Cake recipe with chamomile tea and no eggs

Here are a few special features of the recipe—don’t worry, though; it’s super easy, just not your run-of-the-mill lemon cake:

Organic spelt flour instead of wheat flour: Spelt is considered more natural than wheat, is easier to digest, contains more minerals, and has a nutty flavor. It’s a conscious choice that benefits your health and the environment because spelt is usually easier to grow.

Oil instead of butter: Vegetable oil makes the dough moist, makes the cake vegan, and has a smaller carbon footprint than animal butter, which is considered one of the most climate-damaging foods.

Chamomile tea as a liquid: The biggest surprise is probably the use of freshly brewed chamomile tea. It makes the dough wonderfully moist and gives the cake a delicate, almost floral note. Tip: Let the tea steep well so that the aroma comes into its own. SANDnature uses “Smooth Operator” organic chamomile tea from the tea manufacturer Samova.

Turmeric for flavor and color: This “super spice” not only gives the cake a golden yellow color, but also adds light, exotic flavors.

A look inside SANDnature in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea

The SANDnature Lifestylehotel is a place to breathe deeply. Adults only (ages 16 and up), it is designed with natural materials and a clear focus on sustainability. Located directly on the second row of the Baltic Sea, it is the perfect destination any time of year, whether you’re looking for a relaxing short break or an inspiring getaway. If you want to learn more, you can find tips for a sustainable weekend on the Baltic Sea or exciting impressions of a culinary journey here. Now, in the cooler season, the region captivates with its deserted beaches, perfect for long walks in the wind and salty air. Without the summer tourist crowds, SANDnature is the perfect place to relax and welcome the cozy season..

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Smooth Lemon Cake

Delicious lemon cake from the SANDnature Hotel with oil, oat milk, and chamomile tea

Course dessert, cake

Cuisine European, german

Keyword vegan baking

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 250 g Spelt flour organic
• 2 TSP Baking powder organic
• 150 g Sugar
• 50 ml Maple syrup
• 75 ml Canola or sunflower oil
• 100 ml Oat milk
• 100 ml Smooth Operator, brewed (Smooth Operator is an organic chamomile tea from the Samova brand)
• 1 Organic lemon Juice and peel
• 1/3 TSP Turmeric Grounded
• 1/3 TSP Salt

Zuckerguss

• 200 g Icing sugar
• 4 TSP Lemon juice

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) on the convection setting
• Mix the flour with the baking powder and salt
• Add oat milk, lemon juice, oil, maple syrup, sugar, and brewed Smooth Operator chamomile tea (Samova). Mix everything together well
• Add grated organic lemon zest and turmeric powder
• Place the finished dough in a loaf pan lined with parchment paper
• Baking time approx. 35 to 40 minutes at 180 °C (350 °F)

Der Beitrag Recipe from SANDnature: Smooth Lemon Cake – vegan and fresh erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

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

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

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

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

The problems with planting trees to offset emissions:

#1 The calculations

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

#2 Lack of care

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

#3 Individual trees instead of ecosystems

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

#4 Are they really absorbing additional CO2?

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

#5 Forest fires

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

#5 Wrong tree species, wrong areas

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

#6 Displacement of people

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

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

Is planting trees for climate purposes a bad thing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How sustainable hotels approach the topic of “planting trees”

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

Avoiding CO₂ instead of sugarcoating it

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

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

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

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

Successful forest projects—when they are properly planned and executed

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

Primordial cloud forest in the Peruvian Andes

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

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

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

Planting a forests right outside one’s doorstep

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

• Gut Sonnenhausen, Bavaria
  

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

• Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance
  

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

• OLM Nature Escape, South Tirol
  

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

• My Arbor, South Tirol
  

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

• Hotel Klosterbräu, Tirol
  

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

A forest in the middle of the city

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

Laura Heufelder from the hotel explains:

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

Protect and enjoy your own forest

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

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel , South Tyrol

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

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

Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Bavaria

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

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

Climate-neutral overnight stays with CO₂ compensation

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

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

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

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

Is planting trees an effective way to offset CO2 emissions?

