Male Solo Travel Role Models in the Media

Many people dream of taking a year off after school to travel the world or quitting their jobs to become travel bloggers, and (thanks in part to media hype) it seems as if they all succeed. Or at least, a lot of them. The truth is, very few do. Out of my entire graduating class of over 100 people, only one went solo traveling to Thailand. And he didn’t even become a travel blogger. How many do you know?

Travelers on YouTube are trending

Some male YouTubers that I enjoy watching with my family are Joe Khatab (Saudi Arabia, 18.3 million subscribers) and Ibn Battuta (Palestinian refugee from Jordan, 3.1 million followers). Both make a living from traveling and have been on the road alone for years.

Johnny Ward left Ireland in 2006. Since then, he has traveled to every country in the world in 11 years and earned around $3 million with his blog, “oneStep4ward”. (However, he is no longer traveling alone, as he has married and settled in Thailand with his wife. He discusses this in his post about visiting Keemala in Phuket in cooperation with us.)

Traveling to Improve the World

Many men seek adventure while traveling. Some do so sustainably and try to help others along the way. For example, I found the late German survival expert Rüdiger Nehberg very likable.

“Can one person really make the world a better place? Of course, who else!” –  Rüdiger Nehberg

Douglas Maclagan, an Englishman, also traveled alone in his younger years until fate brought him to Nepal. There, he built the sustainable resort The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. Learn more about the inspiring story of the resort with impact here.

Today’s Solo Traveler (Findings from the ITB)

When the travel industry says that solo travel has recently become a trend for men, too, they are primarily referring to those who lead “normal” lives. For example, there’s Uwe, my father’s former colleague, born in 1960, who always books group tours for his solo vacations. (He books alone and connects with his fellow travelers.)

At the ITB Berlin 2025 tourism trade fair, Sonja Salzburger from the Süddeutsche Zeitung examined the solo travel trend.

Her findings and the resulting 2026 forecasts

• Many solo travelers are older (One indication of this is that, according to Tui, solo travelers prefer to arrange meetings via Facebook.)
• They are not tied to vacation periods and prefer to travel in the off-season
• According to a Tui survey, only 4% travel alone because they lack travel partners.
• The most frequently cited reasons in the Tui survey are: “I value independence” (33%), “time for a personal challenge” (25%).
• According to the Research Association for Vacations and Travel (FUR), 11.1% of German vacationers (7.13 million) traveled alone in 2023
• Solo travelers do not differ from others in their choice of destinations.

Ready for a (sustainable) solo trip?

As you can see, when traveling alone, you don’t have to worry about seeming friendless. Instead, you can enjoy having time to yourself and being flexible, free, and independent. If you travel in the off-season, you’re also being sustainable because it spreads out tourism, secures jobs, and makes it easier to regulate environmental impact.

To make your trip more sustainable, there are two things you should keep in mind:

• Getting there (by train, if possible, to be eco-friendly)
• Accommodation (here, of course, we recommend our Green Pearl® partners)

Sustainable vacation packages for solo male travelers

We asked our network which Green PearlsⓇ hotels often welcome male solo travelers and if any have special offers for this group.

“Men’s Active Health” at OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the Canary Island of Tenerife (with a warm climate all year round) is one hotel where you will find many solo travelers. The hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean and offers wellness programs, fasting cures, and health programs. “More women travel alone because of the focus on yoga, wellness, and the spa,” says Simone Schleicher from the hotel. “But we also have a steady stream of men traveling alone.”

There is a special activity program designed for this target group to help them achieve a defined shape and increase their energy levels:

• Single room with a sea view
• Health spa diet (made with regional, organic ingredients)
• Use of the spa area, including the thalassotherapy pool, fitness center, saunas, and seawater pool
• Introductory consultation with a doctor and HRV (heart rate variability) measurement
• Three therapeutic treatments
• Three personal training sessions
• One foot reflexology massage
• One Express Power Lift for Men
• Five free sessions in the yoga and relaxation program

To the offer: OCÉANO Men’s Active Health

“Me Time” at the My Arbor Tree Hotel in South Tyrol

Would you rather be in the mountains than at the beach? If so, the adults-only, sustainable hotel My Arbor near Brixen is a great choice. At this luxurious wellness hotel, you can enjoy the solar-powered sauna and meet other solo travelers. The hotel welcomes guests aged 16 and older and ensures that they can tailor their stay to their preferences.

“We have indeed noticed an increase in solo travel. Solo travelers are certainly welcome here and can choose from a wide variety of activities.” —Alexandra Huber, My Arbor host family

The trend of solo travel is popular among both women and men. Although there are no special offers exclusively for men, the MY SPECIAL TIME offer is suitable for everyone.

Sustainable hotels for motorcyclists/bikers?

The Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy, reports that men who travel alone often come for a biker getaway, some of whom have already formed groups beforehand. As a motorcyclist, you’re never really alone. “They enjoy motocross tours in the mountains and cold beer on our terrace,” says Martina Dellarbar. The hotel itself is an Albergo Diffuso, or a dispersed hotel, spread across several former residential and commercial buildings in the village of Borgomaro.

Bikers frequently check in as guests at the STURM Wellness Hotel in Mellrichstadt, Germany. Before the hotel transitioned to offering only organic, natural, and sustainable products and services, it was a “biker hotel,” which many guests fondly remember.

Solo male travelers are welcome guests at the STURM. Julius Schulze-Diekhoff, a member of the host family, reveals that a special offer for men is already in the works.

Question: Is vacationing by motorcycle environmentally friendly?

It depends primarily on the type of motorcycle you have. As the ADAC explains in its 2025 market report, electric motorcycles are still relatively rare. In contrast, some of the latest motorcycle models are 20 times dirtier than cars with combustion engines because they have huge engines. In other calculations, a motorcycle performs better than a car if only one person is in the car.

However, the problem is that motorcycling is usually practiced as a “leisure sport” and thus blows extra CO2 into the air. Therefore, we only consider electric motorcycles to be acceptable as a “hobby.” If at all. Here, it works out well: Both the Relais del Maro and the STURM provide electric charging stations 🙂

“Men’s time out” at the Hotel Das Rübezahl

As a man, you don’t necessarily have to drink beer and ride motorcycles (honestly, we can return that cliché to the 90s). In 2026, men can treat themselves to a wellness retreat. That’s at least how the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region sees it. They offer back massages, head and neck massages, and a four-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant—just for you! Wouldn’t that be nice?

