While bookings to certain classic long-haul destinations have declined substantially, Europe is gaining popularity. But this raises a new question: Are those beautiful summer destinations overcrowded now?

Not necessarily. Some regions and hotels are taking a different approach. These places distribute visitor traffic more effectively, operate on a smaller scale, or are simply located away from major hotspots. Here, we’re introducing these kinds of destinations—ideal for a last-minute summer vacation offering peace and quiet, nature experiences, and real added value.

When popular vacation spots get too crowded

 The example of Berchtesgaden demonstrates just how quickly tourist destinations can become overrun. In 2021, a small natural pool above Lake Königssee gained worldwide fame on social media. On peak days, hundreds of people flocked to the spot simultaneously. The result was destroyed vegetation, a network of trails stretching for miles through the protected area, and massive strain on sensitive natural habitats. The national park administration finally closed the area completely to visitors.

What’s next for the Gumpen at the Königsbach Waterfall?

The “Instagram Grumpen” will definitely remain closed until October 2026. According to the National Park Service, a panel of experts will then decide if the natural environment has recovered enough to reopen.

The example highlights a fundamental problem with modern travel trends. Today, places are discovered not only through travel guides but also through TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and AI-generated travel recommendations. Within a few months, a quiet natural spot can turn into an international hotspot.

This makes the following question all the more important: How can you experience popular regions without becoming part of the problem?

Experiencing popular tourist destinations gently

Berchtesgaden without hotspot stress

The Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa Hotel has experienced the effects of social media tourism firsthand. The Färber couple, who run the hotel, carefully considered the matter with their team. Rather than simply sending their guests to well-known spots, the hotel now focuses on education and offering alternatives.

They deliberately direct visitors toward less-frequented (but equally beautiful!) hikes and quieter natural spots. They also explain the reasons behind certain protective measures. In their experience, this changes guests’ travel behavior. Those who understand why a place needs protection tend to treat it with greater respect.

Discover the Dolomites at a leisurely pace

The Dolomites are one of Europe’s most popular summer destinations (in part thanks to social media). However, some regions struggle every summer with heavy traffic, parking issues, and overcrowded viewpoints.

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is located in the Seiser Alm area, right in the buffer zone of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site and surrounded by protected areas. As a result, there are strict access regulations. Private cars are only permitted on the Alm under certain conditions, and new construction is strictly limited. These regulations help keep the region relatively quiet despite its popularity.

The OLM Nature Escape in the Tauferer Ahrntal Valley, on the other hand, takes a highly personalized approach. Guests receive personalized tour recommendations tailored to the weather, time of day, and their interests. The goal is to experience nature rather than just checking off “must-see spots.”

Neuschwanstein without the constant stream of tour groups

Neuschwanstein Castle attracts millions of visitors every year. Especially in the summer, a tour can quickly feel like a trip to an amusement park.

That’s why the Hotel Das Rübezahl emphasizes strategic timing and alternatives, such as visiting earlier or later in the day, taking quieter hiking trails, and visiting lesser-known viewpoints around the castle. The hiking concierge, “Bergbaschdi,” can help you with these options.

To avoid waiting in line altogether, you can choose not to see the castle from the inside. Personally, I find that admiring the famous fairytale castle’s backdrop from a distance is enough (and it’s the best part anyway).

Tyrol—a highly touristic region striving to preserve nature

The issue of mass tourism in the Tyrolean Oberland is a major concern for host Marco Spiss, as he explains in this interview on our blog.

The Super.Summer.Card, in particular, has made the region even more popular. However, the municipality of Pfunds, where his Summit Lodges vacation homes are located, has implemented a series of environmental protection measures and has been a member of the Climate Alliance since the 1990s, for example. With his vacation homes, which accommodate up to six people, he also wants to do his part and explains that they are powered by 100% green electricity from Tyrolean hydropower.

Vacation spots that many people haven’t discovered yet

The Rhön as an alternative to overhyped destinations

While some places are crowded, other regions remain surprisingly quiet even though they offer incredible scenic beauty.

The Rhön, a low mountain range in Germany, is one such place: sweeping views, hiking trails, a light-pollution-free zone and star park, and comparatively little hustle and bustle make the region particularly appealing to last-minute travelers looking to escape the typical summer hotspots.

Hotel STURM in Mellrichstadt explains that tourism doesn’t have to be curtailed everywhere. In some regions, like theirs, guests are essential to preserving the local infrastructure in the long term.

During your summer vacation, enjoy the natural swimming pond (filled with Grander water), gaze at the night sky, take short hikes through the moors, and sample the hotel’s snack garden. A wide variety of berries ripen here in the summer. 😉

Lake Constance without the glitzy hustle and bustle

Even on popular Lake Constance, you can find quiet spots. The Naturesort Gerbehof, for example, is a bit more secluded and appeals to people who want to stay longer and consciously take their time exploring the region: cycling, farm-fresh produce, nature, tranquility, and “soul wellness”. Regions with significant seasonal fluctuations benefit from guests who stay longer and travel outside peak periods, such as school vacations.