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

How can I spot greenwashing?

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

How can I get involved?

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

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

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

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.

A Vision Rooted in Resilience and Respect

The hotel has never been just a workplace. From the beginning, it was about creating a space where people feel accepted, where nature is respected, and where visitors leave with more than memories of the sea. What my grandfather understood long before many others was that travel can change us — if it is done with awareness.

Born on Iž, he knew the island intimately: its scarcity of water, its hard soil, and its traditions rooted in both struggle and abundance.

“On an island, you learn quickly to be resilient and resourceful.”

he often told me. “You respect what you have.” Those values — resilience, resourcefulness, respect — became the foundation of everything he created, and they remain the words I would use to describe him.

From Struggle and Abundance to a Hotel with Purpose

When he opened the first vegetarian hotel on the Adriatic coast 25 years ago, it was far from an obvious choice. “It was an opportunity and a risk I decided to take,” he once said. The idea was born out of his travels to India with his teacher, Maheshwarananda, and it was never just about food or tourism. What he wanted to create was a place where people could slow down, reflect, and explore a more spiritual way of life.

Naturally, the locals met the idea with skepticism. “They were mostly mocking us the first ten years,” my grandfather recalled with a laugh. “They remained tolerant for the next 10 years and, five years ago, accepted our concept as normal. Change comes gradually here.” While many locals struggled to see the point, international visitors were often quicker to embrace it.

“The first intention, one present to this day, is introducing people to spirituality, raising consciousness, and being humane toward all living things,”

he explained. “This is a challenging thing to do in tourism, especially when guests come only for a week or two. But what matters is opening that window of possibility, letting them know it exists. That it is something worth striving for.”

Guests feel the special spirit 

That sense of possibility is what guests feel when they arrive. Many speak of being drawn not only by the vegetarian food but by the energy of the place — the sense of community, of guidance, of retreat from the noise of everyday life. Guests often say the same thing when they step through the door: “We’re home.” That simple phrase captures everything my grandfather hoped to achieve—a vacation not for luxury, but for the soul.

Even as the hotel expanded and the next generation of our family took over daily operations, its essence has remained unchanged. What we offer is not just space and programs, but connections — between people, cultures, and ourselves with the world around and within us.

Hotel Korinjak will stay vegetarian

When I asked my grandfather about the future, his words stayed with me: “I am certain the hotel will stay vegetarian, and what undoubtedly deserves special attention now and in the future is educating people to move toward the more spiritual path, to change their perception of everyday life. Constant practice, making it a daily habit, begins the moment they wake up.”

 As I study the island and reflect on the challenges of sustainable tourism, I see just how forward-thinking his vision was. Long before “green travel” became a trend, he understood that tourism could either exploit or protect a place. His choice was always clear. For him, and for us, it was about living with nature, not against it.

That is the inheritance we carry forward. Hotel Korinjak has evolved over the years, with each generation leaving its mark, yet the spirit remains the same: a simple, mindful place where people rediscover what truly matters. When I once asked him what the tourism industry needs most, he just laughed: “It should have more places like this, haha.”

This is a guest article from Mikela Vlahov.

Der Beitrag Growing Up at Hotel Korinjak: My Family’s Journey as Croatia’s First Vegetarian Hotel 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 🙂

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What does it mean to “feel at home” while traveling?

It means staying in small hotels where the staff recognizes you and gets to know you by the end of your vacation! The number of rooms is often a good indicator of this. In our article on unique boutique hotels, you’ll find ten wonderful hotels with just 11 to 38 rooms. However, size alone doesn’t make a hotel feel like home.

Indicators of hotels with a family atmosphere include:

• Personal flair instead of anonymous service
• Hosts who are approachable and authentic. In most cases, the hosts are a family who are fully committed to their profession, and you will meet them every time you visit.
• Rooms were designed with attention to detail, not from a catalog. They reflect the hosts’ philosophy and personal taste.
• Few rooms
• Cozy atmosphere
• Regional cuisine is served, and your personal preferences are taken into account when it comes to meals.

