Hotel Talk Magazine Issue 1

HOTEL TALK MAGAZINE November 2018

www.hoteltalkmagazine.com

FEATURED HOTELS THE OYSTER BOX, UMHLANGA ROCKS, SOUTH AFRICA

6-11 SHINTA MANI SHACK, ANGKOR

12-17 THE DANAI BEACH RESORT & VILLAS, HALKIDIKI

18-23 THE UPPER HOUSE, HONG KONG

24-29 LE SAINT-JAMES HOTEL, BORDEAUX

30-35

M IL NE Milne Publishing is proud to present Hotel Talk Magazine issue 1. In this issue I am pleased to showcase incredible hotels from around the globe. All of the hotels featured within this issue have given interesting in-depth honest accounts about themselves. In addition to the amazing images supplied by the hotels, which I know you the reader will enjoy and be inspired by.

cultural centre of Tokyo commerce.

True to its surroundings, the first Mandarin Oriental hotel in Japan dynamically blends the best of past and future architectural splendor.

We have lots of incredible hotels within this issue, with a wide range of locations for you to explore and discover. The cover of this issue is from the hotel Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, which with its superb location in the city’s prestigious financial district, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo brings contemporary elegance to Nihonbashi the historical and

Grant Milne, Founder of Hotel Talk Magazine

I hope you enjoy the first ever issue of Hotel Talk Magazine and that this inspires your next travel destination.

Thanks for reading.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, TOKYO

36-41 CHABLÉ RESORT & SPA, YUCATÁN

42-47 EXCELSIOR HOTEL ERNST, COLOGNE

48-53 LA GRANJA, IBIZA

54-59 DISCOVER MORE www.hoteltalkmagazine.com

hoteltalkmagazine hoteltalkmag hoteltalkmagazine

3

EXCELSIOR HOTEL ERNST PAGE 48 -53

LE SAINT-JAMES PAGE 30 - 35

LA GRANJA PAGE 54 - 59

CHABLÉ RESORT & SPA PAGE 42 - 47

THE OYSTER BOX PAGE 6 -11

THE DANAI BEACH RESORT & VILLAS PAGE 18 -23

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, TOKYO PAGE 36 -41

THE UPPER HOUSE PAGE 24 -29

SHINTA MANI SHACK PAGE 12 -17

THE OYSTER BOX

UMHLANGA ROCKS, SOUTH AFRICA

venues for wining, dining and relaxing. The Ocean Terrace, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, serves a Bistro menu which includes freshly prepared pizzas from a wood-fire oven, the incredibly popular curry buffet and the finest selection of freshly caught seafood.

a traditional High Tea daily with live piano accompaniment. The menu includes freshly prepared home-baked scones with cream and strawberries, cakes, finger sandwiches, pastries and savouries.

For a more intimate dining experience the magnificent sunken wine cellar, is ideal for hosting select private dinners for up to 10 guests. Our Sommelier, will guide you through the extensive, awardwinning winelist of fine local and international vintages.

THE OYSTER BOX…WHERE MEMORIES ARE MADE Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s prestigious beachfront, with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and direct beach access, The Oyster Box has been providing guests with special memories for over 60 years. She remains a much-loved favourite with all who visit her…royalty included!

Renowned for generous hospitality, passionate service and excellent cuisine, guests have a choice of

EXECUTIVE CHEF, KEVIN JOSEPH

Inspired by the hotel’s original colonial architecture, with chandeliers from the Savoy Hotel in London, the Palm Court serves

THE GRILL ROOM

7

The legendary Grill Room, offers a menu inspired by the combination of enduringly popular and signature dishes, as well as new creations and flavours garnered from around the world.

The stylish Oyster Bar is the perfect place for a pre-dinner or sundowner Cocktail or glass of ‘Bubbly, while listening to live music or to enjoy The Oyster, Salmon & Sushi Bar for a selection of fresh Sushi, delicious prawns and crayfish or freshly harvested Oysters from our own Oyster beds. The Lighthouse Bar is the hottest meeting spot, in Durban offering breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean, live music and an informal social menu.

SUPERIOR GARDEN VILLA

BUTHELEZI SUITE SEATING AREA

8

casual, Mediterranean-inspired Ocean Terrace, with gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean, our delicious Tandoori Chicken and impressive selection of curries includes meat, fish and vegetarian options. Using delicate blends of spices and fresh herbs, each curry is a masterpiece in itself. Open for lunch and dinner.

SPA AT THE OYSTER BOX

Reflecting and celebrating the intricate tapestry of KwaZuluNatal’s rich heritage and offering all of the amenities expected of a wellness facility of this calibre, the award-winning Spa at The Oyster Box ensures the highest level of personal care by dedicated, trained staff to deliver the highest levels of spa therapy and pampering.

With six modern treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy bath, grooming lounge, plunge pool, state-of-theart private fitness centre, infinity pool with garden views and a post-treatment tranquillity lounge, guests are indulged in every way to make them feel celebrated and sensational. In addition, the Spa houses an authentic Turkish Hammam, an experience as special as it is healing.

The hotel’s exceptional range of Venues makes it a premiere wedding and honeymoon destination, as well as being sought after for conferences, workshops, the corporate sector and business travellers. Each of the five function rooms has its own distinctive character and style and can be tailored to suit individual requirements.

•

The elegant ‘Pearl Room’, with mirrored walls, exquisite hand-blown crystal Venetian chandeliers and views of the iconic lighthouse and Indian Ocean, can accommodate

* EVENING INDULGENCE The Evening Indulgence in The Palm Court, makes for a perfect post-dinner or late afternoon treat.

Stop by the tranquil Palm Court, between 18:00-20:00 and make your selection from an assortment of mouthwatering pastries, freshly baked scones with jam and cream and exquisite cakes, served with your choice of tea or coffee.

120 people in various seating arrangements. Popular for weddings, dinners, large events and conferences, this is one of the Oyster Box’s most sought after venues.

• The ‘Shell Room’, in hues of blue reflecting the moods * THE CHEF’S TABLE of the ocean outside, can be If you’re a foodie or looking for configured to suit a variety of something extraordinary for a small to medium-sized events. special event or occasion, join • The ‘Durban July’, provides a Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and fascinating pictorial journey members of his culinary team of the renowned Durban July at The Chef’s Table in the hotel horseracing event, over the kitchen. The five-course Tasting last 50 years and is the perfect Menu is available for between six room for workshops, cocktail and ten guests. functions, presentations or meetings.

