Is it possible to measure sustainability?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Measuring, analyzing, and reducing emissions

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

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

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

Sustainability can only be achieved as a team

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

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

What sustainable hotels have in common

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

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Our Sources:

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

An empty shell

Green Pearls®: Ben, you're being awarded the German Sustainability Award, yet you say you can't stand hearing the word “sustainability” anymore. What's going on?

Benjamin: The word has become an empty shell. Within the bubble, it can mean a thousand different things. Outside the bubble, it's annoying and has negative connotations. I would prefer to delete it completely.

Green Pearls®: But without the term, isn't there a lack of common ground? How can we talk about our responsibility toward future generations and the health of the planet then?

Benjamin: Perhaps by no longer talking about “sustainability,” but rather about resilience, economic efficiency, and future viability. Try replacing “sustainable hospitality” with “economical hospitality.” Every functioning business already fulfills one of these pillars. Those who work in an ecologically smart way reduce costs. Those who work in a socially fair manner solve the shortage of skilled workers. This is not a niche – it is business logic.

Is the hotel industry even relevant when it comes to climate change?

Green Pearls®: Nevertheless, the accusation remains: Hotels consume more energy and water and produce more waste than private households. Consider the buffets, wellness facilities, and lighting. Is sustainable hospitality a contradiction in terms?

Benjamin: That's like comparing apples to oranges. Do you have a buffet and a wellness area at home? A hotel can actually be more efficient because its processes are streamlined. Furthermore, hotels are test labs and showrooms. The question is: How are you going to use it? I am convinced that guests at our Hotel Luise have a positive impact.

Green Pearls®: However, a trip's greatest effect on the climate does not come from the hotel itself, but from the journey to and from the destination. What do you think? Isn't a hotel's impact limited in this respect?

Benjamin: Of course, it is limited. As a hotelier, however, you can also consider which target group you want to appeal to. Do my guests add value to the region? Do they interact with the value chain? Hotels have a responsibility to establish these connections. I once attended a presentation by a steel mill. They said that by optimizing their trace heating for just a few hours, they could save more electricity than we consume in an entire year. Does that mean everything we do is pointless? No, because there are significantly more hotels than steel mills!

Green Pearls®: Every little helps. You often emphasise that we are not doing enough. Are organic soaps and towel signs not enough?

Benjamin: Surprisingly, many hotels do more than they communicate, not the other way around.

Green Pearls®: We frequently encounter this phenomenon as well! When we compile a list of the 'green initiatives' of hotels for our Green Pearls website, we often discover a level of commitment that guests were completely unaware of.

Benjamin: Yes, that's often the case. Nevertheless, it's not enough.

Green Pearls®: You no longer want to summarize these measures under the heading of “sustainability.” But without this term, many movements, networks, and certifications would not even exist. Don't we need common standards after all?

Benjamin Förtsch: Standards, yes. Empty words, no. If sustainable hospitality means making the industry more resilient, independent, and future-proof, then I'm on board. However, anyone who thinks this is just a niche model has missed the point.

Green Pearls®: Where does this disillusionment originate?

Benjamin Förtsch: My parents began promoting sustainable tourism 45 years ago. Thirty years ago, the certification criteria were already the same as they are today. Fifteen years ago, we began measuring our carbon footprint and transitioning to climate neutrality. Five years ago, we built the "Nachwachsende Hotelzimmer®" (Renewable Hotel Room). And at some point, I became frustrated. I thought: Nothing seems to be moving forward.

Green Pearls®: But you're still fighting?

Benjamin Förtsch: Yes, of course. My parents were labeled "green nutcases," and I might embarrass myself as a speaker today. But the truth is, we can't save the world alone. I tried for a while - but it didn't work. That's why we developed the Wall of Change. There are over 270 measures posted there, ranging from small to large. Each one is an invitation to be inspired, and knowing that there is always more that can be done also motivates me!

Green Pearls®: Final question: If the term "sustainability" has had its day. What remains?

Benjamin Förtsch: Responsibility. Entrepreneurship. And the realization that we are all part of both the problem and the solution.

About the Hotel Luise

Benjamin Förtsch is the third generation of his family to run the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, one of the pioneers of sustainable hospitality in Germany. This family-owned city hotel has been a partner of Green Pearls® for a long time and won the German Sustainability Award in the Accommodation Industry category in 2025. It is one of the first city hotels in Germany to focus on comprehensive circular thinking: materials and resources are used in such a way that they remain in the cycle of use for as long as possible. Washable and durable materials replace disposable products, natural cosmetics come from refillable dispensers, and a microforest is being created in the garden to provide a habitat for plants and animals.

In recent years, many hotels have invested heavily in improving working conditions. They pay above the standard rate, offer comprehensive benefits, and foster a culture of appreciation. The good news? This change is real and measurable. The challenge? Even the most committed companies are reaching structural limits they cannot overcome alone. Without a political framework that enables modern employment practices, changing the industry will be an impossible task.

Green Pearls® sustainable hotels show what can be achieved operationally. However, their experiences also reveal systemic barriers blocking widespread change. A look at key areas of tension and how to resolve them.

The cost trap: When fairness becomes an economic risk

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld offers a 16-page list of benefits, including individually tailored work schedules, accommodations, meals, discounted leisure activities, and comprehensive training opportunities. Assistant manager and head of human resources, Coleen Aigner, is convinced that no other industry offers as many additional benefits on top of salary as the hotel industry does.

However, hotels that pay above the standard rate and offer additional benefits face economic burdens due to high non-wage labor costs. The total cost of gross wages and employer contributions makes fairness a luxury that smaller businesses can often afford only by drastically raising their prices, which puts them at a competitive disadvantage. While committed employers bear disproportionate costs, businesses with minimum standards benefit economically.

What is needed: A reform of non-wage labor costs in the hospitality industry could reduce employer contributions for companies that prove they pay above the standard rate or offer respectful, certified working conditions. Tax incentives for occupational healthcare, further training, and benefits that exceed legal standards would provide additional flexibility. Reducing VAT for sustainable and socially certified businesses could encourage competition based on fairness.

The image dilemma: When success stories go under

Meanwhile, noticeable changes to working conditions in the hotel industry have been observed by the Green City Hotel Vauban. Most companies have long recognised that their employees are their most valuable asset. However, negative portrayals of hotel industry employees in the media are still commonplace, despite being outdated in many respects. This is particularly noticeable when it comes to filling vacancies. Who wants to work three different shifts, with lots of overtime, for a temporary salary — even on weekends and public holidays? This often-portrayed image, however, no longer corresponds to reality in modern businesses.

The adults-only wellness hotel My Arbor in South Tyrol, the Naturresort Gerbehof in Germany, and other Green Pearls® hotels confirm: The criticism of working conditions reflects an outdated image. In particular, sustainable hotels pay close attention to the well-being of their employees; sometimes, this commitment is even written into the statutes of the individual establishments. Christian Schmidt, the managing director of SANDcollection, also believes that the industry is better than its reputation suggests. However, it still needs to communicate this more effectively. SANDcollection is actively involved in DEHOGA committees and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce's tourism committee. The company organizes industry events and conducts intensive public relations work. Nevertheless, positive examples are overlooked while negative headlines dominate public perception. Consequently, young people are deciding against training in the hotel industry, and even career changers are hesitant.

What is needed: An industry-wide employer branding campaign led by key stakeholders in the hotel industry that goes beyond image advertising and provides concrete examples of modern employers. A publicly accessible, search engine-optimized database of exemplary companies could increase visibility. Lastly, a seal of quality for appreciative working conditions that is prominently displayed on review portals would provide transparent guidance.

Outdated structures: Curricula that lag behind reality

The image of the hotel industry also influences how people perceive training. Christian Schmidt from SANDcollection makes this clear: The modernization of teaching and training plans is long overdue. Current IHK curricula barely cover digitalization, sustainable business management, or mental health. Rigid training structures that require full-time attendance do not align with the realities of life for many young people or career changers, nor are they helpful in hotel practice.

What is needed: Integrating current topics, such as digital tools, sustainability, guest communication on social media, mental health, and work-life balance, into IHK curricula would modernize training. Modularization could open up new target groups by allowing career changers with professional experience to participate. Recognizing part-time training for individuals with caregiving responsibilities would provide flexibility. An internship initiative with quality standards could provide a realistic view of the modern hotel industry.

Training opportunities in urban and rural areas

From an international perspective, the Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia illustrates what needs to change urgently in the rural hospitality sector: transparent overtime regulations, reliable access to training opportunities outside larger cities, and recognizing local employees as qualified professionals instead of seasonal workers. The retreat aims to set an example by demonstrating that a sustainable hotel must also be a fair place to work, upholding high internal standards. This challenge is not unique to Cambodia. Tourist regions away from urban centers often lack the infrastructure necessary for professional development.

What is needed: Mobile training opportunities in rural tourism regions through regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry branches or digital learning platforms with face-to-face components would provide easier access to qualifications. Allowing easier labor migration for skilled hospitality workers from third countries and accelerating the recognition of foreign qualifications could alleviate the labor shortage in peripheral regions.

The planning paradox: When flexibility meets bureaucracy

The requirement to record working hours, which took effect in 2023, caught many businesses by surprise. Fortunately, many Green Pearls® hotels were able to respond in time. Hotel STURM uses modern time recording and digital tools. Gut Sonnenhausen has implemented a fully digital time recording system. However, the majority of the hotel industry lacked clear implementation guidelines, practical guidance, and affordable standard tools. Small businesses in particular faced the challenge of implementing GDPR-compliant digital solutions without the ability to hire IT experts. The result: uncertainty, expensive individual solutions, and a patchwork of different systems.

What is needed: Practical guidelines for legally compliant work time recording, especially for shift work in the hotel and restaurant industries, would provide valuable guidance. Support programs for digitizing HR processes in small and medium-sized enterprises could reduce the financial burden. Legally compliant standard tools, ideally open-source software or subsidized industry solutions, would establish uniform standards and shorten training periods.

From exception to norm: A question of perspective

Several hotels have identified the core of the problem: the hotel industry needs more planning security, a better work-life balance, and genuine recognition of its employees' daily achievements. The Hotel Das Rübezahl, OLM Nature Escape, ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, and ADLER Lodge RITTEN all agree that appreciative working conditions and an employee-centered corporate culture should be the norm, not the exception, across the industry. Only when the people who sustain the industry are heard, supported, and respected can the hotel industry's future be shaped successfully and responsibly.

For this conviction to become a reality for the entire industry, political conditions must be established that promote fairness. Associations must be vocal and uncompromising, acting as the industry's authentic voice. And society must be prepared to reevaluate hospitality professions.

The pioneers have set the example. Now, it is up to the industry as a whole—together with politicians, associations, and society—to follow suit. As Alexander Thurm, the managing director of Hotel Das Rübezahl, promises: "With us, you are not a cog in the system, but part of a vision." This vision needs support to become a reality.

In the heart of this historic Huguenot city lies the Hotel Luise, one of Germany's most innovative and sustainable city hotels. From the beginning, the hotel has been committed to environmental protection and demonstrates that sustainability enriches experiences and redefines comfort.

Hotel Luise: The (Future) Circular Hotel

Since 1956, Hotel Luise has combined tradition and family history with innovative sustainability concepts. Today, Ben Förtsch, the third-generation owner, is setting new standards in the hotel industry. The goal of Förtsch and the entire Luise team is clear: to create a hotel functioning like a closed-loop system. They use and recycle resources, avoid waste, and support natural material cycles. Every stay is an experience where guests can enjoy ecologically designed rooms, sustainable materials, and food from environmentally friendly agriculture—a small yet valuable contribution to a regenerative future.

Förtsch believes the traditional linear economic system—buy, use, and throw away—is reaching its limits. Accordingly, Hotel Luise adheres to the Cradle-to-Cradle® principle, ensuring that all materials are either fully biodegradable or continuously recyclable. Examples at the hotel include carpets made from old fishing nets, tables made from terrazzo plastic produced from old refrigerators, and a lot of furniture made from 100% recyclable materials, as well as some hotel rooms whose components are entirely recyclable or biodegradable. Another central component of this approach is social responsibility: employees, guests, and the neighborhood are actively involved, and their well-being is the focus.

Spend the Night in a Renewable Environment — a Unique Room Experience

The Circular Hotel Rooms, which have been part of the Luise concept since 2016, are particularly impressive. Unique at the time, this type of room design and furnishing has now found imitators. “Fortunately,” says the Luise team, welcoming every concept of this kind. The rooms in this category are made from 100% biodegradable materials:

• Ceilings and walls made of compressed straw

• Bed frames made of cork

• Carpets made from recycled fishing nets

• Plug connections and eco-friendly adhesive instead of metal connections

The so-called astronaut shower in the bathroom saves up to 80% of water and 90% of energy thanks to an innovative recycling technology. But sustainability and comfort are also priorities in the other rooms of the hotel: mineral wall paints, solid wood furniture, and real indoor plants promote a healthy indoor climate. Guests in the small single rooms can even enjoy climate-positive stays. Every square meter of the hotel reflects this philosophy: cycles, resource conservation, and the conscious use of energy are made visible and tangible.

Wall of Change – Making Sustainability Tangible and Visible

Another centerpiece of the hotel is the Wall of Change, an interactive display of sustainable practices. It showcases the hotel's more than 270 sustainable practices, from organic jam and eco-friendly straws to renewable hotel rooms and furniture made from discarded refrigerators and clothing donations.

Guests can experience the Wall of Change both digitally and in person in the hotel foyer. The physical version, in particular, clearly conveys that many small steps add up to a big whole. Guests can see how small changes reduce the hotel's ecological footprint while providing an inspiring experience. For those in the tourism industry, the Wall vividly demonstrates that sustainability does not have to remain abstract for guests and employees; it can be practical, creative, and achievable.

Microforests: Small Forests with a Big Impact

One particular eye-catcher is the microforest, which grows directly in the hotel garden, connecting nature and the city. Microforests are densely planted, small in area, and they achieve the biodiversity of a 100-year-old forest in just 10 years. Developed by Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, these forests impress with their ability to absorb up to 30 times more CO₂, provide 100 times more biodiversity, reduce noise and air pollution, and create a significantly improved microclimate.

To prepare the garden at Hotel Luise, 30 cm of topsoil was removed, trenches for rainwater were dug, and a pressure-free irrigation system was installed. From 2021 to 2022, 200 tree seedlings were planted in a very small space. The species of trees are native and climate-adapted, including red oak, English oak, wild cherry, sycamore maple, sweet chestnut, rowan, Swiss stone pine, black pine, and fluttering elm. While the dense planting poses a challenge, it creates a unique ecosystem that provides a habitat for insects, birds, and small mammals, supports the mental health of guests, and positively influences the urban climate. Over the next two to three years, the microforest will be actively maintained and then left to develop into an independent living forest.

Sustainable Accommodation and Support for Bike Travelers

For guests arriving by bike or planning a cycling vacation in Erlangen, Hotel Luise offers more than just a place to stay: a generous zero-waste breakfast with regional, organic, and fair-trade products, a small but exquisite fitness area, e-charging stations for cars and bikes, and bike rental including maps, tools, secure storage, and drying facilities for wet clothes make your stay comfortable and eco-friendly.

A toolbox is available for minor repairs, and packed lunches can be prepared for cycling trips. As an ADFC partner hotel in the Bett&Bike program, Hotel Luise is the ideal starting point for exploring Erlangen and the surrounding area in an eco-friendly way, whether on the many well-developed bike paths through picturesque half-timbered towns in Franconia or on leisurely tours through forests and parks. The "Drahtesel-Gehege" ensures that e-bikes and classic bicycles are stored safely and dry while guests explore the city on foot.

Regeneration the Franconian way: The Gud ruh’n Spa

Hotel Luise's overall concept also includes a sustainably designed wellness area: the Gud ruh'n Spa. In a room designed according to feng shui, there are saunas, steam baths, ice grottos, and bucket showers. A special highlight is the beer massage, developed in collaboration with the Steinbach Brewery in Erlangen, which is unique worldwide. This massage combines relaxation with regional brewing artistry, transporting the senses directly into the world of the brewery. Those who have difficulty relaxing during traditional massages will enjoy this multi-sensory experience that appeals to both body and mind. Spa offerings include aquapuncture in an aromatic bath and customizable herbal baths with ingredients from the hotel garden and regional suppliers.

Relaxation, Comfort, and Sustainability—Hotel Luise sets Standards

This theme runs like a common thread through the entire Hotel Luise. With its unique blend of sustainability, design, comfort, and experience, the hotel is an inspiring model for climate-friendly city tourism and a sustainable hotel industry. Guests become part of a vibrant cycle that has an impact far beyond the hotel's four walls. It is a stay that inspires, touches, and motivates guests to actively embrace sustainability — just as Ben Förtsch and his team intended with their vision.

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

Changing Travel Habits – from FOMO to JOMO

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

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

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

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

From Trend to Honest Philosophy

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

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

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

November by the Lake — Slow Down and Recharge

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

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

Go directly to the Offer

Three Ideas for a New, Sustainable Understanding of Travel

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

1. Digital Detox — with Ease, not Force

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

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

2. Places to Be – Discover Places of Power

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

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

3. Lakeside Views — Nature Education by the Lake

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

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

The Weihrerhof as a Model of Sustainable Tourism

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

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

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

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

Our Sources:

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

Tucked away in the Cambodian rainforest and only accessible by boat, Canvas & Orchids Retreat provides an unparalleled glamping experience. The resort's 15 floating tent villas are built directly on the Tatai River and blend seamlessly into the impressive Cardamom Mountain backdrop. Each villa has around 45 m² of living space and combines stylish comfort with the power and atmosphere of tropical nature.

Respectful and Sustainable: the Canvas & Orchids Philosophy

The resort's sustainable concept is based on a conscious approach to the environment: the floating villas are temporary structures that will not leave a permanent mark on the sensitive surroundings. The villas were built exclusively by local craftsmen using traditional tools—a clear commitment to social responsibility and community involvement.

