Dog-friendly and sustainable hotels in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

Klosterbräu (Seefeld, Austria)

At the Hotel Klosterbräu, warm Tyrolean hospitality meets a genuine love for dogs: the Seyrling family, owners of a border collie named Bonnie themselves, have created numerous offerings for you and your dog. A cozy bed and bowls for the sleeping area, a special dog menu, and spacious outdoor areas are just a few of the thoughtful touches that have been considered. This means that both you and your dog will feel right at home.

Behind the hotel, there is a private natural area spanning almost 150,000 square meters where your dog can run off leash. Feel free to relax with your four-legged friend in the hotel garden or by the pool, though your dog must remain on a leash. Practical items such as dog waste bags, drinking stations, and towels for muddy paws are also available at the reception desk. The Seefeld region offers numerous hiking trails and nature experiences for long hikes. A dog care service allows you to enjoy relaxing wellness treatments or a nice dinner, knowing that your dog is well cared for.

Vacation with dog at Hotel Klosterbräu: brief & concise:

• Private 150,000 m² outdoor area and dog-friendly outdoor zones
• Dog menus, sleeping area, bowls, and surprise goodies included
• Dog care available (for a fee)

Hotel Bella Vista (Zermatt, Switzerland)

The Hotel Bella Vista in car-free Zermatt welcomes you and your dog with a family-friendly atmosphere and a stunning view of the Matterhorn. Upon arrival, you will already find a dog bed and bowl waiting for you in your room. However, before you settle in, be sure to take a short tour of the alpine nature. The hiking and walking trails, as well as the forest nearby, offer a variety of routes for short walks and hiking tours lasting several hours. One particularly practical feature is that dogs can ride the mountain railways free of charge in Zermatt, which gives you flexibility when planning your excursions. ( Please note that on certain Italian routes, dogs must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle. It is best to ask the hotel directly for more information!)

Vacation with your dog at Hotel Bella Vista: brief & concise

• Dog bed and bowl in the room
• Direct access to hiking trails behind the hotel
• Dogs travel free on the Zermatt mountain railways

Hotel Okelmann’s (Warpe, Germany)

At the Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, sustainability and your dog’s comfort are top priorities (and yours, too!).

Your four-legged friend will be welcomed with bowls, a cozy dog blanket, and organic treats. The latter have been extensively tested and approved by the owners’ dogs. The outdoor shower in the garden area is perfect for washing your dog’s paws (and your own) after long walks in the woods. “Dirty towels” are also available at the reception desk for this purpose.

If possible, you will be assigned a room with direct access to the garden. Additionally, your dog is welcome to accompany you to the Heimatliebe Café, where you will find hand-picked treats, care products, and accessories for two- and four-legged friends alike.

Vacation with your dog at Hotel Okelmann’s: brief & concise

• Bowls, a dog blanket, and organic treats upon arrival
• An outdoor shower and towels for dirty paws
• You can take your dog to the Heimatliebe café.

Hotel Luise (Franconian Switzerland, Germany)

Located in Erlangen, the Hotel Luise is ideal for those who want to combine city breaks with nature experiences. After enjoying a zero-waste breakfast, you can set off to explore the beautiful surroundings. The area features natural attractions like the Tennenloher Forest and the Erlanger Wiesengrund. Franconian Switzerland, with its hiking trails, is also nearby. Erlangen’s charming old town and castle park offer many opportunities for exploration and walks. Dogs are welcome at the hotel, and the staff looks forward to welcoming them.

Vacation with your dog at Hotel Luise: brief & concise

• Located in close proximity to the Franconian Switzerland hiking region
• Tip: Excursion with your dog to the Bad Windsheim Open-Air Museum
• Dogs are not allowed in the breakfast room.

Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa (Berchtesgadener Land, Germany)

Dogs are welcome guests at the four-star superior Hotel Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, but there are clear rules. For instance, the number of dog-friendly rooms is limited. So be sure to register your dog when you make your reservation! When you arrive, you will find a bowl and a cozy dog blanket in your room. There is a dog shower in the parking lot to easily clean up after your adventures in Berchtesgadener Land and Berchtesgaden National Park. Please note that dogs must be kept on a leash!

The Klosterhof is ideal if you want to combine wellness with nature experiences. Due to these restrictions, your dog should be accustomed to relaxing on its own so you can enjoy a massage or the evening menu without hesitation.

Vacation with your dog at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa: brief & concise

• Dog-friendly rooms come with a bowl and a dog blanket
• Dog shower in the parking lot.
• Restrictions for certain hotel areas: Dogs are not allowed in the spa area, restaurant, or sunbathing lawn.

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA (Bad Herrenalb, Germany)

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA offers an exceptional sustainable hotel experience, as it is one of the most eco-friendly hotels in Germany. Located in the climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb, just a few meters from hiking trails through the Black Forest, it is an ideal place to vacation in the Black Forest. And with your dog, of course. Numerous paths through forests and alongside streams provide fresh air and opportunities to cool off in the summer. A day trip to the Grötzingen quarry pond is the perfect addition to your itinerary, offering a dog beach, playground, and dog park — ideal for burning off energy and enjoying some active fun together.

The “dog friend” rooms include bowls, a blanket, and a welcome treat. Here, too, please note that you are not allowed to take your dog into the restaurant and spa areas.

Vacation with your dog at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA: brief & concise

• “Dog-friendly” rooms with bowls, blankets, and treats
• Access to Black Forest hiking trails, a dog beach, and a dog park at the nearby quarry pond
• No dogs allowed in the restaurant or spa

Relais del Maro (Borgomaro, Italy)

At the idyllic Relais del Maro, dogs are not just tolerated—they’re welcomed as guests! You and your pet will find a set of treats, a mat, and bowls in your room. You can also borrow a cooling mat for hot days, if necessary. Numerous walking and hiking trails around the hotel wind through the rugged Ligurian countryside. Are you and your dog more of a beach type? Then, especially in the off- and late seasons, the beaches on the Ligurian coast and the nearby Côte d’Azur beckon with long walks on the beach and a chance to cool off in the sea. At Relais del Maro, your dog is welcome everywhere in the hotel except the pool area. The charming Albergo Diffuso, located between the sea and mountainous nature, is your starting point for a variety of activities with your four-legged friend.

Vacation with your dog at Relais del Maro: brief & concise

• A welcome kit including bowls, a mat, and treats (cooling mats are available to borrow during the hot months)
• Dogs are allowed everywhere in the hotel except at the pool
• Numerous hiking trails and proximity to the coast

Korinjak (Island of Iž, Croatia)

The Hotel Korinjak on the small Croatian island of Iž is the perfect place for you and your dog to stay! It is the only vegetarian-vegan hotel on the island, and its location in pristine nature makes it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. The on-site team loves dogs, so your four-legged friend will feel welcome and is sure to find someone to give them a cuddle. The surrounding area offers plenty of hiking opportunities along the coast and through the rugged Mediterranean landscape. And the sea is perfect for swimming together. As we said, it’s a real paradise for active dogs and their owners.

Vacation with your dog at Hotel Korinjak: brief & concise

• Dog-friendly hotel staff so you and your dog both feel completely at home
• Beautiful nature and hiking trails around the island
• Located right by the sea

Conclusion: Taking your dog on a sustainable vacation doesn’t have to be complicated

On the contrary, with the right accommodations, your holiday will be a highlight for you and your four-legged friend. Whether you’re looking for an alpine hiking holiday in Austria or Switzerland, an escape to the idyllic countryside of Germany, a getaway to the beaches of Italy, or an adventure to the islands of Croatia, the dog-friendly hotels in these locations take their responsibility as hosts and as stewards of the environment seriously. The above establishments are excellent examples of how sustainability, warmth, and dog-friendliness can go hand in hand.

Additional questions you may have:

Are dogs allowed in all of the presented hotels?

Yes, dogs are welcome in all of the hotels featured. Some have special dog-friendly rooms and amenities such as bowls, dog beds, or blankets.

What services do dog-friendly, sustainable hotels offer?

Many dog-friendly hotels offer extras such as special (and sustainable) dog menus, off-leash areas, dog showers, grooming products, dog-sitting services, and welcome kits for your four-legged friend. Be sure to ask about the specific offerings before you book.

Are there any restrictions on dogs at the hotel?

