A salad with tropical flavours.

The restaurant’s cuisine blends fresh ingredients with an approach that combines culinary pleasure and well-being. The avocado and papaya salad with passion fruit vinaigrette brings tropical flavours to the table and, according to the hotel, provides a variety of valuable nutrients.

• Papaya contains vitamins C and A, among other nutrients, and is traditionally associated with aiding digestion due to its enzyme papain.
• Avocado, on the other hand, provides monounsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, as well as potassium and vitamin E. This combination can keep you feeling full for a long time and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• The seeds of papaya and passion fruit contain dietary fiber and antioxidant plant compounds, while also providing a slightly spicy crunch.

These fruits grow in places where there is no winter

Avocados, papayas, and passion fruits are grown locally in Tenerife, meaning they can be transported over short distances. As is well known, the problem with avocados is their high water consumption. Combined with long transport distances, this results in a poor environmental footprint for these superfruits.

Sourcing avocados more sustainably

Through Gebana, you can order avocados from Crete, where farmers have partnered with the University of Crete to implement drip irrigation systems and collect rainwater. Harvesting takes place in November. Another option is CrowdContainer in Switzerland, where you can order organic avocados from southern Spain in May.

Papayas are often transported by air to arrive at the optimal stage of ripeness (hence their poor environmental footprint). According to the IFEU Institute, passion fruits fare slightly better because they are sometimes transported by ship. Incidentally, fresh passion fruit usually has a better environmental footprint than passion fruit juice.

Here, too, we recommend Gebana and Crowdfarming. There, you can buy exotic fruits directly from the farms you support. Since you’re buying in bulk, you can share with friends and family—or make a party-sized batch of avocado-papaya salad. 🙂

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Avocado and Papaya Salad with Passion Fruit Vinaigrette

Tropical summer salad from the OCEANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife. Delicious, healthy, and light. Perfect for those watching their diet.

Course Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine European

Keyword Vegan

Ingredients

• 150 g Papaya (from Tenerife)
• 1/2 Ripe avocado (from Tenerife)
• 1 lime (juice) or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
• 1 Passion fruit alternatively, natural organic passion fruit juice
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp pink pepper
• Salat optional (for decoration)
• young shoots for decoration optional

Instructions

• Peel the papaya, remove the seeds (set aside 9–10 seeds), and cut the flesh into cubes.
• Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Then, dice it.
• Gently mix the papaya and avocado with lime juice in a bowl (this will prevent the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown).
• In a separate bowl, combine the passion fruit juice or pulp with apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
• Season with salt and whisk everything well.
• Arrange the washed lettuce leaves and papaya-avocado salad attractively on a plate (for example, use a ring mold)
• Now, drizzle the salad with passion fruit vinaigrette made from vinegar and oil.
• For the final step, sprinkle pink peppercorns, reserved papaya seeds, and sprouts on top.

Der Beitrag Summer Recipe from Tenerife: Avocado and Papaya Salad with Passion Fruit Vinaigrette erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Straight from the region

The venison comes directly from the area surrounding the resort: in addition to their roles as hosts and organic farmers, hotel co-owners Bruno Wagner and his son Ralph are hunters. Short supply chains and direct connections to the origin of products play a central role at the hotel. This applies not only to the meat but also to all other products used in the kitchen. Organic quality and close partnerships are extremely important to the Wagners. Their advice: Do the same at home. Buy the ingredients you need for your recipe at the weekly market, from a local hunter, or at a regional farm stand.

Is game meat better?

Game meat differs from conventionally produced livestock meat in several ways. The animals live in the wild, move about freely, and feed on the resources of their natural habitat. This eliminates factors such as confinement in barns, feed production, and medications, all of which contribute to environmental impacts in the meat industry.

However, the specific context is always crucial, including regional populations, adherence to closed seasons, proper hunting practices, and complete processing. When these aspects are taken into account, as they are at the Naturresort Gerbehof, game meat is the (slightly) better choice for the environment and animal welfare.

Spices typically used in venison stew

The classic spices that European cuisine has used for centuries define this ragout’s flavor profile. Juniper and bay leaves—also grown in Germany—play a particularly prominent role and enhance the robust flavor of the game meat.

