When it comes to sustainability, there's no doubt that Germany is the leading green light in Europe. The country's investment in renewables over the last couple of decades means that solar and wind energy meet nearly 30% of the country's electricity needs, whilst an impressive 1.4 million homes are generating at least some of their own wind and solar power. For one day in May 2016, the country's domestic electricity needs ran almost entirely on renewables – a staggering achievement and another success story for Germany's energiewende ('energy revolution'). By 2050, the country hopes to reduce emissions by 80%.

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Germany's pioneering approach to sustainability reaches beyond the energy sector: the country's 16 national parks, 742 special protection areas, nature parks, biosphere reserves and conservation areas account for a whopping 48% of the land mass, making it one of the most protected countries in the world. Her varied landscapes, from remote wilderness to ancient forest and wildlife-rich coastline, are a playground for sustainable activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing and skiing.

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When it comes to finding somewhere green to stay, visitors here are spoilt for choice. From guesthouses hidden in the green folds of Germany's loveliest nature reserves, national parks and biospheres, to the numerous bio hotels where sustainability, organic food and respect for nature and the environment is a way of life, eco-friendly accommodation is always easy to find.

What Green Traveller's writers discovered in Germany