7 environmental sins to avoid while hiking

Before we discuss how you can best enjoy your hikes, including recommendations on footwear and other essentials, we would like to point out the most common environmental sins.

#1 Ignoring prohibited areas

Blocked paths, nature reserves, and “no trespassing” signs aren’t there for fun; they’re there for your safety and the protection of ecosystems. In the Alps, for instance, mass tourism is causing an increasing number of problems, including the destruction of flora and fauna, as well as rescue operations resulting from carelessness and the use of closed sections. Therefore, always stay on designated routes and respect signage.

#2 Wild camping

Spending the night under the stars sounds romantic—but so does staying at an official campsite, designated bivouac, or trekking site. These places also have important amenities, such as toilets and trash cans.

#3 Leaving trash and cigarette butts behind

Even seemingly small items, such as candy wrappers, tissues, and chewing gum, take decades to decompose. If they decompose at all! So, take your trash with your—even organic waste, such as fruit peels, does not belong in nature.

#4 Leaving dog waste behind

For many people, dogs are an integral part of the hiking experience. However, their waste contains nutrients and germs that can alter alpine flora. Always carry bags with you and dispose of them properly. This applies to both your dog’s waste and your own!

#5 Swimming in protected mountain lakes

Some bodies of water, such as Lake Antermoia in the Dolomites and Lake Bodensee in Styria, Austria, are closed to the public to protect their ecosystems. Swimming can disturb animals, destroy shore plants, and deteriorate water quality, so it’s important to stick to the rules, even when the water looks tempting (find more info here).

#6 Picking (protected) wildflowers

According to § 39 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG), the so-called “hand bouquet rule” applies. This means that you may pick a small amount of wild herbs, mushrooms, berries, or flowers for personal use (but you should only do so if you have a use for them).

However, many people don’t realize that many wildflowers are endangered. In Germany, for instance, nearly one-third (26%) of all wildflowers are protected. This includes popular flowers like pussy willows, monkshood, gentian, and crocuses. Tip: Use Google Lens or various apps to identify plants on the go and ensure that you don’t pick any protected species.

#7 Disturbing animals

Animals need peace and quiet. Noise and cameras can be sources of stress. The Nature Conservation Union says: “Keep a respectful distance from animals and breeding grounds. Stay on paths and refrain from using flash photography or approaching animals.” Following these guidelines will prevent behavioral disturbances and ensure that you remain a respectful guest in their habitat.

Tips for sustainable hiking

Now that you know what not to do, you might be wondering: What is the right thing to do? That’s what we’re going to talk about now! 🙂

Preparing for your hike

It’s worth investing a little time in planning before you lace up your hiking boots.

• Choose a route that matches your fitness level to prevent overexertion or having to turn back.
• Find out in advance about nature reserves, closed trails, and special local rules so you won’t encounter any surprises along the way.
• Research the animals and plants you might encounter, and find out if any of them are endangered or dangerous.
• Pack only the essentials to reduce weight.
• Use reusable containers for your provisions.
• Pack weather-appropriate clothing, preferably in layers for different conditions. Remember that the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. It gets much cooler at higher altitudes than in the valley!
• Book sustainable accommodations—we’ll recommend some options further down!

The right outfit for the mountains

Of course, we understand that you want to look good while hiking. You can do that with sustainable hiking clothing. Many eco-friendly labels produce functional clothing made from recycled plastic bottles or organic natural fibers that are environmentally friendly yet stylish. The product range extends from shoes to hats. If you want to take it a step further, look for the Fair Wear Foundation label, which guarantees fair working conditions.

Some sustainable clothing brands include Patagonia, Vaude, Icebreaker, Engel Natur, and Löffler. For shoes, consider Hanwag, Ethical Wares, Lowa, Eco Vegan Shoes, Will’s Vegan Store, and Doghammer. (The brands are mentioned for informational purposes only. We do not receive money or other benefits for mentioning them.) If you can recommend any other sustainable outdoor brands, please share them in the comments!)

5 sustainable hiking hotels and vacation homes in the DACH region

#1 Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol – Hike with guides through the national park

The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol will pick you up at the Lienz train station and take you back on your departure day. Located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, this official hiking hotel is the perfect home base for hikes of all difficulty levels.

For example, you can discuss which route suits you best with hiking concierge Karin Steiner. We interviewed her for this article, and she shared some insider tips for hiking in the national park.

“We offer free hikes with our hiking guides several times a week. In addition, there are ranger tours in the Hohe Tauern National Park (also free for our guests). Backpacks and hiking poles are available to borrow free of charge at the hotel.“ – Naturhotel Outside

#2 Hotel Das Rübezahl, Bavaria – Discover the Allgäu with hiking concierge ”Bergbaschdi”

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen, the hiking concierge, Bergbaschdi, is ready to show you the mountains in a unique way. In our interview, he reveals how he encourages even the most seasoned hikers to take breaks along the way.

In addition to guided tours, the hotel has a spacious spa area that’s perfect for unwinding after a hike.

• Tip: If you want to experience the mountain feeling even more intensely, you can extend your stay with an overnight stay in the hotel’s own Edelsberghütte

Füssen train station is 3 kilometers (5 minutes by car) from the hotel and there is a free shuttle service.

#3 LA VIMEA, South Tyrol – vegan hiking hotel

The LA VIMEA in Naturns makes climate-friendly travel easy; the hotel offers a shuttle service from the train station in Naturns. Another eco-friendly option is taking a long-distance bus, such as FlixBus, to Merano and then taking the train for the last leg of the journey.

As Italy’s first 100% vegan hotel, La Vimea is committed to sustainable cuisine. Hiking enthusiasts not only benefit from the animal-friendly packed lunches but also from the hotel’s ideal location in the heart of the South Tyrolean mountains, within walking distance of the Texel Group Nature Park. Numerous tours await you. After an active day, unwind in the saltwater pool, natural swimming pond, or sauna.

• • Tip: Here you will find the hiking routes recommended by the hotel

#4Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Moselle — Combine hiking with Far Eastern wellness

If you want to combine hiking with wellness and culture, the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle is the perfect choice. This region offers gentle, circular trails through vineyard-covered hillsides and picturesque riverside paths, as well as challenging trails with narrow paths, climbing passages, and ladders. There are also various excursion destinations around Bernkastel-Kues. Designed according to Feng Shui principles, the resort features a TCM center and five-element cuisine.

• Tip: Here you will find 10 hiking trails on komoot near the hotel.

#5 Summit Lodges Pfunds, Tyrol – log cabin in the heart of the mountains

If you prefer having your own space instead of staying in a hotel, the sustainably operated Summit Lodges Pfunds are perfect for you. The two log cabins can each accommodate up to six people, and they are ideally located for exploring the surrounding Tyrolean mountains. I asked owner Marco Spiess what else he would recommend besides hiking. His answer? Instead of long hikes, he recommends short trips. For example, it takes just 1.5 hours to reach the Pfundser Tschey, and then you can continue on to the Frudiger (Pfunds’ local mountain).

Otherwise, he recommends relaxing in the lodges. You can sit comfortably in the living room and enjoy the mountain view in front of the open fire.

Sustainable Hiking Hotels in Tenerife and Peru

Of course, there are also wonderful hiking destinations outside of Europe. Depending on where you start your journey, it may not be quite as sustainable to get there, but there are Green Pearls® accommodations that consistently operate in an environmentally friendly manner.

#1 OCEANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife — Holistic Hiking on the Volcanic Island

#2 Inkaterra Hotels in Peru — your dream destination on the Trail of the Incas

The legendary Inca Trail in Peru is on many hikers’ bucket lists. Spanning several stages, it winds through the Andes, passing by ruins and cloud forests and crossing high mountain passes en route to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu. At the end of the trail, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel awaits, offering the perfect opportunity to reflect on your hike while surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

We also recommend the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. It is located in the Urubamba Valley near Cusco. There, your guide, Hiroshi Sánchez, will accompany you on hikes where you will discover nature and learn about the region’s traditional agriculture. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy themselves — Hiroshi will be happy to show you colorful hummingbirds and rare Andean birds!

Here’s a tip for anyone who wants to hike more sustainably: try plogging

WAnother brilliant tip that we learned from the Swedes is to always pack a trash bag. You can use it to dispose of your trash and to collect anything that others have left behind in the forest or mountains, just like plogging (a portmanteau of the Swedish words “plocka” for picking up and “jogga” for jogging).

Hike with respect for yourself and nature

You are now well-equipped for your sustainable tour – from start to finish:

1. You know what to avoid: No environmental sins, no traces, and no stress for nature or animals.
2. You are prepared: You have the right equipment and have chosen the right tour — because less is often more.
3. You travel consciously: Whether by train, shuttle, or bus, you keep your carbon footprint small.
4. You are well accommodated: In accommodations designed not only for hikers but also to promote the experience of nature – from alpine national parks to tropical gardens.

This makes hiking a valuable experience for your body, mind, and the environment. Together, we can ensure that we enjoy and preserve the landscape, step by step.

