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?

Cooling comes at a price

Cold storage and deep-freeze facilities operate continuously, 365 days a year. Due to their constant cold chains, complex storage technology, and energy-intensive defrost cycles, these facilities generate an enormous baseline energy load, resulting in high electricity costs and a significant environmental impact. Moreover, stockpiling as part of conventional bulk purchasing often results in unclear, "hidden inventory," thereby increasing the risk of food waste.

However, some hoteliers are showing that strategically reorganizing their procurement processes addresses this energy demand at its core. By shifting to regional, fresh, demand-driven procurement, they are reducing energy consumption right from the start. Rather than relying on global supply chains and frozen, prepackaged products, these early adopters are implementing just-in-time delivery based on demand. Short transport routes from producers to processing facilities minimize the need for on-site refrigeration, enabling large cold storage facilities to be replaced by modern refrigeration units designed to meet daily needs.

This new approach to kitchen organization reduces electricity consumption and offers qualitative benefits. Using fresh ingredients, a high proportion of homegrown produce, and traditional preservation methods such as fermentation, canning, or drying enables sustainable food storage without the need for continuous refrigeration. An added benefit: Packaging waste is reduced through the use of reusable systems and direct supply chains.

This results in an approach that combines environmental responsibility with economic resilience, demonstrating that the kitchen, one of the most energy-intensive areas of a hotel, can also be a key driver of efficiency. How differently these strategies are implemented in practice and what concrete results they yield are illustrated by the following examples from Green Pearls® partner hotels.

Regional strategies for daily kitchen operations

At the Green Spa Resort Stanglwirt in Tyrol, tightly scheduled deliveries, sometimes several times a day, have replaced the traditional bulk purchasing model. Close collaboration with regional partners minimizes intermediate storage times—and thus the need for refrigeration. The resort's model is complemented by a high proportion of in-house production and a kitchen that operates based on availability rather than a rigid standard menu.

At the Relais del Maro in Liguria, the restaurant is committed to preparing everything in-house, replacing energy-intensive, industrially processed products. Cakes and tomato sauces are baked and cooked on-site. The freshly prepared breakfast items are all “zero-kilometer” products that come directly from local producers in the surrounding valleys. The bread baked daily, the croissants, and the traditional focaccia go straight from the village baker's oven to your table. Due to these short supply chains and smaller, more flexible purchasing cycles, extensive stockpiling in large refrigeration facilities is unnecessary.

The ADLER Ritten also relies on a network of regional partners. The kitchen uses fresh produce from the immediate area and maintains close, reliable relationships with local producers. These short supply chains ensure high quality and freshness while reducing the need for energy-intensive refrigeration. The hotel's 4,000-square-meter farm garden complements this strategy by yielding summer wheat, potatoes, beets, leeks, strawberries, and many other varieties.

The Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance operates in a similar way and takes a pragmatic approach to this issue. The resort buys eggs, cheese, and vegetables from neighboring farmers and harvests herbs, lettuce, and seasonal vegetables directly from its garden. However, the resort also emphasizes that reliable food refrigeration is indispensable in a professional kitchen, especially during the warm summer months. Nevertheless, the combination of growing produce on-site and transporting it without detours reduces the logistical energy required and the need for refrigeration beforehand.

One place that exemplifies a consistent farm-to-table approach is the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol. Fresh fruits and vegetables are delivered directly from a neighboring farm to the kitchen several times a week. Any surplus produce is preserved using traditional methods, such as fermentation, canning, or pickling. The hotel works closely with the producers, sometimes even extending their collaboration to crop planning. APIPURA Executive Chef Manfred Rinner was also part of a working group that helped develop the “Bio Fair Südtirol” culinary concept in 2022. This certification system supports local organic farming by requiring food to come from within a 200-kilometer radius.

The My Arbor wellness hotel near Brixen confirms that switching to regional, fresh, homemade products improves this South Tyrolean business's energy efficiency, primarily by drastically reducing refrigeration and freezing needs, shortening supply chains, and significantly reducing storage times. Compared to a traditional procurement model involving the long-term use of cold storage, the hotel reduces its direct on-site electricity costs and indirect energy consumption related to logistics. Moving away from continuously refrigerated inventory conserves resources and results in higher-quality products for guests because ingredients fresh from the harvest require fewer energy-intensive processing steps in the kitchen.

Another example of how a fresh, regional procurement strategy is a culinary and energy-efficient choice is the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA Hotel in Bad Herrenalb. Traditional bulk purchasing increases energy costs due to uninterrupted cold chains and long storage times. In contrast, a focus on seasonal products shortens delivery routes and storage times. Smaller, demand-driven order quantities reduce food waste and lower the required refrigeration capacity at the wellness hotel in Bad Herrenalb, which in turn minimizes the technical base load in kitchen operations. The kitchen team prepares basic ingredients such as stocks, dressings, and baked goods in-house, achieving resource-efficient production that combines lower energy consumption during storage with higher culinary quality.

At the vegan hotels Paradiso Pure.Living and LA VIMEA, this purchasing philosophy is combined with a consistent zero-waste strategy. Under the direction of Executive Chef Aggeliki Charami, the kitchens use only fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients. Orders are placed more frequently, but in smaller quantities. Inventory levels are carefully calculated, and regular deliveries of seasonal fruits and vegetables reduce the need for storage space even further. The goal is to utilize high-quality organic ingredients as efficiently as possible by focusing purchasing and cooking exclusively on in-house prepared dishes. Combined with the zero-waste food policy in the restaurants, product utilization efficiency is exceptionally high.

The Carinthian Slow Food Hotel Schloss Lerchenhof has dedicated its cuisine entirely to the rhythm of the seasons. Each morning, ingredients are delivered fresh from the hotel’s own farm just around the corner or from local producers. "Our cuisine is based exclusively on the season. We serve whatever is currently growing and available," explains owner Johann Steinwender. "Often, it’s not until morning—after the harvest and delivery—that we decide what will be cooked in our natural kitchen that day," he adds with a smile.

The SANDnature at the SANDcollection in Timmendorfer Strand is taking a more analytical approach. Currently, it is conducting a systematic review of its refrigeration capacity. To this end, the facility is reevaluating its purchasing and warehousing processes. The goal of this logistical restructuring is to store refrigerated products in a more concentrated manner and consolidate the technical infrastructure into a single, centralized refrigeration system. Through this space optimization, a former cold storage facility will be converted into an uncooled dry storage area. This reduction in refrigerated space is expected to lower electricity consumption in the kitchen area without compromising the freshness or quality of food served to guests.

Since completely doing without refrigeration in a professional kitchen is not realistic, the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau combines modern technology with traditional expertise. Located in the Allgäu region, the hotel relies on highly advanced, energy-efficient cooling systems and a clever recirculation system that redirects the waste heat generated by the cooling systems to heat the hotel’s outdoor pool. Additionally, the team at the award-winning Louis II restaurant focuses intensely on preservation methods. By utilizing traditional methods to preserve seasonal, regional products, the restaurant reduces transportation distances, avoids imported goods, and optimizes resource efficiency while keeping the ingredients fresh without the need for continuous electricity use.

Regional sourcing as a lever for energy efficiency in hotel kitchens

The examples demonstrate that a frequently overlooked lever lies in how food is sourced, stored, and processed. Shorter supply chains, smaller order quantities, and closer collaboration with local producers minimize the need for large-scale refrigerated and frozen storage facilities. Traditional preservation methods, a high proportion of in-house production, and precise inventory planning also minimize food loss while using resources efficiently. What becomes clear is that doing without oversized stockpiles does not in any way result in a loss of quality. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients enhances culinary quality, strengthens regional value chains, and creates an authentic guest experience. Where refrigeration remains essential, modern, energy-efficient systems and smart heat recovery systems provide additional savings. In light of the ongoing 2026 energy crisis, regional sourcing is therefore evolving from a sustainability measure into a key factor for economic success.

Sources:

• Green Habitat: How hotels benefit from local sourcing 

• IHK Schleswig-Holstein: Energy-Saving Checklist

• Smart Hotel Key: Smart purchasing in hotels

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Living and traveling in harmony—but in harmony with what?

In our daily lives, calendars, push notifications, and to-do lists set the pace. The same is true for our free time: an appointment here, a message there. In order to actually take breaks, we have to schedule them into our daily plans. And on vacation? Even then, we rush from one activity to the next, working our way through our bucket list and bowing to the rhythm of the clock.

We'd like to offer you an alternative. Maybe it doesn't have to be the clock or the bucket list that sets the pace of your vacation. Why not let the tides, the season, or the time you spend together shape your day or your trip? We've gathered a few ideas from Green Pearls® partner accommodations for you here.

The River and the Sea

When nature sets the pace

In particular, places and accommodations that are closely connected to their surroundings offer a unique vacation experience. Instead of following a set itinerary, you can adapt your daily routine to the rhythm of nature.

At the Canvas & Orchids Retreat, life revolves around the Tatai River. The glamping retreat is only accessible by river, and some of the luxurious tents are even situated on floating platforms. This allows guests to immediately begin their day in tune with the river’s rhythm. Rather than offering a fixed activity schedule, this Cambodian retreat provides flexible excursions into the rainforest, mangroves, and to see waterfalls. Boat rides and kayaking trips ensure you never forget what sets the pace.

Nowhere is the rhythm of nature more evident than by the sea. The sound of the waves, the wind, and the tides—all influence your rhythm, sometimes more clearly and sometimes with more subtlety. At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in northern Tenerife, the Atlantic Ocean is ever-present. Right in front of the hotel is a Piscina Natural, a seawater pool bordered by rocks where you can feel the ocean’s waves while swimming in a protected area. Inside the hotel, you can enjoy thalassotherapy treatments that use sea salt, seawater, mud, and salty sea air to promote relaxation.

On the North Sea, it’s the tides that set the pace for your day. During your stay at the lifestyle and boutique hotel SANDglow, you’ll quickly get into the habit of checking the tide tables to plan your mudflat hikes, beach walks, and afternoon swims. This habit of aligning yourself with the natural rhythm of your surroundings will give your vacation a different pace.

The Tranquility

When a place has its own rhythm

They really do exist—those places that have their own definition of time. One such place is the Croatian island of Iž. At the island's only hotel, Hotel Korinjak, you can let your mind wander. No FOMO, no stress, and no need to be constantly available. Instead, you can enjoy the scent of pine trees, a morning yoga session, and an afternoon boat tour—where, with a little luck, you might spot dolphins.

Consciously slowing down is an integral part of OLM Nature Escape's philosophy in South Tyrol. As a member of Slow Down Hotels, the hotel offers a customizable culinary concept that allows you to find your own rhythm. The Eco Spa, natural pond, and personalized hiking or e-bike tours let you experience the area without worrying about time. The Wi-Fi in your ApartSuite can be dimmed, allowing you to decide just how much digital connection your vacation requires.

The Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, offers one thing above all else: the freedom and space to grow. Instead of TVs in the rooms, a lovingly curated library invites you to browse, and numerous quiet corners throughout the historic estate and park encourage you to relax and unwind. You won't find an activity program here; instead, it's all about rediscovering peace, nature, and the slow pace of life.

At the vegan hotel LA VIMEA in the Merano region, your daily vacation routine is defined by the park-like garden, yoga, and meditation. Since the hotel is adults-only, you’re surrounded by a unique sense of tranquility from morning to night—so much so that you almost forget the center of Naturns is just a few minutes’ walk away. Incidentally, the trip to the mountains is almost just as short—you can explore them on foot or by (electric) bike. At night, the Wi-Fi is turned off, which shifts your focus entirely to sleep and relaxation.

The dining table

When enjoyment is given time

Traveling also means experiencing the flavors of a region: a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies, traditional products, or generations-old recipes. Those who take the time to eat may discover more about a place than what's written in a travel guide.

As a member of the Slow Food movement, the STURM wellness hotel in Germany's Rhön region focuses on regional ingredients, traditional culinary arts, and mindful enjoyment. The open cooking station in the restaurant allows guests to watch the chefs work and chat with them. The ingredients used may be the same ones you saw and tasted in the snack garden that afternoon. And even the floral arrangements, made with seasonal "Slow Flowers," reflect the idea of working in harmony with nature and the seasons.

At SANDnature on the Baltic Sea, your day deliberately starts slowly. The late-riser breakfast, served until 1:00 p.m., includes sourdough bread from a nearby bakery, cheese from small producers, freshly prepared egg dishes, homemade jams, and seasonal ingredients from local farmers. A heartfelt invitation to start your day without rushing.

Regional products, high quality, and respect for food also define the cuisine at Hotel Okelmann's in Warpe, Lower Saxony. This family-run hotel focuses on authentic dishes made with local ingredients and handmade delicacies designed to pamper guests, rather than elaborate presentations. So it’s hardly surprising when a cake appears on the afternoon menu—even if it wasn't planned. Simply because Mama Okelmann felt like making it and had the necessary ingredients on hand.

At the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel and the adjacent OMNIA plant-based restaurant in South Tyrol, Slow Food gets a modern makeover. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients form the basis of creative vegan menus and breakfast creations. While you're there, be sure to enjoy a multi-course dinner at OMNIA. This intimate restaurant has just 10 seats and offers a unique, emotional fine dining experience led by Chef Aggeliki Charami, featuring fantastic courses woven into a cohesive narrative.

The Body

When rituals become more important than one-time treatments

Some things can't be rushed. Their effects unfold over time. This makes it all the more important for a wellness vacation to have a lasting impact; one that allows you to establish routines and rituals at home and find your rhythm in the long run.

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, exercise and relaxation go hand in hand. After a day of hiking in the Hohe Tauern National Park or doing yoga with a mountain view, the Natur SPA beckons you to unwind. Holistic treatments with natural cosmetics and select aromatic oils offer brief moments of respite for the body and mind that have a lasting impact. And the saltwater bath with Deferegger healing water completes the experience.

The Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance takes wellness a step further toward promoting health. Here, the focus is on mental well-being and stress relief. In addition to bioenergetic treatments based on Viktor Philippi’s methods, the resort offers healthy organic food and a tranquil, forest- and fruit-tree-surrounded setting to help you unwind.

The ADLER Ritten and the ADLER Sicilia also tailor their stays to your individual needs and rhythm. Though the two hotels are quite different—one in the mountains of South Tyrol and the other on the rugged southern coast of Sicily—they share the goal of creating spaces where you can be completely yourself. Yoga, meditation, mindfulness activities, and spacious spa areas are designed to help you find your rhythm. Rather than a set schedule, the focus is on having the freedom to shape your day however you like.

A place of relaxation and tranquility is also offered to you by the adults-only hotel My Arbor near Brixen. Whether you're interested in dining, wellness, or activities—you set your own schedule. Breakfast until noon and lunch into the early evening? My Arbor makes that possible. In between, you can participate in guided tours, yoga sessions, sauna infusions, or forest bathing. Or, you can turn it into a whole "me-time" weekend!

Taking a vacation at your own pace

Time is perceived differently in many parts of the world. Sometimes nature sets the pace, sometimes the seasons, and sometimes it's a long, shared meal. On your next trip, why not try going with the flow of your destination instead of bringing your daily routine with you?

#sharingiscaring | Who needs to read this and slow down for a bit? Forward this newsletter to them and remind them that taking time off isn't any less valuable just because they're doing "nothing."

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

It’s often stories that change the way we view travel—subtle inspirations that linger long after we’ve heard them. In our editorial office, we regularly discuss what has recently moved, inspired, or made us reflect. Whether it’s a book, movie, documentary, or podcast: Here, we share our personal recommendations with you—honest, handpicked, and always with a focus on mindful travel.

Here’s what Mara has been loving lately:

“You know those books you find yourself flipping through every now and then? That’s exactly the kind of book I’d like to recommend to you today: Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls. The book tells the stories of extraordinary women, illustrated by female artists from around the world. The short biographies are lovingly written, motivating, and encouraging. These aren’t just great bedtime stories for kids!”

Take a look at the book series. (unbezahlte Werbung)

• The package is bookable from April 3 to October 30, 2026. The price is €1,060 per couple for two nights. More information about the offer is available here.

• The package is bookable from April 3 to October 30, 2026. The price is €1,060 per couple for two nights. More information about the offer is available here.

Cuisine influences travel decisions

According to a recent study^1,2 around 45 percent of Germans consider the local cuisine when choosing a travel destination. For some travelers, local cuisine is a decisive factor in choosing a place to stay or a travel region. At the same time, the role of hotel restaurants is changing; what was once considered a basic service is evolving into destinations that people specifically book. Thus, a hotel’s culinary offerings become an important element of travel planning and an experience that guests consciously choose.

Concepts that highlight the origin and quality of ingredients and are closely tied to the destination are particularly in demand. Regional ingredients, short supply chains, and an authentic culinary identity are key factors that influence travel decisions.

Chefs as catalysts for sustainability in the hospitality industry

The new expectations that guests have of hotel kitchens often align with the framework within which sustainable chefs already operate. This growing focus on regional culinary experiences is shifting the chefs' significance. After all, for a long time, the conventional wisdom was that the restaurant kitchen was the main stage, while the hotel kitchen was merely a supporting role. Now, however, a different picture is emerging. 

In particular, sustainable boutique hotels, resorts, and hideaways give their chefs room for their own ideas, access to high-quality regional products, and encouragement to actively help shape the culinary concept. Sustainability is not merely an abstract ideal here. It is evident in daily operations, seasonal ingredients, close collaboration with local farmers, and mindful use of resources. Unlike in other areas, a property’s sustainable approach becomes tangible to guests through its cuisine, thus becoming a defining characteristic of the accommodation.

Leading figures in sustainable hotel cuisine

The extent to which chefs influence a hotel’s identity is evident in properties within the Green Pearls® network. Their unique approaches transform dining into a distinctive experience, giving each hotel a clear point of differentiation.

Aggeliki Charami – Vegan Fine Dining as a destination

Head Chef and Executive Chef at Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel, LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel, and OMNIA plant-based restaurant 

Aggeliki Charami showcases the potential of plant-based cuisine. She has quickly made a name for herself in South Tyrol and has already received several awards for her work at Paradiso Pure.Living. Her cuisine attracts guests and offers a fine dining experience that is entirely free of animal products.

• In this interview with Green Pearls®, Aggeliki Charami explains her philosophy and approach in more detail.

She helped shape the evolution of the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm. What began as a vegetarian-vegan concept evolved into a fully vegan hotel. They also created the OMNIA restaurant, which, thanks to its unique fine-dining concept, appeals to guests regardless of whether they are staying at the hotel.

Charami’s dishes capture the essence of the landscape and local ingredients. She works with a variety of textures, emphasizes fermentation, and thoughtfully incorporates influences from her Greek heritage. In addition to her work at Seiser Alm, she oversees the kitchen at the LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturns, where she pursues a lighter style.

However, her approach represents more than just a culinary concept that attracts guests from all over the world. She is setting a trend in hotel kitchens and restaurants, proving that vegan dishes can be a distinct culinary concept in their own right, not just an alternative.

Giuseppe Schimmenti – Zero-mile cuisine & culinary storytelling

Head Chef at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Giuseppe Schimmenti brings the flavors of Sicily straight to his guests' plates. As the executive chef at the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, he prefers to work with ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s immediate surroundings. For example, fish, herbs, olive oil, and citrus fruits come from local fishermen and producers or are grown on-site and form the foundation of his cuisine.

Schimmenti’s dishes are closely linked to personal memories. Having grown up in a Sicilian family for whom shared meals were central to life, he still draws on this influence today. His menus feature traditional recipes, techniques, and products from the island, placed in a contemporary context. His cuisine tells the story of a heritage deeply rooted in the region’s daily life, craftsmanship, and food culture. Guests immediately sense this connection, which is precisely what makes the culinary experience a central part of traveling.

