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.

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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Der Beitrag Small Hotels with Heart: Personally run accommodations that feel like home erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

„The greatest sight to see is the world—take a look.“

The words of Kurt Tucholsky inspire us to travel to distant lands. However, we are far from being the first people to set foot in these places. While traveling, we encounter historical treasures—impressive testaments to times gone by—and silent memorials that remind us to minimize our ecological footprint.

In this four-part series, we will introduce you to historical treasures located near Green Pearls(Ⓡ )partner hotels. In part one, we explore the 5,300-year-old glacier mummy Ötzi, the Illyrians, the Neanderthals, and traces of 20,000-year-old cave bears.

What the glacier unveils

Let’s start with the hidden stories beneath the “eternal” ice. As you probably know, glacial melt and the subsequent rise in sea levels are two of the biggest problems of our time. These are direct consequences of human-caused climate change.

Fabienne Anthamatten from the Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt is the perfect person to talk to about this issue. Every year, the Swiss native climbs the Gorner Glacier on the Matterhorn with her family and witnesses the gradual melting of the ice firsthand. She has even made some special discoveries that she has dated. (Learn more in our article on glacier-friendly travel!)

Meet Ötzi the “Iceman”

No glacier find is as world-famous as Ötzi (also known as the Iceman). I, for one, am captivated by him! Ötzi, you wandered this world before the pyramids were built in Egypt, before Moses received the Ten Commandments, and before Jesus rode through the gates of Jerusalem. You lived around 5,300 years ago, before the Mayans or the Incas existed—a long, long time ago. Yet you are not so different!

This is apparent, for instance, in the hip bag (as we tourists are constantly discussing the practical and symbolic wearability of fanny packs). Ötzi carried important items in his: three flint tools (a cutting tool, a scraper, and a drill), a bone needle, and a lump of fungus, which was commonly used as a fire starter at the time. Sound familiar? I think hikers today could use these same items, only now they would be in the form of a lighter and a Swiss Army knife 😀

Visit the Neolithic man at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.

Sustainable accommodations in Ötzi’s former home, South Tyrol

LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel: This adults-only hotel in Naturns features a natural swimming pond, a saltwater pool, and daily yoga classes. It was also the first completely vegan hotel in Italy.

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel: A vegan art hotel located on the famous Seiser Alm in the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re traveling in the winter, you can ski right to the hotel and right back out again.

My Arbor: A luxurious wellness hotel near Brixen built high up in the treetops with views of the Plose. (Adults only.)

OLM Nature Escape: A circular aparthotel that is completely self-sufficient in renewable energy. Some apartment suites have a private spa with a sauna.

ADLER Lodge RITTEN: Eco-luxury in Ritten. The main building and several chalets are arranged around a natural swimming pond. Services include all-around support and experienced guide assistance, as well as an all-inclusive farm-to-table concept.

The APIPURA hotel rinner: An extraordinary “bee hotel” on the Ritten plateau. One of the senior managers is a migratory beekeeper, and the other has brought “Fair Bio Südtirol” to the hotel kitchen. Here, organic living is a way of life.

Hotel Weihrerhof: A family-run, family-friendly hotel located directly on the Wolfsgrubener Badesee lake in Ritten. It offers a spa, natural cosmetics, and a close connection to nature.

Bonus tip: Earth Pyramids, a natural monument

Though not created by human hands, the Ritten’s earth pyramids are impressive witnesses of time nonetheless. They are among the most fascinating natural phenomena in South Tyrol. Formed from moraine clay and shaped by erosion, they tell a story that began over 25,000 years ago and continues today as they evolve. They are definitely worth a hike or an e-bike tour!

Secrets from the Depths: Caves, Bones, and Ancient Stories in Liguria

When traveling through Liguria, you may picture fragrant herbs, colorful coastal villages, and the Mediterranean lifestyle. However, deep within the rocks lies evidence of a time when cave bears and the ancestors of modern humans still lived here.

The Toirano and Balzi Rossi regions are home to some of the most spectacular Stone Age sites in Europe. In the Grotte di Toirano, researchers discovered Paleolithic-era footprints, handprints, and knee prints, meaning they are around 12,000 years old. These findings suggest that people moved through the narrow passages by kneeling or sliding, offering a rare glimpse into everyday life in prehistoric times.

In addition to human remains, scientists found bones of cave bears that lived there over 20,000 years ago. Their remains were found deep inside the cave, far from daylight, raising questions that remain unanswered to this day. It is likely that ancient floodwaters carried the bones into the cave, which is an impressive testament to the wild nature of times gone by.

Neanderthals and Neolithic humans inhabited the Grimaldi Caves

Even older are the discoveries in the Balzi Rossi caves on the border with France. Skeletons of Neanderthals, including a 200,000-year-old hip bone, were found in the Grimaldi Caves.

Later burials also offer profound insights into the thoughts and feelings of early humans. One particularly moving example is that several skeletons from the Neolithic period were dusted with red ochre and decorated with shells from sea creatures before being laid to rest. Why? Perhaps it was an early symbol of status, spirituality, or love for the sea—we don’t know for sure. But the gesture remains touching to this day.

By the way, the tip about the caves comes from the Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Borgomaro. At this hotel, you can stay in the heart of this charming village and experience authentic Liguria. The caves and the Museo Preistorico dei Balzi Rossi, where the finds are located, are about an hour’s drive away, making them ideal for an exciting day trip into the depths of history. (For electric car drivers, the sustainable hotel has an extra parking space with a charging station.)

Traces of the Illyrians: History on the Mediterranean

Traces of long-lost cultures can be found not only in the mountains and caves but also on Croatia’s sunny islands. The Dalmatian island of Iž, where our partner hotel, Korinjak, now invites guests to enjoy mindfulness, yoga, and plant-based cuisine, was once home to the Illyrians. Archaeological finds in Mali Iž reveal their settlements and fortifications—stone reminders of a time thousands of years in the past (until around 2000 BCE).

The Illyrians inhabited large parts of the western Balkans until the Romans arrived. Roman sources described them as “wild,” “freedom-loving,” and “difficult to subjugate.” They are considered the ancestors of today’s Albanians, though this has not yet been proven scientifically.

Time travel is over — for now

Our little archaeological journey was quite the adventure: from prehistoric caves to the Alps’ glaciers to the Balkan islands. Though they are from different times, places, and people, they all have one thing in common—their traces are still there. Maybe you got a little closer to one or two of these fascinating personalities today. Maybe you’re now inspired to visit them (or their graves and discovery sites) sometime in the future. They may have been dead for a long time, but that doesn’t matter. History lives on through our exploration of it.

P.S. In the next part, we will supposedly find ourselves in more orderly circumstances—we are going to visit the Romans!

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Take a vacation at an Albergo Diffuso

Some places feel like lovingly guarded secrets. Borgomaro, located in Liguria, is one such place. With its narrow streets, Italian flair, and surrounding mountains, it is sure to captivate you—and right in the middle of it all stands the Relais del Maro. Rather than a classic hotel with a reception area, elevator, and large building, it is an Albergo Diffuso, or “scattered hotel,” where the rooms are spread across several historic houses in the village. Host Elena has gently renovated the old family homes, breathing new life into them—and in turn, the village itself.