Why are more and more travelers looking for exactly that?

In a world that constantly demands something from us—one that is digital, fast-paced, and geared toward efficiency and mass production—many people are developing a growing desire for authenticity. Rather than staying at faceless hotel chains, more and more travelers are seeking places where they feel truly welcome and can have meaningful encounters with people, cultures, and places.

Family-run hotels offer exactly that: personal interactions with the owners, insider tips on places to visit off the beaten path, and an atmosphere that feels more like visiting friends than staying in a hotel.

Slow Travel and the Counter-Movement to Mass Tourism

The concept of slow travel also plays a role, meaning traveling more consciously and at a slower pace. Stay longer, take in more, and immerse yourself more deeply. Last but not least, many choose these accommodations because they are often sustainably oriented. Rooted in the region, owner-operated, and committed to environmental awareness and social responsibility.

Four examples of familiar hotels with heart and that personal touch

#1 Relais del Maro, Liguria — Feel at home in the heart of a village

The Relais del Maro is actually the reason we came up with the idea for this article. When you arrive, you immediately sense that this place has soul. Elena Scalambrin founded and built the Albergo Diffuso in Borgomaro with her parents—not just as a place to stay, but as a project to revitalize their hometown.

The Albergo Diffuso concept places 14 lovingly restored rooms and suites across three historic family-owned buildings that once served as residences and commercial spaces. Skilled artisans furnished each room individually, using traditional techniques and paying great attention to detail. Here, you can live among the villagers.

You can go to the main house for meals and to use the pool. This place used to be a butcher’s shop. Elena is often available to assist you, and you will grow fond of the entire village community, including the mini market, the bakery, the hairdresser, and the small church with its dedicated pastor.

#2 Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt — Family-friendly, panoramic views, and comfort

Nestled above the car-free village of Zermatt, the Hotel Bella Vista boasts direct views of the Matterhorn and offers a harmonious blend of nature, warmth, and sustainability. This small, 21-room hotel is incredibly cozy! It is built entirely of wood and features hand-crafted furniture, an open fire in the lobby, and a Swiss stone pine room in the wellness area.

The Anthamatten family runs the hotel and will make you feel right at home. Fabienne Anthamatten, for example, can give you hiking and skiing tips. She knows secret routes where you won’t encounter anyone for hours. She can also explain how you can ski all the way to Italy, starting right outside the hotel—including tips for lunch stops along the way!.

Stefanie, her sister, will often greet you at the front desk, and when she’s not there, she’s probably leading a yoga retreat. As a trained yoga teacher, she brings an extra sense of calm and mindfulness to the hotel. Mother Anthamatten also has a significant influence on the hotel, particularly through her traditional recipes that the kitchen team adopted. (Tip: Be sure to try her Zermatter hay soup!) The family also has a real mountain guide and mountain rescuer in Simon Anthamatten. He is very active in the region and organizes the “Ultraks” trail running event, among other things.

• Tip: We recommend the newly renovated “Sky Lounge” rooms located in the attic, where you can see the mountain peaks from your bed through a skylight.

#3 Hotel Okelmann’s in Lower Saxony – Arrive, take a breather, and wish you could stay forever

The charming Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in the small Lower Saxony village of Warpe is now run by the fourth generation of the Okelmann family. Sisters Kristin and Maren manage the hotel today with great dedication and a clear commitment to nature. Maren is a trained yoga teacher and singing bowl therapist who oversees the retreats and yoga classes offered there. Kristin, on the other hand, loves good food, a topic covered in our article on northern German cuisine.

Father Helmut is enthusiastic about the project, too. As a passionate cyclist, he enjoys offering personalized tour recommendations and has published his own routes on Komoot for guests.

With only sixteen individually designed rooms, Okelmann’s is a boutique hotel in the truest sense — manageable, personal, and intimate. Highlights include the small sauna in a converted shepherd’s wagon, the wooden whirlpool, and the delicious homemade cakes at Café Heimatliebe. Incidentally, the cake display doesn’t always feature what’s on the menu. Mama Okelmann likes to get creative, so new, unplanned creations often make their way into the café..

