Interlaken is a popular tourist destination located in the Swiss Alps. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, adventure activities, and charming Swiss culture. The town is situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by majestic mountains, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Interlaken offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, and river rafting, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers. Additionally, visitors can explore the town’s traditional Swiss architecture, sample local cuisine, and indulge in luxury shopping. Interlaken’s unique combination of natural beauty and cultural charm makes it a must-visit destination for travelers to Switzerland.

Related Article: 15 Places to Visit In and Aroud Interlaken Switzerland

What are the Sustainable Practices in Green Hotels?

The hospitality industry significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and waste generation.  Green Hotels can implement sustainable practices in many ways:

Energy conservation:

Green hotels conserve energy by installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances, using renewable energy sources such as solar panels, and implementing energy-saving measures such as turning off lights and air conditioning when not in use.

Water conservation

Green hotels conserve water by installing low-flow showerheads and toilets, collecting rainwater for irrigation, and promoting water-saving practices among guests.

Recycling and waste reduction

Hotels can reduce waste by implementing a recycling program for paper, plastic, and other materials, using compostable products such as biodegradable toiletries and food containers, and donating leftover food to local charities.

Sourcing local and organic food

Hotels can support local farmers and reduce their carbon footprint by sourcing food locally and using organic and sustainable ingredients.

Supporting the local community

Hotels can support the local community by partnering with local businesses and organizations, promoting local culture and traditions, and providing employment opportunities for local residents.

The Benefits of Choosing a Green Hotel  

Choosing a green hotel can have several benefits for both the traveler and the environment. Such as:

Environmental benefits:

Green hotels are designed to minimize their environmental impact by conserving water and energy, reducing waste, and using sustainable materials. By staying in a green hotel, you are supporting responsible eco-practices and helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the tourism industry.

Health benefits:

Many green hotels use natural and organic materials, such as cotton bedding and towels, which can be gentler on the skin and reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Some hotels use eco-friendly cleaning products and provide guests with eco-friendly amenities, which can reduce indoor air pollution and improve indoor air quality.  These practices can create a healthier environment for guests and staff.

Cost savings:

Green hotels implement energy-efficient lighting and appliances to reduce energy costs, therefore able to keep room rates lower. Some hotels may also offer incentives, such as discounts or loyalty programs, for guests who choose to participate in their sustainability programs.

Community benefits:

Green hotels often have a strong commitment to supporting local communities and promoting local culture. By staying in a green hotel, you can support the local economy and contribute to sustainable development in the region.

Personal satisfaction:

For many travelers, choosing a green hotel can be a source of personal satisfaction and fulfillment, as it allows them to align their values with their travel choices and make a positive impact on the world.

The Best Green Hotels in Interlaken

Hotel Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

The Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is a five-star luxury hotel built in 1865. It has a variety of luxurious rooms and suites, many of which have stunning views. It also features several restaurants and bars, including the renowned “La Terrasse” restaurant that offers a gourmet dining experience with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

The Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa has received the “Green Globe” certification and implemented a sustainability management system that sets targets and measures progress towards reducing its environmental impact. It is committed to implementing sustainable practices and reducing its environmental impact. The hotel has energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems throughout the property; it has also implemented an energy-saving program that encourages guests to turn off lights and appliances when not in use. The hotel has a waste management program that includes recycling, composting, and reducing food waste. It also uses eco-friendly cleaning products and has eliminated the use of single-use plastic items.

The hotel has also implemented water-saving measures, such as low-flow showerheads and faucets, and has installed water-efficient laundry equipment. Hotel food is sourced from local suppliers, and it is involved in various community projects and initiatives. 

Hotel Royal-St. Georges

Hotel Royal St. Georges is a four-star hotel housed in a historic building in Interlaken that dates back to the early 1900s and has been recently renovated. The hotel has a range of room types, including standard rooms, superior rooms, and suites. All rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities. It is located within walking distance of the most main attractions.