A piece of real Italy

At a time when many Italian villages are affected by rural depopulation and vacant properties, Relais del Maro is setting an example by celebrating the village rather than allowing it to be forgotten. As a guest, you can stay in the village itself (perhaps in Aunt Maria’s former hair salon?), have breakfast in the garden of the former butcher shop, and stroll through the alleys like a local. This fosters a unique sense of connection to the people, the region, and the Ligurian way of life.

Why you should come in August

Summer in Borgomaro is warm and charming, especially in August. Throughout the month, the entire village becomes a giant stage, with music, art, and entertainment filling the squares, courtyards, and streets. It’s the perfect time to experience the village’s diversity. Rather than crowded beaches and lines in cities, you can experience authentic Italy here, complete with warmth, hospitality, and homemade cakes in the afternoon.

What to expect at the Festival del Maro

Music, theater, and the region’s beauty all come together at the Festival del Maro. The Impero Valley is brought to life by this series of events, where many villages have a population of just 300 (such as Borgomaro). The festival invites guests and locals alike to celebrate culture and community. However, the locals outnumber the guests, which makes the whole experience particularly authentic.

Since its inception in 2018, the festival has become an annual tradition, attracting artists from Liguria and visitors from farther away. The charming settings — from Piazza Felice Cascione in Borgomaro to hidden church squares and quiet courtyards — make every performance an atmospheric experience. The focus is always on togetherness and rediscovering a valley largely spared from mass tourism.

Here’s a sneak peek at this year’s 2025 program:

• Borgomaro, July: Opening night will feature an opera concert with world-famous Italian and foreign arias.
• Ville San Pietro, July: Music evening, “Let’s Talk and Sing About Love.” Singing, piano, and cello performed by two musicians.
• July, Conio: An evening of singing, ventriloquism, and Muppets (puppets)—full of humor!
• August, Ville San Sebastiano: A choir concert in a historic setting. Celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Madonna della Neve pilgrimage church. The church was restored in 2004. The highlight is a marble statue of the Madonna from 1625.
• August, Candeasco: Diego Campagna’s guitar artistry with a mezzo-soprano
• August, Torria: Homage to Neapolitan singing with a vocal and instrumental ensemble.
• August, Aurigo: Swing Evening with the BRG Orchestra from Finalborgo

Travel slowly and unwind

Before heading to the evening show, enjoy a peaceful day at Relais del Maro, ideally on the cozy terrace with a leisurely organic breakfast. Fresh regional specialties and homemade delicacies are served, along with everything your heart desires for breakfast. Afterwards, you can simply let yourself drift. Relax by the pool, read a book, or enjoy good conversation – or maybe do nothing at all and soak up the sun.

Activities near Borgomaro

If you prefer a more active vacation, you can rent an e-bike and explore the surrounding area. Explore the surrounding hills, olive groves, and other villages in the valley. The landscape around Borgomaro is ideal for travelers who like to experience slow travel at their own pace.

How about a yoga session in the garden? Relais del Maro offers yoga classes with a local provider surrounded by nature for a mindful start to the day. Learn more about the offer here.

A special highlight for adventurers — canyoning in the Ligurian hinterland! Just a few kilometers from the hotel, you can hike through gorges in small groups, discover stunning waterfalls, and cool off in the refreshing water. There’s no better way to experience the wild side of Liguria! All information can be found here.

And, of course, a visit to the sea is a must. The coast is just 15 kilometers away. So are some of Liguria’s most beautiful beaches, including hidden gems and secluded coves. The Relais del Maro has compiled a list of its favorite beaches.

It’s time for a special summer trip!

If you’re looking for more than just a vacation this year and want to experience Italy in an authentic and unique way, then Relais del Maro is the perfect place for you. With a charming village hotel, lively festivals, culinary delights, and the sea close by, summer couldn’t get any better. So gather your favorite people, grab your suitcases, and discover the real Liguria before everyone else does.

P.S. If August is too soon for you, Martina from the Relais del Maro management team recommends the olive harvest season or the culinary village festivals in May and June.

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Looking for sustainable hotels with childcare? Or do you need fresh ideas for a family vacation full of adventure and nature? Then check out these two articles:
👉 Sustainable hotels with childcare and babysitting services
👉12 sustainable ideas for your family summer vacation

La dolce vita with kids – sustainable enjoyment between mountains, lakes and the sea

Green hotels in Italy offer a variety of experiences – perfect for a conscious family vacation with plenty of heart and freedom. In addition to the classics like pizza, pasta and swimming, you can learn a lot about conservation and biodiversity in Italy.

Hotel Weihrerhof, Ritten – Nature holidays at the lake for young and old

Situated directly on the Wolfsgruben Lake on the Ritten Plateau, the Hotel Weihrerhof is a retreat for families who are looking for peace and quiet, but still want to experience a lot. Whether paddling, rowing or simply jumping in, the lake is a real highlight in summer. The surrounding nature will delight the children and help the parents to slow down. Host Klaus Pichler and his team create an atmosphere where all generations feel at home: “Many families spend their vacations with us. Our nature experiences are especially popular,” he says.

• In this blog post you will find insights into what a sustainable family weekend at Hotel Weihrerhof might look like.

Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel, South Tyrol – Family vacation with a vegan twist

Hiking in the Dolomites, skiing in winter right in front of the hotel, and all 100% vegan? At the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm, families can not only experience nature intensively, but also consciously enjoy a purely plant-based diet. If you think that vegan means complicated and not suitable for children, the Paradiso team will prove you wrong in a charming way – it is child-friendly and uncomplicated.

As a family, you can take advantage of age-based discounts for children. Babies under one year travel free, toddlers get a 75% discount, and 18-year-olds get a 20% discount. This makes your vacation fun for young and old alike, without compromises.

APIPURA hotel rinner, Ritten – Family hotel with a special touch

Here (almost) everything revolves around bees – which makes this an especially exciting vacation for children. The Rinner family runs its own organic apiary and invites families to discover the fascinating world of bees with its own bee trail, guided tours of the hives and exciting insights into beekeeping. The APIPURA hotel rinner is one of the family-friendly host on the Ritten and combines nature, relaxation and knowledge in a pleasant way. It offers family rooms, a playroom for rainy days and a large garden with a playground that can be seen from the terrace.

OLM Nature Escape, South Tyrol – Freedom for families

Cook today, have it delivered tomorrow and eat the day after in the restaurant PRENN°? At OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, you decide how much service you want. This sustainable aparthotel is ideal for families who love flexibility: with a fully equipped kitchen, plenty of space to play, but also to retreat. Surrounded by mountains and nature, you can relax together, explore, and just be yourselves. As the first energy self-sufficient aparthotel in the Alps, it is also a true green energy pioneer.

Relais del Maro, Liguria – A different kind of family hotel in a small village

A vacation like staying with friends, but with a pool and Italian breakfast. At Relais del Maro, you won’t be staying in a traditional hotel, but in an “albergo diffuso”. The charming rooms are spread over several historic houses owned by the host family in the Ligurian village of Borgomaro.

The garden is well maintained and the pool is not too deep – just right for families who want to enjoy a slower pace of life in the country. Just a stone’s throw away are the coast and many of the region’s highlights for joint excursions.