By the way: Outside of Baden-Württemberg school holidays, Gerbehof is adults-only!

A countryside getaway in Lower Saxony

Not every summer trip has to be to the beach or the mountains. In particular, many people in 2026 are rediscovering destinations that can be easily accessed by train or (electric) car.

The family-run Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe demonstrates how relaxing a laid-back, countryside getaway can be: old trees, regional cuisine, ample space, and, most importantly, peace and quiet.

If you want to travel with your dog, Hotel Okelmann’s is the perfect choice for you. The two sisters who run the hotel have dogs of their own and offer all kinds of accessories and treats for your pet in the small concept store located in the café. Okelmann’s is also a great choice if you’re interested in yoga and singing bowl massages. Owner Maren is a certified yoga instructor who offers classes and mini-retreats—even ones you can attend with your dog.

Last but not least: a small island with only one hotel

The Croatian island of Iž has remained quiet to this day, especially compared to other coastal towns in Croatia. This is partly because the tourist infrastructure has been kept small on purpose.

The Hotel Korinjak is the only hotel on the island. It does not cater to large group tours; rather, it attracts independent travelers who enjoy vegetarian cuisine, like to relax by the sea with breathwork and yoga, and appreciate the wide variety of workshops and the Mediterranean scenery.

Conclusion: Perhaps you can be part of the solution

Mass tourism isn’t just caused by “too many people,” but also by the way people travel: as quickly as possible, seeing as much as possible, and seeking out the most spectacular sights. If you want things to change, you can start by making a difference yourself!

You can help regions the most by taking the time to really get to know them. Stay longer. Be considerate of nature. Find your own photo spots instead of following Instagram recommendations.

Many of the accommodations featured here show what that can look like and can assist you with personalized recommendations off the beaten path.

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

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

Why is renovation considered a model for the future

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros:

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

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

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

Monastery Hotels: Where spiritual architecture lives on

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

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

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

Hotel Klosterbräu: From an Augustinian monastery to a wellness hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green Spirit Hotel Le Pavillon in Paris: A former convent

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

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

Castle Hotels: After decadence comes preservation

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

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

Schloss Lerchenhof: Lovingly preserved by the family

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

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

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

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

Inkaterra La Casona: A mansion turned boutique hotel

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

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

Old Farmhouses: Architecture that has evolved over time

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

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

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

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

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

Gut Sonnenhausen: Where historic architecture meets contemporary design

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

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

The Stanglwirt: A hotel that has grown over generations

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

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

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

Albergo Diffuso: How entire villages are being saved

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

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

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

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

When old hotels are reimagined

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

Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten: From bus hotel to wellness resort

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other hotels that have chosen to renovate instead of tear down

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

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

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

What we can learn from hotels

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

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

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

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Babymoon Special in the Romantic Hideaway Hotel Das Rübezahl

A top address for couples is the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu. Set against a mountain backdrop with Neuschwanstein Castle and other royal castles, the area is super romantic. For couples, the sustainable hotel offers a range of services, from engraved love locks to horse-drawn carriage rides. There is even a babymoon special.

• Starting at 900 euros per person, you can enjoy 3 nights and a variety of spa treatments (for him: a beer bath with hops and malt and a full-body massage; for her: a 60-minute facial, back massage, and foot bath). In addition, there’s a culinary indulgence program featuring breakfast, lunch, afternoon cake, and a 4-course dinner. Alternatively, you can enjoy a snack at the hotel’s own mountain hut (at 1,320 meters).

Pregnancy Spa at Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa

You’ll find a similarly relaxed atmosphere at the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain. The 1,500-square-foot spa area is the perfect place to unwind. Or enjoy the privacy of one of the suites, which include a private whirlpool and infrared sauna.

In addition, the Klosterhof houses a health center run by the hotel’s owner and physician, Dr. Andreas Färber. Special offers for pregnant women include prenatal massages (starting at 12 weeks) and lymphatic drainage. The kitchen is happy to accommodate special dietary needs (e.g., gestational diabetes), and the bar offers a wide selection of mocktails.

With the Klosterhof Babymoon Package (three nights starting at €658 per person), you’ll receive full board, private floating time in the Alpen-Soledum brine bath in the spa area, and a 50-minute massage for two. Depending on the stage of pregnancy and individual needs, expectant mothers have a wide range of options available.

Togetherness in your own chalet

Another popular destination for couples is the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol. Spend your babymoon in a modern, private wooden chalet surrounded by the beautiful mountain scenery of the Dolomites and enjoy the bio-sauna all to yourself. Drinks and meals are included in the price. According to the “farm-to-table” principle, most of the products come from the farm or the surrounding area.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN Babymoon Special offers an indulgent experience for both of you:

• 3 massages for her (1 x Harmony, 50 min, and 2 x Premaman massage, 50 min)
• 3 massages for him (1 x Deep & Detox, 50 min, 1 x Harmony, 50 min, and 1 x massage with arnica oil)

In addition, you will find a bottle of non-alcoholic “Rocco Sparkling” and fresh fruit waiting for you in your room or chalet upon arrival. Prices (including the all-inclusive package) start at 548 euros.

