Was everything just gloomy between 500 and 1500?

The Middle Ages (approximately 500–1500) are often associated with dark times, including the plague, the Crusades, and gloomy castles. Indeed, feudalism, the Church, and a hard, deprived daily life marked the European Middle Ages. However, it was also a time of upheaval, new ideas, and fascinating stories, some of which you will learn about in this article.

Exciting relics from this period can be discovered around the Green Pearls® partner hotels: former imperial palaces, churches with centuries-old frescoes, mysterious monastery ruins, and border stations from a time when travel was an adventure.

Meanwhile, impressive, advanced civilizations were flourishing in other parts of the world. The Islamic world was in full bloom, becoming a cradle of science and progress. In Asia and South America, complex societies developed with their own worldviews, buildings, and innovations. The “discovery” of America in 1492 began a new era, and the highly developed Inca Empire in Peru fell victim to colonialism. But before we turn our attention to Peru, let’s return once more to the heart of Europe.

Experience the Middle Ages – from imperial palaces to fortified churches

Charlemagne ushered in a new era in Europe. The Frankish king was crowned emperor of the Romans in 800, laying the foundation for the Holy Roman Empire. (Not to be confused with the ancient Roman Empire discussed in Part 2 of this blog series.)

Many places in Germany commemorate this era. The most famous sights include the Imperial Cathedral in Aachen, the Imperial Palace in Goslar, and Wartburg Castle near Eisenach, where Martin Luther found refuge in the early 16th century and translated the Bible.

In addition to these famous attractions, there are many smaller sites where you can experience history. Sometimes you can even find them right in your vacation spot or near sustainable hotels!

Bernkastel-Kues on the Moselle — where medieval charm meets wellness

Perched high above the Moselle River, Landshut Castle sits on a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Bernkastel-Kues. The half-timbered houses, historic market square, and the Cusanus Foundation’s centuries-old library bring the Middle Ages to life. And during a boat trip on the Moselle, you can see many more castles—it seems like there’s one on every hill! Alternatively, you can explore them by bike. Check out the Komoot tips for 16 castles and palaces around Bernkastel-Kues.

If you’re looking to unwind after exploring the city, the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten is the perfect place for you. This wellness hotel offers a spacious spa area with several pools, saunas, and treatment rooms, and it places a particular emphasis on sustainability. The hotel recently added air conditioning to its rooms (summer 2025), which is powered by its own photovoltaic systems. (Together with its own BHWs, the hotel is a pioneer in renewable energies.)

The Bad Herrenalb Monastery Ruins: A journey back in time in the Black Forest

The Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is located in the heart of the idyllic Black Forest. A sustainable wellness hotel with organic cuisine, a zero-waste policy, and its own thermal baths. Just a few steps away are the impressive ruins of the Bad Herrenalb monastery. Founded in 1149 as a Cistercian monastery, its preserved sandstone walls speak to a place full of spirituality, power, and transformation.

Tip: Experience Bad Herrenalb and its medieval history in the form of a modern scavenger hunt in the outdoor escape game, “Auf den Spuren des Klostergeheimnisses” (On the Trail of the Monastery Secret)!

Ostheim Fortified Church: Fortifications and Place of Refuge

Another insider tip can be found in the Rhön. The fortified church in Ostheim is the largest and best-preserved in Germany. Built in the 15th century, the church served as both a place of worship, protection and refuge for villagers — a common feature of late medieval architecture as those times were characterised by uncertainty and threat.

The sustainable Hotel Sturm in Mellrichstadt is nearby. Situated on the edge of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, it offers a peaceful retreat with a spa, a natural swimming pond, and regional cuisine. It’s perfect if you want to experience nature, history, and sustainability.

Old Paths Through High Mountains: The Middle Ages in the Alpine Region

Long before ski tourism and wellness hotels existed, the Alps were the setting for medieval pilgrimages, trade routes, and power struggles. Human settlement in the Alps dates back to the Stone Age, as evidenced by Ötzi the Iceman. A Neolithic mummy whom we introduced to you (along with the contents of his belt pouch) in the first part of this series.

During the Middle Ages, the Alps were a geographical, political, and cultural hub of Europe. The border between the Romance-speaking south and the Germanic north ran through this region. Anyone making a pilgrimage to Rome on foot or horseback had to cross it. As did rulers, merchants, and bishops on their journeys to the Eternal City.

Tyrol: Follow old customs trails through the mountains

In western Tyrol, near the Swiss border, lies Alt Finstermünz, a medieval customs station. Located between rock faces and the Inn River, the site once served as a checkpoint for travelers using the mountain pass. Today, Alt Finstermünz is an “adventure castle” and open-air museum with an audio guide, a bridge, and original fortification walls.

Just a few minutes away is sustainable accommodation at its finest: the Summit Lodges Pfunds. These two eco-friendly vacation homes can accommodate up to six people and offer privacy, modern design, and alpine living, all with magnificent views of the Tyrolean mountains.

If you’re interested in visiting an old pilgrimage site, we recommend Seefeld in Tyrol, where the “Host Miracle” supposedly took place in the 14th century. Today, the traditional Hotel Klosterbräu stands at this site. It was originally built as an Augustinian monastery and still retains its monastic history. Read the article “Monastery Hotels: Preserving Heritage or pure business?” to learn more about hotels in former monasteries and the transition from the Christian Middle Ages to vacant church properties.

South Tyrol: Between centers of power and mystical frescoes

Castel Tirolo, the ancestral home of the Counts of Tyrol, is arguably the most significant medieval structure in South Tyrol. Perched on a rock above Merano, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s political, religious, and cultural center during the Middle Ages. Today, the castle houses a museum that vividly recounts the region’s eventful history.

Two nearby Green Pearls® partners invite guests to enjoy sustainable stays: the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm, Europe’s largest high alpine pasture, and the adults-only Hotel LA VIMEA in Naturns. Both hotels focus on plant-based cuisine, minimalist design, and mindfulness in a natural setting.

Incidentally, a real gem from the early Middle Ages awaits you in Naturns. The St. Proculus Church, which boasts unique frescoes. Dating back to the 8th century, they are among the oldest wall paintings in the German-speaking world. A quiet, spiritual place marking the beginning of a new era.

The Kommende Lengmoos: Resting Place for Emperors

The Kommende Lengmoos, located on the Ritten, a high plateau above Bolzano, recalls the medieval travel habits of powerful men. It once served as a resting place for German emperors en route to their coronations in Rome. Today, it is a peaceful retreat where you can relax at the eco-friendly Hotel Weihrerhof, surrounded by forests, lakes, and South Tyrolean hospitality.

Another highlight of the region is the imposing Castel Taufers in Sand in Taufers, which features towers, battlements, and an impressive collection of medieval rooms. From here, you can explore a region full of castles. The ideal starting point for such a trip is the stylish, nature-loving OLM Nature Escape, which combines alpine architecture and circular design.

Looking beyond the horizon: The world between 500 and 1500

As previously mentioned, while Europe in the Middle Ages was marked by plague, crusades, and feudal rule, impressive, advanced civilizations flourished elsewhere. On our journey through time, we will therefore take a look beyond our own horizons, just as we do on “normal” sustainable trips.

• The Roman Empire had not yet completely fallen. While the Western Roman Empire ended after more than a thousand years, the Eastern Roman Empire continued to exist with Constantinople (now Istanbul) as its capital until 1453. (Following this, it became part of the Islamic world under the Ottomans.)

• The Islamic world experienced a golden age during which medicine, mathematics, and philosophy were practiced at the highest levels in cities such as Baghdad and Córdoba. The region was a hub for science, art, and intercultural exchange.

• The Mongol Empire, the largest contiguous empire in history, stretched across much of Eurasia. It was brutal yet unifying. Initially the greatest enemy of the Islamic Empire, the Mongols destroyed Baghdad in 1258 before being incorporated into its fold.

Africa, China, and South America

• Powerful empires such as Mali and Great Zimbabwe also developed in medieval Africa. These empires based their prosperity on trade, culture, and religious exchange. In Zimbabwe, the ruins of the former royal palace still stand today. They impress visitors with their walls and towers, some of which are up to 10 meters high. After the pyramids, they are the second largest monument on the continent.

• In China, the Tang and Song dynasties ushered in a period of significant innovation. Paper money, printing, and porcelain shaped not only the country but also the course of world trade.

• So, what about South America? It was here that the mighty Inca Empire flourished, building cities high in the mountains, sophisticated road systems, and a kind of sewer system that still amazes us today. First and foremost: Machu Picchu — mysteriously located in the middle of dense cloud forests.

This is where our partner, Inkaterra, is committed to preserving nature and culture. The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel has participated in cloud forest reforestation and is dedicated to protecting endangered species, achieving climate neutrality, and promoting sustainable tourism.

Peru: The “discovery of America” led to the downfall of the Incas.

While knights fought for honor in Europe and pilgrims crossed Alpine passes, a sophisticated civilization was flourishing on the other side of the Atlantic: the Inca Empire. In the 15th century, they established one of the largest pre-Columbian empires, boasting advanced agriculture, an extensive road network, and cities like Machu Picchu, which remains shrouded in mystery to this day.

What do we really know about the Incas?

• They did not have a traditional writing system, but they used quipus, which are knots in strings, to store information. This has been scientifically proven, though the exact meaning of the quipus has yet to be fully deciphered.
• Despite lacking wheels and draft animals, the Incas built a road network spanning over 40,000 kilometers.
• The Incas practiced terrace farming and used complex irrigation systems.
• And yes, Inca king Atahualpa, who was dressed in gold, really did exist. The Spanish conquerors executed him in 1533, even though they received a ransom in gold. With his death, the entire Inca Empire collapsed, and the country became a Spanish colony.

Stay, experience, and learn with Inkaterra Hotels

Nestled in the cloud forest and close to the world-famous ruins, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a pioneer in sustainable tourism. Committed to reforesting the original cloud forest and preserving the Inca site, the hotel offers guests an unforgettable experience. The complex is an eco-retreat, a scientific research center, and a place of inspiration, all rolled into one.

To experience the history of the Incas up close: visit the Sacred Valley near Urubamba and Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. There, Inkaterra operates two hotels that combine sustainable practices with cultural heritage: Inkaterra La Casona and Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba.

Conclusion: The Middle Ages were about more than just knights and castles

The Middle Ages were a time of change, contrast, and cultural diversity. Castles, monasteries, and cities have been preserved in Europe and can be rediscovered today on a sustainable trip. Elsewhere, the Incas and other empires left behind monumental evidence of their advanced civilizations that will amaze you and shake your worldview. At least, that’s what they did for us!

In part four of our journey through time, you can look forward to a special feature on recent German history, from nuclear bunkers to zeppelins. You can experience these sites firsthand with our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ partners.

Save this article to Pinterest, so that you can find it again whenever you need it.

Der Beitrag Discover historical treasures on vacation | Part 3: Castles, Monasteries, and World Travel in the Middle Ages erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

This is the seventh installment of our Culinary Journey series—a new destination every month.