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA – Sun, wellness and family time in Sicily

Are you dreaming of a family vacation in Italy by the sea, with plenty of nature, relaxation and variety for young and old? Then ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is the perfect place for you. Located directly on the southern coast of Sicily and on the edge of the Torre Salsa nature reserve, you can relax and unwind together. While your children over the age of 4 are well taken care of at the AKI Kids Club, you can enjoy relaxing spa moments or explore the surrounding area. ADLER regularly offers attractive family specials for the Sicilian spa – sun and beach included.

Are you already packing, or do you need some more motivation?

Here are a few good reasons why a shared, sustainable family vacation is good for everyone:

• More closeness, less routine: A (nonrepresentative) study shows that vacations with children can be stressful, but they also have many positive effects: Study participants exercised more, engaged in more social activities, worried less, and slept better.

• Get away from it all: Vacations not only help adults reduce stress-children benefit from time away from their familiar surroundings, too.

• Foster development: New impressions, outdoor experiences, and shared adventures support children’s emotional development and build resilience.

So get your bags out and let’s go – for intentional family moments that will last.

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Our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ accommodations offer several options for a truly unplugged vacation:

• In Paris, in a hotel with room equipped with a shield against electromagnetic pollution
• In Liguria, in an Albergo Diffuso with a bio-electric switch
• On a Croatian island or in the Peruvian jungle, where there is no Wi-Fi and reception is very poor.
• With “digital detox” offers

We will tell you all about these options in a moment. But first: Why should you even consider an Internet-free vacation? Well, there are a lot of reasons.

What digital media is doing to us

Digital media is great. The Internet, applications, communities, networks, games – the digital world offers information, knowledge, fun, and entertainment. But like everything in life, it also has its downside.

For example, brain researcher Martin Korte of the Technical University of Braunschweig told the German Press Agency (dpa) that too much cell phone use is detrimental to creativity. Excessive use of digital media eliminates idle time, which is when ideas (usually) come to mind.

Attention decreases

In addition, studies have shown that multitasking significantly reduces work performance and attention span. This is logical: when you are doing and thinking about many things at once, your attention and quality suffer. Studies have even shown that the mere presence of a cell phone reduces attention. That’s because when your phone is on the table in front of you, part of your mind is occupied with the thought that you could quickly check it to see if you’ve missed anything, if an email has arrived, if you should maybe check the news again, and so on.

The good news: Visual stimulation and digital media can also be beneficial for the brain!

However, it is important to

– avoid multitasking and

– take enough breaks.

Electrical sensitivity

Another issue is the electrosensitivity of some people. Although not scientifically proven, it is recognized that people who consider themselves electrosensitive experience real health problems caused by the presence of cell phones and electrical devices. Symptoms include headaches, sleep disturbances, skin irritations and dizziness.

Parisians flee to hotels to escape “radiation stress”

The Paris hotel Le Pavillon was the first in France to offer special rooms for people with electromagnetic hypersensitivity. The hostess, Barbara Tascijevic-Porwoll, explained this to us in detail:

“There are more and more people who are sensitive to electricity and cannot tolerate any kind of electromagnetic pollution, mobile phone or antenna radiation, which causes them significant health problems. That is why we have shielded three of our 15 rooms at Hotel Le Pavillon against radiation, especially for these guests. (…)”

Special protection of walls, floors and windows

The rooms and bathrooms are protected by a special black shielding paint on the walls and ceiling, which is not visible to the clients, as the room is painted, tiled and parquet floored as normal. The floor is equipped with a special shielding grid. The paint ensures that electromagnetic radiation from low-frequency alternating electric fields and high-frequency electromagnetic waves is shielded. The electrical wiring is specially grounded and connected to the shielding. In addition, all rooms in the hotel have curtains that block high-frequency radiation through the windows.

 Offer to a specific customer group

We regularly receive requests from guests who specifically book our shielded rooms. We even have guests from Paris who book these rooms to give their cells a rest from the constant radiation stress at home, which has become omnipresent nowadays. Doctors specializing in electrosensitivity also refer guests with this condition to our hotel.

Due to the fact that there is little to no Internet reception in these rooms, our “regular” guests are less satisfied, especially if they want to work on their PCs. For these guests, we have special mobile routers that they can use to boost the signal or connect via cable.

Hotel rooms with mains disconnect switch (bio-electric switch)

The Relais del Maro in Liguria has equipped all its rooms with a mains isolation switch. This means that at the push of a button, all electronic devices in the room are cut off. No standby, no running appliances, no lights.

“Since there is no electricity running through the cables, there is less electromagnetic radiation,” says hotel manager Martina Dellerba. She is convinced that this significantly improves the guests’ sleeping comfort. Guests have reportedly told her that a week with the button was “like therapy” for them.

The location of the Relais del Maro certainly contributed to this. The Green PearlsⓇ Hotel is an Albergo Diffuso spread over several old residential and commercial buildings in the picturesque village of Borgomaro. Located in the hinterland of the coastal city of Imperia, it is a hidden gem for relaxation and authentic vacations.

Unwind on a Croatian island

Another great example of an unplugged vacation is Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž. Here, it’s easy to really go offline because Wi-Fi is only available in public areas and not in the rooms. So you can relax and unwind without the constant interruptions of push notifications and email.

Hotel Korinjak is located right by the sea, surrounded by a fragrant pine forest and olive grove. It is a place of peace and relaxation that focuses on sustainable tourism, vegetarian/vegan cuisine and spiritual experiences. In addition to the classic vacation offerings, you can participate in yoga or meditation classes, or find inspiration in various workshops.

Offline adventure in the Amazon rainforest

If you’re looking for an adventure where you can completely disconnect, then Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica in Peru is the place for you. Located in the heart of the dense Amazon rainforest, there is no internet or cell phone reception here. No 5G, no Wi-Fi – just you, the jungle, and fascinating nature.

Sure, you’ll take countless photos of exotic plants, wildlife, and stunning scenery on your travels. But your family and friends will have to wait to admire your impressions – because you are truly offline. Only in case of emergency is there a radio that you can use to contact the city.

This intentional digital break gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, travel more mindfully, and take in the experience with all your senses-not just through your phone screen or camera viewfinder. A stay at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica is not only an adventure, but also a special form of slowing down.

Digital detox made easy

In addition to places without Wi-Fi, there are hotels that have developed special digital detox packages. Check out this article for an overview of sustainable accommodations that offer programs to help you take a conscious break from your digital life.

A great example is the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol. Here you can switch off with the “Data-Detox-Plus-Package“. We don’t want to give too much away, but if you want to get away from your smartphone, there’s a surprise waiting for you so you can focus on nature, your companions and yourself. Instead of screen time, you can enjoy hikes on the Ritten, peaceful hours at Lake Wolfsgruben or relaxing moments in the “SeaSpa”. An invitation to let your body and mind truly unwind.

Dare to switch off completely!

Whether it’s shielded hotel rooms, hidden islands without Wi-Fi, or jungle lodges without a network, there are many ways to leave the digital world behind for a while. Brain researcher Korte makes an amusing comparison: “Being constantly on the phone is like always carrying chips and chocolate with you. The danger of constantly reaching for them is high! So take the plunge and leave your phone at home when you go on vacation, but also in your everyday life, and enjoy your surroundings.