Is it possible to go on a babymoon by yourself?

Why not? Even as an expectant mother, you deserve some time off before the joys (and stresses) of parenthood begin. For example, Lena Meyer-Landruth went on a solo babymoon in Tyrol. While her husband, the singer Mark Forster, was working in South Africa, she stayed at the Stanglwirt Organic and Wellness Hotel.

Babymoon Special at the Stanglwirt

• The Babymoon package at the Stanglwirt includes two or three nights of accommodations with breakfast featuring organic products from the hotel’s farm. The package also includes a non-alcoholic sparkling wine upon arrival, a romantic dinner for two, and a 30-minute spa treatment for her.

The massive wellness area, spanning 12,000 m2, featuring a rock pool, relaxation rooms, and a sauna area, will be at your disposal. So will the daily vacation program and the wide range of sports activities.

Here’s another special treat: your new addition to the family will receive a gift, as well as a “baby voucher for their first vacation at the Stanglwirt.” This means your child is “cordially invited” on their first visit.

Prices range from €1,160 to €1,888 for two people for two nights and from €1,640 to €2,732 for three nights, depending on the room category.

Babymoon getaway with wellness tailored to your taste

Not all hotels that are well-suited for babymoons offer special packages. For example, we recommend the STURM, located at the foot of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve. It’s an ideal place for a couples’ getaway, with nature right at your doorstep to help you unwind. Together, you can stroll through the herb and snack garden and sample the ingredients that will end up on your plates at dinner. The Rhön Spa at the STURM offers wellness for the body, mind, and soul with a garden sauna, a fresh-air grotto, a steam bath, and various natural cosmetic treatments and massages. Or how about taking a yoga class together, followed by a dip in the swimming pond? It’s simply lovely.

The Benefits of Sustainable Hotels for Your Babymoon

If you need more reasons to spend your babymoon at a sustainable hotel like those featured here, consider the following:

• All the babymoon hotels mentioned prioritize indoor air quality, ensuring you’re in a natural, toxin-free environment
• Healthy organic food, some of which comes from the hotel’s own farm, provides you with everything your body needs in a delicious way.
• You’ll enjoy wellness treatments using natural cosmetics.
• The hotels generally prioritize environmental protection and CO₂ reduction to preserve the world for future generations

Can you think of any other benefits? Or have you already been on a babymoon? Then share your experiences!

This is an update from April 18, 2023

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A–B: From Aromatherapy to Biohacking

Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils for relaxation, stimulation, or calming. The scents work through the skin, respiratory tract, and nervous system—usually in combination with massages or baths. The experience is particularly pleasant (and long-lasting) when the oils are organically grown and used sparingly and thoughtfully.

Ayurveda: A millennia-old Indian system of health and wellness that views the body, mind, and lifestyle as a unified whole. Typical practices include oil massages, herbal treatments, meditation, and a diet tailored to one’s constitutional type. The LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturns, South Tyrol, offers Ayurveda as part of its holistic spa concept, combining it with vegan cuisine and plenty of peace and quiet amidst nature.

Bamboo massage: A dynamic form of massage that uses smooth bamboo sticks to perform rolling and deep tissue movements. It stimulates blood circulation, relaxes muscles, and increases lymphatic flow. It is particularly enjoyable after physical activity. At the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, bamboo massages are therefore offered specifically to active guests. The hotel’s 1,500-square-meter Artemacur Spa combines medical expertise with alpine relaxation and has been certified as a “Medical Spa.”

Beer Massage: A Franconian wellness specialty in which hop and malt extracts are used in massages. These ingredients are said to relax muscles and nourish the skin. At the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, beer massages are combined with regional brewing history and wellness.

Bioenergetic motivation, according to Viktor Philippi: An alternative method of activating the body’s natural self-healing powers. It uses energetic impulses to support the immune system, metabolism, and regeneration. This method is often used to address stress, exhaustion, and for general revitalization. You remain fully clothed during the treatment. It is offered at the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, among other places, as part of the “Soul Wellness” program.

Biohacking: A self-optimization trend that uses targeted methods, such as sleep optimization, breathing techniques, and specific heat treatments, to enhance physical and mental performance. In our article “Beware of Biohacking,” we explain how meaningful this trend really is and what it has to do with sustainability.

Body wrap: A beauty treatment involving the application of mud, algae, healing clay or herbs to the body. The heat opens the pores, enabling the minerals to be absorbed through the skin.

C–E: Energy, relaxation, and heat

Chakra: A term originating from Indian yoga teachings. Chakras are considered to be energy centres located along the spine that influence physical and emotional balance. At the Naturhotel Outside, chakra massages using organic essential oils are offered to restore balance to the body and mind.

Detox: A general term for programs designed to cleanse the body and mind. This is typically accomplished through mindful eating, exercise, and rest. From a scientific perspective, health insurance providers note that detox products are unnecessary because the body detoxifies itself. In the wellness context, however, variations exist, such as digital detox and mental detox. At Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa, mental detox is one of the wellness offerings, and at Hotel Weiherhof, guests receive a surprise box to motivate them during their digital detox.

