One-third of Germans plan their vacations using AI

The numbers speak for themselves: The Adyen Index "Hospitality & Travel Report 2025," which is based on a survey of 40,000 consumers and over 8,000 hoteliers worldwide conducted by the fintech platform Adyen, shows a sharp increase in the use of AI in German travel planning. Nearly one-third of German respondents (32 percent) now rely on AI-powered tools when planning vacations. Compared to 2023, this represents a 72 percent increase in just twelve months.

This trend's breadth is particularly noteworthy. Although Generation Z (62%) and Millennials (46%) lead the usage statistics, the strongest growth is being seen among older generations. According to an Adyen study, baby boomers increased their use of AI for travel bookings by 106 percent and Generation X by 95 percent compared to the previous year.

The question of "why" is complex. Ultimately, however, it always boils down to the need for guidance amid an overwhelming abundance of information. According to an Adyen study, 70 percent of AI users find social media frustrating because they are inundated with ads, influencer content, and sponsored posts. In this context, AI tools offer a welcome shortcut. Additionally, more and more providers are integrating AI directly into their platforms to ensure a seamless experience from inspiration to booking.

Booking Trends in 2026: more spontaneous, last-minute, and direct

In addition to the AI trend, another closely related development has emerged. Booking behavior is becoming more spontaneous. Travelers are making last-minute decisions more often and responding more strongly to current factors, such as weather and availability. They are also comparing offers in real time. The search for travel experiences increasingly starts through digital channels, such as search engines, booking platforms, social media, and AI chatbots. Someone who discovers a place on TikTok today may book accommodations there just hours later. Inspiration, comparison, and booking can be just minutes apart.

In this environment, tourism businesses are faced with the urgent question of how to keep their websites discoverable, as travelers are increasingly using AI tools to plan their trips that no longer provide traditional search results, but rather direct (and often untraceable) recommendations. The first AI agents can already create complete travel itineraries. Those who aren’t visible in these systems simply don’t exist for a growing proportion of potential guests. Many hoteliers have already recognized this new reality. According to the Adyen report, 55 percent of German accommodation providers believe that AI search tools will transform the industry.

However, there is often a discrepancy between the broad findings of large-scale studies and the front desk's actual experiences. Therefore, Green Pearls® asked its partner hotels about changes in booking behavior and the use of AI in their day-to-day operations, and how they are responding to these changes.

The return of ‘non-commitment’

Since the pandemic, the two sister hotels in South Tyrol Paradiso Pure.Living and LA VIMEA have experienced a significant shift, one that has gained even more momentum due to economic uncertainty in Europe over the past two years. Both hotels' teams report that the proportion of last-minute bookings has risen significantly. Guests are planning less far in advance, opting for flexibility and basing their decisions on location, weather, and personal preference. At the same time, the average length of stay has shortened. Both hotels do not view this as a passing trend but rather as a reaction to real-world conditions, such as economic uncertainty, changing work situations, and a growing need to commit as little as possible. For the hotels, this means offering even greater freedom of choice in their communication and the design of their offerings.

The Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance is having a similar experience. Since the pandemic began, booking habits have fundamentally changed. Guests are booking with less advance planning and prefer a cancellation guarantee until their arrival, a request that many smaller businesses cannot fulfill without endangering their financial stability. According to owner Ursula Wagner, everything is done digitally now, and personal phone calls have become the exception. Inquiries are sent simultaneously to dozens of hotels, with no personal connection to a specific property. This is the downside of the new booking culture: it offers comparability and efficiency from the guest’s perspective but also depersonalizes the experience, which runs counter to the spirit of genuine hospitality.

At the ADLER Ritten in South Tyrol, two seemingly contradictory trends have emerged simultaneously. On the one hand, guests want to extend their stays to fully immerse themselves in a place's culture, history, and energy. This trend toward mindful travel is evident at the ADLER Ritten: guests arrive, sit down, and enjoy the view and silence. On the other hand, last-minute bookings, particularly for shorter stays, are on the rise, especially during the shoulder seasons. Many travelers today make decisions at the last minute. Those who don't want to commit early book spontaneously, provided inspiration strikes at the right moment.

The tree hotel My Arbor in South Tyrol is experiencing shorter decision-making cycles, more thorough price comparisons, and an increase in demand for personalized offers. In this context, digital assistance systems, including AI tools, are playing an increasingly important role. Therefore, the hotel is committed to responding to guest requests with greater individualization and creating experiences that no algorithm can replicate. Those who book a stay at My Arbor are not looking for a standardized hotel experience. They’re looking for something that defies categorization. That is this unique wellness hotel’s strongest selling point compared to AI-powered booking channels.

What no algorithm can replace

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb is also seeing changes that align with the experiences of the other hoteliers. Guests are conducting more in-depth research, comparing options more closely, and using digital, AI-powered research tools more frequently. However, there is also a growing desire for transparency, meaningfulness, and credible sustainability. More personality, not more digitalization, is the motto, which is why the hotel is focusing on personalized advice, authentic communication, and clear values. Because, especially in the age of AI, many guests are looking for more than just information; they are looking for guidance, trust, and genuine recommendations.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, has also noticed the trend toward last-minute bookings and growing price sensitivity. Both are signs of a shift in decision-making behavior that also reflects the use of AI during the research phase. In response, the hotel offers personalized service, focusing on fostering a sense of connection, providing personalized advice, heartfelt recommendations, and individualized attention. That is something no algorithm can replace, and the hotel sees it as a clear competitive advantage. The team is convinced that the things people value about this place cannot be automated.

In contrast, the long-established Tyrolean Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld has not seen any significant changes in booking behavior that can be attributed to AI. Guests continue to seek information through traditional channels and personal recommendations. Nevertheless, the hotel believes that AI-powered inspiration, automated price comparisons, and personalized travel suggestions will grow in importance. Therefore, the hotel continues to invest in clear, authentic content; transparent offers; and a strong direct-booking strategy. Personal contact remains a key factor for success. While technology will make processes more efficient, trust, emotion, and genuine hospitality ultimately determine whether a guest returns.

The Croatian Hotel Korinjak exemplifies an experience likely common to many smaller, boutique establishments. Most guests find the hotel through word of mouth or personal experience. The hotel attributes the lack of noticeable AI-driven booking trends to the unique nature of its offerings. Businesses with unique, hard-to-categorize products often don’t appear in popular search engine results or AI tool suggestions and must rely on personal recommendations and strong networks.

When AI brings in the guests

The Carinthian Hotel Schloss Lerchenhof is a particularly concrete data point. Several guests of the hotel's restaurant have reported that they came to dine there based on an AI recommendation. This is the first measurable evidence showing how AI is helping people make decisions, including when choosing a restaurant, and not just when searching for hotels. In terms of bookings, Schloss Lerchenhof is also seeing a clear trend toward last-minute reservations. Long-term bookings of more than one week are becoming less common, and the average stay is now four nights. Since switching to a new booking system in 2024, the Lerchenhof has also recorded around 80 percent of bookings as direct, up from around 50 percent previously. A development that shows digital infrastructure and direct sales go hand in hand.

The Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony has noticed an increase in guests discovering the hotel through AI-powered searches, whether for personal stays, business trips, or events. The hotel views this development very positively. At the same time, the number of direct bookings through the hotel’s website has risen significantly. To encourage this trend further, Okelmann’s will introduce a correspondence manager this spring to simplify and speed up communication with guests. This underscores the significance of capitalizing on successful AI discoveries through a captivating website and an intuitive booking process.

Clarity as a strategy

The Hotel Weihrerhof, located on Lake Wolfsgruben in South Tyrol, has noticed an increase in specific and personalized search queries. Rather than searching for "hotel South Tyrol," guests now search for properties that align with their specific values and needs, such as sustainability, tranquility, a lakeside location, or family-run management. AI-powered searches differ from traditional keyword searches in that they process meaning, including context, rather than merely matching terms. Consequently, they deliver more precise results. In response to this trend, the Weihrerhof has developed a clear content strategy: content is formulated in a transparent, specific, and structured manner so that both human guests and AI systems receive a realistic and coherent picture of the hotel and its values, such as a connection to nature, time by the lake, and family.

The SANDcollection lifestyle hotel group in northern Germany describes an experience shared by many Green Pearls® partners. AI and social media help guests find their way around and provide travel suggestions, price estimates, and alternative dates in seconds. Digitalization has simplified the booking process and greatly accelerated decision-making, says owner Marion Muller. Nevertheless, guests still prefer to clarify details in person, for example, via phone, email, or live chat on the website. The FAQ section on digital booking platforms often fails to provide thorough or personalized answers. Against this backdrop, SANDnature (Baltic Sea) and SANDglow (North Sea) are pursuing a strategy based on clear positioning, including a strong corporate identity, an optimized online presence with concrete content, images, and video material, flexible cancellation options, and personalized offers instead of standard packages. Added to this is the targeted use of proprietary digital tools for data analysis and guest communication, combined with a commitment to providing personal service.

The Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bavaria is approaching the issue from a technical perspective. Internal analyses show that the hotel has a growing proportion of its website traffic coming from AI assistants. These queries are increasingly brief and keyword-based, pointing to the influence of voice-based AI searches. Therefore, the website is designed so that artificial intelligence can extract detailed, structured information from it. Anyone who wants to be visible in the age of intelligent search systems must present their content in a way that algorithms can read, understand, and recommend.

The Naturhotel Outside has observed that guests now expect shorter planning lead times and greater freedom of choice. Decisions are made more spontaneously, comparisons are made more frequently, and more thorough research is conducted. AI serves as a tool specifically for inspiration and research. Those who want to book in seconds need clear answers immediately. In response, the hotel provides easy-to-understand website content, authentic images, and straightforward communication. At the same time, the need for personalized advice is growing. While AI provides guidance, it’s often people who provide the final push.

Visibility, clarity, and the irreplaceable human factor

Those who want to stand out in an AI-driven booking landscape need structured, honest, and above all human content. Distinctive positioning is also essential in the competition for attention. However, those who truly want to retain guests need to provide something that no algorithm can: genuine hospitality, personalized advice, and a personal connection. AI is changing how travelers search, compare, and make decisions. But it will not change what people are really looking for at the end of a long day of travel: a welcoming place.

Our Sources:

• Adyen Index: Hospitality & Travel Report 2025, Adyen N.V. (Amsterdam)
• OECD/G7-Grundsatzpapier: Artificial Intelligence in Tourism, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
• Crosseye Marketing/diegutenachricht.at: Buchungsverhalten 2026

Hotels as a gateway and link to the region

When choosing a hotel or vacation rental, travelers now look for more than just comfort and a place to sleep; they also want a sense of place and authenticity. The desire to fully immerse oneself in a destination is increasingly influencing travel decisions. Architecture deeply rooted in local conditions and respectful of the landscape lays the foundation for such an experience.

However, a regional architectural style has more than just atmospheric implications; it also results in measurable ecological benefits. Using local materials, such as natural stone or wood, shortens transportation distances and reduces emissions from logistics. Involving local craft businesses provides site-specific knowledge and strengthens local economic cycles. And architects who incorporate a site’s topography, climate, and vegetation into their designs create buildings that require fewer technical compensations, such as cooling, heating, or maintenance:

• Natural shading instead of permanent cooling

• Wall thicknesses that store heat rather than heating systems that have to compensate 

• Traditional roof structures that have been optimized over centuries to suit the local climate conditions

This technical intelligence embedded in the design is becoming increasingly relevant in today's context of decarbonization and resource conservation.

Architecture forms the foundation of a responsible hospitality industry

In this sense, the Green Pearls® partners do not view architecture (merely) as a matter of style, but rather as the structural foundation of responsible business practices. The following examples, from the South Tyrolean Alps to the southern coast of Sicily, the Black Forest, and a Croatian island, illustrate what this means in concrete, individual terms.

At the heart of brand identity

Since 1810, the Sanoner family has run the ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges in accordance with this philosophy, now in its sixth and seventh generations. What began as an inn in St. Ulrich, South Tyrol, has grown to include seven properties stretching from the Dolomite high plateau to the southern coast of Sicily, all of which feature landscape-inspired architecture and a deep connection to nature, among other things.

A particularly striking example of this approach is the ADLER Ritten. Located in a forest clearing on the South Tyrolean high plateau, the complex comprises a main building, outbuildings, and freestanding chalets that blend almost effortlessly into their surroundings. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, the lodge emphasizes subtle integration, making use of the site's natural layout. Dark wooden facades and regional materials define its appearance. Untreated spruce and larch wood were used for the facades, and oak floors inside convey warmth and quality. Artfully designed wooden panels in the lobby add distinctive accents. This was achieved by planing individual boards against the grain to create a relief-like, almost sculptural surface.

The black wooden cladding of the buildings ensures that the architecture blends seamlessly with the forest landscape. Rather than following an international design concept or imported aesthetic, the design speaks the language of the place. Its proportions, materials, and scale draw inspiration from a cultural landscape shaped by centuries of South Tyrol’s rural building traditions. Owners Andreas and Klaus Sanoner designed the ADLER Ritten in collaboration with South Tyrolean architect Hugo Demetz. Their concept shows how contemporary architecture can have a strong impact through restraint and connection to the local context.

In July 2022, the ADLER Sicilia opened on the southern coast of Sicily. It is the Collection’s first Mediterranean property and its first seaside resort. The complex sits on a kilometer-long pristine beach near the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, right next to the WWF nature reserve Riserva Torre Salsa. The cedar wood and glass architecture is built on a hill and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. In total, the resort has 90 guest rooms with green roofs. Its interior design primarily features regional materials, such as tuff. The walls are plastered with "Terracruda," a red clay from Mount Etna that helps maintain a stable indoor climate thanks to its moisture-regulating properties.

Restraint as a guiding principle

The Hotel Weihrerhof, located directly on Lake Wolfsgruben in Ritten, blends deliberately into its surroundings. Among other features, the building boasts the traditional Ritten roof shape, a design that has been characteristic of the high plateau and its landscape for generations. "We build with great restraint: as much as necessary, but as little as possible," says host Klaus Pichler, describing this approach. The seven-hectare property encompasses three hectares of meadows that have not been fertilized or cultivated for over twenty years.

Built on stilts above Brixen, the Hotel My Arbor evokes the tall trees in the surrounding forest while preserving a large portion of the existing tree population. Wooden facades and natural materials reflect South Tyrol’s mountain forest landscape, creating an authentic atmosphere inside and out.

The Naturresort Gerbehof, located on Lake Constance, also connects with its surroundings through its choice of materials. The stones in the spa area come from the spot where the Rhine flows into Lake Constance. The wood used for the furniture and furnishings comes from the resort’s own forest and was handcrafted on site. No cross-continental transport; no anonymous supply chains.

In turn, the Summit Lodges in Tyrol carefully integrate their natural log cabins into the hillside by building stone walls directly from the excavated material. What was dug up was reused. The APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol takes it a step further. During the renovation, clay soil was excavated and reused to create earthen pyramids in the hotel hallways. The hotel also features local Swiss stone pine and larch wood, regional Plima stone in the stairwell, and hay bales as decorative elements. Walking through the hotel is like walking through the region itself.

Integration, not staging

Some buildings showcase nature, while others allow it to set the tone. The key question is how architecture can take a back seat, incorporate regional materials and traditional building methods, and become part of its surroundings instead of overpowering them.

"Authenticity" is an overused buzzword in most cases. However, for the two luxury resorts operated by the independent Vietnamese hotel group The Anam, there is hardly a more fitting description. The architecture of the two five-star resorts, one on the Cam Ranh Peninsula and the other in Mui Ne in southern Vietnam, deliberately and consistently draws on regional building traditions. Guests will find traditional roof shapes and patterned tiles crafted by artisans from across the country, as well as artwork and décor reflecting a close connection to the resorts' respective regions. During construction, care was also taken to ensure the hotels would not tower over the surrounding natural landscape. The villas and buildings of The Anam Cam Ranh are nestled in a garden with over 3,000 palm trees, and The Anam Mui Ne clings to the hills that slope down toward the beach like a cascade.

The LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel is nestled in a park-like garden in the heart of an Alpine valley in South Tyrol. The natural garden and pond are more than just decorative features; they are part of the hotel’s living environment. Guests can swim in the natural pond among water lilies. The terrace roof is completely covered with greenery, transforming it into a garden in its own right. At the Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt in the Lower Inn Valley, the surrounding Alpine landscape of the Wilder Kaiser sets the standard. The organic building philosophy combines traditional Tyrolean architecture with the latest insights into resource-efficient construction: the hotel bar features ancient hewn timber, wooden truss ceilings replace steel structures, the interiors are made of local Swiss stone pine, and wooden bricks are bound with lime mortar instead of cement. What feels like natural Tyrolean hospitality is the result of consistent decisions regarding construction, materials, and operations.

The Relais del Maro on the Ligurian Riviera, the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, and the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu all share a similar philosophy: architecture is seen as an extension of the landscape. The Relais del Maro uses organic, natural building materials and traditional and, in some cases, even ancient techniques. The other two properties rely on regional materials, such as wood, stone, and natural fabrics, that define their architectural traditions. A defining feature of all three is their rejection of spectacular, signature architecture in favor of a restrained, site-specific design language. The interiors also remain true to this philosophy. Natural colors, materials, and regional references create seamless transitions between the indoors and outdoors, ensuring that nature becomes an integral part of the guest experience rather than a mere backdrop.

The location determines the form

The OLM Nature Escape in Tauferer Ahrntal, which opened in 2023, shows that tradition and modernity are not mutually exclusive. The modern building's circular shape is unusual, yet its name, Alm, comes from the South Tyrolean dialect. The building's circular shape alludes to the endless cycle of time but also to the millstones of the mills that once operated there. Constructed using regional materials, the building features larch wood, ample glass, and natural materials. All of its energy comes from its own photovoltaic systems and geothermal probes, supplemented by hydropower. Since its opening, the building has been certified to the GSTC standard.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb is taking a related yet distinct approach. The Circular Living concept, which will be implemented throughout the entire building step by step, draws on the region’s existing resources and the principles of circular construction and interior design. The Black Forest is integrated into the project through the choice of materials and craftsmanship. Each design detail was evaluated based on recyclability, durability, and health and safety criteria. The materials used can be integrated into existing material cycles, and their origin and environmental impact are traceable. However, the connection to the local area is reflected not only in the choice of materials, but also in the design implementation. The Circular Living rooms were designed in collaboration with Black Forest hotel interior designer FRITZ SCHLECHT | SHL.

The Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž was built in the 1960s when energy efficiency and sustainable construction were not integral to architectural planning. Nevertheless, the building blends seamlessly into the landscape today. With just two stories, an unobtrusive main building, and a clear, functional structure, the hotel does not overwhelm its surroundings. It neither towers over the coastline nor dominates the island’s characteristic landscape of pine trees, natural stone, and sea. Instead blending into the topography and scale of the site.

What architecture achieves when it takes a back seat

Why is all of this relevant? It is not because regional architectural traditions are more beautiful; it is because they have consequences that extend far beyond aesthetics. Using local materials means shorter transport distances and lower emissions. Local craftsmen ensure the transfer of knowledge. Traditional roof shapes and wall constructions have been tested by the climate and optimized over centuries for the specific conditions in which a building will stand.

And architecture creates a true sense of identity. When you arrive at a house that could be built anywhere, you don't know where you are. A building that reflects its location conveys a feeling that no marketing concept can replace: the sense of having truly arrived.

The hotels in the Green Pearls® Collection are as diverse as the regions in which they are located. However, they share a common philosophy: they view architecture not as a means of self-promotion, but as a responsibility. They do not build in opposition to their location; they build in harmony with it. Because responsible architecture does not arise from trends. It arises from listening.

Sources:

• Architekturfotoblog: Architecture and Identity – Regional Influences in Contemporary Design

• Plarchitekten: How Hotel Planning Presents Challenges for Architects

• Hotel News: Local Flavor – How Regional Identity Enhances Hotel Design

• htr: The Building as a Reflection of Its Surroundings

• Selecting an Architect: How Do Regional Influences Shape the Diversity of Architectural Styles?

Today, it is clear what has been lost in the process, as well as the price we’ve paid for this shift. Synthetic insulation materials are produced from fossil fuels at a high energy cost. Furthermore, most of these materials cannot be cleanly separated from other building materials at the end of their life cycle because they are bonded or compressed with them. Consequently, they end up as hazardous waste. But there is another way.

A rediscovery of natural building materials

Plant-based building materials, such as hay, are catching the attention of architects and environmentally conscious hoteliers—not out of nostalgia, but because of their concrete advantages. Hay regrows within a single season, sequesters CO₂ while growing, and can be composted or used to generate energy once its useful life is over. The Netherlands is regarded throughout Europe as a pioneer of Biobased Bouwen, an approach that treats agricultural residues as legitimate building materials.

What was once primarily pragmatic now also has an aesthetic dimension. The Tyrolean label Almut von Wildheim, for example, crafts lighting fixtures from pure alpine hay; the company Organoid presses hand-harvested hay onto decorative panels that serve as natural wall coverings in interior design; the acoustics specialist Noiseflex Nature, in turn, uses hay-based surfaces as sound-absorbing cladding, as the open-cell structure of the grasses also has sound-insulating properties. Thus, hay is no longer merely an agricultural byproduct, but rather a resource-conserving material.

For hotels with a clearly defined sustainability concept, this raw material has strong communicative power because it tells a concrete story. Guests can feel, touch, and smell their connection to the surrounding landscape. No certificate on a website conveys regional roots as directly as a hay-made wall from the hotel’s own meadows or a lamp scenting the air with alpine flower fragrance. In the following paragraphs, Green Pearls® partner hotels demonstrate just how unique and diverse this approach can be.

Where hay becomes a (co-)host

At the Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt, visitors do not just experience the surrounding landscape through a window. As soon as they enter the lobby, they are greeted by a large-scale artwork made of pressed alpine hay. The hay comes from the resort’s own meadows around the Wilder Kaiser, eliminating the need for long transport routes or middlemen. Farming has been closely linked to the resort for generations, shaping both the property and the region. The hay used exemplifies these roots. In addition to its origin, the hay's effect also plays a role. Its characteristic scent and moisture-regulating properties create a special atmosphere. Simultaneously, it establishes a direct connection to the alpine cultural landscape, which differs significantly from industrially manufactured surfaces. Thus, the hay becomes not only a design element, but also an expression of the philosophy linking agriculture and luxury hospitality.

In 2019, the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel was renovated according to the principles of building biology. At the heart of the project was a wall construction based on the concept of a “breathing space.” Underneath the surfaces finished with natural lime plaster are materials that naturally regulate humidity and temperature. This approach is scientifically proven in building biology and results in an improved indoor climate for guests. The use of natural raw materials is also evident in the guest rooms themselves. Some doors are lined with hay from Alpine meadows. As the doors are opened and closed, the scent of alpine flowers is released, creating an immediate sensory connection to the surrounding Seiser Alm landscape. In the wellness area, a hay sauna complements the natural theme. Filled with dried grass from the immediate area, the sauna releases essential oils from meadow herbs, providing a wellness experience free of chemical additives.

Sometimes, even the smallest detail can make a big difference. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA wellness hotel, this is evident in the hangers used in the “Circular Living” rooms. These rooms feature Tutaka hangers, which are made of 30 percent local meadow grass and 70 percent recycled plastic. No new petroleum is used in their production, which takes place in energy-efficient facilities in Germany, shortening transportation distances. The concept of the "Circular Living" rooms is to conserve resources while promoting a healthy indoor climate. In the process of material and furniture selection, particular emphasis was placed on elements of healthy living and solutions that promote recyclability. Other elements of the room’s furnishings follow this approach as well. The lampshades, for instance, are made of meadow grass as well. Take-back agreements with the manufacturers ensure these materials are returned to the cycle after use.

At the Hotel Klosterbräu, Tyrolean meadows literally illuminate the interior. The handmade hayflower lamps in the hotel’s 28 Nature Rooms have become an unmistakable trademark. Dried flowers and grasses filter the light, creating a warm, soft glow. No industrially manufactured lampshade can imitate this texture because it is made of a natural material with a unique structure. The Klosterbräu now designs all new rooms based on the model of the nature-themed rooms. In doing so, the hayflower lamps remain an integral part of the interior design concept—not out of nostalgia, but because they are effective and well-received by guests. The lamps combine artisanal craftsmanship with a regional raw material while also symbolizing durability.

Incidentally, the distinction between hay (dried grass) and straw (dried cereal stalks) plays only a minor role in green building. At the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, the ceilings of the "Circular Hotel Rooms" are made of straw. Structurally, this material is closely related to hay and has similar properties. This includes the ability to regulate moisture. The straw ceilings also contribute to the rooms' aesthetic appeal. They give the rooms a visible texture and warmth that can be experienced both visually and tactilely. However, the hotel’s concept goes beyond individual materials. The “Circular Hotel Rooms®” at the Hotel Luise are designed according to the cradle-to-cradle principle. The goal is to use only materials that are biodegradable or fully recyclable, so they can be managed within closed-loop systems.

The three vacation homes at Ebner 1822 were also partly built from straw. Owners Barbara and Mario Sonnleitner drew on traditional regional construction techniques, deliberately choosing local, time-tested materials such as clay, wood, and straw. These materials create a healthy indoor climate in the two-story homes. Additionally, a natural scent permeates the accommodations, allowing guests to take a deep breath the moment they step inside. Incidentally, the houses were built by hand.

At the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol, hay is an integral part of the décor. The material is incorporated directly into the furniture, becoming a physical part of the interior. Local carpenters craft the furniture on site. This largely eliminates the need for transportation, packaging, and external supply chains. When it comes to decorations, the team has taken a straightforward approach: they collect hay flowers, dried flowers, and other natural materials in the area surrounding the hotel. Thus, the floral arrangements in the rooms' vases literally come from the same meadows that guests see from their windows.

At the Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, hay is displayed behind glass. In the stairwell, it is incorporated into the railing as "hay glass." In some rooms, hay serves as an illuminated wall feature surrounding the beds' headboards. This design approach allows guests to experience the landscape not only through the window but also within the interior. Ritten is a plateau whose character is shaped by meadows and small-scale farming. Therefore, hay is an important and visible part of this region. In addition to its aesthetic value, the hay behind glass serves a functional purpose. Untreated hay deteriorates over time, losing its structure and stability. Enclosing the hay retains its shape without the need for preservation or chemical treatment. Currently, the hotel’s bar is being redesigned, and elements featuring hay-filled glass will be incorporated there, too. What began in the stairwell is gradually extending throughout the entire building.

One raw material, one common logic

What these buildings have in common is more than just a material; it is the decision to use regional raw materials that are eco-friendly (fast-growing and CO2-sequestering) and to communicate this clearly. Hay and meadow grass symbolize a return to tradition while looking to the future. They combine regional identity with ecological responsibility and artisanal tradition with modern design standards. These materials are biodegradable, offer proven benefits, and come from the immediate surroundings of the hotels. As the construction industry faces mounting pressure to measure and reduce its CO₂ emissions, these hotels show that solutions can be found in their own backyards. One only has to harvest them and use them consistently.

Our sources

• European Environment Agency: Material Footprints in European Policy Making

• Almut von Wildheim

• Bosig: Noiseflex Nature

• Biobased Bouwen

• Organoids

Value creation in tourism

In the tourism sector, destinations provide ideal conditions for fostering these cycles. Tourism service providers, including hotels, restaurants, and local tour operators, act as economic hubs that directly impact their regions through procurement, partnerships, and employment. The goal is to keep as many steps, from production and processing to final consumption, within a single region as possible.

Cultivating local food is an important part of this process. Instead of global supply chains, seasonal availability determines the offerings. In addition to ensuring freshness and quality, this approach fosters responsibility for the soil and the region itself. Concepts such as "farm-to-table" and "nose-to-tail" exemplify this holistic approach. Examining the establishments in the Green Pearls® Community shows how these principles can be applied in the hospitality industry and illustrates the diversity of regional value creation.

Homegrown: From the harvest to the guests' plates

At some hotels, value creation does not begin with purchasing; it begins in the fields. At Schloss Lerchenhof in Carinthia, for instance, most of the food comes from the hotel’s organic farm and is processed on site. Pork, beef, veal, lamb, game, and organic chicken are used in line with the nose-to-tail principle, and grains are processed into flour, bread, muesli, and baguettes. Seasonal vegetables, herbs, fruit, nuts, organic honey, and homemade juices and syrups complement these offerings. Additionally, over 50 local partners supply fresh products, so what ends up on guests' plates is often decided only after harvesting and the morning delivery.

At Naturresort Gerbehof, apples and pears from the private organic orchard are processed into juice or distilled on site, and game meat is utilized entirely according to the nose-to-tail concept. Products such as eggs, cheese, and bread are primarily purchased from certified organic family farms located within a few kilometers. Even beverages like wine, beer from the Härle brewery, and SeeZüngle lemonade are sourced from nearby.

The purchasing policy at My Arbor is characterized by a combination of in-house production and locally sourced ingredients. In addition to "Regiokorn" grain from South Tyrol, used for making dough and baked goods, the hotel's 20-hectare Lake Garda farm provides fruit, vegetables, herbs, and eggs. Much of the meat comes from the Wipptal cooperative, whose farmer-members adhere to strict guidelines for natural animal husbandry. The dairy products primarily come from the Brimi Mountain farmers’ cooperative, which emphasizes high-quality feed and ample outdoor access for the animals.

The boutique hotel Relais del Maro is an Albergo Diffuso in Borgomaro, a village in Liguria. The hotel's garden cultivates specialty "Zucchini Trombetta" (trumpet zucchini), which is used fresh for lunch, as well as eggplants, tomatoes for sauces, and cucumbers for salads. Cherries, blackberries, and lemons are processed into cakes and jams. This selection is complemented by products sourced from select local partners, with a central focus on cooperating with local oil mills. Olive oil and other olive-based products are defining features of Ligurian cuisine.

The cuisine at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt is also heavily influenced by the hotel’s own produce. The hotel makes its own tea with herbs from the garden, and the jams and baked goods, including fruit bread, popular Swiss cookies (guetzlis), and syrups, are also made on-site. Guests are offered an extensive wine list featuring wines from the Upper Valais, and the cheese used for raclette and fondue is sourced directly from Zermatt or Goms.

The ADLER Ritten consistently and transparently implements its farm-to-table concept. Right next to the main building, they have created a 4,000-square-meter farm garden featuring grain and potato crops, fruit bushes, and herb beds. Summer wheat, vegetables, berries, and herbs grow there and are processed directly in the kitchen. The garden is cultivated according to natural principles, with mixed crops and flowering plants that enrich the soil and attract pollinators, including the lodge’s own bees, which find ideal conditions here and produce the lodge’s honey.

Collaboration: Local partnerships as the foundation

In addition to in-house production, stable partnerships are key to regional value creation. Many businesses have worked closely with local producers for years. 

At the Hotel Weihrerhof, most of the food comes from nearby: bread from the Niederstätter bakery, beef from the Weissensteiner butcher shop, lamb from the Weidnerhof, chickens from the Obersthof, vegetables and salads from the Eggerhof, and cheese from the Wolfhof. Close personal relationships with suppliers and transparent supply chains (signs at the breakfast buffet clearly indicate the origin of the products) build trust and ensure quality. This network of local partners forms the foundation of a culinary concept rooted in South Tyrolean cuisine that consistently prioritizes seasonality and availability. 

The Naturhotel Outside takes a similar approach; in addition to its own herb garden, it sources cheese from the nearby Jakoberhof, trout from the Pongitzerhof, and eggs and grains from the surrounding Tyrolean region. The hotel’s culinary approach combines traditional East Tyrolean specialties with modern influences while ensuring the origin of the ingredients remains transparent to guests.

The Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa relies on close partnerships with local producers for its day-to-day operations. A long-standing vegetable supplier provides the hotel with fresh, locally sourced ingredients; fish comes from local farms; and herbs are grown in the monastery garden. The local quality is particularly evident at breakfast: smoothies, homemade bread with jams, honey straight from the hive, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, the hotel sources milk and dairy products from the Berchtesgadener Land region and free-range eggs from an organic farm.

The energy-self-sufficient eco-aparthotel OLM Nature Escape also focuses on local value creation and partnerships. The hotel sources vegetables, berries, and herbs from the fields and from Taufrisch, a regional initiative in which 13 South Tyrolean farms collaborate. As part of the "Ferienfreiheit" concept, guests can book rooms with breakfast only, consisting of organic products that are either homemade or sourced from regional producers. Furthermore, guests can use the fully equipped kitchen in their apartment for self-catering. An on-site specialty shop offers South Tyrolean products for purchase.

The North German SANDcollection with the SANDnature at the Baltic Sea and the SANDglow at the North Sea brings this approach to the beverage sector. The hotel’s wines are sourced from its partner winery, Malente Ingenhof, which produces award-winning white and red wines despite its unusual location in Holstein Switzerland from grapes grown in its own vineyards. When it comes to beer, hops, and grains, the two lifestyle hotels in the collection collaborate closely with the Eutin Brewery and Klüvers. And a farm in Ahrensbök supplies the organic free-range eggs for the live-cooking breakfast at SANDnature, and fruit is sourced seasonally from Bargteheide and the Lüneburg Heath.

Whenever possible, Hotel Das Rübezahl sources its ingredients from neighboring producers. A large portion of the food is utilized entirely, including all parts of the animal and all parts of the vegetable. The kitchen consistently focuses on local and seasonal ingredients. Additionally, the hotel prioritizes sustainability in procurement by actively encouraging suppliers to use consolidated shipments and resource-efficient packaging.

Almost all of the fruits and vegetables at the OCÉANO Health & Spa in Tenerife come from the Canary Islands. The only exceptions are a few items, such as apples, pears, and root vegetables. The hotel sources supplies from local wholesalers, including Frutería La Limera and Frutas y Verduras Nito. About 65 percent of their produce comes from their own farms, 25 percent comes from other farmers on the island, and the remaining 10 percent comes from mainland Spain. The OCÉANO also relies on local sourcing for fish and meat; about 60 percent of the fish, as well as much of the meat, including rabbit, pork, goat, and chicken, come from regional producers and are sourced through distribution partners that guarantee traceability.

Freshness: Flexible concepts and short supply chains

Some restaurants take it a step further: rather than planning long-term, they base their menus on daily deliveries and harvest yields.

At the Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt, regional partners deliver supplies several times a day, eliminating the need for large storage areas and reducing refrigeration energy consumption. The high proportion of in-house production enhances this effect further: milk, curd cheese, yogurt, cheese, bread, and meat are largely produced on-site. The kitchen concept is complemented by the hotel’s own biomass cogeneration plant, which produces renewable energy. For this, the hotel sources materials such as bark waste from nearby sawmills. Finally, organic waste is compressed and liquefied on-site and fed into the local biogas plant for energy production.

The APIPURA hotel rinner operates similarly when it comes to food delivery. Fresh fruits and vegetables are delivered several times a week, immediately after harvest, and are processed right away. In cases of overproduction, long-lasting products such as jams, pickled vegetables, fermented specialties, chutneys, and syrups are made. The hotel coordinates closely with producers, planning cultivation and harvest with Manfred Rinner, the junior manager and head chef.

