This article shows you:

• a selection of 7 travel regions in Germany that offer conditions for more environmentally conscious tourism and highlight local sustainability initiatives
• accommodation options that, according to their own information, implement resource-saving measures (e.g. energy efficiency, regional sourcing, or environmental certifications)
• options for lower-emission travel and mobility, such as rail connections, public transport, or cycling infrastructure
• aspects related to nature conservation and biodiversity that are relevant in the respective regions
• practical tips on how small changes in travel behavior can help reduce environmental impact 

Travel destinations in Germany with a focus on sustainability

#1 Wadden Sea – ideal for families with children

The German side of the Wadden Sea is one of Germany’s most unique regions. This UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site is a true natural wonder (though it is already suffering from the effects of climate change, as we explore in detail in this blog post “The Wadden Sea in Danger?”).

The tides are fascinating. Twice a day, the North Sea recedes at low tide, exposing the seabed. A few hours later, the sea floods the area again. You can take advantage of this time to go on a guided tour of the mudflats. The tour involves wading through the mud in rubber boots and digging up crabs, mussels, worms, and other sea creatures, as well as birdwatching. The Wadden Sea is actually a vast feeding ground for migratory birds. This activity is enjoyable for all ages. But most of all, it’s fun for children. Therefore, we highly recommend the Wadden Sea as a vacation destination for families.

Important: Always go on mudflat hikes with experienced guides. They know the tides and the dangers of the incoming tide, so you can enjoy the excursion without worry. The guides will also explain the unique flora and fauna of this one-of-a-kind ecosystem.

Car-free Juist Island in the Wadden Sea – Ideal for Families with Children

The East Frisian island of Juist aims to be climate-neutral by 2030. The best way to reach the island is by train. From the Norddeich Mole train station, it’s just a short walk to the Frisia ferry terminal. Since cars are not allowed on the island, visitors can relax, even those with small children!

Overview: Juist

• Best time to visit: June to September
• Sustainability: The Wadden Sea region (Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands) has agreed on a joint climate goal and aims to be carbon-neutral by 2030.
• Siegel: UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site

Things to do:

• Rent a beach chair
• Bring a bike or handcart (allowed on the ferry)
• Bring binoculars (to watch birds and seals)

Sleepy, romantic Husum – the North Sea for adults

If you want to experience the Wadden Sea but are traveling without children, we recommend Husum. This small port town in North Frisia is charming, laid-back, and not yet overrun by tourists. Around the historic inland harbor, with its colorful houses, small shops, and cafés, you can fully savor the North German way of life.

For accommodation, we recommend the SANDglow – an adults-only boutique hotel (ages 16 and up) just a few steps from the harbor. After a day at the sea or a coastal bike tour on bamboo e-bikes, relax in the small wellness area or with a drink at the bar. Mudflat tours start nearby at the Husum National Park House.

Overview: Husum

• Best time to visit: April through October
• Sustainability: SANDglow is a Green PearlsⓇ partner and implements numerous sustainability measures, e.g., 100% green electricity, breakfast featuring regional organic products, waste reduction, sustainable amenities, etc.

Things to do:

• Mudflat hike with a guide from the Husum National Park Center
• Bike tour along the North Frisian dikes (MyBoo bikes are available for rent at the hotel)

Be careful with fish sandwiches & co: North Sea shrimp and fish platters are a staple of many North Sea vacations. Unfortunately, however, you can no longer—or should no longer—eat everything without hesitation. Did you know, for example, that eel is just as endangered as the African rhino? Here you can find out how to experience North Sea cuisine sustainably.

Also controversial: kitesurfing. Several protected zones for migratory birds have already been established, but NABU believes this doesn’t go far enough. Learn more here about whether kitesurfing on the Baltic and North Seas is a problem.

#2 Baltic Sea – A Getaway with a Focus on Sustainability in Timmendorfer Strand

The Baltic Sea is also one of the most popular travel destinations in Germany. Sandy beaches, cliffs, fresh sea air, and a wide horizon make the coast an ideal place for a short getaway in any season.

A particularly beautiful seaside resort is Timmendorfer Strand on the Holstein Baltic Sea coast. Here you can stroll along the long beach promenade, relax in a beach chair, or let your gaze wander over the Baltic Sea during walks by the water.

It’s worth staying at the Green Pearls® Lifestylehotel SANDnature. This adults-only hotel (ages 16 and up) is located just a stone’s throw from the beach and combines modern design with natural materials and a relaxed beach atmosphere. Thanks to the late-riser breakfast served until 1:00 PM, you can start your day completely relaxed. Another highlight is the sauna on the rooftop terrace, which you can rent exclusively.

Overview: Baltic Sea

• Best time to visit: All year round; from around May to September is peak season on the Baltic Sea and it can get quite crowded. However, the weather is perfect for beach days then! If you prefer it quieter, we highly recommend fall and winter. The brisk breeze clears your head, and long, solitary walks by the sea give you time to reflect.
• Sustainability: Room for improvement! Due to its inland location, the Baltic Sea is considered one of the most polluted seas. Plans for a specific “Baltic Sea National Park” in Schleswig-Holstein were halted in 2024 and replaced by an action plan for marine protection. The plan includes 16 concrete measures to be implemented by 2030, e.g., protected areas, promotion of biodiversity, waste prevention, etc.
• Label: Limited to individual initiatives and accommodations (e.g., with the PartnEU EcoLabel)

However, there have been no real successes reported yet. Intensive conventional agriculture in Germany and neighboring countries is considered the main cause of nutrient pollution (nitrogen and phosphorus) in the Baltic Sea. These nutrients enter the sea via rivers, leading to eutrophication and the formation of oxygen-depleted “dead zones.” SANDnature is actively involved in local initiatives, such as the protection of porpoises, whose population has declined drastically.

Here’s what you should do:

• Take a walk along the Timmendorfer Strand boardwalk
• Rent a beach chair and enjoy the Baltic Sea horizon
• Bike tour along the coast
• Trip to the fishing port in neighboring Niendorf

Tip: If you want to experience something special, you can spend the night under the open sky in the beach chair bed on the rooftop terrace of the SANDnature Hotel and watch the starry sky over the Baltic Sea.

#3 Black Forest – Perfect for Health and Wellness

The Black Forest is Germany’s largest contiguous low mountain range and, thanks to the national park (approx. 10,000 hectares) and many other protected areas, offers one thing above all else—pure nature.

As is well known, the German forest plays an important role in the Grimm’s Fairy Tales, for which the dense and dark Black Forest is considered the source of inspiration! There are also rivers, lakes, moors, and thermal baths. The region is ideal for hiking, cycling (e-bikes are very popular due to the mountains), and cross-country skiing in winter.

The Sustainable Spa Town of Bad Herrenalb

In Bad Herrenalb, located in the northern Black Forest, there is a strong focus on environmental and climate protection. No wonder, since the town is officially recognized as a climatic health resort. The fresh, clean air combined with the forest lets you relax and unwind. So be sure to try a forest bathing session when you’re there!

For accommodations, we recommend the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA or the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA APPARTMENTS. In addition to the panoramic views that give it its name, this wellness hotel offers a spacious spa area with an on-site panoramic thermal bath and saunas, as well as a wellness center featuring alkaline fasting, yoga, and TCM therapies. Perfect for escaping the daily grind.

Overview: Bad Herrenalb

• Best time to visit: All year round
• Sustainability: Many nature reserves and plenty of opportunities to rent e-bikes. Well-developed network of e-charging stations.
• Certifications: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (in the Southern Black Forest); Bad Herrenalb in the Northern Black Forest is recognized as a climatic health resort, spa town, sustainable travel destination, and Fairtrade Town.

Things to do:

• Drink healing water from the Bad Herrenalb drinking pavilion
• Rent an e-bike or use public transportation for free with the KONUS guest card
• Forest bathing
• Bring a fairy tale to read (e.g., The Cold Heart by Wilhelm Hauff)
• Buy a “Made in the Black Forest” cuckoo clock (if you can spend around 400 euros on such a hand-carved souvenir)

Freiburg – a more sustainable city break in the Black Forest

If you’d like to combine your Black Forest vacation with a city break, Freiburg im Breisgau is our top choice. This sunny university town is considered one of Germany’s greenest cities and combines a historic old town with sustainable urban development. The short distances to nature are an added bonus.

Particularly exciting is the car-free Vauban district, a flagship project for sustainable living with plenty of green space, solar energy, and direct tram connections. This is also where our hotel recommendation is located. At the inclusive Green City Hotel Vauban, people with and without disabilities work together, and sustainability is just as much a part of the concept as modern design and good connections to downtown and the Black Forest (you’ll receive a ticket with your stay to use public transportation for free).

Overview: Freiburg

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for sightseeing, trips to the Black Forest, and the vineyards in mild temperatures. Summer is the season for beer gardens and wine festivals, and in winter there’s a Christmas market.
• Sustainability: The city is known as “Green City Freiburg” and serves as a true role model with various environmental initiatives.
• Certifications: Freiburg awards a number of its own certifications, such as the MobilSiegel, which recognizes companies for sustainable mobility (for their employees) (e.g., Jobrad, Jobticket, etc.)

Here’s what you should do:

• Take the Schauinsland cable car up Freiburg’s local mountain
• Stroll through Freiburg’s Old Town and along the Bächle
• Get ready with this blog post: Tips for a more sustainable weekend in Freiburg

Here you’ll find more tips on more sustainable travel in the Black Forest

#4 UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Rhön – Hiker’s Paradise

Some animal species, such as the capercaillie, have already gone extinct in the Rhön—but fortunately, action was taken in time. With its designation as a biosphere reserve, the entire region is now committed to safeguarding biodiversity. In addition to protecting the environment, biosphere reserves incorporate key economic sectors, with tourism being a prime example. If you’re looking for an example of sustainable vacationing in Germany, a biosphere reserve is the perfect place.

The STURM was the first certified organic hotel in the Rhön. It treats its guests exclusively to certified organic food and sees itself as part of the Slow Food movement. Here, you can relax at the Rhön Spa or explore nature as an active traveler on the many hiking trails. The low mountain range also offers the perfect backdrop for mountain biking.

The Rhön is one of the few regions in Europe designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve (Star Park). Thanks to exceptionally low light pollution, you can experience an impressive starry sky here.

Overview: Rhön

• Best time to visit: Year-round when the weather is nice and in winter when there is snow
• Sustainability: Many areas are designated as light-protected zones. This helps protect insects, as artificial light disrupts their natural flight patterns. (Insects navigate by the moon and stars)
• Certification: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Things to do:

• Stargazing in the Star Park
• Visit the two raised bogs, Schwarzes Moor and Rotes Moor (there is a nature trail on wooden planks for each)
• Take a day hike on the “Michelsberg” premium hiking trail.

#5 Bavaria – Alps, Lakes, and Sustainable Hideaways

Although part of the Rhön region is in Bavaria, the state has many other impressive natural areas. The Allgäu region is particularly popular for its Alpine panoramas, green meadows, and famous royal castles, such as Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau.

Overlooking Neuschwanstein Castle is the romantic, family-run Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen. This wellness hotel is known for its special atmosphere (Psst: marriage proposals are one of the house specialties). The hotel also includes two mountain huts, which you can reach, for example, on guided hikes with mountain guide “Berg Baschdi.”

