At Green PearlsⓇ, we have over a decade of experience supporting sustainable accommodation providers with their communications, so we encounter this topic repeatedly. We are critical of the idea of offsetting CO₂ emissions simply by planting trees. After all, ‘planting trees’ can easily amount to greenwashing and is often used for this very purpose. “For every product purchased, we plant a tree” – who hasn’t heard this advertising slogan? At the same time, however, there are also meaningful forest and reforestation projects that make a real contribution to climate protection without serving as a compensation measure. As a traveller, you can support these projects with complete confidence.

But why plant trees to offset emissions in the first place?

Climate protection is now an issue in all areas of our lives — and almost every activity results in CO₂ emissions. Flying, in particular, generates several tons of greenhouse gases per person on a single long-haul flight, and these emissions are even more harmful to the climate when released at high altitudes. From winter 2025/26 onwards, passengers will be able to see these emissions for the first time thanks to the new Flight Emissions Label (FEL) from the European Commission. The aim is to make the climate impact of flights more transparent, even though participation by airlines is currently voluntary (which unfortunately demonstrates the power of the lobby in this area once again).

But what can you do if your trip causes a large amount of CO₂ emissions? Tree planting campaigns offer one solution: by absorbing CO₂ and releasing oxygen, trees are meant to offset the negative effects of travel. This sounds logical, but it only works on paper. In reality, this nice calculation only works to a limited extent.

The problems with planting trees to offset emissions:

#1 The calculations

The explanation often given for why tree-planting projects are useful for offsetting emissions is as follows: “A tree absorbs X kilograms of CO₂.” However, such calculations only apply to mature trees (for example, a 35-metre-high spruce stores around 2.6 tonnes of CO₂ during its 100-year life cycle). However, compensation projects usually involve planting seedlings that take decades to reach a stage where they can store significant amounts of CO₂.

#2 Lack of care

Time and again, it has been shown that compensation planting campaigns result in a seedling being placed in the ground and then left to fend for itself. Without proper care, the saplings dry up, get eaten by animals, or die. Therefore, there is no guarantee that a seedling will grow into a tree.

#3 Individual trees instead of ecosystems

Another study shows that, in theory, such maintenance would be unnecessary. However, this works only if we protect functioning ecosystems instead of creating monoculture plantations. The study shows that protecting existing forests is significantly more beneficial for the climate and nature, and it is also more cost-effective.

#4 Are they really absorbing additional CO2?

However, when it comes to protecting existing forest projects, climate partners describe the difficulty of guaranteeing that the protection will bind ADDITIONAL emissions caused by travel. In other words, the forest already exists, but those who want to offset emissions demand a NEW positive effect on the climate.

#5 Forest fires

Climate change worsens the risk: wildfires increasingly threaten forests. When fires break out, they release CO₂ that took years to store. As a result, reforestation efforts to protect the climate can be quickly undone.

#5 Wrong tree species, wrong areas

In 2024, The Guardian revealed that reforestation projects had targeted African savannas, even though forests do not naturally grow there. Scientists warn that this will destroy valuable ecosystems and endanger biodiversity. Similarly, ecologists criticize eucalyptus farms in Brazil because eucalyptus is not a native species there.

#6 Displacement of people

Displacement for supposedly sustainable projects is particularly problematic. In Uganda, for instance, a whole region lost its land to a forestry company that advertised “climate protection through reforestation.” Around 10,000 people were forcibly displaced.

“In my experience, tree planting often borders on greenwashing. I think social projects that directly help people are better.” —Stefany Seipp, Managing Director of Green PearlsⓇ Unique Places

Is planting trees for climate purposes a bad thing?

No, you can’t say that across the board. Trees are essential for our planet, and therefore, for our survival. However, many tree-planting campaigns serve marketing purposes rather than the climate, and, in the worst case, they can even cause more harm than good. A commentary on The Conversation sums it up as follows: “Corporate tree planting primarily creates a positive image, but it can actually harm the planet and local communities if it is done without considering existing conditions.”

How can we identify greenwashing in the context of “planting trees for the climate”?

As a consumer, you have more power than you might realize. CO₂ compensation offers exist because there is demand for them. This makes it all the more important to take a close look:

• Ask questions: Where are the trees being planted? What types of trees? Who is responsible for their care?
• Demand transparency: Reputable projects openly answer these questions, often without you having to ask, e.g., on their website. Greenwashing campaigns usually fall silent quickly.
• Think holistically: Don’t just consider “one tree per night,” but also everything else involved. Does your chosen accommodation promote sustainability in other ways? Is the tree-planting campaign part of a comprehensive strategy, or is it the only measure? We prefer projects that focus on climate, people, and biodiversity simultaneously. A well-thought-out tree planting measure can certainly fit the bill!

Travel blogger Julia Lassner (Globusliebe) sums it up perfectly:

“I always ask where the trees will be planted and if they will be cared for properly. Most of the time, I don’t receive an answer, and suddenly, there’s no more interest in working together. This quickly shows me which companies are being honest and which are just greenwashing.” —Julia from Globusliebe

How sustainable hotels approach the topic of “planting trees”

CO₂ offsetting is a major issue for our Green Pearls® accommodations. There is one point on which all agree: prevention is better than compensation.

Avoiding CO₂ instead of sugarcoating it

Alessa Konrad, from the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, is often contacted by companies looking to sell CO₂ offset projects. Her response is always the same:

„As an environmentally certified nature hotel, we are committed to sustainability and resource conservation, but our approach goes beyond planting trees. We implement measures directly in the hotel and share them with our guests. These measures include free pick-up from the train station for guests arriving by public transportation, regional shopping, eliminating disposable products such as bath slippers, using energy-efficient technologies in the wellness area, and maximizing our PV system.“

The approach is clear: first and foremost, emissions should be avoided where they arise. This applies not only to hotels but also to travelers themselves. For example, it is better to travel by train than by plane, to rent a suitcase than to buy a new one, and to stay in a sustainable hotel than in a hotel from an international chain.

Marion Muller from the North German hotel association SANDcollection says that they are always mindful of the companies they support at their sustainable Lifestylehotels, SANDnature, and SANDglow. These include MyBoo bamboo bicycles for rent, Samova tea for breakfast, and climate-neutral, recycled toilet paper from Green Hygiene. Incidentally, the latter’s “climate neutrality” is achieved through solar energy, both its own and that promoted by Climate Partner, rather than through trees.

Successful forest projects—when they are properly planned and executed

However, criticism of “planting trees for the climate” does not mean a complete rejection of the idea. In fact, some Green PearlsⓇ hotels have launched impressive projects that promote biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems.

Primordial cloud forest in the Peruvian Andes

One of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel’s signature projects is its cloud forest initiative. When the hotel’s founder, José Koechlin, acquired the property in the 1980s, the former cloud forest had already been cleared and converted into agricultural land. Rather than accepting this, Koechlin began gradually restoring the original forest around the hotel.

Today, around 30 years later, guests can witness the results of this pioneering work firsthand: orchids, butterflies, and rare bird species such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock. Additional initiatives, such as comprehensive waste management and river cleanups, contributed to Machu Picchu’s designation as the world’s first climate-neutral wonder in 2017.

What makes it special: The focus has always been on a genuine, long-term commitment to nature and biodiversity, not quick CO2 compensation.

Planting a forests right outside one’s doorstep

Many European hotels are also focusing on reforestation and forest protection—directly at their own accommodations. However, this is not necessarily a compensation measure; rather, it is hands-on nature conservation: 

• Gut Sonnenhausen, Bavaria
  

  Several years ago, the hotel planted around 400 trees and over 10,000 shrubs along its mountain trail. Today, guests, employees, and wildlife alike enjoy the increased diversity of flora.

• Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance
  

  The organic hotel near Friedrichshafen is surrounded by its own forest. The hotel uses the wood for its own furniture, among other things, while dead wood and wood infested with beetles are used to generate energy. There is also a forest rest area for wild animals. Hostess Ursula Wagner criticizes the practice of using trees purely for CO₂ compensation: “There’s a lot of greenwashing in this area.”

• OLM Nature Escape, South Tirol
  

  Rather than planting trees elsewhere, OLM has created its own wild garden with biotope plants, including old regional fruit tree species. “For us, real climate protection is about quality, not quantity. We take responsibility locally instead of relying on distant projects,” says Astrid Hellweger, the host.

• My Arbor, South Tirol
  

  As a “tree hotel,” My Arbor is a sustainable wellness hotel closely connected to the forest. New trees, such as spruce, Swiss stone pine, fir, and larch, are regularly planted around the hotel. This process binds CO₂ and strengthens biodiversity, preserving the forest. Spruce trees are also part of the ecosystem. Host Alexandra Huber explains, “The problem is that spruce trees are susceptible to bark beetles, which sometimes destroy entire slopes. That’s exactly why we’re trying to replant them.”

• Hotel Klosterbräu, Tirol
  

  In addition to its own forest, which provides wood for the nature rooms, for example, the hotel launched a new project in 2025. Together with guests, 300 apple trees were planted on the parish hill. Once the fruit is ready, it will be used in the hotel for everything from apple strudel to animal feed for the hotel’s petting zoo.

A forest in the middle of the city

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen proves that forest projects can be established in urban areas as well. A microforest with over 200 trees was created there, designed according to ecological principles with varying plant heights that function together like a real forest.

Laura Heufelder from the hotel explains:

“Our microforest improves the microclimate and has become a paradise for birds, insects, and small animals. However, our primary goal is to produce zero CO2. We only offset unavoidable CO2 as a last resort. This approach benefits the environment and the economy, as it creates jobs.”

Protect and enjoy your own forest

Not all sustainable hotels plant new trees—some protect the surrounding forest and allow guests to experience it in a unique way.

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel , South Tyrol

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters in the heart of the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, which is protected by UNESCO, on the Seiser Alm. In this sensitive environment, nature conservation is paramount. To minimize traffic pollution, guests are only allowed to drive their cars on arrival and departure days. During their stay, cars must remain in the parking lot.

The hotel provides a special transit permit for this purpose, which park rangers check. This ensures that the alpine nature is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Bavaria

The adjacent forest is also a focal point at the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain. Guests can experience it through mindful forest bathing, which promotes relaxation and a new awareness of nature. The experience is enhanced by a herb garden and a “green wall” at the buffet where guests can harvest fresh herbs.

The goal is not to offset CO₂, but to bring nature to life, appreciate its resources, and bring a piece of nature into guests’ everyday lives.

Climate-neutral overnight stays with CO₂ compensation

A special case in our network is the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb. Stephan Bode’s establishment is considered a pioneer in sustainable hospitality. Its gold organic certification, zero-waste breakfast buffet, and hotel rooms made from 100% recyclable materials (“circular living”) set new standards.

However, not all emissions can be avoided here either. To offer “climate-neutral overnight stays” and “climate-neutral conferences,” the hotel works with ClimatePartner. The principle remains clear: reduce before compensating. However, unavoidable emissions are transparently offset – among other things, through two forest projects that are part of a larger portfolio of 20 recognized climate protection initiatives.

SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has reduced, removed, or avoided 5,710 tons of CO₂ and collected 6,010 kilograms of plastic. Additionally, 112 trees were planted in 2023 and 2025, both in Germany and internationally, as part of a comprehensive climate protection initiative.

