At Green Pearls®, we believe that change starts with the many small, everyday decisions that are easy to implement. Our partner hotels and companies show how sustainability can seamlessly combine with design, comfort, and innovation.

9 green resolutions to inspire you to live more consciously in 2026

 #1 Less is more – consume more consciously

2026 is all about quality over quantity. It’s about choosing things that are built to last, good for you, and manufactured with purpose.

Our partners such as the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA in Sicily, which focuses on regional materials, solar energy and traditional craftsmanship, demonstrate this approach in practice. The same is true at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal. Here the mindful use of resources is part of everyday life, from in-house agriculture to supporting local communities.

The Austrian company Rabmer demonstrates that sustainability extends beyond the product itself. Through its innovative water and energy solutions, it enables hotels to save energy without compromising on comfort.

PHARMOS Natur, which joined the Green Pearls® family in December, reminds us that true luxury lies in combining nature and mindfulness, creating cosmetics from whole plants produced in harmony with the environment.

#2 Secondhand & ReUse instead of buying new 

Fewer new items, more conscious living — this idea is shared by many Green Pearls® partners.

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, old materials are transformed into new favorites: recycled wood becomes furniture and historic fabrics become modern textiles. The Hotel Luise in Erlangen demonstrates this concept with its innovative “regenerative hotel” design, which incorporates recycling and upcycling into every detail, from the furnishings to the energy supply.

SWISSFEEL embodies this idea with its fully washable, durable mattresses. These mattresses create a genuine circular system in hotel operations. They aren’t single-use items; they’re high-quality products designed to last for years and to be reused and recycled at the end of their life.

This mindset extends naturally to everyday life: repair, share, or reuse what you own—and actively contribute to a more sustainable economy.

#3 Repair. Don’t throw it away

Repairing things gives them a second chance — and that’s exactly what hotels are doing.

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region, for example, appliances, furniture, and equipment are refurbished instead of replaced.

The Hotel Luise also prioritizes the preservation of existing materials, demonstrating that sustainability does not always require new construction.

#4 Avoid plastic — choose refillable over disposable

Using less plastic means more freedom — for us and for nature. Many Green Pearls® hotels have already made this change.

At the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol and the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, the hotels refill toiletries, serve water in glass bottles, and offer refill stations throughout the property for guests.

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel Tenerife takes it a step further with in-house filter systems and glass carafes that provide completely plastic-free drinking water — healthy, regional, and resource-saving.

Companies like Medeco Cleantec help achieve cleanliness without chemicals or plastic, using innovative water-based cleaning systems.

The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg proves that it is possible to run a hotel entirely free from disposable packaging.

 #5 Valuing food

Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures—and far too valuable to waste. At Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony, chefs create inventive dishes using regional ingredients, including products that would otherwise be discarded. STURM in the Rhön region sources its fruit and vegetables from its own garden, ensuring they are seasonal, fresh and unpackaged.

At the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol, the kitchen follows the “from root to leaf” principle, using every ingredient in its entirety.

And the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž demonstrates how local produce and plant-based cuisine can work together to create healthy, colourful and sustainable dishes.

#6 Enjoy more plant-based options

Plant-based nutrition is no longer just a passing fad; it’s a lifestyle choice. It conserves resources, inspires new flavours and promotes mindful consumption.

The Hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol — Italy’s first purely vegan hotel — leads the way. Here, sustainability is an experience, from the kitchen to the spa. The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm shows how vegan gourmet cuisine and modern alpine design can blend seamlessly. At the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, chefs use regional ingredients to prepare fresh vegetarian and vegan menus every day.

PHARMOS Natur continues this concept of plant-based sustainability with skincare products based on pure plant power that promote inner and outer balance.

#7 Shop regionally & seasonally

Regionality is one of the simplest and most effective forms of climate protection. Short distances, fresh products, and local partnerships are a matter of course in many Green Pearls® establishments.

At OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol, nearly all of the food comes directly from the surrounding farms.

Companies like memo also embrace regionality and resource conservation. They are offering eco-friendly, fairly produced products and transparent supply chains that demonstrate sustainability can begin in the office.

#8 Travel consciously

Sustainable travel means exploring with respect for people, places, and nature. Rather than rushing to check off lots of places, it’s about staying longer and experiencing things more intensely.

The Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives embodies barefoot luxury and active coral protection, while the Bella Vista Zermatt in Switzerland, with its car-free location and access to its own mountain spring water, exemplifies slow travel. The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA demonstrates that regenerative relaxation and sustainability go hand in hand.

Sustainability is not a goal, but a process—a combination of curiosity, openness, and exchange.

Our Green Pearls® corporate partners—Ecowaterjet by rabmer®, Medeco Cleantec, SWISSFEEL, memo, Segmüller Werkstätten, and PHARMOS Natur—showcase the synergy of innovation, quality, and responsibility: from efficient water and energy use to chemical-free cleaning, fair production, and plant-based care.

Conclusion: Small steps, big impact

Every green resolution counts—whether it’s living plastic-free, eating plant-based, shopping locally, or traveling consciously.

Our Green Pearls® partners prove that sustainability means enrichment for us, others, and our planet, not sacrifice.

Make 2026 your year of conscious decisions with small steps that make a big difference. Tell us about your resolutions—we’d love to hear from you!

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Der Beitrag Green resolutions for 2026: Kick off the new year in a more sustainable way erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Ancient Greek and Roman doctors recommended cold baths to improve health. In Northern Europe, winter bathing has been a generations-old ritual, typically combined with a sauna and conscious breathing. In Russia, the Alps, Japan, and Tibet, immersion in cold water is also deeply rooted as a method of strengthening the body, clearing the mind, and experiencing nature in its purest form.
This long history shows one thing: Cold is a simple and effective ancient tool. Yet every moment in cold water feels different.

Ice bathing is lierally taking the plunge

Perhaps it is precisely this blend of tradition and personal experience that makes taking the first step toward the cold so unique. It reminds you of your strength and allows you to perceive yourself differently. Jumping into cold water or taking a deep breath of winter mountain air brings you back to what is essential.

Have the benefits of ice bathing been proven scientifically?

Many people, including top athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, report increased energy, improved mood, and a sense of inner strength after ice bathing. There is evidence that cold stimulates blood circulation in the short term, reduces stress hormones, and releases mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, such as endorphins. However, as with saunas, the scientific evidence is inconclusive.

Some smaller studies show positive effects on inflammation markers, metabolism, or the autonomic nervous system, while others find no clear health benefits. Most importantly, long-term effects, such as those on the immune system, have hardly been proven to date. Medizin-Transparent currently rates the data as “insufficient” because many studies have few participants or do not use control groups.

This means that ice bathing may feel good and be personally beneficial, but its health benefits have not yet been proven scientifically. Therefore, pay close attention to your body, start slowly, and seek medical advice if you have health conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, asthma, or epilepsy), are pregnant, or feel uncertain.

Sustainable accommodations with ice bathing options

At OLM Nature Escape in the Tauferer Ahrntal Valley in South Tyrol, you can experience this power surrounded by pristine mountain scenery. The hotel’s natural swimming pond, nestled between glacial streams, mountain lakes, and the Pojer waterfall, offers the perfect opportunity to mindfully immerse yourself in the cold. With every breath and moment of silence, you will feel your body and mind react to the cold, and experience the benefits of alternating between cold and warmth when you warm up in the spa with a sauna, heated outdoor pool, or herbal massage. Here, ice bathing is not a test of courage but a ritual that brings you closer to nature.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN invites you to experience the power of the cold in a unique way. Every winter, an opening is made in the ice of the frozen natural lake. Before stepping into the clear mountain water, the cold trainer will prepare you mentally in the forest relaxation room. Breathing techniques, meditation, and mindfulness will help you accept the cold as part of the experience, not as a threat. After your icy moment in the fresh mountain air, you will feel energy and inner strength spreading through you. The lodge also offers a barefoot trail around the tree saunas that takes you over moss, gravel, bark, and pinecones. This experience activates your reflex zones, improves your posture, and allows you to immerse yourself deeper in nature. At the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, the cold becomes an invitation to get to know yourself anew.