Guests can expect a diverse nature experience, whether they are kayaking through the mangrove arms, cooling off in the river right outside the front door, or enjoying a sunset cruise with gourmet Cambodian cuisine. Every activity is designed to preserve the authenticity of the surroundings and bring guests closer to the local culture while providing a high level of comfort at the same time.

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We are happy to provide additional information and images or arrange interviews. Individual press trips can also be arranged upon request. Please email press@greenpearls.com for more information.

Minibar Trends: The Decline of a Classic

The minibar was initially invented in Germany in the 1950s and became popular in hotels worldwide in the following years. As an integral part of the hotel experience since the 1970s, it was seen not only as a practical convenience, but also as a sign of prestige. Today, however, fewer guests value a minibar, so it is no surprise that hotels are gradually removing them from their rooms and focusing on more personalized concepts instead. However, the decision to remove minibars is not only based on guest demand, but also on practical and environmental considerations:

• Sustainability aspects: Minibars consume a lot of energy, especially in hotels with many rooms. In addition, packaging waste and unused products create unnecessary waste.
• Low demand: Many guests rarely or never use the minibar. Drinks and snacks are often more expensive than at the hotel bar or nearby shops.
• Hygiene issues: Minibars are a challenge to maintain and clean, creating extra work for the housekeeping team.
• Noise reduction: Refrigerators often make annoying noises that can disturb guests' sleep quality.

Sustainable Alternatives to the Minibar

Sustainability-oriented hotels, such as the partners in the Green Pearls® network, are already focusing on innovative alternatives that emphasize the idea of sustainability. While some hotels are eliminating minibars for good, others are offering sustainable and local solutions to ensure that guests still have a comfortable experience.

Minibar? No Thanks!

The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg, the STURM in the German Rhön, the Austrian Biohotel Grafenast, and Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol have decided to completely remove minibars from their rooms. Not only to save energy, but also to improve the acoustics, as the small fridges are a (disturbing) source of noise. The Green City Hotel Vauban has a consistent sustainable approach that avoids single-use packaging, which makes it difficult to have a minibar in the room.

The Green Spirit hotels in Paris have repurposed their minibars due to low usage and the resulting regular expiration of food: the small fridges are not filled as standard, but remain in the rooms, also due to the star classification. Guests can use them for their products.

Alternatively, some hotels, such as Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich, have central "honesty bars" where guests can help themselves to homemade and regional products around the clock.

Stocked on Request Only

Most Green Pearls partners focus on flexibility, to the benefit of both guests and the hotel. Naturhotel Outside, for example, offers minibars in the suites that are filled only when needed. The APIPURA hotel rinner also offers minibars in some rooms that can be filled with organic products on request.

The Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt has a similar concept and fills the minibars in the suites with local beer and Swiss specialties. The Naturresort Gerbehof fills the small in-room fridges with fresh organic products upon request. All apartment suites at OLM Nature Escape have a kitchen with a refrigerator that can be stocked upon arrival. The share of organic products is particularly high.

Sustainable Minibar: Featuring Organic Products and Regional Specialties

Hotel My Arbor and Keemala Resort offer an alternative to the classic minibar containing soft drinks and the like. They focus on sustainable offerings. This approach provides the usual convenience while reducing the environmental footprint by selecting sustainable products. In the past, My Arbor did not have a stocked minibar for a time, but found that this decision was not well received by their guests. They decided to compromise by stocking the minibar with water and local juices from South Tyrol. Keemala Resort has adopted a similar strategy by stocking its minibar with only sustainably sourced and organic products. This combines the convenience of a classic minibar with environmentally friendly principles.

At the Ligurian Relais del Maro, Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Baxrisch Gmain, and Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, the team also ensures that the offerings are sustainable and local. The Relais del Maro minibar is stocked with organic products and beverages in glass bottles. In the Klosterhof, the minibar is filled free of charge upon arrival with water and organic soft drinks. Hotel Klosterbräu has decided to fill the minibar only with its own apple juice and water.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA no longer offers minibars in the new Panorama Deluxe Forest Sound Rooms and Suites, but has found that guests often ask for them. Minibars are still available in the other rooms as part of the star rating in certain categories. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA stocks them exclusively with regional and organic products.

The Lifestyle Hotel SAND deliberately chose a digital solution. Guests can order their drinks and snacks individually via an app. This approach makes it possible to flexibly adapt the selection to the guests' wishes while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption, costs, and waste. SAND's hotel philosophy thus focuses on sustainable consumption and individual guest choices, rather than pre-packaged minibar offerings.

Classic Minibar at Guest's Request or due to Star Classification

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm and FARMHOUSE Resort Smiling Gecko are among the hotels in the Green Pearls® network that have opted for the classic minibar concept. They see this as an important service for their guests, who are accommodated in their villas or bungalows and can enjoy drinks and snacks in the privacy of their rooms. The Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort also continues to offer in-room minibars, which are required for classification as a 5-star hotel. Removing the minibar can, in some cases, affect a hotel's official star rating. This is why the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, for example, maintains the minibar in many of its rooms, and why the Green Spirit hotels in Paris cannot do without them, even though they are not used.

Minibar: Essential or Unnecessary?

Guest reactions to the new minibar concepts are mixed. While some welcome the sustainability and flexibility, others miss the classic minibar. "Some guests would like to have a minibar, but that's rare," says Klaus Pichler of Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol. "Our guests can still cool important things with us," he continues. This is a little difficult with the star classification, but in the end, it was not a problem, he concludes.

Some guests appreciate the ability to order drinks and snacks individually or use the minibar as a personal refrigerator. Others feel restricted by the lack of a minibar and miss the convenience of having a selection of drinks and snacks at their fingertips. However, hotels like Gut Sonnenhausen, which never had a minibar in the room and focused on other services from the beginning, often report positive feedback from their guests. They appreciate the central "honesty bar" or other common areas as a pleasant alternative. In these cases, the lack of a minibar is not an issue because guests have been exposed to alternative concepts from the beginning.

Whether or not to Offer Minibars Remains a Matter of Hotel Philosophy

Overall, it is clear that the acceptance of new minibar concepts depends heavily on guest expectations and preferences. Hotels that actively involve their guests in the decision-making process and are transparent about the reasons for their decisions often receive better feedback. Digital ordering via apps or the option to use the minibar individually is perceived by many guests as a practical and modern solution.

Alternatives such as honesty bars or on-demand replenishment also work well and ensure greater sustainability in the hotel's day-to-day operations. Nevertheless, the minibar remains an important element for many hotels, as it is one of the criteria for star classification. This classification requires either a minibar or 24-hour in-room food and beverage service. For luxury hotels in particular, the minibar is therefore not only a matter of guest and staff convenience, but also critical to meeting star rating requirements.

Whether they have a minibar or not, hotels are increasingly looking for sustainable, flexible solutions that meet the individual needs of their guests. A minibar is no longer a necessity in all hotel categories, but in many places it is a question of hotel philosophy and guest expectations. In any case, it remains an exciting topic that will continue to generate discussion in the hotel industry. 

Above all, Artificial Intelligence is... Artificial

The rapid development of AI in this millennium is primarily due to the development of deep learning. It is based on the use of deep neural networks, some of which consist of millions of artificial neurons. AI does not "think", "understand" or "mean", but relies on statistical correlations and provides an answer based on huge amounts of data and the individual personality of the questioner. As a result, no two people will get the same answer to the same question – in terms of style and content.

What can AI do for the Hospitality Industry?

"Of course, we have to deal with it. AI will have a huge impact on our future," says Dr. Andreas Färber, a physician and co-owner of the wellness hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, Germany. He sees how AI could be used in medicine and believes the technology offers great benefits, especially when working together. At the same time, he is concerned that, in some cases, there is no control over what the AI comes up with.

"At the Klosterhof, we now use a dynamic revenue management system, which partly works with AI, but is monitored by us. The pricing is also partly artificial, but also monitored by us," he tells Green Pearls® when asked about his use of AI. With a smile, he adds: "These are elements that you may not like sometimes, but which are now necessary to remain competitive. “

Given the pervasive shortage of skilled labor in the industry, it seems almost inevitable that AI will be used to streamline and automate workflows.

The range of possible tasks is wide:

• Maintenance procedures
• Price adjustments
• Administrative tasks
• Room reservations
• Communicating with guests (e.g. on-boarding or excursion tips)
• …

Tim Muller from the Lifestylehotel SAND summarizes the application areas: "AI can be used wherever numbers are involved and data is stored in databases, such as in revenue management or analyzing guest behavior. [...] In the hotel industry, AI can support forecasting and evaluating business figures. “

The Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic coast of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, uses dynamic pricing that employs AI to increase the effectiveness of the pricing strategy and simplify workflows. This is done by collecting data from various sources and monitoring market trends. "The prerequisite for good results is having access to data from several years. This in turn requires that the hotel management system has already been digitized, ideally for several years as well", he explains, pointing out the difficulties of using AI. They only work as well as the input they receive and the data they can access. This is another reason why the SAND does not use an AI chatbot. "Guests often have unusual questions that an AI cannot constructively answer," he explains.

Dr. Andreas Färber adds: "I would be delighted if we could use AI for processes in ecology. For example, for a more ecological form of cleaning in which the AI learns from the mistakes we humans make.“ But for that, the right products are currently missing.

Using AI in the Hospitality Industry: Real-World Examples

While large hotel chains are already integrating AI into their operations, the situation is different for smaller, owner-operated properties. Implementation is generally slower and more uncertain. AI-driven systems, such as dynamic pricing or an intelligent management system, are often introduced individually and gradually. Intelligent chatbots for the hotel website are also an "entry-level" tool for implementing AI in everyday hotel life, as is the use of ChatGPT, Midjourney, and the like in marketing.

AI applications in hospitality fall into three broad areas: Guest communication, Content & Marketing, and Revenue Management. The Green Pearls® network provides real-world examples in all three categories. Green Pearls® itself provides a platform for sustainable hotels and accommodations to showcase their sustainability efforts in a transparent and authentic way.

1. Guest Communication

In guest communications, the use of AI includes chatbots, service robots, and digital intelligent concierges. It may also include automated, customized social media messages or push notifications.  

2. Content & Marketing

ChatGPT, image generation, KPI evaluation – AI has arrived in marketing and it's hard to imagine a world without it. In addition to creating image, and text material, it is also helpful in developing new campaigns and generating ideas. 

3. Revenue Management

Data and numbers – that is what artificial intelligence is good at. So, it is no surprise that accommodation providers are turning to AI-driven processes, especially in revenue management. This includes automatic price adjustments, automation, market analysis, tracking, and even behavioral analysis or forecasting, provided the data is available.

The Dark Side of AI

When discussing the downsides of AI, discussions often get stuck on hallucinating AIs and inaccurate responses. However, the use of AI has an immense impact on environmental sustainability. In an interview with Tagesschau online, Ralf Hebrich, director of the Hasso Plattner Institute, points out that the share of digital systems and data centers, including end devices, in global electricity consumption could rise to 30% or more in the next few years. The main culprits, he says, are energy-intensive systems that require AI to calculate their "intelligent" behavior.

Data centers and networks, also used by AI, already produce roughly the same amount of emissions as the airline industry. Furthermore, a 2019 study calculated that training a standard AI model generates five times more emissions than an average car over its lifetime.

In addition to energy consumption and associated emissions, data centers, especially in already warm regions, consume huge amounts of water to keep them from overheating.

The recent release of the Chinese AI DeepSeek has at least challenged the prevailing view that better AI requires more and more computing power. DeepSeek claims to be much more efficient. The open-source code (that is platform- and country-independent) is available to everyone and could encourage the development of more efficient and sustainable AIs. This is especially good news for sustainable accommodations and businesses!

Whenever an AI is used or asked, resources are consumed and emissions are caused. The AI trend is irreversible, but as with sustainable travel, conscious choices should be made and precise requests and prompts should be used to avoid generating more answers than necessary.

Here to Stay?

The benefits of AI depend heavily on the user. Education and training are needed to use AI efficiently and consciously to benefit the environment, employees, and profitability. One thing is clear: AI is here to stay. Personalized services based on guest preferences, which are generated by intelligent systems and evaluations, will increasingly shape the hotel industry and determine the competitiveness of individual players.

But not everything can be replaced by AI, and the Green Pearls® network's accommodations underscore that. "Especially when we interact with people, we need to be social. It's just ingrained, and we will need it more and more as we expand our connections. It may be possible to take things like massages to a technological level, but it will not replace the human touch. We will still need people to give massages. And that's good because humans are social beings and thrive on interaction," says Dr. Andreas Färber.

Tim Muller does not see AI taking over hotel operations as well: "Guests always want to be treated with a human touch, which an AI cannot do." In general, he sees the main future application areas in administration – and here, he says, you have to consider how much of your business you want to entrust to an AI.

For more information on each sustainable accommodation, please visit the linked microsites. For questions, collaboration requests, press trips, and additional images, please contact us directly: press@greenpearls.com

A Vision Takes Shape

What started with Karl Rolles' vision and the opening of the family hotel in 1975 has evolved over five decades into a leading modern health resort. Today, the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel combines contemporary health concepts with the natural advantages of its location on the Atlantic coast. In addition to wellness, sports, and thalassotherapy, the health hotel also offers its guests holistic fasting cures based on F. X. Mayr and various health spa programs for beauty and health (e.g. on the topics of weight loss and nutrition, fitness, relaxation, and yoga). A team of doctors and therapists provides medical care for guests, supporting them individually on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle. In all its activities, the OCÉANO maintains the original values that have characterized it since its beginnings: quality, authenticity, and a deep connection to the island.

Sustainability at the Heart of the Philosophy

While many accommodation providers in Tenerife's tourism industry are focused on maximizing growth, OCÉANO remains true to its philosophy. "In a time when even the smallest rooms are offered at exorbitant prices, we stand for authenticity and conscious economic management," explains the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel team.

Sustainability. At the OCÉANO, it is not just a buzzword, but a way of life. For many years, the hotel has been committed to environmentally friendly measures and long-term concepts that focus not only on guests but also on nature. Rather than pursuing growth at any cost, its approach is to preserve and develop existing structures to provide an authentic and sustainable experience.

The hotel's 10th floor, for example, has recently been extensively renovated to the latest ecological standards and now combines timeless elegance and modern comfort with the typical OCÉANO views of the Atlantic Ocean.

These also include a cuisine that focuses on local and seasonal produce, a waste reduction concept, and an energy-efficient refurbishment of the existing building to meet current standards. Small details such as reusable glass bottles in the rooms, which guests can refill at water dispensers throughout the hotel, further reflect the hotel's sustainable and health-conscious approach.

Furthermore, the mild climate on the north coast of Tenerife is not only good for people's health but also means that air conditioning is not needed. Even in the summer months, temperatures remain moderate due to the cool Atlantic breeze.

Looking Ahead

The history of the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is an example of how tradition and innovation can form a harmonious symbiosis. It is a testament to consistency and a model of responsible hotel management.

Even after 50 years, the OCÉANO is still looking to the future. There are plans for further modernization, as well as new impulses and content around the theme of a “healthy lifestyle” which will continue to position the hotel as a pioneer in sustainable health tourism. The goal is to remain a place that offers recreation and health promotion at the highest level – while using resources responsibly. 

Winter Solo Trip to the Plose

Winter is a natural time for retreat and rest, making it ideal for a solo trip to truly find yourself. Solo travel has shed its charity image and is now associated with independence, freedom, and self-discovery. While women have been the primary solo travelers in recent years, a trend toward solo travel is also emerging among men in 2025.

Whether you are looking for self-discovery, a wellness retreat, or just some time to yourself, the region around South Tyrol's Plose Mountain offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts will find ideal conditions for ski touring, alpine skiing, and snowshoeing, while culture buffs will enjoy the historic old town of Brixen with the Hofburg Palace and the historic Stufels district. An extended winter hike through the snow-covered landscape is highly recommended. Numerous lookouts invite you to stop and enjoy the winter silence. Focus on yourself? It's easy in moments like these.

Hotel My Arbor: A place of individuality and relaxation

Overlooking Brixen, the Hotel My Arbor stands on stilts among the conifers. The wooden facade blends harmoniously into the landscape, and when you look out of your room window, you feel as if you are really sleeping among the treetops. The adults-only hotel is dedicated to the theme of "Self" and puts guests at the center of its "My" philosophy. They should find and live their own rhythm. That's why late risers can enjoy breakfast until noon and lunch until 5 p.m. Early risers can look forward to regional delicacies at the breakfast buffet starting at 7:15 a.m., so they can start their day of skiing or visiting the spa feeling energized.

Especially as a single traveler, this is an opportunity to escape the daily grind and rediscover your own pace: no one to push you, no need to consider your partner and/or children, and no appointments - the Hotel My Arbor offers the perfect setting.

Wellness and Retreat: Self-Care at the Hotel My Arbor

The hotel's 2,500-square-foot wellness area includes the luxurious SPA ARBORIS with an infinity pool, various saunas, and other exclusive relaxation options. As always, the focus is on individuality and the self, so it's no surprise that treatments are tailored to individual needs.

As the hotel's name suggests (arbor is the Latin word for tree), many of the treatments harness the power of local trees, such as mountain pine or Swiss stone pine. A variety of special treatments are also available, especially for solo travelers, to help them achieve harmony of mind and body. In addition, exercise and mindfulness options include yoga, guided forest bathing, and personal coaching on a variety of fitness and lifestyle topics.

Offer: My Arbor Break

Arrive, recharge, and let go - My Arbor Break is ideal for solo travelers looking to recharge with a short break. In addition to the included services, the package includes two massages, "Recharge" and "Let Go", to round out the stay.

Offer valid until December 24, 2024 | 3 nights and more from €935.00 per person/half board | To the offer

For Eco-Conscious Solo Travelers

Hotel My Arbor combines luxurious relaxation with a clear commitment to sustainability. Its unique design blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature. The natural and regional materials used are perfectly in tune with the alpine landscape of South Tyrol. The use of renewable energy and energy-saving technologies help reduce the hotel's environmental impact. The family that owns the hotel also focuses on sustainability in its gastronomy: seasonal and regional ingredients characterize the menu, some of which are grown in the hotel's fields. This allows for a fresh, authentic cuisine that not only minimizes the environmental footprint but also highlights the culinary traditions of South Tyrol.