FAQs and Tips: Offsetting emissions caused by travel through tree planting

Is planting trees an effective way to offset CO2 emissions?

Yes and no. It only makes sense if it is well thought out, appropriate for the location, and designed for the long term. Many projects fail due to a lack of maintenance or because they serve marketing purposes more than climate protection purposes. To really make a difference, you should primarily avoid emissions and offset unavoidable emissions through recognized climate protection projects (not necessarily tree planting).

How can I spot greenwashing?

Be skeptical of promises such as “one tree for every tube of toothpaste sold.” Ask questions: Where are the trees planted? Who takes care of them? Reputable companies answer these questions transparently, while greenwashers tend not to.

How can I get involved?

• Ask questions: Feel free to email companies that advertise tree-planting campaigns.
• Plant locally: Plant trees in your own neighborhood so that you can take care of them yourself or at least see the results.
• Consume mindfully: As Ursula Wagner from Naturresort Gerbehof emphasizes, “Everyone should pay attention to the environment and nature in their daily lives. Does the light always have to be on? Do I need products like avocados, which require huge amounts of water?” Being mindful in everyday life often saves more CO₂ than symbolic planting campaigns.
• Think creatively: Fabienne Anhamatten from the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt provides a good example. She didn’t dispose of her Christmas tree, but rather planted it in the spring, allowing it to remain part of the cycle.

In conclusion, we would like to emphasize that genuine climate protection while traveling begins with making many small, mindful decisions along the way, not with planting a tree.

Der Beitrag Planting trees for the climate: pure greenwashing or a real opportunity for sustainable travel? erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Why are we all so stressed out, anyway?

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that stress is one of the greatest health risks of our century. “Everyone experiences stress sometimes,” they write. However, they also note that “too much stress can lead to physical and mental health problems.”

When I think about my circle of acquaintances, it seems like everyone is “stressed.” The hoteliers in our network are always talking about being stressed or extremely busy. Thomas Steiner from the OLM Nature Escape aparthotel in South Tyrol even wrote me to say that he was “under a lot of pressure” (fortunately, due to positive events only, as he later reassured me).

In fact, for many people, stress has become a permanent state. There’s always a lot to do, the calendar is full of appointments, and the smartwatch diligently beeps, reminding us to get up from our desk for five minutes or take three deep breaths!

The magic word in this rat race could be “calmcation,” an enticing combination of “calm” and “vacation.”

But do I really need to take a vacation to experience a “Calmcation”?

Do I really need to travel and spend money if I’m not going to do anything? Couldn’t I just stay home and do nothing? You could. But then, why don’t you “just” do it every now and then?

How many “buts” popped into your head just now? The laundry, tidying up, that one email, dinner, washing up, the family, your smartphone… Somehow, “just doing” nothing doesn’t work out. And when it does, you quickly start feeling guilty because the laundry and clutter haven’t been taken care of.

In a (sustainable!) hotel, on the other hand, you don’t have to cook, clean, do laundry, or check your emails—you’re on vacation, after all! You can’t quickly stop by the office or take care of one last thing, it’s perfectly acceptable that you’re not there—and not doing anything!

• Incidentally, sleep tourism is another similar trend that we have already reported on in our blog..

Sustainable hotels for your calmcation in Germany

Doing nothing between the fields and forests of Lower Saxony

For a calmcation, it’s best to go somewhere quiet and away from crowds. For example, Warpe in Lower Saxony. Never heard of it? Then it’s time you did! Because that’s where the Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s is located. When it comes to “doing nothing,” hosts Kristin and Maren Okelmann have a clear opinion:

“We are the perfect place to enjoy some leisurely relaxation. Whether you’re enjoying the sauna or hot tub, receiving a massage, or simply relaxing on a daybed in the quiet room. There are also numerous sun loungers in the garden where you can read, daydream, or meditate in peace.” – Kristin Okelmann

Still not convinced that Warpe is the right place for you? You might change your mind after reading our blog post about this charming village and learning why Warpe is worth a visit.

Sustainable Calmcation in the Rhön region

Are you familiar with Mellrichstadt? The town, with a population of around 5,000, is located in the Rhön region of Bavaria. Located there is the STURM, a wonderfully relaxed hotel and one of our long-standing Green PearlsⓇ partners, offering organic cuisine, a natural swimming pond, and large gardens. Julius Schulze Dieckhoff, the son of hosts Christa and Matthias, has been involved in the hotel business for some time as well. I asked him if Mellrichstadt isn’t sometimes boring for people his age. His answer:

“It’s true; the Rhön is not a hotspot for mass tourism. Sometimes I wish there was more going on here, but that’s precisely the advantage if you’re looking for peace and quiet, or a “calmcation.” Although there are no huts to stop at while hiking, that’s precisely why the nature here remains so unspoiled and the silence so unique.” – Julius Schulze Dieckhoff, STURM

We particularly recommend the new, award-winning Garden View Rooms—there isn’t even a TV to distract you from relaxing here—instead, you can enjoy a panoramic view of nature 🙂

Peace and quiet amidst the fresh air of the Black Forest

Bad Herrenalb is much better known, at least in Germany. The climatic health resort with its thermal baths attracts many tourists seeking relaxation. Ideal if you want peace and quiet without being alone (if you know what I mean). One wonderful place to unwind is the sustainable health hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The Circular Living rooms have a particularly soothing indoor climate thanks to their natural materials and a design, that grounds you and creates a calm atmosphere. Nathalie Riegsinger from the hotel’s marketing department recommends the following for a “calmcation”:

“The view of the valley, the fresh Black Forest air, and the seclusion of nature beckon you to relax. Well-marked hiking trails through Bad Herrenalb’s healthy climate begin right outside the door.” 

Other Green PearlⓇ partners in Germany for your Calmcation

#1 Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Bayerisch Gmain, Berchtesgaden

The sustainable Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa is nestled in a secluded spot in Bayerisch Gmain, surrounded by the Berchtesgadener Land mountains. Here, you will find places to retreat almost everywhere: in the reading corner with mountain views, in the quiet sauna garden, or in the spacious rooms. A place where silence and nature naturally slow you down.

#2 Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance

“More than wellness — soul wellness” is how Ursula Wagner, the host, describes the concept. The organic hotel on Lake Constance boasts a natural style. Whether you’re sitting in the stone circle in the forest, relaxing in the sauna, or listening to the birds chirp in the garden, you’ll find inner peace at the Naturresort Gerbehof, and the relaxation will last long after your stay. The alternative concept behind “wellness for the soul” is discussed in more detail in “Retreats for the Soul.”

#3 Gut Sonnenhausen, Glonn near Munich

Gut Sonnenhausen is a beautifully restored old manor house surrounded by a permaculture farm and nature reserve. Filled with contemporary art, it is perfect for spontaneous, meditative walks or reading a book in the library. Guests who enjoy company can relax in the courtyard, and those who prefer solitude can find quiet benches along the high trail overlooking the clearing.

#4 Hotel Luise, Erlangen

A calmcation in the middle of the city? It’s possible. On the green roof terrace, by the waterfall in the inner courtyard, or in the private spa at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen—an urban retreat where you can unwind amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Even better? Thanks to the hotel’s many eco-friendly initiatives, you can do good by simply doing nothing. 

#5 Hotel Das Rübezahl, Füssen, Allgäu

With its boutique spa, fireplace lobby, and small themed libraries, Hotel Das Rübezahl invites you to experience the tranquility of a digital detox, while enjoying a magnificent view of Neuschwanstein Castle at the same time. Click here to learn more about the digital detox concept.

Sustainable Calmcation in Austria

Austria has many enchanting places that are perfect for doing nothing. I particularly recommend the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld. Seefeld is a well-known vacation region in Tyrol, but this traditional monastery hotel has a unique and tranquil charm all its own. Centuries-old walls combine with the comforts of a five-star hotel, making it ideal for truly letting go and feeling completely relaxed.

As host family Seyrling puts it:

 „Doing nothing. No appointments, no plans—just you, a deck chair, and the tranquil beauty of the mountains. This is exactly what you’ll find in the Garden of Eden (the hotel’s lawn and natural grounds). Surrounded by old monastery walls, lush greenery, and the soft rustling of leaves, you’ll find a comfortable deck chair or hammock—perfect for simply switching off.”

In East Tyrol, you will find the Naturhotel Outside, which is located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Many people come to the hotel to hike, but it’s also a great place to relax. The cozy lobby with a fireplace and the newly designed Nature Spa with healing saltwater baths are perfect for relaxation.

Relax and unwind in South Tyrol

South Tyrol combines impressive Alpine panoramas with an Italian lifestyle — the ideal combination for an escape from everyday life. Two adults-only hotels center their concept around tranquility:

My Arbor, Brixen

 “My Time” is the motto, and it’s evident everywhere. Whether you’re relaxing in the infinity pool with a view of the Dolomites, lounging in a deck chair among the treetops, or enjoying a cup of tea by the fireplace, you’ll discover that doing nothing becomes an art form here. Many guests report that at My Arbor, they can finally breathe deeply again and consciously make time for themselves.

LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel, Naturns

LA VIMEA is a holistic, adults-only vegan retreat and a haven for anyone seeking peace and inner balance. The sunny terrace by the natural pond and the cozy winter garden with its soft armchairs are particularly popular spots for reading, daydreaming, and unwinding. A small library with books on vegan nutrition and healing methods completes the offerings.

OLM Nature Escape, Sand in Taufers

“Here, conscious idleness is not only permitted—it’s celebrated,” say the hosts at OLM Nature Escape. (I quoted Thomas earlier in this article.)

“Our spacious garden offers many secluded spots where you can completely unwind. The deck chairs are spaced far apart and provide ample space for privacy. On sunny autumn days, our garden is an ideal place to recharge in the mild sunshine. In our apartment suites, you can relax on your private terrace or practice yoga in the specially designed niche. Here, everyone can find their personal place of power.” – Astrid Hellweger, OLM Nature Escape

Three places to do nothing in Ritten

Those who prefer a family-friendly and nature-oriented atmosphere will find three wonderful places to stay in Ritten. The APIPURA hotel rinner offers a peaceful and warm atmosphere, as well as proximity to nature, with its own apiary and organic cuisine. The Hotel Weihrerhof’s philosophy is “Just Be There” — no schedules or appointments, just a jetty by the lake, a good book, and mountain views.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is a luxurious, couples-only retreat. The relaxation room, located in the middle of the forest, invites you to unwind while your private chalet offers a fireplace and a balcony with an unobstructed view of the Dolomites. The all-inclusive package featuring regional specialties ensures you can relax completely.

Find peace in Switzerland

The small, boutique Bella Vista Zermatt hotel offers several inspiring places for you to relax and unwind. For example, there is a relaxation room with a view of the Matterhorn and an Arvenstube with waterbeds surrounded by soothing Swiss stone pine wood.

“When the weather is nice, we recommend our terrace for a ‘calmcation,’” says hostess Fabienne Anthamatten. The terrace is in a quiet location, and like the relaxation and yoga rooms, it offers a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. And be sure to enjoy a cup of tea made with herbs from their own garden!