At the Hotel Weihrerhof, ice bathing is pure and unadulterated. In winter, a hole is cut in the frozen Wolfsgrubner Lake. In the middle of a nature reserve, without distractions, the only focus is the direct, immediate connection between you and nature. The clear, cold water has a calming and invigorating effect—a unique sensation that lingers long after.

Guided ice bathing in the detox program

The Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, explores the topic of cold in a holistic manner. Therapist Jürgen Fuetterling developed a concept combining cold therapy, breathing exercises, cellular health, and nature coaching. Deliberately simple, his approach can be integrated into everyday life without any aids. The goal is to push you to your limits to increase your resilience, reduce stress, boost your energy, and promote mental clarity. You will feel the effects not only at the moment of immersion but also long afterward in your mood, sleep, and focus.

Tip: During the detox week in March and April 2026, guided ice bathing will be part of a comprehensive health program.

At STURM, you can enjoy the cold without any program. There is no specific ice bathing offer, nor is there a need for one. The hotel’s natural pond is open year-round. And its appeal lies in the freedom it offers: you decide when you’re ready for the cold water.

It is a conscious, self-determined ritual. No course, no pressure, no guidelines. Just you, the pond, and a refreshing experience that invigorates your body.

Is ice bathing without ice? Yes!

If you prefer a gentler approach, My Arbor offers a great alternative—a cold plunge pool. Although it’s not a traditional ice bath, the experience is similar. After the sauna, your body heats up and your blood vessels dilate. A brief dip in cool water between 46 and 59 °F causes your blood vessels to constrict, which stabilizes your circulation. At the same time, your immune system is activated, and you experience the same refreshing clarity as with ice bathing. The cold plunge pool at My Arbor is safe, gentle, and effective, making it accessible to everyone at any time.

The Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol offers ice bathing — also known as cold bathing — in its new natural pool. The pool is equipped with an air blower that keeps the water in constant motion, preventing the surface from freezing over.

Even when winter has a firm grip on the country, the pool remains open. You can dive in at any time and let the clear, wintry freshness flow through you — an intense nature experience accessible in every season.

As you can see, cold therapy is not just a trend; it’s an ancient practice that strengthens the body and mind in a simple, effective way.

Please share your experiences with us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Der Beitrag Ice bathing & the cold – a natural power for body and mind erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

(Note: All apps are genuine recommendations, not paid promotions.)

Five app recommendations for your next trip

We’ve compiled a list of five helpful apps that will make your next trip make your next trip not only more comfortable, but also more resource-conscious.

#1 FAIRTRIP – Travel authentically, enjoy locally

With FairTrip, you can find authentic places around the world, including cafés, restaurants, accommodations, social projects, and small shops. The community constantly submits new places, which the FairTrip team then reviews. The team takes criteria such as authenticity, fairness, environmental friendliness, locality, and social impact into account.

Green Pearls® Tip: Many of our partners embody this approach, such as the Hotel Luise in Erlangen and the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, both of which collaborate closely with their local communities.
The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg also emphasizes regional cooperation and social responsibility. As an inclusive business, it integrates individuals facing challenges in the job market.

#2 HAPPYCOW – Vegan & vegetarian restaurants worldwide

HappyCow is a popular app among vegan and vegetarian travelers. Since 1999, it has showcased plant-based restaurants, cafés, and shops in over 180 countries. Thanks to community reviews, photos, and a map function, you can easily find plant-based and vegetarian food options whether you’re in Berlin, Bali, or Bolzano.

Green Pearls® Tip: LA VIMEA, Italy’s first entirely vegan hotel, is located in South Tyrol and offers gourmet plant-based cuisine. The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm is also entirely vegan and combines design, sustainability, and mindful enjoyment.
The Hotel Okelmann in Lower Saxony and the STURM in Bavaria are also inspiring examples for vegetarian and vegan travelers — both establishments focus on seasonal, regional, and creative cuisine.

#3 PACKPOINT – pack more efficiently and avoid unnecessary luggage

Less baggage means more freedom! PackPoint helps you pack efficiently based on your travel duration, the weather, and your planned activities. This way, you can avoid taking unnecessary items, save space. Additional luggage weight can increase resource consumption during transport

Green Pearls® Tip: When you stay at one of hotels with resource-conscious concepts, you can pack lighter—because a lot of what you need is already there, from natural cosmetics to drinking water stations to bike rentals.
For example, consider the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, or the STURM in Bavaria.
The SANDnature in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea also demonstrates how sustainability and style can be combined perfectly — with recycled materials, natural cosmetics, and plastic-free concepts.

#4 Refill – Refill your water bottle for free rather than buying plastic bottles

With Refill, you can easily find places to refill your water bottle for free—an effective, simple way to reduce plastic waste. The network is constantly growing, with more hotels and cafés joining in.

Green Pearls® Tip: The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA (Germany), Hotel Weihrerhof (Italy), and the Hotel Luise (Germany) are already part of the Refill Network, offering guests free water refills.
Hotels such as Das Rübezahl in Bavaria and the Bella Vista Zermatt in Switzerland also implement sustainable water concepts, offering regional spring water in reusable glass bottles.

The Naturhotel Outside in Austria has introduced smart water- and energy-saving systems, while the Hotel Klosterbräu & Spa in Tyrol proudly operates as a Bottle-Free Zone.

#5 ROME2RIO – Train, bus or ferry connections as alternatives to cars or short-haul flights

Rome2Rio shows you almost every possible way to travel between two locations worldwide—by bus, train, ferry, plane, or carpool. It’s ideal for finding eco-friendly alternatives to cars or planes. The app also provides estimated prices and booking links.

Green Pearls® Tip: Many of our partner hotels promote more conscious mobility concepts: For example, the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau offers electric car charging stations and eco-friendly shuttle services. At Bella Vista Zermatt, guests usually don’t arrive by car. And at Naturhotel Outside and Hotel Weihrerhof, guests can explore the area by e-bike, on foot, or via public transportation.

Conclusion: More conscious choices in everyday life and while travelling

Conscious travel does not mean sacrificing comfort or  doesn’t mean giving up comfort – it means making mindful choices, even digitally. With these apps, you can take small but impactful steps: saving water, avoiding plastic, supporting local communities, and traveling more sustainably.

Many Green Pearls® partners already make this possible – through vegan cuisine, refill stations, local supply chains, eco-conscious bathrooms, and climate-friendly mobility.

What are your favorite apps for more conscious travel?

Feel free to share them in the comments or write to us—we update the list regularly!

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Der Beitrag Travel More Sustainably with Apps: Digital Companions for Conscious Explorers erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Tips for a successful spa day at home

Before you begin your spa day, there are a few things you should be aware of and prepare for in order to get the most out of your spa experience:

• Do all your chores (laundry, dishes, etc.) in advance so that nothing distracts you from your rest. If you can’t: close the kitchen door, put the laundry basket in a room you rarely enter, and give yourself permission to ignore these “chores. The laundry won’t get worse if you leave it until tomorrow.
• Plan ahead and make sure you won’t be disturbed. Take a day off when the children are in school or daycare, tell your partner and/or roommates that you do not want to be disturbed.
• Create a pleasant atmosphere with passive lighting and candles, and perhaps set the room temperature a little higher to make it more relaxing.
• Make a cozy corner with pillows and blankets
• Relax further with herbal tea and a good book

DIY instructions and recipes for face masks, body scrubs, and herbal stamps

Have you noticed that all eyes are on South Korea right now when it comes to skin care? The trend is called “K-beauty” and is extremely popular on social media and in stores. Korean skin care often includes rice as an ingredient.

