basic ingredients in the creative decoration and furnishing of the rooms and common areas. In the Berghotel Rehlegg, natural materials such as sheep's wool, loden fabrics and linen in particular provide plenty of cosiness and a special charm in the rooms in addition to the real timber floors.

The rooms at Schloss Wartegg on Lake Constance also radiate warmth and comfort. Furnished with wooden elements made of elm, maple and redwood from the castle's own English park and pared down to only what is needed to find peace and quiet. All products, from pencils to toilet paper, are Ecolabelled and, wherever possible, natural materials such as linen, wool and cotton are also used for textiles.

The Green City Hotel Vauban attaches great importance to regional references: from the solid timber furniture to the individually designed reception, everything comes from the region and was predominantly implemented by local businesses, creating added value for everyone involved. In addition to regionality, the Freiburg hotel attaches great importance to consistently sustainable and straightforward design. This is not only evident in the clear lines of the architecture, but also in the low energy consumption figures. All rooms have a deliberately minimalist design.

Institution with social commitment

The epitome of sustainable hotel furnishings is the combination of design, sustainable materials and comfort with social commitment. Hotel Keemala on Phuket is committed to a project that is royal in the truest sense of the word: The fabrics and textiles used here are made by ethnic minorities in Thailand as part of the Doi Tung Development Project, which is under the patronage of Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The project has successfully developed sustainable alternative livelihoods for these communities to combat illegal crop cultivation.

The Kasbah du Toubkal also focuses on social commitment in its choice of furniture and fabrics. Almost all the furniture is made by craftsmen and service providers from the local villages of Imlil and Asni. Special attention is paid to the use of traditional building techniques and local materials in order to preserve the centuries-old knowledge of Berber craftsmanship and to create added value in the immediate vicinity. The Kasbah is a unique project and the result of an imaginative collaboration between Berbers and Europe.

The article is only available in German. 

More and more vegan/vegetarian restaurants offer gourmet cuisine

Hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol is clear in their belief: "We do not accept meat consumption in any way and do not believe that it can be sustainable in any form." Italy's first purely vegan hotel therefore offers purely organic and vegan creative cuisine. It is very important to them to consider veganism as a holistic lifestyle and not to equate it with giving something up. Every day they serve their guests a 5-course vegan gourmet menu with regional and seasonal creations such as a hay soup, wild herb salads, grilled stone fruit, stuffed zucchini flowers, colorful risottos or raw cakes. "A balanced vegan diet - without preservatives, organic, as seasonal and regional as possible - is the perfect formula that brings together three very important things: the right to life and respect for all living things, love for our endangered environment and interest in one's own health," emphasises the team from LA VIMEA.

Maria and Wolfgang Pfeiffer from the Naturhotel Aufatmen are similarly skeptical about meat consumption. For them, the effects of factory farming, such as the immense CO2 emissions, the enormous water consumption or the deforestation of the rainforests associated with the cultivation of animal feed are reason enough to create a purely vegan-vegetarian offer in their hotel. The health aspect also plays a major role for them. "We simply consume far too much animal fat and this strains, which we now know, not only the joints, but above all also the cardiovascular system." The married couple stresses this point and have developed their own culinary way. Under the slogan: "Freshly, creatively and laterally thought", the kitchen of the Naturhotel Aufatmen interprets primarily vegetarian dishes completely anew. In their show kitchen, a creative 4-course menu is created every evening in the company of the guests.

High-quality and regional - meat as part of a varied diet

The team of Berghotel Rehlegg does not see meat consumption as fundamentally negative. For the family hotel, sustainable meat consumption is definitely possible! However, it is important to consume meat in moderation and also pay attention to where the meat comes from. The main credo of the kitchen team: mainly homemade - from jam to salami. For this, the Rehlegg sources meat and sausage only from farming where animal welfare is the highest priority. In the restaurant "Lichtmanneggers" there is a daily changing Rehlegger pleasure buffet, and additionally, the guests can dine completely to their needs à la Carte in the restaurant "Almstüberl". Sometimes hearty alpine dishes are served, sometimes light herbal cuisine, sometimes grandma's secret recipes - variety is guaranteed.

The breeding and keeping of animal species that are currently threatened with extinction not only helps bring them back from the brink, but also helps preserve the regional biodiversity and uniqueness. For example, Black Alpine Pigs had disappeared from Bavaria for more than 100 years - but the Lichtmannegger family brought the old livestock breed back to the region. Another species, the Augsburg chicken, the only Bavarian chicken breed that is severely threatened with extinction, has been living on the premises of the Berghotel since 2018 with plenty of green space to run and forage.

Daniel Ganzer from the hotel Outside also sees meat as a natural element of local cuisine. He also only purchases regional meat, preferably from neighboring farms. This means that there are no long transport or suffering routes for the animals. Guests will also find game meat on their plates, the hotelier's attitude: "From nose to tail". That means everything from the animal is utilised. For Ganzer, meat is a natural part of a culinary tradition that has grown over decades in the 'Genussregion Osttirol'. In the restaurant 'Outside' guests are therefore spoiled with special delicacies, from Schlipfkrapfen to mountain lamb or the local "Oskars" - the East Tyrolean potatoes. However, the menu always includes a vegetarian dish. "Meat is a luxury good, one should never forget that an animal had to die for it," cautions Daniel Ganzer. He has been to a few slaughters himself and has great respect for the process.

Even if meat is eaten, nutrition should be largely plant-based - a point where the management of both the Outside and the Berghotel Rehlegg strongly agree. Whether vegan, vegetarian or with meat and fish, all cook with fresh, regional and seasonal ingredients. The culinary offerings of LA VIMEA, Naturhotel Aufatmen, Berghotel Rehlegg and Naturhotel Outside are also similar in another respect: they are all absolutely delicious!

Yoga and "Journaling" in Berchtesgaden

Autumn at Berghotel Rehlegg is all about yoga. The workshop “Yoga with Inka'” is based on classical Hatha Yoga and kicks off from 13.10.-17.10.2021. Course instructor Inka also brings in her experience as a dance therapist and complements the yoga units with exercises from Qi Gong, Vinyasa Yoga, Modern Dance and Thai Massage. Starting 20.10.-24.10.2021 the certified yoga teacher and wellness therapist Julia Spieß, who lives on Amrum provides special moments in nature — gentle Hatha flow in the middle of the Berchtesgaden mountains. A unique experience awaits the guests when joining the 'End of the Year Retreat — Yoga & Journaling' from 17.11.-21.11.2021. It is a combination between yoga and writing about motivation and targets. 

More information about this and other yoga retreats is available here.

Holistic recreation in the Allgäu 

In fall, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu awaits its guests with workshops focusing on mindfulness and holistic perception. Let go, recharge your batteries, be free and activate your inner healing powers at the Thai Chi retreat with Armin Schaupp. He combines the basics of QiGong, TaiChi and yoga techniques in his exercise sessions. The soft movements of Calligraphy Yoga releases tension and relieves pain, reduces stress, improves the energy system and mobility and allow the body to come to rest (appointment by appointment). The fitness retreat of Martin Timmermann which takes place from 29.09-03.10.202 addresses those wanting to learn methods and exercises to strengthen their charisma and physical performance in everyday life. 

The offer of the Hubertus includes other retreats and packages — information is available here.

Body, Mind & Soul in the sun-spoiled Vinschgau valley

The vegan hotel LA VIMEA invites its guests from 10.10-14.10.2021 to join 'Base fasting Detox and Hiking'. The seminar is conducted by Heike Holz, an expert for holistic personal development and the tour guide Jakob Posch. The program of the four-day workshop includes accompanied base fasting with base-forming, vegan organic dishes, mindfulness training, guided (forest) meditations and breathing exercises, as well as lectures on selected topics of holistic health. It gets active during the daily hikes, which take place in (almost) any weather.

Mindfulness with Meyotai in South Tyrol

From 17.09-19.09.2021 the Eco Park Hotel Azalea offers Meyotai, which is a special combination of meditation, yoga, and Tai Chi in addition combining exercises of the Indian martial art Kalaripayattu and techniques of Indian Contemporary. It activates all senses, frees the body from daily tensions, awakens new emotional levels and creates new energy.

You can find the offers of the hotel here.

Cook. Work. Shop. at the Weissensee

The Genießerhotel Die Forelle at the Carinthian Weissensee invites its guests to cook and be active from 10-15.10.2021. The seminar Cook. Work. Shop. Besides relaxation at the Weissensee the hotel offers diverse cooking experiences. On Monday, it is all about bread & biscuits, while on the second day the participants learn 'trout Insides' about sauces & soups. On the third workshop day, the guests prepare a complete 3-course autumn menu. The last day of the cooking school is all about vegetables. 

Processing primal grains in the high Tauern National Park

Baking bread with East Tyrolean Urweizen during your vacation at Naturhotel Outside, in Matrei. Freshly smelling, homemade bread — according to an old family recipe with original wheat from East Tyrol — as in grandmother's time. The chef himself shows how it's done. The workshop should best be partaken at the end of the guests' stay because two loaves of bread are given to the workshop participants to take home.

