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Most locations are not booked up for years like they are in summer. What's more, they are usually more affordable, so you can have a low-budget wedding without sacrificing the location. Wedding planners have more time than in summer when they sometimes have to cater for two or three weddings in one weekend. The same goes for florists, bakers, caterers, and so on. Planning can also be considerably faster this way. Spontaneous wedding in winter? No problem! 

Winter Wedding Tips

There are exceptions here, of course, locations in popular winter sports resorts - these are very much in demand, especially during the colder months of the year, and should be booked well in advance. The Christmas season also tends to be somewhat unfavourable for a wedding. Christmas parties, children's performances and the like quickly collide with the big day. 

Another thing wedding couples should consider in winter is the weather. Naturally, one wishes for a dream in white and a winter wonderland, but in many places, this no longer exists. Here, it's a case of getting creative, having rubber boots and umbrellas ready for the guests, and communicating the schedule in advance. This allows everyone to be prepared for a day that could be cold and wet and possibly bring a change of clothes. 

As with other sustainable weddings, it is of course important to ensure that the decorations for a winter wedding are sustainable and environmentally friendly. Green hotels in particular are happy to support the bride and groom in this regard. Our Green Pearls® partners, for example, offer beautiful retreats with sustainable furniture, loving and seasonal decoration, and lots of lights, so that this very special day becomes unforgettable. Often with, but of course also without snow.

A Sustainable Winter Wedding – Our Favourite Venues

Hotel Das Rübezahl in Allgäu: With a view of Neuschwanstein Castle

"Weddings are completely personalized and are not part of a standard package," says the team of the Hotel Das Rübezahl. Elopements, weddings for just the two of you, are particularly popular in both summer and winter. These can take place in the hotel or in the middle of nature with a view of the castle. A platform at an altitude of 1320 meters is available for this purpose, providing a dreamlike backdrop for the wedding ceremony. 

For larger celebrations, the rustic Rohrkopfhütte is available. Up to 60 people can party, dine and celebrate the bride and groom. You can also celebrate in the hotel. But then only in a small group, in keeping with the elopement theme ;)

Nevertheless, there is a "Say Yes" package. In the pavilion with a view of the castle, couples can say "I do" (again) under an arch full of flowers or use the location for a very special marriage proposal. 

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu: Wedding under a 2,000-year-old tree

Even though you can get married at the HUBERTUS all year round, a wedding in wintry Balderschwang has its very own charm. Even in this day and age, the small town is relatively blessed with snow, so there's almost nothing to get in the way of a glittering fairy-tale atmosphere.

From the balcony of the 'WeitBlick' couples can really enjoy the snowy landscape. The bride and groom and their guests can see as far as the Swiss Alps. The spacious room is furnished with plenty of wood and radiates the rustic warmth that is perfect for a winter wedding in a small group. 

A unique location for the wedding ceremony is the 2,000-year-old Old Yew Tree in Balderschwang. A very special atmosphere arises during the wedding ceremony in the presence of one of the oldest trees in Germany. 

Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe: Eco Wedding in Winter

Fairy lights, fire pits, and lanterns – the atmosphere at a winter wedding at Hotel Okelmann's is truly magical. With up to 80 guests, you can celebrate here in private and enjoy the time. As a trained wedding planner, Kristin Okelmann assists the bride and groom right from the planning stage and contributes her expertise and ideas for a wintery, sustainable and mindful wedding. 
 

Sustainable wedding in the Black Forest

Bad Herrenalb is an extraordinary place and offers wedding couples just the right ambiance and energy for celebrating their union. The home of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is not only a recognized climatic health resort but also a place of power that invites you to a deep connection with nature. Perfect, therefore, for a romantic winter wedding. 

In the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, the bride and groom are guided through the planning process and can choose from a variety of packages. One of them being the Green Wedding Package, with which the wedding is completely climate-neutral.

Want to read more? 

The options for getting married in winter are many, but of course it is not for everyone. Nevertheless, to avoid the peak season for weddings in summer, wedding arrangements can be booked in sustainable hotels in the Seychelles or Thailand. Afterward, you won't even have to travel a long way to begin enjoying your honeymoon.

For more on green weddings and sustainable honeymoons, check out our blog and Pinterest:

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(Roof) terraces in winter – Green Pearls® partners reveal sustainable ways to do it

Breathing in the cold, clear winter air, with a hot mulled wine or tea in hand. But in the long run it becomes cold even with the thickest jacket. But why crawl indoors? And let the cozy roof terraces snow in and lie fallow over winter? Not with the Green Pearls® partners.

Read the blog

Sustainable skiing holiday tips

Glistening snow, long walks in icy air, winter silence, the sight of snow-covered mountains, the anticipation of the next descent on skis... But how does it all work sustainably in view of climate change and co.

Read the blog

15 Tips for Sustainable Travel in 2023 – From travelers, sustainability professionals and tourism experts

More and more people want to travel sustainably. That's why we asked our experts, the sustainable hotel professionals, for their tips and also contribute our own experiences.

Read the blog

Sustainable alternatives to skiing

For a successful winter vacation you don't necessarily need ski slopes. We present wonderful alternatives for your next winter vacation.

Read the blog

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The ten most sustainable vacation destinations were selected at the World Travel Market travel fair in London. At the top of the list: Norway and Costa Rica. (german only)

Read the article

Booking.com is one of the most popular booking platforms not only for hotels. Now the portal is introducing badges for sustainable accommodations. This will make it easier for customers to choose green options.

More informationen

Equality and empowerment for women. This is what UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili focuses on during his speech at the World Travel Market trade fair.

Read the report

Watch: Zac Efron's Netflix series promotes sustainable travel.

Read the review

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

Vegan and Plant-Based in South Tyrol and Trent

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

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

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

Weihrerhof – Half vegetarian and very natural

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

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

ADLER Lodge RITTEN – Daily vegetarian 5-course menu

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

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

Paradiso Pure.Living – The vegetarian Dolomites hotel 

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

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

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

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

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

Vegetarian travel options in Croatia

Maslina Resort – Mediterranean organic food on Croatia

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

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

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

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

Firmly integrated into the menu in the DACH region

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA – BBQ goes meatless!

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

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

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio – Holistic food in the Allgäu

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

Creativhotel Luise – A German city hotel with vegan options

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

Biohotel Sturm – Daily vegan offers

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

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

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

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

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

Naturhotel Outside – Vegan on request

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

CERVO Mountain Resort – Vegetarian luxury

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

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

Summer 2022 – A Brief Industry Summary

The hope seems to have been fulfilled. The number of overnight stays in Germany is now only slightly below those of 2019. The Federal Statistical Office reported around 49 million overnight stays for June alone. In the entire first half of the year, there were more than twice as many as in the year before. The number of international trips also increased again.

But even though it seems that way, Corona is far from history. Uncertainties due to different measures and rules, as well as concerns about cancellations, still prevailed in the summer of 2022. In the tourism analysis of the Foundation for Future Studies, almost 90% of the respondents said that Corona influenced their travel decisions. Many booked at shorter notice and placed much more emphasis on cancellation options and flexibility.

On holiday, however, guests have become more carefree, relaxed and also more appreciative, the hoteliers of the Green Pearls® partners report unanimously. Especially when it comes to the beauty of nature and the added value of sustainable vacation opportunities.

The experience of how much nature in many places on this earth has breathed a sigh of relief and recovered due to the lack of tourists has certainly contributed to the fact that many people now want to travel more consciously and mindfully. The Green Pearls® partners, who have been pursuing sustainable and environmentally friendly strategies for many years, are pleased about the increasing popularity and the new appreciation of both new and returning guests.

The Summer After – The Green Pearls® Partners Reflect

Relaxed Guests and Relaxed Measures

"The guests appreciated the break even more," is the conclusion of the team of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb. As a recognised climatic health resort, the northern Black Forest location is ideal for taking a deep breath, whether after overcoming a lung disease or in a figurative sense.

For a relaxed coexistence, the sustainable wellness and health hotel has relied on relaxed measures such as voluntary mask-wearing, distance requirements and disinfection dispensers and also offered corona tests in the hotel. Many guests were unsure about the regulations and asked questions. But light-heartedness and gratitude prevailed.

At the Baltic Sea, the focus was also on relaxation and a carefree atmosphere. Arriving and unwinding - that's what most of the guests longed for, reports Marion Muller from the Lifestylehotel SAND on the beach in Timmendorfer Strand. To this end, the hotel clearly communicated its adapted hygiene concept in advance and tried to remove the uncertainty for the guests. Distance and rules were a natural part of the 2022 summer. But Corona was far from being the centre of attention any more. Instead, the team and guests worked together to make the "SANDige Auszeit" (SANDy Time Out) relaxing and enjoyable for everyone. The guests generally dealt with the topic in very different ways, but the conclusion of the SAND team was that all of them had been "simply wonderful".

The experiences of the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei in East Tyrol show that the behaviour of the guests towards and among each other has also changed. The season was characterised by very respectful interaction. The personal responsibility that the team around hotelier Daniel Ganzer relied on was well implemented. At the same time, however, it was noticeable how the guests had a renewed desire for and enjoyment of company, after it had been rather shunned in recent years, says Ganzer. Whether in the restaurant, in the relaxation rooms or in the hotel's large natural garden, happy and relaxed faces could be seen everywhere.

Carefree Holidays - Almost like the Old Days

Corona? The guests at the Hotel Bella Vista in the Swiss town of Zermatt seemed to have almost forgotten all about it. Of course, the disinfectant dispensers are still part of the basic facilities. But it was nice to be closer to the guests again, without the insecurities and fear, describes hotel manager Fabienne Anthamatten.

Corona was no longer a big issue in the Allgäu Hotel Das Rübezahl either. There were a few anxious guests, but most of them enjoyed their holidays without any worries or concerns. The team also noted that there were more international tourists again in the popular region around Füssen, who visited Neuschwanstein Castle opposite the hotel and the other royal castles in the area. Tourism was already very similar to pre-Corona times.

On Korcula, at the Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club, the summer was also reminiscent of the time before the pandemic. The guests were relaxed and hardly spent any energy worrying about Corona, Tanja Duračković says. To support this, the Dreamer's Club continues to follow the appropriate rules, provides disinfectants and thoroughly disinfects surfaces and rooms. This allowed the guests to enjoy the summer on the Croatian coast without fear.

Vacations on the Doorstep are More Appreciated

Even though international travel has increased again, Marco Arnold, owner of the LENI MOUNTAIN Apartments & Chalet, notes a clear trend towards "holidays on your own doorstep". Many guests have turned their backs on the sweltering cities and destinations in the south and prefer the cool nights and fresh mountain air far above sea level. The pandemic itself was no longer an issue for summer guests at LENI MOUNTAIN. The holiday appartments and the luxurious chalet in Sölden also offer sufficient privacy and the opportunity for more anxious guests to keep their distance, while enjoying amenities such as an in-house café or the bakery service.

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in the Allgäu, the trend of increasingly taking holidays at home or nearby is also confirmed. Many guests have returned to Balderschwang, despite the fact that travelling abroad is becoming easier, says Marc Traubel. The hygiene concept has been retained in the hotel, but masks are no longer compulsory. Of course, guests and staff may wear them if they feel safer. In the summer of 2022, the HUBERTUS team noticed that the younger generations in particular appreciated the sustainable wellness hotel and its HolisticLife concept. Awareness of mindfulness and self-care had increased significantly among the guests during the Corona pandemic, the team reports. Especially the modern and generously designed Mountain Spring Spa as well as the Ayurveda and Yoga offers were well received by the guests.

The rethinking of the Corona pandemic confirms the sustainable path that the Green Pearls® partners have been following for years. Finding a balance between economic use and protection of nature through long-term and future-oriented planning is not only good for the environment, cultural preservation and the people in the region, but also the right way to deal with crises. The consistently positive booking figures and the increasing demand prove the hoteliers right during this (almost) normal summer.

True natural luxury in harmony with the surroundings is the focus of the latest addition to the ADLER family. The resort was developed in close cooperation with the local community as well as the WWF and the previous owners of the property. The result is a resort that blends seamlessly into the landscape.

The gentle architecture is enhanced by herb beds and olive groves, from which some of the food for the kitchen is obtained. The farm-to-table concept is lived here right before the guests' eyes. The Mediterranean Sea is equally omnipresent. Directly from the hotel, guests have access to the wide, almost deserted beaches of Sicily's south coast.

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is the second hotel of the ADLER Group, after the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, to become part of the Green Pearls® partner network. More information about Green Pearls® as well as the hotels can be found on the respective microsites at www.greenpearls.com. 

In Harmony with Nature

The Ritten offers unique and varied landscapes and vistas. Curved chains of hills dominate the picture. Along one such chain of hills, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN nestles into the landscape with its twenty chalets, the main house and the two annexes with the suites.

The ADLER group of companies, to which the Ritten luxury hotel belongs, attaches great importance to protecting and preserving the nature around its hotels, even during construction. The buildings should not disturb the natural landscape, but rather integrate into it. During the construction of the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, the location of the individual buildings was adapted to the natural conditions accordingly, and the location of the terraces and the forest sauna was also planned in such a way that no tree had to be felled.

By the way: In addition to the hotels, the Tenuta Sanoner vineyard in Tuscany also belongs to the ADLER family, whose wine is also available at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN. Organic farming has been practised there from the very beginning, and for three years now the estate has also been run biodynamically. This means, for example, that the cultivation is based on the biodynamic calendar, which is used to plan the right times for sowing, pruning, etc. The vineyards are also cultivated according to the biodynamic calendar.

Architecture between Worlds 

The connection between nature and the guest, the outside and the inside is deeply anchored in the philosophy of ADLER Lodge RITTEN. It is also reflected again and again in the architecture: large glass frontages in the chalets and the main building create a connection to the outside. The glass façade elements in the spa area also reveal the expansive view of the Dolomites.

The modern design continues inside and is complemented by loving details and cosy retreats. Throughout the lodge, guests are welcomed by understated, decorative patterns that the Sanoner family brought back from their formative trip to Namibia. The design thus connects not only the outside and the inside, but also the owner family with the guests and different places in the world.

The architecture of the chalets is the work of architect Hugo Demetz, who, as with the design of the ADLER Lodge ALPE on the Alpe di Siusi, was inspired by traditional South Tyrolean design. Guests are always delighted with the modern, light interpretation and the inspiring atmosphere.

5 Stars on the Ritten

ADLER Lodge RITTEN is a luxurious retreat in the 5-star category. The rooms all feature high-quality furnishings, some with their own sauna. Local materials such as spruce wood from the region and environmentally friendly installations complement each other to create a high-quality and sustainable overall picture. A friendly, well-coordinated team accompanies guests through their holiday. Warmth and hospitality are integral values and their sincerity is palpable.

Everywhere in the lodge there are oases of peace and retreats that offer privacy and invite you to spend some cosy hours. In addition to the spa area, the spacious lounge area should be mentioned here, whose window front offers a spectacular panoramic view of the rugged peaks of the Dolomites.

The panorama restaurant on the floor above also lets guests marvel at the distant surroundings. When it comes to the food, however, the kitchen team led by head chef Hannes Pignater stays as close as possible. Many of the products now come from their own cultivation. For example, various fruit trees and herbs grow on the lodge's terraces. This year, a large vegetable garden was also planted, in which wheat and maize thrive alongside numerous types of vegetables.

What does not come from the lodge's own garden is mostly sourced from partners in the region. ADLER Lodge RITTEN identifies these partners with their own seal on the menu cards as "ADLER Regional Partner". Guests can thus be sure that their dinner comes almost from the immediate neighbourhood.

Pure Relaxation

Feeling completely at ease and having the freedom to do what you want at any given moment is also what the hotel's special spa area stands for. In addition to the dreamlike outdoor infinity pool with mountain views, the forest spa is the main attraction for guests. Here, guests sauna amidst the ancient trees while breathing in the tranquillity and the fragrant air of the forest. A different kind of forest bathing.

Three Questions for Carlotta from ADLER Lodge RITTEN

Which three words would you associate with ADLER Lodge RITTEN and why?

Hideaway, close to nature, exclusive.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is a unique hideaway in the heart of untouched nature in the forests of the Ritten plateau. It stands out as the ideal holiday destination for all those who long for casual luxury, freedom and invigorating effortlessness, or a sustainable time-out.

Which (sustainable) initiatives of the lodge do you find particularly exciting?

In the spring of 2022, ADLER Lodge RITTEN started its own farm garden on an area of around 4,000 m2. Just a few steps away from the main building, there are small fields and herb gardens. 

The innovative young farmers Christian and Johanna are in charge of this new challenge. The young couple has been cultivating the Viehweiderhof, which directly adjoins the lodge's property, for some time.

However, the garden is not only a source of supply, but also a small oasis of relaxation for our guests. Our guests can thus also enjoy the benefits of our lodge all-inclusive arrangement surrounded by nature.

What makes ADLER Lodge RITTEN special for you as a whole?

Its construction allows a feeling of deep connection with the surrounding nature, where the black wood of the private chalets and the high glass facades of the main building make the boundaries of inside and outside disappear.

The forest spa, which is part of the landscape - is without doubt one of the key highlights of the lodge, which makes a wellness holiday with us so special.

Experience the Magic

The main focus of ADLER Spa Resorts is on special places and experiences always in harmony with nature. Tradition and innovation are equally important and harmonise down to the last detail at ADLER Lodge RITTEN. Nature is understood as a place of power and guests are invited to engage with this magic.

What is Alkaline Fasting?

Compared to therapeutic fasting, alkaline fasting is a milder form of fasting. Calorie counting and limiting food intake are completely avoided, so this type of fasting treatment is suitable for almost everyone, including people with chronic illnesses or cardiovascular problems.

Instead of abstaining, the focus is on the conscious selection of foods. This means that the diet consists mainly of fruit and vegetables, mushrooms, herbs, sprouts and oils. Acid-forming foods, such as caffeine, sugar and alcohol, and also cereals, are avoided. Since during an alkaline fasting cure one eats very mindfully, is very careful with their intake of food and usually cooks fresh and seasonally, a fasting treatment such as this is also an ideal introduction to a more sustainable diet. 

What is the Goal of Alkaline Fasting?

Alkaline fasting is intended to stimulate the body to detoxify and purify. This means that harmful substances such as harmful acids or metabolic waste products, which have accumulated through an unhealthy or excessively acid-forming diet, are eliminated. Alkaline baths and foot baths, liver compresses and exercise sessions are often recommended to accompany and support an alkaline fasting programme. This leads to a generally better sense of well-being, increased ability to concentrate and can also contribute to a healthier and younger appearance.

In addition, the interaction with food becomes more mindful and thus also more sustainable. This is because, in addition to the alkaline properties, the products should above all be of a high, preferably organic, quality.

Special Offers for Fasting Treatments in Sustainable Health Hotels with the Green Pearls® Label

Even though an alkaline fasting treatment can be carried out at home, the period of conscious nutrition and lifestyle can be significantly intensified and made more sustainable if it is spent in a specialised hotel under professional supervision. Experts put together the personalised diet plans and supplement them with exercise programmes and information sessions. Falling back into old behaviour patterns is very difficult and the exchange with like-minded people provides additional motivation.

Sustainable providers of fasting treatments in particular pay special attention to seasonal products, regional suppliers and organic quality. The following Green Pearls® partners have great expertise in designing and accompanying health retreats, including alkaline fasting. 

Alkaline Fasting and Fasting for the Soul at Naturresort Gerbehof

An alkaline fasting cure at the Gerbehof is not only a great opportunity to re-evaluate one's own lifestyle and eating habits, but also to say goodbye to everyday stress, anger and worries. The dreamlike nature and the adjacent forest invite you to take long, private walks where you can let go of your own (potentially toxic) thoughts.

In addition to foot baths and liver wraps, the programme of the fasting week also includes a bio-meditation session developed by Viktor Philippi and a forest meditation at the Gerbehof's own stone circle. From spring onwards, mediation walks will also be offered.

During the corona-related break, the Gerbehof team also came up with the idea of how they can support their guests even more thoroughly. A new app makes this possible.

The myDetox Fasting App

With the web-based myDetox app, the Gerbehof team offers guests a digital contact person even before the actual fasting treatment begins, thus ensuring a more relaxed start to the programme. With the targeted tips, guests can prepare for the treatment at home and alleviate typical fasting ailments such as headaches.

Even after the week, the team accompanies its guests gently into everyday life with recipes, shopping lists and exercise tips, and lays the foundation for a sustainable change in lifestyle habits.

A Week of Well-Being with Alkaline Fasting at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

Relaxed alkaline fasting: This is also possible at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb. In addition to daily alkaline food, which consists of at least 90% certified organic food and products, guests can expect all-round care. The programme includes daily fasting informative sessions, meditative readings, two introduction sessions in the Selfness Centre in courses such as yoga or sound meditation, as well as guided fasting hikes and black forest bathing. The alkaline fasting treatment provides a holistic reset, after which you can start the new year full of energy and motivation.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA also offers a classic fasting programme with expert supervision. The sustainable hotel relies on the principle of Dr. Buchinger. This means that guests drink only juices and vegetable soups for a week. They are supervised by a trained and certified fasting instructor throughout and can also attend lectures or enjoy the 1,000 square metre spa area.

Fasting with a Focus on the Liver at Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa

Not a classic alkaline fast, but nevertheless a benefit for the body is the liver fast according to Dr. Worm, which is offered at the sustainable wellness and health hotel Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa. The team of the hotel's own Artemacur Health Centre guides guests with medical advice through the fasting programme. Hotel owner Dr. Andreas Färber is a doctor himself and gives lectures on healthy nutrition, also as part of the fasting programme.

Participants in the liver fasting programme are cared for by a doctor from start to finish: from the first, comprehensive medical assessment to determine the current state of health, to success monitoring and individual training in a healthy lifestyle.

Liver fasting according to Dr. Worm aims to reduce non-alcoholic fatty liver, which is one of the most common hidden diseases in Germany. Complaints often show up late. During a liver fasting cure, a first foundation stone is laid to reduce a fatty liver. Other diseases of civilisation such as diabetes or high blood pressure can also be eased.

The Klosterhof recommends a 14-day stay to fully exploit the potential of liver fasting.

Fasting with sea view in the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife

With the F. X. Mayr Center, the sustainable health hotel OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel has specialized in a holistic fasting method that accompanies participants from initial diagnostic assessment to therapy and training. The individual wishes and requirements of the patients are addressed. Essential components are nutrition, which consists of easily digestible food and is adapted ona a case by case basis following the initial assessment, as well as a personalised gentle movement program, which can be supplemented at the guests’ own will by the offers of the hotel.

However, the medical supervision of a physician and regular discussions around the fasting treatment are the focus. This offers the possibility to adapt the treatments to new circumstances and sensitivities and to benefit holistically from the programme in the F. X. Mayr Center of the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel.

An alkaline fasting cure in one of the sustainable health hotels from the Green Pearls® partner network offers the opportunity to perform a real physical reset under professional, expert guidance. This creates the foundation for changing one's eating habits for the long term and making them more sustainable for the body and the planet.

Today: Marc Traubel from the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Balderschwang

On Milestones and Continous Change

We join Marc Traubel in his office in the hotel's former gym. Laughing, he tells us that he was moved here when they needed the space in the shared office for other purposes. Behind him, a hiking backpack hangs on a coat rack. "The view to the south is sensational," he says, pointing his camera out the window and at the mountain opposite. In winter, however, he can't see anything, he explains – there are four or five metres of snow on the pile of wood in front of the window!

Green Pearls®: Hello Marc, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions.

Marc Traubel: Yes, it would be my pleasure!

GP: How would you describe your hotel in the three words? 

Marc: We did a brand workshop a few years ago and the result was: powerful, clear, moving. Those were the three words we came up with after a long process. I can't say whether this process is still true today. I haven't thought about it for a long time. Powerful, clear, moving was already very good.

*He thinks for a moment*

• I'm going to say familiar. Familiar is something that fits us well.
• Individual. I hate standards.
• And unique in a certain way.

GP: How long have you been in the hotel business?

Marc: In the hotel business? I've been in the hotel business, or the hospitality business if you like, for over thirty years. If not even longer. When I was ten years old, I stood behind the bar for the first time, helped out in the cabin we had at that time. I started my apprenticeship about 25 years ago. And I have been in my parents' hotel for 12 years.

I was in various hotels, for example in Oberallgäu, where I did my apprenticeship, I was still allowed to join the German army at that time, I was in Lech for a winter season, I spent two years in the Black Forest, two years in Nuremberg. Then two years in Heidelberg, because I studied business administration there, then two years in Dubai and now for 12 years back in my parents' business.

GP: And have you been interested in sustainability in hotels from the very beginning?

Marc: Mei, when one says that they have lived and worked in Dubai ... You know how this city or this country works. You often have to close your eyes. What happens there, what resources are used here to try to bring in tourism once the oil resources have been used up ...

My father started very, very early to implement various technical possibilities in the property. And I'll put it bluntly: it was not to save electricity, but I would say that the predecessor of sustainability was simply saving money, being thrifty. In the past, people simply tried to conserve energy because it cost them money. Rooms were only heated as long as they were needed. Ventilation was all but switched off. There are many such details that used to be implemented from a different perspective. I know this from many, many hotels, where it was simply a question of money. And now the whole concept is presented as sustainable. But I think many hoteliers have been working on this for a long time and are looking at how they can work efficiently. Now it's about saving resources, in the past it was about saving money.