At the fully vegan Paradiso Pure.Living hotel on the Seiser Alm, Aggeliki Charami combines seasonal and organic ingredients with innovative techniques to create a menu of creative plant-based cuisine. The hotel's own SCOBY and koji fermentation cultures, for example, add depth and open up new flavor possibilities. The experience is further enhanced by the adjacent OMNIA restaurant, which offers a sophisticated fine-dining experience with a plant-based menu.

Between expectation and reality

Although many concepts are consistent, some examples demonstrate that regionality must always be considered in the context of geographical conditions. At the Hotel Korinjak, the only hotel on the Croatian island of Iž, fresh, local products and Mediterranean flavors define the vegetarian-vegan cuisine. Meat, fish, and eggs are deliberately avoided. The Korinjak grows medicinal herbs for teas and primarily uses regional spices. However, since very little grows on the island, especially during the summer months, production reaches its natural limit during the high season. Seasonal vegetables are therefore sourced from the mainland when local production is insufficient to supply both locals and vacationers.

Regional value creation is particularly evident in tourism, where hotels, producers, and service providers collaborate closely and short supply chains and transparency become the norm. This is most clearly and easily seen in the culinary sector. Furthermore, examples from the Green Pearls® Community demonstrate that sustainable destination development creates ecological, economic, and social momentum locally. Crucially, this fosters genuine cycles that strengthen the guest experience and local development equally.

Our sources:

• Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit: The Tourism Value Chain
• BMWET: Study on the Economic Impact of Tourism

The key factor: Proper disposal of used cooking oil from hotel kitchens

According to the Bundesverband Altöl (BVA, Federal Association for Waste Oil), based on figures from the Bundesamt für Wirtschaft und Ausfuhrkontrolle (Bafa, Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control) and the Umweltbundesamt (UBA, Federal Environment Agency), approximately 80% of waste oil in Germany is sent for high-quality recycling. At the same time, however, approximately 100,000 tons of waste oil are not recycled in a traceable, high-quality manner each year (Source: BVA, 2024).

Proper disposal is essential for potential recycling. Under no circumstances should waste oil be disposed of down the drain, as it clogs pipes, overburdens wastewater treatment plants, and can contaminate soil and groundwater. The EU Waste Framework Directive therefore mandates separate collection and proper treatment. In practice, this means that hotel and restaurant kitchens collect used cooking oil in suitable, usually sealable containers, which specialized waste management companies regularly pick up. This step is crucial because only cleanly separated used cooking oil can be processed to a high standard.

From waste to raw material

This is where the real opportunity lies, as clean used cooking oil has long been a highly sought-after raw material. Its high-energy composition makes it valuable for various industrial applications. One classic method of recycling it is to produce biodiesel. In this process, the oils are chemically processed and converted into a fuel that can replace fossil fuels. The Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt is a concrete example of this in practice. There, all 9,720 kg of waste oil generated is processed into biodiesel, resulting in nearly 27,000 kg of CO₂ savings last year.

The use of waste oil in the aviation sector is experiencing even more dynamic growth. So-called sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is now largely based on used cooking oils and animal fats. According to the International Energy Agency, approximately 340 million gallons of SAF were used in 2023, which resulted in the potential reduction of up to 80% of CO₂ emissions compared to fossil kerosene. And although this share is still small compared to total kerosene consumption, SAF is considered one of the most important tools for reducing aviation emissions.

Reduction starts in the kitchen

How sustainable management of used oil looks in practice is demonstrated by the curated hotel partners from the Green Pearls® network throughout the entire value chain. Starting with targeted procurement and mindful use, and continuing through disposal and recycling.

Schloss Lerchenhof shows how an adapted kitchen philosophy can reduce the amount of cooking oil used to about 100 liters per year:

The kitchen primarily uses animal fats, such as lard and beef tallow, sourced from its own farm, as well as sunflower oil and high-quality salad oils. Deep-frying is not part of the kitchen’s approach. Used cooking oil is properly disposed of by a certified recycling company.

Smaller businesses, such as the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, for example, have opted for a scaled-back food service offering that generates very little used cooking oil. This, too, is an effective way to conserve resources.

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, deep-frying is also kept to a minimum, as the focus is on health-conscious cuisine. At the same time, the hotel accommodates guests’ requests for fried foods, albeit in a particularly resource-efficient way: The oils used are not overheated but applied sparingly and precisely, for example by lightly spraying them onto the ingredients and then gently cooking them in the oven. This significantly extends the oils’ lifespan and reduces overall consumption. Once the oil is no longer suitable for use in the kitchen, it is handed over to a local company that processes it further and converts it into other products.

The Italian Relais del Maro takes it a step further by completely avoiding fried foods. The Naturresort Gerbehof also operates without a deep fryer, instead offering alternatives like oven-baked dishes. These examples demonstrate that a large amount of used cooking oil does not have to be an inherent part of the restaurant industry. Conscious decisions and alternative preparation methods reduce waste without leaving guests feeling deprived.

After reduction comes collection and recycling

Additionally, organizing the collection process is crucial for ensuring a smooth cycle. At the Hotel Korinjak, used oil is stored safely in designated containers and picked up by authorized disposal companies, ensuring proper processing. The APIPURA hotel rinner relies on shared collection systems with partners such as Ecosole, pooling resources through this collaboration.

Other Green Pearls® partners also rely on proper used oil collection and work with certified recycling partners. At My Arbor, specialized companies regularly pick up the used oil to process it into new end products. The Lower Saxony Hotel Okelmann's collaborates with regional partners to ensure short transport routes and transparent processes, while the Hotel Weihrerhof organizes disposal through municipal structures. At Hotel Das Rübezahl, used oil is not considered waste but rather a recyclable material; it is carefully collected and disposed of properly through certified partners. In addition, fats and oils are purchased in high quality and used sparingly and purposefully to conserve resources and minimize the generation of used oil.

Opportunities and limitations

The purity of collected used cooking oil is crucial to its subsequent processing quality. Contaminants, such as water, food scraps, and spices, complicate the treatment process and reduce the yield. Therefore, the circular economy begins not only in industry but also with trained kitchen staff, proper separation, and appropriate storage.

Even under the best conditions, however, used cooking oil recycling remains challenging. The available quantities are limited while the demand, particularly from the energy and aviation sectors, continues to rise. Furthermore, processing methods are energy-intensive and not entirely emission-free. Nevertheless, used oil offers significant potential for reducing reliance on fossil resources and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Ultimately, it becomes clear that used oil is not waste in the traditional sense but rather a valuable raw material. The Green Pearls® Community sets an example by demonstrating responsible management through reduction, efficient use, and consistent recycling.

Sources:

• BVA-Altölrecycling: European Recycling Rates

• Euwid Recycling: Waste oil recycling rate in Germany

• Washington Post: Climate Solutions

• Drumtisch: Wie Altöl plötzlich Zukunft kann

This presents a challenge to the industry because wellness facilities are among the most energy- and water-intensive in the tourism sector. Heated pools, saunas, and elaborate treatments consume significant resources, conflicting with the growing desire for sustainability.

Which leads to the crucial question: How can one relax without leaving a massive ecological footprint? The hotels in the Green Pearls® network are seeking answers to this question, developing concepts that combine relaxation with environmental awareness. Examining real-world examples reveals how these sustainable approaches are being implemented.

 Technology meets sustainability

The hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, a health resort and spa town in southern Germany, combines the natural powers of nature with state-of-the-art facilities. The hotel relies on 100% green electricity, a combined heat and power plant, water-saving systems, and intelligent sensor and heating controls. Additionally, the spa area's treatments use only organic, natural cosmetic products. The hotel takes a holistic approach that goes beyond the traditional oasis of relaxation. "Selfness is mindful self-care and actively pursuing a healthy lifestyle. It is the philosophy that drives us. We place the needs and well-being of every single guest at the heart of our hospitality," explains Managing Director and owner Stefan Bode. For this reason, the spa offerings are complemented by yoga, fasting, and individually tailored wellness programs.

Thanks to its use of geothermal energy, the OLM Nature Escape is energy self-sufficient and has been GSTC-certified since its inception. “We wanted to create an ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable hotel with a spa,” says owner Christian Lechner. It’s no surprise that the OLM was named “Hotel of the Year” in 2024. The 500-square-meter Eco SPA combines warm wood tones with large panoramic windows. It features a natural swimming pond, an indoor pool, a heated outdoor lap pool, and an adults-only sauna area. Energy is supplied by photovoltaics, hydropower, and, above all, geothermal energy. Equipped with 3,000 m² of solar panels on the roof, a geothermal system with 126 probes, and its own heating plant, the hotel generates all the electricity and heat it needs. In total, that amounts to 870 kW for direct consumption. "We place great importance on ensuring that our equipment operates efficiently and that resources are conserved," says Lechner.

The Naturhotel Outside in Matrei, East Tyrol, has implemented sustainable solutions in its 2,000-square-meter Natur Spa, where modern systems and regional resources work in harmony. "Our goal is to use energy where it's really needed," explains Managing Director Daniel Ganzer. For instance, the outdoor pool, which is heated to 35 °C, uses water-saving technology. Outside operating hours, the warm water is stored in an underground tank and reused during the “Green Hours.” This reduces heat loss without compromising guest comfort. A special regional connection is evident in the Deferegger healing water brine bath, which is fed by mineral-rich, 600,000-year-old healing water from the surrounding area. The spa area was designed with natural materials such as East Tyrolean serpentinite, creating a connection to the alpine landscape of the East Tyrolean Alps.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau uses energy- and water-saving systems to conserve resources. Its 2,500-square-meter wellness area features a natural pond, a reflexology stream bed, and a panoramic deck offering space for exercise and relaxation. Indoor and outdoor pools, including the year-round heated outdoor pool, utilize energy and water-saving systems that, for example, reuse waste heat from the cooling system. The Beauty-Alm and the indoor spa area offer natural products. Treatments such as the Alpine herbal massage and the Kundalini back massage use high-quality, regional, natural products.

The Hotel Weiherhof has also adopted a minimalist, eco-friendly approach to wellness. “For us, sustainability means consistently using environmental technology and actively managing resources,” explains General Manager Klaus Pichler. For example, the pool water comes from the hotel’s own spring and therefore does not impact the drinking water supply. Furthermore, it is treated without the traditional addition of chlorine. Instead, the hotel operates a modern ozone system. Energy usage is also closely monitored: The saunas are controlled by automatic timers and are only in operation at specific times. Another sauna is activated exclusively upon request to ensure energy is used only as needed. Throughout the hotel, water-saving systems in showers, faucets, and toilet flushes ensure reduced consumption of approximately 130 to 140 liters per guest per night. The concept is complemented by the hotel’s own certified organic care products from South Tyrol, which also underscore the hotel’s regional commitment in the spa area.

Targeted use of resources

The adults-only Tree Hotel My Arbor in South Tyrol uniquely combines nature experiences with a pampering program. One example is the essential oils used for sauna infusions. These oils are produced by a small local company that uses woodworking byproducts, such as Swiss stone pine needles, for distillation. "This is a wonderful example of sustainable business practices that we are happy to support," says Alexandra Huber, who runs the Tree Hotel with her family. "We select our partners very carefully," Huber emphasizes. When it comes to beauty and skincare products, My Arbor adheres to the highest ecological standards. The Team Dr. Joseph and Pharmos lines used are additionally certified organic. A mindful approach to nature also plays a central role in the rest of the leisure offerings. One particularly popular offering is forest bathing, a meditative practice in which guests experience the forest with all their senses. Spending time in the forest reduces stress, lowers the heart rate, and recharges the body—and raises awareness about protecting the environment.

At the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol, the Rinner family combines renewable and energy-efficient systems with unique spa treatments. "We've chosen a wellness concept that conserves resources," explains hotel manager Manfred Rinner. For this reason, the sauna is only heated upon advance reservation so that no energy is wasted when it’s not in use. Guests are asked to sign up about 20 minutes in advance. Similarly, the whirlpool is not heated at night. Instead, the water is collected in tanks to prevent heat loss. Treatments such as honey massages using the hotel’s own organic honey complement the offerings, blending relaxation with regional culture. “Our guests greatly appreciate the combination of modern amenities and authentic treatments,” says the hotel manager.

Exclusivity for the environment and guests

The relaxation area at Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe is a small, charming "private spa" offering tranquility instead of hustle and bustle that can be booked exclusively for about two hours per room per stay. It features a tiny sauna housed in a quaint shepherd's wagon, as well as a wood-fired hot tub. The experience is complemented by sound massages, yoga sessions, and a quiet room available for free use. The hotel's commitment to sustainability is evident in the way the sauna and hot tub are operated: they are only heated after a reservation is made and then turned off afterward, ensuring energy is used efficiently. "This is a minor inconvenience for spontaneous visitors, but definitely a win for the environment," explains Managing Director Kristin Okelmann. Guests should check in 20 minutes before use to allow time for the sauna to heat up and operate optimally.

The Hotel Korinjak, located on the Croatian Adriatic coast, takes a different approach: rather than offering energy-intensive spa facilities, it focuses on nature, the sea, tranquility, and physical activity. "Our concept is based on the principle of 'low impact, high value,'" says Ana Grzincic. "We want to offer our guests relaxation without unnecessarily consuming resources." The wellness offerings, therefore, rely primarily on manual treatments and the expertise of experienced therapists, as well as gong sessions and yoga classes led by certified instructors. "We deliberately avoid energy-intensive equipment and instead use natural products that are locally sourced whenever possible and have minimal packaging," says Grzincic. "Our guests greatly appreciate this simple yet effective form of relaxation," she adds.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, sustainability means intentional simplicity and authentic handiwork. "We avoid using technical equipment as much as possible and focus on personalized treatments instead," explains hotel manager and owner Ursula Wagner. The sauna is only turned on when needed to conserve energy, and treatments use certified organic oils and natural cosmetic products. This approach is reflected in the spa area itself: the indoor and outdoor log-cabin-style saunas are made of wood, and the floor is made of silver quartzite, a healing stone from South Tyrol. The focus is on slowing down and regeneration. Treatments, such as stress-relief massages based on Viktor Philippi’s methods and meditations at the hotel’s stone circle, promote well-being in line with a holistic longevity concept. “Our goal is to create a place where guests can find peace and recharge amidst nature,” says Wagner.

Relaxation with a clear conscience

Today, a sustainable spa vacation combines relaxation with a commitment to the environment, its resources, and its people. Green Pearls® partners demonstrate that comfort and mindfulness are not mutually exclusive in this context, but rather, they can complement each other in meaningful ways.

They rely on smart, resource-efficient solutions, such as using renewable energy and green electricity; interior architecture featuring natural raw materials; using regional and certified organic products; and taking targeted measures to manage resource consumption. At the same time, natural materials, warm lighting, and nature-inspired design elements create an atmosphere of calm and mindfulness.

This holistic approach results in a wellness experience that makes guests feel good and protects the environment.

Is it possible to measure sustainability?

Values cannot be measured solely by meter readings and carbon footprints. However, a recent study by the Institute of Tourism at the University of Applied Sciences of Western Switzerland in Valais, in collaboration with the German Hotel Association and the employer review platform Kununu, found a clear link between employee satisfaction and the guest experience. The study analyzed data from over 400 selected hotels and compared their reviews on Kununu, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor. The results revealed that hotels with highly motivated employees received significantly higher guest ratings, especially in cleanliness, service quality, and overall satisfaction.

Therefore, the most sustainable hotels consider more than just their resource consumption. In addition to energy and water usage, waste production, and CO₂ emissions, they also look at social metrics such as employee satisfaction, turnover rates, and survey results. This raises the question of which specific key parameters sustainable accommodations track and the insights that can be drawn from them. Examining the practices of Green Pearls® partners reveals that their approaches range from precise data analysis to creative engagement formats that involve the entire team in the transformation process.

Hard Data, soft factors: A look at the key figures

Hotel Luise in Erlangen has established a wide range of key parameters. The “Wall of Change” is the hotel's visible centerpiece of its holistic sustainability approach. This wall, located in the lobby, is also accessible digitally and documents the hundreds of initiatives through which the hotel is making its operations more environmentally and socially responsible. The spectrum ranges from structural measures and purchasing guidelines to small, everyday behavioral changes. Each measure tells a story, demonstrating that change often happens in small steps. Hidden behind the small wooden leaves on the wall lies a highly precise monitoring system. To calculate the carbon footprint, for example, detailed data is collected, including electricity and water consumption, weighed waste volumes, use of food and cleaning supplies, number of laundry loads, and employees’ commutes. The “Wall of Change” translates these figures into a vivid picture of progress.

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife, careful water usage is essential because water is a precious and limited resource on the island. The hotel continuously monitors energy and water consumption, as well as waste generation, to immediately detect leaks, track progress, and ensure ongoing improvement. To this end, the hotel relies on technical solutions, such as shower flow restrictors, which reduce consumption without compromising the quality of the guest experience. Meanwhile, the use of solar energy is expanding to increase the share of renewable energy and reduce the hotel’s CO₂ emissions.

While the OCÉANO relies on day-to-day operations for management, the Naturhotel Outside in Tyrol uses centrally tracked metrics and publishes a regular sustainability report. In it, the hotel documents trends in energy and water consumption, CO₂ emissions, and waste volumes, as well as its goals for the coming years. Among other things, the report emphasizes the importance of renewable energy and illustrates the extent to which the regional economy is supported through procurement and partnerships. The environmental report serves as a compass and a calling card: internally, it helps set priorities and ensures that everyone on the team is on the same page, and externally, it builds trust with guests and partners who want to understand how sustainability is implemented locally.

The APIPURA hotel rinner on the Ritten is another example of structured, externally audited sustainability management. This family-run business is evaluated through certification by the GreenSign Institute, which awarded it the highest level. The underlying set of criteria covers over a hundred aspects related to the environment, social responsibility, and economic development. This includes traditional environmental indicators, such as energy and water consumption, as well as waste management, and also ecological responsibility, regional value creation, and innovative approaches to forward-looking tourism. Sustainability is deeply rooted in the identity of this family-run business and has been developed continuously over three generations. Additionally, the hotel was the first to receive the Bio-Fair-Südtirol label. 

Measuring, analyzing, and reducing emissions

The family-run Hotel Weihrerhof is also located on the Ritten and operates according to a nature-oriented concept. The hotel carefully tracks its energy consumption, water usage per guest per night, and waste volumes and uses this data to calculate its carbon footprint. The hotel's approach follows the internationally recognized classification of direct emissions, emissions from purchased energy, and other upstream and downstream emissions along the value chain. This analysis reveals which areas account for the largest share of the overall balance and where specific measures can most effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, the hotel has successfully reduced its emissions by 30%. Notably, the hotel has set a goal to reduce CO₂ emissions by 4–5% per guest night each year.

With a similarly rigorous approach, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA examines its key performance indicators and documents its carbon footprint in a climate report. The report focuses primarily on classic environmental parameters, such as operational CO₂ emissions, energy and resource consumption, and CO₂ emissions from transportation and procurement. This data is allocated to individual sectors and regularly evaluated to identify developments and trends. However, amid all these "dry" figures, the role of people and employees is deliberately emphasized at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The company understands sustainability as a cultural process that begins with the selection and onboarding of employees and is strengthened through opportunities for participation and transparent communication. In such an environment, strong team cohesion and pride in one’s work emerge. These factors directly translate into the guest experience, reflected in high guest satisfaction and growing loyalty among regular guests.

The Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt, located in the Wilder Kaiser region, is another example of the close intertwining of environmental metrics and social responsibility. For years, this family-run resort has calculated its carbon footprint and systematically measured electricity and water consumption, using a digital facility management system to identify excess usage early on. Through certifications such as the Austrian Ecolabel and the EU Ecolabel, this data is analyzed further in relation to overnight stays and guest numbers. At the same time, the Stanglwirt relies on a comprehensive human resources (HR) strategy featuring professional recruitment, mental health programs, and large-scale employee surveys. In order to support the targeted development of its employees, the Stanglwirt launched the “Stanglwirt Talent Incubator,” which offers tailored workshops for employees, managers, future leaders, interns, and apprentices, helping them reach their full potential. This approach strengthens long-term commitment and motivation among staff, fostering a personal foundation of trust similar to that with guests.

Sustainability can only be achieved as a team

The SANDcollection, comprised of SANDglow (Husum) and SANDnature (Timmendorfer Strand), also exemplifies the close link between team culture and sustainability. The group created the SANDbook, an internal tool that structures and explains its understanding of sustainability, making it accessible to all employees. At its core is a color-coded traffic light system that evaluates performance in various areas and links it to a bonus system. Three colors and multiple criteria form a playful matrix that shows employees and teams where they stand and what steps are needed to reach the next level. The goal is to contribute to both personal development and a continuous improvement process within the company. In parallel, the SANDcollection is conducting wet waste measurements again this year to raise awareness among the new kitchen team and derive effective reduction measures.

For the Allgäu-based Hotel Das Rübezahl, corporate sustainability is an ongoing process of development, not an abstract goal. Accordingly, key performance indicators are systematically tracked and analyzed. These include energy and water consumption, which are monitored and managed using meters installed at all sources. The hotel also regularly documents waste volumes and recycling rates and reviews its use of regional products. Furthermore, qualitative factors play a decisive role. Employee satisfaction is ensured through open communication within the team, which is reflected in long-term collaboration. Stable partnerships with regional businesses and direct guest feedback are incorporated into the overall assessment as well. These "soft factors" provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and lasting impact of the measures taken.

What sustainable hotels have in common

These examples all have one thing in common: sustainability is not a random assortment of individual measures, but rather a process and an overarching concept. In this context, measurement plays a dual role. On the one hand, metrics on energy, water, waste, emissions, and regional value creation provide an objective basis for documenting progress and making decisions. On the other hand, they create transparency. Employees, guests, and the region can see what lies behind an organization’s commitment. When metrics are made visible, such as in sustainability reports, installations, employee training, or traffic-light systems, they have an impact of their own. They demonstrate that individual actions yield measurable results and make developments tangible.

___________________

Our Sources:

• Study of the Institute of Tourism at the University of Applied Sciences of Western Switzerland in Valais, in collaboration with the German Hotel Association and the employer review platform Kununu
• GreenSign Certification Catalog
• Measuring Sustainability in the Hotel Industry (Prodinger Tourism Consulting)

• Learn more about the hotel, its amenities and offers, and of course, its sustainability initiatives!

Two suites are receiving a makeover and will be designed to be barrier-free with natural materials, clean lines, and a view of the lake. The pool is also being updated and will be ready for the first warm days. In the spa area, two relaxation rooms are being made cozier with soft, warm, understated decor to create an alpine atmosphere

A special detail can be found at the bar: the hotel's own hay is displayed behind a glass case — authentic, regional, and deeply rooted in South Tyrol. These changes are complemented by sustainable materials, such as triple-glazed windows for greater peace and energy efficiency, alpine hay wall coverings from Organoid, local elm wood in the rooms, and Renon craftsmanship — all in keeping with the zero-kilometer concept.

The family-friendly Green PearlsⓇ Hotel has only 23 rooms and offers a seaside atmosphere, a connection to nature, and gentle renewal—allowing your favorite places to remain the same while continuing to evolve.

While many hotels struggle with high staff turnover and constant recruitment, hotels in the Green Pearls® international sustainability network are taking a different approach: retaining team members instead of replacing them. What may seem idealistic at first turns out to be a clear economic advantage. The costs of recruiting, training, and the quality losses due to staff turnover far exceed the investment in positive working conditions.

Retention instead of recruitment: The figures speak for themselves

Examining real-life examples reveals that retention is not a matter of chance, but rather the result of deliberate decisions. For example, the same team has been returning seasonally to the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž for years — some for ten years, and some for as long as twenty years. This is not due to a lack of alternatives, but rather because the work rhythm, respectful cooperation, and shared values are just right.

At Hotel Luise in Erlangen, most of the staff have also worked there for many years, earning above the standard rate with virtually no overtime. At the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, employee anniversaries are not celebrated with standard gifts, but with guests in the historic wine cellar. The Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol has cultivated a collaborative working relationship for decades, where low staff turnover is the norm. The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa — also focuses on long-term employment rather than seasonal work. The hotel has a comprehensive personnel concept and only employs permanent staff, many of whom have worked there for over three years.

Loyalty pays off

Employees who have internalized an establishment's philosophy, know regular guests personally, and intuitively master procedures are irreplaceable. The two purely vegan hotels, LA VIMEA and Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel, demonstrate effective retention strategies: seasonal contracts are supplemented with on-site accommodations and wholesome vegan meals for the staff. As value-based businesses, both hotels carefully select their staff, and many employees strongly identify with the vegan philosophy, further strengthening their loyalty over the years.

Studies estimate that the cost of replacing an employee is 50 to 150 percent of their annual salary. Added to this are the nearly immeasurable losses resulting from a decline in quality, loss of knowledge, and an increased workload for remaining team members. Retaining employees not only saves money but also preserves trust, expertise, and authenticity.

The people at the center

Many Green Pearls® partner hotels invest specifically in the health of their employees, yielding a measurable return on investment. For example, at OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol, employees receive a free health checkup starting in their third year of employment, as well as two osteopathic or physiotherapy treatments per year.

At SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, free massages are available every quarter, along with access to the spa, sauna, and swimming pool. The bio-oriented Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich takes it a step further with a corporate health management system supported by the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. The university's working group studies various aspects of health promotion. Studies on health insurance prove that every euro invested in health promotion yields a return of 2.5 to 4.8 euros through reduced sick leave.

Predictability and fairness

Another factor for success is predictability. However, digitizing internal processes is also an often underestimated lever. Automated shift planning, digital time recording, and self-service portals reduce administrative effort and enable data-based personnel management, which is especially beneficial for seasonal businesses. At the same time, these tools strengthen employees' sense of personal responsibility and trust in fair processes.

Flexible, digital, transparent

Gut Sonnenhausen creates its duty rosters up to four weeks in advance and uses a digital time-recording system. Overtime is transparently recorded and compensated. At Hotel STURM in the Rhön, clear working time models and digital tools for vacation planning and duty scheduling ensure reliability. The inclusive Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg has fixed work schedules that enable a high degree of planning security and virtually eliminate overtime. Since the Federal Labor Court ruled on mandatory time recording, such systems have gone from useful to essential. They create transparency for everyone and increase legal certainty for companies and employees alike.

However, predictability does not mean rigidity. At the family-run Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony, for example, working hours are flexible and arranged individually with team members so that they can easily balance their professional lives with family and leisure time. The My Arbor tree hotel in South Tyrol takes a similar approach: employees can choose part-time or full-time positions with 5-, 5.5-, or 6-day workweeks depending on their personal circumstances and needs. The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol also tailors working hours to individual life situations, offering part-time, full-time, and hourly positions. Many perceive this freedom of choice as a decisive competitive advantage that contributes significantly to team satisfaction and long-term loyalty.

Fair working conditions as an opportunity for growth and development

Fair working conditions are a development issue. The Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia is a perfect example of this. Sokchea started as a boat driver and, after receiving continuous training, now leads English-speaking excursions. In South Tyrol and Sicily, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offer individualized training programs for their employees and replace seasonal employment with year-round contracts. The SANDcollection, with its two hotels on the Baltic and North Seas, also sees itself as an explicit "platform for growth." Here, staff are encouraged to take on responsibility and develop professionally.

Qualified teams relieve managers and enable premium service, creating the basis for economically viable prices. Active training, hiring trainees, further training, and clear career opportunities are all part of the Green City Hotel Vauban's concept. These elements ensure that employees are continuously supported and feel comfortable. After one year of service, Vauban employees also receive capital-forming benefits.

Inner values and outer image

This internal culture has an external impact. In an increasingly competitive job market, employer branding has become a decisive factor for success. With flexible work schedules and free housing, My Arbor confidently positions itself as a modern employer. Marketing its location as a lifestyle — working with a view of Neuschwanstein Castle — also works for the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau, located in the Allgäu region. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA recently attracted trainees from Nepal, proving that location appeal and appropriate marketing enable diversity.

A question of attitude

However, positive working conditions always start with the right attitude. At the Hotel Bella Vista in Switzerland, every employee is as important as every guest. This belief is reflected in the hotel's flat hierarchy, reliable work schedules, and a bonus system that recognizes performance. At Hotel Okelmann's, this fairness stems from the owners' personal experience with poor working conditions and their conscious decision to implement a different model.

The Naturresort Gerbehof, located near Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance, takes it a step further by balancing its accounts according to the principles of the Economy for the Common Good. Here, success is measured not only in euros but also in social justice and human dignity.

Conclusion

Fair working conditions are not a costly trap; they are an investment with a measurable return. High staff turnover, on the other hand, is costly in financial, organizational, social, and cultural terms. Green Pearls® hotels demonstrate that economic success and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive. They are pioneers of a new employer culture in the hotel industry that emphasizes one key point: the best way to find good employees is to keep them from leaving in the first place.

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Our Sources

• Fluktuationskosten im HR-Lexikon
• Dehoga-Bundesverband
• Betriebliche Gesundheit (AOK)

Early booking figures confirm this trend impressively: vacation trips for the coming months are being booked even earlier than last year.

When popularity becomes a strain

The way travel destinations are discovered has fundamentally changed. Today, many travelers no longer rely solely on traditional travel guides for inspiration; instead, they combine AI tools with social networks, video platforms, and online forums. This travel mixology accelerates trend dynamics: places can become global hotspots within months, often without necessary infrastructure or protection plans. This is particularly evident when TV series, films, or influencers put little-known destinations in the spotlight.

Technological advancements in air travel are further reinforcing this trend. New long-haul, narrow-body aircraft allow for nonstop flights to cities that were previously difficult to reach. While this opens up new markets, it also puts pressure on regions unprepared for a sudden influx of visitors.

The consequences are particularly evident at popular nature destinations. A striking example is Berchtesgaden National Park: the “Infinity Pool,” a rock pool above Lake Königssee, has become a magnet for visitors from around the world thanks to social media posts. On peak days, over 350 people set out on the dangerous trail. This has resulted in a network of footpaths spanning several kilometers, significant encroachment on sensitive habitats, and a substantial threat to strictly protected animal species. By 2021, only one course of action remained: closing the area for at least five years to prevent further destruction.

Green Pearls: Three approaches to more sustainable tourism in popular destinations

The partner hotels of Green Pearls®, a global association of sustainable hotels, have different yet equally thoughtful strategies for addressing mass tourism. Three basic approaches can be distinguished: hotels in regions that actively manage tourist flows; hotels in remote areas far from tourist hot spots; and hotels in regions that promote sustainable tourism.

Active visitor management and protective measures

The Hotel Klosterbräu & Spa in the Seefeld region of Tyrol is a prime example of a well-thought-out approach to tourism in an area that has already been developed for it. Seefeld deliberately focuses on sustainable tourism rather than mass tourism. With activities available year-round, ranging from cross-country skiing in the winter to golfing in the summer, visitor numbers are evenly distributed across all seasons. Clearly marked trails in the Wildmoos landscape conservation area and the Karwendel nature park regions ensure that sensitive areas are not overburdened. Access restrictions for vehicles are particularly effective, such as limited access to the Gaistal Valley. Digital visitor guidance via apps complements the traditional infrastructure and directs guests to less-frequented routes.

The Seiser Alm nature reserve, home to the Paradiso Pure.Living vegan hotel, takes an even stricter approach. The hotel sits at an elevation of over 2,000 meters within the UNESCO-protected Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park. To protect the area from CO₂ emissions, guests are only permitted to drive their private cars to the Seiser Alm at certain times and with permission. Additionally, vehicles may only be driven into the region on the day of arrival and departure. For the remainder of the vacation, they must remain in the designated parking area. To this end, Paradiso issues a special transit permit for each guest, validated by the local nature park rangers. Furthermore, the construction of new hotels and the expansion of existing accommodations are strictly limited in this protected area.

In contrast, the Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, located in the Berchtesgaden region, has direct experience with the effects of influencer tourism thanks to its famous "Infinity Pool" at Königssee. After closing the popular spot, the strategy changed fundamentally: rather than hoping visitors would use common sense, the focus is now on transparent information and active alternative offers. The Klosterhof openly informs guests about the reasons for the closure and recommends less popular destinations, of which there are many in the region. This approach has proven successful; those who understand why a place needs protection are much more likely to respect the rules.

Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Germany's most famous landmarks and recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also facing new tourism challenges. The designation comes with stricter requirements for protecting the castle and its sensitive surroundings. Meanwhile, visitor numbers continue to rise. The nearby Hotel Das Rübezahl supports regional efforts to improve visitor management by recommending off-peak times, alternative routes, and less-frequented viewpoints. The goal is to manage the growing number of visitors in a way that reduces environmental impact and preserves the exceptional cultural value of the World Heritage Site and the entire region in the long term.

The Croatian island of Iž is an example of how regional protection regulations and a hotel's individual philosophy can intertwine. The Hotel Korinjak is the only hotel on the island, which automatically limits tourism. It does not accept large groups and only operates seasonally, from spring to early autumn. These self-imposed restrictions are part of the hotel's philosophy and help retain the island's original character. Other protective measures include an obligation to stay on marked paths and trails, limited access to sensitive areas such as nesting sites or reefs, ticket-based entry systems with possible restrictions during peak times, and bans on swimming and diving in certain zones to protect sensitive underwater formations.

Seclusion as a concept: Natural protection through location

Far from mass tourism routes, on the banks of Cambodia's Tatai River, lies the Canvas & Orchids Retreat, a place where seclusion is the order of the day. Even just getting there, which can only be done by boat, naturally limits the number of visitors. Excursions into unspoiled nature, such as to the Tatai Waterfall or the mangrove forests, are planned on a rotating basis to keep groups small. Close cooperation with local communities is also crucial: visits are spread across different locations and seasons, ensuring that tourism generates a steady income without overburdening individual communities.

The OLM Nature Escape, located in the Tauferer Ahrntal Valley, is deliberately positioned away from the crowded hotspots of the Dolomites. Guests who check in here are encouraged to venture off the beaten path. Tour tips are highly individualized and tailored to the time of day, weather, ability level, and personal interests. The goal is to facilitate encounters with nature rather than crowds of people. The eco-aparthotel's personalized approach combines current travel trends, such as individualization and tailor-made experiences, with effective nature conservation.

Located in the northern part of Tenerife, at the foot of the Anaga Mountains Biosphere Reserve, the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel has developed a keen understanding of visitor traffic and mass tourism over the years. The north is less tourist-heavy to begin with, and this tranquility should be preserved. The location also attracts a certain type of guest: many arrive with the explicit desire for peace and relaxation rather than to check off as many items as possible on their itinerary. They spend most of their time at the hotel enjoying the wellness and spa treatments and carefully selecting activities outside the complex. For excursions, such as to the UNESCO World Heritage city of La Laguna, they prefer to take public transportation. This is an example of how a hotel's location and its guests' behavior can work together to enable gentle, responsible tourism.