Wintertime is Me-Time at My Arbor

For those seeking a combination of nature, wellness, and luxury without compromising on sustainability, Hotel My Arbor is the ideal retreat to take time for themselves and their regeneration. The focus on tranquility, relaxation, and individuality allows (single) guests to focus on themselves and reap the benefits of a solo winter vacation.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• Hotel My Arbor: IT021011A1AE4737IT

The Benefits of Organic and Local Sources

Organic products are characterized by more environmentally friendly cultivation methods. According to the German Federal Center for Nutrition (BZfE), the use of pesticides in organic farming is allowed only in exceptional cases, which has positive effects on the environment and people. These include increased biodiversity due to the lack of pesticide use, protection of groundwater, and protection of workers.

In turn, a focus on regionality allows for shorter transportation routes, reducing not only CO₂ emissions but also storage capacity and packaging materials. These aspects are particularly important when it comes to minimizing one's environmental impact. In addition, it supports local (agricultural) markets, and the cultural aspects should not be underestimated: Regional specialties or products become the "star" on the plate and ensure an authentic culinary experience.

The sustainable ideal is therefore a combination of both approaches. However, as the hoteliers of the Green Pearls network can attest, this is not always easy and sometimes impossible to achieve. So, which is more important? Organic or local? 

Organic vs. Regional: Perspectives from the Green Pearls® Network

A survey of Green Pearls® partners shows that 88.3% of hotels prefer to use regional organic products and consider organic and regional products to be of equal value. However, 46% of the hotels surveyed consider regional producers to be more important and only 11.5% have a clear preference for organic products. These figures illustrate the diversity of approaches and the belief that both principles can go hand in hand – if possible.

Local over Organic

When it comes to choosing between organic and local, the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, Italy, has a clear preference for local. The reason, explains hotelier Klaus Pichler, is that you know how the food is produced. This philosophy is supported by the family's overall commitment to the region.

Fabienne Anthamatten, owner of the Swiss Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, has a similar view. By sourcing locally, you know the suppliers and the products are fresh on the table.

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, a wellness hotel in the Allgäu region of Germany, also focuses on regionality, accepting that not all of its suppliers are certified organic. "We value the direct relationship with our local producers, which increases the sustainability of our sourcing and supports local communities," explains the management.

Six generations is a long time and ensures deep roots in the region. No wonder that the Seefelder Hotel Klosterbräu works exclusively with local suppliers who share the values of the sustainable hotel. In the selection of products, regionality is more important than organic standards.

The team at the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea coast is proud of its regional and seasonal selection, which is made possible by the large number of producers in the Lübeck Bay. The focus is on dialogue with guests to create transparency and awareness of regional products.

Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort and the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa (both in Bavaria) rely almost exclusively on regional partners, emphasizing their importance for both authentic cuisine and the promotion of the local economy. The hotel at the River Moselle Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten makes a similar argument, adding that organic products are often not available in the quantities needed.

As a Bioland Gold-certified hotel, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is obligated to offer at least 90% organic quality in all of its food and beverages. To achieve this, owner Stephan Bode and his team rely on organic partners in the region. However, they make it clear that before buying organic products from beyond the German border, the hotel will always opt for regional products to avoid transportation. The same applies if certain products, such as fish, are not available in organic quality.

At the Austrian Naturhotel Outside, there is a strong focus on regionality and appreciation of local producers. The cheese, for example, comes from a farm just 1.5 kilometers away. The Green Spirit Hotels in Paris also follow a regional approach, but owner Barbara Tascijevic regrets the limited options for regional suppliers in an urban area.

The Naturresort Gerbehof nature resort places special emphasis on local suppliers, emphasizing that organic products from abroad often do not offer the same sustainability as regional products. "We know where our food comes from and how it is produced," explains owner Ursula Wagner. The owners of Gut Guntrams also believe in regionalism and source most of their products from local (organic) farmers or the hotel's organic farm.

The family-run Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony relies on a mix of the two but emphasizes the importance of regionality. "Organic wherever possible, but above all regional," say the owners. Supporting smaller producers is also important to them.

Organic above Local

The STURM in der Rhön explains that their organic certification requires that all food be certified as such. However, whenever possible, the STURM team sources its food from regional producers or the hotel's garden. The Biohotel Grafenast sees the ideal situation in the combination of both approaches but emphasizes that organic products are more sustainable.

The luxurious FARMHOUSE Resort is located on the campus of the NGO Smiling Gecko in Cambodia. The resort provides education for the local population and also supports the NGO's organic farming.

Local Organic Products at the Forefront

In Nepal, at the foot of the world's highest mountain range, The Pavilions Himalayas - The Farm is an example of how both approaches can be integrated. The hotel is nestled in a working organic farm that provides most of the food for the restaurant. This gives guests the opportunity to dine on fresh, sustainable, and authentic food.

The Keemala Resort combines organic and local products, emphasizing that the choice of organic is based on environmental and health benefits. At the same time, local products support the local economy and small local suppliers. The kitchen is supplemented with vegetables, mushrooms, and herbs from the resort's organic garden.

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm has converted its restaurant to a purely vegan cuisine. What has not changed is the emphasis on high-quality, organic products from sustainable producers. The sister hotel LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturno, the first purely vegan hotel in Italy, also follows a holistic vegan approach and uses organic products from local farmers wherever possible. The focus here is on handmade, regional products for the colorful, plant-based cuisine.

The APIPURA hotel rinner points out: "For us, regional organic products are the best. The family-run hotel on the Ritten in South Tyrol is the first hotel to bear the Bio-Fair-Südtirol seal. In addition to its certified organic beekeeping, the Rinner family, which owns the hotel, maintains close relationships with its local partners and sees itself as a driver of organic agriculture through its demand for organic products.

The restaurant at My Arbor, an adults-only hotel, also takes an inclusive approach, combining organic and local produce as the best way to promote sustainability.

Both the ADLER Lodge Ritten in South Tyrol and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA in Southern Italy rely on a combination of regional and organic products to ensure both sustainability and high quality. In addition, both hotels have their own gardens, which significantly reduces transportation costs.

Be it Organic or Regional, Communication is Key

The way in which sustainable hotels inform their guests about the origin of the food they serve plays a central role in understanding and accepting that certain things are sometimes not available. Many Green Pearls® partners use innovative approaches to create transparency. In the hotel gardens of the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, or the STURM, for example, guests can see the products that end up on their plates in the morning or evening and thus get a feel for the seasonality.  

The Biohotel Grafenast and the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, like most other members of the Green Pearls® network, offer their guests the opportunity to learn more about local producers and their farming methods. They provide information about the origin of individual products, for example on their website, in internal mail, on signs at the buffet, or in information boxes on the menu card. This creates awareness of the hotel's roots in the region and the close link between tourism and local (sustainable) agriculture and production.

Through workshops and events that teach guests how to prepare local and seasonal dishes, hotels like Keemala in Phuket and Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich, Germany, can increase interest in sustainable eating and appreciation for local produce.

Conclusion

The organic versus local debate is complex and multifaceted. It is impossible to make a general statement about which is better or more sustainable. Rather, it seems that in many cases a combination of both approaches is the optimal solution for the hospitality industry. Where this is not possible, hotels in the DACH region in particular tend to opt for regionalism and support local businesses with which they often have long-standing partnerships.

In general, Green Pearls® partners agree that focusing on a plant-based diet and supporting local producers benefits both the environment and the local economy.

In both cases, guests benefit from fresh, high-quality food and, through targeted communication, gain insight into the sustainable practices of the hotels and their partners. This transparency promotes awareness of sustainable practices, which contributes to a positive overall experience during their stay. Whether organic, local, or a combination of the two is ultimately chosen is an individual decision for each accommodation. However, the goal for all remains the same: To promote an environmentally conscious and sustainable lifestyle and better tourism for the future.

You can learn more about the featured hotels by visiting the linked websites. If you have any questions or need additional images, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ
• APIPURA hotel rinner: IT021072A1UOWUIDH4
• LA VIMEA: IT021056A1J4HHYSU4
• Hotel My Arbor: IT021011A1AE4737IT
• Paradiso Pure.Living: IT021019A16MFGOUCR
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

Regional Added-Value and Cultural Preservation

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

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

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

Vacation for Everyone

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

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

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

Stronger Together: Taking Social Responsibility for the Team

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

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

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

Guests are Part of the Change

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

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

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

Long-term Social Impact of Sustainable Projects

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

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

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

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

Donations and Sponsorships

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

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

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

Sustainable Hotels as Drivers of Positive Change

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

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

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

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

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Personalized Support on the Road to Certification

Even though studies such as the recent marketing study by the Nuremberg Institute (NIM), which surveyed around 8,000 consumers and around 800 companies, repeatedly show that transparent certification can significantly increase the credibility of a company's sustainability efforts, there are still concerns, especially among small and medium-sized companies. They fear that a certification process will be extremely expensive, far too complicated, and very time-consuming. These concerns, some of which are valid, prevent many companies from taking the important step of officially recognizing their sustainability efforts. This is where GreenSign comes in, encouraging companies to make meaningful changes, commit to environmentally and socially responsible and sustainable business practices, embrace them with joy and conviction, and communicate them to the outside world.

Since 2015, the GreenSign Institute has been helping companies in the hospitality industry move toward sustainable business practices and certification of their status through a process that has been intentionally designed to be simple, comprehensible, and efficient. GreenSign is committed to making certification as straightforward and practical as possible, without sacrificing thoroughness or credibility. This is not only of benefit to the businesses themselves but also to consumers, guests, and interested parties, who will find the GreenSign certification easier to understand and more transparent.

GreenSign Hotel is now one of the most well-known and trusted tourism certifications in the DACH region and one of the leading and most established providers worldwide. It is recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and will retain its validity and credibility even after the implementation of the Green Claims Directive.

The Certification Process: Effective and Transparent

The GreenSign certification process is divided into three clear steps that allow hotels, restaurants, and SPAs to assess and improve their sustainability practices in a structured way, without unduly disrupting their regular business operations. In addition, GreenSign provides businesses with a trusted partner to guide them through the certification journey, offering advice and support throughout the process.

A GreenSign certification is valid for three years. During this time, it provides transparent documentation and verified sustainability, enabling authentic and verifiable communication of a company's commitment to sustainability. For recertification, the certification process must be completed again, with an increased level of compliance desired. This ensures that certified companies continuously maintain and improve their sustainability standards.

Behind the Scenes: The Certification Process from a Hotelier's Perspective

Feedback from hoteliers who have recently undergone GreenSign certification provides an authentic insight into the certification process. They consistently describe the process as both challenging and rewarding. Sophie Redder of RIMC Hotels & Resorts Group praises the user-friendly system and the professional support provided by the GreenSign team. At the same time, she emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the certification. 

Mathias Terpe, manager of the Hotel am Schwanenhaus, also found the process "very professional and supportive" and emphasized the aspect of employee involvement: "Involving our employees in the whole topic of sustainability, climate protection, and corporate responsibility will give us many competitive advantages and a positive process optimization in the hotel." Jasmin Ohlendorf, General Manager of the Renthof Kassel, even describes the audit as a unifying element for the entire team. They conducted the audit together with the GreenSign team and involved all the hotel's department heads. This brought the hotel departments even closer.

Jan von Schaper from DEKRA Congresshotel Wart sees the certification as a "milestone in the company's history". He also describes the certification as an incentive to constantly question and improve. "Over time, we have delved deeper and deeper into many topics," he summarizes. For Darlene Schwabroch of SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, the experience was "very inspiring" and she praises the meetings at eye level. She also emphasizes the thorough training of the auditors and says: "The last audit was attended by a trainee 'auditor-to-be' - this shows the commitment to training and preparing the auditors in the best possible way". Kay Wegener, Director of Sustainability at DSR Hotel Holding GmbH, summarizes his experience and that of many other hoteliers during the certification process as follows: 

Certification as Motivation

In summary, GreenSign certification offers hotels, restaurants, and SPAs a structured and effective way to assess, improve, and communicate their sustainability efforts. With a clear process, on-site validation, and a wide range of benefits, GreenSign helps them establish sustainability as an integral part of their business strategy. In a world where consumers, media, and business partners increasingly value sustainability, GreenSign certification positions companies as responsible and forward-thinking. It provides not only a competitive advantage but also an incentive to continue making a positive contribution to the environment and society.

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For Mountain Romantics looking for Quality Time

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

Go directly to the Christmas Offer at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN

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

For Connoisseurs and Gourmets

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

Spending the End of the Year at the Baltic Sea

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

For those Looking to Combine Wellness and Christmas

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

To the Christmas Offer of the Klosterhof

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

More about the New Year's Offer at the Klosterhof

For those who love Christmas and Coziness (with family)

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

Click here for holiday offers at the sustainable Hotel Klosterbräu.

For Families

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

For (Black Forest) Lovers

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

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

Learn more about the offers

For those Who are Looking for Warmth

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

Find out more about the Christmas offer in Sicily

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

Traveling and Celebrating Sustainable

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

Learn more about Sustainable Celebrations:

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

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

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

Read the Blog.

WELLNESS: A Sustainable Weekend for Two on the Baltic Sea

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

Read the Blog.

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

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

Get the Recipe.

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

To the Article.

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

More Information

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

More about it.

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

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

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

Sustainable Best Practice Examples from the Hospitality Industry

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

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Pokhara, Nepal

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

Keemala in Phuket, Thailand

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

Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, Germany

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

Hotel Weihrerhof in Renon, South Tyrol

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

Hygna Chalets in the Austrian Alpbachtal

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

Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia

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

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

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

OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa in Tenerife

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

Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg, Germany

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

Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy

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

Working Together for a Sustainable Future

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

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

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

*CIN-Codes for Italian Hotels

• Relais del Maro: IT008010A1NIWKHTTF
• Hotel Weihrerhof: IT021072A1L46PNBHX

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What is GreenSign?

Since 2015, the GreenSign Institute has established itself as the leading authority for sustainability certification in the hotel industry. The GreenSign certification evaluates and documents environmental, social, and economic aspects based on more than 130 criteria in ten core areas. These include management and communication, environment (including energy, water, and waste), biodiversity and cultural heritage, local value creation, social responsibility, and economic performance.

In June 2022, the certification catalog for hotels was recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This recognition underlines the quality and comprehensive approach to sustainability. The GSTC is a leading organization that develops and promotes globally recognized standards for sustainable tourism.

The Fundamentals of GreenSign Certification

A key component of certification is the integration of frameworks such as ISO 14001* and EMAS** as well as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, which have been firmly integrated into the criteria catalog since the inception of the institute. The actual certification process begins with a self-assessment by completing the certification tool. 

The GreenSign certificate is awarded upon successful completion of the entire process. Certification is valid for three years. During this time, the hotel has the opportunity to make its operations even more sustainable to achieve a higher level of compliance upon recertification.

* ISO 14001 specifies requirements for an environmental management system that enables organizations to systematically improve their environmental performance.

** EMAS, the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, is another tool that helps organizations improve their environmental performance and ensures transparency through external audits.

The GreenSign Certification in Tourism

In order to meet the specific requirements of a comprehensive sustainability strategy for tourism and hospitality businesses, GreenSigns has developed several certifications for the tourism industry. A distinction is made between hotels, restaurants, and spas.

All companies that receive GreenSign certification can position themselves as environmentally and socially responsible businesses that are actively working toward a sustainable future.

GreenSign Hotel

The GreenSign Hotel certification is designed for accommodation providers who want to further develop and improve their sustainability strategy. With over 130 criteria in ten core areas, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental, social, and economic aspects of hotel management.

Image: Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten

GreenSign Gastro

The GreenSign Gastro certification is intended for individual restaurants, restaurant chains, hotel restaurants, and cafés that want to show their sustainability and continue working on their strategy. It includes criteria that highlight the environmental, social, and economic aspects of running a restaurant. These include the use of local and organic products, the reduction of food waste, sustainable procurement, and social responsibility towards employees and the community.

Image: Ratskeller Leipzig

GreenSign Spa

For SPAs, thermal and wellness facilities, GreenSign Spa Certification offers a comprehensive framework for evaluating the current situation in the areas of environment, architecture, relaxation, exercise, beauty, nutrition, and social commitment. The more than 130 criteria follow the framework above, which provides guidelines for social responsibility.

Image: Waldhotel Tannenhäuschen

Specific Benefits of GreenSign Certification for Travelers

GreenSign certifications provide travelers with a guide to eco-friendly accommodations. Let's take a look at the benefits:

• Reliable Orientation
  Travelers can be assured that certified hotels are actively implementing measures to conserve resources, improve energy efficiency, and demonstrate social responsibility.
• Transparency
  The certification allows travelers to choose hotels that operate sustainably and communicate this transparently.
• Eco-friendly Travel
  Travelers can enjoy their vacation with a clear conscience while making a positive contribution to sustainable development.
• Quality Assurance
  The comprehensive evaluation of over 130 criteria in ten core areas and an on-site audit guarantee a high standard of sustainability.
• Holistic Approach
  The certification considers not only environmental but also social and economic aspects.
• Continual Improvement
  As the certification encourages hotels to continually improve, travelers can benefit from ever-improving sustainable practices.
• Conscious Travel
  Certifications help travelers make informed choices and select accommodations that align with their environmental and social values.

Guest Feedback on Sustainability and Certification

And how do guests perceive the efforts hotels are making? Many hoteliers report that awareness of sustainability and the GreenSign certification in particular is slowly growing. Guests are beginning to recognize the certification and show interest in hotels' sustainable practices. They appreciate the transparency with which hotels communicate their environmental efforts and feel that their choice of accommodation is validated.

Some guests are enthusiastic about hotels' sustainable initiatives and are grateful for the opportunity to stay in an environmentally conscious environment. This positive perception can lead to greater engagement from guests who are actively interested in sustainability and express this in their reviews and conversations.

Jasmin Ohlendorf from the Renthof in Kassel is proud of the GreenSign certification and points out its importance for authentic sustainability communication with guests: "Our guests now recognize the GreenSign leaf very well. They appreciate our transparent approach to sustainability.