• Click here for the offer: Men’s Package! 16.06.2025 – 23.12.2025, Hotel Das Rübezahl

Men traveling alone and sustainably

As you can see, the world is your oyster when traveling alone, and many hotels have special offers just for you. A recent survey showed that many people use solo travel for self-reflection.

Consider your relationship with your environment and the planet. Every decision you make has an impact, and that includes travel. By choosing the hotels we’ve introduced you to, you can help make travel more sustainable.

Der Beitrag This is what solo travel for men will look like in 2026 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.

Some tell tales of royal splendor, while others recount great upheavals. Together, they demonstrate that history isn’t confined to museums; it can be experienced along hiking trails and in your sustainable hotel. Here, our Green PearlsⓇ partners reveal which sights their guests find particularly fascinating.

The history of Bavaria between royalty and nationhood

Let’s start with Bavaria, Germany’s most visited federal state. This remains true for both German and foreign visitors, according to a Statista survey from 2024. Thanks to its proximity to the Alps, Bavaria is an ideal destination for hiking and outdoor vacations. There is also an abundance of wellness hotels, some of which are committed to sustainability and Green Pearls™ partners.

In addition to hiking and wellness, there are historical sites to explore! Bavaria has many historical buildings that tell the story of a time when regional identity and national aspirations were closely intertwined. In the Upper Palatinate, for instance, King Ludwig I commissioned the construction of Walhalla, an impressive monument to this day. Built in an ancient style, this temple honors notable figures in German history and embodies the concept of unity long before modern German national consciousness emerged.

The House of Bavarian History in Regensburg is close by and provides vivid information about the development of Bavaria and its role in German history.

Tip: Several events dedicated to King Ludwig I will take place until November 2025, marking the 200th anniversary of his accession to the throne.

Since 2025, Neuschwanstein Castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau in southern Bavaria are a testament to the self-image of King Ludwig II, grandson of King Ludwig I. He used these buildings to create a place of retreat and a romanticized ideal of rule. Known as the “Fairy-Tale King,” Ludwig II was King of Bavaria from 1864 to 1886. Neuschwanstein Castle therefore belongs to the modern era, despite its medieval appearance.

On July 12, 2025, Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Castle, Herrenchiemsee Castle, and the Royal Palace on Schachen were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Some of the suites at Hotel Das Rübezahl and the outdoor spa offer direct views of Neuschwanstein Castle, which looks like something from a fairy tale. You won’t have to wait in line to see it! Instead, you can enjoy the warm water of the outdoor pool or your morning coffee on your balcony. The hotel offers exactly that combination of wellness and hiking vacations, which are popular at the moment, along with a hiking concierge (Bergbaschdi) and historical sights. Additionally, the hotel is sustainably oriented, using renewable energies and serving regional organic cuisine.

A hotel in a historic country estate

Some accommodations even have a rich history within their very own walls: Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, for example, dates back to an early 20th-century stud farm. Over 120 years ago, Munich architect Wilhelm Spannagel built it in the English style, and host Georg Schweisfurth converted the stud farm (along with a farmhouse dating from 1800) into a sustainable hotel. Stylishly furnished, the hotel features a blend of modern and traditional elements. For instance, antique farmhouse cabinets from various sources were purchased and restored for the bedrooms.

Regional history and old borders

Germany’s history as a patchwork of principalities, duchies, and free cities is evident even today in many small, often inconspicuous traces in the landscape. Take the northern Black Forest, for example, where hikers come across old boundary stones—silent witnesses to a time when Baden and Württemberg were independent states.

Guests at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA hotel in Bad Herrenalb can follow these historical traces. Many of the stones bear the letters “B” for Baden and “W” for Württemberg. They mark a border that once separated the two regions but now symbolizes their union.

Similarly, the employees at Schwarzwald Panorama have grown together as a team as well. As host Stephan Bode told us in an interview, the team is made up of people from many different countries, all working to make the wellness hotel in the climatic health resort a pioneer in sustainability with a holistic zero-waste strategy and organic food.

The division of Germany — and what remains of it

Following the development of the federal states into an empire, then a republic (the Weimar Republic), and finally the German Nazi Reich, another significant period in recent German history was the division of the country into East and West Germany. Following World War II, Germany was divided in 1949 into the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) in the west and the German Democratic Republic (GDR) in the east—a division that lasted until the country’s reunification on October 3, 1990.

While the Berlin Wall is the first thing that comes to mind for many when this topic is mentioned—it was a symbol of the Cold War and the site of dramatic escape attempts—there were numerous other places along the inner-German border where the division was palpable.

One such place is Mellrichstadt, located in the Bavarian Rhön region just a few kilometers from the former border. The Berkach border memorial here commemorates the GDR’s security installations — an old watchtower still stands today, only about 300 meters from the current Bavarian-Thuringian state border. Those who want to learn more can visit the Border Museum in Eußenhausen. Together with the German Unity Sculpture Park, it makes for a worthwhile day trip..

The STURM, now a sustainable hotel and member of Green PearlsⓇ, is nearby. Built in the 1970s as a classic clinker brick building, the hotel benefited from border tourism at the time. Today, it stands for mindful organic living, eco-friendly architecture, and the serene beauty of the Rhön, showing how places with history can reinvent themselves.

Immerse yourself in the economic and migratory history of the region

The impact of diversity and exchange on regions is particularly evident in former trading cities and places of immigration. These areas continue to benefit from the knowledge, ideas, and energy of their former newcomers.

The European Hansemuseum in Lübeck, located in the north, is an impressive reminder of the Hanseatic League, a powerful alliance of cities that dominated Northern European trade for centuries. The main exhibition is available in four languages: German, Swedish, Russian, and English.

The Baltic and North Seas are also popular vacation destinations in Germany. Almost every German has visited one of them at least once in their life. The most popular places are those right on the beach, like Timmendorfer Strand, where our partner, SANDnature, is located. The adults-only lifestyle hotel boasts a natural flair and a great roof terrace.