The Naturhotel Outside is located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, the largest protected area in Central Europe. Its unique location naturally limits tourist numbers, a fact that the hotel views as a responsibility rather than a given. According to the hotel staff, there is no overtourism here yet, and they want to keep it that way. Therefore, the Naturhotel Outside specifically targets guests looking for peace and quiet, who want to be surrounded by nature, and are willing to abide by the rules of a protected area. Activities are planned in an environmentally friendly manner, sensitive areas are respected, and the overall experience is designed to be relaxing.

The Ritten region of South Tyrol also adheres to a philosophy of conscious restraint. There are no major events. Instead, the Hotel Weihrerhof encourages guests to extend their stays outside of the holiday season with offers like the “Midweek Lake Time” package. Guests should slow down and enjoy the experience rather than consume. This attitude is complemented by clear regional rules for protecting hiking trails and forest areas. Together, self-restraint and local nature conservation create a space where people can truly relax.

The other side: regions that need more tourism

Overtourism is not an issue everywhere. At Lake Constance, for instance, visitor numbers have decreased since the start of the pandemic. Measures are still being developed to spread guests across the entire season and strengthen the off-season. The Naturresort Gerbehof is familiar with this challenge, as it pertains to regions with seasonal fluctuations that would like to see more consistent occupancy throughout the year. Is this a luxury problem? Not at all. For the local economy, which depends heavily on tourism, a balanced visitor structure would be a real benefit.

A similar situation exists in the Rhön region: while popular destinations are overwhelmed by mass tourism, other attractive areas remain largely undiscovered. The Rhön offers spectacular nature, tranquility, and authenticity, but it is off the beaten tourist track. For hotels like the STURM, an increase in guests, even if only moderate, is often expressly desirable and economically important.

Conclusion: Quality over quantity as a guiding principle

The current booking figures for 2026 demonstrate an unbroken desire to travel. This makes responsibly channeling this demand all the more important. While popular destinations are resorting to drastic measures, Green Pearls® partner hotels are showing that preventive strategies, careful location selection, and active guest communication are effective ways to avoid negative impacts. The motto is clear: it's better to have fewer guests who stay longer, treat nature with respect, and experience the region authentically than to have hordes of people who come just for a fleeting social media moment and then leave.

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Our Sources

• FVW Travel Talk: DRV geht von steigenden Umsätzen aus
• FVW Travel Talk: Ägypten bis Kuba: TUI-Prognosen für 2026
• Amadeus in Collaboration with Globaltrender: Travel Trends 2026

Back in November, Weiherhof already hosted five families from Kinderkrebshilfe Peter Pan (Peter Pan Children's Cancer Aid), enabling them to enjoy a relaxing break by the lake. These peaceful vacations provide strength — and demonstrate what truly matters.

What exactly does a sustainability manager do?

Examining the core tasks reveals that their role extends well beyond managing environmental measures. From collecting and managing energy and water consumption to developing waste and procurement strategies, providing employee training, working on certification projects, and creating external reports, their daily work encompasses a wide range of tasks. Experts like Henner Zaborowski describe the role as "developing strategies and processes that make a business ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable." The position increasingly acts as an interface between management, operational departments, and external stakeholders, such as auditors, guests, and investors.

When responsibility becomes formal — the opportunities and limitations of the position

The introduction of formal responsibility for environmental protection can be viewed from two perspectives. On one hand, a sustainability manager can professionalize processes, consolidate responsibility, and accelerate projects that would otherwise easily deteriorate into isolated actions. A reliable contact person ensures clear communication, especially when it comes to CO₂ accounting, certifications, and group-wide standards.

On the other hand, this contrasts with the experience of many family-run businesses, where sustainability is a top priority. Small businesses often lack the resources for an additional position, and in teams that already collaborate in a forward-thinking manner, a single "exotic title" can undermine collective responsibility. A person who is officially responsible can reduce the initiative and commitment of others.

The implementation of sustainability in hotels and the individuals responsible for it varies greatly from one establishment to the next. Some hotels rely on dedicated positions, while others integrate responsibility into the entire workforce. Still others combine technical measures with cultural traditions. Examining different models reveals how strategic concepts and practical implementation intertwine.

Formal roles: Sustainability coordinators

Some companies have a dedicated specialist responsible for environmental, resource, and social management.

The Canvas & Orchids Retreat, located on the Tatai River in Cambodia, firmly anchors its corporate philosophy in ecologically responsible travel and cooperation with the local population. Anna Pawlik-Szocs, the Sustainability Coordinator, oversees this. She monitors energy and water consumption, initiates waste prevention and recycling programs, oversees procurement according to ecological criteria, promotes cooperation with local suppliers, and ensures that employees and guests participate in eco-friendly practices. Under her leadership, the resort commissioned a large-scale photovoltaic system in 2024, banned single-use plastics from daily operations, and significantly improved the waste separation system.

Since 2018, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has been addressing its environmental responsibility through a CSR department. Darlene Schwabroch has held this position since January 2024. Under her leadership, the hotel has implemented comprehensive measures, including paperless communication, plastic-free room furnishings, vegan brunches, regular employee training, sensitive waste management, and recycling concepts for renovations. The success of these efforts is reflected in the hotel's GreenSign certification with a score of 93%. This makes the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA one of the world's most highly certified, sustainable hotels.

The ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges group provides a third model. Through the group-wide ADLER for Planet initiative, central sustainability managers oversee the implementation of ecological and social guidelines in all resorts: from the construction of new buildings using ecological methods to the use of renewable energies, certified energy efficiency, resource-saving procurement, and waste prevention. Caroline Pescoll joined the team as Sustainability Manager in April 2025. She supports businesses in the EarthCheck certification process, promotes new responsible projects at the resort and group levels, and develops a shared vision aligned with the Sanoner family's values.

Holistic team responsibility without a dedicated role

Other hotels view sustainability as a shared responsibility, not one delegated to a single person. Instead, they distribute responsibility across the entire team.

At OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol, sustainability is an integral and conscious part of the corporate culture. All employees actively participate by contributing ideas and helping to develop and refine processes. Here, energy savings, resource-saving processes, and ecological initiatives are not the responsibility of one person, but rather the collective practice of the entire team.

Similarly, both Naturhotel Outside and Naturresort Gerbehof emphasize collective responsibility. At Gerbehof, there are no environmental or climate officers — each employee is responsible. Since 2015, the hotel has been a member of BIO-Hotels, a pioneer in green tourism. All products are 100% organic and locally sourced, and the hotel uses environmentally friendly energy and waste cycles. Mandatory standards include cosmetics, green electricity, and paper from sustainable forestry. All furniture is handmade and designed directly on the farm, with some pieces made from wood sourced from the hotel's own forest.

The Naturhotel Outside also operates without a dedicated sustainability manager: responsible behavior and business practices are part of the culture throughout the entire team. Regionality, resource conservation, and a respectful approach to nature and the environment characterize all processes. During the recruitment process, care is taken to ensure that applicants share these values, and the principles are communicated practically during onboarding.

At the Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, the Pichler family, who runs the hotel, deliberately avoids using titles. Each team member plays a role in forward-looking initiatives related to energy use, cuisine, purchasing, and construction projects. Decisions are made collectively, always considering the environment, the region, and the people. A few years ago, for instance, they collectively decided to introduce dry steam cleaners in housekeeping. Klaus and Manuela Pichler aim to leverage their employees' skills and talents, from ensuring guest satisfaction to selecting resource-saving technologies. Regular training courses, digital learning opportunities, and webinars ensure everyone is informed about current standards and developments. Local team members' contributions are particularly valued because their knowledge of the landscape and culture enriches the guest experience and informs long-term decisions.

The Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain is another example of shared responsibility. This four-star superior wellness hotel has a holistic concept that considers ecological, economic, and social aspects equally. Environmental compatibility is an integral part of its daily operations, and employees, guests, and suppliers are actively involved, trained, and supported in environmentally conscious behavior. Ecological criteria also played a key role in the construction of the building. Due to this consistent approach, the Klosterhof became the first German hotel to receive the EU Ecolabel in 2022.

Sustainability as a top priority — implemented with teamwork

In many family-run hotels, sustainability is firmly embedded in the owners' or managers' responsibilities. Often, the families themselves are the visionaries behind the business, making decisions that combine ecological, social, and economic goals.

This principle is evident at Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region. The Thurm family, the owners and managers, traditionally originates sustainable initiatives and ideas, regardless of whether they concern structural adjustments, the design of guest services, or operational processes. To support these efforts, the family enlists external experts who provide regular advice and new ideas. This allows the hotel to implement innovative ecological measures while making its operational processes efficient and practical.

Sustainability is also closely linked to the philosophy of eco-pioneer and chef Georg Schweisfurth at Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich. The hotel features organic cuisine, permaculture, and historic architecture. Energy savings, eco-friendly event hosting, and the use of regional foods are standard practices here. Notably, all employees are actively involved in implementation, and ideas, suggestions for improvement, and personal initiative are encouraged.

Fabienne Anthamatten has been managing the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt since 2017, making her the third generation of her family to do so. Every day, she puts her guiding principle of "actions speak louder than words" into practice, whether it's using hydroelectric power, regional products, herbs and fruits from her own garden, or consistently avoiding plastic and unnecessary packaging. Since November 2025, the hotel manager has been responsible for the operational implementation of sustainable measures while Fabienne continues to set the strategic direction.

In all of the aforementioned companies, it is evident that the implementation of a forward-thinking business concept is not solely the responsibility of management. Rather, the entire team is involved, and this concept is embedded as a living practice throughout the company.

Innovative approaches and bottom-up models

At the Lifestylehotel SANDnature on the Baltic Sea, sustainability is integrated into every aspect of the hotel. Two employees, Karla and Niels, have undergone training to become SDG Scouts. Offered by the German Sustainability Award Foundation in cooperation with B.A.U.M. e.V. and the German Global Compact Network, the program aims to integrate the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into everyday work life.

Adopting a new perspective, the scouts examined existing processes and implemented measures that are ecologically and socially significant. For instance, they replaced conventional toilet paper with an eco-friendly alternative. They plan to establish a monthly "Sustainable Lifestyle" meeting circle in the medium term, where employees from all departments will collect, discuss, and present ideas to management. This demonstrates how bottom-up approaches motivate employees to take responsibility, initiate innovations, and implement sustainable changes in everyday hotel life. Similar measures are planned at the sister hotel, SANDglow, in Husum on the North Sea. The SAND owner family's sustainable philosophy is already being incorporated into the team's onboarding and training.

Whether it involves dedicated sustainability officers, team responsibility, or senior management, one thing is clear: hotels can only achieve sustainability if they practice it honestly and actively. The important thing is not where this responsibility comes from, whether from a single specialist or the entire team, but rather commitment, clear processes, and a culture that shares responsibility. Ultimately, the title is irrelevant; what matters is the impact on the environment, guests, and the future of the industry.

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We will gladly provide you with further information and high-quality image material, arrange interview requests, and handle inquiries for press trips. Please contact press@greenpearls.com

Accompanied by a ritual combining sauna heat, mountain lake water, and conscious breathing, ice bathing is an integral part of the winter program at this sustainable family hotel.

"Cold has a resetting effect on the body," explains host Klaus Pichler. Alternating between heat, cold, and rest consciously promotes circulation, blood flow, and stress regulation. Instead of technical cold pools, the Weihrerhof relies on natural stimuli and sees ice bathing as a mindful offering that focuses on tranquility, contact with nature, and authentic experiences.

Leaving the right marks

Studies by the German Economic Institute for Leisure and Tourism (dwif) show that travelers not only want to travel in an environmentally conscious manner, away from the crowds, but also want to have a positive impact on their destination. Thus, guests become active participants in regenerative change, whether it be planting a tree, caring for biotopes, or revitalizing historical structures.

For companies in the tourism industry, this means combining sustainable offerings with high-quality, authentic, meaningful experiences. Responsible business practices must be strategically implemented, operational processes must be reviewed, and environmentally friendly measures must be adopted. Authentic initiatives that involve both guests and employees and are communicated transparently are crucial.

The (re)vitalization of rural areas

The Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Liguria demonstrates how regenerative tourism can strengthen the cultural identity of small villages. The Albergo Diffuso concept integrates hotels into existing town centers, preserving historic buildings. Guests experience local architecture, traditions, and regional cuisine while supporting the village's revitalization. Central components of this approach include the restoration of vacant houses using local materials, close community cooperation, and the promotion of craft businesses. In this way, regenerative concepts strengthen not only nature but also social and cultural structures.

On the Croatian island of Iž, preserving the region's original character is closely linked to limiting visitor numbers. The Hotel Korinjak, the only hotel on the island, operates exclusively from spring to early autumn. Its 76 rooms will not be expanded, deliberately excluding the accommodation of large groups. There are strict access regulations in the neighboring Kornati, Paklenica, and Telašćica national parks: visitors must follow marked trails, may only enter sensitive areas to a limited extent, and may only anchor boats in certain zones. Guests must pay an entrance fee or obtain permits, which control usage and protect the environment.

Regenerative tourism as an experience

Ecotourism involves protecting the environment; regenerative tourism takes it a step further by actively restoring it and preparing local ecosystems for long-term resilience.

Regeneration as part of the philosophy of Inkaterra hotels

For more than 50 years, the Inkaterra hotel group in Peru has been actively committed to protecting the country's unique ecosystems. From the beginning, "giving back" has been central to Inkaterra's philosophy, close to the heart of the owner family, led by eco-pioneer José Koechlin von Stein. Whether it is re-naturing former agricultural land in Machu Picchu Pueblo with native cloud forest, cooperating closely with local authorities to minimize waste (also in Machu Picchu Pueblo), establishing a private marine reserve in northern Peru, or actively protecting and researching the rainforest on the edge of Tambopata National Park on the Madre de Dios River. Guests can experience these projects and research firsthand on guided tours, nature excursions, and other activities, and their stay supports the hotel group's commitment.

Nature conservation and restoration in the Alps

The OLM Nature Escape also considers itself part of the regenerative approach. The hotel focuses on measures that benefit nature, the region, and the community, such as a wild garden with biotope plants, a kitchen that supports regional cycles, sustainable mobility, and promoting local social projects, like the Sägemüllerhof in Gais. Guests are encouraged to actively participate in this approach by spending their vacation in a resource-friendly way. For example, they can choose to forgo daily room cleaning, opt for gentle, nature-oriented activities such as hiking, forest bathing, or ice bathing, and use regional products. The result is a vacation experience that gives back more than it takes, making guests part of the cycle.

At Naturhotel Outside in Austria's Hohe Tauern National Park, travelers can experience regenerative tourism principles in one of Central Europe's largest protected areas. Here, the landscape is perceived not just as a backdrop, but as a living system that must be cared for and protected. Guests can observe the local flora and fauna, go on hikes and ranger tours, and contribute to preserving and restoring the sensitive alpine ecosystem by participating in hotel and national park projects.

Holistic regenerative concepts in South Tyrol and Sicily

The ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges, with locations throughout Italy, involve guests directly in regenerative processes. For example, guests at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN can participate in communal gardening. The large, ecologically and species-rich farm garden is managed together with neighboring young farmers without monoculture or pesticides. The surrounding meadows require minimal irrigation and are grazed by alpacas. This preserves the soil structure and promotes biodiversity. The resort's gentle architecture blends harmoniously into the landscape, and barefoot paths through the forest encourage guests to immerse themselves in nature and experience it with all their senses — thus motivating them to work to preserve it.

Natural design and guest involvement

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA regularly organizes beach cleanups along the coast between Torre Salsa and Dama Bianca, with the participation of guests, employees, locals, and NGOs. Additionally, the resort's organic and sensory gardens offer guests a chance to experience southern Sicily's unique nature.

Sustainability tours are held twice a week throughout the resort. During which guests can learn how water treatment, heat pumps, and drip irrigation systems work. They can also explore the Mediterranean evergreen scrub vegetation of the Torre Salsa Reserve. Participating in these ecological projects allows vacationers to experience the positive environmental impact firsthand.

Protecting nature is often at the heart of a renewable approach. At the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, for example, much effort is devoted to restoring the shoreline and maintaining the adjacent biotope of Lake Wolfsgruben. The lake, known for its high water quality, is a popular swimming destination and is often referred to as one of the cleanest freshwater lakes in Italy. Visitors experience the area through gentle tourism activities such as walking, sunbathing, swimming, and touring the lake. Information and reminders along the way encourage guests to be mindful of their surroundings and emphasize the importance of respectful behavior for the regeneration of the ecosystem.

Active promotion of biodiversity in southern Germany

At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, every square meter is dedicated to biodiversity. Flower strips are created for bees on the certified organic farmland, healthy tree populations are maintained in the forest, beetle-infested wood is removed, and young trees are continuously replanted. In the spring, the hotel garden is left unmowed so guests can experience the variety of flowers and insects. Robotic lawnmowers are not used here. Additionally, the resort is connected to the educational project Überlinger Weltacker. On one hectare of land, it illustrates how much land is available to each person for food, the plants grown worldwide, and how sustainable agriculture works.

Biodiversity also plays a central role at Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region. To encourage guests to forgo room service, the hotel plants a tree in the region for each guest who does so. Six bee colonies, home to around 300,000 bees, live on the property and pollinate rare wild herbs, orchids, and other protected plants. Guided tours with the beekeeper regularly take place, bringing their work and its importance for the ecosystem to life. Additionally, the natural wellness garden provides habitats for dragonflies, birds, and cold-blooded animals. The hotel is a founding member of the Rothwiesenprojekt (Rothwiesen Project) together with the Bund Naturschutz (Nature Conservation Union). The project renaturalizes farmland and pastures below Neuschwanstein Castle, creating new biodiversity hotspots.

Economics in the cycle of nature

The circular economy is one component of the regenerative approach. In this model, materials are kept in the recycling cycle, energy is used efficiently, biodiversity is promoted, and emissions are reduced or overcompensated. Hotels that adhere to this principle provide guests with an opportunity to experience sustainable practices firsthand.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen takes a holistic approach to the circular economy: unsealed surfaces, a specially created microforest, and a variety of species protection measures ensure that natural spaces are not only preserved but also actively created in the heart of the city. The hotel also pursues a consistent policy of resource conservation, including recycling concepts and CO₂ offsetting through tree planting.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA Hotel also sets standards in circular living. Its Cradle-to-Cradle®-inspired rooms are made of healthy, recyclable materials that can be fully returned to biological or technical cycles. The wellness hotel has also been awarded the Bioland Gold Certificate: nearly all of the kitchen's ingredients come from certified organic cultivation, often directly from the region. A snack garden with beehives, birdhouses, and hedgehog houses demonstrates biodiversity on site. Additionally, the hotel has an excellent GreenSign certification (93%) and implements consistent climate-friendly management practices.

Give back more than we take

Green Pearls® hotels are impressive examples that demonstrate how travel can be more than just consuming landscapes and leisure activities. Regenerative tourism allows guests to become active participants instead of mere spectators.

From the revitalization of historic villages in Liguria to sustainable projects in Croatia and Peru to the careful management of mountain and coastal landscapes in Germany, Austria, and Italy, one thing is clear: the new approach emphasizes ecological responsibility while considering social and cultural issues. As a result, every trip becomes an opportunity for travelers to contribute actively and consciously to preserving their vacation region.

Our Sources:

• Deutsches Wirtschaftsinstitut für Freizeit und Tourismus: https://www.dwif.de/news/item/dwif-impuls-regenerativer-tourismus-rueckblick.html

Scarce Commodity, Vital Resource

More than 40 % of the world's population is affected by water scarcity, and this figure is expected to increase. Recognized as one of the top five global risks, water scarcity affects a quarter of the world's population who live in regions with high water stress. This makes them particularly vulnerable to droughts and increased water consumption.¹

The Role of Hotels and Tourism‘

On average, hotels consume up to 1,500 liters of water per room per day, far exceeding the water consumption of the local population in water-scarce regions. In some destinations, the tourism sector uses up to eight times more water per person than the local population does. Even hotels in regions with sufficient water can indirectly cause water stress if they source products or services from water-scarce regions. The water crisis in Cape Town in 2018, for example, led to a shortfall of up to $65 million in the regional hospitality industry and demonstrates how water scarcity directly affects the economy and the hotel industry.¹ 

According to the Made Blue Foundation, the average European hotel guest consumes 300 liters of water per night. Even in hotels that implement sustainable measures, this figure still hovers around 168 liters per guest per night. For comparison, the average European household uses 144 liters of water per day.² These figures highlight the enormous potential for savings through sustainable bathroom design and mindful water usage.

In light of these challenges, one thing is clear: Every liter of water saved matters. Hotels can significantly reduce their water consumption by installing water-saving fixtures, optimizing shower technology, utilizing gray water, and encouraging guests to be mindful of their towel usage. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also secure the future of businesses and protect local communities.

Green Pearls® partner hotels demonstrate how these concepts translate into practice. They use intelligent technology, natural wastewater systems, durable materials, and targeted guest information to create bathrooms that combine comfort with resource conservation and sustainability.

Saving Water with Smart Technology

Thanks to modern technology, hotels can now use water efficiently without compromising guest comfort. At the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, for example, guests shower under showerheads that use only six liters of water per minute. Signs in the shower raise awareness: "Shower for just one minute less and you'll save as much water as you drink in a week!"

The combination of efficient technology and thoughtful reminders encourages guests to be mindful of their behavior, showing how easy it is to save water. Rimless toilets, cisterns with limited flush volumes, and optimized "sandwich" showerheads ensure low water consumption and maximum comfort at OLM Nature Escape. Flow regulators and aerators on all fittings provide additional savings. The hot water circuit is designed as a complete ring without sections with standing water. Thanks to "entry and exit" technology at each water connection, hot water is available immediately without the need for unnecessary drainage.

At the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA and the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, dual-flush toilets and faucet flow restrictors significantly reduce water consumption. An integrated wastewater management system ensures that wastewater is used efficiently and treated in an eco-friendly manner.

The Hotel Weihrerhof combines water-saving fixtures with durable materials and eco-friendly cleaning products. Hot water is efficiently generated from solar energy and waste heat from cooling systems, saving additional energy.

Technological Innovations for Conserving Water

Hotel Luise in Erlangen uses innovative technology: so-called "astronaut showers" significantly reduce water consumption. The hotel already uses rainwater to flush toilets and plans to use gray water in the future.

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel in Italy is another example of an establishment with innovative water solutions. It was the first hotel in Italy to install TOTO Washlets, which replace toilet paper with an effective, water-based cleaning system. This saves water and protects sewage systems by eliminating the need for wet toilet wipes, which can cause blockages. During the renovation, conditions were created for a future gray water system.

The Ecowaterjet by rabmer®, produced by the Austrian company Rabmer, showcases the potential of modern technology. The shower insert mixes air into the water jet, reducing water consumption by up to 50% while strengthening and evening out the stream. It also minimizes deposits in the showerhead, saving energy and maintenance costs.

Greywater & Wastewater Management: Closing Cycles

Efficient water use and environmental protection can be achieved through intelligent recycling systems. At Canvas & Orchids Retreats, an eco-glamping resort in Cambodia, a multi-stage filtration system made of stones, sand, and charcoal safeguards the river ecosystem. Low-flow fittings ensure water is used sparingly. This combination of technical and natural solutions safeguards the ecology of the Tatai River.

Outside the bathrooms, water also plays a central role: the Naturresort Gerbehof and the Naturhotel Outside collect rainwater for garden irrigation, directly showing guests how water can be sensibly reused. Similarly, the Summit Lodges Pfunds use a communal irrigation system to supply their gardens with water from the local stream. Both methods ensure the plants are watered while keeping water in circulation and not drawing from the drinking water supply.

At ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges, gray water is recycled and wastewater is ecologically treated, saving resources and protecting the environment. The family-run Hotel Okelmann's uses reed beds as natural purification systems, employing plants and microorganisms to clean the water biologically before it returns to the natural cycle.

Guest Awareness is Key

Technology alone is not enough. To conserve water sustainably, guests must also play their part. At Canvas & Orchids Retreats and Bella Vista, beautifully designed notices promote this idea: even small actions, such as showering for one minute less, can significantly reduce water consumption.

Other hotels, including LA VIMEA, Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel, STURM, and Hotel Weihrerhof encourage guests to voluntarily change their towels less frequently. This simple measure saves large amounts of water and energy every day and is very well received by guests. This makes sustainability a tangible part of the hotel experience.

The Importance of Sustainable Bathrooms in Tourism

Water consumption in hotels is not only an operating cost issue, but also a global sustainability concern. Every liter of water saved protects the local population, particularly in regions where water is scarce, and secures the economic future of the hotel industry.

Sustainable bathrooms minimize water consumption and energy requirements by combining technology, material selection, and guest awareness. These bathrooms contribute to environmental protection, strengthen hotels' image, and demonstrate that comfort and sustainability can coexist.

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We will gladly provide you with further information and high-quality image material, arrange interview requests, and respond to inquiries about press trips. Please contact press@greenpearls.com

Our Sources: 

1. Sustainable Hospitality Alliance: https://sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/our-work/water-stewardship/
2. Made Blue: https://madeblue.org/en/hotel-water-use-data-2024/

Three Reasons Why Traveling in Autumn is Sustainable

1. Many destinations are now in their off-season. By traveling now, you are supporting sustainable tourism businesses when they would normally not be generating significant revenue.
2. Most importantly, if you avoid traveling during peak season and take your vacation in the fall, you will help reduce the strain on popular travel destinations and their ecosystems.
3. Nature reveals its most beautiful side, inviting you to experience it slowly and consciously. Exploring the vacation region on foot or by bike is a natural thing to do.

Inspiration: Autumn Offers from Sustainable Hotels in Germany, Austria, South Tyrol, and Croatia

We spoke with our hotel partners about your sustainable fall vacation. They told us about their most popular and beautiful packages for an unforgettable fall experience.

Do you need more Ideas for Autumn?

If you're looking for more ideas from our sustainable partners or want to enjoy the autumn atmosphere a little longer, check out our GREEN TRAVEL BLOG. There, we highlight the many facets of what is perhaps the most beautiful season for traveling.

👉Sustainable Fall Getaways: Accommodations and Tips
👉 Autumn Holidays by Bike
👉 Autumn Recipe from the Sturm – Pearl Spelt Risotto
👉 Bird Watching - the Best Places to Watch Fall Migration in Europe

Feel free to forward this newsletter to anyone who needs inspiration for fall—or who you really want to travel with this autumn ;) #sharingiscaring

Discover the GREEN TRAVEL BLOG editorial team's favorite articles from the past month.

Stories often change our perspective on travel. These subtle influences linger long after we hear them. In our editorial office, we regularly discuss what has recently moved, inspired, or made us think. Here, we share our personal recommendations of books, films, documentaries, and podcasts with you — honest, hand-picked, and always with conscious travel in mind.

This is what Laura was delighted about lately:

“In the documentary ‘Spiel mit den Alpen (Gamble with the Alps)’, Felix Neureuther searches for the “lost places” of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Surrounded by fallen Olympic rings, abandoned chairlifts, and concrete ski jumps, he demonstrates the ongoing impact of the Games on the environment and visits the Alpine Conservation Association. It is well worth watching, especially now that the Winter Games are returning to the Alps after 20 years.”

Watch the documentation in the ARD Mediathek. (unpaid advertisement)

Changing Travel Habits – from FOMO to JOMO

Just a few years ago, vacations were more like races against time for many people: they tried to see as many sights as possible, collect experiences, fill their schedules with activities, and kept their smartphones handy to capture every moment, preferably in selfie form. This pace was often fueled by FOMO (the "fear of missing out").

Travel culture has changed noticeably today. People no longer only seek out faraway places; now, above all, they seek closeness to themselves, to nature, and to inner peace. FOMO is gradually being replaced by JOMO (the "joy of missing out"). This concept involves finding pleasure in not being everywhere and intentionally forgoing constant presence to live in the moment. Rather than making to-do lists, people schedule breaks. Rather than being constantly online, they prefer digital detoxes.

This trend is confirmed by numerous studies. The 2024 travel analysis by Forschungsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Reisen (FUR) shows: this interest in mindful, sustainable, and slower travel has grown over the years and has been reinforced by pandemic experiences. The top motivations cited were tranquility, experiences in nature, time for oneself, reduced consumption, and less pressure to do things. Booking.com's Sustainable Travel Report 2023 confirms this as well: 44% of respondents specifically seek offers that reduce stress and promote conscious travel.

In short, guests no longer want constant entertainment. They want to reconnect with themselves and enjoy the pleasure of doing nothing for a change.

From Trend to Honest Philosophy

When visitors first see Lake Wolfsgruben, they immediately understand why the Weihrerhof is located there. The sustainable family and wellness hotel is nestled between forests, meadows, and water right on the lakeshore, offering a breathtaking view. Run by Manuela and Klaus Pichler, the Weihrerhof does not see itself as a traditional hotel, but rather as a host that creates spaces — spaces for simply being, not for needing to.

The hosts' philosophy can be summed up in three guiding principles:

• Do not entertain; enable.
• Do not lecture; inspire.
• Do not stage; invite.

November by the Lake — Slow Down and Recharge

At the Weihrerhof, nothing is excessive, and no artificial theme park has been created. Instead, the focus is deliberately on minimalism. For Klaus Pichler, one thing is clear: “Less is more. It is about not being constantly entertained, but rather spending quality time with myself, my partner, or my family.” And autumn by the lake is the perfect time to slow down. In the morning, fog often lingers over the water, and in the afternoon, the autumn light bathes the forest in warm colors. The Weihrerhof takes advantage of this time to offer guests a complete package designed to help them decelerate.

The November offer includes:
Four nights for the price of three (Wednesday to Sunday)
Gourmet half-board with late breakfast until 11 a.m
Free access to the SeaSpa, including a sauna, steam bath, and indoor pool
Use of the RittenCard for free mobility
Hiking backpack, hiking poles, and a spa basket

Go directly to the Offer

Three Ideas for a New, Sustainable Understanding of Travel

This philosophy is more than just a guiding principle; it is reflected in the services offered, which help guests relax, reconnect with nature, and find their own pace. According to Klaus and Manuela Pichler, three concepts have proven particularly successful in this regard:

1. Digital Detox — with Ease, not Force

Smartphones have become an integral part of everyday life and often serve as the biggest distraction while on vacation. At the Weihrerhof, they understand that people who are constantly online rarely experience the present moment. That is why Wi-Fi is unavailable in certain areas. At the lakeshore, the connection is cut off so a different one can be made.

For guests who wish to disconnect further, a charming gesture awaits them on their first evening: a small suitcase is placed in front of their room, inviting them to put their smartphone inside. Not as a requirement or dictate —just as an offer. Many guests report feeling less pressure and being more present after just a short time, with a keener eye for details.

2. Places to Be – Discover Places of Power

There are special places around the Weihrerhof that are not spectacularly staged; they are simply a natural part of the landscape. Together with experts and a geomancer, the Pichler family has discovered and analyzed these places of power. Some provide energy, some bring peace, and others help one focus on the essentials.

Guests can explore these places on foot with the help of a small booklet containing exercises and food for thought. There is also a podcast for each location. Rather than providing traditional explanations, the podcast opens up space for one's own perceptions. Gentle voices guide guests through what can be felt but often remains unspoken. Some guests linger only briefly, while others spend hours there, free from time pressure and judgment.

3. Lakeside Views — Nature Education by the Lake

"Uferblicke" (Lakeside Views) is a collaborative project with the Seeglück Hotel Forelle on Lake Millstatt in Carinthia, Austria, that aims to vividly and playfully bring the lake habitat to life. In the Weihrerhof garden, small information boards tell visitors about the area's flora and fauna, including the water strider that walks on water, the green tree frog with suction cups, and the milfoil that purifies the water. QR codes provide guests with additional information and a short quiz. Those who answer all the questions correctly can submit their card at the front desk for a chance to win a prize.

"We don't just want to show that nature is worth protecting; we want to inspire people to marvel at what is right in front of them again," says Manuela Pichler.

The Weihrerhof as a Model of Sustainable Tourism

The Weihrerhof does not respond to short-term travel trends. Its philosophy is firmly rooted, and minimalism, mindfulness, and sustainability are not just marketing terms, but an everyday reality.

The three initiatives — Digital Detox, Places to Be, and Lakeside Views — demonstrate how social developments and personal convictions can be transformed into tangible offerings. They focus on slowing down, experiencing nature, and conscious living. The result is more time for oneself, authentic encounters, and lasting impressions. "Ninety-five percent of our guests quickly realize that they don't need all the luxury," says Manuela Pichler. "They don't need lobster here. We take some decisions off their hands and make their lives easier. And they appreciate that."

Conscious tourism is not about waivers. Sometimes, it is simply about finding a place where less is more.

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We gladly provide you with more information and high-quality images. Journalists are welcome to visit Weihrerhof to experience its philosophy firsthand. Additionally, we can arrange interviews with the hosts, guided tours of the energy spots, and insights into the projects.

Our Sources:

• FUR Reiseanalyse 2024 (fu-urlaub.de)
• Stiftung für Zukunftsfragen (zukunftsfragen.org)

Why Sustainable Waste Management is About More than Just Separating Trash

A well-thought-out waste management system is a key component of any comprehensive sustainability strategy in the hotel and hospitality industry. Such a system includes recording and analyzing waste, consistently separating waste, using reusable products, and actively involving employees and guests. However, what are the particular advantages of this approach?

The most important advantages at a glance^2-4:

• Savings: Reducing waste means lowering disposal costs. Avoiding single-use products also reduces purchasing costs in the long run.
• Image boost: Hotel guests appreciate transparent sustainability measures. This strengthens brand loyalty and trust.
• Legal compliance: Implementing resource-saving measures early on enables you to meet current and future environmental requirements.
• Increased efficiency: Monitoring tools help identify sources of waste and take targeted steps to combat them.
• Resource conservation: Recycling and composting conserve natural resources by closing material cycles.

Many Green Pearls® partner companies are already implementing advanced waste management concepts, demonstrating the effectiveness of creative, low- and zero-waste strategies.

Best Practices against Waste

Although hotels in the Green Pearls® network have different approaches to waste prevention, they all share one common goal: to make sustainability measurable.

Digital Tracking Provides a Clearer Overview and a Consistent Strategy

At the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, waste measurement is a core component of the hotel's sustainability strategy, not a marginal issue. "Knowing where you are is the first step to knowing where you are going," says the hotel's manager, Klaus Pichler. To measure the status quo and progress, Pichler commissioned the development of a custom app called My Monitoring, which records key figures on energy, water, and waste. This allows changes to be tracked directly. The result: since 2020, the hotel has reduced PET consumption per guest by 400 grams and water consumption per guest by 130 liters. In the spirit of collaborative transformation, Pichler makes the app available to other sustainable hotels free of charge.

The hotel SANDnature in Timmendorfer Strand uses digital tools, such as GreenGuide, to record wet waste—also known as organic or biodegradable waste—including kitchen waste, food leftovers, and garden waste. Implemented measures, such as adjusting food production based on the number of guests and optimizing order quantities through better communication with the reception desk, resulted in a 30% reduction in food waste in the last assessment. This reduction is equivalent to the CO₂ emissions from 48 car trips from Oberstdorf to Kiel. The data is being used to develop additional strategies for waste prevention, exemplifying the intersection of technology and sustainability.