Not everyone likes dogs. Some people are even afraid of them. To ensure all guests have a relaxing vacation experience, most hotels have restrictions in place. For example, dogs are not allowed in certain areas, such as the spa, restaurants, and hotel beds. These rules exist for the safety and comfort of all guests, and you should respect them (and consider other dog owners, too!).

What amenities are typically offered to dogs at sustainable hotels?

Dog-friendly hotels often provide a bowl and a dog blanket, and sometimes a welcome treat. Some also offer dog showers, dog-sitting services, and designated areas for dogs in the garden and pool.

Where can I find dog-friendly hiking and walking trails in the area?

Many sustainable hotels provide information about local hiking trails, nature trails, or lakes anyway. It is best to ask specifically whether these are also suitable for dogs. Some hotels also explicitly highlight hikes that are suitable for dogs.

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When it comes to vacations with dogs, people often suggest traveling in a motorhome or camper van or staying in a vacation home. Both options have undeniable advantages: space, flexibility, and perhaps even a fenced-in property. However, more and more hotels are offering dog-friendly vacations where you will want for nothing.

Sustainable Travel with your Dog – What you should know beforehand

In general, the same rules apply to a sustainable vacation with a dog as to a sustainable vacation without a dog, with a few exceptions:

Choosing the Location: Climate and Surroundings

It does not matter whether you are traveling with a camper or planning a hotel vacation with your dog; choosing the right destination is key. You have already been on vacation with your dog, right? If so, then you know that it requires a different kind of preparation, which starts already with the said choice of destination. Not only should you consider what your preferences and wishes are, but above all, those of your four-legged friend.

In the summer, to the beaches of Italy? That’s absolutely not cool (ha ha) for most dogs. A winter vacation in the high north with the rescue dog from Spain? Depending on the dog’s temperament, he will not feel comfortable here (or will only want to lie in the hut in front of the fireplace). Distance also plays a role, and not just from a sustainability perspective. Your dog is probably just as reluctant to fly halfway around the world for a ten-day vacation in Thailand as the climate of our planet is.

That’s why we took a look at a few destinations in terms of their “dog-friendliness.” There you’ll find travel tips for great and sustainable vacations with your dog in Austria and Germany, as well as in Italy and Switzerland.

When researching, you should also check whether the destination is generally dog-friendly.

• For example, is there a dog beach?
• Are dogs allowed in restaurants?
• Are there walking and hiking trails nearby where you can take your daily walks?
• What about activities you can do together with your four-legged friend?
• Are dogs allowed at the main attractions in the area, and if not, are you willing to forego them if necessary?

Health Checks and Entry Requirements

Once you’ve decided which destination to visit, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty. Familiarize yourself with the entry requirements. For example, does your dog need to be quarantined upon arrival? (This is sometimes the case on islands!)
Does he need certain vaccinations? Are your pet passport and vaccination certificates at hand and up to date? Especially when traveling to the Mediterranean, you should check with your vet and get information about Mediterranean diseases. Now is also the right time to stock up on medicines (if your dog requires them) and check your first-aid kit.

Finding an Accommodation and Questions you ought to clarify

Besides the formalities and health issues, the search for suitable accommodation for a sustainable vacation with a dog is a big part of the vacation preparation. As we have already indicated above, increasingly more hotels are opening up to dog people and their four-legged friends. Naturally, a few additional rules will apply so as not to disturb guests without dogs. However, a dog-friendly hotel is an ideal choice for all dog people who don’t want to sacrifice comfort and amenities.

Important: you should always announce your dog at the time of booking. That way, the staff can prepare for it and make everything ready. Some hotels allow you to bring your dog along without advertising it on their website. It is always worthwhile to simply ask. The often set additional fee for your dog is mainly for the subsequent cleaning of the room, as this is more time-consuming due to the dog hair. You know this from home. You should be honest about the size of your dog: a St. Bernard is not medium-sized. 😉

To ensure a relaxing hotel vacation with your dog, clarify the following in advance:

• Whether there is a place for your dog to sleep in the room.
• Whether a blanket or dog bed is provided.
• Ask if bowls are provided.
• Ask about places to walk your dog in the surrounding area.
• Ask where in the hotel you can take your dog.
• Ask if the dog is allowed to stay alone in the room.
• Are there poop bag dispensers in the area?

Knowing all this in advance allows you to pack accordingly! For example, you should always bring your own poop bags. However, you can skip the thick dog mat if the hotel provides a dog bed. This saves luggage space.

Hotel Search made easy: Dog-friendly Green Pearls®

Many of our Green Pearls® are delighted to welcome guests with dogs (and sometimes even have their own four-legged friends). So, if you don’t feel like clicking through numerous booking portals and comparison sites, we’ve compiled a small but fine list of sustainable accommodations and destinations for you where you and your dog are welcome.

Sustainable Vacation with your Dog in Franconia, Germany

Franconian Switzerland is best explored on foot, making it a super place for extended hikes with your dog. The nature reserve Tennenloher Forst and the Erlanger Wiesengrund also provide lots of walking and hiking opportunities. From the Hotel Luise, all this is just a short distance away, so after a delicious (zero-waste) breakfast, you can start right away.

Dogs are very welcome at the Luise. A tip from the team for a special, dog-friendly excursion: a visit to the Bad Windsheim open-air museum. The museum is beautifully and widely designed and can not only be explored wonderfully with the dog, but you will also learn a lot about the Franconian way of life.

Yet another heartfelt recommendation from dog people for dog people: Be sure to stop by the store “Hundsgemütlich” in downtown Erlangen. There you’ll find everything your (dog) heart desires, and you’ll get the best advice.

Northern Italy with your Dog

At Relais del Maro, not only are dogs welcome, but also cats, rabbits, canaries, and co. You, or rather your four-legged friend, can expect a small welcome kit in the room when you arrive, including a welcome treat, a mat, and bowls. You can also borrow cooling mats to prevent your dog from overheating. In northern Italy, it can be very warm even outside of summer, and if your four-legged friend already has their winter coat, they will appreciate the cooling mat.

Your dog may join you everywhere in the Relais del Maro. Only the pool is off limits. Instead, there are some beautiful dog beaches on the Ligurian coast, and during hikes through the hinterland and the mountains around Borgomaro, you will find one or the other natural swimming pool for your dogs and you.

With your Four-legged Friend in Switzerland

The forest behind the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt offers numerous hiking and walking trails for all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re looking for a short evening stroll or an all-day excursion, you’ll find the perfect route here. When you arrive, you’ll find a dog bed and bowl in your room, and the entire staff is very dog-friendly.

Dogs are allowed on Zermatt’s mountain railways and even travel free of charge! Please note that leashes and muzzles are mandatory on the Italian side.

Dog-friendly and Sustainable Hotel in Croatia

Dogs are warmly welcomed at Hotel Korinjak. The team consists of many dog lovers, so your four-legged friend is sure to be petted by someone. The small island of Iz offers plenty of hiking opportunities in pristine nature, and the sea right in front of the hotel invites you to enjoy long swimming and bathing sessions. It’s a paradise for you and your dog.

Sustainable Vacation with your Dog in Lower Saxony

In Warpe, Lower Saxony, Germany, there is an especially dog-friendly hotel. The Hotel Okelmann’s welcomes your four-legged fellow traveler with bowls and a dog blanket to use during your stay. There are also welcome treats that have been tested and approved by Mala and Frieda, the owners’ dogs. Subject to availability, you can use the garden and the terrace. There is also an outdoor shower, in case your dog comes back dirty from a walk through the Warp forest. For dirty paws, you could borrow a “dirty towel” at the reception.

Tip: In the Heimatliebe Café, you can also find selected treats, care products, and accessories for your dogs. And of course, your four-legged friend is allowed in the café and restaurant.

Sustainable Vacation with Your Dog: Tips and Tricks for a Relaxed Stay

To ensure a relaxing vacation for everyone, especially during your hotel stay, there are a few things you can and should prepare and keep in mind. This will make things easier for you, your dog, and the hotel staff. You won’t disturb guests without dogs, either. Furthermore, by ensuring that your stay is positive, you’ll pave the way for future travelers with dogs. 😉

This should be in your dog’s backpack for a sustainable vacation

Before the trip, it’s time to pack! And not just for yourself! Even if the hotel provides a dog bed, you should bring your dog’s blanket so they feel more at home in the hotel room. Also pack their favorite toy, their usual food, and a travel water bowl. Make sure you have enough dog waste bags for at least the first few days, in case there are no dispensers around the hotel or they are constantly empty.