Sustainability is reflection

GP: Was there a key moment for you when the decision was made to turn the HUBERTUS into a sustainable hotel? 

Marc: It happened gradually and over many stages. I mean, we have had a pellet heating system for twelve years, but at the same time we still had an oil heating system for ten years. We decided to do away with it two years ago. But that was a decision that had nothing to do with sustainability. The heating was good and what would have been the advantage of tearing it out? It was a fail-safe, we needed it five times a year. 

I'll be honest, Greta Thunberg simply made a lot of people think with her ideas. And us, too: Do we need this, do we need that, do we tear that out? There was never a clear-cut moment, never a big bang. Often there were simply realizations.

We live in the middle of the mountain world. Nature determines our lives, shapes our lives. And it always has. Of course, this plays a role in certain decisions. Especially now after the avalanche, nature, in both a positive and negative sense, is even more present in our minds. We have literally learned that you have to respect it. And then, of course, we incorporated that into the new construction of the Mountain Spring Spa. If not now, when?

But also in the culinary field, we have long focused on regionality. For example with our meat. The pigs, the calves and cattle. I don't know if that's part of it, but for me it certainly is. We have many, many of our own pigs that have been down by the stream for many years. So we simply show the guests the rhythm of life. The pigs are down there now, they are fed over the summer, they have a good life and then at some point they end up on our barbecue.

Whether you call it environmental education, sustainability or I don't know what, but a change in mind has taken place very smoothly.

Mile Stones, Avalanches and History

GP: Could you briefly describe your evolution in three or four milestones?

Marc: Briefly in terms of history: The building we are sitting in right now, the original building, will be a hundred years old next year. And my grandparents bought it 71 years ago. Why my grandparents came here back then is not really known. But something must have kept them in this place. 

Perhaps that year alone, 1951, on the first of August, that step into independence in Balderschwang is a big milestone.

What is a second milestone or a special moment is when my grandfather died quite suddenly in 1980. My uncle and my father came back, leased the business from my grandmother and shortly afterwards realised that all three in one place was one too many. So we leased a second business as well.

Maybe that was the transition: the death of grandpa and passing on to the next generation, because they had to and because they had to fight. That was a second big step in the development of this hotel.

A third major milestone came about 22 years later when the topic of wellness popped up. The Traubel lads, as they were called, simply dared to enter the wellness hotel business. My mother trained as a pharmacist and naturopath, so we brought things like wellness, Ayurveda and yoga into the hotel. In a time twenty years ago when some hotels had saunas the size of telephone booths!

A very, very drastic event, which was not planned, however, was the avalanche that hit us on January 19, 2019 and destroyed our spa from which we have always said it is our core. And which we then completely rebuilt again.

It does not take much to become a sustainable hotelier

GP: What do you think it takes to be a sustainable hotelier? Or to put it another way: How does one become a sustainable hotelier?

Marc: Common sense. That's the be-all and end-all. Sustainability in the hotel industry stands, I would say, on two major pillars. Firstly, the food: where does it come from, how are the animals kept? That's very, very important. It just can't be that a kilo of pork fillet costs 5 euros. That's not possible, that can only be sh*t. Sorry for the honesty.  

We have switched to organic for most of the food and we also have very, very many local suppliers of pork, beef and chicken. If you just try to avoid the big suppliers, including big cash-and-carry markets, every now and then, and buy directly from the producer, it's not that much more expensive. Sometimes it’s a hassle to process stuff like that. But it just doesn't cost that much more.

And second is the matter of generating energy, generating energy and making sense of it all. It's not enough to say: Okay, I'll put two liquid gas CHP units here and add two peak load pellet boilers. I'm a big technology freak who is always trying things out in order to increase the efficiency of the systems as much as possible. So, you need somewhat of a technical fascination with it as well.

GP: Putting it into perspective: What would a successor need to bring? What would you wish?

Marc: Well, first of all I hope that my successor will not come for many decades. What will change by then, I can't say yet. It's really difficult. They should be friendly and bring common sense, logical thinking. They can learn the rest. But a personal, positive attitude and logical common sense – that simply has to be brought with them.

GP: What do you wish for the future?

Marc: So, in a way, we all have to rethink. A hotel of our size, no matter how it is heated, is a luxury property. You don't need a pool. You don't need four saunas. You don't need a hotel room heated to 30 degrees. This is a luxury item. And we hoteliers have an educational responsibility and have to try to pass this on to our guests somehow with common sense. That's something that's also close to my heart.

There are always bad days, but there are always good days. I got a letter from a woman at the very beginning of the pandemic. She sent me the story of a king and an adviser. The counselor said: "Man, dear king, I'll give you a note. You hide it somewhere. If you're feeling really down, you pull out the paper and read what's on it. And even if you're doing really, really well, you take out the same piece of paper and read what's on it." And it said: “This too shall pass.”

So, when you're feeling really sh*tty, when you're heartbroken, when an avalanche hits you... That too will pass. And when you ride the wave of your success, like last year, when we had the best summer in our history, we made sales and worked like anything else... That, too, will pass.

And I can't change the past anymore. So, I stop thinking about it and look ahead and into the now. What can I change now?

It keeps going, the earth will keep turning. Don't always dwell on the past. There are memories that are good or bad. But I don't need to get upset about it anymore because it's over.

GP: I thank you for your time and the beautiful closing words.

About the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

Located in the smallest town in Germany, surrounded by the mountains of the Allgäu Alps and characterized by the architecture of a unique building: the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu has a lot to offer. The heart of the hotel is the Mountain Spring Spa, which was recent re-built following an avalanche disaster. The striking architecture of the building, which is framed by several bodies of water, invites you to relax and just feel good. And the holistic life concept of the hotel includes more than just wellness: guests can look forward to cosy rooms, culinary delights and exciting active offers.

Pioneers of sustainability at Green Pearls®

Under this title, various hoteliers and hosts will have their say in the near future, sharing their thoughts on sustainability and reporting on their careers. The interview series is ongoing and will be published every five to six weeks. Look forward to the third part of the series, coming in early 2023.

Read the first part of the series with Marion Muller from Lifestylehotel SAND here.

Preserving historic buildings and protecting surviving structures offers residents and travellers the opportunity to reach shops on foot. City centres remain less (mostly) congested or even car-free, which helps to prevent CO2 emissions from increasing further. But that's not all: old buildings, provided they are well maintained, are considered particularly sturdy. After all, they have already survived several centuries. In addition, demolition and new construction mean many times more harmful emissions.

Preserving medieval buildings therefore conserves resources in the long term and also contributes to the local community's sense of belonging. Apart from that, the historic old towns preserve a large piece of history and culture, as well as the old construction and architectural knowledge of those times.

In this newsletter, we present seven old towns worth seeing that can be perfectly combined with a sustainable stay in one of the Green Pearls® hotels.

To Bolzano by Cable Car

The old town in Bolzano, South Tyrol's capital, is well worth a visit. For guests of the Hotel Weihrerhof, the APIPURA hotel rinner and the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, Bolzano is easy to reach by cable car, and with the RittenCard even free of charge. With its traditional and modern shop windows, the town at the gateway to the Dolomites surprises and invites you to take an extended stroll. 

In the centre is the fruit market, which Goethe also visited with enthusiasm on his trip to Italy in 1786. Bolzano's cultural offerings are also impressive. There is a large selection of museums and theatres. The Talfer meadows in the centre of Bolzano are a "green oasis" and a popular meeting place for young and old. They begin not far from the western end of the pedestrian zone. Those who want to explore Bolzano a little further off the beaten track can follow the insider tip of the Hotel Weihrerhof and visit the Runkelstein Castle with its unique frescoes.

Füssen - Royal Castles from a Fairy Tale

Not far from Hotel Das Rübezahl lies the romantic old town of Füssen, Bavaria's highest town. With its more than 2000 years of history, it invites its visitors to wander through the medieval alleys, admire historic and lovingly restored buildings and visit the old city wall. But above all, Füssen is famous for its royal castles. 

The three castles Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau and the Hohe Schloss (Schloss is German for castle) in the old town look like something straight out of a fairy tale. The Benedictine monastery of St. Mang is also well worth a visit. Neuschwanstein Castle, by the way, can be easily enjoyed from the hotel's outdoor pool. Some of the rooms also have a view of the castle. And an overnight stay in the redesigned romantic suites creates a real fairy tale atmosphere. 

Picturesque Old Town Baden-Baden Around the Collegiate Church

Some places are simply magical. This is also true of the picturesque old town in Baden-Baden, which frames the Collegiate Church with its winding alleyways. Small boutiques, goldsmiths, antique dealers and wine producers line up here. As you stroll along the centuries-old cobblestones, splashing fountains and romantic staircases around every corner tempt you to take a short break. If you haven't had enough of medieval history yet, you should visit the 12th-century monastery of the Cistercian Order nearby.

The starting point for excursions into the past, but also into the nature around Baden-Baden and the town of Bad Herrenalb, which is also worth seeing, is the sustainable Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. From here you can also start hiking tours on the most beautiful German hiking trail the Panoramaweg, visit the Alt Schloss zum Hohenbaden or spend a few hours in the Frieder Burda Museum. Afterwards, relaxing in the spacious spa area or over a gourmet dinner feels even more well deserved.

The Hanseatic City of Lübeck – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Lübeck was founded as the first port city on the Baltic Sea as early as 1143. The old city centre is surrounded by water and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. A stroll across the old town island reveals past architectural monuments from more than eight centuries ago - it is like a journey back in time. The image of the port city is characterised by the variety of protected buildings, the brick architecture, the town houses, the collegiate courtyards and the churches. 

Culturally, Lübeck has a wide range of museums, theatres and events to offer. To immerse yourself in the city's exciting history, the team at Lifestylehotel SAND recommends the Hansemuseum. The hotel is located just 25 minutes out of town in the popular holiday paradise of Timmendorfer Strand. The "Adults only" hotel is conveniently close to the sea, so extended walks along the beach start almost directly in front of the door. In the evening, you can enjoy the relaxed Nordic flair on the roof terrace.

View Over the Old Town Erlangen From the Tower of the Huguenot Church

Erlangen is considered the smallest large city in Bavaria. The foundation stone of the historic city centre also formed the basis for the construction of the Huguenot Church in 1686. The Creativhotel Luise insider tip is that the church's tower offers the best view over Erlangen. The sustainable hotel actively promotes a green Erlangen. But it does not stop at environmental protection. Only recently, hotel manager Ben Förster opened Marga's Lädele, a 24-hour food vending machine that fills a gap in the supply of its own neighbourhood. 

The Creativhotel Luise also recommends a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, where there are many small restaurants and unique shops, for example the paper shop in Wasserturmstraße, which many customers call the "most beautiful shop in Erlangen". Other recommendations from the hotel are the castle garden and the botanical garden, both within easy walking distance.

Korcula – In the Footsteps of Marco Polo

The small Croatian town of Korcula is often called "little Dubrovnik". This nickname is no coincidence. The medieval walled old town has the same Venetian-style buildings with typical red roofs as Dubrovnik. In the city centre stands St Mark's Cathedral, an impressive Gothic and Renaissance church. During a visit to the town museum, visitors can learn more about the history of Korcula, for example about Marco Polo. 

Some say that the famous traveller from the 13th century was actually born here. Korcula can be reached from the Eco Aparthotel The Dreamers Club in a few minutes by bicycle. The bicycles are available to hotel guests free of charge. If you get hungry after a long stroll through the city, follow the hotel's recommendation and stop at the Aterina restaurant.

One of Europe’s Oldest Cities: Stari Grad

Stari Grad translates as "Old Town" and is actually one of the oldest in Europe. As the second largest Croatian town on the Adriatic, Stari Grad was founded as early as 384 BC. The narrow streets are lined with typical old stone houses.

In the town museum, visitors can discover more about the culture and history of the harbour town. Right next to the museum is Tvrdalj Castle, which once served as a defensive fortress and is also open to interested visitors. The plateau behind the town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, and in 2017 the 2400-year-old place was nominated for the "Best European Destination 2017" award. From Maslina Resort it is only a 6-minute drive to the "Old Town". After a long day on their feet, guests of the luxurious resort can relax in the Mediterranean Pharomatiq Spa.

More information about the sustainable hotels from which the picturesque old towns can be explored can be found at Green Pearls® and the hotel's respective websites.

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Whether you want to escape the stress, spend a truly tranquil Advent season, or have had enough of the sparkle and Christmas music, sometimes you just need distance and a change of scenery to really enjoy the holidays. Also or perhaps especially at Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Sustainable travel over the holidays

Winter season opening on the Alpe di Siusi

December means one thing above all at Paradiso Pure.Living in South Tyrol: the beginning of the winter season! From December 16, the doors of the vegetarian hotel are open again. What awaits you? The vastness of the Alpe di Siusi, the breathtaking sight of the rugged Dolomites, delicious, vegtarian meals, and the huge ski area right outside the hotel door. So the pre-Christmas period can be started actively. Alternatively, the Christmas stress can be perfectly forgotten here.

Arrival in the Christmas season

Not being at home for Christmas is out of the question? Then how about a few relaxing days in advance? At the Naturhotel Aufatmen you will experience exactly that. Have a leisurely breakfast in the morning after a round of yoga and then head out into nature and enjoy the snow-covered landscape. For skiing fans, the kilometers of cross-country ski trails in the Olympiaregion Seefeld open up countless possibilities for large and small rounds. Or explore the forests with snowshoes under your feet. In the evening there is then a vegan four-course menu conjured up by Justine and in a workshop you discover for yourself how easy it is to bake vegan Christmas cookies. After these days, the Christmas season can come.

Inner fire in cold temperatures

As in the fall, you can ignite your inner fire in December at Eco Park Hotel Azalea. During the unique Meyotai retreat with Chetan Chauhan you can get in touch and regenerate. The Advent season with its closing and at the same time new beginning atmosphere is perfect for this. This is a powerful way to end the year and you can go through the holidays with your family with full energy and consciousness.

Advent season in the Black Forest

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, guests can experience Advent magic at its best. In addition to the two climate-neutral overnight stays and the zero waste breakfast buffet, the Advent arrangement of the 4-star superior hotel also includes a three-course gourmet dinner, a mulled wine reception and a tree decoration craft event in the upcycling workshop.

Guests can also spend Christmas in the hotel itself with a festive 4-course menu, wine tasting, an open kitchen event, winter forest bathing, a reading session and a handicraft workshop. Father Christmas will also make an appearance and hand out gifts.

By the way: There are also some highlights at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA on New Year's Eve.

Weihnachten auf dem Ritten in Südtirol

In South Tyrol you will find a special place for a reflective Christmas. At ADLER Lodge RITTEN, guests can enjoy the dreamlike view of the Dolomite mountains while sipping mulled wine and eating homemade Christmas cookies or from the heated infinity pool. In the evening, there is a special menu created especially for the occasion, which will taste particularly good following one of the guided hikes.

Relaxed New Year's Eve Celebrations

New Year's Eve can be a trying time for many, especially pet owners. But maybe you are longing for a quiet and relaxed New Year's Eve even without an animal. A New Year's Eve without any firecrackers or big parties. There is another way. And these Green Pearls® hotels show you how.

Torches instead of fireworks

When there's a bang on New Year's Eve in the Weihrerhof, it's only because the traditional Goaslschnöllen has begun. The bad spirits of the previous year are being banished without any fine dust. Other than is, there is one thing above all else on the Renon on New Year's Eve and New Year’s Day: peace and quiet. Instead of fireworks, torches create a cosy atmosphere that welcomes the new year – a relaxed start to the year 2023.

At the Biohotel Sturm there is no noise at all to welcome the new year. Instead, the new year is introduced with a fire pit and piano music. Guests are spoiled with seasonal menus from Otto's open restaurant kitchen. A night hike through Mellrichstadt is also on the program, where countless stars can be discovered on a clear night. A New Year's stay without flashes and bangs.

Indulgence and the New Year

Pleasure is at the top of the list at Naturhotel Outside. And this is exactly how the New Year is greeted: with a New Year's Eve gourmet menu and a midnight snack consisting of regional and seasonal specialties.

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, guests are also spoiled over the New Year's Eve break. In addition to the multi-course menu on the last evening of the year, the new year starts with an indulgent brunch. Meanwhile, the traditional hike with the Traubel family and other special activities are available to guests at the turn of the year.

Another tradition: a Second New Year's Eve at HUBERTUS for everyone who had to work on New Year's Eve or couldn't celebrate for other reasons. This always takes place on January 6th.

For Holiday Avoiders

Not in the mood for anything at all? For those who don’t like the holidays, a great option is to simply rent a sustainable holiday home. Here you can just switch off for a few days and forget the world outside the door with all its glittering stars and fireworks. Also a great getaway to recharge for the year ahead. 

And if you don't even want cold temperatures, just escape them. Maybe you have two or even three weeks off over the holidays anyway. Then pack your bags and backpacks, travel and discover countries you might not have had time for otherwise. You can find our recommendations below.

Holidays can also be like this.

Wanna know more? 

We recommend these blog articles!

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THIS IS HOW A SUSTAINABLE SPA VISIT LOOKS LIKE

Wintertime is spa time. When the temperatures are cold, a spa day can be double as well. How you can make your spa visit more sustainable, regardless of whether there is a sustainable spa in your area, you can find out here.

Read the blog

BAREFOOT ON THE ROAD: BAREFOOT PATHS AND KNEIPP BASINS

Walking barefoot makes you happy and promotes good health. Really? We find out whether this is true and present the barefoot paths and Kneipp pools of our partners.

Read the blog

INSTAGRAM WHILE TRAVELING AND THE BEST HOTEL PHOTO SPOTS

Travel and social media have been closely linked for years. But what is it doing to us? What does it do to our travels? And how and where do you actually take the perfect selfie or vacation photo at a hotel? Find out!

Read the blog

BIO CERTIFICATIONS AT THE GREEN PEARLS®.

There are so many organic certifications ... It's quite difficult to keep track of them all. That's why we've done the research for you and show you what the certifications are all about, and what the whole thing looks like in practice.

Read the blog

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The first Etihad flight using SAF (Sustinable Aviation Fuel) took off from Tokyo. The airline has set itself the goal of eliminating or offsetting emissions by 2050. 

Read the articlel

The German Federal Ministry for the Environment supports an Egyptian initiative that collects and recycles waste and recyclables in tourist hotspots and hotels, as well as examining and qualifying them. Great cause! (german)

More informationen

Luisa Neubauer (Fridays for Future) and her grandma, also an environmental activist, have written a book. Here in an interview with Die Zeit. (german)

To the interview

Climate-conscious travel is only possible if we know the effects of our journey. This is what the Klima Link association, which was founded just a month ago, is committed to. The founding members are 22 entrepreneurs from the travel industry. (german)

Read the press release

Home: Ritten

Since the 1960s, guests have enjoyed the feeling of a "home away from home". However, the warm hospitality is not the only thing that sets the Weihrerhof apart. The deep connection to the Ritten and to South Tyrol can be felt in many loving details. In order to preserve the region and nature for their children, the Pichler family is committed to sustainability wherever possible.

It is not about perfection, but rather about just getting started, trying things out and constantly questioning and changing one's own actions.

Sustainability and Green Initiatives at Weihrerhof

Outside and Inside: Traditional, Natural, Modern

The Pichler family's sustainability initiatives include, for example, woodworking according to an almost forgotten regional craft. The long search for someone who still knows this trade paid off: the split softwood boards make the walkway to the spa a real eye-catcher. Locally sourced wood was used. Shingles crafted using the same technique were also used on the newly built boathouse sauna, giving the sauna and the cosy reading room next to it a unique look and feel. 

The architecture is traditionally South Tyrolean, especially recognisable in the special shape of the roof. Inside, guests can discover a special highlight: The beds are framed by the Weihrerhof's own hay. For this purpose, it was set in glass panels by a glass manufacturer, which decorate the wall behind the bed. The manufacturing process is normally used for fabrics and was specially adapted for the Weihrerhof.

Full of (Renewable) Energy

At Weihrerhof, the use of natural energy resources is a top priority. And it is to be increasingly expanded. The heart of the energy supply is in the old cattle shed: the storage for the electricity from the photovoltaic system. Furthermore, a combined heat and power unit that supplies the rooms is hidden in an unassuming shed next to the main building. A sign points out the CHP and calculates how many emissions are saved compared to conventional heating.

In addition to embracing their own responsibilities, the Pichlers also rely on the personal responsibility of their guests. "Most of the guests in this room have used their towel several times," is written on signs in the bathrooms and the relaxation room. The friendly reminder is having an effect: many guests do not exchange their towels every day.

Enjoy Regionally

But what changes daily with full dedication is the evening menu. However, a vegetarian dish is always offered and the ingredients come from the region as much as possible. The wine, for example, is made especially from Ritten grapes and can only be purchased there.

While guests dine à la carte in the evening, a sumptuous breakfast buffet with a variety of local products is available in the morning. Small cards indicate where the product comes from. In summer, it is best enjoyed on the terrace or on the small breakfast island in the middle of Wolfsgruben Lake.

Pure Relaxation Surrounded by Nature

The large sunbathing lawn directly on the shore of the Wolfsgrubener See offers plenty of space to relax while still being active. With its variety of plants, the meadow provides a habitat for small creatures. A large part of the meadow is left to itself and is only mown by a local farmer from time to time. 

Part of the food used in the hotel kitchen comes from their own small garden. The rest is bought on the Ritten, in South Tyrol or, if there is no other way, then in Italy.

Regional Support

The Pichlers source almost all of their food and also all of the products in their hotel shop as well as their own cosmetics line from South Tyrol. BergSea is the name of the cosmetics range and is made with natural extracts and Wolfsgrubener See water specially for the Weihrerhof.

In addition to delicacies and specialities, there are always exciting new products from South Tyrolean start-ups to discover in the hotel shop. The hotelier family is also dedicated in general to making the Ritten more and more of a sustainable destination, for example by supporting and promoting sustainable initiatives.

Active in and around the hotel

Numerous hiking trails start right outside the hotel doors. And those further away are easily accessible with the Ritten train. With the RittenCard, which guests receive at the Weihrerhof, they can use public transportation including the cable car to Bolzano free of charge and also have free admission to many museums.

But also in the hotel itself, things don't get boring. A bestseller library offers guests access to the latest top books. These can be checked out on site or taken away and returned afterwards. Blind Dates are a special highlight: Selected works are packaged, accompanied by a short commentary from family or staff, and displayed as part of the bestseller library. As a guest, you can simply take one of the blind dates and be surprised by a book you might not otherwise have picked up.

Thinking and Acting with Foresight: Future Plans at the Weihrerhof

For the coming year, there are already more sustainable ideas, projects and green initiatives. In addition to the planned expansion of the solar plant, 2023 will be marked above all by the Sea Spa. Guests can already experience signature treatments here that were created especially for the Weihrerhof and are adapted to individual needs.

In the coming year, the spa concept will be supplemented and expanded. What the whole thing will look like, however, remains a secret!

This is how Klaus Pichler describes the philosophy of the Weihrerhof. He sees this not only as economic growth or spatial expansion of the hotel, but above all, growth in spirit. To keep on trying new things and to become more sustainable, both on a small and a large scale. 

Learn more about the Weihrerhof on the hotel page at Green Pearls® or the hotel's homepage.

Sustainability is social

„For us at Maslina, sustainability also means looking at our social responsibility to the local community. We have sponsored local clubs in Stari Grad, partnered with the museum to host exhibitions and continue to look at ways to ensure that we contribute to the island that we are so proud to be part of. Wider afield, we are also a partner of the Better World Fund, a charity that uses art to raise awareness and funds to promote humanitarian action.“

However, the Maslina Resort is not only committed to social projects locally. They also do their bit internationally, where they partner with the Better World Fund. The charity raises awareness and funds for humanitarian action through art.

Future for employees

„Sustainability is also about the relationship with the staff, i.e. the social environment. The human factor plays a major role. We strive for our employees to be mindful of environmental protection and therefore appreciate it very much when they work for us for a longer period of time and live the philosophy we share with them. However, this only happens when they feel comfortable and their needs are understood at all times and when you, as the manager, are able to respond to each and every one of them.“

At Bella Vista in the Swiss resort of Zermatt, the team is crucial to success. The small, family-run hotel relies on long-term cooperation with its largely local staff. "Team" quickly becomes "extended family".

Small steps to sustainability

„Sustainability is currently a buzzword. But I think it's like the wellness boom in the 90s / 00s. A lot of people are jumping on this bandwagon, but they don't even begin to comprehend what it means in its entirety. Still, every small step taken is one in the right direction.“

At LENI MOUNTAIN Apartments & Chalet in Sölden, several of these small steps have already been implemented: photovoltaic system, own water supply, community work in the region and reforestation of the construction site with local trees are just a few of them. And more will follow, the Arnold family reveals.

The Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer's Club in Croatia is also committed to more sustainability and takes its guests by the hand.

“People and animals and plants - that all is a part of the environment. Being sustainable means, that you take care of you, your loved ones and the nature that surrounds you. Keeping that in mind we will always have the real luxury, like fresh air, healthy eco system, green nature and local organic food. Saying no to plastic bags, buying a produce that is not wrapped in plastic, not buying that cow milk but plant based one, riding a bike rather than taking a car, swimming in the sea rather than swimming in the pool…it all adds up. Small things count!”

