Green and Digital Transformation of Hotel Astarea
A milestone investment in renewable energy and digital innovation in Hotel Astarea sets new sustainability standards in hospitality
As part of the “Green and Digital Transformation of Hotel Astarea for a Year-Round Family Holiday,” the fully renovated Maistra hotel in Mlini reopened in August last year, offering 307 modernised accommodation units. In February 2023, the project was submitted to the Ministry of Tourism and Sport’s public call titled “Enhancing Sustainability and Promoting Green and Digital Transition of Entrepreneurs in the Tourism Sector,” funded through the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism. The grant agreement was signed on 5 January 2024. Structured around nine core activities, the project aims to support the hotel’s green and digital transformation, promote year-round tourism, increase occupancy rates, generate new local employment opportunities, and strengthen competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
The extensive renovation included the reconstruction of all public areas, the addition of dedicated children’s facilities, an expanded wellness zone, a full refurbishment of rooms, and an energy upgrade of the building. Key innovations include the integration of renewable energy sources and digital technologies. The total investment was worth EUR 20.5 million, of which nearly EUR 6.6 million was financed through European Union funds.
These improvements pave the way for obtaining the EU Ecolabel, a recognised certification of high environmental standards. This achievement reflects Maistra’s strategic commitment to reducing its environmental impact and fostering sustainable and digital solutions in Croatian tourism. “We are proud to offer our guests accommodation where ecology and technology work in harmony, inviting them to join us in protecting the natural environment and setting new sustainable benchmarks in tourism,” said Tomislav Popović, President of the Management Board at Maistra. A solar power plant has been installed on-site, covering 22% of the hotel’s total annual electricity needs. The hotel is now entirely powered by renewable sources, including high-efficiency heat pumps for heating and cooling. Air-conditioning systems use heat recovery to further reduce energy consumption.
To reduce waste, Hotel Astarea has introduced a food composter that reduces organic waste by up to 90%. Disposable packaging and single-use toiletries are provided only when absolutely necessary, while all bathroom fixtures have been carefully selected to meet strict water-saving standards. The use of pesticides is prohibited throughout the property, further reinforcing Astarea’s commitment to environmental protection.
In line with its green initiatives, Hotel Astarea is also embracing digital transformation. The installation of 6th-generation Wi-Fi, a smart entry system, and Flexkeeping digital solutions enable staff to manage operations more efficiently while providing guests with a faster, safer, and contactless experience. “Smart room” features allow guests to personalise temperature and lighting settings, while the information provided via the website and brochures further educates guests on ways to reduce their environmental footprint during their stay.