Preventing Waste Before it is Produced

Small steps, such as systematically recording waste quantities, are often the first steps in sustainable waste management. At Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, these quantities are regularly documented and evaluated in collaboration with a waste disposal partner. The obtained data helps reduce packaging materials and further reduce plastic usage. Particular focus is given to switching to paper packaging and other recyclable alternatives, especially in the breakfast and spa areas.

The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg focuses on prevention rather than reaction. "We order goods in bulk or without packaging wherever possible," says Managing Director Johannes Staub. Waste is separated throughout the entire hotel, from the kitchen to the guest rooms. The hotel exceeds the "gold standard" of the DEHOGA environmental check, demonstrating that sustainable processes can work in urban, budget-oriented hotels.

Avoid, Separate, Recycle, and Document

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, waste is sorted into an impressive 15 categories. The amount of waste generated is documented annually through waste bills and internal estimates. This data is then entered directly into the CO₂ accounting tool and used to make strategic decisions aimed at continuously reducing waste.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, waste management is a closed cycle: careful waste separation and consistent composting result in minimal residual waste. Since there is no regular garbage collection service on site, the team takes all waste to the landfill themselves, which automatically ensures a high level of awareness. Kitchen waste, such as coffee grounds, eggshells, and used napkins, is placed on the resort's compost heap and later used as fertilizer on its fields.

Other Green Pearls® members are also focusing on targeted strategies for waste prevention and collection. For instance, OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol documents its waste volumes as part of the strict GSTC certification process, which makes sustainability verifiable. The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, on the other hand, estimates its waste volumes per week based on the amounts collected — a pragmatic approach that fosters transparency. In Zermatt, Switzerland, the Hotel Bella Vista regularly records when its bins are emptied and compares these figures with those from the previous year, particularly concerning organic waste. This allows them to identify developments early on and adjust their measures accordingly. The Hotel Luise in Erlangen is also moving towards “zero waste”. The team is currently working on an improved waste collection method to further optimize waste prevention.

Waste Prevention Requires Structure — and Role Models

Experience shows that those who understand their waste streams can operate more efficiently and reduce waste more effectively. Many Green Pearls® accommodations have already incorporated this into their daily operations, not as a PR measure, but as a foundation for achieving greater sustainability. Progress can be documented through systematic recording, digital tools, and adapted purchasing processes. However, it is clear that the road to virtually waste-free hotel operations is long and requires structural changes. In addition to commitment and internal training, the industry needs clear standards, functioning reusable systems, and support from politicians and supply chains. Lastly, guest behavior plays a key role because change only happens when an ecological supply meets conscious demand.

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We are happy to provide further information, high-quality images, and contact details for interview partners related to research, features, or topics concerning waste management in sustainable accommodations.

Our Sources:

1. WWF Deutschland. (2023). Geht Mehrweg auch im Hotel?  https://www.wwf.de/nachhaltiges-wirtschaften/circular-economy/verpackungen/geht-mehrweg-auch-im-hotel
2. DEHOGA Bundesverband. (2022). Leitfaden Nachhaltigkeit im Gastgewerbe. https://www.dehoga-bundesverband.de/themen/nachhaltigkeit
3. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). Sustainable Tourism and Waste Management [Report]. https://www.unep.org/resources/report/sustainable-tourism-and-waste-management
4. Zero Waste Europe. (2020). Zero Waste in the Hospitality Sector: Best Practices & Business Benefits.  https://zerowasteeurope.eu/library/zero-waste-in-the-hospitality-sector/

Support from the tourism industry is an often underestimated but enormously effective lever for achieving these goals. It is one of the most important economic sectors worldwide and, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), has the potential to positively influence nearly all SDGs. Tourism can promote economic growth (SDG 8), create high-quality jobs, strengthen gender equality (SDG 5), advance education (SDG 4), and preserve cultural heritage and local products (SDGs 11 and 12). At the same time, tourism enables climate and environmental protection measures (SDGs 13 and 15) when resources are used consciously and natural spaces are protected.

Sustainable Accommodations Play a Key Role

Hotels and accommodation providers play a key role in this regard. As employers, service providers, purchasers, and users of local resources, they influence the social, economic, and environmental aspects of a destination. By investing in renewable energy, creating local value, training employees, and communicating sustainably with guests, they can contribute significantly to the implementation of global goals.

Green Pearls® Unique Places hotel partners have jointly committed to sustainable responsibility and provide an example of responsibility in action. While the individual members pursue their own sustainability strategies, they are often guided by the SDGs.

Green Visions for the Hotel Industry

For Green Pearls® partners, sustainability is more than just a marketing buzzword. It is a guiding principle and design standard that is becoming a hallmark of modern hospitality culture. The hotels below exemplify how the UN's sustainability goals can be put into practice and show that, for them, these are not just abstract guidelines but tools for real change.

One notable example is the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Alpe di Siusi in South Tyrol. Since 2019, the hotel has consistently offered plant-based cuisine, and by the end of 2024, it had established itself as the first purely vegan hotel on the Seiser Alm. By doing so, the hotel specifically influences several SDGs, particularly sustainable consumption and production (Goal 12) and climate action (Goal 13). The reduced ecological footprint of plant-based cuisine is scientifically proven and can be experienced firsthand by guests.

Examining other Green Pearls® hotels reveals that many of the 17 goals are addressed individually, depending on the region, business, and philosophy. At the hotel My Arbor in South Tyrol, ecological and social sustainability are linked. The hotel's cooperation with regional producers, conscious avoidance of mass-produced goods, and use of natural building materials demonstrate a responsible approach to resources. At the same time, the hotel supports Climate Goal 13 with energy-efficient building concepts and renewable energies. Fair employment conditions, long-term prospects, and targeted further training also make sustainability a social promise here.

The Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten is a prime example of technical innovations driving sustainable development. Its modern heating systems, water-saving measures, and solar technology protect resources and help preserve the environment. The hotel shows that even small hotels can make measurable ecological progress through strategic investments.

While some hotels focus on technical or conceptual aspects, the SCHWARZWALD PANOAMA has deeply embedded sustainability into its corporate structure. With a 90% GreenSign certification score, the hotel is a model for energy-efficient construction, climate-friendly operations, and the development of sustainable cities and communities. These efforts are further bolstered by social initiatives and transparent reporting, such as the WIN Charter Baden-Württemberg and the German Sustainability Code.

The Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea is also taking a forward-looking approach. Through the “SDG Scouts” project, young employees are actively involved in developing new sustainability ideas. Special training courses enable these employees to independently implement projects and act as ambassadors for the 17 goals. Through this project, the hotel primarily addresses Goals 4 and 16, "Quality Education" and "Strong Institutions and Participatory Processes," respectively. These young professionals become multipliers of a new corporate culture, demonstrating that sustainable change can succeed when people have a say.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen goes beyond traditional measures as well. Its “Wall of Change” showcases projects that are specifically linked to the 2030 Agenda. Here, SDGs 4, 13, and 17 are implemented through educational offerings, consistent climate protection in everyday operations, and cooperation with regional and international partners. Additionally, the hotel incorporates the Inner Development Goals (IDGs), which promote personal skills such as mindfulness, empathy, and responsibility. This creates a bridge between external transformation processes and the inner attitude that enables their success.

The “ADLER for Planet” sustainability program is implemented in all ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges and covers a wide range of topics, from promoting biodiversity (Goal 15) to preventing waste and using renewable energies (Goal 7). Particular emphasis is placed on resource-efficient water management and the sustainable procurement of regional and seasonal products. Transparency is central to the program: progress is regularly published and made visible to guests and employees alike. ADLER for Planet is also committed to social responsibility through fair working conditions and environmental education.

The Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance pursues a consistent sustainability policy that, while not explicitly linked to the SDGs, is consistent with many of them. Thanks to a photovoltaic system and miscanthus cultivation for hot water, the hotel is energy-self-sufficient and efficiently supplies itself with water from its own sources and cisterns. The Economy for the Common Good (ECG) balance sheet transparently documents the resort's ethical, social, and ecological commitment. Additionally, the resort's sustainable orientation emphasizes health: special offers promote the well-being and mental and physical health of guests.

The Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bavaria is a pioneer in sustainable hospitality. As the first German hotel to receive the EU Ecolabel, it meets numerous standards closely aligned with the SDGs. Long-term partnerships, ecological architecture, and forward-looking resource management exemplify the hotel's commitment to ecological, social, and economic sustainability. Energy-efficient building technology, renewable energies, and a comprehensive waste prevention strategy are just as much a part of this concept as sourcing regional food and supporting social projects, such as mountain rescue services. Thus, the Klosterhof combines environmental awareness with social commitment and economic responsibility.

Taking Responsibility – For a Better Future in Tourism

The examples demonstrate that the individual sustainability measures implemented by Green Pearls® accommodations actively promote sustainable global development. From climate protection to fair working conditions to local value creation, each hotel is doing its part to ensure a better future. The SDGs are not just a checklist; they are a guide and motivation to question existing processes, implement new ideas, and live up to our responsibilities consciously.

All properties share the understanding that sustainable development means more than just being environmentally friendly. It encompasses a mindful approach to people, resources, energy, and knowledge. It also proves that the 17 global goals are not just for discussion at the government level but can be put into practice. In the kitchen. In architecture. In the team. It is also evident in every conversation with guests who want to make a difference.

When the Print Itself Becomes the Message

The fourth (printed) edition of the guest magazine BergGeist of the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau was published in early April. This begs the question: Why do they still rely on a printed product in times of energy efficiency and digital change? "We want our guests to take the time to sit down, flip through the pages, and feel the stories. This is more likely to happen with a print magazine than with a quick scan of an online text," explains Laurena Hollweck, Marketing Manager and Assistant to the Management at Hotel Rübezahl. The articles are not just advertising copy, but stories and insights into the thoughts and creations of personalities that make it worthwhile to take a moment to relax and immerse yourself in the magazine, she continues.

High-quality design, feel, durability - the new edition of the BerGeist magazine is designed to be read more than once, thus communicating the hotel's messages and information over a long time. The content and concept also follow the hotel's sustainable philosophy, as does every step of its development and implementation regarding efficiency and environmental friendliness.

Sustainability in Print Production – Three Lessons from Hotel Das Rübezahl

Printed communications do not have to contradict a sustainability philosophy. When products such as magazines, menus, postcards, and flyers are well designed, reduced to the essentials, and produced in a high-quality, environmentally friendly way, they can be an effective way to retain customers.

Laurena Hollweck summarizes the lessons she learned from producing the magazine as follows:

• Less is more – also when it comes to printing. [...] We have been careful not to produce too many magazines that might end up being thrown away or not reaching the right reader because of useless mailings. In this case, the lower price of mass printing does not outweigh the higher standards of meaningfulness and quality. Instead, we asked ourselves, "Who should read this magazine? And how can we get it to the right places where it will be appreciated? Be it directly at our hotel, partner companies, or selected regular guests. In this way, a printed magazine does not become a disposable product, but a consciously chosen, long-lasting companion that conveys our values.
   
• Sustainability starts with content. Ecological and social responsibility is reflected not only in the materials we use, but also in the stories we tell. Stories about regional producers, seasonal cuisine, or conscious time-outs inspire our readers - and show that sustainability also plays a role in lifestyle. That is why we have given our regional partners the opportunity to present themselves in our magazine. This way, our guests get to know the variety of local producers and see the importance of networks for the entire region. 
   
• Collaboration instead of compromise. Producing in an economically sustainable way also means finding trustworthy partners who share our values. Whether it is a photographer, copywriter, or printer, a shared understanding of quality and responsibility leads to better results and makes the collaboration more valuable on a human level.

Sustainable Printing: What are the Challenges?

While the design is often already geared to longevity from a purely economic point of view, it is the production, i.e., the printing itself, that is most often criticized. This critique includes paper consumption and the associated deforestation for pulp production, environmentally harmful inks, and high-energy and water-intensive printing processes.

Challenge 1: Paper

In 2021, 19 million tons of paper and board were consumed in Germany. About 5.9 million tons of this was graphic paper, i.e., newspapers, writing paper, and the like. Most of this paper ends up in the trash after a single use. This is even though paper production is a process that requires large amounts of water, chemicals, and pulp. The pulp comes from forests and plantations worldwide, mostly from monoculture plantations in South America and Indonesia. Therefore, the production of so-called primary or virgin fiber paper contributes significantly to the deforestation of rainforests and primeval forests.

For this reason, sustainable hotels like Das Rübezahl ask themselves how they can make their new print products particularly durable before they are produced. "In general, we try to provide all our previous printed brochures and information in digital form, for example, through our new guest app with all the information about the hotel, including a guest activities calendar, spa brochure, menu, etc. There are no A-Z lists or binders in the rooms," says Laurena Hollbeck, describing the hotel's approach to printed materials. "Occasional products, such as our spa brochure, are available for guests to browse in the Beauty Alm, but we avoid actively distributing them, such as upon arrival," she adds. When products are printed, they are printed on recycled paper or more sustainable natural or uncoated paper. 

Digression: Natural Paper

The term natural paper itself does not necessarily indicate a more sustainable type of paper but often refers to a natural look and feel, regardless of whether it is made from recycled or virgin fibers. Natural papers can be recycled or made from alternative raw materials such as grass, hemp, or limestone. FSC® or PEFC® certified papers are also often referred to as natural papers because they are sourced from sustainably managed forests. However, they can also be virgin fiber papers, which have a significantly worse environmental record than recycled papers.

Almost all hoteliers in the Green Pearls® network choose recycled or alternative paper types when printing cannot be avoided or replaced by other measures. The Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, uses recycled paper or paper made from sugar production waste for the few printed items, such as the hotel calendar or brochure. The APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol is increasingly using apple paper made from apple juice production waste. Other popular alternatives include paper made from grass or hemp, or newer varieties made from cup plant, sugar beet, or bamboo.

Challenge 2: Colors

Whether in a print shop or hotel: Printing anything requires ink. Conventional inks often use mineral oils as binders and contain plasticizers and heavy metals. Not good for the environment or your health. Fortunately, with the growing demand for environmentally friendly production, more and more inks are non-toxic, some even food safe, biodegradable or compostable, and contain no hazardous ingredients. For example, mineral oils are being replaced by vegetable oils such as linseed or soybean oil. Another important aspect of the environmental friendliness and sustainability of inks is good deinkability, which allows them to be easily and completely removed from the paper during recycling. 

You can also look for mineral oil-free and non-toxic inks in hotels. The LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturno, South Tyrol, is a prime example of a well-thought-out in-hotel printing solution. Instead of traditional ink cartridges, which create additional waste, the hotel uses a printer that the team can refill from ink bottles. Although printing with this type of printer takes a little longer, the LA VIMEA team points out: “We believe we can dedicate that time to nature.” In general, however, very little is printed and almost all processes are organized via QR codes – from the menu to guest information. As a result, printed materials do not need to be reprinted when information changes.

Challenge 3: Procedure

Paper and inks ultimately determine the environmental impact of the printing process. Uncoated natural papers, for example, absorb more ink than coated varieties. To avoid unnecessary misprints (and the associated waste of paper), printing companies must be familiar with printing on such papers, assess the effects of colors and images, and advise their customers accordingly. Meanwhile, more and more sustainable printing companies are optimizing their energy and water consumption, using green electricity, having efficient logistics, and offsetting unavoidable emissions at the end of production.

Print is not Dead – But it is Being Used More Consciously.

Sustainable hotels tend to do most of their communication digitally (more on this in the next part of this series, to be published on 18.06.2025). Still, for many, print has a place in their communication strategy. "We rely on digital communication and reduce printed materials, but we use sustainable paper options for important information," says Klaus Pichler of Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, summarizing his approach and that of many of his colleagues.

Conscious use is crucial: printed materials are reduced to the essentials, carefully produced and used in a targeted manner. High-quality menus, postcards, or magazines, like those of the Hotel Das Rübezahl, stay in circulation, build trust, and create a physical connection to the hotel. The conscious choice of sustainable paper, inks, and printers is not just a means to an end, but a clear part of sustainability communication. In this way, the print itself becomes a sustainable message.

Generation Z's Travel Motivation and Behavior

According to Business Insider, there are seven factors that matter to Gen Z when traveling: Sustainability, individuality, comfort, digital connectivity, experiences, flexibility, and cost consciousness. While packaged tours and other traditional vacation models dominated previous generations, Gen Z is looking for customizable trips that match its identity and offer unique experiences. They also expect a high level of digital integration, from mobile apps for booking to seamless Wi-Fi in hotels.

A study by Stern magazine shows that while Gen Z often travels on a limited budget, they are not willing to compromise on comfort. For them, luxury is not defined by ostentation and abundance, but by high quality, special experiences, and sustainable concepts, for which they are willing to spend more. They also value experiences over material things. Many Gen Z travelers value adventure travel, nature experiences, and activities beyond the classic beach vacation. Backpacking and sustainable retreats, for example, are particularly popular. Wellness and health trips are also on the rise, especially when combined with sustainable offerings. Gen Z also has the highest percentage of vegetarians and vegans of any previous generation, making sustainable and plant-based food concepts in hotels a key consideration.

Sustainability as a Critical Factor

Another defining characteristic of Gen Z is their ingrained environmental consciousness. They want all aspects of their travel to be as eco-friendly as possible. This is reflected in a preference for sustainable accommodations, vegan or vegetarian food options, green transportation, and climate-conscious activities. According to the Simon-Kucher study, 87% of Gen Z travelers are willing to pay more for sustainable options if they can make a positive contribution.

Transparency is also important. Young travelers want to know exactly how sustainable a hotel or travel option truly is. Gen Z is quick to spot and reject greenwashing. Instead, they prefer companies that take their environmental and social responsibilities seriously. Above all, Gen Z seeks meaningfulness and chooses travel options that align with their values.

How Green Pearls® Accommodations Perceive Gen Z Guests

Many of the Green Pearls® hotels have examined Generation Z's values of sustainability, individuality, and digital connectivity – and share them. Organic products, local ingredients, renewable energies, and a commitment to sustainability already play a central role in the network's hotels and resorts, especially in the culinary sector, where dietary approaches such as veganism and farm-to-table have long been established. At the same time, there is a focus on personalized and authentic experiences, whether through cooking classes, sustainable outdoor adventures, or meeting the local community. Digital solutions such as contactless check-in/check-out and smart technologies are also becoming increasingly important in Green Pearls® hotels.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, Germany, for example, describes this generation as open, direct, and environmentally conscious. However, despite the hotel's sustainable business philosophy, most of its guests currently belong to an older generation. To appeal to the target group, the hotel is increasingly focusing on sustainable events and retreats that appeal to the values of the younger generation and are in line with their value compass.

Gen Z guests account for seven percent of all bookings at Lifestylehotel SAND, which sees great potential in this target group. The young travelers appreciate the stylish, fair, and inspiring "SANDspirit" at Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. To better reach Gen Z, the hotel plans to increase its social media presence, as this generation primarily uses Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for information. In addition, the hotel offers flexible, sustainable packages tailored to the needs of young, environmentally conscious travelers.

Hotel STURM in the Rhön region has seen a significant increase in bookings from guests in their mid-20s. Sustainability and high-quality culinary experiences play a central role here. The young guests appreciate the time spent in nature, organic products, vegan alternatives, and innovative gastronomic concepts. With an open kitchen in the restaurant, a large nature park with a snack garden, and a focus on high-quality and slow food, STURM offers exactly what this target group is looking for.

Flexibility and workation opportunities are aspects that make OLM Nature Escape particularly attractive to young travelers. They appreciate the inspiring atmosphere for creative work in the natural landscape of South Tyrol, as well as a conscious diet with little meat and alcohol consumption.

A family atmosphere and authentic experiences are especially important to some young travelers at Relais del Maro. They are described as curious, respectful, and open-minded. Direct communication and personalized offers are among the reasons why young visitors like to return to the small village in the mountains of Liguria.

Unique architecture and an extensive wellness program in the heart of South Tyrol are increasingly attracting younger guests to the Hotel My Arbor. Although not their main target group, individuality, slowing down, and experiences close to nature appeal to young adults looking for a conscious break.

More and more guests from Generation Z are discovering the Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort. The sustainable 5-star hotel is responding to this development with offerings specifically tailored to the needs of younger travelers. In addition to relaxation in the spa, the focus is on culinary experiences in the 2-star Eisvogel restaurant and the hotel restaurant. Further, the hotel impresses with its strong focus on renewable energies and is largely self-sufficient thanks to a wood gasifier and woodchip heating. Interested parties are welcome to take a look inside the "Energy Cube".

The natural location of the Hotel Weihrerhof and the consistent implementation of the environmental concept also attract a growing number of young guests. In addition to sustainable wellness and regional cuisine, it is the outdoor experiences on the Ritten in South Tyrol that perfectly match the lifestyle of Generation Z.

Tailored Offerings for a New Generation of Travelers

Therefore, to meet the expectations of Generation Z, hotels need to cater to their needs and create authentic experiences. A great example of this is the "Young Vegan Friends" package offered by Green Pearls® LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in South Tyrol. Designed for young, eco-conscious travelers, this package combines sustainable accommodations with a vegan culinary concept and community experiences. In addition to plant-based gourmet half-board, the package includes relaxing spa services, outdoor activities, and the opportunity to explore South Tyrol in a climate-friendly way using public transportation.

With customized offers like this, hotels show that they take the values and wishes of the young generation seriously and specifically address their travel habits.

How the Travel Industry can Adapt to Gen Z

To sum up, one thing is certain: Generation Z is bringing a breath of fresh air to the travel industry and presenting hotels with new challenges. They demand not only true sustainability but also a high degree of flexibility and digitalization. To stay relevant and attract this new target group, hotels must adapt to the needs of these digital nomads, communicate their values transparently and honestly, and implement modern, sustainable concepts.

TikTok and Instagram are the primary sources of inspiration for Gen Z travelers, so a strong presence on these platforms is essential. Spontaneous bookings and flexible offers are in demand, as young travelers often plan on short notice. Although Gen Z is cost-conscious, they value unique, shareable experiences. Hotels should create "Instagrammable" spaces, host live events, and offer themed experiences to appeal to this audience. Personalization and authentic experiences are key to generating positive reviews and earning the loyalty of Gen Z.

Companies that understand and respect the values and aspirations of this generation will reap the long-term benefits of this new, aware, and demanding target group.

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Guided Herbal walks - Enjoy nature and expand your knowledge

From meadows to forests to streams, edible wild herbs with exciting flavors and healing properties are everywhere you look. Guided herb walks offer the opportunity to learn more about their use in cooking and natural medicine, and in many cases, to process the herbs you find yourself. Green Pearls® hotels also use wild and local herbs in their regionally influenced cuisine. Whether in the forest or in your own garden, they are happy to share their secrets with you.

Gut Sonnenhausen, Glonn near Munich

"The first herbs of the year are true powerhouses, full of minerals and vitamins that banish winter fatigue and boost the immune system," writes the team at the sustainable hotel. Gardener Marie Louise Troll cultivates the land around Gut Sonnenhausen according to the principles of permaculture. An inspiring journey awaits you at the former English-style stud farm - and not just into the world of wild herbs. In the midst of picturesque nature, history and modernity, art and environment come together.

On the popular wild herb walk "The Green Nine" you will learn under the expert guidance of naturopath Kirsten Walter which herbs are edible, how they are used in the kitchen and what healing powers they have. The name of the tour hints at what you will take home at the end: a freshly made "Green 9 Soup", a traditional spring soup made from nine wild herbs.

APIPURA hotel rinner, Renon, South Tyrol

The family-friendly APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol regularly offers guided herb walks in cooperation with the local tourist office. Together with a herb expert or a so-called "herb witch" you will walk through meadows and woods, collect edible plants and prepare them together. A perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local flora and taste the flavors of spring. 

You can also look forward to seasonal dishes at the hotel. Chef Manfred Rinner focuses on regional organic cuisine with a special ingredient that is used primarily in the weekly special dinner: honey from the hotel's own organic apiary.

Summit Lodges, Pfunds

Mindfulness takes center stage in the Tyrolean Oberland. The Spiss family of Summit Lodges, two log cabin-style vacation homes, recommends the Juni.Bluama.Zeit, which combines mindfulness, closeness to nature, and knowledge of the local flora. The Tourism Board's three-day program takes place four times in June and includes yoga at special locations, meditation, rock grinding and, of course, herbal walks.

STURM, Rhön

The Hotel STURM in the Rhön region offers a special team event: a herb walk that not only provides culinary inspiration, but also strengthens the sense of community. During the one to one-and-a-half-hour tour, participants discover edible wild herbs, their positive properties and how they can be used in everyday life. The walk can be booked for groups of four to twenty people.

You can also discover spring on your own in the nature park, around the natural swimming pond and in the hotel's "Naschgarten". With the first rays of sunshine, the flowers hum and 

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Bad Herrenalb

The sustainable wellness hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is located high above Bad Herrenalb and offers beautiful views of the Black Forest. Regional organic cuisine, an extensive spa area with a Selfness Center for stress resistance and mindfulness are among the highlights of this sustainable hotel. A guided herbal hike with an experienced expert is a great way to experience nature in a new and mindful way. The hotel recommends booking through the Bad Herrenalb Tourist Information Office. You will learn how wild herbs have been used for centuries in natural medicine and gastronomy, as well as their special properties. And, of course, you will learn how to process the herbs you collect.

Hotel Weihrerhof, Renon, South Tyrol

The family-friendly Hotel Weihrerhof is located directly on the shores of Lake Wolfsgruben. The nature of the region plays an important role for the Pichler family: it can be found in the form of regional food on the plate and as herbs, hay, and lake water in the hotel's own cosmetic line. Klaus Pichler, host and owner of the hotel, explains: “Our herbal walks are accompanied by an expert from the Ritten Tourism Association.” As a guest, you will discover local herbs and learn about their effects.

Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance

If you want to immerse yourself in the world of wild herbs at Lake Constance, Ursula Wagner of the Naturresort Gerbehof recommends a hike organized by the Friedrichshafen Tourist Information Office. These take place in the summer for a small fee and are led by a trained wild herb guide and adventure educator.

Spring Cuisine – Regional Freshness on your Plate

Sustainable hotels are known for their focus on seasonal, regional ingredients, including herbs from their own gardens. Spring menus bring the flavors of the season from the garden or field to your plate - fresh, light and full of flavor.

ADLER Lodge RITTEN, Renon, South Tyrol

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN relies on the freshness of its own garden. Herbs, vegetables, grains, and fruits are grown sustainably in cooperation with a young farmer at the hotel's doorstep – and then used directly in the kitchen. "We especially work with mixed crops in the beds. This allows all the plants to thrive and even protect each other from pests," explains young farmer Christian Fink. Everything that is not grown on site comes from the surrounding area. So you can enjoy the authentic taste of spring in South Tyrol in the form of herb dishes and homemade specialties from Cristian Cinquemani's kitchen.

LA VIMEA, Naturno, South Tyrol

In Naturno, surrounded by blossoming apple orchards and Mediterranean alpine landscapes, LA VIMEA offers a special break for those seeking mindful enjoyment and tranquility. As the first holistic vegan hotel in Italy, it focuses on organic, regional ingredients and a plant-based cuisine that perfectly captures the taste of spring. Whether it's fresh herbs from the hotel garden or creative seasonal vegetable variations, sustainability is combined with culinary sophistication.

Tip: Naturno's traditional Spring Festival takes place on April 12th. Here you will find handmade products, regional specialties and lively "Schuhplattler" performances. Celebrate the spring! After an eventful day, relax in the natural swimming pond and spa area of the adults-only hotel - the perfect retreat for a conscious spring break.

Green City Hotel Vauban, Freiburg

The Green City Hotel Vauban is not only a sustainable retreat for business or city trips, but also the perfect starting point for discovering Freiburg's spring cuisine. From the eco-friendly city hotel, you can quickly reach the city center by bike or tram, or take advantage of the extensive bike trails in the Breisgau region.

Freiburg itself, known as the "Gate of Spring," attracts visitors during the first warm months of the year with seasonal specialties such as fresh asparagus, best served with traditional "Kratzete" (a kind of savory "Kaiserschmarrn") and a glass of Baden Pinot Noir. These delicacies are most authentically enjoyed in the nearby wine taverns around the city - or you can buy the ingredients directly from local producers at the Muenstermarkt and cook for yourself.After a delicious meal, take a stroll through the city and be sure to visit the blooming Konviktstraße, where the wisteria is a true spring highlight.

Spring is a fantastic time to enjoy nature and especially its flavors. Let the aromas of the season inspire you - ideally at a sustainable hotel in the Green Pearls® network.

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TRAVEL: Secret Gem – Why Warpe in Lower Saxony is worth a visit

This year, it's time to discover the unknown. For Germany, this means not visiting the Black Forest, the Baltic Sea or Neuschwanstein Castle - but a hidden place like Warpe in Lower Saxony. Never heard of it? Then now is the time!

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WELLNESS: A piece of a better world with 500 years of history at Hotel Klosterbräu Seefeld

A wonder from the past, a place of longing today: the Hotel Klosterbräu in the Tyrolean mountains combines history, luxury, sustainability and family. What fascinates me most about this hotel is the sense of well-being that emanates from it. Something you don't find so often these days.

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CULINARY: Culinary journey through Liguria: A wealth of vegetables and herbs

“Italian cuisine is not limited to regional differences. It even varies from village to village,” says Martina Dellerba from Relais del Maro in Borgomaro. She told us the most important things you shouldn't miss on a culinary trip through Liguria.

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More and More People are using E-Bikes on Vacation

According to this study by the Tourism Network Brandenburg, the e-bike has established itself as a means of transportation for vacation trips. About 29% of the respondents said that they had used an e-bike during their last vacation. More and more travelers are recognizing the advantages of the electric bike and see it as a comfortable way to explore unknown areas. 

Above all, they appreciate the flexibility and comfort that electric bikes offer. They make it possible for less experienced cyclists or older people to cover long distances and climb steep hills. But even fit travelers enjoy covering longer distances comfortably and with less effort, while actively enjoying the outdoors.

The study also shows that e-bikers are increasingly looking for sustainable hotels with the appropriate infrastructure and services. E-bike rental, charging stations, and secure bike parking have become a key factor in their choice of accommodation.

E-Bike Offers from Green Pearls® Partners

The Green Pearls® accommodations, with their focus on sustainable tourism, have responded to this trend. E-bike vacationers will find a variety of options that allow them to fully enjoy their surroundings while protecting the environment and keeping the CO₂ emissions of their trip low.

E-Biking in South Tyrol

E-bike tourism is on the rise in mountain destinations like South Tyrol. The region offers many varied e-bike tours through picturesque landscapes and charming villages. The APIPURA hotel rinner on the Ritten, the LA VIMEA vegan hotel in Naturno, and the Hotel My Arbor near Brixen all offer their guests e-bikes and additional services such as secure parking (some with video surveillance and chip card access) and charging stations.

The Hotel Weihrerhof (also on the Ritten) complements this offer with a comprehensive service for cyclists: guests can rent e-bikes directly at the hotel and get access to detailed bike maps, which are also available on Komoot, to start tours directly from the hotel. In addition, both the APIPURA hotel rinner and the Weihrerhof offer two free guided e-bike tours per week.

The Paradiso Pure. Living Vegan Hotel and the ADLER Spa Resorts (Ritten and Sicily) also provide their guests with high-quality e-bikes that are regularly and professionally serviced. The surroundings of the Paradiso Pure. Living Vegan Hotel offers a variety of routes, from sporty and challenging to relaxed. Particularly noteworthy are the trails in the Seiser Alm, which lead through impressive Dolomite landscapes and are ideal for extended e-bike tours. Both the ADLER Lodge RITTEN and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA regularly organize e-bike tours with local guides. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can use the ADLER app, which includes tour recommendations with elevation profiles and route descriptions.

At OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, many guests arrive by e-bike and bicycle. That is why the eco-aparthotel offers an extensive bike depot with a bike wash, lockers, and a workshop. OLM is also represented on platforms such as Outdooractive and shows guests suitable tours.

E-Mobility in the Alps of the DACH Region

The Alpine regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland offer a wide range of activities for bike and e-bike enthusiasts. At the Biohotel Grafenast (Austria), those seeking relaxation can join guided tours or borrow mountain-compatible e-bikes free of charge and plan an individual tour. The Grafenast has also added "Bike & Hike" tours to its activities program, which are becoming increasingly popular.  

The Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in the Bavarian Alps and the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt offer their own e-bike rentals as well as numerous guided nature tours, such as the Stellisee Sunset E-Bike Tour in Zermatt. The tour offers guests the opportunity to visit the Stellisee and enjoy the sunset in peace, outside of the operating hours of the mountain railways. CERVO in Zermatt goes one step further and rewards eco-conscious behavior by offering a free drink to any guest who visits the terrace wearing a bike helmet.

In East Tyrol, Naturhotel Outside rents high-quality electric mountain bikes for extended tours on a variety of cycling and mountain biking trails for beginners and advanced riders, including the famous trails around Bikepark Lienz. Similar to Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau, the Naturhotel Outside offers extensive information on local tours, maps, and tips from a team that knows the area well. Guests can also use the hotel's presence on Komoot to plan their trips. The Rübezahl also rents out e-bikes, which can be charged with green electricity in the hotel garage

The Black Forest is known for its picturesque landscapes and excellent biking trails. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA offers its guests not only a secure bike storage room with charging stations for e-bikes but also the opportunity to rent e-mountain bikes right in front of the hotel. In cooperation with a local e-bike dealer, guests can choose the right bike for their tour on-site.

In Tenerife, the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel allows guests to explore the north of the island on their own. The hotel offers a convenient delivery and pick-up service for e-bikes, which can be rented from a local supplier at the reception. The northern part of the island is known for its mountainous landscape, and e-bikes are the perfect way to experience the scenery without overexerting yourself.

Guests at the Relais del Maro Albergo Diffuso in Liguria can also rent e-bikes. This is a relaxing way to explore the mountainous interior of Liguria.

E-Bike or Classic Bike? Both are available here.

Many sustainable hotels and accommodations offer both e-bikes and conventional bicycles for cyclists. For example, Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen, Germany, welcomes many guests each year who bring e-bikes. Hotel STURM, in the foothills of the Rhön, focuses more on off-road bikes but offers a secure bike box for guests traveling with their own e-bikes, where they can charge them for free. Gut Guntrams also has an e-bike rental service, but most guests arrive with their own bikes – about a third of which are e-bikes. The hotel also offers a laundry service for sportswear and water bottles.

The Lifestylehotel SAND on Germany's Baltic coast has also seen an increase in the number of guests with own bicycles and e-bikes. For all others, a fleet of non-motorized myBoo rental bikes is available. Charging stations are also planned.

The Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt has a lockable bike room with charging and washing facilities for both electric and non-electric bikes. For those who don't want to ride their e-bike in the mountains, Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony offers relaxed bike tours, a secure bike room for all bikes, and Komoot tour suggestions that start right at the hotel.

