Sustainability at Seezeitlodge – Between Lake and Forest
Energy efficiency plays a major role. Seezeitlodge runs its own combined heat and power plant (CHP), which produces electricity and uses waste heat for pool heating and cooling. Additional energy comes from a photovoltaic system on the hotel’s roof. Instead of conventional air conditioning, the building uses concrete core activation, which allows walls and ceilings to regulate the temperature naturally. Fresh air ventilation systems avoid recirculated air to improve air quality and save energy. The building’s façade includes shading elements to reduce the need for mechanical cooling.
The hotel emphasizes regional food sourcing. Ingredients are sourced from local producers whenever possible. The lodge grows its own mushrooms, maintains a herb garden with over 20 varieties, and keeps 10 beehives that produce around 25 kilograms of honey per hive each year. Organic cosmetics with biodegradable packaging are used in guest rooms and spa areas. In the restaurant, single-use plastics are avoided. Glass straws, compostable napkins, and sustainable take-away packaging are standard. Leftover food is donated to local organizations.
Housekeeping routines also reflect resource conservation. Rooms are cleaned every two days. Linen is changed only after four nights, and towels are replaced only if placed on the floor. Cleaning products are purchased in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
Sustainable meetings and events are encouraged. Conferences use glass bottles or dispensers instead of plastic, regional catering partners, Blue Angel-certified pens, and recyclable capsule systems. Attendees can support tree planting projects via Click A Tree.
Recent additions include a natural swimming pond (opened in July 2023), which uses no chemicals and is only topped up to compensate for evaporation. Built using local materials and surrounded by native plants, the pond offers 30 lounge areas for natural relaxation. Other eco-conscious expansions include a Celtic-style outdoor sauna village, a floating pool, a relaxation room called "Forest Whisper," extended terraces, and spa suites with private saunas.
Guests are encouraged to embrace slow travel with yoga, mindfulness exercises, guided forest walks, and e-bike rentals, all designed to reduce reliance on cars and enhance connection to nature.
The hotel also supports social and regional causes, such as donating eyeglasses, helping local schools and kindergartens, and supporting village festivals. Food donations further reduce waste and benefit local communities.
In conclusion, Seezeitlodge Hotel & Spa shows how sustainable practices can be deeply integrated into all aspects of hospitality. From innovative building design and local gastronomy to thoughtful service routines and community involvement, this hotel offers a meaningful and eco-conscious experience for all types of travelers.