Taking sustainable vacations with children sets an example

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

The best fall getaways for families

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

A Moselle vacation combined with a history class

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

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

Sustainable vacation in the mountains with a petting zoo

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

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

Holidays with children during the apple harvest

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

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

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

Autumn vacations with children in the Alps National Park

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

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

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

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

• You can find the current ranger tour offers here.

Vacation on the Ritten in South Tyrol

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

Bee trail for children

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

Hotel with a lake and swimming pool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family workation in Bavaria: vacation at Gut Sonnenhausen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sustainable fall getaways for families with children – conclusion

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

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

This is an update from September 29, 2023.

Pin this post on Pinterest. That way you’ll have it handy again for the next (fall) vacation!

Der Beitrag Sustainable fall getaways for families with kids – 9 green accommodations for nature, relaxation, and family time erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Was everything just gloomy between 500 and 1500?

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

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

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

Experience the Middle Ages – from imperial palaces to fortified churches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostheim Fortified Church: Fortifications and Place of Refuge

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

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

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

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

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

Tyrol: Follow old customs trails through the mountains

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

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

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

South Tyrol: Between centers of power and mystical frescoes

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

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

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

The Kommende Lengmoos: Resting Place for Emperors

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

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

Looking beyond the horizon: The world between 500 and 1500

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

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

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

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

Africa, China, and South America

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do we really know about the Incas?

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

Stay, experience, and learn with Inkaterra Hotels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ properties, a glow-up is more than just a fresh face mask or firming serum. It starts with a deep breath. With a sense of arriving at your true self. And with treatments that not only nourish your skin, but also your inner self – gently, mindfully and in harmony with nature.

Glow-up treatments for your sustainable self-care retreat

Want to pamper yourself without compromising the environment or ethics? These sustainable hotels show you what modern self-care can look like. From the Alps to the Amazon, you can enjoy treatments that nourish your skin, relax your mind, and are in harmony with nature and the region.

From alpine herbal facials to natural detoxification rituals to scenic massages, you won’t find quick fixes here, just real time-outs that will leave you glowing from the inside out.

#1 Purifying Glow at Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol

In the heart of East Tyrol’s natural landscape, in the Hohe Tauern National Park, a facial treatment awaits you that will visibly clarify your skin and gently transport you to the tranquility of the Alps. The Purifying Glow Treatment (50 min.) combines herbal steam, exfoliation, a lymph-stimulating massage and deep cleansing – with optional cupping glasses. The newly expanded Nature Spa at Naturhotel Outside features a large natural swimming pond, an outdoor pool and an indoor saltwater pool with Deferegger healing waters. The entire spa was constructed using locally sourced stone and wood from the surrounding area. Only certified natural cosmetics from TEAM Dr. Joseph are used. Here, tradition and the healing powers of the Alps go hand in hand to ensure that you leave feeling not only cleansed, but refreshed.

#2 Augustinus Bader Facial at Hotel Klosterbräu, Seefeld in Tyrol

Luxury that gets under your skin: the exclusive facial treatments with the iconic Augustinus Bader skin care products (80 min.) pamper you with anti-aging or lifting effects – at the highest level. The Augustinus Bader Facial includes a cell-activating fascia massage and a cream mask with 40 premium ingredients. The treatment targets uneven skin tone and redness, while also supporting the development of the body’s own stem cells to strengthen the skin over the long term.

The 5-star Hotel Klosterbräu offers a huge spa area with a large outdoor pool and seven different themed saunas in the historic setting of old monastery walls. Despite its luxury, the hotel actively commits to green energy, sustainable cuisine, and the preservation of the region’s traditional heritage.

#3 Facial Fresh at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

Sicilian nature is reflected in every ingredient: This invigorating facial cleanses your skin with algae, seawater and vitamin C from local citrus fruits for a fresh, even complexion. During your glow-up treatment, relax and gaze out at the ocean. That’s because ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located right on a WWF-protected natural beach.

Particularly attractive: ADLER Resorts & Spas develops its own natural cosmetic lines inspired by each region of Italy. Click here for a PDF catalog of available treatments and products (Glow-up Facials are on page 9).

#4 Coca leaf exfoliation at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

At UNU Spa, you become part of an ancient Inca culture: this gentle exfoliation treatment uses the benefits of sacred coca leaves combined with brown sugar and quinoa oil. The alkaloids in the leaves stimulate circulation and leave your skin feeling rejuvenated. A ritual of renewal with deep respect for nature and its healing powers.

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a beacon of sustainable tourism in Peru. Thanks to various sustainable measures for waste disposal and environmental protection, the once endangered World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu has not only been saved, but in collaboration with many other partners has become the first carbon-neutral wonder of the world. At the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel, you will not only experience the Andes with expert guides, but also relax on walks through the cloud forest with its hundreds of orchids and through the butterfly garden. Authentic wellness rituals complete your experience.

#5 Nusta Bath at Inkaterra La Casona, Cusco, Peru

Another Inkaterra property is located in the heart of the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Inkaterra La Casona is located in the historic city center and combines the charm of a colonial villa with modern comforts and a clear focus on sustainability. The boutique hotel supports regional cultural projects, works with local communities, and is actively involved in biodiversity conservation. With only eleven suites, it is a tranquil place to retreat to your own private sanctuary after an exhilarating day.