Calmcation as part of a long-distance trip: Croatia, Tenerife, and Peru

Of course, you can also combine your Calmcation with a trip to a farther-away country — ideally as part of a longer stay. After all, when it comes to long-distance travel by plane, short trips are not sustainable. So, its best to plan long-distance trips over longer periods of time and take a break in between to process what you’ve experienced. A calmcation, even if only for a few days, is perfect for this.

Hotel Korinjak, Kroatien – Island Iž

Surrounded by pine forests and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, doing nothing becomes the order of the day. Whether you’re relaxing in a hammock, enjoying the view from your terrace, or strolling along hidden paths, the Hotel Korinjak—the only hotel on the island—invites you to simply drift away. The only sounds you’ll hear are the lapping of the waves, the chirping of crickets, and the rustling of olive leaves—the perfect companions for finding your inner peace.

OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, Tenerife

“At OCÉANO, guests will find many places to retreat to, relax, and unwind,” reports our Green Pearls® partner on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. They recommend a daybed in the green garden with a book, the rooftop terrace with sweeping sea views, or an early swim in the Piscina Natural, a seawater pool located directly in front of the hotel. The library, which has books in three languages, also invites you to linger. A fitting complement is “Ocean Balancing in the Thalasso Pool” (see picture).

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, Peru – Sacred Valley of the Incas

Anyone who travels to Peru will be overwhelmed by the countless impressions, which is precisely why it is worth taking a calmcation break every now and then. The Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba in the Sacred Valley is perfect for that. From its spacious terraces and gardens, you can enjoy views of the Andes while listening to birds chirp and the gentle rustling of the mountain winds through the trees. At the Mayu Spa, treatments with traditional Andean ingredients offer deep relaxation, and the small pool reflects the mountain panorama. Here, pausing becomes a philosophy — a soothing reprieve that restores harmony to body and mind and prepares you for your next adventure in Peru.

It’s good for you to do nothing

Inaction can promote creativity. Various studies and experts have pointed this out. However, some participants in these studies had to sit alone in empty, white rooms or copy numbers from a phone book, which is more akin to a self-experiment. But that’s not what a calmcation is about! Calmcation means sitting on a bench and letting your gaze wander over the mountain landscape without any appointments. You decide spontaneously. Should I go out for dinner? Should I relax on the hotel bed? Shall I go for a short walk? All of this takes place in beautiful and inspiring surroundings. It’s just like the partner hotels presented here.

Oh, and by the way: Julius from STURM ended our conversation with the sentence:

“You can even leave out the part about “Sometimes I wish there was more going on here.””

And when it comes to a Calmcation, less is more—literally 🙂

Der Beitrag Calmcation—is it worth paying for the opportunity to do nothing? erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

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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The “best room” is perfect to surprise and impress

A few years ago, when I was living in Tel Aviv, my parents came to visit. I recommended a hotel right on the beach with two types of rooms: some faced the street and others faced the Mediterranean Sea. The latter were more expensive. My father decided, “We’ll take the sea view. If we’re going to do it, let’s do it right.” They also opted for a room on one of the upper floors. Every day, I heard my mother rave about how beautiful the view was and how fantastic the room was. The extra cost? Totally worth it.

This memory inspired this article. I wanted to know: Do our partner hotels have rooms that amaze guests and make them want to rave about them and tell others about them? The answer: Yes, and beyond!

Twenty sustainable dream rooms

What makes the rooms we are presenting here so dreamlike? They are not only individually and uniquely designed, but also sustainable. Here, luxury isn’t just for its own sake; it’s about conscious comfort: with renewable and recyclable materials, green electricity, and modern technology for saving water and energy. And as you will see, you won’t have to make any sacrifices or compromises.

Round Viw Suite | Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, Germany 

The “Round View Suite” at the five-star Hotel Der Birkenhof features a wraparound balcony with panoramic views of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The hotel was recently voted “Best Spa Hotel in Germany 2025” by the Falstaff Guide. It has several pools, a sauna area, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. And where does the electricity for all this come from? Completely from sustainable sources!

Chalet | The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

Built in traditional Nepalese style and luxuriously furnished, the “Chalet” at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is the perfect private retreat for you and your loved ones. It is located in the Pokhara area and is surrounded by organic farmland and some of the world’s highest peaks. The resort is a charity hotel that supports sustainable projects and is closely linked to the NGO Rights4Children.

Treetop Suite | My Arbor, Italy

The adults-only Hotel My Arbor has many beautiful rooms, but the highlight are the three “Treetop Suites.” These suites feature dreamlike balconies with views of the Plose, private saunas, and whirlpools.

Spa Loft | Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Germany

A staircase leads to the “Spa Lofts” of the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, where you’ll find your own private spa area with a whirlpool tub and sauna. The best part? The stunning view of the Berchtesgaden countryside, which you can also enjoy from your private balcony. And by the way, all the furniture is made from applewood sourced from the same area.

AlmRausch | Hotel Das Rübezahl, Deutschland

The “AlmRausch Suite” at Hotel Das Rübezahl is not the largest suite, but it is the host family’s personal favorite. It boasts an unobstructed view of Neuschwanstein Castle and its own infrared cabin with a view of the Allgäu Mountains. The room’s chalet feel is enhanced by a fireplace, library, whirlpool, and walk-in closet.

Sky Suite | Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, Swiss

In 2024, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt fully renovated its attic rooms. The highlight is the skylights, which allow you to lie in bed and gaze at the peak of the Matterhorn.

Family suite | Green City Hotel Vauban, Germany

“The heart of our hotel is our family suite,” reports the Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg. It is popular not only with families with children, but also with couples and bachelor parties. Equipped with two separate bedrooms and a beautiful roof terrace, the suite makes all guests feel at home. The inclusive hotel is part of the modern, ecological urban development of the Vauban district and has an integrative employment policy.

Roarer Suite | Hotel Weihrerhof, Italy

“The ‘Roarer Suite’ with its free-floating bay window is our best room,” explains Klaus Pichler, host at the Hotel Weihrerhof, without missing a beat. From there, guests have a direct view of Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy. The hotel is located in Ritten, South Tyrol, and is an ideal place to stay for a nature vacation, especially with children.

Lifestyle Loft 500 | Hotel Klosterbräu, Austria

The “Lifestyle Loft 500” is the Hotel Klosterbräu’s highest room and offers a view of the entire town of Seefeld. It includes a 66-square-meter south-facing terrace and a 20-square-meter east-facing balcony. Guests can also enjoy a private panoramic sauna, a private bar with a beer tap and a wine cabinet, and a secret room. Another highlight is the bed with a wooden canopy.

Pine suite | Naturhotel Outside, Austria

The “Pine Suite” at the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol features Swiss stone pine wood furnishings that promote better sleep and create a natural atmosphere. The suite includes a bed made of solid Swiss stone pine with a high-quality pocket spring mattress measuring 180 x 200 cm, allergen-friendly bedding, and cushions crafted from Swiss stone pine. Hiking in the mountains, relaxing in the spa, and enjoying the excellent cuisine — the restaurant has received three Falstaff forks — contribute to a holistic, nature-oriented relaxation experience.

Inkaterra Suite | Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

The “Inkaterra Suite” is not a typical hotel room. Rather, it is a 176-square-meter villa located on the grounds of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. The villa features a private garden with a pool, daybed, and outdoor shower, as well as a spacious living area, multiple rooms, and a fireplace. Guided tours exploring the former Inca city of Machu Picchu depart directly from the hotel. For many years, the hotel’s operators have been committed to preserving this World Heritage Site and promoting environmental protection, species conservation, and sustainability throughout Peru.

ApartSuite L | OLM Nature Escape, Italy

Do apartments with private saunas and freestanding bathtubs seem wasteful to you? Fortunately, the OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, is completely energy self-sufficient thanks to solar energy and geothermal probes, so it produces all of its own electricity. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to choose between eating at the restaurant or cooking for yourself.

Family Room No. 2 | Relais del Maro, Italy

The Relais del Maro is an Albergo Diffuso, meaning this four-star hotel is spread across several old residential and commercial buildings in the village. Here in Borgomaro, Liguria, you’ll live right next door to the locals and experience authentic Italian culture in the Imperia countryside. According to host Elena, the most beautiful room is the “Family Room No. 2” — elegant, spacious, and bright.

Waldklang | SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Germany 

The “Panorama Deluxe Waldklang” suite is one of the hotel’s “Circular Living” rooms. The Schwarzwald Panorama in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb has won several awards for these rooms, which include the Falkenstein and Freigeist suites. Everything from the wall paint to the furnishings and fabrics is 100% recyclable or biodegradable and can therefore be returned to the cycle. Another highlight is the panoramic view of the Black Forest, which is particularly impressive from the “Waldklang.”

Stable room in a farmhouse | Gut Sonnenhausen, Germany 

The “stable rooms” of the farmhouse at Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, feature lovingly restored antique cabinets from Lower Bavaria, as well as a blend of retro and modern furniture. The rooms are insulated with coffee jute sacks. Along with the clay plaster and plenty of spruce wood, the rooms boast a wonderful atmosphere and special charm.

Apis Royal | APIPURA hotel rinner, Italy

“Just like in a beehive, there is only one queen bee in our hotel — the “Apis Royal Suite,” the Rinner family explains with a grin. The Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol was designed by a nomadic beekeeper with bees in mind. The suit features a private spa area with a whirlpool tub offering light therapy (a honey hydro bath is recommended) and an infrared cabin for two.

Little Two+ | Lifestylehotel SAND, Germany

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located in the popular resort town of Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. The reception staff highly recommend the “Little Two+” room, which is a double room with a balcony facing the sea and a COCO-MAT natural box spring bed. Tip: At the hotel, you can also spend one of your vacation nights in a beach chair on the rooftop!

Renewable Junior Suite | Hotel Luise, Germany

“We believe that our best room is our Renewable Junior Suite,” says the team at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen. “Like all our renewable rooms, the suite is designed according to the cradle-to-cradle concept. This means that almost all of its components are 100% biodegradable or recyclable.” You can also shower under an “astronaut shower,” which saves up to 90% of water and up to 80% of energy. The room has a corner balcony overlooking the hotel garden and green courtyard.

Gartenblick room | STURM, Germany

In 2023, STURM in Mellrichstadt, located in the Rhön region, expanded its hotel offerings with the addition of the “Gartenblick rooms.” In collaboration with architect Prof. Matthias Loebermann, they created rooms that offer “a unique connection with nature.” Located directly in front of the rooms’ terrace, the swimming pond, along with the absence of televisions and the use of natural materials, provides the perfect setting for slowing down and relaxing from everyday life. The rooms received the “Best Architects Award 2024.”

Signature Suite | Eco-Hotel Okelmann‘s, Germany

The Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, has a new room that offers extra peace and quiet. The “Signature Suite” has its own garden and can accommodate two to six people. A personal touch can be found in the bedroom, which features the original wedding wardrobe of the great-grandmother of the current Okelmann hosts.

Junior Suite | Naturresort Gerbehof, Germany

Naturresort Gerbehof reports, “Our most popular rooms are the junior suites and suites.” The resort sits on the German side of Lake Constance, surrounded by apple trees and its own forest. Craftsmen use wood from the forest to make the furniture and untreated wooden floorboards in the rooms. The “Junior Suite” offers a healthy living environment, extra space, and a private balcony.