K-Beauty Rice-Mask DIY

Here’s how to make a very simple DIY Korean rice mask that’s currently going viral on TikTok:

Ingredients:

• 1 small cup of rice (e.g. jasmine rice)
• 3 small cups of water

Preparation and use:

• Wash the rice 3 times
• Boil with the water (without salt)
• Puree the cooked rice in a blender (add more water depending on the desired consistency)
• Allow to cool and apply to face.
• Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes
• Rinse off

The DIY rice mask will last about one to two weeks in the refrigerator.

However, the K-beauty trend threatens to get out of hand. For example, there is the “10-Step Korean Skincare Routine,” which requires you to buy ten different products, each costing over 50 Euros (depending on the brand, of course). We’d rather use the DIY mask J

DIY beauty from Thailand – Recipes from the Mala Spa in Phuket

Keemala is one of the most unique resorts in Thailand. Located on the island of Phuket, it consists of several villas (all with private pools) surrounded by a natural tropical forest. They also offer a variety of massages and spa treatments (if you are interested, you can find the Mala Spa’s 16-page spa menu here).

For a spa day at home, Keemala sent us the following recipes:

#1 Soothing and hydrating mask

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
• ½ teaspoon honey
• squeeze of lemon juice

Preparation and use:

• Mix all the ingredients together.
• Apply to face and leave on for 15 minutes
• Rinse with warm water

#2 Keemala DIY body scrub for clear skin

Ingredients:

• Sea salt (alternative: sugar)
• Coconut oil
• A few drops of essential oil (lavender or eucalyptus)

Preparation and use:

• Gently massage onto wet skin in the shower.
• Rinse off

#3 Magnesium sulfate foot bath (Espom Salt)

Ingredients:

• Foot bath tub of warm water
• ½ cup magnesium sulfate-also known as Epsom or Espuma salt (available at pharmacies or well-stocked drugstores)
• A few drops of essential oil (your favorite scent)

Preparation and use:

• Add Espuma salt and oil to the warm water
• Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes

“ The foot bath helps you relax and softens the skin of your fee” – Keemala

The footbath is also a great base for other foot treatments in your day spa, such as callus removal and pedicures. Afterwards, apply a thick layer of cream to your feet (see below for skin care brand tips).

DIY: Herb stamps for a wellness day at home

Maslina Resort is located directly on the coast of the Croatian island of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea. The hotel stands for “Mindful Luxury” and focuses on comfort in harmony with nature. Naturally, the spa facilities are designed with sustainability and mindfulness in mind. The Garden to Skin service applies oils and herbs from the hotel garden directly to the skin.

For your spa day at home, the spa team recommends relaxing herbal pouches.

Ingredients:

• Fresh medicinal herbs from your own garden or purchased. Rosemary, thyme, lavender and ginger are the perfect blend for relaxation and boosting the immune system.

Preparation:

• Cut a soft cloth (such as an old shirt) into squares about 6 inches square.
• Wash the herbs, remove the twigs, and place the leaves in the center of the cloth square.
• Then form a bundle and tie with string to make small herb stamps.
• Bring water to a boil and place the herbal pouches in a steamer basket over the hot water. The pouches themselves should remain dry.

Alternative: You can also lightly moisten the stamps and microwave them for about 2 minutes until they are very warm.

How to use:

• Have a friend or partner place the herbal pouches along your spine, applying gentle pressure, and relax.

Sustainable products to buy for your home spa

Consider using skin care products for your at-home day spa. Many of our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ hotel partners produce their own natural cosmetics, which you can purchase at the properties or online.

#1 BergSea cosmetics from the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol

The Hotel Weihrerhof is located at 1,200 meters above sea level on the Ritten in South Tyrol, directly on the Wolfgruben Lake. The lake is considered one of the cleanest in Italy, and the water from the mountain lake is the basis for the cosmetic line. Other natural ingredients from the region, such as hay and Swiss stone pine, are used as well. The range includes products such as natural soap, body milk, shower gel and foot cream at fair prices.

👉 Here you can find the BergSea online store

#2 Italian natural cosmetics from ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges

The ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges consist of several sustainably managed properties from northern Italy (ADLER Lodge RITTEN) to the south of the country (ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA). The owner’s family ensures that each property reflects its location, for example by building with local materials and using local foods in the kitchen.

The different regions of Italy are also reflected in the luxury natural cosmetics line: grapes from Tuscany, mountain flowers from South Tyrol and citrus fruits from Sicily. Whether you are looking for care, detoxification or regeneration, there is something for every skin type!

“ Our cosmetics line is our contribution to a holistic, nature-loving life.” – ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges

👉 Here you will find the ADLER Online Shop.

#3 Vegan cosmetics from CERVO Mountain Resort

CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, Switzerland, has a special style and fragrance. It combines Swiss mountain culture with a modern nomadic lifestyle at the highest level, for which the resort has already received several architectural awards.

The Mountain Ashram Spa is also very special, combining a variety of cultures in its treatments.

“ Guests can purchase our wellness products and try some of the spa treatments at home” – CERVO Mountain Resort

One such example is the Mountain Ashram Detox Body Scrub with pine needles and sage. It refines the skin and increases circulation (through massage).

How to use:

• Massage the body scrub into wet skin in the shower.
• Start at the feet and massage in circular motions towards the heart.
• Massage for about 5 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water

👉 Click here to visit the CERVO Online Store

#4 Energy products and cosmetics according to Viktor Philippi at Gerbehof Natural Resort

The family of the Gerbehof Nature Resort practices the bioenergetic method of Philippi. This includes “bioenergetic motivation” and “stress reduction motivation”. For the latter, for example, you can book stress-relieving massages at the resort using special massage stamps and stones (onyx stones, black basalt, white jade stones).

“ We sell energy products (CDs and crystals) by V. Philippi and provide instructions on how to use them at home as a biomotivation to further strengthen your own health.” – Naturresort Gerbehof

Recommended amenity brands from sustainable hotels

Hotels that do not manufacture natural cosmetics purchase those they believe in for their spa or as room amenities.

Note: I am providing links to cosmetic brands and their stores as a service to you – neither we nor the hotels receive commissions or other benefits.

#5 The Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea coast opts for “Björk & Berries”

When you stay at the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea, you will find sustainable amenities in your room in the form of products from the Swedish company “Björk & Berries”.

“ Nordic, sustainable, refillable and stylish,” says host Marion Muller.

👉 Find Björk & Berries here

#6 Ayurvedic treatments and natural cosmetics at Biohotel Grafenast

The Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol is a wonderful place for a relaxing vacation in nature and hiking and pampers its guests (after their outdoor adventures) with spa and wellness treatments. Ayurveda plays an important role here.

To extend your spa experience, you can purchase the various cosmetic products used by Biohotel Adler at the on-site shop. These include the Argan d’or brand.

👉 Click here for Argan d’or natural cosmetics

#7 TEAM DR. JOSEPH natural cosmetic products at our Green PearlsⓇ partners

Many of our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ hotels and vacation homes rely on certified natural cosmetics from Team Dr. Joseph. The South Tyrolean brand is

• vegan
• cruelty-free
• and uses (almost) plastic-free and sustainable product packaging.