The Nusta bath is a holistic ritual with deep cultural roots. It begins with a massage with natural oils, followed by a head massage and a body wrap with slimming coca cream and fresh coca leaves. Finally, you will enjoy a hot candlelit bath with your choice of essential oils. A powerful combination of detoxification, grounding and self-care.

#6 Wellness Facial Treatment at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Bad Herrenalb, Germany

90 minutes of total relaxation: The feel-good facial begins with a gentle cleansing and exfoliation, followed by a personalized active ingredient serum. A relaxing face, hand and arm massage and a nourishing mask round off your glowing experience. At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, you can also enjoy your own thermal swimming pool and the excellent air of the climatic health resort of Bad Herrenalb. In addition to wellness, the hotel also focuses on selfness and offers various options such as fasting cures or forest bathing to make you glow from the inside out.

#7 HydraFacial at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Mosel Region

In Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River, you will find another Green PearlsⓇ partner that combines sustainability with wellness and mindfulness. The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten includes a TCM Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine and offers a wide range of treatments.

In addition to TCM, there are modern skin care treatments such as HydraFacial. A high-tech glow up treatment. The facial cleanses your skin in four steps: exfoliation, acid treatment, deep cleansing and hydration. It is complemented by the Perk™ Face Service, which uses Rollerflex technology to further firm your skin. The matching serum is available for at-home use – so your glow lasts up to 28 days.

Glow-up goes further: From skin care to soul care

Radiance doesn’t just come from the outside. That is why more and more hotels are focusing on holistic wellness offerings that balance body, mind and spirit. And enhance your natural radiance in the process.

Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea combines wellness with a touch of adventure. The “SANDromance” package lets you sleep under the open sky in a cozy beach bed on the roof – including sweet and savory treats and a little natural surprise. You can also book individual wellness massages with a trained physiotherapist for a personalized glow up experience.

At the Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance, the focus is on inner attentiveness and a special form of presence: “Attentiveness” is what they call the conscious experience of listening to one’s inner self. Soul wellness is at the center, supported by a 100% certified organic diet, stress-reducing massages, and mental coaching under the motto “healthy thinking. Longevity is not considered a trend here, nor is glowing. Rather, both are part of everyday life, bringing body and mind into long-term balance.

DIY Glow-up at home

Finally, if you’re looking to recreate that glowing moment at home, check out our DIY Day Spa article for easy DIY recipes for natural spa moments. From Korean rice masks to homemade body scrubs. Perfect for a pampering day at home – no hotel needed, but just as glamorous!

Save this article to Pinterest.

Der Beitrag Glow up? Yes. But sustainable, please. erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Wellness for the soul at Gerbehof Nature Resort

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

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

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

Bioenergetic Motivation

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

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

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

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

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

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

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA: Holistic Healing in a Mediterranean Retreat

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

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

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

Stress management retreats during your vacation

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

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

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

TCM at Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort on the Mosel River

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

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

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

Mental Detox in Bavaria at Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ayurveda to combat sleep problems at Inkaterra in Peru

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

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

‘Resilience Impulse’ at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

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

This includes

• mindfulness
• breathing techniques
• meditation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Save this article to Pinterest.

Der Beitrag A balanced soul: Retreats for healing, mindfulness, and stress management erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

The difference between a health and wellness hotel

Wellness hotels promote health through relaxation and massage. Health hotels do the same, but in a health hotel you also have the opportunity to get a personalized medical assessment. The health programs offered are led by trained doctors and therapists.

           In the blog article “Health or Wellnesshotel” we took a closer look at this question.

Who is a health hotel for?

Since health hotels are particularly active in the area of prevention, a vacation at a health hotel is suitable for anyone who wants to do something good for their physical and mental health. However, guests who already suffer from various chronic or non-specific ailments often take advantage of what health hotels have to offer. For example:

• Obesity
• Digestive problems
• Irritable stomach
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Fatty liver
• High blood pressure
• Joint pain
• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Sleep disorders
• Frequent or chronic fatigue
• Chronic illness (susceptible to colds, infections, etc.)

A health hotel is also ideal when you need to get back on your feet after a long illness and recovery.

Why should a health resort also be sustainable?

Sustainable health hotels, as represented by Green PearlsⓇ, also take care of the ecology with their holistic approach. This means considering not only the human being, but also his or her relationship to the environment, to nature.

As we discussed in our Insight “Is organic food healthier?”, the value of organic farming cannot be measured by the vitamin content of an apple. Instead, it is a larger concept.

Avoiding pesticides protects both groundwater and biodiversity. As biologist Dietmar Borbe says in our blog on insect extinction: “If we destroy everything at the base of a food pyramid, everything will eventually collapse”.

Environmentally friendly building materials, chemical-free cleaning products, organic food, fairly paid employees – the measures taken by a sustainable health hotel provide the right framework for taking care of one’s own health.

Four sustainable health hotels in Germany and Spain

Below we would like to introduce you to some of the health hotels that are also Green PearlsⓇ partners. Based on the program offered, you can see which hotel suits you best.

#1 OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel – Holistic recovery on the Atlantic coast

The OCÈANO Health Spa Hotel on the Canary Island of Tenerife has more than 20 years of experience as a health hotel. Its owner, Dr. Karl Matthias Rolle, is a physician, as was his father, Dr. Jürgen Rolle, from whom he took over the management of the hotel. The establishment of the F. X. MAYR CENTRE is one of the most important changes initiated by Karl Matthias Rolle. The center specializes in fasting cures and therapies developed by the Austrian gastroenterologist Franz Xaver Mayr.