Another highlight is the Berchtesgadener Land with the emerald-green Königssee and an impressive Alpine landscape. Here we recommend the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain. This wellness hotel features a spectacular indoor pool with a view of a crackling fireplace and a wellness center. And by the way, the hotel is also highly recommended for babymoon vacations.

If you’d also like to experience Bavaria culturally, a detour to the cities is well worth it. Near Munich lies Gut Sonnenhausen, a lovingly restored estate surrounded by nature. Events are held here regularly (e.g., permaculture garden tours, knife sharpening, art auctions, and concerts)

Erlangen is also a city that offers options for more sustainable travel. At Hotel Luise, the “Wall of Change” in the lobby showcases over 250 measures the hotel has implemented to promote sustainability—from the “Renewable Hotel Room®” and a microforest to water-saving “astronaut showers.”

Overview: Bavaria

• Best time to visit: All year round – hiking and cycling in summer, winter sports in the Alps in winter.
• Sustainability: In the Berchtesgadener Land region in particular, the focus is on protecting alpine nature. Many towns prioritize eco-friendly transportation and well-developed hiking and biking trails. Erlangen is also considered a very bike-friendly city.
• Certifications: Bavaria has several sustainability initiatives, including Der Blaue Gockel for sustainable vacation farms, as well as green tourism certifications such as TourCert and sustainable hotels from the Green Pearls® Network.

Here’s what you should do:

• See Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle, at least from the outside
• Hike in the Allgäu Alps or to one of the Rübezahl mountain huts
• Take a boat ride on Lake Königssee (the lake in Berchtesgaden National Park is navigated exclusively by electric boats, rowboats, or pedal boats)

Find more inspiration in the following blog posts

• Sustainable Travel in the Realm of the Watzmann (Berchtesgadener Land)
• A Culinary Journey to the Allgäu
• Interview with Hiking Guide Berg-Baschdi (Allgäu)
• Insider Tips for a Sustainable Weekend in Erlangen

 

#6 Lake Constance – Flowers and Water Sports

Lake Constance, stretching over 60 kilometers across the Alpine foothills between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, is a well-known and popular vacation destination. This vast lake is ideal for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). However, you don’t need to buy equipment specifically for a vacation or a first-time try. It’s more sustainable to use one of the many rental services.

To reconcile water sports with nature conservation, the state government of Baden-Württemberg has created this PDF document on nature sports on Lake Constance. These measures include the designation of special protected areas.

For accommodations (not directly on the lake, but surrounded by a forest and apple orchards), consider the Naturresort Gerbehof. This organic hotel has received multiple awards for its ecologically managed wellness area. It offers unique massages, such as stress-relief massages based on the Philippi method, and treatments with natural cosmetics, including products from PHARMOS NATUR.

The Lake Constance Cycle Route is also particularly popular: approximately 260 kilometers circle the lake and connect Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—perfect for sustainable cycling trips. A trip to the famous flower island of Mainau is also an absolute highlight in almost every season. But in the spring, the island totally captivates visitors with a sea of tulips and other early bloomers.

Overview: Lake Constance

• Best time to visit: May to September
• Sustainability: For over 25 years, the Lake Constance Foundation has been committed to sustainability. For example, it launched Ecocamping, which now includes over 200 campsites. Here, you can not only vacation with a tent or RV but also rent accommodations.
• Certification: The ECHT certification, developed by Deutsche Bodensee Tourismus GmbH, is relatively new. A key feature is the ECHT Bodenseecard, which allows you to use local public transportation for free and receive discounts on cultural events.

Things to do:

• Buy fruit directly at the farm stand. The Lake Constance region is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Europe.
• Help clean up Lake Constance’s beaches with CleanUp. (Reusable trash bags and tongs are available at numerous distribution points)
• Take a ride on the solar-powered boat HELIO
• Take a trip to the flower island of Mainau

#7 Moselle – Vineyards, Castles, and River Landscapes

The Moselle is one of Germany’s most romantic river landscapes. The river winds its way through steep vineyards, past medieval castles, palaces, and small wine-growing villages. Cycling and hiking tours along the Moselle riverbank are particularly popular, offering magnificent views of the vineyards.

One of the most famous vacation spots is the picturesque Bernkastel-Kues with its historic old town, half-timbered houses, and cozy wine taverns. Here you’ll also find the Green Pearls® partner Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten. The wellness hotel is designed according to Feng Shui principles and is considered a place of power in its own right, with a harmonious flow of energy. In addition to various pools, saunas, and water features, the resort also features an integrated TCM center that combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern wellness offerings.

Overview: Moselle Region

• Best time to visit: May through October, especially beautiful during the autumn grape harvest.
• Sustainability: The Moselle region is increasingly focusing on sustainability, particularly through sustainable tourism (hiking, cycling), a well-developed public transit system, ecological viticulture, and regional energy concepts (some municipalities, for example, run on 100% wind energy)
• Certification: As part of the Rhineland-Palatinate tourism strategy, the Moselle region has been recognized as a “sustainable destination.”

Things to do:

• Stroll through the old town of Bernkastel-Kues
• Bike ride along the Moselle Cycle Route
• Hike through the vineyards

Small things with a big impact – how to make your vacation in Germany more sustainable

• Traveling by train or long-distance bus: As determined by the Federal Environment Agency, trains and buses (long-distance buses) are the most eco-friendly ways to travel.
• Sustainable accommodations: You can find the complete list of Green PearlsⓇ accommodations, vacation homes, hotels, and destinations in Germany on the linked page.
• Use the Refill app: Bring a water bottle with you on vacation and refill it for free at Refill stations along the way. This way, you protect the environment, the climate, and your wallet 🙂
• Shop locally: You can buy regional products at farm stands and weekly markets; if you bring your own bags, you can even buy them unpackaged!
• Keep your distance from wildlife: Respect nature while on vacation and follow the rules of nature reserves during your excursions. For example, wild birds and animals must not be fed.

This is an update from February 3, 2023

Your next destination is Germany? Then save this article for later by pinning it to your pinterest boards.

Der Beitrag More sustainable Travel in Germany – Destinations and Travel Tips (Green Travel Guide) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

This very change is what makes the Black Forest so special. Here, you will find a fairy-tale setting of dense forests shrouded in mist, steeped in ancient myths and legends. Yet, the Black Forest also represents modern ways of experiencing the forest and gentle tourism.

In this destination guide, we take you to the Black Forest. We share its stories, showcase sustainable accommodations and unique destinations, and provide inspiration for a trip that blends nature, culture, and the future.

The dark forest that gives birth to stories

For the Romans, it was a place of the unknown. They called it the “Silva Nigra” – the dark forest. Densely packed fir and spruce trees allowed hardly any light to reach the ground, fog hung between the trunks, and sounds were lost in the thicket. The forest seemed threatening. But that’s precisely why it was so fascinating. Where there is no light, the imagination runs wild.

Darkness has always been a breeding ground for stories. For myths, fairy tales, and legends. Thus, the Black Forest became a projection screen for fears and desires, evil and good spirits, temptation and morality. No wonder so many stories originate here.

My recommendation: Watch The Cold Heart to get in the mood

When preparing for a trip to the Black Forest, I don’t start with travel guides, maps, or hotel reservations. I start with stories. One of these stories is the 1950 fairy tale film “The Cold Heart”, based on a story by Wilhelm Hauff.

Set in the Black Forest, the story follows Peter Munk, a poor charcoal burner who trades his heart for wealth and receives a heart of stone in return. It’s a story about greed and blindness that asks what really matters. And it could hardly be set in a more fitting place.

“The Cold Heart” is just one example of the many cinematic portrayals of the Black Forest. From “The Black Forest Queen” to “The Black Forest Clinic,” the forest has repeatedly served as a backdrop for grand emotions, conflicts, and transformations. The fairy tales we all know go even deeper: Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, and Snow White.

Though the Brothers Grimm did not write their stories in the Black Forest, the area is inextricably linked to them in terms of atmosphere. A dark forest that swallows everything—and, at the same time, presents challenges that help people grow.

Would you like to know how I’m further preparing for the Black Forest?

Exactly! While we watch The Cold Heart with the family, we eat—as you might have guessed—a Black Forest cake that we baked beforehand.🙂

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Black Forest cake – a piece of forest history on your plate

The Black Forest cake is much more than just a dessert. It symbolizes abundance, indulgence, and a touch of excess. According to Wikipedia, it is Germany’s most popular cake, and its reputation has spread around the world. I have encountered it in the USA and in Jerusalem as “Black Forest Cake,” each time with a slightly different interpretation, but always with the promise of sumptuous enjoyment.

The original recipe (over 100 years old) is anything but modest, calling for six eggs, a liter of cream, chocolate, cherries, and cherry brandy. This is the exact recipe that SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb sent us. I recreated the cake almost exactly, only without the alcohol.

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The animal and plant world as a backdrop for a fairy tale

The Black Forest is home to the creatures we know from stories. Deer and stags symbolize gentleness and strength; wolves symbolize danger and freedom; while foxes symbolize cunning. Ravens are considered clever and mysterious, whereas the cuckoo is the forest’s messenger, announcing the time and seasons. These animals are part of an ecosystem, yet they also represent archetypes that have shaped our imagination for centuries.

The richness of the forest — and the moment of crisis

In the fairy tale, Peter Munk eventually realizes where the wealth truly originates. The forest. Michel, the evil Dutchman from the fairy tale, whispers: “Take the wood. Bring it to Holland. There is gold there.” What sounds like a fairy-tale temptation was reality in the Black Forest for a long time.

The Black Forest as an economic factor: When wood turned to gold

Wood had become the most important economic factor in the region by the 18th century at the latest. Iron and glassworks, charcoal kilns, and ore mining consumed enormous quantities of wood: up to 40 cubic meters were needed to produce a single ton of iron. Medium-sized glassworks burned thousands of cubic meters every year. Huge fir trees were tied together to form massive rafts that floated down the Enz, Murg, or Kinzig rivers into the Rhine and all the way to Amsterdam. There, Black Forest fir trees formed the foundation of ships and entire cities. They were known as Dutch fir trees for a long time, and not without reason.

The price for this wealth was high. The Black Forest was cleared. Even cattle were driven into the forest due to a lack of pasture, where they trampled and ate the young trees.

By the end of the 18th century, much of the Black Forest consisted of only grassland and scrubland. In some places, the forest area shrank to barely ten percent. The forest was facing ruin — as were the livelihoods of the people.

The forest on the brink, and a slow shift in mindset

At the beginning of the 19th century, there was a reversal of policy. From then on, timber could only be harvested in a way that ensured the forest’s availability for future generations. Large-scale reforestation programs began. Due to its rapid growth and economic benefits, spruce was the primary choice for a long time. The forest grew, but it became monotonous and vulnerable. When Hurricane Lothar struck in 1999, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake, the vulnerability of this lack of diversity became apparent.

Today, the Black Forest is undergoing another transformation—this time in a more conscious manner. Mixed forests are becoming more important, with beech trees making a particular comeback. This increases the forest’s resistance to drought, wind, and pests while making it more diverse and vibrant. Thus, the circle is complete. The story of a forest that nearly disappeared has given rise to a region that exemplifies the necessity of long-term thinking, protection, and sustainability.