Sustainability means taking responsibility

Not only for the present, but also for the generations to come. This is exactly what is lived at Hotel Das Rübezahl: since 1959, long before sustainability was on everyone's lips, the Thurm family has been planning and acting with foresight and for the long term. Regional purchasing, energy conservation, resource-saving construction methods and responsibility for employees and the local community are not new initiatives at the Schwangau hotel.

„People looked out for each other and took responsibility. And these are still the basic pillars of sustainability and the family philosophy today.“

The Naturhotel Outside also responds similarly to the statement. The East Tyrolean hiking hotel focuses on responsibility towards future generations and the regionality of the value chains, from purchasing to employees to the fact that guests are encouraged to support the local economy with visits to mountain huts.

Sustainability is the future

„For us, sustainable means creating a future in which we want to exist as a company, as a workplace for our employees and as a hotel for our guests."

The Biohotel Sturm is comprehensively committed to this, among other things with its own large snack garden, an environmentally friendly and self-sufficient energy concept and, of course, the use of predominantly regional organic food and slow food cuisine. Local producers are supported and integrated into the sustainable development process.

The Weihrerhof in South Tyrol is also focused on development and growth. However, a different kind of growth:

„For Weihrerhof, the term growth does not refer to the expansion of capacities. The vision to grow steadily is understood rather as the creation of added value in terms of quality and offer through the conscious use of their own and global resources. The holiday experience can therefore remain accessible and authentic.”

Sustainability is more

„For us, sustainability is a self-image, an obligation and an incentive at the same time. An undisturbed, healthy environment is a basic prerequisite for all natural life as well as sensible economic activity.“

This is how the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA responds to the statement, putting into words what the Green Pearls® partners also live and breathe. More about the initiatives and philosophies of the Green Pearls, whether regarding environmental protection, economic, or social issues, can be found on the respective hotel pages at Green Pearls® or the hotel websites. 

Today: Marion Muller from Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand

A Rocky Road to SAND

Marion Muller laughs a lot during the interview. Especially when it came to what her first thoughts were when she bought the old Hotel Zum Timmendorfer Hof. At that time, she and her husband were still far away from today's sustainable SAND concept. First of all, they had to survive. Nevertheless, one little idea like this about a sustainable concept was always part of the equation.

Green Pearls®: Dear Marion, thank you for taking the time to take us on your journey to becoming a sustainable hotelier.

Marion Muller (Lifestylehotel SAND): It would be my pleasure. We have to talk about these topics and we also really want to.

GP: What are the three words you would use to describe the SAND?

Marion: I have four for you. Because I can' t do it with less than four. *laughs* SAND, the word stands for “sand aspires natural design”. And we don't just have the design now. We also do it: “sand aspires natural doing”. And these are four simple letters that we use to define everything we do, and that is for us sustainable lifestyle. 

GP: How long have you and your husband been hoteliers?

Marion: We bought the hotel in 1995. It's a hotel from the 1920s. So, you can just imagine what comes next. *laughs* It was in dire need of modernization and renovation, of course. But we wanted to be independent and said, "Okay, we can pay for that; we'll buy it." From then on, we were hoteliers.

GP: And how long have you been interested in sustainability?

Marion: My background is in tourism. I studied tourism and was employed at a time when mass tourism was normal. Suddenly, you could organize group trips of 30 people to China, travel affordably to America. We still see that today: the flight to Mallorca doesn't cost much. 

And that time gave me food for thought. I was always of the opinion that nature wants to be appreciated the way it is. If we all travel everywhere and carelessly "trample around", then impressions and people on site are no longer authentic. Then what we see there is no longer as it was. But, when you depend on this branch and engage in tourism, it is always a dichotomy between economic necessity and the impact on the natural environment and surroundings. I've always been moved by that.

Sustainable. Almost from the Beginning. 

GP: What was the very first thought when you saw your hotel for the first time?

Marion: Oh my god, a lot needs to be done here. *laughs*

GP: When you bought the hotel, did you already have the idea that it would be a sustainable hotel? Or did that come later?

Marion: When we bought the hotel, it wasn't clear to me that we wanted to go down this path. We also first had to fight for economical survival. You can't say: Hey, I'm going to invest a lot all at once because I have this idea. It has to happen slowly, it has to develop. But inside we were already ready to go in this direction. You just have to think about what's feasible first. 

GP: Was there a decisive moment when you finally decided to create a sustainable hotel?

Marion: There was. We had about 25 rooms when we bought the hotel and this was not profitable. Something had to happen. So we invested and added 12 rooms to our house. At the same time, we said to ourselves, okay, if we're going to invest now, we want to do it sustainably or efficiently. At that time, it was mainly about energy efficiency, less about the other aspects of sustainability.

The second key experience came from the fact that we were already very well booked, but there was never enough left over to invest. That was the point where we decided we had to act. We had to say goodbye to the traditional hotel in order to align our concept with a specific target group that supported our philosophy. So we completely modernized the hotel with the support of external consultants. The SAND was born. That was in 2012. It took a while from '95 to 2012. But then it really took off.

Challenges and Wishes for the Future

GP: Where do you see the next big challenge now?

Marion: The implementation of sustainability is always a challenge. We are not a hotel that sets itself up completely as an organic hotel or eco-hotel. We are called SAND Lifestyle Hotel. That is also important to us because our guests should also have a certain level of comfort and want to feel relaxed on holiday. I would never walk through the hotel while pointing an accusing finger. It works differently. We want to convince the guest and take him with us, and the guest also takes us with him by giving us hints and ideas.

I would just call it thinking and questioning. Think about what you're doing – without pointing fingers. And that's a huge challenge.

GP: What makes a sustainable hotelier for you? Would you describe yourself as a sustainable hotelier?

Marion: Yes, with heart and soul! We have seen a development from energy efficiency to other sustainability issues. For example, it's about social sustainability in terms of employees. That is and remains an important topic. We have a company pension plan, give employee benefits and provide employees with cars. We want everyone in the SANDteam to be well positioned in their private lives and at home as well, and we want to give them the so-called work-life balance.

I would also like to actually encourage our partners to be sustainable. In recent years, this topic has always been on the table and suddenly everyone is sustainable. For us, the challenge now is to find those who are pioneers of sustainability at Green Pearls®. I always question: which partners live our thoughts authentically, can support our efforts and expand the network? I see this as a challenge in the business environment.

It is important to me to also show colleagues ways of acting sustainably in a business sense. It is very important to me to encourage small and medium-sized companies in general to consistently implement sustainable ideas, even if this means an extra effort in addition to the "core business". There are concrete examples of how you can develop your niche in the hotel sector, in which you can then be a pioneer. That, too, is part of sustainability for me.

GP: And that's when you would say that this thinking, this taking people by the hand and taking them with you, that's what makes a sustainable hotelier for you?

Marion: Yes, and to live that as well. 

GP: What do you wish for the future?

Marion: In the hotel industry, future-oriented thinking also means thinking differently, not remaining rigidly in one's tradition, but looking to the right and to the left.

Not imposing, but listening carefully. This can also bring surprises.

Adapting to how someone actually wants to travel. Sustainability is simply a must. There's no getting around it.

Authenticity and standing behind it are very important. You should not play a role. In the past, we used to say that the hotel industry was the next best thing to the circus. It shouldn't be. We are service providers and wish fulfillers at eye level with our guests. This includes communicating with guests and asking them what they actually want, what we can give them, and how we can improve and position our product. And that's what everyone in the industry should do.

GP: Thank you very much for your honesty and openness!

About the Lifestylehotel SAND

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located on the German Baltic Sea coast in the popular holiday destination of the Timmendorfer Strand. With its clean design and fresh, SANDy ideas, the Adults-only hotel delights its guests. Whether wellness, weekend break or active holiday: everyone will find what they are looking for at the SAND.

Pioneers of sustainability at Green Pearls®

Under this theme, a variety of hoteliers and hosts will have their say in the near future, sharing their thoughts on sustainability and sharing their stories. This series of interviews is ongoing and will be published every two to three weeks. In the second part of the series, you can look forward to Marc Traubel from HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Allgäu.

The Seyrling family describes their ambitions for themselves and their hotel, saying they think and act in generations. Employees and nature are shown respect quite naturally. The hotel's own solar power system is capable of generating a large amount of electricity. The dishes at the hotel are made with regional products, many of which come from the hotel's own "vegetarian" farm. The hotel is a member of the Klimabündnis Tirol (Tyrol Climate Alliance)

The family-owned hotel has a long history and presents itself as modern and clean. Ancient history meets innovative ideas with a lot of uniqueness. The guest and his well-being are the main focus. Whether hiking in the Seefeld Alps, relaxing in the huge wellness area with five water worlds and seven themed saunas, including a hand-carved wooden sauna, or strolling in the extensive nature park “Garden of Eden,” you will always feel pampered at Park hotel Altered.

You can learn more about the hotel and its Green Initiatives by visiting the hotel's Green Pearls® page or the website.

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Island Tourism, but make it sustainable

When you travel to an island, you shouldn't ignore the impact of your travels. Tourism has many effects on the country and the people who live there, and not all of them are positive. On islands, the effects are often bigger. 

Arrival

It takes more time to travel to an island than it does to vacation on the mainland. In most cases, it is not possible to simply hop on a train and then get off at the destination. The Maslina Resort and the Eco Aparthotel The Dreamers Club are both located on the Croatian islands of Hvar and Korcula, which are accessible by ferry. Thus, it is still possible to make the journey by train and ferry sustainable. 

If you were looking to travel to the Seychelles, for example, and wanted to go to Cerf Island Resort, the only option would be to fly. However, even such a trip can be sustainable if you stay long enough. As a tourist, you support the local economy much more and thus ensure a positive effect of your trip. At the same time, you get to know the country and the people in an entirely different way.

Special experience: The 4 Rivers Floating Lodge in Cambodia can only be reached by boat. But the lodge itself is the island. The luxury tents are on rafts anchored on the river. An island trip of a special kind. 
 

Transportation

Naturally, an island is surrounded by water. That means that all products and foodstuffs that are not produced on the island itself have to be delivered by boat. This requires fuel and emits CO2. 

To minimize such transport routes, many Green Pearls® partners rely on growing their own food. Keemala on the Thai island of Phuket, for example, obtains most of its food from its garden. The Zeavola on Koh Phi Phi and the Tongsai Bay on Koh Samui in Thailand also grow fruit, vegetables, and herbs. This also enables the hotels to guarantee their guests that they have only the best, organic produce on their plates. 

Garbage and Waste

Maldives tourism, in particular, is repeatedly criticized for generating masses of garbage. But not only do these islands have to deal with the waste of tourists. Indonesian islands such as Bali face a similar problem. 

Sustainable resorts such as the Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, the Puri Dajuma on Bali or the Eco Beach Tent by Billiton on the Indonesian island of Billiton are committed to reducing waste. They set a good example by avoiding plastic products as far as possible and promoting waste separation and recycling. Gili Lankanfushi has also purchased a Rocket Composter to recycle organic waste. The humus produced as a result has since been used to create a garden that supplies the hotel with fresh food. 

Local Economy

However, island tourism does have a positive impact on some aspects of local culture. Tourism is one of the most important sources of income for many islands. Tourism can help economies grow and become more diverse. Tourist facilities such as hotels or tour operators bring work to regions that otherwise offer few prospects. Most of the employees at Puri Dajuma are from the region. The OCEANO Health Spa Resort in Tenerife is one of the largest employers in the area and most of the team is from the region. 

Car-free island of Juist

One approach to sustainable island tourism is to consciously choose a sustainable island. Juist in the German North Sea is such an example. The island aims at being carbon-neutral by 2030. With a species-rich flora and fauna, it could almost be called a biodiversity hotspot. The wealth of species can be experienced during a mudflat hike, a bike ride across the island or a walk through the island villages. By the way, you don't have to worry about cars on Juist: The isle is completely car-free. Only doctors, the Red Cross and the fire department are allowed to use motorized vehicles. Even garbage collection is done with horse-drawn carts.

Traveling sustainably on an island

Tourists can take an active role in making their island travels fair and environmentally sound. Open eyes and a willingness to put more time into research are all that's required. Is there an alternative to the flight? Which travel provider supports the island in its sustainable efforts? 

If you organize the trip yourself, you can already choose sustainable accommodation from home. At Green Pearls®, for instance, you can rest assured that all partners are committed to their suppliers, and are committed to preserve the fragile ecosystem and support the local population. So, get ready to escape the autumn chill and start your island journey. 

Read more? 

We recommend these blog articles about island tourism:

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10 Sustainable Hotel Restaurants You Must Try

Vacation means to you: good food? Trying something new? Not having to cook? And all of it sustainable, please! Then you've come to the right place with these green gems' restaurants.

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Sustainable travel at a glance: Background, facts and tips

Learn more about sustainable travel, sustainability in general and find out how you can make your trip more sustainable. And most importantly, why you should!

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Composting and waste recycling: from classic to innovative

Ever wondered what actually happens to all the organic waste in your hotel? We asked the Green Pearls hoteliers.

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Flying high: Paragliding in Germany, Europe and the world

Marvel at the world from above, feel the wind in your face and simply fly. That's what paragliding is all about. We reveal the most beautiful spots worldwide and explain why you should definitely try paragliding.

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The Vietnamese island of Co To has banned tourists from bringing disposable plastic to the island since September 1.

To the article

Business travel is also becoming increasingly sustainable. Larger companies in particular are opting for more environmentally friendly practices in business travel.

More Informationen

Podcast recommendation: In just under half an hour, Vicky Smith, founder of Earth Changers shares a few things about sustainable and responsible travel. Listen in! (Podcast language: English)

To the Podcast

Located between the Allgäu and Ammer mountains, it has been a popular destination for excursions and hikes since the very beginning. But now, the Rohrkopfhütte 1320 m above sea level is given a new lease of life. As long-term tenants, the Thurm family (owners of the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau) has now extensively renovated and modernized the parlor, terrace, and kitchen. The furniture is partially recycled from old material. The bathroom access was also redesigned during the renovation. You will find traditional dishes interpreted in a modern way on the menu, such as the bread dumpling carpaccio or pretzel tarte flambée.  Exceptional highlights are the fondue and hut evenings or the mountain breakfast, as is customary at Hotel Das Rübezahl a blend of modern and traditional. The hut is open all year and can be used for parties and events. Beyond the culinary delight, guests can experience the stunning views of the mountain panorama.

Hotel Das Rübezahl

Mountains, rivers, and lakes mark the landscape near Füssen. The Thurm family has been running Hotel Das Rübezahl for three generations in front of this romantic backdrop. Visitors here can enjoy a unique time-out with spa, culinary experiences and a view of Neuschwanstein Castle. The Rübezahl is an ideal starting point for many activities all year round, such as skiing in winter or a hike to the Rohrkopfhütte in spring or fall.

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

Sustainable energy concepts and creative solutions

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

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

Book Spa areas exclusively and save energy

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

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

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

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

Customised Building Technology

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

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

Innovative and sustainable concepts

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

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

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

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

Water from sustainable sources

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

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

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

Barrier-Free Hiking and Wellness Getaway in Berchtesgadener Land

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

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

Sustainable and Accessible Hotels in Berchtesgadener Land

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

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

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

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

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

All-round well-being at the Berghotel Rehlegg

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

Excursion tips from the Berghotel Rehlegg 

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

Barrier-Free Travel in the Allgäu

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

Excursion tips from the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio 

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

Traveling in Switzerland: Accessible and Sustainable 

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

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

Inclusive, Sustainable, Accessible

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

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

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

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

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Ideas for a romantic Autumn

Spring is not the only time to awaken the butterflies in your stomach - autumn is just as good! Our Green Pearls® partners have collected a few ideas for romantic yet sustainable evenings, short trips, and holiday destinations that are sure to awaken those tingling feelings.

Wellness for two

The classic for a romantic date in autumn: taking time to relax together. You can do this at home with a nice bath and a relaxing massage. Bath salts and massage oils are available from natural cosmetics lines, so they' re not only good for you, but also for the planet.

 (Sustainable) essentials for a romantic spa day:

• Put your mobile phone away and better yet, turn it off completely
• Candles for a romantic atmosphere
• High-quality natural cosmetics for the bath and massage

If you want to relax together without any preparation, you can of course also plan a day at the spa. Let yourself be completely pampered at the Lifestyle Resort zum Kurfürsten in Bernkastel-Kues on the Moselle. With massages and sauna along with culinary delights. At the Weihrerhof on the Ritten in South Tyrol, you can "lax" for a day and enjoy signature treatments with products from their own cosmetics line. A visit to the boathouse sauna followed by a swim in Lake Wolfsgrubner is the perfect way to end the day. At the ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa, guests can experience very special traditional Lithuanian treatments at the Ethno Spa, memories that are sure to last for a long time.

Short romantic break

The best way to really switch off is on holiday, even if it's just a romantic weekend trip. During this time, you can be present only for yourselves. Everyday life is worlds away and it's easy to concentrate on each other. Explore a foreign city together and make new memories. Milan, with its active, bustling city flair on the one hand and its quiet, romantic corners on the other, is a wonderful destination. The Hotel Milano Scala is right in the middle of it all, but still maintains a romantic atmosphere. From the roof terrace you can watch the sunset over the city undisturbed while enjoying a drink. 

Things get really romantic in your own mountain lodge. The Summit Lodges in Pfunds and the holiday homes The Peak in Sölden offer just that: a private retreat in the mountains with everything a romantic's heart desires. Fireplace, private sauna and a dreamlike view of the Alps.

(Sustainable) essentials for a romantic getaway:

• Let family and friends know that you won't be available
• For the holiday home: shop in advance and plan your meals
• Think about the journey: if you travel by train, you will have time for yourself and no one will be exhausted from driving in the evening

Romantic time out while escaping Autumn

Autumn is not your season? Then take the chance and escape. How about a relaxing, extended weekend in southern Italy? At the historic A' Cràpa Mangia estate in the Cilenta National Park, an all-inclusive weekend awaits you with a romantic dinner, a fireplace and two special hiking suggestions from the estate owners.

For a longer trip to avoid autumn and spend romantic time with your favourite person, both Zeavola in Thailand and Cerf Island Resort in the Seychelles are perfect.

At Zeavola, minimalist, sustainable luxury awaits. The resort, styled like a traditional Thai village, offers retreats in your own romantic wooden bungalow with outdoor shower and a jungle feel.

Lonely white beaches, a private villa, and a romantic candlelight dinner on the beach: that's what you'll experience at Cerf Island Resort. A special trip not only for honeymooners or newlyweds, but also for long-term (perhaps already married) partners.

(Sustainable) essentials for a romantic vacation:

• Prepare everything well before you leave so that you can start your holiday relaxed
• Planning a surprise for your favourite person? Talk directly to your hotel! The local staff will be happy to prepare a special arrival for you
• Water bottle, beach bag, coral-proof sunscreen: pack sustainably and not too much

More romance on the Green Travel Blog

Still not enough? Then read on at the Green Travel Blog. There you will not only find more ideas for a romantic getaway, but also further hotel recommendations and tips for a sustainable wedding. Have fun browsing and reading.

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ANIMAL FRIEDNLY TRAVEL – A GUIDE TO ANIMAL WELFARE WHILE TRAVELING AROUND THE WORLD

Animal welfare is part of sustainable travel. In this blog, we explain which "attractions" you should watch out for and give tips for animal-friendly travel.

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LOCAL FOOD TO ENHANCE SUSTAINABILITY WHILE TRAVELING

Sustainable nutrition and regional cuisine is also an important topic when traveling. We asked our green pearls what is typical for their region, how they buy and cook and what they don't want to do without. (+ recipe tips)

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MIRROR, MIRROR – SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY TREATMENTS IN THE GREEN PEARLS

Which Green Pearls® hotels offer wonderful, relaxing treatments, we have compiled in this blog article. In addition, the Maslina Resort answers our questions.

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GREEN HOTEL GUIDE 

Under the tag "Green Hotel Guide" we regularly present our partners and their green stories. Discover the new partners and visit the Green Pearls on a virtual journey.

Visit the collection

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What are the travel trends for fall 2022? NZZ Bellevue took a closer look at the preferences of travelers. Between luxury hotel and Tiny Tree House, you're sure to find yourself there. (german)

Read the article

Google is the very best friend for many travelers. But now it's also becoming a tool you can use to make your trip more sustainable. How? You can read about it here.

To the tips

From 2024, companies will have to report on their impact on the environment and people and be accountable for the sustainability of their activities. This is intended to counteract greenwashing. (german)

More information

Book tip "Lovely Planet": Slow Travel as an alternative to many difficulties and effects of our travel behavior. Worth reading for all who want to become (more) aware of their impact!

To the author's page

Always Independent

South Tyrol is an autonomous region in the north of Italy that is characterised not only by its beautiful nature but also by its strong traditional culture. Past and future always go hand in hand. In the Sustainability Programme Tourism South Tyrol initiated by the Chamber of Commerce of Bolzano, tourist organisations, business associations, companies and experts therefore jointly developed standards for sustainable tourism. In the future, these standards will be the basis for all decisions, developments and initiatives.

However, many South Tyroleans have not waited for such official recommendations to take action and have been committed to an environmentally friendly and socially responsible way of living and travelling for years. Many farms have converted to organic farming, products are produced according to ecological standards and sustainable travel is made as easy as possible.

Sustainable Destination South Tyrol

Car-free vacations in South Tyrol

On a trip to South Tyrol, visitors will quickly realise that they don't need a car. Train connections to Munich and Innsbruck make travelling by train easy, and a well-developed public transport network takes guests and residents alike to even the most remote villages. As a model region for green mobility, South Tyrol also promotes e-mobility. An extensive network of charging stations and free parking spaces for e-cars form the cornerstones for this. There is also a hydrogen refuelling station in the capital city of Bolzano.

To make the use of local transport even more attractive for travellers, there is the Mobilcard as well as various regional guest tickets such as the RittenCard. These not only allow the use of buses, trains and, in some cases, cable cars and chair lifts, they also provide free admission to a variety of museums along with other benefits. Hotels often offer the respective guest card free of charge with a booking. And not only that - many hotels are working on making their offer more and more sustainable, including our Green Pearls® partners in South Tyrol. 

Green on the Road: Activities and Sightseeing

Directly from their balcony, guests of the purely vegetarian Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi have a view of one of the most impressive sights in South Tyrol: the Dolomites. In summer, guests can head off on a hike through the impressive mountain world straight after a delicious vegetarian breakfast. In winter, strap on your skis at the hotel entrance and head out onto the Paradiso ski slope, from where you can access the Dolomiti Superski ski area.

On their return, the Paradiso treats its guests to a vegetarian evening menu. Or how about another relaxing round of yoga or a bit of wellness?

The Paradiso Pure.Living offers an innovative and holistic hospitality concept in the heart of the Dolomites. It is based on the combination of a healthy lifestyle, yoga, music, cuisine and contemporary art, which is reflected throughout the entire hotel.

Regionality and Seasonality on the Table

Traditional South Tyrolean cuisine is part of the DNA at many South Tyrolean hotels. Regional and seasonal specialities are firmly established and usually come from organic farms, farmers' markets or from the hotel's own garden.

The bees of the APIPURA Hotel Rinner in Oberbozen also feed in such a garden. Guests can watch the industrious insects producing organic honey, which is part of the special honey gala dinner. In order to provide the bees with the best possible conditions for honey production, the Rinner family attaches great importance to an undisturbed environment and does not use chemical bee treatments. Guests can not only taste the result, but also inhale it during an Api-Wellness treatment in the form of the beehive air. 

Guests at LA VIMEA in Naturno can embark on a culinary journey of the vegan kind. Italy's first holistic vegan hotel offers fresh dishes made from regional and seasonal ingredients from its own garden or local farmers. All food is of organic quality and vegan. But it doesn't stop there at LA VIMEA: From the bed linen to the architecture, the sustainable adults-only hotel does without animal and environmentally harmful products. Instead, it focuses on resource conservation, organic and fair trade.

Sustainable Relaxation in South Tyrol

The use of sustainable materials, especially local woods, is part of many Green Pearls® partners. At the Weihrerhof on the Ritten, the Pichler family relies above all on Swiss stone pine when furnishing the hotel rooms, which not only provides a cosy atmosphere, but also a good night's sleep and a pleasant scent.

Sustainability is a top priority throughout the hotel: electricity is generated by the photovoltaic system and the hotel's own combined heat and power plant, making the Weihrerhof almost entirely self-sufficient in terms of energy. In the wellness and spa area, too, the team relies on regional natural products and its own cosmetics range. In the last hot summers, the indoor sauna only ran on demand to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is also a sustainable retreat on the Ritten and offers its guests an all-round carefree service. The lodge blends picturesquely into the landscape with the main house and the chalets on the surrounding hills. The harmonious ensemble was created through the collaboration of a local architect and a master carpenter specialising in South Tyrolean craftsmanship, who placed their emphasis on the use of local wood species such as larch and oak. 

Instead of a pool, there is a large natural bathing pond that does not require chemical cleaning. When building the terrace and the forest sauna, the natural tree population was preserved as far as possible so that hotel guests can truly relax in harmony with nature. 

Support for the Region

Sustainability is more than just environmental protection. It also has a social component, which is also considered by the Green Pearls® partners. This includes, for example, the creation of jobs for the local community in order to prevent migration, especially of the younger generation.

