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Why is South Tyrol a more Sustainable Travel Destination

Cuisine in South Tyrol: regional, seasonal – and increasingly green

From „Cook the Mountain“ and “Bio Fair Südtirol”

Vegan Travel in South Tyrol: Creative, Plant-Based Cuisine

Culinary Uniqueness: Törggelen in South Tyrol

More Sustainable Winter Sports in South Tyrol

Three Ways to Make Your Ski Vacation Greener

Dolomiti Superski – Big, Popular, and under UNESCO Protection

Plose near Brixen – Manageable & Sunny (with My Arbor, Adults-Only)

Skiworld Ahrntal – Compakt, Versatile & Real Close to OLM Nature Escape

Gentle Winter Sports at the Ritten

Car-free on the Sunny Plateau of the Ritten

7 Green Accommodations in South Tyrol (Green Pearls® Selection)

ADLER Lodge RITTEN (Ritten) – Luxurious Chalets, Farm-to-table

Hotel Weihrerhof (Ritten) – Family-friendly at Lake Wolfsgruben

APIPURA hotel rinner (Ritten) – Organic and Fair, Bees, Families

LA VIMEA (Naturns) – 100 % vegan

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel (Alpe di Siusi) – Ski-in/Ski-out & Art

My Arbor (Brixen/Plose) – Adults-only, Tree Hotel, Spa

OLM Nature Escape (Sand in Taufers) – Energy Self-Sufficient Eco-Aparthotel

Sustainable Sauna in South Tyrol (Trend: Infusions)

Examples of Sustainable Saunas from Green Pearls® Hotels

Excursus: The Meaning of Local Wood in South Tyrol

FAQ about Your Sustainable Holidays in South Tyrol

When are you leaving?

Why is South Tyrol a more Sustainable Travel Destination

South Tyrol is a mountain region that combines nature conservation, regionality, and green mobility, working toward the future with short distances, renewable energies, well-developed public transportation, and a growing range of certified organic cuisine and resource conscious  accommodations (admittedly not always perfectly, but certainly consciously). Many places are accessible without a car, hiking and cycling trails begin right outside hotels, and regional producers influence what ends up on your plate.

“South Tyrol is considered one of Italy’s regions most actively engaged in sustainable tourism development.”

Green Pearls®

Cuisine in South Tyrol: Regional, Seasonal – and increasingly Greener

From „Cook the Mountain“ and “Bio Fair Südtirol”

Two trends are shaping the regional and seasonal cuisine of South Tyrol: a return to traditional local dishes and ingredients and the growth of the vegan and vegetarian movements. South Tyrol’s agricultural cultivation (now often organic) and alpine areas have helped fuel this trend. Along with the famous apple orchards and vineyards, the region also grows potatoes, carrots, asparagus, lettuce, cauliflower, savoy cabbage, spinach, celery, and much more.

Tip: Many farm shops sell produce directly from local producers. In supermarkets, look for the “South Tyrol” sticker on regional products.

Of course, chefs in restaurants and hotels are primarily shaping this development. Leading the way are the Green Pearls® partners. 

Here are some names you should know in this context:

• Norbert Niederkofler: With “Cook the Mountain,” the three-star chef created a culinary concept based on seasonal, local, mountain-inspired cuisine. Among other things, he demonstrated that fine dining and regional ingredients can complement each other, bringing products that were once considered “rustic and ordinary” into the spotlight. (His restaurant is the AlpINN in Bolzano)
• Berni Aichner: He was Niederkofler’s sous chef for many years and is now the culinary director at OLM Nature Escape (more on this below).
• Theodor Falser: The Michelin-starred chef helped develop OLM Nature Escape’s dinner concept, which focuses on sustainable gourmet cuisine.
• Aggeliki Charami: The “rock star of vegan cuisine” has been revamping the kitchen at Paradiso Pure.Living since the 2023/24 season. Today, Paradiso is not only the first completely vegan hotel on the Seiser Alm, but it is also home to the exclusive, vegan fine-dining restaurant OMNIA Plant-Based Restaurant (also open to external guests). In 2025, Charami also took over the vegan cuisine at LA VIMEA in Naturno.
• Manfred Rinner: Head Chef at the APIPURA hotel rinner was part of a working group that introduced the “Bio Fair Südtirol” gastronomy concept in 2022. Certified businesses support local organic farming by sourcing food from within a maximum radius of 200 km. Additionally, imported products such as coffee, cocoa, and spices must carry a Fair Trade seal.
• Hannes Pignater: The former head chef at ADLER Lodge RITTEN is a proponent of the farm-to-table movement. While at ADLER Lodge RITTEN, he ensured that the 5-star hotel’s kitchen offerings aligned with its own agricultural production.
• Cristian Cinquemani: He replaced Hannes Pignater and is now the head chef at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN. Hailing from Elba, the chef particularly appreciates the open kitchen concept that allows him to interact directly with guests.
• Matthias Hinteregger: The chef at the My Arbor Restaurant near Bolzano has a passion for regional specialties. In this article, he presents South Tyrol’s must-try dishes.