The production takes place in South Tyrol and all ingredients come from the region. No wonder our local partners like OLM Nature Escape and My Arbor swear by it. In Germany, you can find the products at the romantic hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu and at STURM in the Rhön.

“ The Dr. Joseph and all other brands we use are available in our shop. Guests can also contact Markus, our certified massage therapist, for personalized advice.” – OLM Nature Escape

Tip for proper use

Among other things, Team Dr. Joseph lists their “Balancing Toner” as a “bestseller”.

Application:

• As you can see in this video, the toner is not applied with a cotton pad, but with your hands. Gently tap your décolleté, neck, and face. According to the manufacturer, tapping increases the effect.

After a day at the Green DIY Spa, it’s best to unwind in a relaxing way. Watch a movie to carry the relaxation into the evening.

Do you have any other tips? Please share them in the comments!

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Der Beitrag Green DIY – A spa day to treat yourself also works at home erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

But what does environmentally friendly water sports look like? It means being aware and responsible with nature and includes sports such as sailing, pedal boating, surfing (with care), paddling, canoeing, swimming, and SUP (stand up paddling). In short, anything without a motor.

Water sports equipment – renting is better than buying new

You can order a brand new SUP including paddle, pump and carry bag online for as little as €150. This is sometimes cheaper than renting. (For example, depending on your location, it can cost up to €200 to hire a SUP for three days. If you hire the SUP by the hour, it’s usually cheaper). However, we still recommend that you hire water sports equipment when you go on holiday – at least until you know that you will be doing this hobby regularly and for a longer period of time.

1. It’s better to rent equipment: the SUP you rent for €15 an hour is not just like the cheap models you find on the internet, but (most likely) a professional board costing around €1,000. As you can imagine, these SUPs are also better balanced – which makes it really easy to get started.

2. Buying new is bad for the environment: So says the German Federal Environment Agency. By renting, you save on the resources needed for materials, production, transport and storage, thus helping to reduce environmental impact.

3. Don’t just rent equipment only: it’s often possible to hire accessories like lifejackets, drybags or wetsuits. It’s best to find out about these options before you go. Water sports equipment and clothing in particular are almost always made from synthetic fibres (key words: petroleum/microplastics/garbage that doesn’t rot).

8 rules of behavior for water sports enthusiasts in nature

Do you want to behave in an environmentally and animal-friendly way when practising water sports? Here is a summary of the guidelines from the German Sailing Association (DSV):

1. Avoid sensitive areas: Sensitive areas are areas where you may (unintentionally) disturb many animals or their habitats. These include reed beds, sandbanks (and other resting places for birds, turtles, etc.), spawning grounds and riparian forests.
2. Keep your distance: When passing reed beds, reed belts, seal banks, etc., keep your distance.
3. Observe: You should observe animals from a distance and take photographs without flash.
4. Respect the rules of nature reserves: In nature reserves and marine protected areas (such as the Saint-Anne Marine National Park at our partner Cerf Island Resort in the Seychelles), there are strict rules for the behaviour of water sports enthusiasts – you should always follow them.
5. Special consideration for Ramsar sites: Ramsar Sites, also known as Wetlands of International Importance (WSI), are ecosystems that, according to UNESCO, are home to numerous protected animal species. The Ramsar Convention was signed by many countries in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
6. Landing: It is best to use designated moorings for launching and landing sailboats or other water sports equipment. This also applies to embarking and disembarking when diving!
7. Clean-up: Help keep the water clean. Unfortunately, many waters are now so polluted that it is best to take a bag with you to collect any litter you find in the water and dispose of it on land.
8. Get informed: Find out about local regulations, important months for local wildlife, etc. before your water sports holiday. Being well informed will help you to behave in an environmentally friendly and responsible manner in the water.

13 top destinations for sustainable water sports holidays

Some of our green gems are perfect for a sustainable holiday with gentle (or action-packed, but non-motorised) water sports. It’s not just the water sports that are sustainable, but the accommodation itself. This includes building with natural materials, using green energy, serving local organic food, social sustainability and reducing waste. This makes your whole holiday greener.

#1 Cerf Island Resort in the Seychelles – Kayaking through the water reserve

Cerf Island (1.5km x 1km) is a picture-postcard island in the Seychelles, with a fine sandy beach, turquoise waters, coral reefs and the colourful fish life of the Indian Ocean. You can stay right on the beach at the sustainably managed Cerf Island Resort. Cerf Island is one of the islands in the heart of the Sainte-Anne Marine National Park. The Marine National Park is dedicated to the protection of the valuable and beautiful underwater reefs, and daily guided excursions are offered, including glass-bottom boat and snorkelling tours. The resort provides free snorkeling equipment to explore the snorkeling trail right in front of the property. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards for free.

#2 Gili Lankanfushi – Snorkelling in the Maldives

The eco-luxury resort Gili lankanfushi in the Maldives also offers plenty of non-motorised water activities. The blue or, depending on the light, green lagoon is perfect for windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding. Everything you need is provided free of charge by the hotel and beginners are catered for. If you want to do something for the environment, we recommend a snorkelling trip with the resort’s marine biologist. Together with the biologist you can clean coral reefs or count manta rays.

#3 OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel – Surfing in the Atlantic Ocean

“The north of Tenerife is often referred to as the “Hawaii of the Canary Islands”. Right in front of the OCÉANO, you can watch the surfers ride the waves or take a course yourself,” say our partners at the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife. There are several surf schools on the island that offer courses for beginners.

Tip: Spring and summer are ideal for beginners. In winter, the waves are high and strong, making the Atlantic off the north of Tenerife the territory of the pros.

#4 ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA – Gentle water sports in Sicily

Opened in 2022, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located directly on the sandy beach of a protected WWF nature reserve. Right next to the resort are canoe, kayak and SUP rental stations, with which the resort works closely to offer eco-friendly water sports holidays. Stand up paddling in particular is becoming increasingly popular.

“Dip your oar deep into the waves, glide across the surface standing up or enjoy the gentle rocking in silence. By canoe, kayak or SUP you can admire the Sicilian coast from a new perspective”. – ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Sustainable accommodation with water sports in Austria

Water sports are not only possible in the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic or the Mediterranean, but also on lakes and rivers.

#1 The Peak, Sölden – Rowing in the mountain lake

The Peak Sölden is a family-run holiday apartment complex in Sölden, which you probably know best as a winter paradise. However, your host, Ronald Kneisl, also recommends Sölden as a summer holiday destination, as there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and water sports. Nearby is the Piburger See in Ötz. The lake is the natural landmark of the village and is picturesquely situated 900 metres above the village in the middle of a forest. In summer the lake is perfect for swimming, rowing and fishing. Despite its relatively high altitude, Lake Piburg warms up to 24 degrees in summer. Located in a nature reserve, it also provides shelter and habitat for many endangered and protected animal species.

There is a public swimming pool, restaurant and rowing boat hire on the south-east shore. The lake is stocked with char, perch and trout. Although ice skating is not a summer water sport, it is worth mentioning. When the ice is thick enough, the lake is open for skating. There is a prepared ice rink over two kilometres long and eight metres wide, and skates can be hired on site.

#2 Naturhotel Outside – Glacier river rafting

“The Isel is one of the last untouched glacial rivers in the Eastern Alps,” says Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol. You can expect fast currents and a fantastic mountain panorama. The Isel is about 25 minutes away from the hotel, which is located in Matrei, “in the centre of Outside”, as they say.

Tip: Click here for links to various rafting companies in East Tyrol.