Tango vacations at the Bodensee

When days become shorter and the year draws to a close, Schloss Wartegg in Eastern Switzerland on Lake Constance opens its doors to tango lovers. Argentine native Rafael Herbas will teach authentic Tango Argentino from Dec. 26-29, 2021. During the four-day tango workshop, there will be a 90-minute class each day, focusing on the elegance, music, and the joy of this dance. The offer is for anyone who wants to learn tango or strengthen their skills.

Most hotels are also welcoming their guests again and very grateful to get going again after such a long time. We asked some hoteliers of the Green Pearls^® partner hotels how the new start went for them, what challenges they had to face and what has changed for them in the last months. Something they all can agree on: It is clear that people are eager to travel again.

Mitja Sirk, La Subida Country Resort, Italy

We are happy with the booking figures, even though the numbers are not yet back to the level of two years ago due to the capacity restrictions of the restaurants. Since the reopening, many of the guests have not been to La Subida before and are looking to discover something new.

However, we notice a certain ambivalence among our guests. On the one hand, the desire for safety is great, and of course, the hygiene concept of the eco-resort is high as well. On the other hand, some guests, probably exhausted by the rules and regulations of the last months, sometimes find it difficult to stick to the rules of the hotel.

Corona has certainly made us even more committed and focused in our work.

Madelaine Ulrich, Naturresort Schindelbruch, Germany

After almost a year of lockdown, it was a challenge for the whole team to quickly re-establish the necessary routine in terms of communication and procedures. However, the exchange with the guests is excellent and the mutual trust in the hygiene and safety concepts is strong.

We are all happy to be healthy and thankful for our stable employer. As a team we have learned to fight, to be there for each other and to help those who are not doing as well as ourselves. And of course, we have missed our guests dearly. After the long standstill, we are ready for all the changes and challenges that will come to the hotel industry.

Stephan Bode, SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Germany

After a few minor problems, business has picked up again and the booking figures for the summer are about the same as last year. The newly opened spa sun terrace has been especially well-received by the guests.

Since the reopening, we have identified two types of guests. Some are grateful to get out and about again and are totally happy and satisfied with everything. The others, for whom a rather negative mood has set in during the pandemic, are quickly dissatisfied and complain immediately even about the smallest things.

The most important lesson for the team from the lockdown is that everyone must try to accept the time that we are in and that everything will happen as it happens. Learning to accept this is good for one’s mood and health – since it cannot be changed anyway.

The biggest challenge for us at the moment is the increasing shortage of skilled workers, which is even more visible now than before the pandemic. Many employees have changed sectors in recent months.

Elena Scalambrin, Relais del Maro, Italy

We are happy about the positive feedback from our guests and a fully booked hotel. While our guests initially had great difficulty finding their way through the maze of entry, testing and hygiene regulations, the situation is now much more relaxed. Fortunately, we have survived the time and can finally take care of our guests again.

Family Lauber, CERVO Mountain Resort, Switzerland

The summer season started rather quietly for us in May/June. However, the guests who find their way to us at the CERVO Mountain Resort are very satisfied and happy about their getaway. They especially appreciate eating "out" again and being pampered. Even though the CERVO never had to close completely due to the pandemic, Corona has shaken up a lot of things and is influencing our operations in the long term.

The main lesson we learned from the pandemic is that "digitalization is key", and we will also take this with us for the future. But also, and most importantly for us, is the experience of working as part of a team that supports each other and is there for one another.

Katharina Lichtmanegger, Berghotel Rehlegg, Germany

As soon as we knew when we could open again, we put a lot of sweat, heart, and soul and turned the whole house inside out and dusted, mopped and polished it from top to bottom. We were able to plan many projects during the lockdown and even completely implement some of them.

The opening went smoothly and the booking figures for the summer season are very good. We can clearly see a great need for a sense of safety and security among the guests. After the initial confusion and misunderstandings due to the many different regulations in the federal states, the exchange between guests and staff has now settled down. The mood among the guests, many of whom are visiting for the first time, is positive. They are happy to finally be able to have some time off and can enjoy their holiday after the long lockdown.

The Corona period has taught us a lot – both in private and as a business. We are lucky and very happy to have a strong team of staff behind us. During the lockdown, we stuck together at the Rehlegg - no staff member was made redundant and no one left us voluntarily for another industry. Looking out for each other and appreciating each other is just one of the many lessons we learned from Corona.

Sinah Großeibl, Mawell Resort, Germany

The whole team is grateful to be able to pursue their passion and pamper guests again. On opening day, we were all as excited as on the first day of school! We were very well-prepared and used the time to train staff in order to close any gaps.

We currently have more inquiries than ever before. The stays are longer than before the pandemic, and price discussions are extremely rare. However, the intensity of advice regarding hygiene concepts and restrictions also continues to increase. On the whole, guests are happy, almost euphoric, to be able to travel again. They appreciate our hygiene concept with obligatory PCR tests very much and are happy to accept the extra effort.

The pandemic has had a lasting impact on all of us and our way of travelling. Leisure time, wellness, holidays, and recreation are extremely important at the moment, and people are more in touch with nature. From a business perspective, this was and still is a very difficult time. I think that the only hotels that will emerge stronger from the crisis are those that have used the lockdown to change, improve and revise. For trainees and staff whose family environment was or is not in the immediate vicinity, it is an extremely difficult time. We have to pay attention to each individual, have conversations and look for solutions. Courageous entrepreneurship along with flexible and fast decision-making systems are also needed to motivate and retain these employees.

And the following equation can definitely be applied to our team:

Corona = more time at home = more time for love = more young talent! *laughs*

Renato Botte, Locanda Mistral, Italy

Guests have been looking forward to relaxing breaks in pristine nature, authentic mountain experiences, lots of peace and quiet and culinary delights for so long. We have received great feedback and are very happy with the new start. Unfortunately, it took us a while to get going again. We realize that the Locanda Mistral in the middle of the beautiful unspoiled nature of the Valle Maira is the perfect place to relax and take deep breaths of fresh air again following the challenging Corona times.

There is a noticeable trend that guests are even more consciously seeking time in nature, the mountains, and some peace and quiet... Arguably, the true luxury of today. As hosts, we focus even more on safety and cleanliness now and for the future. We have worked hard to optimize all processes and increase quality even further.

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Romance meets modern luxury

At the GreenSign certified Schlosshotel Blankenburg in the Harz, you will find a historical ambiance paired with modern luxury for a relaxing getaway. Two offers await you: The "Romance at the Schlosshotel” package includes 2 nights in the chosen room category, including a daily breakfast buffet, a bottle of champagne and fruit platter in the room on arrival, a romantic 5-course candlelight dinner, and a 3-course choice of menu or buffet from €237 per person. For those who like something more active, the "Hiking Pleasures in the Harz Mountains" is the right choice. Look forward to 5 nights in the chosen room category, including daily breakfast buffet, daily 3-course menu of choice or buffet, one picnic rucksack (loaned) including packed lunch and Pfalz wine, and one-foot massage (30 minutes) from €530 per person.

Stay five nights and pay four - climate positive

The Naturresort Schindelbruch promises a relaxing respite and summery nature experiences with the package "Summer Feeling": Rich breakfast, daily 4-course menu dinner, free use of the spa area, free participation in the sports and activity program, 1 vitality dish per adult in the spa bistro, 1 facial (50 min.) per adult and 1-foot bath and massage (50 min.) per adult. For 5 climate-positive overnight stays, you only pay 4.

A last-minute trip to the Baltic Sea

The Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea has a great offer for last-minute bookings on its website. Direct bookers can easily find vacancies at reduced prices via the "SANDwish Button" on the homepage. The sustainable hotel on Timmendorfer Beach impresses with its modern maritime lifestyle and is one of the most popular hotels on Timmendorfer Beach with a SPA on the roof. Check out the website now and secure your perfect last-minute spot.

BBQ in Bad Herrenalb

On the large panorama terrace of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA with a view of Bad Herrenalb, you can enjoy a delicious BBQ on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month. The sustainable hotel offers a great program for a climate-neutral stay with its Green Summer package. The package includes six nights, including breakfast and three 3-course gourmet dinners, a BBQ dinner, a packed lunch, as well as great other extras from €695 per person in a double room (valid until 12.09.2021).

Organic hotel on the lake in Havelland

In Havelland, west of Berlin, the historic Landgut Stober is located in a beautiful park by a lake. For the summer, the green hotel has a special offer for families: 5 nights with two children up to 16 years are included, along with breakfast, picnic basket as dinner on the day of arrival, and 3-course dinner from Thursday to Sunday for 599€ per person. The offer is bookable from Wednesday to Monday during the period 1.7.- 31.8.2021.

Sleep soundly at the Berghotel Rehlegg

The "Ganz schön schlafen" offer at the Berghotel Rehlegg in Ramsau ensures an especially restful night. Enjoy a stay of at least 2 nights in the Lichtnelke category with a voucher for a sleep cocktail at the bar, 1 small 7-herb rest pillow, and lavender chocolates from €299 per night.