Allspice and cloves complement the blend with warm, slightly sweet notes. These spices originate from tropical regions and must be imported, so look for organic spices with the Fairtrade seal.

Tip: The hotel recommends adding a spoonful of lingonberry jelly for a fruity touch. The combination of hearty game and sweetness has a long tradition in German cuisine.

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Venison ragout and steak from the Gerbehof Nature Resort (German organic cuisine)

The eco-hotel shared one of its favorite recipes with us, featuring venison straight from the forest and prepared in the traditional style of the Lake Constance region.

Course Main Course

Cuisine german

Keyword game meat

Ingredients

• 500 g Venison
• 4 pieces Venison steak
• 1 l Game stock
• 100 g Carrots
• 100 g Celery
• 100 g Onions
• 100 g Leek
• 200 ml Red wine
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste
• Wild spices (or allspice, bay leaves, juniper berries, cloves)
• Cranberry jelly

Instructions

• Cut the meat into 1-cm cubes.
• Wash, trim, and cube the vegetables.
• Season the meat with salt and pepper, then sear it in hot oil, and finally add the vegetables and cook them together.
• When everything is browned, add the tomato paste, stir briefly, and let it simmer for a moment.
• Deglaze with red wine, scraping the mixture off the bottom. Repeat this process two or three times.
• We only add the game seasoning and all the other spices now.
• Add the game stock and let it simmer over medium heat.
• After about 20–30 minutes, the meat should be cooked through; season to taste if necessary.
• Ten minutes before the ragout is ready, season the steaks with salt and pepper, sear them in a hot pan. (Depending on their thickness, cook them for two minutes on each side, then let them rest, wrapped in foil, to retain the juices.)

Der Beitrag Recipe: “Venison served two ways” from Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Wild garlic—the wild herb right outside your door

Wild garlic is one of the first wild herbs to sprout each year, and for many, its appearance is a true highlight of spring. It grows mainly in shady deciduous forests, often forming entire carpets. What about its flavor? Intensely garlicky, yet fresher and greener. The best way to identify it is to rub a leaf between your fingers. The intense garlic scent is unmistakable.

If you’re unsure how to identify wild garlic reliably (and avoid mistaking it for poisonous look-alikes), check out our Insight article via the link. There, we’ll show you what to look for and provide ideas for recipes using wild garlic.

Baked falafel instead of fried

At Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, the connection between nature and mindful eating is paramount. As a wellness hotel, the staff focuses on using fresh, regional, organic ingredients to create light, easy-to-digest cuisine. For example, the falafel here is baked in the oven instead of being deep-fried in oil. This reduces fat without sacrificing flavor.

To achieve the ideal texture, it is best to prepare the chickpeas yourself. Soak them in water overnight and then cook them in a pressure cooker for about 25 minutes, depending on the appliance, until they are soft and can easily be mashed but still retain their shape.

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Falafel with wild garlic

Springtime falafel with fresh wild garlic. Recipe from the Klosterhof - Alpine Hideaway & Spa. It grows right in the woods surrounding this sustainable hotel.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine European

Keyword Falafel, Spring

Servings 15

Ingredients

• 300 g Chickpeas Cooked and well drained
• 50 g Orange carrots Organic
• 50 g Yellow carrots Organic
• 25 g Parsley
• 20 g Fresh wild garlic
• 60 g Chopped onion
• 70 g Chickpea flour (if you don't have any, regular flour will work too)
• 40 g Tahini
• 20 g Lemon juice
• 20 g Sunflower oil Organic
• 8 g Salt (1 to 1.5 heaped teaspoons)
• 2 g Ras el Hanout (1 heaped teaspoon)
• 2 g Garam Masala (1 heaped teaspoon)
• 1 g Cayenne pepper (1 level teaspoon)

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 160 °C (convection).
• Finely grate the carrots.
• Finely chop the parsley, wild garlic, and onion.
• Place the chickpeas in a large bowl and roughly mash them with a fork or potato masher. A slightly chunky texture is ideal, so do not puree them completely.
• Stir in the onion, carrots, parsley, and wild garlic.
• Add the tahini, lemon juice, and sunflower oil.
• Season with salt, ras el hanout, garam masala, and cayenne pepper.
• Finally, fold in the chickpea flour until the mixture is easy to shape. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more chickpea flour.
• Using damp hands, shape the falafel mixture into about 15 small balls, flattening them slightly.
• Arrange the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 160 °C for about 5 minutes.
• Then, either bake at 180°C for another 5–10 minutes or fry in a pan with a little oil until golden brown.
Serve with a yoghurt and lemon dip, a little extra tahini or a fresh spring salad.

