Village meets Tourism: The Revitalising Effect of Sustainable Hotels on Rural Areas

Environmental, Social, Economic – True Sustainability Requires all Three

Green Pearls® specializes in supporting sustainable accommodations and destinations that not only take responsibility for the environment but also protect cultural heritage and strengthen the community. These hotels and vacation rentals directly create jobs and indirectly stimulate local economies. They source products from local producers, work with local artisans, and make the region attractive to visitors. This leads to a revitalization of rural communities and improved infrastructure that also benefits locals. Well-maintained hiking and biking trails, well-maintained town centers, and a wide variety of dining options would be unthinkable in many villages without sustainable tourism.

Different Concepts, one Goal: Sustainable Development and a Relaxing Vacation

Interaction between the village community and the tourism industry can take many forms. For instance, the Alberghi Diffusi concept in Italy, where several vacant buildings in the village are used as decentralized hotel rooms, has proven to be a successful model for revitalizing historic town centers. It prevents the deterioration of old buildings and brings new life to the village community. Let us now look at the following examples of how villages and tourism can live in harmony.

Historic Revival in Borgomaro, Italy

Borgomaro is an impressive example of how historic buildings can be used for tourism and how the town can benefit from it. The Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro has contributed significantly to the revitalization of this small village. Three historic 17th-century houses were faithfully restored by the owning family and converted into 14 vacation apartments and a breakfast room. By using the vacant buildings as decentralized hotel rooms, they have not only preserved the valuable building structures but also brought new life to the village center. Here, guests can experience authentic Italian village life, enjoy local products, and explore the picturesque surroundings. The integration of the hotel into the village also encourages direct interaction between locals and visitors.

Sustainable Tourism in the Heart of the Black Forest

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA also demonstrates how sustainable tourism can revitalize an entire region. The hotel is actively involved in improving the local infrastructure for the benefit of both guests and locals. Well-maintained hiking and biking trails, cultural offerings, and a diverse culinary scene add to the region’s appeal. Guests can enjoy regional specialties and recharge their batteries in nature. The hotel acts as an ambassador for sustainable tourism, inspiring other businesses in the region to follow suit.

Experience Nature and Village Life in the Rhön Region

In the Rhön, the „land of open spaces”, the STURM makes a significant contribution to the sustainable development of rural structures. It actively supports small villages, farms, and local producers by purchasing their products, but also by visiting and purchasing recommendations that the hotel staff passes on to guests. Guests can start hiking and biking tours directly from the STURM, visit the local villages, and experience the unspoiled nature of the Rhön. Respecting the environment and encouraging dialog between locals and guests makes the region more cosmopolitan and attractive.

High-Quality Tourism in East Tyrol

Quality tourism is a top priority at Naturhotel Outside. The hiking and wellness hotel makes a significant contribution to the sustainable development of the region. Not only does it create jobs, but it also supports local producers and craftsmen and actively recommends the region’s restaurants and mountain inns to its guests. Visitors experience the mountains of East Tyrol more intensely, enjoy regional specialties, and gain authentic insights into Tyrolean culture. The hotel also gives its guests a deep understanding of the importance of sustainability and inspires them to integrate these values into their everyday lives.

Quality of Life and Experiencing Nature in Allgäu

In Balderschwang, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio has not only contributed to the attractiveness of the region for tourists. More than 70% of the employees live within two kilometers of the hotel. The presence of the hotel supports the local economy and contributes to the vitality of the village. The town lives mainly from tourism. Accordingly, it is of existential importance to the community of Balderschwang. The family-run HUBERTUS offers guests the opportunity to experience the Allgäu nature, whether hiking, mountaineering, or winter sports. The large wellness area and yoga classes complete the natural experience.

Tradition and Sustainability in Warpe, Lower Saxony

The Eco Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe is a prime example of combining tradition with sustainability. The former country inn has been in the family since 1879 and is now in its fifth generation. With 16 individually decorated rooms, a yoga room, and a sauna in a converted shepherd’s wagon, it offers guests a unique rural experience. The adjacent Heimatliebe Café and small concept store also contribute to the village’s vitality. The operators actively encourage exploration of the surrounding area through bike tours and geocaching, benefiting both guests and locals.