#4 Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol — a family hotel with lake access and a passion for books

On the shores of Lake Wolfsgruben on the Ritten plateau in South Tyrol lies the Weihrerhof, a place that exudes tranquility and is steeped in history. Run by the Pichler family, the Weihrerhof has only 23 rooms and offers opportunities for personal encounters and genuine relaxation in nature.

In 1967, Friedl and Zilli Pichler fulfilled their dream of owning a guesthouse with eleven rooms and a breakfast island built by Friedl himself in the lake. Today, Klaus Pichler and his family are the second generation to run the guesthouse, doing so with great dedication. Reading is one of the family’s favorite pastimes. You will find a bestseller library here that is open to guests. Manuela Pichler will be delighted if you browse through it and ask her for advice on your holiday reading. Or, you can go straight for a “blind date with a book.” The family has even published their own children’s book with stories about the lake. Fittingly, the style here is very cozy, with lots of wood, natural decorations, and lovely details.

#5 Naturresort Gerbehof — a lovingly run organic hotel

You will also find a family-run hotel near the famous Lake Constance – the Naturresort Gerbehof. It is not located on the lakeshore, however, but about five kilometers away in the middle of its own organic farm. The small, 40-room hotel is run by the Wagner family. You can meet Ursula, Bruno, and their children, Priska, Christel, and Ralph, on the website. Each family member has their own area of responsibility, and they all work together to provide passionate and dedicated service.

A vacation that’s like staying with friends

The small Green PearlsⓇ hotels featured in this article offer the comfort of a real vacation combined with the cozy feeling of arriving at a friend’s house. They offer homemade food, genuine recommendations, and plenty of space to relax. Best of all, you won’t even have to clear the table or wash the dishes at the end of the day. Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it?

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7 environmental sins to avoid while hiking

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

#1 Ignoring prohibited areas

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

#2 Wild camping

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

#3 Leaving trash and cigarette butts behind

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

#4 Leaving dog waste behind

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

#5 Swimming in protected mountain lakes

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

#6 Picking (protected) wildflowers

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

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

#7 Disturbing animals

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

Tips for sustainable hiking

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

Preparing for your hike

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

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

The right outfit for the mountains

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

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

5 sustainable hiking hotels and vacation homes in the DACH region

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3 LA VIMEA, South Tyrol – vegan hiking hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sustainable Hiking Hotels in Tenerife and Peru

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hike with respect for yourself and nature

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

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

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

This is an update from April 12, 2019

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This is the ninth installment of our Culinary Journey series, in which we explore a new destination every month.

South Tyrolean cuisine: tradition meets sophistication

If you’re wondering what South Tyrolean cuisine is famous for, Matthias has a clear answer. “South Tyrol is a culinary melting pot with a lot of harmony.” Typical ingredients include spicy gray cheese, fresh apples in various forms, bacon, and tart cranberries paired with hearty meat dishes.”

The culinary event of the year: Törggelen

In Brixen and the Eisack Valley, a particularly unique experience is Törggelen: in the fall, people hike through the vineyards and then enjoy bacon, surfleisch (a type of smoked meat), cabbage, chestnuts, and young wine together. This tradition is one of the most authentic culinary experiences in South Tyrol, bringing you into contact not only with the food but also with the locals. Find out more in our article, “9 Reasons to Go Törggelen.”

Meet Matthias Hinteregger, the head chef at the sustainable Tree Hotel My Arbor

Matthias Hinteregger is head chef at the My Arbor restaurant above Brixen and grew up in the region. His commute is only 20 minutes. His culinary philosophy is to bring stories to the plate: “My cuisine should be rooted in the best sense of the word, yet surprising at the same time. I love putting regional ingredients in new contexts.” To him, a dish’s soul is as important as its taste.

As a guest of the GreenPearlsⓇ Hotel My Arbor, you can enjoy a flexible seven-course menu each day, included in the half-board price. If you are not a guest of the hotel, you may also dine in the restaurant, but only with an advance reservation.