Fun fact: The Black Forest currently consists of 56% spruce, 23% fir, and 9% beech. The remaining 22% consists of other tree species.

Black Forest National Park

The Black Forest National Park has only existed for around ten years. In 2024, it celebrated its tenth anniversary — and it currently accounts for just over one percent of the total area of the Black Forest. This corresponds to approximately 10,000 hectares. Three-quarters of the park belongs to the core zone, where the forest develops without human intervention. An expansion to over 11,000 hectares is planned for 2026.

Compared to large European national parks — such as Hohe Tauern in the Alps — this is small. All 27 rangers in the young national park are volunteers. This demonstrates that the Black Forest will largely remain under human responsibility in the future.

This is precisely why tourism plays such a crucial role. The way we travel, where we stay, and how we experience nature directly impacts this forest. And that is exactly what matters now.

Travel in the Black Forest with a focus on sustainability

The Black Forest is a popular travel destination for German and international visitors alike. It offers experiences ranging from relaxation to action-packed vacations and culture. To enjoy it sustainably, choose environmentally friendly transportation and accommodations, respect the wildlife and plants, eat local organic products, and buy souvenirs from local artisans.

Bad Herrenalb: A spa town with dual certification for its therapeutic climate

When a town in Germany bears the name “Bad,” (bath) it is no coincidence; rather, it designates state-recognized spa towns and therapeutic baths.

Bad Herrenalb is one such historic spa town with natural thermal springs, healing waters, and proven air quality—officially recognized as a health resort and spa. For decades, people have been coming here to breathe deeply, hike, drink healing waters, and recharge their batteries.

Bad Herrenalb was designated a Fairtrade Town as early as 2012. In addition, the town implements various measures for energy efficiency and regional value creation: buildings have been renovated to improve energy efficiency, the Siebentäler Therme uses a combined heat and power plant, and the town hall in Bernbach is heated with pellets. At the same time, regional agriculture and short supply chains play an important role in the town.

A visible sign of this is the weekly market on Town Hall Square. Here, local producers sell their goods, complemented by many shops that consciously focus on local products.

Experience nature at the climate health resort

Over 150 kilometers of signposted and quality hiking trails await you around Bad Herrenalb, with gentle peaks along the way. You can hike the monastery trail between the ruins of Frauenalb and Herrenalb, walk through the wild forest gorge “Großes Loch,” or explore family-friendly themed trails like the Wildcat Adventure Trail.

As an added bonus, with the KONUS guest card, you can ride buses and trains throughout the Black Forest for free, including direct connections to Karlsruhe.

Spend the night with at hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA with a focus on sustainability 

Perched high above the town on the Health Mountain is the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, a wellness and health hotel that takes the region’s commitment to sustainability to new heights. All rooms on the newly renovated fourth floor are designed according to the Cradle-to-Cradle® principle. The kitchen in the “La Vie” restaurant is certified organic according to the Bioland Gold Standard, and breakfast is served as a zero-waste buffet. While an expansive wellness area with a panoramic mineral swimming pool, saunas, and relaxation zones offers relaxation with a view.

Furthermore, the hotel’s “Selfness Center” provides activities that cater to the body and mind, including yoga, meditation, Qigong, forest bathing, and guided fasting programs.

Freiburg im Breisgau: a green city with attitude

Freiburg is considered one of the greenest cities in Germany for good reason. With its historic cathedral, Bächle canals, and sunny lifestyle, the city developed an early strategy that combines environmental awareness, quality of life, and urban development. Sustainability is an integral part of everyday life in Freiburg, evident in numerous energy projects, well-thought-out mobility concepts, and entire neighborhoods.

The Vauban district: a new approach to urban planning

The former barracks site, now home to the Vauban district, is a showcase for sustainable, socially inclusive and largely car-free living. Solar energy shapes the cityscape, green spaces have replaced parking lots, and community life plays a central role. Two large car parks on the outskirts of the district and direct connections to the tram network mean that cars can be banned (with the exception of loading and unloading) within the district without residents having to sacrifice convenience. Vauban clearly demonstrates how urban spaces can function with a focus on people, nature and the climate.

The Green City Hotel Vauban: not just accommodation, but part of the district

The Green City Hotel Vauban is located in the heart of the district. Just ten minutes from the city centre by tram, it combines peace and relaxation with urban convenience. The green wooden slats on the façade, climbing plants on the exterior walls and minimalist interior made of natural materials allow guests to unwind.

The social approach is particularly striking. The hotel is run by a non-profit organisation and is an integration enterprise, where people with and without disabilities work together. Tolerance, acceptance and social responsibility lie at the heart of the concept, extending to suppliers and partners too.

For more sustainable vacations in the Black Forest – our tips

The Black Forest is not a designated national park, but rather a cultural landscape. This makes the way in which we travel through it all the more important. These tips will help you experience the area’s nature, places and people respectfully, whether you’re visiting from Germany or abroad.

#1 Getting there: A relaxed journey with more climate-conscious travel options

The Black Forest is a great place to explore without a car.

• Arriving by train:
  Both Bad Herrenalb and Freiburg have excellent rail connections. Freiburg can be reached directly from many European cities.
• KONUS Guest Card:
  Overnight guests in many places, including Bad Herrenalb, can use buses and trains throughout the Black Forest region free of charge with this guest card.
• Public transportation in Freiburg:
  The Green City Hotel Vauban provides guests with a free public transportation ticket during their stay. (Also valid for regional transport.)
• Cycling and e-bike holidays:
  Ideal for shorter distances and gentle exploration.
• Arriving by long-distance bus:
  Providers such as FlixBus connect Freiburg with many European cities. This option is often cheaper and more climate-friendly than short-haul flights.

#2 More sustainable accommodation options: Our Green Pearls® recommendations

• SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA | Bad Herrenalb
  A sustainable wellness and health hotel featuring circular living rooms, certified organic cuisine, a zero-waste approach, and direct access to nature.
• Green City Hotel Vauban | Freiburg im Breisgau
  This urban integration hotel is located on the edge of the car-free Vauban district. It has a social focus, innovative architecture, and perfect connections to the city and the Black Forest region.

#3 Conscious travel experiences: Nature and culture in harmony

Black Forest National Park

• 50 km from Bad Herrenalb and 110 km from Freiburg
• Insights into natural forest development with rangers, nature trails, and viewpoints.
• Important to know: The national park makes up only around 1% of the Black Forest area — making every respectful visit all the more valuable

Around Bad Herrenalb:

• Bad Wildbad Treetop Walk:
  Take a walk through the treetops up to 40 meters high.
• Wildline Suspension Bridge:
  Suspended over the valley, it offers a spectacular and scenic view.
• Pforzheim Gasometer:
  Immersive, 360° panoramic installations on various topics, including art and history.
• Merkur Baden-Baden:
  Take one of Germany’s steepest funicular railways and enjoy panoramic views of the Black Forest.
• Baden-Baden:
  Culture, thermal baths, spa gardens, and elegant, easy-to-explore architecture — all accessible on foot or by public transportation..

Freiburg & Surrounding Area:

We have created a detailed guide for a more sustainable weekend in Freiburg—including the Old Town, eco-friendly restaurants, the Schauinsland cable car, museums, insider tips from the Green City Hotel Vauban, and suggestions for eco-friendly excursions. Feel free to take a look!

#5 Sustainable cuisine: regional, organic, and full of flavor

Sustainable travel in the Black Forest also means enjoying things consciously. The regional cuisine is down-to-earth and seasonal, and it aligns perfectly with organic and local principles.

At SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, nearly everything on the plate is organic. The hotel has received Bioland GOLD certification, the association’s highest honor, and sources its ingredients directly from the region whenever possible. The cuisine is characterized by short delivery routes, transparent origins, and a clear focus on quality over quantity.

Sustainability also plays a central role at the Green City Hotel Vauban. Many products come from regional organic farms and social enterprises, and Freiburg itself offers a wide selection of organic markets, zero-waste shops, and sustainable restaurants — ideal for exploring the city through its cuisine.

Typical Black Forest dishes are:

• Black Forest ham
• Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli) with potato salad
• Bibbeleskäs (herb quark)
• Brägele (fried potatoes)
• Fresh trout (nowadays mainly from aquaculture, which is considered more sustainable in Germany.)

Many classics can now also be enjoyed vegan and/or in organic quality.

#5 Tradition lives on: traditional costumes, festivals, and authentic crafts

When you travel to the Black Forest, you experience tradition not in a museum, but in everyday life. Folk and shooting festivals are an integral part of the annual calendar in many places. As a local journalist, I covered many of these festivals and noticed that tradition is not just a folklore program for visitors; it’s part of people’s identity.

Traditional to the Black Forest: the Bollenhut hat

Hardly any other symbol represents the Black Forest more than the Bollenhut. However, what many people don’t know is that it was originally only part of the traditional costume in three villages: Gutach, Kirnbach, and Reichenbach. Today, it has become a global symbol of the region. Its power lies less in historical accuracy than in what it represents: belonging, pride, and recognition. Tradition lives on and evolves.

Traditional crafts as souvenirs

The Black Forest has a long history of cuckoo clocks, wood carvings, and glassblowing. Many workshops now offer tours where you can see the work, skill, and time that goes into each piece. You can often purchase items directly on site, ensuring that they are authentic regional products.

However, a handmade cuckoo clock is not just a souvenir; it’s a purchase for life. For a high-quality model, expect to pay around 700 euros or more. Kitschy? Perhaps. But that is a very personal decision.

If you prefer something smaller, other sustainable souvenirs are available—for example, insect hotels made from regional wood, like those offered in the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA shop. A souvenir that not only looks beautiful, but also has real added value.

#6 Modern forest rituals: forest bathing & a new closeness to nature

After exploring the stories, traditions, and paths, you will ultimately return to where it all began—the forest itself. Forest bathing, originally known as shinrin-yoku in Japan, takes on a unique meaning here, surrounded by this special forest. Here, it’s not about performance or climbing peaks; it’s about walking slowly, breathing consciously, and feeling with all your senses.

Many hotels and health resorts in the Black Forest offer guided forest bathing, mindfulness walks, and meditation among the trees as a way to experience nature. This may be the oldest and yet most modern way to experience the Black Forest—not as a backdrop, but as a living space that grounds us.

Invitation to the Black Forest

The Black Forest was once dark; then, it was nearly exploited to the point of disappearing. Today, it is a place for reflection and an invitation to take a closer look. A place to slow down. To take responsibility.

Whether you hike through ancient forests, breathe deeply in a spa town, experience Freiburg’s model for a more sustainable future, or find your own way through this region of tradition and modernity, the Black Forest has many stories to tell. Which stories you take with you—or even write yourself—is up to you.

Save this article for your next sustainable vacation in the Black Forest.

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We asked around our network to find out: What kind of pillows are discerning guests sleeping on today—and how are sustainable hotels addressing this issue?

What is a pillow menu, and is it necessary for a hotel to have one?

A pillow menu (i.e., the option to choose different types of pillows) is not mandatory. According to the Hotelstars Union’s criteria catalog, it is considered an “extended service.” For three-star hotels it can be considered a comfort feature. For those with four stars or more, options for individualization are increasingly expected. In practice, however, it is often sustainable hotels that voluntarily offer a wider selection of pillows — not for prestige, but for their guests’ comfort.