Time spent at The Oyster Box will • The ‘Union Castle’, its walls leave you with magical memories decked with memorabilia to last a lifetime. echoing the heyday of this revered cruise-liner and The The Red Carnation Hotel ‘Colony’ are ideal for smaller, Collection is an award-winning for more intimate gatherings or collection of seventeen five and meetings. four star family-run boutique hotels. Each distinguished by an An in-house 24-seater Cinema absolute commitment to attentive shows classic and current service and the comfort of every releases. A business centre with guest, located in some of the complimentary Wi-Fi and highworld’s most popular destinations. speed Internet access, valet and Red Carnation Hotels are secure parking are available to regarded as amongst the world’s in-house guests. finest, having garnered numerous international awards throughout EXTRAORDINARY the group.

EXPERIENCES AT THE www.redcarnationhotels.com OYSTER BOX DISCOVER MORE * SPICE IT UP! www.oysterboxhotel.com The incredible Curry Buffet at The Oyster Box continues to attract fans from far and wide. Set in the

9

SHINTA MANI SHACK

ANGKOR

SWIMMING POOL

Shinta Mani Shack Angkor is a popular boutique resort centrally located in the historic leafy French Quarter of Siem Reap, Cambodia, between The Royal Gardens and the Old Market Area. It is just footsteps from the river and 15 minutes from the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Temples of Angkor Wat. This chic resort was designed by the world renowned Bill Bensley who was inducted into the Hospitality Design’s Platinum Circle hall of fame in New York in 2017. His funky and whimsical design features are evident throughout the property and offer many unique instagrammable moments.

The two-level courtyardstyle resort’s 62 rooms have views towards the striking monochromatic tiled swimming pool, surrounded by fragrant tropical gardens. Four suites offer extremely spacious accommodation, two of which face the pool and two overlooking the leafy streetscape.

Sumptuous cuisine can be enjoyed at the signature Kroya Restaurant, inspired by Shinta Mani’s heritage and with the option of dining in

the trendy open-air swing terrace seats, Baitong Restaurant for all day dining, the iconic Bensley’s Bar for irresistible cocktails, the Pool Bar, Wild Restaurant or room service in the comfort of your room or suite. The resort’s Khmer cooking class is especially popular and what better way to impress family and friends back home with your newfound culinary skills.

BAITONG RESTAURANT

Temples Galore and so much more There is so much to do in and around Siem Reap which makes a 5-7 night stay ideal. The resort’s staff will be delighted to assist you to create a tailor-made itinerary based on your specific interests. One of the most popular exclusions is a sunrise visit to the most famous temple, Angkor Wat. This magical experience will give you memories for a lifetime.

Angkor Wat has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage

site since 1992 and is the most iconic temple in the region. It was constructed in the 12th century to worship Lord Vishnu, a Hindu deity and also served as the funerary temple for King Suryavarman.

Two other famous temples well worth a visit are the Ba Yon Temple with around 50 stone towers on which are carved four faces of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.

This very picturesque temple was built in the late 12th century to serve as the official state temple of Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman. The serene expressions on the stone carvings are one of the most recognizable structures of the ancient Khmer Kingdom. The faces are four meters high and face the four points of the compass. Bill Bensley has recreated a dramatic architectural drawing of this temple on the ceiling of Kroya Restaurant.

The Ta Prohm Temple became world famous after being featured in the movie and video game “Tomb Raider”. The sprawling ruins of this magnificent temple are now cloaked by huge trees with exposed root systems and hanging vines. It was built in the mid-12th century

by Kin Jayavarman VII in memory of his Mother and gives visitors the feeling of having discovered a ruined temple in the middle of a jungle.

In addition to the historic temples for which Siem Reap is famous, highlights include the daringly modern acrobatic Phare Cambodia acrobatic circus (think Cirque de Soleil), the National Museum, adventurous bike tours, the Angkor Silk Farm, Old MarketPhsar Chas, National Centre for Khmer Ceramic Revival, Tonle Sap Evening Cocktail Cruise and the Night Market to name just a few.

Siem Reap also offers a vibrant night life.

13

EXECUTIVE SUITE

POOLSIDE GARDEN

16

and has received international recognition for its work, training under underprivileged Cambodians in all aspects of world-class hotel operations on a free of charge basis - providing them the skills to secure employment and to enjoy a brighter future. Since 2004, more than 229 Khmer students have graduated from the Shinta Mani School of Hospitality and still enjoy employment in the immediate township and local countryside.

LOBBY

Relax and Rejuvenate Shinta Mani Shack makes the perfect base from which to explore the sights, and return to after a day’s outing, or to just relax around the pool and sunbathe in this tropical paradise. One thing you won’t want to miss is a visit to the award-winning Shinta Mani Spa by Khmer Tonics. A range of therapeutic treatments are based on traditional Khmer healing rituals and proven modern therapies to reduce stress and reset inner balance. An instant favorite is the Khmer Coffee Scrub that combines white clay and organic Cambodian coffee beans from the hill tribes of Rattanakiri Province to create an aromatic rejuvenation. Whether a relaxing massage, soothing body treatment,

reflexology or a nourishing facial, one visit won’t be enough.

Giving Back – Shinta Mani Foundation The non-profit Shinta Mani Foundation was created by the owner of Shinta Mani Hotels.

Sokoun Chanpreda is a Cambodian businessman who returned from overseas to invest in the future of his country. He is very passionate about the Foundation which is guided by his philosophy of ‘Open Doors, Open Hearts’. The three core areas of operation are education, healthcare and direct assistance.

The Shinta Mani School of Hospitality is located on the grounds of Shinta Mani Shack

Guests are able to visit the Foundation and the sustainable organic farm which grows produce that is used in the hotels. Many guests have made donations to provide water wells for local families who would otherwise have no access to fresh water. A plaque with the name of the donors name engraved on it is included with each well. For people wanting to make a genuine difference and meet the families they are helping, the Shinta Mani Foundation offers a range of programs and activities guests can participate in. One hundred percent of every donation received from donors goes directly to people in need. All proceeds from the hotels’ boutique, “Shinta Mani Shop with Heart” are donated to the Foundation too. Please visit www.shintamanifoundation.org for more information.

Rates start from 135USD and are subject to 10% service charge and 10% VAT. Additional nights are available at best available rates.

DISCOVER MORE www.shintamani.com/shack/ For enquiries please contact the resort on book@shintamani.com or through the website.

SHINTA MANI SPA

17

THE DANAI BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HALKIDIKI

PRIVATE DINNER

The Danai Beach Resort & Villas, a member of “The Leading Hotels of the World” is surrounded by verdant pine trees, white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters and is located in Halkidiki, Northern Greece. The hotel features lavish interiors with luxury furnishings and maintains cool and refreshing atmosphere.