Der Beitrag Wild Garlic Falafel from the Klosterhof: A Vegan Spring Recipe erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Schlutzkrapfen with spinach, grey cheese, and apple chip butter

Schlutzkrapfen, or “Schlutzer” in the local dialect, are crescent-shaped dumplings made with a mixture of rye and wheat flour. The high rye content of the dough is characteristic of South Tyrol. It gives the dumplings their robust flavor and slightly dark color. Traditionally, you fill them with spinach and curd cheese and often supplement with potatoes, onions, and spicy cheese. In the Ahrntal Valley, however, they usually use gray cheese—a regional sour milk cheese with an intense aroma and long tradition— instead.

Seasonal cooking in South Tyrol in the spring

The best time for fresh spinach is in the spring and fall. Outside of those seasons, you can use frozen spinach, but its carbon footprint is naturally worse than that of fresh spinach from the weekly market.

To cook completely sustainably, use organic spinach grown locally, organic eggs from farms in your area that practice humane husbandry, and flour from the nearest mill (it doesn’t have to be from South Tyrol). 🙂

Special features and refinements of OLM Schlutzkrapfen

In his version of Schlutzkrapfen, Berni Aichner combines tradition with contemporary lightness. Brown butter adds a nutty depth, and apple chips contribute a slightly sweet, fruity note. The Schlutzkrapfen with apple chips are among the guests’ favorites at PRENN°, especially after a day spent outdoors. They simply taste like a vacation in South Tyrol.

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Ahrntal Schlutzkrapfen with gray cheese and apple chip butter

This classic recipe has a long tradition in South Tyrol, and Benie Aichner prepares it at OLM Nature Escape according to the highest standards of fine dining using sustainable, organic ingredients.

Course Dinner

Cuisine European

Keyword hearty, Schlutzer, Schlutzkrapfen, South Tyrol, Tradition

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

For the Schultz dough

• 150 g Rye flour Organic
• 150 g Wheat flour Organic
• 50 ml Water
• a little Oil
• 1 pinch Salt

Filling

• 100 g Spinach cooked and finely chopped
• 1/2 Onion finely chopped and sautéed
• 20 g Butter
• 100 g Cooked mashed potatoes
• 100 g Curd cheese dry (drain water through a sieve)
• 2 tbsp Chives chopped
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated
• Salt
• Pepper
• Nutmeg

For melting

• Brown butter
• Chives
• Ahrntal gray cheese
• Apple chips

Instructions

• Knead all the ingredients for the dough into a firm, smooth dough and let it rest for a while.
• For the filling, mix all ingredients well and season to taste.
• Roll out the dough thinly with a pasta machine (or rolling pin) and cut out round pieces of dough.
• Place some filling in the center of the dough sheet and fold into a Schlutzkrapfen.
• Seal the edges of the dough well with your hands (press down).
• Then cook the Schlutzkrapfen in salted water for approx. 3 minutes and serve.
• Melt in a pan with brown butter, Ahrntal gray cheese, and apple chips, and serve with chopped chives.

Der Beitrag Ahrntal Schlutzkrapfen recipe from Prenn° Restaurant in South Tyrol erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has shared its recipe with us. It’s everything you’d expect from this classic dish. And exactly how it has been baked for generations. However, the hotel wouldn’t be one of the pioneers of sustainable hospitality in Germany if it didn’t address issues of responsibility and sustainability in relation to this classic dish.

Germany’s most famous cake: classification and context

With its generous helping of cream and eggs, the classic Black Forest cake is certainly not the most sustainable option. However, enjoyment, tradition, and responsibility don’t have to be mutually exclusive. The quality of the ingredients and how they are used are the decisive factors. And, ultimately, this cake is not an everyday treat, but rather a special occasion dessert.

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, for instance, Black Forest cake is baked using only organic ingredients. The hotel has received Bioland GOLD certification, the association’s highest honor. Whenever possible, the ingredients are sourced directly from the region. Otherwise, they are organic and fair trade, as is the case with chocolate.