Sleep your way at the Green City Hotel Vauban, Freiburg

At the Green City Hotel Vauban, they believe that sleep is a deeply personal matter. Hotel manager Johannes Staub and receptionist Kristine Staub sum it up:

“Pillows are very personal; every guest has their own preferences, so we decided to offer a wide selection of specialty pillows.”Gäste können zwischen verschiedenen Varianten wählen – darunter Nackenkissen,

Neck rolls, side sleeper pillows, and classic feather pillows. In true host fashion, the Staubs explain:

„For our regular guests, we put their preferred pillows in their rooms before they arrive.“ – Green City Hotel Vauban

A pillow menu with bedtime treats at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

At the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle, sleep is approached with warmth and a sense of humor. Each room comes standard with one 40×80 cm pillow and two 40×40 cm pillows per person. If you want more, you can choose from a selection of additional pillows — from neck supports and ergonomic pillows to allergy-friendly pillows.

One particularly charming feature is the option to order a cherry pit pillow that is warmed up for you before bedtime. “Please don’t laugh,” says Tina Meier, the resident manager who has worked at the hotel for over 13 years. “We usually warm up the cherry pit pillows in our wood-fired sauna.” As an added bonus: after your stay, you can take the cherry pit pillow home with you.

Another luxury is the “Betthupferl,” a bedtime treat. The term is deeply rooted in Bavarian-Austrian culture and traditionally refers to a small gift given before bedtime. Tina explains what it means in the Moselle region:

„A “Betthupferle” is a small, sweet treat, such as a gummy bear or a piece of chocolate.” – Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten
 

Natural pillows with character at Hotel Luise, Erlangen

At the Hotel Luise, the pillow menu is an integral part of the service—and greatly appreciated by guests. The selection is consistently sustainable. Among other options, the hotel offers spelt pillows from certified organic cultivation, relaxation pillows filled with millet husks and wild herbs, seaweed pillows, and combination pillows made with wool balls and millet husks.

Many of the pillows are from the speltex® brand, whose natural fillings are popular with guests:

„People often ask us where they can purchase the pillows.“ – Hotel Luise

A nice compliment—and a sign that people like to bring the comforts of a hotel home with them.

Pillows made from certified materials

In addition to these three examples, the Green Pearls® network offers a wide variety of sustainable pillow concepts:

• Naturresort Gerbehof — Organic Hotel on Lake Constance
  Here, guests can choose from spelt, Swiss stone pine, herbal, and energy pillows. The pillows are sourced from Himmelgrün in Vorarlberg — regional, transparent, and with a clear focus on natural materials.
• Hotel Bella Vista, Zermatt
  This sustainable boutique hotel in Switzerland offers minimalist, high-quality, milled, spelt and hypoallergenic pillows that are perfectly suited to the alpine surroundings. And if you stay in the Sky Lounge, you’ll sleep under a skylight with a view of the Matterhorn.
• STURM, Mellrichstadt (Rhön)
  Guests sleep on down bedding from the Seibersdorfer brand, which has been awarded the „Glückliche Gänse“ (Happy Geese) guarantee. There is no live plucking, and the animals are raised in a way that is appropriate for their species. Thanks to the NOMITE seal, the bedding is also suitable for people with dust mite allergies.
• SANDnature, Timmendorfer Strand
  Just a few meters from the beach of the Baltic Sea, the hotel relies on COCO-MAT. The basic setup includes the “Morfeas” pillow, and additional options can be easily ordered via app — modern yet consistently natural.

When choosing a pillow becomes a little ritual: Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl, the pillow menu is an invitation to take a moment to relax. Sitting on the bed, perhaps with twilight already falling over the Allgäu Mountains outside, you read through the selection:

Would I like something supportive today? Something fragrant? Something that helps me relax? (A look at the pillow menu at Hotel Das Rübezahl)

The decision is not an easy one. There are millet pillows filled with lavender and hops; Swiss stone pine pillows, which, according to old folk wisdom, are said to promote deeper sleep; and herbal pillows filled with mint, mountain herbs, and spelt husks. Each pillow telling a story—about plants, scents, and regeneration.

All pillows are made by Himmelgrün, a manufacturer. Guests particularly appreciate their quality and pleasant scent, which subtly accompanies sleep.

Good sleep requires more than just a pillow: My Arbor, South Tyrol

Finally, let’s take a look at the adults-only Hotel My Arbor, which makes one thing clear: a pillow menu is important, but it should never be viewed in isolation. Here, too, guests can choose from down, hypoallergenic, and neck support pillows. However, the overall concept is what matters most.

Guests sleep on high-quality box-spring beds with Simmons mattresses complemented by fine bed linens cared for with a special, skin-friendly detergent. Everything works together — from the pillow to the mattress and from the scent to the feel of the fabric.

„Our concern is not only with comfort, but also with genuine regeneration.“ – My Arbor

It’s a statement we can only agree with. To learn more about this holistic approach, read our article on sleeping comfort in green hotels and vacation homes.

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More sustainable travel starts with better decisions—and sometimes simply with the right timing. While many destinations are overwhelmed with visitors during the traditional vacation months, countercyclical travel offers a sustainable alternative: consciously traveling outside of the high season.

The advantages of traveling in the off-season

Countercyclical travel means discovering destinations when they have room to breathe. Or to put it simply: when everyone else is flocking to the south, we discover the north. The advantages:

• Less crowds relieve pressure on nature, infrastructure, and local communities.
• At the same time, you often experience places that are more unspoiled, quieter, and more authentic—and (bonus!) cheaper.
• For hosts, too, this form of travel is an important lever for flattening seasonal peaks, securing jobs all year round, and making sustainable concepts viable in the long term.

Your countercyclical travel calendar for 2026

In our green travel calendar for 2026, we therefore show you twelve travel ideas – one inspiration for each month. All destinations follow a simple principle: travel sustainably, avoid overtourism, and experience special vacation moments when others are not even thinking about them yet.

1. January

Traveling to a region during the rainy season has two big advantages: fewer tourists and lush greenery! That’s why our tip for January is Peru. There is no classic dry season in the Amazon region anyway. However, it rains (even) more frequently and heavily until around April. And it is precisely this time of year that causes the rainforest to explode in lush greenery. (Sure, the paths can be muddy, but that’s just part of the jungle experience). You’ll stay right in the rainforest at the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica. And if you want to enjoy the Andes during the rainy season, the highlight of Machu Picchu near the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is at least a little less crowded than during the high season.

2.February

February – neither winter nor spring. However, Freiburg doesn’t need spring to charm its visitors. The charming city center has a lot to offer, especially the historic architecture, the Freiburg Bächle (small streams) and the almost daily weekly market around Freiburg Cathedral, which are among the city’s landmarks. When the weather is bad, there is culture to discover in museums (Augustinermuseum, Natur und Mensch) and historic sites (Colombischlössle).

In Freiburg’s eco-friendly Vauban district, you will find particularly sustainable accommodation at the Green City Hotel Vauban after an eventful day. By the way: whether it’s the onset of winter or already spring-like temperatures, from here you can quickly reach the Black Forest countryside, which is beautiful in every season.

3. March

Skiing doesn’t have to take place in the middle of winter. In Switzerland, snow arrives later in many places, but it stays longer in the high mountains. March therefore often offers the best conditions – and that’s outside the high season. In Zermatt, the slopes are emptier, the temperatures milder, and the light particularly intense. Fabienne Anthamatten from Zermatt sums it up:

“Come skiing in March or April! You won’t be skiing on artificial snow – and that’s really fun.”

Naturally, we recommend the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt. The Anthamatten family’s family-run hotel is located directly on the ski slope, is comfortably furnished with lots of wood, and offers a magnificent view of the Matterhorn – perfect for relaxed skiing days without too much hustle and bustle.

4. April

How about forest bathing instead of an Easter egg hunt this Easter? The Selfnesshotel SCHWALRZWALD PANORAMA is offers this relatively new treatment over the Easter holidays. “Black Forest bathing” with a private trainer.

Forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) has health-promoting effects on your entire organism, strengthens the immune system, and soothes the soul. This meditative excursion into nature is particularly suitable for stress management. And forest bathing in Bad Herrenalb is especially worthwhile because the forest here is so wonderfully unspoiled!

5. May

A beach holiday on the Baltic Sea in May? Why not! The sun is already shining and the beaches are not very crowded at this time of year. Moreover, bathing in the (admittedly, still cold) sea promotes blood circulation and strengthens the immune system like a climate therapy. If you want to warm up afterwards, it’s best to enjoy the view of the rooftop sauna at the SANDnature on the Timmendorfer Strand.

6. June

Nepal is usually associated with the classic trekking season in autumn – but June is a particularly exciting time to travel. Shortly before the monsoon, the landscape is exceptionally green, the air is clear, and the trails are much quieter than in the busy months. Those who travel countercyclically will experience Nepal more intensely, more authentically, and more relaxed.

Our tip for this time of year is The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm near Pokhara. This boutique resort is picturesquely situated amid organically farmed fields and rolling hills, with views of the Himalayas. In sustainable villas, you can experience traditional Nepalese life as well as modern, environmentally conscious comfort, yoga, meditation, and great excursion options, such as animal-friendly safaris.

7. July

When beaches and cities are crowded in July, the Tyrolean mountains offer a refreshing alternative. A cooler climate, green landscapes, and plenty of space to breathe deeply make summer in the Alps ideal for countercyclical travel.

In Seefeld, the Hotel Klosterbräu combines sustainable five-star wellness comfort with over 500 years of history. The sixth-generation family-run hotel offers peace, nature, and relaxation—far away from the heat and hustle and bustle.

If you’re looking for more space and privacy, the Summit Lodges Pfunds in the Tyrolean Oberland offer luxurious, sustainably managed vacation homes for up to six people. With a private sauna and close proximity to the mountains, you can enjoy a relaxing summer here.

8. August

The Dolomites are the best place to enjoy late summer! When the mountains are bathed in red and gold by the setting sun in the evening (the locals call this spectacle “Enrosadira”), you won’t want to be anywhere else. The location of the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is perfect for this and also ideal for exploring the countryside on mountain bikes or discovering the hiking trails on the Alp de Suisse.

9. September

According to a British travel study, September is considered the most popular month for travel – “Super September.” That’s precisely why it’s worth consciously choosing not to go where everyone else is going, but to rethink your travel destinations.

Sicily shows its relaxed side in September: the intense summer heat is over, the sea is still warm, and life on the island returns to its own rhythm. Instead of the hustle and bustle of the high season, you can expect wide open spaces, peace and quiet, and a genuine dolce vita.

Our accommodation tip here is the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, which is secluded on a WWF-protected wild beach that is almost exclusively accessible via the resort. Surrounded by nature, with plenty of space, sustainable standards, and comprehensive wellness facilities.

10. October

October is the ideal time to consciously extend summer—without the heat, holiday crowds, and crowded beaches. On the Croatian island of Iž, you can now enjoy peace and quiet. It is precisely this time of year that makes the island a popular destination for countercyclical travel.

The sustainable Hotel Korinjak is located directly by the sea, surrounded by the scent of pine trees and salty air. Minimalist rooms with sea views, vegetarian Mediterranean cuisine, and the immediate proximity to the beach invite you to leave everyday life behind. Morning yoga, gong sound baths, or retreats support this slower pace.