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Regions close to borders often have strong cultural and economic ties that allow you to enjoy a special vacation flair. In this blog, we will introduce you to sustainable accommodations where you can do both country hopping and slow travel.

From Zermatt, Switzerland to Italy for lunch

Fabienne Anthamatten, the hostess at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, likes to take advantage of the proximity of her mountain village to the border herself. Zermatt is close to the Italian border (the distance as the crow flies to the Italian town of Breuil-Cervinia is about 15 kilometers). The Matterhorn Ski Paradise ski area straddles Switzerland and Italy, and you can ski right out of the hotel and into Italy for lunch (or coffee).

Spectacular excursion on the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing cable car

The Matterhorn Glacier Ride II has been connecting Zermatt with Testa Grigia in Italy since July 2023. In just a few minutes, you float 3,458 meters above the “eternal ice” with an incomparable view of the Matterhorn. In summer, there is even a “rooftop ride” in a structure on the cable car, where you can ride on the roof of the cabin and enjoy the wind in your face.

TIME magazine has named the Matterhorn Pass one of the “World’s Greatest Places.”

But alpine glaciers are much more than a tourist attraction! They are an important indicator of climate change and could be nearly gone by the end of the century! In this article, we tell you more about glacier-friendly travel. We also hear from Fabienne Anthamatten, who is committed to protecting the climate and glaciers with her family-run boutique hotel, Bella Vista Zermatt.

Berchtesgaden and Salzburg – Combine a vacation in nature with culture

The Green PearlsⓇ Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway and Spa is located in Bayrisch Gmain, Germany, 10 km from Salzburg, Austria. The sustainably managed wellness hotel is located almost alone in a hiking paradise in the midst of nature, but due to its proximity to the cultural city, you can have nature recreation, wellness, city and culture all in one!

Salzburg Festival 2025

The renowned Salzburg Whitsun Festival takes place from July 18 to August 31, 2025 and offers a diverse program of opera, theater and concerts. The hotel hosts (Henrike and Dr. Andreas Färber) are avid culture lovers themselves and organize a special event each year during the festival, including a cross-border shuttle service, professional gala make-up and a 5-course gourmet dinner.

• Learn more about Klosterhof’s Salzburg Festival Special

Perhaps this would be the perfect plan for your next summer holiday?

Combine a vacation in the Black Forest with French savoir-vivre and a trip to Basel

A vacation in Freiburg im Breisgau allows you to travel not two but three countries at once. We recommend the Green City Hotel Vauban as an environmentally friendly “base station”. In addition to its ecological and integrative concept, it also offers you, as a guest, a free ticket for regional transportation – so you can explore the German Black Forest.

The Alsace region is just a few miles away – perfect for a day trip to Colmar or Strasbourg. Here you can stroll through charming old towns, enjoy French savoir-vivre, and sample regional specialties such as tarte flambée.

Switzerland is also not far away: In less than an hour, you can reach Basel, a city known for its modern architecture, world-class museums, and beautiful Old Town. Whether it’s a visit to the renowned art museum, a stroll along the Rhine, or a trip to the market hall for international delicacies, Basel has a lot to offer.

With Freiburg as your base, you can easily explore three countries without repacking each time – a sustainable travel experience with maximum variety.!

One vacation, two countries: Italy and France

The Relais del Maro in charming Borgomaro is the perfect place to experience authentic Liguria. Nestled in the idyllic hinterland of Imperia, host Elena Scalambrin has created a beautiful Albergo Diffuso, spread over several of her family’s former commercial and residential buildings. Here you can live among the locals, relax and unwind, and explore the area’s nature on the hotel’s e-bikes or hiking trails.

The glamour of the French Riviera is not far away either: the famous Côte d’Azur in France is only about 90 kilometers away – a pleasant drive of about 1.5 hours.

Along the coastal road, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as you drive toward the French border. Once there, you can stroll the elegant streets of Nice, visit picturesque Eze, or explore glamorous Monaco. Back at the Relais del Maro, you will find a charging station for your electric car.

Holidays at Lake Constance – Germany, Austria and Switzerland

Of course, our concept of a vacation in two countries would not be complete without Lake Constance. It covers 536 square kilometers and is located between Germany, Austria and Switzerland (the Principality of Liechtenstein is also only a half hour drive from Lake Constance). The beautiful blue lake in the middle of the mountain panorama attracts many visitors mainly because of its mild climate. The area is famous for its fruits and flowers. Every spring, about a million tulip heads open on the flower island of Mainau.

Naturresort Gerbehof is located near the island of Mainau and the shores of Lake Constance. The resort is built of local wood and stone and is nestled among forests and apple trees. The resort also has horses and a children’s vacation program. However, outside of vacation periods, the resort is “adults only”.

It is only 15 kilometers from Friedrichshafen to the Austrian border, which means you can be in Bregenz or the beautiful Bregenzerwald in just 20 minutes, where you will be rewarded with impressive alpine panoramas and a unique natural setting. The Swiss border is also only about 30 kilometers away, making a trip to Romanshorn or St. Gallen possible.

From Germany to Austria by rowing boat

Rowing is a sustainable and challenging way to cross borders. However, you should have some experience! The distance from Friedrichshafen to Bregenz is 31 kilometers on the lake – depending on your ability, such a trip takes between three and five hours.

Alternatively, you can take the ferry, which runs four times a day between Friedrichshafen and Bregenz (a ticket costs around 15 euros). This is a little less environmentally friendly because of the engine, but of course much faster (just over an hour) and easier🙂

One vacation, two countries: From Peru to Brazil through the Amazon

Not adventurous enough yet? If you have enough time and courage, you could take a trip down the Amazon River! That’s what travel blogger Joe HaTTab did. (He doesn’t specifically focus on sustainability when he travels, but he does support human rights.)

Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica is located in the Amazon rainforest of Peru. With this hotel, eco-pioneer José Koechlin von Stein began to realize his vision of sustainable tourism in Peru 50 years ago. Today, Inkaterra hotels are a model of sustainable tourism in the country.

At Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica you will have the best opportunity to acclimate to the jungle. You will be accompanied by experienced jungle guides who will lead you through high ropes courses and show you the biodiversity.

River trip through the Amazon

The lodge is located on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, a tributary of the Amazon, near Puerto Maldonado. From here, there are several options for exploring the Amazon and traveling all the way to Brazil. (A common route is from Iquitos in northern Peru downstream to Manaus in Brazil, and is the starting point for many Amazon river trips). However, the route from Puerto Maldonado to Iquitos is an adventure in itself due to the geographical conditions!

In general, such a trip requires careful planning (including consideration of visa requirements, health precautions, and choosing a trustworthy operator for the river trip to Brazil)

But you don’t have to cross the border to experience diversity and sustainable adventure. The Peruvian rainforest has more than enough to offer.

Conclusion

Cross-border travel can be sustainable when combined with thoughtful planning and eco-friendly accommodations. You benefit from short distances, unique natural and cultural experiences, and often a special blend of traditions. So why not explore two countries in one vacation?