Vegan Travel in South Tyrol: Creative, Plant-Based Cuisine

Italy is one of the most dynamic European markets for vegan and vegetarian food. Italian cuisine features many classic plant-based dishes, including pasta, risotto, and antipasti, while vegan fast food chains like Flower Burger are gaining popularity on Instagram. At cafes, plant-based milk alternatives are standard, and vegan gelato is becoming increasingly common. It’s no surprise, then, that the pioneering spirit of veganism is also taking hold in the hotel industry. 

Vegan Hotspot: Vegan Pioneer in Naturno

Ten years ago, LA VIMEA opened as the first 100% vegan hotel in South Tyrol and all of Italy—a consistent and ambitious step at the time. Today, the hotel is regarded as a pioneer in plant-based hospitality and consciously designed travel experiences,  the cuisine, furnishings, and cosmetics — everything is vegan. Owner Valeria Caldarelli, vegan herself, sees it as a responsibility to people and the environment. However, she believes that setting a good example is more effective than pointing fingers.

But why Naturno? This charming village, located near Merano, is an ideal place to relax in nature with its gentle bike paths, sunny slopes, and stunning mountain views. Given this natural environment, the desire to protect it is understandable. By embracing a vegan lifestyle or hotel management, you’re doing exactly that. At LA VIMEA, you can promote the health of both the planet and yourself. Rent an e-bike and set off on a tour of the Alps with a vegan lunch pack. Or, start the day with the daily yoga program (outdoors in the summer). For relaxation, enjoy the natural swimming pond or the indoor saltwater pool. And, since the hotel is for adults only, it’s perfect for those who wish to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Vegan Hotspot: Art, Courage & Vegan Cuisine on the Alpe di Siusi

At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, the Seiser Alm is Europe’s largest high alpine pasture. World-famous for skiing, it also offers wide open spaces and fresh air in the summer, located in the heart of the Dolomites World Heritage Site. Here, brothers Alexander and Maximilian Spögler (who are the sons of Valeria Caldarelli) run the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel. As an art hotel with rotating exhibitions, the Paradiso has always been unique, but its culinary transformation was a remarkable achievement. It transitioned from vegetarian in 2019 to fully vegan by 2025. In a region where many guests expect meat and cheese, this change required courage and perseverance — and was a success.

Learn more about the unique backstory: A hotel goes meat-free….

Interesting to know: As a side note, Valeria Caldarelli’s daughter was the first in the family to become vegan. Years later, her mother, brothers, and other family members followed suit, and vegan hotels began to pop up. She herself runs a vegan hotel in Tuscany with her husband. As you can see, the decisions of individuals can sometimes have far-reaching consequences!

Culinary Uniqueness: Törggelen in South Tyrol

In our little Green Travel Guide for South Tyrol, there is another special feature that we must mention: Törggelen. Shortly after the harvest, in October and November, Törggelen involves walking through colorful autumn vineyards from wine tavern to wine tavern. It’s an easy way to strike up a conversation with the locals and immerse yourself in South Tyrolean culture. The tables are set with freshly pressed wine, Schlutzkrapfen (ravioli), and other treats, as well as freshly picked chestnuts roasting over the fire.

Find out more in our article: 9 reasons why you should travel to South Tyrol for Törggeln  

Lower-Impact Ski holidays

Traditional winter sports are often criticized—mainly due to the use of artificial snow and deforestation for ski slopes. However, there are many ways to make your skiing vacation more sustainable, especially in South Tyrol. Three things are crucial: how you travel, where you stay, and which winter sports area you choose.

Three Ways to Make your Ski Vacation Greener

1. Getting there: If possible, take the train (to Bolzano, Bressanone, Brunico, or Merano, for example) and use public transportation and ski buses once you arrive. Many Green Pearls® hotels offer (free) shuttle service to and from the train station.
2. Accommodation: Prefer establishments that use renewable energy (such as hydropower, geothermal energy, or PV), offer ski-in/ski-out access (to reduce the need for transfers), and serve regional organic cuisine (with plant-based options).
3. Winter sports resort: Choose resorts that conserve resources — for instance, those that use their own water ponds for snowmaking, have energy-saving equipment, use green electricity, and allow car-free access.

Dolomiti Superski – Big, Popular, and under UNESCO Protection

The Dolomiti Superski ski area, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites, is one of the most famous ski resorts in the Alps. As such, there are strict nature conservation regulations and various sustainability initiatives in place (e.g., snowmaking from reservoirs, increased electrification and optimization of facilities, and improved public transportation access).

• Accommodation Tip: The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is located on the Seiser Alm, right next to the slopes (ski-in/ski-out). In the winter, it is the only completely vegan “ski hut” on the mountain, making it an ideal place to enjoy a plant-based lunch.

Plose bei Brixen – Managable & Sunny (with the My Arbor, Adults-Only Hotel)

Those who prefer a more compact area will find sunny slopes, short distances, and an abundance of tranquility on the Plose above Brixen.

• Plose ski resort: approx. 40 km of slopes, 7 lifts, altitude 1,067–2,446 m, highlight: 9 km valley run.
• Accommodation tip: My Arbor – Adults-only tree hotel on stilts right next to the slopes (ski-in/ski-out), large spa area, regional cuisine, focus on green energy.
• Getting there: Train to Brixen, hotel shuttle/taxi for the last few minutes; you don’t need a car once you’re there either.