#3 Hygna Chalets – tube riding

The Alpbach Valley in Tyrol is also ideal for whitewater rafting. On the Brandenberger Ache river you can experience a special adventure: tubing! Wearing a neoprene wetsuit and helmet, you’ll be inflated into a truck’s inner tube and then hurtle 1.5 to 3.5 kilometres down the river.

You can spend the night in the luxurious and sustainably managed Hygna Chalets in the Alpbachtal. The charming chalets not only offer breakfast service, but some even have their own hot tub.

#4 Summit Lodges – Kite- and Windsurfing

Do you know the insider tip among kite- and windsurfers in Tyrol? It is the Reschensee at the Reschenpass of the same name. From the Summit Lodges in Pfunds you can reach the Reschensee in about one hour by public transport. It is located in South Tyrol in the municipality of Graun. In the lake the water of the Etsch, the Rojenbach and the Karlinbach is dammed. The kite surfers among you will find optimal conditions here. In fact, the artificial reservoir is a hotspot for kiters. It combines optimal wind and water conditions. For those who want to try out kiting, there are schools all around the lake where you can learn the sport under professional guidance. And when you return to your Summit Lodge log cabin in the evening, tired and with heavy bones, your very own private sauna will be waiting for you.

Sustainable Water Sports in South Tyrol

#1 OLM Nature Escape – Adventure Water Sports

Our new Green PearlsⓇ partner, OLM Nature Escape, is also located in South Tyrol. The aparthotel is situated in Sand in Taufers and according to the operators, is ideally located for all adventure water sports, just 10 minutes away from the hotel complex. If you wish, you can also be accompanied by professional guides.

Sustainable Water Sports in Germany

We have also received some tips from our partners in Germany on where you can enjoy sustainable water sports and find green and individual accommodation.

#1 Naturresort Gerbehof – gentle water sports on Lake Constance

Situated between Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the 63-kilometre-long Lake Constance is one of the most famous lakes for water sports in the Alpine foothills. All kinds of water sports enthusiasts can be found here: sailors, kite-surfers, rowers, divers – and, of course, motorboats. In an effort to reconcile nature conservation and water sports, the state government of Baden-Württemberg has produced a 48-page PDF document that takes into account the interests of organised sports and the state nature conservation association. In particular, the document states that protected areas should be designated (or have already been designated) from which water sports enthusiasts should stay away. The 8 rules of behaviour for water sports enthusiasts listed above also fit into this.

If you want to enjoy a sustainable holiday on the German side of Lake Constance, take a look at Naturresort Gerbehof! Here you can enjoy a climate positive holiday and all the food is certified organic.

#2 HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu – Water sports as a destination

Lake Constance is just an hour’s drive from the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu. Closer by (around 30 minutes by car) is the Immenstadt region, where there is a water skiing centre and rafting providers.

The HUBERTUS is a sustainably-run wellness hotel that caters for hikers who prefer to explore nature on foot. But if water sports are just one facet of your holiday and you value things like mindfulness, yoga and tranquillity, this is the place for you.

#3 Das Rübezahl – Stand up paddling on Lake Forggensee

Lake Forggensee in the Allgäu region is just six kilometres from the Alpine Boutique Hotel Das Rübezahl. The large reservoir near Füssen is in season from June to mid-October. In winter, the water is drained to absorb snowmelt from the mountains and rainfall.

The Forggensee SUP season opens on 2 June. There are SUP rentals and numerous courses or group tours (e.g. at sunrise and sunset).

Sustainable Water Sports in Switzerland

#1 CERVO Mountain Resort – Water Skiing and Wakeboarding

The CERVO Mountain Resort offers you that beach feeling in the middle of the mountains during the summer months with a water ski and wakeboard lift on Lake Schalisee in the neighbouring village of Täsch. The lift is electrically operated and is dismantled in the autumn.

Admittedly: Water-skiing and wake-boarding are not really sustainable water sports, as they are transported by motorboat or electric lift. This is primarily a summer tourist attraction.

At the Shabby Yummy Cantina, right on the lake, you can treat yourself to delicious shali fries with truffle oil and parmesan and other Mediterranean snacks.

Opening times summer 2024: from 8 June 11.00 to 17.30 (closed in bad weather)

Giving up motorised water sports in favour of sustainability?

Finally, we would like to know your opinion: should motorised water sports such as jet skis and speedboats be allowed to continue or should they be banned altogether?

The article is an update from 22 February 2022.

Save this article for your next water sports trip!

Der Beitrag Sustainable and environmentally friendly water sports erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Why is sleep so important for us?

Sleeping is great – and vital! Animals and humans need to sleep to survive. During this time, our mind and body recover, our pulse rate changes and our breathing rate and blood pressure drop. Healthy and good sleep is the prerequisite for being fit and efficient the next day. It also serves as a defense against pathogens, as our immune system works at full speed at night.

Sleep tourism as a new trend

For many years, in fact since the beginning of the grand hotels, hotels have stood for exceptional sleeping comfort. Hotel beds are of the highest quality and hotel bed brands such as Hästens are considered to be the best in the world.

With the increased health awareness of recent years, many hotels have promoted sleeping comfort in particular and further expanded it with sleep coaches or electrosmog shielding. In 2022, there was a much-noticed CNN article proclaiming sleep tourism as a new trend. In 2024, Booking.com determined the following in a global survey on travel trends in 2024:

• 67 percent of all travelers want to relax on vacation
• 65 percent of travelers interested in a retreat would choose a sleep retreat

Sleep and mindfulness

When you are mindful of yourself, you take sustainable action for your well-being. Mindfulness requires you to focus your awareness and attention on the present moment, without judgment. Calm down, leave everyday life behind and be open to new experiences. This also includes restful sleep.

Hästens beds – the most expensive beds in the world, but are they also sustainable?

We have been following the Swedish brand Hästens for a long time. It is known for producing the most expensive beds in the world by hand. Not only members of the Swedish royal family and stars such as rapper Drake, Angelina Jolie and Gwen Stefani sleep on these beds – Hästens beds are also available for guests in many hotels.

The price of a Hästens bed can make your head spin. A “normal” model costs around 10,000 euros and there are no upper limits. (The “Grand Vidus” model, for example, costs almost 600,000 euros)

The special feature of Hästens beds is a mattress filling made from hand-plucked horsehair. In addition, the handles and bed edges are made of high-quality leather and are handcrafted in Sweden.

Are Hästens beds sustainable?

Hästens beds can be considered sustainable for the following reasons:

1. Extremely high quality and therefore very durable
2. Only natural materials are used. However, these are not vegan.
3. According to the company, it has been committed to ecological and sustainable production since it was founded in 1852.
4. Fair working conditions in a Swedish craft and family business

Less sustainable is the hype and the fact that some of the beds are sent halfway around the world. In concrete terms, this means that if there are Hästens beds in a Scandinavian or European hotel, this can be considered sustainable; however, if you find these beds in the USA or Dubai, this has hardly anything to do with sustainability, but simply means luxury and prestige!

Another note is that Hästens beds are not vegan. In our opinion, the most interesting Hästens alternative for vegans is COCO-MAT. (You can read more about this below).

Hästens beds at CERVO Mountain Resort

“Each of the 54 rooms and suites has a handmade Hästens bed,” reports the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. For even more sleeping comfort, there is also the “pillow menu”. Swiss stone pine pillows, tempura pillows or millet pillows – the choice is yours. The furnishings made of natural, sustainable materials and warm colors contribute to relaxation.

Mattresses with horsehair from Plana Ladina

Not from Hästens but also filled with horsehair are the mattresses from the Italian hotel outfitter Plana Ladina. You can lie on these mattresses in the OLM Nature Escape. The circular aparthotel in South Tyrol only opened this year and sets standards in terms of both comfort and sustainability. The entire complex is powered by self-generated green electricity. “The praise from guests is great,” the owners tell us about their beds.