You should pack the following for your dog:

• EU pet passport and/or vaccination certificate
• Any necessary medication
• First aid kit for dogs (including disinfectant, tweezers/tick remover, bandages, etc.)
• Sufficient food and treats (if you are going on long hikes, remember to increase the amount accordingly)
• Leash, collar, harness, and other equipment
• Muzzle, if you plan to travel by public transport
• Travel water bowl (foldable if necessary) and water bottle for your dog
• Dog waste bags
• Favorite toy
• Your dog’s own blanket
• An old towel for cleaning paws
• Dog boots, if you will be walking on a lot of gravel and grit, or if you are planning a tour with lots of grid bridges

Tips for a relaxed journey

Being stuck in traffic on the highway in 30°C summer heat is no fun for you or your dog. So, for longer journeys, it’s better to set off early or even drive through the night, and plan breaks and stopovers. You can also use your “dog stops” as an opportunity to see a few highlights on the way to your destination. This turns the forced walk stop into the first wonderful holiday experience.

If you want to travel by train, you should also think about your dog: they must wear a muzzle on the train. In addition, when changing trains, you should make sure that you have the opportunity to take your dog for a walk in between.

We have compiled more tips for traveling by train with your dog here.

Welcome to the sustainable and dog-friendly hotel

It is best to give your dog a good workout before check-in. Then he is at least a little calmer in the strange, exciting environment. In general, the following applies in the hotel: The dog belongs on a leash. In this way, you signal to other guests that they need to have no fears that your dog will suddenly come rushing towards them. Even if he would never do that.

The arrival in the new environment is exciting for everyone. It is especially exciting for your dog, who perceives his surroundings in an entirely different way than we humans do. You can give him additional security by using the leash.

Once in the hotel room, there are a few rules. Even if you handle it differently at home, your dog does not belong in the hotel bed and not on the upholstered furniture. After all, that’s why you have the dog blanket with you, and often the hotel will also provide you with a dog bed. Let your dog explore the room extensively. Show him the bathroom, closets, and the balcony or terrace.

At the same time, you can also identify and eliminate possible sources of danger. 😉

Bello alone in the hotel room

Your four-legged friend shouldn’t be left alone in the unfamiliar room, even after you’ve shown him around. If you plan to leave him in the hotel room for a while during your stay, for example, if you want to visit the spa or go for a spin in the indoor pool, then start slowly. Leave the room for just a few minutes at first and keep extending that time.

Your dog should be used to being left alone at home. If possible, you should also practice leaving your dog alone in unfamiliar surroundings (e.g., at friends’ homes) so that it is less stressful for your dog. And you can enjoy your spa treatments without worrying. 🙂

Sustainable Vacation with Your Dog – Our Conclusion

For many dog owners, vacationing with their dog is an important part of the experience. It goes without saying that this should be done sustainably. After all, there’s nothing we love more than walking with our four-legged friends through nearly untouched nature.

All the nicer that more and more sustainable hotels, including some Green Pearls®, offer dog-friendly accommodations in beautiful surroundings. Unlike in a vacation home or on a campsite, however, many more people come together in a hotel in a smaller space. So, there are different requirements for you as a dog owner and your dog. But well-prepared, a sustainable (hotel) vacation with your dog will be a relaxing and comfortable experience for everyone.

Do you have any other tips for a relaxed travel with dogs? Share in the comments or on Instagram!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sustainable Vacations with Your Dog

How can I find a sustainable, dog-friendly hotel?

Search for hotels that explicitly welcome dogs and clearly state their sustainability practices. (Feel free to use our seven-point checklist.) Also, check to see if they provide a sleeping place or bowls, and if they offer walking options in the area. It is also a good idea to filter reviews by the term “dog.” Platforms such as Green Pearls® Unique Places exclusively feature sustainable accommodations and offer dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.

Which destinations are best for a sustainable vacation with your dog?

Ideal destinations offer dog beaches, hiking trails, dog-friendly restaurants, and a temperate climate. Popular destinations include Germany, Austria, Switzerland, northern Italy, and parts of Croatia.

How can I travel stress-free and sustainably with my dog?

Plan breaks, avoid traveling in extreme heat, and use train connections with sufficient transfer time. Use stopovers for walks and short trips. These steps will make the journey relaxed and eco-friendly and will also make it part of the vacation itself.

What should I pack for a vacation with my dog, and what health preparations are necessary?

Be sure to pack your pet’s passport, vaccination records, medication, food, a water bowl, a leash, and poop bags. Clarify the vaccination requirements and quarantine rules in advance, and consult your veterinarian about regional diseases, especially if you are traveling to the Mediterranean region.

What rules and considerations should I keep in mind when vacationing with my dog at a hotel?

Your dog should always be kept on a leash so as not to disturb other guests and ensure safety. Find out in advance about leash requirements in other areas of the hotel and the surrounding region. Only enter permitted areas with your dog, and ensure that you are not disturbing other guests.

If you plan to leave your dog alone in the room, discuss this with the hotel staff beforehand and make sure the cleaning team is aware (e.g., place a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door or inform the reception desk).

How can I make my vacation with my dog as sustainable as possible?

Travel in the most climate-friendly way possible, take advantage of local offers, avoid single-use products, pack sustainable dog food/treats of regional origin, and dispose of waste (including dog waste!) responsibly—this way, you can protect nature and local communities.

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More than 25 sustainable ways to enjoy nature and the outdoors while on vacation

Although hiking is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, I understand why some people don’t enjoy it. Not everyone enjoys spending hours walking through the countryside with a heavy backpack. However, we all want to experience nature, and that’s healthy, too! Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to do so without hiking.

A gentle exploration of the Croatian island of Iž

The island of Iž is only 17 square kilometers in size and has a population of just over 500. If you stay here at the Hotel Korinjak, you’ll naturally spend all your time outdoors. Swimming at the wild Adriatic beaches, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and going on a boat trip to watch dolphins are just some of the water activities available there. The holistically oriented hotel also offers guided yoga on the terrace or forest meditation under pine and olive trees.

“The island’s gentle landscape is perfect for a leisurely exploration and sensory experience” – Hotel Korinjak

A sustainable, active vacation by the water

Green Pearls® offers a selection of sustainable hotels with direct access to natural bodies of water. In Germany, for instance, you’ll find the luxurious Hotel Der Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort atop a hill in the heart of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The region has over 800 hectares of water and is the most water-rich area in eastern Bavaria. Enjoy activities such as boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, sailing, rowing, and swimming — no hiking boots required!

The same is true of Lake Constance, the second largest Alpine lake in Europe spanning over 500 square kilometers. On its German shore, you’ll find the Naturresort Gerbehof , surrounded by apple trees and pastures. If hiking, swimming, or boating aren’t your thing, the Nature SPA and its garden area are ideal places to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

If you would prefer to have your own vacation home, we recommend the Summit Lodges Pfunds. These two Tyrolean log cabins have their own fireplace, sauna, and sleeping accommodations for up to six people. The region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes make it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts, but even those less interested in hiking will find activities to enjoy:

“You can go rafting and canyoning in Pfunds. The company is located directly in the village, and the starting point is nearby, depending on the route.” – Summit Lodges Pfunds

Read our article on sustainable water sports to find out how you can make water sports more sustainable and learn whether activities such as water skiing are really recommended.

Take a vacation at a lake in northern italy

At the South Tyrolean Hotel Weihrerhof, you will find yourself in an idyllic setting, situated on the shore of Lake Wolfsgruben. At an elevation of over 1,200 meters, the lake is one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy and offers many activities, including swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and rowing. You can even enjoy breakfast on the natural “breakfast island” in the middle of the lake. Your children can experience nature here while you relax with a good book on the lawn.

Sports on the Baltic Sea

The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand, located on the Baltic Sea, offers more than just a beach vacation. It also supports a wide range of sports on site. Every year, the “Triathlon Heroines” come to the hotel to train for their triathlons with running, swimming, and cycling. Furthermore there ist the German Beach Volleyball Championship and Beach Hockey, as well as the annual Baltic Sea Run, where the winners of the women’s and men’s races receive an overnight stay at the hotel.