Cooperation with local craftsmen and businesses ensures the survival of smaller, often traditional businesses. Many of the Green Pearls® partners also support associations in their area or donate part of their proceeds.

More about their sustainable and social commitments can be found on the respective hotel microsite at www.greenpearls.com or on the hotel's homepage.

South Tyrol can rightly be called a sustainable destination. Guests are easily able to travel in an environmentally conscious way thanks to a well-developed transport network and numerous sustainable accommodations. The interaction with pristine, unspoilt nature also raises travellers' awareness of the need to protect and preserve it, so that the beautiful South Tyrolean landscape can continue to captivate future generations.

As an organic country hotel with attached guesthouse and vacation apartments, it is a relaxing retreat surrounded by nature for couples and families as well as business travelers. The own 30-hectare certified organic farm and the fruit orchard with apples and pears supply the guests with regional delicacies. Anything not grown by the hotel itself is purchased from organic farms in the immediate vicinity.

Only certified natural and organic cosmetics are used at the Nature Spa with spacious outdoor facilities. Moreover, bioenergetic meditations according to the method of Viktor Philippi that activate the immune system, metabolism and nervous system are offered.

"Organic" as an attitude to life and a holistic concept - This is also apparent throughout the interior, which is mostly made of timber sourced from the hotel's own forest and carpentered on site. Other materials like marble, silver quartzite and stones were selected for their longevity or the regional importance. The hotel's own wood, mainly so-called beetle wood, also comes into use for energy generation in the woodchip plant. Power is either supplied by the local public utilities (hydroelectric power) or produced by the photovoltaic system on the roofs of the hotel and indoor riding arena. 

Beginners and advanced riders can take lessons in western riding at the horse ranch belonging to the Gerbehof. Furthermore, Gerbehof provides horse-supported coaching for individuals, clubs or teams, exploring one' s personality and strength with the help of horses. Vacation with the own horse is also possible. 

Read more at www.greenpearls.com or on the hotel's website.

In order for guests to be able to feast without worrying or having a guilty conscience, the Green Pearls® partners also strive for sustainability and offer predominantly regional and seasonal cuisine. This not only applies to the hotel business, but also, or perhaps especially, to the restaurants.

A gourmet trip through the Alps is the best way to experience the certified restaurants and gourmet temples. After an exciting day out and about in the mountains, you can stop off in the evening and let yourself be pampered by the chefs of the Green Pearls® partners.

Gourmet Journey through the Alps (5 evenings - 5 restaurants)

Regional delicacies at the Gourmet Hotel Die Forelle

Techendorf, Carinthia, Austria

Traditional and local ingredients are the focus of every dish that chef Hannes Müller creates in the restaurant of the gourmet hotel Die Forelle. Only Austrian ingredients and proven fair-trade products are used. Die Forelle is thus not dependent on imported products. Special attention is also paid to seasonality, both in terms of agricultural produce from the region and the wild herbs and plants collected by the hotel itself.

The fresh ingredients are supplemented with pickled, preserved and fermented foods from their own kitchen.

The kitchen, by the way, is largely powered by the energy generated by the on-site photovoltaic system. The wood-burning stove and the wood-burning bread oven also take pride of place and allow guests to indulge in unique flavours.

The Restaurant der Forelle is one of the JRE restaurants and has joined the Slow Food movement. In the restaurant rating of Falstaff magazine, it achieved 97 of the 100 possible points and Gault Millau also gives a definite recommendation for the gourmet cuisine at Weissensee with 18 points.

East Tyrol on a Plate at the Naturhotel Outside and the Gourmet Restaurant

Matrei in East Tyrol, Austria 

Innovative, alpine cuisine awaits guests in the gourmet restaurant Inside, which is connected to the nature and hiking hotel Outside. Regional and seasonal dishes with a modern twist are served and are just the thing after a hike through the East Tyrolean Alps.

Many of the ingredients such as herbs and fruits for the imaginative yet down-to-earth creations grow in the hotel's own garden. The fresh bread, jam, syrups and liqueurs also come from the hotel's own kitchen. The Outside team therefore ensures that guests can easily and visibly follow the path of their food.

For this, the Outside was awarded the AMA GENUSS REGION seal of quality, which stands for controlled quality and regional origin. The hotel itself can boast the EU Eco Label and Falstaff awarded the restaurant 88 out of 100 points.

Castle View and Alpine Fusion Cuisine at Hotel Das Rübezahl

Schwangau, Germany 

Unique taste experiences are promised by the Gams & Gloria concept of Hotel Das Rübezahl. Typical products of the rugged Alpine world are combined with ingredients and flavours from faraway countries to create dishes that surprise guests with every bite. Dishes such as "Mountain pine dashi kisses Allgäu Gams ham" or "Alpine herbs meets whitefish sashimi" seem unusual at first, but convince with flavourful twists that guests have probably never experienced before.

The gourmet restaurant in the Allgäu region has received a recommendation from Gault Millau as well as the highest award from the gourmet magazine Savoir-Vivre, the Three Suns, for its new interpretations. And all this with relaxed service and a lust for life at its core.

Allgäu Specialities at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

Balderschwang, Germany

After a tour through the Allgäu, guests will find a holistic Slow Food concept in the restaurant of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio. Products from the Allgäu, seasonal menus and authentic Allgäu cuisine characterise the restaurant. There is a personal relationship with all producers and guests can also join the regular visits to see where the food on their plates comes from.

Since 1 January 2022, the HUBERTUS restaurant has been a Bioland partner and has been certified organic. Guests can therefore be sure that they are feasting sustainably and organically here.

Culinary Highlights at the Waldhotel Fletschhorn

Saas-Fee, Switzerland 

From Germany we make a detour into Switzerland. The nationally renowned restaurant in the Waldhotel Fletschhorn awaits guests with regular culinary highlights. The evening menu changes daily and surprises with regional dishes made from fresh ingredients. The team knows and trusts its producers and allows guests to enjoy an unforgettable culinary journey.

A Michelin star adorns the hotel and Gault Millau also awards 18 points. A crowning finale for a gourmet holiday in the Alps.

More about the restaurants and hotels can be found at www.greenpearls.com and on the hotels' websites.

What is Paragliding?

When paragliding, the pilot hangs in a harness under the canopy. They swing themselves into the air from a mountain or with the help of a winch. Unlike parachuting, however, the aim is to stay in the air as long as possible by using the thermal updrafts.

The paraglider was invented by the former NASA engineer Francis Melvin Rogallo, who registered the patent for a construction made of rope and fabric as early as 1948. However, he rarely flew with his paragliders. This is why David Barish is often referred to as the true "father" of paragliding. He developed a similar construction and tested it extensively in countless flights.

Requirements for Paragliding

In short: Anyone who wants to fly, can fly. However, the ability to react and act should not be impaired, and if you have a limiting illness, e.g. epilepsy, you should consult an aviation doctor and have your own fitness assessed. A healthy physical condition and a reasonable level of fitness are also advantageous.

Equipment or How does Paragliding work?

The paragliding equipment fits into a backpack and weighs about 15 to 20 kilograms. Most airlines even transport it free of charge as sports luggage. The main component is, of course, the two-layer paraglider made of coated nylon. This is divided into various chambers open in the direction of flight, which fill with air during flight and thus keep their shape. The harness, in which the pilot sits, is attached to the lines underneath.

The paraglider is steered either by shifting weight or by pulling the steering lines. This allows the pilot to take advantage of thermal currents and stay in the air for up to an hour or more while enjoying the view.

The most beautiful destinations for Paraglinding

Neuschwanstein Castle from above

Only a five-minute drive from Hotel Das Rübezahl is the Tegelberg, which offers ideal paragliding conditions. Even the world championships have been held here! But that's not the only reason you should consider this location for a flight. When else can you claim to have flown over a fairytale castle?

While the rest of the tourists stand below with countless others trying to catch a glimpse of Neuschwanstein Castle, paraglider pilots can view it from the air in complete comfort and thus experience the splendour of the castle from a whole new perspective. By the way: You can book the paragliding flight comfortably from the hotel, since Das Rübezahl cooperates with the flight school Fly Royal.

You also experience this new perspective when you return to Hotel Das Rübezahl after your paragliding flight. There you can simply admire the castle from the pool or the terrace.

Paragliding in East Tyrol

The Alps are always worth a flight. In addition to great take-off conditions, it is a unique feeling to view the high mountains from the air. If you like, you can also combine such a gliding flight with a hike, for example to the Äußere Steineralm, and then fly back to Matrei in East Tyrol.

Our hotel recommendation: The Naturhotel Outside directly in Matrei. There you will find all the amenities you could wish for after your flight. Be it a visit to the nature spa and the pine wood sauna or a delicious dinner in the gourmet restaurant Inside. By the way, the Outside is also a certified hiking hotel and is the ideal starting point for further exploratory tours on foot.

Paragliding in Tenerife

The largest of the Canary Islands is a destination that some might not immediately associate with paragliding. Yet sometimes it's the most unassuming destinations that make a paraglider's heart beat faster. Tenerife is no exception.

With stable air currents and magnificent views, the island offers perfect conditions for beginners, advanced pilots and professionals alike. Numerous flying schools offer tandem flights, taster courses and flying lessons.

Besides paragliding, you can also do something for your health and well-being. Not far from the capital Santa Cruz is the sustainable health hotel OCÉANO Health Spa. Besides the relaxing and beneficial treatments and courses, you can also work out in the new fitness centre (or prepare for the paragliding course). A pool, sea view and rooftop bar complete the Tenerife holiday experience. 

The Val di Fiemme from the air

Located in the beautiful Val di Fiemme, the Eco Park Hotel Azalea welcomes its guests with delicious, plant-based cuisine and a feel-good atmosphere. All around, the mountains of the Dolomites tower high and attract hikers as well as paragliders.

After all, what better way to discover a valley than from above? The beautiful forests, the green valley and the rugged mountain slopes form captivating contrasts that are even more impressive when suspended under a paraglider. Definitely a paragliding destination that you should put on your bucket list!

View Bali from above

Paragliding is an indescribable experience, no matter where you take to the skies. But of course, a flight in undiscovered locations is even more special. So if you're travelling through Bali and staying at Puri Dajuma, for example, you shouldn't miss out on a paragliding flight over the island. Taking in the tropical beaches and jungle from above, you suddenly realise how vast nature is compared to humans.

Then, when you're back on the ground, roaming the gardens of Puri Dajuma or lying on the beach, you're guaranteed to have plenty to think about. And stories to tell. 

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The beginning of the Indian summer is a wonderful time to travel in Europe: the trees are slowly changing colour and creating a new image of the familiar landscape. The days are still long enough for extended hikes, while the already cool evenings invite you to spend cosy hours by candlelight or with a wellness treatment.

In addition, many of the Green Pearls® partners offer special workshops and activities in autumn. How about participating in the ADLER hiking half marathon, for example? Or a herb hike at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio or a visit to the autumn market in Bad Herrenalb?

Even more ideas await you in this newsletter.

Autumn with the Green Pearls® Partners

September

16 - 18 September – MeYoTai in the Dolomites at Eco Park Hotel Azalea

The weekend is dedicated to the fusion of the disciplines of meditation, yoga, Kalaripayattu and contemporary Indian techniques. The senses are activated and body awareness is strengthened. The goal is the unification and relaxation of body, mind and spirit. The trainer Chetan Chauhan is from India and has been practicing the disciplines for more than 15 years. In 2016 he developed the MeYoTai Flow and since 2020 he organizes workshops and retreats together with the Eco Park Hotel Azalea always in combination with new hikes to Val die Fiemme.

17 September – Dog Swimming in the Black Forest

The non-swimmer pool at the Waldfreibad in Bad Herrenalb is opened for man's best friends. While the four-legged friends frolic and swim, there will be an entertaining social programme for their two-legged companions - food and drink will also be provided. Just about 15 minutes of walking, you will find the perfect accomodation for your vacation: the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA.

24 - 25 September – Autumn Market in Bad Herrenalb

A colourful autumn market awaits visitors. Producers from the surrounding region present themselves and their delicacies, from spicy cheese and homemade jams to fine spirits and fresh fruit. There are also stalls with wild herbs and handicrafts exhibits.

October

4 October – ADLER Half Marathon on the Ritten

This hiking adventure takes you along a section of the Keschtnweg Trail to discover the autumnal landscape of South Tyrol. At the same time, traditional wine taverns open their doors and offer hikers young wine and roasted chestnuts to taste. Of course, typical South Tyrolean specialities are not forgotten and the hiking adventure can also become a culinary journey.

8 October – Harvest Festival Farmer & Chef at the gourmet hotel Die Forelle

Farmers, chefs, winemakers and brewers introduce themselves and treat their guests at this special harvest festival. Here you can taste your way through all the regional specialities and, above all, have a chat with the people behind the product.

23 - 24 October – Vernissage and workshop with artist Oliver Klam at Hotel Das Rübezahl

The artist from Tübingen will exhibit his works in the lobby of the hotel on Sunday. Afterwards, guests can look forward to an exclusive 4-course menu. On Monday, guests can take up the brush or palette knife themselves. Oliver Klam offers interested guests the chance to take part in a workshop on palette knife techniques. The evening will end with a live painting and wine tasting.

November

8 November - Live Music at Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa

Full Moon Concerts are something of a tradition at Klosterhof. Whenever the moon is full, the doors are opened to musicians from all over the world to enchant their guests. Moment Zwo, who will entertain with a mixture of jazz, tango and baroque music, are the musicians Marcus Pristernik on guitar and Christian Wendt on double bass. A very special combination.

Various dates

Herb walks at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

See, sniff, feel: On a herb hike in the Allgäu, guests will learn a great deal about the various (healing) plants of nature. Afterwards, a product is created using the collected herbs: herbal salt, sore throat balm, sometimes a deodorant or shampoo.

By the way: In addition to the herb walks, HUBERTUS also offers spice and incense workshops with Ayurveda coach Gabriel or needle felting courses for those who wish to be artistically active.

Night Watchmen and Herbal Lemonades in the Black Forest

There is a lot to learn and taste in the wild herb kitchen of Bad Herrenalb just a few minutes from the hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. This workshop is all about the blossoms of various herbs and their healing properties. At the end, there will be flower breads and herbal lemonade to refresh the participants.

After sunset, things really get going in Bad Herrenalb. Together with the night watchman, the guests go on a journey into the past of the former monastery town and listen to the Alb as well as myths and legends.

So, do you fancy an autumnal adventure at the Green Pearls®? Find more inspiration on the GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

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HIKING IN GERMANY, AUSTRIA AND SWITZERLAND

We present the most beautiful hiking trails in the Alps and the Harz Mountains, which can be perfectly combined with a sustainable stay at one of our Green Pearls® partners.

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HOTEL VACATION WITH YOUR DOG

We offer tips for a relaxed hotel stay for dog and owner alike, so that the vacation can be enjoyed by all

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RECIPE FOR (AYURVEDIC) BREAKFAST WAFFLES

Ayurvedic diet and cuisine aims at the well-being of the whole body. However, these breakfast waffles from Ayurveda Coach Gabriel from HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio are not only healthy, but most importantly, delicious. To top it off, there are two dip recipes from Gabriel's cookbook.

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INTERVIEW WITH THE MARINE BIOLOGISTS AT GILI LANKANFUSHI, MALDIVES

What is it about the Maldives that fascinates marine biologists? And what is it like to work in paradise? We asked Hayley Hardstaff and Jocelyn Panjikaran from Gili Lankanfushi.

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"Something's possible, Germany" reads the new planb documentary from German TV-channel ZDF. Where? In travel and tourism. Two journalists embark on a search for alternative forms of travel and visit projects and startups that are committed to fair travel. A must-watch! (German only)

To the documentary in the ZDF media library

On an overnight train from London to Stockholm via Hamburg? In less than 24 hours? Starting in September, this will be possible with the new EuroNight service. 

Read more

The booking platform Booking.com publishes the Sustainable Travel Report 2022. The results are promising: 81% of respondents feel that sustainable travel is important.

Read the press release and full report

Hotel Das Rübezahl

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

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

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

Berghotel Rehlegg

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

Eco Aparthotel The Dreamer’s Club

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

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

OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

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

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

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

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio

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

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

Biohotel Sturm

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

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

ADLER Lodge RITTEN

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

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

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

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

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

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

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

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

The Mountain Cries for Help

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

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

Gentle Tourism in the Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Initiativen der Green Pearls® Partner in den Alpen

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

Megadiverse Country vs. Industrial Nation

Indonesia is one of the largest rainforest areas in the world and home to many rare animal species. Sumatra's national parks, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are home to the last orangutans still living in the wild. The Sumatran tiger and the Sumatran rhinoceros also live here. The rainforest is also home to many rare plants such as orchids and rafflesias. North Borneo and West New Guinea are home to two of the five centres of the greatest biodiversity on earth... With its enormous biodiversity, Indonesia is one of the world's mega-diverse countries.

Indonesia is also an industrial nation and the largest economy in Southeast Asia. The most important sources of income include the mining of raw materials such as gold and copper, the cultivation of coffee, cocoa, rice and, above all, oil palms. Indonesia is the world's largest producer of palm oil. The steadily growing demand for palm oil, however, brings with it ecological and social challenges. The heavy clearing of forests in favour of new palm plantations or the exploitation of labour are just some of these. Indonesia is also a country that is especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Natural disasters such as erosion, droughts and floods have become more frequent in recent years. But a change is emerging. Awareness of sustainable development and environmental protection is increasingly taking root in the minds of politicians, the population and trading partners.

Green Initiatives in Indonesia

The Indonesian government along with numerous political organisations and nature conservation associations from Indonesia and western countries are working in various action alliances for the conservation of nature as well as better working conditions. These include projects such as the "Action Plan for Sustainable Palm Oil" or the initiative for "Sustainable Agricultural Supply Chains in Indonesia" of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The goals are sustainable production, forest conservation and social inclusion. Small farmers and their families in particular benefit from this - and of course the environment.

More and more green initiatives are also finding their place in tourism, strengthening regional structures, focusing on environmentally friendly cycles and supporting species conservation. Two of our Green Pearls® partners have been pioneers in green tourism for many years and show how diverse the possibilities are for tourism providers to engage sustainably.

Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa  – Harmony with the Gods, with Nature and Between People

Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa in Bali, with its 18 traditional Balinese cottages, a new luxury villa and two suites, is a family-run eco-resort that benefits an entire local community both economically and socially. The employees come almost exclusively from the surrounding villages and the resort prefers to work with service providers from the immediate vicinity. Qualified training of the local residents through school education, further training courses or the promotion of community initiatives, comprehensive health care as well as adequate insurance cover were also part of the Puri Dajuma's social initiatives.

The two chefs, Dedi Putra Susila and Rudi Setiawan, ensure that the resort uses mainly seasonal products and that the ingredients come from local markets, farmers, and fishermen. Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa also focuses on 100% nature in the spa area: with recipes of essential oils made from regional products such as coconut oil, jungle honey, lemon, cucumber, and banana, which are prepared and applied with knowledge passed down through generations.

Eco Beach Tent by Billiton - A Relaxing and Climate-Friendly Holiday

Environmentally conscious travellers can also spend a relaxing and climate-friendly holiday in the Eco Beach Tent by Billiton. The refuge is located on the island of Belitung, which lies off the east coast of Sumatra in the Java Sea in Indonesia.

"Local wisdom is the foundation for unforgettable and authentic experiences for our guests." This is the credo of Eco Beach Tent Resort. Living according to the traditions and experiences of the locals, in harmony with nature.

Eight luxurious tents invite you to completely relax just a few steps from the water. They have been carefully planned and handcrafted from local wood and natural materials to keep the carbon footprint as low as possible. The environment also benefits from minimal use of chemicals in all green areas. The guest rooms are equipped with biodegradable soap and shampoo and for food packaging the glamping resort uses the local Simpur leaf, which is also used by locals in Belitung. Fruit and vegetables come from the resort's own organic farm.

Most of the employees are local residents - from construction workers to the clerks and chefs to the sales staff. The training of the employees helps to give new impulses and bring about urgently needed changes in people's behaviour. The Eco Beach Tent also supports its own sea turtle conservation programme on Kepayang Island, which can also be visited by guests. The turtle eggs are stored and incubated there until the hatchlings are released into the sea.

Indonesia's ecological challenges are vast, but first steps have already been taken. Tourism companies such as Puri Dajuma Bali and Eco Beach Tents by Billiton are successful examples of how environmental awareness, social responsibility and regional promotion can go hand in hand with attractive offers for travellers and unforgettable holiday experiences.

For more information about the Green Pearls partners, please visit www.greenpearls.com.

What is Sustainable Urban Development?

Sustainable urban development should ensure that residents can easily live an environmentally friendly and socially responsible lifestyle. This primarily means that the infrastructure is designed for pedestrians and cyclists and that public transport is expanded so that it is easy for people to do without their cars.

Environmentally friendly projects are promoted and new green spaces are created, which not only improves the microclimate but also the air quality in the city. The green oases also serve as social meeting places for people of all social backgrounds. As part of sustainable urban planning, new buildings should be built using sustainable, if possible, recyclable materials. This avoids waste and helps to protect the environment.

Where people come together and face challenges, new ideas are born. Large cities and metropolises have always been drivers of innovation and new solutions, also with regard to sustainability. A sustainable city brings with it a high quality of life. However, there is no one universal solution. Instead, different approaches are being experimented with everywhere. At times they are profound and all-encompassing, other times they are individual actions, projects or places, and sometimes the future is already here, as you can see in the following examples. 

More Plants for a Better Microclimate in Milan

The Porta Nuova district has reshaped Milan's skyline. On an old industrial site in the middle of the northern Italian city, a completely new district has been created that invites people to wander, relax and socialise. The empty, dilapidated factory buildings were replaced by high-rise buildings by various architects. Two of these skyscrapers are a model for biodiversity in urban spaces: the twin towers of the Bosco Vertikale, the vertical forest.

Trees stand on the balconies, shrubs and grasses overgrow the railings. Almost 800 trees, 4,500 shrubs and thousands of other plants, specially selected and prepared for this project, green the skyscrapers and offer birds and insects a habitat in the middle of the big city.

A green retreat is the roof terrace of our Green Pearls® partner Hotel Milano Scala, where various plants also grow and thrive. Above the rooftops of the vibrant city, you can end the evening here surrounded by fruit, vegetables and herbs. The lushly planted roof garden and the green façade of the hotel improve the microclimate in the hotel and the immediate surroundings. This is particularly effective as a stay at the Milano Scala itself does not produce any harmful emissions that would have to be captured by the plants. The entire hotel is powered by energy-efficient heat pumps and geothermal energy.

Sustainable Neighbourhood development in Vauban, Freiburg

Similar to the Porto Nuova district, a former military site was converted for the "Vauban" rather than a new area being developed. The Vauban district was completed in 2006 and is energy self-sufficient, virtually car-free and environmentally responsible. The houses are all passive, low-energy or even plus-energy houses, and the connections to public transport and the well-developed network of cycle paths make a car superfluous for most people. An active neighbourhood community takes care of incorporating and implementing the residents' wishes and further shaping the neighbourhood.

The Green City Hotel Vauban is located on the edge of Vauban. It is the ideal starting point for exploring the sustainable district on foot or by bike and is itself a prime example of sustainability in action. Architecturally, it relies on resource-saving and green practices paired with a clean, no-frills design. Heating and cooling are designed to be energy-efficient, and electricity comes from a photovoltaic system integrated into the roof surface. The hotel is also an inclusive business: half of the employees are disabled or handicapped. Great importance is placed on the training and further education of the team. The focus is very much on the social component, both within the hotel and with external suppliers and producers.

Paris as a Pioneer for Green Urban Planning

For years, the greater Paris Region has been strongly committed to the sustainable development of the city area. Environmentally conscious projects are promoted, social measures are taken and green building projects are supported. Among other things, there is the "EcoQuartier" quality label, which not only guarantees the environmental friendliness of a neighbourhood, but also focuses on the residents' satisfaction.

One such EcoQuartier is the Clichy-Batignolles neighbourhood in the north-east of the city, which was built on a former freight station. The image of the district is characterised by the diverse yet harmonious styles of the buildings. The façades are greened, made of wood or other resource-saving materials and the houses all have a very low energy footprint, which is in part comparable to that of a Passive House. A large park has been created in the centre, visually balancing the tall buildings and offering the residents of the neighbourhood recreational opportunities and space for sports and games.

There are also small green oases outside the sustainable neighbourhoods. One example is the Hôtel Le Pavillon, which is completely dedicated to sustainability. The boutique hotel in a former convent is a quiet haven thanks to its somewhat hidden location and the green inner courtyard, while still being right in the middle of the action. The Eiffel Tower, Seine and Champs-Elysées are all within walking distance. The rooms are uniquely furnished and offer relaxation without disturbing electromagnetic radiation. The locally and organically produced food is complemented with fruit, herbs and vegetables from their own small garden.

Micro Forest in Erlangen

In many cases, new neighbourhoods simply cannot be built. But sustainable developments within a city can also have an effect on a smaller scale. The initiative of individuals or groups is often the decisive factor. This is the case at the Creativhotel Luise.

Here guests can enjoy a delicious, ecological zero-waste breakfast to start the day full of energy. The huge hotel garden is also always worth a visit. A so-called Micro Forest is being created on part of the almost 1500 square metre area, based on the Japanese model. A wide variety of trees and other plants are growing in a very confined space and are expected to develop into an extremely diverse habitat within the next ten years.