Conclusion and Outlook

Overall, GreenSign certification provides a credible and transparent way to integrate and continuously improve sustainability in various areas of tourism. By adhering to internationally recognized standards and continuously developing their sustainability strategies, hotels, restaurants, and spas can not only improve their environmental performance but also increase their competitiveness and gain the trust of their guests. GreenSign certification is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to contribute to a sustainable future in tourism.

While the direct guest response to certification is often subtle, a clear trend is emerging: sustainability is increasingly recognized and becoming a key factor in hotel selection. GreenSign certification positions hotels to take advantage of this growing awareness.

In the future, the GreenSign Institute plans to intensify its public relations efforts to further increase awareness and understanding of the certification among travelers. At the same time, the certification criteria will continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing demands for sustainable business practices.

From summer 2024: Sky Suite and Sky Basic Double

In keeping with the cozy and natural style of the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, the new hotel rooms are clad in wood. They are currently being completed and will soon be ready for guests to move in.

Not only do the rooms have stunning views of the rooftops of Zermatt, the Alps and the sky, but they are also generously proportioned so that couples with space requirements, friends and families will feel right at home.

The Sky Suite (large 33 m² double room) also has a south-facing balcony with a direct view of the Matterhorn.

Benefits for Hotels and Holiday Accommodations

A recent study by Statista highlights the considerable influence of online reviews on the success of a hotel. The study revealed that over 50% of European consumers rely on online customer reviews and ratings when making accommodation bookings. Conversely, only a quarter of consumers indicated no interest in such reviews and ratings.

The implementation of guest feedback offers numerous advantages for hotels. For instance, areas for improvement can be identified and addressed, enhancing the overall guest experience. Furthermore, it fosters customer loyalty by demonstrating that guests are heard and valued, increasing the likelihood of repeat business.

Active feedback management also results in higher ratings and a stronger online presence, which in turn attracts new guests. Hotels that implement guest requests quickly (and communicate this as well) gain a competitive advantage over their peers. Finally, guest feedback provides valuable insights into necessary improvements without the need for expensive market research.

For hotels aiming to be sustainable, incorporating guest feedback is crucial, as environmentally conscious travelers often have elevated expectations regarding service and sustainability. The 2022 Sustainable Travel Report from Booking.com indicates that 78% of global travelers intend to book sustainable accommodation within the next two to five years. Green Pearls®, a leading network for sustainable hotels, underscores the significance of listening to guests and proactively incorporating their feedback, suggestions, desires, and critiques. The following are illustrative examples of how Green Pearls® partners have effectively integrated guest feedback.

Best Practice Examples from Sustainable Hotels

STURM: Feedback as Part of the Philosophy

At the STURM in the Rhön, guest feedback is actively integrated into the corporate philosophy. One concrete example is the adjustment of the room cleaning process. In response to guest feedback, the rooms are no longer cleaned daily, unless the guest expressly requests this service. This measure also contributes to the hotel's commitment to sustainability. The STURM's comprehensive range of offerings, from the RHÖN-SPA to mountain biking and herbal tours, reflects the diverse preferences and experiences of its guests. The 100% organic restaurant OTTO|s and the Veggie Wednesday offer also demonstrate the hotel's responsiveness to the demand for sustainable nutrition and provide guests with valuable tips and tricks that they can take home with them. Thanks to the open kitchen concept, which allows guests to observe the chefs' work firsthand.

OLM Nature Escape: Experiences based on Guest Surveys

The OLM Nature Escape, an energy-self-sufficient eco-aparthotel in South Tyrol, has implemented feedback to provide sustainable and customer-oriented experiences. In response to guest feedback, the hotel has implemented changes that benefit both the environment and the guest's well-being. For instance, the culinary offering has been refined by reducing the quantity of cold cuts at breakfast and meat at dinner. This aligns with the hotel's concept, which characterizes itself as "different" and promises "culinary freedom in all its facets." To further enhance comfort in the relaxation areas, additional loungers have been introduced, complementing the Eco SPA's objective of creating a space for mindfulness and inner peace.

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio: Guest Feedback is incorporated into the Renovation

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio employs a targeted approach to guest feedback, utilizing it to enhance the quality of its services. During the current room renovation, previous guest requests were taken into account, such as increasing the number of hooks—a small but significant detail for guest comfort. In response to guest requests for greater sustainability, the hotel in the Allgäu region is now providing bath slippers only upon request. The gastronomic offer has been updated to include fewer cold cuts at breakfast and more plant-based alternatives at dinner. The number of loungers in the relaxation areas has been increased. These measures demonstrate how HUBERTUS is actively using guest feedback to optimize its service and operate more sustainably, while simultaneously strengthening its position as a leading wellness resort. 

Hotel Das Rübezahl: Service-Oriented and Attentive

The romantic Hotel Das Rübezahl, situated in the heart of the Allgäu region, is renowned for its breathtaking vistas of the Alps, particularly of Neuschwanstein Castle, and for its exquisite service. The latter can only be achieved through a special integration of guest feedback. The Rübezahl adheres to the principle that numerous minor suggestions can collectively result in substantial enhancements. Each critical review is regarded as an opportunity to optimize service. This proactive approach enables the hotel to consistently refine the guest experience, from subtle adjustments in room comfort to more comprehensive concept changes. 

Gut Guntrams: Meeting Needs and preserving Character

Gut Guntrams is a charming nature hotel in Austria that is primarily committed to enhancing the comfort and flexibility of its guests. In response to guest feedback and current market trends, the hotel has introduced two innovations. The self-check-in option allows guests to arrive and check into their rooms outside of reception hours. This convenience allows guests to plan their arrival with maximum freedom. Another distinctive feature is the Honesty Bar, which provides guests with continuous access to food and beverages. This concept of trust allows guests to serve themselves at any time, thus underlining the family atmosphere of the estate. An excellent example of how Gut Guntrams meets the needs of modern travelers while retaining its character as a natural, hospitable retreat.

Naturhotel Outside: Responding to Guests' wishes fits the Concept

The Naturhotel Outside is a family-run 4-star superior hotel in East Tyrol that demonstrates an open-minded approach to guest requests and a commitment to sustainability. In response to guest feedback, the Ganzer family is planning to provide a sustainable body lotion in the bathrooms. This initiative aligns with the hotel's concept, which is rooted in genuine hospitality, regionality, and a connection with nature. As an environmentally certified nature hotel, this measure reinforces Outside's commitment to balancing ecological responsibility with guest comfort. The introduction of the sustainable body lotion enhances the hotel's existing offerings, which range from regional gourmet cuisine to the Nature SPA.

Hotel Okelmann’s: Expanding upon Guest Requests

Hotel Okelmann's offers guests a charming hideaway in Lower Saxony. In response to guests' requests for additional indoor relaxation options, Hotel Okelmann's has expanded its indoor relaxation facilities and redesigned the "Room of Silence." The furnishings have been expanded with the addition of comfortable day beds, creating an even more inviting space for guests to relax. This improvement not only responds to specific guest requests but also strengthens the hotel's profile as a destination for relaxation and well-being. The expansion of the relaxation area demonstrates how guest feedback is actively utilized to continuously optimize the vacation experience and provide visitors with an even more pleasant stay.

These examples show that actively incorporating guest feedback not only increases guest satisfaction but also brings significant economic benefits. Green Pearls® therefore encourages all (sustainable) hotels to consider guest reviews as a valuable resource and to continuously work on improving their services. This is the only way to meet the changing needs of environmentally conscious travelers and ensure long-term success.

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

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How it all began ...

Birdsong and sunshine are the backdrop as we meet Suzann Heinemann on the terrace of the Schlosshotel Blankenburg. The GreenSign founder is sitting at a table, visibly enjoying one of the first summer days of the year. Just a few minutes ago, the Green Summer Camp, a multi-day workshop in Barcamp format that aims to connect entrepreneurs committed to sustainability and to develop solutions together, came to an end. Attendees are still engrossed in final discussions before everyone starts heading home.

Green Pearls®: Hi Suzann! Thanks for taking the time to join us. You are coming straight from this year's Green Summer Camp. How was it for you? 

Suzann Heinemann: Oh, it is always nice! But, like usual, I was nervous before. I do not know the people. They do not know each other, and a lot of them do not know the Barcamp concept. So, it is always fascinating how quickly we come up with the session plan and what great topics we find. After three days in this special atmosphere, I am really inspired and go home with a lot of motivation. 

Green Pearls®:  Where is your enthusiasm for sustainability coming from?

Suzann: *laughs* Actually, it was not as intrinsic to me as it was to other people who want to save the planet. The interest and then the enthusiasm came through GreenLine Hotels. 

Green Pearls®: Can you elaborate on that?

Suzann: More than 20 years ago, my husband and I founded a partnership of hotels in nature: the GreenLine Hotels. That was the origin of my interest, as the name evolved over time into more of a sustainability concept.

Green Pearls®: So, the impetus came more from the outside, because society was becoming more and more interested in the topic, and everything called "green" was associated with sustainability. How did you respond to that?

Suzann: My personal attitude at that time was more like: "I find sustainability in tourism difficult". I became interested in the topic mainly because we were always pigeonholed as sustainable with the name GreenLine. I went to seminars, read books, and at the beginning, I had one thought in particular: "Oh God, what is this tsunami wave that is coming our way in tourism?"

But then all of a sudden you see some beacons, a couple of pioneers, just doing it. And then I thought: I like that. And that would be a real USP for our hotels. It was only in the second step (for me) that the importance for the planet and also for tourism became clear. We all want to travel. And for a long time to come.

From Hotel Partnerships to Certification

Green Pearls®: What was your first step towards GreenSign?

Suzann: We took a look at the different certificates and there were three things that stood out: too expensive, too complicated, too unworkable. We just could not do it. And maybe it was too early for our hotels.

Then I sat down with students from Heilbronn University and developed my own sustainability certificate. It was about regionality and seasonality in purchasing, about energy issues such as water, wastewater, heat, and electricity, but we also put a lot of emphasis on the social pillar. Within a year we had developed GreenSign 1.0. That was great!

Green Pearls®: Did you not have any doubts?

Suzann: I was a little skeptical at first. But the students said, "This is the way it has to be!" So, I just trusted them. 

Green Pearls®: What happened next? How did the initial certifications go?

Suzann: We went to the hoteliers, shared our findings, raised awareness – and then certified them step by step. We worked with them for a year, and in the end, 95 % of them were very enthusiastic. Partly because they had already implemented many of the points from our list of criteria themselves. Especially when it came to regionality, employee welfare, and energy. But there were also 5 % of hoteliers who were completely opposed. So we had to be consistent and tell them at the end of 2014 that we were parting ways because we wanted to continue on our sustainable path.

Green Pearls®: That seems to be a key moment in the history of GreenSign. Have there been others? 

Suzann: Indeed, it was. Another key moment was a conference in Lucerne, where I was invited to sit on the podium, only to be – what I did not know before, of course – completely paraded! I was taken apart. Why we had developed something of our own when there were so many certificates out there? Why we had added something to the certification jungle? It would not work, it was greenwashing and so on.

Green Pearls®: That sounds terrible! What did you do after that? 

Suzann: I went home and decided that I would show them – and that we would found our own institute. *laughs*

In 2015, we started the institute, we started GreenSign, and we were looking for a sustainability advisory board. We knew we needed experts; we needed science. We expanded our existing catalog of criteria and developed it into the certification tool that we have today. We even have been certified by the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) since 2022.

Green Pearls®: Would you say that it is easier to get started with sustainable development today because of tools like yours?

Suzann: I would say it has become more acute. Overtourism did not exist 20 years ago in the way it does today. But also, climate and environmental issues are more important than ever.

However, I feel that many people are now where I was 15 years ago – before the “tsunami wave”. Our catalog of measures helps hoteliers get on the right track. We have broken down the standards explicitly for hotels, and we keep getting feedback that it is just a great tool for them to go from department to department and think about things. Sustainability starts in the mind. It starts with rethinking: What and where do I buy? How do I do something?

Green Pearls®: How would you describe GreenSign in three words?

Suzann: Practical, transparent, and a good roadmap.

Green Pearls®: Transparent is a great keyword: we have already mentioned the requirements catalog. Can you describe in detail what your current requirements catalog is based on?

Suzann: GreenSign 1.0 was created with students looking at what other certifications do and what GSTC, ISO14001, and ISO26000 say. From there we developed the catalog for the hotel industry. Those first five core areas were very narrow and simple.

We then continued to develop the catalog, working very closely with the GSTC criteria, then of course the ISOs, EMAs, and finally the SDGs when they came out in 2015. We now arrived at GreenSign 5.0.

Green Pearls®: And where does it go from here?

Suzann: We want to be a love brand! If someone wants a sustainability certificate, they should not say: "I need a sustainability certificate", but "I need GreenSign". I want GreenSign to stand for sustainability.

Furthermore, we will comply with EU regulations and have our system accredited as a conformity assessment program. To ensure that every hotelier is on the safe side with us in the future.

Green Pearls®: What advice would you give to someone who is now highly motivated to start their sustainable journey?

Suzann: Get started. Just get started. Many people want to do everything perfectly right away, but it does not have to be that way! Sustainability can and must evolve. We see our work as capturing the moment and then staying in touch. The hoteliers and partners can tell us what measures they would like to implement in two months or even one or two years. So, start now, and then move forward together. 

Green Pearls®: I think that is a great ending. Thank you for your time and we wish you a great summer!

About the GreenSign Institut

The Berlin-based GreenSign Institute has been awarding the prestigious GreenSign sustainability certification since 2015. Originally developed for hotels, it is now used across sectors. The certification is based on high sustainability standards, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

GreenSign provides hotels, restaurants, spas, and other businesses with a comprehensive system for evaluating their environmental, social, and economic practices with more than 130 criteria. A carbon footprint can also be generated if desired. Helping businesses not only determine the current status of their sustainability initiatives but also develop them further and optimize their processes. In Germany, GreenSign is the market leader in sustainable hotel certification. Worldwide, more than 850 companies in 19 countries have been certified by GreenSign.

With our statement on the new criteria catalog of DEHOGA and the Hotelstars Union, we have stirred up a bit of dust. In our opinion, this is a missed opportunity to establish sustainability more firmly and make it more than just a "nice to have" for hotels and vacation accommodations. One of the leading German trade magazines, Hotel vor9, has also taken up the issue and published our article as well as an interview with Green Pearls® Managing Director Stefany Seipp. We are happy to see that sustainability is becoming more and more important for many players in the tourism industry - and hope that this will also be reflected in the star classification.

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.

Sustainability is increasingly important to employees

The German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA) reports that there was already a shortage of more than 65,000 employees in the hospitality industry in 2023. According to the association's monthly surveys, the lack of skilled workers is regularly one of the biggest challenges for companies. Looking at the needs of employees, an online survey of 12,000 German respondents conducted by StepStone in 2022 shows that environmental and climate protection aspects have a significant influence on the choice of employer. Almost every second employee would even accept a lower salary for this, and more than 70% consider it important that sustainability is a high priority for their employer. For four out of ten, sustainability is already a decisive factor in their loyalty to an employer.

What are the implications for hotels and accommodations?

An increasing number of hotels are recognizing the importance of sustainability for both guests and employees. The team's interest in sustainable development is essential, especially for sustainable accommodation. After all, it takes the commitment of all employees and all areas of work to integrate the topic in the hotel's philosophy and to promote it to the outside world. Inspiring existing and future employees to embrace sustainability and involving them in initiatives and efforts is a prerequisite.

A sustainable development in the hotel industry requires enthusiastic and committed employees who support and shape the initiatives and communicate them to guests. To achieve this, further training in the workplace is essential to sensitize the team to environmental friendliness, social issues, and sustainable economic efficiency. 

Green Pearls® Hotels are committed to making decisions today that ensure the future is worth living. This includes leading the way in sustainable expertise and green projects, as well as pioneering team training, education in the workplace, and internal communication.

Training, Education, and Communication in Green Pearls® Accommodations in Europe

Team development of sustainability initiatives at Hotel Der Birkenhof ***** Genussresort & Spa

The Birkenhof, a renowned hotel in Neunburg vorm Wald, Germany, has been awarded the GreenSign Hotel Certification Level 5 for its exemplary commitment to sustainability. The resort is dedicated to sustainable and responsible management and has defined a mission statement that aims to harmonize ecological, social, and economic aspects to shape a sustainable future. The hotel's values and goals are discussed with employees in regular training sessions, during which new technologies for greater efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, and renewable energy are considered together. At the same time, the hotel reflects on its sustainability practices and seeks to work with suppliers who are part of a sustainable movement. 

Celebrating Life at Gut Sonnenhausen

The fully organic hotel Gut Sonnenhausen, located 30 km from Munich, offers a garden and a naturopathic practice that benefits not only guests but also employees. Kirsten Walker, wife of the hotel's founder, Georg Schweisfuhrt, is a naturopath herself and regularly holds team seminars on health and stress prevention. The hotel's philosophy is based on celebrating life together, expanding one's horizons, and appreciating the fullness of the moment. The hotel offers a place of tranquility and relaxation that employees not only convey to guests but also experience themselves. In addition, all employees receive a small bonus of a €50 shopping or gas voucher every month. 

Think YOUNIQUE when it comes to Sustainability at the Hotel Klosterbräu

The management of the Hotel Klosterbräu is committed to hospitality and humanity as the foundation for an equal and productive relationship with approximately 100 employees. New team members receive in-house training in the Think-YOUNIQUE philosophy, which emphasizes sustainable and ecological thinking and action. The hotel's unique approach to sustainability is particularly important in this former monastery. The Think-YOUNIQUE® philosophy extends beyond valuing employees to encompass respect for nature, perspectives worth living for, and sustainable environmental protection. This includes the use of local organic heating and solar energy. The team is regularly involved in decision-making, with special tours with regional producers and farmers. In this way, they take responsibility for the quality and regionality of the products used in the hotel.