Event Infusion: A creative take on the traditional sauna experience. Sauna masters combine scents, music, and choreography to create short performances. At the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region, sauna master István’s event infusions are legendary; sometimes he appears as Bob Marley and other times he wears a kilt and plays the bagpipes.

F–H: Facial care, floating, and Far Eastern techniques

Facial: A cosmetic treatment that includes cleansing, exfoliation, a mask, and a massage. The goal is to achieve healthy, radiant skin and enjoy an hour of deep relaxation.

Floating: Weightless floating for deep relaxation. At the Dolomitenhotel Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm, you can even experience this sensation without getting wet. During the “Zero Body Floating Experience,” you lie on a warm surface and feel weightless thanks to a zero-gravity system. Traditional floating in brine water is available at the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, which uses brine from Bad Reichenhall, and at the Naturhotel Outside, which uses Deferegger healing water brine.

Forest bathing: a practice originating in Japan (“Shinrin Yoku”) in which one consciously spends time in the forest to reduce stress. At the tree hotel My Arbor (arbor is Latin for tree) on the Plose, guided forest bathing and spa experiences tailored to different tree species are part of the program.

Gua Sha: A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment in which a stone is used to scrape the skin. Increased blood flow is said to improve the skin’s appearance. At the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle, Gua Sha is a staple of the massage menu. Read more about it in our blog post on massage trends.

Hay Bath: This traditional Alpine wellness treatment involves wrapping guests in warm mountain hay. The hay’s herbs and essential oils are said to relax muscles and improve circulation. At the same time, the treatment transports guests mentally to a summer day on an alpine pasture.

Hot Stone Massage: A massage that uses heated basalt stones to penetrate deep into the muscles. According to the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA staff, it is one of the most popular treatments among guests.

Hydrojet: A type of massage that uses a water jet in a special tub, whirlpool, or pool.

Herbal Compress Massage: A massage that uses heated cloth pouches filled with herbs. At the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba in Peru, the herbs used for these pindas are grown in the resort’s “Healing Garden.” The warm compresses are moved across the body using pressure and circular motions to relieve tension and improve sleep.

I–K: Ice, Infrared and Kneipp

Ice bathing: The practice of bathing in an ice hole in a frozen lake or an ice barrel. It is said to improve circulation, boost the immune system, and strengthen mental resilience. Read more about the effects of cold in our article on ice bathing and cold therapy. From a sustainability perspective, this activity should only be enjoyed when lakes or other bodies of water are naturally frozen, and ice baths made with artificial ice should be avoided.

Infrared sauna: A gentler alternative to the traditional Finnish sauna. Rather than hot air, infrared rays heat the body directly. Although the temperatures are lower, you will still start sweating quickly.

Kneipp Therapy: A form of hydrotherapy based on the methods of Sebastian Kneipp, involving alternating between warm and cold water, as in the well-known water walking exercise. This method is said to strengthen the circulatory and immune systems. Many hotels, such as Naturresort Gerbehof, have their own Kneipp path in their wellness garden.

L–O: Longevity and Ways to Achieve Deep Relaxation

Longevity: A modern wellness trend with a grand goal—to live a healthy life for as long as possible. The “Longevity Booster Program” at the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA includes light therapy, Ayurveda, skin analysis, personal coaching, yoga, a Mediterranean diet, and spa treatments. Located right next to the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, the resort is committed to renewable energy and a plastic-free environment. Read this article to learn more about longevity and where such treatments are offered.

Natural Swimming Pond: A swimming pond that doesn’t use chemicals to treat the water. Instead of chlorine, clean water is ensured by plants and biological filtration systems. Many Green PearlsⓇ hotels, including La Vimea, Naturhotel Outside, and STURM, have adopted this nature-friendly approach to swimming.

Orgon Accumulator: A cabin designed for energetic relaxation based on the theory of psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich who posited the existence of a universal life energy called “Orgon.” Guests at the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž can try this unique treatment.

Q–T: Ancient Healing Traditions and Modern Spa Rituals

Qi Gong: A meditative exercise rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that combines breathing, movement, and concentration. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Qi Gong classes are part of the program offered at the on-site Selfness Center.

Reiki: A Japanese energy healing method in which practitioners place their hands on specific parts of the body to promote relaxation and harmonize energy flow. This “laying on of hands” technique can also be performed about 1 cm away from the body (in the aura). You remain fully clothed during the session.

Rhassoul Bath: An oriental steam bath in which mineral-rich mud is applied to the skin. The heat opens the pores, cleansing the skin and stimulating blood circulation.

Sensory Shower: A multisensory shower system featuring changing water jets, lighting, scents, and nature sounds. The brief cooling-off period after a sauna or steam bath stimulates circulation and the senses. Incidentally, many sustainable hotels opt for showers instead of bathtubs or cold plunge pools.

Salt Cave: A room filled with salty air, designed to mimic the microclimate of salt mines. Breathing in this air is believed to support respiratory health. One such salt cave is located in the spa area of the Megasaray Club Belek on the Turkish Riviera.