Fasting Cures at the F. X. MAYR Center

During an F.X. Mayr fasting cure, the focus is on the intestines. According to the initiators, “cleansing, detoxification and strengthening of the intestines” is of central importance for the supply of nutrients, hormonal balance and the immune system.

When you sign up for a fasting program, you can use all the hotel’s wellness facilities (spa, pool, saunas, yoga room, etc.), but you live in a separate annex and do not eat with the other hotel guests. Instead, you will be surrounded by your peers, other fasting guests, and receive your own personalized fasting diet.

The period for such a fasting cure at the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is:

• 10 days, 14 days or 21 days

Complementary therapies

In addition to therapeutic fasting, the health hotel also has a Thalasso center. Thalasso means “healing through seawater” and also incorporates other things that come from the ocean, such as seaweed.

In consultation with the medical team, a personalized program will be developed for you (to accompany a fasting cure or independently), which may include the following elements

• Exercise
• Diet & Nutrition
• Pain Relief

Optional additional therapy options are:

• Chirotherapy
• Autohaemotherapy
• Hematogenous oxidation therapy (HOT)
• Bloodletting
• Acupuncture
• Vitamin Infusion

As you can see, here you will have opportunities that a “normal” wellness hotel cannot offer you. However, you don’t have to give up that vacation feeling, because you are on the beautiful Canary Island, right on the Atlantic Ocean! Walking along the promenade, shopping and sightseeing are absolutely allowed! 🙂

#2 Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa – Health Hotel in the Berchtesgadener Land

A sustainable and highly recommendable health hotel in Germany is Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, run by Dr. Andreas Färber and his wife. Here, too, you will find a combination of a wellness hotel (1,500 square meters of spa area with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, etc.) and an integrated health center.

Concept medicine in the health center Artemacur

As Dr. Andreas Färber describes in an interview with us, the holistic concept is very important to him, both in medicine and in ecology. The focus is on the development of a health and life concept based on scientific knowledge and individual living conditions. So, you don’t get a “one size fits all” offer, but you develop your very own concept that you can integrate into your everyday life.

The Artemacur Health Center includes

• General Medicine
• Internist
• Psychotherapist

Medical expertise is then complemented in the hotel with the areas of

• physiotherapy
• and nutritional medicine.

In addition to therapy, prevention also plays an important role.

Health programs and services offered

• Nutritional advice + diet
• Bioelectrical impedance analysis (scientifically recognized method of measuring body composition, i.e. body fat percentage, etc.)
• Liver fasting according to Dr. Worm
• Intermittent fasting
• Concept medical consultation
• Burnout prevention
• Abdominal Ultrasound
• ABI screening (vascular ultrasound)
• Pulmonary function test
• Pain managementSchmerztherapie

Located on the border of Austria (Salzburg), the hotel with its panoramic view of the Alps will also appeal to culture vultures. For example, there are regular full moon concerts, jazz or readings.

#3 TCM at the LIFESTYLE Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Mosel River

If you would like to try Chinese medicine instead of conventional European medicine, or if you are already a believer in Chinese medicine, we can recommend the LIFESTYLE Resort Zum Kurfürsten.

Located in the medieval town of Bernkastel-Kues on the Moselle River, it offers wellness combined with Far Eastern teachings. For starters, the entire hotel (including the 4,000-square-foot spa area with several pools, a natural swimming pond, and a sauna area) is designed according to Feng Shui. There is also the diet based on the 5 elements.

Traditional Chinese medicine practice in the hotel

The TCM Center is located in the same building, so it makes sense to combine your TCM treatments with your stay at the Health Hotel. For example, you can have a nutritional consultation and then eat more “yin” or more “yang” foods based on your personal recommendations. At the Lifestyle Resort you will find the 5 elements in all meals and buffets (i.e. many warm and natural foods without industrial processing).

The following treatments are available at the TCM Center:

• Nutritional counseling / dietary changes (according to Yin Yang, 5 elements)
• Body analysis with printout
• Acupuncture treatment
• Herbal therapy (herbs selected individually for you; you can take the mixtures home with you. The herbs are taken as tea (decoction) or powder and there are also herbal baths).
• Cupping (for chronic pain and severe tension)
• Relaxation and exercise with Qi Gong and Tai Chi
• Lymphatic drainage
• Sound bowl massage
• Tunia and Guasha TCM massages

Chinese therapy is combined with a European approach so that it does not seem too foreign in the German Mosel landscape.

#4 SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA – Wellness hotel with Selfness Center

Bad Herrenalb in the Black Forest is a climatic health resort with healing waters and thermal springs, making it the perfect place for a health vacation. Here you will find the sustainable Green PearlsⓇ Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. Featuring its own thermal swimming pool and saunas, it is mainly a health-oriented wellness hotel, but the attached Selfness Center offers a range of services for physical and mental health.

Fasting in the Black Forest

You can book a one-week fasting vacation at SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA. The following are offered:

• Fasting cure according to Dr. Buchinger
• Fasting cure with alkaline diet

During both retreats, you will receive daily support and lectures on healthy living. There will also be fasting walks, forest bathing, and other supportive activities.