The hotel has also been certified by the Swiss “Green” program for its environmentally friendly practices. This certification ensures that the hotel meets strict standards. In addition to these measures, the hotel also participates in various community initiatives, such as sponsoring local environmental projects and supporting sustainable tourism in the region. It also extends its effort by encouraging guests to participate in sustainable tourism activities, such as hiking, cycling, and using public transportation. Hotel Royal St. Georges is a great choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and sustainable stay in Interlaken.

Hotel Carlton-Europe

The Hotel Carlton Europe Interlaken is a four-star hotel established in 1898. It is located near the Interlaken Ost train station with connections to all major destinations. It has a range of accommodation options, including single, double, and family rooms, as well as suites. All rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities with upscale facilities within the hotel.

The Hotel Carlton Europe participates in the “Green Living Hotel” program; it is committed to sustainable tourism practices, from implementing the renewal energy source to preventing food waste and partnering with the locally sourced suppliers. The hotel also has a natural swimming pool with no chemicals; it is regularly cleaned to maintain a stable water biology, ensuring a healthy environment for guests and staff.

Hotel Interlaken

Hotel Interlaken is a historic four-star hotel built in 1865; it has a range of accommodation options including single, double, and family rooms, as well as suites. All rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities.

Hotel Interlaken is a member of the Swiss “Green” program that is committed to sustainability and has implemented various measures to reduce its environment impact. Additionally, it has designed a series of special Green Meetings and Events at the hotel which focus on reducing the environmental impact.

Hotel Interlaken provides a unique blend of history, luxury, and modern amenities, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a sustainable, comfortable, and convenient base for exploring the beautiful region of Interlaken.

Hotel Du Nord

Hotel du Nord is a 1847 historic three-star hotel, and has a range of room types, including single, double, and family rooms, as well as suites. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities. In addition to comfortable accommodations, Hotel du Nord has a range services to enhance a guest’s stay, including a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a bar, a garden terrace, sauna with steam room, and a bicycle rental service.

In terms of sustainable practices, Hotel du Nord has received the Swiss “Green” certification for its environmental practices, and is a member of the “Green Living Hotels” program, which is a network of hotels committed to sustainable tourism practices.

Boutique Hotel Bellevue

The Boutique hotel Bellevue Interlaken is a charming and elegant four-star hotel housed in a beautiful historic building that dates back to the 19th century. It features 75 individually decorated guest rooms, each with its own unique style and charm. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed with modern amenities, and some rooms have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Aare River.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at the hotel, including the Restaurant Taverne, which serves traditional Swiss cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. The hotel also has a beautiful terrace that overlooks the river and is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or a meal in the warmer months.

Based on the information available on the hotel’s website, The Boutique hotel Bellevue is Swisstainable and Clean-and-safe certified. It operates several sustainable practices, including using locally sourced and organic products in their restaurant, reducing energy consumption through efficient lighting and heating systems, and encouraging guests to participate in their towel and linen reuse program in order to conserve water and energy.

Hotel Stella Interlaken

Hotel Stella is a stylish and modern 4-star hotel just a short walk from the Interlaken Ost train station. It has easy access to the area’s many attractions. This hotel features 30 spacious and elegantly appointed guest rooms; some rooms have beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Hotel Stella Interlaken has received Bioscore Sustainability level A and participated in the Travel Sustainable program, which includes measures to reduce energy and water consumption, minimize waste generation, and promote eco-friendly practices among employees and guests. The hotel has also invested in energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems; it also sources ingredients locally and organically in its restaurant. 

The hotel has received positive reviews for its comfortable and well-equipped rooms, excellent location, and friendly and helpful staff. It’s a great choice for those looking for a modern and stylish hotel in Interlaken.

Hotel Derby Interlaken

Hotel Derby Interlaken is a three-star hotel built in 1898; it is known for its traditional Swiss hospitality and charm. The hotel has a range of accommodation options, including single, double, and triple rooms, as well as family rooms and suites. All of the rooms are tastefully decorated and feature modern amenities. The hotel is just a short walk from Interlaken West train station; it is also close to the picturesque town of Unterseen and the beautiful Lake Thun.