11. November

When Central Europe becomes gray and cold, many people seek out the sun in faraway places. A little closer to home is Tenerife. In November, this Canary Island offers a mild climate (around 23°C to 26°C) and plenty of nature – and that’s outside the peak season.

The OCEANO Health Spa Hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean in the northeast of Tenerife (i.e., a little further away from the tourist hotspots). All rooms offer sea views, and there is also light, regional cuisine, thalassotherapy, a seawater infinity pool, and direct access to the natural Piscina Natural (seawater pool). Exercise, yoga, and health programs make November the ideal time for conscious relaxation. A hiking vacation in Tenerife is also ideal at this time of year.

12. December

Winter sports in December are a classic and therefore have less to do with countercyclical travel, but instead of skis and snowboards, you could enjoy the winter landscape on snowshoes and leave the hustle and bustle of the slopes behind you. At the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei, East Tyrol, you can hike across the snow-covered Hohe Tauern National Park.

Twelve months, twelve opportunities to travel consciously. Where can you find me? Where others are not. 🙂

This is an update from January 8, 2019.

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We don’t want to stop you from traveling

In our opinion, travel has many advantages. It contributes to understanding and change, and it is the basis of life for many people around the world. If you are interested in this topic, please read the following articles after this blog post:

• “Are we still allowed to fly?”
• Social sustainability
• Traveling in times of climate change

Hotels shape society—research confirms this

Hotels are among the key players in the tourism industry. Consequently, their influence on the development and sustainability of our travels is significant.

The FutureHotel study by the Fraunhofer Institute confirms that hotels are playing an increasingly important role in society due to the growing tourism sector. Not only do they shape their guests’ travel experience, but they also influence working conditions, the regional economy, and local communities. The study states that hotels can initiate social change by providing safe, healthy, and inspiring environments that open up new perspectives.

Some of our Green Pearls® partners go to great lengths to achieve this. In our article on charity hotels, for instance, we discuss Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, a hotel founded exclusively to support the local Nepalese population—70 percent of its profits go to children’s projects. Additionally, farmers in the surrounding area have been trained in organic farming and now have a ready market for their produce.

Social projects of our Green Pearls® partners

Of course, not every sustainable hotel needs to become an NGO. And you don’t have to devote your entire life to the public good, either. However, one can always share some of their prosperity.

What could that look like in practice? We asked Green Pearls® accommodations which social projects they support. Find inspiration—or simply enjoy the fact that your stay is promoting social initiatives around the world.

Let’s start in Cambodia, a beautiful yet troubled country. Many regions are still marked by a history of war, child poverty, and, in some cases, human trafficking.

Projects in countries of the Global South: Cambodia as an Example

Social engagement is firmly anchored in the identity of the Canvas & Orchids Retreat. Host Valentin tells us that it was obvious to him:

“Nature conservation only works if the local population benefits directly.”

Many of today’s employees used to make a living from illegal logging or poaching. Now, they are trained professionals who share their knowledge of the region and the rainforest with guests.

Two of the newly completed projects:

• Clean drinking water for the school in Tatai: After the school’s water supply was contaminated with waste, the Retreat team worked with other local companies to install a collection system.
• Construction of the Koh Kong Khnong School: A dilapidated, two-room, wooden hut was replaced with a new, safe school building in cooperation with NGOs, creating a long-term impact on the community.

Here’s how you can get involved as a guest

As a guest, you can easily get involved right on site:

• During village tours on Koh Andet Island, you can meet local families and learn about their lives.
• Mangrove tours directly support the community of Koh Kapik.
• During excursions, you can plant trees or donate school supplies.
• Support local producers by purchasing handicrafts or regional specialties, for example.

As Valentin sums it up: “Every stay helps strengthen the livelihoods of the people here.”

Focus on social projects: Green Pearls® hotels situated within more affluent regions

Now, we will focus on our Green Pearls® hotel partners in wealthier regions of the world – the main topic of this article. Many of these hotels are involved in an impressive number of social projects. The following examples are just a few of the many projects they undertake—chosen because they particularly touch our hearts.

It’s striking how sustainable accommodations impact their local communities. They support the people in their immediate surroundings, create opportunities, and promote local initiatives. Support for more distant countries usually takes the form of donation projects. For instance, several of our partners are affiliated with WIR (Water Is Right), an organization dedicated to providing clean drinking water in impoverished regions.

Supporting people with disabilities and those with an increased need for assistance

Social engagement is often about participation and inclusion, particularly for those who have fewer opportunities in everyday life or on the job market. Some of our Green Pearls® accommodations are prime examples of that commitment:

The OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, supports the Sägemüllerhof in Gais, a work rehabilitation project for people with mental illnesses by

• Purchasing products from the Sägemüllerhof sewing workshop
• Donation shares on select items in the hotel shop
• Guests can donate directly at the front desk or request more information

The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain — is also a customer of one of these workshops. “We continuously collaborate with the workshops at the Hohenfried facility in Bayerisch Gmain,” the hosts tell us. The products and workpieces are incorporated into everyday hotel life and truly appreciated.

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers a monthly gourmet menu

The luxurious ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA came up with a wonderful idea to promote inclusion. Every month, the resort hosts a special evening of indulgence for people with disabilities or increased assistance needs. What makes this event unique is that the guests not only enjoy a gourmet menu, but also help organize the evening. They set the tables, help in the kitchen, and welcome other visitors. It’s an evening full of encounters that shows how much connection can be created when barriers come down. “This is a project that is truly close to our hearts,” says Sofia Rabanser.

Inclusion in practice at the Green City Hotel Vauban

The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg takes it a step further. Ten of its 20 employees have disabilities.

The integrative concept is intentionally designed to be holistic:

• From the beginning, only regional craft businesses were commissioned for the construction
• Organizations such as Vereinigung Freiburger Sozialarbeit e.V. (Freiburg Social Work Association) and Freiburger Stadtbau GmbH (Freiburg City Construction Ltd.) stand behind the social mission
• The experienced integration company Hofgut Himmelreich from Kirchzarten provides training and further education

This hotel exemplifies what can be achieved when inclusion is considered not an add-on but the core of one’s actions.

How other Green Pearls® hotels are getting involved – sorted by theme & briefly introduced

In addition to the initiatives mentioned earlier, our Green Pearls® network is involved in many other projects. Many hotels are involved in several areas at once.

To avoid making this article too long, we have organized the projects by topic and provided concise summaries. You may find an idea here that you would like to support, whether at home or on the road.

TOPIC 1: Water & essential supplies

Clean drinking water is one of the most fundamental resources, yet it cannot be taken for granted in many regions. To actively give back, several Green Pearls® accommodations are committed to this cause. My Arbor has supported regional aid organizations for years through its “MY WATER campaign.” For this purpose, spring water from the 1,870-meter-high Plose mountain is bottled and sold for a good cause. In recent years, tens of thousands of euros have been donated to organizations such as Südtirol Hilft, the White Cross, and the Wünschewagen.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is setting an example as well by providing a public refill station on the hiking trail—a project that benefits hikers, locals, and guests alike while reducing the need for plastic bottles.

You can find more water projects by Green PearlsⓇ partners in the linked article.

TOPIC 2: Animal welfare

The protection of young wild animals is important to many people. That’s why Summit Lodges Pfunds supports Kitzrettung Tiroler Oberland, the Tyrolean Oberland Fawn Rescue, every year. Drones are used to track down fawns and move them to safety, away from mowing machines. Host Marco Spiss regularly participates in these missions — protecting young animals is important to him, and he actively promotes it.

The SANDcollection (SANDnature and SANDglow) has partnered with the WDC to offer a donation option for porpoise conservation in the North Sea and Baltic Sea through its booking engine. The two sustainable lifestyle hotels are located not far from the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts. With a little luck, you may be able to observe whales there in person.

Here you can find more information on the topic of animal welfare when traveling.

TOPIC 3: Promoting neighborhood assistance and local expertise

Neighborly assistance means taking responsibility for one’s immediate surroundings—where one lives and works. The Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, Switzerland, demonstrates this commitment by supporting the organization “Nachbar in Not” (Neighbor in Need) and local youth programs every year, while the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei, East Tyrol, strengthens regional cultural and sports clubs and enables its guests to connect with local producers.

The LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturns, South Tyrol, promotes local knowledge by regularly organizing alpine herb courses with a regional expert who shares ancient knowledge about medicinal plants and demonstrates how to make natural cosmetics.

In general, many Green Pearls® hotels rely on local guides—from hiking guides to nature educators—to showcase regional expertise and compensate them fairly.

TOPIC 4: Strengthening education, children, and families

Education is one of the most important foundations for future opportunities, and sustainable hotels can provide valuable impetus in this area. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, for instance, has a long-standing project called “SchwaPa Biokids,” in which children learn about the connections between nutrition, the environment, and climate protection over the course of a school year.

The Naturresort Gerbehof supports the children’s project Sternenland and encourages its guests to donate by offering discounted rates for guests who waive room cleaning services.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN has supported the expansion of a nearby public playground—a place that benefits locals and guests alike. Gut Sonnenhausen participates in projects run by Children e.V. and provides accommodations for charity events. Meanwhile, SANDnature and SANDglow support young people in the region through their involvement with Round Table Germany.

Auctioning for a good cause—an idea you can also implement at home

Finally, we learned about another initiative from Hotel Das Rübezahl that is as simple as it is ingenious. Once a year, the hotel staff organizes a heartwarming evening where lost items from the Rohrkopf hut and the hotel, including donated sports equipment, vouchers, and small treasures, are auctioned off in a relaxed atmosphere. The proceeds benefit the mountain rescue service.

What begins as a cheerful gathering culminates each year in an impressive donation, which the host family, the Thurms, generously adds to at the end.

You can organize something like this at home, too. A small auction among friends, at the office, in a club, or in the neighborhood would be perfect. Everyone brings something to auction, and the proceeds go to a cause you care about. This way, items that would otherwise gather dust become tangible help for others.

How much should one actually donate to social projects?

The answer is individual—but there are inspiring models. Oxford philosopher Toby Ord, founder of Giving What We Can, suggests making a “Further Pledge” to donate all income above a deliberately low standard of living because doing so can make an incomparably greater difference for others. On the other hand, author Rutger Bregman inspires many people to donate 10% of their income, a concept promoted by Giving What We Can.

How wealthy am I?

If you’re curious about how privileged you are on a global scale, you can easily find out. The online calculator “How Rich Am I?” shows you where your income stands globally — often with surprising results that change your perspective and strengthen your desire to give back.

Regardless of your approach, small amounts, creative ideas, and conscious sharing can make a big difference. This includes consciously choosing your travel destinations and accommodations.

Do you have any other ideas or examples? Write them in the comments.

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(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.

The “best room” is perfect to surprise and impress

A few years ago, when I was living in Tel Aviv, my parents came to visit. I recommended a hotel right on the beach with two types of rooms: some faced the street and others faced the Mediterranean Sea. The latter were more expensive. My father decided, “We’ll take the sea view. If we’re going to do it, let’s do it right.” They also opted for a room on one of the upper floors. Every day, I heard my mother rave about how beautiful the view was and how fantastic the room was. The extra cost? Totally worth it.