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This is the third installment of our Culinary Journey series – a new destination each month.

What are the characteristics of Ligurian cuisine?

The wide variety of delicacies makes Italian cuisine one of the most diverse and complex in the world. Of course, this is also true for the different regions. Liguria is a coastal region in northwestern Italy that is over 300 km long. No wonder they serve a lot of fish. In contrast, vegetables and herbs are the main ingredients in Borgomaro, a small village about 30 kilometers inland from the coast. This is where the Relais del Maro is located.

“In our corner of Liguria we use tons of vegetables. Vegetable pies, handmade pasta with vegetable fillings, stuffed vegetables, baked vegetables, polpettone… We also use aromatic herbs such as thyme, sage, marjoram, rosemary and others”. – Martina Dellerba of the Relais del Maro

5 dishes you must try in Liguria

#1 Focaccia

Focaccia is a thin bread made from wheat flour. People often eat it as an hors d’oeuvre or a snack, pairing it with olives or a caprese salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

The special thing about Ligurian focaccia is that it is not as thick as the classic version, but thin and crispy. It is also available with a cheese or herb filling.

#2 Farinata di Ceci

If you are in a Ligurian coastal town like Imperia, you will find farinata di ceci in every bakery, along with focaccia. This is also a type of thin flat bread but made with chickpea flour. Cooks bake it in round trays and serve it as a snack or side dish.

Invention of the Farinata di Ceci

According to legend, chance led to the invention of farinata during the famous naval battle of Meloria. The maritime republics of Genoa and Pisa fought this battle on August 6, 1284, and it is considered the largest naval clash of the Middle Ages. After their victory, the Genoese began their return journey, but some of their ships sustained damage—either from the battle or a storm—causing the barrels of oil and chickpea flour they carried to break. They mixed with the seawater that had entered the ship and formed a dough. It dried and although it did not look appetizing, the sailors were very hungry and ate some. To everyone’s surprise, it tasted delicious 🙂

#3 Trofie al Pesto

Trofie is a type of pasta from Liguria, made with durum wheat from the region. The pasta is short and twisted, which is why it is affectionately known as “the pasta with the twist”.

Trofie al pesto may sound like a simple combination of pasta and pesto, but it’s much more than that. It also includes green beans, potatoes, and pine nuts. It’s a delicious dish, best eaten lukewarm, for example on the terrace of the Relais del Maro 🙂.

Pesto alla Genovese

We should also mention pesto alla Genovese – after all, the most famous of all pesto varieties originated in Genoa! It consists of crushed basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan or other hard cheese (e.g. Pecorino Sardo).

#4 Coniglio alla Ligure

Coniglio alla Ligure is a regional classic. It is rabbit stewed with red wine and herbs. “You can find it in the typical trattorias of our hinterland,” says Martina. She recommends “La Remissa” in Torria, “La Tavernaccia” in Chiusavecchia, and “Da Maria” in Vessalico.

Compared to beef, rabbit meat is considered more sustainable because it requires less feed. Of course, avoiding meat altogether is even better for the climate. There are also big differences in how the animals are raised. Some rabbits are organic and some are factory farmed.

#5 Torta Verde

The Torta Verde is a summer vegetable cake with peas and zucchini. We have already presented its recipe on our blog.

Regional highlight: Taggiasca olives

There are said to be over 500 different varieties of olives in Italy, and each region has its own olive specialties. In Imperia, the most famous variety of olive is the Taggiasca. It is sold both as a snack and for pressing into oil.

On a culinary tour of Liguria, you will find local olives in many dishes, and they are also served as antipasti (much healthier than potato chips, by the way 😉

Tip: During the olive harvest season, there are various tourist events, such as olive markets or opportunities to visit oil mills, etc.

 

Seafood in Liguria

Fishing has a long tradition in Liguria and you can buy the fresh catch at markets all along the coast. The selection varies according to the season. In winter you can buy mullet and cuttlefish, in summer octopus, sea bream, hake, and small pelagic fish (those that live in large schools and swim close to the surface), while in autumn bonito and mackerel dominate.

In restaurants, you can also find anchovies and shrimp on the menu.

Is it safe to eat fish in Liguria?

Unfortunately, you can’t always assume that the fish in a seafood restaurant is really fresh from the Ligurian Sea. Fish stocks have been declining since the 1990s, and many restaurateurs use imported frozen fish. So it’s best to ask.

If you are interested in the situation of fish in the Mediterranean and the threats they face from climate change, pollution, and fishing, here is an interesting article about biodiversity in the Mediterranean on Riffreporter.

Sustainable accommodation in Liguria: The Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro 

To make your trip to Liguria as sustainable as possible, there are three things you should consider:

• Eco-friendly travel
• Sustainable accommodation
• Sustainable dining with a focus on organic and local products

Our recommendation: The Relais del Maro albergo diffuso in Borgomaro. The albergo diffuso movement was born to save Italian villages from decay. The idea is to turn several empty buildings in a village into a distributed hotel. Elena Scalambrin has done just that. Her 4-star hotel is divided between a main building and several of her family’s historic commercial and residential buildings. This allows you to live authentically among the locals. Thanks to tourism, the picturesque village has been able to keep its bakery, hairdresser, and other shops. Located about 30 kilometers from the coast (Imperia), it is a great starting point for exploring the region.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy breakfast with local products overlooking the pool, olive trees, and the church tower. In the afternoon there is tea time with fresh homemade pastries and an à la carte menu of small dishes and snacks is served daily from 5pm to 8pm.

Michelin-starred cuisine in Liguria – The 6 best Michelin-starred restaurants in Liguria

Elena herself is a lover of good food. She has already visited several Michelin-starred restaurants in Liguria and has given us the following recommendations:

1. Equilibrio (the restaurant of chef Jacopo Chieppa, who started his career at the age of 16. The “balance” of the dishes is important to him.
2. Sarri (Classic Ligurian dishes with a modern twist)
3. Vignamare (Seafood restaurant with fantastic ocean views)
4. Casa Buono (Sustainable Michelin star cuisine in the hinterland with (preferably) zero-kilometer food“)
5. Nove (Creative cuisine with surprising combinations, sensationally presented)
6. Balzi Rossi (Elegant restaurant, fish dishes with flower arrangements)

Elena has not yet been to Vignamare, but she is familiar with the current chef’s cuisine, as he previously worked at Nove. She has summarized her experiences at the restaurants in the blog on her website.

“Our region not only celebrates its culinary heritage, but also embraces innovation, sustainability and respect for nature.” – Elena Scalambrin

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Extra tip: Book directly with the hotel and get help with your arrival

First, a general tip for green and fair travel: Book your accommodations directly through the hotel’s website. It’s no secret that travel sites like Booking.com take a commission from hotels when you book through them. So while you pay the same room rate, the hotels get less of it.

The sustainable accommodations featured in this article are all personally and individually managed and you can contact them directly – you will find links to their websites on the Green PearlsⓇ microsites that we link to here.

Our tip for traveling by train: Contact the hotel or vacation rental before you book (by email or phone). Tell them you are booking directly with them, that you are coming by train, and ask if there is anything they can do to help you travel green. Often there are special offers, such as a day of free e-bike use, or you can “beat” a free shuttle ☺️ Especially if you are staying longer, a sustainable accommodation will often meet you halfway.