• On the GREEN TRAVEL BLOG, Giuseppe Schimmenti takes readers on a (virtual) culinary journey through Sicily and shares the must-try dishes of this Mediterranean island.

Berni Aichner – Cuisine as a defining feature of a hotel

PRENN° Culinary Director at OLM Nature Escape

As the culinary director at OLM Nature Escape, Berni Aichner is responsible for the concept of the PRENN° restaurant, which gives the aparthotel its distinctive culinary signature. In 2026, Gault&Millau recognized the harmonious blend of architecture, sustainability, and cuisine with the “Hotel of the Year in South Tyrol” award.

The South Tyrolean chef gained experience working with three-star chef Norbert Niederkofler, among others, before assuming full culinary responsibility at the OLM. There, he implemented a culinary philosophy based on Slow Food principles and a focus on regional ingredients. His approach deliberately breaks away from traditional hotel concepts. Rather than fixed menu sequences, the focus is on a flexible approach tailored to the individual needs of the eco-aparthotel’s guests. The offerings are complemented by themed evenings and special events (e.g., Cooking with Reinhold Messner), during which the restaurant opens to an external audience.

Aichner closely aligns the culinary concept with the aparthotel's individualized focus. This way, the cuisine reinforces the brand identity and helps to clearly position the property.

Sascha Förster – Culinary Experiences

Executive Chef at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayrisch Gmain

At Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Executive Chef Sascha Förster offers dining experiences that transcend the traditional hotel restaurant. The highlight is the "Secret Forest" dinner, an intentionally intimate fine-dining event. These events take place at select locations, some of which are hidden, and combine the menu, food, and surroundings to create a unique culinary experience.

The locally sourced ingredients reflect the current season. The menu is created, using whatever is currently available. With a limited number of 12 guests, every dinner becomes a one-of-a-kind experience in a personal atmosphere. Even during regular hotel operations, Förster emphasizes a personalized culinary approach. His "GenussArt" menu allows guests to choose from different culinary styles, ranging from regionally inspired dishes to plant-based options.

His approach demonstrates that special culinary experiences can appeal to guests and that events like "Secret Forest" can be the reason for a trip, especially for foodies.

When cooking becomes a signature style

Although they are all different, these examples illustrate a trend that is becoming more common in many sustainable hotels: chefs shape a property’s culinary identity, set the tone, and use their dishes to convey a sense of origin, craftsmanship, and philosophy. 

As cuisine becomes a central focus of travel planning for many travelers, the importance of a unique culinary identity grows for hotels and accommodations. Unique dining concepts and a commitment to authentic, regional cuisine are specifically sought out. Cuisine is becoming, as the examples from the Green Pearls® network also demonstrate, an essential part of a hotel's identity and reputation.

A growing and influential factor in tourism

The importance of culinary offerings in tourism will continue to grow. For hotels, this will make their cuisine and culinary concept an integral part of their positioning, if they aren’t already. Even today, a hotel’s culinary concept partly determines how it is perceived, offering an opportunity for differentiation.

For the industry, this means shifting priorities: culinary concepts must be more deeply integrated into strategic planning. Topics such as regionality, resource use, and value chains are no longer relevant only to sustainable accommodations. They are part of the expectations of a traveler who makes more conscious choices and seeks authentic experiences.

Chefs are central figures in this development. Their concepts and ideas will influence how the sustainable hospitality industry evolves. After all, culinary enjoyment will continue to play a significant role in the travel experience.

______________________

Our sourced

1. A Culinary Revolution in Tourism
2. Study: The Role of Cuisine in Travel Decisions

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But first, here are three reminders for a successful getaway

1. Don't try to do too much. One highlight is enough for a short trip. Otherwise, simply enjoy having nothing to do for a change.

2. Pack light. You need less than you think. Really!

3. Choose a nearby destination and take the bus or train. This will significantly reduce your vacation emissions. You'll also have more time at your destination.

13 hotels, destinations, and offers for sustainable short breaks

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Bad Herrenalb, Germany

Escape everyday life and head to the northern Black Forest: at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, treat yourself to two nights of wellness for your body and mind. Look forward to a generous zero-waste breakfast buffet each morning and a three-course gourmet dinner (served or buffet-style) each evening. Relax with a 60-minute full-body massage or a natural cosmetics treatment that includes a skin check, cleansing, exfoliation, a mask, and final care. Choose what you desire and then sit back and relax. In addition to the offerings of this renowned wellness and health hotel, be sure to explore the region's hiking and biking trails and, above all, take a deep breath. Bad Herrenalb is a recognized climatic health resort.

Two nights' break available from €449.00 per person. | To the offer

Hotel Korinjak, Insel Iž, Croatia

Slow down the pace and spend a few days by the sea. Between March and June, the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž offers opportunities for mindful relaxation. During the "Festival of Sound & Movement" (April 29–May 3, 2026), enjoy daily gong baths, nightly gong pujas, aerial restorative yoga, and voice and bodywork sessions, all in the tranquil setting of the island. The special festival rate is €78 per person per night and includes a 4+1-night offer for those who want to immerse themselves even more. 

From June 4 to 7, 2026, the Women's Weekend will follow, offering an opportunity for exchange and fresh inspiration in a relaxed and safe atmosphere. The program for this long weekend includes yoga retreats, creative workshops, and more. Even outside of these events, the vegetarian hotel is a special place for a short break or pause during a longer trip to Croatia. Three to four days of daily yoga, vegetarian cuisine, and time by the sea will give you an intense reset.

My Arbor, Brixen, South Tyrol

Enjoy a long weekend in South Tyrol and experience the special evening atmosphere of the Brixen Water Light Festival (April 29 to May 16), which transforms the old town into an open-air gallery. Local and international artists will stage installations around water and light spread across the city's historic water locations. You can easily combine your short trip to My Arbor with the festival: enjoy nature or wellness treatments during the day, then immerse yourself in the magical light displays in the evening. It's an absolute spring highlight if you want to spend your time off enjoying a special event.

LA VIMEA, Naturno, South Tyrol

LA VIMEA is all about conscious relaxation, offering a purely vegan concept and various short-break packages. The "Active Vegan Getaway," for instance, is perfect for a long weekend (three nights) and caters to active vegans. It includes the rental of two e-bikes for two days, as well as packed lunches and energy bars for excursions. For couples, there is the "Romantic Vegan Getaway": two nights in a relaxed atmosphere with e-bike rental, exclusive sauna access, and romantic room decorations.

Go directly to LA VIMEA's offers

Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Berchtesgadener Land, Germany

When nature awakens in the Berchtesgadener Land region, it's the perfect time for a fresh start. Before summer really gets going, treat yourself to a relaxing solo getaway at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain with the "Zeit für mich" (Time for Me) package. The focus is clearly on your health, relaxation, and enjoyment, with multi-course dinner menus prepared by Chef Sascha Förster every evening. Outside, nature beckons you to enjoy gentle exercise: observe how everything grows, get active yourself, bathe in the forest, and recharge your batteries. All of this can be enjoyed with a view of the mountains right outside your door.

Naturhotel Outside, Matrei in East Tyrol, Austria

Arrive and start hiking at the Naturhotel Outside on trails leading through one of Europe's oldest national parks begin right outside. You don't have to plan much for your short hiking trip because you can just set off. The hotel's hiking concierge is available to provide ideas and recommendations. The equipment pool provides poles, backpacks, child carriers, and more for your mountain adventures. After a day of outdoor exercise, the Natur SPA awaits as a place to unwind. The combination of time in the mountains and relaxation works perfectly at the Naturhotel Outside, especially since sustainable travel by train is absolutely uncomplicated. Lienz train station is easily accessible, and the hotel shuttle will pick you up from there.

Head straight to the offers at Naturhotel Outside

Hotel Luise, Erlangen, Deutschland

Die bayerische Stadt Erlangen ist wie gemacht für einen Kurzurlaub: kompakt, lebendig und voller Möglichkeiten für unterschiedliche Schwerpunkte. Ausgehend vom nachhaltigen Hotel Luise, einem der nachhaltigsten Hotels Deutschlands, entdeckst du die Stadt mit ihren überraschend vielen Facetten sowie das Umland.

Nürnberg, Forchheim, Bamberg oder die Fränkische Schweiz liegen direkt um die Ecke. Auf dem GREEN TRAVEL BLOG haben das Team vom Hotel Luise und wir unsere Insider-Tipps für ein Wochenende in Erlangen zusammengefasst.

APIPURA hotel rinner, Oberbozen, Südtirol

Manchmal braucht es nur ein paar Tage für sich selbst. Weg von Familie, Alltag, Partner*in und Entscheidungen. Vom 03.05. bis 08.05.2026 heißt es im APIPURA hotel rinner: Solo buchen, groß genießen. In allen Zimmerkategorien entfällt nämlich in diesem Zeitraum der Einzelnutzungszuschlag. Darüber hinaus gibt es im Hotel weitere tolle Angebote mit Genießer-Halbpension, Nutzung der kleinen, aber feinen Wellnessoase und weiteren Inklusivleistungen sowie die Möglichkeit zur einzigartigen Api-Wellness, bei der du die Luft des Bienenstocks direkt inhalierst (natürlich ohne die Tiere zu stören).

Ab 555,00 € pro Person | Direkt zum Angebot

Hotel Das Rübezahl, Schwangau, Deutschland

Ob spontane Midweek-Auszeit oder Wellness-Wochenende mit Kulturerlebnis: Im Hotel Das Rübezahl findest du den passenden Rahmen für deinen Kurzurlaub im Allgäu. Beim 4=3 Midweek-Spezial (ausgewählte Termine im Februar, März und Mai 2026; unter der Woche) genießt du vier Nächte und zahlst nur drei.

Hervorzuheben ist auch das Neuschwanstein Special (gültig vom 04.01.–23.12.2026). Hierbei verbindest du einen Besuch des UNESCO-Welterbes mit einem Wellness-Genusstrip im Hotel. Und wer einfach mal abschalten möchte, ist beim Wellness Escape im Allgäu (mehrere Termine von Februar bis November 2026) richtig: kurz dem Alltag entfliehen, durchatmen und erholt zurückkommen.

Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Bernkastel-Kues, Deutschland

Ein Tag Auszeit, der sich nach mehr anfühlt: Beim Arrangement „Kurfürsten Verwöhntag Exklusiv“ startet dein Kurzurlaub im Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten schon am Anreisetag ab 13 Uhr. Denn ab dann kannst du bereits den Wellnessbereich des Resorts nutzen. Am Abreisetag endet deine Auszeit ebenfalls nicht mit dem Auschecken: Stattdessen darfst du noch bis 21 Uhr im Wellnessbereich entspannen.

Dazu kommen eine Übernachtung inklusive Frühstücksbuffet, ein 4-Gang-Menü am Abend und zwei Nachmittagssnacks. Begeisterung, Gleichgewicht, Zufriedenheit – die kompakte Auszeit an der Mosel lässt dich intensiv regenerieren, auch wenn du wenig Zeit hast.

Hotel Okelmann’s, Warpe, Deutschland

Zeit für einen Tapetenwechsel? Dann ab aufs Land! Im Hotel Okelmann’s im niedersächsischen Warpe findest du zahlreiche Inspirationen für eine kurze Auszeit, dank saisonaler Arrangements rund um das Frühjahr und den Frühsommer, täglicher Wellness- und Achtsamkeitsangebote und gemütlicher Rückzugsorte mit Blick in die Natur.

Ein paar entspannte Tage im Grünen, gutes Essen und einfach Zeit, um runterzukommen, wirken Wunder. Da muss es nicht der lange Urlaub weit weg sein. Wie wäre es zum Beispiel, über die Osterfeiertage eine kurze Auszeit zu genießen? Mit Osterfeuer, ausgiebigem Sonntagsbrunch am Ostersonntag und ganz viel Zeit zum Entspannen.

Zu den Angeboten im Hotel Okelmann’s.

Naturresort Gerbehof, Friedrichshafen, Deutschland

Wenn du eher aus dem Süden Deutschlands kommst, dann bietet dir das Naturresort Gerbehof am Bodensee die Möglichkeit für ein paar Tage Landluft. Bewusst für kurze Aufenthalte gestaltete Arrangements , wie die kleine Auszeit mit drei bioenergetischen Motivationen, lassen dich einen Schwerpunkt für deinen Kurzurlaub setzen: Genuss, Entspannung, Stressresilienz, Naturerleben. Zwischen Obstbäumen, weiten Wiesen und frischer Luft findest du jedoch bei jedem der Angebote Raum zum Abschalten.

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, Agrigent, Sizilien, Italien

Wenn du dem Frühling ein Stück voraus sein möchtest, lohnt sich ein Kurztrip nach Sizilien. Beim Super Spa Special im ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA genießt du eine entspannte Auszeit am Meer mit viel Raum für Wellness und Ruhe. Das Super Spa Special beinhaltet neben Halbpension, Aktivprogramm und Zugang zur Wellnesswelt auch einen Spa-Gutschein in Höhe von EUR 30,00 bei einem Aufenthalt von drei Nächten.

Neben mediterraner Landschaft und dem Blick auf die wilde Küste nahe des Naturreservats Torre Salsa besticht die Region zusätzlich mit milden Temperaturen, die ideal für Outdooraktivitäten sind. Wandern, Biken oder lange Strandspaziergänge läuten den Frühling sanft ein.

Diese Ideen reichen dir nicht?

Wir haben eine ganze Sammlung mit Ideen und Inspirationen für Wochenendtrips auf unserem Blog. Schau gern rein und lass dich inspirieren.

Mit wem musst du dieses Jahr unbedingt einen Kurzurlaub planen? Schicke dem oder derjenigen einfach diesen Newsletter als „subtilen“ Hinweis. #sharingiscaring

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

It is often stories that change our perspective on travel – subtle influences that linger long after we have read them. In our editorial office, we regularly discuss what has moved, inspired, or made us think recently. Whether it's a book, film, documentary, or podcast, we share our personal recommendations with you here – honest, hand-picked, and always with conscious travel in mind.

Here's what Mara has been excited about lately:

"This time, it's not a media recommendation, but a platform recommendation. If you buy books, take a look at the ‘Autorenwelt’ website. The shop has made it its mission to improve the payment of authors. The online bookstore gives its registered members (registration is free!) 7% of the sales price of every book sold. This is in addition to the royalties that the author receives from their publisher. It's about the common good, sustainability, and community."

To Autorenwelt. (unpaid ad)

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.

________________________

Our Sources

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

Green Pearls®: First of all – congratulations! You were recently named one of the Top 50 Chefs of South Tyrol 2025 by the Schlemmer Atlas and, on top, received an outstanding review of 17 out of 20 points from Gault&Millau and were included in the Restaurant Guide Identità Golose 2026. Were you actively working towards such recognition, or did these awards come as a surprise?

Aggeliki Charami: Honestly, I never worked with an award as a goal. I worked with the intention of being truthful in what I do: to create food with soul, respect, and a clear identity. These awards came as a result of my work, not as its purpose. So yes, they were a beautiful surprise, and also a confirmation that plant-based gastronomy can stand proudly at the highest level.

A Michelin star would send a strong message.

Green Pearls®: Are there other awards you dream of achieving?

Aggeliki Charami: Of course, there is the dream of a Michelin star for a plant-based restaurant in the Dolomites. Not so much for the title but for the message behind it: that plant-based cuisine can stand equally — and inspire internationally. My dream is to open paths and to be “the example.” I want our cuisine to spark conversation, drive change, and earn recognition through its substance.

Green Pearls®: Were you involved in the decision to turn Paradiso into a 100% vegan hotel and restaurant?

Aggeliki Charami: Yes, I was actively involved. Paradiso already had a strong plant-based philosophy, being a vegetarian-vegan hotel. Becoming fully plant-based was a natural step. I simply helped and showed that this transition could happen without losses but with growth, identity, and quality.

Green Pearls®: How long have you been vegan, and what led you to this decision?

Aggeliki Charami: I’ve been vegan for several years, but the decision grew inside me slowly and deeply. It began with empathy for animals and completed itself in my cooking, when I realized that creativity in the kitchen expands when you stop treating traditional ingredients as your default. It made me free. I became more creative, more sincere, more conscious.

Green Pearls®: Tofu, tempeh, seitan… which one is your favorite?

Aggeliki Charami: Koji. (Editor's note: Japanese mold used to ferment grains, rice, or soybeans) Even though it isn’t a “protein” in the classic sense. For me, it’s the most alive and expressive ingredient. Koji gives me flavour, technique, fermentation, umami, depth. It can transform any ingredient — and I’m drawn to anything that is alive, dynamic, and evolves with you.

Storytelling on the plate

Green Pearls®: What defines an “Aggeliki Charami” dish?

Aggeliki Charami: Storytelling. A certain dark subtlety. Emotion — the kind that makes you remember the dish itself and not just its taste. I work with textures, with elements of nature, with contrasts. For me, cuisine is not only flavour — it’s experience. I want each dish to tell a story without words.

Green Pearls®: “Rock star of vegan cuisine” or “mystical storyteller”?

Aggeliki Charami: If I have to choose, definitely the second. I’m not interested in the “noise.” I’m interested in the silence that happens when a dish truly moves someone.

Green Pearls®: Has South Tyrol influenced your cooking? How do you combine the Dolomites with your Greek roots?

Aggeliki Charami: The Dolomites changed me. They brought me closer to the earth, to the forest, to the cold, to wilderness and silence. But Greece lives inside me — in the memories, the herbs, the childhood summers, and the light.

Green Pearls®: How did the idea for OMNIA come about?

Aggeliki Charami: OMNIA was born from a desire to create something more: a space that wouldn’t just be a “restaurant”, but a ritual — an immersive sensory narrative. I didn’t want to simply cook well. I wanted to create something that doesn’t exist anywhere else. Something that touches the soul, not only the plate. That’s how OMNIA came to life.

Green Pearls®: Do guests always know what they are eating at OMNIA?

Aggeliki Charami: Not always — and that’s part of the experience. At OMNIA, I want people to let go, to trust, and to travel. Food becomes play, mystery, and discovery.

Green Pearls®: So, OMNIA is mystical, Paradiso vibrant and artsy. What concept did you bring to LA VIMEA?

Aggeliki Charami: At LA VIMEA I brought something more grounded, more Zen, more clean. A plant-based retreat expressed through food. Pure ingredients, meaningful depth, refined aesthetics — but in a lighter form than OMNIA.

Green Pearls®: How important is sustainability in your cooking?

Aggeliki Charami: It is fundamental. My cuisine cannot exist without respect for the earth. It’s ethics. For me, sustainability means respecting the ingredients, wasting nothing, choosing consciously, cooking with empathy — and reminding the guest that the planet is not a given.

Green Pearls®: That's a nice closing note. Thank you very much for taking the time to do this interview.

Über das OMNIA Plant-Based Restaurant and the Green Pearls® partner hotels

OMNIA Plant-Based Restaurant

Alpe di Siusi, South Tyrol, Italy

OMNIA Plant-Based Restaurant is a very small fine-dining restaurant with a maximum of ten guests and an intimate, emotional atmosphere. The nine-course menu takes around three hours, tells the personal story of Executive Chef Aggeliki Charami, and offers a unique, story-driven, and immersive plant-based fine dining experience.

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

Alpe di Siusi, South Tyrol, Italy

Paradiso Pure.Living is the first fully vegan hotel in the Dolomites, combining sustainable design with contemporary plant-based cuisine. Located directly on the ski slope, it features bright rooms, a cozy wellness area with an outdoor whirlpool, and an inspiring and holistic program. It also provides the perfect background for winter and summer mountain sports. The hotel also focuses on supporting regional and international contemporary artists with exhibitions and residences.

LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel

Naturno, South Tyrol, Italy

LA VIMEA in Naturno was Italy’s first 100% vegan hotel. It is a tranquil adults-only retreat for mindful travelers with a beautiful garden, natural swimming pond, daily yoga sessions, and a holistic wellness program.

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We are happy to provide you with further information and high-quality image material and to arrange inquiries for press trips. Please contact press@greenpearls.com for more information.

First, the renowned Schlemmer Atlas named her one of the “Top 50 Chefs in South Tyrol 2025.” The Schlemmer Atlas is one of the most well-known German-language gourmet guides, and it evaluates outstanding restaurants and top chefs throughout the German-speaking world every year. She received the award at the Alles für den Gast gastronomy fair in Salzburg, marking a milestone for plant-based fine dining in the Dolomites.

Additionally, the OMNIA Plant-Based restaurant at Paradiso Pure.Living received a top rating of 17 out of 20 points in the 2025 Gault&Millau Guide. The restaurant testers are impressed:

“ We have to express our amazement. OMNIA is part of the Paradiso Pure.Living vegan hotel, and anyone who thinks "vegan, please leave!" is seriously mistaken. What Chef Aggeliki Charami serves here is world-class.“

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is a long-standing Green Pearls® partner that stands for sustainable luxury and the highest standard of plant-based cuisine. In an interview, the hotel's founders, two brothers, talk about how they brought Aggeliki Charami from Greece to Alpe di Siusi.

In addition to her work at the hotel and restaurant, Charami is responsible for the culinary management of Green Pearls® partner LA VIMEA in Naturns, another establishment that offers creative plant-based cuisine and sustainable dining experiences.

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)

Welcome to the LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in South Tyrol – Italy’s very first entirely vegan hotel. Since 2016, it’s been an icon, a trailblazer, and a favorite destination for mindful travelers from around the world. Now, in 2025, LA VIMEA is entering an exciting new chapter: award-winning vegan Chef Aggeliki Charami, a true rockstar of plant-based cuisine, has taken over the kitchen. Expect fine dining that’s full of soul – and free from animal products.

Why LA VIMEA is the Right Kind of Getaway for You

Imagine stepping out onto your terrace in the early morning, the scent of pine in the air, the golden sun slowly rising over the mountain peaks. There’s no rush, no noise – just time. Time for deep breaths, quiet moments, and nourishing food. Time to reconnect with nature – and yourself.

LA VIMEA is more than just a vegan hotel – it’s a peaceful retreat surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the South Tyrolean Alps. Set in the sunniest part of the region, the small town of Naturns (Naturno) combines fresh mountain air, vineyards, and Mediterranean flair with a mountain view. Think: Alpine style meets Italian way of life.

Here, you can join a yoga class on the terrace, dip in the natural swimming pond or saltwater-powered pool, or pamper yourself with a natural spa treatment. And since LA VIMEA is an adults-only hotel (12+), it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reset.

Summer at LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel – Specials for 2025

#1 Romantic Vegan Getaway (Bestseller)

valid until 30 October 2025

Planning an anniversary or just a few dreamy days together? This package includes 2 nights with gourmet vegan half-board, a bottle of sparkling wine in your room, romantic decorations, vegan chocolate, private use of Forest Sauna, wellness and yoga, e-bike hire and lunch boxes for a day trip, and a complimentary late check-out.

• EUR 1040.00 per couple (Sun Room)
• Learn more about the offer.

#2 Active Vegan Getaway

valid until 30 October 2025

Perfect for outdoor lovers: 3 nights, premium e-bikes, protein bars, yoga according to the hotel schedule, gourmet vegan half-board, and a complimentary late check-out.

• From EUR 670.00 pp in double room / from EUR 850.00 single occupation (the deal saves you up to €230 per couple!)
• Learn more about the details.

#3 Young Vegan Friends (16–26 years)

valid until 30 October 2025

Traveling with your favorite people? Special for 4 people for 2 nights: spacious two-bedroom suite, gourmet vegan half-board, yoga & wellness, lunch boxes, and a complimentary late check-out.

• EUR 350.00 per person (total €1400 for 4 people)
• Check out the complete offer.

Your Travel Companion is not Vegan? – Bring them Anyway!

Are you worried that your partner, best friend, or travel buddy isn’t vegan and won't accompany you or enjoy the stay? No problem. Here are some arguments for you, why they’ll love it too:

• Plant-based food is a delicious way to explore a lighter, more mindful lifestyle – without missing out on anything.
• Choosing vegan travel helps reduce your ecological footprint, one meal at a time.
• It’s not about giving something up – it’s about discovering how satisfying, creative, and flavorful plant-based cuisine can be.
• Trying something new together makes for a great shared experience – and lots to talk about afterwards.
• Even non-vegans often notice how energized and balanced they feel after just a few days of eating plant-based.

And here’s why LA VIMEA makes it even easier to love:

• There is zero pressure or preaching – just positive vibes and next-level hospitality.
• The hotel is easily reached by train from all European countries: Naturns train station is only a 10-minute walk away. There is also a free shuttle if you prefer a lift.
• It is an adults-only hotel (12+), which means peace, quiet, and plenty of space to unwind.
• With spa time, yoga classes, and mountain views, the focus is on feeling good – not fitting into any label.

👉 Check availability and offers, and book now!

Do you know anyone who wants to travel vegan this summer? 
Feel free to forward the newsletter and share the inspiration—for more conscious travel and new perspectives.

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:

“You went vegan, drive an electric car, wear organic cotton, and suddenly—you have no friends. This is when you realize that you're not the ‘Queen of Green,’ you're a SMUG! Claire Wills reports on this dilemma in this brilliantly funny article for The Ethicalist. I laughed out loud more than once!”

To the article.

The Issue with the Energy Usage of Digital Structures

Some time ago, we discussed the sustainability of print products. They are often demonized as wasteful of resources, and switching to digital processes is presented as the one truly climate-friendly and green solution. (You can read more about why print still has a place in the linked article above.)

However, amid the "digital hype," the enormous environmental and climate impact of the internet and its associated infrastructure, technologies, and hardware is often overlooked. Due to a lack of reliable data, it is difficult to estimate the extent of this impact. Various studies conducted in recent years estimate, however, that digital technologies account for between 2 and 4 percent of global emissions – roughly the same as air traffic. In addition to end devices, this issue is also caused by data transmission and, above all, data centers and servers. Very few of these are powered by renewable energies.

In addition to the active influences and emissions caused by digital communication, there are also indirect effects. Digital communication and online marketing thrive on user interaction, whether through websites, email, social media, search queries, and so on. Each interaction in turn produces emissions and increases data centers' energy consumption. While the total ecological footprint of data centers can only be estimated, various calculations put it between 200 and 500 billion kilowatt-hours. Worst-case scenarios predict this enormous consumption will multiply by 2030, reaching an estimated 3,000 kilowatt-hours per year. This estimate does not include the changes that will result from AI development. In Europe, this could increase digital technologies' share of total European emissions from 2% to 5% by 2030.

Digital does not Necessarily Mean Sustainable

In our view, it is virtually impossible to make a direct general comparison between print and digital media. The speed and volume of data transmission, as well as the way digital media is used today, are completely different from physical media. Furthermore, the way we communicate has changed: People did not write letters in the same way or quantities as we send emails or text messages today.

Perhaps the closest comparison would be to consider specific marketing channels that pursue the same goal. For example, indiscriminately scattering advertisements across the internet is just as harmful to the environment as distributing flyers in the real world, despite the need to put the emission figures into perspective. (Presumably, flyers are never distributed in the same quantities as online advertisements generate views and interactions.)

Digital communication does not automatically equate to sustainability or environmental friendliness. As in the real world, knowing exactly what the target group needs and when is important for the success of digital communication, particularly digital sustainability communication. We will use examples from the Green Pearls® network to demonstrate how this works in the hospitality and tourism industry. Each of these sustainable accommodations has developed its own marketing and communication strategy. They all consciously handle and disseminate their content in a targeted way, meeting their (potential) guests where they are and avoiding large scatter losses.

Sustainability Communication: Individual, Authentic, Digital

Nowadays, a barrier-free, environmentally friendly website with minimalist design and energy-efficient, eco-friendly hosting that focuses on user needs is the cornerstone of most communication strategies. Such a website informs guests and interested parties, inspires wanderlust, and raises awareness of sustainable measures.

Digression| Sustainable Website: Less Data, Fewer Emissions

A sustainable website design is based on three key principles: efficient technology, climate-friendly hosting, and thoughtful design.

Technology: Save resources through lean code, fast loading times, low data volumes, and optimized media formats. Each megabyte saved reduces power consumption in data centers and on user devices.

Hosting:  It is worth looking for providers that demonstrably use renewable energies, operate data centers with heat recovery systems, and have energy-efficient infrastructure. Other criteria, such as the location of the center, transparency, and commitment to open-source solutions, also play a role. The Green Web Foundation provides a list of sustainable and/or environmentally friendly hosting providers.

Design: Less is more. Reducing animations, creating a clear page layout, and making navigation easy (so visitors don't have to search for long) conserves resources and improves the user experience.

Tip: Even minor adjustments, such as reducing image sizes, can significantly impact your website's carbon footprint.

Digital Communication in Sustainable Hotels

Social media channels, newsletters, and digital guest folders are being used more strategically. They are no longer merely sources of information; they are also platforms for authentic storytelling and brand building. These channels offer insights into a hotel's philosophy, processes, initiatives, and values, providing information that is accessible anywhere and almost in real time.

“We use email, our website, and social media to share our messages and sustainable initiatives transparently”, explains the team at the South Tyrolean Hotel My Arbor. This allows them to communicate quickly and efficiently while significantly reducing paper consumption.

The Eco-Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape, which opened in 2023, communicates digitally only, and for the Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea, going paperless is a natural part of sustainability. "However, since sustainability also means social sustainability to us, and we want to support the community's tourism organizations and our partners, we provide them with printed materials from time to time, if their marketing strategies require it," adds Marion Muller, owner of SAND. Otherwise, they use the Gastfreund app for targeted communication with the SAND guests and share their offers on social media. There, they reach a target group that is specifically interested in these offers.

From QR Codes to Apps – Digital Tools are a Sustainable Solution

Digital guest folders or apps are replacing traditional brochures and flyers. At the five-star wellness hotel Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, a monitor at the reception desk informs guests about current sustainability measures. "We also share information on our website, social media, and platforms like Green Pearls® and GreenSign", the hotel team explains. "We are also committed to sustainability internally. For example, we handle most of our communication via email and use as little paper as possible."

The STURM in the Rhön offers digital vouchers. These can be sent directly to the recipient with a personal message. Printed vouchers are now only issued and shipped upon request. "We communicate almost entirely digitally," explains Julius Schulze Dieckhoff from STURM. "Both in marketing and in guest communication. We only have a few postcards and a leporello catalog.”

At the vegan hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol, hardly anything is printed. Almost all processes are organized via QR codes, including the menu and guest information. This means that printed materials do not need to be reprinted when information changes, as the information is available digitally.

Digital communication has another advantage that may not be immediately apparent: it takes up significantly less physical space. There is no need to store or transport informational materials or printed matter for either the venue or the guests.

Social in the Digital Space

Another advantage of digital solutions becomes apparent when considering the requirement for websites to be accessible. Accessible websites and apps with read-aloud functions and customizable user experiences, such as adjustable font sizes, dark mode, color options, and simple language, make information directly accessible to all interested parties. This is only possible to a limited extent with print products. Certain facts can be described in more detail as needed, and background information and links make content easier to understand. These features allow all travelers to participate without relying on third parties.

Conclusion: It is not an Either/Or Issue

The type of implementation, carbon footprint, target audience, usage behavior, and dwell time are all equally important in digital communication, whether on websites, apps, social media, or online advertising, as they are in print. In our opinion, rejecting one option outright in favor of another without thoughtful consideration is the wrong approach. Rather, the costs (including environmental costs) and benefits must be weighed on a case-by-case basis.

That is why sustainable hoteliers are developing flexible strategies that combine both approaches. They use digital solutions and targeted print products to create effective, sustainable, and authentic communication. The voices from the hotel industry featured in this newsletter demonstrate that, for many, it is not an either/or situation. Sustainability communication hinges on attitude, objectives, and a commitment to regularly reevaluating and improving existing processes. This mindset also gives rise to new projects, such as the Wall of Change at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen. This wall exists both digitally and in the form of tangible wooden sheets in the hotel lobby. Because sometimes the right communication isn't printed or digital; it's something unique that suits the hotel in question.

Previously, chef Luca Sordi was responsible for shaping the vegan offerings at LA VIMEA for many years. His creative dishes established the hotel as a leading name in the plant-based hotel industry. He is now pursuing new career paths and handing over the cooking spoon.

Chef Charami is also responsible for the OMNIA restaurant and the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Alpe di Siusi.

Fine dining with exceptional ingredients

Her dishes are characterized by the use of unusual ingredients and techniques, such as fermented koji, smoked miso and rare mushrooms like the “chicken of the woods”. Her signature dishes include a 'virtual risotto' made from Topinambur with truffle and artichoke confit, as well as seitan fillet with port wine sauce and pomegranate.

With her passion for vegan cuisine and her creative approach, Charami is setting new standards at LA VIMEA. Guests can look forward to a culinary experience that will delight vegans and lovers of sustainable, plant-based cuisine alike.

Tourism is more than an economic factor: if properly organized, it can promote understanding between cultures, break down prejudices, and facilitate peaceful encounters across national, religious, and social boundaries. In times of increasing geopolitical uncertainty and social division, travel in its best sense also contributes to international understanding. It is therefore all the more important to ensure these exchanges are fair, respectful, and sustainable.

So, What Can Be Done to Involve Local People, Avoid Conflict, and Promote More Sustainable Tourism?

Industry experts Günter Ihlau and Wolfgang Isenberg published their program “Tourism Criticism as an Opportunity: 10 Points to Promote the Acceptance of Tourism” in July 2024. It responds to the growing criticism of mass tourism with concrete proposals. These include the involvement of local stakeholders in planning processes, more equitable economic distribution, the strengthening of regional culture, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Rather than focusing on short-term profit, the report emphasizes long-term social and environmental sustainability. Among other things, respectful, equal dialogue plays a central role, combined with clear actions that serve the common good.

Tourism as an Opportunity: New Approaches Instead of Total Renunciation

As one of the main players in the tourism industry, hotels hold a key position in a sustainable tourism strategy. They can be part of the problem or part of the solution. Green Pearls® accommodations, a network of sustainable pioneers around the world, show how responsible tourism can be put into practice: with a holistic, sustainable approach that accounts for the environment, local communities, and guests. The goal is not just to be a host, but to be seen as an active part of the region.

South Tyrol: A Model Region for Sustainability and a Tourist Magnet

In South Tyrol, where overcrowding is a problem, several Green Pearls® hotels are positioning themselves as a conscious alternative to mass tourism. My Arbor in Brixen sees itself as a refuge in the midst of nature. Hotel manager Alexandra Huber explains: "We believe hotels have a great responsibility to counteract the negative consequences of tourism through energy-efficient construction, regional sourcing, and waste avoidance, but also through social commitment." The hotel works with local partners, supports local initiatives, and raises guest awareness of environmental and cultural issues. For Huber, one thing is certain: "Sustainable solutions can only be found through close cooperation with the South Tyrolean region as a whole."

Another example is the OLM Nature Escape eco-aparthotel, which focuses on renewable energy and quality tourism. It aims to encourage longer stays and spread out travel periods. "In a few years, you'll have to book twelve months in advance," envisions owner Christian Lechner with a wink. Sustainability does not mean sacrifice here, but exclusive quality. The architecturally visionary building is energy self-sufficient, uses natural materials and circular processes, and offers a conscious experience of nature in harmony with the environment and the region.

A more sensitive issue recently affected the vegan sister hotels LA VIMEA in Naturns and Paradiso Pure.Living on the Seiser Alm. Both are known for their consistently sustainable approach. After a tragic incident in which a bear fatally injured a jogger in Trentino-Alto Adige and was subsequently killed, animal welfare organizations called for a boycott of the region. The two hotels were also contacted and criticized by guests. "We understand our guests and share their concerns about the treatment of wild animals," said Marketing Manager Anna Chuvina. "Our response is to make our operations even more sustainable and animal-friendly, and to actively involve our guests in this approach." Both LA VIMEA and Paradiso Pure.Living are completely free of animal products and committed to a plant-based, conscious lifestyle.

Close Cooperation in the Black Forest

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, a relatively quiet region, is currently working on its first Common Good Balance Sheet. Manager Stephan Bode emphasizes: "We see it as our responsibility to make our activities not only ecologically sustainable, but also socially sustainable." The report is being prepared in collaboration with the University of Heilbronn. It aims to create an ethical balance between economic success and benefits for the community. Although Bad Herrenalb is currently rather affected by "undertourism", the focus is on exchange with local authorities, associations, and the regional economy. Here, sustainability also means transparency, for example, by regularly informing guests about current offers and measures from the hotel itself and local companies.

Overtourism in Austria

Hotels in the Tyrolean Alps are also confronted with the effects of mass tourism, such as increased traffic and air pollution. The Biohotel Grafenast offers a conscious alternative. "Gentle tourism is a matter of course here," is Peter Unterlechner's succinct but firm statement. Sustainability is not just a concept but part of everyday life: 100% green electricity, conscious use of resources, and no plastic in favor of environmentally friendly alternatives. The kitchen uses only certified organic food from the region. In addition, the hotel is actively involved in nature conservation and socially just development.

The Summit Lodges in Pfunds are also calling for a radical rethink. "We have to see tourism as an individual experience again and not as mass processing," demands host Marco Spiss. Dumping prices and cheap offers harm nature and the local population. Sustainability also means fair prices and treating people and the environment with respect. Spiss emphasizes that tourism is essential for the Tyrolean economy, but short-term special offers and corporate interests lead in the wrong direction. The negative consequences are mainly felt by the locals and nature. The Summit Lodges, therefore, focus on nature-oriented design and authentic experiences.

More Tourists than Locals at the Baltic Sea

A change of scene to the coast: The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand, Germany, has to contend with heavy daytime tourism, especially during the summer months. Manager and owner Marion Muller wants to actively contribute to finding solutions: "Sustainable tourism can only succeed through cooperation, especially in places with high visitor numbers." The town depends on tourism, and with it comes responsibility: tailor-made offers, fair local taxes, and conscious cooperation between all parties involved. The hotel is involved in environmental projects, cooperates with local partners, and takes joint responsibility for cleanliness and quality of life. With regional cuisine, resource-efficient management, and architecture made from natural materials, the hotel demonstrates how mindful tourism can succeed even in high-traffic locations.

Social and Forward-Thinking

At The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal, tourism is only considered sustainable if it respects the local way of life. The hotel works closely with the community, promoting traditional crafts and investing in education and health. Keemala in Phuket, Thailand, demonstrates a similar understanding with its environmentally friendly operations, active community involvement, and efforts to educate guests. The goal is a harmonious coexistence of tourism and culture as complementary rather than competing forces.

Sustainability as a Model for the Future of Tourism

Tourism is here to stay – as an expression of our longing for other cultures, an economic factor, and a source of personal enrichment. However, new approaches are needed to remain welcome in the future: quality over quantity, and a greater responsibility and respect. Green Pearls® accommodations show that this is not a contradiction to economic success, but rather a model for the future. They demonstrate that sustainability begins with listening and does not end with organic coffee and solar power. It encompasses social justice, a commitment to regionalism, and a sincere effort to be good hosts to travelers and the people who live there.