A vegan active vacation in South Tyrol

Do you want to be active without hiking or getting wet? And enjoy plant-based cuisine at the same time? Here are some recommendations from our vegan partner hotels in South Tyrol.

“Our hotel is located in the Vinschgau region of South Tyrol. In addition to hiking trails, the surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for running, cycling, climbing, and Nordic walking.” – LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel

By the way, LA VIMEA is not only vegan but also exclusively for adults. For active vacationers, there is a three-day package called the “Active Vegan Getaway,” which includes e-bikes.

The famous Seiser Alm is home to yet another entirely vegan hotel. The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel reports the following:

“Our home is the Seiser Alm, Europe’s largest high alpine pasture located over 2,000 meters above sea level in a UNESCO-protected area. The Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park offers great opportunities for summer and winter sports: skiing and snowboarding in the winter and cycling, mountain biking, e-biking, running, climbing, Nordic walking, golfing, paragliding, and horseback riding in the summer. You can also spend quality time with your children at the barefoot park or meditate in front of picturesque panoramic landscapes. The unique charm and beauty of the Dolomites allow you to enjoy extraordinary energy no matter what you do.” – Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

Enjoy forest bathing and tranquility at My Arbor

Of course, there are quieter ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Hotel My Arbor, located near Brixen in South Tyrol, recommends that those who are not very keen on hiking simply take the gondola up to the Plose. “Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the fantastic view from the mountain station, grab a bite to eat, and sample some local dishes.” Incidentally, “My Arbor” means “my tree,” and the entire hotel is built among the treetops, fostering a special relationship with the forest. You can experience this during guided forest bathing, forest yoga, or outdoor meditation sessions.

• Click here for their weekly program.

Chillin’ in nature

At the Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, you can live life at your own pace and enjoy nature, perhaps by sitting on a bench by the Ahr River with a good book. Or, you can visit the horses and cows in the green valley and say hello to the fish in the Thara fishing pond.

The STURM hotel in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve in Germany features a natural swimming pond and a large garden with snacks. Ideal for yoga sessions.

Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, has built a yoga platform at its Rohrkopfhütte hut specifically for outdoor yoga. If the climb up there (about an hour) is too strenuous for you (it is more like a hike. . .), the wellness garden with views of the mountains and Neuschwanstein Castle is also a great option.

Scavenger hunts, escape games, and city tours

If you’re interested in exploring the area in a fun way and learning more, you can book a city tour during your vacation. In Freiburg, the “Green City Tour” in the Vauban district will show you what ecologically progressive urban development looks like and demonstrate how nature and the big city can coexist. The Green City Hotel Vauban has been a showcase project for green urban development since its inception, so you can experience this concept firsthand during your stay.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen offers recommendations for special city tours, such as a night watchman tour or a beer and cellar tour. You can also play the Outdoor Escape Game Erlangen, where you solve a “criminal case” in the city center and discover a treasure.

In Bad Herrenalb in the Black Forest, you can also sign up for an outdoor escape game and start your journey to find a monastery’s hidden secret. During the two-hour tour, you will discover and experience various sights in this historic spa town. Then, you can enjoy a slice of cake from the organic kitchen at the Schwarzwald Panorama or relax in the hotel’s thermal baths and sauna.

Discover Peru’s plantations

Vacations often offer a wonderful opportunity to learn about local plants and products. At Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica in Peru, for example, you can visit several rainforest plantations. For instance, you can take a half-day excursion to a cocoa plantation where you can see cocoa plants and follow the entire process of producing chocolate, from roasting and grinding the cocoa beans to tasting the final product. You can also go with a guide to the Brazil nut trees on the hotel grounds. Here, you can learn more about the nuts and try different traditional methods of cracking their hard shells.

• Both excursions are also suitable for children. Visit the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción website for more information.

Bees and api wellness in South Tyrol

If you’re interested in bee colonies and honey, no one in our network can give you a better introduction than Paul Rinner from the APIPURA hotel rinner. Paul is a passionate migratory beekeeper who gives lectures, produces organic honey, and has set up a bee trail on the hotel grounds. He also offers his guests the unique Api Wellness experience, where they can breathe in the air of the beehive. The Api Wellness experience takes place in a cozy wooden hut with a view of nature. The boundary between inside and outside is blurred by natural materials, the buzzing of bees, and a large panoramic window.

Suspension bridge and lunch in East Tyrol

Even at the Naturhotel Outside, a designated hiking hotel in East Tyrol, hiking is by no means a must! If you’re looking for a little adventure, you can cross the suspension bridge over the Isel Gorge, or simply stop for a leisurely lunch at the Kräuterhexenkuchl Strumehof.

Barefoot trail at the Adler Lodge Ritten

How about going barefoot instead of wearing hiking boots? The ADLER Lodge RITTEN just built a barefoot trail in the forest this year. It fits perfectly with the resort’s mindful lifestyle, which includes a natural swimming pond, a farm-to-table concept, and sustainable wooden lodges with fireplaces.

Cycling 

Otherwise, exploring the vacation area by bike is always a great option. At the Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, you can rent an e-bike right from the hotel and comfortably explore the Berchtesgadener Land with a little extra help. The same is true at the Relais del Maro in Liguria. The Albergo Diffuso is located in the picturesque village of Borgomaro, nestled in the mountains behind the coastal town of Imperia. E-bikes are an ideal, environmentally friendly means of transportation there.

At the Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, you can explore the rather flat area on classic bicycles. The Okelmann family’s head is a passionate cyclist himself and is happy to recommend the best cycling routes to his guests — which you can save directly to your phone.

Horseback riding

Recently, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA promoted horseback riding as an eco-friendly outdoor activity. Read more about horseback riding in the Valley of the Temples. (Our colleague Mara, an avid horse rider, wrote this lovely article about sustainable horseback riding vacations.)

The ABCs of sustainable outdoor activities

In the end, we compiled a list in alphabetical order of all the suggestions and ideas from our network. Even the ideas that didn’t make it into the article are included here. Now, you can find inspiration no matter where you are.

 

Barefoot trails

Sightseeing

Bird watching

Archery

Bouldering

Camping

Dolphin watching

E-bike tours

Escape games (outdoor)

Golf

Gondola ride to a viewing platform

Suspension bridge

Outdoor journaling

Kayaking

Canoeing

Climbing

Knipping

Herbal workshops

Reading

Meditation

Mini golf

Visiting plantations

Cycling or MTB

Rafting

Horseback riding

Rowing

Scavenger hunt

Swimming

Sailing

City tours

SUP

Forest bathing

Forest meditation

Whitewater rafting

Outdoor yoga

 

 

Did we forget something?

Most likely! So, help us make the list even longer by adding your ideas in the comments!

Der Beitrag Sustainable outdoor activities for those who don’t feel like hiking erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

A village of Nordic freshness

Lower Saxony is the largest state in Germany and is located in the northwest of the country. It stretches from the North Sea coast to the Harz Mountains. Warpe itself is a village in the middle of Lower Saxony with a population of just over 700. Fields, meadows and forests characterize the flat landscape, criss-crossed by small and large rivers.

Distances from Warpe

• You are about an hour’s drive from Bremen
• Two hours from Hamburg
• One hour from Hannover
• The Lüneburg Heath is about an hour and 15 minutes away.
• And the North Sea (the seaside resort of Schillig) is about two hours away by car.

So while it’s not really far from any of the big cities or well-known tourist destinations, it’s far enough to enjoy absolute JOMO (joy of missing out).

Nature and Mindfulness

Warpe is not for everyone. Party animals, museum lovers and action vacationers probably won’t be happy here. But if you are looking for an authentic, quiet and natural vacation, the region in Lower Saxony is perfect for you. And if you are also interested in mindfulness, sustainability and yoga, you will find like-minded people here.

Maren Geisler-Okelmann, one of the two hosts at Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, also offers singing bowl massages by Peter Hess. The town of Bruchhausen-Vilsen is very close to Warpe. Here you will find the Peter Hess Institute, named after the inventor of the sound massage.

Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in the 4th generation of the family

Okelmann’s Eco-Hotel is located in a building that dates back to 1879. For four generations, the Okelmann family has welcomed guests from near and far.

At the moment the sisters Kristin and Maren are in charge, but their parents Annegret and Helmut and their two dogs will also give you a warm welcome. Nature and a balanced relationship with it are deeply rooted in the Okelmann family. Father Okelmann is an enthusiastic cyclist and will be happy to advise you on bike routes and has created several tours on komoot. Maren is a trained yoga teacher and teaches guests methods to find inner peace.

