Former monasteries are being transformed into wellness hotels, historic farms into organic retreats, and old architectural eyesores into designer hideaways. Buildings that had essentially lost their original function are being given a new purpose—often with an appreciation for their architectural history, materials, and atmosphere.

Hotels are evolving from mere “places to stay” into “stewards” of architectural heritage.

Why is renovation considered a model for the future

For decades, new construction was considered the ideal in architecture—bigger, more efficient, and more modern. Today, however, there is a growing awareness of the significant amount of resources already contained in existing buildings.

Walls, foundations, roof trusses, and facades store what is known as “gray energy”—the energy consumed during the production, transport, and use of the materials (i.e., construction). If a building is demolished and its materials are disposed of, this energy is lost.

As our understanding of resource use evolves, so does our aesthetic perspective. Visible traces of the past are no longer considered flaws. In fact, architecture that has stood the test of time often feels more authentic than new, flawless buildings. Old vaults, historic rooms, natural stone walls, and original wooden beams tell stories that new buildings simply cannot replicate.

Hotels are particularly well-suited for this type of transformation. They can preserve historic buildings in a cost-effective manner while making them accessible to the public. Former monasteries, farmsteads, and manor houses that would otherwise stand empty are put to use again, thereby remaining part of a region’s cultural memory.

Are renovations really more resource-efficient than building from scratch?

Yes. This has been pointed out by numerous studies and expert organizations. Above all, preserving existing structures is crucial.

Pros:

• Preservation of gray energy: Existing buildings contain a significant amount of energy from the production and construction of their materials. Demolition destroys these resources.
• Less construction waste: The building sector generates large amounts of waste. Demolition and new construction result in significantly higher material consumption than renovations.
• Lower emissions over the life cycle: According to studies by the Wuppertal Institute, renovating a typical apartment building to be energy efficient generates about half as many CO₂ emissions over its entire life cycle as constructing a new building.
• Land conservation: Renovations often do not require additional land sealing.
• Preservation of cultural identity: Historic buildings shape townscapes and regional architectural culture.

The German environmental organization Deutsche Umwelthilfe criticizes the fact that thousands of buildings in Germany are demolished each year without first assessing the impact on the climate and resources.

Pressure on the construction industry is growing internationally as well. According to the World Economic Forum, the building sector accounts for approximately 40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Due to ongoing population growth, an enormous amount of new living space will be needed by 2060. If all of this space were to be built from scratch, we would need a new major city every month, which would have enormous negative environmental impacts.

Monastery Hotels: Where spiritual architecture lives on

Monasteries are historic buildings. For centuries, they served as centers of Christian spirituality, as well as places of learning, healing, agriculture, and hospitality. However, the era of monasteries has come to an end. Worldwide, the number of monks and nuns has dwindled to nearly nothing.

What will happen to these facilities, many of which are listed buildings?

Converting former monasteries into hotels is considered (which surprised me during my research for the article on monastery hotels) a “best-case” scenario. The Catholic Church permits the sale of such buildings only for a “venerable use.” And hotels that visibly preserve the monastic heritage are expressly welcomed. (The Church obviously views things like wellness centers with “clothing-optional areas” or rooms for unmarried couples differently today than it did in the Middle Ages.)

Hotel Klosterbräu: From an Augustinian monastery to a wellness hotel

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, is a striking example of a historic building being put to new use. Originally, the building was an Augustinian monastery founded in the early 16th century. Even back then, it accommodated pilgrims.

Today, it is a five-star wellness hotel. Many architectural elements of the monastery have been preserved, including the vaulted cellar, original masonry, and the former monastery bell, which now hangs above the outdoor pool.

The brewing tradition has also been preserved. This ensures that a part of the building’s intangible history remains visible, not only its architecture.

Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa: Architecture for Well-Being

The four-star superior Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa hotel in Bayerisch Gmain was once part of an Augustinian monastery. The historic structures of the former monastery date back to the 16th century.

A connecting thread to the hotel’s history is medicine. Dr. Andreas Färber, the host, has incorporated a medical wellness center into the hotel, offering a modern take on the healing traditions for which many monasteries were once renowned.

Green Spirit Hotel Le Pavillon in Paris: A former convent

In the heart of Paris’s 7th arrondissement is the Green Spirit Hotel Le Pavillon, a converted convent. The building dates back to the 19th century.

Especially in Paris, where convents have shaped the cityscape for centuries, places like this reveal a great deal about the city’s history. Rather than standing empty, this historic building remains part of urban life and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Castle Hotels: After decadence comes preservation

Castles are monuments to past power structures. They symbolize wealth, prestige, and dominance. Of course, sustainability was not a consideration when such estates were constructed.

Yet, it is difficult to imagine them being demolished. Castles are not just buildings; they are cultural artifacts of their time. However, many could not be preserved without tourism.

Schloss Lerchenhof: Lovingly preserved by the family

The Steinwender family, who run Schloss Lerchenhof in Carinthia, are committed to innovation and preserving historical monuments.

When you stay at this boutique hotel, you’ll see the historic castle façade and walk through a historic staircase to reach your room.

It’s not just prestigious rooms like the library that are still in use, though. The former cowshed is now a stylish ballroom. The historic structure has been preserved, but its use has changed completely.

• If you want to learn more about the castle’s history—it’s a great, slightly scandalous love story—read this blog post.

Inkaterra La Casona: A mansion turned boutique hotel

The Inkaterra La Casona in Cusco may not be located in a castle, but it is situated on the ruins of former Inca structures and was built in a significant 16th-century mansion. Spanish conquistadors, such as Diego de Almagro, once lived here. Later, the liberation fighter Simón Bolívar also resided at La Casona.

The house has been carefully converted into a boutique hotel, and thanks to the restored artifacts and ceiling paintings, it feels like a living museum.

Old Farmhouses: Architecture that has evolved over time

For this section, we’ll go far back in history: as humans began to settle down, one of humanity’s oldest and most influential achievements emerged—agriculture. Over thousands of years, food cultivation and animal husbandry shaped not only landscapes but also architecture. Nearly every region developed its own rural building traditions—adapted to the climate, materials, and working methods.

The classic farmstead rarely consisted of just a single building. Rather, a functional complex of buildings emerged, comprising a dwelling house, stables, barns, granaries, and workshops. As a result, the architecture often reveals what kind of farm was once operated there.

In Germany alone, for example, the following distinctions can be made:

• north German hall houses with a large central utility room,
• Alpine single-farmsteads with living and stable areas under one roof,
• four-sided farmsteads in Central Germany that form an enclosed courtyard,
• or South German manor farms with stately residential wings and farm buildings.

While functionality was naturally the primary focus, these structures also showcased craftsmanship, good taste, and a sense of regional identity. Of particular interest are roof shapes, windows, ornaments, carvings, paintings, and other decorative elements.

Gut Sonnenhausen: Where historic architecture meets contemporary design

Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, was built in the early 20th century by the Munich architect Wilhelm Spannagel as a horse stud modeled after English designs.

Under the direction of eco-pioneer Georg Schweisfurth, the buildings (including the former stables, riding hall, and farmhouse) were carefully restored and expanded. Various interior designers worked with the existing structure rather than against it. The result is an architecture that deliberately avoids a perfectly homogeneous appearance, combining historical elements, contemporary art, and modern design.

The Stanglwirt: A hotel that has grown over generations

At the Stanglwirt Organic and Wellness Resort in Tyrol, features have been refined over the decades rather than completely replaced.

Rather than a meticulously planned design project, the hotel is an organically evolved complex with 400 years of history. The Hauser family also calls it home. In fact, the senior partner was even born in one of the rooms. For generations, organic farming with cows has been an important part of the luxury hotel, and the hotel serves its own dairy products at breakfast.

Guests feel “right at home” here. This is very important to the hosts. Equally important to them is their self-image as farmers first and foremost and as hosts and owners of one of Tyrol’s most famous hotels only incidentally. 🙂

Albergo Diffuso: How entire villages are being saved

The rural exodus is a problem in many villages. Young people move to the cities, where their children grow up. The villages fall into disrepair. Vacant buildings and closed shops are common. This situation gave rise to the concept of the Albergo Diffuso, or “scattered hotel.” Rather than building a large hotel, several existing houses in a village are converted into guest accommodations. This type of hotel is especially popular in Italy, as it saves unused buildings from decay while providing guests with an authentic Italian experience.

Relais del Maro: A hotel made up of old village houses

The Relais del Maro in Liguria is an example of this concept in action. Elena Scalambrin, the host, transformed several of her family’s residential and commercial buildings into a four-star hotel. The main building, for instance, used to be a butcher shop. Today, it houses a breakfast terrace and a pool.

What’s exciting is that it’s not just the buildings that are preserved. The village itself benefits as well. Guests bring new life to local cafés, restaurants, and shops, helping to keep small towns alive.

When old hotels are reimagined

A building doesn’t have to be historically significant to be radically transformed—even a structure from the 1970s can be.

Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten: From bus hotel to wellness resort

Today’s Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle began as a simple, zero-star budget hotel. Owner Heiner Buckermann gradually transformed it—including adding his own TCM center. Rather than tearing it down, Buckermann completely repositioned the property within its existing structure.

STURM in Mellrichstadt: From a 1970s-era brick building to a design hotel

The STURM in Mellrichstadt is a striking example of how existing buildings can be transformed.

