Hôtel Royal And Hôtel Ermitage In Evian Resort Achieve Clé Verte Eco-Label For Sustainable Tourism

In the picturesque setting of Evian Resort in France, Hôtel Royal and Hôtel Ermitage have marked a significant milestone in sustainable tourism by securing the Clé Verte (Green Key) eco-label. This certification acknowledges their steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship through effective management practices and initiatives aimed at conserving energy, reducing waste, and fostering responsible consumption.

The certification highlights the resort's approach to sustainability, which taps a wide range of eco-friendly practices. These practices are meticulously structured around five key pillars: Biodiversity, Resources, Energy, Sustainable Sourcing, and Social Responsibility. Each pillar is backed by a series of concrete actions designed to significantly lessen the environmental footprint of the resort while promoting a culture of sustainability among guests and the local community.

Championing Biodiversity and Environmental Education

The 47-acre estate that houses these hotels serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity, meticulously maintained without the use of pesticides and strictly prohibiting hunting. Recognized as an official sanctuary by the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) since 2011, this green oasis supports a diverse ecosystem through nesting boxes, insect hotels, and flowering meadows. Regular wildlife inventories complement these efforts, fostering an educational and vibrant atmosphere that aligns with the local environment.

A Focus on Sustainable Resources and Energy

Addressing water and waste management, Evian Resort has set up an efficient system that encompasses rainwater harvesting, weather-responsive irrigation, and the installation of water-saving fixtures in accommodations. Waste segregation, upcycling initiatives, and food waste composting further embody the resort's commitment to resource conservation. A partnership with UNISOAP exemplifies their innovative approach to recycling, transforming discarded soap into a resource for those in need.

The resort's energy strategy is equally commendable. A significant portion of heating is sourced from a local, renewable wood-fired district heating system. This is complemented by comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades, including enhanced insulation, LED lighting, and smart climate controls. The promotion of green mobility through the provision of electric vehicles and bicycles, along with guest-accessible charging stations, underscores the resort's holistic approach to sustainability.

Enhancing Local Communities and Economies

Central to the resort's philosophy is a commitment to social responsibility, which is evident in its impactful initiatives for staff and the surrounding community. A focus on employee well-being is achieved through ongoing training, fostering a healthy workplace, and implementing inclusive policies. Supporting local supply chains and fostering regional partnerships bolsters the social and economic vitality of the area, further demonstrating the resort's dedication to its community.

Sustainable Gastronomy and Sourcing

The culinary experience at Hôtel Royal is infused with sustainability, under the guidance of Chef Patrice Vander. The emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients from sustainable sources ensures a gastronomic offering that not only delights the palate but also respects the environment. The hotel's kitchen garden and on-site production of organic honey exemplify this commitment. Recognition of their efforts is reflected in the Ecotable certification awarded to the fine dining restaurant Les Fresques, celebrating its sustainable gastronomy with deep local roots.

Tucked near the mountains, Evian Resort is a year-round haven. Winter draws skiers to Thollon-Les-Memises, Bernex, and Portes du Soleil’s 600km of pistes, while warmer months offer endless outdoor adventures. Guests at Hotel Royal and Ermitage Hotel enjoy access to premier facilities: an 18-hole golf course with Lake Geneva views, two spas, tennis courts, pools, a casino, a concert hall, kids’ clubs, and curated cultural and sporting experiences.

Hotel Royal, a five-star retreat, features 150 elegant rooms and suites, many overlooking Lake Geneva. Its stately design, immaculate gardens, and refined spaces create a sophisticated ambiance. Exclusive amenities include a Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Patrice Vander and the Evian Source Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit, reserved for Royal guests.

Ermitage Hotel, with four stars, offers rustic charm across 80 rooms, many with lake views and balconies. Family-friendly, it provides kids’ clubs for babies, children, and teens, with activities from cooking to skiing. Adults can relax at the eco-certified Quatre Terres Spa, using clay, stones, and crystals for rejuvenation, one of only three such wellness centers in France.