So? In which of these rooms would you most like to spend the night?

Let us know in the comments!

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Here, you will find both. Together, we will take an in-depth look at sustainable travel, explore its background, and establish connections. You will also find useful tips in the article. But enough preface. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents: Sustainable Travel

A Look at Tourism

How does sustainable travel work?

What is sustainability and what does it have to do with our travels?

Sustainability today: Comprehensive and blurry

Environmental protection while traveling

Water consumption as a traveler

Sustainability meets animal welfare

Climate protection while traveling: Do you still fly??

Let’s talk about money – What our money does when we travel

Questions you can ask yourself before you spend your money

Excursus: The Green Pearls® network

Often overlooked: Social sustainability when it comes to travel

An alternative to traditional tourism: Slow Travel

Small steps also make a difference

Sustainable Travel – Different Experience

If you landed on our website, it’s likely that you’re someone who likes to travel themselves, right? Think back, where have you been? It varies greatly among members of the editorial team. Some of us have experienced distant parts of the world. Literally. Some people prefer to stay in Germany and Europe. What we all have in common is that we love discovering new places.

A Look at Tourism

When we’re traveling, and I’m sure you feel the same way, we’ve noticed that we can’t continue like before. It has been evident for some time that tourism is not the white, unsullied industry that it likes to be portrayed as. Mass tourism, short-haul flights, and water scarcity are just a few of the keywords associated with this context.

But, how can we improve? What are some ways we can discover other countries and regions without leaving a damaging imprint on the ground? In summary, how can we travel responsibly?

How does sustainable travel work?

This is the very question we want to explore in this blog article. We will do it in as much detail as we can. That is why we will begin by explaining what sustainability is and how it relates to our travel behavior. Of course, the topic of climate protection and air travel has its place as well. Lastly, we’ll introduce you to an alternative to classic tourism, and in part two of this series of articles, we’ll share with you tangible, tried-and-tested tips on how you might make your trip more sustainable.

Despite all the tips we’ve given you, there is one thing we don’t want you to forget: As a traveler, you will always have higher CO2e emissions and consume more resources than you would if you didn’t travel. Most cases, at least. The most sustainable way to travel would be not to travel at all. But sustainability has now taken on a greater meaning than just environmental protection.

What is sustainability and what does it have to do with our travels?

To answer this question, we must travel back to the Middle Ages. At that time, the term ‘sustainable’ first appeared and meant something like ‘lasting.’ The first proper definition of sustainability in today’s sense came from Hans Carl von Carlowitz. The chief miner faced numerous challenges, such as extreme deforestation, droughts, and bark beetle infestations, in his forests in the 18th century. Does this sound familiar to you?

Perhaps we should take another look at the 300-year-old textbook published by von Carlowitz. In it, he introduced the principle of sustainable forestry, which states that only as many trees should be cut down as can grow back. Von Carlowitz developed this method to ensure that future generations would still have access to wood.

Sustainability today: Comprehensive and blurry

Our approach to sustainability has evolved and changed since then. Forestry’ is a term you probably don’t associate with it anymore, but maybe your cell phone case, clothing, or food. And yes, travel is also part of the equation.

There are many perspectives on what sustainable travel looks like. One definition does not exist. You won’t find one here either. Instead, we want to introduce you to the different aspects of sustainable travel and explain how they work. We’ll start with the most obvious aspect: the environment.

Environmental protection while traveling

As travelers, we should be aware that we can harm the environment. Otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be reading this article. However, our environmental impact isn’t only made up of flights and travel-related exhaust fumes. For example, many people don’t realize that building a hotel can significantly disrupt the natural environment. This environmental damage forces plants and animals to look for new habitats. Therefore, renovating existing buildings is the best solution.

Monastery hotels are a good example of this, such as the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bavaria, and Hotel Le Pavilion in Paris. By utilizing old monastery walls, abandoned buildings are given a new lease on life while preserving the culture and history of the community. If you want to learn more about this trend, you can find out more in our article on monastery hotels.

Water consumption as a traveler

At this point, there’s no reason to sugarcoat things. As frequent travelers, we use a lot of water.

• According to the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), a tourist consumes approximately 350 liters per night in a hotel (compared to around 130 liters at home).
• The 2030 Report even estimates up to 2,425 liters per night for a tourist. This includes personal water consumption (showers, toilets) as well as swimming pools, golf courses, green spaces, etc.

Even if sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels and accommodations use water-saving faucets and use rainwater and gray water for garden irrigation, every guest still uses more water on vacation than they would at home. Not just for brushing teeth. That accounts for the least amount. Indirectly, we also use the water that is consumed in the restaurant, for the pool and for cleaning.

It’s cool when the hotel uses a natural bathing pond instead of a classic chlorinated pool, as the STURM in Mellrichstadt, Germany, does, for example. Furthermore, it provides a habitat for numerous animals. If flowering meadows with bee- and insect-friendly flowers are also planted, the hotel garden becomes a small, biodiverse paradise.

Sustainability meets animal welfare

Traveling and experiencing animals in their natural environment is one of the top experiences, especially for children. Whether they are wild animals on safari or domestic animals, seeing them in their natural habitat is incredible. However, travel can have a negative impact on animal protection. Visits to national parks ensure that they can continue operating. Our visits also demonstrate to the local population that protecting animals can be financially worthwhile. On the other hand, tourism can encourage practices that are not in the animals’ best interest, such as elephant riding or lion petting.

If you are interested in learning more about animal welfare while traveling and how you can make
your trip animal-friendly, you may want to check out this blog article. We’ve covered the topic in
detail here.

Furthermore, our article on wildlife on vacation provides specific vacation offers where you can experience safaris, diving, or national park animals in a sustainable way.

Climate protection while traveling: Do you still fly?

Travel and accommodation have been found to be the areas with the greatest environmental impact when it comes to tourism. That means that adjusting these adjustment screws has the biggest effect. You can find a selection of sustainable hotels and vacation rentals on our website. We not only present each hotel with its rooms and offers, but also with its sustainable initiatives and measures. This will give you an opportunity to get an overview in advance and actively contribute to protecting the climate by making environmentally friendly choices when it comes to accommodation.

By now, we are all aware that flying, especially short-haul flights, is immensely detrimental to the climate. Flight shame has become a term for when you get on a plane even though you feel bad about it.

How you can deal with flight shame, we have already discussed in tis blog article.

Other alternatives to flying are driving a car, taking a bus or train, cycling, and wearing walking shoes. Yes, we count the car as well. Although we wholeheartedly agree that car traffic must be reduced, if you look only at carbon dioxide emissions, then a fully occupied car with four or five people can sometimes even have the better balance than an empty train. However, the train still runs, and in addition, it offers the opportunity to spend time together with family or friends without having to concentrate on road traffic.

An alternative that many people are unaware of is the long-distance bus. In recent years, companies such as Flixbus have established a huge network across Europe, and their environmental friendliness is on par with that of trains! Find out more about sustainable vacations by long-distance coach here.

It is even more environmentally friendly to travel by foot or by bicycle rather than by car. The journey itself will become an adventure, and you will develop an entirely new perspective. By the way, this principle is the foundation of the Slow Travel movement. You can read more about it in the article below.

Let’s talk about money – What our money does when we travel

When we travel, we incur expenses. On accommodation, food, souvenirs, activities, and events. It is not without reason that tourism is one of the most important, sometimes even the most important, industry in many countries. It offers a lot of potential, if done right.

“Right” in this case means that our money benefits the country and the local population, and does not flow back abroad or to large, international companies. Experts here speak of the percolation rate, which indicates how much of the profits from the respective destination seep back out again. This happens, for example, through staying in international hotel chains, buying imported goods and eating at global franchises.

Another aspect is that we determine what we support through our purchasing or consumption behavior. What practices and behaviors do we support with the money we spend while traveling? Keywords here are production conditions, supply chains, payment of employees, exploitation of nature, and child labor, just to name a few.

Questions you can ask youself before you spend your money:

• Who owns the hotel or lodging I want to stay at? Is it family run? Locally owned?
• Who owns the restaurant? Who does the cooking? How are the employees treated?
• Where does the food come from? Was it grown locally? Or imported?
• Where do the souvenirs come from? What material are they made of?
• Does the event benefit the local population? Or is it cultural appropriation and exploitation?

Additionally, a sustainable economy also refers to the entrepreneurs in tourism. They should take care not to work only for short-term profit, but to think in the long term. That means taking into consideration the impact and responsibility of their own company, hiring local employees, and investing in environmental and social measures.

Excursus: The Green Pearls® network

At Green Pearls®, we want to advocate for more sustainability in tourism and help you do the same. That’s why we work with various partners around the world who offer sustainable hotels and vacation rentals. After prior verification and only if they meet certain sustainable criteria, which concern environmental protection as well as economy and social issues, they are allowed to be part of the Green Pearls® partner network.

This means that when you choose a Green Pearls® hotel or vacation home, you can be confident that your accommodations are sustainable. You can read exactly what makes each hotel or vacation home sustainable on its respective Green Pearls® page. For example, you can learn how the five-star Der Birkenhof Spa & Genussresort hotel in Bavaria is a pioneer in sustainable hospitality despite its luxury orientation; how the Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol generates all of its energy from its own sources; how 50 percent of the employees at the Green City Hotel Vauban are disabled; and how the Hotel Luise in Erlangen makes its hotel rooms entirely from recyclable materials.

Often overlooked: Social sustainability when traveling

Both the economic and environmental aspects of sustainability are socially oriented. At first, this may sound very abstract, but imagine the following: You travel to any country, or even just another city. You arrive there, stay in a hotel, eat in a restaurant, and walk through the streets. You can also buy some souvenirs. Likewise, you drink water, swim in the pool, throw away your garbage, drive boat, cab, car. Then you leave again. If you tried to spend the money locally, then the money you spent stays there. What also stays there is your environmental impact, the missing water and the garbage.

And now imagine thousands, in some places even millions, doing the same. What do you think the effects will be on the local people?

Let’s take a look at the social impact of man-made climate change, which is not entirely innocent when it comes to tourism. The people who are affected by it are the ones who don’t contribute to it. People who don’t travel around the world three times a year.

Furthermore, there are also clear abuses in tourism, such as the exploitation of seasonal workers. You can find out more about this in this article on social sustainability in tourism.

An alternative to traditional tourism: Slow Travel

You might have heard of Slow Travel before, right? Over the last few years, countless books, articles, and podcasts have been published about it. The idea behind it is simple: Slow travel. The journey should be made to the destination. Putting achieving your goal above arriving at your goal. In this way, Slow Travelers are returning to the old definition of travel: being on the way from A to B.

Slow Travel grew out of the Slow Food Movement, which promotes the conscious cultivation, handling, and enjoyment of food. It was founded as an alternative to fast food. Slow Travel can be similarly compared with conventional travel.

Instead of considering the journey as a mere tool to reach the destination, Slow Travel considers it an essential part of the trip. On foot, by bike or by train, you experience the first adventures already before your destination.