Built in the 1970s, the hotel was originally a typical brick building near the former inner-German border. Together with architect Prof. Matthias Loebermann, current owners Christa and Matthias Schulz Dieckhoff transformed it into a design hideaway. Christa is the daughter of the hotel’s builder, and she and her two sons, Xaver and Julius, represent the third generation actively involved in the hotel.

Twenty-two craftsmen removed each clinker brick by hand. They gave the façade a natural finish using whitewashed lime slurry. In front of the façade stands a wooden screen, one of Loebermann’s signature pieces.

Inside, the hotel also relies on clay plaster, wood, and careful modernization rather than radical renovation. In the restaurant, old ceiling elements were not removed, but rather, painted black to make them visually recede.

Other hotels that have chosen to renovate instead of tear down

Many other Green Pearls® hotels demonstrate just how many different ways there are to approach renovation:

• The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel in South Tyrol was renovated using natural materials, such as lime plaster, stone, and wood, rather than being rebuilt from scratch, in accordance with strict UNESCO guidelines. Located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters on the Seiser Alm, the hotel sits within the UNESCO-protected Dolomites.
• Hotel Korinjak in Croatia focuses on the creative reuse of materials, such as furniture made from recycled wooden pallets.
• The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol expanded its wellness area with regional materials, including larch wood, clay, and local natural stone.
• During its closure time, the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol is adapting historic walls for new rooms.
• The Weiherhof redesigned its rooms according to the cradle-to-cradle principle.
• The Hotel Luise in Erlangen has experimented with recyclable materials, upcycling, and renewable raw materials for years.

By the way, all of the hotels mentioned are family-run. This means that the children have taken over the hotel from their parents (and sometimes grandparents).

What we can learn from hotels

Renovating is often more complicated than building from scratch. Old walls may hold surprises, preservation regulations may limit options, and historic floor plans cannot be altered at will.

Therefore, preserving the old is challenging, but worth it for the environment. Moreover, history lives within the walls, creating a special atmosphere.

Today, the most exciting hotels are not always built from scratch on greenfield sites, but rather in places where people lived and worked long before us.

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What can we learn about hotels from guest reviews?

We asked 18 Green Pearls® accommodations: What do your guests mention most often?

The answers came from a wide variety of regions—from Tyrol to Peru, from the Baltic Sea to South Tyrol. Guest feedback isn’t just provided through platforms, but also directly on-site—in conversation, at checkout, or casually in between. Recurring impressions and frequent mentions of certain aspects, offerings, or details give hoteliers an idea of how they’re perceived.

Arrive and feel right at home

“Atmosphere” might sound like a cliché at first. However, it’s definitely a favorite among guests. When the atmosphere is right, it makes you feel at home.

At the Stanglwirt Organic and Wellness Resort, guests often say they feel “right at home.” This sentiment is so common that it has become the slogan of this luxurious wellness hotel in the Wilder Kaiser region. What makes the difference is not only the atmosphere, but also the visible and tangible presence of the Hauser family, who run the hotel.

The same sentiment is echoed at the Hotel Klosterbräu: guests report feeling instantly familiar with the hotel as soon as they step inside. The hotel’s centuries-old history and the personal attention provided by the Seyrling family, who run the hotel, are consistently highlighted.

At Schloss Lerchenhof, guests say they don’t just feel like they’re on vacation; they feel like they’re part of the family. The close, personal relationship with the Steinwender family and staff is also a major part of the experience here.

At Hotel Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony, guests appreciate the combination of a family-like atmosphere and personalized service. The Okelmann family is always ready to welcome you with a warm smile.

• What stands out in all these descriptions is that friendliness is rarely the only factor—it’s also about recognition, a personal touch, and authenticity. If these qualities are important to you while on vacation, you’ll find even more hotels that make you feel right at home here.
  

Rooms where you’ll want to stay longer than planned

In addition to the personal touch provided by the host family, the space itself plays a significant role. This is particularly evident (and frequently mentioned in reviews) when considering the architecture and surroundings together.

The Inkaterra hotels in Peru show just how much a hotel’s design can influence the guest experience. Co-founder Denise Guislain’s design concepts blend locally inspired architecture, natural materials, and Peru’s diverse landscapes into a cohesive whole. In the Amazon region, for instance, the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica’s cabañas with large verandas open directly onto the rainforest. The boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces are deliberately blurred. At the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, on the other hand, the whitewashed casitas are nestled along winding paths in the cloud forest.

A completely different yet equally striking example is the My Arbor in South Tyrol, a treehouse hotel built on stilts high in the treetops. Guests often speak of the peace and quiet they experience here, as well as their connection to nature. Many also mention special moments, such as enjoying a hot tub on the balcony with a view stretching all the way to the Dolomites.

• Architecture is particularly appreciated when it is part of the experience.

A breakfast people still talk about back home

Some things stick in your mind longer than others. A unique breakfast is often one of those things, as many reviews show.

At LA VIMEA in South Tyrol, the all-plant-based breakfast buffet is a particular highlight. Guests appreciate the variety and the opportunity to experience 100% vegan cuisine.

At the Relais del Maro in Liguria, breakfast is said to be exceptionally well-thought out, likely due to the abundance of homemade regional products and the warmth of the staff.

At SANDnature, a late-riser breakfast is served until 1 p.m. and features a live cooking station for organic egg dishes, as well as oat milk for coffee at the touch of a button. Many guests have noticed this feature positively.

Young guests, high expectations

Although people who travel with their families often pay attention to different things, clear patterns still emerge.

Guests at the APIPURA hotel rinner on the Ritten appreciate the combination of a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, including a fenced-in playground, spacious outdoor areas, a bee nature trail, and a playroom for rainy days.

The Hotel Weihrerhof is also located on the Ritten and stands out because of its location right on Lake Wolfsgruben. In addition to its peaceful setting, the hotel offers opportunities for water activities, such as swimming, rowing, and pedal boating. A particular perk for families is that the playground is visible from the terrace.

The little things that make all the difference

Although major topics tend to dominate news coverage and websites, it is often the details that stick in people’s minds and stand out the most in reviews.

At the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, for example, guests’ stays begin with homemade cookies and a handwritten welcome note. Instead of electronic cards, the room keys are hand-carved wooden hearts made in a social workshop. Guests appreciate these “thoughtful touches” and often mention them in positive reviews.

The SANDnature on the Baltic Sea often receives compliments for its “check-in/check-out” service. The team pays close attention to guests, especially upon arrival and departure, engages in conversation, and is happy to accommodate individual requests.

• It’s exactly these kinds of details that make a good stay even better, and feedback on them encourages hoteliers to pay attention to such small touches.

Location, location, location

The surroundings also play a key role. Of course, they are often the actual destination.

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters in the Dolomites, right next to the Seiser Alm ski slopes. Its unique location is consistently praised by guests. Guests enjoy sweeping views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the surrounding natural landscape.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, offers a special setting with a view of Neuschwanstein Castle. Many guests enjoy hiking to mountain huts or taking in the panoramic view of the castle from the wellness garden.

The Relais del Maro in Liguria proves that even lesser-known places can be impressive: the small village of Borgomaro is often described by guests as a true hidden gem.

Guests at the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž particularly appreciate its peaceful, uncluttered surroundings. It is the only hotel on the island. Many guests describe a sense of intentional retreat while unwinding beneath the pine trees. With a bit of luck, you might even see a dolphin swimming in the sea.

Wellness: Thoughtfully designed retreats

Wellness is a term that comes up often. However, it encompasses a wide range of things.

The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten focuses on its extensive spa area, which spans several levels and offers a variety of treatments and numerous saunas (including the “Chinese Hell” sauna, which reaches 95°C). Guests consistently highlight the wide range of offerings.

In contrast, the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance emphasizes personalized treatments and a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. The Wagner family, who owns and operates the resort, offers guests a variety of therapeutic treatments, including bioenergetic massages and Vegeto treatments.

Sleep – and truly unwind

Another trending topic in reviews is sleep (as we’ve reported, there’s even such a thing as sleep tourism these days).

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, guests often highlight the quality of sleep in their reviews. Guests praise the materials used, which are certified as free of harmful substances and recyclable, as well as the room design and quality of sleep. These aspects have also been recognized with external awards, such as the “Green Sleeping Award.”

By the way: Here, you’ll sleep on SWISSFEEL mattresses made with recyclable Swiss mineral foam.

What surprised us

The more feedback we read about feedback, the clearer it became:

• how often “warmth” is mentioned
• how important seemingly small details are
• and how similar guests’ wishes are, regardless of region or hotel type

Things that guests don’t often mention but are still important

It is interesting to note what is rarely mentioned directly: the hotel’s sustainability efforts.

Although all Green PearlsⓇ accommodations are distinguished by their sustainability measures, which are clearly and transparently listed for each hotel, these measures are rarely mentioned in guest feedback.

Only the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, reports that many guests praise the hotel for its commitment to sustainability, evident in everything from the use of natural materials and regional cuisine to an overall lifestyle that embraces nature.

And now it’s your turn

What do you look for when reading reviews? Do you focus more on the big picture or the small details hidden between the lines? What would you like to pay more attention to in your next review? Do you know the three questions that will help you stand out at hotels?

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Can AI make good travel plans?