This memory inspired this article. I wanted to know: Do our partner hotels have rooms that amaze guests and make them want to rave about them and tell others about them? The answer: Yes, and beyond!

20 dream rooms with a focus on sustainability

What makes the rooms we are presenting here so dreamlike? They are not only individually and uniquely designed, but also sustainable. Here, luxury isn’t just for its own sake; it’s about conscious comfort: with renewable and recyclable materials, green electricity, and modern technology for saving water and energy. And as you will see, you won’t have to make any sacrifices or compromises.

Round Viw Suite | Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, Germany 

The “Round View Suite” at the five-star Hotel Der Birkenhof features a wraparound balcony with panoramic views of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The hotel was recently voted “Best Spa Hotel in Germany 2025” by the Falstaff Guide. It has several pools, a sauna area, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. And where does the electricity for all this come from? Completely from sustainable sources!

Chalet | The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

Built in traditional Nepalese style and luxuriously furnished, the “Chalet” at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is the perfect private retreat for you and your loved ones. It is located in the Pokhara area and is surrounded by organic farmland and some of the world’s highest peaks. The resort is a charity hotel that supports sustainable projects and is closely linked to the NGO Rights4Children.

Treetop Suite | My Arbor, Italy

The adults-only Hotel My Arbor has many beautiful rooms, but the highlight are the three “Treetop Suites.” These suites feature dreamlike balconies with views of the Plose, private saunas, and whirlpools.

Spa Loft | Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Germany

A staircase leads to the “Spa Lofts” of the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, where you’ll find your own private spa area with a whirlpool tub and sauna. The best part? The stunning view of the Berchtesgaden countryside, which you can also enjoy from your private balcony. And by the way, all the furniture is made from applewood sourced from the same area.

AlmRausch | Hotel Das Rübezahl, Deutschland

The “AlmRausch Suite” at Hotel Das Rübezahl is not the largest suite, but it is the host family’s personal favorite. It boasts an unobstructed view of Neuschwanstein Castle and its own infrared cabin with a view of the Allgäu Mountains. The room’s chalet feel is enhanced by a fireplace, library, whirlpool, and walk-in closet.

Sky Suite | Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, Swiss

In 2024, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt fully renovated its attic rooms. The highlight is the skylights, which allow you to lie in bed and gaze at the peak of the Matterhorn.

Family suite | Green City Hotel Vauban, Germany

“The heart of our hotel is our family suite,” reports the Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg. It is popular not only with families with children, but also with couples and bachelor parties. Equipped with two separate bedrooms and a beautiful roof terrace, the suite makes all guests feel at home. The inclusive hotel is part of the modern, ecological urban development of the Vauban district and has an integrative employment policy.

Roarer Suite | Hotel Weihrerhof, Italy

“The ‘Roarer Suite’ with its free-floating bay window is our best room,” explains Klaus Pichler, host at the Hotel Weihrerhof, without missing a beat. From there, guests have a direct view of Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy. The hotel is located in Ritten, South Tyrol, and is an ideal place to stay for a nature vacation, especially with children.

Lifestyle Loft 500 | Hotel Klosterbräu, Austria

The “Lifestyle Loft 500” is the Hotel Klosterbräu’s highest room and offers a view of the entire town of Seefeld. It includes a 66-square-meter south-facing terrace and a 20-square-meter east-facing balcony. Guests can also enjoy a private panoramic sauna, a private bar with a beer tap and a wine cabinet, and a secret room. Another highlight is the bed with a wooden canopy.

Pine suite | Naturhotel Outside, Austria

The “Pine Suite” at the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol features Swiss stone pine wood furnishings that promote better sleep and create a natural atmosphere. The suite includes a bed made of solid Swiss stone pine with a high-quality pocket spring mattress measuring 180 x 200 cm, allergen-friendly bedding, and cushions crafted from Swiss stone pine. Hiking in the mountains, relaxing in the spa, and enjoying the excellent cuisine — the restaurant has received three Falstaff forks — contribute to a holistic, nature-oriented relaxation experience.

Inkaterra Suite | Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

The “Inkaterra Suite” is not a typical hotel room. Rather, it is a 176-square-meter villa located on the grounds of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. The villa features a private garden with a pool, daybed, and outdoor shower, as well as a spacious living area, multiple rooms, and a fireplace. Guided tours exploring the former Inca city of Machu Picchu depart directly from the hotel. For many years, the hotel’s operators have been committed to preserving this World Heritage Site and promoting environmental protection, species conservation, and sustainability throughout Peru.

ApartSuite L | OLM Nature Escape, Italy

Do apartments with private saunas and freestanding bathtubs seem wasteful to you? Fortunately, the OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, is completely energy self-sufficient thanks to solar energy and geothermal probes, so it produces all of its own electricity. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to choose between eating at the restaurant or cooking for yourself.

Family Room No. 2 | Relais del Maro, Italy

The Relais del Maro is an Albergo Diffuso, meaning this four-star hotel is spread across several old residential and commercial buildings in the village. Here in Borgomaro, Liguria, you’ll live right next door to the locals and experience authentic Italian culture in the Imperia countryside. According to host Elena, the most beautiful room is the “Family Room No. 2” — elegant, spacious, and bright.

Waldklang | SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Germany 

The “Panorama Deluxe Waldklang” suite is one of the hotel’s “Circular Living” rooms. The Schwarzwald Panorama in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb has won several awards for these rooms, which include the Falkenstein and Freigeist suites. Everything from the wall paint to the furnishings and fabrics is 100% recyclable or biodegradable and can therefore be returned to the cycle. Another highlight is the panoramic view of the Black Forest, which is particularly impressive from the “Waldklang.”

Stable room in a farmhouse | Gut Sonnenhausen, Germany 

The “stable rooms” of the farmhouse at Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, feature lovingly restored antique cabinets from Lower Bavaria, as well as a blend of retro and modern furniture. The rooms are insulated with coffee jute sacks. Along with the clay plaster and plenty of spruce wood, the rooms boast a wonderful atmosphere and special charm.

Apis Royal | APIPURA hotel rinner, Italy

“Just like in a beehive, there is only one queen bee in our hotel — the “Apis Royal Suite,” the Rinner family explains with a grin. The Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol was designed by a nomadic beekeeper with bees in mind. The suit features a private spa area with a whirlpool tub offering light therapy (a honey hydro bath is recommended) and an infrared cabin for two.

Little Two+ | Lifestylehotel SAND, Germany

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located in the popular resort town of Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. The reception staff highly recommend the “Little Two+” room, which is a double room with a balcony facing the sea and a COCO-MAT natural box spring bed. Tip: At the hotel, you can also spend one of your vacation nights in a beach chair on the rooftop!

Renewable Junior Suite | Hotel Luise, Germany

“We believe that our best room is our Renewable Junior Suite,” says the team at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen. “Like all our renewable rooms, the suite is designed according to the cradle-to-cradle concept. This means that almost all of its components are 100% biodegradable or recyclable.” You can also shower under an “astronaut shower,” which saves up to 90% of water and up to 80% of energy. The room has a corner balcony overlooking the hotel garden and green courtyard.

Gartenblick room | STURM, Germany

In 2023, STURM in Mellrichstadt, located in the Rhön region, expanded its hotel offerings with the addition of the “Gartenblick rooms.” In collaboration with architect Prof. Matthias Loebermann, they created rooms that offer “a unique connection with nature.” Located directly in front of the rooms’ terrace, the swimming pond, along with the absence of televisions and the use of natural materials, provides the perfect setting for slowing down and relaxing from everyday life. The rooms received the “Best Architects Award 2024.”

Signature Suite | Eco-Hotel Okelmann‘s, Germany

The Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, has a new room that offers extra peace and quiet. The “Signature Suite” has its own garden and can accommodate two to six people. A personal touch can be found in the bedroom, which features the original wedding wardrobe of the great-grandmother of the current Okelmann hosts.

Junior Suite | Naturresort Gerbehof, Germany

Naturresort Gerbehof reports, “Our most popular rooms are the junior suites and suites.” The resort sits on the German side of Lake Constance, surrounded by apple trees and its own forest. Craftsmen use wood from the forest to make the furniture and untreated wooden floorboards in the rooms. The “Junior Suite” offers a healthy living environment, extra space, and a private balcony.

So? In which of these rooms would you most like to spend the night?

Let us know in the comments!

Save the article on Pinterest – that way, you’ll always have inspiration for your next trip at your fingertips.

Der Beitrag Green & Gorgeous: The most beautiful rooms in hotels with a focus on sustainability worldwide erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Here, you will find both. Together, we will take an in-depth look at sustainable travel, explore its background, and establish connections. You will also find useful tips in the article. But enough preface. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents: Sustainable Travel

A Look at Tourism

How does sustainable travel work?

What is sustainability and what does it have to do with our travels?

Sustainability today: Comprehensive and blurry

Environmental protection while traveling

Water consumption as a traveler

Sustainability meets animal welfare

Climate protection while traveling: Do you still fly??

Let’s talk about money – What our money does when we travel

Questions you can ask yourself before you spend your money

Excursus: The Green Pearls® network

Often overlooked: Social sustainability when it comes to travel

An alternative to traditional tourism: Slow Travel

Small steps also make a difference

Sustainable Travel – Different Experience

If you landed on our website, it’s likely that you’re someone who likes to travel themselves, right? Think back, where have you been? It varies greatly among members of the editorial team. Some of us have experienced distant parts of the world. Literally. Some people prefer to stay in Germany and Europe. What we all have in common is that we love discovering new places.

A Look at Tourism

When we’re traveling, and I’m sure you feel the same way, we’ve noticed that we can’t continue like before. It has been evident for some time that tourism is not the white, unsullied industry that it likes to be portrayed as. Mass tourism, short-haul flights, and water scarcity are just a few of the keywords associated with this context.

But, how can we improve? What are some ways we can discover other countries and regions without leaving a damaging imprint on the ground? In summary, how can we travel responsibly?

How does sustainable travel work?

This is the very question we want to explore in this blog article. We will do it in as much detail as we can. That is why we will begin by explaining what sustainability is and how it relates to our travel behavior. Of course, the topic of climate protection and air travel has its place as well. Lastly, we’ll introduce you to an alternative to classic tourism, and in part two of this series of articles, we’ll share with you tangible, tried-and-tested tips on how you might make your trip more sustainable.

Despite all the tips we’ve given you, there is one thing we don’t want you to forget: As a traveler, you will always have higher CO2e emissions and consume more resources than you would if you didn’t travel. Most cases, at least. The most sustainable way to travel would be not to travel at all. But sustainability has now taken on a greater meaning than just environmental protection.

What is sustainability and what does it have to do with our travels?

To answer this question, we must travel back to the Middle Ages. At that time, the term ‘sustainable’ first appeared and meant something like ‘lasting.’ The first proper definition of sustainability in today’s sense came from Hans Carl von Carlowitz. The chief miner faced numerous challenges, such as extreme deforestation, droughts, and bark beetle infestations, in his forests in the 18th century. Does this sound familiar to you?

Perhaps we should take another look at the 300-year-old textbook published by von Carlowitz. In it, he introduced the principle of sustainable forestry, which states that only as many trees should be cut down as can grow back. Von Carlowitz developed this method to ensure that future generations would still have access to wood.