16 rooms, spa and yoga

With only 16 rooms, the hotel is a true boutique gem with individual charm. The tap water is (revitalized) Grander water. A converted shepherd’s hut serves as a sauna, and there is a wooden hot tub that can be heated with wood from the hotel’s own forest.

Another highlight is the yoga room, where regular classes in yoga, meditation and mindfulness are held, as well as Reiki and the aforementioned sound massage.

• Find the latest yoga and retreat offerings here.
  

Café Heimatliebe

The hotel also includes Café Heimatliebe, where you can enjoy homemade cakes, Nordic classics and vegan coffee specialties. There is also a small concept store with sustainable products. From homemade delicacies to handmade dog accessories, you will find unique and special souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones back home.

But what can you do in Warpe?

In Warpe you can enjoy the great outdoors with

• Bicycle tours (for example along the Weser river)
• Mindfulness walk
• A hike to see the alpacas
• Forest bathing
• Geocaching

The Okelmann sisters recommend the Wolfcenter Dörverden as a special place where you can learn a lot about wolves in Germany, how to live with them and how they behave. An exciting experience for both children and adults.

The sisters also recommend Parkgarten Twietmeyer as an insider tip. This garden is private and can only be used by appointment (e.g. for photo shoots for your social media account) ☺️ Small events such as plant markets are also held here several times a year.

Warpe in Lower Saxony: An underrated gem for nature lovers

Where is Warpe, please? Now you know! It’s ideal for nature lovers who don’t need all the tourist attractions but prefer to relax in a familiar environment.

PS: Okelmann’s is also ideal for a vacation with your dog. Read more in our blog article about a short vacation with your dog at Okelmann’s.

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Between simplicity and luxury

According to the Allgäuer Zeitung, citing the Historical Dictionary, chalets used to be very simple mountain huts. However, during the European Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries, they became a “symbol of a society of simplicity, closeness to nature, freedom and democracy”. Later, chalets became popular with Europe’s aristocracy, which led to them being seen as luxurious vacation homes – a reputation they still maintain today.

What makes a chalet sustainable?

Those who choose a chalet vacation want to experience nature. In most cases, this leads to a greater appreciation of nature. In the mountains, for example, you can see the effects of global warming firsthand in the melting glaciers.

Sustainably managed chalets are characterized by the following:

• Use of local wood from sustainably managed forests
• Integration with and respect for nature during construction
• Traditional building methods of the region to preserve the culture
• Modern insulation methods (energy saving)
• Cooperation with local businesses (strengthening the local economy)
• Energy supply with green electricity (self-produced or purchased)
• Waste prevention and recycling
• Water conservation measures
• Modern chimney technology and proper use of open fires
• Natural cosmetics in bathrooms
• Local organic products for breakfast or in the restaurant (if offered)

As you can see, there are a number of criteria that determine whether a chalet can be considered sustainable. In general, alpine tourism is an important economic factor for the region and also contributes to the establishment and maintenance of conservation projects such as national parks. Of course, tourists want to visit beautiful natural places. But as a traveler, you also have a responsibility. (Read more about eco-friendly travel in the Alps here.) In addition to not leaving trash behind, you can minimize your carbon footprint by choosing how you get there and where you stay.

What is the difference between a chalet and a vacation home?

According to the Duden dictionary, the word “chalet” has both French and Romansh roots and refers to a “country house, usually made of wood, especially in the Swiss Alps“.

Interestingly, the synonym for chalet is vacation home, which brings us to the answer to the question 🙂 A chalet is a vacation home. But not every vacation home in the Alps is a chalet, because chalets are characterized by the fact that they are wooden houses in the traditional style. Vacation homes can look different.

Sustainablly focused chalets – Our recommendations

We can recommend 5 Green PearlsⓇ chalets in the Alpine region of Austria, Germany and Italy.

#1 Hygna Chalets in Alpbachtal, Tyrol – Luxury chalets with jacuzzi

The Hygna Chalets form their own small chalet village with a total of 11 chalets of varying sizes for 2 to 7 people. Built in traditional Tyrolean style, each chalet has a small private spa and some even have their own sauna and jacuzzi. There is also a fireplace with firewood.

A breakfast basket with local (organic) produce (vegan or vegetarian options available upon request) is delivered to your door each morning. The Chalet Village also has a 13-meter infinity pool in the former hay barn, a yoga room (with yoga classes offered), and a gym.

Sustainability: The land on which the Moser family built the chalets was previously occupied by a concrete ruin that had been vacant for 30 years. Electricity is generated by a solar system from spring to fall, and heat is provided by a pellet heating system in the winter. The hot tubs are equipped with a modern, water-saving system that fills the water at the touch of a button and purifies it for reuse. E-bikes and E-Golfs can be rented for local transportation.

• Check rates and availability on the Hgyna Chalets website.

#2 Summit Lodges, Pfunds, Tyrol – Log cabin with private sauna

The Summit Lodges in Pfunds, Tyrol, are a pair of log cabins made of polar spruce and built in the style of an American log cabin. They are more of a vacation home than a chalet, but still worth a recommendation! Each cabin is about 120 square meters and can sleep up to 6 people. There is a private sauna and a cozy fireplace with wood. You can cook in your own kitchen and be completely independent. A ski bus stops only 2 minutes from the front door and in summer there are many hiking trails. The chalets are also very suitable for a vacation with children.

Sustainability: The vacation homes are heated with air-source heat pumps, and the electricity comes from Tyrolean hydropower. The host, Marco Spiess, is very careful about waste separation. Guests are instructed in recycling, and garbage is checked before being taken to the recycling center. There is a compost for organic waste.

• Check the Summit Lodges website for rates and availability.

#3 LENI MOUNTAIN Chalet in the Ötztal, Tyrol – Private luxury hideaway

In the middle of the Ötztal Alps lies a luxurious, private hideaway: the LENI MOUNTAIN Chalet. To get there, you have to hike from the village of Sölden. Upon your arrival, the Arnold family, who own the chalet, will have an SUV ready to transport you and your luggage.

The chalet is approximately 200 square meters and can accommodate up to 8 people in 4 bedrooms. There is a fireplace, a private natural swimming pond, a wine refrigerator and other amenities for a luxurious alpine vacation. You will also have a personal concierge and even a private* chef if you wish. A bike station is available for mountain bikers.

Sustainability: The chalet is built with natural materials from the region and is energy self-sufficient thanks to a photovoltaic system. CO₂ emissions per guest are measured and reduced through various measures. The owners are also partners of “myclimate”.

• Check rates and availability directly with LENI MOUNTAIN.

#4 Edelsberghütte, Allgäu – Mountain hut with modern comforts

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region, acquired the Edelsberghütte in 2024. At an altitude of 1,180 meters above sea level, the hut welcomes hikers who can enjoy the view and good food (depending on the route) after a 40-minute to 1.5-hour hike (starting at the Pfronten hiking parking lot).

The Edelsberghütte has three chalets or apartments. Two are on the first floor and one has a separate entrance but is also part of the cabin. All apartments are comfortably furnished with all modern conveniences.

Sustainability: The Edelsberghütte was purchased as an existing cabin, and the family that owns it (as well as their hotel) is committed to local suppliers, organic food, and conservation.

• Check prices and availability directly on the website.

#5 ADLER Loge RITTEN, South Tyrol – Chalets with all-inclusive service

On the Ritten Plateau in South Tyrol, you can rent one of the luxurious wooden cabins at ADLER Lodge RITTEN*. The chalets are scattered around a natural swimming pond and along the hillside, offering different but equally fantastic views. The resort also includes a main house and spa area with an outdoor pool, forest sauna and spa treatments. The all-inclusive services include breakfast and a multi-course dinner, as well as a lunch menu and all beverages. Guided hiking and biking tours are also available.

There are 55 square meter junior chalets for two people and four 90 square meter family chalets. Each chalet has a wood-burning fireplace, terrace and bio-sauna.

Sustainability: Regional and natural materials were used in the construction. The design of the chalets was the work of a local architect and craftsmen and is inspired by traditional South Tyrolean architecture. In addition, the resort has its own organic farm, which provides the produce used in the kitchens.