All accommodation is designed individually with an exquisite taste of luxury including collectible pieces of art. The hotel offers to the guests a choice of 62 deluxe suites and villas (some suites and all the villas have a private pool on the terrace), 3 a la carte restaurants with Greek, Mediterranean and French gastronomic cuisine, all of them with great sea views, a seaside bar for drinks during the day and night, a wine cellar with the longest wine list in Greece (more than 1.800 labels), a boutique, a jewelry shop and a newsstand.

Leisure facilities include an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room, a tennis court, water sports and a Wellness & Spa that offers a variety of facial and body

treatments, sauna and steam baths. Golf and scuba diving can be arranged nearby. Various theme nights are organized by the hotel as well tours to wineries, boat cruises along the cost of Mount Athos and excursions to famous archaeological sites. The Danai Beach Resort & Villas is in a 50-minute-driving distance from the International Airport of Thessaloniki (SKG) and transfers can be arranged by car, mini van or helicopter.

Nearby main attractions: •

•

Sithonia, the untouched second peninsula of the Halkidiki. Unspoiled nature, wonderful beaches and the contrast of green pinewoods and turquoise blue of the crystalline seas.

Thessaloniki, the second largest city of Greece, the capital of Greek Macedonia.

A cosmopolitan city, full of glamorous shop and museums. Multiple options for entertainment including a

casino. One hour drive away.

•

Athos, the unique Monk Republic is an hour drive from the resort, on the third peninsula. The many monasteries and temples of “Mount Athos” may however only be visited by male tourists

•

North Halkidiki has the most dense forest area of Greece with mountain villages in which time stands still, as well as places of interesting history.

•

The museum and Royal Tombs of King Philippos II, father of Alexander the Great, are at the archeological site of “Vergina”, 180 km to the north.

•

The “Meteora” rocks and its Byzantine monasteries could be part of a sensational “for your eyes only” excursion by helicopter.

•

Other suggestions for a day trip with lengthy details and road maps will be available at the Reception.

19

Rooms at The Danai Beach Resort & Villas,

DANAI VILLA (APPR. 195 SQM)

Two walls of floor-to-ceiling glass surrounding a private terrace and a heated, deep-water infinity pool afford breathtaking Mediterranean vistas in this two-bedroom, two bathroom villa. The villa is built on the hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. A marble fireplace, antique Persian rug and a splendid Fendi-upholstered sofa usher you into the living area, which also boasts original artwork.

In opposite directions off the living room are the two bedrooms, one of which is surrounded by an all glass wall looking out on the terrace. A bathroom with marble bathtub, a separate shower and one more bathroom. Outside, there is an additional dining table for privacy and comfort as well as two sitting areas. This villa also affords all Bang & Olufsen state-of-the-art technology TV with DVD player and CD player, Bose Wi-Fi music system and an additional TV in the living room, mini-bar, individually controlled heating/air- conditioning and a self-programmable safe.

THE MANDARIN VILLA (TOTAL SURFACE 750 SQM)

22

THE MANDARIN VILLA TERRACE

THE VILLA OF THE BLUE RIVIERA

THE MANDARIN VILLA

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a world of secluded elegance with its marble working fireplace, antique Venetian mirrors, original artwork, genuine coral table and Saarinen chairs. Plus every comfort imaginable, including a kitchenette, marble bathtubs and separate showers, individually controlled heating/air-conditioning, mini bar, walk-in closets and a complete entertainment system that includes Bang & Olufsen TV and DVD player and Bose Wi-Fi music system. Outside, two levels of sweeping private terraces set high atop the Mediterranean Sea provide for every possible comfort. On the lower level one more bedroom and bathroom for the babysitter or bodyguard and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Luxuriate on a sumptuous antique Indian canopy bed after a swim in the private, deep-water heated infinity pool.

Enjoy private suppers at one of two dining areas with unparalleled views of the Mediterranean. Sit under the awning- covered lounges or just sink into one of the plush sofas.

This 450sqm Villa and its 700sqm surrounding of green, lemon trees, pine trees, orange trees, a private pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi, all elevated from the ground, are offering senses of vacation in heaven. A beautiful patio at the garden of the Villa of Blue Riviera, offers relaxed hours, any time of the day, with an amazing view to the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Three bedrooms, two marble bathrooms, two extra W.C, a huge living room with its own bar area, kitchen area, A/C, plasma Sat TV, DVD, Bose Wi-Fi music system, fully stocked Mini Bar, will offer you the taste of hospitality to its higher level. The piano in the living room offers alternative for private dining upon request. The Villa offers a private wellness area, just next to the bedrooms. A relaxing inviting ambiance with a massage bed, a marble bath, an elegant sofa and decorative pieces of art, will fulfill the need of high elegance to any guest’s holidays. The sliding roof of the living room allows guests to dream beneath the Greek blue skies. All these will complement the luxury and quality, which the Villa of the Blue Riviera is offering.

WHITE VILLA TERRACE FROM NIKI (TOTAL SURFACE 950 SQM)

WHITE VILLA

A veritable mansion on the Mediterranean, this two-story villa is unparalleled in sheer size and luxury and provides for every possible amenity with four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a kitchenette. The living room’s splendid appointments include a marble fireplace, Saarinen dining table and chairs, plus state-of-theart Bang & Olufsen technology, including a TV with DVD player, Bose Wi-Fi music system and wireless phone. Bedrooms feature generous walk-in closets and bathrooms, double vanity, and separate showers. The terraces are equally spacious and luxurious,

spanning the entire villa and reaching out over the sea. The upper level terrace has a heated infinity pool, dining area for six lit by mosaic lanterns, plush sofas, antique canopy bed and outdoor fireplace, all of which can be enclosed with sliding-glass panels to create more indoor living space when desired. Down a sweeping staircase to the lower level terrace, which juts out over the sea, there is additional seating as well as dining areas and gardens and an outdoor Jacuzzi.

The Danai Beach Resort & Villas also offers a Junior Suite (30-35 sqm), Deluxe Junior Suite (35-40 sqm), Suite (42-58 sqm), Danai Suite (75 sqm), Two Bedroom Suite (80 sqm), Executive Two Bedroom Suite (120 sqm), Panorama Two Bedroom Suite (145 sqm), Pool Suite (55-60 sqm), Executive Pool Suite with direct sea view (app. 75 sqm, with a terrace of app. 60 sqm), Honeymoon Executive Pool Suite with direct sea view (app. 75 sqm,

with a terrace of app. 70 sqm), Mediterranean Suite (app. 190 sqm with a large balcony) ,Green Pearl Villa (appr. 450 sqm) and Villa of the Greek Riviera.