Resilience training and mindfulness

Another area is mindfulness, which you can also practice on vacation. For example with

• Sound massage according to Peter Hess
• Meditation
• Hypnotic dream journeys

Special offers for a resilience vacation (3 or 6 nights) can be found here.

Health hotels offer both conventional medicine and naturopathy

As you can see, there are sustainable health hotels that employ trained doctors. These doctors perform scientifically recognized medical examinations and are allowed to prescribe prescription drugs. Other hotels follow an alternative medicine approach, focusing on alternative or Far Eastern healing methods that are not scientifically proven to work, but have brought relief to many people.

Which health hotel you consider suitable for you and which methods you hope will benefit you the most is entirely up to you.

A vacation at a health hotel is often simply about taking stock of your own health, taking a step back from your daily routine, and thinking about what you can do to live healthier in the long term.

Save this article for your next trip!

Der Beitrag Sustainable health hotels – Where you can spend a healing vacation erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Eco bonus: The Green PearlsⓇ hotels, aparthotels and vacation homes pay attention to sustainability when it comes to the ecologically challenging topic of wellness and have several interesting solutions, which we will also present here! Relaxation without a bad conscience 😉

Private spa suite with self-generated green electricity

“Our private spa rooms are especially for Italians.” This is how Thomas Steiner of OLM Nature Escape in northern Italy explains private saunas to Architectural Record magazine. Unlike many German and Austrian spa guests, Italians are not comfortable with “public nudity” and appreciate having their own private sauna in their room.

The newly opened aparthotel in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, has a total of 33 eco-apart-suites made of larch wood, each with its own kitchen. You can book additional meals and cleaning services on a modular basis.

Private Spa Suites: Apart-Suite M (53m²) and Apart-Suite L (60m²) each have their own Finnish sauna (90°C). In addition to the bathroom with shower, there is a freestanding bathtub in the bedroom next to the king-size bed. There is also a space for yoga and calisthenics and a terrace or balcony.

Sustainability: OLM Nature Escape is the first off-grid aparthotel in the Alps. The aparthotel generates all the electricity, including that for the energy-intensive saunas, using geothermal probes and solar energy.

Chalets with private spa in Tyrol

There is a small village of eleven chalets in the Alpbach Valley in Tyrol. The Hygna Chalets combine the cozy romance of a mountain hut with private luxury. Staff will deliver breakfast to your door each morning in a beautifully arranged basket. In addition you have access to the infinity pool in the former hay barn (13 meters long), yoga room, and fitness studio.

Private Spa: The Weiden Spa Chalet (61 square feet) has a private hot tub on the patio; the Wiesen Chalet (104 square feet) has a private sauna with outdoor rain shower; and the Wiesen Spa Chalet (118 square feet) has both a private sauna and a private hot tub. As an added bonus, the beds in all of them have a massage function, and in the winter, a crackling fireplace will keep you warm. A basket of firewood is provided upon arrival.

Sustainability: Electricity and heat are generated by a photovoltaic system, a geothermal system, and a pellet heating system. If that is not enough, Hygna Chalets obtains 100% of its green electricity from hydropower. There is also an innovative concept for the year-round hot tubs. They fill with fresh water only when you press the button, so they consume energy only when in use.

Luxury log cabins with private sauna

You can also enjoy your own wellness and relaxation vacation at Summit Lodges Pfunds. Built in the North American log style from local timber, the houses are designed as vacation homes. So you can take care of yourself and enjoy complete privacy in the Tyrolean countryside.

Private Spa: The two cottages “Yosemite” (120 m²) and “Yellowstone” (120 m²) have a large bathroom with a Finnish sauna and a large living room with an open fireplace and firewood.

Sustainability: The log cabins are made of polar spruce and the wood for the interior comes from the local forest and sawmill. The electricity (also for the air heat pump heating) is provided by 100% green electricity from Tyrolean hydropower.

Sustainable hotels with private spas in Germany

Spa suite in the Bavarian Alps

If you want the service and amenities of a hotel with its own private spa, the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain is the place for you. This spa hotel has a beautiful, large indoor pool with a fireplace and a sauna area for all hotel guests. But you can also book your very own private spa loft.

Private Spa: The Spa Loft (51 m²) and Spa Loft Suite (70 m²) are two-story dream rooms with large panoramic windows, a balcony and a beautiful view of nature. Equpped with their own private whirlpool and infrared sauna. There is also a spacious bathroom with shower and separate toilet.

Sustainability: The Klosterhof was created from an old monastery building, and the furnishings are made from local apple wood. A combined heat and power plant generates heat for the hotel and spa and the hotel uses modern technology (e.g. heat recovery) to be as efficient as possible. The hotel has been awarded the EU Ecolabel and was one of the first hotels in Germany to receive this certification.

Book the hotels spa area for three hours

The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten is an extravagant wellness hotel on the Mosel River. There are three pools and a natural swimming pond, as well as a huge sauna area. The total spa area is more than 4,000 square meters.

Private Spa: You have the option to book your private spa at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten for three hours. You and your companion can enjoy the Finnish sauna, whirlpool and aromatic steam bath all to yourselves. As an extra, you will also receive the ingredients for a herbal infusion! (Price: 59,50 Euro per person)

Sustainability: The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten was created from an existing building. Four combined heat and power plants supply its energy. The pools use modern pool technology to operate as energy-efficiently as possible (e.g. pool covers prevent heat loss at night).