Family vacation on the Baltic Sea

Restful and sustainable recreation for the whole family is available at Gut Nisdorf on the Bodden coast. 5 nights with breakfast, packed lunch, fruit, water fountain, and childcare in the 2 room apartment for 1.440€, for 4 people (2 adults and 2 children). From August the 28th the mid-season begins, and then the price for 5 nights with breakfast is 1.220€. In September, dogs can be taken along free of charge.

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GREEN PEARLS^® KITCHENS – REGIONALITY IS TASTY
A successful vacation includes good food. Our green pearls also emphasize sustainable and regional products and preparation in the kitchen. Read more about regionality that tastes good!

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RECIPE FOR RISOTTO CARNAROLI FROM ADLER LODGE RITTEN
ADLER Lodge Ritten is a fantastic hideaway in the middle of nature. Here you are surrounded by meadows, forests, and the overwhelming panorama of the Dolomites. Bring South Tyrol to your plate – we tell you the simple recipe for Risotto Carnaroli.

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MINDFULNESS IN THAILAND – SUSTAINABLE HOTELS WITH A WELLNESS PROGRAM
Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. And also in terms of ecotourism and mindfulness, there are many offers. Here we will introduce you to the special offers of two of our Thai green pearls.

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MINDFUL VACATION IN GREEN PEARLS® PARTNER HOTELS IN INDONESIA AND NEPAL
Are you looking for a green hotel for a relaxing getaway? In our blog series, we have already introduced you to some sustainable hotels that are perfect for mindful vacations. Today, we’re heading to Indonesia and Nepal to share the highlights for an all-around relaxing vacation.

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After a long forced break due to the Corona pandemic, night trains have been traveling through Europe again since June. How does such a journey feel in 2021?

Read more 

How to travel more sustainably in 2021? This article provides answers.

Read article here

Learn more about the Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report 2021.

Learn more

Price for an overnight stay: starting from 170 €
Additional services from the hotel can be added.

All information about the Sleeperoo Box of the sustainable hotel is available here.

Completely relaxed

For the Berghotel Rehlegg in Berchtesgaden, the focus is on recovery and tranquility. "Breathe again. Feel good. Recover." is the hotel's guiding principle as it caters to the needs of its guests. The Almwies'n SPA, sauna world, pool, relaxation, and fitness areas offer space for both relaxation and reinvigoration.

In the wellness area, there is plenty of relaxation, warmth, and a peaceful feeling of letting go. Those who prefer to be active can take part in aqua gymnastics or work out in the fitness area. For these special times on holiday, the hotel offers weekly plans. Sometimes active, sometimes relaxing, sporty, or spiritual. Singing bowl rituals, yoga, rejuvenation in the outdoor sauna, spa discovery tours, and aqua gymnastics are on the schedule and included for guests. Workshops such as "Herbal Wellness Homemade" and "Herbal Expedition" can be booked additionally. The experienced members of the spa team pamper guests with massages to combat stress and use wonderfully healing natural care products. In addition to the hotel's own range of skincare products "Rehlegger Kräuterfee", the exclusive SPA brand LIGNE ST BARTH can also be chosen for treatments.

The Berghotel Rehlegg is an oasis of peace in the middle of the mountains. Pristine nature, silence, and fresh air are valuable factors to recharge one's batteries. In addition to sleep and yoga retreats, there is a hiking and excursion program. The lovingly designed rooms in the "Lichtnelke" category also ensure relaxation, mindfulness, and well-being. They have dreamy, adjustable rocking beds, telescopes for stargazing, foot basins for Kneipp baths, and the hotel's own sleeping tea. W-LAN and TV are not available in the Lichtnelke rooms to allow guests to disconnect and a pillow menu offers enough choice for an individually restful sleep.

FEEL GOOD. FEEL THE SEA.

The sea is a great source of energy. With its exclusive location directly on the sea, the bright, friendly design of the hotel complex, the many retreats such as the roof terrace, the spacious sunbathing lawn, and the abundance of fresh sea air, the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is the perfect place to let go and recharge your batteries.

The salty seawater and pleasant climate on Tenerife stimulate the circulation and metabolism and promote oxygen intake. This is supported by the combination of light and healthy, balanced cuisine. The OCÉANO offers fantastic weekly Health Spa packages in which the elements of seawater, seabed, sea air, and algae are specially used to help guests regenerate and recharge their batteries. Each weekly treatment at OCÉANO begins with medical consultation. Here, the individual approach is determined and the guest receives a treatment plan tailored to his or her needs.

The hotel's extensive sauna facilities combine wellness and the freshness of the Atlantic in a unique way. Several saunas, pools and relaxation zones, a steam bath, and an infrared cabin ensure all-round well-being and deep relaxation. At the pool, there is a direct exit leading to the Piscina Natural, a sheltered saltwater swimming pool at the foot of the hotel. Massages, manual therapy, Ayurvedic treatments, and facials are also part of the OCÉANO's offer.

In addition to the Health Spa's weekly packages, yoga retreats and fasting days also provide a way to practice mindfulness and promote one's own health. A personal time-out can be found in the weekly yoga program "YOGA ESCAPE". Take a deep breath, relax and recharge with challenging yoga sessions in the group and individual classes, combined with beneficial Ayurveda treatments and a balanced diet. The F.X. Mayr fasting cures can be booked for 7, 14, or 21 days. Mayr medicine is a fasting medicine with a focus on the digestive system. Medical care is an essential part of this treatment, which is a holistic method for maintaining overall health and treating chronic complaints and illnesses. Detoxification of the body, stress reduction, fat reduction, improvement of breathing, and relief of the heart as well as improved body functions in general and a positive effect on the psyche are just some of the benefits of this fasting treatment.

Finding serenity and inner strength in everyday life

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, relaxation and well-being go far beyond the conventional concept of wellness: "Selfness" - the mindful treatment of oneself and proactive action towards a conscious lifestyle is the philosophy that the hotel lives by. The hotel's experienced experts combine classic cosmetic and wellness treatments with alternative medicine and holistic teachings.

The guest receives his or her own personal selfness program to bring body, mind, and soul back into harmony. TCM, yoga, therapeutic fasting, Qi Gong, fitness, massage, and beauty are all taken into account when creating the individualized program. The 850-square-meter spa area offers a Finnish wet sauna, a bio sauna with colored lights and a steam bath, as well as a relaxation room with a tea station, a thermal swimming pool with a whirlpool, and a panorama sun terrace.

But the hotel also offers a very special program for stress management. The seminar "Stress Management Through Mindfulness" helps guests to find serenity and inner strength in everyday life. The challenges at work and in private everyday life can often lead to exhaustion, to which we can react to with physical or psychological symptoms. The program is based on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training concept. This simple and highly effective concept helps participants to gain inner distance from their thought patterns. Instead of losing oneself in thoughts, worries, or fears, one gains calmness and composure with which they can then react to difficult situations. Clinical studies have proven the healing effect of MBSR on many stress-related illnesses. The seminar is taught by the certified MBSR mindfulness teacher Sabine Lang, who also conducts a short personal preliminary talk on the phone with each participant to get to know their individual situation.

Relaxation and Wellness in Erlangen

From the Creativhotel Luise it is only a few short steps to paradise. In the hotel's spa area, the clocks tick more slowly and nothing stands in the way of moments of tranquillity. Whether sauna, steam bath or relaxing in the whirlpool, or enjoying the experience shower, the foot bath, and the bucket shower guests will enjoy finding some distance from everyday life.

The Creativhotel Luise offers a unique Erlanger beer massage. It is the first massage that combines relaxation, the art of brewing, history, and indulgence while pampering all the senses. Smell, hear, taste, and all that during a massage. The ingredients for a good beer, with their health-promoting active ingredients, have found a place in naturopathy for decades and have important therapeutic values. Malt, for example, provides proteins, B vitamins, and trace elements, hops are used for stomach complaints and loss of appetite, and barley increases strength and stamina.

During the beer massage, you relax on a soft lounger and are introduced to the art of brewing at the same time. Through headphones, you listen to binaural beats that, like hypnosis, lead you into one of the deepest types of relaxation. But don't worry, you still experience everything. Those who find it difficult to switch off during a classic massage are whisked away into a world of experience to which stress has no access. It is truly a unique experience massage.

In our last newsletter, we also presented a number of other health and mindfulness concepts of our Green Pearls. From Holistic Retreats in Thailand to API-Wellness in Italy and a HolisticLife concept in the mountains, you can find further inspiration here.

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At Berghotel Rehlegg, sleep coach Christine Lenz will help you sleep more peacefully. The offer "Simply sleep well and Rehlegg'sen" will be held this year from May 3-7 and October 11-15. The oasis of peace in the mountains allows you to rethink your habits and learn new techniques around healthy sleep. The offer includes 4 nights in the room category "Lichtnelke", individual sessions with Ms. Lenz, daily group sessions as well as various workshops, meditation, and yoga sessions. The price per person is 1.796€ with a maximum of 10 participants.