This is an update from April 12, 2019

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Taking sustainable vacations with children sets an example

Parents are often interested in sustainability because they watch their children grow up and want them to experience the beauty of nature, biodiversity, and peace. Furthermore, environmental concerns and animal welfare are matters that even the youngest children place importance on. If you want to explain sustainability to your kids, check out our blog post with ideas here: “Dad, what is sustainable?”

The best fall getaways for families

Instead of booking an all-inclusive vacation package with a buffet (which produces a lot of waste), check out the wonderful, family-friendly accommodations that offer organic products and nature-based activities and can be booked at the last minute for your fall vacation.

A Moselle vacation combined with a history class

The Moselle region is especially beautiful in the fall. The LIFESTYLE Resort Zum Kurfürsten is nestled among colorful vineyards, ancient castle ruins, and a meandering river. The hotel has a 4,000-square-foot spa area with several pools and saunas operated according to a sustainable concept. The outdoor pool, for instance, is a natural swimming pond that uses no chemicals. Children under 14 can swim in the rooftop panoramic pool, while those over 14 can use the spa area. While the LIFESTYLE Resort does not offer a separate children’s program, it caters to younger guests with amenities like extra beds and high chairs.

There are many excursions in the area. If you want to teach your children about roman history, the Porta Nigra in Trier is just a stone’s throw away. Here you can book a guided tour with real actors. For example, a “Roman soldier” will explain what life was like here before 1800 years.

Sustainable vacation in the mountains with a petting zoo

Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, is another great place for a family vacation during the fall holidays. It is a luxurious wellness hotel that has been created within the more than 500-year-old walls of an old monastery and is now run by the 6th generation of the same family.

The Austrian hotel also includes an organic, vegetarian farm and a small petting zoo. At “Sigis Sauhaufen” children can visit dwarf cows, dwarf goats, dwarf donkeys, a dwarf pony, pot-bellied pigs, rabbits and other animals just a two-minute walk from the hotel. The pony is called Vanilli and can be ridden.

Holidays with children during the apple harvest

Apples are a healthy and delicious snack for all ages — and a highlight of family vacations, especially in the fall. At the Naturresort Gerbehof on the German side of Lake Constance, you can experience apple and pear orchards up close, since the family-run hotel practices organic farming. This means the apple and pear trees your children see on their adventures provide the fruit for the morning apple juice and many other products.

A particular highlight is the horseback riding. While teenagers can take Western riding lessons, there are also pony rides for young children. When riding isn’t on the agenda, the surrounding countryside offers plenty of space to play, run around, and explore.

Good to know: Outside of the holiday season, the Gerbehof is an adults-only hotel – but during the school holidays, it’s all about family time and kid-friendly activities. So it’s okay if things get a little noisy 😉

Autumn vacations with children in the Alps National Park

If you’re looking for a vacation destination with your kids, consider a national park. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to various national parks and sustainable accommodations.

The Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria is one of the largest national parks. The park’s landmark is the 3,798-meter-high Grossglockner mountain, which is surrounded by other peaks that reach over three thousand meters in height.

Within its borders lies the Naturhotel Outside, which uses natural materials for its furnishings and regional organic products for its cuisine. Children will certainly enjoy the large landscaped garden with a Kneipp path.

Particularly exciting for families: guided ranger tours are offered regularly in the national park, including special programs for children and young people such as the Young Researchers Club and family hikes with playful learning elements.

• You can find the current ranger tour offers here.

Vacation on the Ritten in South Tyrol

The Ritten, a sunny high plateau in the southeastern Italian Alps, celebrates its “fifth season,” the Törggelezeit, in autumn. It begins at the start of October, after the grape harvest and when the chestnuts are ripe. Throughout South Tyrol, small festivals and markets are held at this time where you can sample regional products. Another highlight of the Ritten are the earth pyramids, a bizarre natural wonder. We can recommend two of our Green PearlsⓇ partners as family-friendly hotels in this region.

Bee trail for children

First is the Apipura hotel rinner, an exceptional hotel for bee lovers. Run by the Rinner family, the hotel is designed around the theme of bees and features an organic apiary. In the grove in front of the hotel, there is an educational bee trail where children can learn about Western honey bee colonies.

Hotel with a lake and swimming pool

Another family-friendly option is the Hotel Weihrerhof, located at 1,200 meters above sea level on the shores of Wolfsgrubener See. Its location right on the lake, surrounded by nature, offers ideal conditions for an exciting and sustainable fall vacation with children.

Irish journalist Roberta von Meding, who recently stayed at the Weihrerhof with her teenage daughters, describes her stay in the parenting magazine Moms and Tots as a real break from everyday life:

“Weihrerhof is the kind of place where families reconnect – with each other and with the world around them.” – Roberta von Meding 

She was particularly impressed by the interplay of nature, tranquility, and freedom:

“The combination of safe, accessible outdoor fun and total serenity made it ideal – especially for families with younger children.” – Roberta von Meding

The Weihrerhof also caters to families when it comes to food: the seasonal dinner was a daily highlight for Roberta and her family – even the “picky teen” found something to his liking here.

• You can find more impressions of a family weekend at the Weihrerhof in our article: A sustainable weekend with the family at the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol.

Flexible vacations in nature: OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol

If you are looking for freedom and nature with your children during the fall break, you will find the ideal retreat at OLM Nature Escape. The circular eco-aparthotel is surrounded by greenery and is committed to sustainability—for example, through an energy-self-sufficient concept.

Families enjoy maximum flexibility here: those who wish can cook in their own kitchen, while those who prefer to be pampered can visit the in-house restaurant. When it comes to cleaning, anything is possible—from completely self-determined stays to all-inclusive service.

These individual options make the OLM particularly suitable if you want to live at your own pace with your toddlers or teens – without compromising on comfort or environmental awareness.

Tip: Some suites have a separate study, which is ideal for a short workation with the family in the mountains if one of the parents doesn’t have vacation time.

Family workation in Bavaria: vacation at Gut Sonnenhausen

If your children are on vacation but your vacation time is running out at the end of the year, Gut Sonnenhausen offers a solution as well. This fall, the eco-friendly hotel in Glonn, near Munich, is offering a family workation for the first time — a blend of a family vacation and remote work.

While one parent works in the stylish surroundings of the historic estate, the other can spend the day with the children on the large grounds – or you can take turns. Creative activities for children, nature experiences, and organic meals together ensure that no one gets bored.

👉 You can find more information about the family workation here: Family workation at Gut Sonnenhausen

Autumn vacations in the warm – with children on the Canary Islands

If you suffered through bad weather this summer and want warm weather for your autumn vacation, the Canary Islands, located off the west coast of Africa, are an ideal autumn destination! In Tenerife, for instance, the average temperature in October is 79°F, and the water temperature hovers around 73°F.

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is located right on the beach.

This Green PearlsⓇ hotel is geared toward health-conscious guests and offers an extensive wellness and sports program, which is ideal if your children are older and not interested in exercise. Parents will also appreciate the seawater pools, which make swimming in the Atlantic much safer than in open water.

Tips for a Sustainable Fall Break with Children: An Environmentally Friendly Trip

Follow these tips to make your vacation with children sustainable, nature-oriented, and eco-conscious.
Choose climate-friendly travel. Take the train or long-distance bus whenever possible to avoid CO₂ emissions.

1. Bring your own food and water bottles.
Avoid unnecessary packaging waste by using your own lunch boxes and refillable bottles.

2. Rent equipment instead of buying it.
Many things can be borrowed locally or from friends, such as children’s suitcases, hiking boots, and baby carriers.

3. Learn about nature!
Find out about the region’s animals and plants together — this will make your vacation a nature adventure.

4. Learn the local language.
As a family, learn a few words in the local language or regional dialect — it’s fun and helps you connect with the locals.

5. Audiobooks can help you prepare.
Die Reisemaus offers child-friendly audio plays about different countries, which are ideal for preparing for your trip.

6. Choose sustainable accommodations.
When booking, look for places that meet ecological standards and serve regional food.

7. Support regional providers.
Avoid international chains when eating, shopping, and buying souvenirs, and choose local products and small shops instead.

8. Instead of consumption, experience nature!
Plan activities in nature, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, walking barefoot, and exploring the forest.

9. Participate in clean-up campaigns.
Many places offer trash collection campaigns, which often include equipment and small rewards for children. It’s worth asking about!

Sustainable fall getaways for families with children – conclusion

As you can see, there are many great options for a sustainable getaway with the family, which keeps everyone entertained. There you also get to know nature and protect the environment.

Do you have any other ideas? Then please share them with us in the comments.

This is an update from September 29, 2023.

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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.

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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!

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Wellness for the soul at Gerbehof Nature Resort

Are you open to alternative medicine? At Naturresort Gerbehof on the German shore of Lake Constance, you will find healing according to Viktor Philippi. Hostess Ursula Wagner met Viktor Philippi at a lecture in 2015 and completed her first training with him in 2016. She reports:

“At that time I was in very poor health and we had suffered many blows that had a severe impact on our family. I tried a few things. Most of them just kept me “afloat” but didn’t really help. Until I “accidentally” met Mr. Philippi. And that’s when I felt I had arrived. I quickly felt much better, both physically and mentally, and since the summer of 2016 I have been offering bio-motivation in our company.”