How sustainable accommodations reward and support you when you travel by train

Upgrade to first class for the train ride to Zermatt

Car-free Zermatt in Switzerland is the perfect destination for a vacation close to nature by train. The Visp-Zermatt line is considered to be a particularly picturesque route through the Swiss picture-book countryside ( like a route of these routes that you can watch on YouTube to relax).

• For stays of three nights or more, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt will pay for your upgrade from 2nd to 1st class on the Visp – Zermatt route.

The boutique hotel, with a small spa and views of the Matterhorn, is run by the Anthamatten family and is committed to sustainability in all areas (e.g. zero waste principles and regional organic products).

Free public transportation pass or guest card

Another great offer from eco-friendly hotels are free local transportation passes – so you can get around in a climate-friendly way during your stay.

Eco-friendly accommodation and transportation in Freiburg

The Green City Hotel Vauban in the beautiful German city of Freiburg im Breisgau is an example of this. The modern city hotel with its green facade is easily accessible by train. Take the train to Freiburg’s main station and from there the number 3 tram to Paula-Modersohn-Platz – the stop is right in front of the hotel.

• Upon arrival, the hotel will provide you with a free regional ticket for the entire RVF area for the duration of your stay. (This includes buses, trams and all Deutsche Bahn 2nd class trains)

Green PearlsⓇ hotels on the Ritten in South Tyrol offer you the RittenCard

The Ritten Plateau in South Tyrol is a popular destination for an active vacation in the Italian Alps. You won’t need a car here, as the entire region is exemplary in its commitment to environmentally friendly transportation. The RittenCard gives you free use of all local transport, including the historic mountain railway and the cable car to Bolzano, as well as free entry to some 90 museums, exhibitions and attractions.

• The family-friendly Hotel Weihrerhof* at Wolfsgrubensee on the Ritten will send you the RittenCard in digital form prior to your arrival. They will also provide free luggage transport from your home to the hotel and back.

“Thanks to our Green Mobility service, the car is a distant memory,” reports the ADLER Lodge RITTEN*. Here you also receive a RittenCard, as well as the possibility to rent e-bikes and hire experienced guides to accompany you on hikes or e-bike tours.

Arrival: From the Bolzano train station it is a 5 minute walk to the Renon cable car. The cable car leaves every 4 minutes and takes you to Soprabolzano in 12 minutes. Once there, a shuttle from ADLER Lodge RITTEN will be waiting for you.

• Learn more about ADLER Lodge RITTEN’s Green Mobility concept.
  

The RittenCard is also included in the room price at the APIPURA hotel rinner and will be sent to you before you arrive. You can also reach the hotel from Bolzano with the Ritten cable car and from Oberbozen with the Ritten train – the “Rinner” stop is right in front of the hotel! If you are a bee lover, you will love the APIPURA hotel rinner: the hotel has its own organic apiary, there is a bee nature trail and organic honey is served daily at the breakfast buffet.

• Special: If you arrive by train, you will receive a 50% discount on the in-house e-bike rental at the APIPURA hotel rinner.

Eco-friendly hiking vacation in the Hohe Tauern National Park with a guest card

East Tyrol also has a guest card that allows you to use public transportation and offers free or a discount at many attractions. You receive one as a guest at the family-run Naturhotel Outside in Matrei. The hotel is an official hiking hotel with a hiking concierge and also offers a free shuttle from Lienz train station (there and back). A shuttle from Kitzbühel train station is available for a fee.

Complimentary e-Shuttle service powered by green electricity

If you travel by train, you are already traveling in a pretty environmentally friendly way. Now imagine being picked up at the station by an e-shuttle powered by the hotel’s green electricity – pretty green and convenient, isn’t it?

This is possible at the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen (the train station is also located here). And once you are there, the best way to explore the picturesque Allgäu region with its panoramic view of Neuschwanstein Castle is on foot. Hiking concierge Bergbaschdi will be happy to assist you.

The Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort Hotel in the Upper Palatinate Lake District will pick you up at Schwandorf train station with its own electric shuttle. The hotel includes a large spa area with several saunas and pools, as well as the 2-star restaurant Obendorfers Eisvogel – you’ll find it hard to find a reason to leave the premises 🙂

At the Hotel Klosterbräu in Tyrol, you can order the hotel’s “Green Shuttle” (an electric Viano bus) for free throughout the Seefeld area. The Seefeld ICE train station is only 200 meters from the hotel, so you can easily walk there. However, the shuttle is worthwhile if you have heavy or bulky luggage, such as ski equipment or the like. The sustainable hotel complex within the old monastery walls offers a wide range of services, including wellness, its own brewery, yoga classes, a petting zoo and child care.

“The electric vehicle is a highlight for our guests,” reports the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. As mentioned above, the village of Zermatt is car-free, and apart from the electric vehicles, only horse-drawn carriages are allowed. The CERVO consists of several wooden chalets and has an award-winning design style.

Rail and Hotel: More eco-friendly hotels with shuttle services in Europe

To stay within the scope of this article, we will give you a brief overview of even more sustainable European hotels with shuttle services:

Germany

• The STURM in Mellrichstadt is a 5-minute drive from Mellrichstadt train station and offers a free shuttle service. The hotel has a natural swimming pond, a snack garden and a sauna area.
• The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio in Balderschwang offers guests a shuttle service from the Fischen train station or the Hittisau bus station (for Swiss guests arriving by train from Bregenz).
• The Lifestylehotel Zum Kurfürsten – a wellness hotel with Feng Shui and TMC therapy – offers a shuttle from Wittlich train station. There is a fee for this service.
• Bayerisch Gmain train station is only 2 kilometers from the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa and will gladly arrange a taxi for you to the hotel. The hotel also has an E-Smart car rental service to help you get around.
• Gut Sonnenhausen is also surrounded by nature. The closest train station is Grafing, which can be reached by S-Bahn or regional train from Munich. The rest of the way is by taxi (at your own expense).

Austria

• The Biohotel Grafenast, high above the Tyrolean Inn Valley, will order a taxi for you from the nearest train stations in Jenbach and Schwaz. For stays of 3 nights or more, the Biohotel will also pay half of the taxi costs.

Italy

• “Traveling by train is becoming increasingly popular,” reports My Arbor*. The extraordinary tree hotel is located about 15 to 20 minutes by car from Brixen train station. Brixen can be reached by direct train from cities such as Milan, Verona, Innsbruck, or Munich. There is a pick-up service for guests from the station. (free for stays of 7 nights or more, otherwise a taxi will be arranged at a cost of 30 euros).
• The Relais del Maro* in Liguria is located in the small town of Borgomaro. Tucked away in the hinterland, there is, unfortunately, no good public transportation network here. But the hotel will help you reach the family-run Albergo Diffuso from Imperia train station with a partner taxi company. Once at the Relais del Maro, you can rent an e-bike for further exploration.