Skiworld Ahrntal – Compact, Versatile & Close to the OLM Nature Escape

Skiworld Ahrntal combines the Klausberg and Speikboden ski areas, as well as the local lifts in Rein in Taufers and Weißenbach, to offer a total of 86 kilometers of slopes. There are also idyllic cross-country trails, panoramic ski tours, and great tobogganing opportunities. The area is ideal if you are looking for variety but still prefer short distances. Many access points can be reached by ski bus or public transportation — so you can leave your car behind.

• Tip for a more Sustainable Accommodation: Just a few minutes from the Speikboden valley station, you will find the OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers — an eco aparthotel that, according to the operator, covers large parts of its energy demand through geothermal energy and photovoltaics. You can either cook for yourself in the apartments or enjoy the cuisine of Chef Berni Aichner (mentioned above).

Gentle Winter Sports on the Ritten

If you’re looking for a peaceful winter getaway, the Ritten is the perfect place for you. Winter hikes and snowshoeing trips start right outside the hotels, and the vastness of the high plateau ensures tranquility and stunning views of the snow-covered landscape.

Green Pearls® Partner on the Ritten:

• ADLER Lodge RITTEN – guided winter and snowshoe tours as alternatives to skiing, right on your doorstep.
• APIPURA hotel rinner – family-friendly, organic focus, winter trails starting right outside the door.
• Hotel Weihrerhof – right on Wolfsgrubener See (approx. 1,200 m). In winter, the area becomes a natural ice rink – perfect for curling, followed by a session in the warm boathouse sauna.

Car-free Travel on the Sunny Plateau of the Ritten

We highly recommend the Ritten as a year-round vacation destination. This incredibly beautiful high plateau has always been a recreational area for the people of Bolzano. Here, you will find alpine landscapes, vineyards, lakes, and 15 villages.

In recent years, the Italian municipality of Ritten has placed a strong emphasis on sustainability, aiming to play a pioneering role in nature conservation. To this end, the RittenCard was launched in 2011. With the card, travelers can use all public transportation, including hiking buses, the Ritten narrow-gauge railway, the cable car, and the Ritten Horn mountain railway. The card also grants free admission to around 80 museums and castles. For instance, you can visit Ötzi the Iceman at the Ötzi Museum or the Messner Mountain Museum, where you might catch a lecture by Italian extreme mountaineer Reinhold Messner in person. You will also receive discounts on ski rentals, horseback riding, archery, and the extensive sports, hiking, and cultural programs.

As a guest at any of the three Green PearlsⓇ hotels in Ritten, you will receive a free RittenCard. No matter how you arrive, you won’t need a car once you’re here.

Top Sights on the Ritten:

• Rittner Horn: At 2,260 meters high, the Rittner Horn is around 1,000 meters higher than the Ritten. You can reach the summit by cable car, mountain railway, or on foot. Mountain bikers enjoy touring the Rittner Horn because it offers “lots of elevation gain.” 🙂
• Earth Pyramids: These natural wonders date back to the Ice Age, and the Ritten tourist office claims to have the “tallest and most beautiful” ones. These impressive, pointed chunks of clay rock are a sight to behold. Several of them can be seen on the Earth Pyramid Hiking Trail.

Tip: As a guest of the ADLER Lodge RITTEN, you can explore the earth pyramids and the Rittner Horn together with professional hiking and biking guides Klaus and Dominik. They will accompany you on both leisurely and challenging tours.

7 Green Accommodations in South Tyrol (Green Pearls® Selection)

ADLER Lodge RITTEN (Ritten) – Luxurious Chalets, Farm-to-table

A hotel with a main building, annexes (junior suites), and individual wooden chalets offering plenty of privacy, all-inclusive cuisine (farm-to-table), guided tours, RittenCard included.

Hotel Weihrerhof (Ritten) – Family-friendly at Lake Wolfsgruben

Located directly on a swimming lake, perfect for vacations and family time (small children to teenagers), run by the Pichler family, who take great personal care of their guests. Spa area with its own cosmetics line.

APIPURA hotel rinner (Ritten) – Organic and Fair, Bees, Families

Beekeeping tradition and hospitality for more than 50 years, ApiWellness experiences, Bio Fair South Tyrol seal, strong family focus (garden/playground, program, playroom). Breakfast with probably the largest selection of honey.

LA VIMEA (Naturns) – 100 % vegan

Italy’s first completely vegan hotel (since 2015), 100% vegan facilities, yoga/meditation/forest bathing, natural swimming pond & saltwater pool, adults only.

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel (Alpe di Siusi) – Ski-in/Ski-out & Art

Completely vegan, focus on art and creativity, terrace as a vegan ski hut, OMNIA fine dining restaurant also open to external guests.

My Arbor (Brixen/Plose) – Adults-only, Tree Hotel, Spa

Architecture in the forest on stilts, ski-in/ski-out in winter, forest bathing and guided hikes in summer, 2,500 m² spa, green energy.

OLM Nature Escape (Sand in Taufers) – Energy Self-Sufficient Eco Aparthotel

Construction carried out in collaboration with CasaClima Nature, geothermal energy and PV systems, apartment suites with private spa, natural swimming pond, dinner concept with Michelin-starred chef finesse.