Nowadays, many travelers use AI tools to plan their trips. “Our guests today are very well-informed,” says Klaus Pichler, the host of Hotel Weihrerhof on Lake Wolfsgruben in South Tyrol. “They’ve read a lot, compared options, and done their research.” Digital tools and AI play a major role in this.

However, perfectly planned does not equal experience. That’s why Klaus Pichler adds: “AI can structure a lot of things. But it doesn’t know the atmosphere by the lake early in the morning. Or the light after a summer thunderstorm. We’ve found that personal interaction is still highly valued—perhaps even more so than before.”

AI cannot experience

The team at the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm sums it up nicely: “the view of the Dolomites, the crisp mountain air, the scent of blooming alpine meadows, the feeling of snow underfoot, sun and wind on your skin—AI can’t predict that.”

Alexandra Huber from My Arbor, a treehouse hotel near Brixen in South Tyrol, says, “Our guests appreciate our intuition for their needs and the small, personal tips.” AI can’t do that either.
Alexandra’s uncles, Günther and Hannes, are the hiking guides at My Arbor. They know the local mountain, Plose, inside and out and are actually out there every day. They don’t just tell you, “Watch out; the weather can change quickly in the mountains.” They’ve experienced it firsthand and can explain exactly what you need to watch out for to be prepared. So feel free to ask them! They can also tell you things that you won’t find on any blog or website (and therefore, AI doesn’t know either). 🙂

Side note: You may think that the AI knows you. But it really doesn’t

When “chatting” with an AI, such as a Large Language Model (LLM) like ChatGPT, you may feel as if the AI knows you inside and out. However, that’s misleading, and you should be aware of that when entrusting your vacation planning to it.

Here’s an anecdote from before AI was popular: A journalist I know was once detained at an Israeli airport for a four-hour interrogation. “You get the feeling they know everything about you,” he told me. “They knew what he ate on which day, who he was traveling with, and where he shopped.” It wasn’t until later, after some reflection (and a conversation with the police), that he realized they’d only had access to his credit card statement and might have briefly checked his Facebook profile (when that was still popular). That was enough to trigger panic, fascination, and unease.

Why AI is often pretty accurate

When an AI says, “This suits you,” it’s usually based on:

• your past behavior (chat history, searches, clicks, bookings)
• data from similar users (what they like, you’ll probably like too)
• reviews and patterns (“People who liked X also liked Y”)

That’s why AI recommendations are effective for things like:

• Hotel style (boutique vs. large resort)
• Price range
• General interests (wellness, hiking, culture))

It’s important to know: The AI provides the answer that is statistically the most likely to be correct. Therefore, in the areas mentioned, the AI’s recommendations are often a good fit for you.

Where AI might go wrong

The problem arises with anything that is difficult to measure:

• Mood & Timing (You might be looking for peace and quiet on this vacation, even though you usually love action.)
• Atmosphere (Whether a place feels “right” for you is something that’s hard to determine from data alone.)
• Interpersonal Factors (Friendliness, conversation, the energy in the hotel)
• Subtle Differences (Two accommodations might look identical on paper, but offer completely different atmospheres.)

Guests appreciate a warm, friendly atmosphere

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has reached a point where personality is prioritized over tips and information. “Guests want to be understood — not just based on data, but on a human level,” they say. “In a digitalized world, there is a growing longing for authentic encounters and personal advice.”

Several hotels have independently reported the same trend: the more digital travel planning becomes, the stronger the desire for real-life interactions grows.

The Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž sums it up like this: “In an increasingly automated world, many people feel a growing need for something slower, more tangible, and deeply human. It’s less about efficiency and more about authenticity, empathy, and lived experience.”

Johann Steinwender from Schloss Lerchenhof in Austria reports: “Guests are less interested in facts and more interested in personal recommendations, experiences, and genuine interactions.” In other words, exactly what an AI or a Google search cannot provide.

The role of hoteliers is changing due to the rise of AI-powered vacation planning

Christian Schmidt of the SANDcollection (SANDnature on the Baltic Sea and SANDglow on the North Sea) says: “We’re not getting fewer qeustions; just different ones.”

In his experience, today’s guests are looking for:

• Guidance instead of information
• Dialogue instead of just answers
• Connection instead of just service

This is why new formats are emerging, such as in-person gatherings—like “Meet & Greet” evenings—where the focus is on encouraging conversation between guests and hosts.

The Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, has also observed this trend. “Guests are looking for honest recommendations and a personal touch,” says host Alexander Thurm. The hotel’s hiking guide, Bergbaschdi, has noticed this as well. In an interview, he reports that his personalized guided tours are very well received. While there is a trend of wanting to beat the best time on Outdooractive while hiking, for him, hiking is also about “healing the soul.” This means coming to terms with oneself and consciously taking in the surroundings.

On his tours, he often helps people find the right pace. This is something that can only truly be experienced in person, with hiking boots on your feet and the guide by your side.

More time for on-site guests thanks to AI

Many hotels, however, also use AI specifically for communicating with guests. For example, give Hotel Okelmann’s a call. After just one ring, you’ll hear, “Hello, this is Lena (…) you can talk to me just like you would a real person.” For this article, I chatted with Lena for a few minutes. She checks the prices for a double room for me, suggests several room categories, tells me that I’m allowed to bring a dog, and so on.

“The start was a bit bumpy, but the system is running very smoothly now,” says Kristin Okelmann. You can always ask to be transferred to a human, but many find the AI assistant “really exciting” and enjoy using it.

“(AI) gives us the opportunity to spend much more time talking to and interacting with guests on-site. It’s absolutely perfect for us!” – Kristin Okelmann

Where AI reaches its limits

The use of AI isn’t appropriate or advisable in every situation. Certain matters are too complex or personal to be entrusted to AI. This is where hoteliers come in—as advisors and points of contact for your needs, wishes, and concerns.

• Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa, located in Bavaria, is a wellness hotel with an on-site health center. When it comes to health-related matters, wellness programs, and therapies designed to enhance your well-being or improve your health, genuine human connection is their top priority.
• At the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, the hosts have noticed that guests simply trust their recommendations more. “Our guests continue to ask for insider tips, such as the best table in the wine cellar or the most beautiful cross-country ski trail,” they say. Thanks to their deep regional roots and a “knack for the right moment,” the Seyrling family—now in its fifth generation of running the hotel—is authentic and unique.

Technological innovations are not a threat, but a step forward

• The Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, Switzerland believes that the personal touch of a family-run hotel cannot be replaced by AI. “If you want to hike for ten hours without seeing anyone, just ask me,” says Fabienne Anthamatten. She knows not only the area, but also the tourist traffic and peak times. She can also tell you about changes in the landscape, such as glacier melt, which you can see for yourself. “Our guests really appreciate the personal connection with us, and we’re glad that the human touch still plays such a big role here,” says the Bella Vista.
• “Personal contact is still the most important thing,” agrees Ursula Wagner, hostess at the Naturresort Gerbehof. There, too, the whole family takes care of the guests. For instance, the father and son bring a deer from the forest for dinner, the daughter runs the adjoining horse farm, and Ursula offers therapeutic massages based on the Philippi method.

Bottom line: Your vacation is more than just the result of an algorithm

AI can help you plan more quickly, compare options more effectively, and make better-informed decisions. However, it can’t know what a place really feels like. AI can’t experience goosebump-inducing moments, spontaneous conversations, or gut feelings.

According to a study in tourism research, travelers remember unexpected experiences and personal encounters more than perfectly planned activities in the long run.

Bonus: How to use AI effectively for travel planning

AI is a powerful tool, so as a bonus, we’ve put together a short guide to help you use it effectively when planning your vacation:

AI is well suited for:

• Initial inspiration (destinations, regions, best time to travel)
• Preliminary planning (routes, duration, budget)
• Practical information (distances, transportation options)
• Summaries of reviews or travelogues

Tips:

• Ask the AI to show you different perspectives (e.g., “What do guests criticize about Hotel XY?”)
• Ask for comparisons instead of just recommendations.
• Use it to prepare questions you can ask when you’re there.
• For practical information such as opening hours, prices, the duration of an exhibition, etc., check the website and double-check the details. Errors can creep in here, such as a graffiti art piece being recommended that has long since been painted over, or a special exhibition that only has one week left.

And then: Go there. Talk to people. Leave room for the unexpected.

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Popular, more popular, Austria

In 2025, Austria broke another visitor record, surpassing 40 million overnight stays between May and July. As host Marco Spiess explained in an interview, this delighted tourist regions such as Tyrolean Oberland, Tyrol, and East Tyrol. However, it also brought a host of challenges.

Preserving the stunning natural environment requires sustainable behavior when vacationing in Austria. But what does that actually mean?

What does sustainable travel mean in Austria?

Sustainable travel encompasses many aspects. If you’d like to learn more, check out these two blog posts on the basics and tips of sustainable travel.

In general, the journey to your destination plays a significant role in the harmful climate impact of tourism. That’s why the general rule is that the shorter the journey, the better.

To learn more, read our background article on sustainable travel or check out our expert tips.

Austria is centrally located in Europe and easily accessible by public transportation. This means you can comfortably leave your car at home and travel by bus or train. Flying? It’s unnecessary within Europe!