Flying high at My Arbor

The family-run team at the sustainable tree hotel My Arbor knows that a hotel is only as good as its employees. That is why its management is committed to establishing a trusting working atmosphere and a long-term employment relationship. My Arbor also believes it has a responsibility to treat people and nature with respect and care and to constantly raise everyone's awareness of sustainability, diversity, and responsibility. The hotel has already taken numerous sustainable initiatives. For instance, the Baumhotel is a leading advocate of the zero-waste movement and avoids plastic and disposable products whenever possible. It has built its photovoltaic system to generate electricity, and guests are strongly encouraged to travel car-free. The team is constantly striving to develop and improve. Employees receive targeted training to promote a more sustainable understanding of everyday work life.

Family Tradition meets the Modern at Bella Vista Zermatt

The Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt is now in its third generation and stands for relaxation in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Fabienne Anthamatten puts her heart and soul into hosting the environmentally friendly hotel and leads her employees in an appreciative manner and a consistently sustainable mindset. Once a year, there is a seminar on the topic of sustainability, the content of which is determined and discussed together in advance. Suggestions from the team are taken seriously and input is integrated wherever possible. Furthermore, the management holds special meetings on sustainability twice a year to boost employee motivation. With just 21 rooms, the hotel with a view of the Matterhorn is small and informal, which is why Fabienne also leads a small team. This makes it easier to live the hotel's environmentally conscious philosophy together, she asserts.

Setting a Positive Example at Naturhotel Outside

The nature and hiking hotel Outside is located in the middle of the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol. Nature is omnipresent: outside the windows, in the natural materials, on the plate, and of course in the philosophy and thoughts about the future. This is a natural environment for eco-friendly action. Hotel manager Daniel Ganzer is clear about his responsibility to set a positive example in both his professional and private life. He is determined to show guests and employees alike what sustainable thinking and action can achieve. The family-run nature hotel is very people-oriented, with many colleagues coming directly from the region and working together to provide outstanding service quality. This includes that the entire hotel team is fully engaged in discussions about waste avoidance, energy savings, and other environmental concerns. Guests are rewarded for their environmentally friendly actions. For instance, they are transported free of charge to and from Lienz station if they travel by train.

Beyond Sustainability at CERVO Mountain Resort

If you want to be at home in a mountain region like Zermatt, you have to be close to nature. That's why the CERVO is committed to a type of conscious travel that is close to nature. Sustainability is the central factor underlying all decisions, on a large and small scale. The CERVO therefore has its own Sustainability Development Manager and a Green Ambassador Program. The program gives employees from various departments the opportunity to actively participate as Green Guardians in the development of sustainable projects and motivates them to question established processes to find innovative solutions. Sustainability is one of the main pillars of the CERVO Mountain Resort. It is defined here as a healthy attitude to life. As an attitude and an idea that is internalized and passed on to guests and team alike. Ultimately, nature is the greatest luxury good that must be protected together.

A Sense of Togetherness at ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges

The six ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges are situated in some of Italy's most beautiful landscapes. Among them: the ADLER lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA. This makes a team that is passionate about nature a virtual prerequisite and the ADLER family has always been committed to protecting and preserving the natural balance of the environment as much as possible. The commitment is achieved by passing on the philosophy of the hotel and the Sanoner host family to all of the more than 650 employees in the six hotels. Above all, the team spirit is strengthened by open cooperation, respect, and mutual trust. The employees, including management, see themselves as a warm but professional community, the ADLER family. They are co-creators and active partners in new projects and are trained and educated. Decisions are made together to ensure long-term, sustainable development and continuous improvement.

Learning together at the Lifestyle Hotel SAND

In 1995, Marion and Lambertus Muller made the bold decision to embark on the path of holistic sustainable tourism by purchasing their hotel. In 2012 they redesigned the house in a new lifestyle design that is both ecological and unconventional. The SAND was born. Since then, the hoteliers have focused on internal communication. They know that all employees are important and should be heard. By listening and learning from each other, they build confidence in being a reliable partner. Together, this creates an awareness of a more sustainable lifestyle. New colleagues are taught the values of team spirit and sustainability in various on-board training sessions. In 2022 a joint, overarching sustainability workshop was initiated with employees to develop, implement, and evaluate ideas together. The entire team continues to receive regular training and is empowered to make its own decisions. Social sustainability is more than just seminars. It includes above-average social benefits and a company pension scheme. After all, for the Mullers, holistic sustainability is a top priority in everyday hotel life.

Learn more about the featured hotels on the linked microsites. If you have any questions or need additional images, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com

Paris wants a modern and sustainable image

The French capital has planned a lot of innovations for the 2024 Olympic Games. For the first time, the opening ceremony on July 26 will not take place in a stadium, but as a boat parade on the Seine, allowing the city's inhabitants (400,000 are expected) to take part.

Carbon-neutral Olympics

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics set a goal of carbon neutrality and exceeded it. However, much of this was due to the coronavirus pandemic that prevented visitors from attending. Tokyo had planned to offset 4.38 million tons of CO2 but ended up offsetting "only" 1.96 million tons. Interestingly, Paris sets a goal of limiting total carbon dioxide emissions to 1.58 million tons of CO2. Again, emissions will ultimately be offset to become "climate neutral," but there are steps that are taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the first place.

Proposed carbon-reduction measures for the 2024 Olympic Games:

• No new construction: 95% of the venues are already in place
• Short distances between venues.
• No new parking lots: Whenever possible, visitors are encouraged to use public transportation.
• Use of green electricity from wind and solar power (mostly)
• Construction of drinking fountains: Combined with reusable water bottles, this should reduce single-use plastic by 50%.
• Catering for athletes and spectators in stadiums will consist of local products with low meat content.

Swimming in the Seine River?

The most complex project was cleaning the Seine's water. A test run in August 2023 failed because the water was still too dirty. In March, the water was officially cleared for swimming. But people are not entirely sure. However, politicians continue to insist that there is "no plan B". Open water swimming and the triathlon are still scheduled to take place in the river - if necessary, the respective races will have to be postponed for a few days - we are curious!

In general, a clean river would be not only an attraction for the Olympics but also a lasting benefit for the people of Paris.

Getting Guests Involved

Now that the city has made some efforts, it is up to the guests to do their part to make these Olympics sustainable. That means among others using public transportation and the drinking fountains. Another important issue is accommodation.

Eco-friendly accommodation at the Green Spirit Hotels Paris.

Paris is easily accessible by train from almost any European city. So European visitors will be able to avoid flying or driving, reducing much of their personal carbon emissions. The air miles will come from those traveling from further afield.

The next big step for a sustainable stay at the Olympics is the choice of accommodation. There are three Green PearlsⓇ hotels in Paris that form the Green Spirit Hotels group, all located in the central 7th arrondissement. The sports venues, as well as famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower, are all easily accessible (in some cases within walking distance). By the way, Paris has many well-developed bike paths, so getting around by bike is also an option.

Sustainable Green PearlsⓇ Partners in Paris:

• Hotel Le Pavillon, 54, rue Saint-Dominique (Approximately 15 km from the Stade de France - accessible by Metro 13 (12 stops) without changing trains)
• Hotel Marlar, 29, Rue Malar
• Hotel Amélie, 5, Rue Amélie

Sustainable insider tips for Paris during the Olympics.

Barbara Tascijevic-Porwoll, who runs Green Spirit Hotels with her husband, offers the following tips for a sustainable stay in Paris - Olympics aside:

#1 Visit the REcyclerie

Located on an abandoned railroad track, the REcyclerie includes many organic gardening projects and is also a repair shop, café, restaurant, and cultural center.

#2 Shopping at the Saint-Ouen flea market (Clignancourt)

The Clignancourt metro station is home to the famous and huge flea market with more than 1,700 vendors on Saturdays (8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.), Sundays (10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) and Mondays (10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.). "Always an experience," says the Paris hotel owner. The flea market is made up of 16 different markets and offers good street food as well as second-hand clothes and antiques.

#3 Ile aux Cygnes workout

For sports enthusiasts, Barbara recommends the Ile aux Cygnes. Located behind the Eiffel Tower, the island offers various running laps and plenty of sports equipment for a street workout. 

#4 A run along the Seine

The banks of the Seine are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to the United Nations, it symbolizes the relationship between the population and the river and is considered a model for urban development worldwide. The different visual axes with many Gothic buildings make the banks of the Seine particularly attractive to visit. In addition to green oases, cafes, and boats, there is also an almost 10-kilometer-long running track.

#5 Harvest from Europe's largest urban farm

Europe's largest urban farm is open to visitors from April to September. Located on the rooftops of the Paris Exhibition Center, it is a prime example of sustainable urban development. A guided tour lasts one hour and includes time to pick vegetables or fruit for yourself.

#6 Vegetarian food at the Polichinelle

For a sustainable meal, Barbara recommends the buffet at Polichinelle near the Eiffel Tower. "The buffet is very creative and original," she enthuses. It is "so tasty and delicious" that even non-vegetarians (like her husband) are guaranteed to be satisfied.

For more information and images of Green Spirit Hotels, please visit 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.

According to one (admittedly older) study¹, about 61 percent of Germans say that springtime makes them want to travel. No wonder: temperatures are getting milder, days are getting longer, and the sun is shining more often. At the same time, there is no extreme heat, so outdoor activities are less sweaty - and even saunas are more fun. 

Revival and Renewal

"We associate spring at STURM with our (re)blooming garden," says Kira from the STURM team. "The first flowers are coming up, the first herbs are ready to be harvested, and the sun's rays are getting stronger," she enthuses. 

The garden loungers now invite guests to enjoy the rays of sunshine and the view of the extensive nature park. If you want to know more, take a guided tour of the garden. The hotel's organic gardener will not only show and explain the STURM garden but also offer tips for gardening at home. 

Offer: STURMspecial

All year round at STURM: stay five nights and pay only four for a Sunday through Friday stay. Plenty of time to soak up the awakening energy of spring and enjoy the STURM. 

Spring is also a time for innovation and change. Visitors will find a new relaxation room with cozy poufs. The indoor saunas welcome guests with new fragrant silver fir paneling. Several rooms in the main building have been updated: The bathrooms shine with new splendor and STURM's signature clean design. 

Blossom and Unwind

The organic wellness hotel is located on the edge of the Rhön biosphere reserve. A beautiful natural landscape therefore right on its doorstep, inviting you to watch nature blossom - for example, after a soothing treatment at the RHÖN SPA.

This year, guests can enjoy special infusions and sauna meditations several times a week. Led by sauna masters Pascal and Katha, these sessions invite guests to dream and let go, relaxing the body and mind. Afterward, guests can cool off with a dip in the natural pond, which is much less cold than it was a few weeks ago. Back then, the STURM team broke a hole in the ice for the hardened to go ice swimming.

Natural Cosmetics for Him and Her

Treatments at STURM are tailored to your skin type. The spa team uses natural cosmetics from Team Dr. Joseph and combines them with masks and detoxifying treatments. By the way: STURM also offers personalized cosmetic treatments for men.

Garden Delights

As guests breathe in the spring air, the restaurant kitchen creates healthy and delicious dishes from the first harvests of the year. These include freshly prepared salads and herb spreads. Almost everything not grown in the restaurant's garden is sourced locally and, of course, certified organic. 

At Otto|s Restaurant, guests can expect high-quality and, above all, delicious organic food. By the way, looking over the chef's shoulder is not only allowed but encouraged. The open kitchen concept invites conversation between guests and chefs. They are happy to answer questions about ingredients and preparation and may even share an insider tip or two. Creating a special atmosphere and raising awareness of organic, local, and sustainable food.

Wednesday is Veggie Day

Starting this year, Wednesdays will be dedicated to creative and meat-free cuisine. A wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, and fish dishes provide variety and inspiration.

Sustainable, Aesthetic, and Relaxing

For Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff, sustainability and organic are more than just marketing terms. The couple and their team live these issues and take them into account in all their decisions. And their guests can tell. 

For example, the 1970s hotel building was not torn down. Instead, it was thoroughly modernized. Inside and out, wooden elements create this special STURM look. 

The new buildings and the redesign of the existing building were planned by the Nuremberg architect Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Matthias Loebermann. Sustainability and visual integration with nature and the existing building were at the forefront of the concept. Following this philosophy, the rooms overlooking the garden were created and quickly became a favorite among guests. The studio was awarded the "best architect award 24" last year.

Further Sustainable Initiatives and Practices at  STURM

• In-house cogeneration plant and solar thermal and photovoltaic systems - Heat recovery from cooling motors
• 100% organic food
• Member of the Slow Food Movement
• Ecological and natural gardening
• Ecological swimming pond
• Certified climate-neutral

A spring break at STURM is an invitation to awaken and blossom - a sustainable, relaxing experience for guests. At the same time, the STURM team raises awareness and inspires through their daily and honest commitment to sustainable behavior. And the guests appreciate that as well.

For more information on the STURM and its green initiatives, please visit the Green Pearls® microsite and the hotel's website. For questions, inquiries, or additional images, 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.

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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?

Read the blog

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?

Read the blog

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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

Healing or Therapeutic Climate – What is this?

The German Weather Service generally defines a "healing climate" as "a health-promoting climate that contributes to the improvement of the general state of health. However, there are other terms used to describe the health-promoting or feel-good effects of certain climates. These include what is known as a stimulating climate. For example, a low partial pressure of oxygen, found in high mountains, causes the body to take deeper breaths. At the coast, on the other hand, a higher aerosol content provides relief for chronic respiratory diseases.

Another term describes the opposite: a soothing climate is particularly low in allergens and thermally balanced, so it is less taxing on the body. Soothing climates are mainly found in alpine valleys and low mountain ranges with lots of forest.

Climatotherapy: Quackery or science?

The health effects of climatotherapy, or spending time in a specific climate, are controversial at best. However, it is generally accepted that it has a positive effect on health. There is a reason why climatic resorts are certified. And everyone can feel the expectorant effect of the sea air. However, long-term effects have not been well studied and are difficult to prove.

The goal of climatotherapy is always to protect the body and trigger an adaptation to certain environmental stimuli that can alleviate disease or discomfort. It is used, for example:

• for chronic skin and respiratory conditions
• cardiovascular complaints
• Osteoporosis
• for secondary prevention
• for recovery after severe illness

Healing Climate and Climate Change

Global, human-induced climate change naturally affects places with specific (micro)climates. In Central Europe and Germany, it's the increasing number of hot days per year that puts a strain on the human body. In many climatic health resorts, this is less noticeable than in urban areas, but even here climate change will eventually lead to changes. Many spas and cities with special microclimates have been active in climate protection for years. These places are often traffic-calmed, parks provide shade, and purposeful development allows air to circulate.

Healing Climates and Sustainable Hotels

Climatic Health Resorts

In Germany, health resorts, including climatic health resorts, are certified by the German Tourism Association and the German Health Resort Association. In addition, the German Meteorological Service supports these, both in the certification process and in maintaining the appropriate healing climate.

Climatic Health Resort and Health Sa Bad Herrenalb in the Black Forest

The small town of Bad Herrenalb is located in the northern Black Forest and has received two awards: as a climatic health resort and as a health spa. This designation means that the air is free of particulate matter and harmful environmental influences and is monitored regularly. In addition, the town has a mineral-rich spring that provides healing waters used for medical purposes in several facilities. This includes the sustainable health and wellness hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. In addition to classic wellness, the hotel also offers health retreats and fasting programs. The 1000-square-meter spa area includes an indoor thermal pool and various saunas. The mild climate of the Black Forest can be enjoyed on the sun terrace or during a guided forest bath.

Climatic Health Resorts and Healing Springs in the Rhön Region

Several towns around the Rhön Biosphere Reserve have been awarded health resort status. You can recognize them by the "Bad" in their names. The region also has several climatic health resorts, including the town of Gersfeld, not far from Mellrichstadt. In Mellrichstadt, guests can find relaxation away from the stress of everyday life at the STURM. In cooperation with various regional partners, the family-run wellness hotel offers nature and resilience hikes that focus on mindfulness and awareness of the air and climate. A new addition to the program is guided forest bathing.

Soothing Climate and Allergy-Friendly: Schwangau in the Allgäu

The health resort town of Schwangau is probably better known for the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein and the other royal castles in the region. However, the community is also certified as "allergy friendly" and as a climatic health resort.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl is located across the street from the region's most famous attraction. With royal and romantic rooms, views of the castle, and a large spa area, this romantic hideaway offers couples a chance to get away from it all. It also hosts weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries, and proposals. Even better if it’s also a relaxing time for family members with allergies.

State-Approved Resort with Mild Climate on Lake Constance

Although Ailingen is not certified as a climatic health resort, but rather as a resort, the town near Friedrichshafen offers a pleasant break with its mild climate and proximity to Lake Constance.

Surrounded by nature and its organic orchard, guests will find the Gerbehof Nature Resort a quick twenty-minute walk away. The country hotel focuses on health vacations and offers organic meditation according to Philippi as well as fasting weeks and meditation hikes.

Sea Climate

The special characteristics of the climate by the sea make it a stimulating climate. These include wind, aerosols, and radiation, which are different from the climate in other places. Staying by the sea affects cardiovascular diseases, dermatological diseases, and (chronic) respiratory diseases.

Health Vacation in the Canary Islands

The island location ensures that the climate of the Canary Islands is not only mild all year round but also stimulating and relaxing. At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife, this supports the hotel's health concept. In addition, the spa incorporates natural elements such as seawater, light, and air into the therapy or treatment whenever possible. For example, there are several seawater pools available to guests, and the spa has a special focus on thalassotherapy. It uses what the sea has to offer. In addition to water, it utilizes algae, mud, and salt.

While the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is dedicated to health and fasting stays, the small boutique hotel Casa Léon in Gran Canaria offers active relaxation through hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. The hotel is located on a small mountain overlooking the sea. The wellness treatments here also make use of the island's natural resources. A special experience: wellness in the garden, surrounded by native plants and their scents.

Off-Season at the Baltic Sea

While the beaches of the Baltic Sea are overcrowded in the summer, the off-season offers plenty of space to take a deep breath. The strong wind, temperature fluctuations, and higher salt content loosen mucus and alleviate hay fever, for instance.