DISCOVER MORE www.danairesort.com

WINE CELLAR

23

THE UPPER HOUSE HONG KONG

THE UPPER HOUSE EXTERIOR WITH PACIFIC PLACE

in Hong Kong. They feature wonderfully spacious bathrooms and dressing areas, and offer either scenic harbour or island views.

Calming and contemporary, the rooms are designed to provide a sense of relaxation, warmth and understated luxury.

STUDIO 70 HARBOUR VIEW

The Upper House is a highly individualised small luxury hotel designed by Hong Kong architect Andre Fu.

Studios and Suites The hotel’s 117 rooms (including 21 suites and 2 penthouses) start at 730sq ft – the largest

PENTHOUSE BEDROOM 1

25

UPPER SUITE LIVING ROOM

Room Features •

400 thread count Egyptian cotton bed linen and luxury down bedding

•

Complimentary in-room Maxi-Bar (except wine and Champagne)

•

Dual temperature wine fridge

•

Complimentary espresso machine and selection of teas and infusions

•

49” LCD TV

•

BOSE SoundLink Mini Bluetooth speaker

•

IPTV - unlimited international blockbusters, music and other useful guest information

•

Complimentary wired and wireless high speed internet access

•

•

28

ingredients – that nourish and re-energise body and soul.

The Geranium, Lavender and Peppermint range has been bottled exclusively for The House Collective.

•

Special access rooms available

Room Size Studio 70 - (730 sqf) (68 sqm) Studio 80- (850 sqf) (78 sqm) Upper Suite- (1,230 sqf) (114 sqm) Penthouse- (1,960 sqf) (182 sqm)

Restaurants and Bars Cafe Gray Deluxe, 21st century ‘grand café’, located on the 49th floor overlooking Victoria Harbour, signals the return to Hong Kong of Chef Gray Kunz with his cuisine – a unique style of European classics and signature dishes from a lifetime leading the very finest kitchens in Europe, Asia and America.

A Private Dining Room is available for secluded harbor view functions and comfortably seats 12 guests.

CAFE GRAY DELUXE, SEMI-PRIVATE DINING BOOTH

Spacious bathrooms with TV, dressing area, walk-in rain shower and limestone clad bath Bamford amenities – luxury, artisan products. The botanical collection is made with naturally sourced and wherever possible - certified organic

CAFE GRAY DELUXE SKY BRIDGE ENTRANCE

Cafe Gray Bar A seductive city bar and lounge offering uniquely blended cocktails, an extensive wine list and a wonderful view. Open daily: 11:00am - 1:00am HONG KONG HIGHBALL

THE LAWN STAIRS

The Lawn An outdoor secret garden on Level 6 to enjoy cocktails or garden snacks in lush green surroundings, for a relaxing respite under the Hong Kong skyline.

Sky Lounge The warm and inviting lounge on Level 49 features a centerpiece fireplace serves refreshments throughout the day. Intimate sofa seating in soft hues of green tea and mineral blue complement the 4-metre high ceiling.

WEEKEND YOGA CLASS AT THE LAWN

Yoga

Art

Complimentary yoga classes are offered to in-House guests every Friday (8:00am summer / 9:00am winter), Saturday and Sunday (9:00am summer / 10:00am winter), in the lush green surrounds of The Lawn on Level 6 of the hotel. Taught by professional yoga instructors, private sessions can also be arranged on a charge basis. Yoga mats are also provided in each of our 117 guestrooms.

Featuring works from leading contemporary Asian artists, The Upper House collection is notable for its sculptures and installations.

Inspired by designer Andre Fu’s vision of a calm and quiet journey, the collection encompasses a breathtaking steel wall sculpture, which graces the two walls of the 10-storey atrium and smaller complex sculptures and artworks in public areas as well as in every studio and suite.

Revitalising Menu Featuring dishes that are vegan and gluten-free, the Revitalising Menu complements several other products already on the menu that are organic, non-GMO and sustainably sourced. The introduction of the carefully designed menu is in the interest of maintaining the well-being of guests and ensuring that they have the option to make a conscious choice, while still enjoying their dining experience.

Wellness

The menu changes on a weekly basis to ensure the use of seasonal produce, and is available Monday – Friday for lunch (2 and 3-course) and Monday-Sunday for Early Supper (2 and 3-course) and Dinner (4- course).

24-hour Gym

Smoke Free

Well equipped with cardiovascular and weight training equipment from Technogym. Complimentary snacks and mineral water are available.

All of the 117 studios and suites are non-smoking. The Lawn at Level 6 is assigned as the facility to smoke, benefiting from a sheltered area with open air seating.

SKY BRIDGE TO SKY LOUNGE

Location The Upper House sits above Pacific Place, Hong Kong’s premier integrated commercial, retail and hospitality complex. Conveniently located in the heart of Hong Kong’s business district, the hotel is just 40 minutes away from the airport and within walking distance of many tourist attractions.

Admiralty MTR, buses routes and other transportation are all close by too.

Personalised Service The Guest Experience team offers round-the-clock personalised service, ranging from restaurant booking, itinerary recommendation, dry cleaning service arrangement – one-stop service that combines reception and concierge.

DISCOVER MORE www.upperhouse.com

29

LE SAINT-JAMES HOTEL BORDEAUX

panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards in the beautiful village of Bouliac.

The unique hotel has 15 bedrooms and 3 suites, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a Michelin star restaurant and cookery school, Côté Cours.

All of the bedrooms have preserved the spirit of Jean Nouvel’s original design and have been finished with contemporary furniture created by famous designers such as Mies Van Der Rohe and Jean Prouvé.

NICOLAS CLARIS

The Hotel - Bedrooms and Suites Located in the heart of the village of Bouliac and just 10km from Bordeaux in South-West France, Le Saint-James is a stunning

contemporary hotel designed by Jean Nouvel and inspired by the tobacco drying barns in the region.

Attention to detail is what makes Le Saint-James a remarkable hotel. The king size beds in each room are positioned at the correct height to take in the outstanding views of Bordeaux, the vineyards and the River Garonne. All rooms have spacious bathrooms, satellite TV, mini bar, free Wifi and air conditioning.

Each of the immaculately designed bedrooms boasts magnificent

JÉRÔME MONDIÈRE

31

Restaurants - Michelin Star & Traditional Bistro Le Saint-James - Gourmet Restaurant

ANTHONY LANNERETONNE

Art Gallery at Le Saint-James Since 2006 the works of different artists have been presented at the Saint-James every three months.

This is a way of opening up the hotel and its restaurants to contemporary art (paintings, sculptures, photos) and of sharing this passion with its guests who are invited to each private viewing.