• Check prices and availability directly on the website.

We hope we have given you a better understanding of what a chalet vacation is, how chalets are run sustainably, and how you can support them.

*CIN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ (ADLER Lodge Ritten)

Der Beitrag Chalet vacation in the Alps with a focus on sustainability erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

This is the 12th part in our series of ‘Tips for a sustainable weekend getaway’. Every three weeks there will be a new green idea on our blog!

Freiburg im Breisgau – Discover a city with flair

In recent years, the city has invested heavily in public spaces, green areas, and an exemplary network of bicycle paths. Young districts such as Vauban are prime examples of ecological urban development. There is plenty to discover on a weekend – alone, with a partner, with the family, or with your dog.

Your sustainable accommodation: Green City Hotel Vauban

The Green City Hotel Vauban is easily accessible by public transport, and you will receive a free regional ticket from the hotel for the duration of your stay! You can expect modern, bright, and open architecture with lots of greenery. Even the facade is green, which not only looks beautiful but also provides natural cooling and reduces energy consumption in the summer.

The hotel is cosmopolitan and actively promotes integration. 50 percent of its employees are people with disabilities.

👉Dogs are welcome at the hotel for an additional fee of 9 euros per night.

Trip plus complimentary regional ticket

You can get to Freiburg’s main train station from any European city (as a weekend destination, the city is particularly popular with the Swiss and French, as you may notice).

From the main train station, take line 3 to Paula-Modersohn-Platz. You will arrive right in front of the Green City Hotel Vauban. Best of all, the hotel will send you a ticket for public transportation before you arrive, so the last part of your trip is not only environmentally friendly but also free. Since the ticket is valid for the entire duration of your stay, you will always be mobile.

Bicycle rental

If you prefer, you can take your bike with you on the train to Freiburg or rent a “Frelo” on arrival. Frelo is the bike rental system of the Freiburger Verkehrs AG and you can always take one of these bikes (after registering online) and leave it wherever you want.

By the way: Freiburg has more than 400 kilometers of bike paths, and the population covers “more than a third of all trips within the city” by bike.

A sustainable weekend in Freiburg – Insider tips from the Green City Hotel Vauban

Together with the Green City Hotel Vauban, we have put together some tips for a sustainable weekend in Freiburg. There is something for everyone and whatever the weather!

Friday (Old Town and landmarks)

You can check in at the Green City Hotel Vauban from 3 p.m. After settling into your spacious room, you should first visit the historic old town. If you don’t know Freiburg, you should start with the city’s landmark – the Freiburg Minster. If you feel like it, you can climb the 335 steps of the tower and get in the mood for your weekend with the view! The tower is open on Fridays until 5pm!

Afterward, you can stroll through the historic Old Town with its charming alleys and discover small shops and delicatessens. On Convent Street you will find many antique dealers in lovingly restored medieval houses.

Affordable and sustainable food in Freiburg

There are many cafes and restaurants in Freiburg where you can stop for a bite to eat. The organic restaurant ADELHAUS is sustainable and affordable (buffet until 4 pm on Fridays, open until 5 pm). If you prefer to eat later, Cafe RUEF offers regional products, “delicatessen pizza” and many vegan and vegetarian options at a good price-quality ratio and in a relaxed “living room” atmosphere.

Saturday (excursion day)

Start your Saturday morning with an excellent breakfast buffet. The Green City Hotel Vauban sources over 90 percent of its products fresh from the region and supports ecological, sustainable, and inclusive suppliers. The coffee, for example, comes from the Black Forest coffee roaster Zollernalb, which is also an inclusive business.

As a vegan, you will find a wide selection of vegan cold cuts and non-dairy milk and yogurt alternatives for breakfast.

Well-nourished, you are ready for a trip to the Black Forest. If you are here for the first time, we recommend the highlight – the Schauinsland.

Schauinsland – the mountain on Freiburg’s doorstep

The Schauinsland is 1,284 meters high and you can see it from the 3.6 km long (barrier-free) Schauinsland gondola. The ride takes about 20 minutes each way and you can also take a short hike from here.

👉 A return ticket for adults costs 14 euros and for children up to 14 years 9.50 euros. (See the full Schauinsland cable car prices here)

The Mining Museum is also located near the summit. On Saturdays, there are 45-minute tours that give an impressive insight into the history of the former silver mine. Tours are offered at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm.

You can eat at the summit station. This is very touristy, of course, but it also offers a sensational view!

Other excursions in Freiburg

If you already know the Schauinsland, the Green City Hotel Vauban has more tips for you:

• Black Forest Biosphere Reserve (forests, meadows, nature)
• Steinwasen Park (family park with roller coaster and wild animals)
• Kaiserstuhl (vineyards and castle ruins)
• Open-Air Museum Vogtsbauernhof! (reconstructed Black Forest farm as it was 400 years ago)

👉 Advent Tip: If you come to Freiburg during the Advent season, hotel manager Johannes Staub recommends the Freiburg Christmas Market: “It can be reached directly from the hotel by taking the number 3 tram and getting off at the Bertoldsbrunnen stop.

👉 Eco-tip: Check out the Freiburg EcoStation’s calendar of events to see if there is a fun event planned for the weekend you have in mind. The EcoStation is dedicated to environmental education and offers gardening tips, seed swaps, and other sustainable activities.

Sunday (Museums, garden hose and departure)

On Sunday morning you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel and then have until noon to check out. In the meantime, you can visit one of the small museums in Freiburg. A special museum is the Zinnfigurenklause, located in the Swabian Gate. You will see the medieval city gate from the inside and more than 10,000 handcrafted pewter figures. It is open on Sundays between 12 and 14 pm and admission is free.

Personally, I also recommend a visit to Eschholz Park, where you can see the large sculpture ” Gartenschlauch mit Wasserhahn ” (Garden hose with spigot). The sculpture was created by Swedish-American artist Claes Oldenburg (who died in 2022) and has been there for over 40 years. Oldenburg’s oversized everyday objects as art objects are funny and original, but they also refer to social issues – for example, the garden hose and Eschholz Park were a gift to the residents of Freiburg’s Stühlinger district, who lost 370 allotments due to urban development measures.

And how about your weekend?

As you can see, there are many interesting things to discover and experience during a weekend in Freiburg im Breisgau. The city in the Black Forest offers a mix of culture, history, modern art, nature, and culinary delights, and combined with sustainable travel and a sustainable hotel, it all comes with a very small carbon footprint.

Der Beitrag Tips for a sustainable and affordable weekend in Freiburg, Germany erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

This is the eighth part of our series “Tips for a sustainable weekend trip.” A new green idea awaits you on our blog every three weeks!

Wellness Vacation for your Dog?

Tip 1 for your Weekend Getaway with Dog: Choice of Hotel

Welcome to the dog-friendly Okelmann‘s

Weekend Getaway with Dog: Our Suggestion for a Relaxing Stay

Day 1: Arrive and Feel right at Home

Tip 2 for your Weekend Getaway with Dog: Walking the Dog

Day 2: Exploration Tours and Wellness

Tip 3 for your Weekend Getaway with Dog: Visiting the Restaurant

Sightseeing: Sculpture Trail in Warpe

 Day 3: Yoga and Wellness with your Dog

Weekend Getaway with Dog: Why you should do it!

It doesn’t always have to be a full week. A weekend can recharge your batteries and maybe even give you a new perspective. Plus, a short trip like this is a great opportunity to practice traveling with a dog – for both you and your four-legged friend.

Save this post as inspiration for your next weekend trip!

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Handwritten welcome

In these days of push-up alerts and animated image greetings, you really have to take a second look when someone hands you a handwritten note. At the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, they take the trouble to write a welcome card for each guest. It comes with homemade cookies. You can’t get a more personal welcome than that!

Sleeping beach chair 

At Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea, you’ll sleep in naturally furnished hotel rooms on natural coconut mattresses. But you can also rent the SAND sleeping basket on the rooftop platform for a true outdoor experience and sleep under the stars. Another surprise: there’s a late riser breakfast until 1 pm!

Welcome kit for pets

Restored farmhouse cupboards

A cupboard is one of the simplest 2-star hotel categories. But most of them are not special… That’s not the case at Gut Sonnenhausen, south of Munich. Here, in the rooms of the restored farmhouse, you’ll find antique farmhouse cupboards that have been restored by hand. Landlord Georg Schweisfurth is an eco-pioneer, master butcher, author, entrepreneur, hotelier, art collector and aesthete. Important here: “Nothing should be off-the-shelf, but everything should be the result of a conscious decision, coupled with the courage to skillfully break with style.”