COCO-MAT – Vegan beds made from coconut fibers

COCO-MAT was founded in Athens in 1989 and had the idea of producing high-quality beds from 100% natural materials from the very beginning. The bed systems are made by hand using solar energy and are 96% recyclable. COCO-MAT uses coconut fibers from coconut shells as well as natural rubber or seagrass as materials. Most of the beds are completely vegan, although the company also offers some animal-based products, such as toppers made from down. Another sustainability plus is that COCO-MAT bed systems can also be combined with bed systems from other manufacturers.

COCO-MAT in sustainable hotels

Many sustainable hotels and accommodations have opted for COCO-MAT because it is not only sustainable, but also meets the comfort requirements of luxury accommodation. You can see how many hotels use this brand’s bed systems on the manufacturer’s website.

Relax on the Baltic Sea at the SAND Lifestylehotel

The SAND Lifestylehotel is located in a very quiet second row on Timmendorfer Strand. It is part of the adults-only hotel’s concept to support sustainable companies and products. You sleep on COCO-MAT mattresses and also have a pillow menu to choose from. Soundproof doors and a harmonious and consistent color concept, natural materials and lavender pillows help you drift off into your dream world.

And when you wake up in the morning, in a good mood, refreshed and well-rested, you can stay in bed for a while longer, as breakfast is available for late risers until 1 p.m. 🙂

Enjoy nature at Gut Sonnenhausen

Gut Sonnenhausen is located near Munich, surrounded by gardens that are cultivated according to the principles of permaculture. Here, too, you sleep in COCO-MAT beds and wake up with a view of the nature reserve.

Health vacation at the Océano Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife

“Healthy sleep is an important part of our health concept,” says the Océano Health Spa Hotel on the Canary Island of Tenerife. The hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean and offers yoga, fitness and spa programs. When selecting the COCO-MAT beds, it was also important to them that the mattresses are metal-free.

Sleeping without electrosmog

Another trend we are seeing is hotel rooms that are shielded from electrosmog. This should also help you to sleep more relaxed and healthier. This is possible, for example, in the new natural rooms at the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol. The rooms are made entirely from natural materials and the wood comes directly from the hotel’s own forest. If you wish, you can shield yourself from 95 percent of electromagnetic radiation in the rooms. All you have to do is press a button.

At the Paris city hotel Le Pavillon, you also have the option of booking a room shielded against electrosmog. Although the hotel is located directly in the central and lively 7th district, alternative technologies have been used to ensure that there is revitalized water, specially filtered room air and the aforementioned shielding. So you’ll get a great night’s sleep even in the middle of the city.

Comfortable sleep in the Allgäu

In the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Balderschwang, the smallest town in Bavaria, which is holistically geared towards regeneration and renewal, you will find sustainably produced box-spring beds in all rooms. The box-spring beds are made by Dr. Frank Markmann and are made in Germany. The bed linen and pillows from Dr. Metz are also 100% ecological and particularly suitable for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

Orthopaedic mattress systems at the nature resort

At Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance, it is also important to the owners that the beds are suitable for allergy sufferers. For this reason, they have switched to blankets and pillows made from synthetic fibers. However, classic feather pillows and blankets are still available in the vacation apartments.

Down comforters and lambskins at Gut Guntrams

Gut Guntrams, on the other hand, still uses natural animal products. The comforters in the futuristic garden lofts are filled with down feathers, and there are also lambskin comforters for the cold season. “We only buy down products from certified farms,” say the owners. This means: down without live plucking. The mattresses are eco cold foam mattresses.

Swiss stone pine pillows at Hotel Das Rübezahl

Thanks to its essential oils, Swiss stone pine wood is said to have a calming and sleep-promoting effect. You can find out more about this in our blog post about Swiss stone pine wood.

Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu has a Swiss stone pine spa and premium suites with a private sauna made of Swiss stone pine. You can relax here on long walks and hiking tours in the natural surroundings of the royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau and in the evening you can lie down on your favorite pillow from the pillow menu. The most popular pillow among guests is – surprise – the Swiss stone pine pillow 🙂

Sleep peacefully in the Swiss stone pine suite at Naturhotel Outside

If you dream of spending the night in a room made entirely of Swiss stone pine, you can do so at the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol. The Swiss stone pine suite also has a solid Swiss stone pine bed (180 x 200 cm) with a pocket spring mattress and allergy-friendly bed linen.

The hotel is located in the Hohe Tauern National Park and is therefore also ideal for sleep tourism. The hotel itself would probably describe itself more as a hiking hotel. But when do you sleep better than after a long hike in the fresh mountain air?

Mattress recycling

Finally, we would like to address an important point about the end of a mattress’s life. Because even the best and most expensive mattress suffers from material fatigue at some point (after 15 years in the case of premium mattresses).

According to mattress manufacturer SWISSFEEL, 35 to 40 million mattresses are thrown away every year in Europe alone. To counteract this environmental impact and waste of resources, SWISSFEEL takes back its mattresses at the end of their service life and works with its partners to ensure that they are recycled as insulation material.

Our Green Pearls® partner SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA uses the washable and recyclable SWISSFEEL mattresses in its new Circular Living rooms. This hotel room concept is all about ensuring that all materials used can be returned to the cycle.

Have we whetted your appetite for the many sleep offerings in the green pearls? Then good night! And as always, we await your reports.🧏🏼‍♀️ 

This is an update of our article from March 4, 2022

Read more: SUSTAINABLE GREEN PEARLS® HOTEL FOR A VACATION WITH A GOOD CONSCIENCE

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A Cràpa Mangia

The Campania estate in  A Cràpa Mangia in Castellabate is a perfect starting place. It is located on the Gulf of Salerno, among fruit and olive trees. The manor originates from the 17th century and has been renovated lovingly and sustainably by the current owners. You will find a total of nine apartments, each with a terrace and a spectacular view of the sea and an incredible sunset. Every sunset has been more beautiful than the other, and it was almost boring.

Castellabate – A small village with a long history in Campania

Castellabate is part of the province of Salerno and is part of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1998. The history goes back to the 11th century. The small town was once an important port for trade and seafaring. High up above sea level on top of a hill is the castle Castello dell’Abate. The castle originates from the 13th century and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Salerno.

The city has a distinctive medieval atmosphere due to the picturesque old town with its narrowcobbled streets and colorful houses. Along the coast you will find numerous opportunities for water sports, snorkeling, diving and sailing. The latter is also possible in winter.

Punta Licosa – Sunken City

The small island is in the Salerno Gulf, which geographically ends right here and is the first nature reserve of Cilento. Its bizarre rock formations still bear witness to the severe sea quake that submerged the mainland in the sea, along with the Greek town of “Leucosia”. The ancient streets, masonry, columns, tombs, city walls and ruins of former dwellings can be seen with the naked eye in the water.

How to reach Punta Licosa

From Castellabate the road leads you to San Marco. From there is a splendid hiking trail, the” Val lone Alto ” along the coast to ” Punta Licosa.”

Or you can make the hike from Oglaistro Marina through pine forests and past huge olives. For us, this path was a little more enjoyable because it takes you more through nature.

The southern coast to Acciaroli

The road along the sea is a must! The view is so spectacular that we kept stopping on the way there. It is the vastness of the sea along with this incredibly authentic nature and the small picturesque towns that kept us amazed.