Events are also organised with the artists themselves or knowledgeable speakers in order to explain the artistic universes on display.

All the works are for sale and private viewings of the galleries are available.

Wine Cellars and Vineyards One of the attractions of the Bordeaux region, is of course the wine. Le Saint-James has its own vineyard which is the second smallest vineyard in the entire region and the wine is created on site.

James enables guests to sample the tastes of Burgundy, Valley of the Rhone, Provence, Corsica, the Valley of the Loire and finally the Bordeaux vineyards which represent half of the available selection.

Guests can enjoy views of le SaintJames vineyard from the bedrooms, terrace and restaurant and guests are welcome to wander amongst the vines.

The Saint James philosophy is to advise guests on their choice of wine to enable them to enjoy Le Saint-James favourites in their own home.

The gourmet restaurant “Le Saint-James” is home to Michelin starred Chef Nicolas Magie. His imaginative, delicious menus are inspired by daily market offerings and are continuously changing with the seasons. Huge bay windows offer panoramic views of the Garonne, Bordeaux and the surrounding rows of Merlot vines that produce the “Vin du Jardin,” which is available to try at the hotel.

The restaurant cellar boasts around 2000 wines.

The restaurant is open from Tuesday evening to Saturday evening.

Average price €150. Set menus for €155, €115, €77, €62 and €47.

Le Café de l’Espérance Just steps from the hotel, Le Café de l’Espérance offers a simple menu of grilled meats, as well as “homemade” French Fries and salads, and a tempting buffet of starters and desserts. The bistro is an absolute must for guests in search of a truly French atmosphere, where they can choose to dine outside in a friendly atmosphere and soak up the heritage of the traditional village of Bouliac with striking views of the adjacent church.

The cafe holds all the charm of an old bistro just 10 minutes from Bordeaux. One Thursday a month guests can dine in the bistro and enjoy musical entertainment.

Average bill €32

Visitors are given the opportunity to take a tour of the Saint- James wine cellar and sample the extensive wines and champagnes on offer.

The extensive wine list of the Saint-

34

LE CAFÉ DE L’ESPÉRANCE

Le Saint James provides a spectacular setting for the staging of events, receptions and incentive events. The hotel has three private rooms available for events, all with access onto the terrace with panoramic views of Bordeaux and the surrounding vineyards.

COTÉ COURS - COOKING SCHOOL

The “Côté Cours” cookery school is situated in the contemporary conservatory overlooking the vibrant citrus gardens.

Accommodating up to 12 people in each class, guests can choose to take part in a themed lesson, learning culinary skills to take home to their own kitchen. The friendly group atmosphere continues around the cookery school dining table where participants can sample their creations.

The new “Côté Cours” cooking school, with its clean, elegant lines and resolutely contemporary style, was designed and decorated in the same vein as the bar and reception, which were renovated in 2012.

The cookery school boasts top of range décor with kitchen furniture

by Poggenpohl, and the top of the range equipment, by Miele. The school is light and bright, flooded with daylight from the gardens.

Côté Cours also has a shop area where participants can find a selection of the Chef’s favourite products from various industry names, including TOC, Chomette & Favor, All-Clad and Rollinger.

‘Little Chefs’ packages are available for children to learn the art of fine, tasty cuisine in their spare time.

Private and professional use of the classes for up to 12 people can be booked exclusively through the hotel.

Corporate and private events at Le Saint-James

Le Saint James can not only be hired for breaks, meetings, business lunches, family lunches, but also for celebrations, anniversaries, weddings and parties.

Guests can make the most of the beautiful scenery by hosting their event on the hotel’s terrace, with panoramic views of the city of Bordeaux and the magnificent acres of vineyards.

Delegates can benefit from enjoying delicious buffet lunches, snacks and refreshments, or they have the option of reserving tables in the beautiful gourmet restaurant and bistro to host their events and enjoy appetising, French Michelin cuisine.

Prices start from €75 per person.

Bordeaux – What to do World Wine Capital Take a tour to the wine regions of Saint-Emilion and Médoc.

Saint-Emilion is a beautiful old wine town, a 30-minute drive east from Bordeaux. It is built like an amphitheatre and has some beautiful wines to sample. If you visit only one wine area, this is the one to consider.

Art and Museums Bordeaux is home to a wealth of museums, traditional architecture and galleries. The Bordeaux Museum of Contemporary Art fits well with the style of Le Saint James, and is set in a former warehouse.

The museum shows a rotating collection of art from the 1960’s to the present. The CAPC (Centre of Contemporary Visual Arts) was created in 1973 by Jean-Louis Froment and installed in 1974 in the Entrepôt Lainé, an old warehouse for colonial foodstuffs, which would undergo renovation in the ensuing years. A mobile educational unit called the Artbus saw the light of day in 1975. Early exhibitions included ‘’Regarder Ailleurs’’ (1973) where Claude Viallat rubbed shoulders with the likes of Gina Pane and Andy Warhol.

A unique structure devoted to the culture of wine, Bordeaux’s iconic Cité du Vin museum opened its doors in 2016. The spectacularly designed building which changes with the light and evokes the liquid elements of wine, houses more than 13,350 square metres of temporary and permanent exhibitions, events, shows, workshops and tours over ten floors.

DISCOVER MORE www.saintjames-bouliac.com

Alternatively, take a visit up the Gironde estuary to where the famous Bordeaux wine châteaux (Latour, Margaux, MoutonRothschild) rise amid the flatlands.

One of the most rewarding to visit is the Château Pichon-LonguevilleComtesse-de- Lalande at Pauillac – an eleven hectare estate with extensive vineyards.

NICOLAS CLARIS

35

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

TOKYO

With its superb location in the city’s prestigious financial district, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo brings contemporary elegance to Nihonbashi, the historical and cultural centre of Tokyo commerce.

True to its surroundings, the first Mandarin Oriental hotel in Japan dynamically blends the best of past and future architectural splendor.

It is graced with spacious guest rooms, an oasis-like, fabulously wellappointed award-winning spa, and paradigm setting bar and restaurants situated upon the uppermost floors of the soaring Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower. In addition, stately banquet and conference facilities reside within the Tower’s impressive atrium podium and adjacent Mitsui Main Building, an important cultural property.

Overlooking the Imperial Palace garden to the west and TOKYO SKYTREE to the east, the opulent hotel’s central location has direct subway access via Mitsukoshi-mae Station on the Ginza and Hanzomon line to all major points of the city. In addition, Tokyo Station, the world-

renowned Ginza shopping district, and the Tokyo Stock Exchange are all within 5-10 minutes walking distance.