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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The package includes:

●       2 nights in a spacious suite with two bedrooms and two bathrooms

●       Gourmet organic vegan half board with a lavish breakfast buffet and a 5-course plant-based dinner menu

●       Energy bar in your room for an extra energy kick

●       Vegan lunch box for outdoor adventures (1 per person)

●       Use of wellness area for relaxing moments

●       Free yoga classes (Mon-Sat, according to hotel schedule)

●       Guest card for free use of all public transportation in South Tyrol

●       Complimentary late check-out until 5pm (subject to availability, upon request at time of booking)

Price:
2 nights for 4 people in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite, including gourmet vegan half board.
350 per person based on 4 person occupancy (€1400 total for 4 people)

Offer valid from April 18 through October 30, 2025 and cannot be combined with other discounts or offers.

For more information, visit www.lavimea.com/special-offers 

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.

On the one hand, many travelers see it as an advantage that there are hotels that offer peace, relaxation, and often a full range of wellness and spa services, as well as exquisite cuisine - without children screaming and running around the buffet. On the other hand, it also attracts critics who see the setting of a minimum age as anti-child and exclusionary.

What do the partners in the Green Pearls® network think? What are the reasons for being a sustainable adults-only hotel? Do they support the trend or do they welcome younger guests as well? Have the hotels and accommodations that are primarily focused on sustainable tourism development maybe even found a compromise solution?

Regeneration at the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is located on the coast in the north of Tenerife, away from mass tourism, and is a place of strength and retreat for a more personalized getaway. Although it is not an adults-only hotel, families with children are rarely found at OCÉANO Health Spa. Because of its focus on regeneration and prevention, it is primarily geared toward adults. However, vacationing with children, especially popular with young parents with babies, is possible. While one parent relaxes in the spa, the other can explore the pool and garden with their offspring. There is no children's program or baby care, but the OCÉANO is happy to help by providing a crib and baby food.

Mutual consideration at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio is well aware of the balancing act between a family business and a leading wellness hotel. Junior manager and host Marc Traubel has two small children of his own. As a classic family business, children should not be excluded, as Traubel sees them as the future, for whom the sustainability initiatives should be beneficial. However, the hotel is not 100 percent child-oriented. The focus is clearly on wellness and spa, mindfulness, and yoga in a unique location high in the mountains and surrounded by the majestic Alps. To ensure that wellness, relaxation, and children are not mutually exclusive, the hotel has established soft "rules", especially at the pool and spa. This is to ensure that guests arriving without children can enjoy a quiet and relaxing time at the pool, while at the same time keeping children out of the water.

Deceleration without kids at the Lifestyle Hotel SAND

The sustainable Lifestyle Hotel SAND at Timmendorfer Strand is committed to carefree vacations on the Baltic coast of Schleswig-Holstein. Guests 16 years and older are welcome. Due to the open concept of the hotel, there is no entertainment or supervision for children, and there are no extra beds in the rooms. The SAND offers a perfect stay for couples, groups of friends, or individual travelers with a successful mix of pure naturalness and hip lifestyle. This is complemented by a relaxed atmosphere and close proximity to the beach. The SAND concept focuses on decelerating its guests with a rooftop sauna on the feel-good terrace and a very special spa offering. A dedicated physiotherapist spends time with guests, discussing their individual needs and developing special massage treatments.

Hotel for everyone, Wellness from Age 12 at STURM

Although the STURM positions itself as a wellness hotel for a relaxing and peaceful break in the countryside, owners Christa and Matthias Schulze-Dieckhoff have decided against an adults-only hotel. However, to ensure that those seeking relaxation will find the peace they are looking for, access to the wellness area is restricted to those over the age of 12. The new garden view rooms are also reserved for adults. The STURM explains this decision by saying that the concept of tranquility is particularly emphasized there. Children are welcome in the main building, however, and the large nature park with a snack garden and natural swimming pond offers plenty of space for exploration.

Love for Children at the Eco-Aparthotel OLM in South Tyrol

The philosophy of OLM Nature Escape is not to be a classic hotel, but a house open to everyone, a place full of empathy and tolerance, where people meet with mindfulness and enjoy their vacation in peaceful coexistence. Everyone, from large families and singles to guests with dogs, should feel at home here when they arrive in the Tauferer Ahr Valley in South Tyrol. There are no special play areas for children in the round building, which is modeled after a mountain pasture. Instead, nature is right outside the door, with plenty of opportunities to run wild. In summer, there are 80 3,000-meter peaks, 400 kilometers of panoramic hiking trails, spectacular biking and cycling trails, and 50 mountain huts and refuges to explore. In winter, the Ahrntal Valley offers 86 kilometers of slopes, cross-country skiing, ski touring, and sledding.

Luxury and nature at ADLER Lodge RITTEN

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol is particularly popular with couples, but families with children over the age of eight are welcome as well. The arrival alone is unique. From the train station in Bolzano, take the Ritten cable car up to the plateau at 1,200 meters above sea level. The hotel is happy to pick up guests at the top station. There is no separate children's program, but younger guests can participate in all the activities in and around the hotel. In addition to an infinity pool, morning yoga classes, and forest and hay saunas, the unspoiled nature on the property provides a unique playground. The modern private wooden chalets are surrounded by forest and furnished with natural materials and untreated floors. The view of the Dolomites is unobstructed through the high glass windows. Food and beverages are included in the price. Following the "farm to table" principle, most of the products come from their own farm or the surrounding area.

Holistic, Vegan, and for Adults only: LA VIMEA in Naturns

The team of LA VIMEA, the first holistic vegan hotel in Italy, has made a conscious decision to only accept guests over the age of 12. The hotel is designed to be a haven of peace, inviting you to recharge your batteries. To this end, there is a natural spa with a barrel sauna, indoor pool, and natural swimming pond, as well as various yoga and meditation classes. The vegan cuisine is based on local produce from the surrounding area.

Two types of vacation at Naturresort Gerbehof

Naturresort Gerbehof has developed its own concept and offers two types of vacations to meet the needs of different groups of guests. The Easter, Pentecost, and summer school vacations are family times that are particularly popular with regular guests. In addition to a children's riding park and a beautiful forest playground, there are pony rides and riding lessons on the Gerbehof's ponies. When school is in session, Gerbehof is an adult hotel that invites you to relax and recharge your body and mind. Alkaline fasting, health weeks, stress reduction weeks, soul wellness, and more are on the program. Located in the hinterland of Lake Constance and surrounded by forests, meadows, and orchards, Gerbehof is a unique place to relax for its location alone - with or without children.

Romanticism at Hotel Das Rübezahl - also for the little ones

Romantic Hideaway Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region of Germany, lives up to its name: pure romance, surrounded by mountains and centered on Neuschwanstein Castle. Children are welcome here, but 95 percent of the guests are couples. This is largely due to the hotel's offerings, which are designed to provide a break from everyday life and romantic hours for two. These include a candlelit dinner in the Louis II restaurant or a cozy evening in one of the themed suites with private whirlpool tubs and views of the Bavarian fairytale palace. For families, the hotel offers two suites with plenty of room for extra beds or two bedrooms. The outdoor pool is open to all guests at all times, but the wellness area is reserved for children 12 and older. The Rübezahl is ideal for families who enjoy being outdoors and experiencing small adventures together.

Adults only high in the treetops at Hotel My Arbor

My Arbor is nothing more than my tree, firmly rooted in nature, weathering the elements and facing the sun. This philosophy runs through the entire tree hotel, which is built like a soft nest on stilts high in the canopy of the surrounding trees. It is a habitat not suitable for children because of the way it is built alone, and therefore, among other reasons, an adults-only hotel. Above all, the Hotel My Arbor is meant to be a retreat, a place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The concept is designed around the guest's desires and allows the greatest freedom for one's rhythm. Simply living into the day, sleeping as long as one likes, breakfast until noon, swimming after sunset, a yoga session in the morning, and then a massage or an Aperol Spritz, all without compromising on the needs of children.

Ultimately, there is no valid argument for one "side" or the other. Adults-only hotels can be seen as a counterpart and alternative to family-friendly destinations, preventing resentment between guests seeking peace and quiet and families. While in family hotels children can run around to their heart's content with a high degree of tolerance and freedom, sustainable adults-only hotels offer quiet and peaceful relaxation. By the way, the Green Pearls® partners show that it is not necessarily a special label that is needed, but above all communication that appeals to the guests who will feel comfortable in the hotel. Whether this means adults only or parents with children - who might also like to treat themselves to a break in a hotel without the hustle and bustle of children.

Find out more about the hotels on the linked websites. If you have any questions or need more images, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com.

On the other hand, tourism is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions. Travel to a destination, as well as accommodation and transportation at the destination, generate global warming gases, especially air travel. In total, 5-8% of global emissions can be attributed to tourism.²

This makes the implementation of a consistent sustainability strategy in tourism all the more important. Even if factors such as carbon footprint, social sustainability, or sustainable mobility are rather low on the list of deciding factors, an intact natural environment is one of the main reasons for booking.³ Therefore, the transformation of tourism is inevitable, and the demand for sustainability should not dictate it, but be firmly integrated as part of the core business of tourism.

In response, sustainable tourism has emerged to address the future economic, social, and environmental impacts of destinations. Many suppliers have already begun to make their products sustainable. First and foremost are the Green Pearls® Unique Places, an association of leading hotels around the world that have demonstrated sustainable expertise and green projects. Many of the hotels go a step further by engaging with their guests and offering them a variety of ways to participate in sustainability initiatives. After all, as the saying goes, seeing it once is better than hearing it a hundred times.

In Dialog at the Lifestylehotel SAND

The sustainable Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand is committed to an ongoing dialog with its guests. Sustainability is an important factor in the hotel's daily operations. Moreover, the SAND uses social media to inform about new organic products and spreads fun with recipes for seasonal cocktails. SAND is seeing a growing interest from visitors and uses an evaluation form to ask guests where and how they encountered sustainability during their stay and what the hotel can actively improve. These insights are translated into many innovations and guests feel that their values are seen and appreciated. 

Open communication is also a priority at Hotel Okelmann's in Warpe, Lower Saxony. The two sisters, who run the hotel in the third generation, value personal conversations and lively exchanges with guests. On their website, they also provide information about the topic in advance and show how they implement sustainability in the hotel and the associated Heimatliebe Café. This includes close cooperation with local producers and a small concept store with useful and beautiful items for a sustainable lifestyle.

Gardening Tips from Gut Sonnenhausen

Sustainability as a way of life is the philosophy of Gut Sonnenhausen. With the careful renovation and management of the former stud farm, eco-pioneer Georg Schweisfurth has fulfilled his dream. Surrounded by agricultural land cultivated according to the principles of permaculture, it is a refuge in the midst of nature. Culture and art merge with architecture and nature to create an inspiring place. During the season, the house gardener invites guests to a free weekly gardening meeting to learn about biodynamic gardening. She also provides tips for one's garden and answers any "green fingers" questions.  The hotel, which is 100% certified organic and has its own naturopathic practice, is located 30 km from Munich.

Upcycling Workshops at the Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA sees its contribution to sustainability as continuous development and combines entrepreneurial management with the strengthening of value awareness. Guided tours of the hotel allow visitors to see the sustainability measures for themselves. In addition, on-site upcycling workshops are available and reflected in signage and décor throughout the building. A book exchange and vegan/vegetarian brunch buffets are as much a part of the hotel as a zero-waste breakfast and nine electric car charging stations. Guests especially love the hotel's own "lawn mowers," a small herd of goats, and the outdoor snack garden. The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is a wellness and health hotel with a Selfness Center in the Black Forest. The region is ideal for nature excursions, especially since Bad Herrenalb is a certified climatic health resort.

Swiss Alpine Spring Water at CERVO Mountain Resort

The luxurious CERVO Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the car-free village of Zermatt. Design aficionados will appreciate CERVO's unique interior style, which has won several design awards. When it comes to sustainability, the luxury resort places special emphasis on preserving natural resources. The water in the hotel taps is mineral water quality. In the restaurants, Zermatt water is filtered and carbonated upon request.  A total of 10% of the proceeds goes to the organization WIR (Water is Right), which promotes access to clean and affordable drinking water and sanitation worldwide. Thanks to geothermal pumps, the CERVO is 100% self-sufficient in hot water production. Solar panels support electricity production. 70% of the products used in the kitchen come from within a 150 km radius of Zermatt. What does come from further afield is sourced from sustainable cooperatives.

In Slippers to the Paradiso Pure.Living

The 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, at an altitude of 2,000 meters and surrounded by the UNESCO-protected Alpine Nature Park. Paradiso's goal is to offer guests total relaxation and a holistic, sustainable approach to hotel operations through the active involvement of guests. Among other things, guests are asked to bring their slippers to avoid having to dispose of a large number of slippers each year after they have been worn only once. Guests are only allowed to enter and leave the hotel by car on the day of arrival and departure, otherwise, it is a car-free area and they can walk along the many hiking trails or use a bicycle.

Freshly Harvested, Freshly Served at ADLER Lodge RITTEN  

The sustainable 5-star ADLER Lodge RITTEN is set in the middle of a clearing surrounded by dense forest, with natural suites and chalets made of untreated wood and stunning panoramic views of the Dolomites. In keeping with the hotel's "from-farm-to-table" concept, the Lodge's chefs prefer to use fresh, seasonal products from local farms and producers. In 2022, ADLER Lodge RITTEN embarked on a new venture: small fields and herb gardens will be cultivated on an area of approximately 4,000 square meters, just steps away from the main building. Summer wheat, potatoes, a variety of vegetables, the finest berries, and aromatic herbs from the hotel's garden. This year, guests can take a tour through the typical farm garden. It is characterized by a high degree of diversity, natural cultivation methods, and mixed crops in the beds. The farm garden is not only a source of food but also a small oasis of relaxation.

Up Close with the Bees at Boutique Hotel Das Rübezahl

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl, sustainability has been a way of life for three generations. The family-run boutique hotel is located in Schwangau, near Füssen, in the land of mountains, castles, and lakes. But guests are not the only ones enjoying the unique views. The hotel's bee hives are located on Ehrberg Mountain, 10 minutes from the hotel and opposite the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. There are six colonies with approximately 300,000 bees. Each week, hotel guests can enjoy a tour of the apiary with the hotel's beekeeper, Sebastian. He shares many interesting details not only about his work but also about the life of honeybees and their environment. Depending on the production, the hotel's honey products can be found on the breakfast buffet or can be taken home for personal use.

A Rooftop Garden for the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt

Now in its third generation, Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt stands for relaxation in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The eco-friendly hotel, with its 21 rooms and views of the Matterhorn, is located just a five-minute walk above the village center of Zermatt. Fabienne Anthamatten, the hotel's manager, believes in the sustainable use of resources. For example, 100% of the hotel's electricity comes from hydropower. Hotel guests are encouraged to bring their flip-flops to avoid unnecessary waste. The roof of the garage has been turned into a garden, and the harvest is served fresh to the guests' tables. Peppermint, lemon balm, and verbena are used to make tea, and bread is baked early in the morning by the owner herself. The cuisine is complemented by local products from the village butcher and cheesemaker. Leftovers are avoided as much as possible.

Zero Waste Gourmet Dinner at LA VIMEA

LA VIMEA, Italy's first fully vegan hotel, is located in the Vinschgau Valley in South Tyrol. It is an adults-only retreat for rest and relaxation. There are no animal products on the premises, not even in the furnishings. Guests will not find leather furniture or duvets. Each day, the chef creates dishes using local and regional vegetables, fruits, and herbs with the goal of using all ingredients in their entirety. The 5-course menu needs to be booked in advance, allowing the kitchen to accurately calculate consumption and avoid wasting quality organic produce. The mattresses are made of vegetable fibers and water-based foam. At the end of their life cycle, they are collected by the supplier and given to another company that uses them to make insulation panels for the construction industry. Bed linens, towels, and tablecloths are made from fair-trade organic cotton.

Many of the GreenPearls hotels and guesthouses, such as the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu or My Arbor near Brixen, also invite their guests to decide for themselves how often bed linen and towels should be washed. Most of the guests gratefully accept this offer. In addition, guests can use all public transportation in the area free of charge and thus reduce CO₂ emissions during their vacation without any hassle. The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu is located at 1,044 meters above sea level and offers with its sustainable overall concept a rest for the body and soul in the middle of the mountain landscape. The Hotel My Arbor is a unique tree hotel on stilts. Thanks to this extraordinary architecture, guests can enjoy a special view of the Plose.

Hotels and accommodations are increasingly committed to environmental protection and social responsibility by adapting their practices and promoting sustainability in their establishments. This development, not only among the Green Pearls® partners, underlines the fact that a more sustainable tourism is not only essential for the preservation of our planet but is also becoming an increasingly decisive economic factor.

You can learn more about this topic and how our partners are committed to greener travel on the linked microsites, the hotel websites, and our green travel blog. If you have any questions or requests, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com.

Modernity meets Tradition: Healing Treatments for Lasting Relaxation and Stress Reduction

In many Green Pearls® hotels, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is used in combination with other healing and relaxation methods, always with the goal of finding inner peace and balance. This is based on the philosophy that everything in nature and humans should be in harmony. It's no coincidence that the hotels are known for their sustainable expertise for both people and nature.

Qigong – Deep Relaxation for Body and Mind at the Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA 

Qigong means to train the life energy. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, guests can book private individual or group lessons with Master Khim. Master Khim has developed his own medical Qigong style after years of experience in various Qigong disciplines and following the methods of Professor Li Shao Bo. Exercises from traditional movement therapy direct the Qi (the body's natural energy) and help to promote individual well-being. The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is located in its very own energetic place in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb in the northern Black Forest.

More than just Therapeutic Fasting at the OCEANO F. X. Mayr Center, Teneriffa

The doctors and therapists at the F. X. Mayr Centre, which is attached to the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, take a holistic approach to treating their patients. Even though the focus is on therapeutic fasting in line with F. X. Mayr, natural healing methods such as acupuncture, oxygen therapy, a variety of manual therapies such as osteopathy and shiatsu as well as draining techniques such as moxa or cupping are used depending on the individual diagnosis. The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is located directly on the coast in the north of Tenerife, far away from mass tourism, and is a true place of strength and retreat for a personalized time-out.

Healing Offers at LA VIMEA

Guests can find a comprehensive range of holistic energy treatments at Hotel LA VIMA. The bookable options range from simple relaxing massages to vitality point treatment sessions. Treatments include elements of Ayurveda, meditation, chakra work, and vitality therapies to balance the body, mind, heart, and soul and activate self-healing powers. LA VIMEA, Italy's first purely vegan hotel, is located in the Vinschgau Valley in South Tyrol. It is an adults-only retreat for rest and relaxation. The hotel pursues a holistically sustainable and vegan lifestyle, whether it's in terms of nutrition, furnishings or architecture.

K.O.R.E. Therapy at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

K.O.R.E Therapy is a combination of Eastern and Western forms of treatment. Starting with a detailed diagnosis, recurring problems such as back or neck pain, migraines, or fatigue can often be resolved after just one session. Three times a year, one of the best-known therapists, John Brazier, performs the treatments at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio. The following dates are still available this year: 08.08. to 12.08.2024 and 14.11. to 18.11.2024. 

The HUBERTUS offers various Ayurveda treatments and massages for its guests all year round, tailored to their individual needs. The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu is located at a lofty altitude of 1,044 meters and, with its holistic sustainable concept, offers a relaxing break for body and soul in a unique mountain landscape.