Nine years later, she is a staunch advocate and supporter of Viktor Philippi’s Foundation for Health. Already next week she will attend her next congress. A Theo-medicine congress in Taubenheim.

Bioenergetic Motivation

Viktor Philippi became known for the biomeditation method he developed. This method aims to identify and release energetic blockages in the body in order to activate the body’s self-healing powers. The sessions are conducted by specially trained Biosens therapists like Ursula. You lie in a relaxed position and the Biosens therapist works with his hands in your energy field without physical contact.

In the Philippi Method, certain stones also play a supporting role. For example, the Atlantis II Stress Relief Massage uses heated jade and basalt stones. Through special “programming,” they are said to help absorb “burdensome vibrations” from the body.

The Gerbehof nature resort also offers the following programs and services:

• Soul balm (4 nights with drinking cure, bioenergetic group motivation and bioenergetic liver detox)
• A little time away – recharge your batteries (3 nights of bioenergetic motivation and bioenergetic liver detox)
• Health weeks (individual period with 2x daily bio-motivation, morning and evening clearing in the stone circle, tips for healthy thinking, light meals)
• A different kind of fasting (7 nights of alkaline fasting and support program)

However, these are not fixed retreats, but rather an offer that you can customize. If you are interested in Soul Wellness at the Nature Resort, it is best to inquire directly and then explore with Ursula how the Soul Retreat can be designed for you.

One more thing: Viktor Philippi emphasizes on his website that he does not reject conventional medicine – on the contrary, he recognizes its enormous importance for physical healing. However, he also points out that it often reaches its limits when it comes to psychosomatic illnesses, burnout or depression. Nevertheless, you should always consult a physician or psychotherapist if you have serious physical or mental health problems or illnesses, and use energetic or other alternative healing methods to supplement conventional treatment if they work for you.

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA: Holistic Healing in a Mediterranean Retreat

At ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA you will be cared for by Dr. med. Letterio Taormina. He is a general practitioner, but also practices traditional Chinese acupuncture and light therapy (phytotherapy). By combining Western and Eastern methods, he aims to provide a “holistic view” of his patients and thus achieve a “lasting psycho-physical well-being”.

“”Convinced that man is inseparable from nature, I turned more and more to the traditional healing methods of the East, especially to Chinese medicine,” says Dr. Taormina.

The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located on a natural beach in Sicily, protected by the WWF, and offers a range of health packages in the areas of detoxification, weight loss and nutrition, and stress management.

Stress management retreats during your vacation

The Stress Management Program on the island begins with a detailed initial assessment where you and Dr. Taormina will formulate your goals and create a personalized plan. A stress analysis is performed and blood samples are taken.

The program during your stay will include a special diet, a guided exercise program, and various treatments and massages. The goal is not only to help you relax physically, but also to help you release stress mentally so that you can return to your everyday life feeling stronger.

• Learn more about the medical programs at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA
  

TCM at Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort on the Mosel River

If you are interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and its holistic approach, you will find it in Germany on the Moselle River. The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten was designed by host Heiner Buckermann as a Feng Shui power place.

Several TCM therapists work at the wellness hotel. One of them is Ingrid Grubisik, who can also create a holistic plan for you at the beginning of your vacation, showing you how to achieve inner balance through diet (based on the 5 elements), exercise, treatments and meditation techniques.

• For more information about TCM by KURFÜRST INSTITUT, please visit the resort’s website.
  

Mental Detox in Bavaria at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa

At the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, a trained physician welcomes you and combines health with the hotel business. The host, Dr. Andreas Färber, has integrated the Artemacur health center into the wellness hotel.

In addition to health weeks and liver fasting, they offer a spiritual detox for the soul. You can do this with a short stay of only three nights. During this time, you can give up your cell phone (only if you want to, of course) and receive a guided forest bath (Shinrin Yoku) along with a health consultation. A singing bowl massage is also included.

• Learn more about the health programs at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa
  

Wellness & health for body and soul at OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife also follows the approach of healing both body and soul. To this end, various health and fasting programs are offered in the hotel’s HEALTH SPA, but especially in the F.X. Mayr Center, which was founded by host Dr. med. Karl Matthias Rolle. It offers fasting cures and therapies based on the work of Austrian gastroenterologist Franz Xaver Mayr († 1965). Among other things, it has a special restaurant with a view of the sea, so that you can concentrate on yourself. In addition to intestinal regeneration, there is also room for “life energy regeneration“.

‘My Tree Therapy’ at the My Arbor tree hotel in South Tyrol

‘At our hotel, we place a high value on the well-being of our guests, including their mental health,’ reports the My Arbor hotel. This adults-only hotel near Bressanone is built high up in the treetops (partly on stilts). The forest is seen as a place of power where guests can ‘relieve stress and recharge their batteries’. The ‘My Tree Therapy’ package, which includes three different massages with mountain pine oil, is ideal for mental health.

Ayurveda to combat sleep problems at Inkaterra in Peru

The Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba in the former ‘Sacred Valley of the Incas’ in the Andean region of Peru is definitely a place that appeals to the soul. You will find yourself surrounded by reddish mountains and traditional agriculture. The complex includes the ‘Mayu Spa’, a wellness area with a ‘Healing Garden’ where medicinal herbs are grown.

For people who suffer from insomnia, the herbs from the garden are used as pindas (herbal stamps). The Ayurvedic herbal stamps are heated and placed on the body with pressure and twisting movements. This not only helps to release muscle tension, but is also a useful treatment to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

‘Resilience Impulse’ at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is located in the German Black Forest, in the famous climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb. The wellness hotel has its own thermal swimming pool and an integrated ‘Selfness Center’. During the ‘Resilience Impulse’ you will learn various tools to sharpen your self-awareness.

This includes

• mindfulness
• breathing techniques
• meditation

The result of a heightened sense of self is that you can trust yourself more again.

There are private one-on-one sessions, group sessions, and intensive one-on-one coaching. You can find prices and more information on the website.

Sustainability and mental health – what do they have in common?

Sustainability is not just about taking care of the environment; it is also about taking care of yourself. Those who are constantly under stress in their daily lives and do not schedule breaks for their own mental health run the risk of burning out in the long run. Retreats like this one allow you to consciously pause, recharge your batteries, and go through life with more mindfulness. A sustainable lifestyle begins not only with ecological choices, but also with a conscious approach to yourself.

Whether you prefer to rely on conventional medicine and tried and true methods or are open to alternative healing methods, it’s up to you. (Unless it’s a serious illness, in which case, please see a doctor!) What’s important is that you listen to your body and your soul. At Green PearlsⓇ hotels, you’ll find a range of approaches to sustainable relaxation, from classical medicine and traditional healing to energetic treatments.

Maybe it’s time to take some time off and find out what really makes you feel good?

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What is TCM, exactly?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a collection of healing methods (from different eras) that originated in China. The most famous of these is acupuncture, which is now in widespread use throughout the world. Elements of Taoist philosophy and some perspectives that clearly contradict Western research have not been adopted in the “West”, but a reference to “Qi” as “life energy” has.

Sustainable wellness hotels with a TCM approach

At the following Green PearlsⓇ hotels, you can discover and try TCM and other healing methods. They all share a sustainable approach to human health and, more broadly, to the health of nature.

#1 Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten – TCM expertise on the Mosel

At the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, everything revolves around your health and relaxation – according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The hotel is fully committed to this healing method and offers a variety of treatments, from acupuncture and cupping to personalized nutrition and exercise programs.

It is best to begin your stay with a personalized analysis. Ingrid Grubisik is the hotel’s experienced TCM therapist. With her extensive training and years of practice, she will help you address your individual needs.

Personalized and sustainable

During a personal interview and physical tests, you will be given a plan for your stay (as well as for the time after you return home). This includes a nutritional plan based on the Five Elements (5 Element cuisine is also part of the hotel concept) and recommendations for appropriate exercises and treatments.

The wellness hotel on the Moselle River has several pools, a large natural swimming pond and a sauna world. The water flows in a cycle developed with a Feng Shui master from Beijing. The hotel itself is designed according to Feng Shui principles and is a confirmed place of power.

#2 SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA: Medical Qigong for Inner Balance

If you are looking for more inner balance, you are also in good hands at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in the climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb. Your host, Stephan Bode, has integrated some of Buddha’s maxims into his life and hotel concept and founded a “Selfness Center“. Here you will find a large wellness area with a thermal swimming pool and a view of the Black Forest, in addition to yoga, Black Forest baths and fast diets.

Qigong with Master Khim

Qigong is an important part of TCM. It contains elements of martial arts – but with very slow and mindful movements.

Qigong stimulates the flow of qi, or life energy. External movement and internal stillness merge according to the principle of yin and yang.

At SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA you have the opportunity to book private lessons with Master Khim. He learned Qigong from Grand Master Prof. Li Shao Bo (Zhen-Qi Yun Xing Research Institute China) and is the only official representative of medical Qigong in Germany.

#3 Biohotel Grafenast: Qigong in the Tyrolean Mountains

There is another wonderful Green PearlsⓇ hotel in the Tyrolean mountains that combines Far Eastern healing methods with Western wellness treatments. Like the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Biohotel Grafenast was designed according to Feng Shui principles and is considered a place of power along with its surroundings.

Here you can book Qigong with Sabine as a private lesson. Her training focuses on strengthening and relaxing the spine. It stimulates the metabolism and digestion and can also help with insomnia.

• You can find out more by reading this PDF document about the range of treatments offered.

#4 ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA: Acupuncture in Sicily

Dr. Letterio Taormina is a specialist in general medicine, but has also studied the “traditional healing methods of the East”. He is trained in Chinese acupuncture and his programs combine Western medicine with TCM. The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located on a WWF protected natural beach and is a wonderfully luxurious yet naturally designed hideaway on the island of Sicily.

On offer are: Detox, Mediterranean Health, Stress Management, Sleep Therapy and Longeviti Booster

• Click here to view the health and wellness programs at the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA 

Green PearlsⓇ Hotels with other traditional healing methods

There are many more sustainable hotels among our partners that offer traditional or alternative healing methods. So if TCM is not for you, but you are still looking for alternatives or complements to conventional medicine, you may find what you are looking for.

#5 OCÉANO F. X. Mayr Center: Detoxification and Regeneration

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife combines F.X. Mayr’s therapeutic fasting with naturopathic methods such as acupuncture and oxygen therapy (as complementary treatments). Located on the north coast, the hotel offers a perfect environment for relaxation, tranquility and inner cleansing in a less touristy corner of the island. Facing the Atlantic Ocean and with a large seawater pool, the hotel has a close relationship with the sea, which is reflected in the thalassotherapy services offered at the HEALTH SPA. You will also be able to work out an exercise program with a therapist. The Health Hotel has a large fitness center and offers personal training, yoga classes and other exercise programs.

• Learn more about the F. X. Mayr program.

#6 LA VIMEA: Ayurveda and energy work in a vegan hotel

The vegan hotel LA VIMEA in South Tyrol focuses on Ayurveda, meditation and chakra work. This adults-only hotel has a swimming pond, indoor saltwater pool, and barrel sauna where you can relax. Daily yoga classes are offered (outdoors when the weather is nice), and you can also participate in singing bowl massages and forest bathing.

• Here you will find LA VIMEA’s yoga and meditation offers. You can also book various massages with Sylwia Patriok.
  

The hotel focuses on healthy and tasty plant-based cuisine. This can be an interesting experience even for non-vegans.

#7 STURM: Shiatsu and energetic massages

At STURM in Mellrichstadt, shiatsu treatments and holistic energetic massages help to balance the flow of energy. Shiatsu is a Japanese finger pressure massage technique and is performed at STURM by shiatsu practitioners Carmen and Sabine.

Nestled in the Rhön, the hotel is an ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries. The STURM has a large wellness area with a garden sauna, a house of silence and a swimming pond.

• Here you will find the wellness treatment program such as 1:1 breathing sessions or day retreats.

#8 Keemala, Phuket: Thai Rainforest Retreats

Keemala Resort offers customized retreats with holistic healing treatments, soothing massages and movement exercises. The tranquil setting in the middle of a tropical rainforest promotes sustainable healing. A leader in plastic-free and zero-waste practices, the resort also offers healthy, creative cuisine sourced from its own garden.

• Learn more about the retreats: Purify, Energize, Unwind and Rejuvenate

Why should you combine your vacation with TCM?

A vacation is the perfect opportunity to take care of yourself and balance your body and mind. In our busy lives, we often neglect to take the time to really listen to our needs, but this is the key to long-term wellness. According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, health is regained when inner harmony and balance are restored. This is what you can experience at a hotel specializing in TCM (or other healing modalities).

We hope that you have found the right place among the hotels presented here – for a break that will have an impact not only on your vacation, but also on your everyday life.

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The problem with disposables in hotels

When you stay at a hotel, you get everything you need: your luggage is taken care of, a refreshing drink is waiting for you in your room, a variety of toiletries are available in the bathroom, towels and slippers are provided… and while you are lying by the pool or sitting in the restaurant, your room is cleaned, the bed is made and all opened tubes and packages are replaced with new ones. Sound great? For sustainability-minded travelers like you, probably not. Because: All of this (among other things) creates a lot of waste. Hotels and vacation rentals definitely have a single-use problem, and it has to do with the following::

• Service standards and expectations (Many things “just have to be there”)
• Star qualification (in this article on the new 2025-2030 hotel star catalog, Green PearlsⓇ discusses whether certain star specifications undermine the efforts of sustainable hotels)
• Hygiene regulations
• Legal requirements

Expensive hotels produce less waste than cheap ones

According to the DEHOGA environmental brochure, 0 to 2-star hotels produce 9.1 liters of waste per guest per day, 4-star hotels 3.4 liters (5-star hotels produce slightly more at 3.7 liters). According to the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), this is mainly due to disposable packaging in the lower star categories.

In the upscale hotel industry, less disposable packaging is used simply for style’s sake – e.g. cloth napkins instead of paper napkins, ceramic or stainless steel milk jugs instead of plastic condensed milk containers, etc.

But simply choosing a higher star rating is not enough to eliminate waste and single-use packaging. Especially since not everyone can or wants to. Above all, it takes hoteliers who really care and are committed to reducing waste in their properties. Zero waste or at least “less waste” is a central concern for Green Pearls® accommodations. Each accommodation has its own approach to waste reduction, which you can read about on the Green Pearls® pages and on their individual websites. As mentioned above, many of them are Zero Waste representatives, striving for a low environmental footprint and a circular economy in all areas. We believe that Green PearlsⓇ hotels are among the lowest waste producers in the industry.

“In terms of waste and plastic reduction, sustainably certified hotels are generally more advanced than non-certified hotels.” – WWF

WWF study on single-use and reusable products in the hospitality industry

In 2019 and 2024, WWF Germany investigated the issue of single-use plastics in the hotel industry.

For the 2019 study, WWF surveyed hotels and hotel guests in Italy, France, Greece and Spain. In 2024, the data was supplemented by expert interviews and a literature review.

It found that the majority of guests use significantly more reusable packaging at home than on vacation. Hoteliers are determined to act, but face many obstacles:

• High cost
• Insufficient supply
• Lack of suppliers
• Lack of knowledge about green alternatives
• Waste management in the resort area

For every 50 million disposables, only half a million reusables are sold

“In 2022, the share of reusable packaging (by number of items) in the hotel industry was only 1.2 percent. (600,000 items compared to 50.6 million disposable items) and consisted almost entirely of beverage containers.” – Untersuchung der Gesellschaft für Verpackungsmarktforschung mbH (GVM) für den WWF

All too often, “habit” is to blame for not using reusable products. By the way, the WWF believes that reusable products make much more sense than disposable products made from “eco-materials”. In other words, a refillable plastic bottle is better than a disposable bamboo cup. Washable cloth napkins are better than disposable napkins made from recycled cellulose.

This is how sustainable hotels avoid disposable packaging

Amenities upon request

Many sustainable hotels and resorts have started to remove amenities such as toothbrushes, razors, sewing kits, etc. from the rooms and store them at the front desk. That way, you still get them, but only if you really need and ask for them.

“By providing standard amenities only upon request, we avoid unnecessary use,” says Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia. The resort also offers many homemade products from the resort’s own workshops, which Smiling Gecko uses to support the local community.

When it comes to the amenities that are still offered on request, sustainable accommodation also ensures that they are produced sustainably and fairly. This is what the Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance reports.

Honesty bar with reusable glasses instead of a minibar

The minibar is another element that must be provided to meet hotel standards. In addition to energy consumption, drinks and snacks in disposable packaging also have a negative impact on the environment. Gut Guntrams near Vienna therefore installed a “central minibar” in the form of a Honesty Bar and left the individual minibars in the rooms empty. The Honesty Bar offers homemade sweet and savory treats in reusable glass jars.

Homemade welcome cookies

A small welcome gift for guests is a nice touch. But as Zero Waste advocate Béá Johnson says, promotional gifts and giveaways are often a source of waste. Not so at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt in Switzerland. There, homemade cookies on a plate greet guests in the mountains near the Matterhorn.

A water bottle for the duration of your stay

Many hotels provide their guests with a refillable water bottle. At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on Tenerife, the “OCÉANO Glass Bottle” is available and there are water dispensers throughout the hotel where you can refill the bottle with fresh, filtered water. This fits in with the wide range of sports and wellness activities on offer and also saves a lot of bottles and miles of transportation 🙂

Source of waste: breakfast buffet? Zero waste is also an option!