The main thing, when you’re walking, is to stay in one place for longer. Because the longer we stay, the greater the benefit to the local economy. You’ll also get to know the local people in an entirely different way and discover places that other tourists miss. Perhaps the locals will even share with you one or two insider tips. 😉

Read this blog article for more information about slow travel and how a slow trip can look like. Furthermore, join us on an adventurous journey by train through Thailand!

Small Steps also make a difference

You might be thinking that’s okay, but there are just too many things to consider. Where do I even begin? That’s precisely how everyone started who is involved in sustainable travel today. The key is to take small steps initially. If the issue seems too large to tackle right now, start by booking sustainable lodging in your destination. Stay longer in one place instead of spending each day somewhere else. Actively choose vegetarian or even vegan meals. These are all small steps you can take to move in the direction of more sustainable travel.

Sustainable Travel – Different Experience

Travel is indeed a wonderful thing. We meet new people and discover nature. Unfortunately, however, our travel has an immense impact on the environment and people around the world.

It would, therefore, seem logical to say that, even if it’s difficult, we’ll give up traveling if we have to.

However, that is too narrow-minded. Tourism impacts thousands of jobs and livelihoods around the world, and many people rely on us travelers for their livelihood. Especially in countries like the Maldives, there are very few job or income opportunities outside of tourism. Sustainable hotels like Gili Lankanfushi provide a stable income for locals, which encourages a change in mindset. Whether it’s local or foreign visitors, the mindset will be changed. Read here to find out what sustainable vacations in the Maldives can look like and how you can actively participate in a coral conservation project as a diver, for example.

In rural areas, they offer opportunities for sustainable development. The travelers staying at Relais del Maro, located in the small Ligurian town of Borgomaro, not only ensure the preservation of the historic buildings that house the family-run “Albergo Diffuso” hotel, they also support regional farmers, winemakers, and artisans.

In other words, we don’t have to stop traveling. We need to travel differently.

Sustainable travel does not eliminate these impacts. But when we travel sustainably, we make more conscious choices and don’t just accept our effects. We make conscious decisions to forgo flights, take more time to explore a country or place, and search for sustainable accommodations and activities. We strive to help you do that here on the Green Travel Blog and over at Green Pearls.

What’s your favorite way to travel? Do you travel sustainably? And what aspects of your trip are particularly important to you? You are welcome to share your thoughts and experiences below.

This is an update from September 27, 2022.

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Driven by nostalgia, I inquired among our Green Pearls® partner hotels and found many like-minded individuals passionate about wood and craftsmanship. Some hotels even have their own forests from which they source wood for furniture. Others use traditional materials, such as Swiss pine, applewood, and moon wood. Some hotels furnish their rooms with lovingly restored family heirlooms, while others are rethinking furniture design based on the principle of the circular economy.

A hotel made of applewood: The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa

Dr. Andreas Färber, the owner of the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, is one of the hoteliers who shares my enthusiasm for solid wood furniture. When he and his wife took over the hotel, they made an unusual decision: the Klosterhof would become one of the world’s few “apple hotels.”.

About 90 percent of the custom-made furniture in the house is made of applewood. However, the wood did not come from various locations; it comes from a single apple orchard. This creates a sense of unity in design and content throughout the entire house, something that can be felt in every room and detail.

The concept was implemented in collaboration with longstanding partners at Philipp Haas + Söhne, a master workshop in nearby Bad Reichenhall. The workshop’s latest project was its involvement in the “Spa Glow-Up” 2025.

Masterful craftsmanship with a regional flair

Like the Klosterhof, many of our Green Pearls® partner hotels use handmade furniture crafted by local carpenters.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, all the furniture is made from wood sourced directly from the resort itself. They primarily used spruce, which was processed directly on the farm. The furniture reflects the character of this living material, telling the story of the nature that produced it. The spa area’s whirlpool is unique as well; it was designed with stones from the nearby Rhine estuary.

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, has adopted a similar concept. Almost all of the materials used for the 28 newly built nature rooms came from the region. Ninety-five percent of the materials come from the Alpine region, and the wood comes from the hotel’s own forest. One interesting architectural feature is the bed’s placement under a round arch in the wall. This creates a cozy, almost fairy-tale atmosphere. The bedside lamps with hay-flower lampshades provide the perfect finishing touch.

“”Sometimes, an inner satisfaction makes you want to reach out and touch the piece, to stroke it. God bless the craftsmen who can inspire such feelings in their fellow human beings with just a few pieces of wood!” —From the book So Grün War Mein Tal (My Valley Was So Green) by Richard Llewellyn

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, the connection to nature is evident throughout the entire interior design concept: the rooms feature larch wood walls and beds, and the tables are made from regional oak by a Pinzgau carpenter in Salzburg. The newly designed nature spa also incorporates wooden elements from the same workshop.

Wood art in South Tyrol

Individuality and regionality are also emphasized at the Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, South Tyrol. For many years, it has worked with the Eisath und Lintner carpentry firm, which manufactures furniture on site from local wood with great attention to detail.

The OLM Nature Escape in the Ahrntal Valley offers a holistic experience. Its ApartSuites are almost entirely clad in larch wood, from floor to ceiling. There are no ornate decorations or Alpine carvings. Instead, the clear, straightforward, modern design creates a natural sense of space, complemented by spruce in the saunas and maple in the restaurant area. The interior design was created by South Tyrolean master craftsmen from Plana Ladina in Val Badia.

Honeycomb design

Lastly, there is the Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol. Here, a local carpenter crafted all the furniture in the rooms. The hotel has its own organic beekeeping operation, so the carpenter chose honeycombs as a recurring design element.

Custom work from the Green City: Handcrafted ash furniture at the Hotel Vauban

The Vauban district of Freiburg is known throughout Europe as a model of environmentally friendly urban development. Right in the heart of the district lies the Green City Hotel Vauban, which carries this philosophy through to every detail, including the furniture.

The entire interior was custom-made by Werkhalle 53, a Freiburg-based collective of three master carpenters. They used solid ash wood from nearby Umkirch, a wood that impresses with its fine grain and high durability. The modern, timeless, and clear-designed furniture can be found throughout the hotel, including in the rooms, lobby, and conference rooms.

Another advantage is that the furniture can easily be added to or restored as needed. This approach is sustainable and creates long-term design continuity, which is perfectly in keeping with the neighborhood’s reputation for thoughtful interplay of ecology, architecture, and community.

The power of the moon: Furniture made from moon wood at La Vimea

People deeply involved in traditional craftsmanship and sustainable processing know that not all wood is the same. Moon wood is a prime example: it is wood cut during a waning moon. This ancient practice is based on the knowledge that the moisture content of wood is lower during certain phases of the moon. The result is a highly resistant, durable, and dimensionally stable material — no chemical additives necessary.

At LA VIMEA, a purely vegan hotel in South Tyrol, moon wood plays a central role. Most of the furniture is made from locally sourced wood harvested during the waning moon. The wood is left untreated, making the rooms’ special energy and authenticity palpable.

LA VIMEA uses only natural, cruelty-free materials, such as wood, paper, jute, straw, and cork, for its decorations. Even the candles are made from eco-friendly rapeseed wax.

Furniture in a Cycle: Circular economy meets design

Furnishings don’t have to be new to look modern and high-quality. In a circular economy, everything can be reused. Two of our partner hotels have demonstrated this by incorporating it into their design concept. In addition to wood, other recycled and recyclable materials play a central role as well.

Circular Living at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

In cooperation with the impact service providers RITTWEGER + TEAM and Fritz Schlecht GmbH, the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb developed room concepts such as “Freigeist” (free spirit), “Waldklang” (forest sound), and “Falkenstein” (falcon stone)—a stylish combination of nature and contemporary design. Highlights include oak parquet flooring with Cradle-to-Cradle Bronze certification, regional softwood side tables, and pendant lights made from PEFC-certified birch—ecologically sound and aesthetically pleasing.

The circular hotel room at Hotel Luise

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen is a pioneer among sustainable city hotels. Of particular note are the “circular hotel rooms,” which were designed according to the cradle-to-cradle principle. This means that everything in the room, from the floor to the ceiling, is either biodegradable or fully recyclable.

The hotel also features upcycled furniture and restored pieces, including an antique pharmacy cabinet from the Coburg court pharmacy. The cabinet was found by the owners in the local classifieds and was restored. Now, it houses the hotel’s “Tiny Shop.”

Furniture with history: restored, inherited, and preserved

Like the apothecary cabinet, many pieces of furniture carry memories of previous generations and nearly forgotten craft traditions. In some Green Pearls® hotels, this emotional connection is incorporated into the interior design. Rather than using mass-produced items, they focus on restoring unique pieces and preserving family heirlooms, complemented by custom-made furniture from sustainable production.

At the Ligurian Relais del Maro, you will stay in historic houses belonging to the host family — lovingly restored and scattered throughout the village of Borgomaro in the style of an Albergo Diffuso. Some of these houses contain furnishings that still belong to the family, while others were sourced from small antique markets on the nearby Côte d’Azur — with each piece telling its own story.

Old meets new at Hotel Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony, too. For example, the grandmother’s wedding cabinet has found a place of honor in the new Signature Suite. Adjacent to it are handcrafted furnishings from a carpentry workshop in the neighboring village. Other antique pieces have been refurbished and carefully incorporated into the design.

Individuality is a top priority at Gut Sonnenhausen in Bavaria. They have collected original farmhouse cabinets from all over Bavaria and lovingly restored them in the stables of the historic farmhouse. These cabinets form an exciting contrast to the modern art and contemporary design found throughout the hotel. And the beds were designed in-house and crafted by a local carpenter using regional wood. Each room is unique; no two rooms are alike.

“”Wood is proud of its age.” —From the book “So Green Was My Valley” von Richard Llewellyn

Immerse yourself in craftsmanship: Carved rooms that evoke a sense of well-being

In some hotels, you will find not only unique pieces of furniture but also rooms that are completely carved.

At the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, the “Arvenstube” is the perfect place to relax. This entire relaxation room is furnished with fragrant Swiss stone pine wood, which is known for its restorative properties (read this blog article to learn more about the latest studies). Here, you can unwind on waterbeds after an active day exploring the mountains around the Matterhorn. According to Fabienne Anthamatten, the hostess, this is one of the guests’ favorite rooms. 🙂

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld showcases master craftsmanship with its unique, hand-carved “Herzerl-Sauna” (heart sauna). You won’t find another one like it anywhere on the planet.

Handcrafted rooms like this one combine craftsmanship, natural materials, and wellness in a special way.

Wood in all its facets: regional materials, sustainable partners, and natural construction methods

In addition to offering handmade furniture, our partner hotels are taking various approaches to providing a sustainable wood and nature experience, such as using regional materials, creating durable products, and employing innovative construction methods.

At My Arbor, for instance, furniture crafted from regional oak and sun-baked larch, both sourced from sustainable forestry, dominates. Entirely built high up in the treetops of the South Tyrolean spruce forest, the hotel offers unique views of the Plose from its rooms.

Sustainability is a recurring theme in the partnerships at the Lifestylehotel SAND (SAND Aspires Natural Design). The beds here are from CocoMat, a company whose mattresses are made exclusively from natural materials, such as coconut fibers. The sturdy, recycled teak bed headboards and matching tables in the breakfast and bar areas highlight the hotel’s commitment to sustainable interior design, focusing on quality and durability.