Matthias’s Five Must-Eats in South Tyrol

Matthias has compiled a list of the most typical South Tyrolean dishes that you should definitely try. His five recommendations offer a great introduction to the region’s culinary traditions:

#1 Schlutzkrapfen with butter and Parmesan cheese

These half-moon-shaped pastries are filled with spinach and curd cheese and served with melted butter and Parmesan. It’s a classic dish that combines rustic cuisine with refined sophistication. By the way: this specialty is now available in a vegan version, too!

#2 Bacon dumplings with coleslaw or beef goulash

Hearty and deeply rooted in South Tyrolean tradition, these dumplings are typically served with either fresh coleslaw or a rich sauce.

#3 Apple strudel with vanilla sauce

It’s hard to imagine South Tyrol without apple strudel. A sweet classic, it features crispy pastry, juicy apples, and cinnamon, accompanied by creamy vanilla sauce. No trip to South Tyrol is complete without it.

#4 Brettlmarende

This traditional snack includes bacon, Kaminwurzen (a spicy South Tyrolean sausage made from beef or pork), cheese, and schüttelbrot, a hard, crispy flatbread. It’s perfect after a hike or while enjoying Törggelen in the vineyards.

#5 Tirtln

The fried dough pockets are typically filled with sweet ingredients like curd cheese, jam, or poppy seeds. However, savory fillings are also available, such as spinach or sauerkraut. Currently, people rediscover this traditional peasant dish as a culinary specialty.

Sustainability in the My Arbor Kitchen

To Matthias, sustainability is not just a trend; it’s an integral part of everyday life. He sources many of his products from small regional farmsteads or his own farm.

Bringing a Farm-to-Table Concept to Life

The sustainable tree hotel My Arbor has its own farm on Lake Garda, where the family grows vegetables, fruits, and herbs using permaculture methods on approximately 20 hectares. They are then freshly prepared in the kitchen. The grounds are also home to over 250 chickens that live in a large “five-star free-range chicken coop.”

Herbs, fruits, and vegetables are processed or preserved fresh so they can be served year-round. At the same time, he considers the preferences of international guests. “The challenge is to create a down-to-earth, sustainable cuisine that is also cosmopolitan and enjoyable.”

He draws inspiration from sources like Norbert Niederkofler’s “Cook the Mountain” concept, which has attracted worldwide attention. “It has raised awareness of the quality of regional products, especially when reimagined,” Matthias explains.

Conclusion: Sustainability is the essence of South Tyrolean cuisine

South Tyrolean cuisine is known today not only for its blend of Alpine and Mediterranean influences but also for its commitment to sustainability and local ingredients. Restaurants like My Arbor demonstrate that fine dining does not require caviar or pineapple. Rather, it can be achieved with hay, wildflowers, and locally sourced ingredients.

As a tourist, you benefit twice: you experience dishes deeply rooted in the landscape and discover surprising flavors unique to South Tyrol.

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Der Beitrag Take a culinary journey through South Tyrol with Chef Matthias Hinteregger erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Can Olympic Games ever be sustainable?

It’s difficult for a mega-event like the Olympic Games to be completely sustainable. Too many resources are consumed, too many people are on the move at the same time, and too much infrastructure is required. However, there are examples that demonstrate it is possible to make significant improvements.

Positive examples from Paris (host of the 2024 Summer Olympics):

• According to the official sustainability report, 98.4% of energy needs were met by grid electricity certified as renewable by premium partner EDF.
• The quality of the Seine’s water has improved, and there are now three monitored bathing areas (if that interests you, we recommend the Hotel Le Pavilion, a small, sustainable boutique hotel with an inner courtyard, centrally located and within walking distance of the Seine).
• The temporary venues were dismantled after the Games.

Digression: Fewer spectators, greater sustainability?

It is interesting to note that the Tokyo Games in 2021 were rated as less sustainable than those in Paris, despite the presence of very few spectators due to the pandemic. Therefore, the arrival of fans is not necessarily the biggest problem. Rather, it depends on how the region, the organizers, and you organize your trip.