Also just a stone’s throw from Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is the celebrated ‘Bridge of Japan’ from which Nihonbashi derives its name. At one time, this was the traditional ‘Kilometer Zero’ officially designating one’s arrival in the capital. Japan’s major financial, insurance, and securities firms grew around this landmark, along with many traditional shops, shrines, and galleries. Tokyo International Forum, a convention and performing arts centre, and another landmark itself, is only a five-minute drive, while historical edifices such as the famous oldest department store in Japan, Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store and Bank of Japan are just steps away from the hotel.

Accommodations The 179 oversized guestrooms of

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, which occupies the nine uppermost floors of the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, reside within the 30th to 36th floors of the building. The luxurious exceptionally detailed, posh rooms and suites have been designed to exude harmony and serenity, and set a contemporary mood that simultaneously reflects Japan’s timeless artisanship.

All guests are afforded spectacular, sweeping views from some of the largest guestrooms in Japan. Eastfacing rooms look out over the Sumida River, Tokyo Bay, Odaiba, and TOKYO SKYTREE the word highest free-standing broadcasting tower, while those facing west permit views of the Imperial Palace garden, Ginza, Tokyo Station, and the towering skyscrapers of Shinjuku. On clear days, the majestic, snow-capped Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance.

Oversized guest rooms range from 50 to 60 square meters, while the magnificent suites range from 90 to 250 square meters.

DELUXE PREMIER ROOM

37

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE - LIVING ROOM

from the tower’s uppermost two floors which house the main lobby.

Here world-class restaurants offer modern variations of Edomae-style sushi, ‘SUSHI SORA’, Cantonese Dining, ‘SENSE’, French Fine Dining, ‘SIGNATURE’, innovative culinary art of molecular cuisine, ‘TAPAS MOLECULAR BAR’, Italian Dining, ‘K’SHIKI’ and ‘THE PIZZA BAR ON 38th’ by our master pizza maker (pizzaiolo).

In addition, there is an elegant bar, ‘MANDARIN BAR’, a lobby lounge, ‘ORIENTAL LOUNGE’, an iridescent tea corner, ‘SENSE TEA CORNER’ and a rare, over 5,000-bottle private wine cellar-in-the-sky, ‘THE CELLAR’ offering French and other world wines.

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE - BATHROOM

Mandarin Oriental hotels are built on the cornerstone philosophy of‘Sense of Place’, and created to reflect the very best of the city in which they are located. The extraordinary design of Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo brings to the historical and cultural district of Nihonbashi a sophisticated, opulent space that reflects the unique Japanese sense of the four seasons and love of nature.

Inspired by the main themes of ‘Woods and Water,’ the hotel has been conceived as a single, large, living tree, with the guestrooms as branches. These themes are

38

expressed using original materials and evocative motifs on everything from wall treatments, carpets, and fabrics, to screens and furniture. In keeping with traditional Japanese aesthetics, no single object has been created to stand alone, rather, all elements come together congruously to form a whole.

Restaurants and Bars An exciting, dramatic, and innovative variety of dining and entertainment venues await the hotel’s corporate and leisure guests, and local residents alike. There are simply breathtaking views

SENSE

On the second floor, a mod atrium restaurant serves Mediterranean fare, ‘VENTAGLIO,’ while a street-facing shop, THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL GOURMET SHOP, welcomes visitors with the finest homemade sweets collection including cakes, chocolates, pastries, jellies and jams, fresh breads and deli items, as well as original tea and coffee, for eat-in and takeaway.

VENTAGLIO

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo Appoints Daniele Cason From Rome, Italy, as Executive Chef Daniele Cason originally from Rome, Italy, has been appointed as the hotel’s Executive Chef as of October 12, 2016.

As the son of a talented chef, it was perhaps not surprising that Daniele’s aspirations to become a chef started from when he was 14 years old. His career has taken him working in luxury hotels around the world in Italy, England, Egypt, and Thailand. Since joining the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo in July 2013 as Executive Sous Chef, he has made a tremendous contribution to the development of the hotel restaurants, particularly in K’shiki where he also oversaw the opening of The Pizza Bar on 38th, one of the hotel’s signature restaurants with an exclusive 8-seat marble top bar, known for its unique concept and high-quality cuisine.

Having started his career in 2003 as a chef at a five-star hotel in Rome, Daniele was promoted to sous-chef after just a few years thanks to his outstanding performance. After that he continued to work in Rome in the kitchen of the highly-acclaimed La Pergola, where he led the restaurant to a Michelin three-star restaurant in two years.

After gaining much experience in Rome, he moved overseas to gain international experience at Four Seasons hotels in Cairo, Egypt, and Bangkok, Thailand, before moving to Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Japan. Daniele respects the cultures of the different countries he has worked in and the opportunity of working closely with his teams in each location, giving him some great insights into the local culture. He is always excited by the many different ingredients he has been able to work with as a Chef and being able to express this through his cooking.

historical landmark, Mitsui Main Building erected in 1929, the complex offers guests the special privilege of utilising an important cultural property for their special events. In addition, easy access to the elaborate Grand Ballroom and Sanctuary Chapel within the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower is provided via a floating bridge.

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo’s extensive banquet facilities comprise a dividable Ballroom and ten assorted banquet and meeting rooms that are ideal for receptions, conferences, and business presentations.

Daniele particularly enjoys working with the rich array of Japanese produce available in Japan and mentions that as a Chef, the superb quality of produce which Japan is known for, is a particularly enjoyable part of his role.

Shopping And Entertainment

SPA RECEPTION

Spa and Fitness The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo merges holistic therapies and philosophies from around the world into a potent blend of treatments.

In nine serene rooms, including four suites and a Spa Studio, guests will be guided through a personalized journey of Asian and western-inspired relaxation, beauty and wellness components that will bring about the ultimate in spiritual and physical well-being.

Meeting and Banquet Venues By uniting the ultra-modern hotel tower with the adjacent

Nihonbashi has for centuries been the heart of commercial Tokyo, thrilling shoppers and entertainment-seekers with its wealth of both traditional and trendy retailers, countless family-run traditional shops and restaurants, as well as theatres, galleries, and the oldest department store in Japan – Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store.

Situated just next door to the hotel, it boasts a history of more than three centuries. This is the company’s flagship store, loved by locals and tourists alike for its highend boutiques, daily pipe organ concerts, and year-end choral performances hall.

Nearby, the commercial complexes of Nihonbashi COREDO, COREDO Muromachi 1, 2&3, Takashimaya Nihombashi Store in Nihonbashi, and tantalising array of department stores, high-end luxury brand shops, restaurants and bars in Ginza, offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the stylesetting world of contemporary Tokyo, while traditional Kabuki performances at the Kabuki-za or Shinbashi Enbujou theatres, will transport attendees back in time.