Vacation in a log cabin

The Summit Lodges in Pfunds are completely different but equally impressive. These vacation homes are traditional log cabins, built entirely from whole logs. This construction method boasts an excellent ecological balance, minimal resource consumption, and a particularly pleasant indoor climate thanks to natural Tyrolean sheep’s wool insulation and large windows that let in plenty of sunlight.

Wooden furniture inspiration for your home

Do you want to bring a piece of craftsmanship into your home? Here are a few ideas for finding furniture with history, character, and sustainability:

• Go treasure hunting: Antique and flea markets, as well as online classified ads, are full of special pieces with patina.
• Discover journeyman pieces: Many cities, including my hometown of Cologne, have chambers of crafts that exhibit journeyman and master pieces every year. You can find inspiration there and connect with young carpenters. Years later, these unique pieces sometimes end up in classified ads.
• Build it yourself using the right wood: Numerous DIY instructions for shelves, tables, and more can be found online. When buying wood, look for regional origin and the FSC seal, which is better than PEFC.
• Choose solid wood over chipboard: Furniture made of solid wood is more durable and better for the indoor climate because it doesn’t contain adhesives or formaldehyde. Veneered panels have their place, but opt for solid wood if possible.
• Consider custom work from a professional: Need a new piece of furniture? Ask your local carpenter. Custom-made pieces are more expensive, but not prohibitively so. They are also unique and high-quality.

This demonstrates the versatility of wood as a raw material used in sustainable hotels and homes. It is used not only for furniture, but also in a variety of other forms, always with the goal of blending nature, design, and responsibility.

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In this article, you will find 15 proven tips for sustainable travel, collected by our travel-savvy editorial team and supplemented with insights from long-standing partner hoteliers who practice sustainability daily. Expect tried-and-true strategies and inspiration from real-life travel experiences. Make your next trip truly green!

Ready? Then let’s begin our sustainable journey!

If you are interested in the topic of traveling sustainability in general, we recommend this blog article. In here, we took a closer look at what sustainable travel is and why it’s so important.

Traveling sustainably from planning to returning home

Creating a sustainable trip is a big undertaking.  At first glance, it appears that way. Therefore, we have divided our tips into three major categories. This way, you can jump straight to the part that matters to you right now.

Are you in the middle of preparing for your next trip?? Do you know that sustainable travel starts at home when planning your trip and want to know what to look out for? The first part is perfect for you.

Are you sitting on your suitcase or already in the travel vehicle of your choice, and you would like to get in the mood for your sustainable stay on site? Would you like to take a moment to remind yourself of the most important things? To answer your question, we can go to the second part of the guide, where we help you make your trip more sustainable.

Are you returning home with a heavy heart and wondering how you can support sustainable accommodations, the people at your vacation destination, or a beloved organization back home? Or did you just return from a trip and find yourself thinking about how you can do better next time and apply the experiences you had? If so, take a look at the third part. Sustainable travel doesn’t end when we get back home.

Just here to gather inspiration? Take your time to look around, and feel free to leave a comment about what you liked.

Our 15 tops for sustainable travel (and a bonus tip at the end)

Sustainable travel planning

1.) Be honest about the purpose of your trip.

By this, we mean, before you even start planning, be aware of why you want to travel. Are you interested in learning about a particular country or culture? Are you interested in experiencing nature and wildlife, admiring special buildings or formations? Or is it mainly to get away from home or just to relax?

If you tend towards the latter, then maybe it doesn’t have to be a plane trip to the Canary Islands or Egypt, right? In that case, a nice and sustainable wellness hotel or vacation home in your region or country might even be a better choice.

Tip from Mara from the editorial team: Forget the bucket list

It is often hyped, especially in the social media, if you have an eternally long bucket list. I’m not a fan of that at all, because it tempts you to visit places just because you want to make a checkmark. So when planning a trip, you should always ask yourself: Do I want to go there because I want to see it? Or because others told to me that I have to go there?

2.) Pay attention to environmental seals and certificates during your research.

However, you should not trust them blindly because in principle, each company, each hotel or each provider can design its own eco-label and put it on its website. So, have a look around the site, too: Are the initiatives and sustainable measures clearly named and documented? Is the seal awarded? How transparent are the criteria?

Seals that are generally recognized in the tourism sector include TourCert, Viabono, GSTC, Swissstainable, and the Blue Flag for beaches and bodies of water.

There are additional certifications for accommodations: GreenSign, for example, as well as the EU Eco Label and various organic certifications. At Green Pearls®, you will also find sustainable accommodations that have been certified and must meet an extensive list of criteria to be accepted onto our information platform. Learn more about our criteria and what we look for in our partners on this page.

3.) Utilize expert knowledge

This tip seamlessly builds on the previous one, and you’re already implementing it. Finding out how to travel sustainably before your trip is the first step.

This includes researching how to travel sustainably at your destination. For example, what is the quality of the drinking water? What about public transportation?

If you feel overwhelmed, you can also turn to experts. Many travel providers are focusing more on sustainable travel, and social media is a good place to connect with other travelers and learn from their experiences.

4.) Get to know the culture and the language before

If you know where to go, you should also begin to engage with the country and local customs. This way you avoid (unintentional) disrespectful behavior and know in advance what you can and should be prepared for.

Tip from Nina from the editorial team: Hello, Please, Thank you.

I think you should at least try to know and use “Hello / Please / Thank you” in the local language. This shows respect for the people and you are more likely to get into contact.

Preparation is everything: packing, documents, arrival

5.) Plan your journey and avoid flights whenever possible.

By now, we are all probably aware of how harmful flying is to the environment. That’s why avoiding flying is often recommended in tips for sustainable travel.

Top tip from Hotel Klosterbräu, Tyrol: Green travel pays off

Some sustainable hotels offer special rewards to guests who travel by public transportation. At Hotel Klosterbräu, for instance, guests who travel by train can use e-scooters and e-bikes free of charge for the duration of their stay. Additionally, you will be picked up from the station for free by an e-shuttle. Incidentally, Seefeld station is the highest ICE station in the world, only three minutes away.

Think outside the box and see if there are other ways to get there. For example, how about taking the night train or a long-distance bus?

Here’s a tip from Mara in the editorial department: Find European train connections easily

Rather than searching for connections with individual providers in each country, you can quickly and easily search for and book train connections throughout Europe via The Trainline.

If you can’t do it without a flight, follow a simple rule of thumb: the longer the flight, the longer you should stay on site. That way, you also support the local population and economy in a more sustainable way.

Keen to explore Europe by train? Then take a look here!

6.) Less is more: about packing lists and zero waste

Yes, indeed: It makes a difference how much your luggage weighs! The less weight, the less fuel you use, no matter if you travel by car or plane. And your nerves are spared, too.

Tip from Katharina from the editorial team: Capsule Wardrobe

I actually go with a “Capsule Wardrobe” when packing – few pieces, all can be combined well with each other in terms of color and style. Depending on the length of the trip, I intend to wash out certain pieces. Find one-piece suits so practical and space-saving when packing (jumpsuits or dresses). I also like to hang up worn clothes and air them out—that works amazingly well, and the things then sometimes smell almost “fresh” again

And speaking of saving on luggage: Gone are the days of binders and folders full of notes and tickets. In most cases, tickets only need to be available digitally, itineraries can be saved on a cell phone, and important documents can be photographed or scanned and are always available via a cloud.

Tip from Stefany from the editorial team: Zero Waste Travel

Always on hand: a plastic bottle, a reusable coffee mug, a basket, and a jute bag. For car trips, we prepare food so that we don’t have to resort to packaged sandwiches or similar items.

Sustainable Travel: Tips for on the road

7.) Book sustainable accommodation

Apart from the journey itself, one of the most important aspects of sustainable travel is choosing your accommodation. Opting for sustainable accommodations can have a significant environmental and social impact. This is because sustainable hotels pay attention to renewable energies and water-saving measures. They also support the region, employ local staff, and are committed to environmental and social projects.

Top tip from Naturresort Gerbehof: Do without room cleaning and do good

Sustainable hotels are increasingly foregoing daily room cleaning and frequent towel and bed linen changes. Find out why this is important here. At the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance, however, foregoing room cleaning has another effect. For each cleaning that guests choose to skip, the hotel donates four euros to the children’s project Kinderdorf der Liebe – Sternenland (Children’s Village of Love – Land of Stars). The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Berchtesgadener Land — also generates many donations this way. For every room cleaning not requested, five euros go to the regional mountain rescue service.

8.) Use public transportation, ride a bike or walk.

Not only does your journey to your destination play a role in your ecological footprint, but so does your mode of transportation there. Try to use public transportation whenever possible. You could also rent a bike and explore the region on two wheels. As an added benefit, you’ll experience your destination in a completely different and more immersive way than if you were driving through it. You’ll also get to talk to the locals and experience their everyday life instead of staying in your tourist bubble.

Tip from Nina from the editorial team: Explore cities by foot

I walk a lot in cities. Depending on how long I stay, I can even start to feel “at home” because I get to know the area around my accommodations.

When taking city tours, you can ensure that they are led by locals or that the proceeds benefit the local community.

 

9.) Support the local population

When it comes to the local population, sustainable travel isn’t just about minimizing environmental impact; it’s also about social sustainability and supporting the people who live there. They don’t benefit at all if you only go on guided tours with foreign guides, eat in hotels or chain restaurants, and buy imported souvenirs.

Our money supports our values.

That means that every cent you spend is a choice for sustainable travel or against it. For environmental protection and local culture or foreign corporations. You have to be aware of that.

How you can sustainably support local people:

• Go to local restaurants and restaurants run by locals.
• Buy your food at markets, street stalls or directly from farmers.
• Sleep in family-run accommodations instead of big chain hotels.
• Move away from the popular tourist attractions. Not only will you experience new things there, you’ll also spread the benefits and positive effects further afield.
• Book tours with local guides. They know better and can tell you one or two insider tips 😉
• Tip.

Tip from Stefany from the editorial team: Do like the Romans

This means seeking out restaurants outside of tourist hotspots and enjoying local, fresh cuisine and traditional dishes. It’s also a great way to strike up conversations with locals.

10.) Conscious use of resources

The things that have become second nature to us at home (turning off the lights, turning off the water, etc.) are all too easily forgotten on vacation. But depending on the region or destination, it is particularly important to save water and energy. So: Turn off the light, shut off the tap, and switch on the air conditioning only when you really need it.

11.) Respectful treatment of people and nature

Part of sustainable travel is also respecting nature and the people whose home country you are visiting. This mean respecting the culture and following the rules of conduct. Here, for example, we’ve looked at how you can travel respectfully and appropriately in Thailand.

A tip from Hotel Luise in Erlangen: Zero Waste at the Hotel

Sustainable accommodations can help make your trip as environmentally friendly and respectful as possible. They may even inspire you to make improvements at home. The Hotel Luise in Erlangen, Bavaria, for example, has built rooms using completely renewable and recyclable materials. The hotel also offers “astronaut showers,” where the water is filtered and immediately reused. You can eat at tables made from recycled refrigerators, and the breakfast buffet is optimized for zero waste. Only a few grams of food waste per guest are produced.

Just like at home, you should also be mindful of nature and not leave any trash (no, not even banana peels!) behind when you go hiking. Even better, leave places cleaner than you found them!