Temporary venues and the controversy surrounding the bobsleigh track in Cortina

From an ecological point of view, it makes particular sense to use existing and temporary venues. The Turin 2006 Olympics serve as a warning of what can happen otherwise: many of the sports facilities built for the event are now dilapidated ruins that blight the landscape and have not been reused.

Examples include the bobsleigh and luge track in Cesana Torinese and the ski jumps in Pragelato, which have been empty for years. Former German ski racer and 2005 world champion Felix Neureuther took a look at these ‘lost places’ in Turin for the ARD documentary Felix Neureuther – Spiel mit den Alpen (Felix Neureuther – Playing with the Alps) and was shocked by what he saw.

Here is a YouTube video showing a drone flight over the bobsleigh track that has fallen into disrepair and become a “lost place”:

The controversial bobsled track in Cortina for the 2026 Olympics

Against this backdrop, the construction of the new bobsled and luge track in Cortina sparked heated debate. Rather than renovating the historic 1956 track, it was demolished in 2023 and replaced with a new facility featuring 16 curves and advanced icing technology. Despite resistance from the IOC, which favored existing tracks abroad, the organizers proceeded with construction. The costs tripled, valuable mountain forest was cleared, and the track’s long-term use is questionable.

Critical Voices from South Tyrol

At a panel discussion with South Tyrolean universities, climate researcher Georg Kaser warns: “The Games make it more difficult to reduce emissions in time.” Furthermore, he says, the profits would mainly benefit economic lobbies and the ski industry, even though sustainable, high-quality tourism would be a better long-term solution. Elide Mussner, a municipal representative and co-chair of the Green Party, criticized the decision to pour funds into “yesterday’s winter tourism.”

In addition to the discussions surrounding the Olympic Games, this criticism raises a fundamental question: Does climate change mean the Alps no longer have a future as a winter sports region? Read more here: Switzerland in Transition: Best Travel Times and Climate Facts.” We have also addressed the topic of “sustainable winter sports” here.

Sustainability at the 2026 Winter Games

Despite the criticism surrounding the organization of the Games, progress is being made in terms of sustainability. Apart from the two new permanent buildings (the Santa Giulia Stadium in Milan and the bobsleigh and luge track in Cortina), existing sports facilities will be used, and temporary structures will be erected and dismantled after the Games. Additionally, the 2026 Olympics will be powered entirely by renewable energy.

• Another positive aspect: The organizers have already published a comprehensive sustainability report. 

Sustainable Travel to the Olympics: Pros and Cons

Whether or not it makes sense to travel to the games depends largely on how you make decisions. As a general rule, events of this magnitude will never be fully sustainable. However, there are arguments for and against it.

Pro:

When you travel, you can support local businesses and enjoy the improvements initiated in the region, such as those to public transportation and the energy supply. The Games also draw attention to sustainability issues in winter sports and promote a change in mindset.

Contra:

Travel to and from the Games is the biggest factor, especially if you’re flying. Added to this are the high resource consumption and impact of mass tourism on sensitive mountain regions. Critics fear that short-term mass tourism for the Games will cause more harm than good in the long run.

Ultimately, how you plan your Olympic trip matters: your choice of travel, accommodation, and local transportation.

Tip: Travel by train or long-distance bus, choose sustainable accommodations, avoid littering, and stay within designated areas. Consider using our Green Travel Guide to the Dolomites.

Sustainable Accommodation During the Winter Games

If you’re looking to experience the 2026 Winter Olympics in the Dolomites, our Green PearlsⓇ partner hotels are ideal retreats. They have been committed to sustainability for many years.

#1 My arbor near Brixen

Tree hotel, wellness hotel, and adults-only hotel — the perfect place to combine sporting experiences with sustainable luxury and relaxation. Located just 15 minutes from Brixen with a free shuttle, it’s in an ideal location between various venues.

See the distances here:

• You will find the special Olympic offer for guests here.