With the special package of our two green pearls in Piedmont, you will discover the beautiful Maira Valley. With a 6-day stay at Locanda Mistral or in the vacation village of Sagna Rotonda you get two guided full-day hikes by the two owners Renato and Giovanni, a dinner with homemade pizza, and an Occitan evening with a gourmet menu and wine tasting. Price per person from 620€ including half board at Locanda Mistral, from 400€ in a Sagna Rotonda apartment (self-catering). The offer is valid in spring until the end of May and in autumn until the end of September (more detailed information on request).

The vacation home provider MANOAH - Häuser am See has a very accommodating arrangement for bookings this year: if you book a stay until February 28, 2021, you can cancel free of charge up to 7 days before arrival. The vacation homes at the Zeulenrodaer Meer in the Thuringian Vogtland region have just opened in October 2020. The newly built houses not only offer plenty of privacy, but also a total of space for up to eight people.

At HUBERTUS unplugged you can switch off and find relaxing recreation in the mountainous heights of the Allgäu. Let yourself be pampered in the hotel's Alpine Spa. The get-to-know offer FUNKSTILLE includes 1x 50 min. Ananné facial treatment "Natural Healing" for her or him and 1x 50 min. Holistic Deep (classic partial body massage), from 772€ for 3 nights per person.

Summer is green in the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The "Green Summer" package can be booked from May 1 to September 12, 2021, and includes many great included services: Climate-neutral arrival and departure, 6 nights including zero-waste breakfast buffet, 3 times 3-course gourmet dinner, hotel tour with the possibility to calculate your own ecological footprint, free use of the SPA area and much more. Price of a double room starting at 695€.

Dreaming of some time off with lots of privacy on a white sandy beach? The Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives offers you pure relaxation. During the period from May 1 to September 30, 2021 (excluding the month of August), you can get up to 25% off your stay. For more details about the offers, please refer to the website of the resort.

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is pleased to welcome guests again since the beginning of the year. The hotel on Tenerife is located directly on the sea and convinces with its diverse health and wellness offers. In the period from February 13 to May 1, you get free nights from the hotel depending on the length of your stay. For example, a week from March 6 to 13 including half-board balance in a standard double room for 606€ per person. Also, the OCÉANO offers you flexibility in the uncertain time: Up to 14 days before arrival, you can cancel free of charge (applies to all trips up to and including October 29, 2020).

The Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea coast has a relaxing offer for you to unwind: With the CODE SAND, you get a 10% discount as a SAND direct booking benefit on the website. The offer is concealed on the website under the SAND wish button. In the booking calendar, you will see the availability and discounted rates. All bookings for a hotel stay at SAND can be canceled free of charge up to two days before arrival.

Much privacy offers the new vacation home of the Biohotel Sturm. On 220 sqm, the "kitchen house" can accommodate up to 6 people. The house has a fully equipped kitchen, but if desired, breakfast or dinner can be served at the hotel. Price starting from 1899 € per week (without meals).

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IT'S BUZZING AND HUMMING IN THE GREEN PEARLS^® HOTELS - HIDEAWAY FOR INSECTS
The snow is melting, the first blooms are appearing, the air is filled with the buzzing and humming sound of insects. It is impossible not to notice: Spring is coming. Green Pearls^® hotels are preparing their gardens not only for you but also for their animal residents.

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HEALTHY FOOD ON VACATION – NUTRITIONAL OFFERS FROM GREEN PEARLS^® HOTELSIt’s not always easy to include healthy food in everyday life. After all, it usually has to be quick and easy. Find here the nutritional offers of the Green Pearls^® Hotels.

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HEALTHY BREAKFAST RECIPE – VEGAN ZUCCHINI CAKE FROM ECO PARK HOTEL AZALEA
Are you more of an early bird or do you prefer to sleep in? No matter which group you belong to, you definitely don’t want to miss out on a delicious breakfast. Eco Park Hotel Azalea is sharing a very special cake recipe with us today to try at home.

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RESTFUL SLEEP IN GREEN PEARLS® HOTELS
Deep, restful sleep is our most important daily regeneration. It protects us from illness and promotes our health. Learn how Green Pearls^® hotels help promote healthy sleep

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The pandemic has changed the tourism industry. It is time for a change. Now is the time to think about Sustainability 2.0 - and what that means for the next decade of travel.

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What will the travel summer of 2021 be like? This article describes possible future scenarios.

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National Geographic has chosen the 25 most inspiring places to travel in 2021 and gives you an appetite for post-pandemic travel.

Read article here

Last summer's hygiene regulations once again multiplied the number of white tablecloths to be washed. During normal operation, the hotel already has around 43,000 tablecloths to clean each year. The hotel wants to be more environmentally friendly and has found alternatives. New tables were purchased, which are a real eye-catcher in beautiful oak wood. The restaurant now uses leather table liners that are easy to clean and sanitize. The buffet cards are in glass jars and are not shrink-wrapped.

The 99 chairs, true pieces of carpentry made of solid wood, were sandblasted by hand and remain in the restaurant. They are decorated with practical cushions made of sheep's wool, which also lie on the benches. The Berghotel Rehlegg team hopes that it will soon be able to welcome guests to the newly renovated restaurant.

According to the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy, the power supply in Germany is becoming "greener". Currently, around 42% of electricity consumption comes from renewable energy sources. Wind and solar energy provide the largest share of this energy. A sustainable source of energy is becoming increasingly important in the global hotel industry. One overnight stay in a hotel consumes between 15 and 37 kilowatt-hours of electricity. The consumption depends on the size of the hotel, on the presence of a wellness area, if any, and whether the hotel has its own laundry facilities.

Environmental reports ensure transparency

The Green Pearls^® hotels are pursuing ambitious goals to manage their electricity use. Through constant monitoring, consumption is measured and energy-saving strategies are developed. Our Green Pearls^® hotels show that the use of renewable energies and resource-saving methods can be implemented very successfully. Recycling and the conversion of existing energies and resources from nature play a crucial role.

Photovoltaic system and combined heat and power plant

The Berghotel Rehlegg produces 70 % of its electricity requirements with its own photovoltaic system and a combined heat and power plant. Any additional electricity required is purchased from the green electricity provider Lichtblick - a provider that guarantees certified hydroelectricity - and has been purchased from them for the past several years. The Berghotel Rehlegg is continuously working to reduce the remaining 30 % of purchased electricity even further. Modern cooling systems, LED lighting throughout the hotel and an intelligent heating control system make an additional contribution to this.

Supplying the neighborhood

The Biohotel Grafenast in Austria uses a biomass heating system with wood chips which also supplies another six houses in the neighborhood. The hotel also has its own photovoltaic system and tops up any additional energy required with 100% green electricity. There is also a charging station for e-bikes or cars for their guests.

Energy-saving devices

In the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, a large part of the electrical appliances are energy-saving. The light fixtures are 90 % LED and the outdoor lighting is controlled by a timer. There is a main power switch in the rooms to help ensure that no unnecessary energy is consumed, so the guests are also contributing to saving electricity. The electricity used comes from renewable sources, and a new photovoltaic system and local district heating are also used.

Woodchip plant at La Subida Relais

The La Subida Relais in Italy is heated by a woodchip heating system. The hotel is also supplied by a photovoltaic system and they use a special system to treat wastewater. Energy and resource-saving technologies such as LEDs are also used throughout.

Saving energy through renovation

The Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen is very committed to keeping its own energy consumption as low as possible. The renovation of the hotel in 2018 and 2019 has had a significant influence on the regulation of thermal energy throughout the building. District heating is supplied by the Erlangen public utility company and the hotel uses its own photovoltaic system. Excess energy is used to charge the hotel's own electric car. The orbital showers which guests will find in their bathrooms are particularly impressive. Originally designed for space, these showers save 80% of the energy used in a conventional shower and 90% of the water! The Creativhotel Luise also uses many smart technologies and control systems, for example in the heating systems. The hotel team is regularly trained in energy-conscious behavior so that, for example, heating and air-conditioning are not used simultaneously.

Resource-efficient stay at the Reethi Faru Resort

The Reethi Faru Resort in the Maldives has installed more than 4000 solar panels on the roofs of the staff accommodation and is able to produce up to 80% of its required energy. 95% of the resort's lighting has already been converted to LEDs, and timers for these are also installed. All wastewater is treated and reused for gardening and through a sophisticated filter system, collected rainwater can be used as drinking water. The hotel’s food and organic waste fuels an anaerobic digestion plant which produces biogas, which in turn is used in the kitchen.

Plans for the future

The Inkaterra hotel group is currently working on a project with solar modules in the Amazon rainforest area. In the region where the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is located, a hydroelectric project is planned. But as the Inkaterra Hotels are currently closed due to the Corona pandemic, these plans have been paused. As soon as the hotel operations are resumed, the projects for sustainable energy production will also be pushed forward.

Energy-saving new acquisitions

In the OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa, 50% of the hot water is already produced by solar energy. All possible available areas are used for solar panels. A new pool cover system enables better heat storage of the water. And for new purchases, such as the new kitchen, attention is paid in advance to environmentally friendly and energy-saving equipment.

Leaving behind grandchildren and a future

The Rehlegglehen Estate was first documented in 1640 and has been owned by the Lichtmannegger family since 1917. At that time Sebastian Lichtmannegger, the grandfather of Franz and Johannes, acquired it and created a home for his family.