Additionally, more and more vacation destinations are committing to sustainability by supporting the local economy, facilitating green travel, and creating local incentives for emission-free transportation. We’ve compiled a list of ways you can contribute to a sustainable vacation in Austria in our Green Travel Guide.

Green Travel Guide: Sustainable vacation in Austria

Tips for Your Trip

Take the train instead of driving. Avoid short-haul flights from neighboring countries or within Austria. Also, pack light. Not only will you have less to carry, but vehicles also consume more fuel when they’re heavily loaded. This is especially relevant if you end up driving. Another often-overlooked option is the long-distance bus. They are often much cheaper than trains and, according to calculations by the Environmental Agency, just as eco-friendly.

Local Mobility

An increasing number of destinations are offering their guests the opportunity to plan sustainable vacations. This can be through improved rail connections, guest cards, or incentives created by accommodations, such as free e-bike rentals for guests arriving by train. One example is the Hotel Klosterbräu in the popular vacation region of Seefeld.

Other destinations have joined the Alpine Pearls initiative, thereby committing to climate protection and sustainable tourism practices. The three Alpine Pearls destinations in Austria—Mallnitz and Weissensee in Carinthia and Werfenweng in the Salzburg region—are car-free. Hiking, valley, and ski buses take guests everywhere. Additionally, e-bikes and bicycles are provided free of charge.

The regions along the Danube have also partnered to ensure sustainable mobility for guests. In addition to buses, trains, and bicycles, the Transdanube Pearls offer boat trips that connect the towns.

Side Note: Cable Car

Criticism is often voiced when new cable cars are built. However, people often focus solely on recreational activities, such as skiing, or tourist traffic. Yet, cable cars are a form of public transportation, just like buses and trains and serve as vital supply routes for remote mountain huts and alpine pastures.

At first glance, the right-of-way that must be cleared for construction seems to conflict with nature, but if you consider how much space a road would take up, not to mention the additional noise, materials, and time required, you may realize, as we have, that a cable car actually takes up less space.

Ultimately, a cable car’s environmental impact depends on how it is operated. According to a WKO survey, 85% of member cable car companies use green electricity, often from hydropower, and 78% have photovoltaic systems. Cable cars also fulfill a social purpose by enabling seniors, people with disabilities, and children to experience the mountains. You can read more about this here.

Sustainable Hotels and Vacation Homes in Austria

One way to make your vacation in Austria more sustainable is to choose eco-friendly accommodations. These establishments are dedicated to preserving Austria’s unique natural environment and take their responsibilities seriously. This allows you to enjoy your stay with a clear conscience.

Look for specific certifications, such as the EU Ecolabel, the Austrian Ecolabel, or GreenSign, to identify sustainable hotels and vacation homes. You can also find them on curated platforms like the Green Pearls® network, where each property’s sustainable initiatives are listed transparently. Familiarize yourself in advance with the criteria an accommodation must meet. At Green Pearls®, for instance, these include sustainable energy production, local food sourcing, environmental protection during construction and operation, and social responsibility (employees, community projects, etc.).

Green Pearls® Partner in Austria

Discover the hotels and vacation rentals at Green Pearls®: Hotel Klosterbräu | Stanglwirt Organic & Wellness Resort | Ebner 1822 | Hygna Chaltes | Schloss Lerchenhof | Naturhotel Outside | Summit Lodges Pfunds | LENI MOUNTAIN Apartments & Chalet | The Peak Sölden

Good for you and for the region

When you stay at a sustainable hotel, regional products are provided, but even if you do your own shopping because you’re staying in a vacation home or eat out, you should make a point of choosing regional products.This way, you’re supporting the local economy and local farmers. Good guidelines for shopping and finding restaurants include the AMA seal, whose standards exceed those of the EU organic label, as well as Bio Austria, Demeter, and the Grüne Haube.

Sustainable Activity Guide for Austria

The best way to explore Austria is on foot. There are numerous hiking trails — according to the Alpine Club, around 40,000 kilometers — that lead you to remote regions and through virtually untouched nature. In this blog post, we highlight some easily accessible hiking trails near Green Pearls® Hotels.

If you’re interested in hiking in Austria’s largest national park, Hohe Tauern, Karin, the hiking concierge at Naturhotel Outside, shares important insider tips about the largest national park in the Austrian Alps in this interview: https://green-travel-blog.com/de/insider-tipps-fuer-ein-nachhaltiges-wanderwochenende-im-nationalpark-hohe-tauern/.

The Alpine region is not only perfect for hiking. Cyclists, from touring cyclists to mountain bikers, will also find plenty to enjoy. You can explore Austria on horseback or by kayak, emission-free and from a whole new perspective. If you’re not into athletic activities, how about a wellness vacation at a sustainable wellness hotel?

If you want to actively contribute to environmental protection while on vacation, why not join a CleanUP Day organized by Patron e.V., Plasticfree Peaks, and local communities? You’ll clean up trash from the trails with a group of like-minded people and make a difference.

Sustainable Vacations in Austria – Sustainable Essentials for Your Packing List

Although packing is very personal, there are a few essentials that should be included in every suitcase for a sustainable vacation. Here’s a quick overview:

● Glass or metal water bottle to avoid single-use plastic bottles

● Jute or cloth bags for your shopping

● Beeswax wraps or a lunchbox for your snack on the mountain

● Natural cosmetics, solid soaps, and more are free of microplastics.
(Tip: If you have small, travel-size shower gel bottles at home, don’t throw them away. Instead, refill them with your shower gel or shampoo for shorter trips, if you don’t already use solid products.)

● Eco-friendly sunscreen (even in winter!)

Tip: Take advantage of rental services offered by hotels and vacation homes. Many eco-friendly accommodations also rent out equipment. The Naturhotel Outside, for example, provides guests with hiking backpacks, poles, snowshoes, and other items. The most important thing to bring is a good pair of shoes.

Feel free to add to the list in the comments 🙂

Take your time and let go

Austria has so much to offer that it’s tempting to rush from one beautiful spot to the next. But we strongly encourage you to take your time and enjoy a sustainable vacation in Austria. Let a place slow you down and discover it in a whole new way during your vacation. By the way, this doesn’t have to be during peak season. The mountains are beautiful in spring and fall, too. Maybe even a little more beautiful. 😉

This is an update from January 13, 2023

You want to save the travel guide for your next sustainable vacation in Austria? Then pin one of the pins or use the button at the end of the article.

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Single holidays with children – even as far as Cambodia, for children aged 6 and above

Cathy from MOMMYTRAVELS in London has traveled to over 50 countries with her now 14-year-old daughter. After initial trips within the UK, they traveled together to Oman and Cambodia when her daughter was just five.
(Note: Cathy is not necessarily a role model for sustainable travel, but her experiences traveling alone with a child are valuable nonetheless.)

Cathy writes:

„While some people travel with their baby almost from day one, most of us prefer to take it slow—starting with local day trips before embarking on long-haul flights and full itineraries. That’s exactly what I did.“

An important point: Increase both travel distance and program intensity slowly.

Cambodia is an example of a country where long-distance travel works well. Valentin from Canvas & Orchids Retreat explains:

„We are the ideal choice for parents traveling alone with children aged six and older. Guided excursions, such as boat trips and village walks, provide opportunities for shared adventures while our floating tents offer safety and comfort. The peaceful surroundings make it easy for parents and children to bond over new experiences.“

Do you need to hire a special tour operator for singles and children?

Some parents say: Yes, it can help, especially because of the group or chat exchanges beforehand. However, many consciously choose not to do so. Cathy writes that it’s also possible to plan the trip individually.

„You don’t have to limit yourself to solo parent-friendly travel. Depending on your children’s ages, a twin room or a room with a sofa bed could work wonderfully. Self-catering accommodations often offer more space and flexibility.“

One particularly attractive self-catering option is the OLM Nature Escape in the Ahrntal Valley in South Tyrol. The circular aparthotel offers apartment suites of various sizes — each with its own kitchen. If desired, the °PRENN restaurant can still be used for breakfast and gourmet dinners. Cleaning, meals, and service can be booked as extras—a flexible system that adapts to your needs.

Travel tip: A more sustainable vacation with children in Switzerland

At the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, children under the age of nine stay for free in their parents’ room. Hostess Fabienne Anthamatten explains:

„In addition to plenty of outdoor activities, we have a play area with a library where children and their parents can spend time together.“

Another plus: Zermatt is car-free, and nature begins right on your doorstep. Children will particularly enjoy the glacier trip to the Gorner Glacier, followed by a visit to the ice sculptures in the Glacier Palace—even in summer!

Making sustainability tangible for children

A vacation at the foot of the Matterhorn is an impressive and educational experience. Fabienne Anthamatten witnesses the retreat of the glacier firsthand every year. She regularly visits the glacier with her family and sees how it is shrinking. Read our article, “Glacier-friendly travel“, to learn more.

Children understand topics such as waste prevention, environmental protection, and animal welfare. Abstract concepts, such as flight emissions, are more difficult to grasp, and many adults struggle with them as well. However, even young children can easily understand that traveling by train is more environmentally friendly than flying or driving.

Packing and eco friendly travel tips for single parents traveling with children

Anyone who has traveled with a child or children will tell you the same thing: pack light.
Of course, you can’t do without extra luggage entirely; a change of clothes is essential. Nevertheless, you should plan accordingly so that you can carry your luggage on your own and not have to rely on help. Deutsche Bahn offers assistance upon request, but you can’t rely on it to work reliably..