DISCOVER MORE www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo

39

CHABLÉ RESORT & SPA

YUCATÁN

treatments are inspired by Mayan rituals, harnessing the powers of the area’s most ancient techniques and ingredients.

Chablé Spa boasts incredible facilities including a SPA suite with private room, fitness centre, outdoor wooden deck for Yoga & Meditation, Beauty Salon, Sauna, Steam Room, Sensation Showers, Infinity pool, Floatation room and Extensive hydrotherapy circuits.

CHABLÉ EXTERIOR GROUNDS

In a unique setting, surrounded by the Mayan forest lies Chablé Resort & Spa in Yucatán, just 25 minutes from the historic city of Mérida. Completed in late 2016, the property spans 750 acres of Mexico’s famed Yucatán Peninsula, and was once the site of a hacienda.

Its remains have been restored and integrated into the design of this outstanding resort. Chablé features 38 spacious stand- alone casitas, each with their own private pool, as well as the 8,000sqft Presidential Villa, and the incredible Royal Villa.

Chablé’s slogan is “redefining wellness”, thus it is fitting that the retreat’s crowning jewel is its world- class, innovative 32,000sqft spa. Chablé is the only hotel in the world that has its own cenote, which the spa is built around. This is a spring-fed cave system filled with fresh water and considered sacred by the Mayans, who believed cenotes to be the entrance to the Mayan underworld.

Indeed, the preservation of the culture of the ancient Mayan community is at the heart of the hotel’s philosophy. Many of the

In line with its wellness philosophy, Chablé’s Spa Wellness Restaurant offers well balanced meals, with menus designed around the local, seasonal produce. At the heart of the resort is a traditional Mayan Garden. The garden consists of raised garden beds made from local woods, and no man-made elements, which were known as as ‘Ka’anche’s’ to the Mayans. Chablé’s resident horticulturist uses traditional harvesting techniques which have not been used in over a century.

Guests also have the opportunity to partake in the gardening during their stay and enjoy the farmto-table culinary experience that Chablé offers, which is centred around produce from the garden.

SPA

43

wellbeing. The bar at Ixi’im is home to the largest Tequila collection in the world, with over 1000 bottles.

Mixologists here, and at Ki’ol have been trained to masterfully create cocktails for every palate and recommend wines tailored to every dish. For those wishing to take this one step further, the hotel offers The Tequila & Chocolate Experience, as well as wine tasting. The spectacular wine cellar showcases the bottles in a stunningly unusual wooden wave-like pattern in the ceiling, whilst the Cigar Bar is every cigar-smokers dream, where guests can learn to create their own.

IXI’IM

Meanwhile, honouring its name in Mayan, meaning ‘healthy’, Ki’ol serves delicious meals crafted with produce from the Mayan Garden. Within this tranquil oasis, guests can enjoy their breakfast whilst sunbathing, and for lunch and dinner can expect an eclectic array of dishes, from the local and traditional to the international and exuberant.

Limestone walls throughout, contrasted with dark wooden features and pops of colour create a striking design. Each casita boasts its own indoor/outdoor rain showers allowing guests to feel truly at one with nature. Heated plunge pools, hammocks and cosy lounge chairs surround the casitas, and provide a private tropical oasis for every resident. The threebedroom Royal Villa is particularly impressive, restored from the 19th century hacienda, it includes its own spa suite, gym, private bar, butler kitchen, and spacious pool, providing the pinnacle of luxury. Inroom dining is available to all those who can’t tear themselves away from their secluded spot of paradise.

True to Chablé’s word, this hotel is truly all about balance, and is an exceptional blend of hedonism and

Aside from the restaurants, expansive spa and casitas dotted around the property, the land is

IXI’IM

In addition to the Wellness Restaurant, Chablé also offers Ki’ol and Ixi’im, with Chef Jorge Vallejo at the helm. lxi’im is Vallejo’s second project following the success of his debut, Quintonil.

Quintonil was ranked #12 on Restaurant magazine’s ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’, whilst Vallejo himself was named Chef of the Year by GQ in 2015. It is under Vallejo’s guidance that Executive Chef, Luis Ronzón has set about enhancing the gastronomic experience across all three of Chablé’s restaurants.

Ixi’im, which translates to ‘corn’ in the Mayan language, offers a refined setting within the lush jungle. Its sophisticated menu

46

The exquisite menus are far from being the only hand-crafted, beautifully designed aspect of the hotel. In 2017, Chablé Resort & Spa was awarded with the Prix Versailles Award for ‘Best Hotel in the World for Architecture and Design’. The property was designed

by Paulina Moran, whose over 20 years of experience, has seen her design many notable luxury hotels, restaurants, private residences, luxury yachts and private jets, garnering her acclaim throughout Latin America and abroad.

created by Vallejo showcases an innovative blend of local influences and wider Mexican flavours, integrating fresh produce from the Mayan Garden.

also full of hidden treasures. The grounds harbour a restored chapel, that is still used for private mass, as well as a star-gazing pavilion. In the 19th century, the Yucatán region thrived with hacienda plantations, specialising in the production of the henequén plant and its products. As artificial fibres took over, the grand houses faded from splendour, but the features have now been restored where possible, with this heritage at the heart of Chablé’s philosophy.

DISCOVER MORE www.chableresort.com

KING VILLA EXTERIOR

ROYAL PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

ROYAL PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

47

EXCELSIOR HOTEL ERNST COLOGNE

CATHEDRAL VIEW

Timeless elegance and tradition characterize the Excelsior Hotel Ernst and fascinate guests from all over the world. The Grand Hotel was built in 1863 vis-à-vis to the Cologne Cathedral, which makes it easily accessible from all directions.

Carl Ernst, “Royal Restorer of the central station”, was builder and owner of the Hotel Ernst in the city center. The opening ceremony took place on May 16th 1863. In 1871, after as little as eight years, he sold the Hotel Ernst to Friedrich Kracht.

Nobel materials and valuable antiques give each of the 137 rooms and suites its own character and individual charm.

EXECUTIVE SUITE

49

THE NEW JUNIOR SUITE IN THE MARZELLEN WING DELIGHTS WITH ITS OUTSTANDING DESIGN AND MATERIALS

HANSE STUBE

TAKU

HANSE STUBE - MUSHROOM ESSENCE SCALLOP

HANSE STUBE - DESSERT

52

The restaurant Hanse Stube is wellknown for its elegant atmosphere.

The multible award-winning gourmet restaurant has become famous for its innovative French cuisine with regional influences, that is precisely executed by head chef Maximilian Specht and his team.