Resource-conscious wellness concepts in South Tyrol (Trend: Infusion)

Infusions have a long tradition in South Tyrol – be sure to give them a try! The trend has even gone so far that you can now almost attend theater performances in the sauna. Seriously!

Sustainable travelers ask themselves one question: Can sauna and wellness vacations be eco-friendly? Our Green Pearls® partners are ecological pioneers in this area. All seven of the hotels presented here offer at least one sauna and manage to remain sustainable. They accomplish this by using renewable energy sources for their buildings and facilities and by employing efficient construction methods. You can find a more detailed classification here:

➡️ Taking a sauna is healthy – but is it sustainable?

Examples of Sustainable Saunas from our Green Pearls® Hotels

• My Arbor (Plose/Brixen) – Show infusions with sauna master Manuel Greifenberg. At championships, he specialises in traditional waving and tranquil, mindful rituals. Note: The establishment values green energy.
• OLM Nature Escape (Ahrntal) – Energy self-sufficient saunas in your own private spa suite, according to the operator, powered entirely by renewable energy. The perfect choice if you want to combine wellness and climate protection.
• ADLER Lodge RITTEN (Ritten) – Forest sauna with a view and easy access to nature for gentle cooling down
• Hotel Weihrerhof (Ritten) – Boathouse sauna with a view of Lake Wolfsgruben – Immerse yourself in tranquility, relax by the water
• APIPURA hotel rinner (Ritten) & LA VIMEA (Naturns) – The round shape is considered energy efficient as the heat distribution is particularly favorable.
• Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel (Seiser Alm) – Rooms with infrared cabins for gentle, deep heat in your private retreat.

Excursus: The Meaning of Local Wood in South Tyrol

Before we continue, we would like to mention the local wood that you can find—and smell—in Green PearlsⓇ accommodations. By using locally sourced wood from certified or regional forestry, transport distances can be reduced and regional value creation supported. (or in the last European primeval forests in Romania (think timber mafia)).

The scent of natural wood in the sustainable accommodations is due, in particular, to the essential oils of Swiss stone pine. This conifer only grows above 1,600 meters and is fully frost-resistant. According to small-scale studies, people have a calmer pulse and sleep more deeply in bedrooms furnished with Swiss stone pine. And they snore less 🙂

When are you leaving?

As you can see,  South Tyrol is an inspiring region for more conscious travel with a focus on regionality and nature experiences Even if you are just starting to explore this topic, South Tyrol makes it easy to travel in an environmentally friendly way.

By the way, German, Italian, and Ladin are spoken here. “Good day” is “Bun dì!” in Ladin. That’s easy, right? Then let’s get this trip started!

FAQ about your Sustainable Holidays in South Tyrol

HOW CAN YOU TRAVEL MORE CONSCIOUSLY AND WITH LOWER IMPACT IN SOUTH TYROL?

By choosing local, eco-friendly accommodations such as Green Pearls® hotels, using public transportation, and enjoying seasonal foods. Regions such as Ritten and Seiser Alm are particularly committed to sustainability.

What sustainable (Green Pearls®) hotels are there in South Tyrol?

• LA VIMEA (a vegan hotel in Naturno)
• Paradiso Pure.Living (a vegan hotel on the Alpe di Siusi)
• ADLER Lodge RITTEN (a sustainable luxury resort on the Ritten)
• Hotel Weihrerhof (a family-friendly hotel close to nature at Lake Wolfsgruben)
• My Arbor (a luxurious tree hotel with an eco-wellness center near Brixen)
• APIPURA hotel rinner (with its own apiary and a Bio-Fair-Südtirol partnership)
• OLM Nature Escape (energy-self-sufficient aparthotel in the Ahrntal region).

Are there any 100% vegan hotels in South Tyrol?

Yes. The LA VIMEA (Naturno) and the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel (Seiser Alm) are strictly vegan.

Is there a 100% vegan ski hut in South Tyrol?

The terrace of the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is located directly on the ski slope and is the only completely vegan ski hut on the Seiser Alm.

Is there a guest card in South Tyrol that I can use throughout the region?

Yes, South Tyrol offers the South Tyrol Guestpass card, which provides many benefits for visitors. It allows free use of public transportation throughout the region and often grants discounts on cable cars, museums, and recreational facilities. Many accommodations automatically issue this card upon check-in.

What language is spoken in South Tyrol?

South Tyrol has three official languages: German, Italian, and Ladin. German is spoken in most valleys and towns, Italian mainly in cities such as Bolzano and Merano, and Ladin is a regional language in some Dolomite valleys. English is widely understood and spoken in tourist areas.

What is a typical South Tyrolean dish?

South Tyrol combines Alpine and Mediterranean cuisine. Typical dishes include bacon with dumplings, Schlutzkrapfen (filled pasta pockets), Brettljause (regional sausage and cheese platter), and apple strudel for dessert. The cuisine relies heavily on local and seasonal products.

Can I also enjoy a sustainable wellness vacation in South Tyrol?

