This year, it is to go one step further. The Wall of Change is to become real and adorn the hotel lobby of the Creativhotel. For this purpose, wooden sheets will be labeled with the initiatives using a laser printer and hung up. Even more information can then be accessed on the website.

The Wall of Change is intended to arouse curiosity and at the same time inspire and motivate private individuals, hotel guests and entrepreneurs to tackle sustainable strategies. An initiative that has now been awarded the ADAC's special sustainability prize.

A great idea that should find many imitators. At least that's what Creativhotel Luise hopes.

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. 

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.

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.

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN
• Nature Hotel Outside
• CERVO Mountain Resort

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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.

In the cozy room, those seeking relaxation are pampered with treatments from the Almwiesn Spa and can then continue to relax in private. How about a subsequent sauna visit in the Hydrosoft cabin, for example? Or pure chill out in the lounge with a drink?

The Spa Suite can be booked for 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your own needs. Included is a body treatment, the length of which depends on the time booked. You can find more information here. 

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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

No matter whether the sun is blazing from the sky, it is raining or snowing, the weather protection sail in front of the exclusive rooftop sauna protects visitors to the sauna and those seeking relaxation. Another advantage: the relaxation oasis on the roof is now protected from views from levels above. So the intimacy of the private sauna is preserved a little longer, while you snuggle up with your loved one on the comfortable deck chairs.

The European Sustainability Week takes place from September 20 to 26. Organizations, initiatives and companies open their doors and gates and offer programs, guided tours and workshops around sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals of the Agenda 2030.

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.

Click here to go to the (german) magazine website where you can order the magazine.

With the Selfness Center, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA makes it clear that wellness is not enough for them. With "Selfness", they focus on their guests as human beings and their mindful approach to themselves. In the new center, this succeeds even better.

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. 

Go to the article here.

Click here to read the issue. The magazine is only available in German.

Pure.Energy, Pure.Food, Pure.Learning and Pure.Inspiration are the Paradiso's cornerstones for a new kind of hospitality and for more attention and respect for the future of our planet. A tribute to the Alpe di Siusi and a bridge of light between humans and nature.

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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.

Read the blog

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

Read the blog

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.

Read the blog

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.

Read the blog

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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

• HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio
• ADLER Lodge RITTEN
• Gut Nisdorf
• Berghotel Rehlegg
• Biohotel Grafenast
• SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA
• Schlosshotel Blankenburg

Click here for the online edition of the Gourmet Journal (german only)
 

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.

According to Förtsch the idea was immediately met with enthusiastic approval by the residents. Many senior citizens, but also students, populate the district and are happy about the shorter distances for self-supply with organic, fairly produced and regional food.

The construction of the vending machine, including the security technology and the weatherproof wooden shed, was funded by the city of Erlangen and supported by numerous local sponsors. The daily stocking, maintenance and running costs such as electricity are covered by the Creativhotel Luise.

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.

Mentioned are:

• Inkaterra Hotels
• LA VIMEA
• Keemala

The full article can be found here (French).

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.

Journal des Palaces specializes in luxury hotels and hospitality and gourmet restaurants.

You can find the article here.

Applications are open to any creative who is up for a month of southern Italian flair, sea views and living on a historic estate between January and March 2023. There are workplaces and also the transfer from the airport or train station is secured. As a welcome, there is a well-filled food basket with all kinds of specialties of the region, with which the first delicious dishes can be prepared in your own kitchen.

For the application you need:

• A few lines about you and your project (max. 1000 characters)
• An indication if, sometime between January and March 2023, you do not have a free period of time for a stay.
• Photos, links, portfolio or samples of your work are welcome.
• Deadline: September 15, 2022

By the way: The stay is family friendly.

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.

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. 

Start Listening

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

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Based on the format of the Spa Life Concept, products and ideas for a more sustainable hotel will be presented, presentations will be held and there will be “speed dating” units. The networking and theoretical input is accompanied by practical workshops and sessions such as yoga, forest bathing or Qi Gong. The Spa Life Retreat thus not only offers the chance to examine the latest developments in the industry, but also to experience them first-hand while networking with other hoteliers and suppliers. 

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.

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.