Release Blockages while you are at the STURM

Shiatsu is a combination of the Japanese art of healing and massage. Through mindful touch, acupressure, and stretching, the meridians in the body are brought back into harmony. The treatment at Hotel STURM is individually tailored to the needs of each body and is ideal for all blockages - whether psychological or physical. If you don't want to miss out on the massage character, book a holistic energetic massage at the STURM: This treatment also combines Western and Far Eastern treatment concepts. The STURM in Mellrichstadt is an oasis of relaxation in the middle of unspoilt nature at the foot of the Rhön biosphere reserve.

Wellness Hotel with its own TCM Clinic: The LifeStyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

In addition to the classic wellness offerings, the LifeStyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten has dedicated itself entirely to Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM for short. The hotel has a clinic where guests can receive comprehensive advice and receive personalized treatments. In addition to acupuncture treatments, massages, movement, and relaxation exercises such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi, this also includes dietary changes and herbal therapies. The practice team combines the knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine with contemporary approaches to holistic medicine. In addition, TCM concepts are also implemented in the hotel and can, for example, be found on the breakfast buffet in the form of five-element cuisine. As a result, the therapists' nutritional advice can be implemented straight away.

Retreat-Pakete in Keemala

Isolated from the usual hustle and bustle of Phuket and nestled in the heart of a rainforest, the 38 villas of the Keemala Resort are like a fairytale sanctuary. This perfect hideaway offers retreat packages that include pampering massages, healing treatments, and exercises to optimize physical and mental health. The daily spa cuisine also revitalizes the body and the mind. All packages are available as a three- to six-day program and are tailored to the individual preferences and needs of the guests. Guests can choose from the following retreats: Purify, Energise, Unwind and Rejuvenate.

Maintaining Health at the Biohotel Grafenast

The green and sustainable Biohotel Grafenast, situated at 1,330 meters above sea level, offers a spectacular view over the Tyrolean Inn Valley. The hotel is known for its Ayurveda wellness treatments, which are customized by the hotel's own Ayurveda expert Mirjam after a preliminary consultation. 

Ayurvedic teachings have been used for several thousand years to keep people healthy and are primarily preventative. The body treatments have a calming, harmonizing, and vitalizing effect on body and mind. The treatments can alleviate sleep disorders, relieve tension, and calm nervousness. The massage treatments support the body in processing toxins and nourishing all of the muscles and tissues. The Grafenast also offers overwater massage tables, individual facial treatments, classic massages, and an outdoor "Kneipp walk". 

Find out more about the individual sustainable hotels, their offerings, and their commitment on the respective Green Pearls® microsites. If you have any questions or (image) requests, please contact press@greenpearls.com.

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.

The vegan "adults only" hotel is the perfect place for a break

The Green PearlsⓇ partner hotel LA VIMEA is located in the middle of the beautiful alpine landscape of South Tyrol and is the first completely vegan hotel in Italy. Not only is the cuisine vegan, but so is the entire hotel. Guests can relax in nature with wellness and yoga.

The various packages range from 2 to 7 nights and are aimed at both couples and solo travelers. They always include

• Organic vegan half-board
• Use of the wellness area
• Free yoga sessions

Depending on the package, other services may be included, such as

• A picnic basket
• Free use of e-bikes
• One-hour exclusive use of the forest sauna
• Welcome gifts and more

The exact dates and prices for 2024 can be found on the hotel's website. For questions and images, please contact us at press@greenpearls.com

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Sustainable Hotels with Day Trip Offerings

One Baltic Sea Experience, please – Lifestylehotel SAND

Location: Timmendorfer Strand, Germany

Short Profile: The lifestyle hotel SAND at the Timmendorfer Strand is the perfect place for a relaxing and sustainable break. With its stylish ambiance, high quality, and holistic focus on naturalness and sustainability, the hotel offers a unique experience. Even for a day. The relaxed atmosphere, the proximity to the beach, and the wide range of activities on offer at the Baltic Sea ensure that there is never a dull moment and plenty to talk about in the evenings.

Day-trip offerings:

• SANDbreakfast for late risers until noon with local ingredients and open kitchen
• SANDbar offers specialty coffees and cakes into the early evening

A Day in the Black Forest – SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

Location: Bad Herrenalb, Germany

Short Profile: The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is a wellness and health hotel with the Selfness Center in the beautiful Black Forest. The region is ideal for nature excursions, especially considering that Bad Herrenalb is a certified climatic health resort. In the evening you can enjoy new interpretations of traditional Black Forest cuisine in the restaurant "La Vie".

Day-trip offerings:

• Zero-waste breakfast buffet
• 3-course gourmet dinner
• Brunch buffets with a theme
• Day SPA
• Massage and cosmetic treatments

Vegan Delights in South Tyrol – LA VIMEA

Location: Naturno, Italy

Short Profile: LA VIMEA, Italy's first all-vegan hotel, is located in the sunny Vinschgau Valley in South Tyrol. Not only does it offer creative vegan cuisine, but it is also an adults-only retreat for relaxation. The hotel takes a holistic vegan approach and focuses on sustainability in all areas. From the food to the decor to the lifestyle, everything is geared toward an environmentally conscious and animal-friendly approach. The kitchen uses only local and seasonal ingredients.

Day-trip offerings:

• Vegan breakfast buffet
• Vegan restaurant is also open for outside guests (lunch and dinner)

Inspiration and Enjoyment – Hotel Luise

Location: Erlangen, Germany

Short Profile: As the first climate-neutral hotel in Franconia (2010) and the first climate-positive hotel in Germany (2015), as well as certified with the EU Ecolabel 2023, Hotel Luise is one of the leading environmentally friendly city hotels in Germany. The hotelier family's philosophy emphasizes the responsibility towards future generations and above all wants to inspire and demonstrate: There is another way!

Day-trip offerings:

• Zero-waste breakfast
• Day spa and massage services
• Hotel tours and community college courses (e.g. in the micro-forest)
• Conferences and events (venue)
• Planned: Courses and workshops on sustainability

Urlaubsfeeling deluxe – Hotel Klosterbräu

Location: Seefeld, Austria

Short Profile: Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld combines over 200 years of family history with modern ideas and warm hospitality. Surrounded by the Tyrolean Alps, guests can find their kind of relaxation, whether it is wellness, mountain hiking, or enjoying the hotel's beer. The hotel is part of the Tyrolean Climate Alliance and is committed to sustainable development. The Klosterbräu also has a "vegetarian" farm that provides ingredients for the hotel's restaurants.

Day-trip offerings:

• Regional breakfast buffet
• Day spa offerings
• Wine cellar available for special events

A Day in the Mountains – HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu

Location: Balderschwang, Germany

Short Profile: The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio invites you to relax and unwind. The hotel combines straightforward architecture, traditional Allgäu elements, and tasteful furnishings with a sustainable and holistic approach in the midst of Bavarian nature.

Day-trip offerings:

• Day Spa at the Mountain Spring Spa (includes indoor fitness center and breakfast or lunch)
• Breakfast buffet or lunch
• Stop by Traubel's Garden for a coffee or cool drink
• Participation in the hotel's activities program, such as guided hikes, yoga or cooking classes
• Summer night festival
• In winter: HUBERTUS KitchenClub, where dinner is served in the kitchen accompanied by background music

Wellness in the Rhön – STURM

Location: Mellrichstadt, Germany

Short Profile: STURM in Mellrichstadt is an oasis of relaxation and unspoiled nature at the foot of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve. STURM's philosophy emphasizes the importance of sustainability and organic products. Both are actively practiced in the family-run hotel and communicated to guests, for example through the open kitchen concept in the restaurant.

Day-trip offerings:

• Day spa individually combinable with massages, breakfast buffet and/or dinner

Constantly Learning somthing New – Gut Sonnenhausen

Location: Glonn near Munich, Germany

Short Profile: Sustainability as a way of life is the philosophy of Gut Sonnenhausen. By carefully renovating and managing this former stud farm, eco-pioneer Georg Schweisfurth has made a dream come true. Surrounded by agricultural land managed according to the principles of permaculture, it is a refuge in nature, where culture and art merge with architecture and nature creating an inspiring place.

Day-trip offerings:

• Free Sunday tours to get a glimpse of the hotel and its properties, usually with host Georg Schweisfurth
• Various events throughout the year, e.g. yoga, lectures, and music

A Vacation among the Tree Tops – Hotel My Arbor

Location: St. Andrä, Italy

Short Profile: Hotel My Arbor near Brixen in South Tyrol is a unique tree hotel on stilts. Thanks to this extraordinary architecture, guests can enjoy a very special view of the Plose Valley. The hotel is an oasis of peace and emphasizes ”My” time, which invites guests to find time for themselves and the greatest possible freedom to follow their own rhythm.

Day-trip offerings:

• Breakfast or dinner day spa
• Lunch
• Massages

Fairytale for a Day – Hotel Das Rübezahl

Location: Schwangau, Germany

Short Profile: Located directly across from Neuschwanstein Castle, the Hotel Das Rübezahl offers a romantic hideaway, ideal for couples. The hotel uses innovative approaches to promote sustainability and is committed to the region.

Day-trip offerings:

• Two restaurants: A La Carte restaurant Louis II and Gourmet restaurant Gams & Gloria (Alpine Fusion)
• Visit of the mountain hut Rohrkopfhütte
• Hotel bar AlpenRausch
• Spa treatments at the boutique Spa

View of the Matterhorn – Bio Hotel Bella Vista

Location: Zermatt, Switzerland

Short Profile: A haven for relaxation in the Swiss Alps since 1962, the family-run Organic Hotel Bella Vista is just a five-minute walk above the center of Zermatt. Guests enjoy homemade delicacies with views of the Matterhorn and a weekly cheese evening. The spa area offers saunas, steam rooms, and, of course, views of the Matterhorn.

Day-trip offerings:

• Breakfast with a view of the Matterhorn
• Use of the wellness area
• Terrace with a telescope and view of the Matterhorn

Culinary Delights – CERVO Mountain Resort

Location: Zermatt, Switzerland

Short profile: The luxurious CERVO Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the car-free village of Zermatt. Design aficionados will appreciate CERVO's unique interior style, which has won several design awards. One of the highlights is the Mountain Ashram Spa, which offers a variety of wellness traditions and views of the Matterhorn.

Day-trip offerings:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Day spa at the Mountain Ashram Spa (also in combination with brunch)

Pure Nature – Naturhotel Outside

Location: Matrei in Eat Tyrol, Austria

Short Profile: The Naturhotel Outside is nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Hohe Tauern National Park. So, it's no wonder that this family-run hotel has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Its restaurant offers unusual but always regional specialties and the spa uses local herbs, hay, and other regional ingredients.

Day-trip offerings:

• Guided hikes with the hotel's own trained guides
• Nature watch for the Alpine Big 5
• Day spa at the Nature Spa (also with brunch and/or dinner))
• Breakfast or dinner at the restaurant

Do you want to continue reading? 

If a day in a hotel is no option for you right now, how about a little home-away-from-home feeling … at home?

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Travel trends 2024 in the sustainability check

Based on a study of 27,000 travelers from 33 countries, the online travel agency Booking.com has predicted the travel trends for 2024. We took a look at the seven trends identified and asked: How sustainable are they? And can they perhaps be made a little bit more sustainable?

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It's tea time - tea and herbal tea in sustainable hotels

What could be more cozy and warming than a cup of tea? As soon as you hold it in your cold hands after a long winter walk and your nose inhales the warm aroma, you immediately feel relaxed. Time to enjoy. And it's sustainable. We asked around in sustainable hotels and came back with lots of knowledge, inspiration, and recipes on the subject of tea.

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Even more beautiful than August - Winter is particularly beautiful at these sustainable travel destinations

If you think summer is the best time to travel, it's probably because of your childhood. Summer is the time of the long summer vacations, which is why you are taught from an early age that this is the (best) time to go on vacation. But that's not necessarily true. In many travel destinations, such as the Alpine region, winter is peak season. At our beach hotel partners, on the other hand, you can experience things in the low season that August cannot offer. Find inspiration for sustainable travel destinations in winter here.

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Hotel wake-up service? This is the new way to wake up!

The wake-up service at the hotel was something I used to enjoy. It was somehow part of the luxury of being looked after and pampered. At some point, I left the wake-up call to my smartphone. But I ask myself - why actually? And what options do hotels offer instead to make waking up a special experience?

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Professional skiing and sustainability? They don't really go together. In this interview, Felix Neureuther explains how it might work after all. An exciting approach!

Read the Interview (german only)

Some people are prepared to risk their lives for the perfect selfie - and sometimes even lose them. More and more tourist hotspots are therefore considering a selfie ban. Where this has already been implemented and what it should achieve.

More Information

Staying at home instead of traveling? Definitely more sustainable! But author Falko Löffler describes what's even better in this excerpt from his book - and makes it clear that we don't all want to be "globetrotters" ;)

Read the Article

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Vegan travel doesn't have to be complicated – Our 3 tips for your next trip

Nowadays it is not difficult to travel vegan in many parts of Europe, especially in the big cities. Vegan restaurants and cafes are commonplace. But with a little preparation and research, it is easy to avoid animal products even outside the big cities. Here are three tips to make it easy to travel vegan in Europe.

#1 Choose vegan or vegan-vegetarian hotels

The easiest way is to choose a hotel that serves only vegan-vegetarian or even solely vegan cuisine. This is also a good way to start a vegan lifestyle, as you can get a lot of inspiration for your own kitchen.

The two South Tyrolean hotels LA VIMEA and Paradiso Pure.Living are ideal addresses. Both hotels are located in beautiful hiking areas. LA VIMEA is holistically vegan, i.e. not only in the kitchen, but also throughout the hotel (e.g. in the down bedding or leather upholstery). At Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's highest alpine pasture, guests enjoy not only the Dolomite nature and first-class vegan-vegetarian cuisine, but also changing exhibitions of contemporary artists.

Not purely vegan, but still sustainable:

If you don't want to book a vegan hotel directly, or if there are no vegan hotels in the region you're traveling to, it's best to ask the hotel about vegan dining options in advance. In the Green Pearls® network, most hotels offer vegetarian or vegan options for breakfast and dinner. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, for example, vegan dishes are always available. The new GenussART menu at Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa also has a permanent vegan option on the menu.

You can inquire about amenities (e.g. down comforters, etc.) in advance. Choosing a sustainable hotel with vegan options is also practical if your partner does not wish to abstain from animal products while on vacation.
 

#2 Plan your journey

Before we reiterate that traveling by train or bus is obviously more environmentally friendly and sustainable than driving or flying, let's us focus on the food options. Before you "treat" yourself to one of the less healthy (and usually less sustainable) fast food options at the station or rest stop, you can prepare snacks and lunches at home. Just the way you like it.

If you want to stop along the way, you can look for vegan restaurants just off the highway. At major train stations, you can find more and more alternatives to the classic fast-food franchises. If you are traveling by plane, be sure to book a special (vegan) meal at least 24 hours before your flight. All airlines offer this service. Otherwise: Bring snacks and sandwiches. Anything that is not liquid can be taken on the plane.

Extra tip for vegan travel:

Couscous, oatmeal, and the like take up very little space in your pack, keep forever, and can be easily poured over with hot water. So even if vegan options aren't available, there's no need to go hungry.

#3 Learn certain terms in the local language beforehand

If you are traveling to countries whose language you do not speak, it is always a good idea to memorize or write down at least some of the terms. This will help you find out if certain dishes contain animal products or if you can order them as vegan. When shopping, translation apps, Google Lens, and other tools are helpful. Travel dictionaries specifically designed for vegan travelers are also useful (and a good tip for those with food intolerances). And of course, search the web and blogs for vegan restaurants, cafes, etc. As a positive side effect, you will usually get more tips on places to go, sights to see, or museums to visit.

Continue Reading? 

You can find even more knowledge and information about "Vegan Travel" here:

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Vegan travel: We answer questions and give practical tips

In this article we give answers to questions that often arise on the subject of "vegan travel" and also give practical tips on how to plan a trip as a vegan*in and what you should keep in mind.

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Sustainable Architecture in Tourism

Our Green Pearls are located all over the world in a wide variety of locations. This diversity is also reflected in the construction methods and local architecture of the hotels. We have taken a closer look at the hotel buildings and present here some architecturally special Green Pearls.

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A Gourmet’s Journey to the Olive Harvest in Italy and Spain

In the mood for indulgence? How about a trip to Italy or Spain during the olive season? We'll introduce you to destinations and events, as well as sustainable accommodations.

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The best sustainable lodging for your next multigenerational travel

Vacationing with the whole family? It quickly becomes a logistical hassle and extra stress that you really don't need before your vacation... That's why this article features no less than seven sustainable accommodations designed for traveling with children, parents, and grandparents.

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Sustainable on the slopes? Yes, please! In this article you can read what ski communities are doing for more sustainability.

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We love to think outside the box and look for new ideas away from tourism. Today we discovered the topic: Sustainable Landscaping.

More about this Topic.

Sustainability and luxury. Something that seems to contradict each other. As early as 2010, the brand expert dealt with the positioning of luxury brands in terms of sustainability.

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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.

In addition to a bio-vegan breakfast, this includes a five-course dinner (naturally vegan and with regional products and delicacies) as well as two lunch packages for the day in the mountains. The couple has two modern e-bikes at their disposal. The package also includes a Signature Aperitif, consisting of an appetizer platter and a Signature Cocktail or Mocktail. For even more wellness and romance, the forest sauna is available exclusively for one hour.

By the way: This package is also a great way to try vegan travel or to inspire your partner to go vegan.

For more information and to book the package, click here.

Both hotels were founded by a family who sought to transfer their deep convictions of sustainability in all areas of life to the hospitality industry, and in doing so became pioneers in the region. From building materials to tablecloths - everything should be as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible.

The result is Italy's first holistic vegan hotel, LA VIMEA, and the first vegetarian-vegan hotel in the Dolomites, Paradiso Pure.Living.

Unparalleled Nature and Impressive Panoramas

In addition to the sustainable philosophy that infuses through all areas of the hotels, there is something else that unites the two properties: a special location that allows guests to experience nature up close.

Nestled in the UNESCO Protected Area - Paradiso Pure.Living

At over 2,000 metres above sea level, one views the world from a different perspective. Up here, surrounded by the even higher peaks of the Dolomites and the gentle alpine meadows, everything settles into its proper place. The Alpe di Siusi is the largest alpine pasture in Europe and in the middle of it stands the curved building of Paradiso Pure.Living. Hiking trails begin right outside the door, leading guests through the stunning natural surroundings. In winter, guests can set off for the extensive ski slopes straight from the hotel. But whether winter or summer: the Paradiso offers space to relax and shift perspectives.

Sun-Drenched Mountains and Rushing Rivers Around LA VIMEA

At LA VIMEA it is not the sheer cliffs of the Dolomites that instil humility, but instead sun-drenched mountain slopes and bubbling, sparkling mountain rivers. On hikes visitors get to know nature from its wild side, while in the hotel's garden it is more subdued. But whether wild or mild, harsh or delicate - at LA VIMEA, guests can be completely in the here and now and consciously experience all that surrounds them

Nutritional Concepts in the Spirit of Nature

Both LA VIMEA and Paradiso Pure.Living follow a plant-based approach in line with their shared philosophy. Not only in food, but throughout the entire hotel.

The LA VIMEA is holistically vegan. There are no animal products on the premises, not even in the furnishings. Guests will find neither leather furniture nor down duvets. Every day, chef Luca Sordi and his team conjure up delicacies from local and regional vegetables, fruit and herbs that you've certainly never experienced before.

At the vegetarian-vegan Paradiso Pure.Living, Mauro Massei and Grazia Bianchi also focus on plant-based cuisine with local products that are carefully prepared in the hotel kitchen. This is not only good for the environment, but also for the health and well-being of the guests.