The Lifestylehotel SAND is aware of the effects of the Baltic Sea air and encourages its guests to spend some time at the coast during the off-season. Long walks on the beach are particularly relaxing at this time of year, as there are far fewer people around. Afterward, end the day in style with a cup of tea and a view from the large panoramic windows.

Mountain Air and High Altitude Climate

Above 1000 meters above sea level, experts speak of a high mountain climate. At these altitudes, UV radiation increases. In addition, the air is almost completely free of allergens such as pollen or dust mites, and the partial pressure of oxygen is increasingly reduced. A stay in the mountains is therefore not only beneficial for patients with skin diseases and allergies but also for competitive athletes who use the high altitudes to improve their performance.

Take a Deep Breath in the Alps

"Our Tyrolean mountain air is especially healthy and famous beyond the borders of Tyrol," writes the team at Summit Lodges in Pfunds, Austria. The two North American-style log cabins are located right next to several hiking trails, making them the ideal starting point for a relaxing hiking vacation at 950 meters above sea level (in the valley).

The Biohotel Grafenast, high above the Inn Valley, encourages its guests to take advantage of the mountain climate and get out and about. Whether on guided hikes or your own, the focus is on enjoying nature. And because the hotel is tucked away at the end of a road, nothing disturbs the idyllic setting, while guests with allergies will be delighted to be able to take a deep breath here.

The team at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Germany's Allgäu region has a similar view. Located at 1044 meters above sea level, the hotel offers an extensive activity program, including nature baths and herbal hikes that lead guests even higher into the mountains. If the weather permits, yoga and meditation sessions are held outdoors.

At the Bio Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, the mountain air is also used to deepen the yoga practice. At least one retreat session takes place outdoors so guests can connect with nature. Afterward, the view of the Matterhorn can be enjoyed even more intensely while reflecting on the terrace.

On the other side of the Alps, Paradiso Pure.Living welcomes its guests on the Alpe di Siusi. Surrounded by the UNESCO-protected Sciliar-Catinaccio Natural Park, guests can enjoy the mountain climate to the max. Whether hiking, mountain biking, or starting the day with a view of the Dolomites during sunrise yoga every morning.

For more information on individual hotels and vacation rentals, please visit their respective microsites at greenpearls.com. There you can also learn more about their sustainability initiatives and climate change efforts. For further questions and inquiries, please contact press@greenpearls.com

The Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort: Sustainability in all Areas

Situated in the heart of nature in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, the Spa & Genussresort is committed to preserving this unique landscape for future generations. To this end, the hotel strives to find environmentally friendly solutions in all areas. This ranges from generating its electricity with solar panels, wood gasifiers, and combined heat and power units to a zero-waste philosophy and promoting biodiversity through a natural swimming pond and rich planting.

Wellness and Culinary Delights - A Place to Enjoy and Indulge

Guests at the Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort are spoilt for choice. Many travel here especially for the 2-star "Eisvogel" restaurant, where hotel guests always get one of the coveted seats. The restaurant was opened together with the hotel by senior manager Hubert Obendorfer. During the Corona years, he handed over the management of the restaurant to his son Sebastian Obendorfer. Much to the surprise of the gastronomic world, Sebastian Obendorfer immediately hit the ground running and, like his father before him, was awarded two Michelin stars.

His cuisine is all about conjuring up sensational dishes from regional and down-to-earth (organic) ingredients from the Bavarian region. This is achieved through ingenious combinations and a constant flow of new ideas. Following the example of molecular cuisine, the chef pays particular attention to the texture of the dishes. One of Sebastian Obendorfer's regional creations is char with fennel, raspberries, and verbena.

After a visit to the spa area with its various pools and saunas, a meal like this is the crowning glory of a truly relaxing day. Add to this the wonderful views of the lake landscape and a stay at Birkenhof is simply unforgettable.

For more information and images, visit Birkenhof's Green Pearls® microsite or contact us at: press@greenpearls.com

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the cycle of the seasons

With HolisticLife, host Christa Traubel has developed a wellness concept based on nature and its constant change. It doesn't focus on short-term relaxation, but rather on a holistic approach that includes nutrition, exercise, and coaching. Combined with natural healing methods such as Ayurveda and TCM, which are  not only present in the Mountain Spring Spa, but also at the breakfast buffet all in accordance with the holistic approach.

The annual cycle festivals

The so-called annual cycle festivals originate from the Celtic faith and mark turning points in the course of the year. Some are well known, such as Walpurgis Night at the end of April, or the summer solstice/midsummer in June. Others, like Samhain, the Celtic New Year, are celebrated by most people as Halloween.

At HUBERTUS there are regular events to the 8 festivals of the annual cycle, inviting you to pause and reflect, and are topped off with a 6-course annual cycle menu.  

Warum begeht das HUBERTUS sie?

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The "Rauhnächte" (Twelve Nights) at HUBERTUS

Among the traditions that have developed around the annual festivals are the so-called "Rauhnächte". The "Rauh" refers to the incense smoking and fumigation that is part of most rituals.

The holidays include the period commonly referred to as the " time between the years ". 11 days or 12 nights that align the 345-day lunar year with the 365-day solar year. "These days are not subject to the laws of the sun or the moon and have therefore been considered 'given days' since time immemorial," the Traubel family describes this time. Traditionally, it is a time of closure and new beginnings as it spans the turn of the year (from the night of December 24-25 to the night of January 5-6). Each "Rauhnacht" is associated with a month of the following year and is seen as an omen.

On their blog, the family has summarized the typical rituals for each night and poses questions that invite contemplation and meditation.

A portrait of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

Located in one of the smallest communities in Germany, the HUBERTUS offers a place to retreat from the daily grind. "Come up to come down" is the motto that can be felt everywhere. Whether in the hotel with its cozy rooms, the food, and culinary delights, or in the recently reopened Mountain Spring Spa.

The latter is particularly striking for its unusual architecture. But the story behind it is no less impressive. It was built in just two years after an avalanche destroyed the old spa area in 2019.

„We live in the mountains. Nature defines and shapes our lives. And it always has. Of course, it also plays a role in the decisions we make. Especially now, after the avalanche, nature is even more present in our minds, both in a positive and negative way," says owner Marc Traubel in the Green Pearls® interview.

This closeness to nature, the respect for it, and its protection are reflected in the hotel's daily choices, both large and small. The Traubel family believes in using only local products, not only for food, but also for most of the materials used in the hotel. Even the water for the swimming pool and natural pond is drawn from the hotel's own mountain stream.

The HUBERTUS experience is rounded out by an extensive program of activities ranging from guided hikes and cooking workshops to yoga retreats, lectures, and live music evenings. The unifying element is the rhythm of nature, the course of the seasons, and their effect on us.

Learn more about the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu on the Green Pearls® page or contact us directly with any questions or requests via press@greenpearls.com

The Alps' first energy-self-sufficient Eco-Aparthotel

A blend of nature vacation and luxury with plenty of freedom and privacy - that's what guests can expect at OLM Nature Escape starting in December.

Key Facts at a Glance:

• The Architecture: OLM Nature Escape sets new standards in sustainable hotel architecture. The entire building is Casa Clima Nature certified. Its main building material is local larch wood. Most striking, of course, is the circular shape, which, according to the owner, symbolizes the cycle of nature and harmony.
• Energy & Environment: Energy self-sufficiency means that the entire facility is powered by self-generated heat and electricity. To this end, there are 126 geothermal probes on the 20,000-square-meter site. A solar array provides electricity for the heat pumps.
• Rooms: There are 33 apartment suites with a private kitchen and study. Some even come with a mini spa, private sauna, and freestanding bathtub.
• Spa: In addition to the private spa, guests have access to an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a natural swimming pond.
• Sports: Yoga and fitness center, hiking, and winter sports area right outside the hotel.
• Culinary delights: In addition to the included breakfast, several catering options are available. The dinner concept was developed in cooperation with Michelin-starred chef Theodor Falser.

Opening and press stays

If you would like to be accredited for the opening, more information, and images, or are interested in a possible press stay, please contact: press@greenpearls.com

For the latter, please send a possible date and a press or media kit.

More Information

Read more on our website or the hotel's website.

From the monastery estate ...

The history of the Klosterhof begins in 1500 when Augustinian monks from the St Zeno monastery in Bad Reichenhall used the farm to grow medicinal herbs alongside their food. They processed these into ointments, teas, and other remedies. This tradition is still anchored in the hotel's health orientation today.

The knowledge and, above all, the philosophy of the late medieval monks places the patient as a person at the center. Hotel owner and director of the Artemacur Health Centre, Dr Andreas Färber, still incorporates this holistic approach into the philosophy and treatments today.

Alone in wide open spaces

The former estate is tucked away from other farms in a secluded location on a plateau near Bayrisch Gmain. What once required a self-sufficient supply of food now offers those seeking relaxation the necessary distance from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Situated in a small valley and clad in larch timber shingles, both the existing building and the new construction blend into the gently undulating landscape of the plateau and the mountain panorama of the Berchtesgaden Alps.

... to boarding school, inn, and hotel ...

The monks continued to run the farm until the beginning of the 19th century. After that, the monastery courtyard became one of the first hospitality establishments in the Berchtesgadener Land region thanks to the liquor license granted in 1860. Before it finally became a destination and accommodation for travelers, it was used as a boarding school between 1950 and 1987.

The Lederer family finally bought the former farmhouse and opened the Hotel Klosterhof with 14 rooms and an inn just one year later. Dr Andreas and Henrike Färber finally took over the hotel in 2011.

Transformation into a temple of wellness

After the Färber family had initially continued to run the hotel for almost two years, they closed the Klosterhof for a renovation phase that also lasted a good two years. During this time, the Klosterhof was given its current appearance. The historical, oldest part of the building was retained and a modern and energy-efficient new building was added. 

The wellness hotel now offers 65 rooms and suites, including Germany's first spa lofts. A unique concept was added that combines indulgence and relaxation as well as art and culture. Works of art by contemporary artists can be found in every room. A large spa area with various pools, sauna landscape, brine bath, and massage rooms has been created. The new design is complemented by a finely tuned culinary offering that emphasizes regional and seasonal produce as well as individuality.

... to a sustainable 4-star superior hotel and luxury hideaway

Today, the Alpine Hideaway is not only one of the best-known wellness hotels, but is also the first hotel in Germany to be awarded the EU Eco Label. After a long process, the strict certification, which is recognized throughout Europe, was awarded in 2022 for the hotel's comprehensive commitment to sustainability. You can find out more about the initiatives that made this possible on the Klosterhof's Green Pearls® page.

Leisure and Relaxation - Completely Personalised

Relaxation and wellness are at the top of the to-do list on a holiday at the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa. Whether on a guided hike in front of the alpine panorama or during quiet laps in the indoor pool in front of the flickering open fire. Whether it's a massage or the evening GenussArt menu, which of course also comes with a vegetarian option.

In the spa lofts, you don't even have to leave your room to relax. A private whirlpool with mountain views and a sauna are available. Another special experience: the Secret Forest Dinner, an exclusive fine dining offering at a secret location. Chef Sascha Förster presents dishes created especially for the Dinner Experience and is available to answer questions and chat with the twelve participants.

Family-run and local

In addition to the well-being of the guests, the Färbers also prioritize the well-being and cohesion of the team. The personnel philosophy is based on long-term partnerships and does not use seasonal labor. "Klosterhof family" is not just a slogan, but is actively practiced. Guests can feel this too.

You can find out even more about the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa on the Green Pearls® microsite and on the hotel website. For questions, inquiries, and additional image material, please contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com

Year-round destination in the Plose hiking and skiing area

The Plose is a South Tyrolean Mountain range with several peaks and it’s a popular area for hiking, winter sports, and nature recreation. It is here, about a 10-minute drive from Brixen, that the tree hotel My Arbor is located. It consists of 104 suites, ranging from a cozy double room to a 100-square-meter dream apartment. All of them are equipped with a balcony offering a magnificent view of the valley.

By the way: Despite its unusual construction, the tree hotel is barrier-free and has wheelchair-accessible rooms.   

The complex includes a 2,500-square-meter spa area featuring a sauna landscape (five saunas, cozy huts, and cold pools), an infinity pool overlooking the mountains, a panoramic whirlpool, and a yoga room, as well as ten special rooms for spa treatments. All under the sign of the tree. Based on a questionnaire, guests are assigned to a specific type of tree (larch, stone pine, mountain pine, and spruce) and treated according to its properties.

The “My” Philosophy in the My Arbor

At My Arbor, guests are invited to vacation at their own pace and in accordance with their own mood. Breakfast till noon? Swimming after sunset? Active vacation or relaxation. At My Arbor, the I may simply be, and time taken for oneself.      

The team at the family-owned hotel will gladly advise guests - from spa and wine recommendations to informative discussions with the hotel's own certified bread sommelier.  

Eco-friendly initiatives at Hotel My Arbor

The My Arbor has been recognized as a new Green Pearl for its sustainable initiatives. The Tree Hotel is, for example, an active participant in the zero-waste movement, eliminating the use of plastic and disposable products as much as possible. An on-site photovoltaic system is under construction to generate electricity, and guests are encouraged to travel car-free. There is also a shuttle service to the Brixen train station, and e-bikes and e-cars are available for on-site mobility. Furthermore, guests will be provided with the BrixenCard, allowing them to use the public transportation system in the region free of charge, among other benefits.

More information about the unique tree hotel can be found on the dedicated Green Pearls® microsite. Or you can contact us directly via press@greenpearls.com

Nature recreation, wellness and outdoor activities in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol

Sand in Taufers is a popular all year-round holiday destination in the Italian Alps. It’s suitable both for winter sports (snowshoe hiking, cross-country skiing and skiing in the Speikboden ski resort) and for hiking and cycling in the summer. The area is home to a number of water treasures, such as rivers, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and springs.

For those who want to relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air and spring water among forests, mountains, and meadows, this is the perfect vacation destination. OLM means "alp" in South Tyrolean. The unique hideaway has been in planning since 2007. The owner, Christian Lechner, hails from the valley himself and is now fulfilling his vision of a sustainable accommodation.

Eco Apart Suites with Mini Spa

The Apart Suites in the distinctive circular building range in size from 2 to 6 persons. All of them have a fully equipped kitchen and some have a small private spa area with a private sauna. All guests have access to the indoor pool, outdoor pool, natural swimming pond, PRENN° restaurant, and a cozy lobby with a fireplace.

Maximum Freedom

Breakfast is included, but beyond that, guests are free to choose whether they want to cook for themselves or take advantage of the catering options offered by the house. 80 percent of the products used are organic and/or sourced from the surrounding area. The dinner concept has been developed in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Theodor Falser, so guests are able to enjoy the full culinary experience here as well. Cleaning services are available as well and can be booked in separate modules, just like the meals.

At OLM Nature Escape the guests are supposed to feel at one with themselves and at the same time understand themselves as part of the cycle of nature.

For more information, please visit the hotel's dedicated Green Pearls® page. Or contact us directly at press@greenpearls.com

Arrival at Lake Wolfsgruben

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

A Glimpse Back through History

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

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

To be Allowed to Be and to Take Responsibility

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

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

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

Indulgence with a Clear Conscience

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

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

Letting Go with a Lake View

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

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

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

Drawing Strength from Special Places

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

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

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

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

Sea, History and Wild Beaches – Destination Sicily

Sicily, like many Italian and Mediterranean islands, has a rich history. In addition to archaeological sites and well-preserved ancient temples (such as those in the Valley of the Temples) the island impresses above all with its rugged beauty, the landscape shaped by the volcano Etna and wild coastal sections.

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located on one of these wild coasts, at the gates of the Torre Salsa nature reserve. It is only a few meters to the natural sandy beach, where guests can walk for miles. The hotel's team regularly cleans the 5 km stretch of beach in front of the hotel, continuing the environmentalist line that was evident even before construction began.

Respectful from the very Beginning

Together with the former landowners, the local community and the WWF, the Senoner family drew up plans for the sustainable resort. Opened in 2022, the resort blends harmoniously into the surrounding hills. As with the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in northern Italy, the landscape was not to be destroyed by the hotel buildings but rather complimented.

Natural, local materials make nature and hotel a unity, not only for the outside observer. Inside, terracruda, wood, and local stone ensure that the connection to the island and its nature is maintained.

From Farm to Table

Around the buildings, guests will find vegetable and herb gardens, olive groves, and orange trees that give off their scent in the spring. Farm-to-table is lived before the eyes of the hotel guests. Everything that is not grown in the hotel's own garden is sourced from the surrounding area and local producers, preferably in organic quality. From this, the kitchen team conjures up authentic Sicilian dishes every night, with the aim of giving guests a taste of the island. If you still can't get enough of Sicilian cuisine, take a look at the outdoor program.

Active and Cultural

This year, the active program of ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA has seen some innovations. Among them are tastings of typical Sicilian products directly from the producers. Cooking classes are also organized and take place in a renovated farmhouse in the famous Valle dei Templi, the Valley of the Temples. Guided tours of the area are an integral part of the program. Participants can also look forward to a little more peace and quiet in the temple complexes in the fall and winter, as the summer tourist crowds are gone.

The best way to explore a country is on foot or by bike. Sicily is no different. Especially the guided tours with the hotel's local guides offer some background knowledge about the country's flora and fauna.

Spa Resort at the Mediterranean Sea

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA has its name for a reason. Several (heated) outdoor pools, including a Thalasso Infinity pool with a view of the limestone cliffs and a 25-meter lap pool, invite guests to relax or engage in gentle exercise. There is also an indoor pool with access to a slightly heated outdoor pool and a freshwater pool for refreshment.

Several relaxation rooms and saunas, some with sweeping views of the ocean, provide space to unwind and let go. Relaxation is further enhanced by special ADLER signature treatments (inspired by Sicily) and weekly yoga sessions, which are complimentary for hotel guests.

By the way, there is currently a special offer for a relaxing fall and winter stay at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA. In addition to accommodation and half-board, which includes breakfast and dinner, guests receive a wellness voucher.