Lübeck and the Hanse Museum are ideal destinations for a day trip — or, if you’re feeling athletic, by bike. The exhibition shows how international trade links shaped the Baltic Sea coast and how values such as trust, contracts, and alliances determined economic activity in the Middle Ages.

Huguenots

Further south, you will learn about the history of the Huguenots, who were forced to flee France in the 17th century. They settled in Erlangen, leaving a lasting impact on the city through their expertise in crafts, trade, and medicine.

Today, guided tours recount Erlangen’s eventful history as a “Huguenot city”—an impressive example of early modern migration and integration. The Hotel Luise is ideally located for exploring these historical sites on foot or by bike. It is designed to be sustainable through and through. There are “renewable hotel rooms” with “astronaut showers,” a private microforest, beehives, tables made from old refrigerators, and many other projects you should check out! The Wall of Change in the hotel lobby provides an overview where each project, no matter how small, is represented by a wooden leaf.

History isn’t always pleasant — hole prisons and nuclear bunkers

Erlangen and the surrounding citys like Nuremberg have other historically significant sites that may be difficult to understand, but which reveal a great deal about the country.

One such place is the “hole prisons,” small underground solitary cells in Nuremberg that can be visited on guided tours. Water, bread, and a little daylight – the only things that came through the “hole.”

The region contains many relics from the Nazi era and the postwar period. Examples include the former Nazi Party rally grounds in Nuremberg and the Cold War–era nuclear bunkers also located in Nuremberg.

Lake Constance – where contemporary history meets engineering excellence

The engineering prowess of the German people is a particular source of national pride. Evidence of this can be found everywhere, from the automotive industry to bridge construction, energy technology, and aerospace engineering.

The Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance commemorates a special milestone in German aviation history.

Did you know? The first Zeppelin, the LZ 1, took off on its maiden flight from Lake Constance on July 2, 1900 — an event that ushered in a new era of travel. The museum’s exhibition displays original parts and replicas and highlights the social significance of airship travel.

By the way, you can now experience the Zeppelin Museum through an escape game! You’ll hunt for secret Zeppelin plans and play your way through history.

If you’re looking for sustainable accommodations, check out the Naturresort Gerbehof nearby. This family-run hotel is quietly located between forests, apple orchards, and horse stables. It has a sauna and spa area and is a true retreat. Children are welcome during the holidays, and outside of the holidays, you can enjoy an adults-only atmosphere.

Travel at a turning point

Just as the Zeppelin once ushered in a new era of travel, we are now at a turning point. Sustainable travel is not just a trend; it’s a conscious step toward a future that considers people, the environment, and history.

When we travel mindfully, we write a new chapter for ourselves. And who knows? Perhaps this way of traveling will one day become part of our collective memory.

Other parts of this miniseries:

Part 1: Travel to the Early Days (What Glaciers and Caves Reveal)

Part 2: Travel like the Romans do

Part 3: Castles and Monasteries in the Middle Ages (and what the rest of the world looked like then)

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

Der Beitrag Discover historical treasures on vacation | Part 4: Experience modern German history erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Was everything just gloomy between 500 and 1500?

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

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

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

Experience the Middle Ages – from imperial palaces to fortified churches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostheim Fortified Church: Fortifications and Place of Refuge

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

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

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

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

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

Tyrol: Follow old customs trails through the mountains

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

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

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

South Tyrol: Between centers of power and mystical frescoes

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

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

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

The Kommende Lengmoos: Resting Place for Emperors

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

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

Looking beyond the horizon: The world between 500 and 1500

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

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

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

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

Africa, China, and South America

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do we really know about the Incas?

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

Stay, experience, and learn with Inkaterra Hotels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Save the article on Pinterest – that way, you’ll always have inspiration for your next trip at your fingertips.

Der Beitrag Green & Gorgeous: The most beautiful rooms in sustainable hotels worldwide erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

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.

You want to save this for later? Then save your favourite pin or simply use the button at the end.

Der Beitrag Sustainable travel at a glance: Background, facts and tips erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Nature conservation through tourism

If done right, wildlife tourism can also mean protection. In countries such as Kenya, for example, safari tourism is a mainstay of the economy. It generates revenue that finances national parks, secures habitats, and helps combat poaching. The years of the pandemic have shown that when tourists stay away, poaching increases. In Europe, birds of prey are particularly sought after by poachers, while rhinos are especially targeted in Africa.

The decisive factor is how and where you observe animals. Are they in their natural environment or are they an attraction? In our article, “Animal Welfare While Traveling,” we explain what responsible behavior toward animals looks like while traveling. We provide specific tips on topics such as selfies, feeding, souvenirs, rescue centers, and more.

If you would like to join us on our journey of respect for the animal world, here are a few places where you can do so in a sustainable way, including suitable accommodation!

#1 Safari in Nepal: On the trail of tigers and elephants

Amidst the dense jungles, lush green grasslands, and mysterious riverways of Nepal lies Chitwan National Park, the country’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a little luck, you can observe rare animals such as rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, sloth bears, and Ganges gavials—all in a sustainable way.

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, the eco-resort The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Pokhara (about a five-hour drive from the national park), highly recommends safaris with its partner, Tiger Tops. The small, family-run lodge is located on the edge of the park and offers a comfortable, nature-immersive experience, whether you choose a charming room or one of nine safari tents in the middle of the jungle.

Tiger Tops has worked closely with the International Trust for Nature Conservation (ITNC) for decades, supporting conservation projects such as the Long-Term Tiger Monitoring Project and Nepal’s first Ganges Gavial Breeding Program. The Ganges Gavial is the only surviving member of the Gavialis genus in the crocodile family.

Elephant riding? No, thank you

When you think of an Asian safari, elephant rides probably come to mind. But did you know that this practice causes the animals enormous stress? That’s why, in 2015, Tiger Tops stopped offering elephant safaris and developed a new, more respectful concept.

Rather than riding the elephants, you spend the day with them in a different way. You can watch them eat, rest, and run around while getting to know their different personalities. They live on an 18-hectare site where they have plenty of space to move around, socialize, and relax. This fosters a quiet closeness, allowing you to learn not only about elephants but also about yourself and your impact as a traveler.