E-Bikes in Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism with e-bikes is growing in popularity as an environmentally friendly, healthy, and flexible alternative to conventional mobility options. Sustainable hotels are encouraging this development with offerings such as dedicated e-bike rentals, guided tours, and detailed route recommendations. These initiatives not only support sustainable tourism but also strengthen local economies by relying on local suppliers.

The use of e-bikes is a key component of sustainable tourism. It combines environmental friendliness, health benefits, and flexibility, making it ideal for hotels that want to minimize their environmental footprint while offering memorable experiences.

For more information about the individual hotels, please visit the corresponding microsites and contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com if you have any questions, cooperation requests, or require additional image material.

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More luggage = more CO₂

Did you know that the weight of your luggage has a direct impact on your emissions? Especially when traveling by car or plane, extra kilos mean more fuel consumption and therefore more emissions. So, by focusing on the essentials when packing, you can reduce your environmental impact and enjoy a lighter suitcase.

By the way: Weight also matters when you travel by train. But you probably pack lighter when you take the train anyway.

Lighter Luggage thanks to Rental and Hotel Services

Of course, packing light starts with a critical look at your clothing choices. Experience tells us that most of us pack way too much clothing. And just one more "emergency" pair of jeans can quickly add more than 1 kilogram of extra weight to your bag! To make packing easier, you can take advantage of the services and amenities at your sustainable accommodation. We'll show you how.

1) Local Rental Services

Whether you need hiking boots, a hairdryer, backpacks, or bicycles, the rental pool at Biohotel Grafenast in Austria has the right equipment for almost any situation. This saves space in your suitcase and you arrive more relaxed. Maybe that's a reason for you to take the train? After all, heavy and bulky equipment will be left at home.

Be sure to check with your accommodation to see what rental options are available. For example, the Relais del Maro in the small village of Borgomaro has a selection of board games for you to borrow. The Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol has a library (including a selection of blind-date books), and you will also find a hiking rucksack in your room to help you on your South Tyrolean adventure.

2) Sustainable Cosmetics in Hotels

Many sustainable accommodations in the Green Pearls® network use refillable natural cosmetics. So if you prefer, you can leave your toiletries at home and use the eco-friendly alternatives on site. At Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, you can also look forward to solid shampoo and zero-waste bath products. For spa moments all to yourself.

3) Local Products for Lasting Memories

Some hotels even offer sustainably produced clothing or accessories in their shops. At your vacation destination, you will also find many shops and local businesses where you can pick up a souvenir or two. So, if you are thinking about buying something new for your vacation, wait until you get there. That way, you will have a souvenir to remember your trip by.

But be careful: we are not talking about the "souvenir" shops with mass-produced imports, but rather owner-operated shops with local and sustainable products! It's best to ask your hosts directly for recommendations.

An example of a small and carefully curated hotel shop can be found at the Lifestylehotel SAND. Hotel manager Marion Muller selects the products for sale with great care and a special eye on sustainability and regionality. The same goes for the sisters who run the cozy Hotel Okelmann's in Warpe, Lower Saxony. In the adjacent and equally lovingly run Café Heimatliebe, guests and visitors will find a concept store with all sorts of little things to take home - for two and four-legged friends alike.

But sometimes it just happens: at the end of a trip, you realize you packed more than you needed, or you bought something new at your destination and now your suitcase is bursting at the seams. Through the "Clothes Make People (Happy)" project at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, guests can donate unused clothing on site instead of taking it home again to gather dust in the closet. To do so, you place the wooden coins provided in the room - locally made "tokens" made of MDF with ash veneer - on the items, giving them a second life. A classic win-win situation: your luggage is lighter and your clothes are given to people who can make good use of them. A sustainable approach that combines conscious packing with social engagement.

Less Luggage = Less Stress

Traveling light makes you more relaxed, and every item you leave at home has a positive impact on the environment. Many of our hotel partners can help by offering ways to literally lighten your load – and make more room for those special experiences.

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TRAVEL: SPRING IN TENERIFE – TIPS AND DATES

During March, April, and May, Tenerife is in full bloom. Combined with wonderful temperatures of around 23 degrees Celsius, it is an ideal time to visit the Canary Islands. Here you will find important dates, tips, and addresses, as well as ideas on how to make your spring vacation in Tenerife as sustainable as possible.

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WELLNESS: MINDFUL TRAVEL PLANNING

The benefits of travel start before you even leave the house! According to researchers, the very act of planning a trip has a positive effect on the psyche! The anticipation, the excitement, and of course, the dopamine rush when you click “book”! Through mindful travel planning, you can also make your next trip sustainable.

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CULINARY: A CULINARY JOURNEY TO THE ALLGÄU REGION OF GERMANY WITH CHEF ERIK WENDT

“Honest and down-to-earth” is how the longtime chef at the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen describes Allgäu cuisine. In the mountains of the German-Austrian border region, he says, you can get by with very few ingredients and rely directly on nature. Erik will tell you what you must try in the Allgäu.

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Out-of-home food service accounts for 18 percent of this waste, or nearly two million tons of food per year – much of it excess food that never makes it to the plate or leftovers from lavish buffets. This waste has far-reaching consequences for both the environment and the businesses involved. Sources of waste include miscalculations in purchasing, improper storage, or simply processing too much food that will not be sold or consumed.

Economic losses and increased carbon footprint

This results in significant annual losses for food service operators. Food waste is not only an economic drain and a waste of resources. It is also a significant source of CO₂ emissions. One kilogram of food waste generates approximately 2.1 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent.

The climate crisis has increased the urgency for hotels and restaurants to take responsibility and find (innovative) solutions to reduce waste. The hotels in the Green Pearls® network have already integrated this into their daily operations. With classic and innovative measures, they show the way to less waste and more sustainability in the hotel and restaurant industry.

As we enter a new year, there is no better time to encourage hotel operators to make a lasting difference in reducing global food waste.

Sustainability in Detail: Customized Approaches of Green Pearls Partner Hotels

Green Pearls® partner initiatives focus on precise planning, creative use of leftovers, and integration of closed-loop systems that enable hotels to eliminate food waste, reuse resources, and help protect the environment. For many chefs, a mindful approach to food is a top priority. Let's take a closer look at some examples:

Precise Planning and Reduced Buffets

In the APIPURA hotel rinner, junior manager Florian Rinner uses precise calculations to ensure that the dishes are prepared according to the number of guests. Surplus food, such as vegetable scraps, are used in broths and sauces or made into tasty salads and antipasti. Leftover bread is used to feed the animals.

Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA also minimizes food waste through sustainable planning and full utilization of ingredients. Regional and seasonal products are used in several dishes, e.g. leek is used as a side dish and a quiche. Leftover vegetables are used to make homemade stocks and soups, while careful portioning and a first-in-first-out system prevent spoilage. Any leftover food is sent to ReFood to be used for energy production.

The Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort promotes the full use of animals by offering guests a different menu every day. At Hotel Klosterbräu, surplus food is given to the staff cafeteria to reduce waste. In addition, Klosterbräu and Gut Sonnenhausen consciously avoid large buffets. Instead, food is continuously replenished to avoid overproduction and food waste.

Circular Economy and Waste Prevention

The Farmhouse Resort Smiling Gecko in Cambodia and the Keemala in Thailand have strict zero-waste policies, and all waste is processed in their own composting facilities. The resulting compost is used as nutrient-rich soil for the hotel's own farm and garden, as well as for soil improvement. This circular approach not only reduces waste but also supports local food production.

A similar initiative is in place at STURM, where organic waste is composted and the resulting soil is used in the on-site snack garden. The hotel's live cooking concept, where dishes are prepared one at a time, ensures that less food is left over. Guests also learn how their food is made, fostering both appreciation and sustainable use of resources.

At Gut Guntrams, the "Veranda" team rewrites the menus every week based on the fresh harvest from the garden. This ensures that there is never a surplus. The careful selection of seasonal and regional ingredients not only guarantees the freshness of the dishes but also reduces the kitchen's carbon footprint. At the Naturresort Gerbehof, there is also virtually no real waste as any leftovers are either eaten by the chickens or added to the compost heap and eventually returned to the garden.

At the Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, food is cooked only to order, so there is no overproduction, and only what is served is used. Any leftovers are processed in the hotel's biogas plant, which in turn powers the kitchen – a perfect example of a closed-loop system.

Portion Management, Employee Catering, and Creative Use of Leftovers

At Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy, and Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, Austria, special attention is paid to planning the right portion sizes. In this way, only the necessary quantities are prepared, avoiding food waste. OLM Nature Escape goes one step further and offers all dishes only on request. At Hotel Okelmann's every meal is tailored to the number of guests. Guests must register in advance.

Through consistent meal planning, overproduction is avoided across all of these properties, and resources are used efficiently. This not only reduces waste but also contributes to the sustainability of the entire hotel operation. Any leftover food is used for the team. Either directly in the staff cafeteria or as a take-home option.

The Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten in Austria uses leftovers creatively: potato peels are turned into crispy chips, and leftovers from breakfast are incorporated into the menu. The CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, Switzerland, is also constantly looking for new solutions. For example, citrus fruits that are no longer in their prime are turned into a versatile, aromatic syrup that can be used in everything from cocktails to lemonades to desserts. What would otherwise be “food waste” is transformed into a new culinary experience for guests.

Awareness and Network

The Green City Hotel Vauban delivers leftover food directly to a food station across the street from the hotel or redistributes oversized orders regionally. The three Green Spirit Hotels in Paris use humorous signs in English and French to educate guests on how to avoid wasting food. In fact, composting is now mandatory in France to ensure sustainable recycling of waste.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, produces virtually no food waste: According to the hotel, only 5 grams of food is left over per guest per meal. This is achieved through intelligent plate layouts, smaller plates, and targeted questions at the end of breakfast to allow for individual refills rather than completely replenishing the buffet.

The Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt only prepares egg dishes at the breakfast buffet on request, also to encourage more conscious eating habits. The hotel also freezes leftover bread for use in other dishes. As a member of "United against Food Waste", the hotel is actively involved in the fight against food wastage and also raises awareness of this important issue among its guests.

Reducing Food Waste together

With their individual approaches, Green Pearls® partner hotels demonstrate that sustainability in the hotel industry is not only possible but can be inspiring and innovative. Whether it's creative use of leftovers, homemade products such as syrups, targeted portioning, or sharing surplus food with NGOs and staff, each hotel is doing its part to reduce food waste. From large-scale recycling initiatives like The Pavilions Himalayas and Farmhouse Smiling Gecko to fine-tuned efforts like Relais del Maro and Hotel Luise, these hotels are setting new standards for responsible resource use and demonstrating how sustainability can look different.

For more information and/or images, as well as for further inquiries (cooperation or press trips), please get in touch with us at press@greenpearls.com.

Circular Design: Sustainable and Forward Thinking.

Circular design is an approach that aims to eliminate waste and efficiently use and reuse resources in a circular manner. Materials and products are designed to be recycled, reused, or otherwise returned to the cycle at the end of their life. Unlike linear production models, in which raw materials are processed into products and disposed of after use, circular design, or Cradle to Cradle®, is a closed-loop strategy. It considers the entire life cycle of a material – from sourcing to production, use, and recycling.

In the hotel industry, circular design concepts open up new and sustainable possibilities for room and hotel renovations. For example, hotel rooms could be furnished with durable materials that are recyclable or biodegradable. Modular furniture and reused building materials also play an important role, as they can be used flexibly and over the long term.

Circular Living in the Black Forest

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA and its "Circular Living" concept show what a space plan based on circular design principles can look like. For hotel owner Stephan Bode, it was essential that his concept could be adapted to other renovations and new buildings, while at the same time meeting remarkable ecological efficiency standards. "Circular Living” is based on materials selected for their environmental friendliness, material health, quality, and durability. This is backed by international certifications such as Cradle to Cradle Certified® and EcoVadis. The collaboration with the renowned Black Forest interior designer FRITZ SCHLECHT | SHL ensured that the three different room designs were implemented according to the highest design standards.

Resource Conservation as Part of every Decision

Another example is the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany. The name speaks for itself with its “Regrowing Hotel Rooms.” Built according to the cradle-to-cradle principle, all materials used are either biodegradable or 100% recyclable. From the very beginning, every material choice was made with resource conservation in mind. The sustainable philosophy extends not only to the materials but also to the entire operation of the rooms (e.g. water conservation through "astronaut showers").

Creating Connections through Circulation

The Hotel Weihrerhof* in South Tyrol, Italy, has also embraced circular thinking and designed its Windspiel rooms accordingly. When selecting products and furnishings, they focused on healthy materials, recyclability, carbon neutrality, and decarbonization. This includes refinishing the old wooden furniture and reupholstering the upholstered furniture instead of buying new ones. These upcycling choices not only make the Windspiel rooms environmentally friendly but also give them a distinctive touch that links the past with the future.

Upcycling and Eco-Friendly Materials: Two Pillars for a Green Future

Upcycling and the use of sustainable materials are critical to a sustainable future for the hospitality industry. While upcycling provides a creative solution for reusing products and furnishings, the use of resource-efficient, durable materials allows for the long-term reduction of a hotel's environmental footprint. Taken together, these practices are an important part of a green hotel strategy that combines environmental, economic, and aesthetic benefits.

Old Furniture Reimagined

Upcycling is a method of transforming old materials or objects into new, functional, and aesthetically pleasing items. Well-known in the home improvement industry, this practice is increasingly being used in the hospitality industry. No wonder, since it combines the aspect of resource conservation with innovative and individual design solutions. Outstanding examples are the rooms of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, which were recently renovated according to this principle and show a new direction for the sustainable renovation of hotel rooms. Under the creative direction of interior designer Sarah Stapelfeldt, the original furniture and materials were refurbished, redesigned and in some cases reassembled. The result is a series of unique, functional design pieces that exude a modern, stylish charm while reducing the hotel's environmental impact.

Upcycling and recycling not only apply to furniture or materials but can also be extended to new furnishings. For example, Interface carpet tiles containing up to 93.25 percent recycled content (pre-consumer and post-consumer PET) were installed in the Lifestylehotel SAND by the Baltic Sea. The high recycled content not only helps reduce plastic waste but also provides a durable and functional flooring solution that perfectly complements the design concept of the lifestyle hotel with its "sandy" look.

Sustainable Materials for Eco-Friendly Renovations

In addition to upcycling, material selection plays an equally important role in the sustainability of a renovation project. Materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, hemp, cork, and loam plaster offer alternatives to conventional building materials. Not only do they help reduce environmental impact, but they are also durable, efficient, and easy to maintain. These features help hotels save money in the long run and also meet their sustainability goals.

The 28 natural rooms at the Tyrolean Hotel Klosterbräu, which opened in 2023, show how it can be done. Up to 95% of the materials used come from the surrounding area. Earthen clay plaster, wood from the hotel's forest, and details such as lampshades made from dried hay flowers create a creative, healthy, natural, and sustainable mix of materials.

As Sustainable as Possible: The new Nature SPA at Naturhotel Outside

In the course of the reconstruction and reopening of the wellness area in December 2024, the Naturhotel Outside placed special emphasis on the use of regional materials and environmentally friendly techniques. The interior is made of East Tyrolean serpentine and larch wood. The healing water for the new brine bath is drawn from a spring just 30 kilometers away. The hotel also incorporates energy efficiency measures, such as placing the heated outdoor pool in a sheltered location and installing a photovoltaic system to provide approximately 20% of the hotel's energy needs.

The combination of upcycling and the use of sustainable materials allows hotels to improve their environmental performance while creating a unique, eco-conscious design. Aesthetic appeal, the responsible use of resources, and functionality all go hand in hand.

The Economic Benefits of Sustainable Hotel Renovation

In terms of profitability, it has been proven time and again that circular design and upcycling can help reduce costs. A hotel that reuses furniture or building elements avoids high disposal costs because less material ends up in landfills. At the same time, reusable textiles, modular elements, or recycled/upcycled furniture also reduce the need for new purchases.

The exact amount of savings will vary depending on the extent of the renovations and the source materials chosen, but the principles of upcycling and circular design offer significant long-term economic benefits in almost all cases by extending the life of materials and reducing overall resource consumption.

Market Trends, Prospects, and Leadership

As demonstrated, circular design and upcycling offer not only environmental benefits but also aesthetic and economic potential for the hotel industry. Concepts based on these ideas make it possible to rethink and reintegrate furniture, décor, and other hotel materials into the design process.

The demand for sustainable accommodations and renovations is also growing. Studies show that more and more travelers are considering environmental factors when choosing a hotel, with more than three-quarters now preferring eco-friendly accommodations (Booking.com, 2024). This means that hotels that focus on recyclable design are also meeting the growing expectations of guests who value a sustainable travel experience.

The responsibility hoteliers take by choosing to renovate sustainably goes beyond their own impact. Conserving resources, reducing waste, and increasing energy efficiency in the renovation of the many hotel rooms in Germany alone directly contributes to global climate goals such as the Paris Agreement, which calls for a drastic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. In line with the European Green Deal, which calls for a transition to a carbon-neutral economy by 2050, circular design also offers a solution that requires only a little more effort and does not necessarily cost more. This is how Stephan Bode talks about the Circular Living concept in an interview with Green Pearls®. In addition, there is a current opportunity for hoteliers to lead the way in an industry that is under increasing pressure to implement environmentally friendly and sustainable concepts.

Shaping the Future of Hotel Renovation

Hotels and resorts must renovate their rooms approximately every 10 to 12 years. Each renovation generates tons of waste. Conventional carpeting, engineered wood products (not solid wood), and other composite materials are not recyclable or are difficult to recycle, so old furnishings often end up in landfills.

The alternatives are circular design and upcycling. Not only are they good for the environment, but they are also smart business decisions. Hotels and accommodations that embrace these principles in their renovations and new construction improve their environmental performance, take responsibility for their environmental impact, and create unique, sustainable experiences for their guests. Green Pearls® partners are leading by example, demonstrating how creative, resource-efficient renovations can contribute to a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry - both environmentally and economically.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

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From locally sourced products to artfully crafted gifts and decorations - many manufacturers and suppliers are now focusing on eco-friendly materials, as well as handmade and fair-trade goods. But that's not all: the culinary world is also increasingly focusing on organic and local products, as well as vegetarian and vegan alternatives. So if you want to enjoy the festive atmosphere without having a guilty conscience, you have more and more options to make conscious choices.

5 Tips for a Sustainable Christmas Market Visit

1. Take public transportation to get there
   This also means you won't have to worry about finding a parking space.
2. Local and handmade
   When buying gifts, consider where they come from and support local artisans or producers.
3. Choose carefully
   With so many options to choose from, it's easy to be tempted to buy more than you want or need. So, think about whether you really need that 15th decorative item. If you do want something new, make sure you buy a product that will last as long as possible.
4. Try something new
   Take advantage of your visit to the Christmas Market and try the vegan pea stew or the vegetarian handbread.
5. Book sustainably
   If you are visiting a market further afield and want to stay overnight, book sustainable accommodation and take the opportunity to explore local businesses away from the market.

A Sustainable Christmas Market Weekend – Recommendations from Green Pearls® Partners

In this newsletter, our sustainable hotel and vacation rental partners share some of their favorite Christmas markets. Discover special places where tradition and responsibility go hand in hand and get inspired to enjoy the festivities in a conscious (and eco-friendly) way.

Christmas Markets in South Tyrol

• Rittner Christbahnl in Oberbozen, Wolfsgruben, and Klobenstein, made up of small Ritten Bahnlen that house the various stands
  Recommended by the APIPURA hotel rinner*, which has its own organic honey stand, and the Hotel Weihrerhof* on the Wolfsgruben Lake, for whom this market is the absolute favorite.
  Date: Weekends from November 29, 2024 through January 5, 2025
  For more information about the Christmas Market, click here
   
• Christkindlmarkt in Bolzano at the foot of the Ritten with eco-friendly products, gifts made of recycled materials, and regional organic specialties
  Recommended by ADLER Lodge RITTEN*, where guests can experience an equally magical and cozy atmosphere, either in the luxurious suites or the private chalets.
  Date: November 28, 2024 through January 6, 2025
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Brixen Christmas Market, the oldest in South Tyrol
  Recommended by the adults-only Hotel My Arbor*, which also recommends its guests to see the light show "Colors 2 - The Journey Continues" at the Brixen Hofburg.
  Date: November 29, 2024 - January 6, 2025
  Learn more about the Christmas Market

Christmas Markets in Germany

• Christmas Market "Arts and Crafts" during the second weekend of Advent at the Hermannsdorf Estate near Munich
  Recommended by Gut Sonnenhausen in Glonn
  Date: December 7-8
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Baden-Baden Christmas Market and "Wintertime" at the Schlossplatz in Karlsruhe
  Highlights: Historic ensemble in Baden-Baden and large skating rink with romantic circuit against the backdrop of Karlsruhe's baroque palace
  Recommended by SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb
  Date Baden-Baden: November 21, 2024 to January 6, 2025
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
  Date "Wintertime" in Karlsruhe: November 25, 2024 until January 26, 2025
  Learn more  about the “ Winter time”
   
• Freiburg Christmas Market
  Recommended by Green City Hotel Vauban, from where you can reach the city center directly by public transport
  Date: November 21 through December 23, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Fischer's Wiehnacht in Niendorf Harbor is a cozy, authentic alternative to the big markets in Lübeck and Hamburg
  Recommended by the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand, which is located (almost) directly on the Baltic Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein
  Date: First weekend in Advent
  Learn more about the “Wiehnacht”
   
• Romantic Christmas Market at the Thurn and Taxis Castle in Regensburg
  Recommended by the 5-Star Wellness Hotel Birkenhof in Neuburg vorm Walde
  Date: November 22 - December 23, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Old town magic at the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market
  Recommended by the LifeStyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, where you can relax in the extensive spa after visiting the Christmas Market
  Date: November 22 through December 22, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Christmas Market at the Lindau Harbor
  Recommended by the team of the sustainable wellness hotel HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu region.
  Date: November 28 through December 22, Thursday through Sunday
  Learn more about the Christmas Market

Christmas Markets in Austria

• Mountain Christmas in the Lienzer Dolomites
  Recommended by the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei in East Tyrol, which reopens on December 20 with a new spa
  Date: Various dates for the different mountain Christmases throughout the area
  Learn more about the Christmas Markets
   
• Mountain Christmas and sustainable Advent market in Kaunertal
  Recommended by the Summit Lodges in Pfunds: Two log cabins await you, each with its own sauna and fireplace for cozy hours with the whole family
  Date: The four Saturdays of Advent and December 28, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Christmas markets in Rattenberg and Schwaz
  Recommended by Biohotel Grafenast, a hotel that serves organic food and is located high above the Inn Valley with a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside
  Date Rattenberg: November 22 through December 22, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
  Date Schwaz: November 22 to December 23, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Brixlegg Christmas and Farmer's Market in the Alpbach Valley
  Recommended by Hygna Chalets, where guests can relax in their private luxury chalet with mini spa after visiting the Christmas Market
  Date: December 7, 2024
  Learn more about the Christmas Market
   
• Advent market in Seebenstein in the castle park, featuring torches on the pond and a floating nativity scene
  Recommended by Gut Guntrams near Vienna with three different accommodation options: the Guesthouse Flora, the Villa Tranquillini, and the "floating" garden lofts
  Date: First weekend in Advent
  Learn more about the Christmas Market

Christmas Markets in the Rest of Europe

• Paris Christmas markets with French arts and crafts
  Recommended by Green Spirit Hotels Paris, all within walking distance of most attractions (and Christmas markets)
  Various dates: usually from late November to late December
   
• Milan Christmas markets with Italian and international delicacies, local handicrafts and festive illuminations
  Recommended by Hotel Milano Scala, located in the heart of the historic center and just a few meters from the famous Teatro alla Scala.
  Date: From November 29, 2024 (Christmas tree lighting on December 6)

Want to read more? 

We recommend these blog articles:

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Tips for your vegan ski vacation and our favorite addresses for vegan ski hotels and huts

Veganism has (fortunately) also arrived in ski regions in South Tyrol, Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. We have compiled our favorites for you when it comes to vegan ski hotels and huts with animal-free offers.

Read the blog.

Green DIY - A spa day and pampering at home too

A professional spa treatment in a wellness hotel is a luxurious treat that many people indulge in on vacation. But you don't always have the time or money for it. That's why we'll show you how you can relax at home with a sustainable DIY spa day and do something good for your skin and health. Including tips from the sustainable Green PearlsⓇ wellness hotels, who have shared their recipes with us.

Read the blog.

Sustainable hotel restaurants - Our Green PearlsⓇ favorites

In Germany, hotel restaurants (with a few exceptions) are not necessarily a trending topic in the gastronomy scene. In countries like the USA or India, it's quite different - and we also like to go to hotel restaurants (or to the hotel café or roof terrace). Because even if a restaurant has to impress with its food, it's the atmosphere and the surroundings that visit a restaurant really exciting.

Read the blog.

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More and more often we read the news: ski resort has to close. Too little snow, too few visitors. The influence of climate change sends its regards.

More about the topic.

Carefree travel, planning nothing, and simply relaxing - this is the dream vacation of many young people in particular. That's right! Why more and more young travelers are opting for package deals.

Read the full article.

What do you look for in a sustainable brand? Green Living magazine has compiled 4 characteristics to help you make an assessment.

To the article.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ
• APIPURA hotel rinner: IT021072A1UOWUIDH4
• Hotel My Arbor: IT021011A1AE4737IT
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

Regional Added-Value and Cultural Preservation

Sustainable hotels are guardians not only of the environment but also of local culture. They work with local communities to create jobs, promote traditional crafts, and preserve cultural heritage. This collaboration ensures that local traditions are kept alive, creating authentic experiences for guests.

One example is the OLM Nature Escape* in South Tyrol, which works closely with the Sägemüllerhof social cooperative (Demeter). The hotel purchases many of its products from this neighboring business and also provides financial support. It also offers its team social benefits such as health checks. In this way, it underlines its holistic responsibility towards the community.

The Relais del Maro* in Liguria is proof of how strong the link between a hotel and its surroundings can be. The Scalambrim family designed the hotel as an Albergo Diffuso, a concept that involves restoring several old family homes scattered throughout the village and opening them to guests. Through this unique hotel concept, guests can experience the charm of a typical Ligurian village and immerse themselves in the history, culture, and traditions of Borgomaro. The family has been tied to the village for generations – and continues its legacy in an authentic way. In this way, the village is strengthened and its culture preserved.

Vacation for Everyone

Several hoteliers in the Green Pearls® network have taken it upon themselves to help people in difficult circumstances. With programs that enable disadvantaged families to take a vacation, they offer not only relaxation but also precious moments of happiness, relief, and hope.

For example, the Hotel Weihrerhof* cooperates with the South Tyrolean children's cancer charity Peter Pan. The hotel offers families with children suffering from cancer a free vacation in the off-season to give them a break from the often stressful daily routine. This time is especially valuable for siblings.  

Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld is an active member of the Global Family Charity Resort e.V. initiative. An organization dedicated to providing vacations for families in need. The Klosterbräu offers a free vacation to families who would otherwise not be able to afford one due to difficult circumstances. This support goes far beyond a simple vacation experience. It gives families strength and hope for their daily lives. Similarly, the Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol and the Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA are involved with Global Family and offer families a carefree vacation in the middle of nature.

Stronger Together: Taking Social Responsibility for the Team

Sustainable hotels care not only about their guests and the environment but also about the well-being of their team. Through targeted programs and social offerings, they not only promote professional development but also create a supportive environment that improves the daily lives of employees.

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Balderschwang is a pioneer in this regard. By providing affordable housing within a 2-kilometer radius, the hotel offers its employees the opportunity to live close to where they work. This project not only shortens the commute (and thus the working day) but also makes an important contribution to sustainability by reducing traffic.

Other notable examples are the ADLER Resorts & Spas, which include the ADLER Lodge RITTEN* and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA. They offer their nearly 65 employees not only attractive compensation and working hours but also specially subsidized apartments and housing to ensure a stress-free living situation. The Italian hotel group also attaches great importance to the professional and personal development of its team and offers regular training courses. With initiatives such as these, ADLER Resorts & Spas shows how social responsibility is also practiced within its team.

Guests are Part of the Change

Volunteer programs and creative giving models directly engage guests in positive change and give them the chance to become part of it.

The Naturresort Gerbehof is doing this in the form of a fundraising campaign. The hotel donates four euros a day to the Sternenland children's project of the Stiftung für Gesundheit in Taubenheim, Germany, when guests waive the daily room cleaning service. There, children up to the age of five are treated free of charge using the Philippi method. In this way, guests help to ensure that the youngest receive the support they need. It is a simple but effective way to do good.

Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa also proves that guests can make an important contribution to supporting social projects by choosing whether or not to have their rooms cleaned. The hotel donates the money collected to the local mountain rescue service and its important work in the Bavarian Alps. In this way, Klosterhof guests indirectly ensure the safety and protection of the alpine community.

Long-term Social Impact of Sustainable Projects

Social projects implemented in sustainable hotels often offer much more than short-term relief. They lead to profound, long-term change and promote the autonomy and independence of the communities they support.

Hotel Luise in Erlangen is an example of such a long-term and multi-faceted commitment to sustainability. In 2022, the hotel planted a microforest to increase biodiversity and improve the quality of life in the neighborhood. This forest is continually maintained and expanded. The positive effects on biodiversity and microclimate are already noticeable. The hotel has also installed a vending machine with regional, organic, and fair-trade products to supplement the local supply for residents, as there are few supermarkets in the immediate area. Working with the Center for Independent Living, the vending machine was designed to be accessible to people with disabilities. Food from the vending machine that is about to expire is used for breakfast at the hotel to reduce food waste. Projects like this have a lasting and positive impact on the community and daily life in the area.

Another example of the long-term impact of social projects can be found at the NGO Smiling Gecko's FARMHOUSE resort, where chef Mariya Un Noun has had an inspiring career. Growing up in Cambodia and originally without access to formal education, Mariya's passion and ambition for the culinary arts helped her work her way up the ranks. Under the guidance of renowned chefs such as Andreas Caminada and Peter Knogl, she developed her skills and became the first Cambodian chef to receive international recognition for her cuisine.

At FARMHOUSE Smiling Gecko, she uses her talent to delight and inspire guests, as well as to educate local youth and provide them with opportunities for the future. The Smiling Gecko Project supports rural communities by promoting education, employment, and sustainable agriculture. The goal is to create long-term prospects and alleviate poverty through holistic development projects. As chef, Mariya plays a vital role in promoting self-employment and career opportunities for disadvantaged communities.

Donations and Sponsorships

Many sustainable hoteliers are not only involved locally but also support international and charitable organizations through donations and sponsorship programs. These initiatives make it possible to have a positive impact beyond one's region, benefiting global and local communities alike.

For example, SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA collects bottle caps, which are recycled by the BlechWech organization. The proceeds from the recycling process go directly to SOS Children's Villages, specifically to a mother-child clinic in Somalia. This simple but effective initiative combines environmental protection with social commitment.

The CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt also supports various charitable projects. The hotel currently donates 10% of its water sales to WIR (Water is Right) to fund wells in remote regions of India and it offsets its CO₂ emissions by donating to MyClimate, an organization that promotes social and sustainable projects worldwide. In addition, the hotel supports local associations in Zermatt and provides them with presentation opportunities at events. Since 2023, CERVO has also offered its employees the opportunity to actively participate in the design of sustainability projects through its internal Sustainable Ambassador Program.

Sustainable Hotels as Drivers of Positive Change

The activities of sustainable hotels promote social justice and improve the quality of life in local and global communities. The examples presented here show how well-designed social projects not only benefit local communities but also the hotels themselves by providing an enriching experience for their guests.

This win-win situation strengthens social cohesion and fosters a sense of community that can bring long-term benefits to all involved, such as increasing the acceptance of tourism in the region. The members of the Green Pearls® network set the standard for a future-oriented travel and vacation culture that benefits guests and locals alike.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ
• OLM Nature Escape: IT021017B4CPKU6WK9
• Relais del Maro: IT008010A1NIWKHTTF
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

Good Reasons for a Detox Treatment in Fall

Detoxing during these months is a chance to calm down, focus on yourself, and establish healthy habits. It helps to stay fresh and vibrant despite the shorter days and less sunlight. In addition, it supports the body by strengthening the immune system. Harvest time means that many fresh, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables are available that are ideal for detoxification. Typical fall produce such as beets, cabbage, squash, and apples are great for a detox diet.

Other factors besides diet play an important role. Getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol are essential components of a successful detox. Regular exercise in the fresh air, such as walking in the fall countryside, stimulates the metabolism, while yoga and Pilates harmonize the body and mind.

Spa treatments such as massages, saunas, and baths can also aid in the detoxification process. They increase circulation, stimulate lymphatic drainage, and help eliminate toxins. Finally, there is the mental component: conscious downtime, meditation, and relaxation techniques all contribute to a holistic cleansing.

Sustainable Recovery requires a Sustainable Environment

Green Pearls® Unique Places, the renowned communication platform for sustainable hotels and destinations, presents an exclusive selection of detox oases perfect for a fall and winter break. These carefully selected accommodations combine sustainability with holistic detox concepts and offer the ideal environment to escape from the daily grind and focus on your well-being.

A Sweet Detox in the Mountains

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio offers a special form of detoxification with the "Sweet Detox" treatment. This intensive, full-body metabolic massage with honey-ginger oil stimulates connective tissue circulation and pampers the senses. The combination of a beeswax back wrap, a grounding foot massage with a honey massage candle, and a moisture-regulating face wrap with hyaluronic acid offers a holistic detox experience.

Also worth mentioning is the hotel's "Nix tun" offer, in which guests are encouraged to exchange their cell phones for a time without appointments or obligations. This digital detox concept allows guests to completely disconnect from the digital world and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain landscape. The HUBERTUS sets an important example in times of constant accessibility and offers its guests the opportunity to slow down. In the end, there is a small reward for staying the course.

A Wide Range of Detox Treatments for Body and Mind

The eco aparthotel OLM Nature Escape* offers a full range of wellness treatments to thoroughly revitalize and purify the body and mind. Particularly suitable for a detox stay is the "Free Breath, Free Flow" treatment, which includes activation of the breathing points, inhalation with thyme, fennel, and aniseed, and a massage of the chest and back.

The partial lymphatic massage is particularly effective for heavy legs, water retention, and poor circulation. Gentle pumping and scooping movements promote detoxification and help restore a sense of vitality. The combination of physical and mental treatments, such as the mindfulness massage, allows guests to experience deep cleansing and renewal. This holistic approach promotes not only physical well-being, but also mental clarity and emotional balance.

Holistic Detox at Lake Constance

The Naturresort Gerbehof's detox program addresses the body, mind, and spirit by combining traditional wellness treatments with innovative methods and nature-based practices. The focus is on "fasting for the soul," which allows for holistic detoxification. The Philippi Method, consisting of bio meditation and the Atlantis 1 and 2 stress-relieving massages, helps to restore inner balance and permanently reduce stress. The program is complemented by nature-based practices such as forest bathing and forest meditation, which create a deep connection to nature and contribute to the well-being of the soul. Physical detoxification is supported by a variety of spa treatments, including specialized massages, scrubs, and baths. Cosmetic treatments complete the holistic detox experience. Treatments are offered daily.