Holistic Well-Being at Paradiso Pure.Living and LA VIMEA

The day starts slowly, whether you spend your vacation at LA VIMEA or Paradiso Pure.Living. Slowly and mindfully, perhaps with a morning yoga session on the roof terrace of the hotel, weather permitting. Followed by a balanced, delicious and naturally plant-based breakfast before heading out into the mountains. Hiking, biking, paragliding - South Tyrol offers travellers a wide range of (sustainable) activities. The teams at LA VIMEA and Paradiso are happy to help guests decide.

When guests return to the hotel in the afternoon, a wonderful relaxation offer awaits them. At LA VIMEA, the sun loungers by the natural swimming pond beckon after a refreshing plunge in the cool water. Alternatively, enjoy some laps in the indoor saltwater pool and then pamper yourself with a relaxing massage.

At Paradiso Pure.Living, the outdoor experience continues even after the hike. A whirlpool under the open sky invites you to take a cosy break in summer as well as in winter. Several saunas, an indoor salt water pool and other wellness facilities round off your stay on the Alpe di Siusi.

Two Hotels, One Philosophy, Your Choice

The Paradiso Pure.Living at a Glance

For active travellers, families, couples and groups of friends

• Location: Alpe di Siusi, South Tyrol, Italy
• Property Features: First vegetarian-vegan hotel in the Dolomites.
• Facilities and Special Offers:
  • Wellness area with outdoor whirlpool, indoor saltwater pool, a variety of saunas, floating experience and more
  • Daily yoga classes indoors and outdoors
  • Vegetarian-vegan breakfast and dinner
• Season: 16 June - 30 September 2023 (summer season)
• Highlight: changing exhibitions of local and international artists in the hotel and of course the panoramic view of the Dolomites

Get to know the hotel.

The LA VIMEA at a Glance

For couples, relaxation seekers and yoga fans (Adults-Only)

• Location: Naturno, South Tyrol, Italy
• Property Features: First purely vegan hotel in Italy.
• Facilities and Special Offers:
  • Yoga and meditation
  • Wellness area with a variety of saunas, indoor saltwater pool and more
  • Massage and Ayurveda
  • Vegan breakfast buffet and 5-course dinner
• Season: 07 April - 05 November 2023
• Highlight: Pure vegan cuisine with surprising creations by chef Luca Sordi

Get to know the hotel.

At the end of the day, the goal of both hotels is the holistic relaxation of their guests. They should return home completely relaxed, happy and with renewed energy. The teams of the hotels ensure this with enthusiasm and personalised service.

Already in mid-February, the Inkaterra team could celebrate: After a long closure due to the troubles in the country, Machu Picchu, the most important sight in Peru, was reopened to tourists. For Inkaterra's sustainable hotels, especially the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, this was the long-awaited starting signal and they are looking forward to welcoming travelers from all over the world.

Start of the new season in Europe

Some hotels have closed for the winter and are now preparing to reopen in March and April. The ADLER Spa Resort in Sicily is no exception. The newest addition to the ADLER family is looking forward to its second season, which begins March 9. Here's to new guests and repeat visitors who fell in love with Sicily's vast, wild beaches last year.

Preparations are also underway at the vegan Biotique Hotel LA VIMEA. On April 7, the gates of the South Tyrolean hotel will open again to enchant guests from all over the world with vegan delicacies. But that's not the only reason for a vacation at LA VIMEA. In the garden of the Adults-only hotel, guests can relax or take part in one of the yoga offers or massages.

When the apple blossoms begin on Lake Constance, the season also starts at the Naturresort Gerbehof. Health-conscious travelers can look forward to a fasting week with alkaline nutrition and meditation hiking right at the beginning. But also all others will feel well on the Gerbehof. Whether it's enjoying the farm's own products from organic farming, or taking a walk through the blooming plantations. By the way: Outside of the vacation periods, the nature resort Gerbehof can also be booked for adults only. During the holidays, families are very welcome.

More information about each hotel can be found on their respective microsites at www.greenpearls.com.

Anyone who has ever hiked a complete long-distance trail or a section of it on their own two feet with a backpack on their back knows the uniqueness of this experience.

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But even though the journey is the destination in long-distance hiking, the arrival can also be rewarding. Especially when a cosy and sustainable hotel room awaits, stores can be replenished at the sumptuous breakfast buffet and afterwards tired muscles can be massaged.

In this newsletter, we therefore showcase both long-distance hiking trails around the world and nearby Green Pearls® partners that are perfect for a relaxing end to the hike.

On the Road from the Atlantic Coast to Italy – The E5 and the Alpine Crossing

If you are planning on crossing the Alps, there is no getting around the E5 long-distance hiking trail which runs from the French Atlantic coast near Brest to Verona. The route from Oberstdorf to Merano along the E5 is one of the most popular ways to cross the mountains. It takes a good week to cover approximately 115 kilometers.

However, beginners should not be deceived by its popularity: The alpine terrain requires a certain degree of experience or a seasoned mountain guide.
 

Relaxed Start and Arrival

For hikers who take on the entire E5, i.e. who already have a few hundred kilometers in their legs before crossing the Alps, it is a good idea to recharge one's batteries before this demanding section. The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio is located just a few kilometers from Oberstdorf in Balderschwang. A place of relaxation and recuperation perfect for a hiking break, or as a starting or finishing point. And it's not just the mental reserves that can be replenished here. The kitchen follows the Slow Food principle and serves delicious, regional organic food.

After a good week through demanding terrain, the Alpine crossers reach Merano. Nearby, the LA VIMEA invites guests to relax after their efforts. In addition to the holistic vegan concept, which vegan hikers will be particularly pleased about, the adults-only hotel offers peace and relaxation with wellness and gentle yoga sessions.

Once Across Europe – The E1 from the North Cape to Sicily

Through six countries, across more than 8,000 kilometers of diverse landscapes and regions, past glaciers, mountains, lakes, and cultural landscapes. The E1 crosses Europe lengthwise and demands a lot from its hikers.

It starts at the northernmost point of the continent: the North Cape in Norway. The route then leads through Norway via Sweden and Denmark to Germany. You then cross the Swiss Alps to Italy and then all the way to Sicily. A special kind of adventure that demands physical as well as mental strength and is a unique, lasting experience.

Destination Reached - Reward Earned

On the south coast of Sicily, a true jewel awaits long-distance hikers seeking relaxation. At the gates of the almost untouched nature of the Torre de Salsa National Park lies the new ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA. The sound of the Mediterranean Sea is omnipresent here and the gentle architecture lets stress and exertion fade away. Surrounded by olive groves, orange trees, and herb and vegetable beds, guests of the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA experience first-hand where the fruits and vegetables from the evening dinner come from. An ideal end to such a remarkable journey across Europe.

On the Roof of the World – The Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas

The Annapurna Circuit is not only one of the most popular trekking tours in Nepal, but also in the entire world. Depending on the choice of stages, it is between 160 and 230 kilometers long and leads through varied terrain that includes all climate zones except the tropics. Most hikers walk the 21 daily stages in an anti-clockwise direction. This way they do not gain altitude too quickly and reduce or avoid getting altitude sickness.

Despite its Himalayan location, the Annapurna Circuit is one of those tours that can be tackled by hikers who have little or no alpine experience, but who do have a good basic level of fitness and are in good general health. The circuit can be hiked alone, but an experienced guide is recommended. Not only do they know the most beautiful routes and always find the way, even if the signposting is missing, but they also know how to react in emergency situations.

Breathe Deeply and Do Good

The hosts of Pavilion Himalayas - The Farm warmly welcome Annapurna Trail hikers. In the luxurious boutique resort with its lovingly decorated Nepalese-style villas, long-distance hikers find a way to catch their breath after the demanding trail. Either by the pool with a view of the impressive mountain panorama or during the yoga or meditation sessions on offer.

With their stay, guests also support the local community and the development of organic agriculture in the region. The resort was founded to give farmers a profitable opportunity to switch from traditional agriculture to organic farming. The organic farm belonging to the hotel naturally also supplies the hotel kitchen with fresh organic products.

Interested in Learning More? 

We have compiled more about long-distance hiking, including numerous tips for getting started and information on other dreamlike routes in the linked blog article. Those who are more interested in short hikes or a hiking holiday in a sustainable hotel will also find some inspiration!

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Green Travel Guide Germany - Tips for sustainable travel

Destination Germany - Holidays on the doorstep are becoming increasingly popular. But international travelers are also drawn to the country in the center of Europe. We present four green travel regions to show you how to travel sustainably here.

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Cycling tours in winter (tour recommendations and hotels)

Discover our tips for cycling in winter. Most importantly, we'll introduce you to some wonderful destinations where you can also go cycling in winter. Of course, together with the right sustainable hotels, where not only you but your bike are well accommodated.

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Seven sustainable hotels for your spring vacation

Are you still looking for a suitable hotel for your vacation in March and April? We've put together this collection just for you, which not only includes sustainable hotels but also excursion recommendations and plenty of blossom magic.

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Gourmet journey through the Alps: experience sustainable restaurants on a culinary road trip

A road trip through the Alps where you discover seven exceptional sustainable restaurants and hotels. Join us on this journey and also learn how to get from A to B and where to stop along the way.

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From the financial center to the Atlantic coast: In summer, you can travel from Frankfurt/Main to Bordeaux with the Deutsche Bahn. In under eight hours.

Read the press release (GER)

Want some more train travel inspiration? Then discover the route from Amsterdam to Venice in this travel suggestion.

More information (EN)

The new Taste Atlas presents the 100 most popular vegetarian dishes in Europe.

To the article (EN)

Good stuff for your ears: Our current favorite for long train rides is the Reisen Reisen podcast by Michael and Jochen

To the Podcast (GER)

A new trend, for example, are "Adults-Only" hotels for those who appreciate peace and quiet and are happy to do without a "kids' club" and "youth disco" in the hotel! Here we show you which hotels are particularly attractive for travelling in old age. Don't worry: it has nothing to do with emergency call buttons and stair lifts!

Traveling in the Later Years - What is important?

In your later years, you may not feel "old" - but it's clear that you no longer go on the same holidays you would have when you were in your 20s. Shared rooms, cheap mattresses, bad food and waiting for the night bus in the evening - when you're young, you don't care about much. Or rather, your priorities are different.

Parents with small children are primarily concerned about the well-being of their children. They need supervision, a children's pool, chips, a playground and - other children to play with. "Adults Only" does not mean that you don't like children (such as your grandchildren). But why should you spend your holiday surrounded by the screaming of children, when you finished your life of diaper changing and crying decades ago?
 

Nature, Culture and Wellness Getaways

Author Hans-Georg Pompe writes in his book "Boom Branchen 50plus" (Boom Industries 50plus) that for 90% of 50- to 60-year-olds, travelling is a top priority. Without children in the home and after many years of hard work, the main objective is to "enjoy and treat oneself". In other words, comfort is a must. Both in the journey and in the accommodation. In addition, a trip should also offer culinary and intellectual appeal.

Those in their golden years appreciate it when it is evident that the hotel industry has taken this into consideration. For example, when it comes to sustainability: "Indulging oneself" is indeed the trend - but surveys also show that environmental awareness has increased.
 

Tours and guides are important

Competent hotel personnel are also important. Visitors are happy to take advantage of guided tours and tour guides. It is quite a different experience whether you just "follow your nose" or have an experienced hiking guide next to you.

Many of the Green Partner Hotels state that they do not have a special focus on "seniors", but that there are certain things that older guests in particular appreciate. At the Weihrerhof on the Ritten in South Tyrol, for example, older guests especially enjoy using the RittenCard. With this ticket for public transport, you can get to the Rittner Horn or the centre of Bolzano without needing a car. Guests can also take various longer and shorter hikes directly from the hotel, depending on the altitude without having to climb too much. Furthermore, there is also an e-bike rental service.

Those who would like to go on guided hiking tours can go on tour with hiking and mountain experts at the Austrian Naturhotel Outside. The Tyrolean nature hotel does not name pensioners as an explicit target group, but the hotel guests are usually older than 40. Those who are still "good on their feet" at over 70 will feel very comfortable at the hiking hotel.

Popular Destination for Retirement Travel: Bad Herrenalb

A classic destination for Golden Agers is the spa town of Bad Herrenalb in the northern Black Forest. In the climatic health resort, healing water flows, there are thermal baths and a magnificent mountain panorama. When it comes to wellness and recreation, Bad Herrenalb is one of the top destinations in Germany. Numerous trips for retirees are offered to Bad Herrenalb, which are also suitable for older visitors with disabilities. Various coach tour operators offer, for example, to pick up guests directly from their own front door and then drive them to the spa resort in comfortable coaches. A tour guide takes care of everything: hotel rooms, food, and excursions - with package tours of this kind, travelers are relieved of all the hassle and can concentrate entirely on the goal of the trip - enjoyment and relaxation.

For those in their golden years who organize their trips themselves, we can recommend the sustainable Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The hotel offers to pick up its guests from the Bad Herrenalb train station with the shuttle service and has its own e-bike rental service to be car-free and mobile on site. In addition to a wellness treatment, guests can book cultural offers such as a guided tour of the monastery and historical tours of the old town.
 

Adults Only Hotels

In virtually every holiday region, there are now Adults Only Hotels, which are aimed exclusively at couples and single travellers without children. You can tell that you are in such a hotel simply by looking at the food. There are no obligatory children's meals, but creative creations with lots of vegetables and herbs - at the Green Pearls partners mainly in organic quality and regionally sourced.

Adults Only Hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol

LA VIMEA in South Tyrol considers itself to be the first completely vegan hotel in Italy. The restaurant offers magic from the plant world with mainly regional ingredients from South Tyrol. This is not only interesting for vegans and vegetarians, but also for anyone who likes to try something new on their holiday. On the breakfast buffet you will find stir-fried tofu, chia pudding, fresh fruit, smoothies, vegan spreads and much more.
The hotel is a great place to relax in nature. There is a fitting offer for this with yoga, meditation and forest bathing and a wellness area with indoor pool, outdoor pool and saunas. The hotel recommends taking the train to get there. The route through the beautiful mountain landscape is just the right way to set the mood for a relaxing holiday. Guests can be picked up by the shuttle from the Naturno train station.

Adults Only Hotel SAND on the Baltic Sea

The Lifestyle Hotel SAND is located directly on Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea (only one street separates the hotel and the beach). Although it is an Adults Only hotel, the atmosphere here is very relaxed and guests are addressed informally as friends. The hotel has a large roof terrace with a chill-out area and various saunas. Sustainability is a key feature of the hotel's style and atmosphere, the furnishings are made of natural materials, the food is regionally sourced and the cosmetics are natural and organic. At the hotel's cocktail bar, you will not only meet silver agers, but also couples on a romantic holiday in their mid-40s or single travelers who have brought their dogs along on holiday with them.
 

3 Travel Trends in Later Life for the Year 2023

Many travel journalists and travel portals have made forecasts for the travel year 2023. Three things are emerging as a trend for travel in active retirement age:
 

Exploring your own backyard

The trend is being termed "staycation". During the Corona period, for example, many Germans found that Germany and neighbouring countries such as Switzerland and Austria are very attractive travel destinations. A holiday destination that can be easily reached by car or train provides more planning security. In addition, the trust in the local health care system is higher.

Traveling in nature

The great passion for nature is also attributed to "social distancing" from the times of the pandemic. In the great outdoors, there is less need to worry about safe distances and infections. This trend is expected to continue in 2023. Mountains, forests, lakes and the sea also convey a sense of freedom and health.

Sustainable Travel

Ecotourism was already an emerging trend before Corona. Already in 2019, Germany ranked first (ahead of France and the US) on a global "ranking of countries with the most environmentally conscious travellers". However, this is primarily thanks to the younger generation (keyword Fridays for Future). According to a survey, only 38% of the "green travellers" belong to Generation X (born between 1965 and 1981) or older (born before 1965), the other 62% are younger.

We asked our Green Pearls members about their vegetarian offer and were pleased to hear a lot of positive feedback. Here we present the hotels where vegetarians and vegans will enjoy their accommodation the most.

Vegan and Plant-Based in South Tyrol and Trent

LA  VIMEA– Italy’s first “pure vegan” Hotel

Under the motto "Nature offers everything we need", LA VIMEA in South Tyrol pursues a concept that is truly environment-friendly. The hotel offers much more than just a "vegetarian alternative". The menu is complete vegan! Always impressing you with new, creative and seasonal creations! Incidentally, vegan does not only refer to the food - from the furnishings to the toiletries, everything here is animal-(suffering)-free.

Guests, which incline towards Ayurvedic medicine (which pays great attention to spices and food) will feel particularly at home here. Ayurvedic treatments are part of the feel-good program alongside yoga, meditation and natural bathing. 

Weihrerhof – Half vegetarian and very natural

The Hotel Weihrerhof at the Wolfsgruben bathing lake now offers a giant ice rink and a relaxing spa holiday in the snowy landscape in winter. In the Italian South Tyrol, nature is one of the greatest pleasures. It is the source of their natural cosmetics and food. At least 50% of the dishes on the menu and the buffet are vegetarian.

When vegetarians and non-vegetarians travel together, everyone gets their money's worth here. 

ADLER Lodge RITTEN – Daily vegetarian 5-course menu

Vegetarian options play an essential role at ADLER's Italian spa resorts & lodges. The all-inclusive offer at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN for example includes a daily lunch menu in the panorama restaurant with a view of the Dolomites. While the restaurant locates in the "main building" (with the spa area), the accommodations, consisting of 20 wooden lodges, are spread around in the forest.

People with “extra wishes” belong in the fixed program. The in-house daily menu with five courses is available to guests as a vegetarian or vegan option. On request, the menu can be modified according to various food intolerances or other specific dietary requirements.

Paradiso Pure.Living – The vegetarian Dolomites hotel 

At Paradiso Pure.Living the vegetarian-way was chosen mainly out of ecological conviction - the vegetarian-vegan menu intends to help keep the carbon footprint as small as possible. The eco-concept includes the food, facility-, electricity- and water-management. The Paradiso is particularly popular with artists and art lovers. Recently, a documentary focused on this extraordinary hotel!

Especially those for whom vegetarianism is a way of life will feel at home here.

Eco Park Hotel Azalea – 100 % plant-based and as regional as possible

Another great Place for Veggies in Italy is the Eco Park Hotel Azalea, which offers a 100% plant-based cuisine. Whenever possible - the kitchen uses regional and organic products from local farmers. The grain comes from a small Italian mill, which still grinds with stones. Wild herbs get picked from nearby meadows. Water comes from the Val di Fiemme in the Dolomites. The food is not only delicious, but also healthy! And very environmentally friendly.

The family-run hotel is an excellent address for vegetarians and vegans.

Vegetarian travel options in Croatia

Maslina Resort – Mediterranean organic food on Croatia

The 5-star hotel Maslina Resort was only opened in 2020 on the island of Hvar in Croatia and only uses regional and seasonal organic ingredients in its restaurants. The Mediterranean flair has a back-laid feel. "Maslina" means olive and stands for the most important fruit of the Mediterranean. The herbs from the hotel's own organic garden are ingredients for the kitchen and the spa products.

The constantly changing menu doesn't stop at vegetarian options - there are also purely plant-based dishes for vegans who like it southern!

Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer‘s Club – Vegetarian travel with children and pets

Also in Croatia - just 50 meters from the beach - you find the eco-residence The Dreamers Club. It consists of different apartments where pets are allowed. Only plant-based “milk” is welcome in the kitchen. Breakfast is “predominantly vegetarian”. The “Buddha bowl” is part of the offer for vegetarians. The dish consists of various vegetables such as sweet potato, grilled zucchini, fresh spinach, tomatoes, cucumber and local cheese. Many families also prepare their food in the apartments.

Firmly integrated into the menu in the DACH region

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA – BBQ goes meatless!