Here, tourist expectations such as cuckoo clocks and Black Forest cake are not rejected, but rather embraced and elevated. The hotel uses good ingredients and focuses on regional products. The same applies to the rest of the hotel, which features recyclable rooms, a holistic wellness concept, and modern ways of experiencing the Black Forest, such as forest bathing. A piece of cake is the perfect addition to your Black Forest vacation.

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Black Forest Cake - original recipe

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, located in the Black Forest, bakes traditional Black Forest cakes using 100% organic ingredients.

Course dessert, cake

Cuisine black forest, german

Keyword cake

Ingredients

For the sponge cake

• 6 Eggs Organic
• 200 g Sugar Organic
• 200 g Flour Organic
• 50 g Cornstarch Organic
• 50 g Cocoa powder Organic and Fair Trade
• 2  tsp Baking powder
• 3 tbsp Hot water

Filling

• 1 glass Morello cherries Organic
• 2 tbsp Corn starch Organic
• 1 l Cream Organic
• 5 packs Cream stabilizer
• 1 tbsp Sugar Organic
• 9 tbsp Cherry brandy (From the Black Forest)
• 100 g Chocolate shavings Organic and Fair Trade

Instructions

Sponge cake

• Place the eggs, sugar, and water in a bowl and beat for 5 minutes (preferably in a figure-eight motion—the sugar should be completely dissolved by the end)
• Mix the flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and baking powder in a bowl
• Add to the egg mixture using a sieve
• Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius
• Grease and flour the bottom of the springform pan
• Pour in the sponge mixture and smooth it out
• Bake for 20 minutes, then let cool

Cherries

• Drain the morello cherries through a sieve, collecting the juice
• Mix the starch with 2 tablespoons of the juice
• Bring the cherry juice to a boil and stir in the cornstarch-cherry juice mixture
• Stir it in and bring it to a boil once
• Set aside 8 to 12 morello cherries for decoration
• Fold the remaining Morello cherries into the mixture of cornstarch and cherry brandy

Preparing the cake

• Cut the cake base twice to make three layers
• Drizzle the first three tablespoons of cherry brandy over the first
• Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the top and smooth it out
• Let cool
• Beat the cream with the cream stiffener and sugar until stiff peaks form
• Spread about three tablespoons of cream thinly over the cherry mixture using a spoon
• Place 4 tablespoons of cream in a piping bag
• Place the second base on top and press down lightly
• Drizzle another 3 tablespoons of cherry brandy onto the bottom
• Spread cream on the base
• Place the final sponge base on top and soak it with the remaining cherry brandy
• Use the remaining cream to cover the cake
• Use the piping bag to pipe the cream filling onto the cake
• Put the cherries on top
• Sprinkle the grated chocolate over the surface and edges
• Put it in the fridge

P.S. I recently tried out the recipe myself. My minor changes: I didn’t use cherry brandy; instead, I added almond flavoring to the egg mixture. I also added a few fresh strawberries to the cherries and used raspberries because they are in season. It was delicious, looked beautiful, and everyone loved it!

Der Beitrag Black Forest Cake — A classic that balances tradition and responsibility (including the original recipe) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Is herbal tea even tea?

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

Study: British tea culture is reinventing itself

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

Arabic Chai must contain tea

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

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

Back to herbal tea: origins in healing medicine

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

Healing Tea Blends from Gut Sonnenhausen

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

Younique herbal tea blend from the Hotel Klosterbräu

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

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DIY Herbal tea blend "Younique"

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

Course Tea

Cuisine alps, austrian

Keyword herbal tea, tea blend

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Herbal Tea Blend

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

Preparation of the herbal tea

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

Fasting teas in the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

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

Tea, culture and travel

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

Experience culture up close – through tea

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

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

Tea drinking in Japan

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

Kettle in the hotel room

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organic ready-to-blend and home tea brands

Sonnentor

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

Link: Sonnentor

Monthea

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

Link: Monthea

Bioteaque

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

Link: Bioteaque

DIY tea blends straight from your own garden

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

“Garden herb mix” from the STURM

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

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

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

Mountain herb tea from Weihrerhof

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

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

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

Our tips for a more sustainable tea drinking

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

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

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

This is an update from December 19, 2023.