In the category “Responsible Business Model & Partnership”, the hotel in Bad Herrenalb is right at the top of the podium in TourCert's fairwärts Good Practice competition. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA receives the 1st place for the creation of the CSR – position “Development of sustainable awareness”.

Since 2018, Stephanie Schießl is responsible for this position and takes care of the sustainable development of the hotel. The industry's only full-time position combines active environmental protection with social commitment and entrepreneurial thinking. Stephanie Schießl raises sustainable awareness within the staff, among guests and all partners, and integrates sustainability along the entire value chain of the hotel operation. For the last year she has also been a guest lecturer in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) at DHBW Ravensburg.

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA's successful sustainability initiatives include: a significant reduction in its carbon footprint per overnight stay, Bio-Gold certification, the development of an in-house waste ABC, a biodiverse snack garden, upcycling workshops and numerous collaborations such as NABU's cork collection campaign and Sinnlicht's wax collection point. Just a few weeks ago, the team around managing director Stephan Bode announced the successful Green Sign certification. 

Detailed information on the sustainable commitment can be found in the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA's sustainability report.

The 35-year-old German is an experienced hotelier and has been working in Thailand for many years. After completing his hotel management training, he gained his first experience in the luxury sector at the Grand Hotel Breidenbacher Hof in Düsseldorf. This was followed by positions at the "China Club Berlin" at the Adlon in Berlin, the Layana Resort & Spa on Koh Lanta and the Dusit Thani Krabi, Thailand. In 2016, he joined Zeavola as the EAM of Food and Beverage, which became both his family and his calling.

After the long break of 7 months, all staff members are now back at the resort. Everyone is looking forward to finally being part of the Zeavola family again and welcoming guests. Lion Imhof explains: "As born hosts, we all want to share our passion and hospitality with everyone who enters Zeavola and carry on the vision as well as the philosophy of Florian Hallermann."

Zeavola's sustainable initiatives have radiated far beyond the borders of Koh Phi Phi since its inception 16 years ago. The resort intends to maintain this focus in the future.

Lion Imhof is particularly pleased that celebrity chef Satya Beeknoo, an important component of Zeavola, could be won back for the relaunch. Beeknoo, who also likes to take time to cook something individual for guests, has been responsible for the resort's kitchen since 2018. The member of the "Disciples Escoffier International" association pursues a completely sustainable orientation. Under his leadership, the kitchen team reduced its monthly consumption of cooking oil by more than half, strengthened its relationship with suppliers, farmers and fishermen by focusing on regional products, and came up with innovations such as the reusable transport boxes and a composting machine to reduce organic waste.

In July 2020, Chef Satya and two teammates from Zeavola Resort won the Iron Chef reality show competition.

Preparations for the opening are currently in full swing! All further information about the resort you can find here.

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Golden autumn in Zermatt

Clear air, bright sunshine and golden forests make Zermatt an autumn hiker's paradise. The CERVO Mountain Resort also sees it that way and therefore will remain open throughout the winter season for the first time. The CERVO is the perfect starting point to discover the magical mountain world of the autumnal Alps or to spend wonderful hours in the Mountain Ashram Spa. From Monday, 27.9. to Thursday, 2.12. all 24 rooms of the 4* category Nomad, the restaurant Bazaar and the Mountain Ashram Spa including weekly programme with Yoga, Meditation and Pilates are bookable. The CERVO team is looking forward to welcoming many hiking or wellness-hungry autumn holidaymakers.

Double hiking pleasure in the Harz Mountains

You could also go hiking in the Harz Mountains, which are one of the most popular hiking regions in Germany with their magnificent mountain landscapes, forests and moorlands - and of course the Brocken. But the UNESCO World Heritage town of Quedlinburg, the Rübeländer stalactite caves, or the Rappbode Dam are also attractive destinations. One of the best places to rest your tired legs after hiking along with a restful sleep, good food and wellness is the Schlosshotel Blankenburg. With the "Hiking Pleasures in the Harz" package the hiking holiday in the 4* hotel with historical charm becomes a truly grand experience, foot massage included!