Eco-hotels in Paris and Milan

Of course, city hotels in European metropolises are ideal for combining train and eco-hotel. “Paris has 6 train stations, and depending on which direction guests are coming from, they arrive at the appropriate station. From Germany, it is Gare de L’Est and Gare du Nord,” says Barbara Tascijevic-Porwoll of the Green Spirit Hotels. The Amelie, Malar and Le Pavilion hotels are all in the 7th arrondissement, within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.

By the way, Paris has done a lot to become more bike-friendly and has created many new bike paths! Of course, there is also the famous metro, which is an environmentally friendly way to get from A to B.

The marbled Milan Central Station is also accessible from all over Europe with direct lines. Here, in the heart of the city, lies the Hotel Milano Scala, Italy’s first zero-emissions hotel. All electricity is generated by geothermal probes.

From the train station to the hotel by bus, bike, or on foot

For our more rural partners, traveling by train is not quite as easy – but no less appealing for it.

“We recommend that you take your bike with you when you arrive by train. And then cycle the rest of the way from Eystrup or Nienburg station to us,” explain the host sisters at Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe. The train stations are about 20 kilometers away and can be reached from Bremen or Hannover. There is also a lot to discover in the area by bike. The Okelmanns’ father is an enthusiastic cyclist himself and has entered several routes in komoot.

The Gut Guntrams in Austria can be reached from Vienna’s Pitten train station. From there, it is a 25-minute walk along a forest nature trail to Guntramsburg. The hotel’s website offers a beautifully designed map of the trail, complete with photos and arrows.

First by train, then by bus

The Pfunds in Tirol bus stop is just one minute from the Summit Lodges Pfunds, so you can catch the bus right outside your vacation home. The spacious log cabin has its own sauna and fireplace! During the winter there is also a ski bus to the ski area. The nearest train station is Landeck-Zams.

To get to the Naturresort Gerbehof by train, you must first get to the train station in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. The station is 5 kilometers from the resort and there are buses to Ailingen every 15 minutes. The walk from Ailingen bus station to Gerbehof is 1.2 kilometers.

A little exercise in nature never hurts anyone, as they say! Alternatively, you can always take a taxi from the station to your accommodation. Either way, you are traveling in a climate-friendly way and keeping your carbon footprint small. Both by traveling and by choosing your accommodation. You may even find that you enjoy traveling by public transportation or bicycle and use them more at home.

*CIN-Codes: IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor), IT008010A1NIWKHTTF (Relais del Maro), IT021072A1L46PNBHX (Hotel Weihrerhof), IT021072A1UOWUIDH4 (APIPURA hotel rinner), IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ (ADLER Lodge RITTEN)

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In the beginning: “We are a package deal”

When a relationship is new, couples often do everything together while on vacation. Many think that’s the way it has to be. Or they’re so in love that it doesn’t even occur to them to do anything separately.

The romantic hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen in the Allgäu can confirm this. “We specialize in couples,” the host family tells us, adding: “As a rule, all couples do everything together.” On our last visit, we learned that a marriage proposal happens almost every week! It’s no wonder that most of the couples there are practically inseparable.

Traveling with different preferences

This changes over time. At least for some couples I know (and I have been married for 16 years now). You get to know each other better, accept different preferences and views, trust each other more, and maybe are just a little bit more honest. You may have started out watching the Olympics together, but four years later you admit that you’re not really interested in that and would rather do something else. It can be the same with vacations. The important thing is that you don’t see it as a problem, but as an opportunity for each part of the relationship to maintain its own character.

A partnership is about giving and receiving 

In a partnership, there is time to spend together, time when one person does something just for the other, and time for oneself. Children, work, and other people come into the relationship, and successful couples come to terms and find their way. In everyday life and on vacation. (Not that I’m always that successful, but I’m just saying that in general 😉 )

These Green PearlsⓇ accommodations frequently host pairs with different interests

#1 Hotel Weihrerhof, South Tyrol – He can go hiking, she takes a sunbath on the lake

“We often have couples with different interests at the hotel,” says Klaus Pichler of Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol. The family-run boutique hotel is located 1,200 meters above sea level on the shores of Lake Wolfsgruben, amidst the mountain panorama of the Ritten.

“ The man is usually the more active and goes hiking, biking, etc. The wife enjoys the stay at the Weihrerhof with short walks along the lake, on the sunbathing lawn or in the SeaSpa with unique treatments.” – Hotel Weihrerhof

#2 My Arbor near Bressanone/Brixen in South Tyrol – Individual time management

„From wellness and outdoor adventures to sports and relaxation, we offer a wide range of options to meet a variety of needs.“ – My Arbor

 My Arbor is a luxurious adults-only hotel nestled in the treetops with fantastic views of the Dolomites. Each week there is a varied program of guided hikes (skiing in winter), spa treatments, forest bathing, etc. to choose from. To see what such a program might look like, click here.

#3 Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt – Couples have a lot to talk about in the evening

Hotel Bella Vista is “definitely ideal” for couples with different preferences, says host Fabienne Anthamatten. Her family’s hotel in car-free Zermatt has a beautiful terrace with a fantastic view of the Swiss icon, the Matterhorn. Couples sit here in the evenings (or in the cozy lobby by the fire in winter) and talk about their day. One of them has usually been on an outdoor adventure which starts right outside the front door, while the other has been relaxing in the adults-only spa or exploring Zermatt.

#4 CERVO Moutain Resort Zermatt – A resort with a lot of possibilities

Also in Zermatt is the CERVO Mountain Resort, which consists of several wooden buildings. There are three restaurants, a spa area, a gym, a climbing wall… and the Alps, glaciers and Zermatt village shops are just outside the door.

„One person can ski during the day and the other can spend a day at the spa. In the evening, you can have dinner or après-ski together.“ – CERVO Mountain Resort 

#5 Summit Lodges Pfunds, Tyrol – One goes skiing, the other goes snowshoeing

Interestingly, at the Summit Lodges Pfunds vacation houses, it is also very common for couples to plan their excursion program separately, says owner Marco Spiss. Pfunds is a quiet and traditional community in Tyrol, perfect for a nature vacation with all the freedom you need.

“ It is often the case that one partner is on the slopes (Serfaus, Ischgl, Nauders) and the other prefers snowshoeing or simply walking on the many hiking trails in the area (especially the Tschey in Pfunds)” – Marco Spiss, Summit Lodges Pfunds

But the sustainable accommodation also offers plenty of opportunities for togetherness, such as a private sauna and an open fireplace that is stocked with firewood when you arrive.

#6 Hotel Klosterbräu, Tirol – Two activity guides to choose from

If you prefer to stay in a hotel in Tyrol, the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld is a good choice in the region.

“[Holidays with different interests] are definitely possible with us, as our two activity guides Clemens and Thomas plan on different levels. This means that if the woman (or man) wants to climb a via ferrata and the man (or woman) prefers a morning walk, there is something for everyone.” – Hotel Klosterbräu

The hotel is also ideal if you want to take your children with you. There is the hotel’s own petting zoo “Siggis Sauhaufen” and child care nearby. There is also a large spa area – something for everyone.

#7 Biohotel Grafenast, Tyrol – Nature vacation – also with children

The Biohotel Grafenast in Pill is another hotel where you can enjoy a great vacation together as a couple or with your children and where there are different options for everyone. It is located high above the Tyrolean Inn Valley and has a fantastic view of the valley. Some of the 23 rooms are equipped as family rooms and depending on the season there is a special program for the children.