Tip from Mara from the editorial team: Learn to say “no”

In some of the countries I’ve traveled to, it was nearly impossible to live a zero-waste lifestyle. Every purchase was wrapped in plastic bags. Sometimes, only one or two items were placed in a bag before the next one was pulled out. Learn to say “no” here. You’ll get the hang of it quickly. The same goes for straws, plastic cutlery, etc. If you’re friendly and do it with a smile, no one will hold it against you! If you’re too slow, just use the bag a second or third time!

12.) Get involved!

There are many ways to get involved during a sustainable trip, such as participating in beach clean-ups, visiting an animal sanctuary, or lending a hand with environmental projects. Ask your accommodations if they know of any initiatives or organizations you can participate in. Exercise caution when visiting animal sanctuaries. Our article on animal welfare while traveling covers what you should look out for.

However, you don’t need an organization to get involved. All you need is a trash bag and a little motivation. Simply pick up any trash you see while walking or hiking. If you don’t have a large trash bag, take the bag from your last shopping trip or at least one piece of trash with you and dispose of it. Small steps also lead to achieving your goal.

And then? What you can do from home

13.) Spread the Word!

A sustainable trip doesn’t stop when you leave your vacation spot. When you travel sustainably, the experiences are more intense, so you may need more time to process them.

You can use the awareness and energy you brought back from your trip right after you return. Often we have little time during the trip to truly recommend organizations and accommodations in detail. Now you can do that from home and reminisce all over again automatically.

Ways to endorse sustainable organizations,  vendors, and accommodations from home:

• Write Google and TripAdvisor reviews
• Tell family and friends about your trip
• Support the provider on Instagram, TikTok, and Co.
• Hotels usually have their review platforms: Take the time to leave a positive review there, too, if you were satisfied.
• Make recommendations among postings and blogs

14.) Compensate your emissions.

Your trip will not be completely emission-free. Sometimes, it is difficult or impossible to avoid CO2 emissions. However, you can offset these emissions through providers such as Atmosfair. This means you pay a certain amount, which these initiatives then pass on to sustainable projects that save or bind CO2. Pay close attention to how transparent the compensation company is. Caution is advised, especially with tree-planting offers. Other areas, such as renewable energy and switching to CO2-saving technologies, are often more effective contributions to climate protection.

However, “offset” does not mean that your emissions and resource consumption are actually reversed. Therefore, it is best to cause as few emissions as possible, or ideally, none at all. Only emissions that are truly unavoidable should be offset by you or the organization of your choice.

15.) Keep a lasting record of your travel experiences.

At the end of a trip, you too probably have tons of photos sitting on your memory card. What used to be photo albums are now professionally printed photo books for most people. Here, too, you can look for a sustainable production method, after all, keeping the memories is also part of a sustainable trip. The paper, for example, should be FSC-certified or even recycled. There are now also more environmentally friendly alternatives to the classic, mineral oil-based inks. By the way: If you already keep a travel journal during your sustainable trip, it will be easier for you to sort it later 😉

Tip from Katharina from the editorial team: Digital photo albums

I save my travel photos in a separate album and share them with my travel companions and family. This allows me to easily display my travel memories on my friends’ smart TVs or on my phone in a café.

Why you don’t have to be perfect—A final word

After hearing all these tips, you may feel like sustainable travel is an insurmountable challenge. Maybe you think that with everything you have to consider, traveling won’t be fun anymore. Maybe you’re thinking about all the mistakes you’ve made while traveling.

These thoughts have one thing in common: they slow us down. Instead of getting started, we do nothing. But small steps are enough. For example, you could refuse a plastic bag here or book a tour with a local company there. These actions add up to make your trip more sustainable and improve the world.

Our bonus tip for sustainable travel: You don’t have to be perfect.

Your next vacation doesn’t have to be the epitome of sustainable travel. Neither are ours! We want to inspire you to get started with our sustainable travel tips. Depending on where you are in your travel life right now, we want to help you either get started or keep going. If we all travel sustainably, even imperfectly, it’s better than if nothing changes.

So, what will you do first? Right now, choose one thing that you will do on your next trip. Don’t click away until you’ve decided! No cheating! If you’d like, share your choice with us in the comments or on Instagram!

FAQ: Nachhaltig reisen

“What does sustainable travel mean?”

Sustainable travel means minimizing your environmental impact by choosing eco-friendly transportation and accommodations, for example. In doing so, you demonstrate respect for nature, local cultures, and the people you encounter. The goal is for your trip to have a positive ecological, economic, and social impact on the region.

“Does sustainable travel mean giving up luxury?”

Contrary to popular belief, sustainable travel does not mean sacrificing comfort and luxury. Fine dining can include regional ingredients and vegan options. Spas can use green electricity, and luxurious suites can be made with eco-friendly materials. Natural cosmetics can replace conventional treatments without compromising effectiveness, and they often create an additional connection to the region when local products are used. Almost every travel experience has a sustainable alternative – without having to make any sacrifices.

“How can I reduce my carbon footprint while traveling?”

Choose the most climate-friendly means of transportation possible, such as trains instead of planes. Avoid domestic flights, and plan your itinerary carefully to save on travel. Stay in sustainably managed accommodations. Some Green PearlsⓇ accommodations generate all their own electricity using geothermal probes and solar panels, such as the Eco-Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol and the Hotel Milano Scala in Milan. Other partners use 100% green electricity, which significantly reduces their carbon footprint even when saunas and luxury amenities are included. When eating out, look for restaurants with short supply chains. CO₂ offsetting can also be a useful final step.

“What modes of transportation are the most environmentally friendly?”

Excluding hiking and cycling, current calculations show that traveling by train or long-distance bus is the most climate-friendly option, as these modes of transportation have the lowest CO₂ emissions per person. Electric and conventional cars follow, but only if several people are traveling together. Air travel performs significantly worse, especially for short-haul flights. Cruise ships are the worst for the climate, causing the highest emissions per capita.

This article is an update to the original published on November 25, 2022.

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„Our guests often comment on how little details demonstrate our deep commitment to sustainability – this sparks conversation and inspires them to make changes at home, too.“ – Hotel Korinjak, Croatia

1. Energy: Impactful rethinking

Energy is the largest source of CO₂ emissions, and coal-to-electricity conversion is the biggest contributor. Even small changes in our daily lives can have a significant impact here.

• Switch electricity providers: Choose genuine green electricity from 100% renewable sources. Make an informed decision to avoid electricity generated from fossil fuels and nuclear power. Although the latter produces less CO₂, it poses enormous environmental and human risks. (For Germany, Utopia offers a good comparison of green electricity providers.)
• Purchase energy-efficient appliances: Look for the best energy rating when buying anything from toasters to washing machines. As the Hotel Milano Scala explains, this is particularly noticeable in hotel kitchens. The hotel opts for energy-saving models when purchasing new ovens and hobs. The Milan city hotel obtains its electricity from geothermal probes and is known as a “zero-emission hotel”.
• Use a mains isolator : With a so-called bioelectric switch, you can disconnect the power supply to all devices, including Wi-Fi, at the touch of a button in the evening. No standby, no lights. According to guests at the Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Liguria, this has noticeably improved their sleep quality.
• Turn off the lights, turn down the heating, and save water: Simple but effective. At the family-run Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, with views of the Matterhorn, stylishly designed notices in the rooms remind guests to use energy and resources consciously, even on vacation.

2. Save plastic: Conserve resources and avoid waste

Avoiding single-use plastic is an easy way to start living more consciously. If you would like to learn more, we recommend the article “Goodbye Single-Use Plastic.” In the meantime, here are a few examples to get you started:

• Avoid disposable items, such as straws, cups, and stirrers. The Hotel Korinjak on the island of Iz in Croatia has adopted this policy and has already saved a significant amount of waste.
• Wooden coffee capsules are a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to plastic. The Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, for example, uses Rezemo’s wooden coffee capsules. “We focus on sustainable details that make a big difference,” reports the luxury resort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District..
• Reusable instead of Tetra Paks: The Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony reports: “We have switched to reusable bottles for our oat milk. It’s incredible how much waste we’ve saved. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.”
• Instead of buying water bottles, refill them. The APIPURA hotel rinner, located in South Tyrol, is a member of Refill and has noticed that significantly fewer water bottles are ending up in the trash. The Refill app makes it easy to find a refill station near you.

3. Rethinking water: conscious enjoyment

While we’re on the subject of water, a precious commodity, be aware that having clean water come straight out of your tap is a great treasure. Using it sensibly is a fair and environmentally friendly practice.

• Drink tap water instead of bottled water. This reduces the need for transportation and packaging, thereby conserving resources. According to Klaus Pichler, the host of the Hotel Weihrerhof, guests have positively received this change. The hotel is located at 1,200 meters above sea level on the Ritten plateau in South Tyrol and enjoys excellent water quality.
• Bottle spring water and donate the proceeds. For example, the wellness hotel My Arbor near Brixen does this with pure Plose spring water. “For every bottle sold, we donate one euro to regional organizations such as the White Cross or the volunteer fire department,” the hosts report. Idea for home: Switch from bottled water to tap water and calculate how much money you save. Donate that amount. In my opinion, a suitable organization is “WIR — Water Is Right,” which campaigns for clean drinking water worldwide..

4. Food and Cuisine: Regional, organic, and mindful

Our food choices directly impact the environment. Many hotels are embracing conscious cuisine, and so can you.

• Your own herb garden & homemade herbal tea: Growing your own herbs is possible even if you don’t have much space, and you can use them in the kitchen. The Hotel Korinjak in Croatia also uses its own herbs to make herbal tea blends. Guests can enjoy the tea free of charge throughout the day as a refreshing drink — it’s sustainable, tasty, and personalized! Maybe this is something you could do at home, too?
• Vegan Cuisine: Adopting a vegan lifestyle doesn’t require a total transformation. Try going without animal products for one meal or one day and enjoying plant-based foods instead. Studies and calculations consistently demonstrate that a vegan diet is the most climate-friendly. According to the German Federal Environment Agency and Statista, the average meat eater causes 1,730 kg of CO2 emissions, the average vegetarian causes 1,280 kg, and the average vegan causes 1,040 kg. The Hotel LA VIMEA in Naturns, was the first completely vegan hotel in Italy. This move has been beneficial in terms of saving resources and has led to other hotels and restaurants following suit.
• Use organic products : Organic options are generally more environmentally friendly, particularly since they don’t involve pesticides. This benefits soil health, groundwater protection, and biodiversity. The OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol reports: “Using so many organic products (wines, beer, tea, bread, dairy products, etc.) was the right decision and fits perfectly with the house’s energy self-sufficiency.” However, make sure the organic products are regional and haven’t been flown in from elsewhere.
• Local produce: Some Green Pearls® accommodations, such as My Arbor in South Tyrol and Gut Sonnenhausen in Bavaria, have their own farms. This means the food is particularly fresh and sustainable, benefiting both the environment and customers. Perhaps you could grow your own vegetables or find a nearby farm stand.
• Enjoy organic, fair-trade coffee: There are products you regularly buy, such as coffee. Take a look at the label to see if the plantation workers are treated fairly and if the plantations are cultivated organically. Since switching brands, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt now serves coffee that is more environmentally friendly and fairer. What’s more, host Fabienne Anthamatten enthuses that it “tastes delicious.”