A world of flavors

“Our cuisine features many unique ingredients, including various types of chili peppers that offer a wide range of flavors, as well as an assortment of herbs,” says David. He has worked in Peruvian cuisine for over 20 years and is now the food and beverage manager at the sustainable Inkaterra hotels. David adds that root vegetables, such as oca, jicama, yacon, and manioc, as well as the wide variety of potatoes, are also notable features of Peruvian cuisine. Peru is famous for having over 4,000 varieties of potatoes.

Fun fact: In some villages in the Andes, prospective daughters-in-law must prove their worth by demonstrating their ability to skillfully peel irregularly shaped potatoes.

For over 50 years, the Inkaterra hotel group has actively promoted sustainable tourism in Peru. Their efforts include various projects for nature and species conservation, as well as sustainable cuisine. Four of its accommodations are members of the Green Pearls® network: Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Inkaterra La Casona in Cusco, and Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba in the Sacred Valley.

10 Must-Eats in Peru – Insider-tips from David

The Inkaterra Group has locations throughout Peru, including the Andes region and the Amazon rainforest. The different cuisines and regional ingredients are well known to David.

“My culinary concept highlights the authentic flavors of Peruvian cuisine by using fresh, regional ingredients. Every dish reflects our country’s culinary heritage by combining tradition and innovation.” – David Fernandez

He shared his ten personal culinary highlights with us to help you plan your next trip to Peru:

Typical Peruvian dishes

#1 Ceviche

The national dish par excellence! It’s fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, chili peppers, sweet potatoes, and corn. The acidity of the lime juice “cooks” the fish without any heat. If you’re in Lima, try ceviche at a small, local restaurant by the sea. But pay attention to what kind of fish you’re eating. More sustainable options include squid from selective fishing and tilapia from certified aquaculture. Many species of sea bass and tuna are overfished. The WWF Fish Guide provides an overview.

#2 Lomo Saltado

This classic Peruvian fusion dish features stir-fried strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers in soy sauce, served with fries and rice. A wild mix—and incredibly popular! A sustainable alternative to beef is a version made with alpaca meat. It is widely available in Peru and often comes from animals raised on natural Andean pastures without intensive farming.

However, meat consumption, especially beef, is harmful to the climate. Some restaurants also offer a vegetarian version of this dish with mushrooms or tofu.

#3 Causa Limeña

Served cold and highly sought after, this dish features mashed yellow potatoes (a Peruvian variety) layered with avocado, chicken, or tuna. A typical starter dish and ideal on hot days. While avocados are intensively cultivated in Peru, they are criticized for their high water consumption.

#4 Arroz con Mariscos

Peru’s version of paella features lots of coriander and fresh seafood, often with a hint of ají amarillo, a mild, fruity chili pepper. This dish is particularly popular on the coast.

Ask about the origin of the seafood, as suppliers do not always source shrimp, mussels, and squid from sustainable fisheries.
It’s best to ask; many small businesses now prioritize sustainable fishing methods. That way, you can enjoy your meal with a clear conscience.

#5 Crema de Papa Peruanita – Peruvian potato cream

If you want to explore the diversity of Peruvian potatoes, start with this dish! Cooks often enhance the potato cream with herbs or ají.
Perfect as a starter or side dish!

Street Food & Savory Snacks

#6 Anticuchos

David recommends grilled beef heart skewers for a quick snack. The spicy marinade contains vinegar, garlic, and chili. Anticuchos are a typical Peruvian evening street food snack. If you eat meat, a nose-to-tail approach like this one, which utilizes offal, is more sustainable than fillet culture.

#7 Rocoto Relleno

This is a stuffed, fiery pepper from Arequipa with minced meat, egg, olives, and cheese baked on top. It may look harmless, but beware: the rocoto is much spicier than it looks. Take the first bite with respect!

David loves this dish, which is understandable given how much flavor it packs. Vegans can rejoice, too, as some restaurants now offer vegan versions with a filling of quinoa, black beans, or lentils. It tastes just as spicy and is more climate-friendly. 😉

#8 Mazamorra Morada (mit Arroz con Leche)

A purple dessert made with purple corn, cinnamon, dried fruit, and sweet potato starch. It can be eaten warm or cold and is often served with arroz con leche (rice pudding). Purple corn, which has antioxidant properties, is grown in the Andes. However, since the dessert contains quite a lot of sugar, it isn’t necessarily healthy.

#9 Picarones

Peruvian donuts are made from pumpkin and sweet potatoes. Deep-fried and drizzled with sugar syrup, they taste best fresh from the street stall. Unlike classic doughnuts, they are light and less sweet, but just as addictive. 🙂

#10 Suspiro a la Limeña

The “Sigh of Lima” is a poetic name for a dessert made with sweetened condensed milk and topped with meringue. It’s sweet, creamy, and a little retro — almost like something from another era. The recipe dates back to colonial times and has been passed down through the generations.

Digression: Eating guinea pigs (“cuy”) in Peru

Many consider guinea pigs to be fluffy pets, but in Peru, they are a traditional dish. Cuy, as it is called, is mainly eaten in the Andean regions and is often grilled on a spit or cooked in an earth oven (pachamanca). For locals, it is a festive dish that has been prepared since Inca times.

However, the idea often takes some getting used to for Western and Asian travelers because we primarily perceive these small animals as pets rather than farm animals. Additionally, in some world religions, it is not permitted to eat guinea pigs; for example, it is neither halal nor kosher. Nevertheless, if you’ve always wanted to try guinea pig, Peru offers you the opportunity to do so.

Is Peru a good place for vegans?

I asked David, “How easy is it to eat vegan in Peru?”
His answer: “It’s possible, even if it’s not always easy.” Traditional Peruvian cuisine contains a lot of animal products, but the basic ingredients are mostly plant-based, such as potatoes, corn, legumes, quinoa, amaranth, and lots of herbs. Of course, there are also fruits and vegetables.”

More and more restaurants, especially in larger cities and tourist regions, offer vegan options or adapt dishes upon request. There is now a small but growing vegan scene, particularly in Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley.

Sustainable eating in Peru – Tips for your trip

Peruvian cuisine is full of flavor and if you keep a few things in mind, you can enjoy it mindfully and sustainably.

• Choose local over imported: Ask for regional products and try what’s in season. Many markets offer seasonal fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
• Markets instead of supermarkets: Markets are the culinary heart of many cities. Here, you can find fresh ingredients, discover new fruits, and meet the people who grow them.
• Street food with care: It’s cheap and delicious, but not always sustainable. Pay attention to the origin and preparation of meat and fish. And bring your own cutlery or container to reduce packaging waste. Last but not least, know your stomach’s limits and take it slow. Some travelers may experience stomach problems from unfamiliar food and street stalls that don’t take health guidelines very seriously.
• Eat with the locals: Small, family-run businesses and “comida casera” restaurants often cook fresh, simple meals with whatever ingredients are available. This is usually cheaper and more sustainable than international franchise chains.

Sustainability at Inkaterra Hotels

The Inkaterra hotels are committed to a culinary concept that blends sustainability with enjoyment. “We work with regional products and seasonal ingredients,” David explains. “Our suppliers come from the surrounding communities, and many of them are small farms or cooperatives.”

Some products are even grown in the hotels’ own gardens. For example, the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba follows an “Earth to Table” initiative and grows its own red and black quinoa, Urubamba corn, and various potato varieties.

By the way, these two blog articles explain how to travel around Peru as sustainably as possible:

• Green Travel Guide Peru Teil 1 – Anden
• Green Travel Guide Peru Teil 2 – Amazonas Rainforest

We hope we’ve inspired you to embark on a culinary journey through Peru!

Save this article as an inspiration to Pinterest:

Der Beitrag Embark on a culinary journey through Peru with restaurateur David Fernandez erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

At our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ properties, a glow-up is more than just a fresh face mask or firming serum. It starts with a deep breath. With a sense of arriving at your true self. And with treatments that not only nourish your skin, but also your inner self – gently, mindfully and in harmony with nature.

Glow-up treatments for your sustainable self-care retreat

Want to pamper yourself without compromising the environment or ethics? These sustainable hotels show you what modern self-care can look like. From the Alps to the Amazon, you can enjoy treatments that nourish your skin, relax your mind, and are in harmony with nature and the region.

From alpine herbal facials to natural detoxification rituals to scenic massages, you won’t find quick fixes here, just real time-outs that will leave you glowing from the inside out.

#1 Purifying Glow at Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol

In the heart of East Tyrol’s natural landscape, in the Hohe Tauern National Park, a facial treatment awaits you that will visibly clarify your skin and gently transport you to the tranquility of the Alps. The Purifying Glow Treatment (50 min.) combines herbal steam, exfoliation, a lymph-stimulating massage and deep cleansing – with optional cupping glasses. The newly expanded Nature Spa at Naturhotel Outside features a large natural swimming pond, an outdoor pool and an indoor saltwater pool with Deferegger healing waters. The entire spa was constructed using locally sourced stone and wood from the surrounding area. Only certified natural cosmetics from TEAM Dr. Joseph are used. Here, tradition and the healing powers of the Alps go hand in hand to ensure that you leave feeling not only cleansed, but refreshed.

#2 Augustinus Bader Facial at Hotel Klosterbräu, Seefeld in Tyrol

Luxury that gets under your skin: the exclusive facial treatments with the iconic Augustinus Bader skin care products (80 min.) pamper you with anti-aging or lifting effects – at the highest level. The Augustinus Bader Facial includes a cell-activating fascia massage and a cream mask with 40 premium ingredients. The treatment targets uneven skin tone and redness, while also supporting the development of the body’s own stem cells to strengthen the skin over the long term.

The 5-star Hotel Klosterbräu offers a huge spa area with a large outdoor pool and seven different themed saunas in the historic setting of old monastery walls. Despite its luxury, the hotel actively commits to green energy, sustainable cuisine, and the preservation of the region’s traditional heritage.

#3 Facial Fresh at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Sicilian nature is reflected in every ingredient: This invigorating facial cleanses your skin with algae, seawater and vitamin C from local citrus fruits for a fresh, even complexion. During your glow-up treatment, relax and gaze out at the ocean. That’s because ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located right on a WWF-protected natural beach.

Particularly attractive: ADLER Resorts & Spas develops its own natural cosmetic lines inspired by each region of Italy. Click here for a PDF catalog of available treatments and products (Glow-up Facials are on page 9).

#4 Coca leaf exfoliation at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

At UNU Spa, you become part of an ancient Inca culture: this gentle exfoliation treatment uses the benefits of sacred coca leaves combined with brown sugar and quinoa oil. The alkaloids in the leaves stimulate circulation and leave your skin feeling rejuvenated. A ritual of renewal with deep respect for nature and its healing powers.

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a beacon of sustainable tourism in Peru. Thanks to various sustainable measures for waste disposal and environmental protection, the once endangered World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu has not only been saved, but in collaboration with many other partners has become the first carbon-neutral wonder of the world. At the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel, you will not only experience the Andes with expert guides, but also relax on walks through the cloud forest with its hundreds of orchids and through the butterfly garden. Authentic wellness rituals complete your experience.