By choosing this option, you support a new model for elephant treatment and set an example for sustainable travel in Nepal.

Spend the night and make an impact — back to Pokhara!

Rajiv, the manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, recommended Tiger Tops to us. In the Pokhara region, responsibility and impact are also important: organic farming, social engagement, and a charity project to protect women and children.

👉 Read the full story here:
Tourism with Impact: A resort in Nepal combats child mortality and human trafficking

#2 Underwater World – Encounters with dolphins, coral, and porpoises

Croatia: Dolphins around the Island of Iž

Are you looking for peace and quiet in nature—and hoping to catch a glimpse of a dolphin? If so, the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž is the place for you. The island is located in the Adriatic Sea surrounded by pristine nature. With a little luck, you can spot the dolphins that live in its clear waters during a boat trip.

“Encountering the dolphins that inhabit the Zadar archipelago is an unforgettable experience. I was there myself, and watching the animals was truly unforgettable. Seeing them swim and play made me feel like a child again—excited and happy.” – Anna from Hotel Korinjak

You can also spot wildlife on land, including seabirds, owls, and lizards, on hikes led by local guides. This is a great way to experience the island’s wild beauty. In an expression of its love for animals, the hotel avoids using any meat, milk, or eggs.

Maldives: Protecting the Coral Reefs at Gili Lankanfushi

The Maldives’ underwater world is breathtaking—and seriously endangered. Climate change and pollution have already destroyed many reefs. And tourism is not entirely blameless…. However, at Gili Lankanfushi, you can be part of the solution. Here, you can observe marine biologists breeding new corals and learn how the fragile ecosystem functions in lectures. If you can dive, you can actively participate in cleaning up the ocean or building new coral lines. Your commitment will have a positive impact here. Read our blog article to find out more about sustainable vacations in the Maldives.

Germany: Porpoises in the Baltic Sea

Did you know that porpoises still inhabit the Baltic Sea, making it one of the last whale species in German waters? If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them from the Lifestylehotel SAND when the sea is calm. The hotel actively supports the protection of these endangered animals because, as they say, “Whale protection is climate protection.”

If you’re curious about encountering one of these rare animals in the wild, read this report by Beatrice from Reisezeilen. She stayed at the Lifestylehotel SAND and had the following experience when the porpoises appeared.

 👉 Click here for the article

#3 Nature and national parks in the Alps and Middle Franconia

Dolomites: Wild animals right outside your hotel door

At the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel in the heart of the Dolomites, your nature adventure begins right at your doorstep. The vegan-friendly hotel sits at an elevation of over 2,000 meters in the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, a UNESCO-protected area. While hiking around the hotel, you may encounter deer, foxes, marmots, mountain goats, eagles, and falcons. The Schlern forests are also home to a variety of species, including berry-bearing dwarf shrubs, woodpeckers, owls, and capercaillies, which are large wild grouse.
 👉 Learn more about the Schlerm-Rosengarten Nature Park here.

Hohe Tauern National Park: Out and about with a Ranger

The Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Austria. It preserves the stunning Alpine landscape surrounding towering peaks over three thousand meters high, such as the Großglockner, Großvenediger, and Kitzsteinhorn. Due to its size, the park is home to nearly all of the Alps’ animal and plant species. Alpine ibexes, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles inhabit this area, and experienced rangers are highly trained to guide you through their habitats (and help you find them, which can be difficult).

If you stay at Naturhotel Outside, you will receive a free guided ranger tour. In addition, the hotel has its own hiking guides and an in-house hiking concierge who provided insider tips on Hohe Tauern National Park in this article. Other highlights include the large wellness area with several pools and the excellent cuisine. The restaurant has been awarded three Falstaff forks.

Middle Franconia: Wild horses and a microforests

Just a few kilometers from the Hotel Luise in Erlangen lies the extraordinary Tennenloher Forest nature reserve, home to wild horses, goats, and rare bird species. Various guided tours are also offered here. However, the wild horse tour requires a minimum of 15 participants.

There is also plenty to discover on the hotel grounds because, despite being a city hotel, biodiversity is promoted here. A microforest has been planted right in front of the hotel and is already home to hedgehogs, dragonflies, frogs, and squirrels.

#4 Are wildlife enclosures sustainable?

From a sustainability perspective, wildlife enclosures themselves are not problematic; it’s the concept behind them that matters. Those that focus on species-appropriate husbandry, environmental education, and the protection of endangered species can be useful for conservation and protection, especially in areas with limited refuges. For these enclosures to be effective, it’s important to have large areas, natural habitats, and places of refuge for the animals. Additionally, educational work must be transparent and distinguish itself from pure animal entertainment, as found in zoos. So, when visiting a wildlife enclosure with your children or friends, take a closer look. Does the place serve to protect and educate? Or is it just for quick entertainment? Below are some enclosures recommended by our partners (some of which they run themselves):

Dobeltal Game Reserve — a Black Forest idyll in Bad Herrenalb

If you’re traveling with children or simply want to experience native wildlife up close, check out the Dobeltal Wildlife Park in the Black Forest. Not far from the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, you will find a small paradise with deer, roe deer, and wild boars nestled in the tranquil setting of the German model forest. The winding paths offer completely new perspectives of native animals in their natural habitat. Taking a walk here is a real nature experience, especially in autumn or winter.

Feichti wildlife enclosure — above the rooftops of Pfunds, on the Kobl

Deep in the forest and high above the Tyrolean village of Pfunds lies the Feichti wildlife reserve on the Kobl. From the end of May to the beginning of October, guided hikes are offered there free of charge on Fridays with the Summer Card. Perfect if you are staying at one of the Summit Lodges Pfunds! These two log cabins are eco-friendly vacation rentals with mountain views, private saunas, and fireplaces. From there, the climb to the wildlife enclosure takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive, you will find yourself in a peaceful forest clearing with views of deer, roe deer, and wild boars. Tip: Take the hiking bus for a relaxed, car-free experience of nature.

