Our Sustainability Journey: From GSTC Certification to IDM Label Level Three

Travelers want proof that a hotel walks the talk on sustainability. At Classic Hotel am Stetteneck in Ortisei, our story is "Our Sustainability Journey: From GSTC Certification to IDM Label Level Three"—recognitions that reflect concrete actions woven into daily operations, community life, and guest experiences in the Dolomites.

In this article, you’ll learn what these certifications mean, how we earned them, and the practical steps we take—together with our guests—to protect nature, celebrate culture, and support our local economy.

What the GSTC® Certificate Means

The GSTC® Certificate represents a global standard for sustainable tourism and supports destinations on their path toward higher social and environmental standards.

• In practice, GSTC criteria commonly span responsible management, community benefits, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.
• For our hotel, achieving the GSTC Certificate validates years of mindful choices guided by our heritage and values.

Quick answer: What is the GSTC® Certificate?

The GSTC® Certificate is an internationally recognized benchmark that helps tourism businesses and destinations align with credible environmental, social, and governance practices.

What the IDM Sustainability Label (South Tyrol) Recognizes

Based on GSTC criteria, an internationally recognized IDM Sustainability Label tailored to South Tyrol evaluates how tourism businesses operate in harmony with their place and community. We are particularly proud to have earned Level Three, the highest level of this label.

Quick answer: What is the IDM Sustainability Label?

It’s a South Tyrol–specific sustainability label based on GSTC criteria that acknowledges verified progress across ecological, social, and economic dimensions. Level Three is the highest achievement.

Our Sustainability Philosophy: Heritage, People, and Place

We love our Art Nouveau mansion and the stunning Val Gardena Dolomites in which it is nestled. Since 1913, four generations of the Sanoner-Demetz family have grown and thrived at Stetteneck. This sense of continuity informs our approach: think critically, question habits, and implement small but significant steps that balance ecological, social, and economic goals—every single day.

• Location matters: our hotel sits in the pedestrian area of Ortisei, within walking distance of the cable cars to Alpe di Siusi, Seceda, and Resciesa—making low-impact, car-free exploration easy.
• We pair comfort with responsibility across Rooms & Suites, Eat & Drink, and SPA & Wellness, ensuring each guest can relax while aligning with their values.

How We Put Sustainability into Practice Every Day

Sourcing and Cuisine: Seasonal, Regional, and Thoughtful

• We place great emphasis on fresh and seasonal products.
• We prioritize regional sourcing—such as apple juice directly from the farm, South Tyrolean wines, and organic South Tyrolean milk.
• We take dinner orders in the morning to minimize food waste.
• Free fresh water is available at every table.

These choices lighten our footprint and deepen the connection between guests and the flavors of South Tyrol—discover more on our Eat & Drink and Classic Café pages.

Nature and On-Site Biodiversity

• Our hotel is surrounded by a 3,000 m² park that offers peace and freshness to the neighborhood—intentionally without fencing or barriers.
• We care for two beehives on our wildflower meadow next to the hotel. With up to 50,000 bees per hive, they pollinate local plants and provide delicious honey in late summer.
• Our weekly program with guided hikes offers sustainable experiences in both summer and winter, encouraging guests to discover the Dolomites respectfully.

For guests who prefer two wheels, our Bike Friendly approach and participation in Val Gardena Active make it easy to explore the area thoughtfully.

Resource Conservation and Smart Operations

We focus on reduction first, then efficiency—because the most sustainable energy is the energy you don’t use.

• Most lighting has been switched to energy-saving LEDs.
• A modern heating room delivers up to 20% energy savings.
• An intelligent KNX system optimizes device and lighting operations.
• In the kitchen, we use energy-efficient combi ovens, dishwashers, and more.
• Heating regulators on radiators allow individual room temperature adjustments.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Bed linen and towels are changed only on request.
• Soap and courtesy products are provided in refillable dispensers.
• We use mainly ecological cleaning products and recycled paper.
• We rigorously separate waste and give furniture or equipment a second life through donation.

Community, Culture, and Local Partnerships

We see ourselves as part of a vibrant local community—and a thriving place is essential for a thriving hotel.

• We collaborate with South Tyrolean craftsmen and valley service providers, supporting quality, reducing traffic, and strengthening the regional economy.
• We support local associations and cultural events, including the fire department, ski club, hockey club, Unika, and the Gherdëina art biennale.
• We participate in social projects such as integration of employees with disabilities and offering internships.
• As active partners of the Val Gardena Club Card, we grant locals and employees discounts at the bar and spa.
• Our family volunteers with local associations and organizations, including the Hotel- and Restaurant Association (HGV), the local tourism association, the GSTC: Green Team, the Ortisei Energy Team, and Familiam.

Frequently Asked Questions (for quick answers)

How did Classic Hotel am Stetteneck achieve IDM Sustainability Label Level Three?

By aligning daily operations with GSTC-based criteria across environment, community, culture, and responsible management—demonstrated in actions like regional sourcing, waste reduction, energy-efficient upgrades, biodiversity support, and meaningful engagement with local associations and social projects.

What is the difference between GSTC Certification and the IDM Sustainability Label?

GSTC Certification is a global standard for sustainable tourism, while the IDM Sustainability Label is a South Tyrol–specific program based on GSTC criteria. We hold both and achieved Level Three (the highest) in the IDM label.

What simple actions can guests take during a stay?

• Walk to nearby cable cars (Alpe di Siusi, Seceda, Resciesa) to reduce car use.
• Bring your own pool slippers—we encourage it to limit single-use items.
• Request linen and towel changes only when needed.
• Use our refillable bathroom dispensers.
• Refill water instead of using single-use bottles.
• Join our guided hikes for low-impact exploration.

Practical Takeaways: Your Low-Impact Stay Checklist

1. Choose seasonal, regional dishes and enjoy South Tyrolean wines and organic milk—great taste with a lighter footprint.
2. Plan your day early: pre-select dinner to help us prevent food waste.
3. Pack pool slippers and a reusable water bottle.
4. Explore on foot or by bike—our central, pedestrian-area location and nearby lifts make it easy.
5. Opt for on-request linen/towel changes and make use of refillable amenities.
6. Participate in guided hikes and community-friendly activities.
7. Support local culture—visit exhibitions (like those connected to the Gherdëina art scene) and artisan workshops.

Our Journey Continues

Sustainability is not a finish line; it’s a mindset. From our 3,000 m² park and beehives, to LEDs, a modern heating room, and a KNX-optimized building system, we keep improving with small, meaningful steps. Being recognized with the GSTC® Certificate and the IDM Sustainability Label Level Three motivates us to deepen our commitments—socially, environmentally, and economically.

Curious how this philosophy shapes your stay? Explore our Rooms & Suites, relax in SPA & Wellness, and see how our Eat & Drink approach pairs taste with responsibility. Planning a longer escape? Check our Offers—including "Recharge with Nature: Stay Longer, Save More!"—and discover the Dolomites at an easygoing rhythm.

Conclusion

Our sustainability journey is grounded in respect: for our guests, our people, our heritage since 1913, and the Dolomites that surround us. Earning GSTC® Certification and the IDM Sustainability Label Level Three reflects consistent, verifiable progress—and a promise to keep getting better.

Ready to experience thoughtful hospitality in Ortisei?

• Book or request your stay via our Offers and Booking pages.
• Prefer direct contact? Call +39 0471 796563 or write to info@stetteneck.com.

We look forward to welcoming you with heartfelt hospitality at Classic Hotel am Stetteneck.