#5 Nusta Bath at Inkaterra La Casona, Cusco, Peru

Another Inkaterra property is located in the heart of the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Inkaterra La Casona is located in the historic city center and combines the charm of a colonial villa with modern comforts and a clear focus on sustainability. The boutique hotel supports regional cultural projects, works with local communities, and is actively involved in biodiversity conservation. With only eleven suites, it is a tranquil place to retreat to your own private sanctuary after an exhilarating day.

The Nusta bath is a holistic ritual with deep cultural roots. It begins with a massage with natural oils, followed by a head massage and a body wrap with slimming coca cream and fresh coca leaves. Finally, you will enjoy a hot candlelit bath with your choice of essential oils. A powerful combination of detoxification, grounding and self-care.

#6 Wellness Facial Treatment at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Bad Herrenalb, Germany

90 minutes of total relaxation: The feel-good facial begins with a gentle cleansing and exfoliation, followed by a personalized active ingredient serum. A relaxing face, hand and arm massage and a nourishing mask round off your glowing experience. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, you can also enjoy your own thermal swimming pool and the excellent air of the climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb. In addition to wellness, the hotel also focuses on selfness and offers various options such as fasting cures or forest bathing to make you glow from the inside out.

#7 HydraFacial at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Mosel Region

In Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River, you will find another Green PearlsⓇ partner that combines sustainability with wellness and mindfulness. The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten includes a TCM Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine and offers a wide range of treatments.

In addition to TCM, there are modern skin care treatments such as HydraFacial. A high-tech glow up treatment. The facial cleanses your skin in four steps: exfoliation, acid treatment, deep cleansing and hydration. It is complemented by the Perk™ Face Service, which uses Rollerflex technology to further firm your skin. The matching serum is available for at-home use – so your glow lasts up to 28 days.

Glow-up goes further: From skin care to soul care

Radiance doesn’t just come from the outside. That is why more and more hotels are focusing on holistic wellness offerings that balance body, mind and spirit. And enhance your natural radiance in the process.

Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea combines wellness with a touch of adventure. The “SANDromance” package lets you sleep under the open sky in a cozy beach bed on the roof – including sweet and savory treats and a little natural surprise. You can also book individual wellness massages with a trained physiotherapist for a personalized glow up experience.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance, the focus is on inner attentiveness and a special form of presence: “Attentiveness” is what they call the conscious experience of listening to one’s inner self. Soul wellness is at the center, supported by a 100% certified organic diet, stress-reducing massages, and mental coaching under the motto “healthy thinking. Longevity is not considered a trend here, nor is glowing. Rather, both are part of everyday life, bringing body and mind into long-term balance.

DIY Glow-up at home

Finally, if you’re looking to recreate that glowing moment at home, check out our DIY Day Spa article for easy DIY recipes for natural spa moments. From Korean rice masks to homemade body scrubs. Perfect for a pampering day at home – no hotel needed, but just as glamorous!

Save this article to Pinterest.

Der Beitrag Glow up? Yes. But sustainable, please. erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Peru – a dream for nature lovers and adventurers

Breathtaking landscapes, Inca treasures in the majestic Andes, and the mysterious rainforest – Peru packs a lot into a small area, with a wide range of geographical and climatic conditions, enormous biological diversity, and a vibrant culture shaped by nature and the Inca heritage. If you dream of traveling to Peru, you are not alone!

Green travel guides Peru

I have written two detailed guides for sustainable travel in Peru. There you will find many tips, places of interest and destinations that will help you plan your trip right away.

• Travel Guide Part 1: Andean Region, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Inca Treasures

• Travel Guide Part 2: Amazon Rainforest

Responsible travel in Peru

As travelers, or those preparing to travel, we usually see only the beauty of a destination, the awe-inspiring nature, and the rich culture. Peru is no exception. It is only when you dig a little deeper and take a closer look that the challenges become apparent: Peru struggles with poverty (see this World Bank report), and the onslaught of tourists has not been without consequences. While tourism has generated revenue, it has also endangered valuable natural and cultural treasures. The most famous example is the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, which was flooded with tourists and littered with garbage until it had to be closed. Now you can visit it again on a guided tour.

An axe in the Amazon – How Inkaterra’s story began 50 years ago

For 50 years, Inkaterra has taken a different approach: as a pioneer of sustainable tourism, the owner-operated hotel group shows how the land and its treasures can be preserved and how tourism can have a positive impact.

José Koechlin von Stein is the founder of Inkaterra. He is a member of the Koechlin family who came to Peru from Alsace in 1852. In 1975, José bought a piece of land in the rainforest. In Puerto Maldonado, he took an axe to the jungle and helped clear it to build Inkaterra’s first hotel: Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica. Even then, he had the idea of ecotourism, which at the time was considered idealistic, to say the least. But José believed in a gentle way of traveling that preserved nature.

With his ideas and idealistic vision of tourism, he became the founding president of the “Sustainability Committee of the National Confederation of Private Enterprises (CONFIEP)” and founded the Inkaterra Association, dedicated to protecting the environment and preserving Peru’s cultural treasures.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu – an ecological success story

In 1976, Inkaterra purchased another piece of land near Peru’s most famous attraction: the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. The land was originally used for cattle ranching and tea cultivation. In addition to building a hotel, Inkaterra reforested the land with native plants. By planting ferns, bromeliads, palms, and native trees such as queñual and pisonay, they have restored the typical and original cloud forest of the Andes.

Contribution to conservation

The eco-pioneers have always had a special love for orchids and butterflies. Inkaterra promotes orchid research and has discovered ten previously unknown orchid species! The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is surrounded by the largest collection of native orchids in Peru. You can discover them by walking the winding garden paths around the hotel.

Inkaterra also operates a butterfly house in which an average of 350 cocoons are formed each week. Peru is one of the countries with the largest number of butterflies in the world (over 3,700 species). To learn more about how important these pollinators are to our entire ecosystem, read our article on insect extinction.

Bird species record

In 2025, the eBird app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology at Rensselaer University confirmed that the grounds of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel are one of the most biodiverse urban hotspots in the world. The app recorded a record 311 bird species on the property, including 18 species of hummingbirds (my personal favorite). Ideal for those who enjoy birdwatching while on vacation.

Machu Picchu is the first carbon-neutral wonder of the world

Inkaterra has helped make Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the “first climate neutral world heritage site” in 2021. Yes, it is a miracle that it has survived at all in its current state! Mass tourism has had a significant impact on the Inca ruins, and in 2016 it was added to the list of World Heritage in Danger.

Inkaterra (along with other supporters) then committed to saving Machu Picchu through a variety of measures. These include:

• A PET waste compacting system that compacts up to 14 tons of plastic waste (from tourists) per day and transports it for recycling.
• Protecting waterways with a biodiesel plant. In the Machu Picchu region, it was common for commercial kitchens and the local population to simply pour used vegetable oil into the Vilcanota River. Since the plant was built, the oil is collected and processed into biodiesel.
• Organic waste plant that converts up to 7 tons of organic waste per day into fertilizer. The fertilizer is used for a government reforestation project.

“”We are proud of our extraordinary achievements and of being recognized by the United Nations as the first climate-positive hotel brand ever.” – Inkaterra founder José Koechlin von Stein

50 years of Inkaterra

“Since we began this epic journey fifty years ago, Inkaterra has been at the forefront of sustainable travel in Peru. Our vision helped lay the foundation for ecotourism and authenticity,” concludes José. He is pleased to have inspired hotels around the world with his ecological approach.

Inkaterra now consists of seven accommodations, all designed by José’s wife, Denise. She is responsible for the warm and authentic look, taking care to use high quality and sustainable materials, combined with different cultural features (such as the Inca and colonial past) – each appropriate to the region.

Each year, Inkaterra hosts approximately 200,000 travelers. They all contribute to Inkaterra’s ability to continue its important projects for biodiversity and human well-being.

Anniversary Special: 7 or 11 unforgettable days in Peru

Inkaterra has taken the anniversary as an opportunity to create a special round trip.

The tour lasts either 7 days (6 nights) or 11 days (10 nights) and includes the Sacred Valley of the Incas (2 nights Hotel Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba), Machu Picchu (2 nights Hotel Ikaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo) and Cusco (2 nights Hotel Inkaterra La Casona). Optionally, you can extend your trip to Lima and the Amazon Rainforest (the highlight here is the Canopy Walkway: you walk on hanging bridges through the treetops of the Amazon – an unforgettable experience!)

You will be taken care of professionally the whole time. There are shuttle services for you and guides to take you to places of interest, traditional markets and nature. In some places you can choose to get up early for a bird watching tour or sleep in until breakfast.

A journey with heart

With 50 years of experience in hospitality, you can be sure that Inkaterra has thought of everything to make this tour perfect! Cuisine, nature, adventure, history – always with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

This is because you are dealing with people who truly love Peru from the bottom of their hearts. And want to show it to you in the best way possible. You can download a PDF of the Travel Special at this link, and for more information and to book, visit the Inkaterra website.

Depending on where you are flying from, you should also consider allowing enough time for the trip – a short trip from Europe is not sustainable. A longer stay makes the air emissions more likely to be “worth it”.

We recommend that you book your accommodation directly with Inkaterra and not through a third party. This way you can be sure that all the money goes to Inkaterra and their projects, helping to ensure that future generations will be able to experience the beauty of Peru. It may not be a cheap trip – but it is certainly a trip that makes a difference!

Save this blog and support our Mission!

Der Beitrag 50 years of Inkaterra: Holidays that benefit Peru and its nature erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Huge hotel complexes might have some amenities, like a few restaurants or shops on-site. But if you’re looking for a more private and intimate atmosphere, boutique hotels with just a few rooms are a better choice. In fact, at our smallest Green Hotel partner, La Casona in Peru, with just 11 rooms, you’ll feel like you’re staying with friends in Cusco. But what does “boutique” and “small” really mean? And are small hotels always more sustainable than large ones?

Sustainable Hotels – Large vs. small

Good, small, rural hotels and bad, big, urban hotels – sounds logical, doesn’t it? But it’s not that simple. We see this very clearly in the Green PearlsⓇ network: every type of hotel – large or small, in the city or in the country – can make its own contribution to sustainability.

Are smaller hotels more sustainable than their larger counterparts?

True, smaller hotels are often more sustainable or have an easier time becoming more sustainable. Many small hotels represent the personal visions of the owners, and many green pioneers have created their own hotels. For most of them, money is not everything. They are putting their heart and soul into their project, their life’s work. It is also easier to make changes in a small hotel with fewer rooms, fewer guests, and less logistical effort.