Vegan hotel with private sauna in South Tyrol

As we mentioned at the beginning, Italians in particular love to spend time alone in the sauna. So, it’s no wonder that you can also book the barrel sauna at LA VIMEA in Naturno all to yourself. (For example, with the “Romantic Getaway” package, which we also wrote about in this blog article “Weekend getaway for vegans“.

Private Spa: You can book the forest sauna privately by the hour. The hotel’s spa area also includes an indoor saltwater pool, a natural swimming pond, three communal saunas, and an adventure shower.

Sustainability: LA VIMEA was the first completely vegan hotel in Italy. This applies not only to the food but also to the hotel’s decor. The adults-only hotel has a holistic, sustainable approach that is evident throughout, from the fair-trade organic linens to the daily yoga classes.

Is a private spa sustainable?

Wellness is never really sustainable because it uses a lot of energy and water. But it is certainly more sustainable to stay at a sustainably run spa hotel every now and then than to install a hot tub and sauna at home.

If you squeezed into a sauna with ten other people, each of you would have a smaller carbon footprint, but we understand if that’s not your idea of relaxation 🙂

In conclusion, a private spa is a luxury that you can afford from time to time. However, it does help the environment if you choose sustainable accommodation that runs the spa on renewable energy and is committed to doing more. What do you think? We would love to hear from you.

Save the article so you can find it again when you’re looking for accommodation with a private spa!

Der Beitrag Sustainable accommodations with a private spa in Germany, Austria and South Tyrol erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Wellness & Health at the Lifestyle Resort

Hotels and resorts in the “lifestyle” category cultivate a special, individual atmosphere (similar to boutique hotels). Here you can discover not only new places but also yourself. Unlike a hotel, a resort is a sprawling complex. In the case of the Kurfürst, this means, among other things, that there are four pool facilities. Three of these pools are heated year-round. The fourth one is a beautiful natural swimming pond that requires no chemicals.

Majestic sauna area

In addition to the various swimming pools, the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten offers a variety of saunas, steam baths, and a forest infrared sauna. In total, the wellness area covers more than 4,000 square meters.

You can relax in the “Himalayan Salt Sauna” or the “Aroma Steam Bath”, both at 50°C, or go to extremes. For example, there is the “Chinese hell” at 95°C and an “Earth Sauna” at 110°C. As you can imagine, you’ll start to sweat pretty quickly 🙂 Afterward, you can relax in one of the relaxation rooms or on the loungers around the forest infrared sauna.

Tip: If you like, you can also book a private spa here! However, you should book in advance.

TCM by KURFÜRST Institut

Health is a big issue at the Zum Kurfürsten lifestyle resort. The two areas of wellness and nutrition are embedded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM by KURFÜRST includes various treatments and therapies of Chinese medicine.

If you are new to this field, you can start with a body analysis (including a print-out) and work with the TCM therapists to find a solution to your problems and concerns. Perhaps you often feel stressed or out of balance. TCM treatments can provide natural relief. There are also offers for people with sleep disorders and for pain patients.

The opportunity you get from the healing medicine treatments is that you can make a permanent change and take that change with you into your everyday life after your vacation.

The life energy Qi in free flow

Only in the perfect harmony of Yin and Yang can the life energy Qi arise and flow freely – Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

To allow the energy to flow freely, the entire hotel with its 95 rooms and the resort area have been furnished according to the principles of Feng Shui. This includes the colors and design of the furniture. In general, the resort takes great pride in the exquisite design of the property and grounds. Nothing has been left to chance.

Culinary delights at the Lifestyle Resort zum Kurfürsten – healthy and sustainable

At the resort, a late riser’s breakfast buffet awaits you until 12:00 a.m. For lunch, you can arrive in your bathrobe for a snack in the bistro, and in the evening you can dine stylishly and casually in the “Cook & Style” half-board restaurant. For a more elegant dining experience, the B-Fine Restaurant offers a 6-course menu in an exclusive setting.

Wherever possible, the ingredients used come directly from the region. The hotel works with local suppliers and has seasonal purchasing criteria.

To reduce food waste, the menu has been reduced to five menus, and the kitchen turns leftovers into animal feed for local farms.

Are you vegan or vegetarian? No problem: “Vegetarian and vegan options are a matter of course for us,” they say.

Sustainability is part of the lifestyle

The Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort strives for sustainability in all areas. The first important point is that the resort was created from an existing building. This is much more ecological than a new building. The huge wellness offer is of course a big challenge. A start is the 20-meter natural swimming pond and the heated pools with special covers to retain heat at night. Slippers are only available on request. For sustainable energy generation, the Green PearlsⓇ partner operates four of its own combined heat and power plants using natural gas. This has reduced annual CO2 emissions by 30 percent.

Enjoy the resort and its surroundings

There is much more to say about this wonderful wellness resort. You can enjoy the spa area, fitness facilities and restaurants in good weather or bad, and still be in an exciting environment. Your starting point is the town of Bernkastel-Kues with its medieval marketplace. From here it is not far to Trier with its famous Porta Nigra or the gemstone city of Idar-Oberstein. A boat trip on the meandering Moselle is a must. Go with the flow!