Yes, South Tyrol offers numerous wellness hotels with a focus on sustainability. Many accommodations use regional (natural) cosmetic products, focus on conserving energy and resources, and offer treatments such as herbal baths, saunas, or spa treatments using natural materials.

How family-friendly is South Tyrol?

South Tyrol is considered very family-friendly. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails for children, adventure farms, amusement parks, and family-friendly accommodations with childcare. Many wellness hotels offer special programs and pools for families.

Want to save this guide for your next sustainable vacation in South Tyrol? Then pin one of the images or use the button at the bottom!

Der Beitrag Discover South Tyrol more consciously: sustainable travel tips, accommodation and cuisine erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Vegan delights on the Seiser Alm, right on the slopes

A pioneer among vegan ski hotels is Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel. What started as a vegetarian/vegan hotel has now evolved its cuisine to be completely free of animal products, making it the first vegan hotel in the Dolomites. Celebrity Greek chef Aggeliki Charami, who is also very active on Instagram promoting vegan cuisine, was co-responsible for revising the culinary concept.

The sustainable hotel, at 2,020 meters above sea level, is ideally located for a ski vacation – a run in the Dolomiti Superski area ends right outside the door. The ski lift is also right next to the hotel. From here you are directly connected to 32 slopes of the Alpe di Siusi ski area. With the same ski pass you can also explore the even larger Dolomiti Superski. The Alpe di Siusi is only one of twelve ski areas with about 1,200 kilometers of slopes.

Cross-country skiing on the Alpe di Siusi

If you prefer cross-country skiing, the Seiser Alm’s 80 km of trails start just a few hundred meters from the hotel.

100% vegan restaurant on the slopes

Since Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is the only completely vegan hospitality business in the area, we suggest you take your meals here. You can ski right up to the terrace (as in the lodges), leave your equipment in the designated area and enjoy vegan food! On the terrace or in the winter garden of the restaurant you can enjoy the view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites.

The menu is specially adapted for the ski season. The vegan pizza is an affordable and delicious highlight!

👉 Read more about a vegan ski vacation at Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel.

EXCURSION: Is skiing sustainable?

IIn some ways, skiing is at odds with leaving nature in its pristine beauty. However, there have already been a number of sustainable improvements in the problem areas of snow cannons, ski lifts, energy, water consumption, pollution and mass tourism. Dolomiti Superski, for example, is one of the resorts that has been committed to sustainability for several years. Read more in our articles:

👉 Sustainable winter vacation 

👉 Tips for a sustainable skiing holiday 

Individual ski vacation on the Plose in South Tyrol

The Green PearlsⓇ Hotel My Arbor near Brixen is located just a few meters from the valley station of the Plose cable car. Ski-in/ski-out is not a foreign concept here. You can safely store your equipment in the hotel’s own ski room. The Plose ski area has 7 ski lifts and 19 slopes of varying difficulty, with a total of 42 kilometers of slopes and fantastic views of the Dolomites. If you are not an avid skier, you can also enjoy 12 km of toboggan runs and 12 km of winter hiking trails.

Vegan on request

The concept of the hotel includes the idea of “mine”. This means that individual service is very important and “special requests” are not only allowed, but explicitly part of the hotel’s philosophy. The kitchen creates a different vegan menu every day on request, and there are many vegan options for breakfast.

“Vegan options are currently rather limited in the ski lodges in the nearest ski area. We can help you plan to meet your needs. We are also happy to pack a vegan lunch for you. – My Arbor

👉 Not a skier yet? My Arbor is a partner of the Plose Ski School.

Vegan skiing vacation in Switzerland

Unfortunately, we cannot recommend a 100% vegan hotel in Switzerland like we did for South Tyrol. However, there are two sustainable Green PearlsⓇ hotels where you will feel comfortable as a vegan.

CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt with vegan/vegetarian restaurant

The CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt is connected to the Matterhorn Ski Paradise with about 360 kilometers of prepared slopes. The resort has a ski room with lockers for your equipment and is spread over several buildings. There is a spa area, a climbing wall, a gym and three restaurants. One of them is the vegetarian BAZAAR, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Vegan dishes are marked on the menu so you can enjoy a vegan ski vacation and be surrounded by like-minded people.

👉 Check here to find the best places to ski around CERVO Mountain Resort.

Intimate boutique hotel Bella Vista Zermatt – for skiing and yoga

If you are looking for a small, cozy ski hotel with an individual flair and personal service, then look no further than the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt. It has only 21 rooms and offers a fantastic view of the Matterhorn. There is also a small spa area and a yoga room with regular yoga classes. Of course, there is also a ski room and the ski slope ends right at the hotel. If you want, you can even take a trip to Italy on your skis!

Vegan alternatives are an integral part of the sustainable program. There is cappuccino with oatmeal, vegan pastries from the hotel’s own bakery, and vegan meals. The Anthamatten family, who owns the hotel, is very familiar with vegan requirements and will take professional care of you according to your wishes.

„We kindly ask guests to inform us before arrival if they are vegan so that we can prepare vegan dishes for the breakfast buffet (preparation is on request to avoid food waste).“ – Fabienne Anthamatten

Learn more about winter vacations at Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt.