Sauna: A classic of wellness culture originally from Finland. In its hot, dry air (usually between 70 and 100°C), the body heats up, and then cold showers or plunge pools provide relief. This alternating between heat and cold is said to strengthen the circulatory and immune systems and improve blood flow. Saunas are now a staple of almost every spa, but they consume a lot of energy. Read our article on sustainable sauna concepts to learn how sustainable hotels are operating their saunas in the most resource-efficient way possible.

Sound Massage: A relaxation technique in which singing bowls are struck on or near the body. The vibrations are transmitted to the body’s tissues, which is said to relieve stress and induce a deep sense of calm. The Hotel Korinjak, located on the Croatian island of Iž, offers sound massages and daily gong baths as part of its wellness program. The Eco-Hotel Okelmann also offers sound massages based on the Peter Hess® method. Learn more about Peter Hess and singing bowl massage in the linked article.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): A millennia-old medical system from China based on the balance of yin and yang and the flow of life energy, or qi. At the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle, TCM therapists work in the on-site center to create personalized programs combining nutrition, exercise, treatments, and meditation.

Tepidarium: A room with moderate heat (40 °C), inspired by Roman baths. At the Spa Therme Romana in the Hotel Das Rübezahl, the tepidarium gradually prepares guests for the hotter saunas.

Thalassotherapy: A treatment that uses seawater, seaweed, mud, sea air, and sea salt. The term comes from the Greek word thalassa, meaning “sea.” At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife, thalassotherapy plays a central role, as seen in the “Ocean Balancing” treatment.

W–Z: Stretching, physical activity, and inner peace

Yoga: An ancient Indian practice that unites the body, breath, and mind through movement and meditation. Many Green PearlsⓇ hotels offer yoga retreats and classes. Find inspiration here:

• Hotels where the owner is also a yoga instructor
• Yoga retreats for beginners
• Yoga retreats for advanced practitioners
  
  

Yoga at the panoramic pool | © Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa 

Zen: A Buddhist meditation practice from Japan that focuses on mindfulness, stillness, and being present in the moment. Its goal is not so much relaxation in the traditional wellness sense as it is mental clarity. Nevertheless, Zen has long been incorporated into many spa and retreat programs in the form of silent meditation, breathing exercises, and minimalist retreats in nature.

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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

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From a concrete eyesore to a design and lifestyle hotel: Three generations have shaped the STURM

Green Travel Blog: Hello Xaver, first of all, thank you for taking the time to do this interview today. The STURM is a well-known hotel, and many people come to Mellrichstadt just to stay there. Do you feel any “pressure” to do even better as the next generation?

Xaver Schulze Diekhoff: I wouldn’t call it pressure. Of course, continuing to run such a successful business is a big challenge, and you want to do it justice. At the same time, though, my parents give me a lot of support by fully backing me.

GTB: The STURM has had an eventful history. Originally located on the inner-German border, it later became a popular destination for motorcyclists. Today, it is an oasis of peace and wellness. What are your thoughts on this transformation?

Xaver:

Of course, I haven’t experienced all of STURM’s phases myself because it has been around for 50 years. Nevertheless, I have many positive memories of earlier times, such as the famous motorcycle days with their legendary parties.

We’ve transformed from a real eyesore into an architectural highlight with a strong focus on sustainability. My parents made a conscious decision to prioritize sustainability at a time when it wasn’t nearly as prominent an issue as it is today.

In my opinion, the decision to transition to an organic and wellness hotel was timely and correct. It is also one of the reasons why STURM is still in business today.

“Sustainability pays off on the balance sheet.”

GTB: Will you continue down this path?

Xaver: As a family—my parents, Christa and Matthias; my brother, Julius; and myself—we actively promote a sustainable approach. We are constantly looking for ways to improve, whether in the food and beverage sector or in structural development.

Sustainability is much more than just a marketing tool. It is a smart economic decision that directly impacts the balance sheet by lowering energy costs and increasing resource efficiency. Furthermore, we prioritize preserving existing structures and modernizing them rather than demolishing them and constructing new ones.

GTB: As for the architecture, you are working closely with Professor Loebermann, a popular contemporary architect.

Xaver: Yes, and he has already received several awards for this (e.g., the “Best Architects Award 2024” for our Garden View Rooms). Some of his most iconic designs have been realized here.

Connected to nature

GTB: How would you personally define sustainability?

Xaver: To me, sustainability means treating our environment with care and taking responsibility for how we use resources. It means making decisions based not just on short-term benefits, but also on long-term effects.

I am a passionate hunter myself, which has given me a special appreciation for meat as a product. People who know where meat comes from and take responsibility for it automatically treat it with greater care. This attitude shapes both my personal understanding of sustainability and my work at STURM.

GTB:What is your role at STURM?

Xaver: I am involved in operations and serve as a direct point of contact for employees. At the same time, I am gradually learning the ropes of the managing director’s role from my father, so that I can responsibly continue to run the company in the long term.

GTB: Have you had the opportunity to contribute your own ideas or new impulses to the hotel? How open are your parents to suggestions?