Small hotels’ environmental advantages

• The personal spirit of the owners:  Decisions can be implemented more quickly and owners are often in close contact with guests and responsive to their needs.
• Local manufacturing: While large hotel chains tend to have international supply chains, small hotels often work with other local businesses.
• Local food: The same is true for the food. Some of the boutique hotels even have their own garden or small farm where they grow the food for the kitchen.
• Your money remains in the destination:  With international hotel chains, your money may not actually arrive at your destination (e.g. you are on vacation in Bali  and the money is collected in the USA)

Big hotel – big impact

On the other hand, when large hotels, or even an entire chain, embraces sustainable practices, it has a greater overall impact than a single small boutique hotel going green.

An example?

• When the Berlin hotel chain A&O told guests in its (then) 39 hotels in 2019 that they could voluntarily refrain from daily cleaning, it saved 75,000 liters of water, 20,000 garbage bags and 708 kWh of electricity in just two months.
• According to research by Focus Online, the Accor hotel group alone orders 100,000 plastic-wrapped disposable slippers each year for its 330 hotels in Germany. A huge amount of waste that could be significantly reduced if guests would bring their own slippers.

On the other hand, large hotels may take a long time to implement environmentally friendly measures (from soap dispensers to photovoltaic systems) due to the hierarchical structure of the company and the sheer number of rooms.

10 sustainable boutique hotels (11 to 38 rooms) – our recommendations

Definition: Boutique hotels are characterized by the fact that they are personally and individually managed and are often found in the luxury segment. The maximum number of rooms is not precisely defined, but we use >40 rooms as a benchmark.

#1 Casa León Royal Retreat, Gran Canaria, Spain (27 rooms)

If you are looking for an authentic and sustainable way to experience the popular vacation island of Gran Canaria, Casa León Royal Retreat is the place to be. The small boutique hotel with pool is surrounded by a large garden with native plants. Almost all of the 27 rooms have panoramic windows with fantastic views.

The hotel takes great pride in maintaining a neat and quiet atmosphere and offers a shuttle service several times a day to the beach, the city, or to one of the nearby golf courses.

Sustainability:

The German-speaking owner family is committed to the environment and has, for instance, leased a forest to offset the hotel’s CO2 emissions. There is also an advanced rainwater collection system, local food, and many other green initiatives.

#2 Biohotel Grafenast, Tirol, Austria (23 rooms)

It’s quaint and cozy at Biohotel Grafenast, which sits 1,300 meters above the Tyrolean Inn Valley. Some of the 23 rooms are specially designed for families, with separate children’s rooms, private terraces, and even private saunas. You can even rent a tiny house on the property.

A vacation here is perfect for experiencing nature in the Tyrolean mountains (with winter sports during the season). The Bio Boutique Hotel also offers courses in yoga and fasting, as well as activities for children. A nature spa with forest sauna and hammam offers relaxation.

Sustainability:

The Unterlechner family’s small organic hotel looks back on over 100 years of family history. The hotel has been organic since the early 1980s. For Peter and Waltraud Unterlechner, organic and sustainability are part of their lifestyle, and protecting the environment is very important to them.

#3 La Casona, Cusco, Peru (11 rooms)

La Casona is a luxurious 5-star boutique hotel located in the ancient Inca city of Cusco and an excellent base for visiting Machu Picchu and other ancient Inca sites. In 2023, the hotel was awarded the Editor’s Choice Award in the “Remarkable Returns” category by the prestigious Hideaway Report. “In this 11-room retreat, guests feel as if they are in their own private villa in Cusco,” wrote the critics. Art lovers will appreciate the restored original frescoes in the rooms of the 500-year-old building.

Sustainability:

La Casona belongs to our Green PearlsⓇ partner Inkaterra, a pioneer of sustainability in Peru. The owner family has already implemented numerous environmental initiatives, such as water conservation and biodiversity (butterflies, orchids), and is involved in social projects.

#4 Relais del Maro, Liguria, Italy (14 rooms)

The Relais del Maro is located in the picturesque village of Borgomaro, in the heart of Liguria, and is warmly run by owner Elena Scalambrin. She and her parents set up the boutique hotel as an Albergo Diffuso. Meaning that you’ll find the 14 rooms in several historic buildings (former family homes and business premises).

Sustainability:

By building the Albergo Diffuso, Elena has made a significant contribution to the preservation of the Italian village. Not only has she found new uses for vacant buildings, but she has also revitalized the last remaining businesses such as the bakery, restaurant, and hairdresser. In addition, the family and local craftsmen lovingly restored the rooms, in some cases using historic techniques.

#5 Keemala, Phuket, Thailand (38 rooms)

The 38 luxurious pool villas are nestled in the treetops of a tropical Phuket forest overlooking the ocean. Within the forest, which has been preserved as much as possible, is the resort’s own fruit, vegetable, and herb garden. A cooking class will teach you about the local plants and how to harvest and prepare fresh fruits and vegetables.

Sustainability:

The Somnam family built the resort without any major impact on the environment and it follows an exemplary zero-waste concept. The siblings Samornpun and Tanapong (known as Tarn and Note) Somnam are very close to nature and thus invite you to explore the “magical forest” barefoot during their yoga retreats.

#6 Hotel Bella Vista, Zermatt, Switzerland (21 rooms)

In car-free Zermatt, Switzerland, the Hotel Bella Vista is located just above the town center with a fantastic view of the Matterhorn. In winter it is right next to a ski slope, and in summer the hiking trails start right outside the front door. The Anthamatten family is running the hotel and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Dogs are also welcome.

Sustainability:
Furnishings are made from local wood and natural materials. You will also get to taste local organic food. The host family is very close to nature and tries to find the most sustainable solution for all decisions.

#7 Waldhotel Fletschhorn, Saas-Fee, Switzerland (13 rooms)

Established in 1906, the Waldhotel Fletschhorn is an oasis of peace amidst the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding four-thousanders. You can have breakfast at your convenience with fresh organic ingredients (without the famous “battle at the buffet”). A fresh coffee or tea, prepared with water from the hotel’s own mountain spring, rounds your breakfast off.

All 13 rooms have a balcony or terrace. The boutique hotel is famous for its à la carte dinners, and each course comes with a wine pairing.

Sustainability:

In addition to fresh spring water and green electricity, the Waldhotel engages in projects regarding animal welfare, the environment, and social commitment. The culinary concept includes the use of regional organic products.

#8 Hôtel Le Pavillon, Paris, France (15 rooms)

Located in the central 7th district of Paris, the small Hôtel Le Pavillon is in the heart of the French capital. The most famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre are within walking distance.

The German speaking owners have decorated their small hotel in an artistic and individual way and also offer rooms shielded from electro smog. The hotel also has revitalized water and special room air filters.

PS: Hôtel Le Pavillon is a member of the Green Spirit Hotels Paris network, along with Hôtel Malar and Hôtel Amélie.

Sustainability:

The hotel was built from an existing building (a former convent) and focuses on organic products for breakfast and reducing waste. The owners and staff will be happy to give you insider tips on alternative places (e.g. vintage shops, weekly markets or a repair café) where you can experience the metropolis in a sustainable way.

#9 Strandhaus Boutique Resort & Spa, Spreewald, Germany (20 rooms)

The Strandhaus Boutique Resort & Spa has an inviting location, surrounded by the arms of the Spree River. Boat rides start right outside the door.

The hotel with only 20 rooms has a wellness area, a beach café, a restaurant (with authentic Spreewald cuisine), a library, and a beautiful garden with a green beach directly at the river.

Sustainability:

The hotel supports youth welfare, a kindergarten, and the local shooting club in Lübben. It also employs local staff. In general, the Strandhaus is a place where regionalism and the preservation of traditions are very important. Food comes from local farmers and some is growing in the hotel’s own garden.

#10 Farmhouse Smiling Gecko, Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia (34 Rooms)

At the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko you can stay in bungalows on stilts (with terraces and rain showers) or in one of the rooms in the Khmer House. There are a total of 34 rooms in 17 houses – the pool with sundeck or the restaurant serve as common meeting points.

The unique feature: The Farmhouse is not just a luxury resort – it is a non-profit project! The Smiling Gecko Project supports the rural people of Cambodia to help themselves. People learn various trades in training centers, and 40 Cambodians are permanently working at the Farmhouse at an above-average salary.

Sustainability:

In addition to social sustainability, you can also experience the farm-to-table concept here. Meaning that the food comes directly from their own organic gardens and the surrounding agriculture.

Hotel categorization by number of rooms

The average hotel has about 150 rooms. As our analysis of available statistics shows, there are slightly fewer in Germany and Italy, and slightly more in Dubai.

If you search the Internet to find out how many rooms a small, large, or medium-sized hotel has, you will find a wide variety of values. So here is our own definition:

According to Green PearlsⓇ, you can divide hotels into the following categories:

< 30 rooms: small hotel

< 40 rooms: boutique hotel

40 to 100 rooms: midsize hotel

100 to 150 rooms: larger hotel

>150 rooms: large hotel

Finally, we would like to know your opinion – do you prefer to stay in large or small hotels? What size room do you think is ideal? Tell us in the comments!

And don’t forget to save this article for your next travel planning!

Der Beitrag Small but Exquisite: Ten unique boutique hotels with a sustainable philosophy erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

People travel differently as they age

Retirees don’t feel “old” in the traditional sense. But they certainly don’t want to take the kind of vacation they would have taken when they were 20. Hitchhiking, sharing rooms, eating bad and cheap food… when you’re young, you do a lot to stretch your limited financial resources.

Young parents, on the other hand, put their children first in their travel plans. There should be children’s programs, playgrounds, water slides, fries and other children. But if you’re not in that stage of life, you can probably skip the mini-club, teen disco, and screaming kids on vacation. That doesn’t mean you don’t like kids! Maybe you even have grandchildren and love them more than anything? But does that mean you have to spend your vacation in a “kid-friendly hotel”? Of course not!

Everyone has their own travel priorities, and we want to help you prepare so you can find the vacation that works for you – now.

7 Green Rules for Silver Nomads

In April 2024, the British travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler created the “Golden Rules for Retirement Travel”. The 17 rules are based on interviews with frequent travelers, such as the blogger behind Traveling Black Widow, who has visited more than 100 countries. However, they did not consider sustainability specifically. We think though, that this is an important consideration for travelers of all ages. So we’ve come up with seven green rules. And if you’re worried about sacrificing amenities, let us reassure you: Fun, authentic experiences, and relaxation go hand in hand with sustainability!

1. Slow Travel
   

   Time is the great luxury of retirement, and you should make the most of it! Instead of driving twelve hours in one day, try to make it three days and include some interesting stops. Also, take your time when you get to your destination, and do not cram too many activities into your itinerary. It’s better for you and the environment.

2. Sustainable Journey

   Traveling to faraway countries has the biggest impact on the carbon footprint of your trip. However, we do not believe that people should stop flying. As tourism is an important source of income for many countries, and this is how wealth is distributed. Read more about this in our blog post “Are we still allowed to fly”. If you do travel long distances, make sure it is for an extended stay and avoid domestic flights or flights within Europe. Traveling by train is a good alternative.