Sustainability today: Comprehensive and blurry

Our approach to sustainability has evolved and changed since then. Forestry’ is a term you probably don’t associate with it anymore, but maybe your cell phone case, clothing, or food. And yes, travel is also part of the equation.

There are many perspectives on what sustainable travel looks like. One definition does not exist. You won’t find one here either. Instead, we want to introduce you to the different aspects of sustainable travel and explain how they work. We’ll start with the most obvious aspect: the environment.

Environmental protection while traveling

As travelers, we should be aware that we can harm the environment. Otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be reading this article. However, our environmental impact isn’t only made up of flights and travel-related exhaust fumes. For example, many people don’t realize that building a hotel can significantly disrupt the natural environment. This environmental damage forces plants and animals to look for new habitats. Therefore, renovating existing buildings is the best solution.

Monastery hotels are a good example of this, such as the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bavaria, and Hotel Le Pavilion in Paris. By utilizing old monastery walls, abandoned buildings are given a new lease on life while preserving the culture and history of the community. If you want to learn more about this trend, you can find out more in our article on monastery hotels.

Water consumption as a traveler

At this point, there’s no reason to sugarcoat things. As frequent travelers, we use a lot of water.

• According to the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), a tourist consumes approximately 350 liters per night in a hotel (compared to around 130 liters at home).
• The 2030 Report even estimates up to 2,425 liters per night for a tourist. This includes personal water consumption (showers, toilets) as well as swimming pools, golf courses, green spaces, etc.

Even if sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels and accommodations use water-saving faucets and use rainwater and gray water for garden irrigation, every guest still uses more water on vacation than they would at home. Not just for brushing teeth. That accounts for the least amount. Indirectly, we also use the water that is consumed in the restaurant, for the pool and for cleaning.

It’s cool when the hotel uses a natural bathing pond instead of a classic chlorinated pool, as the STURM in Mellrichstadt, Germany, does, for example. Furthermore, it provides a habitat for numerous animals. If flowering meadows with bee- and insect-friendly flowers are also planted, the hotel garden becomes a small, biodiverse paradise.

Sustainability meets animal welfare

Traveling and experiencing animals in their natural environment is one of the top experiences, especially for children. Whether they are wild animals on safari or domestic animals, seeing them in their natural habitat is incredible. However, travel can have a negative impact on animal protection. Visits to national parks ensure that they can continue operating. Our visits also demonstrate to the local population that protecting animals can be financially worthwhile. On the other hand, tourism can encourage practices that are not in the animals’ best interest, such as elephant riding or lion petting.

If you are interested in learning more about animal welfare while traveling and how you can make
your trip animal-friendly, you may want to check out this blog article. We’ve covered the topic in
detail here.

Furthermore, our article on wildlife on vacation provides specific vacation offers where you can experience safaris, diving, or national park animals in a sustainable way.

Climate protection while traveling: Do you still fly?

Travel and accommodation have been found to be the areas with the greatest environmental impact when it comes to tourism. That means that adjusting these adjustment screws has the biggest effect. You can find a selection of sustainable hotels and vacation rentals on our website. We not only present each hotel with its rooms and offers, but also with its sustainable initiatives and measures. This will give you an opportunity to get an overview in advance and actively contribute to protecting the climate by making environmentally friendly choices when it comes to accommodation.

By now, we are all aware that flying, especially short-haul flights, is immensely detrimental to the climate. Flight shame has become a term for when you get on a plane even though you feel bad about it.

How you can deal with flight shame, we have already discussed in tis blog article.

Other alternatives to flying are driving a car, taking a bus or train, cycling, and wearing walking shoes. Yes, we count the car as well. Although we wholeheartedly agree that car traffic must be reduced, if you look only at carbon dioxide emissions, then a fully occupied car with four or five people can sometimes even have the better balance than an empty train. However, the train still runs, and in addition, it offers the opportunity to spend time together with family or friends without having to concentrate on road traffic.

An alternative that many people are unaware of is the long-distance bus. In recent years, companies such as Flixbus have established a huge network across Europe, and their environmental friendliness is on par with that of trains! Find out more about sustainable vacations by long-distance coach here.

It is even more environmentally friendly to travel by foot or by bicycle rather than by car. The journey itself will become an adventure, and you will develop an entirely new perspective. By the way, this principle is the foundation of the Slow Travel movement. You can read more about it in the article below.

Let’s talk about money – What our money does when we travel

When we travel, we incur expenses. On accommodation, food, souvenirs, activities, and events. It is not without reason that tourism is one of the most important, sometimes even the most important, industry in many countries. It offers a lot of potential, if done right.

“Right” in this case means that our money benefits the country and the local population, and does not flow back abroad or to large, international companies. Experts here speak of the percolation rate, which indicates how much of the profits from the respective destination seep back out again. This happens, for example, through staying in international hotel chains, buying imported goods and eating at global franchises.

Another aspect is that we determine what we support through our purchasing or consumption behavior. What practices and behaviors do we support with the money we spend while traveling? Keywords here are production conditions, supply chains, payment of employees, exploitation of nature, and child labor, just to name a few.

Questions you can ask youself before you spend your money:

• Who owns the hotel or lodging I want to stay at? Is it family run? Locally owned?
• Who owns the restaurant? Who does the cooking? How are the employees treated?
• Where does the food come from? Was it grown locally? Or imported?
• Where do the souvenirs come from? What material are they made of?
• Does the event benefit the local population? Or is it cultural appropriation and exploitation?

Additionally, a sustainable economy also refers to the entrepreneurs in tourism. They should take care not to work only for short-term profit, but to think in the long term. That means taking into consideration the impact and responsibility of their own company, hiring local employees, and investing in environmental and social measures.

Excursus: The Green Pearls® network

At Green Pearls®, we want to advocate for more sustainability in tourism and help you do the same. That’s why we work with various partners around the world who offer sustainable hotels and vacation rentals. After prior verification and only if they meet certain sustainable criteria, which concern environmental protection as well as economy and social issues, they are allowed to be part of the Green Pearls® partner network.

This means that when you choose a Green Pearls® hotel or vacation home, you can be confident that your accommodations are sustainable. You can read exactly what makes each hotel or vacation home sustainable on its respective Green Pearls® page. For example, you can learn how the five-star Der Birkenhof Spa & Genussresort hotel in Bavaria is a pioneer in sustainable hospitality despite its luxury orientation; how the Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol generates all of its energy from its own sources; how 50 percent of the employees at the Green City Hotel Vauban are disabled; and how the Hotel Luise in Erlangen makes its hotel rooms entirely from recyclable materials.

Often overlooked: Social sustainability when traveling

Both the economic and environmental aspects of sustainability are socially oriented. At first, this may sound very abstract, but imagine the following: You travel to any country, or even just another city. You arrive there, stay in a hotel, eat in a restaurant, and walk through the streets. You can also buy some souvenirs. Likewise, you drink water, swim in the pool, throw away your garbage, drive boat, cab, car. Then you leave again. If you tried to spend the money locally, then the money you spent stays there. What also stays there is your environmental impact, the missing water and the garbage.

And now imagine thousands, in some places even millions, doing the same. What do you think the effects will be on the local people?

Let’s take a look at the social impact of man-made climate change, which is not entirely innocent when it comes to tourism. The people who are affected by it are the ones who don’t contribute to it. People who don’t travel around the world three times a year.

Furthermore, there are also clear abuses in tourism, such as the exploitation of seasonal workers. You can find out more about this in this article on social sustainability in tourism.

An alternative to traditional tourism: Slow Travel

You might have heard of Slow Travel before, right? Over the last few years, countless books, articles, and podcasts have been published about it. The idea behind it is simple: Slow travel. The journey should be made to the destination. Putting achieving your goal above arriving at your goal. In this way, Slow Travelers are returning to the old definition of travel: being on the way from A to B.

Slow Travel grew out of the Slow Food Movement, which promotes the conscious cultivation, handling, and enjoyment of food. It was founded as an alternative to fast food. Slow Travel can be similarly compared with conventional travel.

Instead of considering the journey as a mere tool to reach the destination, Slow Travel considers it an essential part of the trip. On foot, by bike or by train, you experience the first adventures already before your destination.

The main thing, when you’re walking, is to stay in one place for longer. Because the longer we stay, the greater the benefit to the local economy. You’ll also get to know the local people in an entirely different way and discover places that other tourists miss. Perhaps the locals will even share with you one or two insider tips. 😉

Read this blog article for more information about slow travel and how a slow trip can look like. Furthermore, join us on an adventurous journey by train through Thailand!

Small Steps also make a difference

You might be thinking that’s okay, but there are just too many things to consider. Where do I even begin? That’s precisely how everyone started who is involved in sustainable travel today. The key is to take small steps initially. If the issue seems too large to tackle right now, start by booking sustainable lodging in your destination. Stay longer in one place instead of spending each day somewhere else. Actively choose vegetarian or even vegan meals. These are all small steps you can take to move in the direction of more sustainable travel.

Sustainable Travel – Different Experience

Travel is indeed a wonderful thing. We meet new people and discover nature. Unfortunately, however, our travel has an immense impact on the environment and people around the world.

It would, therefore, seem logical to say that, even if it’s difficult, we’ll give up traveling if we have to.

However, that is too narrow-minded. Tourism impacts thousands of jobs and livelihoods around the world, and many people rely on us travelers for their livelihood. Especially in countries like the Maldives, there are very few job or income opportunities outside of tourism. Sustainable hotels like Gili Lankanfushi provide a stable income for locals, which encourages a change in mindset. Whether it’s local or foreign visitors, the mindset will be changed. Read here to find out what sustainable vacations in the Maldives can look like and how you can actively participate in a coral conservation project as a diver, for example.

In rural areas, they offer opportunities for sustainable development. The travelers staying at Relais del Maro, located in the small Ligurian town of Borgomaro, not only ensure the preservation of the historic buildings that house the family-run “Albergo Diffuso” hotel, they also support regional farmers, winemakers, and artisans.

In other words, we don’t have to stop traveling. We need to travel differently.

Sustainable travel does not eliminate these impacts. But when we travel sustainably, we make more conscious choices and don’t just accept our effects. We make conscious decisions to forgo flights, take more time to explore a country or place, and search for sustainable accommodations and activities. We strive to help you do that here on the Green Travel Blog and over at Green Pearls.

What’s your favorite way to travel? Do you travel sustainably? And what aspects of your trip are particularly important to you? You are welcome to share your thoughts and experiences below.

This is an update from September 27, 2022.

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Der Beitrag Sustainable travel at a glance: Background, facts and tips erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Driven by nostalgia, I inquired among our Green Pearls® partner hotels and found many like-minded individuals passionate about wood and craftsmanship. Some hotels even have their own forests from which they source wood for furniture. Others use traditional materials, such as Swiss pine, applewood, and moon wood. Some hotels furnish their rooms with lovingly restored family heirlooms, while others are rethinking furniture design based on the principle of the circular economy.

A hotel made of applewood: The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa

Dr. Andreas Färber, the owner of the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, is one of the hoteliers who shares my enthusiasm for solid wood furniture. When he and his wife took over the hotel, they made an unusual decision: the Klosterhof would become one of the world’s few “apple hotels.”.