Xaver: My parents are very open-minded. They listen to and discuss everything I suggest, and, in the best case, implement it. This has allowed me to contribute several ideas (e.g., the regular guest concept), and I believe STURM will continue evolving in the future while maintaining its identity.

The STURM in the Rhön – a hideaway from everyday stress

GTB:What made your guests choose STURM in the first place?

Xaver: Here with us, you can consciously escape the stress of everyday life and noisy cities. The peace and quiet, nature, organic cuisine, wellness offerings, and vastness of the Rhön provide the perfect setting for relaxation.

Is there anything you would like to tell travelers interested in sustainable vacations?

Xaver: Sustainable holidays are not about doing without; rather, they are about experiencing things more consciously. It means perceiving things more intensely, using resources mindfully, and prioritizing quality over quantity. Those who travel with this mindset often take home not only a greater appreciation for nature, products, and people, but also more peace and contentment.

GTB: That sounds like a clear stance. We look forward to seeing how you continue to shape STURM in the future. Thank you very much for speaking with us.

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What exactly is a snack garden?

Unlike traditional ornamental gardens, which are designed primarily for beauty, and Zen gardens, which focus on tranquility and minimalism, snack gardens focus on the experience. They combine enjoyment with a sense of closeness to nature. Rather than “Please do not enter,” the motto here is “Feel free to try.” For many people, especially those on vacation, this is a surprisingly intense moment of freedom and connection.

Some Green Pearls® hotels have snack gardens at the heart of their design. They provide easy access, make the origin of food tangible, and create a playful connection between guests, cuisine, and landscape. If not in the mouths of guests, the harvest ends up in the hotel kitchen and, equally importantly, with bees, butterflies, and other insects, which are just as welcome here.

The concept of a snack garden is a statement of trust and sharing, encouraging relaxed coexistence between humans and nature.

The STURM snack garden lies at the heart of the hotel’s sustainable concept

At the Wellnesshotel STURM in Mellrichstadt in the Rhön (Bavaria), you can experience a particularly large and impressive snack garden. On around 3,500 square meters, you will find everything you could possibly want to eat: vegetables, salads, fruit, herbs, and honey from the hotel’s own bees. Deliberately designed to offer space for everyone, the garden provides room for plants, birds, insects, and, of course, guests.

One particularly appealing aspect is that not only are the fruits and herbs in the snack garden edible, but so are many of the flowers. For example, cosmos bloom colorfully between the beds in the summer, attracting bees, bumblebees, and butterflies—and ending up as edible flowers on the plates at the hotel’s organic restaurant, Otto’s. The hotel recommends two special herbs: French tarragon and chervil. Tarragon aids digestion when consumed as a tea, and chervil traditionally supports kidney, bladder, and digestive health.

For 30 years, Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff have been gradually transforming the former inner-German border hotel into a design hideaway shaped by responsible practices – with a natural swimming pond instead of a pool and a garden designed to create experiences rather than merely serve as scenery.

The snack garden is a species garden in the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

The snack garden at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is bursting with life. The lovingly designed “species garden” spans around 100 square meters, offering a delightful blend of snacking, biodiversity, and culinary delights. Guests are invited to help themselves to raspberries, strawberries, and currants growing along a 25-meter berry path with around 15 varieties. Other offerings include vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes, and zucchini, as well as aromatic herbs that go straight to the kitchen.

Stephan Bode’s hotel garden is based on the principles of regenerative agriculture. Synthetic pesticides are consistently avoided. Instead, the hotel focuses on diverse plant communities and insect-friendly planting. With raised beds, fruit trees, and wildflower meadows, a lively space is created that appeals to the senses of sight, smell, touch, and taste, not to mention the sound of busy bees buzzing around.

The snack garden is also a refuge for animals. Lizards find shelter in stone piles, honeybees and wild bees are permanent guests, and birds, hedgehogs, and earwigs take advantage of the many nesting sites and watering holes. Guests can enjoy a real nature experience by strolling through the garden, which also establishes a connection to the origin of the ingredients on their plates.

• For more information about the snack garden, visit the hotel’s website.
  

What if a snack garden isn’t possible? Kitchen gardens are an alternative

You like the idea of a snack garden, but let’s be honest, it’s not that easy in real life. Where do people who are allowed to snack come from? Maybe you could take down the fence and put up a sign that says: “Snack Garden — Visitors Expressly Welcome.” It’s a nice idea, especially if you live in a lively neighborhood or on a play street.

However, if that’s not realistic, there’s an equally appealing alternative: a kitchen garden. Here, you can grow herbs, vegetables, and fruits specifically for your kitchen. It’s less open, but you’re more aware of what you’re growing. Kitchen gardens create a connection to nature, enhance the flavor of your food, and demonstrate the impact that even small spaces can have. Ultimately, it’s also a kind of snack garden—just for you.

Mocktails from the kitchen garden at LA VIMEA

At the adults-only vegan retreat LA VIMEA, the kitchen garden is part of the holistic wellness concept. Organically grown medicinal herbs are cultivated here and used in both the kitchen and the bar. Among other things, the herbs are used to make homemade infusions for cocktails and mocktails that are fresh, aromatic, and perfectly tailored to the hotel’s wellness concept.