Transformative Time-Out: The Mental Detox & Sound Healing Retreat at the Klosterhof

The Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in the Bavarian Alps is offering a unique mental detox and sound healing retreat led by Munich-based physician and sound therapist Lisa Schuster from November 24-27, 2024. This four-day retreat combines traditional alpine healing methods with innovative detox concepts and promises to be a transformative experience for participants.

The program begins with a welcome sound bath, followed by gentle flow yoga, a cocoa ceremony, and a sound meditation that uses the power of sounds and frequencies to promote relaxation, healing, and inner peace. This practice can calm the mind and release unwanted thought patterns, reduce anxiety, and promote inner peace. Participants experience gentle body awakening, toning exercises, and a final sharing circle with heart meditation. In addition to sound therapies, Klosterhof integrates alpine detoxification methods such as alpine mud wraps that utilize the detoxifying properties of local healing clay, a salt ceremony, and detoxifying liver wraps with mountain herbs.

Luxurious Detox with a Tropical Setting in Thailand

Located in a stunning tropical setting on the island of Phuket in Thailand, Keemala Resort offers a variety of detox treatments to cleanse the body and mind. Among the most popular are detox body wraps, which use natural products such as clay, algae, and essential oils to thoroughly cleanse and rejuvenate the skin. For a more complete detox, energy-boosting, nutrient-rich juice cleanses are available. These freshly pressed juices provide concentrated vitamins and minerals to support the body's natural detoxification function. Another highlight are the herbal steam baths, infused with detoxifying herbs that open pores, relax muscles, and eliminate toxins. The combination of heat and healing aromas promotes not only physical detoxification but also mental relaxation.

Revitalizing Detox Experiences in the Heart of the Alps

Surrounded by the mountains of Tyrol, guests of the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld can enjoy a comprehensive detox experience. The Alpine Detox Mud Wrap harnesses the power of nature to improve circulation and boost metabolism. Enriched with healing clay, this treatment cleanses and detoxifies the body and provides renewed energy. For hikers and sports enthusiasts, the Sport & Vitality Herbal Wrap offers an invigorating effect that refreshes tired muscles and joints with arnica and St. John's wort. The Ägyptos Vitality Wrap, inspired by ancient Egyptian traditions, detoxifies and purifies the body. It increases metabolism and strengthens the immune system. The revitalizing and toning abdominal wrap focuses on the abdominal area and internal organs, strengthening the immune system and gently tightening the connective tissue. The detox program is complemented by a special TCM cuisine that balances the acid-base levels and prevents cravings. With this holistic approach, guests can lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle in just a few days and return to their daily routines feeling invigorated.

Thalasso Detox with Mediterranean Flair in Sicily

With its ADLER Sicilia Detox Thalasso Program, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers a special combination of thalassotherapy and individually tailored detox treatments. In the picturesque surroundings of Sicily, body and mind are equally addressed and pampered. The program is very popular and receives consistently positive feedback. Guests especially appreciate the professional care provided by the experienced spa team, which delivers high-quality treatments. These range from detoxifying detox massages to multi-step detox rituals that include peelings, algae wraps, and dynamic massages. Guests report noticeable relaxation, increased well-being, and a renewed sense of vitality and balance. The customized wellness experience, which focuses on both physical care and spiritual harmony, leaves a lasting impression. Surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Sicily and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, guests will find the perfect place to detox, relax and recharge.

Digital Detox Concept on the Shores of Wolfsgruben Lake

The Hotel Weihrerhof* in South Tyrol offers a special focus on mental detox with its Digital Detox package. Guests are encouraged to turn off their cell phones and leave them in their hotel rooms to disconnect from the digital world. This concept allows visitors to focus on nature and their well-being.

The Weihrerhof's Digital Detox offer is a response to the increasing digital overstimulation in our modern society. It offers guests the opportunity to truly relax and focus on what is important. The positive response from guests shows that the concept meets the growing need for digital time out.

Holistic Detox according to the F.X. Mayr Method at the OCEANO Health Spa

The OCEANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife offers a particularly effective detoxification option with its integrated F.X. Mayr Center. The F.X. Mayr fasting cure is known for its holistic approach to health with a special focus on intestinal health. At OCEANO, the principles of Mayr medicine are combined with Tenerife's climate and environment to achieve optimal detox results. The mild temperatures and sea air further support the healing process. Guests benefit from personalized nutritional plans, medical treatments, and exercise therapies, all designed to relieve and rejuvenate the body. Feedback from guests is consistently positive, with many reporting noticeable improvements in their health and well-being after a stay at OCEANO.

Detox in Harmony with Nature

Surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape, Biohotel Grafenast offers specially designed regeneration programs. In January 2025, guests can participate in a special detox yoga program that activates the organs and boosts metabolism. This program combines yoga postures with pranayama exercises and meditation to facilitate holistic cleansing. For those seeking a more in-depth experience, an Ayurvedic fasting week is planned for April 20-25. Based on the principles of traditional Indian medicine, it is a gentle but effective way to detoxify and regenerate the body. The fasting programs, based on the Buchinger method, are supervised by experienced fasting counselors and include daily yoga sessions and hikes in the fresh mountain air. In addition, guests can choose from a wide range of wellness treatments perfectly suited to the detoxification process. Lymphatic drainage treatments, which stimulate the metabolism and flush out toxins, are particularly popular. Guests appreciate the combination of active detoxification and enjoying the alpine environment.

Holistic Approach in the Black Forest

In the middle of the picturesque Black Forest landscape, it is much easier to recharge your batteries. Guests at the sustainable wellness hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA can choose from a variety of fasting cures, including alkaline fasting, Buchinger therapeutic fasting, or interval fasting, each of which is supervised by experienced experts. The alkaline-rich organic food optimally supports the detoxification process, while the 1,000-square-meter wellness area with mineral water pool, saunas, and panoramic terrace invites you to relax. In addition, yoga sessions, guided hikes, and forest bathing are available to help guests connect with nature and reduce stress. Of particular note is the mindfulness training based on the MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) concept, which helps guests arrive in the present moment and cultivate serenity. The combination of detoxifying nutrition, exercise in nature, and mental relaxation creates the ideal conditions for leaving the daily grind behind and returning to it with renewed energy.

CERVO Mountain Resort: Detox in an Alpine Setting

The CERVO Mountain Resort in the Swiss Alps offers a comprehensive detoxification program for body, mind, and soul at its Ātman Mountain Spa. Spa treatments incorporate natural products, herbs, and essences to support the body's cleansing process. The sauna, steam bath, and Bhutanese bath are particularly effective in stimulating the detoxification process through sweating and the use of special essential oils and herbs. CERVO Mountain Resort also emphasizes digital relaxation. The deliberate absence of televisions in most rooms and common areas gently encourages guests to disconnect from the digital world and instead enjoy the surrounding nature. This holistic approach to relaxation has been extremely well received by visitors. After their stay, many report a sense of renewal and relaxation, underscoring the effectiveness of the concept.

The wide range of options allows guests to choose the detox program that is best for them. Positive feedback underscores the effectiveness of the programs, which results in a noticeable improvement in well-being and increased vitality. The combination of expert care, quality treatments, and a healing, sustainable environment makes the detox experience particularly effective and lasting.

For more information, visit the website of sustainable hotels or contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) - A Summary of the Changes

In summary, the CSRD is an EU regulation that requires companies of a certain size to produce a standardized sustainability report. There was a reporting requirement before, but it was limited to the financial impact of sustainability management. However, this does not reflect today's reality, which makes sustainable action by companies indispensable and unavoidable. With the CSRD, the EU has therefore enshrined the principle of dual materiality, which means that reporting covers not only the impact of sustainable initiatives on the company (and its finances), but also the impact of the company on people and the environment. Also new is the standardization of reporting according to EU requirements, which ensures comparability, and the mandatory external audit, which also applies to financial reporting.

For more information on CSRD, who it primarily affects, and details on innovations and implementations, see, among others, the website of the Europea Commission.

Why is it Important for Sustainable Economic Development?

The CSRD places sustainability reporting on an equal footing with financial reporting, thereby sending an important signal: business can only be sustainable and responsible if it takes responsibility for the environment and its fellow human beings. In addition, reporting forces large companies in particular, which can have a significant leverage effect, to address their impacts, review the efficiency of their sustainability measures, and expand them where necessary.

Impact on the Hospitality Industry

The sustainability reporting requirement will, of course, also affect hotels and accommodation providers. Initially, it will affect large hotel companies and those that are part of a group, followed by medium and small hotel companies in the following years. Detailed reporting will be required, and sustainable hotels will have an advantage: in most cases, they already produce sustainability reports and monitor their initiatives, whether it's energy consumption, water use, or waste production. Credible and detailed sustainability certifications that already produce reports and conduct external audits will also become more important. Not only for their own reporting but also to appeal to business travelers and companies taking advantage of MICE offerings.

MICE stands for Meeting, Incentive, Conference, and Event and refers to hotels or venues that specialize in meeting the needs of business travelers.

This is how the hospitality industry in general, and sustainable hotels in particular, are facing new challenges:

• As sustainability reporting becomes more standardized, existing structures and processes may need to be adapted or redesigned.
• The offer of the hotels in the MICE industry has to be adapted to the new needs of the business travelers and the event organizers.
• To do this, one's sustainability must be communicated in a transparent, understandable, and credible way. Read more about this in our newsletter series on sustainability communication in tourism. 

Selection from the Green Pearls® Portfolio: Sustainable Hotels with Conference Services

The Dual Role of MICE and Business Hotels in Relation to the Directive: An Assessment by Three Industry Players

As mentioned above, sustainable business hotels and hotels specializing in MICE customers have a dual role. On the one hand, they are already or will be required to produce a sustainability report based on the CSRD. On the other hand, they are becoming increasingly important to business travelers and conference organizers because of their reporting obligations, which include the impacts and emissions caused by conferences, events, and business travel.

Stephan Bode, owner of the award-winning conference and wellness hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, has also noticed. As an established pioneer in the field of sustainability, companies have long been coming to the hotel to hold certified green meetings or climate-friendly conferences. According to Bode in an interview with Green Pearls®, the numbers are increasing. He sees the reason for this in the increasing external pressure, for example from the CSRD, to act sustainably.

More and more companies are taking advantage of the opportunity to use the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA not only as a conference venue but also as a source of inspiration for their own initiatives, explains Stephan Bode. He himself is increasingly in demand as a speaker in his own hotel, he adds.

In Erlangen, Sustainable Conference Offerings have been Expanded

Ben Förtsch's Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, is considered a pioneer and beacon among sustainable hotels. In addition to numerous other projects, the range of conference and event services has been significantly expanded in recent years. Existing rooms have been redesigned, renovated, and upgraded. New venues have been added, such as the Room 20 Lounge. Common to all is a biophilic design with lots of greenery and live plants, as well as various upcycling elements and, in some cases, access to the outdoors. "Of course, every conference is held as a green meeting: sustainable conference materials, organic drinks and food, and any CO2 produced is offset," says Laura Heufelder of Hotel Luise. 

The hotel offers assistance in designing an individual supporting program for the conference, workshop, or product presentation, for example with guided tours through the microforest or the hotel. It is difficult to say whether the demand for green meetings has increased as a result of the CSRD, says Heufelder. The hotel has seen an increase in demand, but this is certainly also due to the expanded range of services and the increased reach and awareness resulting from projects such as the Wall of Change.

The CSRD also has Implications for Hotels outside Europe

Hotels in Europe are not the only ones affected. An international trend is emerging. The Thai luxury resort Keemala in Phuket, known for its unique architecture, is already seeing a growing demand for green meeting concepts, but is taking a relaxed approach to the challenge. "With our sustainable practices and facilities, we are well equipped to meet these demands," the team wrote in response to an inquiry from Green Pearls®. With eco-friendly meeting rooms with natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and eco-materials, as well as the ability to adapt rooms to different group sizes or move the meeting outside, the resort offers a high degree of flexibility and customization when it comes to organizing business events. In addition, the resort offers the benefits of holistic sustainability management: green catering with local products (some from the resort's garden), comprehensive waste management to reduce waste, no single-use plastics, and an experienced event management team that has organized numerous events. This means that sustainability requirements can also be met for meetings held abroad. 

Sustainability is Taken on a New Level of Importance

The CSRD poses far-reaching challenges for companies in all sectors, both in terms of reporting content and implementation. Sustainable hotels have an advantage in some areas due to the reporting and monitoring structures that are often already in place, but they also face increased demands from their (business) customers. In general, the CSRD provides a legal framework and an impetus for sustainable action in the economy that has long been lacking - in tourism as well as in other sectors.

You can find more information about the individual sustainable business hotels on the linked microsites. For inquiries and further image material, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• OLM Nature Escape: IT021017B4CPKU6WK9
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

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For Mountain Romantics looking for Quality Time

During the reflective Advent season, ADLER Lodge RITTEN* offers the perfect winter wellness experience for those who want to enjoy togetherness and nature. The Winter Spa Special pampers you with relaxing hours in an impressive mountain setting. Soothing massages, relaxation in the forest sauna, a multi-course dinner with local products, mulled wine with a view of the Dolomites, and a cozy suite or private chalet with a private sauna – what more could you need to leave the stress of everyday life and Christmas behind?

Go directly to the Christmas Offer at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN

Not just the two of you, but a family looking to get away from it all? The two vacation homes at Summit Lodges in Pfunds can accommodate up to six people. Take in the mountain views from the deck and unwind after a busy day in your private sauna or by the fireplace. All to yourself, in a mountain world that might even be snow-covered!

For Connoisseurs and Gourmets

If you love culinary highlights in a festive atmosphere, you will love the New Year's Eve Gala at the sustainable 5-star Hotel Birkenhof! Enjoy a 5-course menu accompanied by live music and indulge in the refined culinary creations. The evening ends with fireworks. "Indulgence" is also the motto for everything else - from the large wellness area with water and sauna facilities to the individual suites.

Spending the End of the Year at the Baltic Sea

The adults-only Lifestyle Hotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand invites you to take a relaxing break at the turn of the year. The late riser breakfast until 1 p.m. ensures a relaxed start to the day, and on New Year's Eve, the antipasti buffet before midnight provides the perfect culinary prelude. Thanks to the ban on (private) fireworks on the beach, the New Year is welcomed here in a relaxed atmosphere with sparklers and a glass of sparkling wine in hand - an atmospheric start to 2025 right on the Baltic Sea.

For those Looking to Combine Wellness and Christmas

Christmas and wellness in perfect harmony – at Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bavaria, the holiday season becomes a very special experience. As a guest, you can look forward to relaxing days in the spacious wellness area of the Artemacur Spa and culinary delights - not only on Christmas Eve. A very special menu created by Chef Sascha Förster awaits you that evening. You can also enjoy selected live music around the holidays.

To the Christmas Offer of the Klosterhof

Another unique experience awaits you at Klosterhof at the turn of the year: New Year's Eve with the theme "Rendezvous in Paris" - with a festive gala dinner, champagne, and an enchanting atmosphere that will transport you directly to the city of love.

More about the New Year's Offer at the Klosterhof

For those who love Christmas and Coziness (with family)

At the Austrian Hotel Klosterbräu, guests can expect a peaceful and cozy Christmas celebration that emphasizes family and harmony. The festive atmosphere, with its many candles, is perfect for those who love a classic Christmas. As the New Year approaches, things get spectacular: a glamorous New Year's Eve party with aperitif, gala dinner, live music, and an impressive show program in the garden is on the agenda. In addition to fireworks, the hotel offers a fascinating fire and acrobatic show.

Click here for holiday offers at the sustainable Hotel Klosterbräu.

For Families

The Weihrerhof* is the ideal place for families to ring in the New Year in a relaxed and memorable way. On New Year's Eve, a delicious menu awaits young and old in a cozy atmosphere. As a special alternative to fireworks, you can enjoy the traditional "Rittner Goaßlschnöller".

For (Black Forest) Lovers

Ending the year in the Black Forest is always a special experience! At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Christmas is celebrated in a traditional and relaxed way, surrounded by a (hopefully) winter wonderland. Throughout the Advent season, the team of the sustainable hotel will spoil hotel guests and external visitors with cozy Advent brunches and a special brunch buffet on the holidays. On December 25, there will be one of their popular open kitchen events - with a Christmas theme, of course.

On New Year's Eve, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA celebrates an elegant turn of the year with culinary highlights in the form of a 6-course dinner and atmospheric experiences.

Learn more about the offers

For those Who are Looking for Warmth

If you want to escape the winter and enjoy the festive season in the sun, ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is the perfect place for you. Celebrate a magical Christmas in Sicily, surrounded by Mediterranean nature and a mild climate. Enjoy fine Italian cuisine with local products and rejuvenate in the spa for the coming year. You can also learn the specialties of Sicilian Christmas cuisine in an exclusive cooking class! If that's not enough, the wild, secluded beach is just a short walk from the resort!

Find out more about the Christmas offer in Sicily

At Keemala in Phuket, Thailand, Christmas and New Year's Eve become a special experience in a tropical setting. This year, between December 15 and 23, 2024, there will be a nine-day banquet with exquisite food and a special show. At the same time, the Villa Resort will celebrate its ninth anniversary. On New Year's Eve, guests can look forward to a lavish buffet, live entertainment, and fireworks that have a lower environmental impact than traditional fireworks. These special low-smoke fireworks, partly made of Thai sticky rice, still provide an impressive spectacle in the sky, complemented by a laser show.

Traveling and Celebrating Sustainable

The best part about these packages is that all the hotels are fully committed to sustainability. So you can be sure that the Christmas menu or gala dinner is made with local ingredients and that every effort is being made to make your stay not only festive but also sustainable.

Learn more about Sustainable Celebrations:

Over the past few years, we have blogged a lot about making the holidays sustainable. And don't worry: A little sustainability won't take away from the magical holiday spirit ;)

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TRAVEL: Of Manta Rays and Corals - Sustainable Vacations in the Maldives

White sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and colorful fish: the Maldives are a natural paradise whose threat from environmental damage and rising water levels is well known. We show you why no tourism is not the solution and, above all, how you can travel to this island paradise sustainably.

Read the Blog.

WELLNESS: A Sustainable Weekend for Two on the Baltic Sea

A short break by the sea. The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand is the perfect opportunity for this and is a sustainable place to enjoy the Baltic Sea as a couple at the weekend. The adults-only hotel offers you just the right setting for natural and relaxed togetherness.

Read the Blog.

CULINARY: Porcini Mushroom Tortelloni Recipe from the Naturhotel Outside - The Highlight of the Mushroom Season

At the Naturhotel Outside, you'll find everything that nature in East Tyrol has to offer on the menu. Mushrooms such as chanterelles and porcini mushrooms are particularly popular. Porcini mushroom tortelloni are a popular classic on the menu, the recipe for which we present to you here.

Get the Recipe.

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Drought, heavy rainfall, heatwaves - the effects of climate change are increasingly influencing travel behavior. Tourist regions in southern Europe are particularly affected. An article in National Geographic explains the background and uses examples to show the serious effects.

To the Article.

Landowners in the UK are increasingly turning to "rewilding", i.e. allowing nature to grow wild on their land.

More Information

Rewards for environmentally friendly behavior: This is intended to motivate travelers in Denmark's capital Copenhagen to travel more sustainably.

More about it.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

Hotels often stand in direct contrast to disadvantaged communities, and the question of tourist responsibility is becoming increasingly relevant. The current debate on overtourism also focuses on ensuring that there is no cut-throat competition between locals and tourists and that local communities and the environment at the destination benefit from tourism in the long term. 

Sustainability is a broad concept that goes far beyond environmental protection. It also includes social aspects such as fair wages, integration, child protection, and the promotion of regional crafts. All three pillars of sustainability - environmental, economic, and social - must be treated equally to achieve truly sustainable development for regions and their communities.

Sustainable Best Practice Examples from the Hospitality Industry

In this regard, Green Pearls® hotels and resorts are leading the way. They are committed not only to environmental standards but also to social responsibility, both toward their employees and the local community. In this newsletter, we present examples of how a commitment to social sustainability can be successful.

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Pokhara, Nepal

An outstanding example of social responsibility in tourism is Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal, which employs only local staff. They receive fair wages and educational opportunities. The hotel also supports a school for underprivileged children and supports local farmers by purchasing their products. With its own organic farm, the hotel contributes to sustainable agriculture and creates additional jobs in the region. An impressive example of how tourism, conservation, and social responsibility can go hand in hand in one of the world's poorest countries.

Keemala in Phuket, Thailand

Located in Phuket, Thailand, Keemala Resort sets a standard for environmental and social responsibility. It actively supports local charities and offers internships to students. Of particular note is the resort's work with a foundation that teaches English to underprivileged children. In addition, local artisans and producers are supported by using their products in the interior design of the villas and offering them for sale. The resort places a high value on the training and development of its employees and offers regular training to support their professional development both inside and outside the resort.

Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, Germany

The Wellnesshotel Klosterhof in the Bavarian Alps pursues a holistic sustainability concept with a strong focus on social aspects. Fair working conditions are a top priority, and employees benefit from extensive training opportunities. The hotel's commitment to the integration of people with disabilities is particularly noteworthy. By working closely with local institutions, jobs are created for people with handicaps. In addition, the hotel supports regional cultural projects, which in turn strengthens the local community and the acceptance of tourism.

Hotel Weihrerhof in Renon, South Tyrol

In South Tyrol, the family-run Hotel Weihrerhof* is strongly committed to social responsibility, which is reflected in fair working conditions and a good work-life balance for its employees. Local producers and craftsmen are actively supported by purchasing a large proportion of products from the region. This also helps to reduce the hotel's carbon footprint. In addition, the hotel is involved in various social projects, such as supporting mountain farming families and promoting traditional crafts, which strengthens regional identity.

Hygna Chalets in the Austrian Alpbachtal

The Hygna Chalets in Austria are a prime example of commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The team works closely with local artisans and producers to strengthen the local economy. The dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship is particularly noteworthy. Regular workshops offer guests the opportunity to learn old craft techniques. The hotel also implements and promotes its own and local environmental projects and supports social institutions in the region.

Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia

The Farmhouse Smiling Gecko is an outgrowth of the Smiling Gecko Project and its associated farms and is considered a model project for social sustainability in tourism in Cambodia. 95% of the employees are Cambodians who benefit from fair wages and good working conditions. The project invests in continuing education for its employees, including English classes. There is a kindergarten and school for the children of the employees, supporting entire families. The goal is to build a self-sustaining community. A food processing center not only provides healthy meals for children and employees but also creates additional jobs. Handicraft classes that preserve traditional techniques create additional sources of income.

The Birkenhof - Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District

The 5-star Hotel Birkenhof Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate region of Germany recognizes its responsibility not only to the environment but also to its employees and partners. It offers numerous social benefits and development opportunities. Employees can enhance their skills through ongoing training and benefit from a comprehensive company health management program. In addition, Birkenhof actively promotes equal opportunities and supports foreign employees with language courses to promote their integration. It also contributes to social responsibility in the community through donations.

OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa in Tenerife

In Tenerife, the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel takes a holistic approach to environmental and social responsibility. The health and well-being of its employees are paramount, and they have access to the hotel's own spa and health facilities. Of particular note is the hotel's collaboration with local schools and universities in the form of internships and apprenticeships to actively promote young talent in the tourism industry. In addition, the resort supports various social and environmental projects on the island, such as beach clean-ups and assistance programs for needy families.

Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg, Germany

Located in the heart of Freiburg/Breisgau, in the sustainable district of Vauban, the Green City Hotel Vauban sets new standards with its integrative approach. Not only is the hotel largely accessible to people with disabilities, but it is also an integration company that employs people with disabilities and offers them standard wages and targeted training. In addition, the hotel avoids plastic packaging, and its food is sourced locally or from integrated companies whenever possible. This hotel shows how integration and environmental protection can be successfully combined in the hotel industry.

Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy

The Relais del Maro*, a 4-star hotel in the Ligurian village of Borgomaro, is housed in three historic buildings in the center of the village, thus contributing to the preservation of the cultural heritage. The Relais del Maro is committed to supporting the local economy and community. It employs mostly local people and purchases food from local organic producers. By working with local artisans to restore and furnish the rooms, the hotel promotes traditional craftsmanship.

Working Together for a Sustainable Future

The featured Green Pearls® partners demonstrate that social sustainability in tourism is not only possible but necessary – and goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility. The hotels and resorts are actively working to improve living conditions in their regions while creating a respectful and fair working environment for their employees, thereby leading to greater acceptance of the tourism industry.

Social responsibility in a hotel's day-to-day operations is an integral part of a holistic approach to sustainability that considers all aspects of tourism. Choosing a hotel that promotes social and environmental sustainability is not only a choice for an enjoyable stay, but also a contribution to a more just and sustainable world. It is up to each individual to make a positive impact by making conscious choices while on vacation. The accommodations in the Green Pearls® network invite you to become part of this movement and work together for a better future.

For more information about the featured hotels, please visit the linked websites. If you have any questions or need additional images, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• Relais del Maro: IT008010A1NIWKHTTF
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

Sustainability is inevitable – Even in Communications

As a communications agency, Green Pearls® has been supporting sustainable accommodations and destinations for over a decade, assisting them with their sustainability communications. In recent years, we have observed a variety of developments in sustainability communications and the factors associated with them, including some that have occurred rapidly.

Various studies consistently show that an increasing number of travelers plan to travel more sustainably or explicitly book sustainable accommodations for their next trip (Booking 2024). Given the existing demand, it would seem that communicating one's sustainable initiatives and commitments to the outside world should be relatively straightforward. However, accusations of greenwashing continue to be levied against companies of all sizes, creating uncertainty, whether justified or not. A study conducted by the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions (NIM 2023) revealed that 70% of consumers would avoid a company accused of greenwashing. While the study focused on consumer goods, the findings can inform tourism businesses. For a hotel or vacation rental, such a collapse could have severe consequences.

Greenhushing – Better not to communicate at all ...

What can I communicate? What is truly green? Am I committed enough? Do guests even care?

These questions are of greater long-term concern to the owners and operators of sustainable and environmentally conscious accommodation establishments. Before they make missteps that could result in negative publicity, they prefer not to communicate their commitment at all or only select aspects. In marketing, this phenomenon is referred to as " greenhushing, " which is defined as the concealment of one's sustainable commitment out of fear of being accused of greenwashing. Another factor is the general attitude that sustainability should be a core value of a company in and of itself, rather than a marketing tool. While this approach is commendable, it is not sufficient in today's market, where consumers are actively seeking sustainable options. In order to be seen, companies must communicate their commitment to sustainability. This is true for sustainability as well as for everything else.

Credibility and Transparency – Key Concepts for successful Sustainability Communication

The insights shared by Daniel Ganzer, the owner of the nature and hiking hotel Outside in the Austrian Hohe Tauern National Park, are also reflected in the findings of various marketing studies (Deloitte 2023, NIM 2023). The authors of the NIM study indicate that consumers place the greatest trust in sustainability promises when the company making them appears credible. 

Daniel Ganzer also addresses another crucial aspect: authenticity, or communication based on honesty and transparency. At Naturhotel Outside, this is conveyed, among other things, through a sustainability report that is published every two years and includes a future outlook.

Credibility, transparency, and authenticity – these are crucial concepts that are often challenging to grasp, particularly in the context of tourism communication. 

We already mentioned credibility. The authors of the NIM (2023) study suggest that it can be achieved through certification, transparency, and cooperation with external stakeholders. Another consumer study (Deloitte 2023) indicates that investments in credibility are becoming increasingly important for the integrity of companies. The study also found that the German consumers surveyed tend to be skeptical of sustainable offers.

The solution is transparent and honest (and therefore authentic) communication. At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, the team, led by owner Marc Traubel, has made a strategic decision to prioritize transparency, particularly in the area of sustainability communication. "We receive a high volume of positive feedback regarding our services through our guest feedback forms," stated Anna Trenkle and Isabel Hirt from the HUBERTUS team. This also includes the guided tours of the hotel by the hosts, during which guests gain deep and personal insights into the development and commitment of the Allgäu wellness hotel. According to Trenkle and Hirt, explanations are of great importance to them. The guest should not only enjoy a relaxing stay but also change in a positive way. It is a balancing act between instruction and motivation. At HUBERTUS, this is achieved by promoting understanding among guests through workshops, information signs, and the aforementioned guided tours.

Too much Information: A balancing Act between Disclosure and Overload

Nearly 60% of respondents in a consumer study (Deloitte 2023) said that sustainable offerings are overwhelming due to a lack of transparency and information overload. At first glance, this sounds like a paradox, but a closer look reveals one of the biggest challenges in sustainability communication. Especially in tourism. The key question is How much information can and should I give my potential guests without over- or underchallenging them?

In the first instance, the guest shuts down; the information overload is intransparent: Perhaps the company is trying to hide something in this flood of information? In the second, under-stimulation, the "lack" of facts can undermine credibility. The suspicion of greenwashing is quickly raised.

The issue of sustainability in tourism is undoubtedly complex and not all guests have the time, inclination, or capacity to deal with the various issues in depth. The quantity and type of information provided by individual hotels on their websites, conveyed via external providers and agencies such as Green Pearls®, or conveyed in person on-site ultimately depends on the hotel's guest structure. If, for example, guest surveys and feedback forms indicate that, as in the case of the SAND lifestyle hotel on the German Baltic coast, nearly 72% of guests book because of sustainability, communication can become more complex, as the guests are interested in it.

In many cases, however, the element of surprise can also be an advantage. "Our guests are surprised and delighted by what we do, and they encourage us to continue," says Ursula Wagner of the Gerbehof Nature Resort on Lake Constance. The team capitalizes on this surprise and the associated boost in motivation to initiate conversations and provide guidance on how everyone can contribute and implement small-scale improvements to make a positive impact.

The Responsibility of Multipliers

Sustainability communication originates not only with the hotels themselves, but is also disseminated, transmitted, and interpreted by other parties. Journalists and bloggers play a pivotal role in communicating sustainability in tourism. The honest presentation of information and authentic experiences in their reports on sustainable tourism is of paramount importance, according to Alexandra Huber of Hotel My Arbor near Brixen, South Tyrol. "This authenticity allows us to openly address both the positive aspects and the challenges and development potential in order to convey a holistic picture," she adds.

It is not a matter of not criticizing or denouncing greenwashing. Particularly hotels and vacation homes that have been committed to sustainability for years are suffering from the flood of "eco" hotels that adorn themselves with greenwashed statements and the famous beehives on the roof. Instead, journalists should be realistic about what is possible in terms of sustainability, says Alexander Thurm from the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau. At the same time, everything has to be questioned to counteract greenwashing.

Klaus Pichler of the family-run Weihrerhof on Lake Wolfsgruben also sees this contradiction. "Journalists certainly face the challenge of finding a balance between travel and sustainability," he admits. But he also calls for a broader understanding of sustainability, saying that many people still "think of sustainability primarily in terms of ecological aspects".

Speaking for many hoteliers committed to sustainability, the team at the Hotel Klosterbräu concludes: "We would like to see more positive reporting, even on small steps forward, because it motivates everyone else to get involved."

Sustainability Communication is no longer a Nice-to-Have

We believe that a commitment to sustainability in tourism and the alignment of accommodation or company practices with sustainability are inevitable developments. While the ecological aspect — preservation of an environment conducive to living —remains a primary focus, it is increasingly becoming an economic factor that ensures the continued existence of the company. We will examine this further in the second part of our newsletter series on sustainability communication in tourism. Here, we will explore the fact that sustainability is more than just an image, but that the image is also part of it.

The second part of the series will be released on September 11, 2024.

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Bike Tourism is more popular than ever

A study by the German Cyclists' Federation (ADFC) revealed that 38 million people in Germany took day trips by bike in 2022. Four and a half million took a trip with an overnight stay. It is encouraging to see that nearly a third of day-trippers and half of all cyclists traveled by train. Overall, almost half of a billion day trips were made by bicycle. And that is in Germany alone.

Sustainable Cycling Destinations

Biking in your vacation destination is the perfect way to get to know the area, even if you did not come here specifically for that. In this newsletter, we will show you the best destinations for biking. Taking sustainable, bike-friendly accommodations as a starting point, of course.

Discover the Ritten by Bike (Italy)

South Tyrol is a popular destination for cycling, offering a diverse range of routes catering to both recreational cyclists and ambitious athletes. The Ritten offers a unique combination of relaxed, relatively flat tours for beginners with more challenging mountain tours in a compact area. The numerous shady forests provide ideal conditions for long rides, even in summer, while spring and fall are particularly attractive seasons.

• Tour Recommendations: The Maria Saal tour includes a visit to the renowned earth pyramids. Additionally, the Rittner Horn, the highest point on the Ritten, is a destination that should not be missed. 
  Find out more about biking on the Ritten. 
• Good to know: It is not allowed to ride on unpaved roads and paths and slopes less than 1.5 meters wide. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: The association "Bike Host" offers e-bike rentals and guided tours. One participating hotel is the family-friendly APIPURA hotel rinner. It features cozy rooms, a large garden with a playground, an outdoor spa on the roof, and authentic regional organic cuisine. But the real highlight is the api-welness, where you can breathe the air of the beehive and unwind. 
  Another "Bike Host" is the Hotel Weihrerhof, which also caters to families and is located directly on the Wolfsgrubensee. Following the bike tour, guests of all ages can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake.

Biking in the Bucklige Welt (Austria)

Just over an hour from Vienna, the Bucklige Welt is the ideal destination not only for hiking but for pleasure biking as well. 400 kilometers of bike trails crisscross the landscape, offering breathtaking views of the Rax, Schneeberg, and Semmering. Some tours start right in Wiener Neustadt, and you can explore the Bucklige Welt from there, for example on a museum bike tour.

• Tour Recommendation: The Schwarzatal Bike Trail is approximately 40 kilometers in length and begins in Steinfeld, following the Schwarza River downstream to the alpine region below the Rax. Along the route, visitors will have the opportunity to view numerous historic buildings from the industrialization era, offering insights into the region's rich history. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: Gut Guntrams offers a variety of accommodations for families, solo travelers, and couples, all situated in a natural setting. The hotel's on-site nature museum, featuring old fruit trees and a crystal garden, provides an ideal setting for guests to enjoy a stroll. 

City Trip by Bike in Freiburg im Breisgau (Germany)

City cycling is not typically associated with relaxing vacations. It is often seen as stressful and a constant battle between bike and car. However, more and more cities are focusing on traffic concepts that put cyclists first. Freiburg is no exception. The city in the Black Forest has created several streets where cyclists have priority, as well as bike paths that connect the city center with the surrounding countryside. In total, the network covers more than 400 kilometers.