One of the biggest contributors to packaging and food waste in the hotel industry is the breakfast buffet. All Green Pearls® hotels have optimized this aspect. “There are no packaged products at our breakfast buffet,” reports the APIPURA hotel rinner on the ritten in South Tyrol. Instead, the child-friendly hotel offers organic products in small jars – one of the highlights are the various types of organic honey from the hotel’s own beekeeping.

Zero waste measures at the breakfast buffet:

1. Butter machine: This “spits out” small portions of butter and replaces the small, pre-packaged pieces of butter
2. Small mason jars for jams and spreads
3. Loose tea that can be poured into a pot instead of individually packaged tea bags
4. Milk and plant-based drinks in jugs, or cappuccino directly into the porcelain cup
5. Cloth napkins at the tables
6. Egg dishes made fresh to order
7. Smaller platters that are continuously replenished
8. At the end of the buffet, guests are actively asked what else they want, and only those items are replenished.

Elimination of disposable hygiene products

Disposable bathroom hygiene products are the second major area where mountains of plastic waste accumulate in conventional hotels. This refers to the small packages of shampoo, shower gel, soap, body lotion, shower cap, toothbrush, razor and so on. Sustainable hotels show that these products can be provided to guests in a stylish and hygienic way and do not have to be the norm.

Solid Soap and Shampoo

At the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Berchtesgadener Land, Bavaria, the bathroom features soap and shampoo bars, as well as refillable shower gel dispensers as an alternative to traditional bottles. You can do the same at home, by the way!

Dispenser

Speaking of dispensers: Another option you might want to consider for the home are refillable, larger, and often more attractive dispensers for soap, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and the like. According to soap manufacturer MarcelsGreenSoap, a refill bag saves 85% of plastic packaging!

Almost all Green Pearls® accommodations now use dispensers – with natural ingredients. “Our shampoos and shower gels (in the dispensers) are from Tiroler Kräuterhof, so they are 100% natural and regional,” reports Summit Lodges Pfunds.

Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol even offers dispensers with arnica muscle gel for relaxation after long hikes around the Pillberg 😉

Natural cosmetics free of chemicals and microplastics

For our Green PearlsⓇ partners, the use of environmentally friendly cosmetic products is very important.

At Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal, you can buy bamboo toothbrushes with hemp bristles and plastic-free toothpaste tabs made according to Ayurvedic principles, as are the other personal care products. Avoiding chemicals and microplastics is particularly important to them to protect the water quality of their organic farm..

The Green Spirit hotels in Paris (Hotel Malar, Hotel Amelie and Hotel Le Pavillon, all in the central 7th arrondissement within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower) use soaps, shampoos and shower gels from Austrian natural cosmetics company Pure Green. The luxurious Klosterbräu wellness hotel in Seefeld, Tyrol, spoils its guests with premium products from Augustinus Bader – some of which have been developed exclusively for the hotel. The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea has embraced ‘Björk&Berries‘. Nordic, sustainable, refillable and stylish,” they say.

Food from their own harvest

In the hotel industry, buying food in bulk is one way to reduce unnecessary packaging. Where possible, regionally. “We work almost exclusively with local suppliers to avoid long transport routes and support the regional economy,” says My Arbor near Brixen in South Tyrol.

However, food packaging is avoided in particular through direct in-house production. “From cakes to chocolates to syrups, we make everything ourselves,” explains the adults-only wellness hotel.

“All our fresh fruit and vegetables come from our own farm in Albisano on Lake Garda. The owner, Mr Huber, personally takes care of the harvest and brings the produce directly to the hotel (without packaging waste) so that our guests can enjoy the freshest ingredients.” – My Arbor

Dishes and glasses

Disposable plastic cups at hotels? They do exist! Some hoteliers find them more convenient and less risky than glass or porcelain, especially for the lawn or pool. Unfortunately, they create a huge amount of waste. Sustainable hotels are careful to use only high-quality, plastic-free materials. The energy-independent aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, uses only glass, porcelain, ceramic, clay and enamel for food and drink.

Tablecloths and napkins

Just as glass and porcelain are more stylish than plastic tableware, cloth napkins are more sophisticated than paper napkins. You can find them, for example, at the Relais del Maro in Liguria. The Albergo Diffuso in the picturesque village of Borgomaro takes care to avoid waste in all areas. Consequently, linen tablecloths are washed rather than thrown away.

Towel change upon request only

Since laundry does not produce waste, but does use detergent, water and energy, daily hotel laundry is another factor that you, as a guest, can help with. Many guests notice that even towels that have been hung up are all replaced the next day. This calls for well-trained staff who, like at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Mosel, change towels only when requested. Even in the large wellness area with sauna and several pools, guests are asked to use sauna towels sparingly and sometimes several times.

Forgoing daily room cleaning and turn-down service

Similarly, as a guest, you can support a hotel’s sustainability efforts by choosing not to have your room cleaned daily. In most cases, you have to explicitly decline. For example, the sustainable Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, tried to switch to opt-in (i.e., you get daily room cleaning only if you want it), but that would have meant being stripped of all their hotel stars by the Hotel Stars Union!

However, at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol (a luxurious all-inclusive resort close to nature), the turndown service has become an opt-in offer. This means that rooms are only prepared in the evening if you, the guest, specifically request it.

No slippers

The slippers provided in a hotel’s spa area are disposable products that generate huge amounts of waste. According to the German magazine Focus, the Steigenberger Hotels alone (a total of 60 hotels and resorts) would order 180,000 pairs of slippers for their guests each year. One can only imagine the mountain of slipper waste in the entire industry!

The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu has therefore removed the slippers from the rooms and will only provide them upon request. Instead, guests are asked to bring their own.

The romantic Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen, Germany, takes a similar approach to the slipper issue: guests are only provided with hotel slippers for the spa upon request, and the slippers are made of linen and cork, making them compostable.

Backpack and shopping bag provided

In many vacation destinations, plastic bags are still the norm. Even though a lot of plastic waste could be avoided! That is why CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt in Switzerland provides guests with both a backpack for hiking and reusable bags for shopping.

Digital Guest Magazine

Digitization also reduces waste. Guests receive a digital reservation confirmation, there is a digital guest magazine and digital services. At the Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s, for example, you can download Komoot maps created by Senior Okelmann to your phone so you can start cycling right away. The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, has a guest channel on the hotel TV where you can find out about all the events and offers at the hotel.

Offering waste separation for guests

As mentioned at the beginning, many people use more disposable items on vacation than at home. Recycling is also often not as successful on vacation. However, this is not always the guests’ fault… You may have experienced the situation where there is only one disposable waste bin in the hotel room and you don’t even have the opportunity to separate your own waste. Some hotels may also think that their international guests don’t know how to it.

Not so at Keemala on the island of Phuket in Thailand. “We have clearly marked recycling and waste stations throughout the resort, making it easy for guests to dispose of their waste properly,” they wrote to us. Unlike many internationally managed hotels on the island of Phuket, Keemala is owned by a local family who are very conscious of their impact on the environment. The 5-star ADLER Lodge RITTEN is another example of how in-room waste separation can be done in style.

Toilet paper made out of Tetra Pak

According to Statista, global per capita consumption of toilet paper reach almost 14 kilograms per person in 2023. However, in Germany, the figure is much higher, at 30.6 kilograms per person. A lot of trees have to be cut down to produce all this fresh fiber. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb has switched to toilet paper made from recycled beverage cartons. This reflects the concept of recycling that the wellness and selfness hotel also applies to its room furnishings.

Wooden coffee pods eliminate single-use plastics

Coffee capsule machines are definitely not the most sustainable way to make coffee. However, they are a great solution for allowing guests in a hotel suite to make their own coffee.

The Birkenhof***** Spa and Genuss Resort uses Rezemo wooden coffee capsules. They contain coffee from sustainable sources. The other amenities of the 5-star wellness hotel are packaged in plastic-free cardboard as well.

Zero-Waste Goodbye Gift

When you leave, hotels often give you a small parting gift – and that too is a source of packaging waste. Of course, sustainable hotels have also thought about how to give you, the guest, a gift that is both beautiful and environmentally friendly. At the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol, Austria, guests receive a jar of homemade jam in a reusable glass jar.

The Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol, on the Italian side of the Alps, offers soaps from its own organic cosmetics line, BergSea, which uses water from the Wolfsgruben Lake, located directly in front of the hotel. “We want our guests to take the soaps home with them and continue to dream of the Weihrerhof,” says the host family.

As you can see, Green PearlsⓇ hotels have put a lot of thought into how they can eliminate single-use items, waste and plastic, which means you may use no more single-use items on your vacation than you would at home – in fact, you may use fewer items than at home!

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Peace and relaxation through singing bowls

“The massages bring about a state of absolute relaxation that is unique. Even highly stressed people find peace within a short time.” That is how Maren Geisler-Okelmann of the Yoga-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe describes the effect of the singing bowls. The hostess is a trained yoga teacher and conducts sound therapy according to Peter HessⓇ in her courses and retreats. The Peter HessⓇ Institute is only 7 km from Warpe!