Hotel Bella Vista, Zermatt: “Our garden on the garage roof is quite impressive.”

The kitchen garden at the small, family-run Bella Vista hotel in Zermatt is located where you might not expect: on the garage roof. Despite the limited space, the garden produces an impressive variety of crops, including herbs for teas, such as peppermint, lemon balm, verbena, chamomile, and nettle, as well as berries, like raspberries, strawberries, and currants, which are used to make jams.

The selection is rounded out with rhubarb, lettuce, zucchini, and cauliflower. This rooftop garden demonstrates that a functioning kitchen garden can be established even in alpine regions with limited space. It is directly connected to the kitchen and tea room, firmly anchoring the hotel’s commitment to sustainability.

Do you dream of having your own Mediterranean herb garden? Hotel Korinjak has one

The Hotel Korinjak, located on the Croatian island of Iz, is surrounded by an abundance of natural food sources, including olive trees, figs, and wild herbs. A small, traditionally laid out Dalmatian herb garden complements the landscape. Rosemary, sage, mint, lemon balm, wild fennel, and lavender are cultivated here using minimal intervention and a great deal of trust in the soil and climate, without the use of chemicals.

The garden is an intentional connection to the island. The herbs end up in the kitchen, at the tea station, or in workshops in which guests can participate. Anyone can pick, smell, and learn—and understand how much flavor is connected to place and rhythm.

Conclusion: Kitchen garden — but alive

Whether it’s a snack garden or a kitchen garden, there’s always something going on in these gardens. They are functional, but not strictly controlled production areas. With berry bushes, herbs, and raised beds, there’s always a buzzing, fluttering, and crawling. Here, insects are allowed to snack, pollinators can do their work, and plants are allowed to simply grow instead of looking perfect.

Edible gardens encourage sharing, and kitchen gardens encourage mindful processing. Both types of gardens reconnect people with what they eat and with the nature from which it comes.

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

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

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

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

How is this related to travel?

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

Less is more: How smart shopping prevents food waste

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

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

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

What can we learn from this?

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

Planning beats perfection—and buffets are not mandatory

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

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

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

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

For you at home:

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

Leftovers become flavor — when creativity is part of the concept

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

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

The advice for you at home:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At home:

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

Cooking Oil: The invisible food waste with massive consequences

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

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

How to properly dispose of cooking oil:

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

Circular Food only works when we work together

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

Conclusion: Circular thinking begins in the mind

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

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

2030 is approaching. Let’s get started.

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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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But vacations can sometimes be exhausting. The variety of offerings entices you to rush from the sauna to a treatment and then to dinner. However, don’t be afraid to take moments to rest without worrying about missing something =) Doesn’t it sound tempting to forget about time while enjoying a good book? What about an extended nap wrapped in a fluffy blanket in a cozy spot? Or a stroll through the hotel garden?

Most hotels have special locations and quiet oases designed for just such moments of rest—places that can look very different. Our partners are sure to have the perfect spot for you, and they may even inspire you to create your own peaceful retreat at home.

Take a breather surrounded by greenery

Studies show that spending even a short time in nature can measurably reduce stress hormones. For example, researchers at MedUni Vienna found that spending just 20 minutes in the forest reduces cortisol, a physiological stress marker, in saliva. No wonder, then, that it is particularly easy to recharge outdoors in nature. For this, exploring a garden or taking a short walk in a nearby forest is just the thing. With a gentle breeze in your hair and the sun on your skin, surrounded by the rustling of green leaves, it’s wonderful to take a deep breath.

A healing climate, a snack garden, and quiet moments in the Black Forest

Speaking of “breathing deeply”: Did you know that the Black Forest has particularly fresh air? When you stay at the Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, you’ll find yourself in a health resort with a beneficial climate. Feel free and healthy as you relax on a lounger on the sun terrace with your eyes closed, or take a tour of the hotel’s snack garden and taste the delicacies growing in the raised beds. Activities like these stimulate several of your senses at once, which helps lower your stress level.

Tip: If you want to be undisturbed, hotel gardens are often less crowded during the day.

Discover your new favorite places in Mediterranean nature

Sometimes, tranquility isn’t found in just one place, but rather spread gently across a village, garden, or landscape. That experience awaits you at the Relais del Maro in Liguria. The sustainable Albergo Diffuso is located in Borgomaro, a small, quiet village with only about 800 inhabitants in the Imperia countryside. Its rooms and houses are spread across several historic buildings interspersed with narrow streets, a church, and Mediterranean nature. In the main building, you will find a beautifully landscaped garden with a pool — a place to arrive, read, and relax. Here, tranquility is not staged but experienced naturally in the rhythm of the village, far from the hustle and bustle.

Peace and quiet on a secluded, natural beach

Further south in Sicily, a different yet equally profound form of silence awaits. The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located on a secluded beach that can only be accessed via the resort. Surrounded by orange groves, fields, and rolling hills, the resort offers sweeping views of miles of wild, sandy beaches stretching to the horizon where the sun sinks into the sea. In this spacious, luxurious complex, it’s easy to find your own personal retreat, whether it’s barefoot on the beach, on a cozy island in the garden, or in your room overlooking the calm sea. Here, untouched nature and vastness ensure that everyday life quietly fades into the background.