The package includes: 5 x overnight stays in the chosen room category, daily rich breakfast buffet and dinner as 3-course menu of choice or buffet, 1 x hiking rucksack (on loan) including packed lunch & a bottle of Palatinate wine, 1 x foot massage (30 minutes), 1 x city map of Blankenburg, free minibar with non-alcoholic drinks, free use of the sauna area, and much more. Price: from € 530.75 p.p. in a double room.
 

Harz tip number 2 is the Naturresort Schindelbruch. Here you can start directly from the hotel on the most beautiful hiking routes of the southern Harz and marvel at the red beech and mixed mountain forests that shine in their many colours. How about a tour to the Joseph's Cross or to the romantic half-timbered town of Stolberg? You can also rent e-bikes directly at the hotel and extend your tour radius accordingly. The exclusive Naturresort Schindelbruch has three restaurants, a wine bar, a fitness centre and an impressive 2,500m2 wellness area, so you can even enjoy a rainy autumn day. Hiking, forest bathing, biking, culture or wellness - 5 days with the "GOLDEN AUTUMN" package are sure to pass far too quickly at the green Schindelbruch Nature Resort.

"Golden Autumn” Package: 5 climate-positive nights (you only pay for 4.), incl. rich breakfast, daily dinner as a 4-course Schindelbruch menu, free use of the 2.500 m2 spa and fitness area, a bottle of water, bathrobe and slippers in your room upon arrival, free participation in the sports and activity programme, 1 vitality dish in the spa bistro per adult, 1x soft pack "Moorlicht" on the floating lounger (30 min.) per adult and 1x relaxation massage "Festhalten & Loslassen" (50 min.) per adult.

Autumn in the SAND

Those who prefer a stiff breeze through their hair and sand under their feet should head for the autumnal north. Wrap up in a beach chair and enjoy the last warming rays of sunshine for the year, and later warm up your soul in a cosy café with one of the wonderful North German tea and coffee specialities. If this sounds like something for you, it's best to make your way to Timmendorfer Strand.

Here you can stay in style at the Lifestylehotel SAND. Almost everything in the SAND is made of natural products, from the interior to the kitchen. The lovingly furnished rooms, the breakfast and snack offerings are made from regional and organic products and the wonderful roof-top outdoor sauna ensures a harmonious ambience and lasting moments of bliss. The SAND team offers you the following autumn specials:

SANDrelax

Modern lifestyle meets sustainability, nature meets one of the most popular locations on the Baltic Sea and ambition meets simplicity. Included: 3 nights, daily colourful SANDbreakfast until 13.00, 1x Natural Surprise, 1x Relaxmassage (25 minutes), 1x use (1,5 hours) of the Roof Top Outdoor Sauna, from 279,00 € / person.

SANDyfit

Enjoy a modern lifestyle with a clear conscience and be sustainably active on the coast of the Bay of Lübeck with a myBoo rental bike. Included: 5 nights, daily colourful SANDbreakfast until 13.00, 1x Natural Surprise, 6 days myBoo bike rental, from 405,00 € / person.

VACATION IN AUSTRIA – WITH YOUR DOG

Having your own four-legged friend with you on vacation — what could be better? Not much in our opinion. And if it’s also a sustainable vacation, then we’re thrilled anyway. That’s why we dedicate this blog post to the question: What do I have to consider if I want to take my dog with me on vacation to Austria?

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AUTUMN MAGIC IN ENCHANTED VALLEYS

A long walk in the forest is definitely part of autumn. With a lot of sunshine, we discover the many colors on the trees and let the leaves rustle softly under our shoes. Join our journey full of autumn magic in the enchanted valleys around our Green Pearls^® hotels.

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SUSTAINABILITY WITH TRADITION

How long have you been dealing with the topic of sustainability? For a few years? Your whole life? Maybe even your parents have been committed to it. While the importance of the topic has increased in recent years — among others due to Greta Thunberg and the “Fridays for Future” movement — there are people who have been committed to sustainability for decades. This also includes some of our Green Pearls® partner hotels.

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SUSTAINABILITY WITH TRADITION – PART TWO

There is this saying: “Put your money where your morals are”. In other words, if you want to support sustainability, give your money to sustainable companies and not to big international chains that aren’t concerned about environmental protection. In part one of this blog post, we already took a look at a few Green Pearls® hotels that have been paying attention to sustainability for generations.