Should children travel with their own suitcase?

My answer is clear: No.
One backpack is enough – and yes, the stuffed animal has to fit in it, too. While having their own trolley is exciting for children, you’ll end up pulling two suitcases and carrying the stuffed animal and neck pillow.

The golden rule for solo vacations with children is: Make it as easy as possible for yourself!

Reserve seats on the train in advance (ideally at a table or in the family compartment), send your luggage ahead, or use hotel transfers. At the Ritten, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN and the Hotel Weihrerhof cover the cost of transporting your luggage—which is particularly convenient since you must first take the cable car up to the high plateau. Another point to consider: After long days of travel, don’t wait for the bus or walk long distances. Especially when everyone is already irritable due to fatigue and overstimulation, it won’t do you any favors. Instead, order a shuttle in advance to take you from the train station to the hotel for less stress.

The all-inclusive ADLER Lodge RITTEN offers space for rest and relaxation. It is particularly recommended for families with babies or older children. For energetic little ones, we recommend the family-run Hotel Weihrerhof, which offers a warm welcome to children. The lake is right outside and the playground is next to the terrace, so you can relax with a cup of coffee while keeping an eye on your child.

Also located on the Ritten is the Apipura hotel rinner, featuring its own apiary. Here, you can learn all about bees, explore a bee nature trail, sample various honeys at the breakfast buffet, and enjoy apitherapy. In addition to the garden playground, there is a playroom for rainy days. Additionally, the historic Renon railway stops right in front of the hotel, making it easy and convenient to get around.

Involve your child in the planning

Cathy sums it up well:

„Involve your children. Babies don’t plan itineraries, but with older children, it’s worth discussing the trip in advance. Making decisions together—or compromises—is simply more fun.“

Here’s an extra tip from Green Pearls®: Don’t just talk before the trip; talk while you’re on the road, too. Ask, “What do we want to do today and tomorrow?” This question promotes independence and anticipation. In the evening, reflect together: “What was fun? What was particularly great? What was stupid?” It also makes your trip much more relaxed if you explain the daily routine. For example, you could say, “We’re going down to dinner now. Then, we’ll rest in our room for half an hour. After that, we’ll go to the beach and eat ice cream.”

Schedule breaks—yes, really!

All solo travelers with children agree: Plan generous breaks. A packed daily schedule may work for adults, but not for children. It’s better to plan in stages: breakfast, break, outing, break, pool, break. And don’t forget to take breaks yourself. If your child is ready and open to it, don’t feel guilty about using the hotel’s childcare services. Your child will have adventures with other children their age, and you’ll have a few hours to yourself.

Hotels with kids’ clubs and babysitting services

At the AKI Kids Club at the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, children can make crafts with natural materials collected from the beach or go on discovery tours of the Sicilian countryside. Meanwhile, parents can relax in the thalasso pool with a view of the sea or enjoy a solitary walk on the beach.

In addition to a Kids’ Club, the Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol offers babysitting services and activities for teenagers, including a youth room with a pool table and video game consoles. The Kids’ Club provides pizza-baking activities, visits to the hotel’s petting zoo, and insights into the hotel’s farm.

The linked article provides more information about sustainable accommodations that offer childcare and babysitting services.

Digital consumption while traveling

Cell phones and tablets have become an everyday part of life for many families, so it’s unrealistic to leave them at home when going on vacation. In my opinion, clear agreements are helpful: lots of screen time during the journey and fixed time slots once you arrive. The important thing is to establish a vacation routine that works for everyone and is clear: different rules apply on vacation than at home. Explain this in advance, and especially with older children, find a mutual solution instead of just dictating rules. Also important: stick to it yourself!

Can single fathers also travel with their children?

Of course! However, many fathers report experiencing prejudice. Author D.W. Gibson humorously describes this phenomenon in his article, “The Bizarre Case of a Dad Traveling Alone with a Baby.” While traveling alone with his one-year-old daughter and 32 diapers, Gibson found that the most difficult thing was enduring the looks and reactions of others. In the end, he simply concludes: “We managed.”

“Kids won’t remember anyway.” —Really?

Finally, here is a thought from World Adventurist, a mother who has traveled to over 30 countries alone with her four children:

„The idea that children don’t remember traveling is a misconception. They may not remember every detail, but they do remember feelings, experiences, and formative moments. Travel teaches them adaptability, empathy, and openness. And even if they don’t consciously remember everything, the value of the experience in the moment remains.“

Now it’s time to take the plunge! It’s not just about creating memories for the future; it’s also about spending time together in the present. And it’s about guiding children on their journey to becoming open-minded and empathetic individuals.

By the way, there are organizations such as Global Family that help single parents in difficult circumstances who cannot afford a vacation with their child. The aforementioned Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol and the sustainable SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, Germany, are among its partners and offer families free stays.

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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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Is herbal tea even tea?

Strictly speaking, tea is an infusion of boiling water and leaves of the tea plant. In English, however, you can brew something other than “tea”; if you want to be more specific, you can call it herbal tea, fruit tea, flower tea, or spice tea.

Study: British tea culture is reinventing itself

Great Britain has long been considered a bastion of classic black tea. However, recent consumer studies show that British tea culture is changing. According to a 2025 Mintel analysis, younger generations in particular are open to new types of tea, from herbal and fruit teas (“infusions”) to matcha, which has become a daily staple for those under 35. Tea is increasingly seen as part of self-care routines, conscious nutrition, and emotional well-being rather than as a traditional hot beverage.

Arabic Chai must contain tea

People in Arabic countries are even stricter about their “chai.” In Arabic, only black or green tea can be called “tea.” Moroccan mint tea is green tea with mint and lots of sugar. Tea brewed only with dried peppermint leaves, which is called “peppermint tea” or “spearmint tea” in English, is called “mint” in Arabic. Quite logical — it’s a peppermint tea without tea. I hope you can still follow!

Tea is more complex than you think! As someone from a tea-drinking family, I can tell you a thing or two. Speaking of Arabic tea, chai in Morocco and Libya should always have a nice layer of foam, but the surface of tea in Palestine must be as smooth as glass. If bubbles form when it’s poured, they must be skimmed off with a spoon before serving to guests..

Back to herbal tea: origins in healing medicine

First, let’s get back to herbal tea. It originated in medicine. Hundreds of years ago, Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179) brewed teas from herbs in her garden to treat ailments. The German abbess, for example, recommended fennel for hoarseness and chest pain and to “strengthen the heart and mind.” This is why many fennel tea blends bear her name today.

Healing Tea Blends from Gut Sonnenhausen

Naturopath Kirsten Walter has her practice on the grounds of Gut Sonnenhausen, south of Munich, where vacation-guests are also welcome to visit. The sustainable hotel, which was created from a former stud farm, also includes a permaculture farm and medicinal herb garden. Kirsten regularly collects fresh herbs from the garden, dries them, and makes her own tea blends. Her “Sonnenhausen Blend” is available as a welcome tea in the farmhouse lounge.

Younique herbal tea blend from the Hotel Klosterbräu

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld also has its own unique blend. Here is the recipe:

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DIY Herbal tea blend "Younique"

Organic herbal tea blended by Johanna Krug from the Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol, Austria. The herbs for this are grown by the hotel itself on the Seefeld high plateau.

Course Tea

Cuisine alps, austrian

Keyword herbal tea, tea blend

Ingredients

• Lemon mint
• Peppermint
• Blackberry leaves
• Lemon balm
• Stinging nettle
• Mallow
• Mullein
• Marigold

Instructions

Herbal Tea Blend

• Dry the herbs mentioned above (e.g. spread out on a kitchen towel, as a hanging bundle or at low temperatures in the oven).
• Then remove the stems and place the dried leaves in a large bowl.
• Crush the leaves with a pestle or by hand
• Pour the herbal mixture into a tea caddy

Preparation of the herbal tea

• Pour one teaspoon of the herbal tea mixture per cup into a large glass jug and pour boiling water over it.
• Leave to infuse for 6 to 10 minutes
• Pour through a sieve into the cups.

Fasting teas in the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

Many health-conscious people come to the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife for a yoga retreat or a fasting cure to take a break from everyday life. “For fasting guests, there is an exclusive selection of natural herbal teas tailored for fasting, with appropriate recommendations,” the team reports, revealing the composition of these teas.

Tea, culture and travel

“Tea is drunk to forget the noise of the world,” according to an old Chinese proverb. But tea drinking is not only associated with leisure and contemplation in China. Maybe you do, too. If so, you may have felt the need to turn drinking tea into a little ceremony. You may even have your own tea-making rituals. This is true in all countries and cultures around the world. When you travel, you can learn a lot about a country’s culture and people by drinking tea.

Experience culture up close – through tea

A travel expert specializing in Asia and the Orient recommended that vacationers have tea at a bazaar during an appearance on the radio station WDR5. “But wouldn’t I have to buy something from the shop?” the radio host asked. “Oh, nonsense!” the expert replied. “You don’t have to buy a carpet just to get a few cents’ worth of tea!” In fact, having a glass of tea is a great way to soak up the atmosphere.

Only if you are in a very poor area where people now have to collect extra-rare firewood just to make tea should you decline. According to the travel expert, it’s best to say something like, “Oh, I’ve already had so much tea today. I’m afraid my stomach can’t take any more!”