The German health hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is certified organic on the highest level. At least 90% of the food and drinks are organic. Meat is available, but the guests learn that animal products can easily be substituted. Milk alternatives are: oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, and rice milk. The zero-waste breakfast buffet features vegan sausage and vegan cheese. This year, for the first time, the hotel offered a vegan-vegetarian theme brunch and a vegan-vegetarian BBQ! As we have learned, a repetition is in planning.

The health resort hotel is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to avoid meat, primarily for health reasons. Here, guests will find at least two vegetarian and two vegan dishes on the menu daily - easily recognized through a label on the menu. 

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio – Holistic food in the Allgäu

A holistic approach is the spirit of the Bavarian HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio. Holistic Touch, Holistic Environment and Holistic Food. Local (medicinal) herbs play a spesh role here, which is why herbal workshops are offered regularly. A vegetarian option is an integral part of the menu. Completely vegan dishes must be pre-ordered. 

Creativhotel Luise – A German city hotel with vegan options

The Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen is one of Germany's pioneers of sustainable hotels. Above all, sustainability is a lifestyle that expresses responsibility and awareness. In addition to the ecological facility, this naturally applies to the food. There are many vegetarian and vegan options on the breakfast buffet. You find vegan patties and vegan cakes. In addition to the hotel breakfast, visitors will also find many vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city of Erlangen.

Biohotel Sturm – Daily vegan offers

"Veganism is not a trend for us, but everyday life," answers the German Biohotel Sturm. They not only value organic ingredients here, but also ensure that vegetarians and vegans have a large selection of food and drinks. The kitchen concept was recently converted into an open kitchen so that guests can communicate directly with the chefs and learn more about "the colorful diversity of the sustainable plant world".

The standard repertoire includes the "Vegi Bowl" consisting of falafel, sweet potatoes, vegetables with soy dip and the "Rhöner Stulle" with Tipi bread, parsnips, roasted onions and pickles. In addition, guests will find vegan options daily.

The special features of the hotel include spacious accommodation for up to six people.

Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa – Herbs and vegetables in the German Alps

At the health-hotel Klosterhof, great care is taken to ensure that guests can decide themselves what they want to eat. At lunchtime (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.) there is a daily "Healthy Lunch Bowl Buffet", where everyone puts together their bowl - with meat or fish; vegetarian or vegan! The "Herbs & Vegetable Garden"-menu is always available for the evening menus. It changes constantly, but is always vegetarian.

Naturhotel Outside – Vegan on request

The Austrian Naturhotel Outside particularly appeals to hikers who enjoy the mountains in East Tyrol and the nature spa. The concept includes regional cuisine with a daily vegetarian menu selection without meat. Guests who do not eat any animal products can have vegan options upon request.

CERVO Mountain Resort – Vegetarian luxury

The CERVO Mountain Resort in the Swiss Alps is a special place with a fantastic view of the Matterhorn. Even if the atmosphere is relaxed and close to nature, you will not settle for anything less than a luxury here. Three restaurants ensure culinary well-being, with the Bazaar restaurant offering almost exclusively vegetarian dishes with an oriental touch. Traveling vegetarian does not mean abdication, but enjoying - with regional ingredients from the mountain region. In winter, CERVO has its high season with many skiers as guests.

As with all our partners, we notice that the guests' food preferences are taken very seriously and that the conscious decision to eat animal-free and environmentally friendly is welcome. This is not only a reason for vegetarians and vegans to celebrate, but also for the planet.

Mentioned are:

• Inkaterra Hotels
• LA VIMEA
• Keemala

The full article can be found here (French).

In addition, you are travelling in an environmentally friendly way. So, it's no surprise that many of our Green Pearls® partners are experts when it comes to planning cycling tours in their area. Bikes can often be rented directly at the hotel or nearby. In addition to normal bikes, there are also more and more e-bikes on offer. Just the thing for those who want to try it out on holiday. How about an extended tour through northern Italy? Or a racy downhill ride on a mountain bike?

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From the and Chalet Directly onto the Cycle Path

The Austrian town of Sölden is a true biker's paradise. There are no less than 43 routes on offer that will inspire both beginners and ambitious mountain bikers. The tracks, routes, and tours with different levels of difficulty are all part of the Bike Republic Sölden, a bike project founded in 2015, which in addition to the ecologically constructed trails also cares for a lively biker culture in the Ötztal.

From the Leni Mountain Apartments & Chalet you can directly access the trail network. Gentle trails, rapid descents, and challenging climbs ensure that a biking holiday is never boring. A highlight is the ascent to the Rettenbachferner. 2800 metres high, the mountain is the highest paved destination in the world.

Starting this summer, a beginner's and practice line begins at the front doors of the Leni Mountain Apartments and the popular Leiterberg Trail passes right by the chalet. By the way, Leni Mountain is well prepared for bikers of all kinds. As a certified bike accommodation, it offers lockable storage facilities, a washing area, tools, repair kit and everything else your heart desires.

On the Trail of the Romans in South Tyrol

The Adige cycle path follows the course of the river all the way to Verona and also passes the Hotel La Vimea in Naturno. But you don't have to cycle the entire trail, the section to Merano is only a few kilometres long, so the tour is also worthwhile for cyclists who are simply looking for a relaxed lap.

The route follows the Via Claudia Augusta, the old Roman connecting road between north and south. Emperor Claudius extended it from the routes laid out by Emperor Augustus in 15 BC. Today it is being rediscovered as a cultural axis that can be explored on a cycle tour along the sights and orchards. The Via Claudia Augusta is also popular as a long-distance hiking trail from the Danube to the Pos plain.

The holistic vegan Hotel La Vimea can serve either as a starting point or as a place to relax after crossing the Alps. Yoga, wellness and creative vegan cuisine provide well-deserved relaxation after the bike tour.

Go with the Flow Along the Weser Cycle Route

In Lower Saxony, you can also cycle alongside a river. The Weser Cycle Route is the most popular long-distance cycle route in Germany (ADFC Cycle Tour Analysis 2022) and invites you to summer cycling tours on both sides of the Weser for almost 520 kilometres. If you don't want to cycle the entire route from Hann, Münden to Cuxhaven, will also be reward you with great river views, idyllic floodplain landscapes and historical sights.

Okelmann's in Warpe is only a few kilometres from the Weser Cycle Path and therefore a wonderful retreat for a few days' break. In the midst of the fields, you can relax your tired limbs in the shepherd's cart sauna or the wooden whirlpool. Yoga classes provide a welcome balance to cycling.

Always a bit of Baltic Sea

Another long-distance cycle route that literally passes by the front door of a Green Pearls® partner is the Baltic Sea Cycle Route, which stretches from Denmark to Poland and beyond. Starting from Timmendorfer Strand, you can explore the surrounding Baltic coast along this route. It follows along the steep coast, windbreaks and coastal forests characterise the landscape and the salty air reminds you that the Baltic Sea is always only a short distance away.

In addition to the route along the coast, there are also cycling tours inland, for example with the Priwall ferry across to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, to Eutin Castle or along the Trave to the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. The Lifestylehotel SAND is an ideal starting point for this. Firstly, the wellness offer is just perfect after the tour through the amazingly hilly landscape. And secondly, the hotel cooperates with the bicycle manufacturer myBoo. Guests of the SAND can rent bamboo bikes on site and explore the area in style and in an eco-friendly way. In addition, the purchase of each bicycle directly finances a school in Ghana. Sustainability across all levels!

Some distance east, around 18 kilometers away from the Hanseatic city of Stralsund, lies Gut Nisdorf, yet another green pearl on the Baltic Sea Cycle Route. Guests of the sustainable manor located directly at the Bodden coast can take a ride on the tour section from Fishland-Darß-Zingst to Stralsund and Rügen and actively explore the richly varied coastal region.

Pure Nature in the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

When people talk about the Spreewald, they often think first and foremost of canoeing, paddle boats and boat trips. But the region can be explored just as well from another perspective: from the saddle of a bicycle.

Directly opposite the Strandhaus Boutique Resort & Spa Spreewald, you can rent bicycles or e-bikes and get going. From Lübben, you can join the well-developed network of cycle paths. One of the best-known routes is the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Path), which is identified by a cycling cucumber on the signs! Low gradients, well maintained cycle paths, and only a few sections on busy roads make the path ideal for families and cyclists looking for a relaxed tour. In total, the Gurkenradweg winds its way through the biosphere reserve for about 260 kilometres. However, it can also be wonderfully explored on the sections around Lübben. There are always shortcuts or detours that lead back to the hotel.

There you will be greeted by lovingly tended gardens, a panorama sauna and authentic Spreewald cuisine.

By Bike through the Black Forest

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has been awarded the Bett+Bike label by the ADFC and has proven to be an ideal base for cyclists to explore the Black Forest on two or three wheels. Guests can park their bikes at night in lockable shelters, there are repair kits or, if necessary, information on where to find the nearest bike repair shop. And drying facilities are available for wet clothes or equipment.

After a hearty breakfast with regional and seasonal products, you can now even rent e-bikes directly at the hotel. Our Green Pearls® tour tip: the loop through the Albtal nature reserve, through the Holzbach valley and the Maisenbach valley. Along the three valleys and streams you can explore the landscape and nature of the northern Black Forest. You should plan for just under half a day, after all it's all about being on the move slowly, enjoying and relaxing. After a leisurely lunch, you can either add a second tour or return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day in the spa area with its large sun terrace, reenergising with a yoga session, or enjoying a massage.

Explore the Rhön with a tour guide 

Those who don't like to explore the unknown trails on their own and would rather take a hike with a professional guide can join Daniel Albrecht on a tour from the Biohotel Sturm in the Rhön Mountains. He knows all the trails in the region inside out and leads his guests on tours through the varied landscapes of the Rhön region that suit their level of difficulty. Guided MTB Tours are available as single tours as well as in a group. 

The newly constructed Garden Rooms of Biohotel Sturm, with views into the greenery and direct access to the natural swimming pond, extends the experience of nature to the next morning.

Cycling tours can be undertaken from many of our Green Pearls® partners. Whether in the mountains, by the sea or along the river, whether by mountain bike, touring bike or e-bike: the surroundings are best explored on two (or three) wheels. Slowly, mindfully and in harmony with nature.

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ALLERGY-FRIENDLY VACATION WITH GREEN PEARLS® PARTNERS

Unfortunately, the peak season for allergy sufferers begins when the sun shines longer, flowers bloom and everything turns green. More than 60 million people in Europe are affected by allergies. Find out, where you can have a relaxed holiday despite the allergies. 

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TIPS FOR A SUSTAINABLE HONEYMOON

Consciousness for a sustainable lifestyle is increasing all the time. And that also has an impact on weddings and honeymoons. We have collected some tips and accomodations, how and where you can spend your honeymoon as sustainable as possible.

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BRING THAILAND INTO YOUR HOME? VERY EASY WITH THE RECIPE FOR A CHAO NA BOWL

Thai food is colourful. From many influences, the Thais create delicious dishes with local ingredients. You want to try this too? Then this recipe from Keemala is perfect for getting started with Thai cuisine.

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FRILL-FREE NATURAL COSMETICS IN HOTELS  

One of the easiest ways to make your life more sustainable often starts in the bathroom. There are now so many great alternatives for shampoo, shower gel, make-up and the like that you’ll hardly notice the change! Our Green Pearls® partners are showing the way. 

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The packaging of Sea Me GmbH  products such as soaps and lotions can be returned, cleaned and refilled. To this end, the company launched zerooo: Packaging (mainly glass bottles) can be submitted at more than 900 shops in Germany and Austria.  

Read More 

Heidelberg wants to become Germany's first circular city through an urban mining project. The project was presented at the Greentech Festival in Berlin over the weekend.

Article

Podcast recommendation: In their new podcast, Louisa Dellert and Markus Ehrlich investigate true crimes against the environment, people and animals. Worthwhile for all fans of true crime and climate podcasts. Unfortunately, it is only available in German. 

Start Listening

Experience Italy by train. For this you can choose from numerous, beautiful routes with partly historic trains, which invite you to slow down and enjoy the view.

Article

The article is only available in German.

Mariya Un Noun - Farmhouse Smiling Gecko

For Mariya Un Noun, a lot of love goes into every meal. The 31-year-old chef of the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia has had an impressive journey. She grew up in the slums of Phnom Penh and only went to school for three years. Since then, she has worked her way up with ambition and perseverance, partly due to her love of nature and food. Since the opening of the Farmhouse Restaurant in 2015, she has been part of the team and is responsible for the further development of the range of dishes. The young Cambodian makes the local cuisine shine in her own creative way with a lot of intuition and soul and fuses it with European cuisine. The dishes at the Farmhouse Restaurant are mainly prepared with ingredients from the restaurant's own agricultural production. In addition to organic fruit and vegetables, eggs, and fish, bread and pastries from the Smiling Gecko bakery are also used. Even the meat products come from Smiling Gecko's own butchery. Recently, Mariya has been supported by top chef Andreas Caminada, who is enthusiastic about her talent. The partnership with his foundation "Fundaziun Uccelin" enables young European chefs to work with Mariya at the Farmhouse and bring the beauty of Cambodian cuisine to the world.

Luca Sordi - LA VIMEA

The chef at Italy's first vegan hotel is Luca Sordi, a former engineer who already focused on sustainability during his studies through his and work. He can definitely be considered self-taught - after his studies, he decided to follow his greatest passion and dream and become a professional chef. With motivation and determination, he pursued his goal of becoming a top-level plant-based chef. Along the way, Luca gained experience in some award-winning restaurants such as "Soul Kitchen" in Turin, the oldest British vegetarian restaurant "Hendersons" and as a chef at "Saorsa 1875", the first vegan hotel in the UK. 

He joined the LA VIMEA in South Tyrol in 2017. A place where he has developed as a chef, kitchen manager and as an individual. "Cooking for me is a very deep activity where body and mind have to work together. It's often hard work, but I have a lot of fun with it." 

His passion is exploring different techniques, textures, and temperatures and trying new things. But what he likes most is the intuitive part: "When the mind is free to create something new... it's like jazz." Wild-grown ingredients, open fires and outdoor cooking characterise his cooking and reflect his love of nature. As does fermentation! An approach to flavour development that he is constantly working on and studying to produce delicious, sustainable and healthy dishes.

Hannes Müller – Genießerhotel Die Forelle

Hannes Müller, owner of the Hotel Die Forelle and head chef of the restaurant at Lake Weissensee in Carinthia, is one of the pioneers of extraordinary creations with local herbs and wild plants. Under the guiding principle of Berg.See.Küche, he uses only regional products for his cuisine and follows the seasonal harvest calendar. Strawberries in winter or asparagus in autumn are therefore not on the menu at Forelle. Instead, Hannes Müller stands for high-quality creations made from products that are prepared according to the highest standards for the respective season. Regional, refined, authentic.

The philosophy behind this is based on the belief that in times when everything is always and at all times available, recollection and reduction are the special things. Many of the foods that are served at Forelle are home-grown and pickled, frozen, dried or fermented after harvest. The sustainable concept of Die Forelle also includes working directly with local farmers, using as many parts of a product as possible, composting food scraps and even producing biogas. The kitchen can be largely supplied with electricity from the in-house PV system. Hannes Müller likes to pass on his knowledge of the local flora to his guests during herb walks, cooking courses and workshops. For his sustainable and delicious cuisine, Hannes Müller and his team were awarded four Gault Millau toques in 2019.

Justine Rist – Naturhotel Aufatmen

At the Naturhotel Aufatmen in Leutasch, Justine Rist holds the chef's sceptre, or rather the wood spoon. Justine is not only eats vegan, she also lives it. And for her, cooking is more of a calling than "just" a profession - she has been passionate about cooking since childhood. After her years of learning in upscale restaurants and Michelin-starred restaurants in France, the 30-year-old was drawn to the big world. After working in Japan and Australia, Justine spent more than a year on a ship of the NGO Sea Shepherd Ocean Conservation as a volunteer. Here, too, she provided the entire crew with vegan delicacies. In addition to animal welfare, it is important to her that the products she processes are organically grown and, if possible, grown nearby. "The game of preparing vegetables in many different ways and continuously discovering new ways is my world," says the young Frenchwoman and proves with her menus just how colourful and varied vegetarian and vegan dishes can be. Young, lively and original at the same time. At the 2021 Pastry Contest in France, Justine was awarded third place.

Mauro Massei & Grazia Bianchi – Paradiso Pure. Living

A duo leads the contemporary vegetarian-vegan cuisine of the first vegetarian hotel in the Dolomites: Mauro Massei and Grazia Bianchi. The two have been working together for many years and are an accomplished and well-coordinated team. Mauro has a classic professional hotel background complemented by training in Michelin kitchens. His personal sensitivity to the vegan world has led Mauro to take the vegan path and manage the kitchens of several plant-based hotels, such as Lord Bio or LA VIMEA. Grazia gained her professional experience working alongside celebrity chefs such as Niko Romito, chef of the Ristorante Reale in Rome, and finally arrived in the plant-based kitchen and at Lord Bio alongside Mauro Massi. 

She specialises in gorgeous high-end vegan pastries as well as baked goods and fermentation. Both are all about conscious food choices and holistic wellbeing and a pure vegetarian-vegan approach that respects nature. They would like to convey this to their guests in Paradiso Pure. Living as well: "Our goal is for our guests to take their experiences with our creations home with them, and for a change to take place in their everyday lives through conscious food choices as well." Grazia and Mauro are constantly working to expand the variety of offerings. They have added tempeh to the menu, developed different types of homemade kefir and kombucha, and experiment a lot with fermenting fruits and vegetables. "Fermented foods have incredible nutritional value and provide us with a dose of healthy probiotics. A vegetarian-vegan lifestyle is very beneficial for the body and mind and also invaluable for the entire planet," both vegans are confident in this.

Davide Cretoni – CERVO Mountain Resort

In the Italian restaurant of the CERVO Mountain Resort 'Madre Nostra', the Roman Davide Cretoni is in the lead. In his opinion, sustainable cuisine is based on three important pillars: reduce, recycle and reuse. That means only buying as much as you can actually consume and recycling and reusing what is left over. This is what he and his team at CERVO in Zermatt, Switzerland, base their actions on. "Sustainable cuisine represents a new era that also pays respect to the consumer through transparency. What ingredients are used, where they come from and how they are prepared is something more and more guests are interested in. A conscious understanding of what is on the plate contributes to a responsible approach to food.”

Rudi & Dedi – Puri Dajuma

Like all the staff at the Puri Dajuma eco-resort on Bali, the two chefs Dedi Putra Susila and Rudi Setiawan come from the neighbouring village. They lead a team of five chefs and are responsible for the exotic and varied food selection at the resort. They are masters of both: Balinese specialities, but also international classics. And always based on fresh and seasonal ingredients from the local markets’ farmers and fishermen.

The imaginative creations of Rudi & Dedi impress with authentic recipes inspired by traditional Balinese cuisine and by the island's location at the crossroads of different cultures. The experienced chefs' most popular dishes include the famous Balinese-style Rijstafel, their own variation of Nasi Campur and Seafood Casserole.

Radenko Jovicic – Hotel Outside

"Cook what the gourmet region of East Tyrol has to offer," is the kitchen philosophy. Radenko Jovicic has been working in the kitchen of the 4-star-superior Hotel Outside in Matrei for almost 20 years and is responsible for the daily afternoon snack along with the evening 6-course gourmet menu and the weekly gala dinner. His culinary work is grounded in traditional regional foods, which he prepares in a contemporary and unexpected way. Originally from Bosnia-Herzegovina and now a Tyrolean, he impresses guests with his down-to-earth and imaginative creations. Plus a daily vegan and vegetarian work of art: "We want nothing less than to surprise the senses and impress the palate. And do so sustainably." To meet this high standard, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. They are sourced from organic producers or from the garden of the nature hotel. Homemade products are also on the tables in the restaurant. For example, the brown bread made from East Tyrolean ancient wheat is baked in-house and the hotel makes its own jams and syrups. It is important to Radenko and his team that the path of the food remains traceable. "The shorter the route, the fresher the vitamins. The closer the (mountain) farm, the better the taste." Simple as that, and so good!