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What will the travel year 2022 be like? This article describes 7 travel trends that will happen in 2022

Read article here 

By protecting and restoring nature, we can safeguard biodiversity, help limit warming, improve human well being and even find protection from the consequences of climate change, like intensified flooding and storms.

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While 99% of us are still fast asleep, members of the Win the Morning, Win the Day movement are throwing themselves into a dawn walk or swim. This article describes what kind of people come together here and what drives them.

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Mmmmh delicious! More than 80 delicious recipes suitable for the autumn season shows this post

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The passion of the owners Sandra and Marco Arnold for the surrounding nature is evident in many details of the sustainably renovated and modernly designed apartment house. The LENI MOUNTAIN Café & Bar and the brand-new wellness area with sauna and steam bath are open to all apartment guests.

A special highlight is the LENI MOUNTAIN Chalet, a somewhat remote vacation chalet in the middle of the mountains with its own natural pond, sauna and concierge service - an exclusive and private vacation domicile of a special kind.

For more information on what LENI MOUNTAIN Apartments & Chalet has to offer, please visit Green Pearls®, the platform for green and sustainable hotels and vacation rentals worldwide and the LENI MOUNTAIN hotel website.

Industrial production meets contemporary elegance at ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa

Let's start in the middle of the 19th century in Lithuania, in Panevėžys, the fifth largest city in Lithuania, where the first mechanical mill in the country is just being put into operation. Life is very busy here. In its heyday, it is said that over 5 million tonnes of flour were produced here every year! This was then transported onwards by train to Riga, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Warsaw and the port of Liepaja. 10 years ago, director Dalia Remeikaitė and her daughter Dovilė Šipelienė took over what is now the 4-star ROMANTIC Boutique Hotel & Spa on the banks of the Nevėžis River and renovated it with a strong focus on sustainability. Many of the mill's original structures such as wooden beams, metal columns and ceiling panels were preserved. The building is currently listed among the historical and cultural monuments of the Republic of Lithuania.

Kasbah du Toubkal - Visiting the Moroccan Berbers

We continue into the centuries-old Moroccan hinterland at the foot of the Ibel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa. Above the village of Imlil, in the Moroccan High Atlas Mountains, towers the Kasbah du Toubkal, fortress and summer residence of a local ruler. When Mike McHugo and his brother Chris discovered the completely dilapidated Kasbah in 1995 and began renovating it into a mountain holiday village, all materials had to be brought in by hand or on the backs of mules - electricity wasn’t available in this remote region until 1997. The final result is a comfortable and inspiring home in traditional style at 1,820 metres above sea level, with panoramic views of the mountains. The Kasbah du Toubkal is run in close partnership with the local Berber community. A five per cent levy on each guest's overnight bill goes back to the villagers.

Reverent silence at Le Pavillon in Paris

Next, we travel to Paris, to a small monastery in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. This place of silence, which was a place of devotion and retreat for the monks, is still an oasis of calm in the bustling streets of the French metropolis. Tommy and Barbara Tascijevic, owners of today's boutique hotel Le Pavillon with 15 rooms, were deeply touched by the atmosphere of the monastery and could sense that it wanted to be brought back to life. The result is a sustainably renovated gem, the first hotel in France with rooms that are free of electromagnetic radiation. Rural tranquillity in the middle of the city and within walking distance of all the sights.

Walking in the footsteps of an emperor at Wartegg Castle Hotel

The last stop on our journey through the historical origins of our Green Pearls^® partner hotels is in Switzerland on Lake Constance. Our destination is Schloss Wartegg, majestically situated above the lakeshore. Before we enter the gleaming white castle, we take a stroll through the 130,000 m2 park with its tall linden trees, plane trees and chestnut trees, calming waterways and secluded clearings. Within minutes, guests feel like they are in the midst of the aristocratic life of past centuries with horses, carriages, flowing robes and busy gardeners. Kaspar Blarer von Wartensee, bailiff in Arbon in the service of the bishopric of Constance, built Wartegg Castle in 1557 on a former estate. Over the centuries, the castle passed through various hands and served as a diplomatic representation and seat of exile. After the end of the Empire, Empress Zita and her children lived in the beautiful castle grounds for some time. It was not until the middle of the last century that the castle increasingly fell into disrepair. The Mijnssen family acquired the castle building and most of the park in 1994 and renovated the premises into a sustainable modern hotel using sandstone and wood from the region and its own park. Only natural textiles were used for the interior decoration.