3. Pack and plan ahead for your special needs
   

   One of Condé Nast Traveller’s golden rules is: “BYOTP” (Bring Your Own Toilet Paper). We want to expand on this tip because we know from various Best Agers that their own “quirks” simply become more important over time. Some people bring their own toilet paper, others their reading lamp, extra towel hooks for the bathroom, a travel kettle, an iron, a yoga mat, clothes hangers… If you’re the kind of person who’s annoyed every day on vacation when you don’t have certain things, it’s best to bring them yourself – or ask your accommodation if they can provide them!
   

4. Pack light
   

   Although we recommend that you bring important “extras” with you, you should still try to pack light in general. Light weight and volume are not only better for the environment, but also more comfortable when boarding trains, etc. Retired travel professionals have created a “travel wardrobe” over the years with a capsule wardrobe that can be easily combined.

5. Book appropriate and sustainable accommodations
   

   Sustainably managed accommodations focus on green energy, local organic food, fair treatment of employees, waste reduction, and community involvement. In this way, you can make a positive impact while you travel.

6. Learn a few words of the local language
   

   “Hello”, “Thank you”, and “Please” – even the simplest phrases are received positively and make you more popular as a guest.

7. Do not procrastinate
   

   Your experience of life has surely shown you that nothing is certain. If you were healthy yesterday, you could be sick tomorrow. Or there could be a pandemic, war, or natural disaster – and suddenly travel is no longer possible. So take advantage of the opportunity to travel when it presents itself. Whether you are retired or nearing it!

Visa requirements and international health insurance for retirees

• Check visa requirements well in advance.
• euronews summarized the rules for long-term visas for pensioners in Europe are summarized here.
• As a European, you can travel visa-free within Europe.
• For Thailand, there are annual visas for pensioners (non-immigrant OA visas) from the age of 50.
• In 2024, Stiftung Warentest and Finanztest published a major independent comparison of international health insurance. It showed big price differences. Here you can also check which international health insurance is suitable for traveling with chronic illnesses, etc.

Sustainable Adults-Only Hotels in Europe

Back to the hotels without kids clubs and waterslides. Adults-only hotels have become a global trend. Here, the emphasis is on tranquility, and you will find creative, multi-course delicacies on your dinner plate. The focus is on peace and relaxation. Sounds perfect for you? Then let us introduce you to some sustainable adults-only hotels in Italy, Spain and Germany:

#1 LA VIMEA, Italy, South Tyrol – Vegan hotel with daily yoga

Located in Naturns, LA VIMEA, with its natural swimming pond, barrel sauna, and e-bike rental, is a wonderful place to relax. The adults-only hotel offers a natural atmosphere and daily yoga. The hotel also offers Ayurvedic medicine and treatments. Another special feature is the cuisine, which is exclusively vegan.

#2 My Arbor, Italy, South Tyrol – Exceptional wellness hotel on stilts

My Arbor near Brixen stands on stilts directly in the forest and offers a wonderful view of the Plose. The area is known for its moderate hills, which offer excellent hiking opportunities for all ages and fitness levels.

There is a large spa area with pools, saunas and massage rooms. My Arbor also offers “me-time“. Meaning, the adults-only hotel has a concept of making everything just the way you want it and tailoring the hotel to your needs. For example, you can have breakfast until 2 p.m!

#3 Lifestylehotel SAND, Germany, Schleswig-Holstein – A natural and relaxing vacation

Light, sandy colors, natural materials, COCO-MAT beds and a special attention to detail – these are the hallmarks of the adults-only Lifestylehotel SAND. Located in Timmendorfer Strand, directly on the beach of the Baltic Sea, the hotel has a charm all year round. A highlight of the hotel is the roof terrace with sauna and deck chairs – a wonderful place to relax.

#4 Casa León Royal Retreat, Spain, Gran Canaria – Enjoy and recharge your batteries

On a vacation island as popular as Gran Canaria, you should pay special attention to finding the right sustainable hotel (without a youth disco). The small boutique hotel Casa León Royal Retreat is located in the interior of the island, far away from the beach resorts of Maspalomas. Lovingly run by the German-speaking owner family, the hotel with pool and gardens has only 27 rooms. Sports activities include tennis, aquagym, yoga, hiking and regular (free) shuttles to nearby golf courses or the beach.

#5 Naturresort Gerbehof, Germany, Lake Constance – Adults Only outside school holidays

There are two different times at Gerbehof Nature Resort. A family time, where children are welcome and offered an appropriate program, and a time reserved for adults, where peace and quiet are the order of the day.

The nature resort near Lake Constance is surrounded by the famous apple trees. A feast for the eyes, especially when they are in bloom. If you are a follower of the Philippi Method (bioenergetic meditations and treatments according to Viktor Philippi), you will be happy to know that it is a main focus of the hotel.

#6 STURM, Germany, Rhön – Relaxation in nature

The Rhön, a low mountain range in Germany, is partly a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers a beautiful landscape of forests, basalt peaks, and moors. The STURM is located in Mellrichstadt at the foot of the Rhön. Although not a designated Adults Only hotel, the new garden view rooms overlooking the hotel’s natural swimming pond can be booked by adults only. The rooms, made of natural materials, were designed by German architect Matthias Loebermann, who won the “best architects award” for this project in 2023.

Green PearlsⓇ Accommodation for Golden Agers outside Europe

There are also sustainable Green PearlsⓇ partners outside of Europe we can recommend to travelers in the 60+ age group.

#1 La Casona, Peru, Cusco – Discover the treasures of the Incas

The Andean region of Peru is one of the most fascinating areas on the planet. As we report in our Green Travel Guide to the Andes, due to the altitude of over 3000 meters, you should allow a few days for acclimatization before starting your sightseeing program with Machu Picchu and other sites from the Inca era. An excellent starting point is the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. The luxurious boutique hotel Inkaterra La Casona is located in a former Spanish colonial mansion. It stands on a former training ground for the Inca army. The rooms feature restored original frescoes and Inkaterra provides expert local guides.

#2 Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal – Safari Tours and Authentic Nepal

Another place where Silver Nomads should feel right at home is the boutique resort Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. It consists of 15 Nepalese-style villas and the owners originally established it to introduce local farmers to organic farming. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery with views of the Himalayas, you will find time for guided yoga and meditation classes, temple excursions, and wildlife safaris.

Accommodations such as Inkaterra La Casona and Pavilions Himalayas offer luxurious amenities for sustainable (long-distance) retirement travel while also committing to sustainability. They strive to preserve both cultural heritage and nature for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren through various projects (see Inkaterra Acociatión).

Save this article for your next journey!

Der Beitrag Sustainable travel in retirement: Green Rules for Silver Nomads erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

After all, we want to avoid disturbing sites like the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. The ruins have already been forced to close in 2023 due to erosion caused by too many visitors. Here you will find important tips and addresses for an environmentally friendly and respectful stay and, of course, many recommendations for travel regions, sights and activities.

The first part covers

• Travel preparations
• Sustainability
• Sightseeing and accommodation in the Andes and Southwest (Machu Picchu to Lake Titicaca)

The second part deals with

• Inkaterra Hotels and Inkaterra’s sustainable projects
• Vacation in the Amazon Rainforest

11 tips to travel sustainably in Peru

Mobility

• Environmentally friendly transportation: While it is often impossible to avoid taking a plane to get there, you can avoid domestic flights and use trains and buses instead. Tourist buses in Peru are comfortable, fully equipped coaches that run on daily schedules throughout the country.
• Offset your flight’s CO2 emissions with a climate partner: Of course, it is best not to produce CO2 in the first place. But if there’s no way around it, we think it’s better to at least pay a surcharge to offset it through carbon offset projects. This is often possible when booking through the airline (pay attention to where and how the offsetting is done!) or through companies like Atmosfair or MyClimate. In 2022, MyClimate completed a carbon offset project in Peru that provided about 400,000 households in Peru with modern cookstoves, so they no longer had to burn firewood in their homes (with inadequate ventilation). According to MyClimate, this project resulted in an annual reduction of 75,526 tons of CO2 and improved air quality for the population.
  You can also read more about offsetting and climate neutrality in this blog post.

Planning your Trip

• Stay longer: To make the flight worthwhile, don’t just jet off to Peru for a short trip. Plan to spend more time in the country. That way, the local people will benefit more from your trip.
• Choose sustainable accommodation: For accommodation, we recommend Inkaterra’s sustainable hotels, which you’ll learn more about in a moment, and homestays are also a great option in Peru!
• Travel light: The weight of your luggage is very important in Peru! On various tours (even by train or bus) you will find a weight limit – sometimes you will even be asked not to bring any luggage (e.g. on tours into the jungle). Traveling light also saves energy (=resources) – both for you (imagine a heavy backpack) and for the means of transportation.
• Learn Spanish: You should learn a few words of Spanish before you leave. A little tip: instead of Buenos días (good morning), Buenas tardes (good day), Buenas noches (good evening), you can just say “Buenas” :-). You’ll hear this a lot in Peru.

In Peru

• Cut back: Tourists use much more electricity and water than locals. So be economical with these resources!
• Eat and shop locally: Of course, you will find McDonald’s and Starbucks in Peru. However, we recommend that you stroll through the colorful markets and eat with the locals. This is a great way to support the local community and get an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine.
• Package-free shopping: In Peru, everything in supermarkets and markets is packed in plastic bags. You can avoid this by bringing your own bags. Our Peruvian partners report that this is popular.
• Avoid waste: Nowadays, especially in national parks, great care is taken to ensure that visitors do not leave litter in the wild. It goes without saying that you should also dispose of your waste properly outside the parks.
• Batteries: As a reminder, batteries and rechargeable batteries are only allowed in carry-on luggage. There are no recycling facilities for batteries in Peru, so it is best to bring rechargeable batteries with you or take them home for proper disposal (if possible in your country).

Acclimatization in Peru – Reasons, tips and prevention

Before we get to the country’s attractions, there is another important thing to consider: acclimatization. Depending on where you come from (e.g. Europe, North America or the Middle East), Peru’s climate will be very different from the one you are used to. It can take some time to adjust, and you should take this into account when preparing for your trip (and don’t take it lightly!).

Mountain acclimatization in Peru

The Andes are the longest and highest mountain range in South America and include numerous six-thousand-meter peaks. (The highest mountain in Peru is Nevado Huascarán at 6,768 meters). Above 2,400 meters, the air pressure is 25% lower than at sea level. Your body will need to adjust. If you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, you run the risk of altitude sickness (headache, dizziness, nausea, etc.).

If you are traveling to Peru, you may want to start at lower altitudes to give your body a few days to adjust to the air.

First Machu Picchu, then Cusco

Machu Picchu is located at 2,400 meters and is the lowest point in the Cusco region. This makes Machu Picchu the perfect starting point for exploring the Inca cities. Here you will find the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, which we will introduce later. Cusco itself is located at an altitude of 3,300 meters, the air pressure here is about 33% lower than at sea level, but if you have gotten a little used to the high altitude air beforehand, you should have no problems here. 