Wolf Center Dörverden: A fascinating encounter with the pack

Most of us will never see wolves in the wild. However, at the Wolfcenter Dörverden, you can observe these fascinating animals up close. Here, you will learn how wolves live and why they nearly disappeared from Western Europe. The Wolfcenter is clearly committed to education and considers its animals ambassadors for their wild counterparts. It’s an exciting trip for elementary school children and teenagers interested in wild animals (or Twilight 😉). We recommend staying at the nearby Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s, a family-run hotel with a cozy atmosphere, yoga, singing bowl massages, and a mindful lifestyle.

Naturresort Gerbehof — Wildlife watching right on the grounds

If you’re traveling to Lake Constance in search of sustainable relaxation, Naturresort Gerbehof is the perfect place for you. On the grounds, you will find an enclosure with pigs and wild boars, which is ideal for observing animals with children and learning about their way of life. With a little luck, you may even spot deer, foxes, or badgers in the surrounding area. It’s a perfect combination of contact with nature and a sustainable vacation in the countryside.

#5 Wildlife feeding in Schwangau: A winter tour with an “aha” moment

In the Allgäu region, a centuries-old tradition continues in the winter: feeding wild animals. Though it may seem like interference with nature at first, it is actually a protective measure for the forest. Without additional food, deer would nibble on young trees and endanger their own habitat in the long term. In Schwangau, hunters have set up permanent feeding stations, and the Hotel Das Rübezahl offers guided tours to them.

Hiking through the snow-covered landscape, whether on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, is a highlight in itself. When a deer suddenly emerges from the forest and slowly makes its way to the feeding station where you can watch it feed from a safe distance, it’s an unforgettable experience. The tours are led by mountain guide Baschdi or the Thurm family, who are the innkeepers and also share interesting facts about the region. Important to know: Dogs are not allowed during feeding time to protect the wild animals.

#6 Discover animals in their natural habitat

If you pay attention and take your time, you can spot wild animals on vacation without paying an admission fee or seeing any fences. Many of the sustainably managed Green PearlsⓇ accommodations are so close to nature that animal encounters are almost guaranteed, especially during the early morning or evening.

An early morning walk at the Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District is well worth it: deer, hares, and even foxes regularly appear on the forest paths around the hotel. The Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, South Tyrol, also offers great views — literally. From your room, you can watch squirrels, wild birds, and sometimes deer. You can also see Lake Wolfsgruben, which is used for swimming in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

If you stay at the OLM Nature Escape, an energy-self-sufficient aparthotel in Sand in Taufers, you have a good chance of seeing deer, wild hares, and foxes in the evening or at night. And all of this right in front of the aparthotel, which blends organically into the natural surroundings with its round design and is nestled in the valley. At STURM in the Rhön, species conservation becomes a vacation experience. Here, bees buzz in the garden, frogs croak in the natural pond, and the stars shine particularly brightly at night because the surrounding area has light protection zones where nocturnal insects also feel at home.

Conclusion: Experience wildlife with respect

Whether you’re on a safari, visiting a wildlife park, or participating in guided feeding sessions, or experiencing chance encounters at dusk, if you travel with your eyes open, you will see the diverse relationship between humans and animals in sustainable tourism. The key is to always maintain a respectful distance and understand that genuine animal encounters are facilitated, not staged. After all, the greatest nature experiences are often the quiet ones.

Save this article to Pinterest.

Der Beitrag Watching wild animals on vacation requires respect and patience erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

More than 25 sustainable ways to enjoy nature and the outdoors while on vacation

Although hiking is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, I understand why some people don’t enjoy it. Not everyone enjoys spending hours walking through the countryside with a heavy backpack. However, we all want to experience nature, and that’s healthy, too! Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to do so without hiking.

A gentle exploration of the Croatian island of Iž

The island of Iž is only 17 square kilometers in size and has a population of just over 500. If you stay here at the Hotel Korinjak, you’ll naturally spend all your time outdoors. Swimming at the wild Adriatic beaches, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and going on a boat trip to watch dolphins are just some of the water activities available there. The holistically oriented hotel also offers guided yoga on the terrace or forest meditation under pine and olive trees.

“The island’s gentle landscape is perfect for a leisurely exploration and sensory experience” – Hotel Korinjak

A sustainable, active vacation by the water

Green Pearls® offers a selection of sustainable hotels with direct access to natural bodies of water. In Germany, for instance, you’ll find the luxurious Hotel Der Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort atop a hill in the heart of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The region has over 800 hectares of water and is the most water-rich area in eastern Bavaria. Enjoy activities such as boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, sailing, rowing, and swimming — no hiking boots required!

The same is true of Lake Constance, the second largest Alpine lake in Europe spanning over 500 square kilometers. On its German shore, you’ll find the Naturresort Gerbehof , surrounded by apple trees and pastures. If hiking, swimming, or boating aren’t your thing, the Nature SPA and its garden area are ideal places to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

If you would prefer to have your own vacation home, we recommend the Summit Lodges Pfunds. These two Tyrolean log cabins have their own fireplace, sauna, and sleeping accommodations for up to six people. The region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes make it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts, but even those less interested in hiking will find activities to enjoy:

“You can go rafting and canyoning in Pfunds. The company is located directly in the village, and the starting point is nearby, depending on the route.” – Summit Lodges Pfunds

Read our article on sustainable water sports to find out how you can make water sports more sustainable and learn whether activities such as water skiing are really recommended.

Take a vacation at a lake in northern italy

At the South Tyrolean Hotel Weihrerhof, you will find yourself in an idyllic setting, situated on the shore of Lake Wolfsgruben. At an elevation of over 1,200 meters, the lake is one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy and offers many activities, including swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and rowing. You can even enjoy breakfast on the natural “breakfast island” in the middle of the lake. Your children can experience nature here while you relax with a good book on the lawn.

Sports on the Baltic Sea

The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand, located on the Baltic Sea, offers more than just a beach vacation. It also supports a wide range of sports on site. Every year, the “Triathlon Heroines” come to the hotel to train for their triathlons with running, swimming, and cycling. Furthermore there ist the German Beach Volleyball Championship and Beach Hockey, as well as the annual Baltic Sea Run, where the winners of the women’s and men’s races receive an overnight stay at the hotel.