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Der Beitrag It’s Teatime – Tea experiences at hotels with responsible practices erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Here, you not only enjoy the view of the rolling Black Forest, but also cuisine that meets the highest sustainability standards. The hotel has a Bioland GOLD certificate and uses over 90% organic ingredients, according to its own information, close to 100%.

This makes it the perfect place to showcase classic seasonal fruits, such as plums—or more precisely, damson plums.

Plum or damson? A small difference with a big impact

Botanically speaking, they belong to the same family. However, it’s worth taking a closer look:

• Plums are rounder, larger, and have a distinct groove. Their colors range from red to light purple to orange.
• Damsons, a subspecies of plums, are smaller and oval-shaped. They are usually dark purple to bluish in color and have a fine white coating. The groove is barely noticeable.

Technically, you can always say “plum,” but damsons are particularly suitable for classic cake and dessert recipes, such as this crumble, because of their firmer flesh and tart taste. Furthermore, plums are one of Germany’s native fruits, which is why they remain firmly anchored in regional cuisine today.

Vegan alternative—easy made 

To ensure that everyone can enjoy this treat, the recipe can be quickly adapted to make it vegan:

• Crumb topping: Simply replace the butter with margarine.
• Cream: Instead of traditional whipped cream, there are varieties made from soy or oats. These can be used similarly to whipped cream made from cow’s milk. For mascarpone, you can use a ready-made substitute, such as Mascarice. Alternatively, you can use soy quark or your favorite yogurt alternative. Please note, however, that yogurt is more liquid, so the cream will be too. 🙂

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Plum crumble in a glass

A German classic—fruity, sweet—original recipe from SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, a sustainable hotel in Bad Herrenalb with almost 100% organic cuisine.

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine germany

Keyword Crumble, desert, plum

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Ingredients

For the crumble topping

• 100 g soft butter
• 100 g brown sugar
• 200 g spelt flour
• 1 Pinch salt
• 2 TSP cinnamon

For the plum compote:

• 700 g plums
• 40 g brown sugar
• 4 TSP Plum and cinnamon blossom liqueur (oder etwas Wasser)

For the cream

• 200 g cream
• 1 Pack vanilla sugar
• 150 g cream cheese
• 150 g mascarpone
• 2 TSP lemon juice
• 1 TSP sugar
• 1/2 Top vanilla sugar

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
• Knead the ingredients for the crumble topping into a crumble dough and spread it on the baking sheet.
• Bake for approx. 15 minutes until crispy. Turn 1-2 times during baking. Leave to cool on a wire rack.
• To make the compote, wash and pat dry the plums, then quarter them. Mix them with sugar and liqueur in a small saucepan, then bring to the boil. Simmer for approximately 3–4 minutes, stirring several times. Set aside and leave to cool.
• Whip the cream until stiff. Gradually add the vanilla sugar.
• Mix cream cheese, mascarpone, lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla sugar until creamy. Carefully fold in the cream. Place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Alternately layer the cream, compote and crumble in glasses. Serve and enjoy!

Der Beitrag German classic: Plum crumble recipe from SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

The Inkaterra Hotels pioneered ecotourism in Peru and have spent decades protecting the country’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and culinary traditions. All the way from the biodiversity of the rainforest to the cuisine of the Andes.

What is quinoa?

People in the Andes have valued quinoa as the ‘gold of the Incas’ for over 5,000 years. Although it produces starchy grains, quinoa is not a cereal crop; botanically, it belongs to the goosefoot family, alongside spinach. It is a reliable crop that provides high-quality plant proteins, important minerals, and fibre. It grows at extreme altitudes without the need for pesticides or herbicides.

Quinoa in pancakes?

A great idea! The Inkaterra hotels tell us that their quinoa pancakes are one of their most popular breakfast dishes. Whether you’re staying at the Reserva Amazónica, the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, or the boutique La Casona hotel in Cusco, they’re a must-try. Read on for the original recipe to help you start your day the right way.