„We are a great place to combine different interests“ – Biohotel Grafenast

#8 Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol – Combined vacation in the Alpine National Park

Our Green Pearls® partner, the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol, suggests several possible “combos” for you:

1. Outdoor sports and wellness (a new nature SPA with heated outdoor pool and a Deferegger healing water pool will open at the end of December 2024)
2. Hohe Tauern National Park and gourmet vacation (the hotel’s restaurant has 3 Falstaff forks)
3. Relaxation and shopping in Lienz

#9 Hotel Luise, Erlangen – Sustainable city vacation in Bavaria

For a sustainable vacation in Germany, there are also some sustainable hotels where you are in good hands as joint individual travelers. For example, the Hotel Luise in Erlangen:

“ Erlangen is ideally located for travelers with a variety of interests. You can take a city vacation or head out into nature – no matter which adventure you choose, you can relax in our spa after an exciting day.” – Hotel Luise

City vacation: The hotel is centrally located in Erlangen and Nuremberg, Fürth, Bamberg, Lauf a. d. Pegnitz are nearby and easily accessible by train.

Culture: Erlangen has a lot to offer culture lovers. The ComicSalon Erlangen takes place every two years and the Poet*innen Fest takes place every year. Nuremberg offers the Imperial Castle, the German Museum and other cultural highlights.

Nature: If you prefer to be outdoors, explore Franconian Switzerland (where you can climb, swim, hike, bike, explore caves, and more) – you can even bike right from the hotel to the Tennenloher Forest Nature Reserve. There are wild horses, goats, sand dunes, moors and more to discover.

Find out more about how to spend your time in Erlangen in our blog article: “Insider tips for a sustainable weekend in Erlangen” 

#10 Birkenhof***** Spa & Wellness, Upper Palatinate – Enjoy sustainable luxury

Looking for something more luxurious? Then there is a truly exceptional gourmet hotel for sports, wellness and culinary enthusiasts on a hill in the Opferpfälzer Seenland. The 5-star Hotel Birkenhof is committed to renewable energy and e-mobility at the highest level. Speaking of high standards: It is also home to the 2-star restaurant Obendorfers Eisvogel”.

“We are very good at catering to different interests. We have a wellness and relaxation offer and we are a hotel in the middle of nature with hiking possibilities, water skiing in the lake area, golf and cycling.” – Lukas Obendorfer, Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort

#11 Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Berchtesgadener Land – For couples who not only want different activities, but also different menus

At Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideway & Spa, couples often order different meals, according to the host family. A popular variation is when one person is vegan and the other is not. In this case, there is an all vegetable “Kraut und Rüben” menu every evening.

There are often babymoon guests at the health hotel. Here the pregnant woman can participate in a special program while the father-to-be can do other things. In the evening you can enjoy the famous Barbarossa Mocktails together – each to your own taste.

#12 Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance Region – Sporty nature vacation

Naturresort Gerbehof is the perfect place for you if you want to be surrounded by a natural, organic atmosphere. The sustainable hotel is located amidst the famous orchards of the Lake Constance region and is especially beautiful during the blossoming and apple harvest season.

“ We have opportunities for wellness, hiking, biking, sailing and surfing.” – Naturresort Gerbehof

#13 Lifestylehotel SAND – Vacation at the Baltic Sea

“ We are currently experiencing a huge increase in demand for offers for couples,” says Marion Muller, hostess of the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand. We described what such a weekend for two could look like in our blog article Baltic Sea for two.

The Adults Only Hotel offers several specials for couples. It is not necessary to do everything together with your partner. In this case, the hostess recommends the combination of the two offers “SANDromance” and “SANDstarnight”. This means ” Feel Good” for one and ” Outdoor Experience ” for the other.

#14 STURM in Mellrichstadt – Adventure and relaxation

At the sustainable Hotel STURM in Mellrichstadt in the Biosphere Reserve Rhön, most couples with different interests combine “adventure” and “relaxation”. Each partner can plan their day as they wish – one can go on an adventure tour and explore the surrounding forests, moors and caves, while the other relaxes with sauna sessions and massages.

„Perfect balance: each partner organizes the day according to his or her own wishes. End the day together with a delicious organic menu in the restaurant, followed by a drink in the lounge or in front of the fireplace.“ – STURM

Holidays for couples with different interests in Thailand, Italy, France and Nepal

#15 Keemala Villas Wonderland on Phuket – Everyone is allowed dream

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, Keemala, on the Thai island of Phuket, has just been named “Best Resort in Thailand” and “One of the Best Hotels in the World” by the One Step 4Ward blog – after travel blogger Johnny Ward spent 18 years traveling the world.

He was there with his wife and they did everything together (yes, he just got married in 2021 – so it’s still fresh :-)). They even had their booked spa treatments moved to the same room. But you can also experience something on your own as a couple.

“Keemala caters to the needs of couples with different interests with our wellness and outdoor adventure themes.” – Keemala

Wellness: Spa treatments, yoga, wellness classes and mediation sessions

Culinary delights: Indulge in nutritious and wellness-oriented cuisine

Outdoor Adventure: Explore the rainforest and local wildlife on guided eco-tours. There are trails for all levels.

Water activities: Kayaking and Snorkeling

#16 Holidays at the Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Liguria

How about the idyllic setting of a Ligurian village for your vacation? Borgomaro, in the hinterland of the coastal city of Imperia, is home to the Relais del Maro – an Albergo Diffuso spread over several houses in the village.

In the morning one person goes to the pool while the other sleeps in – later one person walks through the olive groves and tastes the famous Taggiasca olives while the other hires an e-bike from the reception to cycle along the coast. In the evening you will meet again for dinner and end your day with good food and good conversation.

#17 Couple vacation at the Green Spirit Hotels in Paris

If you are looking for an eco-friendly and personalized place to stay in Paris, we recommend Green Spirit Hotels: Le Pavillon, Hotel Malar and Hotel Amélie – all located in the lively 7th arrondissement and within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine and other major attractions.

Because the Green Spirit eco-hotels are very small, you can’t do many things separately in the hotels themselves, says host Barbara Tascijevic with a laugh. But in the city of Paris, this is a matter of course!

#18 The Pavilions Himalaya – The Farm, Nepal – Safari and Yoga

Last but not least, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm Hotel also told us that couples with different interests are very welcome. The sustainable resort in the foothills of the Himalayas runs its own organic farm, helps farmers convert to certified organic farming, and donates a full 70 percent of its income to the local Right4Children project.

There are eco-tours to explore Nepal’s stunning nature, cultural temples and festivals, and safari tours. Alternatively, one of you could lounge by the pool at the resort or practice yoga with the local yoga guru.

As you can see, there are many ways to combine different vacation desires in one place. That way, you can both get your money’s worth and still spend your vacation together. Of course, going separately is also an option, but our interests at home aren’t that far apart, at least 🙂

What are your experiences? Would you like to do something on your own on vacation? Or have you maybe already been doing it for a long time? We look forward to your comments.

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Der Beitrag Conflict issue: Vacationing as a couple with different interests erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.