Precautions against altitude sickness

• Ascend slowly to high altitudes and give your body time to adjust
• On the day of arrival, do not eat too much
• Do not plan any special activities for the day of arrival and the first day at altitude, just take it easy
• Do not consume any alcohol

The cuisine of Peru

To discover Peru sustainably, be sure to try the local food! You can buy fresh produce cheaply at the markets, as well as local street food and in great little restaurants.

If you want to impress the Andean farmers, you can practice peeling potatoes at home. Many different types of potatoes are eaten here, and a good bride who is new to her in-laws must prove that she can peel even the “difficult” potatoes. 🙂

There are also a few specialties that may not be for everyone, such as ceviche (raw fish) or cuy (guinea pig), as well as many deliciously spiced bean and rice dishes or cornmeal desserts that are suitable for vegetarian travelers.

Discover the sights of the Cusco region in a sustainable way

As mentioned in the beginning, Peru has a wealth of sights and contrasts that you wouldn’t find in any other country! A desert by the sea, the famous Rainbow Mountains, cultural treasures of the Incas – there is so much to see that we can only highlight some of the main attractions. Of course, we have chosen them (randomly, as always ;-)) in the vicinity of our Green PearlsⓇ partners.

Machu Picchu

Who would travel to Peru without seeing the UNESCO World Heritage Site with their own eyes? Just climbing up to the ruins of the former Inca city amidst the mountains is so magical and fantastic that it’s thoroughly different from, say, visiting the pyramids in Cairo. You can reach Machu Picchu either by bus or on foot with a guide on the Inca Trail.

Machu Picchu in high or low season?

According to the Machu Picchu Center, the busiest months are June, July and August. This is mainly because many people go on vacation during this time, and it is also the dry season. This means a good chance of getting fog-free photos – but also plenty of other tourists.

It is more sustainable to travel in the off-season. This would be

• April or September (these two months are still part of the dry season)
• October to March (rainy season)

By taking advantage of the rainy season, you help spread out the crowds over the year, giving nature more time to regenerate. Water conservation, waste management, etc. can simply be better managed if tourism is spread out rather than rushed over a few months.

In addition, November to April is known as “orchid season” in Peru and is the best time to see the unique orchid collection at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in full bloom.

Sustainable accommodation: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

The hotel is located near the train station (eco-friendly travel) and was built as a small village with local materials in the style of Andean villages. Surrounding the rooms is a large estate with several charming trails allowing you to observe orchids (372 species of native orchids), birds (214 species) and butterflies (111 species).

Cusco – the former capital of the Incas

Cusco was the former capital of the Incas and considered itself the center of the world. You should visit the city if you want to delve deeper into the history of the Incas. Cusco also offers many colorful markets and tourist amenities such as Wi-Fi hotspots, ATMs, a tourist information office and good bus service.

Sustainable accommodation in Cusco: Inkaterra La Casona

In Cusco, Inkaterra operates a luxurious hideaway in a restored 16th century mansion. Inkaterra La Casona consists of just 11 suites in the heart of the vibrant city. In addition to antique furniture, you will find restored frescoes on the walls, some of which are 500 years old. The boutique hotel is an excellent base for exploring the Cusco region, as most tours start here.

Recommended reading for the Cusco area

Inkaterra has recommended a few books in English to read before or during your trip:

• Footprints South American Handbook
• Moon Peru Handbooks
• Conquest of the Incas, by John Hemming
• The Inca Trail, Cusco & Machu Picchu, 3rd: Includes the Vilcabamba
• Trek & Lima City Guide (Inca Trail, Cusco & Machu Picchu: Includes Santa Teresa Trek) by Richard Danbury and Alexander Stewart
• The Last Days of Incas, by Kim MacQuarrie

Accommodation in the Sacred Valley: Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is also located in the Cusco region. This hotel is located in the “Sacred Valley” between shimmering reddish mountains. The “holiness” probably comes from the fact that Urubamba is the most fertile valley in all of Peru and is therefore considered particularly “blessed”. It is ideal for family vacations and offers many opportunities for a gentle nature vacation. Inkaterra also allows you to meet and support local artisans and farmers.

Ruins of Ollantaytambo and the Salt Terraces of Maras

From Cusco, you can take day trips to many other Inca cities. After Machu Picchu, the most famous are the ruins of Ollantaytambo and the salt terraces of Maras.

Rainbow Mountains

You should also visit the Rainbow Mountains if you are in the Cusco area – regular buses leave from Cusco itself. Please note – many leave at 3am, and you will need good shoes and a good level of fitness.

The Rainbow Mountains, at an altitude of about 4,000 meters, are striking for their magnificent colors. Combined with the mountain panorama they offer a fantastic nature experience and the trip is definitely worthwhile – but it is no longer an insider tip and with about 600 visitors per day it already falls into the category of mass tourism.

Southwestern Peru Sights

The south and southwest of Peru are for the most part desert. The Nazca Lines, visible from the sky, are famous and remain a mystery. However, visiting them from the ground is not as spectacular (as you cannot see them) and we do not recommend booking a flight over them for sustainability reasons. Many documentary filmmakers have done this for us and explained in their movies what the lines are all about! There are also many other great sights that you reach much more sustainably 😉

Paracas National Reserve – wildlife watching

The Paracas Peninsula and the Islas Ballestas are an absolute highlight for many Peru travelers. They are part of a nature reserve and offer a unique natural environment with a mixture of desert and sea. On a boat tour, you can see seals, penguins, dolphins and seabirds.

The reserve is located in the southwest of Peru, about 460 kilometers from Cusco.

Colca Canyon – Valley of the Condors

In the Colca Canyon you can see condors flying overhead. It is one of the largest birds of prey in the world. Its wingspan can be up to 3 meters, which is quite impressive! It belongs to the family of vultures, more specifically the New World vultures. For those looking for an exciting place to hike, the Colca Canyon is definitely an experience! And if you usually have the problem that you can’t see birds in the treetops – it’s not difficult here! (Because of their size, you can’t miss them – caption) 🙂

Lake Titicaca – Souvenirs from Uros

Not only does Lake Titicaca have a super cool name, but it is also beautiful. The lake sits on a plateau at nearly 4,000 meters and borders Bolivia on the other side of the water.

At Lake Titicaca, you can not only go boating and swimming (if you don’t mind the cold) but also learn about the culture of the Urus. They still live on floating islands, they build themselves out of totora reeds. Such an island lasts about 50 years and is continuously maintained by the Urus. In the past, the tribe lived mainly from fishing, but nowadays, tourism is an important source of income. Meaning you are now directly addressed. 🙂 You can buy all kinds of colorful things from them, such as handmade windchimes, hats, bowls, rugs, dolls, boats, necklaces, and so on. The ideal place to stock up on souvenirs for the long haul.

Sustainability in Peru – Connecting with Pachamama (Mother Earth)

Most of the 55 or so indigenous ethnic groups live in the Amazon region. Only four groups belong to the so-called Andean peoples. They have a special connection to the goddess Pachamama (Mother Earth) and everything that comes from her. Therefore, they focus their lives on creating a balance between different forces, practicing work, prayers, and rituals in harmony and gratitude with Mother Earth.

Tip: If you travel to Peru in August, you can participate in a “Pay the Earth” ceremony that takes place throughout the country during that month. You should make sure that you don’t fall into a “tourist trap”, but support the local population as directly as possible!

Even if we have no religious or spiritual connection to Pachamama, we should still try to appreciate and protect nature when we travel. This is true not only when traveling to and in Peru, but all over the world.

Save this article for your planning!

Der Beitrag Green Travel Guide Peru – Discover the Andes in a sustainable way | Part 1 of 2 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

UNESCO, or the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a sub-organization of the United Nations (UN) and, since 1978, has maintained a list of World Heritage Sites of special universal value to humanity as a whole, to be preserved for and by humanity. This includes tangible heritage such as natural landscapes, works of art and monuments, as well as intangible heritage such as crafts and customs. Over 1154 cultural and natural heritage sites from 167 countries are currently listed, and new sites are being added all the time. But some are disappearing as well…

How to get certified as a World Heritage Site?

To be included, a site must meet certain criteria. (For example, it must be a “masterpiece of human creativity,” a “natural phenomenon of superlatives,” or an area “of outstanding natural beauty and aesthetic significance”.

Once a site has been designated as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO promotes protection measures (although the responsibility lies within the state) and monitors the condition of the World Heritage Sites.

Loss of World Heritage status

Some World Heritage Sites also lose their status. This happened in Oman in 2007 when the Arabian Oryx Wildlife Sanctuary was reduced in size.

Experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site up close – our tips for you

Of the more than 1000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, here are 10 that are definitely worth a visit. And we wouldn’t be us if we hadn’t deliberately chosen the sites with sustainable Green PearlsⓇ accommodations nearby. After all, UNESCO is all about preservation for future generations – and we, and probably you too, don’t want to undermine that by traveling in a way that’s harmful to the environment.

Things to keep in mind when you are visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

As you will learn from reading the list of individual sites, many of them are in danger of falling into disrepair, and some can only be visited under strict conditions. For example, Leonardo da Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper” can only be viewed by a maximum of 25 people in a guided group, and Machu Picchu has even been closed to visitors at times. So wherever you go, follow the rules, be respectful of the site, the environment and the people, and don’t leave any litter. Your footprint should be as small as possible.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy

Let’s start with Italy, one of the most culturally rich countries in Europe. After all, it was the center of the Roman Empire, and all the great painters and sculptors of the Renaissance made pilgrimages here. There are currently 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy (as of 2023), of which 53 are World Heritage Sites and 6 are World Natural Heritage Sites.

For culture lovers: Milan

If you are in the mood for culture, Lombardy is the region with the most UNESCO sites – there are no less than 10 World Heritage Sites to visit!

The most famous of these is located in the heart of Milan, the capital of Lombardy. The painting “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci. It is located in the Renaissance church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Info: If you want to see the world-famous painting, you should book tickets in advance. A guided tour (about 45 minutes) costs about 45 euros and is only available on certain days of the week and for a maximum of 25 people. The goal is to preserve the 500-year-old masterpiece. Since dust stirred up by visitors accelerates the deterioration of the artwork, elaborate ventilation systems have also been installed to further protect the painting.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site The Last Supper

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage since: 1980
• Area: Museo del Cenacolo Vinciano
• Special feature: Painting is considered “one of the highest forms of expression in art”.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lombardy that we can recommend is the Rhaetian Railway. This environmentally friendly transportation connects Italy with Switzerland. The small station of Tirano is located in Lombardy, from where you can travel to Switzerland. A highlight of the train is its panoramic roof.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 2008
• Area: 122 kilometers of railway network with a red train
• Special feature: Winding its way up the mountains, the train is considered a rare example of a man-made structure that blends perfectly with the environment.