Singing bowl massage according to Peter HessⓇ

The singing bowl massage, which is a wellness trend in many places today, was developed by Peter Hess about 30 years ago. The German engineer for physical technology came into contact with singing bowls during his travels in Nepal.

According to the institute’s website, he “succeeded in adapting ancient Far Eastern knowledge from the Himalayas about sound and rhythm and their healing effects on body, mind, and soul to the needs of people in Western societies.”

It is not entirely clear how singing bowls were originally used. Some researchers even suggest that they were simply used as cooking utensils and that the tradition was “invented” later on. Others suggest that singing bowls once played an important role in Buddhism – but that the tradition has been lost.

The Peter HessⓇ Institute (PHI) now has 16 academies in 14 countries and claims to have trained approximately 10,000 people in the Peter Hess Sound Massage Method (protected in Europe).

How does a singing bowl massage work?

During a Peter HessⓇ singing bowl massage, several singing bowls are placed on the (clothed) body and sounded. The bowls, which are cast in brass or bronze, produce a gong-like sound with fine vibrations. These vibrations are transmitted to the body and are said to “release blockages” and lead to relaxation. Both physical (muscle relaxation) and mental. A singing bowl massage usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.

“Circling thoughts come to rest,” reports Maren vom Okelmann’s. One enters a “pleasant state in which one can let go.” The vibrations emanating from the singing bowls spread through the skin, tissues, bones, organs, and fluids of the body, creating a “gentle, internal massage.”

“Experiencing sound is a wonderful and healing thing.” – Maren Geisler-Okelmann

👉Here you can book a sound massage at Okelmann’s.

Difference between singing bowl massage and a sound bath

In some wellness and yoga hotels, you can have a sound bath in addition to a singing bowl massage. The difference is:

For a singing bowl massage, the bowls are placed on the body, while for a sound bath, the bowls are placed in the room.

A sound bath is especially suitable for groups. The vibrations of the gong are transferred from the bowl to the body.

At the Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol, a sound bath in small groups is part of the weekly program, and you can also book a “singing bowl massage with Sabine” at any time. 60 minutes cost 85 Euro and 90 minutes 120 Euro.

At Biohotel Grafenast you can experience a great combination of a Tyrolean nature vacation with an Alpine panorama and Far Eastern relaxation methods. The family-run hotel and its surroundings have been designed according to Feng Shui as a place of power, and yoga and Qigong classes are also available.

As part of its in-house treatments, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu offers both a sound bath and a sound massage. The cost for a 50-minute sound bath is 120 euros alone and 180 euros with another person.

The sustainable hotel in Balderschwang practices an “Ayurvedic lifestyle” – both in the wellness area and in the culinary arts. The sounds and vibrations of the singing bowls are considered to be energy that “can set every single cell in the body vibrating.” This is believed to have a healing effect.

👉For more information, visit HUBERTUS Ayurveda.

Sound baths in the Italian ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges weekly program

The sustainable and luxurious ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges in Italy also believe in the benefits of sound baths and have made them an integral part of their wellness programs.

“At ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, we offer the ‘Gong Sound’ experience every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday,” the team explains. “This treatment uses the slow, rhythmic beats of the gong, punctuated by brief moments of silence.”

At the ADLER Lodge Ritten* the Klangbad takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. The location on the Ritten plateau in South Tyrol is ideal for combining an active vacation in nature with wellness.

“You may find yourself taking a short but sweet nap during the sound treatments. The gentle sounds promote such a deep relaxation that a relaxed sleep is simply part of the experience, making it even more intense.” – ADLER Lodge RITTEN

Sound bath as an included service

The German hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region, like ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges, offers sound baths as an included weekly program. In addition to the sound massage sessions, yoga and Qigong are also offered.

Meditation with singing bowls

Some Green PearlsⓇ hotels combine singing bowls with meditation. For example, the spa at CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt in Switzerland offers a “singing bowl meditation” as part of its weekly yoga and meditation program. The sound bath helps calm the mind and release tension in the body. Guests leave feeling “more balanced and serene.”

My Arbor* near Brixen in South Tyrol offers both singing bowl massage and singing bowl meditation.

“It is a special form of relaxation that many of our guests love. They report feeling a deep sense of calm and lightness during the singing bowl treatment.” – Hotel My Arbor

What is the difference between a singing bowl massage and a singing bowl meditation?

The Keemala Resort on the island of Phuket in Thailand has answered this question. According to the resort, singing bowl massage is more about relaxing the muscles and stimulating circulation, while singing bowl meditation focuses on the mind. The goal of meditation is to achieve “mental clarity” through sounds and vibrations.

Sound Healing Retreats

If you want to delve deeper into the world of singing bowl healing, there are also a few retreats available. The Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa hosted its first “Sound Healing Retreat” with Lisa Schuster, a physician and sound therapist from Munich. The three-night retreat included various sound baths, singing bowl massage, singing bowl meditation, toning exercises, yoga, and a cocoa ceremony.

At the Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich, Germany, singing bowls and cocoa ceremonies were also combined during the “Finding Peace Day Retreat” held in the fall of 2024. The retreat was led by Thails de la Paz, who works regularly with the Sonnenhausen Estate.

Sustainable wellness hotels with a Far Eastern touch

Yoga, mindfulness, TCM, Ayurveda, singing bowls – much of the modern Western lifestyle has its origins in East Asia. In addition to the Okelmann’s, Grafenast, and HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio hotels already mentioned, the Green PearlsⓇ hotels, which are sustainably and individually managed, include many others inspired by Far Eastern culture.

Stephan Bode, owner of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, Germany, draws his personal strength from the words of Buddha and has integrated a Selfness Center into the hotel. Here, guests are offered mindfulness training, resilience, forest bathing, and fasting cures. Singing bowl massages are an optional extra.

Heiner Buckermann designed the entire Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten in Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River according to Feng Shui (with the help of a Chinese master). He also integrated a TCM center into the hotel. He places great importance on the 5 elements and wants the life energy Qi to flow freely throughout the hotel.

Among the treatments available at the TCM Center is a singing bowl massage based on the 5 elements.

“Based on the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine, the goal is to achieve a healing balance of the organs, which stimulates the organism to regenerate itself. By placing and striking the body with singing bowls of different sizes, (…) qi, blood and emotions can flow freely again.” – Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

A 30-minute sound massage costs 47 euros.

Singing bowl massage in Nepal

The Himalayan region of Nepal is where Peter Hess was introduced to singing bowls and where the trend that is sweeping the West began. At the Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm you can experience the original Nepalese version of the singing bowl treatment.

The sustainably managed resort is known for its yoga classes with Yogi Shyam Gurung, who we featured in our Yoga for pros blog post. His retreats are not only about physical exercises but also about a theoretical, traditional understanding of yoga.

Sound bowls are used here in conjunction with meditation, Reiki, self-healing, and Ayurvedic treatments.

“We offer yoga, meditation, and sound bowl sessions either as individual sessions or in small groups that know each other well,” the resort says.

Singing bowl massage in Cambodia

In Cambodia, you can receive a singing bowl massage at the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko. Buddhism is the state religion and singing bowls have a long tradition in Buddhism. It is said that singing bowls existed at the time of the historical Buddha. However, little is known about their exact origin and original meaning.

At the luxurious Farmhouse Smiling Gecko Resort, you can experience the country authentically while supporting the Smiling Gecko Project. It supports the local population through training centers, a school, organic farming, and fair employment.

Sound bowl meditation and science

Finally, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a singing bowl massage is not scientifically proven and falls within the realm of alternative medicine. However, you may find that sometimes a beautiful sound is more pleasant than a long speech 🙂

*CIN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ (ADLER Lodge Ritten)

*CIN: IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor)

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What is a place of power?

“Places of power are in vogue. But their effects are not scientifically proven.” SRF in its article on magical nature

A place of power is a geographical location in nature where, according to esoteric belief, a particular energy or earth radiation exists. Scientific methods cannot prove this; instead, people identify such places using a pendulum or divining rod.People also designate some power places based on ley lines or Feng Shui principles.

Some (or many) also use the term for places in nature that are simply beautiful and subjectively uplifting. You can probably think of an example right now, can’t you?

Places of power and tourism

Powerful sites are key attractions in the tourism industry—take Stonehenge, for example! In 2019, authorities closed Ayers Rock in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park after the Anangu people protested. They opposed the increasing number of tourists climbing their sacred mountain, damaging the environment, and trampling on their cultural heritage. Uluru holds deep cultural and religious significance for Australia’s indigenous people.

However, with our Green PearlsⓇ partners, we don’t get the impression that power places are being exploited for tourism. Instead, they often align with the personal worldview of the individual hotel hosts, particularly in the case of Feng Shui power places.

Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten – An entire hotel as a Feng Shui place of power

“The entire hotel has been declared a place of power by a Feng Shui master from Beijing.” – Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort

Feng Shui and TCM play an important role at Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten. The wellness hotel in Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River used to be a simple hotel for coach tours – until Heiner Buckermann took over and transformed it into the lifestyle resort it is today. Today, it boasts a 4,500-square-foot wellness area with saunas, pools and a natural swimming pond, as well as a diet based on the Five Elements and TCM therapy.

Heiner Buckermann remembers the construction phase and the Feng Shui master: “The master was visiting Germany from Beijing and met one of our TCM therapists. We were building at the time and asked for his help. The master explained the details of how to connect the energies in the place of power.”

The goal was to ensure that the entire place stayed coherent and, like a turtle’s shell, blocked negative energies. To achieve this, they directed the water from the various pools to flow in a specific way, and followed precise instructions on maintaining contact with the street or hotel staircase to protect the energy of the Power Place.

By connecting all the outbuildings to the main building, the energy can “flow freely”. The choice of materials, the polygonal tiles, the nine flags on the street – everything follows the Feng Shui rules for a place of power.

According to Heiner Buckermann, the Feng Shui instructions were all “logical” and “pleasant” and “contributed positively to the design of the hotel. The master himself then declared the entire hotel to be a place of power, and anyone sensitive to this can still feel it today.

Biohotel Grafenast – A place of power, confirmed by geomancers

Peter Unterlechner of the Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol, Austria, also believes in flowing qi and has had the hotel, now in its third generation, aligned accordingly.

“We had the grounds designed according to Feng Shui and then had them tested by a geomancer,” says Peter Unterlechner. The geomancer confirmed that both the hotel and the surrounding nature are places of power. The hotel sits beautifully in the mountains, offering stunning views of the valley.

“The panoramic location and the combination of an old house and a fresh spirit bring the power to life and make it tangible” – Biohotel Grafenast

You can create your own places of power

As you can see from the examples, you can create your own places of power by implementing certain esoteric rules.

“We have created various places of power ourselves,” reports the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu. There are various retreats in the wellness area of the Mountain Spring Spa and the “Power of Silence” place with a bonsai tree. The sustainably managed hotel is also an advocate of Ayurveda and mindfulness, offering yoga classes and retreats throughout the year.

At Naturhotel Gerbehof, the owners strongly believe in the Philippi method. They offer bioenergetic motivation sessions in-house, and there is a stone circle in their private forest where guests can experience a “meditation on the four primary elements.”

Crystal Garden at Gut Guntrams

If you are interested in crystals, the Gut Guntrams near Vienna has an impressive crystal garden with some huge exhibits. However, owner Stefan Gergley does not make any esoteric connections. He simply has a passion for crystals, petrified wood and minerals, he explains, and shares them in his private collection and his own nature museum at Gut Guntrams.

Places of power around sustainable hotels

Many Green PearlsⓇ accommodations are located near one or more places of power. The way these sites are transformed into a tourist experience varies widely.

The “Snake God’s” place of worship must not be disturbed

For example, Rajiv Desraj Shrestha, general manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal, knows of a place of power near the resort – but he won’t take you there because he thinks tourists (and people in general) are a disruptive factor.

“We have a place of power. It is a very old place of worship according to Hindu understanding, dedicated to the ‘Snake God’ and according to Hinduism can only be worshipped on certain auspicious days. In general, it is disturbed by human presence and therefore a visit is not recommended.” – Rajiv Desraj Shrestha

Temples and the “holy forest” to experience in Thailand

At Keemala in Phuket, on the other hand, the surrounding power spots are integrated into the program. They tell us there are three areas:

• The “sacred” forest: “The nearby ancient forests are said to have spiritual significance and energy.”
• Buddhist Temples: “The temples and spiritual sites in our area are known for their peaceful atmosphere and historical significance and can be visited.
• Nature and Meditation: “Special guided hikes through these power spots are part of our wellness programs and combine immersion in nature with meditation exercises.”

The enchantingly beautiful Keemala Resort is nestled in the tropical forest of Phuket.

Guests of the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol will receive a “power places booklet”.

The Pichler family, who run the Hotel Weihrerhof* on the shores of Lake Costalovara in Renon, South Tyrol, actively sought out places of natural power in the area around their hotel. This came about because the host family carefully studied the surrounding nature.

Of particular interest are the Celtic-Rhaetian sites and settlements typical of the Ritten. When exploring places of power, their goal is to “feel more and think less”. In order to understand the energy involved, they have enlisted the help of geomancer Bernd Traber.

As a guest, you will find a small booklet in your room in which you can learn more about each place and get ideas for consciously experiencing them. Afterwards you can visit them with a new feeling and let nature have a deeper effect on you.

Hotel room design inspired by a place of power in Bad Herrenalb

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has just renovated its hotel rooms (according to Cradle to Cradle™) and created the room category “Falkenstein”. The Falkenstein is a local landmark in Bad Herrenalb, and according to hotel owner Stephan Bode, the “vibrating primeval energy” is particularly noticeable here. He wanted the new hotel rooms to reflect this: “As soon as you enter the room, you feel a unique and unbridled energy – powerful and balanced. Falkenstein is the perfect design concept for every guest who wants to feel primal power.”

Bad Herrenalb – a place of power

There are also other places of power in the area, such as one “directly above the junction of the two supercontinents of Gondwana and Laurasia”. The entire town of Bad Herrenalb is considered a healing place of power, evident from the unusually large number of twin trees, a wonder pine growing on an archway, and its healing water and climate.

The hotel team emphasizes that you don’t have to believe in the special power of Bad Herrenalb to feel it:

“Even guests unfamiliar with the special qualities of the place often confirm at check-out that they feel relaxed and energized.” – SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

Recharge your batteries in Warper Wood

Sisters Maren Geisler-Okelmann and Kristin Okelmann of eco-hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe are spiritually open. The water that flows through their pipes has been revitalized using the Grander method, and the hotel offers yoga, meditation, and sound massages.

“Our power spot, almost on our doorstep, is the magical Warper Wood. We do some retreats that include forest bathing. We spend as much time there as possible.” – Hotel Okelmanns

“Heartstone” Place of Power near Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa

The health hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa has a focus on medicine and is happy to offer scientifically based methods (e.g. medical liver fasting instead of other types of fasting). Additionally, you can participate in a guided forest bathing tour. The guide Jana likes to integrate the power place Herzstein into her tour.

It is only a 5 minute walk from the hotel. Lisa-Maria Standl from the hotel says: “I’ve been there several times, and even though it’s a bit esoteric, I think the word ‘place of power’ is appropriate.

Hexenbödele on the Ritten in South Tyrol

Near the APIPURA hotel rinner* on the Ritten in South Tyrol, there is a mystical place called “Hexenbödele”. It is a forest clearing with a larch tree in the middle. Legend says that devils and witches once danced here. One night, a young boy, wanting to prove his courage, visited the place. By morning, they found him lifeless—trampled to death by the witches. After this tragic event, they hung a crucifix in the larch tree to honor the boy, and since then, the witches are said to avoid the place.

In addition to the Hexenböderle, Karin Rinner from the hotel’s host family recommends the Waldner Eck and the Mitterstieler See viewpoint.

“I often visit the places of power around us because they are breathtaking sites where you can get a lot of strength.” – Karin Rinner

Stone circle in Seefeld

In Seefeld, where the sustainable Hotel Klosterbräu is located, there is a stone circle as a place of power. They built it on the Pfarrerbichl as a “magical place.” In 2000, they measured the constellation, and in 2007, they inaugurated the place of power. The 12 stones are meant to represent the 12 apostles, and in the middle, there is a way of the cross, starting from the parish church in Seefeld.

The Hotel Klosterbräu was built on the 500-year-old walls of an old monastery. The staff here likes to play with biblical names. The sunbathing area by the outdoor pool is called the “Garden of Eden.” And down in the vaults is the “Cellar of Sin“.

Places of natural power with our Green PearlsⓇ partners

As we researched the places of power among our Green PearlsⓇ partners, many emphasized the natural treasures of their surroundings.

The sea as an inexhaustible source of energy in Tenerife

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the island of Tenerife, they believe that the Atlantic Ocean, which borders the hotel, is a powerful source of energy.

“The sea gives peace and strength. You can feel and experience this source of strength and find your own rhythm.” – OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

The sea also plays an important role in the various health therapies offered by the hotel, such as “Ocean Balancing” or “Thalasso”.

Subjective places of power in East Tyrol

The Naturhotel Outside in Matrei in East Tyrol immediately named four places that, in their opinion, are suitable for subjective experience as a place of power.:

• Zedlacher Paradise: Here you can find larches that are more than 500 years old with a trunk circumference of up to seven meters. This place is especially beautiful in the fall..
• St. Nicholas Church: This 12th century Romanesque church is the oldest preserved sacred building in East Tyrol. Research by the University of Innsbruck proved that a Roman tomb stood here 1,800 years ago. It is a 45-minute walk to the church.
• Innergeschlöss: This is one of the most beautiful valley heads in the Eastern Alps. It offers a great view of the Großvenediger.
• Glacier River Isel: The last free-flowing glacial river in Austria is also within walking distance of the hotel.