#2 Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel in Alpe di Siusi

The first 100% vegan hotel in the Dolomites sits directly on the slopes, over 2,000 meters above sea level. With just one ski pass, guests have access to the entire Dolomiti Superski area, the venue for the Winter Olympics. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to experience the Olympics and enjoy their own winter sports adventures.

• For more information, click here.

The 2026 Olympics: How Sustainable Will They Be?

Ultimately, we will only know how sustainable the Games were after they are over. Incidentally, Lorenz Leitgeb, the head of the Antholz Organizing Committee (OK), met with Felix Neureuther in Antholz after his critical documentary. Leitgeb invited Neureuther “to come by after the Olympics to see what has been made of it.”

Of course, we are looking forward to watching the Games and are excited about the sporting achievements that await us.

What is your opinion? Is it sustainable to travel to the Winter Olympics?

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Riding vacations, trail rides or a vacation with  your horse?

As a horse person, there are many ways to get your money’s worth, even on vacation. However, most people only know about riding vacations for kids. Meanwhile, there are also plenty of opportunities for adults to enjoy a horseback riding vacation. These are especially great opportunities for beginners and insecure riders to develop their riding skills.

Trail rides offer a particularly intensive experience. Whether you do one in your home country or abroad, you spend the day with the horses and your riding group, enjoying real adventures. Depending on the type of ride booked, your luggage will either be brought to the next accommodation by escort vehicles or pack horses, or you will carry it yourself.

However, there are also opportunities to interact with horses outside of sustainable riding vacations. Many horse farms and ranches, for example, offer vacation apartments. This allows you to enjoy horses in the area without going on a riding vacation. Or, you can book individual riding lessons or rides in your vacation region.

Of course, those of you who have horses can also travel with them. One easy way to do this is to start your trail ride right from your front door. Alternatively, you can look for accommodations that have a stable nearby or even run one themselves.

No matter how, where, or with whom you travel, we’ll show you what a sustainable riding vacation looks like and how to make it happen.

Here are five tips for planning a sustainable riding vacation:

Will you be traveling with or without your horse?

The question posed in the title is crucial to your journey. Of course, you can’t bring your horse on the train. This means you will need to use a car and a transporter, which will have a significant environmental impact due to exhaust fumes and particulates. Therefore, consider whether it’s worth driving your horse all over Germany for a week or leaving it in the care of friends at your stable.

However, of course, we understand that you may want to bring your horse with you. After all, what could be better than exploring new surroundings with your horse? If you decide to bring your horse, choose a closer destination, offset your emissions, and drive fuel-efficiently.

The accommodation: Sustainable hotel for horse and rider

You and your horse have to sleep somewhere during your trip. While there are plenty of nice boarding stables, particularly in popular vacation regions, the search for a sustainable hotel is a bit more difficult. Portals like ours (Green Pearls®) help you discover truly sustainable hotels and learn more about their green initiatives.

You can also look at vacation apartments and houses for sustainability and see if they are supplied with renewable energy, for example, or if the furnishings are based on renewable raw materials.

Holidays at the Naturresort Gerbehof

Vacation apartments and hotel rooms like these can be found at the Naturresort Gerbehof at Lake Constance. The comfortable rooms and vacation apartments are ideal for families and the perfect starting point for long hikes, whether you’re traveling with a horse or not. Best of all, your horse can stay with you! Spacious stalls are available for guest horses. There is also an indoor riding arena where you can exercise your horse on rainy days.

The Gerbehof consists of a country hotel, a horse ranch, and an organic farm that provides most of the ingredients used in the hotel kitchen. After hours of riding through gorgeous nature, you can relax in the nature spa while knowing that your four-legged partner is happily munching on hay next door.

Equipment or packing my trunk

Travelling with a dog means doubling the amount of luggage needed. It’s even worse with a horse! You need a saddle, a bridle, a grooming kit, a blanket, and more. Not to mention saddlebags or transport gaiters! Some of these items you may only need for this one trip. So, before buying anything new, ask around at the stable to see if you can borrow certain items. You can also check to see if you can find them used. If you do buy new equipment, look for durable, sustainable materials.