Kaiserschmarrn for breakfast every day

The Naturresort Gerbehof is located on the German side of Lake Constance, close to Austria and Switzerland. As a result, the cuisine is closely related, and you’ll get a sweet Kaiserschmarrn breakfast with homemade applesauce every morning. The difference between Kaiserschmarrn and pancakes is that Kaiserschmarrn is made with whipped egg whites.

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Paradiso Pure.Living has a contemporary art gallery called Pure.Art Circle. The hotel on the Alpe di Siusi offers ongoing meetings with artists, art performances and even an art shop.

Vegan picnic lunch box

At the South Tyrolean hotel LA VIMEA, the first vegan hotel in Italy, they’re big on healthy eating. One of the hotel’s extras is a sustainable and creative lunch box for excursions. Always with a handwritten message.

Yoga mat in the room

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, guests have a yoga mat in their room. A yoga room, an outdoor yoga platform, and regular yoga retreats are among the other features of this sustainable hotel. Other hotel amenities you won’t find often include earplugs to block out the cowbells coming from the alpine pasture, and in-room teas that are always seasonal.

Thank-You-Cards made from Flower Seed Paper

Not only a farewell gift for guests, but also for the bees at home: At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, travelers receive a thank-you card made of flower seed paper. The card can either be written during the vacation and sent to loved ones at home, or one can write one’s own wishes on the card and give it to the earth. After some time and a little care, you will be able to enjoy colorful wildflowers.

Signature Massages

Both the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA in Sicily have developed special massages. A Signature Treatment Massage lasts 105 minutes and stimulates all five senses. Combined with the unique scenery of each location, this promises pure relaxation.

Beer in the spa

“Only at Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, can you find the beer miracle in the wellness area’s sin cellar,” says the hotel. Klosterbräu beer is brewed in-house and bubbles from a beer fountain in the spa area. There are also “apple stations” throughout the hotel, a guglhupf awaits you upon arrival, and the elevator “hides a delicious surprise”.

Chefs to ask

At STURM in Mellrichstadt in the Rhön region of Germany, the kitchen concept has been changed to an open kitchen. The chefs are trained to “configure” the food to your exact liking while cooking, and are also available to answer questions. Ingredients include fruits, herbs and vegetables from the hotel’s own garden.

Local Gifts

At Inkaterra Hotels in Peru, guests receive gifts that are typical of the country. These can be cosmetics, jewelry or little “toritos”. You will find the hotel extras in your room as a surprise on your bed.

Herbal cosmetics

The Summit Lodges Pfunds in Tyrol are two exceptional log cabin-style vacation homes. “Especially for our guests, we have created a raised bed with various herbs,” they say. Here you can help yourself. You can also purchase sustainable skin care products from the “Tiroler Kräuterhof”.

Homemade lavender bags

At Gut Guntrams near Vienna, you’ll sleep in unusual, floating accommodations above fruit trees and surrounded by lavender fields. The lavender is harvested twice a year, dried and filled into lavender bags for guests. You can take them home with you.

Menu according to your mood

Since July, the daily evening menu at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa has been based on the motto “Your mood defines your food”. The question is: “What kind of gourmet are you today? Extravagant, down to earth or curious?”

Honey from the meadows

At the Naturresort Schindelbruch in the southern Harz region, you can buy honey from the Kolbe migratory apiary in the hotel shop. The beehives are located in the meadows surrounding the hotel.

Hotel amenities: Surprises on the bed

At Keemala, on the island of Phuket in Thailand, you’ll be pampered from top to bottom. For special occasions, the team will decorate your room with nicely folded towels and decorations from natural materials such as wood and flowers.

Daily sustainable beverage with fresh ingredients as a hotel amenity

At the romantic Allgäu hotel Das Rübezahl, personal service is a top priority. For example, if you want to send a special love message, the professionals will be happy to help you organize love locks, a vintage car, a carriage, a flower heart in the hotel room, or other things. In addition, you will find many homemade products, such as a daily changing aperitif with ripe fruits/seasonal ingredients.

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From the mountains to the plains, dog walking is possible everywhere. These are our favourite walks in southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland. So it’ll be mountainous 😉 But don’t worry – you don’t need any special equipment or the stamina of a marathon runner for most of the routes. However, both you and your dog should be sure-footed and fit.

Mountain Hiking with your Dog: What to consider beforehand

Many nature reserves and national parks are in or near popular holiday destinations. It’s a good idea to find out in advance what rules you will need to comply with. In general, you can assume that you will need to keep your dog leashed. This is to prevent your dog from frightening the wildlife and to prevent it from frightening other walkers (who may be afraid of dogs).

In addition, you should be on the lookout for dog foul. Dog excrement, especially in large quantities, can have a harmful effect on the environment, particularly on groundwater quality. On mountain pastures, dog excrement can also contaminate the hay. This can make the animals sick. Pregnant cows are particularly at risk. Dogs carry a pathogen that can cause miscarriages.

In the Alps, too, it is possible for hiking trails to take you right through the middle of herds of cows. There are certain rules of behaviour to follow to avoid injury to you and your dog. Cows, in particular, can become very aggressive if they feel their calves are threatened.

A good summary of how you and your dog should move around cows is here.

Now, before we take you on some of our favourite walks, here’s a summary of what you should take with you on a trip. In the summer and in the winter. The Alps are a great place for winter walks too. However, it is important to check which paths are passable beforehand. If you don’t have any (alpine) experience, choose easier and shorter routes.

Summer Hiking in the Mountains with your Dog: This is what you need

• Bring enough water for you and him (check where you plan to go first. There may be water sources. But don’t rely on them, especially in summer). A collapsible water bowl for your dog, which can easily be attached to the outside of your rucksack.
• Snacks for you and your dog, depending on how far you’re going, to keep you going 😉
• A bag for dog waste and a bag for rubbish
• A small towel to dry your feet and possibly your dog if you have cooled off in a mountain stream. Also handy if you’ve been in a downpour and your dog gets cold quickly.
• A good dog harness to help your dog through difficult passages, possibly with a handle. And, of course, a lead and collar if necessary.
• A muzzle, if you are planning to take the cable car or use public transport.
• Blanket or cushion to rest on
• First aid kit, tick tweezers, disinfectant spray

A Winter Hike with your Dog in the Mountains: What you will need as well

• Insulated bottle so the water doesn’t get cold or freeze.
• Insulation mat for you and your dog during breaks.
• Paw pads to protect your dog from salt and grit in towns and on busy paths.
• Vaseline or similar to prevent snow from sticking to the pads of long-haired dogs.

Our favourite Hikes for Holidays with Dogs in Germany

The Wilderness of Rathsberg and Tenneloher Forst – Hiking with dogs in Franconia

Tour 1 – Wilderness on the Rathsberg

North of Erlangen is the primeval forest around Rathsberg. The gorge forest consists of ancient maple and ash trees, steep slopes and many springs and streams. It is a paradise for small animals of all kinds! Time and time again, you will see sandstone rocks jutting out next to the paths.

In general, the paths are natural and can really be described as forest paths. So it can get muddy after rain. But there are lots of forest smells that your dog will love. That’s a promise!

Tour 2 – Tenneloher Forest

On a former military site, the Tenneloher Forst nature reserve covers 936 hectares. It is one of the last large sand ecosystems in southern Germany. It has a steppe-like appearance. To preserve this, wild horses and peacock goats graze the areas to prevent them from becoming overgrown. It is safe to have a walk around the horse and goat enclosures. Due to the danger of ammunition in the rest of Tenneloher Forest, it is best to stay on the gravel paths.

By the way: The Tennenlohe Forest Adventure Centre offers special events and guided tours for children and adults throughout the year. There is also a nature trail.

Hiking with a Dog in Berchtesgaden National Park – The Aschau Gorge

Hike through the Aschau Gorge

The famous gorges in the Berchtesgaden National Park, such as the Almbach Gorge or the Wimbach Gorge, can get pretty crowded in the summer. Although we highly recommend the walks there, you and your dog may be more attracted to less crowded areas in the summer. If so, the Aschauer Klamm is for you.