The hotel states its commitment to environmental protection on its website by implementing several eco-friendly practices, such as using energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and encouraging guests to participate in their towel and linen reuse program in order to conserve water and energy. While Hotel Derby Interlaken may not have specific eco-friendly certifications, it appears to be making efforts to implement sustainable practices and minimize its impact on the environment. 

Hotel Beausite

Hotel Beausite is a family-run hotel situated in a quiet residential area of Interlaken, yet it is still within walking distance of the town center and the Interlaken West train station. The hotel features 75 comfortable guest rooms, each with its own unique style and charm. The rooms offer modern amenities, some with views of the surrounding areas. This hotel has received positive reviews for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and convenient location.

Hotel Beausite Interlaken has not been certified as a sustainable hotel by any recognized organization. However, the hotel appears to have implemented several environmentally sustainable practices, such as using energy-efficient lighting, implementing water and energy conservation programs, offering organic local food in their restaurant, and promoting eco-friendly practices among staff and guests.

Hotel Chalet Swiss Interlaken

Hotel Chalet Swiss Interlaken is a cozy and charming three-star hotel built in 1862. This traditional chalet-style hotel is situated in a quiet residential area offers panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Junfrau Mountains. It is within walking distance of the town center and the Interlaken West train station.

The hotel features 38 guest rooms, each with its own unique style and character, and all equipped with modern amenities and views. Customers have generally praised Hotel Chalet Swiss Interlaken for its friendly and helpful staff, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location. Some guests have also highlighted the hotel’s cozy and charming atmosphere, excellent dining options, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

While Hotel Chalet Swiss Interlaken may not have specific sustainability certifications, it appears to be making efforts to minimize its impact on the environment and apply sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient lighting and using locally sourced food in their restaurant. The hotel has also implemented measures to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices among staff and guests.

Hotel Bernerhof

Hotel Bernerhof is a charming three-star hotel situated in a quiet pedestrian area in the town center, within walking distance of the Interlaken West train station and shops. The hotel features 39 guest rooms with an unforgettable view of the Jungfrau massif and the surrounding mountains. Hotel Bernerhof Interlaken is Swisstainable and Clean-and-safe certified. It has implemented energy saving measures to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices among staff and guests.

Most customers praise Hotel Bernerhof Interlaken for its excellent location in the town center, with many shops and restaurants nearby, and as for its friendly staff, comfortable accommodation, and delicious breakfast buffet. Many guests appreciate the hotel’s charming decor and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Interlaken Youth Hostel (Jugendherberge Interlaken)

Interlaken Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation option in Interlaken that caters to travelers of all ages. It has both private and shared rooms, and guests have access to a shared kitchen, common area, and outdoor terrace. The hostel is located just a short walk from the Interlaken Ost train station and is close to many popular attractions in the area, including Lake Thun and the Jungfraujoch mountain. Additionally, the hostel offers various activities and tours for guests to enjoy, such as hiking and biking tours, paragliding, and river rafting.

Interlaken Youth Hostel is a member of the Swiss Youth Hostel Association, which is committed to sustainable tourism practices. Some of the sustainability practices that the hostel has in place include the use of renewable energy sources, waste reduction and recycling programs, water conservation measures, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products. The hostel also supports local businesses by sourcing its food from regional suppliers, promoting sustainable tourism activities, and providing information to guests on how to travel sustainably.

Alplodge

Alplodge is a budget-friendly hostel with a variety of accommodation options, including private and shared rooms, as well as dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds. It also features a communal kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor terrace where guests can relax and socialize.

Alplodge is Swisstainable certified and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The hostel uses renewable energy sources, promotes waste reduction and recycling, and encourages guests to travel sustainably. Additionally, Alplodge supports local businesses by sourcing its food from regional suppliers, and provides information to guests on how to travel sustainably. Alplodge Interlaken is a great option for travelers who are looking for a sustainable and budget-friendly stay in Interlaken.

Hotel Photos Credit: All hotels images courtesy of Nananai World’s affiliate partner booking.com