Since the 1980s, the Creativhotel has been operating according to environmentally friendly principles. It is one of the most climate-positive hotels in Germany and offers a large garden as well as a green roof terrace for relaxation. If you prefer, you can also spend the night in a completely renewable hotel room®. Only natural and renewable raw materials were used for the interior design, showcasing that anything is possible!   

The best practice examples of our Green Pearls® partners illustrate the fact that sustainable urban development does not always take place on a large (or even larger) scale. It can be driven by individual businesses and also by individuals themselves. It can be the greened balcony, the support of sustainable and regional shops and initiatives and, of course, leaving the car at home. Our Green Pearls® partners are leading by example.

Green pearl Klosterhof, Bavaria (Germany)

The wellness hotel Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa is located in a solitary location on a sunny plateau in the Berchtesgadener Land. The four-star superior hotel with its 65 stylish rooms and suites was personally and individually furnished by the host family Färber. All rooms have a view of the forest or mountains and are air-conditioned - in combination with the large Artemacur Spa and the Health Center, a cozy retreat for an unforgettable wellness vacation in Bavaria.

The Klosterhof is a magical place with 500 years of history. Once part of an Augustinian monastery, the property was rebuilt according to ecological principles. Always in mind: a balanced union of tradition and modernity.

"It is the connection to nature that grounds us and gives us perspective," is how Henrike and Andreas Färber describe their motivation. Their daily actions pursue the goal of continuously making sustainability a central element of the mindset at the Klosterhof, in order to constantly improve the quality of life for the partners, their team and themselves, and to protect the environment.

For its sustainability concept, the Klosterhof recently became the first hotel in Germany to be awarded the "EU Ecolabel", a certification recognized throughout the EU.

Green pearl Hotel Weihrerhof, South Tyrol (Italy)

In an excellent location directly on the shores of Lake Wolfsgrubner, the family-run Hotel Weihrerhof with 23 rooms, wellness area, indoor pool and a large lakeside garden is a feel-good place in the middle of nature. Whether wellness, rowing, swimming or relaxing on the sunbathing lawns, the lake shapes the vacation days at the Weihrerhof. The latest guest highlights are the boathouse sauna made of local larch and pine wood and a new boat harbor with rowing and pedal boats.

For the operators Manuela and Klaus Pichler, respectful and careful treatment of the surrounding nature is an important element for sustainable tourism in South Tyrol. Therefore, they too would like to strengthen communication around their green initiatives.

At Weihrerhof, 60 percent of the energy is generated by their own photovoltaic system. The additionally purchased electricity also comes from renewable energy sources. When buying groceries, priority is given to products with the shortest transport route, and when it comes to cleaning, the hotel dispenses with chemicals as far as possible by using micro-dry steam. The spa area and guest bathrooms also focus on the environment: the hotel's own natural cosmetics line 'BergSea' is based on organic products from South Tyrol and the Wolfsgruben Lake water. For its sustainability, the hotel is one of the first establishments in GSTC-certified.

With the Weihrerhof, after the APIPURA hotel rinner and the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, a third hotel in the Oberbozen/Ritten region is a Green Pearls® partner. More information about the hotels and their green initiatives can be found here.

But not all holiday homes and apartments are created equal. While one accommodation may feature a secluded location and complete self-sufficiency, another offers the additional amenities of an attached hotel complex or shared services for several accommodation units. Wellness facilities will also differ. In today's newsletter, we present which concepts our Green Pearls® partners pursue and what sets them apart from the rest.

Individual and Private: The Classic Holiday Home Vacation

A completely self-contained property, built according to environmentally friendly principles, economical in consumption, high-quality furnishings - and all to yourself? The POU DE GLAÇ in northern Spain makes this possible. If you are looking for a peaceful and natural environment, this is the place for you.

The historic collection of buildings has been lovingly renovated in a resource-efficient way and now offers three eco-friendly holiday accommodations for two to six people. A room for events is also available. A special highlight is the historic ice fountain that gives the Refugio its name. In a space where ice could once be stored until June, today is a space for everything from exhibitions to dinners to yoga retreats. The new saltwater pool with a view of the Pyrenees rounds off the green holiday experience.

A magnificent view of the mountains is also available at the Summit Lodges Pfunds in Tyrol. The Spiss family has built two log cabins according to the traditional Canadian natural log construction method. The orientation has been optimised to minimise wear and tear from the weather, while maximising the amount of natural light that enters the building. The green holiday homes have two separate bedrooms, two bathrooms, a cosy living area with an open fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. A special highlight is the private sauna. Two friendly families or a group can book both lodges together and can enjoy an extra portion of privacy.

Enjoying freshly baked bread on your own terrace in the morning and take in the view over Sölden - no problem at The Peak! Several apartments and two chalets give guests plenty of privacy and space. All accommodations are equipped with a kitchen, and dogs are also welcome in some. During construction, the focus was on the reuse of old wood and local materials. Thanks to the photovoltaic system, the two chalets are completely self-sufficient and hiking trails and ski slopes start right on the doorstep. If guests ever want to enjoy slightly more distant routes, this is also possible in a sustainable way and without a car. In summer and winter, a ticket for public transport is included in the price.

Luxury and absolute privacy are offered by the LENI MOUNTAIN Chalet. This stylish and comfortably furnished holiday home with its own natural bathing pond and wellness area is located in the middle of the Ötztal Alps just outside Sölden. But it's not just the exposed location that makes it a special hideaway. The whole concept is based on sustainability, and the chalet is completely self-sufficient. The interior is made exclusively of natural materials and, in addition to breakfast and beverage service, a private concierge ensures that the sustainable holiday experience is just perfect.

Self-Catering or Hotel service? Both are also Possible!

Enjoy the advantages of your own holiday home or apartment and make use of hotel services such as restaurants, wellness or advisory services as required: This is what hotels that have their own holiday homes or apartments offer. They enable guests to organise their stay to suit their individual needs while at the same time enjoying the amenities of the hotel infrastructure.

The climate-neutral Biohotel Sturm relies on such a concept. The hotel's former kitchen house, which has been converted into a comfortable holiday home, offers space for up to six people and has its own kitchen and private terrace with garden area. This is located directly next to the snack garden and the natural swimming pond, which the guests of the holiday home can also use. Not in the mood for a hiking tour through the Rhön or a home-cooked meal? Relaxing hours in the Rhön spa or a gourmet dinner in the organic restaurant Otto's are just a few steps away. The use of the spa area is free of charge for holiday home guests, breakfast, dinner or wellness treatments can be booked in addition.

Like the Biohotel Sturm, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb offers a climate-neutral vacation in its holiday apartments. Guests can organise their day according to their personal preferences in the 2- to 3-room flats and explore the Black Forest, while the amenities of the hotel are available right next door. The breakfast buffet and use of the spa area with swimming pool and saunas are included in the price. If desired, there is even a cooking and spice package for the stay, the results of which can then be enjoyed on the private balcony.

Hotel comfort and holiday home feeling in mini format is offered by the Biohotel Grafenast in the Tiny House or "high-end caravan" with organic toilet and wood cooker. On only a few square metres, two people will find everything their heart desires. They are completely independent or can use the infrastructure of the hotel next door. The choice is entirely up to you.

Private, Green Accommodation with Shared Facilities

Another opportunity to enjoy an independent and sustainable holiday are aparthotels such as the eco aparthotel The Dreamers Club. Guests stay in their own flats and share the large garden with plenty of options for rest and relaxation. The interiors made of natural materials, the colourful design of the accommodation units and the spacious outdoor areas of the holiday flats in Croatia create a Mediterranean feel-good atmosphere and make you forget about the world outside. Guests of The Dreamers Club can also enjoy the optional services of the resort, such as the breakfast buffet, tapas or cocktails - served either in the garden lounge, on their own terrace, or in their flat.

At the LENI MOUNTAIN appartements in Sölden, the culinary meeting point is the LENI MOUNTAIN Café and Bar. Coffee, cakes, drinks and Tyrolean specialities offer a great change to the food prepared in the large flats themselves. The new wellness area, a bread roll service, and a laundry service also make these vacations a time for indulgence.

Gut Nisdorf on the Baltic Sea coast also offers spacious holiday apartments. Families in particular will get their money's worth in the flats with their own kitchenette. But couples will also feel at home on the farm grounds near the Bodden with their own small beach, natural pond and sauna area. The common meeting place for Gut Nisdorf holidaymakers is the hotel restaurant with terrace, where you can enjoy the breakfast buffet included in the price for all guests or the evening menu that is part of the half board. All meals are prepared with certified organic products.

A new addition to Green Pearls® is the A' Cràpa Mangia in the middle of the Italian Cilento National Park. The A' Cràpa Mangia estate faces the sea and is situated on a hill from where you can look out over the entire bay of Santa Maria di Castellabate and the Gulf of Salerno.

During the renovation of the former estate and its stables, special emphasis was placed on the preservation of the old structures and the use of sustainable and traditional building materials. Nine of the eleven accommodation units have a fully equipped kitchen where hobby cooks can really let off steam. Ingredients from the immediate surroundings, such as their own olive oil, are available in the courtyard bar, as are the pre-ordered bread rolls. The best place to enjoy your meal is on your own terrace with a view of the sea. La Dolce Vita, but sustainable!

Sustainable holiday homes are an alternative for all those who value independence and flexibility on vacation. But even those who don't want to completely forego the comfort of a hotel will find what they are looking for with the Green Pearls® partners. More information about these eco-friendly accommodations can be found at www.greenpearls.com. 

The spacious estate is surrounded by fruit and olive trees. The owners were committed to sustainability from the very beginning. Thus, during the loving renovation, attention was given to preserving the historic architectural structures of the 17th century. Natural stone, wood, iron and stucco lend the rooms a special charm.

By the way, A' Cràpa Mangia is an old Cilentan greeting that literally means “the goat eats”. And when the goat ate, the people were also well. Like today at  A' Cràpa Mangia.

More information about the apartments, their green initiatives and offers is available at Green Pearls® and on the property's website. Green Pearls® is an international information platform and communication agency for sustainable tourism. Each Green Pearls® partner unites high standards, active environmentally friendly initiatives and social commitment.
 

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

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From the and Chalet Directly onto the Cycle Path

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

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

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

On the Trail of the Romans in South Tyrol

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

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

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

Go with the Flow Along the Weser Cycle Route

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

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

Always a bit of Baltic Sea

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

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

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

Pure Nature in the Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

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

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

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

By Bike through the Black Forest

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

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

Explore the Rhön with a tour guide 

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

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

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

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ALLERGY-FRIENDLY VACATION WITH GREEN PEARLS® PARTNERS

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

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TIPS FOR A SUSTAINABLE HONEYMOON

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

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

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

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FRILL-FREE NATURAL COSMETICS IN HOTELS  

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

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

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

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

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

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Relaxed Summer of Culture in Erlangen

Can Erlangen still be considered an “insider tip”? The city in north-eastern Bavaria certainly has a lot to offer. Thanks to the free audio guides for classic city tours, it can be visited at any time of day or night. If that's not exciting enough for you, you can also explore Erlangen in the form of a puzzle or a story. On the path of the Foxtrail or myCityHunt tours, the city must be saved from the supposedly sustainable construction projects of a dubious entrepreneur or a strange plant disease during a heat wave. 

For music fans, the Kulturinsel Wöhrmühle is a highlight with well-known acts in a great location. This year, the open-air festival will finally take place from the 14^th  to the 24^th of July and is a must-visit for all pop and indie music lovers. The Creativhotel Luise offers the ideal oasis of calm after a concert. The Creativhotel has revealed two more top tips for next year: The International Comics Salon takes place in mid-June and beer lovers will get their money's worth at the traditional Bergkirchweih at during Pentecost. If you don't want to wait, we can highly recommend a visit to the beer museum.

Cultural and Fashion Metropolis Milan

Milan is a true cultural hotspot in northern Italy. The zero-emissions Hotel Milano Scala is the perfect base for experiencing Milan's cultural summer first hand - quiet and relaxed, yet right in the middle of it all. Theatre lovers in particular will be pleased to know that the prestigious Teatro al Scala is right next door. This summer, "Rigoletto" and "Giselle", among others, will be performed there. In addition, the city can be explored with a variety of themed city tours, for example, a look behind the scenes of various designers on the Milan Fashion Tour. 

Less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel is the Parco Sempione urban landscape garden. In the Triennale Milano, the museum for Italian design, an exhibition about the unknown ("Unknown Unknowns") can currently be visited. This exciting exhibition focuses on "what we don't know" and invites open discussion and interdisciplinary consideration. The discussions can then be continued in the evening on the hotel terrace with a view over Milan, enveloped by the scent of the herb garden. 

Freiburg Green Creative Spot

Pull out your pencils and sharpen your ears: In July, the Freiburg city poetry slam championships will take place. Of course, you can just listen, spellbound, to the young creatives and writers. But you can also let them and the city inspire you to go on your own writing excursions. It is also possible to take part in a writing walk, which allows visitors to experience Freiburg and the surrounding nature from a completely new perspective. Clean lines, modern architecture and space to breathe are what the Green City Hotel Vauban offers. The structured environment invites creative thinking, making it the ideal setting to immerse yourself in Freiburg's literary scene. 

Anyone visiting the city between the 13^th and the 31^st of July will not be able to avoid the “Zelt-Musik-Festival”. Well-known acts from all over the world perform every evening on several open-air stages and guarantee a festive atmosphere. After all the excitement of a concert, it is all the more relaxing to return to the tranquil atmosphere of the Green City Hotel Vauban.

Theatre and Industrial Monuments in the Baltic Summer

Panevėžys is not only the industrial centre of northern Lithuania, but also the cultural capital of the region. It is characterised above all by industrial architecture, which stands in charming contrast to the city's historical buildings. This is also the case with the cultural monument that houses the ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa: in 1841, the first mechanical mill in the country operated here. There is hardly a better place to experience the summer of culture in Lithuania and Panevėžys. 

Numerous museums and galleries invite you to take a short or longer look during a stroll through the city. Panevėžys is also the final stop of a narrow-gauge railway that is almost forgotten in the rest of Europe. Visitors can admire steam locomotives and signallers in the adjoining museum. In addition, rides on the hand trolley or the rail tricycle are possible in summer. 

The cultural summer weekend is then rounded out with a visit to the theatre in the Juozas Miltinis Drama Theatre. The theatre, built in a modern style, looks back on an eventful past. In addition to performances, tours of the building are also offered. At the end of an eventful day, you can indulge in high-quality organic food in the ROMANTIC's restaurant before drifting off to sleep within the historic walls.

In Search of Historical Footprints in Berlin's Green Hinterland

The Landgut Stober itself is practically a main cultural attraction. As part of a brick ensemble created by the industrialist family Borsig, it attracts visitors from near and far. But the Landgut Stober is not only highly recommended as a destination, but also as a starting point. Around the hotel is one of the oldest landscape parks with ancient trees that has been preserved in its original form. It invites you to stroll and relax, especially during hot summer days. Ribbeck with its castle and numerous small studios, concerts and shops is only a short bike ride away. 

The Landgut Stober is just a few kilometres from the gates of Berlin. By train, it takes just over half an hour to reach the city centre with all of its bars and clubs, museums and theatres, cinemas and concerts. Visitors can explore the Berlin underground with a guided tour, climb the TV tower at the Alex or simply let themselves wander. Back at the hotel, guests can expect exquisite cuisine and an almost magical atmosphere that makes the hustle and bustle of the big city seem like a distant mirage.

The Art Metropolis and Cultural City of Paris

Shakespeare in Paris? Yes, please! In the Catelan Garden of the Bois de Boulogne, actors take guests into the play worlds of the theatre poet in various themed gardens. The works are presented in a variety of ways: sometimes with puppets, sometimes as a fairy tale, a circus, or a reading. In addition to Shakespeare, visitors can also immerse themselves in the plays of other poets and dramatists such as Molière or Jean de la Fontaine. 

The centrally located boutique hotel Hôtel Le Pavillon is ideal for experiencing summer in Paris in style. Housed in an lovingly restored convent, it offers guests an oasis of well-being with plenty of greenery, creative details and a rich breakfast buffet. They are well prepared for a day full of theatre and poetry. Or perhaps a visit to one of the many museums and galleries? Or exploring Le Recyclerie, an old railway station? Here artists from all over the world organise exhibitions or events - also on sustainable themes. Maybe discovering the maritime ambience along the Seine during the "Paris Plages", when deckchairs and palm trees take over the banks is more your style?

After two years, the event calendars are finally bursting at the seams again and we are pleased that the selection of cultural summer highlights around our Green Pearls® partners was so difficult for us to narrow down. We can say with a clear conscience that there will be something for everyone, whether you are a fan of literature, a music lover, or a theatre-goer. Our Green Pearls® partners not only offer a fantastic setting for this cultural summer, but also love to assist their guests in choosing which events to attend.

The scenario described above is not uncommon. Thanks to hotel apps and the like, guests can check in quickly and contactlessly, call up information from the digital guest information centre or book spa offers. Direct contact with the team for extra requests or service enquiries is also possible and convenient. Another advantage: thanks to digital applications, there is no need for guest folders, countless brochures, or information leaflets made of paper and plastic. Hotel apps therefore not only ensure a pleasant, relaxed stay, but also help protect the environment. So it’s no wonder that many of our Green Pearls® partners rely on apps, web applications and in-room tablets. 

One-Stop Shop - The Hotel App with Digital Guest Information Folder

Whether self-programmed or developed with existing providers: It is hard to imagine many Green Pearls® hotels without a Hotel App. For example, additional packages at Berghotel Rehlegg can be booked via the “Gastfreund” App. The current evening menu can also be called up from the room or on the go. A QR code within it also details where the food has been sourced from.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN Web App offers enquiry options as well as the guest folder in digital form with information about the hotel, the room and the surroundings. It also links the various ADLER hotels so guests can already begin to think about their next trip. 

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu has a similar system: Book activities, make extra requests, read the daily newspaper or do some research on excursions or day trips? All conveniently possible in an app. On the Baltic Sea, at the Lifestylehotel SAND on Timmendorfer Strand, outdoor saunas, bamboo bicycles from myBoo or the SAND sleeping beach chair can be booked via a smartphone app. A digital check-in/check-out service is also being introduced.

The Croatian Maslina Resort has its own app where hotel guests can not only learn interesting facts about the region and the hotel; they can also find their room key, book restaurant seats or treatments at the Pharomatiq Spa - and learn a little Croatian!

Other hotels, however, use their app purely as an information portal. The Océano Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife, for example, offers its guests everything they need to know about the hotel and the island in one place, so that they can enjoy a relaxing stay without having to lose themselves in endless research about excursion options. 

The Personal Digital Concierge - In-Room Tablets and Web App

Instead of relying on guests to download an app, the team at Naturresort Schindelbruch opted for a different solution. Tablets with the guest information folder and other functions are available in the rooms. Regardless of whether guests have your own smartphone, they can access information and services such as cancelling room cleaning. For those on the move, there is a browser-based web app that mirrors the interface of the in-room tablet.

Tablets are also part of the basic room amenities at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, which guests can use to get an overview of the hotel and its surroundings.

Collecting Steps and Discovering Trails - Cooperation with External App Providers

It is not only in-house hotel apps that offer our partners' guests greater convenience. The ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & SPA in Lithuania motivates its overnight guests to walk new trails with the help of an app. Via the #walk15 app of a Lithuanian start-up, the hotel invites its guests to take part in a walking challenge. To increase motivation even more, there are rewards for step goals achieved!

The Paradiso Pure.Living and LA VIMEA in South Tyrol also do not rely on a classic hotel app. Instead, the hotels cooperate with the outdoor navigation app Peak Visor. Guests can register with Peak Visor free of charge for the duration of their stay and use the app to plan their hiking routes in the Dolomites, navigate offline and identify mountain peaks. The cooperation also resulted in a compilation of the top hiking routes around the Paradiso Pure.Living Hotel. 

Not Only for the Guests - Hotel Management via Mobile App

In addition to the advantages that digital applications offer hotel guests, the benefits for the hotel's management should not be underestimated. Here, Puri Dajuma is in the process of setting new standards. They realised that currently no app available on the market could really meet the needs of medium-sized hotels. Without further ado, they developed their own management app. They have been using it for two years now and are in the process of releasing it for other hotels.  

Apps, tablets and web applications have become an indispensable part of everyday hotel life. What at first sounds like making guest services more impersonal is, at second glance, a win-win situation for guests and staff. Many small issues can be solved in the app or online, leaving more time for personalised customer care and a relaxed holiday.

Green Pearls® Partners with digital Services 

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio - Mindful Feasting in Allgäu

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

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

ADLER Lodge RITTEN - With Full Service 

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

Gut Nisdorf - Organic Delights from the Gutshof Kitchen

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

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

Berghotel Rehlegg - Impressive Selection of Regional and International Specialities

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

Grafenast - All-Round Service Close at Hand

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

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA - Full Board as Desired

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

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

Schlosshotel Blankenburg - Hiking Pleasures with Full Board

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

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

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

For three generations, the Thurm family has been running the alpine 4* superior boutique hotel. With its 54 deluxe rooms and design suites, a large wellness area, private spa and gourmet cuisine, Das Rübezahl focuses entirely on individuality, an exclusive feel-good ambience – and, of course, on sustainability.

This includes, among other things, the use of natural and local materials, a respectful cooperation with employees and suppliers as well as a green power supply. Since 2021, 90% of the electricity requirements have been generated by photovoltaics or a modern combined heat and power plant. 

The wellness garden was recently expanded with special flower and herb meadows to provide space for endangered species to flourish. The natural cycle and the native flora and fauna are also the focus in the two hotel restaurants. For both the Louis II restaurant, which serves healthy and light cuisine, and the award-winning Gams & Gloria, products are sourced from regional suppliers wherever possible and the choice of dishes follows the seasons. 

Guests of Das Rübezahl can offset their personal carbon footprint and relax on their CO2-neutral getaway through a reforestation project.

For more information about the hotel, its green initiatives and offers, please visit Green Pearls® and the hotel website.

In this newsletter, we would like to showcase some alpine tours that can be perfectly combined with a stay at one of our Green Pearls® partners. They have embraced the uniqueness of the nature that envelopes them and have created a green accommodation offer for holidaymakers. Most of them have been rooted in their region for generations and are available to their guests as enthusiastic and experienced advisors for activities of all kinds. The following tours are only a small selection of the diverse hiking possibilities.

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Naturhotel Outside and the Hiking Region of East Tyrol

The Adlerweg is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches almost 100 kilometres from Ströden am Großvenediger to Kals at the foot of the Großglockner. It requires a good level of fitness and surefootedness. The trail offers a spectacular view down into the valleys and of the most diverse mountain ranges - as if from the perspective of a majestic eagle. A total of nine stages of the Adlerweg lead through East Tyrol, including two in the community of Matrei. The Naturhotel Outside in Matrei is a wonderful starting point not only for one of the Adlerweg stages, but also for many other tours. The Hohe Tauern, with the largest glaciers in the Eastern Alps and around 250 three-thousand-metre peaks, are a true hiker's paradise. The National Park is the largest protected area in the Alps.

The Outside Hotel team advises its guests on the most suitable hiking route for them. One of their hiking highlights is the Innergschlöss-Schlatenkees glacier trail: the medium-difficulty trail is 9.4 kilometres long and climbs over 680 metres in altitude. On their way, hikers reach the middle of the "Eternal Ice", the core zone of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The starting point is the Matreier Tauernhaus. From here the trail leads into the Gschlösstal valley - according to the locals the most beautiful valley head in the Eastern Alps! The educational trail begins with an ascent of about 500 metres in altitude to the Salzbodensee lake. Here, hikers reach the so-called "Eye of God" and finally the glacier gate of the Schlatenkees at the foot of the Großvenediger. On the glacier trail hikers will learn about the power of the glaciers in the Alps and their ability to shape the landscape. Visitors will also discover the impacts of climate change and experience the retreat of the ice fields at first hand. The estimated time for the hike is about five hours.

Eco Park Hotel Azalea and the Hiking Region Val di Fiemme

Whether you are looking for leisurely trails or challenging high alpine treks, the Val di Fiemme in the Dolomites World Heritage Region offers hiking opportunities of all kinds. From the Latemar mountains, to the Lagorai chain, and all the way through the Trudner Horn and Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Nature Parks. The Eco Park Hotel Azalea is located in the middle of this hiking paradise. From the colourful and friendly family hotel with vegetarian cuisine, the wide variety of natural beauties of the Val di Fiemme can be discovered. Eco Park Hotel Azalea itself offers two guided walks and two-day excursions with a guide every week in summer. A shorter trail with a great view is the tour from the Paion del Cermis over the Cimon del to della Trappola to the Bombasel lake. The route climbs for 6.1-kilometres up to 2,376 metres.   

Only half an hour away from the hotel, experienced hikers can set out on the Lagorai crossing. Starting from the Manghen Pass, the 43.6-kilometre trail leads through pristine nature to the Forcella Lagorai, continuing over the Cadinon and Coltorondo passes, the Paneveggio Nature Park, up to the Colbricon peak and down to the Rolle Pass. The 4-day hike, for which you need your own tent, is particularly appealing due to its unexplored nature. The Latemar, Rosengarten and the Sella Group along with the Pala Group of the Dolomites opposite, and the mighty south face of the Marmolada are always in view along the entire trail.