A carbon-neutral stay at the Hotel Milano Scala in Milan

Hotel Milano Scala is an eco-friendly option for your overnight stay in Lombardy. It is the first zero-emissions hotel in Milan and is self-sufficient thanks to geothermal energy. It’s also centrally located, right next to La Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world (even if opera isn’t your thing, be sure to plan a tour of the building). In addition, there is a great roof terrace with an herb garden.

For nature lovers: The Dolomites of South Tyrol

If you are looking for nature and relaxation during your vacation, we have another recommendation for you: in 2009, nine mountain groups in the Dolomites were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List for their beauty and for their geological and geomorphological importance (study of landforms 🙂 ), as anyone who has ever seen the Dolomites can vouch for.

Brief facts about the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 2009
• Area: 142,000 hectares (spread over several areas)
• Special features: The mountain range is made up of dolomite (hence the name) and the rocks form special rock formations.

Vacation in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a snow-sure area for winter sports as well as a wonderful place for hiking and mountain biking. In addition to active vacationers, the region also attracts people in search of (inner) peace and tranquility.

Paradiso Pure.Living is located on the famous Alpe di Siusi (in winter directly on the slopes) and the first purely vegetarian-vegan hotel in the Dolomites. Here you will find regular yoga offers and changing art exhibitions.

 “Words can’t describe the beauty and the splendor of the Dolomites. You can only feel its majesty at the first sight being there.” – Paradiso Pure.Living

Active and enjoyable in the Cilento National Park

There is another unique natural landscape in the south of Italy. The Cliento National Park is a mountainous area that stretches from the Mediterranean coast (Tyrrhenian Sea) through the Vallo di Diano to the Apennines.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cliento National Park

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1998
• Area: 181 hectares
• Special features: In addition to the natural beauty of the National Park, there are charming mountain and fishing villages with colorful house facades perched on the sea cliffs.

A vacation in Cilento is suitable for all types of travelers: Whether you prefer beach vacations or active ones, cultural or hiking excursions. Even lovers of Italian cuisine will feel like they’re in heaven in this corner of southern Italy! Keyword: Neapolitan Pizza!

Brief facts about the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage of the art of the pizza maker

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 2017
• Location: Naples
• Special feature: Neapolitan pizza isn’t fast food, it’s a cultural treasure! It’s not just about craftsmanship and dough twirling, but also about the songs, stories and lifestyles that have developed around Neapolitan pizza.

Sustainable vacation rentals in the Cliento region

The A’ Crápa Mangia apartments are located directly on the coast in a renovated old country house in the heart of Cliento. Each apartment has a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the German-speaking owners take great care of their guests. For example, you can help prepare pasta in a mini cooking course (LINK) and get lots of valuable ideas for excursions. There is a lot to see in the area: There’s Pompei and Herculaneum, Paestum, the Amalfi Coast and Naples. The old town of Naples is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site historic center of Naples.

• Country: Italy
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1995
• Area: 1700 hectares.
• Special features: A wide variety of cultures and civilizations have left their mark here. From the ancient Greeks to the Romans, the Byzantines, the Normans, the Spanish and the French. Naples was even once a kingdom in its own right. As a visitor, you will wander through the narrow streets, marvel at the various squares, palaces and monuments.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

France has a total of 52 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 44 of them are World Heritage Sites, 7 are World Natural Heritage Sites and 1 is a mixture of culture and nature.

There are several World Heritage sites in and around the capital city of Paris. These include Notre Dame Cathedral (not only for its architecture, but also for its European historical significance in terms of the relationship between state and church), the Palace of Versailles, the former abbey church and current diocesan cathedral of Saint-Denis, and Hangar Y, the oldest airship hangar in the world. But did you know that the banks of the Seine are also a World Heritage Site?

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site Seine Riverbank

• Country: France
• U UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1991
• Area: 365 hectares
• Special features: The historic section between the Pont de Sully and the Pont d’léna (including the Seine islands of Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis) was important in Celtic times. The city center of Paris, built around the river, influenced urban planning worldwide and is considered a symbol of the relationship between the people and the river. There are magnificent views and many Gothic buildings to admire.

Vacation in the heart of Paris’ World Heritage Sites

There are three Green PearlsⓇ partner hotels in Paris, which together form the Green Spirit Hotels group. They are the small 2- to 3-star hotels Hotel Le Pavillon, Hotel Marlar and Hotel Amélie in the 7th arrondissement, all artistically and individually decorated. This sets the mood for exploring the art-loving French metropolis. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast on the terrace or in the courtyard. And with local (and sometimes organic) produce. The banks of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower are within walking distance.

Vacation in a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany

There are 49 World Heritage Sites and 3 World Natural Heritage Sites in Germany, making a total of 52 sites protected by UNESCO. We would like to introduce two of them here

Hansestadt Lübeck

The North German city of Lübeck was one of the most important Hanseatic cities between 1230 and 1535. If the term Hanseatic League doesn’t ring a bell, the Hanseatic League was a powerful association of merchants and held a monopoly on trade on the Baltic and North Seas and along some inland rivers during this period. Lübeck itself is well preserved to this day and a visit (preferably with a guided tour) will show you where the wealthy merchants lived and where the artisans had their huts.

Short facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site Lübeck Old Town

• Country: Germany
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1987
• Area: 115 hectares
• Special feature: The outstanding monument to the heritage of the Hanseatic seafaring merchants Lübeck’s Old Town has an unmistakable silhouette with its 7 towers and typical brick architecture).

Sustainable vacation at the Baltic Sea

Just a 25 minute drive from Lübeck lies the Timmendorfer Strand. Here you can relax on a beach by the Baltic Sea at any time of the year. An excellent choice for sustainable accommodation is the Lifestyle Hotel SAND. It emphasizes naturalness, which means eco-friendly materials, local organic products, and relaxation near the beach and on the hotel’s roof terrace – complete with a rooftop sauna and a wicker beach chair for sleeping under the stars.

Völklingen Ironworks Industrial Monument and Bliegau Biosphere Reserve

Saarland is Germany’s smallest state and shaped by three major rivers: the Saar, the Moselle and the Blies. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Bliesgau is located in the southeast of Saarland. A biosphere reserve, as opposed to a cultural heritage site, is a model region for sustainable development with the aim of enabling people and nature to live in harmony.

The region is characterized by a hilly landscape with beech forests, meadow orchards and floodplains. The state itself has been recognized as a ” sustainable travel destination in Germany” by TourCert and is a partner of Green PearlsⓇ.

In addition to its natural beauty, Saarland is also known for its mining past and has preserved several industrial monuments. The most famous of these is the Völklingen Ironworks. It is one of the most important international monuments of the heyday of industrialization and is the only completely preserved ironworks from this period.

Brief facts about the Völklinger Hütte UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Country: Germany
• UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1994
• Area: 7.46 hectares (the total area of the Völklingen-Saarstahl site is approximately 260 hectares)
• Special feature: Important monument of European industrial history. The Völklingen Ironworks was founded in 1873 and reached its production peak in the post-war period (1950s). The plant was shut down in 1986 and is now open to visitors daily as an industrial monument.

Vacation in Saarland

Saarland offers several sustainable accommodations and camping sites. For tips and addresses, visit the official website.

+ VERLINKUNG zum NL sobald er draußen ist

UNESCO World Heritage Site in Peru

Outside of Europe, we would like to introduce you to two World Heritage Sites from Peru. Peru has 13 World Heritage Sites, of which 9 are Cultural Heritage Sites and 2 are Natural Heritage Sites. 2 sites are mixed. Especially the remains of the Inca culture are world famous.

The Inca Empire

The Inca Empire was the largest empire in the early American continent and rose to power in the 13th century. They considered their capital, Cusco, the “center of the world” and built a civilization with remarkable stone buildings, bridges and roads, the ruins of which are still preserved today. The downfall of the Incas was brought about by the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cusco

• Country: Peru
• UNESCO World Heritage since: 1983
• Area: 284 hectares
• Special features: The city of Cusco represents some 3,000 years of indigenous and autonomous Andean culture. The influences of Spanish colonial rule are also clearly visible.

Sustainable accommodation in Cusco

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, Inkaterra, is committed to preserving the cultural heritage and protecting the environment in Peru. An exclusive 5-star boutique hotel in Cusco. The Inkaterra La Casona has only 11 rooms and feels more like a luxurious private villa. The history here has been specially restored and you can even admire frescoes that are over 500 years old!

Cusco is also known as the “gateway to Machu Picchu”.

Brief facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site Machu Picchu

• Country: Peru
• UNESCO World Heritage since: 1983
• Area: 32,500 hectares
• Special features: The well-preserved Inca city of Machu Picchu is both a cultural and natural heritage site. Located high in the clouds, the mountain city is still a source of scientific interest today.

Beware of mass tourism: Machu Picchu is so impressive and famous that many tourists want to visit it. Too many. The ruins had to be closed in September 2023 due to erosion. The site will be fully reopened in January 2024. However, you can only visit the legendary site with a guided tour, and should follow the guide’s instructions to the letter.

You can read more about this in our article on overtourism, where Machu Picchu and the challenges of its fame are explained in more detail.

Vacation at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

If you want to spend your vacation in the vicinity of this extraordinary World Heritage Site – considered by some to be one of the wonders of the modern world – we recommend another Inkaterra hotel. The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel accompanies you with trained guides and is committed to clean water and waste prevention in the region. In addition, you will enjoy an authentic and luxurious 81-room hotel complex.

Vacation in a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Conclusion

Thanks to the efforts of UNESCO, many places, buildings and customs have been given more “value”. In the sense of appreciation and preservation. And – let’s face it – tourism is part of the equation! You are supposed to visit these places and increase their value with your purchasing power as a tourist. However, this should not be at the expense of nature or culture and be done in the best possible way.

Save this article for your next travel planning session on pinterest!

Der Beitrag UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Their significance for sustainability and suitable vacation destinations erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Benefits for people and the environment

Sustainable construction uses natural and regional materials, blends harmoniously and gently into the environment, and provides a healthy living environment for people. For the renowned German architect Professor Matthias Loebermann, “smart” architecture is one that serves people while being “simple and sustainable”. So not a house full of technology that tells you via app if the fridge is empty 😉

Existing architecture is greener than new construction

A very important part of sustainable building is the use of existing buildings. It encompasses three core sustainable ideas at once:

• Reuse
• secondary use
• Extended service life

In Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River in Germany, for example, Heiner Buckermann transformed a disused zero-star bus hotel into the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten in 2001. The conversion into a wellness hotel gave the building a new lease of life and saved many resources compared to a new building.

Modern design instead of ’70s charm

In 1976, Christa Schule Dieckhoff’s father had built a 43-room hotel in Mellrichstadt (then still close to the border with East Germany). Later she bought it together with her husband Matthias and transformed the nine-storey red brick building from the 70s into the bio-certified eco-hotel STURM. The couple brought in renowned architect Professor Matthias Loebermann for the architectural redesign. He not only completely whitened the red brick, but also erected a modern wooden facade – a kind of paravan – in front of the first floor. The lobby and restaurant were also renovated with lots of wood.