Since 2000, Johannes and his cousin Franz have been running the Berghotel Rehlegg in Ramsau together. Which they have continued to develop sustainably over the past seven years.

Appreciation of food, something we must re-learn

When you talk to Hannes Lichtmannegger, his enthusiasm, his visions, and his ideas are practically tangible. What drives him are topics such as appreciation of food and respect for animal life. He knows all the farmers and farms personally from where he buys sheep, calves, and pigs.

Whether at the Ministry of Agriculture or at schools and universities, Hannes Lichtmannegger wants to enlighten and inspire. For him, the price must not be the decisive criterion. But if consumers do not know the context because they are not well informed, that is exactly what happens: the price drives the decision. Hannes Lichtmannegger can get into a rage when he thinks about it: "Milk calves scream so much because they are hungry and actually need 'solid food', i.e. roughage in the form of grass or hay, from the second week of life at the latest. But they are denied it until they die so that the meat remains white for consumers. And death is then a release from their short, five-month life". The hotelier shows in his own business that it can be done differently. The veal purchased from agricultural partner farms is not completely white, but pink and tastes even better. It comes from species-appropriate husbandry and the calves live with their mother and reach an age of about seven to nine months.

Animal welfare and indigenous breeds

Hannes gave the initial push for the reintroduction of breeding indigenous species and breeds, such as the black Alpine pig and the Augsburg chicken. These animals can be saved from extinction while focusing on sustainability and species-appropriate husbandry. "A broiler chicken has a life expectancy of 30 days, an organic chicken of 80 days, but our Augsburg chickens live for a whole 11 months."

Hannes' personal credo is "Leaving a future behind". This embodies his conviction that only a sustainable combination of agriculture, processing, trade, gastronomy, and consumers can be a good basis for the future. It's all about creating a "grandchildren's economy" and how we will pass the world on to the next generation. The fourth generation, namely his daughters Stephanie and Katharina, are already working in the business.

More ecological and organic

Four years ago, Hannes and Franz asked themselves whether they wanted to push further with their consistent restructuring towards more environmentally friendly and organic products. "In the initial period, we invested a six-figure sum per year in this process. At the same time, we saved a lot from the improved energy balance through our solar thermal energy, photovoltaic systems, and the combined heat and power plants, so that we could afford (and, indeed, wanted!) to do so.”

In 2017, the hotel was the first climate-friendly hotel in Upper Bavaria to receive this award. It captures more CO2 than it emits.

Climate-positive through humus regeneration - founding member of "positerra"

CO2 is another major issue that concerns Johannes Lichtmannegger. The visionary firmly believes that humus formation and regeneration can help save the world. With this, he is referring to Professor Dr. Ingrid Kögel-Knabner, who was awarded the German Environmental Prize in 2019. She describes healthy soils with sustainable humus formation as a milestone for a better climate. Ingrid Kögel-Knabner, is a Professor of Soil Science at the Technical University of Munich and conducts basic research for improving climate and environmental protection. "The enormous importance of our soils can be seen simply from the fact that there are more organisms living in a handful of soil than there are people on this earth," she says.

Johannes Lichtmannegger drew his conclusions from this and then founded the company positerra together with seven other “positively crazy” people.

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In the Biohotel Sturm in the Rhön you can enjoy a relaxing break during the cold season. The "Zweisam" offer includes two nights with a buffet breakfast, two four-course dinners, a bottle of Prosecco per room as well as the use of the Rhön Spa starting at 219€ per person in a double room. The offer is bookable from now until December 20, 2020 (last departure).

The Lifestylehotel SAND has a relaxed winter offer at the Baltic Sea for you: The SAND relax offer includes three nights with a breakfast buffet and sparkling wine, a 30-minute Relaxmassage, the use of the DachterrassenSpa ,from 255€ per person, booking period until December 27, 2020.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb invites you to a cozy stay during the holiday season. The "Advent, Advent" package includes two nights with breakfast, a hot mulled wine welcome, a 3-course gourmet dinner on the day of arrival, and a yoga try-out session. The offer is bookable from 219€ per person. The hotel also has various offers for Christmas and New Year's Eve.

In the Berghotel Rehlegg you will find pure relaxation over the holidays. The Christmas package includes a cozy advent afternoon and a Christmas menu in a festive atmosphere. The New Year's Eve package includes a gala dinner followed by a New Year's Eve ball and a breakfast buffet for late risers on New Year's Day. Instead of fireworks, there is a romantic festival of lights. A combination of both offers as a stay over Christmas and New Year's Eve is also possible. The prices are available on request at the hotel.

The new year is welcomed very calmly in Warpe in Lower Saxony. The New Year's Eve arrangement of the Okelmann's is perfectly suited for travelers with a dog. The offer includes two nights in a double room NordArt including breakfast, buffet on New Year’s Eve, a welcome package, and the New Year's Eve in Warpe box. It also includes the use of the sauna shepherd's wagon and late check-out on New Year's Eve for 182€ per person.

Enjoy a classy New Year's Eve at Schloss Wartegg on Lake Constance. The hotel offers two nights including breakfast, a 4-course gourmet menu, a New Year's Eve gala with a 4-course gourmet menu and a Nocturne by Töbi Tobler & Patrick Sommer from 526 francs per person.

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WHAT IS BEHIND SLOW FOOD AND SLOW TRAVEL?
Faster, further, better? We show you how you can recharge your batteries by slowing down. With Slow Food and Slow Travel, our Green Pearls^® Hotels offer you sustainable relaxation from stressful everyday life.

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BAREFOOT - IN THESE HOTELS YOU CAN GET FAR WITHOUT SHOES
Shoes off and enjoying the freedom on your feet, that is especially easy on vacation. From barefoot resorts to Kneipp pools, our Green Pearls^® Hotels do everything to relax your feet.

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SUSTAINABLE YOGA OFFERS IN THAILAND
Yoga is very popular all over the world. Are you looking for sustainable retreats and studios for your next vacation in Thailand? Find out more in this blog post about sustainable yoga offerings in Thailand.

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VACATIONS FOR YOUNG AND OLD - SUSTAINABLE OFFERS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Family vacations are perhaps more associated with vacation apartments, but our hotels are also prepared if you arrive with your whole family. This is because the hotels have enough space, both in the outside areas and in the rooms. And there is a lot to do for young and old.

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The COVID-19 has proven that changes must be made to support the future of travel. Combined with enhanced security protocols, a true commitment to sustainability provides a roadmap for a more responsible travel industry. The World Tourism Organization's (UNWTO) report on related travel restrictions, published in May, expects international tourism arrivals to decline by 58-78 percent compared to 2019.

Read the article

The Atlantic Forest is the home of species as unique as the Black Lion Tamarin or the Giant Otter, and it is equally important for agriculture and hydroelectric power. Find lessons from 16 years of restoration of the Atlantic Forest in the WWF field series.

Read more 

The Guardian published 10 holiday highlights of this strange summer, that their readers put at disposal.

Holiday highlights

The success in 2019 was overwhelming. More than 125,000 trees were planted, almost 300,000 euros in donations were collected and almost 2,000 planting campaigns were organized throughout Germany. In 2020, some of our Green Pearls^® Partners will also take part in the campaign.

What our Green Pearls^® hotels want:

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The green pearls worldwide are committed to greater environmental protection and the fight against climate change every day

In 2019, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA started to create high beds, from which the hotel's kitchen makes extensive use. In total there are 4 raised beds, distributed on the panoramic terraces, filled with organic humus/compost, with organic plants or seeds in organic and Demeter quality. All herbs are used fresh for the kitchen and bar. This year for the first time radishes, peas, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, zucchini, pumpkin, melons, kohlrabi, pepperoni, salads, and spring onions could be picked.

The Biohotel Sturm also relies entirely on organic in its 3-hectare snack garden, which supplies the kitchen with organic products. The herb and snack garden is also an inspiration for guests to imitate in small quantities and invites them to pick and taste for themselves. It was created by passionate herb and landscape gardeners with a natural bathing pond and log cabin sauna.

The Okelmann's in Warpe also relies on regional products in organic quality. All herbs and spices come from their own garden and the food is purchased seasonally and regionally from local producers, who the host family knows personally.

The Creativhotel Luise offers courses to bring people closer to the trees and their meaning. Shinrin-Yoku means immersion in the forest or also new-German Waldbaden. The name and origin come from Japan. As early as 1982, the Ministry of Forestry encouraged people to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the forest in their free time in order to reduce stress and live healthier. Many studies have proven that a stay in the greenery counteracts depression and burn-out and even lowers blood pressure and pulse rate. But what distinguishes immersing in the forest from a walk in the woods? It is the slowness and therefore also more attentiveness. The point is not to walk particularly much or for a long time or to have been to many places. On the contrary, Waldbaden means to let yourself drift, to switch off, and at the same time to look closely. Try it out. Click here for the offer.