The nine-kilometer walk gives you and your dog plenty of opportunities to cool off, and it’s generally not as oppressively hot inside the gorge as it is outside. Bear in mind, however, that there are some tricky passages where you may need to support your dog, especially if he tends to be clumsy. Wooden bridges and grating bridges without railings can be challenging. Gratings are particularly uncomfortable for dogs’ paws. Some dogs don’t mind at all, but there are more sensitive candidates.

If you want to see how they cope with tight corners and uneven surfaces, the Aschauer Klamm is a great training route. A perfect preparation for longer trips 😉

Hiking with your dog in the Allgäu – Up the Riedberger Horn

With your Dog on the Riedberger Horn

We recommend this tour, especially at sunrise or sunset. Why? For one thing, there is the fantastic view of the so-called Hörnergruppe. If that’s not enough for you, there’s less activity in the morning and evening hours, it’s less hot and it’s a bit of an adventure to walk the trail at dusk with a headlamp or torch. The tour is just under five kilometers long and is easily manageable for almost any human-dog combination, as long as you both have a normal level of fitness. 

Our favourite Hikes for a Vacation with your Dog in Austria

Hiking with your Dog in the Seefeld Region – High Alpine Hike

High Alpine Hike above the Gaistal Valley with your Dog

If you’re looking for a longer hike that will take you all day, Seefeld is the place to be. Of course, there are plenty of hiking trails for all levels of fitness all around the famous resort. But the one we would like to introduce you to is the 24km high alpine trail above the Gaistal valley. There are refreshment points along the way and the panoramic views will never cease to amaze you.

The route also takes you through wildlife areas. If you are lucky, you may see marmots and chamois. In addition, you can always choose between a more difficult and steeper path or a moderate ascent. The loop is not suitable for completely inexperienced human-dog teams. This is partly because of its length, but also because it requires a certain amount of sure-footedness on the part of both the dog and the human. It is best to practise this on a shorter route before attempting this one.

Hiking with your Dog in the Hohe Tauern National Park – Glacier Trail Innergschlöss

Hike on the Glacier Trail Innergschlöss

The most beautiful valley castle in the Eastern Alps – that’s the name of the region we’re taking you to. From Matrei in East Tyrol you can either walk or take a taxi (please ask about the dog!) to the Gschlösstal valley. At the end of the valley begins the climb into the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Passing by the Salzbodensee and the “Eye of God”, you will experience the rugged nature at close quarters. The highlight, of course, is the view of the glacier at the foot of the Grossvenediger.

The trail is challenging, so be sure to download the route guide onto your phone in advance. A guidebook is also useful, as you can always look it up for interesting facts about the glaciated landscape.

Hiking with a Dog in Switzerland

Hiking with a dog in and around Zermatt – Five Lakes Tour

Five Lakes Tour in Zermatt

Perfect for a morning or evening walk in summer. The seven and a half kilometres are easy to walk, even though the path leads over meadows, sticks and stones.

Important to know: The tour starts at the Blauherd top station of the Sunnega cable car. Dogs are allowed free of charge on the funicular and gondola.

From Blauherd it is only a short walk to the first lake. From there it is one highlight after another. The stars of the tour are, of course, the stunningly beautiful lakes. They couldn’t be more different. But the Matterhorn is always in sight. The lakes are Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee (the name says it all), the large reservoir Moosjisee and Leisee, which invites you for a final swim. Perfect for a morning hike, where you can get off the mountain before it gets too hot and crowded 😉 The first train leaves Sunnega for Blauherd at 8.10am from July.

Hiking with your Dog – Adventures on Holiday or at your Doorstep

Finally, we would like to invite you to use your holiday not only for walking with your dog but also to extend your everyday walk. Or spend a weekend exploring your local area on foot. You’ll be amazed at the places you’ll discover on a day trip!

Do you want to save the article for later and the next trip? Then use the button at the end of the article or pin one of the pictures!

Der Beitrag Hiking with your Dog: Our favourite Trails and dog-friendly Hotels in the European Alps erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

All regulated with the train

Admittedly, rail travel is not dog-friendly. In this blog article, we’re taking a closer look at Deutsche Bahn in particular. Other countries have some different rules, or don’t even allow you to take any animals at all. For example, in Italy, larger dogs are not allowed on public transport.

But let’s go back to Germany. The German railroads have fairly clear ideas about how they can make sustainable travel more difficult for us dog people. For those of us, anyway, who have a dog larger than a house cat, train travel becomes an ordeal of nerves.

Because while small dogs* are allowed to travel for free, the stress for dog owners* with larger dogs starts with the ticket purchase.

*Small dogs in the train

• • have to be secured in a transport box or bag
  • box/bag has to fit under the seat or in the luggage rack
  • about the size of a domestic cat
  • by the way, this also applies to all other animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, …)

So, for large dogs, you will have to pay a ticket, which depending on the booked connection can be costly (except service dogs of course.) With economy or flex fares, half the ticket price or a child ticket must be paid for the dog. For special tickets such as international tickets, the dog counts as an adult. Therefore, if you don’t book months in advance, you can expect quite high prices for you and your dog.

Online ticket via mail

You can theoretically buy the ticket for your dog online (child traveling alone). You must have it sent to you by postal service, which may take up to five working days. Spontaneously, you can buy it at the ticket machine or at the counter or service center. However, depending on how much experience you have with traveling by train with a dog, a visit to the service center is a good idea anyway, especially if you plan to travel abroad. Because, as I said, different rules apply there.

Other things you have to pay attention to:

• Muzzling obligation for the entire journey
• Leash requirement
• No reservation of seats for the dog possible

Preparation for traveling by train with a dog

After the first shock, we will assume that you have not given up yet and are determined to travel by train and dog. Or perhaps you have a small dog, with which you have significantly less stress.

But no matter whether big or small: you should prepare your partner on four paws in any case. It will be exciting for him in any case: strange people, small children, thousands of different smells and strange noises. Before you start the adventure of traveling by train with your dog, you need to train.

Training and practicing

If you are from the countryside, you can simply move the first training sessions to the city. There, your dog will be exposed to more impressions than at home in the village.

Once he is used to it, drive short distances and see how the dog behaves during this time. As he becomes more relaxed, you can increase the length of the route. The benefit of this is also that you will automatically experience many different situations over this longer training time, which will harden you and your dog.

Reservation and the right place

On a longer route, the choice of the right seat is of course much more important than on short routes. Of course, a compartment is the first choice. Other than that, you can still make sure to sit as centered as possible in the wagon. There’s less through traffic, and you don’t have doors opening and closing next to you all the time.

When booking, you should also consider transfer times. These can be used for walking rounds so that your dog can relieve itself between the legs of the journey. Also, your own stress is transferred to the dog when times are too tight. Relaxed train travel is then no longer.

Tips for traveling by train with a dog

Before starting out, take your dog for a long ride and give him a good workout. You should also have eaten your last meal a little while ago. That way, you can prevent a disaster from happening. But if it does happen: Stay calm. The dog didn’t do it on purpose. Simply clean it up, apologize to fellow travelers if necessary, and that’s it.

A favorite blanket, stuffed animal and chewy item will keep your dog occupied and give him something familiar on the trip. That way, he’s more likely to calm down than if he’s surrounded exclusively by unfamiliar smells.

Furthermore, depending on your dog’s character, you can clarify it for the passengers that they should not talk to your dog. Even strange, stroking hands can mean additional stress. Watch out for the signs here and stop it in case of doubt so that your dog also has a stress-free train journey.

Packing list for your train journey

• Favorite blanket
• Chew toy, soft toy, …
• Chew stick and treat
• Muzzle
• Leash
• Water and drinking bowl
• Wet wipes, kitchen roll, dog bag
• maybe room spray

Recommended hotels for a train trip with a dog

Finally, the most important thing

Staying calm and relaxed is the most important thing when traveling with a dog. Your excitement and stress are transferred to your dog. The more relaxed you are, the more your companion is. And then there will be nothing to stop you from having a stress-free journey to your dog’s vacation.

Would you travel by train with your dog? Have you ever done it before? Then tell us about your experiences!

You want to remember the tips for your next train trip with dog? Then pin your favorite picture or use the button at the end of the article.

Der Beitrag Traveling by train with a dog – Here’s what you need to keep in mind (plus packing list for a relaxed trip) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.