About 90 percent of the custom-made furniture in the house is made of applewood. However, the wood did not come from various locations; it comes from a single apple orchard. This creates a sense of unity in design and content throughout the entire house, something that can be felt in every room and detail.

The concept was implemented in collaboration with longstanding partners at Philipp Haas + Söhne, a master workshop in nearby Bad Reichenhall. The workshop’s latest project was its involvement in the “Spa Glow-Up” 2025.

Masterful craftsmanship with a regional flair

Like the Klosterhof, many of our Green Pearls® partner hotels use handmade furniture crafted by local carpenters.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, all the furniture is made from wood sourced directly from the resort itself. They primarily used spruce, which was processed directly on the farm. The furniture reflects the character of this living material, telling the story of the nature that produced it. The spa area’s whirlpool is unique as well; it was designed with stones from the nearby Rhine estuary.

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, has adopted a similar concept. Almost all of the materials used for the 28 newly built nature rooms came from the region. Ninety-five percent of the materials come from the Alpine region, and the wood comes from the hotel’s own forest. One interesting architectural feature is the bed’s placement under a round arch in the wall. This creates a cozy, almost fairy-tale atmosphere. The bedside lamps with hay-flower lampshades provide the perfect finishing touch.

“”Sometimes, an inner satisfaction makes you want to reach out and touch the piece, to stroke it. God bless the craftsmen who can inspire such feelings in their fellow human beings with just a few pieces of wood!” —From the book So Grün War Mein Tal (My Valley Was So Green) by Richard Llewellyn

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, the connection to nature is evident throughout the entire interior design concept: the rooms feature larch wood walls and beds, and the tables are made from regional oak by a Pinzgau carpenter in Salzburg. The newly designed nature spa also incorporates wooden elements from the same workshop.

Wood art in South Tyrol

Individuality and regionality are also emphasized at the Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, South Tyrol. For many years, it has worked with the Eisath und Lintner carpentry firm, which manufactures furniture on site from local wood with great attention to detail.

The OLM Nature Escape in the Ahrntal Valley offers a holistic experience. Its ApartSuites are almost entirely clad in larch wood, from floor to ceiling. There are no ornate decorations or Alpine carvings. Instead, the clear, straightforward, modern design creates a natural sense of space, complemented by spruce in the saunas and maple in the restaurant area. The interior design was created by South Tyrolean master craftsmen from Plana Ladina in Val Badia.

Honeycomb design

Lastly, there is the Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol. Here, a local carpenter crafted all the furniture in the rooms. The hotel has its own organic beekeeping operation, so the carpenter chose honeycombs as a recurring design element.

Custom work from the Green City: Handcrafted ash furniture at the Hotel Vauban

The Vauban district of Freiburg is known throughout Europe as a model of environmentally friendly urban development. Right in the heart of the district lies the Green City Hotel Vauban, which carries this philosophy through to every detail, including the furniture.

The entire interior was custom-made by Werkhalle 53, a Freiburg-based collective of three master carpenters. They used solid ash wood from nearby Umkirch, a wood that impresses with its fine grain and high durability. The modern, timeless, and clear-designed furniture can be found throughout the hotel, including in the rooms, lobby, and conference rooms.

Another advantage is that the furniture can easily be added to or restored as needed. This approach is sustainable and creates long-term design continuity, which is perfectly in keeping with the neighborhood’s reputation for thoughtful interplay of ecology, architecture, and community.

The power of the moon: Furniture made from moon wood at La Vimea

People deeply involved in traditional craftsmanship and sustainable processing know that not all wood is the same. Moon wood is a prime example: it is wood cut during a waning moon. This ancient practice is based on the knowledge that the moisture content of wood is lower during certain phases of the moon. The result is a highly resistant, durable, and dimensionally stable material — no chemical additives necessary.

At LA VIMEA, a purely vegan hotel in South Tyrol, moon wood plays a central role. Most of the furniture is made from locally sourced wood harvested during the waning moon. The wood is left untreated, making the rooms’ special energy and authenticity palpable.

LA VIMEA uses only natural, cruelty-free materials, such as wood, paper, jute, straw, and cork, for its decorations. Even the candles are made from eco-friendly rapeseed wax.

Furniture in a Cycle: Circular economy meets design

Furnishings don’t have to be new to look modern and high-quality. In a circular economy, everything can be reused. Two of our partner hotels have demonstrated this by incorporating it into their design concept. In addition to wood, other recycled and recyclable materials play a central role as well.

Circular Living at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

In cooperation with the impact service providers RITTWEGER + TEAM and Fritz Schlecht GmbH, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb developed room concepts such as “Freigeist” (free spirit), “Waldklang” (forest sound), and “Falkenstein” (falcon stone)—a stylish combination of nature and contemporary design. Highlights include oak parquet flooring with Cradle-to-Cradle Bronze certification, regional softwood side tables, and pendant lights made from PEFC-certified birch—ecologically sound and aesthetically pleasing.

The circular hotel room at Hotel Luise

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen is a pioneer among sustainable city hotels. Of particular note are the “circular hotel rooms,” which were designed according to the cradle-to-cradle principle. This means that everything in the room, from the floor to the ceiling, is either biodegradable or fully recyclable.

The hotel also features upcycled furniture and restored pieces, including an antique pharmacy cabinet from the Coburg court pharmacy. The cabinet was found by the owners in the local classifieds and was restored. Now, it houses the hotel’s “Tiny Shop.”

Furniture with history: restored, inherited, and preserved

Like the apothecary cabinet, many pieces of furniture carry memories of previous generations and nearly forgotten craft traditions. In some Green Pearls® hotels, this emotional connection is incorporated into the interior design. Rather than using mass-produced items, they focus on restoring unique pieces and preserving family heirlooms, complemented by custom-made furniture from sustainable production.

At the Ligurian Relais del Maro, you will stay in historic houses belonging to the host family — lovingly restored and scattered throughout the village of Borgomaro in the style of an Albergo Diffuso. Some of these houses contain furnishings that still belong to the family, while others were sourced from small antique markets on the nearby Côte d’Azur — with each piece telling its own story.

Old meets new at Hotel Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony, too. For example, the grandmother’s wedding cabinet has found a place of honor in the new Signature Suite. Adjacent to it are handcrafted furnishings from a carpentry workshop in the neighboring village. Other antique pieces have been refurbished and carefully incorporated into the design.

Individuality is a top priority at Gut Sonnenhausen in Bavaria. They have collected original farmhouse cabinets from all over Bavaria and lovingly restored them in the stables of the historic farmhouse. These cabinets form an exciting contrast to the modern art and contemporary design found throughout the hotel. And the beds were designed in-house and crafted by a local carpenter using regional wood. Each room is unique; no two rooms are alike.

“”Wood is proud of its age.” —From the book “So Green Was My Valley” von Richard Llewellyn

Immerse yourself in craftsmanship: Carved rooms that evoke a sense of well-being

In some hotels, you will find not only unique pieces of furniture but also rooms that are completely carved.

At the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, the “Arvenstube” is the perfect place to relax. This entire relaxation room is furnished with fragrant Swiss stone pine wood, which is known for its restorative properties (read this blog article to learn more about the latest studies). Here, you can unwind on waterbeds after an active day exploring the mountains around the Matterhorn. According to Fabienne Anthamatten, the hostess, this is one of the guests’ favorite rooms. 🙂

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld showcases master craftsmanship with its unique, hand-carved “Herzerl-Sauna” (heart sauna). You won’t find another one like it anywhere on the planet.

Handcrafted rooms like this one combine craftsmanship, natural materials, and wellness in a special way.

Wood in all its facets: regional materials, sustainable partners, and natural construction methods

In addition to offering handmade furniture, our partner hotels are taking various approaches to providing a sustainable wood and nature experience, such as using regional materials, creating durable products, and employing innovative construction methods.

At My Arbor, for instance, furniture crafted from regional oak and sun-baked larch, both sourced from sustainable forestry, dominates. Entirely built high up in the treetops of the South Tyrolean spruce forest, the hotel offers unique views of the Plose from its rooms.

Sustainability is a recurring theme in the partnerships at the Lifestylehotel SAND (SAND Aspires Natural Design). The beds here are from CocoMat, a company whose mattresses are made exclusively from natural materials, such as coconut fibers. The sturdy, recycled teak bed headboards and matching tables in the breakfast and bar areas highlight the hotel’s commitment to sustainable interior design, focusing on quality and durability.

Vacation in a log cabin

The Summit Lodges in Pfunds are completely different but equally impressive. These vacation homes are traditional log cabins, built entirely from whole logs. This construction method boasts an excellent ecological balance, minimal resource consumption, and a particularly pleasant indoor climate thanks to natural Tyrolean sheep’s wool insulation and large windows that let in plenty of sunlight.

Wooden furniture inspiration for your home

Do you want to bring a piece of craftsmanship into your home? Here are a few ideas for finding furniture with history, character, and sustainability:

• Go treasure hunting: Antique and flea markets, as well as online classified ads, are full of special pieces with patina.
• Discover journeyman pieces: Many cities, including my hometown of Cologne, have chambers of crafts that exhibit journeyman and master pieces every year. You can find inspiration there and connect with young carpenters. Years later, these unique pieces sometimes end up in classified ads.
• Build it yourself using the right wood: Numerous DIY instructions for shelves, tables, and more can be found online. When buying wood, look for regional origin and the FSC seal, which is better than PEFC.
• Choose solid wood over chipboard: Furniture made of solid wood is more durable and better for the indoor climate because it doesn’t contain adhesives or formaldehyde. Veneered panels have their place, but opt for solid wood if possible.
• Consider custom work from a professional: Need a new piece of furniture? Ask your local carpenter. Custom-made pieces are more expensive, but not prohibitively so. They are also unique and high-quality.

This demonstrates the versatility of wood as a raw material used in sustainable hotels and homes. It is used not only for furniture, but also in a variety of other forms, always with the goal of blending nature, design, and responsibility.

Save this article as an interior inspiration on Pinterest.

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

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

A gentle exploration of the Croatian island of Iž

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

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

A sustainable, active vacation by the water

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

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

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

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

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

Take a vacation at a lake in northern italy

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

Sports on the Baltic Sea

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

A vegan active vacation in South Tyrol

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy forest bathing and tranquility at My Arbor

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

• Click here for their weekly program.

Chillin’ in nature

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

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

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

Scavenger hunts, escape games, and city tours

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

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

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

Discover Peru’s plantations

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

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

Bees and api wellness in South Tyrol

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

Suspension bridge and lunch in East Tyrol

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

Barefoot trail at the Adler Lodge Ritten

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

Cycling 

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

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

Horseback riding

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

The ABCs of sustainable outdoor activities

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

 

Barefoot trails

Sightseeing

Bird watching

Archery

Bouldering

Camping

Dolphin watching

E-bike tours

Escape games (outdoor)

Golf

Gondola ride to a viewing platform

Suspension bridge

Outdoor journaling

Kayaking

Canoeing

Climbing

Knipping

Herbal workshops

Reading

Meditation

Mini golf

Visiting plantations

Cycling or MTB

Rafting

Horseback riding

Rowing

Scavenger hunt

Swimming

Sailing

City tours

SUP

Forest bathing

Forest meditation

Whitewater rafting

Outdoor yoga

 

 

Did we forget something?

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

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