Vegan offer for skiers in Tyrol and East Tyrol

If you want to spend a vegan ski vacation with the whole family, the Kellerjoch ski area near the Biohotel Grafenast is ideal. The hotel also has a mountain hut (Cafè Rodel Toni) right next to the children’s ski school – so you can enjoy coffee with oatdrink while keeping an eye on your kids. The Unterlechner family’s family hotel also has special hotel rooms with separate children’s rooms.

“We offer a wide variety of great vegan meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some huts, such as the Kellerjochhütte, also offer vegan food. – Peter Unterlechner, Biohotel Grafenast

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, you can spend your vegan winter vacation surrounded by nature in the Hohe Tauern National Park. The national park includes several 3,000-meter peaks, and the Grossglockner Kals-Matrei ski area has 16 lifts and about 47 kilometers of slopes.

“With us you can enjoy a vegan menu every day and the huts also serve vegan food.” – Naturehotel Outside

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing for vegans in Germany

If you prefer gentler winter sports, the Allgäu is the perfect place for you – even if you are vegan.

Hotel Das Rübezahl with two mountain huts and vegan options

IFüssen has a huge network of cross-country ski trails, with a total of 300 kilometers of connected trails. Of course, the romantic backdrop of Neuschwanstein Castle and other royal castles is a highlight. You also have a number of options for downhill skiing, such as Tegelberg.

The Rohrkopfhütte, part of the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel Das Rübezahl, is also located on the Tegelberg. As of 2024, the Edelsberg Lodge is also part of the Rübezahl family and can be reached in winter by snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or winter hiking.

In the romantic hotel a vegan menu is served daily, and in the two huts (Rohrkopfhütte and Edelsberghütte) a selection of vegan dishes is available. “Of course, a vegan packed lunch or picnic is no problem if ordered accordingly,” adds the Thurm family, who own the hotel.

Gentle winter sports at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refuge Allgäu

Also in the Allgäu, in Balderschwang at 1,044 meters and near the Austrian border, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu is located in the middle of nature. In winter, snowshoeing is a must. You can rent snowshoes at the hotel and be accompanied by guides (sometimes by the host Mark Traubel himself). In addition, the Balderschwang cross-country skiing area offers over 100 kilometers of trails.

The vegetarian and vegan options at the HUBERTUS have increased in recent years and there is a vegetarian menu every day. 100% vegan meals are available on request. You can pack a “Jausensackerl” for the mountain. The snack bags are ready for you at the breakfast or lunch buffet.

Vegan self-catering ski vacation

Do you prefer to cook for yourself on vacation? Maybe vegan is not enough for you, or you have very specific dietary requirements that only you can or want to prepare? Then you should spend your winter vacation in a chalet, aparthotel or vacation home with its own kitchen. The Hygna Chalets in Austria’s Alpbachtal, for example, offer a luxurious and sustainable option. Some of the chalets have their own outdoor hot tub. Because it is heated, you can take in the snowy landscape while relaxing in the warm water.

👉 Information about the 100 kilometers of cross-country ski trails in the Alpbachtal.

In the Austrian town of Pfunds, in the Tyrolean Oberland, you’ll find the Summit Lodges, vacation homes made of polar spruce with their own sauna powered by green electricity. The 120-square-meter log cabins also have their own fireplaces for cozy evenings. Don’t worry: firewood is provided 😉

„Most huts and restaurants now offer vegan meals.“ – Summit Lodges Pfunds

👉 Summit Lodges Pfunds is surrounded by approximately 135 kilometers of cross-country ski trails, and a ski bus stops nearby to take you to six ski areas.

👉 Find out more here: Winter vacation at the Summit Lodges

Skiing and vegan self-catering in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol

In South Tyrol, the OLM Nature Escape will open in December 2023. The circular aparthotel is energy self-sufficient and a pioneer in sustainable alpine tourism. Part of the aparthotel’s culinary concept is that you can book all meals according to a modular system.

“Vegan options are no problem at all – our two qualified dietary chefs are very competent” – OLM Nature Escape

You can also use your own kitchen in the fully equipped apartments. Here you can prepare your (vegan) meals exactly as you like.

Just behind Sand in Taufers, where the OLM Nature Escape is located, lies the Skiworld Ahrntal ski area, which consists of the Speikboden and Klausberg ski areas. It is a smaller ski area with 87 kilometers of slopes, which is especially popular with families. Cross-country skiing is also available.

Finally, if you are vegan, we recommend checking in advance which huts offer vegan options (e.g. Bergwelten or Vegan-News). The HappyCow app is also very helpful when you’re on the go.

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Der Beitrag Tips for your vegan ski vacation and our favorite vegan ski hotels and lodges erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

How long will I need to prepare for a marathon?

Before we look at the dates of the planned marathons in Italy and the Canary Islands, let’s take a quick look at how long you’ll need to prepare. Here are some guidelines:

• Regular runners: You already run several times a week and can run 60 minutes at a time? Then you can run a marathon in as little as three months. Four months would be even better, since most training plans are designed for 16 weeks.
• Athletes: You are active in sports, but your focus is not running? In this case, six to seven months is a good idea. Start by increasing your runs to 60 minutes and then try to maintain a pace, such as 10 mph. Then start the 16-week training plan at an appropriate goal time, such as 4 hours and 20 minutes (this means you must maintain the 10 mph pace the entire time).
• Unathletic: You currently do not exercise (or hardly exercise), but you would like to change that? You want to have a goal to work towards? You want to prove something to yourself? That’s great! Find a marathon date in twelve months, buy some good running shoes and start slowly (e.g. 20 minutes three times a week).