5. Cleaning products: Less chemicals, more nature

Less is more, and this applies to cleaning products as well. Many hotels have long used eco-friendly alternatives that are gentle on the environment and our health. You can pick up a few tips for your home here.

• Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products: These products are not only biodegradable, but also free from harsh ingredients. At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, a hiking hotel in the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park, these products are used with great success. This results in fewer chemicals in the air and wastewater, which is better for people and nature.
• Reconsider dosage: In most cases, a significantly smaller amount than what we would typically use or what is indicated on the packaging is sufficient. It is also worth taking a closer look at the recommended dosage for laundry detergent and dishwashing liquid, as it depends on the hardness of the water. Using them carefully conserves resources and saves money.
• Make your own alternative cleaning products: Vinegar, baking soda, and citric acid are surprisingly effective and easy to combine. Why not give them a try? (Here, you can find our recipe for an all-purpose DIY cleaner.)

6. Bathrooms: Small adjustments, big impact

You can also make a big difference in your bathroom without sacrificing comfort.

• Natural cosmetics from dispensers: Instead of small, single-use packages, many hotels are choosing refillable dispensers containing certified natural cosmetics. Read this article to find out which brands our partners use. Large and refill packs are also available for your own bathroom.
• Products without packaging waste: Liquid soap, shampoo, and shower gel can be purchased as solid products. There are also reusable cotton pads, wooden miswak toothbrushes, and many other sustainable alternatives.

7. Sustainability in everyday life: consciously choosing and caring for textiles

Textiles, such as bed linens, towels, and clothing, are always with us. Making conscious choices in this area can greatly benefit the environment and climate:

• Reuse towels: This is a classic hotel habit that also works at home—and one that you probably (hopefully!) already practice. You can wash other textiles, such as jeans, much less frequently if you hang them up to air out. This will help your clothes last longer.
• Sustainable Washing: Wash your clothes less often, at lower temperatures, and without fabric softener. This will extend the life of your clothes and protect the environment. This applies to both hotel laundries and home washing machines. Even choosing an eco-friendly detergent is a step in the right direction. Read this article to learn more about eco-friendly detergents and alternatives.

• Organic cotton and fair production: Look for labels such as GOTS or the Fair Wear Foundation when making your next purchase. These labels guarantee environmental standards and fair working conditions.

8. Mobility: Travel more gently

The way we travel has a significant impact on our carbon footprint. However, traveling sustainably can also be inspiring and adventurous.

• Take the train instead of a plane: For travel within Europe, the train is often a comfortable alternative. (See our article on new night train routes here.)
  Some Green Pearls® hotels, such as the Hotel Klosterbräu in South Tyrol, offer pickup services from the train station, allowing you to travel without a car. The Hotel Klosterbräu provides guests traveling by train with free e-bikes and e-scooters for their entire stay.
• Use e-bikes and public transportation: The APIPURA hotel rinner offers its guests a 50% discount on e-bike rentals. There is also the RittenCard, which allows you to use all local transportation, including the cable car, free of charge. This means you can enjoy your vacation without a car. What is your everyday situation? Could you get to work by e-bike? Not only would this be more environmentally friendly, it would also be much healthier!
• Discover nearby vacations: Does it always have to be a long flight? There are often beautiful, sustainable travel destinations right on your doorstep, which means fewer emissions and more time to enjoy yourself. Why don’t you take a look at Green PearlsⓇ to see if there’s a great place to stay in your area. 😉

9. Living and promoting regionality

Regionality, whether in the furnishings or at breakfast, creates a sense of closeness to the surrounding area and strengthens local cycles. For example, the Hotel Das Rübezahl, located near Neuschwanstein Castle in the Allgäu region, exhibits works by local artists that can be purchased on site. The hotel also produces its own honey. While this cannot be replicated exactly at home, you can check if similar products are available locally.

An example? Last week, I ordered a birthday present for my brother. He wanted a so-called “useless box.” Amazon sells these things, which are made in China and packaged in Styrofoam. Although I couldn’t find a truly sustainable producer on Etsy, I discovered a local craftsman with a simple, homemade website. I decided to support him instead. My brother thinks the workmanship is excellent. 🙂

10. Preserving and bringing nature to life

Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrifice; it creates new experiences and connections.

• Flower seed cards as gifts: These are available to guests at the Hotel Klosterbräu and the Schwarzwald Panorama, for example. Guests can plant the seeds at home to promote biodiversity in their gardens.
• A potted Christmas trees – reusable instead of cut down — as practiced by the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt and the Hotel Luise in Erlangen, for example. Read more about guilt-free Christmas trees here.
• Composting instead of throwing things away – can also be done in your own garden. At the STURM in Mellrichstadt, organic waste is composted and the resulting soil is used for the hotel’s snack garden. Portions are adapted to individual guests during “live cooking” to avoid food waste.

Conclusion: Even small changes in our daily lives can have a significant impact on sustainability.

Even a thousand-step journey starts with one step. And if each of us takes one step, it all adds up. Each time you make a conscious decision, such as drinking tap water, buying organic coffee, or taking your bike instead of your car, you’re making the world a little more sustainable.

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Are you specifically looking for sustainable hotels with childcare? Or are you looking for inspiration for your next adventure-filled family vacation? Then take a look at these two articles:
 👉Sustainable hotels with childcare and babysitting services
 👉 Family summer vacation – 12 sustainable ideas

 

12 sustainable family hotels in Germany and Austria (and a bonus tip from Peru)

A sustainable family hotel should offer spacious family rooms, preferably in a manageable, safe environment with plenty of nature to play and explore. Other important factors include child-friendly amenities such as a playground, opportunities to meet other children, and a mindful use of resources.

Green family vacation in Germany: sustainable hotels between the coast and Alps

Whether it’s a farm, a lifestyle hotel, or a green spot in the city, sustainable accommodations in Germany show how family time and environmental awareness can go hand in hand. Here are our recommendations:

Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance – Family time with the scent of wood and the atmosphere of a pony farm

During the holidays, the idyllically situated Naturresort Gerbehof near Friedrichshafen turns into a small paradise for families. While the resort is for adults only outside of vacation periods, families with children are especially welcome during Easter, Whitsun, and summer vacation (Baden-Württemberg/Bavaria). Younger guests can enjoy a lovingly designed forest playground with a tree house, swing, trampoline and carousel – naturally all made of wood. Because just like the furniture in the hotel, everything was handcrafted locally from wood from the resort’s own forest.

Highlights include pony rides and horseback riding lessons for children. In addition, many vehicles, such as toy tractors and bobby cars, provide exercise and adventure. Parents can relax in the sauna cabins or on the Kneipp trail while the kids play.

Gut Sonnenhausen, Upper Bavaria – Family Workation

The kids are on vacation, but mom and/or dad are not, or at least not completely? This year, Gut Sonnenhausen has found a solution: “Family Workation”. A combined offer for everyone who wants to combine family time and flexible work.

The sustainable Green PearlsⓇ accommodation is nestled among permaculture gardens, organic farms and ancient fruit trees – a place full of history, creativity and tranquility. The vacation program is not just for kids, but for the whole family. Whether baking pizza together, shaping bread rolls, or taking guided garden tours with blind tastings, parents and children can enjoy small adventures together. Handicrafts with natural materials, animal encounters and night walks with flashlights provide plenty of variety.

For those who need to work on the go, a separate room offers not only stable Wi-Fi, but also peace and quiet to help you focus.

• For more information, visit the website.

Green City Hotel Vauban, Freiburg – Family-friendly rooms with a roof terrace

Are you planning a city break, heading south or just want to spend a few days exploring Freiburg? Then the Green City Hotel Vauban is the perfect place for you. It is located on the edge of the car-free Vauban district, right next to the tram stop. Thanks to the free regional ticket, you can travel around Freiburg and the surrounding area by bus and train for free – a relaxed and sustainable way to get around.

The hotel is especially popular with families on vacation. The spacious suite with two bedrooms, a sofa bed in the living room and a private roof terrace is ideal for families. There is also a maisonette-style family room.

• For ideas and tips on excursions, check out our article on a sustainable weekend in Freiburg.
• And if you plan to travel on to Italy, check out our blog and website for information on new Italian train connections for a relaxing onward journey by rail.

Lifestylehotel SAND, Timmendorfer Strand – Family time with grown-up children

Who says that family always means parents and children? At Lifestylehotel SAND, family is redefined. Siblings, cousins, grown-up children with their parents… Hostess Marion Muller sums it up: “An adults-only hotel does not exclude family friendliness.” Spend the day together, bike along the coast, share your experiences by the fire in the evening – yet everyone has their own space and can live at their own pace. Thanks in part to a late breakfast served until 1 p.m.

Just a short walk from the sea, the hotel is quietly located in the second row, yet right in the heart of the action. Relax on the roof terrace, recharge your batteries and enjoy mindful moments together – with sea breeze and sand beneath your feet.

• Here are some tips for sustainable activities in Timmendorfer Strand.

Holidays with children in Austria: Sustainable accommodations in Tyrol

Whether you’re alone in a cozy vacation home or together with grandma and grandpa in a traditional hotel, Tyrol offers families the ideal mix of nature, relaxation and shared experiences.

Summit Lodges Pfunds, Tyrol – Family vacation in your own log cabin

Two log cabin-style vacation homes surrounded by mountains and nature – Summit Lodges Pfunds is a retreat for those who appreciate authenticity and tranquility. Families who enjoy hiking or want to take advantage of the proximity to the family region of Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis (only 20 minutes away) will find a cozy home away from home here. Even without a playground or entertainment program, you will feel right at home here thanks to the clean air, nature right outside your door, and the relaxed atmosphere.

Hotel Klosterbräu, Seefeld: Grandparents stay for free

At the traditional Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol, Austria, family time is taken very seriously – with an offer for multi-generational travel: when parents, children and grandparents travel together, grandma or grandpa stays free. The Seyrling family has run the hotel for six generations, and the seventh generation can already be found in the hotel’s kids’ club or, their favorite spot, the petting zoo.

• During the holiday season, special rates are available and childcare is provided.

Family Trip to Peru – Sustainable adventures in the rainforest and the Andes

Inkaterra Hotels, Peru – Family experiences between jungle and ruins.

Have you ever wanted to explore the jungle with your kids or experience the magic of Machu Picchu? Inkaterra’s three sustainable hotels in Peru – Reserva Amazónica, Hacienda Urubamba, and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – make it possible.

Each hotel offers special family programs (3 days/2 nights each) that have something for everyone, young and old. Whether it’s jungle trekking, wildlife watching or cultural experiences, discovery becomes a shared adventure. The packages are perfectly tailored for families and include additional services for both adults and children.

• Very practical: At the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, the Family Package is designed specifically for two adults and two children under the age of 12.

Share the journey – and the responsibility

When multiple generations travel together, you truly realize the importance of treating the world with care and respect-for ourselves and for those who come after us. Sustainability is not just a trend; it is a responsibility we all share.

A family vacation at one of these hotels will not only give you new impressions but also create special memories that will last a lifetime.

Tip: Get inspiration and ideas for capturing your travel memories.

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