A Week just for You

Yoga retreats with various internationally renowned yoga instructors are held regularly at the sustainable wellness hotel. A retreat at the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA allows participants to focus entirely on themselves. During yoga, but also while enjoying the spa area or a walk through the olive groves and on the beach.

Learn more about the unique ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA and its green initiatives. For questions and inquiries, please contact press@greenpearls.com.

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Exercise on Holiday? Yes Please!

When most hotel guests (or other family members) are still asleep, some are already heading out into the great outdoors. Running shoes on their feet, headphones in their ears, training plan in their heads, pulse rate checked. Using holidays for targeted training is not new, but it is becoming increasingly popular. Marathon or running holidays have a small but growing interest group. But even on a family holiday, with a little planning and the right motivation, you can use your free time for running.

Moreover, the amenities of hotels can perfectly complement your training plan. Pools invite you to swim, saunas relax your muscles and professional sports massages prepare your body for the rigors of a marathon. Many hotels also have their own fitness studios where you can train under professional guidance. And finally, a mountain hike with the family also counts as a gentle cardio workout.

Marathon as a Destination

For most people, a marathon is a goal that requires a lot of training. However, it can not only become a training destination but also a travel destination. Some runners deliberately choose a marathon in a distant place as their first race. The most famous is the New York Marathon. According to New York City, around 50,000 people take part in the 42.195-kilometre race every year, around 10,000 of whom travel from abroad.

This combines the rigours of the race with the experience of travelling, and the marathon itself becomes a unique experience.

Running Events and Marathons 2024 and Sustainable Hotels for Your Stay

In Germany

Schwarzwald (Black Forest) Marathon

Location: Bräunlingen | Date: 12 – 13 October 2024 | Various Distances

The Schwarzwald Marathon has been held since 1968 and is considered the oldest nature and women's marathon in the world. In addition to the marathon (for women and men), other races take place, including a relay marathon, 10- and 5-km runs, and children's races. Registration for this year's run is still open!

Your sustainable Hotel in the Black Forest: SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA wellness and health hotel is located about 160 kilometers from Bräunlingen. Here, runners will find ideal conditions to prepare for the race as well as to recover afterwards. And best of all: all this can be enjoyed in the knowledge that the wonderful nature you are running through is being actively protected.

Ostseelauf (Baltic Sea Run) in Timmendorfer Strand

Location: Timmendorfer Strand | Date: 17 March 2024 | Half Marathon and 10 km Run

The Ostseelauf has taken place annually since 2003 and is organized by numerous regional partners. Last year, almost 1,500 participants enjoyed the run along the Baltic Sea. By the way: There are also team competitions!

Your sustainable Hotel: Lifestylehotel SAND

The Lifestylehotel SAND not only supports the Baltic Sea run with prizes (the winners can expect an overnight stay at the SAND with breakfast), but this year also offered the Triathlon Heldinnen accommodation and catering for their training camp as part of a cooperation.

Stolberger Schloss-Lauf (Stolberg Castle Run) in the Harz Mountains

Location: Stolberg | Date: 1 June 2024 | Half Marathon and other Distances

This year, the charity run organized by the Ritter von Kempski private hotels for the region's kindergartens celebrated its 5th birthday. Almost 350 runners took part and discovered the European city of Stolberg and the beautiful nature of the southern Harz on various routes. The start and finish line is located directly at Stolberg Castle. A perfect backdrop for top running performances.

Your sustainable Hotel: Naturresort Schindelbruch

The wellness hotel and Naturresort Schindelbruch belongs to Ritter von Kempski Privathotels and is located in the midst of the same impressive nature through which the routes of the Stolberger Schloss-Lauf lead. Guests can look forward to an all-around wellness program that is ideal for relaxing and recharging their batteries after the half marathon or one of the shorter runs.

Königsschlösser (Royal Castle) Marathon in Füssen

Location: Füssen | Date: 20 July 2024 | Marathon and shorter Distances

The Saturday run in Füssen is an event that attracts many participants from the region. Against the fantastic backdrop of the Alps and the royal castles, the marathon almost seems like sightseeing. For those who don't want to run quite so far, there are other distances that can be run around Füssen.

Your sustainable Hotel: Hotel Das Rübezahl

It's much easier to recover from your exertions with a view of Neuschwanstein Castle. "We often have guests who take part in the Königsschlösser Marathon," the team of the Hotel Das Rübezahl tells us. A large wellness area, cozy rooms, and delicious food in the hotel's restaurants await the runners and their companions.

In Austria

Vienna City Marathon (Wien Marathon)

Location: Wien | Date: 21 April 2024 | Marathon and City Half Marathon

The Vienna City Marathon is a real running party with many events for runners and fans around the actual marathon. In addition, it is an experience simply because an enthusiastic, international community of runners comes together every year and, of course, because the route passes the city's top sights. In addition to the marathon and half marathon, there are also other races for young and old. 

Your sustainable Hotel: Gut Guntrams

The Naturgut Guntrams with its various holiday apartments is located about 60 kilometers from the Austrian capital in the middle of the Bucklige Welt. Not only do marathon preparations take place here in the most beautiful natural surroundings, afterwards the tranquillity, the cozy holiday apartments, and the natural bathing pond offer perfect conditions for holistic relaxation. No wonder marathon participants regularly stop here.

Dreiländer-Giro in Tyrol (Cycling Marathon)

Location: Nauders | Date: 30 June 2024 | Cycling Marathon

3,000 metres in altitude, three countries and between 120 and 168 kilometres in length - at the Dreiländer-Giro it's not the runners who are applauded, but the cyclists. The Giro Days, a festival of the cycling scene surrounded by the Tyrolean Alps, will also take place around the event. The start and finish lines are in Nauders, a neighbouring town to Pfunds.

Your sustainable Accommodation: Summit Lodges Pfunds

The two North American log cabin-style holiday homes welcome guests with plenty of space, their own sauna and a terrace with mountain views. There are numerous hiking and biking trails around the lodges, which are also suitable for preparation or a relaxing getaway. This year, both chalets were occupied by participants in the Dreiländer-Giro.

Achensee Half Marathon

Location: Pertisau | Date: 7 – 8 September 2024 | Half Marathon

The course of the half marathon leads once around the largest lake in Tyrol. This means that the run definitely qualifies as nature sightseeing and a holiday. In addition to the half marathon, which can also be run as a team or relay, there is a 10 km race and children's races over 500 meters and 2.6 km. Perfect for families who love running. 

Your sustainable Hotel: Biohotel Grafenast

The Biohotel Grafenast is located high above the Inn Valley. The view alone is worth the trip. The cozy forest sauna, the delicious organic food and the hiking and running trails around the hotel invite marathon runners to relax and recharge. Guided nature tours and yoga retreats are also held regularly. Children will also feel at home here.

In Switzerland

Gornergrat-Zermatt-Marathon

Location: St. Niklaus / Zermatt | Date: 6 July 2024 | Marathon, Ultra Marathon and other Distances

In the face of some of the highest peaks in the Alps, this run is a real challenge. Over 1000 meters of altitude are covered on the individual routes. The ultra-marathon (45.6 km) leads up to the Gornergrat. Most other runs end on the Riffelberg, where your efforts are rewarded with a fantastic view as you cross the finish line.

Your sustainable Hotels: Bio Hotel Bella Vista and CERVO Mountain Resort

Two green pearls await guests in Zermatt. Ensuring there is something for everyone. Both hotels are located directly on the running course. If you are looking for a relaxed, family atmosphere in a traditional hotel, the Bio Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt is the place for you. The highlight: a delicious breakfast with home-baked delicacies, locally made jams, and specialties from the region.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for pure luxury, you will find it at the CERVO Mountain Resort. The hotel with its unique charm offers first-class wellness and several restaurants, and still exudes a close connection to nature through its bespoke design. By the way, there is also a marathon supply station there, and every runner is invited for a beer by the CERVO team during the race weekend.

Both hotels are actively committed to more sustainability and the protection of the mountain environment.

Do you want to read more?

Even more tips on running and marathon travel as well as popular running events in Italy and the Canary Islands can be found here:

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Geocaching on vacation 2023 - Sustainable trend or old news?

In this blog article, we'll not only introduce you to geocaching itself (spoiler: it's so on trend!). We also take you to sustainable accommodations and destinations where you can discover exciting caches. Sometimes even directly on the hotel grounds ;)

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6 cities in Germany that you've underestimated so far but should definitely see

Germany has more to offer than Berlin and Munich! We present 6 lesser-known cities in Germany that are definitely worth a visit! Best of all, with short travel distances and the possibility to reach your destination by train (or even by e-bike), such a city break is ideal for a sustainable short vacation - in combination with green accommodation, of course :-)

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Wintering in the south - tips and destinations for a successful, sustainable long-term vacation

Are you already dreading the dark winter days with the long nights? Believe me, you are not alone! More and more people are fleeing from the dark, cold and wet season to the south. Sun, sea and pleasant temperatures - that sounds more tempting than slush and fog. We take you by the hand in this blog article and show you how this can work with wintering in the south and what you should definitely consider. And we wouldn't be us if we didn't pick out some (sustainable) destinations for you!

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Sustainable coffee trends 2023 and tips from the barista

Boba and Nitro Coffee - these should be new, sustainable coffee trends in 2023. However, according to our internal survey of sustainable hotels and resorts, this has not been confirmed! Instead, classics (with milk alternatives) are in demand. Barista Moritz Unterlechner from the organic hotel Grafenast in Tyrol reveals how you can enjoy your coffee as sustainably as possible, how to create the best foam, and which coffee the Viennese serves "in layers".

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In the mood for urban farming? An inspiring story from the States.

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New visa regulations for Vietnam travelers. The e-visa is valid for 90 days instead of 30 days since mid-August.

More Information

Climate demonstrations ahead of UN sustainability summit in New York.

More Information

Active and Cozy

The small, family-run Hotel Bella Vista is located just above the centre of Zermatt and is therefore just beyond the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist destination. Nevertheless, it is only a few minutes' walk before guests can plunge themselves into the action of the lively town. There is no need to watch out for cars. Zermatt is completely car-free! Only a few electric vehicles or carriages can be seen on the streets.

The hotel itself offers just 21 rooms in various sizes and furnishings. From cosy single rooms to double rooms with a view of the Matterhorn to spacious suites that are also suitable for travellers with dogs, everyone will find the perfect "home away from home" here.

Those seeking relaxation can look forward to a quaint wellness area with sauna, panoramic relaxation room and Swiss pine parlour. The hotel's location directly on the Sunnega/Rothorn skiing and hiking area invites guests to enjoy long walks in nature, long hikes or action-packed ski runs.

The Bio Hotel Bella Vista at a Glance:

• Location: Zermatt, Switzerland directly on the Sunnega/Rothorn hiking and skiing area
• Rooms: 21 from single room to suite
• Board basis: rich breakfast in the morning, homemade cake in the afternoon, weekly cheese evening with fondue and raclette, evening special with tarte flambé and soup on advance reservation
• Mobility: Arrival is easiest by train; pick-up from the station is possible with an electric vehicle
• Special features: dog-friendly, storage facilities for bicycles and ski equipment

Relaxation or Action?

At Bella Vista, sports enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike will find what they are searching for. The spa area offers space for relaxing hours, even in private. With an exclusive spa booking, guests can expect a two-hour relaxation experience including steam bath, sauna and, of course, the popular Swiss pine parlour relaxation room. A panorama sauna with a view of the Matterhorn is also in the planning stage. A glass of prosecco and a plate of fresh fruit complete the time for two.

Active holidaymakers will also get their money's worth at the Bella Vista. Bikes and ski equipment can not only be stored in the hotel, but can also be washed and (if necessary) repaired. A heated boot room is available for ski boots. By the way, in ideal snow conditions, the Sunnega valley run ends directly at the hotel - allowing for a smooth transition from active holiday to relaxing getaway

Active Relaxation with Yoga Lessons and Retreats

Yoga lessons and retreats are held regularly at the Bio Hotel Bella Vista. Whether individual sessions, group classes (in small groups) or three-day retreats - both beginners and advanced yogis can look forward to varied, mindful sessions. Fabienne Anthamatten's younger sister Stefanie, who returned to the family hotel after her yoga training in Thailand and India, now leads the offerings.

Locally Committed with an Eye for the Big Picture

The Hotel Bella Vista is currently run by Fabienne Anthamatten, now in its third generation. She is not only committed to making her own hotel more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but is also a member of the Hoteliers Association in Zermatt. This association has set itself the ambitious task of representing the interests of employees and employers and is committed, for example, to affordable housing and more childcare facilities.

The Bella Vista team consists mostly of local residents who have been part of the team for many years. Thus, the guests of the Bella Vista enjoy a genuine family feeling, which is fuelled by the friendly community atmosphere.

At Hotel Bella Vista, only products from the region are served. A close relationship with the producers is important to Fabienne Anthamatten, so she regularly visits them in person. Many things are also made directly in the hotel itself. These include jams made from fruit grown in the hotel's own garden (on the garage roof), syrups, pastries and bread, as well as the popular vegan dandelion "honey".

Sustainable - Without Compromise

For the Bella Vista team, love of the region also means doing everything they can to preserve it. "There is no Planet B," they write on their website. Guests also find this reminder in their room in the form of a door hanger. With this, they can show housekeeping that no room cleaning is desired - this saves water, energy and cleaning agents. Bed linen and towels are only changed on request and guests are encouraged to bring slippers or flip-flops for the spa area from home.

Many products come from the hotel's own small garden, bakery or chickens. Everything else comes from local producers, usually directly from the village. Rubbish and disposable packaging and products are avoided as far as possible. Eco-energy is a given, as are energy and water-saving measures and their regular monitoring.

This is how the team would summarise their sustainable initiatives. In addition to their ecological actions, this also includes fair practices with employees and the warm family atmosphere throughout the hotel, which many guests will remember long into the future.

If you would like to know more, please visit the hotel's microsite at Green Pearls® or contact us directly: press@greenpearls.com

Welcome to Keemala

Perched above Kamala Village overlooking the Andaman Sea, the villas of Keemala nestle into the hills of Phuket. During construction, care was taken not to interfere with the natural contours of the landscape. The forest was also preserved as much as possible, which means that guests can now wander through the original jungle between the villas.

Sustainable Architecture inspired by Phuket

The four different types of villas are based on four clans that once populated a fictitious old Phuket. Each of these clans brings its own values and characteristics, which are reflected in the architecture and furnishings of the villas.

Preserving Phuket's traditions and culture is important to them, the siblings and owners of the Keemala Tarn and Note Somnam tell us, as are family values. The Somnams are a traditional family of the island who have established themselves in the local hotel and tourism industry. With the Keemala, the siblings are pursuing the goal of making tourism on Phuket more sustainable and offering guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

And the 38 private villas provide the perfect haven. The architecture combines natural materials, plenty of glass to bring natural light into the rooms and traditional elements that create a connection to the culture on Phuket and the mystique developed for the Keemala around the four clans. Plus: each villa has its own pool.

Start the Day Slowly and Consciously

Back to the smell of fresh croissants. They are made at the Keemala according to an original French recipe and served every morning for breakfast. Guests can either visit the Mala Restaurant or order an in-villa breakfast. This is served on traditional pintos, three- to six-tiered trays on which the elements of the breakfast are arranged. This way, you can start the day with your favorite person at your own pace and listen to the sounds of the jungle from your private terrace.

Active and Mindful - A Day at the Keemala

The Thai hotel's focus is strongly on mindfulness and wellness. This is evident in the way it treats nature and its guests, along with the individual amenities that distinguish the Keemala. Guests are encouraged to take time for themselves, for example during yoga sessions or personal fitness classes. Muay Thai, a traditional Thai martial art, is also part of the wellness programme.

In addition, the "Enchanted Forest" that surrounds the Keemala invites guests to wander. Numerous secluded retreats and hideaways are ideal for togetherness or personal, tranquil moments.

Tip: Get married in the Enchanted Forest

Colourful, vibrant, unique - nothing is more special than a wedding in Keemala's Enchanted Forest. Experienced wedding planners design the dream wedding together with the guests so that no wishes remain unfulfilled on the big day and the happy couple does not have to worry about a thing. In addition to the vows (according to Western or Thai traditions), an Enchanted Forest wedding also includes a Spiritual Blessing Ceremony, which makes the intimate celebration even more beautiful and unique.

Farm-To-Table and Enchanted Garden

In addition to the jungle, guests can explore the garden that supplies the luxury hotel's kitchen with fresh vegetables, seasonal fruit, herbs and mushrooms, and see the farm-to-table approach for themselves. The animals, such as the rescued water buffalo or the ducks, are always happy to receive visitors as well.

Around 60 percent of the food used in the kitchen now comes from the gardens. Most of the remaining produce comes from the surrounding region.

The popular afternoon tea, which can be served in your own villa on request, is no exception. The traditional flavours of Phuket are found here in the form of bite-sized morsels consisting of freshly harvested herbs, vegetables and fruit. Whether classic, vegetarian or vegan, afternoon tea can be adapted for all dietary preferences.

Between Tradition and Modernity: Mala Spa

Holistic wellness is at the heart of the Mala Spa. The focus here is not only on relieving physical ailments of the guests, but also addressing psychological and spiritual concerns as well. Traditional Thai healing methods are combined with modern beauty and massage treatments and natural plant extracts. The Mala Spa's signature treatments also reflect the mythical clans and their philosophies. Couples' treatment rooms with sauna, steam bath and outdoor rain shower offer guests a unique and private experience.

New in 2023: Forest Bathing Retreat in the Enchanted Forest

It has been proven time and again that forest bathing has therapeutic and healing effects. At the Keemala, guided forest bathing in the tropical jungle is combined with meditation, treatments and other moments of indulgence and relaxation. The three-day retreat is perfect for "recharging the batteries" and reconnecting with yourself.

The grand, indulgent end to the day: a gourmet dinner

Although the Mala Restaurant is in itself a special place for dinner, the team at Keemala takes it to the next level with Destination Dining. At special locations, a selected Signature Dinner for Two is served, consisting of five courses of your cuisine of choice: Western, Thai, Indian, Seafood and more. Dine by candlelight on the rooftop and enjoy the view of the sea or spend the evening together at the foot of the Tree Towers in a hidden hideaway - a magical end to a unique stay.