The best way to experience the power of the East Tyrolean Alps is by hiking. The Outside Nature Hotel is an official hiking hotel located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Find out more in our interview with hiking concierge Karin Steiner.

Place of Power Matterhorn

Switzerland’s most famous mountain, the Matterhorn, is also often described as a “place of power” – with no esoteric overtones. “The mountain is often seen as a place that gives people energy and inspiration,” reports the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. The nature-oriented design resort offers direct views of the Swiss landmark.

Recharge your batteries with a forest bath in South Tyrol

At the adults-only wellness hotel My Arbor*, the surrounding forest is mentioned. It not only provides “a picturesque backdrop for the hotel,” but also “a retreat full of peace and natural energy. My Arbor offers forest bathing at least once a week as part of its weekly program.

“Forest bathing is a wonderful way to reduce stress, clear the mind and harmonize body and soul. The soothing effects of the trees and pure mountain air are appreciated by many of our guests.” – My Arbor

The Riva Waterfalls in Sand in Taufers

From the energy-self-sufficient OLM Nature Escape* in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, it is only a 30-minute walk to the Reinbach Waterfalls. These are three spectacular waterfalls in the Tauferer Ahrntal. The upper and middle ones are about 50 meters high and the lower one is over 10 meters high.

According to OLM Nature Escape, the Reinbach Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful destinations in the area. Definitely an energizing place to recharge your batteries. The aparthotel itself is also a special place – the round building blends harmoniously into nature.

Do places of power work?

Many people visit a place of power and “recharge their batteries” – from nature, from pausing, from consciously pausing. There are scientists who are trying to scientifically prove the healing effects of nature (e.g. through forest bathing). There are already some indications, such as the reduction of stress hormones or a positive effect on the cardiovascular or immune system. However, we are talking about nature in general, not “places of power”.

The most important thing is that both “official” and purely subjective places of power are always a personal feeling in the sense of “that does me good”, “that gives me strength.” Visitors to places of power do not need scientific proof of this.

*CIN CODES Italien

IT021072A1L46PNBHX (Hotel Weihrerhof)

IT021072A1UOWUIDH4 (APIPURA hotel rinner)

IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor)

IT021017B4CPKU6WK9 (OLM Nature Escape)

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Sustainable hotels offering silent retreats

Does silence need any kind of instruction? Not really. Later in this article we give you a list of hotels and accommodations in quiet, open natural settings – where you can easily experience silence for yourself.

But many of us are already so ‘programmed’ that we are constantly busy with our phones, work, family or other things. In most cases, “time for yourself” means putting on some music and getting on the treadmill. But have you ever consciously allowed yourself to experience silence? Without music, radio, television, screaming children and chattering partners? When was the last time you did that? And “endured” it for an extended period of time?

Well? Got you?

In such situations, it can be helpful to find and consciously experience silence with a professional trainer. Don’t worry, it’s going to be quiet now.

Personal retreat at Gut Guntrams in Austria

Gut Gunstram is situated about an hour from Vienna in the middle of an orchard. A 25 minute walk from the nearest train station, you will find yourself in a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere with a natural swimming pond and crystal garden.

You can book a silent retreat with Petra Kaltenböck as a one-to-one retreat at any time. Petra is a professional horse guide and selfness coach with over ten years of experience.

“Guidance (means) we will walk a path together in which you will come more and more into contact with your own strength! (…) It takes what it needs. (…) Sometimes it’s just being together in silence and awareness.” – Petra Kaltenböck

👉 Find out more about the retreat here.

Fasting weeks with quiet moments at Biohotel Grafenast

The Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol is also a dream location for moments of tranquillity. This small, family-run hotel, with just 23 rooms, is situated high above the Tyrolean Inn Valley and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The eco-hotel recommends its fasting weeks as a way of experiencing silence, where ‘silent moments’ are an integral part of the programme:

👉Next date: April 2025 Ayurvedic fasting week with Isolde Ackermann

That’s why silence is good for you

According to the Spectrum of Science, numerous studies have shown a link between long-term noise exposure and cardiovascular disease. This has led to noise legislation in several countries. Silence, on the other hand, allows the brain to “better regenerate its cognitive resources”.

 Silence clears the mind and helps you organise your thoughts and develop new ideas.

Ocean Balancing – Silence in the water

Of course, there is no such thing as 100% silence in nature. Leaves rustle, birds chirp – and for most of us, even distant traffic noise is part of everyday life. You can always hear something. But as scientific studies show, the level of noise makes a big difference to our brains.

So-called ‘floating tanks’ are used for scientific research involving silence. Subjects are placed in salt water tanks with sound and light proof hoods and left to float for a period of time, shielded from the outside world. (Personally, I think that would be a bit too much for me!)

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife, you can find peace and tranquillity in the open air with the OCEAN Balancing treatment. During this “treatment of deep and lasting relaxation”, you will float in water, accompanied by a therapist. Your muscles relax, the water muffles the sounds and the calm connection with the element of water gives you new impulses.

Room of tranquillity as a counterpart to the relaxation room

Many spa hotels have quiet rooms. But the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Allgäu (with a direct view of Neuschwanstein Castle) has found that a quiet room next to the sauna is not quiet enough. People tend to chat there. So the hotel’s ‘Boutique Spa’ now includes a ‘Room of Silence’ where it really is quiet.

STURM in Mellrichstadt has named its quiet room the ‘House of Silence’. It was recently designed by the renowned architect Professor Matthias Loebermann and is completely paneled with natural silver fir. You enter the room, located in the garden next to the outdoor sauna, through a long corridor. This transition is designed to trigger a mental reset and prepare you for the silence to come. Time to unwind. And relax.

At Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in the small town of Warpe in Lower Saxony, you can find peace and tranquillity in nature and through yoga and meditation. Maren Geisler-Okelmann, a member of the host family, is a qualified yoga teacher.

“We have a room of silence that is used for ‘just being’ and meditation.” – Hotel Okelmann’s

Room of Tranquillity on holidays

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb is another hotel that promotes mindfulness with its Selfness Centre. However, the ‘Room of Tranquillity’ is reserved specifically for Christian holidays: Easter, Christmas and New Year.

The room offers with yoga mats, atmospheric decor and a reading corner. “This way, our guests can escape the hustle and bustle of their holidays and find peace,” the hotel says.

Relax & Calm’ – Sustainable wellness hotels with multiple quiet rooms

The slightly larger properties of our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ partners are also ideal for a relaxing holiday in peaceful surroundings.

The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten in Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River, for example, was designed entirely according to Feng Shui principles and includes numerous relaxation rooms.

👉 Learn more about the lifestyle resort’s “Relax & Calm” concept here.

At the Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate, you will also find a spacious hotel with a large outdoor area. The Spa & Genussresort is beautifully secluded on a hill in the Upper Palatinate Lake District. “We have many quiet rooms for perfect relaxation,” says the owner family.

At CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, Switzerland, they also believe that special retreats are not necessarily required for moments of silence.

“Guests seeking peace and relaxation will find the mountains to be the perfect place to unwind in silence. Our yurts, relaxation room and ritual room (outside of yoga classes) are perfect for enjoying this tranquility.” – CERVO Mountain Resort

Nature-oriented hotels and vacation homes where you can find silence

According to the staff, the Silence Room at Keemala’s Mala Spa in Phuket, Thailand, is always very quiet because it is only open to guests who have booked a treatment at the spa. There are other quiet corners throughout the resort, which is tucked away in the backcountry in the middle of a small tropical forest. The hotel team recommends walking barefoot through the Enchanted Forest to heighten your awareness of nature.

The Gerbehof Nature Resort in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance in Germany also cites its “own forest” as the best place to enjoy silence. There is also a “room of silence” in the house itself. The resort also has a stone circle on the grounds.

“In our house, every room is silent”

That’s how Marco Spiss describes his Summit Lodges in the Tyrolean village of Pfunds. The two log cabins are located in the middle of quiet nature, and you (and your loved ones) will have a large wooden house of about 120 square meters to yourself – with a sauna and a fireplace. In the evening you can sit on the balcony and listen to the rabbit and the hedgehog saying good night to each other.

The My Arbor* Hotel in South Tyrol near Brixen is an adults-only hotel and a good address if you are looking for a relaxed and quiet atmosphere. “We don’t currently offer any special ‘quiet retreats’ or ‘quiet rooms’ (but) of course there are many quiet corners in the hotel where our guests can enjoy moments of silence and relaxation – be it in our spacious spa area, on a walk through the surrounding woods or in the peaceful atmosphere of our suites,” they say.

By the way, the construction noise stopped when I reached the end of the article. The good man with the hydraulic hammer seems to be done for the day. Thank you very much! It is possible to actively enjoy the silence at home during a moment like this. Why not try it right now?

CIN-Codes:

* CIN: IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor)

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Der Beitrag Holidays in tranquillity – Quiet time out and ‘Silent Retreats’ in sustainable accommodation erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.