10 tips for a mindful vacation

1. PLAN YOUR VACATION CONSCIOUSLY

A conscious vacation experience starts even before you set off. Take a closer look and look for sustainable accommodation with a clear statement. Familiarize yourself with the region - culture, history and proper behavior in nature. Pack your suitcase carefully - don't take any unnecessary baggage with you. Many sports items can also be rented locally. Don't forget your own refillable water bottle. Decide on a climate-friendly journey - and you're ready to go.

2. DIVE DEEPER AND STAY LONGER

Slow down your vacation and stay longer. Leave yourself enough time for everything, because so many beautiful things would remain hidden from you. Leave the hectic pace behind you and take the time you really need for yourself. Even in the low season, it's charming here with us and there's plenty to discover - you have space for yourself and you can fully relax in nature.

3. DRINK TAP WATER

We provide you with fresh Alpine spring water from the tap. So don't use disposable bottles and fill up your own. It tastes refreshing and helps to reduce your ecological footprint.

4. BE MINDFUL OF NATURE

We share our beautiful natural landscape with animals and plants. Respect this habitat and treat it with care. Stay on the marked hiking and mountain bike trails and keep dogs on a lead. Pay attention to the quiet zones and times; the flora and fauna also need a place to rest and retreat. When ski touring and snowshoeing, avoid feeding areas at all costs and if you spot a wild animal, retreat quietly. Avoid young tree crops (under three meters), the ski edges can cause great damage to the treetops. Help to preserve protected plant species by not picking them. Picking a small bunch of wildflowers with common plants is allowed. Always remember that bees, insects and wildlife also feed on the plants.

More information on protected animal and plant species in Vorarlberg

Also pay attention to the legally permitted amount when picking mushrooms. Be sure to leave the roots standing so that the population can recover. Please also remember that the Alps are not a playground. There are a few rules to follow. You can find all the information here:

Safe alpine pastures

5. AVOID GARBAGE AND KEEP NATURE CLEAN

Be a role model, because you are only visiting the habitat of animals and plants. Therefore, avoid litter and do clean-ups in nature - if you discover litter during your activity, please pick it up and dispose of it. Together we can keep our region clean.

6. BEHAVE CONSCIOUSLY IN YOUR ACCOMMODATION TOO

Use towels several times to save resources. Biodegradable products are not only good for you, but also for the environment. Use the heating, air conditioning and other electronic devices sparingly. Help yourself at the buffet with a sense of proportion, because any food in the bin is one too many.

7. RESPECT THE LOCAL POPULATION AND GET TO KNOW THEM

Anyone who has ever visited our region knows about the warmth of the people here. We look forward to your visit, every smile and every friendly greeting is only too gladly reciprocated. Our living space is the most important thing, so respect boundaries.

8. DISCOVER LOCAL FOOD AND HANDICRAFTS

Taste the regional delicacies and get to know the local handicrafts. There is usually a wonderful story behind every regional product. Whether on vacation or at home - make a conscious decision to go regional.

9. USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Use public transportation. With the well-developed public transport system, you can explore the region stress-free without your own vehicle.

10. EXPLORE THE COUNTRYSIDE ON FOOT OR BY BIKE

Go on foot or by (e-)bike. Choose your own pace and realize that the journey is often more important than the destination. You will find the most beautiful impressions where you don't expect them.

With this in mind, enjoy your vacation and have a good time - only more consciously!