Built silence: How the architecture at STURM invites relaxation

But tranquility can be found not only outside in nature, but also indoors. Picture being out in the wind, rain, and cold, and then stepping into a cozy, warm room.

In recent years, the sustainable Hotel STURM has extensively studied how to create tranquility through architecture. At the end of 2023, the hotel opened a new relaxation room in the RHÖN-SPA designed by Professor Matthias Loebermann. Loebermann has worked with STURM for a long time and was awarded the Best Architects Award 24 for his work.

First “reset chamber” then relaxation

Before entering the relaxation room, guests pass through a deliberately designed threshold called the “ÜberGang” (transition). This architectural space acts as a mental reset, allowing guests to leave everyday life behind step by step and become more relaxed. Beyond it, a room opens up, panelled with natural silver fir. The subtle scent of the wood, its vertical structure, subdued lighting, and spacious double loungers create an atmosphere that does not distract but rather calms.

But that isn’t all. At the end of 2025, STURM took it a step further by opening its own House of Silence in the middle of the garden overlooking the natural swimming pond. Designed once again by Loebermann and built using sustainable timber construction methods, this place provides inner peace through its architecture alone.

Light exercise is a guarantee for well-being

Exercising (in nature) can promote general well-being, strengthen the immune system, and build endurance and strength. Low-impact activities like yoga and swimming are good options.

Swimming with a view — relaxation in water

Many of our partner hotels have pools in their spas where you can swim or relax at your own pace. Have you ever been to a natural swimming pond, for instance? At Naturhotel Outside, you can enjoy one surrounded by a 360-degree mountain panorama. It was even expanded in 2025. As you swim, you can relax and unwind while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

The great thing is that the water not only invites relaxation, but also gentle activities such as swimming a few laps, which contribute to general well-being. So do treatments, massages, yoga, meditation, and the sauna. Many of our Green Pearl hotels offer a wide range of services for this kind of relaxation.

A special indoor climate for your downtime

It’s not outdoors, but The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol has created a special climate for you. Make yourself comfortable on the loden sofa and enjoy the pleasant room climate, thanks to the local larch wood and loam walls.

The Zirben Suites have cozy nooks and freestanding bathtubs made of regional stone. Here, you can relax in complete privacy.

Wellness for the soul

Do you know why swimming is so good for your body? Water pressure helps push blood out of the veins, which relieves the heart. Additionally, moving underwater provides low-impact exercise for your whole body, protecting your joints and promoting mobility. But your mind and spirit benefit, too. Contact with water and movement in it can boost your self-confidence while reducing stress hormones. Simply relax and enjoy being in your element.

Floating on water

While floating in the Soledom at the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, you can relax and truly “float away.” Thanks to the water’s 15% salt content, you will feel almost weightless in it`s Reichenhall brine. This type of “floating” strengthens your nerves, positively affects skin conditions and allergies, and helps you find inner harmony. You can also experience healing brine water when you swim in the infinity panoramic pool at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol.

Relaxation rooms and oases of tranquility

In addition to exercising in the water, it is beneficial for us to relax in a quiet environment. Why is it that when we relax, our mind recovers? Inner tension often manifests physically. Thankfully, we can help our souls by relaxing externally. Inner peace follows.

Many wellness areas of the Green Pearls have quiet oases set up for a peaceful time-out.

One example is the Arvenstube at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, where you can relax on comfortable waterbeds in a Swiss stone pine room.

But what if you could be indoors and feel surrounded by nature at the same time? In the relaxation room next to the forest sauna at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, you can cozy up on a comfortable lounger and take in the unobstructed view of the lush greenery and beautiful landscape. Gentle scents and the natural warmth of a crackling fire surround you. Here, it’s easy to be in the moment and find complete peace.

The Hotel Luise, located in the heart of Erlangen, proves that oases of calm aren’t limited to the countryside. On the green roof terrace, you’ll find a surprisingly quiet place above the city’s rooftops. In a small glass house, you can enjoy a break in any weather, shielded from the hustle and bustle yet still enjoying the view of the greenery. It’s a beautiful example of how space for tranquility can be created in an urban environment.

Inspiration for your own retreat

Many of the calming ideas offered by our Green Pearls® partners can inspire your own home. Natural materials, such as wood, linen, and stone, create a warm and calming atmosphere. Indirect, subdued light sources instead of bright lighting help you unwind. Gentle scents, such as those from an aroma diffuser with essential oils, can ease the transition from everyday life to relaxation.

It’s also important to look outside. A window with a view of greenery, the sky, or a plant is ideal—without a screen. Perhaps a small routine: a cup of tea, a book, or a few quiet breaths. No big plans, no goals. Just a place where you can simply be.

This is an update from October 25, 2022.

Do you have a place of retreat like this at home? Let our Green Pearls® partners inspire you! And if you found this post inspiring, feel free to save it.

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