How can hotels support sustainable winter tourism?

Winter tourism undoubtedly has its charm. Mountains covered with snow, winter sports and picturesque landscapes attract visitors from all over the world. However, for local ecosystems, the increasing number of tourists in winter destinations can have far-reaching consequences. Sustainable winter tourism is becoming a key factor for the protection of these fragile areas and hotels play an essential role in this transformation. How can hotels contribute to the sustainability of winter tourism and protect winter destinations?

1. Responsible wellness and winter procedures

After a day spent outdoors during the winter, guests often like to treat themselves with wellness and relaxation. These services can also be ecological.

• Wellness with minimal impact on nature: For wellness, hotels can use organic natural products such as natural oils or local herbs . Procedures using less water and disposable materials help reduce consumption of resources.
• Economical spa procedures: Limited water consumption during wellness procedures, for instance through using thermal water or steam rooms with low energy consumption, contributes to reducing the ecological footprint of hotel facilities.

 2. Ecological transport and mobility in winter

Transport in winter areas can be difficult and energy-intensive due to the conditions but there are greener alternatives available.

• Green transportation for guests: Hotels can cooperate with transport companies in the area of ecological transport (i.e. electric buses or shared taxi services). It is a convenient option for guests and it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• Support of walking: Winter hiking trails can be an interesting way to motivate guests to move around the hotel area on foot. In cooperation with local authorities, hotels can mark safe and attractive routes for winter walks.

3. Minimizing waste during the winter season

Winter months often tend to be a period of increased waste due to holiday decorations, Christmas markets and holiday events. Through an ecological approach, hotels can reduce their waste.

• Ecological decorations: Instead of disposable decorations, hotels can use seasonal and natural decorations such as pine cones, dried fruit or twigs. Such decorations not only save nature, but also provide an authentic winter touch to the space.
• Responsible waste management: During the winter season, hotels should increase their recycling and composting capacities so that as much waste as possible can find new use.

4. Energy efficient solutions and ecological heating

In winter months, hotels spend a significant amount of energy on heating. Energy-efficient solutions not only reduce costs but are also more environmentally friendly.

• Sustainable heating: Investing in renewable energy sources such as heat pumps or solar panels allows hotels to reduce their carbon footprint. Energy-saving technologies and automation of heating (e.g. smart thermostats) guarantee the comfort of guests without pointless waste of energy.
• Insulation and thermal efficiency: Quality insulation of windows and doors as well as low-energy building materials can significantly reduce energy consumption in hotels and thus contributing to sustainable winter tourism.

Sustainable winter tourism is not just a trend but it is inevitable for the protection of winter destinations. Hotels adopting sustainable practices play a key role in preserving these beautiful areas for future generations. Investing in sustainability is not only good for the planet but also beneficial for business – guests are increasingly looking for sustainable options and prefer hotels that reflect their values. It is time for a change – and hotels can stand at the forefront of this revolution.