Tip: Traditional Southern Thai Cuisine

Samrab Pak Tai takes guests on a journey into the culinary world of Southern Thailand. The local specialties are served for two at a location of choice, including in their own private villa. This allows guests to enjoy the regional flavors in intimate togetherness.

More information about the Thai luxury resort and its green initiatives can be found on the dedicated microsite at www.greenpearls.com. You can read the profile of Tarn and Note Somnam here.

The Importance of Authentic Communication of Sustainability

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

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

Greenwashing in Tourism

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

How to Communicate Sustainability in Tourism?

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

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

Online Communication

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

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

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

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

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

Reviews and Reports

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

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

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

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

Physical Communication in the Hotel

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

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

Conversations with Guests and Being a Role Model

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

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

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

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

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

Participate in Projects

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

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

On the shores of Lake Weissensee in harmony with nature

The Weissensee Nature Park and with it the gourmet hotel the Forelle are located in the Austrian province of Carinthia surrounded by the Gailtal Alps. Sustainability is a given in view of the almost untouched and strictly preserved nature of the region. This also includes the fact that the nature park has a well-developed public transport network from which both guests and locals benefit. For example, a train station shuttle takes travelers to the gourmet hotel the Forelle directly at Lake Weissensee free of charge.

The gourmet hotel is located on one of the few built-up sections of the shore. Almost two thirds of the shore is natural. The lake and nature set the rhythm, be it in the activities or in the cuisine. Time hardly matters, especially not when you swim a lap in the lake in the first light of the sun before being lured back to the hotel by the smell of freshly baked bread.

Slow and deliberate: Hannes Müller's kitchen philosophy

Hannes Müller is not only the hotel manager, but also the head chef at the Restaurant der Forelle. He is always creating new dishes for his guests. The special part about this is that the kitchen only uses ingredients from the region, at most from Austria, as well as selected, fairly produced products from the Alps-Adriatic region. In addition, the dishes are exclusively seasonal and micro-seasonal. If something does find its way onto the plate that is not in season at the moment, guests can be sure that this product has been preserved by the kitchen team themselves, i.e. pickled, preserved, frozen or fermented.

The hotelier family is also committed to supporting local agriculture. They place more emphasis on regionality than on an organic label, but without losing sight of environmental compatibility and animal welfare. As a matter of principle, prices are not negotiated to the detriment of the farmer, and wherever possible, the Müller family refrains from buying in wholesale or intermediate trade. International luxury products? There are none here, and they are not missed.

In addition to being “import-independent” as Hannes Müller calls his approach, the kitchen of the gourmet hotel can also boast that it is powered entirely by solar energy. When the wood oven isn't being used, that is.

Unplugged evenings with Hannes Müller

The popular unplugged evenings take place several times a year. As the name suggests, the cooking is done without electricity. The "heart of the kitchen", as the old wood-burning oven is affectionately called, is used to create a 6-course surprise menu. The next event is on the 6 September 2023.

By the way: you will hardly find any waste at the gourmet hotel the Forelle. For one thing, the kitchen team is always finding new, creative ways to put supposed leftovers and organic waste on the plates in a delicious way. What really cannot be used is either turned into animal feed for the hotel's own pigs or becomes energy in a biogas plant.

Green Initiatives for future generations

In addition to the biogas plant and the generation of solar power, the Müller family relies on its own woodchip plant for heat supply. The wood for this comes from their own sustainably managed forest.

The furnishings were also designed to have as little impact on the environment as possible. Wood dominates, also from the region, of course. During the renovation, the old structures and the local architecture were preserved.

Arriving and finding yourself

The comfortably furnished rooms and suites already offer plenty of space for relaxation. In addition, the gourmet hotel offers the small but charming wellness area "Schonzeit", where time really does seem to stand still. Four saunas and four relaxation rooms invite you to relax and forget about time.

For those who want to be more active during their holiday, there's also plenty to do. Both in summer and in winter. You don't need to worry about equipment and gear (and can therefore travel comfortably by train!); the gourmet hotel the Forelle offers just about everything for hire.

Especially in autumn and winter, cooking enthusiasts will feel particularly at home: This is when various workshops and courses take place in Hannes Müller's kitchen. Topics of the upcoming workshops include: Autumn Vegetables & Beef or you can take part in the Koch.Workshop.Tagen (Cook.Workshop.Days) right away and get to know something different every day.

Slow Travel Adventures with Culinary Delights

In the valleys around Lake Weissensee there are still many old (food) crafts to discover and try out. Guests who want to complement their holiday with special Slow Food experiences such as these can try their hand at making butter, baking bread or grinding flour. More information can be found here.

Rediscover slowness at the Geniesserhotel Die Forelle

From the arrival to the activities to the cuisine - at the gourmet hotel the Forelle, guests are invited to indulge in slowness. Nothing is a must, everything is allowed, as the Müller family describes it on the website of their hotel. Relaxation and enjoyment paired with new knowledge and special experiences characterise a stay at the Forelle. And all this with respect for nature and a mindful approach to the available resources.

If you have any questions or would like further information and pictures, please feel free to contact press@greenpearls.com or take a look at the Geniesserhotel Die Forelle's page on Green Pearls®.

Ralph and Christel Wagner were both trained in the business and continue to support the family in the hotel and certified organic farming. Read more about Gerbehof's green initiatives here.

Whether in a yoga studio, on your own patio, or on vacation at the beach, yoga has arrived at the center of our Western society. Some see it as a sport, others as a way to deal with stress, and still others practice it according to its original philosophies, combining physical activity with spirituality.

What they all have in common is that regular yoga practice is almost always accompanied by a sustainable lifestyle. Yoga trains mindfulness. To oneself, but also to the environment and one's fellow human beings.

How does yoga relate to sustainability?

This is how Kristin Okelmann of Hotel Okelmann's in Lower Saxony, Germany, describes the connection between yoga and sustainability. Yoga philosophies teach that everything is connected and that all actions have an impact on the world. Those who practice yoga automatically become more conscious consumers because they take mindfulness off the mat and into their everyday lives. In addition, many yoga studios and yoga hotels already pay attention to sustainable facilities. Water is served in glass bottles and organic teas are available. Even when it comes to mats, cushions, and blocks, there is now a wide selection of models made from recycled or renewable materials.

Yoga retreats in sustainable hotels

A retreat is a few days of yoga, mindfulness, and sustainability. In addition to daily sessions, there is usually plenty of time and space for personal practice, walks, and meditation. Healthy food and a comfortable room are also provided. If you choose a sustainable hotel for your retreat, you can be sure that the positive impacts on the environment and other people outweigh the negative.

Yoga retreats at the family-run Hotel Okelmann's

Surrounded by forests and fields lies the family-run Hotel Okelmann's. The two sisters, Maren and Kristin, who run the hotel, have created a space for arriving and letting go. Several times a year, retreats are held with different instructors, each with their own focus. With its own yoga room, a large garden, and the surrounding countryside, Okelmann's offers ideal conditions. The hotel also houses Café Heimatliebe, where you can enjoy fresh organic products and homemade cakes.

By the way: Even if you don't want to take part in a retreat, you can still get your money's worth as a yogi. For example, in a private class with Maren. Yoga with your dog or a singing bowl therapy session are also available. Or enjoy the sauna in the converted shepherd's wagon. In the small concept store, guests will also find some hand-picked, sustainable, and fair products for yogis, dog owners and lovers of beautiful (and fair) things. "We are trying to set a good example and not promote one particular lifestyle as the right one," the sisters explain, adding with a laugh, "Anyone who is interested [in sustainability] and open-minded will definitely get a lot of input and inspiration. But it doesn't have to be, and we don't force anything on anyone.”

Yoga retreat in Nepal at Pavilions Himalayas - The Farm

A handful of villas built in the traditional Nepalese style, a main house with a pool, surrounded by the fields of an organic farm that not only supplies the resort, but also offers the local people a real alternative to conventional agriculture - that's Pavilions Himalayas - The Farm. Beneath the highest mountains in the world, guests can arrive and relax far away from big cities and everyday life in nature. A 4-day yoga retreat, for example, is offered in the spirit of mindfulness and conscious experience. In addition to daily yoga practice, the daily schedule includes meditation, chanting, short hikes around the resort, and a healthy diet.

Yoga and mountain air at Biohotel Grafenast

This yoga hotel on a Tyrolean alpine pasture regularly hosts retreats with different focuses. This fall, for example, a yoga teacher and dancer offers a special retreat that combines yoga and dance. In general, the Biohotel Grafenast emphasizes the teaching of not only the asanas (i.e. the movements of the body), but also the other components of yoga. Most classes take place in the Red Hall, the hotel's yoga room. Of course, guests can also take their practice outside and enjoy the mountain air and panoramic view.

Sustainable Hotels Offering Yoga

Many Green Pearls® partners offer their guests the opportunity to practice yoga. Either under guidance in a private or group class, or privately in yoga rooms and spaces. But some hotels offer something even more special.

Yoga in the Enchanted Forest of Thailand

The various villas of the luxury resort Keemala nestle into the Phuket jungle as if they belonged there. During construction, the natural landscape was barely touched, allowing guests to immerse themselves in an ancient forest. Part of the jungle is called the Enchanted Forest, a place where time seems to stand still. "All guests must be barefoot during activities to touch the true nature," Keemala wrote to us about this special place. Although the entire resort is designed and managed as a mindful retreat, the Enchanted Forest is where guests can most clearly feel Keemala's philosophy: mindfulness and respect in their interaction with nature.

Listening to waves and seeing the ocean while practicing

"Because of our hotel's location in the midst of unspoiled nature with a view of the vast ocean, a deeper level of awareness comes naturally. Ideal for daily yoga practice and building a routine to take home. From the rooftop terrace of the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, Tenerife, you can see the Atlantic Ocean. Here, as well as in the new yoga room in the Center of Healthy Motion, daily yoga sessions are offered to all guests (at an additional charge unless a program or spa treatment is booked). Included is an "Awakening by the Sea" each morning. It's a sporty and active way to start the day. For a deeper immersion, private lessons are also available.

Paradise Garden for your Flow

The yoga room at Casa León Royal Retreat in Gran Canaria opens completely onto the garden. The large windows allow warm air and the scent of native plants to flow in, enveloping the students and carrying them through the flow. In addition to yoga classes with an experienced instructor, guests can also book Pilates and meditation classes. Afterward, enjoy breakfast in the garden overlooking the distant sea.

Yoga on the Beach in Sicily

At the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, guests will experience the sensation of well-being. Located on the edge of the Torre Salsa nature reserve, the nearly untouched beaches and rugged landscape are the perfect backdrop for a few days of complete relaxation. The luxury spa hotel offers daily yoga sessions, and twice a week, trainers take guests on a sunset session.

The hotel was built with sustainability in mind. For example, the buildings were designed to blend into the landscape. In between are vegetable gardens, which shall provide much of the food for the kitchen in the future. A place made for a personal yoga retreat.

Yoga on vacation as a (new) beginning

On vacation, when the routines of everyday life are left behind, you have the time and space to create new routines. A yoga retreat or taking regular yoga classes while on vacation can be the foundation for a change in your daily life. Not only in terms of physical activity, but also in terms of your own (sustainable) lifestyle. And what better place to start than in a sustainable hotel?

The project: energetic and spiritual places on the Ritten.

"In recent years, we have intensively studied the special nature that surrounds us. And we did this from different perspectives", Manuela and Klaus Pichler describe their approach. They were surprised that so little attention had been paid to the Celtic settlements on the Ritten. Through their collaboration with spa consultant Dagmar Rizzato and her husband, geomancer Bernd Traber, they also learned to perceive nature in a completely new and exciting way.

Geomancy is the holistic recording of the energetic identity of a place with the help of a grid system. Within this grid structure one can experience vibrational energy measured in Bovis Units (BE). A place of power with 10,000 BE is well above the average of 6,500 BE.

Bernd Traber, who helped the Pichlers identify and evaluate the energetic sites, is not only a geomancer but also a civil engineer. An interview with him about the discrepancy between geomancy and engineering is also included in the booklet.

An invitation to the guests

The booklet should encourage people to get involved with nature. Therefore, in addition to the information and historical background of the power places, there is always an appropriate meditation suggestion. Depending on the location, this can be opening, energizing or grounding. The Pichlers also recommend an appropriate spa treatment to complement the meditation upon returning to the hotel.

Environmental awareness in the hotel room

The love of nature is reflected not only in the new Energetic Places project, but throughout the entire hotel. For example, when renovating the Windspiel rooms (the Roarer Windspiel is also one of the Energetic Places featured in the booklet), the owner family made sure to follow the Cradle to Cradle® principle. The all-wood furniture was refinished, the upholstery was reupholstered, and the hardware was reclaimed. The mattresses are also recyclable and made from recycled materials as well as wool from the Vilnöss spectacled sheep. Climate neutrality, recyclability, decarbonization and high social standards were the focus for all raw materials and products.

For more information about Hotel Weihrerhof and its green initiatives, please visit the hotel's Green Pearls® page or contact us at: press@greenpearls.com

Click here for the publication.

Recreation for all Senses

Wellness, a state of well-being and contentment, begins right outside the doors of the spa area at the STURM. The entire hotel is designed to create places and spaces for its guests to arrive and feel good. Here, wellness is more than massages and sauna sessions. Instead, the STURM takes a holistic approach that also includes a healthy diet (with organic products, of course), physical activity, mental health and environmental consciousness.

Wellness for the Eyes

When you reach the STURM, one thing immediately catches your eye: the large wooden screens that connect the surrounding nature with the existing building from the 1970s. In close cooperation between the owner couple Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff and the architect Matthias Loebermann, the multi-story main house and its outbuildings have been transformed into a stylish hideaway that links the past with the present and the future.

Inside, the theme continues: minimalist, calm design, sustainable materials and loving details make the STURM a feast for the eyes, not only for design lovers.

Around the hotel, an extensive nature park invites guests to wander. In the middle of it all: the natural pond, which is used not only in summer, but also (by the very brave) in winter for swimming, and the snack garden, which supplies the restaurant kitchen as well as being available to guests.  

Wellness for the Environment

In addition to its importance as a recreational oasis for guests, the park is also a paradise for local wildlife. In summer, it chirps, croaks, hums and buzzes with activity. Nature conservation can be experienced - and felt.

Although the effect is not immediately apparent, it is nevertheless part of the STURM's holistic wellness philosophy: the hotel is climate-neutral thanks to the reduction of its own carbon footprint and the offsetting of unavoidable emissions in the form of genuine, sustainable projects. In particular, the Garden View Rooms, built last year, are the epitome of relaxation without a guilty conscience. Energy-efficient measures were already taken into account during construction, and the light-filled double rooms are equipped according to the latest standards. They also have their own terrace with a view of the natural pond, and ensure external and internal peace with their minimalist charm.

Wellness for the Body

Whether active relaxation during an extended hike or bike tour in the beautiful Rhön or simply switching off and enjoying a spa day in the RHÖN SPA - the STURM team does not just focus on one area when it comes to physical recreation either. The body is considered as a whole, including in the range of massages on offer with Shiatsu, holistic energetic massages, GEM for short, and therapeutic applications.

Furthermore, a visit to the sauna area, or a massage after exercising in nature is just as soothing and offers space to process what has been seen and experienced during the day.

While the focus in the RHÖN SPA is directed inward, there is room for conversation with fellow travellers at the evening meal in Otto|s and, thanks to the open kitchen concept, also with the team of chefs. They conjure up delicacies from 100 % organic food, most of which comes from the region or their own garden, in front of the guests. Vegan and vegetarian specialties are always included. Carefully and lovingly prepared, the dishes will not only make slow food lovers smile. Even at breakfast and on the daily menu, you will find only organic products that invite you to enjoy them consciously.

Wellness for the Soul

Located in the heart of Germany, yet hidden away, surrounded by a natural and cultural landscape that inspires visitors to gaze into the distance, and equipped with the space needed to reconnect with oneself. "Perfectly suited for immersion," summarizes the STURM team.

Here, not only physical relaxation is provided, but also mental and spiritual rest and recovery. Far away from large metropolises and surrounded by the friendly atmosphere the guests can let themselves drift off and find peace.

As great theatre and art lovers, Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff created the event series "CHILL & ..." for their guests. Music, readings and entertainment as well as selected art throughout the hotel provide the basis for deep conversations and round off the STURM experience.

„Wir erholen Sie.“ – More than a Slogan

What do guests need for a relaxing getaway? Good food? Nature and scenery? Time and space to relax not only the body but also the soul? At the STURM guests will find all of the above. And more. After all, the whole is more than the sum of its parts and "Wir erholen Sie." is more than an advertising slogan. It is the promise that the STURM team makes to each and every guest. A promise that guests can experience with all of their senses.

Unique accommodation in the Parisian city center

All three hotels are located in the 7th district of Paris, a lively neighborhood full of cafes, restaurants and boutiques. The Eiffel Tower, the banks of the Seine, the Champs-Élysées, the Orsay Museum, the Invalides Cathedral, the Grand Palais and other attractions are all within walking distance, making the new Green PearlsⓇ partners the perfect base for a city break.

Prices are moderate. All rooms have orthopedic mattresses. These are not only very comfortable, but also electrically neutral - part of the alternative hotel concept.

Art & alternative technologies

One of the special features of the Green Spirit hotels Le Pavillon, Marlar and Amélie is that the rooms are protected from electro-smog by Weber biotechnology. In addition, vitalized water flows from all taps and the air in the rooms is specially filtered.

Each room is individually designed and the small city hotels are full of creative surprises. For example, Hotel Malar has a small courtyard and Le Pavillon has a terrace where guests can have breakfast - with regional organic specialties and fair trade products.

For more information on the hotels and their green initiatives, visit their dedicated microsites at www.greenpearls.com

What do climate-neutral and climate-positive mean?

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

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

Reduction is the Key

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

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

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

How to become climate-neutral?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Routes for Food

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

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

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

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

CO₂ Compensation: Yes or No?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Find the blog article here.