Save the hotel to your Pinterest boards.

Der Beitrag The Qi flows at the Moselle – Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

As always, it was important to us that the hotels are sustainable and environmentally conscious. For example, the hotels in our selection pay attention to water consumption and the use of renewable energy in the spa area and throughout the hotel. The pampering program for you also includes healthy organic food and offerings such as yoga and culture.

“The past few difficult years have represented a complete sea change in the way we think and talk about wellness. Sure, a great massage or facial will never go out of style—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle in keeping our minds as well cared for as our bodies. ” CN Traveler

Spa & TCM at Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort on the Mosel River | Rhineland-Palatinate

The wellness hotel is located in Bernkastel-Kues, surrounded by vineyards. Your health is top priority at the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten. The specially developed TCM system combines Chinese medicine with a European approach. Throughout the hotel, care is taken to ensure that the life energy “Qi” can flow freely.

Highlights

• 4000 square meter wellness area
• Panoramic pool with waterfall, counter-current system and Jacuzzi
• Heated outdoor pool
• “Attraction pool” with 36°C
• Earth sauna, herbal sauna, salt sauna, natural sauna
• Steam baths
• Forest infrared sauna and infrared loungers
• “Chinese hell” with 95°C
• Lady Spa
• TMC treatments by qualified TMC therapists

Relaxation at the Naturresort Schindelbruch, Harz | Saxony-Anhalt

The Naturresort Schindelbruch is located in the middle of the forest and offers you the opportunity to explore the forest with a forester. In addition to the huge spa area, you can also book private spa suites for a romantic weekend 😉

Highlights

• 2,500-square-foot spa area
• Three-story bathhouse with 115-square-foot heated pool
• Wellness treatments using organic natural cosmetics
• Sauna village and garden with Kneipp pool
• Forest bathing

Wellness & Yoga at Okelmann’s in Warpe | Lower Saxony

Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s is run by the fourth generation of the Okelmann family and is located in the middle of agricultural fields and meadows. The hotel has its own restaurant and café. Here you’ll find “coziness and Nordic freshness”. In addition, the sisters Maren and Kristin offer their own expertise in event management and soothing yoga and meditation sessions.

Highlights

• Sauna in a converted shepherd’s wagon
• Wooden hot tub in nature
• Yoga retreats, yoga room, and yoga classes
• Reiki, massage and sound therapy
• Yoga with dog

Rooftop sauna at Lifestyle Hotel SAND, Baltic Sea | Schleswig-Holstein

The Adults-Only Lifestylehotel SAND is located directly on Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. You’ll love the large roof terrace where you’ll find a sauna with a view. There’s also a rooftop bar and cozy lounge furniture for a relaxed lifestyle.

Highlights

• Proximity to the sea
• Rooftop sauna, Jacuzzi and spa area
• Personalized SAND massage
• Face and body treatments
• Rentable “Sleeping-beach-chair” for a night under the stars

What makes good spa hotels in Germany?

A sauna and whirlpool are a matter of course in a wellness hotel – but you probably have other expectations. While it used to be said that people interrupt their diets and stop exercising when they go on vacation, the trend today is exactly the opposite. When you are on vacation, you want to take time for health and exercise and eat healthy, do you feel the same way?

In our opinion, the most important factors besides the spa area are

• Beautiful location in the middle of nature
• A pleasant atmosphere
• Good cuisine with healthy, regional, organic food
• Sustainable overall concept

To be honest, it is difficult to make the spa area sustainable. After all, it consumes an enormous amount of energy and water. However, the Green Pearls® partners do not just shrug their shoulders and say, “That’s the way it is”. Instead, the teams are actively trying to do something about it and take the environment into account.

Sustainable Energy Management in Wellness Hotels

The Naturresort Schindelbruch, for example, has a geothermal system and a photovoltaic system for energy generation and buys green electricity (100 percent from hydropower). The pool is heated by a heat pump system that uses waste heat from the server room and kitchen. At the Lifestyle Hotel Zum Kurfürsten, modern pool covers prevent the water from cooling down, which also saves energy.

Of course, the most ecological thing to do is to keep the wellness area small, as Okelmann’s and Lifestylhotel SAND have done, but of course, you’ll have to do without laps and the choice between several saunas. What do you think?

Save this article for your next wellness vacation on Pinterest!

Der Beitrag The most beautiful, sustainable wellness hotels in Germany (Part 1: Northern and Central Germany) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

What vacation suits me? Our accommodation recommendations

Type A – Eco-friendly vacation with freedom

A regional vacation with environmentally friendly means of transport (no airplane) in regions with a mild climate is suitable for you. You enjoy having your own space on vacation and being able to choose your own program.

You might enjoy this blog article: By bus and rail through Europe.

Family vacation at Gut Nisdorf on the Baltic Sea

The Gut Nisdorf offers two- to three-room apartments where you can spend a wonderful family vacation in nature. The complex is dog-friendly and offers plenty for children, and is only 250 meters from the Baltic Sea coast. The apartments are self-catering. Optionally you can add a first-class organic breakfast.

Luxury Vacation Homes in Tyrol – Summit Lodges Pfunds

The Summit Lodges Pfunds are two beautiful Canadian log cabins in Tyrol, Austria. They can accommodate up to 6 people and even come with their own sauna and hot tub. A high chair and an extra bed are available for small children. Pets are not allowed.