If you’re only planning on taking short rides, you can get by with just a pair of breeches in your luggage, as helmets and boots are usually available to rent locally. However, for longer trail rides, it’s more convenient to bring your own gear. When buying new items, look for durability and sustainability. If possible, borrow or buy used items (except for the helmet!).

At your destination

If you book horseback rides on-site, they are usually guided. This means that you will have a guide who knows the area well and which paths are suitable for riding. Of course, you can still keep an eye out and speak up if you notice the guide riding off-path in protected areas.

In our blog article on animal welfare when traveling, we have described what you should consider when choosing a stable or provider. Take a close look, and trust your instincts. If you have any doubts, it is better to forgo the ride than to support practices contrary to animal welfare.

If you are traveling with your own horse, find out in advance where you can ride to avoid getting into trouble with farmers or landowners. Even after you leave at the end of your vacation, local riders will still have to deal with farmers who dislike horseback riders. The same rules apply to riders as to anyone else spending time in nature: stay on the trails, don’t leave trash behind, and treat nature with respect. But that goes without saying, right?

After departure

Yes, sustainable action doesn’t stop there, nor does a sustainable riding vacation! From home, you can support sustainable hotels, riding providers, and great stables by sharing your experiences. You can do so on Google, on social media, or on blogs like ours. For example, leave a recommendation in the comments section to make other travelers aware of sustainable options. So, what are you waiting for?

Where can I go for a sustainable riding vacation?

Now you know how to plan a sustainable riding vacation! To help you start planning your trip right away, we asked Green Pearls® sustainable hotels for their recommendations. After all, they know best where you can book a horseback ride in their area without worrying.

Icelandic horses in the Black Forest

The Wiesenhof Icelandic Horse Center is just fifteen minutes from the eco-friendly Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. Novice and experienced riders alike have the opportunity to experience the charm of the small northern horses here. The spacious paddocks and loose stables are home to over 200 Icelandic horses.

Wiesenhof’s philosophy centers on a holistic approach to humans and horses. In addition to rides and lessons, the center offers seminars and courses on exciting topics related to horse-friendly training.

Horseback riding on the sunny plateau of South Tyrol

The Weihrerhof is another hotel with a nearby riding facility. Just a five-minute walk away is a stable where you can try “trial riding” to see if you like the sport. You can also explore the Ritten region on horseback and take in the 360-degree panorama of the Dolomites.

Explore the mountains on horseback in Austria

The LENI MOUNTAIN is closely connected to Austria’s horse world. After all, Marco Arnold, the owner, is related to the president of the Haflinger Breeding and Sports Association. Life in Sölden without these blond-maned ponies is difficult to imagine. The ponies spend the summers on the meadows above the valley, so you’re likely to encounter them on your hikes.

Explore Sicily’s Valley of the Temples on horseback!

Visiting this ancient site is one of the highlights of any trip to Sicily. And what could be better than experiencing it from horseback? The ride there is an adventure in itself. Experienced guides from Amici del Cavallo will lead you along narrow paths lined with olive and almond trees to the temple ruins. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner or an inexperienced rider; the horses are calm, well-trained, and well-groomed. The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, a sustainable resort on the edge of a WWF nature reserve and not far from the wild beaches of southern Sicily, recommended this provider to us.

Tip: If Sicily is too far for you, there is also a great provider in Tuscany called “Il Cornacchino,” who take good care of the animals. Current offers include, for example, 8 days of natural Western riding in Tuscany*.

Conclusion: Sustainable riding vacation with or without your horse

Sustainable riding vacations are pretty straightforward. Hopefully, this article will help you plan your next trip in a relaxed, sustainable way. These tips will help whether you’re riding a horse or not!

If you have a recommendation for a sustainable riding vacation, please leave it in the comments. It can be a horse farm, tour provider, or destination. Inspire others. 😉

*For the offer marked with an asterisk, we receive a small commission if you book through the link.

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Der Beitrag A sustainable horseback vacation: how it works and things you should keep in mind erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.