Paradiso Pure.Living and the Alpe di Siusi

The Alpe di Siusi is the largest high plateau in Europe and offers 450 kilometres of hiking trails for all levels of difficulty. Schlern, Langkofel, Plattkofel and Rosengarten are among the most famous peaks in the Dolomite region. The Paradiso Pure.Living, the first vegan-vegetarian hotel in the Dolomites, is located in this fairytale landscape that is steeped in mystery.

A classic, is the hike around the Langkofel group with the Langkofel and Plattkofel. The high-altitude trail requires a bit of fitness, but leads around the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto for about 17.5 kilometres without any major climbs and offers wonderful views of the neighbouring Val Gardena and Val di Fassa. Visitors should plan about five hours for the tour. The Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail is also highly recommended. This 175 km long Geotrail through some of the most beautiful mountain groups of the Dolomites consists of a total of ten stages. The third and fourth stages lead through the Dolomites region of Alpe di Siusi. For holidaymakers without their own car, it is worth noting that the entry and exit points of the Dolomites Geotrail can almost always be reached by public transport.

Pavilions Himalayas and the Annapurna Circuit

The Pavilions Himalayas Hotel & Resorts with its 14 luxury villas is nestled in a lush forested valley on the edge of the majestic Himalayan mountain range. The boutique resort, with its own farm, generates all of its required energy from renewable sources and produces its own organic products. The associated Lakeview satellite resort with 8 luxury tented villas offers exclusive glamping accommodations and great views of Lake Pokhara. 

Hiking is what most visitors want to do here. The most famous and versatile tour is certainly the Annapurna Circuit, which circles the mountain range on a length of about 230 kilometers and 21 daily stages. The official routes can be partially shortened by jeep transfers or stays in guesthouses. The best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit is in spring or autumn. 
 

However, visitors don't have to tackle the entire circuit; several shorter excursion and hiking tours also start in Pokhara, such as the tour to the Sarangkot viewpoint. From Pohkara, hilly paths lead to Lake Fewa, which can be crossed by boat. The route continues up to the World Peace Pagoda at 1592 metres, from where breathtaking views over Pokhara and its beach promenade populated with colourful boats open up. If you start early enough before sunrise, you will experience the spectacular peaks of the Annapurna mountains bathed in the light of the rising sun.

Leisurely Hikes on the Alpe-Adria Trail

The Alpe-Adria hiking trail leads from the Grossglockner through Carinthia, on towards Slovenia and the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia to the Adriatic Sea. The long-distance hiking trail covers a total of 750 kilometres, divided into 43 stages. In contrast to most other long-distance hiking trails, the individual tour sections are comparatively short, as there should be enough time for relaxing and indulgent moments. For each stage there are tips for culinary and cultural detours. The trail network is very well developed and the rather easy routes are suitable for beginners. A luggage service, shuttle service or return transport to the starting point also complete the comfortable offer of the Alpe-Adria-Trail.

La Subida Country Resort and Friuli

Stages E31 and E32 end, and in the case of the latter also starts, in Cormóns in Friuli, Italy. The La Subida Country Club is a hotel where spoiling oneself is doubly important. For example, the family that owns the hotel, the Sirk family, delights their guests with regional delicacies in the Michelin-award-winning Trattoria al Cacciatore and in the Osteria. The sustainable resort includes 18 individually and exclusively furnished cottages in traditional style.

Genießerhotel Die Forelle and the Weissensee Nature Park

Those who want to join the Alpe-Adria-Trail from Carinthia should plan for a few additional days at Lake Weissensee and the Genießerhotel Die Forelle in advance. A hiking, swimming and relaxing vacation all in one. The hotel is located directly on the crystal-clear Lake Weissensee, the highest bathing lake in Carinthia. The water temperature gets up to 24 degrees in summer. The Weissensee Nature Park with its healing climate was awarded the "European Prize for Tourism and Environment". Hiking tours on and around the peaks of Gaisrücken, Golz with their charming places to stop for refreshments such as the Kohlröslhütte or the Naggler Alm make the nature park a popular hiking area.

The list could go on and on as there are many ways to experience unforgettable hiking moments around the Green Pearls. Further information and recommendations are available on the websites of the Green Pearls partners as well as at the destinations themselves.

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ADULTS ONLY AND CHILD-FREE ZONES ON VACATION
Furtive glances, a secret touch, a quick hug. Does your togetherness also seem like this? For many new parents, quality time together can easily come up short—small children, after all, take up a lot of time. Here are some recommendations for romantic destinations and adult only hotels.

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SUSTAINABLE VACATION WITH KIDS
In the hectic day-to-day life with school and work, time for a quiet and relaxed time as a family quickly comes up short. With homework, housework, and hobbies for big and small, there is always something to do. Taking a vacation together can help and is an important counterbalance to everyday stress.

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SUSTAINABLE HOTEL GARDEN AT THE ADLER LODGE RITTEN
The ADLER Lodge RITTEN in the Italian South Tyrol has this year started a particularly large project in the garden area - even 4000 square meters in size. With the next harvest, summer wheat, potatoes, various vegetables, berries and herbs directly from their own cultivation should then come into the kitchen or on the plate of the guests.

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FARM-TO-TABLE: WHEN FOOD LANDS ON THE PLATE DIRECTLY FROM THE FARM
Local foods can be sustainable for so many reasons: you’re supporting the local economy, getting fresh food, and having a better carbon footprint because of the shorter distances. All the better, therefore, when food comes straight from the fields to your plate fresh, as the chefs of our Green Pearls® partners agree. 

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The BBC Documentation The Green Planet Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, reveals the strange and wonderful world of plants like never before.

Watch the Documentation

Kathryn Kellogs Blog ‘Going Zero Waste’ is filled with actionable tips, and informative pieces on things like the circular economy and finding your very own zero waste community.

Read the Zero Waste Blog

It's strawberry time. The vegan magazine ‘Our Green Planet’ lists ‘The Ins and Outs of Growing Your Own Strawberries’

Grow your Strawberries

The team of the Waldhotel Fletschhorn sees tourism as an important initiator of sustainable development in the region and the hotel well positioned for a green future: "The Fletschhorn team has a deep respect for nature and wants to do its part to protect the climate. At 1800 m above sea level, just below the tree line, you experience nature far more directly than you would in the city, for example." To that end, the hotel continues to advance its green initiatives in terms of water, energy and waste management, is socially engaged in the region and focuses its culinary concept on organic, regional and seasonal food.

The Neue Zürcher Zeitung selected the Waldhotel Fletschhorn among the 50 best 4* hotels in Switzerland in spring 2022. It is the fourth Green Pearls® partner in Switzerland after CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt, Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt and Schloss Wartegg on Lake Constance.

Green Pearls® is an international information platform and communication agency for sustainable tourism. The website www.greenpearls.com showcases pioneers of green tourism who are committed to environmental protection and focus on social responsibility. All Green Pearls® partners combine high standards, active environmentally friendly initiatives along with social commitment.

With "Swisstainable", the Swiss tourism industry is bringing into focus what it has been silently practising and promoting for many years: sustainable, mindful and conscious travel. Not surprisingly, many businesses and events immediately reached level 2 (engaged) or 3 (leading) of the programme. This is also true for our three Swiss Green Pearls® partners.

Arrive car-free at Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt

Switzerland has one of the densest rail networks in Europe. Even the smallest village can be reached by bus or train. Moreover, travelling by train through the rugged mountain landscape over bridges and through tunnels is itself an experience. Great reasons to leave the car behind on your next holiday. In Zermatt you would have to anyway, the village is car-free! Nevertheless, guests do not have to lug their suitcases to the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt outside the village centre, which can be reached in a few minutes by electric taxi from the railway station. In winter, the ski area starts almost directly behind the hotel. When there is no snow, you can reach the Sunnega/Rothorn hiking area in just a few minutes on foot and immerse yourself in nature. You certainly won't miss your car.

The Bella Vista uses only hydroelectric power and, with a few exceptions, uses regional products from the surrounding area. The breakfast eggs, however, come from the hotel's own chickens. Doing without plastic bottles and packaging, using organic detergents and cleaning agents and using resources sparingly have become a given in the hotel business.

Enjoy sustainability at CERVO Mountain Resort

Sustainable travel protects the environment and in doing so ensures a high level of air and water quality. As a guest at the CERVO Mountain Resort in car-free Zermatt, you can experience this first hand. In the newly designed Mountain Ashram Spa, wellness lovers can immerse themselves in the connection to nature: in a hot Onsen bath fed by spring water under the open sky, during rituals inspired by cultures from all over the world or cocooned in fragrant treatments made from local herbs.

In addition to a sustainable energy concept and conservation of resources, CERVO's philosophy includes a commitment to social and ecological responsibility - always with a focus on the region. For example, the supply chain is almost completely regional. The hotel works together with various organisations, such as the MitMänsch foundation and institution, to also support social engagement in the region.

The CERVO is not only Swisstainable certified, but also demonstrates its holistic sustainable orientation as a founding member of the Responsible Hotels of Switzerland.

Organic as standard at Schloss Wartegg

Did you know that the Swiss are well ahead, if not at the top, in the amount of organic food consumed per capita? Many hotels now also rely on regional and organically grown food. At the hotel Schloss Wartegg on Lake Constance, some of these are even grown by the hotel itself under Demeter standards. And right in the middle of the castle grounds! In addition to the full supply of certified organic products, guests can expect an inspiring environment to relax, unwind and be present surrounded by nature. Those who like to can complement their stay with cultural highlights from the castle's programme.

The Historic Hotels of Europe have just awarded Schloss Wartegg the Gold Award 2022 in the category "Historic Hotel Sustainability" for its sustainable efforts.

Switzerland is increasingly establishing itself as a sustainable travel destination and is now communicating this to the outside world with the Swisstainable campaign. A well-developed rail network, nature-based activities, a wide range of regional and certified organic products and the efforts of hotels such as our Green Pearls partners have created the perfect conditions for a travel experience that connects more deeply and sustainably than merely ticking off Swiss clichés.

Wellbeing with the bees

At the family-run Hotel Rinner in Oberbozen, everything revolves around the fascinating world of the bee: from the hotel's own organic apiary to the furnishings with honeycomb-inspired elements and the special Api-Wellness. Api-Therapy is an ancient healing method using bee products. With the help of a so-called 'Beecura System', an inhalation system for beehive air, the valuable air infused with the bees’ hard work is gentle sucked out of the hive. The bees are not disturbed during this process. The air, which is delicately scented with beeswax, contains many valuable ingredients such as essential oils, flavonoids, pollen, wax and propolis, which have a healing effect on various respiratory problems and allergies and can increase overall well-being.

Another form of treatment that uses the healing properties of honey is the Tibetan therapeutic honey massage. An ancient treatment that has been practiced for hundreds of years in Asia and Eastern Europe, and guests can enjoy it at the CERVO Mountain Resort. The massage relieves back and shoulder pain by loosening deep tensions in the muscles and fascia, improving muscle tightness and stimulating the reflex zones of all internal organs. The honey opens the pores of the skin and toxins are removed from the body. The slightly acidic pH value of honey strengthens the skin's own acid protection.

Fasting therapies

Fasting trains the metabolism. When the body does not have to digest, important cell cleansing processes can run more smoothly. Fasting promotes the body's own waste removal and leads to a relief of the body's own systems. 

Im OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel auf Teneriffa gibt es die Möglichkeit, eine ärztlich betreute und begleitete Mayr-Fastenkur und den Urlaub miteinander zu verbinden. Die Diagnostik und Therapie nach F. X. Mayr ist „eine ganzheitliche Methode zur Gesunderhaltung und Behandlung chronischer Beschwerden und Erkrankungen“. Das Gesundheitshotel bietet verschiedene Fastenprogramme an. Die klassische 14- oder 21-tägige Fastenkur richtet sich an Menschen mit Fastenerfahrung – und dient der Prävention von Bluthochdruck und Magenbeschwerden sowie als Basis für einen gesunden Lebensstil. Das F.X. Mayr „Detox“ Programm legt seinen Schwerpunkt noch mehr auf Bauchbehandlungen, die Aktivierung des Darms sowie die Anregung der Entgiftungsorgane. Das „Aktiv“-Programm beinhaltet ein spezielles Bewegungs- und Trainingsprogramm. Die Körperzusammensetzung wird mehrfach gemessen, um Veränderungen und Fortschritte festzustellen und Handlungsempfehlungen für die zukünftige Lebensweise abzuleiten.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, also offers the possibility of a fasting holiday. The hotel is located in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb and offers its guests both therapeutic fasting according to Dr. Buchinger and fasting with alkaline food. The participants are guided and supervised by fasting instructor Christiane Hefner. Exercise programmes such as guided hikes, black forest bathing or yoga provide variety and support the cleansing process. A visit to the spa area and many extras such as colon hydro treatments, classic massages and cosmetic treatments round off the fasting holiday.

Sound therapy

While harmonious sounds calm the mind, fine vibrations gradually spread through the body. This can lead to deep relaxation and a sense of well-being. This state can be achieved with singing bowl therapy, also called sound healing. 

Guests of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA relax with the singing bowl developed by Peter Hess during a sound massage or find their physical centre during sound meditation. Thoughts are focused and emotions and sensations are perceived more consciously. The meditations are also used at conferences as an effective relaxation element to awaken new energies and release creative energies.

The Maslina Resort also focuses on a relaxation offer with sound healing. During the sound session at the 5* wellness hotel, various musical instruments are used to create healing vibrations around the body in a meditative state. The therapists are trained sound healing and Reiki masters. They use gongs tuned to strategic frequencies to heal different parts of the body and mind.

The Naturhotel Aufatmen in Leutasch invites its guests to relax in the 'Room of Silence'. Here, sound body loungers are available on which you simply select your favourite music via a tablet, close your eyes and enjoy. The sound can be felt everywhere throughout the body, which gradually slips you into a very special state of relaxation. The loungers are available to guests free of charge. In addition, a masseuse offers singing bowl massages on site.

The Tibetan singing bowls used in Ayurvedic treatments at the CERVO Mountain Resort are composed of alloys. They contain various precious metals that are also associated with stars in our galaxy: Lead (Saturn), Tin (Jupiter), Iron (Mars), Copper (Venus), Silver (Moon) and Gold (Sun). The CERVO team is convinced of the effect of the therapy: "When you relax with singing bowls and gongs, your concentration increases, emotional blockages and tensions are released. With its vibration, the sound can abolish spiritual or emotional pain such as lack of self-esteem, worry, fear, anger, depression or insomnia."

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu with their approach to holistic therapy and coaching also provides their guests with sound bowl massages. Be it sound, tones or music, all is energy. Vibration resonates and permeates each individual body cell. This exposes behavior patterns and conditionings that restrict one throughout life and prevent experiencing one's true potential. The soft vibrations induce a sense of relaxation and a keener consciousness of the changes that need to be made.

Shiatsu massage

In the Western world, ailments are often only treated selectively. When we have a headache, we take a pill for short-term relief. The cause of the pain is often ignored. Shiatsu offers a holistic treatment approach. The Japanese pressure point massage is about strengthening the life energy of a person, the so-called Qi with its three components. This includes the physical, psychological and mental wellbeing of the person. Qi is transported through the body via interconnected channels called meridians. If the flow of energy is blocked, this affects overall wellbeing. Through pressure point massage with highly trained hands, the blockages can be released and the energy can flow freely through the body again. Shiatsu (finger pressure) is therefore to be understood as a blockage remover and energy provider. Guests can try out the soothing and energising effect of such a treatment at the Mountain Ashram Spa of the CERVO Mountain Resort. The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife is also convinced of the strong balancing effect of massage along the meridians and offers therapeutic shiatsu treatments.

TCM - Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is very popular on the high plateau above the Moselle near Bernkastel-Kues. The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten is located here and has its own TCM clinic. TCM advocates holistic health care that affects the mind, body and soul. A philosophy that corresponds to the sustainable and holistic thinking of the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten and is reflected in its in-house TCM by Kurfürst concept: "A symbiosis of Chinese traditional and modern, holistic and profound medicine. Based on complex knowledge of different Chinese teachings and years of treatment work." TCM therapy at Zum Kurfürsten is made up of various components: Acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, Tuina massages, nutritional adjustments, herbal therapy and in-depth advice on healthy living. Arrangements such as the 'TCM - Work-Life-Balance' or the TCM cure 'No Smoker' combine TCM treatments with the amenities of the 4*Wellness-Resort.

Thai & Far Eastern wellness treatments

The Keemala in Phuket is devoted exclusively to Thai culture and lifestyle. Thai and other Far Eastern treatment techniques are also used in the spa of the eco-resort. These include massage therapies such as the Chinese Chi Nei Tsang, which uses deep and gentle massage of the abdominal area to activate and improve the function of the internal organs, or Reiki, a beautiful and effective method of energy healing that rebalances and rejuvenates body, mind and soul. In "Integrative Thai Bodywork", guests work closely with an experienced Thai holistic therapist who combines customised elements of traditional Thai massage, Tok Sen tapping massage and hot herbal compresses. A deeply healing yet energising experience.

Whether it's a fasting regimen with a view of the Atlantic, singing bowl relaxation in the Alps or Thai massage delights in the tropical nature of Thailand.  The therapy offers of the Green Pearls® partners are the perfect way combine discovering beautiful holiday destinations, alleviating ailments and doing something good for body and soul.

In this newsletter, we present green hotels that offer their guests private retreats for an exclusive wellness experience.

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From the mountains and into the sauna

Hiking, biking, climbing, swimming, strolling - after an active day in the mountains, body and soul will be looking forward to rest and regeneration.

From the mountains and into the sauna I: Wellness Pearl in Zermatt

Zermatt, unlike many other mountain sports and recreation destinations, caters for all the well-being needs of its guests. And this is the case at the family-run Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt with its 21 individual rooms. Those who value a private wellness experience here can reserve the spa area for individual use. For two hours, the steam bath, the whirlpool and the Finnish sauna are available for private enjoyment, fresh fruit and prosecco included! A special highlight of the wellness time-out at the Bella Vista Alpine Spa are the waterbeds in the Arvenstube. Swiss stone pine has a calming effect, has anti-bacterial properties and can also help improve breathing. It also lifts the mood and ensures relaxation as well as a deeper sleep - absolute peace and deep relaxation guaranteed.

CERVO Mountain Resort has a small private spa area in the Huntsman Lodge. If the entire Huntsman Lodge is booked, the spa area is reserved exclusively for these guests. If the suites in the Huntsman Lodge are booked individually, the spa area can still be used by all Huntsman guests individually. A reservation is not necessary, but one simply hangs a "do not disturb" ribbon on the door. The area consists of a sauna, a steam bath and a relaxation area with loungers. In addition, each suite in the Huntsman Lodge has its own outdoor bathtub with a view of the Matterhorn.

From the mountains and into the sauna II: Exclusive relaxation in Sölden

At the Leni Mountain Chalet, it is not only the spa experience that is personalised. The "hideaway" on the Leiterberg high above Sölden is an exclusive private chalet of approx. 200 square metres with its own natural bathing pond and concierge service. The chalet includes a "Klafs Sanarium". It can be made into a sauna bath or a soft steam bath, depending on your needs and wishes. The subsequent jump into the chalet's own natural pond provides the perfect way to cool off. The Leni Mountain also includes the apartments in Sölden with its six modern and generously designed holiday flats. The apartment’s new wellness area with Finnish sauna and steam bath can be used as a private spa outside the regular opening hours from 4 pm to 9 pm. Massages and yoga lessons can be booked in the chalet as well as in the apartments on request.

From the mountains and into the sauna III: Relaxation with a view of the Allgäu mountains

The spa area of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Balderschwang delights with its clean design and sophisticated plays of light and shadow. On an area of over 4,500 square metres, you will find various saunas, treatment rooms, the rooftop garden, an infinity pool, a natural bathing lake and the yoga and fitness area. For a private spa experience, the Mountain Spring Spa can be booked exclusively for two hours in the evening. The wellness package includes the use of the Alpine Zen Garden, the Japanese Onsen and the sauna area with two different saunas as well as a bottle of champagne with chocolates and massage oil.

Tropics, beaches and relaxation

Thailand not only attracts holidaymakers with its paradisiacal nature, diverse food and colourful culture, but also with its exotic wellness and spa treatments. This is also the case at The Tongsai Bay on Ko Samui. The spa of the eco-resort is surrounded by lush, tropical nature and is a unique oasis  of relaxation with a selection of therapeutic, healing and restorative treatments. These include, for example, the "Samui Dream": a traditional Thai treatment made from coconut oil and local herbs that helps to sooth sunburn. Additionally, there is the 2.5-hour "Return to Prana" spa escape. The private spa cottages are each equipped with two massage tables for Thai and other style massages, two armchairs for foot treatments, an herbal steam bath and an open-air bathtub for flower or milk baths. These rooms can be booked by couples as well as individuals.

City and spa

The Creativhotel Luise is not only a particularly sustainable and creative accommodation spot in Erlangen - with its green roof terrace, the inner courtyard and the small but exquisite wellness area, it is also increasingly becoming a relaxation retreat in the middle of Erlangen's city centre. Recently, the spa offer of the Creativhotel has included a new aroma bath with aquapuncture treatment. An individual herbal bath that guests can privately book for themselves. Of course, all bath herbs come either directly from the garden or from regional suppliers. Ten ergonomically arranged jets specifically massage the shoulder, back and lower back areas. The back massage with water jets stimulates the blood circulation and loosens tensions. This creates new energy for the next cultural or recreational stroll through Erlangen.

Lakeside wellness

Those who enjoy holidaying by the water will find their own personal place of wellness at the Bio-Seehotel Zeulenroda in Thuringia. The Deluxe Suite with its large living area, two bedrooms, two balconies and dry sauna offers enough space for up to four people. Up to six people can stay in the Deluxe Suite Weinberg, which includes an infrared cabin instead of a sauna. The bathing area at the lake is only a few steps away from the hotel. And those who want to stay in the private suite will enjoy a panoramic view over the Zeulenroda Lake.

Dolce Vita in Ligurien

A romantic and unique place to unwind is the Relais del Maro in the heart of the small Ligurian village of Borgomaro. The individually furnished rooms within the historic walls of the Albergo Diffuso have a very special, authentic charm. The boutique hotel's only suite includes a private Jacuzzi, and a masseur or masseuse will be happy to come directly to the room for a relaxing massage. The outdoor swimming pool with a hydro-massage corner is located in a sheltered corner of the beautiful garden and is open 24 hours a day.

In addition to these offers, there are other Green Pearls® partners with private spa facilities. For example, the chalets of the ADLER Lodge Ritten as well as the two holiday homes of the Summit Lodges Pfunds include their own sauna. Discover more spa oases on the Green Pearls homepage.

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SUSTAINABLE COOKING CLASSES IN GREEN PEARLS® HOTELS
What is the best part for you when you are on vacation? For us, one of the most important things is definitely the food! To make sure you too can take a piece of your vacation home with you, several of our Green Pearls® partners host sustainable cooking classes. You can learn everything about regional cooking traditions.

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SWIM POND VS. POOL – GREEN PEARLS® ACCOMMODATIONS SHOW YOU HOW IT’S DONE
Summers are increasingly hot due to climate change, so it is no wonder that the pool business is booming recently. Environmental performance of classic pools is often poor, so many people are opting for an eco-friendly swimming pond. Why don’t you try it out at one of the Green Pearls® partners? You can splash in the water with a good conscience while enjoying the cool water.  

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SUSTAINABLE SOUVENIRS AND VACATION MEMORIES
All of us are familiar with classic T-shirts, bags and cups we bring back from our vacation or are given as a souvenir. When shopping, however, you should be careful. Typical takeaways are not really eco-friendly. Instead they often are mass-produced cheap goods and will often displace local and handmade items. Our three top tips on how to buy environmentally friendly gifts are as follows:

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SUSTAINABLE VACATION BY ENCHANTING LAKES
You love vacationing at the water, although it doesn’t always have to be directly at the sea? We would like to recommend a lake vacation to you today, and then on Friday, we will talk about beautiful river landscapes.

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An Encounter with a Snow Leopard became a wake-up call for a Nepali Conservationist. Read in TIME’s article how Rinzin Phunjok Lama has dedicated his life to wildlife conservation. 

Article

New York Times presents the 52 places for a Changed World. Places where people are fighting for habitats that are particularly threatened by man-made climate change. They often have big ideas and implement them - in the hope of a tomorrow.

Read more

Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing requirement for international arrivals from 1 May 2022. Travellers will be allowed to enter the kingdom without the pre-arrival nor arrival tests, reports traveldailymedia.com

Read  more

More and more, couples are also focusing on climate protection and thinking of ways of organizing the most beautiful day of the year responsibly. Sustainability regarding the selection of food, energy and water consumption, or the amount of waste. There are hotels in many wonderful places on the planet that are hosting wedding celebrations and attaching great importance to a respectful treatment of nature and people. We introduce some of them:

Thailand: A wedding in a magical forest, with a drum parade and a personal wedding consultant

It is THE perfect wedding for many people: feet in the sand, a view of the ocean, a private little wedding ceremony and then indulging in culinary delights. THAILAND is one of those countries where these dreams may become reality. Due to the paradisiacal nature, friendly people and the cultural diversity.