By the way: Even though marathon running is a high-performance sport, you are never too old to run a marathon. At 60, you’re still an excellent age for the fun! (There are marathon runners who are 85 years old or even 100 years old like Fauja Singh). Running a marathon is not only a matter of physical fitness, but also of willpower.

Advantages of running on vacation

Full concentration

The advantages of training while on vacation are obvious: your focus is completely on your own training and your own body. You don’t work and the (sustainable) hotels cares for the housework and cooking. All your energy goes into your own well-being. There is still time for your family or partner, for example, if you use the early morning hours for training and spend the rest of the day with your loved ones.

A different experience

When you run on vacation, you experience your destination in a different way. You see more, perceive your surroundings differently, and are likely to strike up a conversation with the locals from time to time. You also get to know the region in advance: How warm or cold will it be? What routes can I take? What are the conditions of the trails and roads?

These questions are essential, especially if you plan to participate in a local race. You can now find some answers in the following presentation of the different races.

Marathon Dates 2025 in South Tyrol

South Tyrol in northern Italy is an excellent destination for sustainable travel. You’ll find organic farming, nature reserves, car-free travel schemes and plenty of sustainable accommodation. There’s also a stunning panorama of the Italian Alps and plenty of forest trails. Challenging are the elevation gains, which we’ll get to in a moment.

Seiser Alm Half Marathon and Running Stage

Place: Compatsch | Date: July 6th, 2025 | Half Marathon

Running on the largest high alpine pasture in Europe is definitely one of the “must dos” of the scene. The course of the Alpe di Siusi Half Marathon leads through the wonderful nature of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites. Nature runners will be happy: Only the first three kilometers of the half marathon are on asphalt roads. The rest is on forest and hiking trails.

Arriving in advance is doubly rewarding. Not only will you be able to enjoy nature, but runners will also find ideal training conditions. On the Alpe di Siusi there is the Alpe di Siusi Running Park, which offers several running routes at different levels. The location between 1800 and 2300 meters above sea level is ideal for preparing for a marathon at high altitude or for targeted endurance training due to the oxygen-poor air.

Your sustainable hotel: Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

The first vegan hotel in the Dolomites awaits its guests on the Alpe di Siusi. But it’s not just the plant-based cuisine that makes Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel unique. The pure concept also includes the interior design and the support of young, contemporary artists. Guests will regularly find new works from the art scene in the hotel, inspiring thought and conversation. An indoor/outdoor wellness area and regular yoga classes provide relaxation after the run.

Horn Attack and South Tyrol Ultra Skyrace

Location: Bolzano | Date: March 8, 2025 / Late August 2025 | Duathlon / Extreme Mountain Running

Several races take place on the Ritten in South Tyrol. The two most famous are the Hornattacke and the extreme mountain races under the name Südtirol Ultra Skyrace with different distances.

The Hornattacke (Horn Attack) is not a classic marathon, but a duathlon of almost 20 kilometers. The first part of the race is run, and the last 6.5 kilometers up to the Rittner Horn are covered on touring skis.

The Ultra Skyraces, with distances ranging from 28 to 119 kilometers, also start in Bolzano and take participants through challenging, high-alpine terrain. The centerpiece is the 63-kilometer course that leads from Bolzano over the Ritten and the Sarner Scharte to Sarntheim. The course is suitable for experienced mountain runners. The terrain is difficult in places and requires experience in alpine and high alpine terrain.

Your sustainable hotel: Hotel Weihrerhof

Just a few kilometers from the top station of the cable car in Oberbozen lies the Hotel Weihrerhof at the Wolfsgrubensee. Up here, time seems to pass more slowly. Perfect for relaxing days before and after a running event. In addition to regional specialties at the breakfast buffet and a multi-course dinner in the evening, an exclusive wellness area with signature treatments, in-house natural cosmetics, indoor pool and boathouse sauna awaits guests.

ADLER Lodge RITTEN Hiking Half Marathon

Location: ADLER Lodge RITTEN | Date: Early October 2025 | Half Marathon for Hikers

The half marathon for hikers organized by the ADLER Lodge RITTEN leads along the chestnut trail, which is lined with colorful chestnuts in October. In the tradition of the South Tyrolean “Törggelen”, the route passes rustic farm inns where guests and participants can enjoy roasted chestnuts, Schüttelbrot bread and other South Tyrolean specialties.

Before and after the adventure hike, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN offers a complete wellness package with massage, all-inclusive arrangement and spa area with forest sauna.

Marathon Dates in the Rest of Italy 2025

Milano Marathon – the top event for runners

Location: Milan | Date: April 6, 2024 | Half Marathon & Marathon

The most popular marathon in Italy is probably the Milan Marathon. Many think it’s Rome, but even though the Rome Marathon has been around for a while, it only has just under 10,000 runners, while Milan 2024 expects 20,000 participants! One reason: the Milan Marathon is considered “the fastest marathon in Italy” and the fifth fastest in the world. This is due to the fact that the course is absolutely flat and there are no climbs. This makes you run faster and many people achieve their personal best time! You will pass by the old town, Milan Cathedral, the city center, the Giuseppe Meazza stadium and the Teatro alla Scala opera house.