Acciaroli is a sleepy coastal town surrounded by green hills and a crystal clear sea. The main attraction is the harbor with a beautiful piazza,   cafés, and bars. This part of Cilento has also been a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site since 1991. When we arrived, we had a coffee in a small café in the harbor with the sun shining brightly, and then walked on the harbor pier. The sculpted breakwaters are well worth seeing, each a piece of art in itself.

ACCIAROLI AND HEMINGWAY

Ernest Hemingway also stayed in this small town in the Cilento, Campania before his trip to Cuba. The heroic story of a fisherman he met while in Acciaroli inspired him to write his book “The Old Man and the Sea”. He loved the coast and was often a guest here.

Vatolla in the mountains

The mountain village of Vatolla is inland on a hill at 400 meters between Agropoli and Castellabate and seems like something out of a picture book. In the small village, almost everything revolves around the philosopher and writer Giambattista, who lived there as a student. If you feel like it, you can visit the museum dedicated to him.

Cipolla di Vatolla

The medieval mountain village is also renowned for its onions and the onion festival. Probably it was Basilian monks who brought the famous “Cipolla di Vatolla” from the Middle East to Cilento in the 7th century. The onion species is an Asian bulb of the lily family. The Mediterranean climate and location offer optimal conditions for this noble onion. It tastes sweet, and you can digest it extremely well. Moreover, it does not make your eyes water, and it is good for the cardiovascular system.

Vatolla is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One thing that particularly fascinated us was the incredible view of the sea, even from the mountain villages. This has always captivated us throughout our trip.

Please contact me anytime for more information, if you plan to travel to this beautiful region.

Do you want to save the travel inspiration for later? Then just pin one of the pictures on Pinterest!

Der Beitrag Traveling sustainably in Campania – Winter in Cilento Part 2 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Campania and Cilento

Campania is one of the most beautiful regions in southern Italy and is synonymous with miles of gorgeous beaches, delicious food and a rich history.  If you love nature, culture and good food, this is the place for you. The south in particular is known for its unspoiled nature, including the Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano, one of Italy’s largest natural parks with breathtaking landscapes, forests and crystal clear rivers. Here you can spend hours hiking, biking and observing wildlife.

The history is also fascinating. There’s so much to discover that you need to carefully consider what you would like to see. We divided the days among nature and culture and every now and then enjoyed the view of the sea in the bright sunshine at 20 degrees and allowed the many impressions to sink in.

Our cultural tips for Campania:

Elea-Velia

One of the most famous sights is the ancient Greek theater in Elea-Velia. The port city was once an important place for philosophy and science. Among others, the philosopher Parmenides taught here. Due to silting up, the town is now about a kilometer from the sea and is part of the modern coastal town of Ascea.

Paestum

Another highlight is the ancient city of Paestum. It houses three impressive temples dating back to the 6th century BC, which are among the best preserved Greek temples on the Italian mainland. The temples are an important part of the region’s history and a must-see for anyone who wants to explore the history and culture of Cilento.

Herculaneum

We chose not to visit Pompeii on this vacation and instead chose to visit Herculaneum. Herculaneum is better preserved than Pompeii, not as touristy and significantly smaller. The city was part of the Roman Empire and is known for its history, art and architecture.

The remains of the city lay undiscovered underground for several centuries until the first parts of the ancient city were discovered in 171O during excavation work in the area of Resina. The Bourbon King Charles III of Naples had systematic excavations carried out from 1738. Around 1942, a large part of the site that can be visited today was uncovered. In recent decades, research has been carried out mainly in the area of the ancient beach section. Since then, many interesting finds have been made, including dwellings, temples, theaters and baths, which paint a fascinating picture of life in the ancient city.

We were fascinated by the preserved murals and mosaics, which offer unique insights into the art of ancient Rome. The walls of the dwellings were often decorated with colorful paintings depicting landscapes, mythological scenes and other subjects.

Our tip: Take a local guide, then you can really immerse yourself in history

Naples – A city full of passion

The capital of Campania is known worldwide for its sights, delicious cuisine and colorful culture. The city on the Gulf of Naples has a turbulent past that dates back to ancient times.

This time we took a look at the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find many small churches, baroque palazzi, ancient residences and the largest church in Naples, the Cathedral of San Gennaro. It is famous for the annual masses for the so-called Miracle of the Blood. 

What is it all about? Every year on the feast day of the city’s patron saint, San Gennaro, the faithful gather in the cathedral hoping that the blood of the saint will liquefy in the vial. It means good luck for the city, if it stays out, it is considered a bad omen.

For my taste it was too crowded in the city center – despite winter – and I look forward next time to explore the quieter parts of the city such as Chiaia, Mergellina and of course the beautiful seafront.

Culinary Tip for Naples

A special highlight of the city is the culinary. Pizza, pasta or fresh seafood are just some of the delicacies you can enjoy here. Neapolitan cuisine is known for its simple but delicious preparation.

We ate at Locanda Veccio Gesu, run by three young Italians. Neapolitan cuisine at its best and not a bit touristy – highly recommended.

Whether enjoying Neapolitan cuisine, marveling at the artwork, or exploring Mount Vesuvius, Naples is most definitely an incomparable destination.

The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi – A picturesque coastal town in southern Italy

Of course, a visit to the famous Amalfi Coast could not be missed. The coastal road is scenic, but it is very narrow and if you are afraid of narrow roads, it is better to go by bus. Our destination is Amalfi, but the towns in between are also gorgeous and all lavishly decorated for Christmas.

Amalfi sits on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding mountains.

One of the most famous landmarks of Amalfi is the Amalfi Cathedral, built in the ninth century. You can reach it through the small alleys. The heart of the town is the Piazza del Popolo. We ordered a cappuccino in a small bar there and got carried away by the hustle and bustle.

Our tip: Be sure to try the Limoncello, which is made there from the Amalfi lemons.

 

Ravello

In the mountains but as always with that incomparable wide sea view is Ravello. What is there to see?

Villa Rufolo: An impressive 13th century villa with a breathtaking garden and a spectacular view of the sea.

Monastery of Sant’Antonio: A 12th century monastery that now serves as a museum and is an important venue for art and cultural events.

Piazza del Vescovado: The main square of Ravello with an 11th century church, a palace and a magnificent view of the sea.

Church of San Giovanni del Toro: A 12th century church with valuable mosaics and imposing architecture.

Belvedere Punta Paradiso: A viewpoint with a breathtaking view of the Amalfi Coast and the sea.

Ravello also hosts the annual Ravello Festival and Wagner Festival, where visitors can enjoy musical and theatrical performances in historic buildings.

For Positano, Capri and Ischia our time was simply not enough, but as they say, postponed is not canceled 🙂

The Amalfi Coast is definitely one of the most beautiful coasts of Italy, I personally like the coast south better, it is

Would you like to save this destination for your next vacation? Then simply save it to Pinterest!

Der Beitrag Insider Tip: Campania in Winter erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

What is moon wood?

The forest calendar considers the phases of the moon when harvesting moon wood. Wood harvested in this way is said to be particularly strong, longer lasting, harder, more resistant to cracking, and also fire and pest resistant. History of this wood goes back to the Celts. In Japan, you can find probably the oldest structure made of moon wood, which has defied the signs of time for 1600 years. 

A lunar year has 12 or 13 so-called sidereal months, i.e., 354 or 355 days. Thus, the lunar year is 11 or 12 days shorter than the solar year

Regional differences exist on the best time to cut a tree. In Austria, for example, trees are cut in winter when the moon wanes, just before the new

Facts check

Moon wood is costly and until now, there are different opinions about its quality. 