Tea drinking in Japan

The Japanese are said to have the most complicated tea culture. To learn the (hour-long) tea ceremony, you need to be trained in a tea school. In addition to stirring the matcha tea with a bamboo whisk, you have to observe various gestures and postures. But don’t worry, I’ve heard that the rules are different for tourists – if you’re ever invited. All you have to do is learn the absolute basics, such as using two hands to take the bowl from the other person.

Kettle in the hotel room

“Do you have an electric kettle in your hotel room?” That’s one of the most important questions my mother asks when she travels. If not, she sometimes packs a travel kettle in her luggage. Unfortunately, the kettle is made of plastic, and I strongly advised her not to use it.

Studies have shown that every time you boil water in a plastic kettle, millions of microplastic particles are released and end up in your teacup! If you are trying to avoid microplastics, glass and stainless steel are the only suitable materials for a kettle.

At the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt beneath the Matterhorn, for example, every room has a stainless steel electric kettle. If you wish, you can brew herbs from the garden in addition to the (packaged) organic teas. Peppermint, lemon balm, verbena and chamomile grow there.

Tea and sustainability: Herbal tea can have a lower environmental impact than coffee, depending on cultivation and transport methods

Both tea (from the tea plant) and coffee are imported goods in Europe and the United States; most of the growing areas are in Asia. With brands like GEPA, you can rest assured that fair working conditions are maintained on the plantations.

In a sustainability comparison between tea and coffee, tea scores significantly higher. The reasons are:

• Tea plant requires less space
• Tea is more economical in preparation
• The environmental footprint (energy consumption) of tea production is lower than that of coffee. The latter also has the more complex roasting process.

Other factors include transportation, packaging waste, and the method of preparation. Add milk to the mix and the environmental impact of your favorite hot beverage is sure to worsen. Whether its tea or coffee.

But when you make herbal tea from fresh or dried herbs on your windowsill, there is no packaging, no storage, and no transportation. And herbal tea is rarely drunk with a swig of milk.

Tea with provenance: Tea grown on site at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

My colleague, Mara, recently had a very special tea experience at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Surrounded by the Peruvian Andean cloud forest, just a few kilometers from Machu Picchu, she met employees who spoke with palpable pride about their passion project: green and black tea made from Camellia sinensis plants over 100 years old. These plants grow at an altitude of 2,050 meters in the shade of native trees, and the tea is picked and processed by hand.

In 2025, Inkaterra tea once again received international recognition at the Teas of the World Awards (AVPA, France). Their green tea was awarded a gourmet medal, and their black tea was awarded a bronze medal, bringing their total medal count to five. A tea with provenance, attitude, and history.

(Tip: Spanish speakers can also listen to a radio interview with founder José Koechlin.)

A look at Green PearlsⓇ accommodations: These are the favorite teas of sustainably managed hotels (and their guests’)

In the sustainably focused hotels and holiday accommodations of the Green PearlsⓇ partners, special care is taken to ensure that the tea is of organic quality. The absence of pesticides in organic farming promotes soil health and biodiversity.

Organic ready-to-blend and home tea brands

Sonnentor

Both the East Tyrolean Naturhotel Outside and the German SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA use Sonnentor organic tea. In our blog post about organic spices, we have already reported in more detail on the Austrian tea and spice manufacturer. At SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA you will find Sonnentor organic tea in the rooms and at the breakfast buffet. For example, the “Kaminknistern” blend – a fruit tea blend with rose hip, apple and cinnamon – is currently popular.

Link: Sonnentor

Monthea

The South Tyrolean Forest hotel My Arbor on the Plose near Brixen is an enthusiastic customer of the South Tyrolean company Monthea. They produce organic teas with herbs and fruits from South Tyrolean farmers. You can find various wild berry teas among other options.

Link: Monthea

Bioteaque

The  Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen, Algaü, uses teas from the tea company Bioteaque. Here you can find “delicious organic teas” with funny names like “Zapfige Zilli” or “Frostiga Fritzi”. In the suites of Das Rübezahl, you can choose from a selection of Bioteaque teas – interestingly, they even offer loose tea instead of tea bags.

Link: Bioteaque

DIY tea blends straight from your own garden

If you got a real tea craving after reading this. (I’m brewing some right now), here are a few DIY tea blends that you can easily make at home. And by the way, a homemade tea blend like this also makes a great gift! 

“Garden herb mix” from the STURM

As a guest at STURM in the Bavarian Rhön, you have access to a tea bar all day long, where you can serve yourself for free. In addition to the Sonnentor tea, there is also a “garden herb mixture”. Its “recipe” is fairly simple:

“What the garden has to offer is dried. The combination of the colorful flowers, the flavor of the ripe herbs and the green of the nettle leaves make this tea so delicious” – STURM

Alternatively, you can pick the ingredients for your tea in the snack and herb garden. This is allowed and even encouraged at STURM.

Mountain herb tea from Weihrerhof

The Hotel Weihrerhof on the Ritten in South Tyrol is located at an altitude of over 1,200 meters. A wide variety of plants grow here which the hotel uses to make pure teas. These are:

• Peppermint
• Lemon Balm
• Yarrow
• Vermont
• Elderberry
• Calendula

In addition to the single origin teas, a mountain herbal blend is available next to the kettle in the rooms.

Our tips for a more sustainable tea drinking

To be fair, your choice of drink contributes far less to your carbon footprint than your transportation or heating habits. But as so often in our blog, we believe that even small steps can make a difference. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Use a glass or stainless-steel teapot
2. Brew tea in the pot and keep it warm on the stove or in a thermos (instead of boiling water for each cup)
3. Tap water is the best water for tea in the DACH region. Consumer organizations now advise against water filters, as they can create germs that can make the water quality actually worse rather than improving it.
4. When traveling abroad, check the quality of the tap water before you travel.
5. Loose tea uses less packaging. The dosage is simple – one teaspoon per cup!
6. Buy organic quality or use herbs, flowers, and fruits from your own garden.

Do you have any tips? Or your own tea blend that you would like to share with us? Let us know in the comments.

This is an update from December 19, 2023.

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Multi-generational travel in Italy

According to Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Italy, multigenerational travel has increased significantly. “In the last two years, we have witnessed the increased frequency of this type of travel firsthand,” they say. “Some of the stays and clients have touched us the most.”

Relais del Maro is spread over several houses in the small Ligurian town of Borgomaro. There is much for families to discover both in the hinterland and on the coast. Small idyllic villages, Mediterranean nature and the Mediterranean Sea offer a wonderful environment for various leisure activities. E-bikes can be rented. Or how about a guided visit to a nursery or a pottery? If you are interested, you can even make your own pottery – your host, Elena Scalambrin, will be happy to organize an appointment for you.

Tip for a multigenerational vacation in Liguria: Whale watching

By the way, Stefany Seipp, the founder of Green Pearls®, tested the sustainability of whale watching. As an outing for a multi-generational vacation, she said she could definitely recommend a whale watching cruise. “For kids as young as 5 or 6 years old, it’s certainly great,” she says. Not only do you get to see giant marine mammals up close, but you clean up the ocean from plastic debris.

Family-friendly luxury right by the sea: ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Fancy a beach holiday? The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers adults luxurious relaxation and children a well-thought-out program right by the sea in Sicily. While grandparents, parents, and older children enjoy the view of the waves or take a break at the spa, younger children are in good hands at the AKI Kids Club.

The program deliberately focuses on nature and culture. Activities include building sandcastles on the beach, crafting with natural materials collected from the area, taking an excursion to a farm, and visiting a beekeeper where honey can be sampled directly from the source. Children learn about their surroundings in a playful way—and make new friends along the way.

On request, younger guests can eat together in the children’s area or join their parents and grandparents again. The result is a vacation where every generation can find their own rhythm.

What you can learn from your grandparents: According to Condé Nast Traveller, traveling with grandparents is an important trend: “Gen Y and Z have a lot to learn from their grandparents (now in their 60s or 70s (boomers) or 80s and 90s (quiet generation). “ This includes craft skills in particular. According to Heritage Crafts, there are currently 70 ”highly endangered” skills in the UK alone that are in danger of being lost. (These include, for example, glove making, rattan furniture, and bow and arrow making. Click here for the Red List.)

With children and grandparents in the Alps

3-generation special at the Tyrolean Hotel Klosterbräu

The Hotel Klosterbräu in the tourist town of Seefeld in Tyrol is a hotel that is particularly committed to multigenerational vacations. “When three generations arrive, grandma or grandpa gets a free vacation,” they say. “We believe the best vacation is when the whole family is together. That’s why we have rooms with connecting doors, so living together is as pleasant as possible.”

The converted monastery, which has been in the family for six generations, has a huge wellness area with seven themed saunas, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, relaxation rooms, yoga and fitness facilities. There’s also plenty for the kids to do, including kids-club, babysitter-service and a petting zoo and nature playground right next to the hotel.

– Click here for the 3 Generations 1+1 Special from Hotel Klosterbräu

Multigenerational travel in a Log Cabin in Austria

We also recommend the Summit Lodges Pfunds in the Tyrolean Oberland. These two luxurious vacation homes are built in the style of American log cabins. Each lodge exceeds 120 square meters and can accommodate up to six people, offering two separate bedrooms and bathrooms. Each lodge has a kitchen, a private sauna, and a large living area with a fireplace.