• Tour Recommendations: Freiburg is best explored by bike. The numerous cycle paths take you past the most important sights, including the cathedral and the sustainable Vauban district. 
• Good to know: In addition to classic solo bike tours, there are also guided adventure tours in Freiburg and the surrounding area. For example, a puzzle e-bike tour starts from Ihringen station and takes you 45 kilometers around the Kaiserstuhl region. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: The Green City Hotel Vauban is located on the outskirts of the aforementioned Vauban district. Its clean, serene design provides a tranquil retreat. As an inclusive establishment, the hotel works with other inclusive businesses whenever possible. Guests also receive a regional train ticket for the duration of their stay (which can be sent in advance).

Vineyards and River Romance on the Moselle (Germany)

The Moselle River winds through a region of steep slopes and vineyards on both sides. The area offers a wide variety of bike routes, from challenging climbs into the vineyards to relaxing rides along the river. There is something for everyone. Do not forget to stop at one of the many wine taverns along the way to sample some Moselle wine. Just remember, there is a legal limit for drinking and riding a bike!

• Tour Recommendations: The best of two worlds: The Maare-Moselle cycle path. Cyclists follow an old railroad line from the maars of the Volcanic Eifel down to the cultural landscape of the Moselle. In between, they will find viaducts, forests, and great views of the landscape again and again. 
  Find out more about the tour.
• Good to know: The region offers convenient transportation via bike buses that provide transportation for both people and their bicycles. One such bus also runs between Bernkastel-Kues and Daun, the starting and ending points of the Maare-Moselle Cycle Path.
• Sustainable Accommodation: The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten is conveniently located just above the small town of Bernkastel-Kues. Formerly a bus hotel, the property has been transformed into a popular wellness hotel with an extensive spa area, a variety of saunas and pools, its own TCM center, and several restaurants. 

Experience the Ligurian Coast on Two Wheels (Italy)

Liguria offers the best of both worlds: idyllic coastline and rugged hinterland, dotted with small villages that allow you to experience the real Italy away from the tourist hotspots. The rides there are at least moderately difficult, so they are best suited to cyclists with a certain level of fitness and who can cope with steeper climbs and descents. For everyone else, it is recommended to explore the coastal sections by bike (or opt for e-bikes in the mountains).

• Tour Recommendations: Running parallel to the Via Aurelia coastal road is a disused railroad line that has been converted for cyclists: the Pista Ciclabile. This route offers a relaxed pace for discovering the coast from San Lorenzo al Mare to Ospedaletti. The 26 kilometers are mostly flat and offer the opportunity to stop at free beaches. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: The Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro is situated in a village in the hinterland and offers accommodation in historical buildings that have been lovingly restored and are located in the center of the village. The rooms are located in the former artisan buildings of the owner's family. The main building, with reception and breakfast room, also has a large garden with a swimming pool, where guests can relax after a strenuous mountain hike. 

A Paradise for Mountain Bikers in the Tyrolean Alps (Austria)  

Mountain biking is best done in the mountains. And Tirol has plenty of them. With a vast network of mountain bike trails for all levels, everyone will get their money's worth. Additionally, most accommodations are mountain bike-friendly, so you can store your bike safely.

• Tour Recommendations: This family-friendly mountain bike tour is the best way to explore the region around Pfunds. It leads from Pfunds via Tschingls to St. Ulrich. Another great route is the relatively easy route to Pfundser Tschey and then on to Grupach.
• Sustainable Accommodations: The sustainable Summit Lodges are two fully equipped vacation homes (including a private sauna) built in the style of North American log cabins. Start your mountain bike ride right from the doorstep, after enjoying a cup of coffee on the deck overlooking the surrounding mountain peaks. 

Mountainbiking in Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)

Gran Canaria is a popular destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts of all kinds, especially during the low season and winter. Its mild climate and rugged, varied landscape are just two of the many reasons for this popularity.

However, cyclists should have a certain level of basic fitness, especially for inland tours. Be prepared to ride on gravel roads, packed dirt tracks, and stony country lanes. So you should not be afraid of getting dirty.

• Tour Recommendations: The ideal starting point is the tour from Maspalomas to the Ayagaures reservoir. It is varied and gives a good insight into why Gran Canaria is known as the "miniature continent". Moreover, although it's mostly uphill, the climbs alternate with flat sections and descents, so there's always a moment to catch your breath.
• Good to know: The Gran Canaria Bike Week takes place in December, where you can discover the island in different stages with other enthusiasts. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: Located in the rugged heart of the island, Casa León Royal Retreat offers an idyllic and intimate retreat experience. The boutique hotel is surrounded by a lovingly tended garden of native plants. A pool, authentic Canarian cuisine, and a full program of activities round out the hotel experience. Guided bicycle tours are part of the program. 

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Peru is certainly one of the most fascinating countries in South America. At almost every turn, you can discover cultural and natural treasures that you won't find anywhere else in the world. Discover the fascinating Andes in the first part of our guide. In the second part, we then dive into the jungle.

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First up is the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, which reopens its doors on February 22, 2024, after a short winter break. This includes a reopening special where guests can enjoy a free ADLER Salt Massage. It’s presented in the fantastic spa area with a view of the Mediterranean. Additionally, authentic Sicilian cuisine awaits - perfect for the start of spring, while the cold, wet winter weather still prevails in Central Europe.

• Click here for the reopening offer.
• Discover the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA.

The holistic vegan hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol welcomes its guests again on Easter weekend (April 29th), one of Italy’s biggest holidays The adults-only hotel in Naturno has put together a special package: In addition to the vegan half-board consisting of a rich and naturally vegan breakfast buffet and a 5-course dinner, guests can expect a small Easter surprise in their room as well as an Easter aperitif. The use of the spa and yoga sessions are also included.

• Click here for the reopening offer.
• Discover the LA VIMEA.

On April 25, the family-run hotel Weihrerhof in Renon, South Tyrol, is looking forward to welcoming old and new guests after their creativity break. Those who want to enjoy the spring on the Ritten extensively and therefore stay longer will be rewarded with an opening special: If you stay at least 5 nights, there is a discount of 10 percent on the total price. And who wouldn't want to stay longer at Lake Wolfsgruben?

• Click here for the reopening offer.
• Discover the Hotel Weihrerhof.

More information about the offers can be found on the respective pages. If you would like to find out more about the presented sustainable hotels, please visit the linked microsites or contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com.

On holiday in particular, most people have less time pressure and therefore do not use their private car. Visits to popular tourist and cultural attractions with public transport avoid the unnecessary hassle of searching for a parking space. In addition to the savings on public transport, overnight guests do not have to deal with the respective ticketing system, which can certainly be a relief and also lowers the inhibition threshold for using public transport. For some regions, the visitor passes also offer an opportunity to direct the flow of visitors and draw attention to lesser-known attractions, thereby also supporting local providers.

Bicycles can also be taken on most public transport, which extends the radius of holidaymakers and opens up completely new, sustainable activities, such as cycling and hiking tours.

Some hotels send the visitor pass by post in advance so that guests can use it to travel to their holiday destination. At best, this means that guests can do without their car altogether and travel to their holiday destination sustainably by train. More and more visitor passes are now also being digitalized and thus made even more sustainable. The types of visitor passes are as varied as the regions in which they can be used. Time to get an overview of the benefits.

Mobility on site in the Dolomites around the Paradiso Pure.Living

Paradiso Pure.Living is the first vegetarian-vegan and sustainable hotel in the Dolomites. It is located in South Tyrol on the famous Alpe di Siusi in the heart of the Dolomites at an altitude of 2,000 meters and is surrounded by the UNESCO-protected Alpine Nature Park. The entire region offers the South Tyrol Mobilcard visitor pass, which is included in the price of an overnight stay at Paradiso Pure.Living. The visitor pass allows holidaymakers to explore the Alpe di Siusi Dolomites region and the entire South Tyrol region and offers access to all public transport such as trains and buses with an all-in-one ticket.

Car-free time at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, South Tyrol

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is taking things a step further with its own Green Mobility Service. With the free Ritten Card and accompanying services from the hotel, guests can also take a break from their car while on holiday. The Ritten Card includes free use of all public transport in the surrounding area. It also includes a transfer service from the lodge and the hire of outdoor equipment and e-bikes. 

In the middle of a clearing surrounded by dense forest, the sustainable hotel with its natural suites and chalets made of untreated wood offers a stunning panorama of the Dolomites. A short path through idyllic nature separates the lodge from the small Rappersbichl forest stop. From there, visitors can take the historic Renon narrow-gauge railway to popular destinations in the surrounding area. The ultra-modern Renon cable car takes just 12 minutes from Soprabolzano to the center of the provincial capital of Bolzano. It is also included with the Card.

“Laxn” with the RittenCard at the Hotel Weihrerhof

Relaxation at the Weihrerhof is referred to as "Laxn" and that includes a stress-free journey. As at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, guests at the Weihrerhof also receive the RittenCard on arrival, but it can also be sent in advance so that guests can get to the Rittner Berg with ease using public transport. The hotel takes care of your luggage. 

The Weihrerhof in Oberbozen is a small, family-run gem on Lake Wolfsgrubner, one of the cleanest bathing lakes in Italy. Here in the hotel, nature has simply been brought indoors: The scent of hay, the feel of timber, lake views, and sunny windows. The RittenCard is also ideal for exploring the surrounding area, as it includes free use of South Tyrolean public transport as well as admission to around 80 museums, castles, and other attractions throughout South Tyrol along with numerous other benefits. Discounts on leisure activities in summer and winter such as ski school, ski hire, horse riding, archery, llama trekking, and Nordic walking round out the offer.

Organic vacation at the APIPURA hotel rinner 

Also on the Ritten, the Rinner family invites guests to enjoy a car-free vacation with the whole family. Guests here also receive the Ritten Card for their stay. The way to the nearest train stop could not be shorter: it even bears the name of the hotel and is just a short walk away. The APIPURA hotel rinner is all about bees and environmentally friendly enjoyment. Only regional and seasonal ingredients are used in the kitchen, as well as certified organic products whenever possible. This includes honey from the hotel's own organic apiary!

Sustainable traveling in Freiburg – A Regional Ticket is included at the Green City Hotel Vauban 

Freiburg is not only considered one of the most sustainable cities in Germany, in 2022 the city was also ranked 3rd in the top 10 cities of the "Best in Travel City Destinations in the World 2022" by Lonely Planet. The charismatic, environmentally conscious Black Forest metropolis is always worth a visit with its cobblestone streets, beautiful facades, the old university, and the cathedral.

The inclusive Green City Hotel Vauban has established itself in this environment. In addition to peace and relaxation, the hotel offers a unique concept of aesthetic architecture, regionality, and sustainability - as well as active inclusion. Hotel guests receive a free regional ticket for their entire stay upon check-in. This not only entitles them to free travel on local public transport but also includes 2nd class travel on all Deutsche Bahn trains. On request, the regional ticket can be sent to you before you arrive for a processing fee of one euro per person.

Relaxed Traveling in the Black Forest – Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA 

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is located in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb in the northern Black Forest. As a wellness and health hotel with an integrated Selfness Centre, it forms the "health hub" with an adjoining clinic. For the hotel, a relaxing and healthy stay also means leaving the car behind and setting off on a hike or excursion by bus or train free of charge without having to worry about parking. The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is therefore one of the hosts of the KONUS Black Forest Guest Card. It is valid as a free travel ticket on local public transport, as a 2nd class ticket, and on trams and buses in the cities of Freiburg and Karlsruhe. Excluded are ICE, IC, EC, and ECE connections as well as mountain railways. Environmental protection and energy efficiency go hand in hand in the Black Forest.

All in one Card at the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand

The sustainable Lifestyle Hotel SAND on Timmendorfer Strand is also committed to a carefree holiday on the Baltic coast of Schleswig-Holstein and in Holstein Switzerland. Guests receive a free Baltic Sea Card when they check in. This not only ensures free beach access to 22 holiday resorts and seaside resorts, but holidaymakers also benefit from many exclusive discounts and benefits, for example at the Lübeck Marzipan Store, the Trappenkamp Adventure Forest, and over 40 other leisure attractions. The SAND provides the perfect holiday with a successful mix of pure naturalness and a hip lifestyle, plus a relaxed atmosphere and close proximity to the beach.

Free Activities around the Summit Lodges Pfunds with the Guest Card 

In the middle of the Tyrolean Oberland lies the Austrian village of Pfunds, in the center of which you will find the Summit Lodges. Here, guests can enjoy a relaxing break between Swiss stone pine forests and Alpine pastures with authentic farmhouses. Included in the price of the lodges is the SummerCard Tiroler Oberland, which makes it even easier to explore the many different attractions around Pfunds. In addition to discounts and reductions for excursion destinations, local transport throughout the region is also free of charge. Access to bathing lakes and swimming pools is also included, as well as court hire for various tennis and beach volleyball courts and participation in guided mountain bike and e-bike tours in the Tyrolean Oberland.

Experience the Lake Constance Region around the Naturresort Gerbehof

Surrounded by meadows, forests, and orchards, Naturresort Gerbehof invites you to switch off and recharge your body and mind. For the 100% organic certified and climate-positive resort, this also means, that from this year, guests will receive the Echt Bodensee Card on their arrival. The family-run hotel with an adjoining guest house and holiday apartments is an ideal starting point for exploring the Lake Constance region, the Allgäu, and the Vorarlberg mountains. The guest card includes free use of public transport in the "Bodo" transport network and a range of benefits at more than 200 cultural and leisure facilities. This not only saves time, money, and nerves but also protects the environment.

Vis a Vis with kings with the SchwangauCard and the Hotel Das Rübezahl

The family-run boutique Hotel Das Rübezahl is located in Schwangau near Füssen in the land of mountains, castles, and lakes - opposite the famous Neuschwanstein Royal Castle. As part of their stay, guests are given the SchwangauCard free of charge, which offers free use of all public transport. Of course, the SchwangauCard also offers discounts for the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, the Tegelberg cable car, Forggensee boat trips, and the Schwangau Kristall-Therme spa. The hotel also has five e-charging stations and an e-Porsche that can be borrowed if a car is needed.

Pure Hospitality at the Hotel Klosterbräu, Seefeld, Tyrol

More than 200 years of family history meets modern ideas and warm hospitality at the Hotel Klosterbräu in the Tyrolean Alps. Guests receive the "PlateauCard" on arrival. The visitor's card is valid as a ticket for all public bus connections in the region (as far as Telfs and Mittenwald) for the duration of your stay. It also includes the train journey between Seefeld and Scharnitz and the Wildmoosbus. Visitors can also choose from a wide range of free or discounted experiences, from traditional cookery courses to tracking in the wild. This is also a great way to try out the many activities on offer in and around the hotel.  

Car-free in Zermatt – Hotel Bella Vista

The family-run Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt epitomizes relaxation in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The eco-friendly hotel with its 21 guest rooms and views of the Matterhorn is located just a five-minute walk above the village centre of Zermatt. The Swiss village is car-free, which means that only carriages and electric vehicles are used. A convenient electric vehicle is therefore used to transport guests from Zermatt railway station. The valley station for the Sunnega/Rothorn skiing and hiking area is within walking distance of the hotel. The Wolli Card is available for younger guests. This is a free club card for children of guests staying at least one night in Zermatt. Children up to the age of nine can travel for free on the railway, stay in their parent's room for free, and use the mountain railways in the Zermatt - Matterhorn region free of charge.

Experience the Karwendel and the Biohotel Grafenast with the SILBERCARD

The green and sustainable Biohotel Grafenast is situated at 1,330 meters above sea level with a spectacular view over the Tyrolean Inn Valley. All rooms were built according to strict sustainable and ecological criteria. It is a quiet yet energizing place to relax and recharge your batteries. Included free of charge in the room price is the Karwendel Region Silver Card, which offers many benefits and experiences throughout the area. In addition to free use of the regional bus routes in the Silver Region, families will be particularly pleased with the free admission to more than 30 attractions such as landmarks, museums and galleries, nature experiences, and leisure facilities, as well as free admission to all outdoor pools in the region.

By bus and train across the Canary Island of Gran Canaria to the Boutique Hotel Casa León Royal Retreat

The boutique hotel Casa León Royal Retreat is a place of relaxation for anyone who wants to experience the Canary Island of Gran Canaria sustainably and authentically. The small, sustainable hotel with 25 rooms is located on a 10,000 m² estate in the center of the island surrounded by native plants. To consistently realize the sustainability concept, the hotel offers a free shuttle to the beach and nearby golf courses several times a day. 

For all guests who would like to explore the island further, the use of public transport is also recommended here. The public transport network is extremely well-developed and connects the island almost seamlessly. The buses on Gran Canaria are air-conditioned, comfortable, and on time. Although there is no classic visitor pass, the team at Casa Léon recommends that tourists use the so-called TransGC ticket, which can be topped up with credit, saving you the hassle of buying individual bus tickets.

The bottom line is that it is worth enquiring whether the hotel and the region offer a visitor pass or a guest card. These not only offer a variety of benefits for holidaymakers but also ensure a high standard of quality tourism at the destination. It's fantastic to be able to leave your car at your holiday destination and explore the surrounding area by bus and train. This is not only great for your wallet and the environment but also helps you to slow down and relax.

Nachhaltigkeit in Tourism: Accommodation makes the Difference

Once arrived, the choice of accommodation has the biggest effect on the overall impact of the trip. This means that as a tourist, choosing sustainable accommodation reduces our own (negative) impact. But how do the sustainable accommodations themselves feel about how they are doing in helping to improve the tourism industry? We asked our Green Pearls® partners. The result is a wide range of opinions, but there is one thing they all agree on: They see themselves as pioneers and inspirations for others, without being perfect.

The Role of Sustainable Accommodation for Better Tourism: An Opinion Survey in the Green Pearls® Network

»We are trying to drive sustainable tourism.« – HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu

That is why we are a member of the Climate Alliance “Klimabündnis Allgäu 2023”. We have always tried to move forward as a sustainable business with digital and technical solutions. Of course, we face many real-world difficulties. For example, we want to save paper on the one hand and, therefore, offer digital solutions to our guests. On the other hand, we want our guests to have a "digital detox" during their vacation and get by without their smartphones.

Located in one of the smallest and most picturesque villages in Germany, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio offers the ideal environment for a digital detox stay. Surrounded by the panorama of the Bavarian Alps, guests can look forward to a holistic wellness concept with Ayurvedic influences as well as regional specialties and cozy rooms made from natural (and local) materials.

»We are pioneers and trailblazers« – SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb

The wellness and health hotel in the Black Forest spa town of Bad Herrenalb has been attracting attention for years: The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has been certified and awarded several times for its commitment to sustainability; it is almost always at the top of various competitions on the subject (currently 3rd place in the German Tourism Award and finalist in the German Sustainability Award), and owner Stephan Bode himself was delighted to receive the B.A.U.M. Environmental Award. 

Looking to the future is a matter of course and can be seen, for example, in the new circular hotel room concept. Here, only recyclable and natural materials are used. This means that the entire interior is recyclable and there is no waste. The first rooms were renovated last year according to the circular living principle. More rooms, the lobby, and the restaurant will follow. 

»We see organic as a way of life« – Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich

Based on the history of the Schweisfurth family, we are deeply committed to sustainable agriculture and ecological thinking. Currently, we are in the process of converting to permaculture. We live and serve 100% organic, but we do not make a big deal out of it. We don't see it as a marketing argument but as a way of life.

The sustainable Landhotel Gut Sonnenhausen is well-known as a popular event location. From weddings to blogger retreats, the various rooms of the former stud farm and the newly restored historic farmhouse provide an inspiring setting for any occasion. The property is surrounded by acres of nature that invite you for long walks.

»A driving force for more sustainable tourism« – ADLER Spa Resorts and Lodges

Sustainability has been an integral part of the Sanoner family's ADLER Hotels from the very beginning. This can be seen in all the hotels, especially in the Green Pearls® partners on the Ritten in South Tyrol and in Sicily.

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA and the ADLER Lodge RITTEN are united by local materials, architecture that blends seamlessly into the landscape, a focus on farm-to-table cuisine, and unique vacation experiences. In addition, both hotels place a high value on the retention of their employees. The indoor climate is also positively influenced by alternative solutions, such as the use of Terracruda in Sicily. This material is not only locally sourced, but also stores excess humidity in the air and releases it when needed. 

»We are a little bit of everything« – The Birkenhof in the Upper Palatinate

I think we are a little bit of everything. We were not a pioneer [in sustainability], but once we started, we kicked off and participated in [sustainable] pilots.

The wellness hotel Birkenhof not only boasts an extensive indoor and outdoor spa area but is also known for its two-star restaurant “Eisvogel”. The Upper Palatinate hotel's commitment to sustainability is comprehensive and covers all dimensions, from the environment to social issues and management.

»We want to do our part« – Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau

Tourism is attractive and reaches many people. At the same time, [sustainable action] is becoming a necessity, as travel is increasingly labeled as an "environmental sin" in society. We aim to counteract this, make our contribution [and show] that it does not have to be like that - and we have been doing this since 1958 when Rübezahl started. We believe we can join the ranks of the pioneers.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl is firmly anchored in the local community and continues to support it and individual projects. In addition, the Thurm family works with as little impact on the environment as possible. For example, the pool and Jacuzzi are heated with waste heat from the cold storage.

»Our company has been operating sustainably for almost 30 years« – Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park

We certainly play a pioneering role in our region of East Tyrol/Hohe Tauern National Park. Our business has been sustainable for almost 30 years. For almost 10 years now, the Austrian and EU eco-labels have been communicating this more strongly and visibly.

Surrounded by the almost untouched nature of the Alpine National Park, the Ganzer family's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is part of their DNA. The family-run Naturhotel Outside is constantly looking for improvements that can be implemented.

»We inspire people and companies« – Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea

Long-term partnerships are one of the most important beliefs at the lifestyle hotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand. The team strives to act sustainably and pays close attention to the ecological, social, and economic values of its partners. They also see it as their responsibility to bring others on board and encourage them to act sustainably. Transparency, honesty, and the exchange of ideas are at the heart of the company's philosophy. Not only with business partners, but also with colleagues, employees, and guests.

»A decision made with the strongest conviction« – The STURM at the Rhön mountain range

Going organic and becoming a carbon-neutral business was a decision made of conviction - out of a desire to act consciously and sustainably. Back then we were pioneers, but today we see ourselves as trailblazers, constantly evolving, and always harmonizing with nature. Sustainability is practiced and promoted in all three facets: ecological, economic, and social - because only the combination of all three makes STURM the successful company it is today.

The fact that sustainability is more than just environmental protection is actively practiced at the STURM wellness hotel. Many things were implemented and are now taken for granted: vegetables from the own garden, a natural pond instead of a pool, cordial and fair cooperation within the team, environmentally friendly energy efficiency, and much more. This year, the STURM was again certified by Fokus Zukunft GmbH & Co. KG as a climate-neutral hotel.

»Talking about sustainability also means living sustainability« – Hotel My Arbor on the Plose in South Tyrol

We believe that sustainable tourism is the future of travel and that our efforts contribute to it. Talking about sustainability also means living sustainability. We are convinced of this.

This determination can be seen in all areas of the tree hotel My Arbor on the Plose. For example, the hotel monitors its energy and water consumption and reduces it whenever possible. Much of the food, such as fruit, vegetables, olives, and herbs, comes from the hotel's 20-hectare cultivation area on Lake Garda and is processed directly in the hotel into the delicacies that guests enjoy at extended breakfasts or special dinners. The other ingredients are sourced from the surrounding area, which supports the local economy and allows guests to experience the culture authentically.

»We see ourselves as pioneering and leading by example« – Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld

As a member of the ambitious Plateau Pioneers and other alliances for environmentally, climate-friendly, and sustainable tourism, the Hotel Klosterbräu in the former monastery is strongly committed to improvements in the travel industry. Sustainable values, from climate protection to social responsibility, are firmly anchored in its philosophy, instilled in its team, and communicated to the guests.

»We want to inspire and motivate others« – Hotel Luise in Erlangen

We have been operating as a sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel for a very long time; therefore, we see ourselves as pioneers and trailblazers in sustainable tourism. We hope to inspire and motivate others. Our current approach is, to communicate our sustainable practices. Through lectures, presentations, and projects such as the Wall of Change, we want to show other hotels, companies, and individuals that it is often not that difficult to act in a more environmentally friendly way.

Renewable hotel rooms and astronaut showers are just two of the many sustainable initiatives at the city hotel in Erlangen, Germany. The Hotel Luise is also active in the community, for example with the “Marga Lädle” vending machine, which fills a gap in the neighborhood. Not only can guests stay in a climate-friendly way, but conferences, workshops, and seminars can also be held here eco-friendly.

»We don't just have a task, we have a responsibility« – Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol

I firmly believe that we not only have a mission but also a responsibility. We see ourselves as pioneers, not just in words, but by constantly questioning our daily actions and striving to make the right decisions. We should always be aware that each of our actions has consequences. Instead of criticizing others, we should point out what positive changes are possible. These are often small steps, and it is important to let the guests be part of it.

Small messages in the Hotel Weihrerhof remind guests that, for example, sauna towels can be reused. Signs on the buffet indicate the manufacturer of the product, which is often just around the corner. And when they look out over the Wolfsgruben Lake, the surrounding forest, and natural meadows, many guests get an idea of where the quest for more sustainable tourism at Hotel Weihrerhof comes from.

Pioneer, trailblazer, source of ideas – Sustainable accommodations are providing impulses for the future

There is no denying that tourism is an important economic factor in many countries around the world. In Spain, for example, the industry contributes 13.6 percent² of gross domestic product. By comparison, industry accounts for about 21 percent³.

Hotels and lodging are not only employers of many people, but they also have a major influence on the development of the industry in general. Sustainable accommodations, such as the Green Pearls® partners featured here, serve as a source of inspiration and leadership. They show their guests that sustainable vacations do not mean sacrifice, and set an example to colleagues and other tourism professionals of what the future of tourism could - and should - look like.

Social Sustainability has Internal and External Impacts

The social dimension of sustainability is complex and cannot be dealt with by a Christmas donation. It encompasses both external and internal impacts. This means that in addition to charity, local community support, and responsibility, social sustainability must also include the company's employees, and the way the team works together.

Specifically, the social aspects of the tourism industry are as follows:

• Fair pay
• Permanent contracts
• Training and development opportunities
• Health insurance/health protection
• Child Protection
• Integration
• Inclusion
• Promotion of local crafts
• Promotion of local arts and culture

Selected Social Commitments of Green Pearls® Partners

All Green Pearls® partners must meet certain requirements. These include not only ecological but also social aspects. Fair treatment of employees is the minimum. However, most of them go above and beyond and do much more for their team, their region, and the world.

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb

«We are partners with Global Family, enabling families who have been victims of poverty, disease, violence, or war to go on vacation. [We] provide moments of happiness and lasting memories. It's a source of encouragement and reassurance in the face of difficult life circumstances.»

In addition, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA offers an extensive benefits program for its employees. These include massages, an annual fasting course, excursions, festivities, and discounts for family and friends at the hotel. The sustainable wellness and health hotel is engaged in the local community through contracting with local artisans, supporting regional recreational facilities, attractions and businesses, and other sponsorships and initiatives.

Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Austria

«From our point of view, it is essential that not only a few privileged people enjoy a great vacation, but that we also take with us - and do not leave behind – those, whose fate does not allow them to live an orderly life.»

The Seefeld Hotel Klosterbräu is also a member of the Global Family and offers families and children the opportunity to spend some wonderful vacation days away from the daily grind. In the hotel itself, you can feel the appreciation within the team. In addition to the many benefits, it's this feeling that binds employees together and keeps them in this workplace. "Working together, laughing together, overcoming challenges together, that's what defines us," write the owners, the Seyrling family.

Farmhouse Resort Smiling Gecko

The Farmhouse Resort is part of Smiling Gecko, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a future for people in rural Cambodia. To this end, there are various training facilities on the premises. In addition to agricultural professions, the organization also teaches handicrafts. The Farmhouse Resort serves as a training facility as well and benefits from the products produced on the premises. Almost all of the food is grown or produced on the farm. In addition, Smiling Gecko has established a school and kindergarten, and provides support to the surrounding villages and in humanitarian emergencies. "Our goal is to develop a blueprint for a functioning rural community that can be built elsewhere in Cambodia," the team concludes.

Hotel Weihrerhof on the Renon in South Tyrol

The Pichler family in South Tyrol agrees. "The project that is closest to our hearts is the cooperation with Peter Pan (a children's cancer charity in South Tyrol). Every year, five families with children suffering from cancer can spend a vacation with us free of charge."

In addition to this heart and soul project, the owner, Klaus Pichler, is very committed to the Ritten and supports the region wherever possible. The hotel shop is always full of new products from young South Tyrolean companies and start-ups. Social responsibility, however, is not only external. The Weihrerhof team is actively involved in the development of the hotel, and further training is a matter of course (and in some cases a fixed part of the annual program).

Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau near Füssen

At Hotel Das Rübezahl, the Christmas season is under a special star, especially for the trainees. As in the previous year, there will be a "Heart Campaign". The trainees of the hotel organize, equip, and take care of their own booth at the culinary Christmas market in Schwangau. The net proceeds will be donated to social institutions in the region.

As part of the Christmas campaign, the trainees will also wrap the homemade delicacies into packages for local seniors. "Many residents are already familiar with this campaign from the past two years and are very happy about this generous gesture," wrote the Thurm family in their report on last year's campaign.

CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt

At the CERVO Mountain Resort beneath the Matterhorn, awareness of one's privileges is part of the DNA. For instance, the fact that drinking water of mineral quality comes out of the tap is not taken for granted. CERVO supports the Water is Right Foundation (along with numerous regional associations and clubs). The luxury wellness hotel is also a founding member of Responsible Hotels of Switzerland, an association of sustainable pioneers in Switzerland.

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu

The forests in the Allgäu need to be rejuvenated if they are to continue performing their important protective function against desertification and avalanches. This topic has been taken up by the "Mountain Forest Offensive". The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Balderschwang supports it. In 2019, the wellness hotel experienced for itself the violence behind an almost uncontrolled avalanche. Such an avalanche destroyed the wellness area - fortunately, no one was injured.

Naturhotel Outside in Osttirol

»We mainly support our local organizations with prizes etc. In the past, we had a gourmet evening where part of the proceeds went to the SOS Children's Village in East Tyrol. «

The Naturhotel Outside is also committed to the region, hiring only local artisans, and encouraging guests to visit local huts for a snack on the mountain.

Casa León Royal Retreat in Gran Canaria

The boutique hotel Casa León on Gran Canaria donates bedding, sheets, and towels that are in good condition but no longer used in the hotel to loacal shelters and organizations.

The hotel also hosts regular music events and exhibitions by local artists. Guests can not only enjoy authentic Canary culture, but also buy paintings, music, or art objects directly from them.

Keemala in Phuket, Thailand

“The successful Sustainable LIFE Cycle concept is based on strong and lasting relationships with local communities, like-minded partners, and valued guests”, the Keemala team proudly reports.

The Thai luxury resort in Phuket supports a number of projects in the region, including care for children and the elderly, the Baan Bangtao fishing community (which provides fish and seafood for the kitchen), and the Kamala Green Club, which organizes environmental campaigns for local businesses. In addition, leftover food is redistributed through Scholars for Sustenance to support poorer communities.

A‘ Cràpa Mangia in Southern Italy

Located in the heart of the Cilento National Park, the historic A' Cràpa Mangia estate is staffed primarily by local residents of the small town of Castellabate. In addition, the property works with local suppliers for events and weddings and is happy to recommend local suppliers to guests.

Hotel Luise in Erlangen

Social sustainability can also take the form of a food vending machine. That is if such a machine fills a gap in the local supply. This is exactly what the "Margalädla - Schlemmerschuppen" at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, does. The vending machine contains regional foods and delicacies that are far from fast food. A small selection of staples and convenience foods is available around the clock.

"The vending machine is an added value, especially for the seniors from the neighboring retirement home because they no longer have to travel long distances to get a snack," the hotel team proudly reports. And the food is not wasted. If something is about to expire, it’s simply processed in the hotel kitchen.

Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer’s Club on Korčula in Croatia

The Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club considers itself to have a clear responsibility - not only to be an ecological pioneer but also to be socially engaged. As an employer, and customer, but also as a source of inspiration for its guests and other businesses. The team motivates guests to bring home local products as souvenirs. It initiates beach clean-ups and launches initiatives to support schools, neighborhoods, and facilities for disabled children, both financially and with tangible goods.

«We believe that tourism can be a positive force for local communities and are committed to the economy, environment, and people of our island.»

STURM in the German Rhön

„At STURM, social sustainability begins in the heart, with the employees, and extends beyond the hotel to regional partners," is how the hotel in the Rhön summarizes its social commitment. Appreciation and cooperation are key, both within the hotel team and with farmers, artists, and service providers from the region. For example, the STURM is a member of Fair Job Hotel.

For owners Christa and Matthias Schulze-Dieckhoff, social sustainability also means treating what previous generations have created with respect. That's why the atypical hotel tower built by Christa's parents in the 1970s is still standing today. There was never any question of demolishing or rebuilding it, not only an ecologically and economically sound decision but also a socially respectful one.

To learn more about the social, environmental, and economic initiatives of the featured hotels and vacation rentals, please visit the linked microsites. You are also welcome to contact us directly with specific questions, requests, praise, or criticism at press@greenpearls.com

Arrival at Lake Wolfsgruben

The Hotel Weihrerhof is located only a few kilometers from the mountain station of the cable car that connects Bolzano and Oberbozen. Surrounded by meadows and forests, it is primarily Lake Wolfsgruben right on the doorstep that defines and shapes life here. It is considered one of the cleanest bathing lakes in Italy. However, it is not only in summer that it is the center of the holiday for many guests. In spring, when nature awakens again, it invites visitors to take long walks and the first boat trips. In winter, the lake becomes a skating rink for young and old. And in autumn? Then the mystical mist that rises above it brings legends to life, all while radiating tranquillity.

A Glimpse Back through History

Perhaps it was this atmosphere that tempted Johann Pichler in 1962 to buy the Unterweihrerhof for his son and his wife so that they could fulfill their lifelong dream: to have their own hotel. Friedl and Cilli initially transformed the farm into a small guesthouse with the first three, then later eleven rooms; each with its own shower. Work was also done on the lake: The marsh was dredged, creating the breakfast island that is popular with non-hotel visitors today.

"At that time, people were still dancing. Often until the early hours of the morning," Cilli recalls. "Today our guests appreciate the peace and quiet. Where the focus used to be on socializing, today new values have come to the fore. Having time. Having space. Being allowed to be. That is the new luxury," she adds.

To be Allowed to Be and to Take Responsibility

After the birth of their son Klaus, the Pichlers expanded the hotel. Three years later, they devoted themselves entirely to their hotel guests and closed the public inn. Having time. Being allowed to be. Even though this was not the focus at first, the Pichler family slowly oriented their hotel towards it. At the turn of the millennium, they were the first hotel on the Ritten to open a wellness area, which is still the heart of the Weihrerhof today.