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SUSTAINABLE COFFEE: THE STIMULANTS OF THE GREEN PEARLS^® HOTELS
Coffee can be grown in about 80 countries around the world. If you pay attention to a few things, you can also enjoy sustainable coffee. The origin of the beans and certifications such as fair trade labels are things to look out for.

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SOCIAL DISTANCING AND CORONA MEASURES - VACATIONs BY FAR
With the increasing number of tourists worldwide, reliable hygiene and safety measures are becoming increasingly important. The Green Pearls^® Partners, as hotels that operate in a sustainable manner, face these challenges in a very special way.

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WORKSHOPS ON VACATION: MORE THAN JUST REST AND RELAXATION IN GREEN PEARLS^® HOTELS
The Green Pearls^® Hotels offer great activities and workshops where you can learn new skills while relaxing on vacation. The offer is varied and everyone is sure to find something to suit them.

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LOCAL ARCHITECTURE AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDING
Our green pearls are scattered all over the world and can be found in many different places. This diversity is also noticeable in the construction methods of the hotels. We have taken a closer look at the hotel buildings and present here some architecturally special green pearls.

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At the age of 9 years, Felix Finkbeiner planted his first tree. He had just learned of Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan woman who had recently been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to plant 30 million trees in Africa. The young boy was very impressed by the message she gave - that trees are a powerful ally in fighting global warming. 

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Zero waste is one of the most significant lifestyle changes taking place in our 21st century, aiming to fight the human impact on our planet through reducing consumption, minimizing waste, and maximizing recycling. Find a sustainability expert's guide to zero-waste travel here.

Full article

The hotel team especially would like to thank its guests who voted for the hotel: "The whole Rehlegg team is very proud of this great award".

The status quo

Around 31% of the earth's surface is currently still covered by forest, and the rate at which forest area is being lost has slowed somewhat since 2000. In 2018, the total area covered by forest was 8.8 million hectares. The losses are often offset by newly planted forests and plantations. However, this is of little significance as these are far from being able to reach the quality of an original forest.

One of the main causes of forest loss is conversion into arable land. Over a quarter of the loss of Indonesian rainforest between 2009 and 2011 is due to slash-and-burn clearing for the cultivation of oil palms. In addition to the dramatic consequences for the ecosystem, slash-and-burn logging and the exposure of peat soils release carbon - in Indonesia, over 85% of the country's CO2 emissions are released due to these processes. In addition to palm oil, the cultivation of grain for biofuels, use as pasture land, the cultivation of fodder for livestock and the mining industry also play a role worldwide. For example, in Madagascar, two percent of the rainforest was destroyed in 2018 to mine for sapphires and nickel.

The earth's surface is not only losing forest through clearing, but also through "natural" forest fires: In Australia, all fires are currently under control or at least contained for the first time since the beginning of the forest fire season 2019/20. This year's season has not only claimed 12.5 million hectares of forest but also the lives of countless animal and even the lives of some humans.

Reforestation: regional mixed forests and humus

In reforestation, the establishment of mixed forests with regional tree species plays a particularly important role, as experts believe that forestry tree plantations are not well adapted to climate change and forest fires. Therefore, the Berghotel Rehlegg plants a tree for every 5th guest who arrives on Friday. The Gröllberg at the Gerstreit is to be reforested with native trees as the harsh winters of recent years have caused severe snow damage, resulting in large open spaces. Incidentally, the hotel is not only committed to rebuilding the forest, but also to promoting the build-up of humus in the region. Humus performs a number of ecosystem services including helping to make the soil more resistant to flooding, while at the same time storing a lot of carbon.

The OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa on Tenerife has been working in partnership with the Bergwaldprojekt e.V. Association since October last year. The Association is committed to the protection and preservation of the forest and its volunteers help to maintain the forests, moors and open-air biotopes in Germany and Europe. For every guest who books directly via the OCÉANO's own website or the hotel, a local tree is planted.

The Landgut Stober is situated at the lake Gross Behnitzer, embedded in an incredible 125,000 m² of forest, which is naturally maintained by the hotel. On two hectares there are 60-70-year-old pine trees, on another 10.5 hectares, there are naturally rejuvenated forest areas. These are now being reforested with mixed forest in spring.

Protecting the rainforest

The NGO Inkaterra Asociación, which was created by the Inkaterra Group, finances its research on the flora and fauna of this impressive ecosystem through exciting excursions into the Peruvian rainforest around the Madre de Dios River and makes the results available to the scientific community. The preservation of biodiversity is particularly important to them, therefore, Inkaterra has also been supporting the "Los TamboPatas" Association since last year and together with the Peruvian Society for Environmental Law has launched campaigns to protect the rainforest. "Los TamobPatas" monitors the forest to prevent illegal mining and tree felling since the mining of minerals and gold in Peru has increased by 916% in the last 30 years!

Prevent deforestation

Of course, it is best if deforestation can be prevented entirely. During the construction of the eco-luxury resort Tongsai Bay of Koh Samui in the 1970s, founder Khun Akorn slept on the beach for three months, ensuring that not a single tree was felled or animals killed during construction. Instead, the buildings were integrated into nature and built around the existing trees. Even today, there are still villas and cottages where a tree grows through the tiles in the middle of the terrace!

Green Black Forest

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has been sustainably oriented for over 15 years. What began as a search for a unique selling point has now become "the preservation of health and the basis of life for all of us on our common host of the earth", says hotelier and hotel owner Stephan Bode. For him, sustainability is far more than a voluntary commitment; it has become part of his everyday life and is for him as natural as sleeping or eating.

"The nice thing is that with our sustainable and holistic commitment we help to preserve our world every day anew and get it back through an organically growing booking behavior of our guests, which is much more beautiful and fulfilling than the purely economic success", reports Stephan Bode. This is only possible because the staff at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA also give their best every day and support the green concept wholeheartedly.

Climate positive, creative and innovative in Bavaria

The Creativhotel Luise in the heart of Erlangen is one of the most environmentally friendly city hotels in Germany. The climate-positive hotel has been a pioneer in environmental awareness for over 25 years. Ben Förtsch, the third generation of the Förtsch family to manage the Creativhotel, is aware of his responsibility. Creatively and innovatively he sets new impulses: "We would like to pass on our enthusiasm for a sustainable lifestyle without raising an index finger."

Sustainability becomes visible in the Creativhotel, for example, with the "Renewable Hotel Room": The room is made of 100% biodegradable or 100% recyclable materials – without sacrificing comfort and modern design. "Real quality only exists if it does not harm anyone", Ben Förtsch confirms.

In harmony with nature in Piedmont

The Locanda Mistral is nestled in the unspoiled nature of the Maira Valley in Piedmont, and it is precisely this valley and nature that the hotel founders Renato and Manuela Botte are committed to protecting. "For me, sustainability means keeping the Maira Valley alive in the future", says Manuela Botte. Many initiatives come from the two owners themselves, such as the waste separation system they have introduced, even though the local municipality has not yet managed to do so.

Economical and sustainable action in the Havelland

Twenty years ago, Michael Stober and his wife bought a dilapidated ruin in the Havelland region that was steeped in history. With a vision, a lot of commitment and an investment, they created the climate-friendly conference, event and hotel location Landgut Stober. "Sustainability doesn't cost more, it brings more – namely quality of life and a longer lifespan", says Micheal Stober. For him, it is important to think economically and sensibly in the long term – which for him logically leads to a switch to the Economy for the Common Good, of which the Landgut Stober is a part.

Something that is also clear at Landgut Stober: True sustainability can only succeed if everyone is involved. Michael Stober proudly tells us that the idea of sustainability is not only his vision but also a combined company focus supported by the whole team. "Sustainability is not an add-on here, but an integral part of all our actions", says the hotel owner.

Environmental responsibility in Berchtesgadener Land

Hotel owner Hannes Lichtmannegger from Berghotel Rehlegg acknowledges that this does not happen overnight: "At the beginning, we were desperately looking for suppliers and producers for Berghotel Rehlegg. Today many of them are already approaching us on their own.”

The Berghotel Rehlegg has been managed by Hannes and Franz Lichtmannegger since 2000, the third generation of managers with an eventful past, full of traditions and stories. The Lichtmannegger family is aware of its responsibility towards nature and the beauty of the alpine region and strives for a sustainable and environmentally friendly economy. Back in 1998, it was awarded the title of "National Park Friendly Hotel" and to this day the values of sustainability, tradition, and hospitality are cultivated and passed on from generation to generation.

On the online version of Slow Down magazine, Janna writes about sustainability at Berghotel Rehlegg. 

>> Read the full article here (in German only)

Romantic Christmas market with lake view

A visit to Landgut Stober in Havelland is always worthwhile, but those who make it to the organic hotel on 8 December can enjoy the 12th traditional Advent market! Enjoy fresh salmon, which is cooked at the open fire, listen to Christmas stories, sample delicacies from the country estate kitchen, browse handicrafts or excitedly wait for Santa Claus to visit – the Advent market enchants the whole family. Spend a relaxing pre-Christmas weekend and enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Groß Behnitz and Brandenburg's oldest plane trees.