Your sustainable hotel: Hotel Milano Scala

Italy’s first zero-emissions hotel, the Hotel Milano Scala, is located directly on the marathon course, near the world-famous Teatro alla Scala opera house. Here you can train on the actual course before the race, and you are also centrally located in the city. There is time to relax on the beautiful roof terrace.

Tip: Registration for the Milan Marathon has already started!

Trail del Marchesato – challenging trail running event in Liguria

Location: Liguria | Date: 1 and 2 March 2025 | Trail running 16, 38 and 60 kilometres

Technical trails, limestone rocks, caves and constant views of the sea create a fascinating backdrop for the demanding Trail del Marchesato in Liguria. The run honours the late Ermano Fossati, a firefighter who died while on duty at the Melogno Pass.

Your sustainable hotel: Relais del Maro

In the hinterland, in the picturesque village of Borgomaro, you will find the Hotel Relais del Maro. The hotel is an Albergo Diffuso, which means it is spread over several houses in the village. This idea originated in Italy to protect small villages from decay, and in Borgomaro you will find a prime example of this type of accommodation. In the main house there is a swimming pool, breakfast buffet and cakes. Around the village you will find enough beautiful routes in nature for running and biking.

Marathon dates 2025 in the Canary Islands

Gran Canaria Maspalomas Marathon – the southernmost marathon in Europe

Location: Maspalomas, Gran Canaria | Date: Mid of November 2025 | Half Marathon & Marathon

The Maspalomas Marathon is the perfect mix of holiday and sporting event. It’s pleasantly warm here in November (expect around 25°C) and you run on a flat asphalt course with views of the sea and between palm groves. There are also pacemakers on the course – these are easily recognizable runners who maintain a certain running pace. You know: if I follow him or her, I’ll cover the 42 kilometers in a well-defined time (and if you have some breathing room at the end, you try to pass him/her on the home stretch). The finish line is located in an extraordinary dune landscape and there is a real party atmosphere around the race!

Your sustainable hotel: Casa León Royal Retreat

“Over the past few years, we’ve hosted a number of participants who have come to relax after the marathon,” says the boutique hotel. Tucked away in the countryside, the small hotel is the perfect oasis to unwind after the big action. There’s an outdoor pool and a large garden with native plants. There is also a gym to get ready for the race.

Tenerife Bluetrail – Ultra running event for everyone

Location: South of Santa Cruz, Tenerife | Date: March 27-29, 2024 | Ultra (102 km), Trail (66 km), Marathon (42.2 km), Media (21 km) and shorter races

The Tenerife Bluetrail is one of the most famous events on the island and the main event is the Ultra Marathon, where you run from south to north over a distance of 102 kilometers. You’ll cross the Teide National Park and run to the top of Mount Teide, where you’ll climb 3,550 meters! The whole thing is advertised as the “Run of the Titans” and starts at midnight.

A special feature of the race is that since its inception in 2011, it has made an effort to include as many people as possible. This initially applied to people with disabilities and has now been expanded. In addition to the top ultra, trail and marathon distances, there are a number of shorter trail runs and family runs.

Your sustainable hotel: OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

North of Santa Cruz, right on the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, a wonderful place for fitness, health and wellness. There are several pools, a gym, yoga classes, and after your run, you can indulge in soothing massages.

Important tips for running a marathon abroad

• Register for the race and book your accommodation early. Plan your travel so that it fits comfortably into your training schedule.
• Be aware of the altitude! If you are not used to high altitudes at home, give yourself a few days to acclimate and perhaps even schedule some altitude training.
• Check out the route beforehand (locally, via GPS data/experience reports, or via satellite imagery). Pay attention to gradients, surface and average temperatures during the run.
• Think about how you will get to the starting point on the day of the race. Is public transportation available? Does your hotel have a shuttle service?
• Plan to take a few days to recover after the race instead of going straight home. Your body and mind will thank you for it!
• Stick to your nutrition plan. If your body is used to cereal in the morning, don’t switch to hummus on race day!

My personal running tips

Finally, here are three running tips that two of my running coaches gave me that I still use to this day:

• Side stitches: Keep running and focus on your breathing: exhale three times, inhale once.
• Aches and pains: When you train hard, you’re bound to get a little sore here and there. “The body builds itself up,” my first marathon coach used to say. He wasn’t always right, because I’ve torn a muscle a few times, but you can’t throw in the towel every time you get a little sore!
• Motivation: If you are not so motivated, buy a new running shirt (or jacket, vest, bottle belt…) equipped with new products, it runs much better. By the way, for the sake of sustainability (and your wallet), buy everything used rather than new (running shoes are the only thing you should buy new).

I hope I have given you some useful information and that you have chosen a suitable run – please let me know in the comments which one it is. Maybe I’ll see you there 😉

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Der Beitrag Combine Running & Vacation – Marathons 2025 in Southern Europe erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.