LA VIMEA, Italy's first 100% vegan hotel, is enticing guests with an attractive spring offer for a stay in the gourmet and hiking region of South Tyrol. 

Guests who book until May 20 for three nights at LA VIMEA in Naturno will receive one night free, including vegan half board.

In the Adults-only hotel in the sunny Vinschgau, guests will find maximum relaxation, rest, and wellness opportunities. The kitchen of the LA VIMEA pampers its guests with creative, vegan cuisine.

Special Offer “PrimaVera”:

• For all the new inquiries made within the period 21 April – 16 May 2022 with the booking of 3 nights, LA VIMEA grant +1 night free of charge including vegan half board.
• This offer is only valid as an inclusive 4-nights package for booking with the promo code “PrimaVera” for stays 21 April - 20 May 
• Tourism tax is not included, the offer excludes other discounts.
• The special offer and the number of rooms are limited. 
• To book Special offer, the request with promo-code "PrimaVera" should be sent to info@lavimea.com

Moon-wood for furniture, wild flowers and sprouts for the wild lettuce or healing natural wellness: at LA VIMEA, the focus is on nature everywhere. Guests have many options for finding their sense of well-being, the hotel facilities include a large natural swimming pond, an indoor saltwater pool and a spacious park with old trees. Quiet and deep relaxation can be found with yoga on the natural wooden deck, with meditation and in the nature spa. Those who still want to discover nature around the green hotel, the Vinschgau Valley offers a wide network of hiking and mountain bike trails through the surrounding nature parks such as the Texelgruppe or the Saldurkamm. 

LA VIMEA is well known for its cuisine. It is colorful, creative, full of experiences, biological and 100% vegan. The wines are only from small organic vegan winemakers as well. Breakfast and dinner in the restaurant is included for hotel guests.

Vegan with full conviction

La VIMEA in Vinschgau is the first holistic vegan hotel in Italy and also the only one among the Green Pearl® partners that is completely vegan and holistically oriented. This is evident not only in the choice of food, but also in the selection of materials, the architecture, and the range of energizing and Ayurvedic treatments. The adults-only retreat near the centre of Naturno offers sustainable relaxation with yoga retreats, saltwater pool, natural bathing pond and exclusively vegan and organic creative cuisine. Artfully decorated dishes include specialities such as fragrant hay soups, wild herb salads, stuffed courgette flowers and homemade nut cheese.

Vegan-vegetarian – meatless variety

The Naturhotel Aufatmen offers not only vegan, but also vegetarian cuisine from time to time. Vegetables are at the centre of all culinary events. Classically or newly interpreted in the show kitchen, but always accompanied by exciting regional and international spices. Maria and Wolfgang Pfeiffer from the Naturhotel in Leutasch not only want to restore the value of culinary “simplicity”, they also want their guests' bodies and minds to come together by reducing the unnecessary and putting nature in the foreground. This motto runs throughout the entire operation of the hotel. With its organic swimming pond, yoga programme and various relaxation areas, guests of the hotel can quite literally breathe a sigh of relief and forget the stress of everyday life.

The Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi in South Tyrol is the first vegetarian hotel in the Dolomites. However, it is also a perfect holiday destination for vegans, as more than half of the dishes on the hotel's menu are vegan. In addition to a healthy lifestyle, the holistic hotel concept also features yoga, music and contemporary art – all under the Pure.Living umbrella.

Vegan included – sustainable cuisine for everyone

Not everything has to be vegan. Hotels that can cater for vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters are particularly popular with families and couples. They themselves combine different eating preferences and also love the variety. Many Green Pearls® partners are prepared for all culinary preferences of their guests. Some of these include the Biohotel Grafenast, the Creativhotel Luise, Okelmann's and the CERVO Mountain Resort. These hotels are not only prepared for guests on a purely plant-based diet during January, but all year round. 

At the Creativhotel Luise Erlangen, for example, there is a wide variety of vegan products available such as milk and yoghurt alternatives, vegan spreads, vegan cakes, vegan pastries and, on request, some warm vegan dishes. The CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt has made one of its three restaurants completely vegetarian/vegan with the Bazaar.

Okelmann's in Warpe, Lower Saxony, always offers vegan breakfast, cakes and evening menus, which they will be expanding in 2022. It is very important to the kitchen team of the hotel's own Café Heimatliebe that regional products are used, that the dishes are always fresh, and above all, that they have been prepared without additives and flavour enhancers. 

The Biohotel Sturm has firmly adopted Veganuary into its hotel concept and offers a particularly large selection of vegan dishes and drinks at all meals during January. The aim is not to raise an accusatory finger and criticise other forms of nutrition in January, but rather to whet the appetite of one or two meat eaters for vegan cuisine through creative and, above all, tasty vegan dishes. And there's no better place to do this than in the show kitchen, where the chefs and guests can chat face-to-face. For the remaining eleven months of the year, there is a smaller yet diverse range of vegan dishes, such as chestnut soup, lentil fritters with coconut curry cream and even a vegan chocolate nut brownie.

Those who live and eat vegan have an ever-expanding range of holiday options to choose from – with the sustainable Green Pearls^® partners among them. 

We will present more hotels that pamper their guests with vegan delicacies in one of the following newsletters.

Environmentally friendly materials for a sustainable sleep

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Institution with social commitment

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

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

The article is only available in German. 

More and more vegan/vegetarian restaurants offer gourmet cuisine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yoga and "Journaling" in Berchtesgaden

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

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

Holistic recreation in the Allgäu 

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

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

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

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

Mindfulness with Meyotai in South Tyrol

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

You can find the offers of the hotel here.

Cook. Work. Shop. at the Weissensee

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

Processing primal grains in the high Tauern National Park

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

Tango vacations at the Bodensee

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

Opening dates of the Green Pearls^® Hotels in Italy

Relais del Maro

The Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Liguria reopens on the 10th of June. In the small village of Borgomaro, there are some new features, such as the new restaurant Osteria Amaro, which serves only local products from the region. Also, new are charging stations for electric vehicles directly at the sustainable hotel, yoga classes in the hotel garden, and a small lavender field above the Relais del Maro.

Paradiso Pure.Living

On the Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi) in the Dolomites, the 2021 summer season of the Paradiso Pure.Living starts on the 19th of June. The 100% vegetarian hotel impresses its guests with a holistic hotel concept consisting of a healthy lifestyle, regional cuisine, and interesting cultural programs.

Special offers for the summer season at Paradiso Pure.Living:

• 5=6 - book 5 nights, 6th night free of charge. Period June 19^th - July 5^th (departure) and August 30^th - September 14^th (departure)
• 6=7 - book 6 nights, 7th night free of charge.  Period July 5^th - August 2^nd (departure)

LA VIMEA

On the 11th of June, the vegan hotel LA VIMEA will open its doors to guests again. The sustainable hotel in South Tyrol is the first holistic vegan hotel in Italy. From the furnishings to the exquisite delicacies from the kitchen, only vegan products are used. The hotel is surrounded by plenty of greenery and is perfect for the relaxing yoga retreats offered at the hotel.

Locanda Mistral

Locanda Mistral in the beautiful Maira Valley has been open again since the 28th of May. The family-run sustainable hotel is particularly well suited for active holidaymakers. The owner Renato Botte is an experienced mountain guide and offers many different tours in the area. Relax afterward by the small mountain stream that flows directly through the hotel garden.

Special offers from Locanda Mistral

• 7 nights for the price of 6, including GPS tracks for mountain bike tours, breakfast buffet, and a 5-course gourmet dinner, from 574€ per person, period May 20^th - June 20^th, 2021
• 3 nights, including GPS tracks for mountain bike tours, breakfast buffet, and a 5-course gourmet dinner, from 234€ per person, period May 20^th - June 20^th, 2021

Sagna Rotonda

The ecovillage Sagna Rotonda has been welcoming guests again since the 25th of April. A total of 13 sustainable holiday homes are ideal for a getaway with the whole family. Especially in late summer, Piedmont is the perfect starting point for extensive hikes, and on return, guests can relax and refresh in the wellness area with its Finnish sauna and mountain spring water plunge pool.

Travel is possible again and Green Pearls® would, therefore, likes to share some inspiration from one of the most beautiful countries which needs our support now and in the future: Italy

A blooming beautiful time out in Trentino

On the 2^nd of July, 2020 the doors of the Eco Park Hotel Azalea will open.

"It will be an unforgettable summer, and we will make it easy, safe, bold and maybe a little bit "crazy" - ... just like we are! - ...just the way we are." Manuela and her team.

The Eco Park Hotel Azalea is located in the heart of the small Italian town of Cavalese and is a beautiful natural oasis in the Val di Fiemme. Around the family-run hotel, there is a lot to discover at any time of the year and whether it is hiking to crystal clear mountain lakes, yoga in the garden or relaxation in the hotel - the offers at Azalea are endless. Families also feel at home here and even the youngest guests can discover Trentino's nature or enjoy the indoor playroom with a miniature studio, Lego and much more, while their parents enjoy some time together or the delicious traditional, mostly vegetarian and vegan cuisine. To make guests feel safe during their holidays, Azalea provides washable, ecologically certified and self-made masks and colloidal silver gel for disinfection. During breakfast and dinner, sufficient distance is maintained both on the terrace and in the dining room. Microorganisms are used as a general cleaning agent for surfaces, SONETT surface disinfectant and colloidal silver are used selectively for handles, and a steamer with essential oils (lavender, thyme, tea tree lemon, copaiba) is used for mattresses and curtains.

 Natural luxury in Friuli

"A rustic village where you can stay in peace, and a forest where you wake up and realize that you are not dreaming"

The Sirk family and the team at La Subida have been pampering guests since May 22^nd, 2020 and sharing the beauty of Friuli with them. At La Subida, guests from all over the world meet, share experiences over a glass of wine and a good meal and simply enjoy the Friulian lifestyle. The country resort with its Michelin star restaurant is located on the border of Italy and Slovenia and is an oasis of comfort and wellbeing that combines tradition, natural luxury and modern architecture. Guests can not only experience nature when hiking or cycling but also with a cozy bath in the middle of tall grass or a night in a four-poster bed in the hayloft.

An Italian summer fairy tale comes true in Liguria

Liguria as you've never seen it before: Experience everyday life in a traditional Ligurian village. The Scalambrin family is happy to fill the hotel with guests again from the 15^th of June, 2020.

At the Relais del Maro, guests feel as if they have been transported to another time: The hotel is an Albergo Diffuso and so the rooms are located in historical buildings in the middle of the picturesque village of Borgomaro in Liguria. For breakfast, guests meet in the main building and enjoy the many local specialties in the romantic garden or out on the terrace. The pool with a view of the surrounding mountains and the village also invites you to stay and relax. For more excitement, head to the nearby glamorous beaches of the Ligurian Sea or visit the impressive town of Imperial.

Milan's first zero-emission hotel

The green city hotel is aiming to be able to welcome guests again at the beginning of September.

Located directly in the city center in Milan's artists' quarter, Brevia, and yet a world of its own: the Hotel Milano Scala is a zero-emissions hotel with 62 rooms across seven floors. All cultural squares, restaurants and shopping streets are within walking distance and after a long day of sightseeing, guests can relax with a cocktail on the roof terrace of the boutique hotel and enjoy the view over the city. Furthermore, thanks to a new filter system in the rooms, the air quality is particularly clean and low in fine dust particles so that a deep and restful sleep is guaranteed. Eco-chic, classical music, green organic cooking - wellness for mind and body at Milano Scala.

Experience Occitan culture & traditions in the Maira Valley

"Finally, we can welcome you back to the Locanda Mistral! Untouched nature, unforgettable mountain and hiking experiences, excellent gastronomy and lots of time and space to relax await you. We are happy to welcome you, Manuela and Renato."

The family-run hotel Locanda Mistral is a real insider tip in the Piedmont region and is located in the idyllic village of Ponte Maira, at the end of the Maira Valley, at an altitude of around 1,400 meters. From the 13^th of June, 2020 guests can enjoy the valley and the hospitality of the Botte family again.

Whether winter or summer, active holidaymakers always get their money's worth in the Maira Valley; be it hiking, climbing, mountain biking or snowshoeing. Renato Botte is not only the operator of Locanda Mistral, he is also a fantastic mountain guide and knows the best routes in the area and offers guided tours. The hotel consists of two converted farmhouses in Occitan style and today houses 14 comfortable rooms. After a day in the fresh air, the hotel's own new restaurant, where owner Manuela cooks and places great emphasis on high quality and fresh ingredients, is a real treat. All dishes are prepared at the Locanda Mistral itself, with the seasons and the origin and quality of the products playing a major role.

The luxury of nature in Piedmont

Social Distancing is on the agenda here. In the middle of untouched nature, guests can escape from everyday life in the Sagna Rotonda - another insider tip in the Maira Valley - from 29^th of May - 15^th of October 2020 and 22^nd of December 2020 – 6^th of January 2021.

Sports, nature and relaxation in the breathtaking Piedmont landscape. Guests - from single travelers to families - stay in furnished holiday apartments in traditional houses. The owners are united by their love for the unspoilt mountains and the desire to rediscover a region that has remained hidden from many visitors and nature lovers until now. The owners Giovanni and Teresina have renovated the old buildings themselves and guests enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view of the mountains. The true luxury of a holiday in the Sagna Rotonda lies in the pristine scenery and simplicity. In the eco-holiday village away from mass tourism, the stressful everyday life can be quickly forgotten and the alpine mountain world can be discovered while hiking or mountain biking.

The honey yellow thread in South Tyrol

„It is encounters with people that make life worth living!“ (Guy de Maupassant)

... and therefore we are very much looking forward to filling our family business on 19.06.2020 with the smiles of friends and guests".

At the family-run Hotel Rinner, guests can experience a unique wellness treatment: with Api-Wellness, they can breathe in the valuable beehive air and help increase their overall well-being. The family-run hotel is located in the beautiful South Tyrol on the Ritten mountains and here everything revolves around the industrious insects. For more than three generations the Rinner family has dedicated itself to beekeeping with enthusiasm and unwavering commitment. Here, great importance is attached to the sustainable use of resources, not least because of the bees. Guests can stay in family-friendly rooms, there is a large playground, a recreation and sunbathing lawn and playrooms in the hotel. In addition to these, wellness treatments with a panoramic view of the mountains and, of course, the active discovery of South Tyrol are also very tempting.

Relaxation and luxury in the heart of the Dolomites

"Finally, we can host again - from the 3^rd of June 2020 we can welcome our guests again"

The Dolomites are a simply wonderful destination for all nature lovers and at the Dolomit Boutique Hotel and the accompanying Dolomit Homes, guests enjoy a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. The holiday apartments and houses are all individually furnished and are located in the heart of the village of La Villa. All guests are welcome in the park-like garden with a heated swimming pool, the Finnish sauna in a small wooden chalet, and the playground for the little ones. The Dolomite team is always ready to help with tips for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the spacious garden, guests also meet the alpacas of the Dolomit Homes & Hotel time and again. If you are looking for something really special, rent the Dolomit Designchalet "Mi Chalet", a sustainable architectural wonder that combines Ladin and modern influences.

The first vegan hotel in Italy

"We speak many languages here... ...but most of all we speak Plant. And we live this enthusiasm. Sustainable and inspiring."

As of June 20^th, guests at La Vimea in the Vinschgau Valley near Merano can finally spend their holidays vegan, organic and happy again. The philosophy of the hotel is based on a holistic view of people and nature. Even though the indoor pool and the wellness area will be closed for health security reasons due to Corona, the large park with its old trees and a swimming pond invites leisurely walks and refreshing swim. If desired, guests can start the day with yoga on the wooden deck of the swimming pond. The vegan La Vimea is a refuge for peace, attentiveness, relaxation and offers a retreat from everyday life. The perfect place to recover from the stress of the last months.

Veganuary is a nonprofit organization and campaign that encourages people around the world to eat a purely plant-based diet in January. You can register online for free to get lots of tips and recipes. You also find a lot of inspiration on Instagram at #veganuary.

A purely plant-based diet helps to protect the environment, has a positive impact on our climate, saves animals and is also good for our health. Apart from that, vegan food is simply delicious! “How delicious?” you may ask? Our two vegan hotels Bio-Agrivilla i pini and Biotiquehotel LA VIMEA show their guests every day. Perhaps you would even like to eat plant-based long after the 30 days? Just give it a try!

We are pleased that we can not only count hotels among our green pearls that always have a purely vegan offer, but that other hotels are also part of the Veganuary, such as the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb. Following the principle of the "planetary health diet", the Selfnesshotel has been offering creative vegan and vegetarian dishes for many years, à la carte as well as at the "Zero Waste Breakfast Buffet". You will also find vegan products in the bathrooms and in the wellness area – and of course well beyond January.

At Gili Lankanfushi on the Maldives, you can book a vegan experience in the Organic Garden with Chef Hari. Taste the freshness of exotic herbs, homegrown rocket and beach lettuce, then pick pomegranates and bananas. 

Whether in Keemala in Thailand, in the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, in the Strandhotel Kurhotel Juist on the North Sea island Juist or in the organic children's and family hotel Gut Nisorf – in many of our hotels you can also have vegan meals if you wish. By the way: Refugium Lindenwirt is now a member of Vegan Welcome and you can always enjoy regional and purely plant-based dishes at the hotel in the Bavarian Forest.

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Before 2019 came to an end, we shared our blog highlights for the year with you and reviewed our most beautiful trips of the year.

To the highlights of the editorial team

Environmentally friendly sunscreen? What does sun protection actually have to do with corals? This blog post was particularly popular in 2019 – and you can already remember our tips for the summer.

To the blog post

Do you already know our green pearl in Lithuania, the ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa? Here you stay in a former grain mill – tradition meets modern.

Learn more

Are you always looking for very special experiences, far away from the tourist crowds? Here are our insider tips!

5 insider tips for your next vacation

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We have found a new green pearl for you: the La Subida Country Resort in Friuli, Italy, on the border with Slovenia. Luxury close to nature and modern architecture, great wine and delicious food, here you can enjoy the Friulan lifestyle to the fullest.

Find out more about the La Subida

The Landgut Stober collects one award after the other – now there is another award for the sustainability of the hotel. In December, the testing institute CERTIFIED announced its test results for the year and the Landgut Stober not only secured the top grade 'Excellent', but also the first place in the 'Green Hotel' category.

The Keemala is a “villa wonderland” in the middle of the forests of Kamala, on the Phuket peninsula. The resort with its very special architecture celebrated its fourth anniversary at the end of last year. Congratulations!

Read on

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Annika from The Midnight Blue Elephant was a guest at The Tongsai Bay last year and was able to take part in a fruit sommelier course there. She shares her experiences and what was especially tasty with you on the blog.

“12 Thailand Fruits you need to try!”

Traveling by container ship across the sea simply fascinates us again and again, which is why we devoured the experience report in the Guardian.

"I didn't want to fly – so I took a cargo ship from Germany to Canada" 

2020 is the perfect time to reinvigorate your bucket list and to check out the places, attractions and brand new experiences that will have their moment in the spotlight for the first time, or exclusively, in 2020. Lonely Planet has some ideas for you.

“20 brand new experiences for your travel bucket list in 2020”