A vegan active vacation in South Tyrol

Do you want to be active without hiking or getting wet? And enjoy plant-based cuisine at the same time? Here are some recommendations from our vegan partner hotels in South Tyrol.

“Our hotel is located in the Vinschgau region of South Tyrol. In addition to hiking trails, the surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for running, cycling, climbing, and Nordic walking.” – LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel

By the way, LA VIMEA is not only vegan but also exclusively for adults. For active vacationers, there is a three-day package called the “Active Vegan Getaway,” which includes e-bikes.

The famous Seiser Alm is home to yet another entirely vegan hotel. The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel reports the following:

“Our home is the Seiser Alm, Europe’s largest high alpine pasture located over 2,000 meters above sea level in a UNESCO-protected area. The Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park offers great opportunities for summer and winter sports: skiing and snowboarding in the winter and cycling, mountain biking, e-biking, running, climbing, Nordic walking, golfing, paragliding, and horseback riding in the summer. You can also spend quality time with your children at the barefoot park or meditate in front of picturesque panoramic landscapes. The unique charm and beauty of the Dolomites allow you to enjoy extraordinary energy no matter what you do.” – Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

Enjoy forest bathing and tranquility at My Arbor

Of course, there are quieter ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Hotel My Arbor, located near Brixen in South Tyrol, recommends that those who are not very keen on hiking simply take the gondola up to the Plose. “Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the fantastic view from the mountain station, grab a bite to eat, and sample some local dishes.” Incidentally, “My Arbor” means “my tree,” and the entire hotel is built among the treetops, fostering a special relationship with the forest. You can experience this during guided forest bathing, forest yoga, or outdoor meditation sessions.

• Click here for their weekly program.

Chillin’ in nature

At the Aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, you can live life at your own pace and enjoy nature, perhaps by sitting on a bench by the Ahr River with a good book. Or, you can visit the horses and cows in the green valley and say hello to the fish in the Thara fishing pond.

The STURM hotel in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve in Germany features a natural swimming pond and a large garden with snacks. Ideal for yoga sessions.

Hotel Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, has built a yoga platform at its Rohrkopfhütte hut specifically for outdoor yoga. If the climb up there (about an hour) is too strenuous for you (it is more like a hike. . .), the wellness garden with views of the mountains and Neuschwanstein Castle is also a great option.

Scavenger hunts, escape games, and city tours

If you’re interested in exploring the area in a fun way and learning more, you can book a city tour during your vacation. In Freiburg, the “Green City Tour” in the Vauban district will show you what ecologically progressive urban development looks like and demonstrate how nature and the big city can coexist. The Green City Hotel Vauban has been a showcase project for green urban development since its inception, so you can experience this concept firsthand during your stay.

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen offers recommendations for special city tours, such as a night watchman tour or a beer and cellar tour. You can also play the Outdoor Escape Game Erlangen, where you solve a “criminal case” in the city center and discover a treasure.

In Bad Herrenalb in the Black Forest, you can also sign up for an outdoor escape game and start your journey to find a monastery’s hidden secret. During the two-hour tour, you will discover and experience various sights in this historic spa town. Then, you can enjoy a slice of cake from the organic kitchen at the Schwarzwald Panorama or relax in the hotel’s thermal baths and sauna.

Discover Peru’s plantations

Vacations often offer a wonderful opportunity to learn about local plants and products. At Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica in Peru, for example, you can visit several rainforest plantations. For instance, you can take a half-day excursion to a cocoa plantation where you can see cocoa plants and follow the entire process of producing chocolate, from roasting and grinding the cocoa beans to tasting the final product. You can also go with a guide to the Brazil nut trees on the hotel grounds. Here, you can learn more about the nuts and try different traditional methods of cracking their hard shells.

• Both excursions are also suitable for children. Visit the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción website for more information.

Bees and api wellness in South Tyrol

If you’re interested in bee colonies and honey, no one in our network can give you a better introduction than Paul Rinner from the APIPURA hotel rinner. Paul is a passionate migratory beekeeper who gives lectures, produces organic honey, and has set up a bee trail on the hotel grounds. He also offers his guests the unique Api Wellness experience, where they can breathe in the air of the beehive. The Api Wellness experience takes place in a cozy wooden hut with a view of nature. The boundary between inside and outside is blurred by natural materials, the buzzing of bees, and a large panoramic window.

Suspension bridge and lunch in East Tyrol

Even at the Naturhotel Outside, a designated hiking hotel in East Tyrol, hiking is by no means a must! If you’re looking for a little adventure, you can cross the suspension bridge over the Isel Gorge, or simply stop for a leisurely lunch at the Kräuterhexenkuchl Strumehof.

Barefoot trail at the Adler Lodge Ritten

How about going barefoot instead of wearing hiking boots? The ADLER Lodge RITTEN just built a barefoot trail in the forest this year. It fits perfectly with the resort’s mindful lifestyle, which includes a natural swimming pond, a farm-to-table concept, and sustainable wooden lodges with fireplaces.

Cycling 

Otherwise, exploring the vacation area by bike is always a great option. At the Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain, you can rent an e-bike right from the hotel and comfortably explore the Berchtesgadener Land with a little extra help. The same is true at the Relais del Maro in Liguria. The Albergo Diffuso is located in the picturesque village of Borgomaro, nestled in the mountains behind the coastal town of Imperia. E-bikes are an ideal, environmentally friendly means of transportation there.

At the Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, you can explore the rather flat area on classic bicycles. The Okelmann family’s head is a passionate cyclist himself and is happy to recommend the best cycling routes to his guests — which you can save directly to your phone.

Horseback riding

Recently, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA promoted horseback riding as an eco-friendly outdoor activity. Read more about horseback riding in the Valley of the Temples. (Our colleague Mara, an avid horse rider, wrote this lovely article about sustainable horseback riding vacations.)

The ABCs of sustainable outdoor activities

In the end, we compiled a list in alphabetical order of all the suggestions and ideas from our network. Even the ideas that didn’t make it into the article are included here. Now, you can find inspiration no matter where you are.

