Sustainable Winter activities
Wow, it was cold this morning! Instead of my thin summer jacket, which I have become so fond of, I was forever thankful that I brought my giant scarf to wrap around me. (Brace yourself, winter is coming!) The cold temperatures actually made my freezing thoughts wander – what am I going to do during the upcoming winter season? I really like winter holidays – especially active winter sports, soothing walks through the whitepowedered winter wonder land, letting the day end wrapped up warmly in front of the fireplace. I can’t wait!
Many could not imagine a winter vacation without skiing. And although I also like skiing a lot, I have always wondered if there isn’t another exciting, and more sustainable alternative to become active and have fun in winter? Three examples of wonderful, sustainable winter activities in three different destinations prove: yes, there is!
Snowshoe hiking at the Tauern mountains
Being located at the ski area of Großglockner, the Austrian Hotel Outside offers the best conditions for a diverse winter holiday. Snow security, a variety of slopes and magnificent views attract old and young to the region. But it does not always have to be the skiing slope – instead, an eco-friendly nature experience is a snowshoe hike through the snow-covered winter wonderland.
Smooth exercise in incredible silence, combined with a fantastic views over the majestic scenery of the Nationalpark Hohe Tauern – this is what makes hiking with snowshoe so attractive. Thereby you will sense nature even more intensely. On guided snowshoe hikes, mountain guides will take you to the most beautiful spots in the region. So come on, lets go OUTSIDE!
After an active day in the open air, you will be happy to warm up at the Zirbenstubensauna at Hotel Outside. Do not miss out on a Nature Spa treatment at the hotel, with the self-produced organic care products. After a delicious meal at the restaurant with a focus on regional cuisine, you can relax at your luxurious room made from natural materials. The beds are equipped with pine cushions that promise a restful sleep.
Ski touring at Berchtesgaden
Berghotel Rehlegg at Berchtesgadener Land delights with a diversity of possible activities all year round. Trails for beautiful winter hikes start directly at the doorstep. Who wouldn’t like to completely give up skiing could try ski touring.
Have you heard of ski touring before? There are no lifts or cable cars necessary, as the clou is: You hike the mountain with own muscle strength on skis. The valley trip is usually done off-piste. Beneficial activity, fresh mountain air and a view over the breathtaking landscape make ski touring a special experience. Ski touring is popular, as it is said to be sustainable and eco-friendly. Many touring options in the region wait to be discovered.
At the climate neutral Berghotel Rehlegg, you will experience pleasant sustainable relaxation after an active day in the mountains. Enjoy a soothing spa treatment with regional herbs or let yourself get spoilt with traditional culinary delights made from local products and meat from species-appropriate keeping. All round, a special experience!
Genießen Sie doch eine beruhigende Spa Anwendung, mit regionalen Kräutern in der Hauptrolle. Kulinarisch werden Sie mit lokalen Produkten, Fleisch aus artgerechter Haltung und traditionellen Gerichten verwöhnt. Ein rundum besonderes Erlebnis!
Horse sleigh ride at Southern Tyrol
An especially romantic winter experience is offered at Leitlhof at the Dolomites. Discover the snow-covered nature from the Hochpustertal all the way to Toblacher Lake during a ride with a horse sleigh. Whether alone, in twos, or with the whole family – wrapped in warm blankets, the horse sleigh ride is a special experience. When the temperatures are really cold, don’t forget your ice skates, because then the frozen up Toblacher Lake invites you to try some skating.
Back from an eventful day, you can relax and enjoy the cozy atmosphere at the sustainable Leitlhof. The energy self-sufficient and climate neutral hotel with a regional focus was recently awarded as Europe’s Leading Green Resort 2016. Special moments of well-being for body and soul are to be experienced in abundance.
Have you found your favorite? Then bring on winter!