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Quiona Pancake Recipe

The All-Time-Breakfast-Favorite of the Inkanterra Hotels with the ancient Super Food of the Andes.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Peru

Keyword pancake, Peru, Quinoa

25 minutes minutes

Equipment

• 1 Teflon pan

Ingredients

• 70 gr Previously cooked Quinoa
• 1 1/2 cup Flour (360 gr)
• 10 gr Baking powder
• 25 gr Melted unsalted butter
• 100 ml Fresh milk organic
• 2 Eggs organic
• 75 gr White sugar
• 1 hint Salt
• 20 cc Vanilla Essence Fair Trade
• 20 cc Pisco or Brandy (or non-alcoholic flavored alternative)

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa

• Wash the grains very carefully in cold water until it's clear (double the amount of water)
• Boil the water in a pot and then add the washed quinoa.
• Boil between 12 and 18 minutes.
• Tip: No salt or sugar should be used during the cooking of the quinoa.
• Tip: Let the cooked and rinsed quinoa cool uncovered until you use it for the dough.

Pancakes

• Mix the eggs together with the sugar, the salt, the vanilla essence, the pisco (or alternative), the milk and the melted butter.
• Mix flour and baking powder separately and add them little by little to the mixture until it becomes soft and homogenous.
• Add the previously cooked quinoa. If necessary, add some milk.
• Fry the final mixture in a non-sticking frying pan to pancakes.
• Serve with maple syrup or honey.

Der Beitrag Pancakes with quinoa – original recipe from Peru erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

“Bavarian cuisine is characterized by hearty, substantial dishes that are best enjoyed without counting calories.” – Manuel Mandei

Chef Manuel Madei, known for his down-to-earth cuisine, prefers sticking to the original rather than chasing trends. This is evident in his recipe for braised organic beef shoulder, which features traditional preparation methods and classic side dishes. To him, the goal isn’t to reinvent the classic, but to prepare it the way you want it: honest, intense, and cooked to perfection.

Organic meat. With responsibility.

The meat is, of course, crucial to the success of the dish. Gut Sonnenhausen’s owner, Georg Schweisfurth, comes from a family of butchers, so he places great importance on provenance and animal welfare. The restaurant exclusively uses organic meat from its partner company Herrmannsdorfer Landwerkstätten.

Farmers raise the cattle there for at least two years, giving them access to pasture or a spacious outdoor pen with straw. The life in the fresh air is evident in the final product.

Permaculture vegetables

The vegetables used for side dishes (or main courses) at Gut Sonnenhausen are also locally sourced, primarily from the estate’s expansive organic garden, which adheres to permaculture principles. Classic soup vegetables, such as carrots and celery, give the stew its natural sweetness and depth.

Here are two tips for preparing braised organic beef shoulder

• Non-alcoholic organic wine from your region provides the desired aroma without the alcohol, making it perfect for a modern, conscious lifestyle.
• Although you can reduce the cooking time by using a higher temperature, it is better to braise at a lower temperature for a longer time. This will make the meat more tender.

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Braised beef shoulder

Organic beef stewed according to the recipe from Gut Sonnenhausen (sustainable hotel near Munich).

Course Dinner, festive dish, roast

Cuisine germany

Keyword beef roast, braised beef, organic meat

Cook Time 5 hours hours

Equipment

• 1 roasting pan for stove and oven

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 kg beef shoulder from certified animal husbandry
• 2 tbsp clarified butter
• 3 onions
• 1 carrot
• 1/4 celery
• 1/2 leek
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tomatos
• 2 bottles dry red wine tip: alcohol free
• 3 bay leaves

Instructions

• Season the beef shoulder with salt and sear on all sides in a tablespoon of clarified butter.
• Remove the meat from the roasting pan and sauté the cleaned soup vegetables.
• Add the tomato paste and peeled, crushed tomatoes and sauté briefly.
• Deglaze with red wine and bring to a boil.
• Place the meat and bay leaves in the stock and cook at 180 °C (356 °F) for about 1 ½ hours in the oven. Then turn the temperature down to 110 °C (230 °F) and braise for another three hours.
• Check the consistency of the meat with a meat fork or a sharp knife. You should feel almost no resistance when piercing the meat. If you are not satisfied with the result, simply continue braising for another hour.

Der Beitrag Braised organic beef shoulder — a classic Gut Sonnenhausen dish erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Green Travel Guide Italy

You are here: Sustainable Holidays in South Tyrol

Sustainable Travel in Liguria and Lombardy

Sustainable Travel in Southern Italy and Sicily

Navigate directly to:

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.