 

Barefoot trails

Sightseeing

Bird watching

Archery

Bouldering

Camping

Dolphin watching

E-bike tours

Escape games (outdoor)

Golf

Gondola ride to a viewing platform

Suspension bridge

Outdoor journaling

Kayaking

Canoeing

Climbing

Knipping

Herbal workshops

Reading

Meditation

Mini golf

Visiting plantations

Cycling or MTB

Rafting

Horseback riding

Rowing

Scavenger hunt

Swimming

Sailing

City tours

SUP

Forest bathing

Forest meditation

Whitewater rafting

Outdoor yoga

 

 

Did we forget something?

Most likely! So, help us make the list even longer by adding your ideas in the comments!

Der Beitrag Sustainable outdoor activities for those who don’t feel like hiking erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

„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.

Save this article on Pinterest to keep it within reach!

Der Beitrag Sustainability in everyday life: Small steps make a big difference erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

“Yoga is more than physical exercise”

Originally from Hungary, Istvan completed his yoga training in Bali and has lived in Mexico, Peru, India and Lanzarote. He has walked the Camino de Santiago twice and is an Ayurvedic therapist and teacher of yoga, qigong, meditation and sound journeys. Now settled in Germany, he offers various programs for guests at the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region. He summarizes his attitude for us: “Yoga is so much more than physical exercise; it teaches you to be in the here and now. Don’t be anywhere or nowhere, just enjoy the moment!”

“My intention with yoga is to help people experience themselves as souls and creators. Breathing is important, as is releasing your own blockages as you exhale. Letting yourself go completely. That is healing. When was the last time you let yourself go completely” – Istvan

Combining yoga, sustainability and singing bowls

Yoga Trends for 2025 – Meditative or Athletic?

Whether you’re looking for more energy or more grounding, yoga styles in 2025 will offer the right practice for every focus. We’ll show you what’s in demand right now.

For your information: Some classes have traditional yoga names (such as Ashtanga Yoga), while others have marketing names so to speak, such as “Forest Yoga.” We have used the names as they are listed

Types of Yoga for soul and depth

#1 Gokul Yoga

Gokul Yoga is based on the classical Hatha Yoga tradition and combines precise alignment with spiritual principles from the Bhakti tradition. It is unique in that the teachings have been passed down through an unbroken chain of disciples.

Gokul Yoga is not just about physical exercises, but a holistic practice that harmonizes body, mind and heart. Meditation, breath control (pranayama) and ethical living are central components – always with the goal of coming closer to oneself.

At Hotel Korinjak on the car-free island of Iž in Croatia, you can experience Gokul Yoga right by the sea. The vegetarian-vegan hotel is a retreat for mindful breaks and specializes in yoga, meditation and healing treatments.

• Click here for the Gokul Yoga offers at Hotel Korinjak
  

#2 Sound Yoga

This yoga practice combines gentle, long-held yin yoga poses with the meditative sounds of singing bowls. As the body is held in deep stretches, the vibrations of the bowls help to release blockages, calm the nervous system, and bring you into a state of deep relaxation. The sound and silence work together to create an intense experience on a physical and energetic level.

At STURM in the Rhön, this form of yoga is offered every Wednesday under the title “Yoga with Sound Relaxation”, led by Susann Kind. There are also regular retreats. The hotel itself is synonymous with conscious time-out, offering rooms with garden views and no TV, sustainable architecture, and a natural swimming pond in the middle of the gentle Rhön landscape.

• Retreats at the STURM

You can also experience Yin Yoga with singing bowls at the family-run Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe. The owner, Maren Geisler-Okelmann, teaches herself – in groups, private lessons, or even with your four-legged friend. She particularly loves the combination of sound and movement to promote deep relaxation

• Yoga classes and retreats at Okelmann’s

#3 Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini Yoga is also known as the Yoga of Awareness. It combines dynamic physical exercises, breathing techniques, meditation, and mantras to activate the kundalini energy – a dormant force at the base of the spine. The goal is to unlock your potential, gain clarity, and connect with your intuition. The practice can be energizing, challenging, and deeply transformative.

At the Relais del Maro, a charming albergo diffuso in the Ligurian village of Borgomaro, guests can take part in weekly Kundalini Yoga classes led by Aimee Denkmann in the Healing Arts Garden, just a five-minute walk away. In addition to group classes, Aimee also offers private lessons, which can be booked directly through the hotel reception.

#4 Ritual Yoga with Mantra & Cocoa Ceremony

This holistic practice combines physical movement with ritual and sound. Yoga is not practiced alone, but is embedded in ceremonies, such as the chanting of mantras or the conscious consumption of raw cacao in a South American cacao ceremony. The focus is on connection – with oneself, with others, and with the rhythms of nature. Meditation, intuition and opening the heart are central.

Gut Sonnenhausen, near Munich, Germany, offers regular overnight retreats. The retreats are based on the cycle of the seasons. Surrounded by organically farmed nature, you will experience intense days guided by experienced teachers such as Thais de la Paz.

#5 Forest Yoga

Forest Yoga is an invitation to consciously integrate the calming power of the forest into your yoga practice. Among the trees and chirping birds, it is easier to find peace and connect with nature. The fresh forest air is invigorating, while the green canopy creates a meditative atmosphere. Practicing outdoors not only strengthens the body, but also promotes feelings of grounding and mindfulness.

At My Arbor, an adults-only hotel in South Tyrol, forest yoga takes place in the middle of the forest during the summer months, complemented by classes and other offerings in the stylish yoga room. Experienced instructors tailor each session to the individual’s needs, whether beginner or advanced. The hotel is located above Brixen and focuses on relaxation, retreat and sustainable well-being.

• Yoga at the My Arbor Hotel
  

#7 Breathwork / Quantum Light Breath (QLB)

Conscious breathing is much more than just a side aspect of yoga practice – in 2025, breathwork will be the focus of many retreats. In particular, Quantum Light Breathing (QLB) is becoming increasingly popular: a powerful, meditative breathing technique accompanied by emotional music that can trigger profound inner processes. It aims to release old patterns and blockages through breathing, to find inner peace and to gain new clarity.

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region of Germany, QLB is offered by Istvan, the yoga teacher we introduced at the beginning of this article. The combination of breathing exercises, meditation, and experiencing nature helps you find your inner self – in line with a mindful and healing lifestyle.