The Alpine region offers a wonderfully fresh climate and many opportunities to experience nature. How about a white-water rafting trip on the Bad Inn River?

City break in Freiburg at the Green City Hotel Vauban

Situated in the Upper Black Forest, Freiburg is well worth visiting. It has a beautiful old town with cool shops and the mildest climate in Germany. The Green City Hotel Vauban is easily accessible by tram and is an inclusive business that has a strong commitment to the active inclusion of people with disabilities. People with disabilities make up half of the hotel’s staff. The Mundenhof, the Schauinsland, and the nearby Alsace are nearby attractions. Dogs are welcome.

Type B – The perfect mix of wellness and the great outdoors

A vacation where you really get to enjoy yourself and let your soul dangle while you relax. Experience nature actively while hiking and biking, and enjoy health and wellness treatments together with your partner.

You might enjoy this blog article: Spa oases in nature

Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain

This family-run hotel was built on the walls of a 500-year-old monastery and has a 1,500-square-foot spa area. There’s a heated outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a sauna area, and a brine bath for floating. If you’re interested in a healthy lifestyle, the hotel is home to Dr. Andreas Färber’s Artemacur Health Center. Here you can get individual advice and take advantage of special offers. Lunch consists of “Healthy Lunch Bowls”, which each guest can assemble according to his or her preferences (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.). The bowls are made from healthy ingredients. Special tip for couples: The Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa also has rooms with a private whirlpool and infrared sauna 🙂 .

Wellness vacation at Naturresort Schindelbruch

At Naturresort Schindelbruch you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing wellness vacation! The spa area covers 2,500 m² with a large indoor pool overlooking the forest. The Harz Mountains in Saxony-Anhalt are also home to numerous destinations such as lakes, waterfalls, castles, and monuments of German history. Four private spa suites are available for couples. In the cozy restaurant, you’ll find regional venison and organic vegetarian alternatives.

Type C – Health and Indulgence

Your vacation is a time for self-discovery, and maybe you want to strengthen your body with a fasting cure or Chinese medicine. In addition, you appreciate a great spa area, a swimming pool, and a gym, and you also like to take advantage of cultural opportunities.

You might like this blog article: Health or wellness hotels?

OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The Canary Island of Tenerife offers beautiful sandy beaches, palm trees, mountains and volcanic rocks. The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel is located in the northeast, directly on the Atlantic Ocean. There are several seawater pools and a large spa area with saunas. There is a daily yoga program and various fasting regimens. The cuisine is regional and healthy. And if you are a woman traveling alone, you will find that solo travel is completely normal and natural here. A shuttle service from the airport to the hotel is available.

LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten in the Moselle region

In Germany, you may be interested in the LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten. It specializes in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and both the food and the facilities are geared toward it. You will find several TCM therapies to choose from. A large panoramic pool with a waterfall and counter-current system, a heated outdoor pool and a sauna area are part of the 4000 square meter spa area. There are also two restaurants with changing creations and regional organic cuisine. In addition to interesting sights such as the Porta Nigra in Trier and numerous castles and castle ruins, the Moselle region offers many excursion destinations, especially for wine lovers.

Gourmet pleasure at the Waldhotel Fletschhorn

The Waldhotel Fletschhorn is located outside of Saas Fee in the middle of Swiss nature. It is best known for its 18-point Gault Millaut restaurant. Here you can indulge yourself with seasonal gourmet menus made from the products of the region. There is a small spa with a sauna, steam bath, and massages, but no pool. Even if you arrive by car, with the guest card you can get around the property car-free. Numerous hiking trails, mountains, and glaciers await you.

Type D – Dream and Experience

You want to discover spectacular corners of the world and spend an extraordinary holiday. No distance is too far for you to have a dream vacation. At the same time, it is important to you that your vacation is sustainable.

You might enjoy this blog article: Are we still allowed to fly?

Authentic Thailand vacation in the paradise of Zeavola for divers

On the island of Phi Phi in Thailand, you’ll find beautiful suites and villas nestled between dreamy beaches and rainforests. A sustainable luxury hotel, Zeavola is committed to preserving coral reefs and is known as a sustainable diving resort. It has also initiated several projects for the environment, education, and the local community. If you like, you can get involved here too. You can “give back”.

Come to Peru and experience the Incas’ History

Inkaterra has seven lodges in Peru, four of which have been recognized as Green PearlsⓇ. The Inkaterra La Casona, in the former Inca capital of Cusco, is a luxury boutique hotel with just 11 rooms. Like Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, it is close to Machu Picchu and other world-famous Inca ruins. Inkaterra is actively involved in the preservation of cultural sites and nature and will provide you with personal guides.

If you want to visit the rainforest, there is the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica in the Amazon.

We hope you enjoyed our review! Please let us know in the comments if it was helpful for you and if you were able to find the right vacation for you in the answers to the questions!

Save the test for later or share it with your friends!

Der Beitrag What vacation suits me? – A small decision-making aid for the undecided (incl. test) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

When you stay at our Green PearlsⓇ accommodations, they’ll be happy to tell you where to find the nearest theater. Some even actively support the local theater scene or offer theatrical spectacles such as “mystery dinners” in the hotel restaurant.