Over time, a natural swimming pond and a 30,000-square-meter nature park with an organic snack garden were added. In 2022, the STURM opened twelve new “Garden View Rooms” in an extension. All twelve rooms were built ecologically and climate-neutrally. The dominant material is wood – sustainable solid wood from Switzerland. There is no television in the new rooms. Architect Loebermann was again responsible for the planning. In July 2023, the hotel’s sustainable architecture won the prestigious “best architects award”.

Old hotel buildings in new splendor

New hotel room concept based on the Cradle to Cradle® principle

High above Bad Herrenalb, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA can be seen from the train station. The many terraces and balconies offer a magnificent view of the spa town. The building was built in the 1970s as a rehabilitation clinic and has been owned by Stephan Bode since 2013, who has gradually developed it into a sustainable hotel.

Together with the interior designers of Fritz Schlecht | SHL, an entirely new hotel room concept based on the Cradle to Cradle® principle was developed in three years. 24 “Circular Living” rooms were opened in 2023. All construction materials are 100 percent biodegradable or 100 percent recyclable. Next year, the entire 4th floor will be renovated according to these green building principles. The lobby and restaurant will follow in the future.

The architectural project recently won the Sustainable Hospitality Award and is the prestigious project of Fritz Schlecht | SHL.

“We are using almost every possibility to ensure that the work, production and facilities are truly sustainable.” – Hotel enterior designer Fritz Schlecht | SHL

Old and New at Timmendorfer Strand

At Timmendorfer Strand in the SANDnature, the name speaks for itself, because the exterior design, as well as the interior decoration, reflects the atmosphere of the beach and the sea. Many pieces of furniture are made of recycled teak wood. The building was already a hotel in former times.

Renovated and not demolished, true to this sustainable idea, it was extensively and environmentally friendly renovated. In the newly built extension, there are 30 more rooms, some with a sea view.

Architecture as a Cultural Asset

Local Architecture: Historical Buildings in Peru

The historic mansion of Inkaterra La Casona is immediately recognizable. The site where the hotel now stands was a training ground for the Inca army in the 16th century and later hosted Spanish conquistadors. The impressive building was painstakingly restored over a five-year period, and delights guests and us alike with its many great details, such as the wood carvings on the doors, some of which are 400 years old!

 

“The hotel is a gateway to the city’s past, a living museum with the coziness of an aristocratic Peruvian home.” – Denise Guislain Koechlin (wife of Inkaterra founder José Koechlin von Stein and responsible for the interior design).

 

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is nestled in the mountains of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The local architecture is inspired by the Cusco region and incorporates elements of both Inca and colonial history. The stone houses in earth tones are complemented with wooden details, especially in the interiors. Surrounded by rolling green hills, adventure and relaxation await you in equal measure.

The hotel is built on a 500-year-old convent wall

Another hotel with centuries of history is Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol, Austria. A monastery stood here in Seefeld in 1516, and its walls are now part of a luxurious and sustainable wellness hotel. The hotel has been family-owned for more than 200 years, with nine family members involved in the current operation. The history of the monastery is still present in the modern facilities. For example, the fitness room is located in the former monks’ choir, and an old monastery bell hangs above the outdoor pool.

In addition to preserving its history and using old stone walls, Hotel Klosterbräu is taking other sustainable building measures. In 2023, 28 new natural rooms have been introduced, 95 percent of which have been made of materials from the immediate region. For example, the wood comes from the hotel’s own forest, and the walls are plastered with clay.

An example of sustainable construction: ADLER Spa Resort SICILA

When a new hotel is built, sustainable hotels take care to minimize the impact on nature and use building materials from the region. At the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, which opened in 2022, the planners made sure that the architecture “does not rise above nature, but becomes part of it”. The resort’s buildings are terraced into the hillside and all have direct views of the sea. Surrounding the resort is a large garden planted with native Mediterranean plants (many of which are the ingredients for the farm-to-table cuisine).

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA was built using traditional Italian materials. On the outside, many buildings are clad in tufa stone, which is found in the Etna region of Sicily. Inside, the floors are made of “Cocciopesto” (a natural and typical building material made of brick fragments and air-lime mortar) and the walls are covered with “Terracruda”. The clay walls are not only natural, but also moisture regulating.

“The large glass facades evoke a feeling of freedom and lightness, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.” – ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Local and authentic

For the villas of Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, only regional building materials were used. The houses are built with recycled wood or wood from sustainable forestry, the overhanging roofs provide shade. The luxury resort offers you a unique retreat with its 45 overwater villas in the middle of a beautiful lagoon.

Gili Lankanfushi treats seawater for its water supply. This conserves the country’s groundwater reserves, which would otherwise be pumped from wells.

Sustainable hotels play a pioneering role in eco-friendly hotel architecture.

Hotels are responding to the wishes of eco-conscious travelers (i.e., YOUR wishes) and are reaching out to architects, who are now putting “sustainability in construction” at the top of their agendas. So you can have an indirect say in what the sustainable hotels of the future will look like!

This article is an update to our September 4, 2020, article. | Last Update: July, 28, 2025

This could also interest you:

Save this article for your next trip!

Der Beitrag Local Architecture and Sustainable Building in Tourism erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

What vacation suits me? Our accommodation recommendations

Type A – Eco-friendly vacation with freedom

A regional vacation with environmentally friendly means of transport (no airplane) in regions with a mild climate is suitable for you. You enjoy having your own space on vacation and being able to choose your own program.

You might enjoy this blog article: By bus and rail through Europe.

Family vacation at Gut Nisdorf on the Baltic Sea

The Gut Nisdorf offers two- to three-room apartments where you can spend a wonderful family vacation in nature. The complex is dog-friendly and offers plenty for children, and is only 250 meters from the Baltic Sea coast. The apartments are self-catering. Optionally you can add a first-class organic breakfast.

Luxury Vacation Homes in Tyrol – Summit Lodges Pfunds

The Summit Lodges Pfunds are two beautiful Canadian log cabins in Tyrol, Austria. They can accommodate up to 6 people and even come with their own sauna and hot tub. A high chair and an extra bed are available for small children. Pets are not allowed.

The Alpine region offers a wonderfully fresh climate and many opportunities to experience nature. How about a white-water rafting trip on the Bad Inn River?

City break in Freiburg at the Green City Hotel Vauban

Situated in the Upper Black Forest, Freiburg is well worth visiting. It has a beautiful old town with cool shops and the mildest climate in Germany. The Green City Hotel Vauban is easily accessible by tram and is an inclusive business that has a strong commitment to the active inclusion of people with disabilities. People with disabilities make up half of the hotel’s staff. The Mundenhof, the Schauinsland, and the nearby Alsace are nearby attractions. Dogs are welcome.

Type B – The perfect mix of wellness and the great outdoors

A vacation where you really get to enjoy yourself and let your soul dangle while you relax. Experience nature actively while hiking and biking, and enjoy health and wellness treatments together with your partner.

You might enjoy this blog article: Spa oases in nature

Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain

This family-run hotel was built on the walls of a 500-year-old monastery and has a 1,500-square-foot spa area. There’s a heated outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a sauna area, and a brine bath for floating. If you’re interested in a healthy lifestyle, the hotel is home to Dr. Andreas Färber’s Artemacur Health Center. Here you can get individual advice and take advantage of special offers. Lunch consists of “Healthy Lunch Bowls”, which each guest can assemble according to his or her preferences (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.). The bowls are made from healthy ingredients. Special tip for couples: The Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa also has rooms with a private whirlpool and infrared sauna 🙂 .

Wellness vacation at Naturresort Schindelbruch

At Naturresort Schindelbruch you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing wellness vacation! The spa area covers 2,500 m² with a large indoor pool overlooking the forest. The Harz Mountains in Saxony-Anhalt are also home to numerous destinations such as lakes, waterfalls, castles, and monuments of German history. Four private spa suites are available for couples. In the cozy restaurant, you’ll find regional venison and organic vegetarian alternatives.

Type C – Health and Indulgence

Your vacation is a time for self-discovery, and maybe you want to strengthen your body with a fasting cure or Chinese medicine. In addition, you appreciate a great spa area, a swimming pool, and a gym, and you also like to take advantage of cultural opportunities.

You might like this blog article: Health or wellness hotels?

OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The Canary Island of Tenerife offers beautiful sandy beaches, palm trees, mountains and volcanic rocks. The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is located in the northeast, directly on the Atlantic Ocean. There are several seawater pools and a large spa area with saunas. There is a daily yoga program and various fasting regimens. The cuisine is regional and healthy. And if you are a woman traveling alone, you will find that solo travel is completely normal and natural here. A shuttle service from the airport to the hotel is available.

LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten in the Moselle region

In Germany, you may be interested in the LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten. It specializes in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and both the food and the facilities are geared toward it. You will find several TCM therapies to choose from. A large panoramic pool with a waterfall and counter-current system, a heated outdoor pool and a sauna area are part of the 4000 square meter spa area. There are also two restaurants with changing creations and regional organic cuisine. In addition to interesting sights such as the Porta Nigra in Trier and numerous castles and castle ruins, the Moselle region offers many excursion destinations, especially for wine lovers.

Gourmet pleasure at the Waldhotel Fletschhorn

The Waldhotel Fletschhorn is located outside of Saas Fee in the middle of Swiss nature. It is best known for its 18-point Gault Millaut restaurant. Here you can indulge yourself with seasonal gourmet menus made from the products of the region. There is a small spa with a sauna, steam bath, and massages, but no pool. Even if you arrive by car, with the guest card you can get around the property car-free. Numerous hiking trails, mountains, and glaciers await you.

Type D – Dream and Experience

You want to discover spectacular corners of the world and spend an extraordinary holiday. No distance is too far for you to have a dream vacation. At the same time, it is important to you that your vacation is sustainable.

You might enjoy this blog article: Are we still allowed to fly?

Authentic Thailand vacation in the paradise of Zeavola for divers

On the island of Phi Phi in Thailand, you’ll find beautiful suites and villas nestled between dreamy beaches and rainforests. A sustainable luxury hotel, Zeavola is committed to preserving coral reefs and is known as a sustainable diving resort. It has also initiated several projects for the environment, education, and the local community. If you like, you can get involved here too. You can “give back”.

Come to Peru and experience the Incas’ History

Inkaterra has seven lodges in Peru, four of which have been recognized as Green PearlsⓇ. The Inkaterra La Casona, in the former Inca capital of Cusco, is a luxury boutique hotel with just 11 rooms. Like Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, it is close to Machu Picchu and other world-famous Inca ruins. Inkaterra is actively involved in the preservation of cultural sites and nature and will provide you with personal guides.

If you want to visit the rainforest, there is the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica in the Amazon.

We hope you enjoyed our review! Please let us know in the comments if it was helpful for you and if you were able to find the right vacation for you in the answers to the questions!

Save the test for later or share it with your friends!

Der Beitrag What vacation suits me? – A small decision-making aid for the undecided (incl. test) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.