• Yoga and retreats with Istvan at Hotel Das Rübezahl
  

Sporty Yoga Variations

Looking for movement, dynamism and energy in your yoga practice? Then these athletic yoga trends may be right up your alley. In 2025, many styles will combine physical challenge with mindfulness – ideal for anyone looking to push themselves while still finding their center.

#1 Yogilates

Yogilates combines the flowing movements and stretching exercises of yoga with the muscle-strengthening training of Pilates. This allows you to strengthen your core, improve your posture, and train your balance – the perfect combination of strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.

At ADLER Lodge RITTEN you can experience Yogilates as part of a retreat – with views of the Dolomites and surrounded by the tranquility of South Tyrol. The sustainable hotel consists of a main building and an annex, as well as several private chalets grouped around a natural swimming pond and along the ridge line. On the culinary side, you can look forward to an all-inclusive farm-to-table concept with products from the region.

• Yogilates at the ADLER Lodge RITTEN

Yogilates is also offered at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in the Bavarian Alps. Surrounded by unspoiled nature and breathtaking mountain views, you can intensify your yoga practice and relax at the same time. Known for its holistic wellness and yoga offerings, this health hotel provides the perfect balance of physical exercise and inner peace.

• Tip: For expectant mothers, the hotel also offers prenatal yoga and a babymoon package.
• Yoga-offers at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa

#2 Back Yoga

As sitting has become the “new smoking” in our society, back problems have become widespread. So it’s no wonder that back yoga is becoming increasingly popular. This type of yoga uses various forms and postures. It focuses on stretching the back muscles and releasing tension, which reduces pain and increases mobility in the spine. In addition, back yoga strengthens your abdominal muscles, which improves posture and provides long-term pain relief.

LA VIMEA, Italy’s first vegan hotel, offers back yoga on a regular basis. At this adults-only retreat, daily yoga classes are included in the half-board rate and are led by certified yoga instructors. You also have the opportunity to participate in yoga retreats. The hotel has two well-equipped yoga rooms and a sunny terrace for outdoor yoga.

• Yoga at LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel

#3 Fascia Yoga

Fascia Yoga focuses on gentle flexibility exercises and deep stretches to release tension and revitalize the fascia, or connective tissue. Conscious breathing techniques provide optimal support for the body, resulting in improved flexibility and ease of movement. This form of yoga is particularly effective for mobilizing the back and relaxing the entire body.

The Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort offers Fascia Yoga in collaboration with experienced instructor Viktoria Koller (Viki Sports). Enjoy yoga classes in luxurious surroundings, including a large spa area with several pools and saunas, and excellent food. The hotel has its own 2-star restaurant, Eisvogel, where hotel guests get priority seating. For all its luxury, the resort takes its responsibilities seriously, including a commitment to renewable energy.

• Fitness, Spa & Yoga at Birkenhof

#4 Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic yoga practice that harmonizes movement and breathing. The asanas (postures) are linked together in a flowing sequence that not only improves flexibility and endurance, but also calms the mind. This type of yoga strengthens the body and helps you reduce stress while building a deep connection with your breath and the moment.

At Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel you can experience Vinyasa Yoga with Marnie Spögler, a member of the host family. Marnie is originally from Canada and has been teaching yoga for over 18 years. A certified Yoga Alliance teacher, she brings a wealth of experience and passion to her dynamic and energizing classes. The daily Vinyasa classes are included in the half-board rate. In addition, the hotel is offering three special yoga retreats during the 2025 summer season to help you deepen your practice. The hotel’s holistic, vegan philosophy further emphasizes this depth.

• Yoga-Retreats at the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

Vinyasa Yoga is also offered at the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld – here by hostess Laura Seyrling-Riess herself. The family-run hotel looks back on over 500 years of hospitality and was built on the foundations of a former monastery. It is in this special atmosphere that you can enjoy powerful flow sessions, a combination of movement and mindfulness.

• Yoga-Offers at the Hotel Klosterbräu

#5 Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic and challenging style in which breath and movement are synchronized in a fixed sequence. The practice follows a series of postures that are systematically structured to develop strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration. A special feature is the meditative flow state that results from the connection between breath (ujjayi), focus (drishti), and movement.

This year, an Ashtanga Yoga Retreat will take place at the luxurious yet sustainable ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The stylish resort is located in Sicily, directly on the sea and nestled in a nature reserve, offering ideal conditions for intensive practice and relaxation.

• Ashtanga Yoga at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

AI-Powered Yoga – The future of yoga with technology?

Finally, we would like to introduce you to another trend that is likely to become increasingly important in the future: AI-powered yoga. It combines traditional yoga practice with cutting-edge technology and is aimed primarily at people who practice at home. With the help of AI, personalized yoga classes are offered that are tailored to your specific needs and progress. The technology analyzes your movements, provides feedback on how you are performing the asanas, and adjusts the exercises in real time to help you improve your practice.

How does this fit in with the original teachings of yoga? To be honest, we’re not really sure what to make of it. So our recommendation is clear: find a qualified teacher in your area or attend a retreat to expand your knowledge. There are also a number of YouTube videos where real people show you how it’s done. From our own (pandemic-related) experience, we can tell you that you will be instructed at exactly the right moments not to clench your teeth or tilt your head back…

Green PearlsⓇ hotels focus on personalized service

Our Green PearlsⓇ accommodations continue to focus on individual attention and customized yoga experiences – without any technology. Here, experienced yoga teachers are on hand to guide you through your practice and respond to your needs. At SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, for example, yoga is understood as a balance between rest and activity. You can book individual or private group classes for yourself and your friends to deepen your practice and develop sustainable routines.

Naturresort Gerbehof also focuses on a nature-based yoga experience. Here you can practice in a beautiful yoga room or directly in the garden or in the stone circle in the forest. There are no special classes, but there is plenty of space to enjoy your practice surrounded by nature.

Our hotels are designed with personalized service and individual well-being in mind – perfect if you are looking for a deeper connection to your practice and to yourself.

Save this article for your next Yoga journey on Pinterest.

Der Beitrag From spiritual depth to fitness: Master Istvan on Yoga Trends for 2025 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.