At the same time, they always kept an eye on nature and the environment. Preserving them for future generations has always been a priority. For twenty years, the hotelier family has refrained from fertilizing their own fields. The many hectares of forest are also untouched and left to the animals and plants. Photovoltaic systems can be found on most of the roofs and a combined heat and power plant provides warmth and electricity. Since 2022, the Weihrerhof has been GSTC-certified and thus meets the highest standards in tourism in both the environmental and social areas. Since this year, it has also been awarded the South Tyrol Sustainability Label (Level 3) and has been a member of Green Pearls® for more than a year.

In addition, the Pichlers are committed to the region and support start-ups from South Tyrol, for example, by including their products in the hotel shop. Fair treatment, cooperation, and the active involvement of their team are also important to them. For example, before purchasing the dry steam cleaners, the housekeeping team was consulted in the decision-making process.

Indulgence with a Clear Conscience

The connection to South Tyrol and especially to the high plateau of Ritten is also reflected in the breakfast buffet and the menu. Regional products, some from the immediate neighborhood, take center stage. The rest comes from all over South Tyrol, or at most from within Italy. The evening menu always offers a vegetarian option and vegetarians will also get their money's worth at the breakfast buffet.

A special highlight: in summer guests can enjoy breakfast in the sunshine on the panorama terrace. In autumn and winter, the large panoramic windows in the restaurant offer an equally beautiful view of the lake.

Letting Go with a Lake View

Lake Wolfsgruben and its water are also the focus of SeaSpa. It is found in the hotel's own natural cosmetics line - together with local herbs and extracts from hay and chestnuts.

The BergSea cosmetics are also used in the treatments developed especially for the Weihrerhof, with which guests can pamper themselves. The team responds to individual wishes, regardless of whether the treatment is relaxing, energizing or grounding.

In addition to massages and wellness treatments, several saunas, an indoor pool, various relaxation rooms and, of course, the boathouse sauna directly on the lake offer space for many relaxing hours. By the way, this is also available for day guests.

Drawing Strength from Special Places

Arrive, let go, recharge your batteries. This sums up the latest offer from the Pichler family for their guests. In cooperation with the geomancer Bernd Traber, the booklet "Places to Be" was created to introduce hotel guests to the magic of Power Places. At the same time, it invites guests to discover the energetically special places around the Weihrerhof, meditate there, and absorb new energy. Treatments that fit the respective orientation of the place are also suggested.

"Our wish for our guests is that they too will enjoy the landscape around the Weihrerhof for the duration of their stay - and yes, perhaps even beyond! - to not only experience the landscape around the Weihrerhof pragmatically but also personally and emotionally," explain Manuela and Klaus Pichler.

Arrive and let go. And since this is best done without a mobile phone, there is a data detox box where mobile phones, tablets and the like can be parked. The Pichlers want to inspire their guests to put their technology aside and consciously enjoy their holiday at the Hotel Weihrerhof, the surrounding nature and simply being.

You can download the media kit above. If you would like to learn more about Hotel Weihrerhof, follow the link to the microsite. Or contact press@greenpearls.com

• As the only European hotel: The Hotel Weihrerhof, a family-friendly and sustainable wellness hotel located at Wolfsgrubener Badesee in South Tyrol at an altitude of 1,200 meters. The Sea Spa with boathouse sauna, indoor pool and signature treatments developed especially for the Weihrerhof is the heart of the hotel on the Ritten.
• The Keemala: a luxury eco-resort on the island of Phuket in Thailand, consisting of several villas set in a tropical forest. At Mala Spa, guests are allowed to completely indulge in treatments that combine the traditional and the modern. Various treatment rooms, experience showers and pool offer space for holistic relaxation.

GSN is a non-profit trade association for the spa and wellness industry. Its mission is to “promote the fundamental connections between personal well-being, economic sustainability, and the health of our planet”.

Winners will be determined by a panel of experts along with public voting. Voting will continue through October 20, 2023, at the following Voting Link (no email-address required).

As advocates for sustainable travel, we at Green Pearls® view such trends with some sadness, as they seem like a step backwards from more sustainable tourism. However, the behavior of travelers cannot be changed overnight. Instead, sustainable travel must become the norm. And not only on paper and in conversations, but also when it comes to actions and travel bookings.

In this newsletter, we therefore showcase some alternatives for the 2023/24 winter travel trends. For sustainable tourism, without making sacrifices.

Gentle Winter Tourism in the Alps

For many people, snow and winter sports are an essential part of a winter holiday. But the balance sheet of ski resorts rarely looks good. Snow cannons consume huge amounts of water and energy, skiers damage to nature by skiing off the designated slopes, and natural vegetation and thus important habitats have to make way for more and more new lifts and ski runs.

Ski resorts like the award-winning Dolomiti Superski on the Alpe di Siusi show that winter holidays can be different. For years, the operators have been committed to acting in the most environmentally friendly way possible. For example, electricity is generated exclusively from hydroelectric power and snowmaking is targeted and carried out with water from artificially created lakes. In other words, it is not taken from the groundwater.

In the middle of the area and directly on the slopes is the vegan-vegetarian Hotel Paradiso Pure.Living. From here, guests can strap on their skis and head out directly after breakfast. But non-skiers won't be bored either thanks to the yoga program, cozy sitting areas, contemporary art exhibitions and wellness area. 

Less than a kilometer from a small ski area lies the Naturhotel Outside in the middle of the Austrian Alpine National Park Hohe Tauern. But even though the Großglockner Resort Kals-Matrei area is considered an insider tip, especially among families, the National Park is best explored on snowshoes or cross-country skis. On guided winter hikes, the experienced guides of the nature and hiking hotel draw attention to the unique beauty of the winter mountain world.

At the Biohotel Grafenast high above the Inn Valley, it is also important to treat nature with respect. Especially in winter. There are weekly guided snowshoe tours. The hosts are also happy to share their enthusiasm for cross-country skiing. And winter hikes? Those are the highlights for the guests anyway.

Sustainable Wellness in Luxurious Surroundings

When the weather turns moody in winter, the days end early and there is more slush than winter magic, it is understandable that many travelers look to luxury and wellness. However, this does not have to be at the expense of the environment.

Luxurious hotels such as the CERVO Mountain Resort in the Swiss resort of Zermatt, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol or the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Austria, show how things can be done differently. Wellness and luxury in harmony with nature and sustainable values.

Signature treatments with natural products or their own natural cosmetics, spa and wellness areas that are powered by environmentally friendly energy and a management concept that counteracts water wastage and waste production. The three hotels mentioned above offer a unique atmosphere:

All-Inclusive – But with Care and a Clear Conscience

The demand for all-inclusive holidays is on the rise. However, such holidays are rarely sustainable, especially if they rely exclusively on buffets. Many Green Pearls® partners therefore also focus on individuality in their culinary offers, especially for dinner.

At the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa, a new dinner concept has been available for a few months. Under the motto "Your Mood defines your Food", there are three menu suggestions every evening from which guests can choose. At lunchtime, all guests can help themselves to the Healthy Lunch Bowl Buffet.

As in the Klosterhof, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio also offers a rich breakfast buffet with regional specialties and an Ayurvedic focus, a healthy lunch menu and various options for a multi-course dinner menu. On top of that, there is homemade cake in the afternoon.

Regional and seasonal - these two words are the core of the cuisine for all the hotels mentioned. At the Hotel Weihrerhof, too, they are the starting point for the evening dinner creations. All ingredients come from the immediate surroundings if possible, but at least from South Tyrol and at most from within Italy. On the breakfast buffet, small signs highlight the regional producers. If guests wish, they can even visit the producers during their stay and stock up on honey, bread and other products.

And if you are going to travel the long way south ...

After the domestic travel market recovered to a large extent last year, Germans are increasingly attracted to faraway destinations again this year. Especially in winter, southern destinations such as the Canary Islands or South East Asia are very popular. Making these completely sustainable is almost impossible because of the flight. However, a rule of thumb is: the further away the destination, the longer you should stay. So, if you are drawn to Thailand, the Seychelles or the Canary Islands, you should plan not just one week, but considerably more. Perhaps flexible working hours will even allow you to spend part of your travel time as a workcation.

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife, guests are prepared for longer stays anyway. Health and fasting treatments in particular are usually booked for several weeks. A mild climate, healthy food and, last but not least, the good W-LAN in the rooms make the health hotel also interesting for a workcation.

One island away on Gran Canaria, the small, family-run boutique hotel Casa León awaits its guests. The island is particularly popular with outdoor athletes and climbers in winter. After an active day, the garden of Casa León is the ideal place to relax.

As we have already demonstrated, sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive. The Keemala on the Thai island of Phuket proves that this is also possible outside Europe. In the middle of the jungle, the villas of the resort harmonize with the landscape and offer intimate retreats that are particularly popular with couples.

For those who dream of beaches and palm trees instead of tropical jungles, yet at the same time want to travel without a guilty conscience, the Cerf Island Resort in the Seychelles also offers ideal accommodation for a longer period of time. Located on the edge of the St. Anne Marine National Park, the resort offers authentic Creole-style villas and excursions into the national park. Of course, without a motor and only with a kayak or snorkeling equipment.  

Winter Travel Trends, but make it sustainable

Travel trends are rarely sustainable. Simply for the fact that when it comes to trends, many people have the same idea and usually travel to the same places at the same time. Overtourism is a big problem, especially in the Alps and other ski destinations. So, if it is possible, at least travel outside the holiday periods. And maybe it doesn't have to be a ski holiday every year. Instead, the region can be explored outside the high seasons and discovered in a completely new way. This relieves the burden on the environment and ensures an income for the hotels, accommodations and lodges outside the seasons as well.

Why a Visit to the Spa increases your Well-Being

Did you know that the term "spa" is an acronym and stands for "Sanus per Aquam", i.e. health through water? That, at least, is one common explanation of the word. Another refers to a Belgian spa town that has been famous for its healing springs since the 16th century and bears the name Spa.

Whether in the original spa in Belgium or in one of the many spas scattered around the world: A visit is proven to have a stress-reducing and restorative effect. It is no wonder that wellness and day spas continue to enjoy great popularity. Especially in view of our fast-paced world with all its accompanying challenges, a few hours of relaxation in warm water, sauna sessions or massages are like a pause button that makes time stop for a brief moment.

But it is certainly not only mentally that wellness or spa days have a positive effect on people. Saunas, massages and alternating baths also strengthen the immune system (especially in the cold season) and can relieve tension. 

Relax Sustainably and with a Clear Conscience - Sustainable Day Spa Offers from Green Pearls® Partners

A key factor in the wellness sector is - and remains - the enormous energy consumption required for heating rooms, pools and saunas. In addition, cleaning and other factors increase the climate footprint of spa and wellness providers. Those who still wish to indulge in relaxation with a clear conscience can choose sustainable spas. They pay attention to energy and water-saving measures, obtain heat and electricity from eco-providers or even produce them themselves (e.g. with the help of combined heat and power plants and PV systems), and also point out to their guests how they can support their efforts. For example, by re-using towels or dispensing with disposable slippers.

Day Spa im Tiroler Hotel Klosterbräu

"A day as relaxing as an entire holiday," promises the team at Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld. The YOUNIQUE Spa Day, as the Austrian wellness hotel's daily offer is called, begins on request with a visit to the rich breakfast buffet with Tyrolean specialties and organic products. Afterwards, a varied sauna landscape with seven themed saunas, including a hand-carved wooden sauna, various indoor and outdoor pools, and many relaxation rooms and lounging options both indoors and outdoors are available. Twice a week, the spa day can be combined with a yoga session or you can book individual treatments and massages. A lunch buffet and an afternoon snack are also included in the spa day at Klosterbräu. A special highlight: In the "Sündenkeller" (sin cellar), guests will find the beer fountain, from which home-brewed beer always freshly flows.

Wellness with a lake view on the Ritten

Non-hotel guests can also start the day at the Hotel Weihrerhof by visiting the regional breakfast buffet. The Pichler family sources the products as locally as possible and points out with small signs where honey, eggs and the like come from.

Afterwards, the day can start at the SeaSpa at Lake Wolfsgruben. Exclusive treatments with natural cosmetic products specially developed for the Weiherhof, a cosy indoor pool and various relaxation rooms with a view of the lake invite you to unwind. A large sunbathing lawn offers space to soak up the warmth of the sun. The highlight of the SeaSpa, however, is the boathouse sauna. Built from local materials and clad with typical South Tyrolean wooden shingles, it is very cosy and also offers a wonderful view over the lake.

Sustainable wellness in a modern spa

The newly built 2021 Mountain Spring Spa of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio leaves nothing to be desired. In addition to an indoor pool, sauna area and cozy hanging chairs and loungers to unwind, there is also a plunge pool and a large natural bathing pond. The special feature: From practically everywhere you can enjoy the view of the mountain panorama around Balderschwang.

In several treatment rooms, guests can indulge in massages and treatments alone or as a couple. The day is rounded off with a visit to the breakfast buffet as well as a lunch buffet and cakes at lunchtime and in the afternoon. 

Healing water and healthy air in the Black Forest

The spa area of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in the climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb offers everything the heart could desire. In addition to various saunas, steam bath and shower grotto, the mineral thermal swimming pool with panoramic view alone is worth a visit. In Bad Herrenalb, thermal water, i.e. water with a high mineral salt content, bubbles up from the ground, which has a healing effect on body and mind and can be particularly beneficial for mobility and cardiovascular troubles. The town also owes the "Bad" (English translation: bath) in its name to the thermal springs. Bad Herrenalb is also a climatic health resort. A spa day in the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is best rounded off with an overnight stay or a stroll in the fresh air.

Sustainable wellness at CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt

The unique luxury hotel CERVO Mountain Resort gladly opens the doors of its Mountain Ashram Spa to day guests. The spa area extends both indoors and outdoors and offers a range of pools, saunas and treatment rooms - all in the unique CERVO style.

A spa day at CERVO begins with a private brunch, serving the house specialties (all locally sourced; at CERVO produce very rarely has a long journey). Afterwards, all the amenities of the spa can be enjoyed. A massage, for example, is included in the Enjoyment Package. The location on the slightly sloping terrain also allows a view up to the Matterhorn throughout the day.

Day Spa in the Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria

The Naturhotel Outside is surrounded by the peaks of the Alps in East Tyrol. Various saunas, relaxation rooms and experience showers are complemented by a natural garden landscape with a natural pond for swimming and strolling, as well as a Kneipp wellness center. Individual treatments from herbal stamp massages to detox treatments are an integral part of the day spa offer and transform the visit into a mini holiday.

The spa day is rounded off with either an extensive brunch beforehand or a 4-course menu in the evening, where guests can indulge in local specialties

Relaxation on the Moselle at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

Guests will find the lifestyle resort Zum Kurfürsten nestled between picturesque vineyards. The wellness hotel with its focus on TCM and its unique style does not compromise on its day spa offers. Whether in combination with a delicious snack buffet, together with your favorite person or a few relaxing hours after work: ten saunas, three heated swimming pools as well as the natural pond and numerous relaxation options indoors and outdoors definitely ensure a holiday feeling.

Well-being by a crackling fireplace

At the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa, the feeling of a holiday is created from the very beginning. The day begins with a delicious breakfast buffet before guests head to the exclusive and relaxing atmosphere of the Artemacur Spa. There are several highlights waiting to be discovered. For example, the outdoor panorama pool with a view of the surrounding mountains, the panorama sauna, which provides that extra portion of relaxation on rainy autumn days, and of course the crackling fireplace by the indoor pool, which creates a very special atmosphere. 

Herbal bath and beer massage in Erlangen

The small but charming wellness area of the Creativhotel Luise is also open to day guests. In addition to the sauna and steam bath, there is an aroma experience shower and an ice grotto. A particularly special recommendation from the Creativhotel: book a private spa with an herbal bath in the aquapuncture tub and a beer massage. And to round off the holiday-in-a-day experience, the popular zero-waste breakfast buffet can also be booked to ensure the spa day gets off to a relaxing start.

A day of rest and regeneration at the STURM

In the Rhön SPA at Hotel STURM, time runs a little slower than it does in the outside world. Various saunas, a steam bath, a fresh air grotto and the idyllic garden with its natural bathing pond make it easy to forget the outside world for a day. The wellness day can and should be combined with individual treatments and massages. Shiatsu treatments are also available. In addition, day guests can look forward to a delicious organic breakfast or a unique dinner in the Otto|s restaurant, where you can have a look over the chefs' shoulders thanks to the open kitchen concept. In addition, the extensive nature park and the snack garden invite guests to wander around and consciously experience nature with all their senses.

More information on the individual hotels and their sustainability initiatives, restaurants and spa areas can be found on the corresponding Green Pearls® microsites. If you have any questions, please contact press@greenpealrs.com

Studies Show: More Mindfulness Leads to Less Stress

"Mindfulness" is a buzzword that is currently being used extensively, almost excessively. The industry or niche is almost irrelevant. But those who dismiss mindfulness practices as spiritual nonsense are quite mistaken. Time and again, studies prove that a mindful attitude and daily mindfulness practices have a positive effect on well-being. Stress can be reduced and the risk of burnout can also decrease.

The concept of mindfulness has its roots in Buddhism and is intended to encourage individuals to consciously focus on the present. In the 1960s, mindfulness practices entered Western culture and increasingly lost their connection to religion. Today, mindfulness is still associated with spirituality in certain places, but it has long since arrived in Western living rooms in the form of yoga, journaling and meditation.

Mindfulness on Holiday – Sustainable Relaxation

»I need a holiday from my holiday.«

This statement is one you hear again and again. Maybe it's because of too many adventures or experiences. Far more often, however, it is the stress level that does not subside and the continuous release of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. These are released, for example, by the thoughts of an overflowing inbox or of tasks that have been left unattended. The body cannot withstand this constant fire. The consequences of permanent stress are damage to the immune system, sleep disorders and functional impairment of the organs.

Holidays are a great opportunity to learn and establish new habits and small mindfulness practices to counteract stress. Retreats and offers range from single sessions to several days or even weeks. The most important thing, however, is to take what you have learned back with you into your everyday life in order to benefit over the long term from the mindfulness practiced on holiday.

Learn Mindfulness Practices While on Vacation

Meditation offers in sustainable hotels

The ADLER Group hotels offer retreats with renowned and certified teachers throughout the year. Guests can register for yoga retreats with different focuses according to their needs or participate in the activities program, which also includes yoga sessions and meditations.

Tip: In November, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is hosting a retreat, especially for women. The focus here is on female sacral yoga and the connection to female energy. At the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, yoga and meditation sessions are firmly anchored in the daily schedule. Retreats are also offered regularly in the magical surroundings of the Ritten.

The Hotel Klosterbräu in the Tyrolean resort of Seefeld is also dedicated to mindfulness. In the yoga room, the former refectory of the 500-year-old monastery, guests relax during guided meditations and dive deep into their dreams and thoughts.

Tip: The meditation sessions are perfectly complemented with a forest bathing tour on the Pfarrhügel and in the Eigenwald. These are regularly led by the Naturalists Nadine and Andrea.

There are few places that slow us down more and allow us to be more in the moment than the great outdoors. This is the premise under which the Allgäu wellness hotel HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio designs its activity program. Exercise in the fresh air at 1044 meters, enjoy nature bathing with guide Wolfgang, herbal walks, meditation and yoga sessions, which in summer always take place outside on the platform at the natural bathing lake, are firmly anchored in the hotel's plan and philosophy.

The team at the Eco-Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club has a similar view. Numerous outdoor lounges invite you to consciously switch off and enjoy the view of the natural garden and the ancient trees. Yoga sessions are offered on the hotel's own terrace, which allows you to gaze out into the distance to the Mediterranean Sea. Meditation spaces in the forest and by the natural bathing pond also invite guests to pause at the Guntrams estate in Austria.

Places of Energy with a Special Impact

The Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayrisch Gmain even invites guests to hand in their mobile phones at the beginning of their stay in order to enjoy the time consciously and without digital disturbance. The perfect place for this: the nearby "Heart Stone". This is considered a place of power which is said to have special properties and where meditations are particularly effective and the mind comes to rest.

Such places of energy or power can also be found around the Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten in South Tyrol. During a walk to one of these places, mobile phones, tablets and the like should stay in the hotel room. For this purpose, there is the Digital Detox Box, in which the devices can be safely stored. In addition, a booklet gives suggestions on what you can do with the time you have gained, apart from enjoying walks to the places of power.

Forest Bathing

The practice of Shinrinyoku or forest bathing originates from Japan and refers to mindful wandering and consciously experiencing the forest. Forest air has been proven to have a special effect on humans, and this is exactly what forest bathing takes advantage of.

At Gut Sonnenhausen, certified forest experience guide Claudia Müller regularly accompanies guests to the Sonnenhaus forest for forest bathing. Her aim is that participants do not simply stroll through the forest, but perceive it with all their senses. This includes walking meditations, exercises for sensory perception and taking time to simply stop and listen.

Mindfulness practices are also a part of the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. The unique hotel offers the perfect setting for yoga and meditation. In addition, forest bathing in the Swiss Alpine forest and walking meditations are also part of the program. Perfect for learning mindfulness techniques to take home.

In the heart of South Tyrol, guests experience a very special, vegan hotel. Nestled between the mountains of Val Venosta, LA VIMEA invites guests to experience pure relaxation. The Adults Only Hotel aims to provide its guests with sustainable and holistic relaxation. This includes sound massage, yoga sessions at the natural bathing pond and guided forest bathing in the nearby woods. The aim is for guests to let their senses guide them, to feel the here and now and to surrender to the "healing power of the trees".

"The messenger molecules of the trees, the so-called terpenes, are responsible for the positive effects of forest bathing," explains the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA team. Just 15 minutes of walking in the forest reduces the feeling of stress, lowers blood pressure and heart rate and reduces the stress hormones in the blood.

“Black Forest bathing” is an integral part of the wellness hotel in Bad Herrenalb and is also part of the fasting treatments, for example. In addition, the hotel's own Selfness Centre specializes in stress management and offers yoga and meditation along with resilience courses and special mindfulness weeks.

Japanese forest bathing is not only gaining popularity in Europe. From this year on, travelers to Thailand can look forward to a special offer at the luxurious Keemala. Since very few trees were felled during the construction of the hotel and the natural landscape was largely preserved, guests can enjoy ancient trees and a magical jungle. Forest bathing in the "Enchanted Forest" is a unique experience that also helps to decelerate and, above all, to take this relaxation home with you or on your further journey and reap the lasting benefits.

And now it's your turn: Stop for a moment. Breathe in. And exhale. Listen to your inner self. Consciously feel the temperature around you, the feel of the desk and the chair upon which you are sitting. Listen to the sounds that surround you. Breathe in and out. Welcome to the here and now.

The Italian Rail Network: Routes, Apps and Trains

The Italian rail network is very well developed. In northern Italy in particular, both large and small cities and towns can be reached by regional trains and buses. In southern Italy, the network is somewhat more limited, but even there, railroads such as those of the Ferrovia Circumvesuviana or regional trains in Puglia offer attractive rail trip destinations.  

Travelers can get a good overview of the rail connections in the Trenitalia app. In addition to the major routes, many regional connections can also be found there. Another research and booking option is the Europe-wide booking platform The Trainline, where travelers can find out about trains and prices. 

Also worth mentioning are the so-called racetracks that connect Milan and Salerno. In addition to Trenitalia, the private company Italo also offers fast travel between major cities. The high-speed trains reach speeds of up to 400 km/h on some routes; so a trip from Milan to Rome only takes about three hours. By comparison, it takes between six and seven hours by car.  

Railtripping in Italy: The Sustainable Green Pearls® Route

A sustainable rail trip also includes choosing accommodation that is committed to environmental protection, social work and sustainable business. From South Tyrol to Sicily, you'll find unique hotels and vacation apartments that do just that and have therefore earned the Green Pearls® label.

Railroad romance on the Ritten

In light of the Alpine panorama that travelers can admire in South Tyrol, it is hardly surprising that a train journey becomes a memorable experience. The journey from the north across the Alps already offers numerous views that can be enjoyed by all passengers on a train ride. 

From the train station in Bolzano, it is a short walk to the valley station of the cable car that connects the city with Oberbozen on the Ritten. As a guest of the Green Pearls® hotels located there, guests receive the Ritten Card for their stay and can use the gondola free of charge, among other things. On the South Tyrolean high plateau, the historic Rittenbahn connects the individual villages. All Green Pearls® partners are located either directly at a train station, or can be reached within a ten-minute walk. 

Sustainable Hotels on the Ritten

Luxurious and relaxation-oriented, ADLER Lodge RITTEN offers suites as well as private chalets either nestled on the hillside or arranged around a lush natural pond. Wellness and relaxation are top priorities. In addition to signature treatments, the forest sauna and heated infinity pool offer space for relaxation.  

Close to nature and bee-focused: At APIPURA hotel rinner, everything revolves around the bee. Starting with the own organic honey on the breakfast table to the weekly honey dinner. A special experience is the Api wellness, where guests breathe the air from the beehive. On the occasion of their 50th birthday this year, there are also a few other special offers.

Family-friendly and located directly on the lake: Hotel Weihrerhof is located on the shores of Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy. In addition to plenty of space for children to play and frolic, there is also plenty of room to relax and unwind. For example, during a hike to the newly declared power points around the hotel or a visit to the boathouse sauna.

On the Tracks in Lombardy and a Side Trip to the Coast

From the Bolzano train station, travelers can easily reach many of Italy's major cities. For example, there is a direct connection to Rome. To get to Milan, rail travelers will need to change trains once in Verona. This is a great opportunity to explore the city from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. 

From Milano Centrale station, the tram takes just under ten minutes to the heart of the metropolis – and to the Hotel Milano Scala. The sustainable city hotel is Italy's first zero-emission hotel and is located not far from the numerous sights of Milan's cultural center, including La Scala. Also accessible by tram is the neighborhood developed on a former industrial brownfield site around the green twin skyscrapers Bosco Vertikale.

Rail travelers can get from Milan to Naples without changing trains. Stopovers include numerous small towns as well as Bologna, Florence, and Rome. For those who prefer the sea after the mountains and the city, you can also take a detour from Milan to Genoa and from there along the coast to Florence. A particularly beautiful section of the route is the almost thirty-minute drive along the Cinque Terre. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the small towns along the way.

Taking the Train to Sicily

The train journey to Sicily is an experience in itself. There is actually a direct connection from Rome to Palermo. No changes necessary. The train boards a ferry in Villa San Giovanni and disembarks in Messina in Sicily. There is also the option to book an overnight train on the route. Perfect for travelers who do not plan a stopover in Naples and want to arrive in Sicily at the first rays of sunshine.

A visit to the city at the foot of Mount Vesuvius is definitely worthwhile. Visitors can also visit the famous Pompeii or the archaeological site of Herculaneum by regional train. The route network reaches as far as Sorrento and a loop around Mount Vesuvius is also possible by train. If you are looking for an overnight stay outside the city in the middle of nature, you will find it at A‘ Cràpa Mangia. The historic estate is located in the Cilento National Park, just under 60 kilometers south of Salerno. Lovingly furnished vacation apartments, each with its own terrace, await guests. Sea view always included. The regional train takes travelers to Castellabate, from where it is a good 12 kilometers to the estate. The team will gladly organize a transfer.

In Sicily, traveling by train becomes more complicated. There are only a few rail routes and many places are not even connected to the rail network. Therefore, ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers a private transfer as well as special conditions for renting a car. This may also be an E-car: A free charging facility is available at the resort. The wellness hotel is located on the south coast of the island at the gates of the Torre Salsa nature reserve. Pristine beaches, olive groves, and orange trees are part of the landscape that surrounds the resort. Those who wish can also rent e-bikes or an e-car on-site to explore the rest of the island. 

And then for those who don't want to miss out on a rail-tripping adventure at the very end, the Ferrovia Circumetnea is not to be missed. The historic narrow-gauge railroad takes travelers on a tour through vineyards and lava fields around Mount Etna. The numerous stops in the towns around the volcano invite further exploration before the evening ends on the beach of the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA.

For more information on sustainable accommodation in Italy and other inquiries, please contact us at press@greenpearls.com or visit our partners' microsites at www.greenpearls.com.

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.

Too many people in too short a time divided between too few locations

This is how mass tourism can be summarized. It is particularly prevalent in destinations that have unique beauty or landmarks and can be intensified by advertising and, above all, by social media (keyword: Instagramability). The phenomenon already emerged after the 2nd World War, when the intensity of travel increased dramatically due to economic, social and societal boom factors. Since 1950, the number of travelers worldwide has increased by a good 1.4 million (Statista, 2019).

Such a number of travelers, especially when concentrated in a few places, causes problems that players in the travel industry have become even more acutely aware of since the pandemic brought them to a standstill. In addition to the damage to the environment caused by arrivals by plane or private car, there is also the disturbance to local residents who are in the minority in their own region during peak travel times. In addition, there is seasonal work (and the associated unemployment afterward), destruction of nature, increased waste generation and a generally very high consumption of resources.

The solution: fewer people spread over a wider area over a longer period of time

Sustainable or soft tourism is often presented as a solution to the problem of mass tourism. However, the focus is often solely on the arrival and interaction with the local residents, booking sustainable accommodation, for example. However, sustainable tourism should also look at visitor management and motivate travelers to travel outside the high season(s) and avoid sights at peak times. It also makes sense for travelers to consider the surroundings of their favored destination. Maybe they do not need to stay in the center of town but rather choose an accommodation that is off the beaten track.

Far away from the crowds: The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Allgäu

"We don't have mass tourism in Balderschwang," writes the team of the Allgäu wellness hotel. In general, the team recommends its guests to rather look at the small places in the surrounding area and not focus too much on the big cities. A special insider tip: Holzschuhmacher Devich in the neighboring Austrian community of Hittisau in the Bregenz Forest.

The HUBERTUS is not only a refuge in name but actually is one. Here, guests are allowed to arrive and find peace. In addition to the large Mountain Spring Spa, the focus on yoga and Ayurveda and the regional and healthy food also play a significant role.

Switch off away from the metropolises at Hotel Okelmann's

Warpe is a tiny village in Lower Saxony. Surrounded by fields and forests, it is always quiet and tranquil here. The two sisters Kristin and Maren continue to run the family hotel with love and care. The cozy rooms, the yoga and relaxation programs and the handmade cakes and treats in the adjoining café are just some of the highlights that delight the Okelmann's guests. "Here you can be away from the crowds for yourself all year round and recharge your batteries," Kristin Okelmann summarises.

Gentle tourism in the Alps

The Hohe Tauern National Park is the oldest national park in Austria. And right in the middle of it lies the Naturhotel Outside. "Our region of East Tyrol is characterized by soft/gentle/natural tourism," describes hotel manager Daniel Ganzer. Even in winter, there are hardly any waiting times at the ski lifts. This is possible, among other things, because the Hohe Tauern National Park is a model region for low-impact tourism. With its own sustainability strategy, the nature and hiking hotel supports the efforts of the model region and, for example, gladly advises its guests to travel by train and stop in local mountain huts.

Gentle travel despite tourist hot spot

Even in popular holiday regions and during the high season, there are ways and means for guests (and tour operators) to counteract the crowds. The choice of time of day or day of the week can be crucial for an almost deserted destination.

Avoiding the crowds on the Ritten

At the Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten in South Tyrol, which is well-frequented in summer, Klaus Pichler advises his guests not to visit the Rittner Horn on a weekend, for example. There are, in fact, alternatives for the famous earth pyramids in Lengmoo: The geological phenomenon can also be admired in Oberbozen and Unterinn. Klaus Pichler's favorite place, however, is Lake Mitterstiel. From there, you have a unique view of the Dolomites.

Off the beaten track at Lake Constance

"There is always a lot going on at the lake, especially during the holiday season," says Ursula Wagner of Naturresort Gerbehof in response to our question about mass tourism at Lake Constance. She therefore recommends her guests to explore the beautiful hinterland. For this purpose, Gerbehof has bike maps that show the length, difficulty and altitude of the routes, so that everyone can find the perfect tour. Especially popular are the Deggenhauser Valley, also known as the Valley of Love, and a visit to the many small museums in the villages outside of Meersburg and Lindau.

Otherwise, Ursula Wagner recommends taking advantage of the off-season. "A very nice time for us is in spring when the flowers are in bloom or in September for the wine and fruit harvest. Holidays are over and things are quieter." In addition, certain farm inns, called Rädle, are only open during the harvest season.

Benefiting from local know-how

The teams of the sustainable Green Pearls® partners on-site usually know best, and gladly provide information and share their secrets. At Hotel Das Rübezahl, this all happens first-hand. Active guide Basti is happy to take guests to these insider sites and introduce them personally. "But we do reveal a little now and then via our blog," admits Alexander Thurm.

At the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, Switzerland, the team also likes to recommend alternatives to the classic sights to its guests. They know all the picturesque and, above all, quiet places around the car-free resort where you can get away from the hustle and bustle.

The sustainable properties of the Green Pearls® network show how it is done: All tourism stakeholders can work to ensure that the mass of tourists is managed wisely. Both in advance, by deliberately highlighting the low season, and on the ground, when it comes to when and if certain sights should be visited.

For more information on how Green Pearls® partners are working towards more sustainable tourism, visit the page of the relevant accommodation or feel free to contact us with specific questions at press@greenpearls.com.

The project: energetic and spiritual places on the Ritten.

"In recent years, we have intensively studied the special nature that surrounds us. And we did this from different perspectives", Manuela and Klaus Pichler describe their approach. They were surprised that so little attention had been paid to the Celtic settlements on the Ritten. Through their collaboration with spa consultant Dagmar Rizzato and her husband, geomancer Bernd Traber, they also learned to perceive nature in a completely new and exciting way.

Geomancy is the holistic recording of the energetic identity of a place with the help of a grid system. Within this grid structure one can experience vibrational energy measured in Bovis Units (BE). A place of power with 10,000 BE is well above the average of 6,500 BE.

Bernd Traber, who helped the Pichlers identify and evaluate the energetic sites, is not only a geomancer but also a civil engineer. An interview with him about the discrepancy between geomancy and engineering is also included in the booklet.

An invitation to the guests

The booklet should encourage people to get involved with nature. Therefore, in addition to the information and historical background of the power places, there is always an appropriate meditation suggestion. Depending on the location, this can be opening, energizing or grounding. The Pichlers also recommend an appropriate spa treatment to complement the meditation upon returning to the hotel.

Environmental awareness in the hotel room

The love of nature is reflected not only in the new Energetic Places project, but throughout the entire hotel. For example, when renovating the Windspiel rooms (the Roarer Windspiel is also one of the Energetic Places featured in the booklet), the owner family made sure to follow the Cradle to Cradle® principle. The all-wood furniture was refinished, the upholstery was reupholstered, and the hardware was reclaimed. The mattresses are also recyclable and made from recycled materials as well as wool from the Vilnöss spectacled sheep. Climate neutrality, recyclability, decarbonization and high social standards were the focus for all raw materials and products.

For more information about Hotel Weihrerhof and its green initiatives, please visit the hotel's Green Pearls® page or contact us at: press@greenpearls.com

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. 

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.