Christmas in the Black Forest

Traveling over the Christmas holidays? Of course! Visit, for example, the snow-covered Black Forest around Bad Herrenalb. Whether sledding or snowshoeing, here you can be sporty as you like. However, relaxation and reflection shouldn't be neglected – luckily the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has the perfect Christmas offer: On Christmas Eve allow yourself to be spoiled with a festive 4-course menu, including wines and musical accompaniment. Enjoy delicacies from the kitchen over the Christmas public holidays, with the option of vegetarian or vegan on request. And of course, you can also relax in the 850 m² SPA area with mineral thermal swimming pool and saunas.

DIY Gifts from the Allgäu Mountains

Stressed out by everything that still needs to be done this year? Then escape everyday life to the airy heights of the Allgäu Mountains! At the HUBERTUS unplugged you can enjoy a break for both body and soul – and take part in one of the natural cosmetics workshops. Here you will learn how to make your own deodorant, lip balm, body scrub, bath additives and much more – gift them to yourself or share them with your loved ones. The "Zero Waste" workshop, where you can make beeswax cloths, will have a lasting effect. If you're looking for a gift from the kitchen, you'll also find it in the Allgäu Mountains: Ayurvedic chef Gabriel Simon regularly produces chutneys and pralines himself in workshops with guests – which are also great under the Christmas tree.

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Two years ago our editor Hanna visited the OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa on Tenerife and a lot has changed there since then – we show you what changes await you in our blog post.

Discover Now

Climate change affects us all. We have spoken to our partners around the world about how they are feeling the effects of climate change – and show you what they are doing about it.

To the blog post

Our editor Anke visited the organic family hotel Gut Nisdorf with her family. Her conclusion: delicious food, happy children, time with the partner – pure relaxation!

Read about her experiences

There are so many great charities, projects, and associations that advocate for animals, the environment and people. We'd like to introduce you to a few organisations that work with our hotel partners around the world.

Learn more

Plastic Rebels and Ocean Children: We talked to Ozeankind e.V. founder Marina about her project and her commitment.
(Picture: Ozeankind e.V.)

Click here for the interview

We love Christmas – and we really love having a Christmas tree. But how can we reconcile a Christmas tree with our ecological conscience? We have the answers.

Take me to the blog post

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The Zeavola Resort on Phi Phi Island has just won three awards! Two in Responsible Tourism and one for its exceptional honeymoon offerings. Congratulations!

Click here for more information about the awards

The Keemala on Phuket also has a reason for celebration: The resort is delighted to be awarded Regional Winner for Luxury Eco Resort at the 2019 World Luxury Hotel Awards. This latest achievement is a testament to Keemala’s commitment to the sustainability of the environment while maintaining the highest standard of luxury for guests.

Read more

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„Today, the challenge is to be a ‘good’ tourist. And as we try to travel to places without making a negative impact, destinations are becoming emboldened to speak openly about which kinds of travelers are welcome – and which are not.”

Read the whole article at CNN Travel

As deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon has hit the highest annual level in a decade, we recommend this Guardian Article about river communities, activists and academics who are meeting in the heart of the rainforest to fight for the planet’s future.

Read on

‘Climate strike’ named 2019 word of the year by Collins Dictionary.

Find out more at The Guardian

Overtourism is simply no fun – neither for the holidaymakers, the locals nor the environment. Due to the high number of tourists the cities are crowded, prices rise and the housing situation for the inhabitants worsens. Wild animals and plants are displaced or destroyed and nature can no longer recover and suffocates in the garbage that people leave behind everywhere.

Empty beaches, relaxing saunas – winter at the North and Baltic Sea

Why not visit the North Sea in winter instead of summer? It may be too cold to lie in the sun, but you can still listen to the soothing sound of the sea around Juist. The weather is also pleasant in winter and the long beaches around the Strandhotel Kurhaus Juist can be discovered every season. Long walks along the beach will clear your head and afterwards the fireplace bar of the "White Castle by the Sea", the saunas and the Rasul steam bath are just waiting to warm up frozen guests again.

At the Lifestylehotel SAND the sauna with a view of the Baltic Sea on the roof terrace is a very special highlight – especially in winter. The hotel is close to Timmendorfer Strand and a great location for New Year's Eve: Guests can welcome the new year with the sound of the sea and toast with a cocktail on the rooftop bar.

Relaxation at the crackling fireplace

The Hofgut Hafnerleiten in Lower Bavaria is the ideal place to enjoy the Advent season and escape the pre-Christmas stress. A fireplace in a small cottage by the lake, a book and delicious food – that's all we need.

Welcome spring in the mountains

In spring, when the first flowers are blooming and nature comes back to life, it is particularly beautiful to hike in the Alps or discover the mountains by mountain bike. The crisp mountain air is refreshing after a long winter and between the ski season and the summer holidays, there are not so many tourists on the trails.

The Berghotel Rehlegg is located in the heart of the Berchtesgaden Alpine National Park and the heated outdoor pool with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains is ideal for relaxing after a hike. A network of hiking and mountaineering trails with a total length of around 300 km gives guests a direct connection to the beautiful nature around the hotel. If you want a change of pace, you can travel to the "Mozart city" of Salzburg which is only 30 minutes away and far less crowded in spring. The Hintersee near Ramsau is also particularly beautiful: it lies in the middle of forests and mountains as if enchanted. If the crystal-clear mountain lake is still too cold for swimming, but visitors can simply rent a rowing boat and enjoy the dreamlike scenery.

The Genießerhotel Die Forelle is at home on the shores of Lake Weißensee in Austria, the highest swimming lake in the Alps. Even if there is a cold spell in spring: the small health oasis with saunas, fitness and relaxation rooms, a steam bath and massages is a wonderful place to relax after a walk around Lake Weißensee. In the evening, finest slow food is served, always in harmony with the seasons.

Discover Thailand from a different perspective in summer

May to October is rainy season in Thailand, which is why the country is far less visited in summer than in winter. But even then, it is still not cold, the temperatures are between 20 and 30 degrees. Away from the streams of tourists, guests can get to know the country from a much more authentic side. This is especially so on Phi Phi Island at the Zeavola Resort. The island is known for its hilly landscape with striking cliffs surrounded by unique beaches and emerald green sea. "A visit to Zeavola is an unforgettable journey of discovery back into nature. Take a step back to simplicity, enjoy unspoiled nature, a pristine beach, exceptional service and feel at home in paradise," General Manager Florian Hallermann describes the green resort.

Enjoy the autumn hustle and bustle in the mountains

When it gets cooler in autumn and the leaves begin to change color, you don’t need to escape this season. Instead, you could welcome the changes – for example in the Dolomites! At Mi Chalet you can watch the colorful autumn through the large windows by the cozy fireplace. Another highlight in autumn is the Maira valley: in the middle of the wild valley at around 1,700 meters lies the secluded Sagna Rotonda. Surrounded by original forests, guests may even spot some deer during their walks.

The perfect time for a city trip? Low season!

City trips are ideal during the low season: whether spending romantic winter days at Hôtel Le Pavillon in Paris, enjoying the first cocktail on the roof terrace of Hotel Milano Scala in spring, a hot chocolate in the green quarter of Freiburg at Green City Hotel Vauban or a stroll through the old town of Erlangen around Creativhotel Luise – it's just so much nicer if you don't have to share the cities with thousands of tourists.

In the panorama indoor pool and in the heated outdoor pool of the Berghotel Rehlegg you can swim towards the fantastic mountain scenery. How about following this up with a massage in the Almwies'n SPA with beeswax from their own beekeeping or a herbal stamp massage?

The vegan Biotique Hotel LA VIMEA is an Adults-only refuge where you will find peace, relaxation, and many wellness possibilities. Yoga on the wooden deck in the morning, a walk through the nature park at noon and enjoying the delicious creative cuisine in the evening – what more could you ask for?

In the Naturhotel Outside in the Alps and in the Refugium Lindenwirt in the Bavarian Forest, you can hike through the incredible nature and enjoy your time to the fullest. Various saunas are also just waiting to be discovered. At the Naturhotel Outside you can also try out regional specialties such as a goat milk bath, herb wraps or the East Tyrolean Hay Bath. In the Refugium Lindenwirt, there are also luxurious specials such as the detox ritual, the fascia therapy or the Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage. Bad moods and autumn weariness don't stand a chance!

Are you drawn to the horizon? Then make yourself comfortable in the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. In the Sacred Valley of the Incas you can indulge yourself in the Mayu Spa – and even pick the herbs for your treatments yourself. In the cosy rooms you can snuggle up in front of your own fireplace and enjoy the view of the shimmering, red mountains.

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Inhale bee-air and relax – this sounds unusual, but really works: Enjoy a soothing Api-Wellness session at Hotel Rinner in South-Tyrol and spoil yourself!

Learn more

Think about tomorrow's lunch break today and enjoy a warming Asian soup that is easy to prepare.

To the Asia Instant Soup recipe

We have even more Meal-Prep ideas in this blogpost. We will also show you in which of our hotels you can find delicious – and environmentally friendly – packed lunches.

Meal Prep at home and on holiday

Rainy days are good for the environment, but often bad for our mood. Travel in our dreams with us to the most extraordinary pools in our hotels!