For example, the Department of Forestry Scientists at the Technical University of Dresden concluded that the phases of the moon have no influence on the quality of the wood. On the other hand, Professor Ernst Zürcher of the ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Forestry) certainly sees a connection between the characteristics of the wood and the felling time. We recommend this article if you would like to read more. 

The selection of correctly grown trees and harvesting at the right time, as well as the proper storage, drying and processing of the wood, contribute to a good quality. It has also been scientifically proven that wood harvested during certain lunar phases has a better protection against fungus, is less affected by insect infestation and is less combustible. Therefore, it is possible to do without glue and chemicals that are harmful to health.

That’s why you can find moon wood at the Green Pearls partners.

What Sigis Sauhaufen has in common with moon wood 

The family-owned Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld/Tyrol relied on the advantages of moon wood for the construction of their vegetarian farm in accordance with their philosophy THINK.YOUNIQUE®. Most of the building was constructed from moon-cut wood from the hotel’s own forest.

Incidentally, have you just paused and wondered what vegetarian farming is? It is the life dream of Alois Seyrling and a reminiscence of the last Seyrling farmer. It took 7 years to plan and build. The result is a petting zoo, a bee house, vegetable, and fruit cultivation and many animals—all under one roof in “Sigi’s pigsty”, as the Seyrlings humorously named their vegetarian farm remembering the last Seyrling farmer. 

Moon wood in the middle of Erlangen

You will find the Creativhotel Luise in the heart of Erlangen. Carbon-neutral since 2010 and now climate positive, it’s one of the pioneers of the sustainable hotel industry in Germany. And this was already the case when the hotel was founded by Klaus Förtsch in the 1990s. Ben Förtsch took over the hotel at the change of generations in 2014. Since then, he has been consistently developing it in line with the family’s sustainable philosophy ever since.

Klaus Förtsch always wanted to use moon wood, but was unable to due to a lack of space. This was found when Ben decided to renovate the hotel. In honor and memory of his father, the facade was clad with three trunks of moon wood. The three trunks symbolize the three generations of the Förtsch family. By the way, not only the moon wood is an eye-catcher, but also the large tree on the roof terrace with a view over Erlangen.

Vegan with Moon wood  

Vegan is a culinary philosophy for you? Far from it! Vegan is a lifestyle that is more than plant-based nutrition, and applies to all areas of life. If you want to have a positive impact on the welfare of animals, you look to avoid using animal products in other areas of your life as well. At the holistic vegan La Vimea in South Tyrol, everything is vegan and sustainable, all products from the kitchen, the architecture, the furniture and the entire lifestyle. The furniture is handmade from local larch trees cut according to the lunar calendar.

The hotel’s philosophy is to act as resourcefully as possible and agreeing nature. 

What do you think about moon wood, is it something for you or not? We greatly appreciate your suggestions.

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Der Beitrag Moon wood and its connection to sustainability erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Among the most important things include seasonality, regionality, and reducing animal ingredients. Also paying attention to where our food comes from, whether it is organic and what transportation routes it takes is part of it. By the way, reducing animal products doesn’t just mean consuming less meat, but buying less animal foods overall, such as milk, eggs, and cheese. In this way, everyone contributes to more climate protection.

Facts about food waste

Did you also know that Germans produce 82 kg of food waste per year and for each person? In other words, every eighth piece of food ends up in the garbage can. Worldwide, about one-third of all food is thrown away. This is alarming, and especially in the current situation with the global shortage of grain and other foodstuffs due to the war in Ukraine, we are challenged to act differently. This is also an important issue when traveling. We asked our green pearls what is typical of their region, how they buy and cook, and what they don’t want to do without.

Local food with own label “Adler Regional Partner

The hosts at the ADLER Lodge in Ritten are keen to introduce their guests to the uniqueness of South Tyrol, also from a culinary perspective. All the products are solely regional and are manufactured according to ecological principles. The ADLER Lodge labels products from the region with its own “Adler Regional Partner” seal. One such partner is Harald Gasser, who, high above the Eisack Valley, has breathed new life into more than 400 already almost forgotten vegetable varieties. Thus, on the ADLER’s menu you will find, among other things, primeval carrots, radishes as you surely don’t know them or lucky clover.

Together with the kitchen team and the cheese dairy Hof zu Fall (Siusi) the natural and aromatic mountain cheese has been developed. Milk for it is provided by the typical South Tyrolean gray cows, which of course graze on the neighboring lush meadows beneath the Sciliar. The organic wheat and spelled for the homemade bread and delicious croissants grow directly in the Val d’Orcia about five minutes from the ADLER Thermae and are traditionally ground in the artisan stone mill Mulino d’Orcia. Among Tuscan guests, the bread now enjoys a legendary reputation.

The hosts of ADLER Lodge RITTEN are committed to supporting small and medium-sized producers who rely on organic farming. The excellent products that are allowed to bear the quality seal also include different types of fruit as well as crunchy cabbage vegetables from Val Venosta (VI.P Coop), ADLER tea blends from organic herb cultivation (Pflegerhof), but also meat from Wagyu cattle (Oberweidacherhof). There are also 100% products from Tuscany such as organic honey varieties, ancient and revitalized cereals and legumes. Also on the menu are the rare and environmentally friendly planted chickpeas, as well as cheeses and meats. And not to forget: the wines, the extra virgin olive oil and the aromatic Agrodolce vinegar from their own tenuta. The hosts personally know all the producers, and a lively exchange guarantees many thrilling new developments.

Recommendations/recipe tips from chef Hannes Pignater

Hannes has picked out two regional products with suitable recipes for you to try:

Juniper: In my opinion, juniper provides an aroma which best represents the taste of our forests and mountains. It grows wild, the berries are used to flavor broths, sauces and marinades, the branches are used for smoking. The ripening period of the berries is three years.

My recipe for juniper salt:

• 200 g salt
• 2 tablespoons of juniper berries
• Mountain thyme to taste

Heat the thyme of a pan and brown it slightly, then add it to the salt and juniper and puree everything in a blender.

Spread the flavored salt on a baking sheet and let it dry for a day.

The salt can be used to season salads, meat or vegetables.

Wild garlic:Wild garlic grows wild near the ruscielli in the spring. It has a strong flavor of cippollina grass and garlic and is great with asparagus, grilled meats and fish or as a pesto for a pasta dish.

My recipe for wild garlic pesto:

• A bunch of wild garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• salt
• pepper
• roasted sunflower seeds
• sunflower oil

Blend everything to obtain a thick and tasty pesto. The dosage should be adjusted to personal taste. If the taste of the wild garlic is too strong, you can mix it with parsley.

We wish you good luck!

 

All the green pearls are united in their emphasis on climate-friendly culinary arts 

The Hotel Das Rübezahl in Schwangau in the Allgäu Vis-à-Vis of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle focuses with its in-house restaurant Gams & Gloria on unique alpine taste experiences. Let yourself be surprised by a twist of international and local cuisine. Dishes such as “Mountain pine dashi kisses Allgäu chamois ham” or even “Alpine herbs meets whitefish sashimi” represent a new and distinctive Alpine cuisine for the host family Thurm—international, surprising and local. The focus of both in house restaurants is on regionality and seasonality.

The kitchen of the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio stands for regionality of the Allgäu. In addition to the gourmet menu, the guests can select from a classic menu with specialties from the Allgäu region. It features regional classics such as Kässpätzle, Kraft broth and sous vide cooked steaks exclusively from the Allgäu region with a variety of sauces and side dishes.

The Berghotel Rehlegg in Ramsau also focuses on regional foods directly from the producer.

Which regional ingredients should not be missing in your kitchen? And what do you look for when shopping

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Der Beitrag Regional plus seasonal equals sustainable: Local food to enhance sustainability when traveling erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.