Host Marco Spiss gave multi-generational use some thought:

“From our terraces, parents can always see their children. In addition, the entrance gate can be closed to prevent children from leaving the property unattended.

Family time at the lake: Hotel Weihrerhof, South Tyrol

The Hotel Weihrerhof is located on the Wolfsgrubener bathing lake on the Ritten, a place where several generations naturally come together. Host Klaus Pichler sums it up: “We have room for all generations.” Whether paddling on the lake, playing on the lawn, or gazing at the Dolomites together, this is a place for encounters as well as retreats.

The rooms and suites with lake or mountain views offer plenty of space and tranquility. Particularly beneficial for families: consciously and playfully introduced cell phone-free times thanks to the Digital Detox offer, which strengthen togetherness and refocus attention on spending time together.

Reaching new heights together: mountain hut vacation in the Allgäu

For fit grandparents and nature-loving families, the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region recommends its apartment chalets at the Edelsberghütte. Depending on the hiking trail, you can reach the hut in about 40 to 90 minutes – the ascent is deliberately part of the experience here.

Whether you want to cook together, play games, enjoy evenings in the hut, or simply experience the peace and quiet of the mountains, the chalets offer space for socializing and retreating. Depending on your preference, you can stay in one large apartment or use two adjacent ones — ideal for multigenerational trips, offering proximity and space.

Eco-hotel with family rooms in the countryside

If you’d rather stay in a hotel, the eco-hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, offers special family rooms with connecting doors. For children, there are “extra beds, cribs and baby phones with a connection to the restaurant”. According to the owners, grandparents especially enjoy the large sun terrace next to the playground. Kids can run around and adults can relax. In addition, there are ideal multi-generational destinations in the area, such as Hof Claus (with a corn maze and farm golf), the Wolf Center Dörverden and Lorenzo’s Alpaca Farm.

“What’s more, everything (except the sauna and hot tub) is barrier-free, so you can easily get around with walkers, wheelchairs, strollers, etc.” – Kristin Okelmann

Multi-generational vacation in Croatia

The Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iz is a very special example of a multi-generational vacation destination. Founded by Ratko Vlahov, the hotel is now run by his granddaughter Mikela, who grew up with the hotel as part of the third generation. In her personal story Mikela recounts how closely family life and the hotel are intertwined, showing how naturally several generations come together at Korinjak.

The hotel’s concept is simple. The rooms are minimalist, and life takes place outside under pine trees, by the sea, or on walks across the peaceful island. The food is entirely vegetarian and vegan. While the grandparents enjoy the peace and quiet, the children explore nature or go on boat trips with the family—with a little luck, they might even see dolphins. It is a place that slows the pace of life down and creates space for genuine togetherness.

Multi-generational adventure in Cambodia

If you want to experience a multi-generational vacation in a completely different way, the Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia is an extraordinary place. The floating tents are quietly located on the river and create a relaxed atmosphere. While grandparents enjoy nature and tranquility, parents and children explore the surroundings together—kayaking, wildlife watching, or visiting nearby villages.

Shared meals on the floating decks and experiences such as sunset cruises on the river naturally bring the generations together. A vacation for genuine encounters and shared wonder.

Out and about together

In general, multigenerational trips are a wonderful way to strengthen family bonds and spend valuable and intense time together. Of course, the idea doesn’t have to be limited to grandparents-children-grandchildren; siblings, aunts and uncles, second cousins or other relatives can also make great travel companions!

The bonus with the accommodations we have presented is that they are already thinking about the next generation through their sustainable concept – and that is a topic that should be very high on the agenda, especially for a multigenerational vacation!

This is an update from October 13, 2023.

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Here’s another surprising fact: food waste is no longer just an issue for the wealthy. The report shows that the amount of food wasted per person is remarkably similar across all income levels. This means the problem affects everyone—regardless of income or location.

2030 is not far away, yet the goal is still a long way off

Through the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 12.3) the international community has committed to halving food waste by 2030. Sounds like a problem for the future? 2030 is closer than it seems, and this goal will not be achievable without real change in our everyday lives.

After all, food waste is not a marginal issue. It is a major driver of the climate crisis, resource consumption, and economic losses. Every piece of food thrown away represents wasted water, energy, labor, and emissions.

How is this related to travel?

The topic of food is particularly important in the sustainable hotel industry: changing guest flows, buffets, individual dietary requirements, and seasonal fluctuations. Places that cater to large numbers of people on a daily basis are precisely where it becomes clear whether circular thinking works. And that is precisely where we are now drawing some inspiration for our own lives. 😉

Less is more: How smart shopping prevents food waste

Circular food doesn’t start with cooking; it starts with production and purchasing. Many of our Green Pearls® partners demonstrate the importance of this initial step.

At the Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol, at least 80% of the food is sourced locally. Moreover, much of it is produced in-house: eggs from their farm, homemade jams and compotes, herbs and honey from their garden, and hay milk from local cows. This results in short supply chains, minimal packaging, and full control over quality and quantities.

The Tree Hotel My Arbor, the energy-self-sufficient OLM Nature Escape aparthotel, and the sustainable Lifestylehotel SANDnature on the Baltic Sea all rely on targeted, demand-oriented purchasing from regional organic producers. Orders are not placed “for stock,” but rather according to capacity utilization. The result? Hardly any expired products in the pantries.

What can we learn from this?

• As we explained in our blog article on organic food, using (more expensive) organic products automatically leads to more conscious eating. Furthermore, you can eat the peel of organic products (if possible).
• Focus on seasonal products from your region (seasonal recipe calendars offer guidance).
• According to Hotel Klosterbräu, it is important to avoid prepared products because “this preserves complete ingredient cycles and enables the use of leftovers.”
• Shop with a list and plan your meals carefully. Consider meals that use “leftovers,” as well as breakfast and snacks, and plan realistic quantities. Don’t just tell yourself, “I’ll use it for something.”

Planning beats perfection—and buffets are not mandatory

Another lever against food waste: planning. And the courage to do things differently.

At the Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia, there is a set daily menu (i.e., no à la carte options). Meals are cooked using whatever is freshly available—creatively, seasonally, and with every part of the ingredients. This reduces waste and allows guests to experience sustainability through a culinary journey of discovery.

Another thing few hotels “dare” to do is offer flexible portion sizes. This means that the staff is trained to provide half portions (or second helpings) upon request. The Naturhotel Outside focuses on smaller portions. Any surplus food does not end up in the trash but rather at the afternoon buffet or with the employees. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA operates similarly, using intelligent menu planning and adjusted portion sizes to prevent food waste from the outset.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen is a real best practice example:
On average, only five grams of food waste per guest per meal are left over. This is made possible by smaller buffet plates that are refilled as needed. At the end of breakfast, staff ask guests specifically what else the guests would like. They then fetch a single slice of cheese from the kitchen instead of putting out another 20 slices.

For you at home:

• It’s better to replenish than to overfill. Unlike in a hotel, you won’t have the problem of not being able to serve food that has already been on the table. However, you should also make sure the food remains appetizing. No one wants rice mixed with sauces and other foods, but you can use leftover plain rice in many ways.
• You don’t need a huge selection or a something new every day. (It’s better to finish an open container of hummus or jam before opening something new.)

Leftovers become flavor — when creativity is part of the concept

“Leftover utilization” is a part of cooking as an art form, as well as a firm part of professional gastronomy.

• At the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, orange peels are made into syrup, stale bread is given to the sheep, and coffee grounds are used to fertilize flowers.
• The three South Tyrolean hotels, My Arbor, Hotel Weihrerhof, and OLM Nature Escape, transform vegetable peelings into stock and use stale bread to make dumplings or croutons.
• The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA uses leftovers to make soups, stews, and fresh salads.

The advice for you at home:

Learn how to cook creatively with leftovers. Our tips from the web:

• Zucker and Jagdwurst: This vegan food blog provides a straightforward list of recipes for everyday ingredients like rice, bread, and soft fruits.
• Familienkost also offers ideas for more unusual foods, such as asparagus and lemons, and has a search function for ingredients.
• Der Restegourmet is a sophisticated website and app for cooking with leftovers. It takes a little while to get used to, but it offers useful tips and recipes.

When food returns to the earth: Thinking circularity through to its logical conclusion

Food that can no longer be eaten does not have to be wasted. Many of our partners close the loop by composting.

• STURM composts all organic waste and uses the resulting soil in its snack garden.
• At the Naturresort Gerbehof, food waste is also converted into fertilizer through composting.
• The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA collaborates with ReFood, which collects cooking oil and food scraps from restaurants and transforms them into biodiesel, biogas, heat, and organic fertilizer.

The Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iz stands out in this regard. Here, food scraps are processed on site using a professional composting machine. The nutrient-rich compost is used in the hotel’s garden and given to guests as a small gift. “A gift from our little island to your gardens and plants at home,” they say.

“To us, cycles are systems that nature has always operated according to. We see ourselves as part of this natural rhythm.” – Hotel Korinjak

At home:

• Reheat and enjoy leftovers from the previous day (follow hygiene rules).
• Use the organic waste bin wisely. Plastic and meat scraps do not belong in it. In many places, this also includes “plastic” made from natural materials, such as corn starch.
• Make your own compost (you can even do this in a small container, with a worm bin, or with a bokashi on your apartment balcony).