Off to the most beautiful hotel pools

Do you already know how you're going to welcome the New Year? How about the sounds of the North Sea at the Lifestylehotel Sand or under the sun of Tenerife? We have a few ideas!

Discover sustainable New Year's Eve locations

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Farina and Steffen traveled through Morocco and visited the Kasbah du Toubkal and took part in a hike to the Azzaden Trekking Lodge. On their blog "Oceans and Mountains" they write about their experiences and impressions.

Read the whole blog post here at Oceans and Mountains

Rosa from "Conscious Lifestyle of Mine" visited Juist for a week in September and stayed at the Strandhotel Kurhaus Juist with her family – and is more than enthusiastic about the beauty and sustainability of the hotel.

Click here to read Rosa's blogpost

The Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen has freshly modernized and energy-efficiently renovated its conference rooms. Thanks to the large windows, the conference rooms are particularly bright and offer direct access to the new inner courtyard, which exudes a very special atmosphere with, among other things, its furnishings made of recycled materials. Energy consumption is measured continuously and then optimized according to the use of the space.

Read more about sustainable meetings in our newsletter

The Inkaterra Group has launched a campaign with the Peruvian Society for Environmental Law: "Free Tambopata" not only draws attention to the importance of protecting the rainforest but also supports the organization "The Tambopatas", which monitors the forest to prevent illegal logging and tree felling. There is also a specially created cocktail and a T-shirt.

More about the campaigns and the "Tambopata Libre Cocktail”

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20 years ago the waters around New York City were some of the most polluted in the world, but thanks to successful environmental policies — such as the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act — whales are back in the Big Apple.

Find out more at National Geographic

Oil and gas companies are spending millions of dollars on campaigns to fight climate regulations at the same time as touting their dedication to a low-carbon future, according to a joint analysis by the Guardian and InfluenceMap. Don't be taken in by their greenwashing.

Read the whole article at The Guardian

Last week we celebrated the German Reunification (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) and one action particularly inspired us and our partners: #Einheitsbuddeln. Imagine how many new woods would be created if each German citizen planted one single tree on the 3rd of October every year! On the official event page already 111.392 planted trees were registered – a great start and we keep our fingers crossed press that it will become more next year!

Trees for Berchtesgaden

On the mountain Gröll in Ramsau the last winter damaged huge areas: many trees had fallen leaving open spaces. The Berghotel Rehlegg has joined the “mountain wood” offensive action started by the Office for Food, Agriculture and forests in Traunstein. Thus 100 larches were planted on the mountain Gröll on the 3rd of October with more following. Because most guests arrive on Fridays at the Berghotel Rehlegg, a tree will be planted from now on for every 5th guests arriving on a Friday. This will generate more than 3,000-4,000 trees yearly! Besides, the hotel is also involved in a reforestation program in Panama as well as in a regional compensation of building up humus through a compensation CO2 program

'Einheitsbuddeln' at the Baltic Sea

Also, the Lifestylehotel SAND has taken part together with some employees and even created a small event around: A pine was planted and to strengthen the participants (and the guests of course) green SANDsmoothies were served.​ The Gut Nisdorf at the Boddenseeküste at the Baltic Sea has also found space for a new tree on ist extensive garden property.​

'Einheitsbuddeln' in the Black Forest

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb also planted three new trees on the 3rd of October from which they will hopefully provide some apples for the hotel in the future...

Already for a long time many of the Green Pearls® hotel partners are involved all year round in the preservation of the woods – be it the use of only sustainable wood, reforestation or the preservation of the old forest.

The Mawell Resort in Hohenlohe was taking only minimal impact of the woods into consideration when building the resort – hence, the woods are intact and do not offer any space for new trees. The Landgut Stober close to Berlin owns 125,000 square meters of own forest and, besides, supports reforestation projects in India and Panama. And the Wild Mahseer in the Indian region Assam has only recently carried out its own actions for the reforestation of the local woods and, besides, has planted more than 284,000 trees.

The Inkaterra Group together with the Peruvian Society for environmental rights has brought to life a campaign starting in October: "Free Tambopata" draws the attention not only to the importance of the protection of the rain forest but supports the organization "The Tambopatas". They observe the woods in order to prevent unlawful digging and tree felling. In the last thirty years, Peru lost 234,750 Acre of rain forest and the mining of minerals and gold has risen by 916%. In order to preserve the biodiversity and to support "The Tambopatas", a T-shirt was specially designed for this purpose and even a special cocktail was invented (both available in the Regenwald-Lodges Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica and Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción). The proceeds run towards the organization.

Bruno and Dagmar visited the Berghotel Rehlegg in Ramsau, Berchtesgaden and write about their experiences in the eco-hotel.

>> Read the full post here on Lucky Ways (only in German)

Cycling in the Mountains or along the Coast

One of the biggest mountain bike route networks of Germany is located in the region Rhön: Approximately 100 main and side routes are connected with each other in 150 intersections, simplifying the outline of individual tours. The Biohotel Sturm lies in the midst of the biosphere reserve Rhön and is therefore the perfect starting point for various mountain bike tours. Whether you are an experienced mountain biker or a beginner, guide Daniel Albrecht supports guests with tips and tricks and offers guided tours.

Less hills and more fresh sea air welcome you when cycling at the Timmendorfer Strand at the Baltic Sea. Thanks to the cooperation with the German bicycle company “my boo”, the Lifestylehotel SAND offers to lend bikes made from bamboo. Here, guests can go for a ride along the Baltic coast or take a detour to lake Hemmelsdorf – a beautiful view is guaranteed along the way.

Over Hill and Dale

With the national park “Hohe Tauern” starting directly at your doorstep, one of the most popular activities of the Austrian Naturhotel Outside is obvious: hiking. Guest can hike through alpine grasslands and mountain tops, next to crystal-clear mountain lakes and cozy cottages. Naturhotel Outside offers four to five guided hiking tours per week, free of charge for guests and with experienced guides. Especially convenient: free rental of backpacks and hiking poles, as well as the “hiking taxi”, which drives guests to starting points or picks them up.

In Germany’s first mountaineer's village Ramsau, which lies on the edge of the only German national park in the Alps, hiking is also very popular. The Rehlegg is called Berghotel (‘mountain hotel’) for a reason, as it is deeply linked and committed to its surrounding landscape. There are 30 hiking tours starting directly from the hotel. Berghotel Rehlegg is perfectly prepared and equipped for hiking enthusiasts: Whether guests need hiking poles, backpacks or tips about the most amazing tours and viewpoints. And after an exhaustive day of hiking the extensive spa area awaits..

Taking off or Teeing off in the Black Forest

In the Black Forest hiking is of great importance, however, the Northern Black Forest around Bad Herrenalb and the hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, offers a variety of other thrilling activities: Enjoy the scenery from above while paragliding, join guided horse-riding tours, go on geocaching trips, go snowshoe hiking in winter or take part in a golf course. The extensive range of activities has something for everybody.

Yoga and Mindfulness from Tenerife to South Tyrol

Being active on vacation is easy in the diverse nature of Tenerife, after all, there is a lot to discover – from the impressively precipitous coasts to ravines and up to the volcano Teide, which is surrounded by barren scenery. The Océano Hotel Health Spa lies in the quieter north of the island. It is surrounded by the sea on one side and the biosphere reserve Anaga with its mountains covered by laurel trees on the other side. Beside hiking, mountain biking and surfing, the hotel itself offers several activities, including yoga. Yoga classes take place every day and further guests can take part in meditation and mindfulness courses, as well as other relaxation treatments.

Finding one’s inner center and balancing the Chakras: The holistic vegan hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol offers comprehensive yoga retreats. Every day different courses take place – from Vinyasa yoga to yin & yang yoga and Pranayama yoga. Each Thursday guests can feel the positive impact of trees while bathing in the forest; on Fridays everyone is welcome to join the mindfulness mediation. At LA VIMEA experienced and beginners are equally welcome to join the activities.

Above and under water

Due to its ideal location directly at the beach in Bali’s West, the Puri Dajuma cottages & spa offers the best conditions for water sport of any kind. Guests can choose between surfing on perfect waves in the popular spot Medewi, bodyboarding, Stand Up Paddling and kayaking. However, there are even more exciting activities offered by the hotel: The eco-tours by Puri Dajuma take guests to the inner part of the island. Driving through rice fields and small Balinese villages, getting to know traditional agriculture and taking part in excursions to impressive waterfalls only present some of the possible tours.

Whether snorkeling or diving: The fascinating underwater world of the Maldives is best explored at the diving resorts Gili Lankanfushi and Reethi Faru Resort. Especially intriguing for all guest is taking part in the coral protection programs. It’s particularly interesting for divers to help with the identification projects for tortoises and rays. For all guests who like to learn more about the conservation and protection efforts of the sensitive marine ecosystem, a visit at the Gili Veshi center is another great activity on the Maldives!

Presentation of Green Pearls on 1/4 page in the section "found for you" of print magazin Uberding magazin and of Berghotel Rehlegg on 2 pages in the section "travelding".

>> Uberding webpage (German)