The three Green Pearls® partners in Thailand are experienced “Wedding Planners” and are always delighted if couples choose to get married in their unique surroundings. 

At the Keemala resort, for example. The Keemala Resort is a villa wonderland nestled in the lush hilly landscape of Kamala on the Thai island of Phuket. Featuring 38 villas and cottages with private pools, the resort's distinctive design is inspired by the philosophy and lifestyles of four mythical ancient tribes. 

Within the bewitched Kamala forests, couples can fulfill their dream of a fairy-tale wedding that would be worthy of a high fashion bridal magazine cover. “ Wedding in the Enchanted Forest “! Will take them to a remote meadow set deep in the forest, where the branches, roots, and twigs of a majestic, centuries-old tree and the surrounding woodland provide a natural backdrop for an enchanting ceremony.” 

The Zeavola provides two different ways of entering into the bond of marriage: A classical Thai ceremony, where staff members of the resort, in traditional Thai dress, perform a parade of drums, which is followed by chants and blessings of Buddhist monks. At the end of the ceremony, the couple will plant a love tree and enjoy a festive dinner and champagne celebration in the evening with their guests. 

The blessing Ceremony and the exchange of vows, in Western style, are conducted by either a “Master of Ceremonies” person or, if a formal Christian wedding ceremony is required, by a Priest. The celebration continues with a champagne reception and the cake cutting. The sustainable luxury resort Zeavola, located on Phi Phi Island, sits on the tranquil white sand Laem Tong Beach and is renowned for its vast array of diving opportunities in the Andaman Sea.

At Tongsai Bay on Koh Samui, a tropical island, all is set for a dream wedding day as well. Like at Zeavola and Keemala, guests can get married in traditional Thai or Western ceremonies. A dedicated wedding consultant is on duty in advance to clarify any open questions. The 5-star facility comprises 83 suites, villas and cottages, which are located in a spacious and lush green garden area. The units are spread in hillside locations all around the private bay with fantastic views. The hotel is one of the most romantic hideaways on the entire island.

Historic charm in Havel land, a castle at Lake Constance and imposing mountain peaks

The charm of the Stober country estate is evident immediately from behind the imposing red brick portal with old sandstone sculptures. The old lodging house, stables, the distillery, the granary, high old trees at the lakeside. This place is full of atmosphere and spirit. The estate is located amidst a park landscape in Havel land at the Groß Behnitzer See, approximately 20 kilometers west of Berlin. 2021 the hotel was awarded as the  greenest boutique hotel in Europe. Combined with a religious wedding in the church of the village, the yes-word at the hotel's own civil office or right at the shore: It is The perfect wedding of your dreams in stylish ambience—located in romantic park landscape at the Groß Behnitzer See. 

Many bridal couples appreciate the special festive-historical ambience at the Wartegg Castle Hotel. Situated in an English park, this former castle with its white shining walls is just a few minutes' walk from the Lake of Constance. The festive and dining hall with magnificent views of lake and park can accommodate about 50 people with dance floor. The marriage ceremonies can be held in the banquet hall as well. For a small ceremony, there is the “Silent Room” and of course the castle garden, which provides ample space for everyone. The chef de cuisine prepares proposals for banquets with much attention to detail—on request also a vegan gourmet menu including a selection of fine organic wines. A carriage ride through the vineyards between Lake Constance and the Appenzeller Vorderland region represents an exceptional experience. It is a romantic ride past the vineyards of Thaler Rebberge, the luminous lime rocks of the “steinigen Tisch” and the rich green meadows, the blue Lake Constance in sight.

You can also start out into the bright future here: at Naturhotel Aufatmen in Leutasch, Tyrol. A venue for a small but fine wedding celebration with a private swimming pond and a view of the Öfelekopf and the Ahrnspitze. This family-run wellness hotel specializes in celebrations for up to a maximum of 40 people and boasts creative vegetarian/vegan cuisine and a modern, homey ambience. Next to the restaurant, the yoga room is transformed into a dance location.

Seychelles, Maldives, and Bali: Exotic dream destinations 

Marrying in Bali is colorful and cheerful, appealing to all the senses. With gorgeous floral decorations, the smell of aromatic incense sticks and the traditional music. One of the most beautiful wedding venues on Bali, the "island of gods and temples", is certainly the Hotel Puri Dajuma. With a beautiful sunset view over the ocean, it is romantic and private. Whether it is a simple ceremony or a big party. The ceremony will be carried by the Balinese culture and the friendly people, honoring their guests and turning the day into something exceptional. As all religions come together in Bali, the Dajuma team also caters to the needs of their guests and are open to all faiths and requests. 

Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa is composed of 18 traditional Balinese cottages, a new luxury villa with fantastic beach views and two suites, one for families and the other for wedding couples.

It couldn't be more romantic, intimate or exclusive: a festively decorated table on the sand, with a heart made of flickering candles, and a bed adorned with flowers for sleeping under the stars, and Mr. Friday to fulfill every wish of his guests. This setting will be true at the Gili Lankanfushi in Maldives. Immersed by the turquoise waters of the Gili Lankanfushi lagoon, this is where couples tie their knot and get the blessing of a Maldivian clergyman. The wedding is held at the exclusive wedding chapel in the middle of the lagoon or in one of the many other secluded spots on the private reserve.

The combination of luxurious barefoot experience with a comprehensive focus on sustainability makes the 5-star luxury eco-resort appealing to those who not only value the exclusive offerings, but the hotel's green initiatives in terms of biodiversity, nature conservation and environmental protection.

The list of the dream wedding destinations cannot be missing the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean—and Cerf Island Resort, situated there. Located at the entrance to the Sainte Anne Marine Park on the small green island of Cerf, this resort features 24 private villas and is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The island nation is marked by Arabic, Phoenician, Indonesian, Portuguese, English and French influences. 

The secluded beaches and exclusive private villas of CERF Island Resort are tailor-made for lovers. Cerf organizes wedding ceremonies of all kinds: as a romantic dinner for two or as an exclusive event throughout the resort. The fascinating water and island scenery of the Seychelles always creates a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable wedding day. 

Mountain retreat, tropical resort or event location, the options could hardly be more different. However, all locations have something in common: the conviction that respectful interaction with nature and people is the only correct way into the future.

Germany - Moselle wine region

The Bernkasteler Doctor is the most famous wine of Bernkastel-Kues in Rhineland- Pfalz. The legend about the healing of a sick Prince by this very wine is known far beyond the town's borders. And while not as popular a story, the wine variety 'Wehlener Sonnenuhr' is a second highly decorated hallmark of Bernkastel-Kues. The steep vineyard site makes these vines one of the most elegant white wines around. The numerous hiking and cycling trails through the wine region and along the Moselle are part of the region's attractive leisure activities. Sights such as the ruins of Landshut Castle, the Cylinder House or the Wine Museum are also popular with visitors.

A good starting point for cycling, hiking and cultural excursions is the lifestyle resort Zum Kurfürsten, located in the middle of the high plateau above Bernkastel. The wellness hotel with its ten saunas, three heated swimming pools and a natural bathing pond offers a variety of wines from the Moselle region. In the Bistro, the Glow Bar and the new Cook & Style Restaurant. Simple, regional and sustainable. This concept not only provides for wine from the nearby growing regions, but also includes a variety of regional suppliers for the products used in the green resort.

Italy - The Pigato Road in Liguria

Although Ligurian wines are not often spoken of, the wine production around the Relais des Maro, is a hidden gem. Situated close to the sea, in a gentle hilly landscape with insensitive soils, the grapes thrive. Just a few minutes from the hotel, nestled in the old village centre of Borgomaro, is the famous Pigato street, where many wineries are located. Pigato is a dry white wine produced only in this region. In Borgomaro itself there is also a biodynamic wine cellar: Podere del Maro. It is run by a young couple, Marco and Matilde, who love to share the secrets of Ligurian wines with their guests. Elena Scalambrin, head of the Relais del Maro, also has a passion for good wines, and she selects them very carefully for her guests. The bar menu of the sustainable hotel includes one of the best wine selections in the area.

Italy – The white wine paradise of Cormòns

The region around Cormòns is famous for its white wines. Cormòns is located in eastern Friuli, just before the Slovenian border, and is the economic and cultural centre of the Collio. Today, the inhabitants of the village with its Habsburg atmosphere primarily earn their living from winegrowing, as the conditions are ideal for it. The Julian Pre-Alps protect the Collio vines from the cold winds and the proximity to the Mediterranean Sea creates a particularly mild and temperate climate. The excellent local wines can be tasted in the central Enoteca Cormòns, which stocks almost all the wines of the area. Or, of course, directly at one of the wineries. The best way to explore the region with its gentle hills, wineries, lakes and rivers is on foot or by bike. A stage of the Alpe-Adria Trail also starts in Cormòns.

For an upscale accommodation to enjoy a gourmet holiday in Friuli, La Subida Country Resort is an oasis with rustic-style cottages that combine tradition, natural luxury and modern architecture. With the charming 'Osteria de la Subida' and the Michelin award-winning 'Trattoria al Cacciatore', there are two high-quality restaurants at the country resort. An exciting mix of traditional Italian, Slovenian and Friulian dishes are served here, freshly prepared with ingredients from the region. La Subida is just a few minutes' drive from Cormòns. The hiking and cycling trails of the Collio Goriziano, with dense forests and vineyards, can be enjoyed without the need for a car journey from the resort.

Croatia - Hvar, the island of pleasure in the Adriatic Sea

Hvar one of the most beautiful and sunny islands of the Adriatic Sea - and is an island known for its wine. In the past, the farmers had to struggle with great hardships, such as the phylloxera plague. Nevertheless, winegrowing is once again the most important agricultural occupation of the islanders. The Mali grape grows mainly in the south and south-west of the island, where the vineyards, some of which are 350 metres above sea level, slope steeply down to the Adriatic Sea. The "Zlatan Plavac" of Hvar's winemakers Zlatan Plenkovic and the Faros are among the leading red wines of Croatia.

These two, as well as other local red and white wines, have a permanent place on the Maslina Resort's drinks menu. With its 53 rooms, suites and villas, four restaurants and bars, the Pharomatiq Spa, a playroom for children and teenagers and the Wine & Culture Club for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts, the 5-star boutique hotel in Maslinica Bay is the ideal place for a luxurious holiday for all ages. As part of its "Mindful Luxury" philosophy, the hotel offers its guests holidays and experiences in close connection with the country's nature and culture.

Croatia - Grk, a unique Lumbarda wine

Lumbarda on the island of Korçula is famous for its locally grown white wine called Grk. It is made from the grape of the same name, which is not grown anywhere else in Croatia. The area is covered with vineyards and grapevines. Near Lumbarda, on a small hill above the turquoise ocean, lies the Eco Aparthotel The Dreamers Club. Tanja Duračković, owner of the cosy eco-hotel with six accommodation units, has two favourite wineries that she recommends her guests visit: Bire and Popic. Bire is a bit more professionally organised and geared towards larger groups, Popic is a bit more informal and personal. Grk and other great wines are also served to guests in the lounge of The Dreamers Club. Added to this a plate of tapas prepared according to regional recipes, it is hard to enjoy Croatian wine more peacfully than in the midst of this green garden oasis.

Spain - Organic Wines in Catalonia

The wine region of the DO Empordà is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the foothills of the Pyrenees. The area stretches from the coast to heights of 260 metres. The region is known for its special light, which already inspired Salvador Dalí in his work - and for its strong red wine. Near Siurana, on a small stream in the middle of untouched nature, lies the holiday residence Pou de Glaç: a collection of buildings around a historic ice fountain, carefully renovated according to ecologically sustainable principles. The almost CO2-free holiday residence with a panoramic view of the Pyrenees consists of two houses for 6 people each, a saltwater pool, an 8000m² garden with olive grove and the historical 'ice fountain' building. Around Siurana there are numerous natural hiking and cycling trails. Close to Pou de Glaç is the organic winery Vins de Taller, whose vineyards have beautiful walking trails. The winery offers organised picnics, horse riding and bike tours in the vineyards - and of course wine tastings with their own organic white and red wines.

Choosing good food and good wine is increasingly not only about taste, but also about quality and environmentally friendly business practices. Our Green Pearls® partners presented here have found the right answer to the increasing green awareness of many wine lovers with their sustainable offer: They are located in the middle of wine-growing regions and offer their guests a sustainable stay of the highest quality surrounded by nature.

Mariya Un Noun - Farmhouse Smiling Gecko

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

Luca Sordi - LA VIMEA

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

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

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

Hannes Müller – Genießerhotel Die Forelle

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

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

Justine Rist – Naturhotel Aufatmen

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

Mauro Massei & Grazia Bianchi – Paradiso Pure. Living

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

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

Davide Cretoni – CERVO Mountain Resort

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

Rudi & Dedi – Puri Dajuma

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

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

Radenko Jovicic – Hotel Outside

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

But who actually imagines all this? And who makes sure that everything is prepared at the right time? We asked our Green Pearls® partners who is in charge, what is the philosophy behind the food selection and what is most important in a sustainable kitchen.

Satya Beeknoo - Zeavola Resort 

"I pledge to honour and pass on cooking, culinary culture and the constant evolution of it." This is what Satya Beeknoo said when he was appointed a member of "Disciples Escoffier International". The international organisation brings together a total of 25,000 selected chefs and professionals from over 26 countries. Its aim is to promote and preserve culinary culture and tradition.

Satya Beeknoo is the chef and spirit of the kitchen at the Zeavola Resort on Kho Phi Phi Island. Here, as a master of Thai cuisine, he prepares traditional dishes authentically and to the highest standards. His international gourmet dishes are also among the world’s best. The celebrity chef follows a completely sustainable approach with a focus on regional products and short supply chains. He has developed numerous ideas to constantly optimise kitchen processes, save resources and avoid waste. The whole team benefits from his knowledge, have embraced his sustainability philosophy and also passed it on to suppliers, farmers and fishermen. Beeknoo has also broadened the range of vegan dishes.

Hannes Pignater – ADLER Lodge RITTEN

The chef at ADLER Lodge RITTEN is Hannes Pignater. Before moving to Oberbozen, the nature lover and family man worked for five years as head chef at the ADLER Lodge on the Alpe di Siusi - after stints abroad and successful competitions that earned him the gold medal at the Professional World Championship in St. Gallen and the silver medal at the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt.

Now he has moved his Mediterranean-Alpine culinary art to the Ritten. And in a kitchen that brings him even closer to his guests - the open room concept in the ADLER Lodge allows them to watch him create the six-course evening menu with his team. He sources most of his ingredients, such as the goat cheese or first-class fish from the mountain lakes, from the surrounding area. "The local products have priority," says the 38-year-old South Tyrolean. "But radically regional is not my thing. If the mozzarella from Napoli is better than the South Tyrolean, then I have an easy decision."

“Topfen” (similar to quark) with green celery and grapes, Schüttelbrot (traditional flat bread) risotto, whitefish fillet with peas and ham or Calamarata, farmer's sausage with fennel and sheep's cheese are all skilful refinements of South Tyrolean classics; artfully and lovingly arranged, just the sight of the plates brings a smile to the guests' faces. Which in turn fills Hannes’ heart with joy.

Viola and Mamma Piera – Relais del Maro

A day at Relais del Maro begins with Viola. Viola is the chef, but above all, she is the master of the famous breakfast buffet which she prepares herself early in the morning. From eggs and bacon to fruit salad, cheese, cold cuts and fresh bread. It is her two hands that work for the guests of the Ligurian Albergo Diffuso. She mixes, prepares, bakes, garnishes and all in line with her motto: nothing is thrown away! And when breakfast is over, what's left over is made into a tasty lunch! However, Viola learned many of her skills from Mamma Piera. Mamma Piera, the mother of hotel manager Elena Scalambrin, is the head chef and someone who lets very few people in on her secrets of Ligurian culinary traditions. The recipe for the delicious tomato sauce that is always used for bolognese, pasta and pizza at Relais del Maro comes from her. Piera is not only a hard worker, but also a master pastry chef: all the cakes for afternoon tea and breakfast are created by her. The same goes for the roast beef, the light desserts for lunch and the many jams. Together, Viola and Mamma Piera are an unbeatable team.

Massimo Cvek – Maslina Resort

With the end of the winter break, Massimo Cvek takes over as the new chef at the Croatian 5-star boutique hotel Maslina Resort. The 31-year-old focuses on local products and the diversity of Croatian cuisine. Reduced ingredients, prepared with "wow factor", that is his mission - "It doesn't take much to make people happy. A dish like lobster tail with buttermilk, leek oil and potato foam consists of only four ingredients - and tastes wonderful." The further expansion of the resort's own organic garden is also one of his labours of love, featuring classic flavours such as thyme, sage, cherry tomatoes and fennel. But also some more unusual ingredients such as wild asparagus, dandelion or wood sorrel, whose edible pink blossoms are perfect for decoration, will soon be found here as well. Cvek has already come up with a speciality for his guests: he has started to pickle and ferment the pines that are typical for the Hvar island landscape. Another project is his own pork salami, cured in sugar and seasoned with spices and wild herbs from the garden. "I want our guests to experience the island with all their senses.

Massimo Cvek worked for many years in upscale restaurants and hotels, on cruise ships and yachts. During his training, he worked in the Michelin-awarded kitchens of Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxfordshire, Thorntons Restaurant in Dublin and Restaurant Ikarus in Austria.

David Rawe – Mawell Resort

"For me, cooking is much more than "just" cooking. It's about making people happy. As chefs, we can do just that with our work - and every day anew. The greatest appreciation for us is when guests come up to us and say: Wow, that was delicious, that was really fun to eat!" 

This is the enthusiasm with which David Rawe, chef at the Mawell Resort and whose whole life has been shaped by cooking, speaks. For it's not only at work that he is concerned with the texture and preparation of fish, meat, vegetables and fruit. He also spends a lot of his free time in nature: fishing, collecting wild garlic in spring or mushrooms in autumn. Cooking something great from foods that can be found everywhere is what excites him. What can the nature around us provide us with and when? In his opinion, sustainable cuisine should mainly deal with this question. Respect for the products, whether vegetable or animal, is also important to him. 

Just as the interplay of individual flavours and components as a whole leads to a taste experience, cooking itself is absolutely a team sport. Fully respecting colleagues, each with their individual strengths is paramount for Davis Rawe. The "old" days of shouting and throwing pans in the kitchen are long gone - at least at Mawell.

Whether from a small Thai village or from South Tyrol, with Ligurian roots or from maritime Croatia - very different personalities with very different stories work and innovate in the kitchens of the Green Pearls® partners. However, they all have one thing in common: respectful treatment of nature and its resources. 

There is still so much to share from the sustainable kitchens that we would like to introduce more chefs in the next newsletter. Look out for part two to discover more from Leutasch in Austria, Tenerife or Bali.

Rehlegg: With all the power of nature

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

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

CERVO: Care for body and soul 

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

ADLER Spa: Nature, innovation, beauty

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

Maslina Resort: Healing plants from their own garden 

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

Well-known brands and great expertise

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

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

Active ingredients from the sea

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

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

Small manufacturers - big sustainability pioneers

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

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

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

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

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

Interview with Hotel Manager Fabienne Anthamatten

GP: Fabienne, 60 years ago the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt was founded by your grandparents. How did everything start?

FA: The Bella Vista was a project of the heart and soul for the family ever since they first broke ground on the site. In the early 1960s, my grandfather Theodor Perren picked up a shovel and dug the foundations for the hotel. Then, in 1962, the first guests stayed in the Garni, which had 24 rooms at the time. My grandfather was still active as a passionate mountain guide and farmer during that time and was happy to pass on his knowledge of nature and his black-nosed sheep. Meanwhile, my grandmother, Margrit, looked after the guests and their three children and spoiled everyone with her fine apple pie. My mother Bernadette, the youngest of the three siblings, then took over the Bella Vista together with her husband Franz in 1978.

GP: Is your father Franz also a Zermatt native?

FA: No, he is originally from southern Germany and came to Zermatt through his profession as a baker. And luckily, he brought many new ideas and recipes with him to the hotel business, some of which are still being used in our bakery. It was also my parents who, back in the early eighties, offered a breakfast buffet which was unusual for the time, with lots of homemade food, fresh juice and loose-leaf teas.

GP: That means that Bella Vista has evolved not only with the times, but rather, has always been a small step ahead of them. Does that also apply to the present? Does the hotel’s range of services fit the current needs of the guests?

FA: Yes, I am convinced of that. The Bella Vista is a small but very special hotel that offers the ideal holiday home to all those who would like to keep all their options open, but still prefer a family setting to a large hotel. The warm atmosphere of “togetherness” strikes a chord with the guests, many of whom are looking for a break from the anonymous rush of their everyday life.

GP: What makes a holiday at Bella Vista so special?

FA: With us, guests have countless opportunities to get active in the surrounding mountain world. But our Alpine Spa Bella Vita also offers all the essentials to relax in peace and allow yourself be pampered. We are happy to assist our guests with all our experience and recommendations and enjoy the friendly exchange we have with them very much. 

GP: Speaking of indulging - is it possible that the breakfast buffet is another reason why so many visitors become repeat guests?

FA: Definitely ;-). Homemade food is our passion. And breakfast is indeed a real highlight for many guests. For us, culinary delights are a great way to communicate the traditions and specialities of the region. This also applies to the other specialities such as the traditional Valais plate or my mother's homemade soup. Once a week we offer our popular cheese evening with raclette and fondue. Of course, with the matching Valais wine.

GP: 60 years is a good reason to toast together. How will you celebrate the anniversary?

FA:We have created a small booklet that tells our story and shows what we now have to offer. We also gave ourselves a new logo. Our guests who stay more than five nights will receive a white wine from the valley with our own label in the anniversary year. And who knows, maybe there will be a special offer for the summer. It's worth checking our website from time to time!

GP: The Hotel Bella Vista not only represents family-like and an upscale feel-good atmosphere, but the environment and sustainability are also very important to you. How does that show to the guests? 

FA: We only use hydroelectric power for our hotel operations and, with a few exceptions, we only use regional products from our neighbours. The breakfast eggs, however, come from our own chickens. We also avoid unnecessary packaging and plastic bottles wherever possible. This, as well as the use of organic detergents and cleaning agents or the economical use of resources, has become second nature to the whole team.

GP: You have been Green Pearls® members since last year. Why did you take this step?

FA: Our guests appreciate our efforts to be environmentally friendly, the respectful interaction in the hotel and our regional ties. Beyond personal recommendations and other marketing channels, the Green Pearls® platform is a very good way to communicate our sustainable commitment even to an even wider audience. Furthermore, green tourism receives even greater attention than ever before with every publication, which is particularly close to my heart. I am also committed to this in my work on the board of the Zermatt Hoteliers Association.

GP: What do we see when we look through your eyes into the future of Hotel Bella Vista?

FA: We see great potential in the expansion of the spa area. The demand for private spa facilities has increased significantly with the new pressure of the pandemic. The rooms are constantly being renovated and adapted to meet our guests needs. We will also continue to offer yoga retreats. My sister Stefanie is a trained and passionate yoga teacher. Of course, we also want to implement more sustainability ideas and continue to develop and improve ourselves. And all this with the aim of making our guests feel at home during their holidays with us.

GP: Thank you very much for the interview, Fabienne. We congratulate you with all our hearts on your anniversary and wish you, your family and the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt all the best for the next 60 years!

Working with a view of the Tyrolean mountain peaks 

The hearts of mountain lovers beat faster here, in the Tyrolean Highlands and the mountain sports resort of Pfunds. The Summit Lodges Pfunds offer the opportunity to combine hiking or ski tours with comfortable working conditions. In all of the lodges, the bedrooms on the second floor are equipped with a desk and the large floor-to-ceiling windows frame a beautiful and inspiring view of the surrounding mountains. Conveniently, the Wi-Fi also works on the terrace, so guests can also enjoy the good weather while working outside on the comfortable lounge. Each of the two lodges - built in Canadian log cabin style - have 2 separate bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a cosy living area with open fireplace, kitchen and a private sauna. The more than 300 km hiking trail network of the Tyrolean Highland, countless mountain bike trails and several large ski areas are easily accessible from the Summit Lodges.

Working in Spanish country house elegance 

The holiday home Pou de Glaç near the Catalan Golf of Roses near Siurana is also fully equipped for "working nomads". The Stadl holiday home, a former hay barn, was transformed by the Barcelona architect Damián Ribas into a light-flooded holiday home with low energy consumption and a warm, friendly atmosphere. An ideal ambience for a relaxed stay and creative thinking. Two workstations with fast fibre-optic internet are available in the gallery or you can work via Wi-Fi on a deck chair in the private garden. After work, the beaches of the Bay of Roses await for swimming, windsurfing or sailing. The marsh and nature reserve in the hinterland of the coastal strip is a great place for hiking and watching the numerous water birds. The well-known towns of Figueras and Besalú are less than 30 minutes away by car.

Working in the pristine nature of the Harz Mountains

The Naturressort Schindelbruch, with its 2,500 m2 spa area, is currently actively appealing to travellers who are looking to combine working time with a wellness holiday. For this purpose, the green hotel in the southern Harz region has produced its own image film. In addition to the rooms being equipped with a desk and Wi-Fi, the hotel also offers the hybrid and paperless meeting technology "Weframe". Weframe enables direct collaboration with participants who are not on site - meetings and conferences can be held from a seminar or conference room in the hotel. Wi-Fi and spacious co-working spaces are available throughout the hotel. Energy stores can be replenished during a walk, hike or bike ride through protected Stolberg red beech and mixed mountain forests.