In this beautiful place, where hosts Irmela Senn and Richard Butz welcome us, we can now recover from our long journey. It was nice to have you with us!

Spanish farm POU DE GLAÇ with an icy past

Our journey takes us back to the 17th/18th century, to an estate in the Spanish hinterland of the Costa Brava, situated directly on the Rec d'Estany stream. The old flour mill, the barn, the vault and the ice fountain are bustling with activity. For several centuries, this was used as a natural refrigerator with the help of stored natural ice, which enabled the landowner's family to enjoy a higher standard of living.

The owner of the grounds around the heritage-listed ice fountain (Pou de Glac) played by the old mill and the idyllic stream herself as a child. This personal connection is noticeable in the many loving details that have been considered during the transformation of the site into eco-friendly, sustainable holiday homes. The natural materials, especially wood and natural stone, contrast beautifully with the exposed steel and cement as well as the modern furnishings. A flawless blend of old and new architecture. The POU DE GLAÇ - ECO TOURISM holiday homes at this beautiful and sustainable place of well-being have only been available for booking for a few weeks.

Historical ambience meets modern luxury at Schlosshotel Blankenburg

The journey continues in the Harz Mountains, in the middle of the 19th century. We stop at the former barracks of Duke Wilhelm's "Herzoglich Braunschweigische Leibbataillon" in Blankenburg, where Wilhelm's soldiers stayed from 1860. Until the end of the Second World War, the castle barracks repeatedly served as a training centre for recruits and as accommodation for various military units. After the withdrawal of the Soviet military administration in 1946, the barracks were converted for residential purposes.

In 2009, the conversion of the historic building into a four-star hotel began. The challenge: to balance monument protection and the modern vision of an organic hotel. The thermal renovation of the building shell along with the new roof and basement insulation form the basic framework for the thoroughly sustainable focus of the hotel, which has even introduced its own system for environmental management. Despite complete energetic renovation, the historic spirit of the building envelopes you as soon as you enter the Schlosshotel Blankenburg with its high ceilings, large windows and classic furnishings. Modern bathrooms, a wellness area with sauna landscape, relaxation and treatment rooms as well as a completely new building housing the reception and the restaurant have been added. The six-legged friends also find a home after the renovation in the new insect hotel on the grounds.

Princely history at the Naturresort Schindelbruch 

It is only a short trip from Blankenburg to Stolberg, but we are now heading back to 1928 - the year in which the Princes of Stolberg Stolberg decided to build the "Schindelbruch Hunting Lodge" above the small village of the same name in the southern Harz. In GDR times, the house was turned into a holiday home and, after the fall of the Wall, into the "Harzhotel im Schindelbruch". In 2003, the gradual renovation and expansion of today's Schlosshotel began.

Owner and managing director Dr. Clemens Ritter von Kempski brought his personal interest in sustainable issues to the table from the very beginning and realised his vision of operating the hotel in an eco-friendly way. Now, it is time to travel to the recent past of the nature resort, because in 2013 the "Pearl of Schindelbruch and favourite place of the wellness guests" opened - the bathhouse. The resort's newest jewel is the Landresidenz, which was completed in spring 2021. After the renovation, the nature resort received several awards for the intelligent saving of resources and its excellent quality management.

In a second part of our little journey through time, we will explore the historical origins of other Green Pearls^® partner hotels.

The Kasbah du Toubkal has – because of its remote location – a lower risk of infection and 97% percent of the staff is already fully vaccinated. The "Kasbah Bubble" offer includes a three-night stay. Cost per person: €427 (based on minimum two people sharing a room) or a Single supplement for €275.

Booking Ref: KDT3

For more information – click here.

For the goal of ensuring a carbon-free future for Machu Picchu, Inkaterra is working closely with the Machu Picchu Municipality, AJE Group, and the National Service for Protected Areas (SERNANP). A successful initiative of private and public players.

For more details on the project and the OnePlanet program, click here.

Read about Inkaterra's other environmental projects and offerings here.