More and more often we get asked by Hotelcard members which of our hotels have particularly high standards in terms of sustainability. Well, sustainability is a big word and there are hardly any hotels out there these days that don’t claim to be sustainable in one way or the other. This didn’t satisfy us though and we therefore tried to find 3 Hotelcard hotels that most deserve this attribute.

The good news first: For most of our partner hotels, sustainability is more than just a signboard in the bathroom asking guests to help save the planet by reusing their towels. Locally produced organic food is very common in Swiss hotels these days and also one-way plastic is slowly disappearing from breakfast buffets and shower rooms.

 But enough talking, let’s have a look at some of the most sustainable hotels in our portfolio:

Hotel Rössli, Mogelsberg SG

The Gasthaus Rössli is one of the country's pioneers in sustainable traveling and organic cuisine, introducing it to the Swiss countryside, in Mogelsberg. Nestled in the Säntis Foreland, Mogelsberg lies between the Toggenburg valley and the Appenzellerland.

The Rössli is almost 100% operated in an organic and eco-responsible way. Ecology has been the main focus at Gasthaus Rössli for over forty years. The cuisine is regional and seasonal, using organic ingredients and mushrooms from the surrounding forests. All wines featured on the menu are also from organic producers.

Spirituality, bond with nature and tradition play an important role in the hotel's overall design. A cosy atmosphere in the knitted building from the 18th century now awaits its guests. The charm and the character of each room remained, yet the design is very modern. The hotel now features 12 zodiac rooms and 4 element rooms. Their atmosphere reflects each of their specificities. Hotel guests will enjoy restful nights in Hüsler beds, a Swiss natural bed system using sheep wool duvets and pillows. Bed linen and towels are made of organic cotton.
 
Hotel Rössli
EcoHotel L’Aubier, Montézillon NE

In harmony with nature and overlooking Lake Neuchâtel, a place of green tourism awaits you at the 3* EcoHotel L'Aubier. The hotel strives to provide an authentically sustainable experience to its guests. The choice of furniture, decoration, and the overall atmosphere focuses on reconnecting guests with their environment. Aiming to trigger and fulfil all senses, much attention is given to details.

Nine charming rooms are located on the four floors above the Café. Simple and cosy, they will provide guests with a comfortable stay in the heart of the old town. Each room has a unique style, bright and colourful. Anyone staying here will feel at ease, and be able to take a break from the hassle of daily life.

The restaurant and café serve 100% certified organic products. Solar Panels are used to supply up to 50% of the hotel's power needs and 100% of the power is certified "naturemade star", using wind, solar and hydraulic energy. The hotel provides 3 charging stations for electric cars. Water usage is also carefully planned, with rainwater directly used to serve multiple purposes.
 
EcoHotel L'Aubier
Idyllhotel Appenzellerhof, Speicher AR

Only a few minutes from St.Gallen and Appenzell, in the municipality of Speicher, you will find the fantastic 3* Idyllhotel Appenzellerhof. This family owned, typically Swiss yet modern hotel, has so much to offer. Its owners are committed to providing a sustainable experience to their guests.

The rooms are bright and carefully designed to ensure guests will enjoy their stay and have a good sleep in the comfortable beds, covered in bed linen made from the best organic cotton. Heating and hot water are supplied by the local district's heating system, which runs exclusively on wood chips from the region.

For a increasing number of people, eating well does not merely mean that it tastes good. The origin and processing of food now also play an important role as it should be produced sustainably and in respect for animals and the environment. The multi-award-winning restaurant serves seasonal and regional dishes, prepared using regional products from organic farming, which will delight anyone trying them.
 
Idyllhotel Appenzellerhof
These are only a small selection of sustainable hotels at Hotelcard. The list could be much longer. Did you know, for instance, that Hotel Ucliva (currently under construction) in the Surselva region of Graubünden was the first Eco-Hotel in Switzerland? Also Hotel Marta in the old town of Zurich is sustainable in its own way: It enables women in challenging circumstances to re-enter working life in a protected environment.

Whatever sustainable means to you, we are glad if you spend your holidays and short-breaks with Hotelcard and hence not only contribute to the environment but also support the local hotel eco-system.