The Schlosshotel Blankenburg is located in the 800-year-old flower town of Blankenburg between Quedlinburg and Werningerode. There is much to discover in the region. In addition to the historic towns with their half-timbered houses, the Brocken and the endless nature of the Harz Mountains with its countless hiking and cycling opportunities are also particularly inviting. 

High-speed Wi-Fi with up to 100,000 Mbit is available free of charge throughout the hotel. All rooms are equipped with a 40-inch flat screen, desk, chair and minibar with free soft drinks. The room safe will fit a 17-inch laptop while guests are out enjoying the surrounding region. The conference rooms of the Schlosshotel Blankenburg also have Weframe technology. Location-independent, dynamic and interactive collaboration is also possible from here.

Working with a view in the heights of the Allgäu 

The Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu has created a separate co-working space for its guests with a large table, sofas and a drinks fridge – a space for inspiration far away from the usual workplace. Guests can retreat here to write, think, type or 'just check their e-mails'. The office can also be booked exclusively for two hours. The Hubertus also has a conference room which can comfortable seat ten people which can also be used for individual work. There are a wide variety of possibilities for leisure activities in and around the Hubertus: with the modern Mountain Spring Spa, yoga courses, hiking, biking and skiing offers, workshops and coaching on the Holistic Life philosophy, no wishes remain unfulfilled.

Working surrounded by a tropical landscape 

The Tongsai Bay is a eco-luxe 5* resort located on a private bay on the Thai island of Koh Samui. A paradisiacal place in untouched nature and a hotel that is deeply committed to sustainability while offering first-class service. The 83 suites, cottages and villas with plenty of privacy are distributed on the slopes around the bay and are, of course, ideal hideaways for relaxing, but also for working. The Tongsai Bay has a special offer for guests who want to get away from it all and while still being productive in their work-life. For a minimum stay of seven nights or more, guests receive 40% off the best available rate on our website. A complimentary round-trip airport transfer and 20% discount at Prana Spa are also part of the offer.

Working in the green pearls in Croatia

The Dreamers Club on the Croatian island of Korçula makes an excellent workation destination. The sustainable eco-apartment hotel offers a powerful Wi-Fi connection and an exceptional working environment. Picture yourself with your laptop in a hammock, surrounded by green nature and a fantastic sea view. Or on your own terrace, a workplace with plenty of privacy and also a magnificent view of the sea - the possibilities are endless. However, it takes some discipline not to be distracted too often by the beauty of the sea and take a refreshing dip – its only 50m away! Tapas & cocktails offered in the garden lounge can also be brought to the flat or terrace if desired.

Maslina Resort on the coast of the picturesque Maslinica Bay on the island of Hvar recommends guests who have to work during their stay to book one of the Maslina Villas: the three private villas Liticia, Borovina and Uvala, offer guests absolute privacy. In the 500-square-metre villa Uvala, guests have five rooms at their disposal; an adjacent studio with a separate entrance can be used as an office. It also offers a spacious living area with fireplace and access to the terrace overlooking Maslinica Bay. The master suite also has a private wellness area with sauna and gym, Jacuzzi and its own barbecue kitchen. The two four-bedroom villas, Liticia and Borovina, each offer 300 square metres of space, including large terraces with sea views and a private pool.

Other Green Pearls such as the Océano Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife, the Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen, the Landgut Stober in Brandenburg along with many others also invite you to work remotely. Further information on their respective facilities and offers currently running can be found here.

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Allgäu Mountains: Ayurvedic cooking for individual well-being

The Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Balderschwang invites all cooking fans to weekly cooking classes with Food-Coach and Ayurveda Chef Gabriel Simon-Pinero. As a child, Gabriel travelled the world - Latin America, North Africa, Spain, Italy and the South of France. From each region he brought back culinary knowledge and experience. For the Mexican native, nutrition is a wonderful way to do something for body and soul! With great passion and enthusiasm, he teaches guests about Ayurvedic cuisine and the power of spices and herbs. Each course has a different theme, such as spice lore, sauces of the world or coffee making. More information about the courses is available here.

Get to know the cuisine and culture of the Maldives

At the Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, guests can learn how to prepare a traditional Maldivian fish curry or tempura and sushi. While the kitchen team of the eco-luxury resort takes care of the basic preparations in advance, the course participants receive lessons from top professionals during the Gili cooking events and learn everything they need to know about the ingredients used and preparation methods. Then they stir, mix and cook together! And at the end, a delicious meal is enjoyed. Cooking in Gili is a colourful event with exotic fruits and herbs, exciting scents and impressive craftsmanship. Which 5* resort lets guests look so closely behind the kitchen scenes!

Ancient wheat, sourdough and traditions - the fine art of baking bread

High-quality ingredients, centuries-old preparation methods and regional specialities can make bread something very unique and special. In times of automated quick-bake machines and bakery chains, unfortunately these qualities are very often pushed into the background. Fortunately, traditional bread baking has been kept alive, especially in the countryside. Three of our Green Pearls® partners have decided to share their knowledge beyond the region and put fresh loaves of bread in the oven together with their guests.

At the Naturhotel Outside, Chef Sepp personally shows guests how to prepare aromatic, home-baked bread. The secret of the old family recipe: ancient wheat from East Tyrol. This is rolled, seasoned and kneaded, just as the Ganzer family has been doing for generations. As a "treat", the participants of the baking course each take home two loaves of the freshly baked fragrant bread!

Sourdough is the guest of honour at the bread baking courses at Biohotel Sturm in the Rhön. At the baking event with Barbara, guests learn everything there is to know about baking with sourdough in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. During the course, guests prepare their own which is then baked in the wood-burning oven. The crust becomes perfectly crisp - a “Rhöner Plotz” that you’ve prepared yourself - and so delicious that usually only a small piece survives the journey at home!

Bread baking is also a beloved tradition and a labour of love at the Biohotel Grafenast. In winter, the schedule is weekly, and in summer, according to demand. The little ones are also welcome to lend a hand and proudly present their home-baked loaf of bread afterwards. The joint activity strengthens awareness and appreciation for the staple food and its preparation.

Cooking course in Thailand: The right choice of ingredients and a little something ‘extra’

Thai cuisine is known for its use of fragrant herbs and spices. The art of creating culinary delights through the careful blend of ingredients is mastered to perfection by the chefs at Tongsai Bay. And they are very happy to pass on their know-how to their guests! A cooking workshop at the resort usually starts with a visit to the hotel's garden. Here, the cooking professionals explain the various uses of fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices and show which ingredients can be freshly harvested for the upcoming cooking session. Back in the kitchen, participants learn how to make their own curry paste. The chef himself guides guests step by step through the preparation of a 4-course meal, including a curry - using the curry paste they just made themselves. The most important thing that the Thai cooking professionals teach their students: The perfect ratio of spices, salt, acid and sweet. Once everything is ready, it's time to enjoy!

It is also possible to book a private cooking lesson. An additional guest is then most welcome to join and enjoy the meal.

"Only those who enjoy remain enjoyable" is the motto at the Forelle am Weissensee

The family-run hotel on the Carinthian Lake Weissensee is a paradise for foodies. Three generations look after the well-being of their guests, and together they have made the Forelle one of the greenest hotels in Carinthia. Hannes Müller takes care of their physical well-being in his award-winning restaurant. Here, too, everything is sustainable. For example, the Forelle has been doing without imported goods for around 13 years. Instead, they only use what is available regionally, and according to the season.

For his guests, Hannes Müller always conjures up fresh, regional, high-quality dishes, tantalizingly prepared and artfully combined, using what the lake, forest, fields and meadows have to offer. There are probably only a few people who know the local product landscape around Lake Weissensee so well - and how fortunate we are that Hannes Müller and his team are happy to pass on this wealth of knowledge on to their guests! Various course styles can be combined with a wellness holiday at Lake Weissensee:

Day Cooking Courses: 

Bookable for 5 people or more and subject to availability. Cooking takes place in the afternoon, topic and price on request (Topics for example ‘Young Vegetables & Fish’, ‘Winter Aromas’, ‘Autumn Harvest Time’)das habe ich selbst noch zugefügt und übersetzt, Bitte ändern, wenn falsch)

May - the Month of Herbs:

Herb hike & preparation with Gertrude Wastian, approx. 2h.
From 9 May, dates on request
EUR 15.00 per person

Mix.Culinary

Summer Cocktail Days (Friday, 17 June 2022, 6:30 p.m):

A unique cocktail-food pairing menu as part of the Weissensee Cocktail Days.
EUR 120.00 p.p. Menu with cocktail accompaniment

Farmer & Chef (Saturday, 8 October 2022, 2:30 p.m):

A very special harvest festival
"Walking Dinner" - walking tour with optional stops at refreshment and enjoyment stations from chefs & farmers, vintners & brewers along the trail. Afterwards, a joint menu will be served at the Forelle.
EURO 160.00 per person

Cooking Workshop Days (9 to 14 October 2022):

4-day cooking workshop all about autumn cuisine, preserves for the cold season, fish cooking methods, 3-course autumn menu, curd cheese and its processing possibilities.

More information on the courses and workshop styles can be found on the respective hotel website or on www.greenpearls.com.

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TRAVELING THE ALPS IN LOW SEASON
Why should you definitely travel to the Alps in the off-season? We have asked our green alpine pearls for you and found some good reasons.

Read the Article

SUSTAINABLE CITY TRIPS IN EUROPE
Spring is coming. After social distancing for the past two years, isn’t this a good time to enjoy sitting in cafés and breathe some city air? Most major cities in Europe are well-connected to the rail network. This means you can travel in a climate-friendly way and arrive relaxed at your destination. Cities are best explored on foot, by bike or by public transport.

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DIGITAL DETOX BY GREEN PEARLS® 
Many of us are “digital addicts”. Addicted to information of any kind.  Our green pearls are ‘THE Places to be’ to switch off and come down and enjoy digital detox.

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TIPS & TRICKS FOR A SUSTAINABLE GARDEN 
The sun is shining, days are getting longer and nature is blooming. Between February and March is the best time to start preparing your garden for spring. The flowerbeds require preparation and seedlings need to be brought up. But when choosing plants, what should you pay attention to?

Read the Article

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The National Geographic gives a wonderful inside into the bustling life of Alicante

Read Inside Guide here

The Guardian presents 10 of the best short breaks in Europe by train and ferry

Read travel tips here

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - Discover the beauty in minimizing material goods, repurposing your most well-loved things and intentionally (and sustainably) reducing your carbon footprint by listening the eleven presentations on the TED Playlist.

Find the Playlist here

The Moral Quandary of ‘Slow Fashion’ Influencers - New York Times tries to find out if it is possible to preach the values of sustainability while still promoting consumption?

Read article here

Paris - French metropolis with all of the options

The former convent turned boutique Hôtel Le Pavillon, with its garden and terrace, is a real insider tip for those who come to Paris to discover the sights, shops and parks of the French capital. After a day well spent in the hustle and bustle of the city, guest return to a quiet, stylish oasis where they can relax and recharge their batteries. Le Pavillon is close to the Eiffel Tower and easily accessible by public transport from all major train stations and the airport. It has central access to many of the city's attractions. The Musée d'Orsay, Montmartre, the Opera, the Louve or the Boulevard Hausmann can be reached without changing trains. For a different city experience, the nearest bicycle rental station is only 200 metres away.

Zermatt - The car-free pearl in the Swiss Alps

Zermatt is a car-free town - so it's only natural to travel there by train. Along the way, guests will be able to marvel at the picturesque landscapes. The railway runs through the deeply cut Vispertal Valley - to the left and right are Switzerland's highest mountains, including the Täschhorn, Dom and Weisshorn. In Visp and Brig there is a direct connection to the modern narrow-gauge railway of the Matterhorn-Gotthard-Bahn. If you wish, you can send your luggage ahead on the SBB, which makes getting on and off the train easier.

The CERVO Mountain Resort picks up its guests from the train station in Zermatt and transfers them to the hotel with an electric taxi. The CERVO, with its 54 rooms and suites spread over several buildings, is located directly on the piste. So, guests of the 4 and 5* resort can check out the snow conditions during breakfast in the Bazaar restaurant. A large network of hiking trails can also be explored directly from the CERVO.

On a holiday at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, located just outside the village centre, a car is certainly not missed. The village centre is only a 5-minute walk away if needed. Guests of the family-run wellness hotel really appreciate the peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle. The Sunnegga/Rothorn skiing and hiking area can be easily reached by taking the lift to the valley station, which is located above the hotel. The Matterhorn Express or Gornergrat are easily reached by bus. Guests at the Bella Vista are well prepared for all kinds of activities, because every day begins with the well-known breakfast buffet full of homemade and local delicacies. Afterwards, guests can either enjoy active sports in the surrounding mountains or relax in the hotel's Alpine Spa.

Rittner Horn - Pure nature in South Tyrol

Bolzano is very well connected to the Central European train network. From the Bolzano Train Station you can reach the Rittner Cable Car in only about five minutes by foot. A ride on the modern Rittner cable car is a very special experience: during the ascent in the panoramic cabin, a magnificent view gradually reveals itself: The city of Bolzano at your feet, picturesque vineyards on the slopes and on the horizon the forest-covered Mendel Ridge on one side and the rugged Dolomite peaks on the other. The ride ends after a twelve-minute, 950 metre climb and guests arrive in Oberbozen on the Rittner High Plateau.

Those staying at the APIPURA Hotel Rinner change to the Rittner narrow-gauge railway just a few metres away. A slow train that looks back on a long history and awakens nostalgic feelings. The locals affectionately call it the "Rittner Bahnl". It passes manicured meadows, dark forests and the stunning panorama of South Tyrol's iconic mountain Schlern. The Rinner is only a few steps away from the stop. Here, guests experience a relaxing time-out that is all about being outdoors and experiencing nature. And all in the spirit of the bee, because the Rinner family is passionate about beekeeping. Sustainable beekeeping, a nature trail and the Api Wellness Beehive Air Treatment are the cornerstones of guest’s experiences at the hotel.

Another place for relaxing and unwinding on the Ritten High Plateau is the ADLER Lodge Ritten. The resort's modern wooden chalets and suites are arranged around a natural pond and offer a beautiful view of the Dolomites. The adventure park Bergwelt with its cycling and hiking trails is right on the doorstep. Guests of the ADLER Lodge are picked up by the hotel at the Rittner train station.

Matrei in East Tyrol - Holiday in the middle of the outdoors

For the Outside, the topic of mobility is a particularly important component of sustainable travel. Therefore, the hotel in Matrei, East Tyrol, supports its guests in making their holiday eco-friendly and in harmony with nature. For example, comprehensive information on how to reach the hotel with public transport, to local offers or tips for the most beautiful hiking and cycling routes that start right at their doorstep. The regional mobility information page of the East Tyrol Tourism Association is linked directly on the hotel website. Coming from the north, the Outside is easy to reach via Kitzbühel main station. From there, guests can make their way to the hotel either by direct bus or shuttle service. With their guest card, tourists can use most public transport in the district free of charge and thus explore the side valleys of the Hohe Tauern National Park in an easy and environmentally friendly way. In winter, the ski bus stops regularly in front of the Outside and takes all piste and cross-country skiing fans to the ski area in 3 minutes. Guests' e-bikes are charged with electricity at the hotel free of charge.

Cormons - Hiking and indulgence in Friuli

La Subida is located on the border of Italy and Slovenia, about 25 km from Monfalcone and the Gulf of Trieste. The property with pool and its famous trattoria was built with great attention to detail in the style of a rustic estate. The nearest train station is in the small town of Cormons. The team at La Subida will happily pick up guests directly from the station. Cormons is the main town of the Collio wine-growing area. From the highest hilltops of the charming landscape, you can see the peaks of the nearby Julian Alps and, further in the distance, the Dolomites, a mountain range of the southern Kalkapen. The nature reserve "Laghetti rossi" is home to a colourful world of water birds. The hilly landscape is best discovered on foot or by e-bike. On the tours, the doors of wineries, cheese dairies and other producers are open, warmly welcoming passing guests and serving homemade and regional food and drinks.

Korçula - Swimming, hiking and cycling on the Croatian Adriatic Sea

The Dreamers' Club Aparthotel is located on the island of Korçula off the coast of southern Dalmatia. Many travellers choose to fly to Split or Dubrovnic, but both cities can also be reached by train and by Flixbus. The crossing by catamaran from Dubrovnik or Split directly to Korçula Town is an exceptional start to your holiday. From here, the six studios of the Eco Aparthotel in Lumbarda are only a 10-minute bus ride away.

Alternatively, there is also a public bus that goes from Dubrovnik to the island. Once guests have arrived on site, it is very easy to get around car-free. Either with the bicycles that can be rented directly at the hotel, by boat, taxi, bus or on foot. From the Dreamers Club, there are many beautiful cycle paths to follow along the coast or through the surrounding vineyards. But there are also plenty of reasons to simply stay at the property: the beach and the turquoise blue sea of the Adriatic are only 50 metres away and the garden is a great place to relax on the sun loungers or with a drink and tapas.

Discovering Europe by train or by bike offers exciting travel options that are an experience in themselves. It's also stress-free, environmentally friendly and often cheaper than travelling by car. The Interrail Ticket is a travel deal that offers many options for multiple stops and transnational sections in one ticket. For more information on the Green Pearls® partners, click here.

Fabienne Anthamatten – Large and small building blocks for a sustainable future

Since 2010, Fabienne Anthamatten has been the manager of Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt and is the third generation to run the hotel. Today, the hotel has 21 rooms and a wellness area - a modest family-run business with a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. Fabienne has been committed to sustainable action in everyday hotel life from the very beginning. The cornerstone for this had already been laid by her parents. Separating waste or, better still, avoiding it altogether and only taking as much food as she could actually eat, these are the memories that shaped her childhood. Fabienne and her two sisters helped to collect fruit to make jam - everything was recycled, be it from an animal or a plant. For Fabienne, what lasts has value. Added to this is her love of nature and the region. 

This is also evident in the hotel business: At Hotel Bella Vista, electricity is generated from hydroelectric power, regional products are used, at breakfast, the eggs come from the hotel's own chickens and unnecessary packaging and plastic bottles are now completely avoided. With her place on the board of the Zermatt Hoteliers' Association, Fabienne is also committed to sustainable action, sometimes even against long-established traditions. With her many ideas, both big and small, she is laying the foundation for a sustainable future. In the region, in her business and in her family. In her private life, the nature-loving hotel manager spends a lot of time in the mountains. This includes an annual trip to the Gorner Glacier to measure how far it has receded. These moments, when climate change is so clearly visible, encourage her to act responsibly with resources and to prioritise what is essential.

Elena Scalambrin - With enthusiasm for family history

Elena Scalambrin, head of the Relais del Maro in Italy, together with her mother, has turned their family estate into a real gem. For many generations, Elena and her family have lived in the small Ligurian village of Borgomaro, in the hinterland of Imperia. The family worked as cobblers, innkeepers or butchers and were always a part of the village community. Elena and "La Mamma" have experienced many beautiful moments of their lives within the walls of these residences and can tell secrets and anecdotes about every room and corner. When the family-owned properties were in urgent need of renovation, Elena decided to transform them into a hotel spread over several buildings - an Albergo Diffuso. In 2012, the Relais del Maro came to life and has been delighting guests with its exciting blend of tradition and modernity ever since. 

The guests' well-being is the top priority here. "We always have the best possible result and environmental friendliness in mind," says Elena. And this is very clear throughout all of the many small details. The Relais del Maro strives to select organic products from Liguria and lower Piedmont. The water for irrigation and the pool comes from an artesian well and even the cleaning products used are 95 % environmentally friendly and biodegradable. However, the wonderful food from "La Mamma", the many stories from the village and the warmth of the hostesses are what the guests of the Relais del Maro remember the most.

Marion Muller - Entrepreneur and visionary 

During her tourism studies, Marion Müller already recognised the importance of sustainability for the travel industry. She was involved in various projects for further development and decided to work within low-impact, sustainable tourism herself. With the acquisition of a property requiring refurbishment and modernization at Timmendorfer Strand, Marion Muller and her husband Lambertus were able to realize their own vision of a green hotel with a focus on modern lifestyle, sustainability and naturalness. Thus, the Lifestylehotel SAND was born. Bit by bit, the green vision became reality. The SAND is now using Geothermal Energy and is planning to install a photovoltaic system in the future. Thirty-four new rooms and a completely new interior design with mostly natural materials make the SAND an ecological but unique retreat with a certain "lifestyle". Back then, as today, socially responsible corporate structures played just as important a role in the selection of partners as environmentally friendly production. 

A sense of composure and awareness of being entrepreneurs rather than underachievers always helped Marion Muller when things did not go so smoothly, and this certainly includes the pandemic. As an independent entrepreneur and "doer", she endeavoured to see the crisis as an opportunity and has reconsidered and revamped the hotel's processes. This has led to new ideas, such as integrating suggestions from employees via team workshops, and encourage the kitchen team to become more aware, to do even more themselves, as well as to be proactive about food and waste reduction. In addition, the program also includes an own herb garden. For some time now, another inspiring woman has been at Marion Muller's side. Yvonne Bork has been taking care of the operational business as director for about a year now, allowing the hotel manager more time for public relations, pushing the green hotel concept and for private freedom. In her private life, Marion Muller is also committed to people, the environment and animals, for example through the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) organisation, which campaigns for endangered porpoises. Whether it's new concepts for the hotel or private matters - Marion Muller certainly never runs out of ideas.

Tanja Duračković - Pioneer with a passion for nature

Tanja Duračković is the managing director and the founder of Adriatic Pearls, a company which owns the Eco-Apartments Hotel The Dreamers' Club and the Natural Design Apartments Sunshine with pool in Lumbarda on the island of Korcula. Tanja loves nature. Fresh air, the sea, ecologically produced food from the region, the stylish design of the wooden and stone houses and a laid-back way of life—to her, that's luxury.Over a decade ago, the Croatian vacation home market was swamped with unappealing rental homes being marketed by somewhat untrustworthy operators. Tanja identified a niche in the market of authentic and charming vacation homes offering quality services—and that was the birth of Adriatic Pearls. A business offering personalized, beautifully designed (and later on eco-friendly) summer residences right on the beach. 

Soon after, she bought her first apartment house, the Natural Design Apartments. A fewer year later, she became allergic to everything that was plastic. Another motivator to build an all green, all natural, toxic free home. It was something that she could integrate even more out of her love for the Adriatic coast. A place not only environmentally friendly, but a space to unwind and recharge at the same time. She purchased an old derelict house located above the marina in Lumbarda, fully renovated it and reopened it as an Eco-Apartment Hotel called The Dreamers' Club. A thoroughly sustainable retreat emerged. Somewhere one can dream, relax or simply make memories. With her commitment, Tanja Duračković aims to encourage others by following her initiative and further developing the market for green, healthy and ecological vacation homes.

The Okelmann's Sister Duo

There are two women at the helm of Hotel Okelmann's. Maren and Kristin Okelmann run the traditional hotel, which is now in its fifth generation of family management. Both sisters are experts in their field and learned their trade in other hotels before they returned home to their parents' beloved business. For generations, people and the earth have been at the centre of everything the Okelmann family does. "Our passion is to bring people and nature together. Not only in the house and kitchen." This statement also nicely sums up their philosophy. Maren is a trained sound massage therapist and yoga teacher and passes on her knowledge to guests in the form of regular courses and retreats. A brand-new yoga room is now also part of the Okelmann's offering. 

The sisters have taken a lot of time for new ideas and visions to make Okelmann's a real feel-good retreat and place full of warmth and welcoming. A completely sustainable concept included! For example, Okelmann's sources its food almost exclusively from regional suppliers and farmers, preferably in organic quality. Baking and cooking is done according to traditional family recipes and with a lot of love for the craft. A sustainable energy supply, fairly produced towels and bed linen as well as high-quality natural cosmetics in the rooms are also part of the sustainability initiatives. But Maren and Kristin don't want to rest on the status quo. There will certainly be more innovative things to report from Okelmann's soon.  

Mother & Daughter - A successful leadership team 

"We care about our city, our environment, our future and social life which is why we try to live sustainably. We encourage everyone to be more aware of the environment, recycle waste, minimise plastic consumption, save water and never forget to smile!" shares Dalia Remeikaité regarding their approach to sustainability. Dalia and her daughter Dovilé Šipelienė opened the 4-star ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa in 2002. The two want to show that nature-oriented and eco-friendly ideas and the corresponding sustainable lifestyle are realistic and feasible for everyone. 

They faced many challenges before the launch: The ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa is located in a renovated former mill in the centre of the Lithuanian town of Panevėžys. The building is on the list of historical and cultural monuments of the Republic of Lithuania, which meant many restrictions and conditions during the renovation. The two put all of their heart and soul into the transformation and the result is an authentic design that embodies the essence of the industrial past combined with the elegance of the present. Dalia and Dovilé have also incorporated their connection with the region and history in the beautiful ETNO SPA, where traditional Baltic healing methods are used. The harmonious and cosy décor in the hotel beautifully reflects the personal touches of the management duo.

You can find out more about the hotel managers featured here and their sustainable hotels on the Green Pearls® website or in the Green Travel Blog.