Cooking Oil: The invisible food waste with massive consequences

One often-overlooked issue is used cooking oil. Frying and cooking fats should never be poured down the drain.

Machu Picchu Pueblo, Peru, is an example of just how serious the consequences can be. There, the pollution of rivers by used cooking oil from restaurants in this popular tourist destination was so severe that it measurably deteriorated the water quality. In response, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel partnered with the community to build a facility that collects and processes cooking oil from restaurants, households, and local businesses into biodiesel. An environmentally friendly project that involves the local community.

How to properly dispose of cooking oil:

• Old cooking oil, frying fat, and similar substances belong in the residual waste bin. Small amounts can be wiped up with kitchen paper and disposed of in the residual waste bin.
• For larger amounts, allow the oil to cool, then place it in a well-sealed container. Dispose of the container in the residual waste or take it to special collection points in your region.

Circular Food only works when we work together

Whether it’s the Hotel Klosterbräu, Naturhotel Outside, SANDnature, or Hotel Luise, one thing is clear: circular thinking only works when employees and guests are involved. This also applies at home—to you, your family, and your guests. And it’s probably much easier here. “Would you like me to pack that up for you? Would you like to finish that?” Would you like to take some radishes from our garden with you?” Nowadays, even at weddings and other large celebrations, it’s becoming common for guests to bring containers so they can take home leftovers from the buffet.

Conclusion: Circular thinking begins in the mind

Our Green Pearls® demonstrate that a circular food system can work even under complex conditions. That’s why it’s clear that if it works there, it works here, too.

Households are responsible for the largest share of food waste, so they also have the greatest leverage for change. Circular thinking starts with a mindset of responsibility.

2030 is approaching. Let’s get started.

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Concepts such as organic farming and permaculture strengthen local cycles, rebuild soil, promote diversity, and create and secure fair jobs. “Farm-to-table” is not just a marketing phrase here; it’s the essence of the cuisine.

5  hotels with their own farms in Germany, Austria, and South Tyrol

#1 ADLER Lodge RITTEN, South Tyrol 

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN, a consciously managed five-star hotel in South Tyrol’s Ritten region, has incorporated a farm-to-table concept from the beginning. On around 4,000 square meters of land right next to the main building, a diverse farm garden with fields, fruit bushes, and herb gardens has been created. Summer wheat, potatoes, various vegetables, berries, and aromatic herbs grow there.

The garden is not only a source of produce, but also an experiential space with paths, benches, and signs indicating what is currently growing.

The cottage garden is tended by Christian Fink and his girlfriend Johanna, who also run the neighboring Viehweiderhof farm. They take a natural, diverse, and ecological approach: they grow mixed crops in the beds and plant flowers that strengthen the soil and attract pollinators. The bees at the lodge benefit from it as well—and provide the honey for the breakfast buffet.

Farm-to-table concept by Cristian Cinquemani

What was once a labor of love for Chef Hannes Pignater is now continuing. His successor, Cristian Cinquemani, the chef at ADLER Lodge RITTEN, is keeping the open kitchen concept alive by using local organic ingredients, homegrown produce, and interacting directly with guests, while adding a touch of island flair from his native Elba to the cuisine.

#2 Hotel Klosterbräu, Tyrol, Austria

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld continues the establishment’s more than 500-year history with its own agriculture. The Augustinian monks cultivated the land of the former monastery themselves, engaging in arable farming, growing hops for the brewery, and raising livestock. Today, Alois Seyrling, the hotel’s owner, is reviving this tradition with a sustainable, contemporary, and consistent approach to organic farming — but with a vegetarian twist.

Since 2017, the Klosterbräu has run the vegetarian farm “Sigis Sauhaufen” according to organic and biodynamic principles. The fields on the parish hill are fertilized with compost made from the hotel’s organic waste. They grow potatoes, herbs, hops, and fruits such as apples, all tailored to their needs. A special project is the so-called “Plateau Potato” – unique in color and taste.

Hotel with farm and petting zoo

Their farming activities include animal husbandry and plenty of space: a free-range chicken coop with around 200 laying hens of old and rare breeds provides eggs for breakfast, among other things. Complementing this is a private petting zoo with goats, miniature cattle, and other small animals. The hotel is therefore particularly well-suited for providing your children with hands-on farming experience.

#3 Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance, Germany

At the Bio Hotel Naturresort Gerbehof, agriculture is approached holistically. The hotel and farm are one entity, both certified 100 percent organic and part of a consistent cycle. As a member of Bioland, the business promotes mindful use of resources and intergenerational responsibility.

Here, the Wagner family cultivates organic apple and pear orchards spanning around 22 hectares. They sell part of the harvest to regional retailers and use the rest for their own processing, producing apple juice, distillates in their distillery, and breakfast buffet products on site. The farm also has pasture land for horses, free-range chickens, and a small herd of wild boars.

The Naturresort Gerbehof is also a prime example of how the hotel industry and climate protection can coexist. They’re consistent in their approach to energy and resources. For instance, they grow miscanthus grass on site and use it as fuel for heating and as bedding for the horses; later, they use the resulting horse manure as fertilizer on the fields. Additionally, they use rainwater cisterns and their own well for irrigation

#4 My Arbor, South Tyrol 

Though not directly adjacent to the hotel grounds, the luxurious My Arbor wellness hotel near Brixen has established an agricultural connection through its Agricoltura Pura project. About 170 kilometers away, near Albisano on Lake Garda, approximately 20 hectares of land are cultivated according to the principles of regenerative agriculture – as a large-scale permaculture project featuring fruits, vegetables, olives, grains, wine, and herbs.

Focusing on healthy soils, biodiversity, and functioning natural cycles, the project prioritizes long-term soil fertility and diversity over short-term yields. The harvested products are sent directly to the hotel, where they are processed fresh in the kitchen or refined for use throughout the year. The result is pickled vegetables, jams, preserves, and homemade oil, among other things.

#5 Gut Sonnenhausen, Bavaria, Germany

The principles of permaculture also guide agricultural practices at Gut Sonnenhausen, a hotel near Munich. In an interview, hotel gardener Marie Louise Troll tells us that permaculture is also a response to the climate crisis.

“We have been dealing with the effects of climate change on water resources and the increased occurrence of extreme weather events for years. Permaculture principles help make agriculture more resilient in the face of these changes.” – Gut Sonnenhausen

The Gut Sonnenhausen garden covers 2,700 square meters of vegetable cultivation, 500 square meters of culinary herbs, and an additional 25 hectares of nature surrounding the hotel with fruit and nut trees. To learn more (or pick up some tips for your own garden), you can participate in the hotel’s free “Gartentreff” (garden meeting).

Looking beyond the horizon— when agriculture changes more than just the menu

In the affluent DACH region, in particular, many hotels are showcasing the creative potential of their agricultural practices. However, travelers who look beyond the horizon—both literally and figuratively—will realize that organic farming has a different meaning in other parts of the world. It’s not only about taste, quality, and transparency; it’s also about securing livelihoods and real future prospects for local communities.

#1 The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

The Pavilions Himalayas — The Farm was founded with a clear vision: to help local farmers transition from conventional to organic agriculture and secure their livelihoods. The fields surrounding the resort are home to seasonal vegetables and herbs, and the resort produces eggs and milk that are used in Nepalese cuisine. The food is fresh, pesticide-free, and in harmony with the seasons. Even the ingredients used to make dal bhat, curries, and momos come directly from the resort’s own land.

More important than the harvest, however, is the transfer of knowledge. In addition to learning organic farming techniques, local farmers have learned the basics of entrepreneurship and now supply the hotel kitchen with organic produce, providing themselves and their families with an income.

Douglas and Insuba Maclagan, the founders of the Nepalese eco-resort, have been involved in social projects related to education, health, and employment for nearly 30 years. They deliberately avoid a profit-oriented approach, instead focusing on using tourism to have a positive impact on the region, its people, and the tourism sector as a whole.

• To learn more about their impressive story, read our blog post about impactful tourism. 

#2 Canvas & Orchids Retreat, Cambodia

At the Canvas & Orchids Retreat, a sustainable resort featuring luxurious, partially floating tent villas nestled in nature, agriculture starts small. Yet it has a far-reaching impact. The resort’s farm grows basic vegetables, such as eggplants and cucumbers, as well as herbs, for daily cooking. This reduces transportation distances and ensures the freshest ingredients.

Guests taught the Cambodians how to farm chickens

In addition, the retreat intentionally incorporates the neighborhood and the guests. One particularly nice example is that returning guests with experience in poultry farming helped local families set up small chicken farms with their expertise and equipment. Today, these families supply the retreat with eggs and meat. Thanks to the initiative of these guests, a special farm-to-table connection has been created that continues to sustain livelihoods and strengthen local structures to this day.

Back to earth – and to more conscious travel

The Green PearlsⓇ hotels featured here demonstrate how travel can become more grounded. When you visit, you connect with more than just a place; you connect with what grows there, too. You can see vegetable plants, smell regional herbs, and enjoy food that could hardly be fresher.

At the same time, by vacationing at one of these hotels, you support people who practice responsible agriculture, whether in the Alps, on Lake Constance, or on the Tatai River in Cambodia. To us, this is what sustainable travel is all about: enjoying consciously and giving back to nature.

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