By going to the theater, you are supporting the local arts scene

From a sustainability perspective, going to the theater is a great way to support local arts and culture (social sustainability). Stages and actors have been hit particularly hard during the pandemic. So, their support is especially important now!

The theater is usually performed in the local language. If you don’t understand it, we can recommend guided tours in historic theater buildings.

Theater in Bavaria – from baroque playhouses to cabarets

If you want to go out in style, the Margrave Theater is an excellent address. It is the oldest baroque theater in southern Germany. From the outside, the landmarked building in Erlangen’s Schlossgarten looks rather unassuming, but inside you’ll see the full splendor of gold scrollwork and red velvet, as was customary in the Baroque style. Current performances include “Kleiner Mann – Was nun?” a love story set in times of economic crisis. Even though the story is set in the past, the theme is current: the gap between rich and poor.

For an overnight stay in Erlangen, we recommend the Creativhotel Luise. The hotel is one of the pioneers of sustainable hotels in Germany and also supports local artists. There is a cooperation with the cabaret stage Fifty Fifty in Erlangen, where you can see plays as well as cabaret and comedy.

There are other famous theaters in Bavaria, which the STURM is happy to inform its guests about at the reception. Nearby are the Schloss Maßbach Theatre, the Schweinfurt City Theatre, and numerous folk theaters in the Rhön region. Just over the border in Thuringia (about 25 kilometers from Green PearlsⓇ partner STURM) is the famous Meiningen State Theater, where you can currently see classics like “Maria Stuart” (Friedrich Schiller) or chamber plays like “Alice in Wonderland” and puppet theater.

STURM owners Christa and Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff are avid theatergoers themselves, so they know all about the scene around their hotel. Their love of music and dance theater is also evident in the cultural series they launched at the STURM in 2023: “Chill & Listen“ Link:

At Hotel Das Rübezahl, with its fantastic view of the fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein, the owners recommend a visit to the Festspielhaus Füssen. Here you can see a musical about King Ludwig, “Ludwig²” as well as “Beauty and the Beast”.

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, the Bregenz Festival is an annual highlight for theater fans. This year it will take place from July 19 to August 20, 2023, with the opera “Madame Butterfly” as the highlight. Back in February, 100,000 tickets were sold for the love story of geisha “Butterfly”, so now the lake stage will get even more chairs!

If you still manage to get a ticket, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu is offering a three-night package including a shuttle service to the festival.

Dialect theater in Switzerland and South Tyrol

While the major theaters aim to be understood by a national audience, there is also dialect theater as an important part of local culture. Our Green PearlsⓇ partner Wartegg Castle on the Swiss side of Lake Constance, regularly hosts mystery dinners in the hotel restaurant. Along with a 4-course organic meal, you’ll watch an entertaining theatrical performance and take part in a guessing game! (Of course, if you don’t speak the Swiss dialect, the puzzles will be more difficult).

Ritten Summer Games

A classic event on the Ritten in South Tyrol, Italy, is the Ritten Summer Games, which this year will take place from July 21 to August 11, 2023. (It is one of the oldest open-air theater events in South Tyrol and takes place in the courtyard of the Kommende Lengmoos. Most of the plays are performed in dialect, but also the (high) German-speaking guests of the Hotel Weihrerhof enjoy the spectacle.

In addition to the Hotel Weihrerhof, there are two other Green PearlsⓇ accommodations on the Ritten: ADLER Lodge RITTEN and APIPURA Hotel Rinner. At APIPURA hotel rinner you can also learn what drives the bees. They have their own drama in late summer: the battle of the drones. (This is when the male bees are expelled from the hive).

Children’s theater on the Moselle

In the Moselle region you will find many plays for children. In Trier, for example, the Theater Trier offers “Peterchens Mondfahrt” for children from 5 years. For older children (10 and up), an adventure tour of the Porta Nigra with real actors might be fascinating. Not far from Trier is Bernkastel-Kues, where we recommend the LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten. In Bernkastel-Kues, the fairy tale “King Thrushbeard” is performed as a children’s theater in May.

Children are very welcome at the LIFESTYLE Resort zum Kurfürsten. There is a playroom for children under the age of 6, and children are even allowed in the wellness area and in the child-friendly 55 °C salt sauna.

Visit famous theaters and opera houses in Italy

In southern Italy, you can go from A’ Cràpa Mangia to Naples to the Teatro San Carlo. Even if you don’t understand “Macbeth” in Italian, it’s worth taking a tour of the famous opera house.

This is also true for the world-famous La Scala in Milan, which is located right next to the Hotel Milano Scala.

The Teatro Carlo Felice in Genoa is also one of the most famous opera houses in Italy. The 2023 season includes eight operas, a ballet, and 14 symphony concerts.

To the Teatro Carlo Felice it is 130 kilometers to Borgomaro, where you can experience your vacation in an authentic Italian village in Relais del Maro. The peculiarity of this hotel is that it is distributed among several lodgings in the village (Albergo Diffuso).

Finally, a tip: it’s best to buy tickets online in advance, whether for an Italian opera or a theater festival in Allgäu – they’re usually cheaper here, and you can look forward to the evening in complete relaxation!

We hope we got you in the mood for the 2023 theater season. Let us know in the comments if you plan to go to the theater this year!

Do you want to save this inspiration for later? Pin it!

Der Beitrag Drama, baby, drama! Our recommendations for theatres on your travels erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.