The Michelin starred restaurant taku is the first address in Cologne for East-Asian delights. Head chef Mirko Gaul and his selected team prepare an innovative Asian fusion kitchen combining Japanese, Chinese, Thai as well as Vietnamese flavours.

TAKU - FLOUNDER FISH

PIANO BAR

The Piano Bar at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst is an insiders’ tip in Cologne. During the day, the bar team offers coffee and tea specialties as well as pâtisserie and cakes. In the evening, Bar Manager Matthias Allgaier and his team mix traditional and unique cocktails, while you listen to the sound of the piano. The menu offers cooked meals even after midnight.

Another highlight is the Afternoon Tea, presented on an étagère with homemade scones, sandwiches, a selection of macarons and small tarts in a Germany-wide exclusive cooperation with patissier Pierre Hermé.

DISCOVER MORE www.excelsiorhotelernst.com

DRINK AT THE PIANO BAR

53

LA GRANJA IBIZA

OUTSIDE VIEW OF FREESTANDING GUEST HOUSE

A farmstead set among Ibiza’s pastoral inlands, La Granja Ibiza, is a members-only retreat—the first such experiment by Design Hotels™ for its community— launched in collaboration with Friends of a Farmer, an international association devoted to the cultivation of art, crops and inner gardens. Marked by classical Iberian architecture and traces of Moorish influences, the public spaces and 6 guestrooms that comprise the farmhouse and which are rented out together as part of a single hire, feature arched walls and dark-wood beamed ceilings and doors, accented by hammered iron doorknobs and fixtures.

Communal spaces, including the kitchen and pool, encourage the kinship of community, while ample cozy nooks for moments of simple solitude are found both inside and out. Thanks to its returnto-the-land concept, La Granja features an on-site master farmer who oversees communal farming projects and workshops. Signed and labeled garden plots encourage open access and self-guided tours, and guests can learn about biodynamic agriculture through a series of workshops, classes and community-based projects. The property serves as an inspirational retreat for Friends of a Farmer, an international organization that

operates from a core mandate to grow, nourish, and give back. An enlightened program of rituals, from communal farming and slow-food workshops to yoga, daily music sets and lectures on diverse topics, such as the future of mobile societies, fosters a spirit of organic togetherness.

CENTRAL HEART OF THE LIVING ROOM/FIREPLACE

LIVING AREA

TOWER SUITE

Rooms & Suites Each guestroom at La Granja is outfitted with a luxury bed and linens, and materials of burnt wood, brushed and oiled ash, wood, stone, and slate. The 20- to 25-square-meter Garden & Terrace rooms accommodate up to three people and feature

an in-room fireplace, as well as a private garden or a terrace with a sunset view overlooking the farm; the suites, starting at 55 square meters, sleep three and include a separate lounge area with a daybed, and a two-level private terrace with 360-degree views of the island or a private garden with a sunset view overlooking the pine forest.

55

THE FARM

The other side of Ibiza The first thing that strikes me is the color. As our plane descends into Ibiza, the reddish brown of the coast vibrates against the greyish green of the island’s parched vegetation. As we drive inland, the city gives way to farmland, nightclub billboards to trees. Soon we are traversing an uneven path through thick forest blanketed in white dust, which clears to reveal a lush hilltop oasis, a rolling farmstead on a hill known by the simplest Spanish word for farm: “La Granja.” As the sun sets, I head down to the terrace for a meal that mixes the estate’s produce with other local ingredients and doubles as a metaphor about bringing together visitors and locals. It is exactly what I wanted: I can taste the earth, the sunlight, the vast bounty of the sea. Here, among the heady scents of ficus and figs, is the real Ibiza.

The one untouched by time and tourism, the one of rambling roads, brooding mountains, and peerless ocean vistas.

La Granja is a farmstead set among Ibiza’s pastoral inlands created in collaboration with Design Hotels™ for its community. Tucked into 10 hectares of secluded farmland, the estate includes a six-guestroom centuries-old stone farmhouse,

58

COCO THE PIG

a pool, and kitchen. A program of collective rituals—from communal farming and slowfood workshops to yoga, sunset rituals, meditation, and daily music sets—fosters an environment of organic togetherness. La Granja was launched in collaboration with Friends of a Farmer, an international association devoted to the cultivation of art, crops and inner gardens.

Andy Szymanowicz, La Granja’s master farmer, oversees 20 tiered acres of farmland where fertile soil is sown for the freeflowing exchange of energy and restorative growth. Trained in Northern California, Andy is an expert in biodynamic agriculture.

He harvests around moon cycles and uses a probiotic spray on the plants or soil-drenches them, a process of lacto-fermentation that activates the plants to fight against disease and fungus by giving them a healthy microbiology. “We are building healthy soils on the farm that feed our plants,” said Andy.

“This is the foundation of what we do.”

Armin Fischer of Dreimeta design studio embraced both the heritage of the farmhouse and its inherent connection to the land, while honoring rustic simplicity, growth and decay, modesty and intransigence.

Architecturally speaking, Armin Fischer drew inspiration from the Japanese principles of wabi-sabi when converting the centuries-old stone farmhouse that anchors the property. In such, the transformation of La Granja is as much a “conservation” as a “renovation”.

Architecture Dreimeta Design Studio In designing the property, which includes the six-guestroom farmhouse, a pool, and kitchen,

GEOMETRIC STAIRS OF FREESTANDING GUEST HOUSE

MASTER SUITE

that highlights the untamed beauty of time and weatherworn imperfections, imbuing the space with an aching elegance. At its design core, La Granja presents an undying loyalty to craftsmanship and artisanship.

For guests, the most appealing aspect of the design of La Granja is the simplicity of the layout, finishes, and furnishings—reflecting its comfort and its ease of use.

The concept focuses on the idea of “back to basics,” eliminating the non-essential and concentrating on natural elements and the beauty of imperfections.

LIVING ROOM (OTHER SIDE)

Interior Design Beauty In Intransigence Converting the once-private residence, which bears Iberian and Moorish influences, was more of an act of preservation than one of transformation—one

gatherings and pastoral splendor, where a farmer’s wares are but an arm’s reach from field to table, one connects to land, to likeminded souls, to self.

DISCOVER MORE www.lagranjaibiza.com Book now www.designhotels.com Images provided by Design Hotels™

Location Just a sixth of the size of Mallorca, Ibiza is perhaps best know for its summer beach crowds and club scene. But an off-the-beaten-path, back-to-nature agro-retreat, such as La Granja Ibiza, is changing the very way one thinks of the island.

Here, amid uplifting spiritual

POOL AREA

59

EXPERIENCE

ENJOY

CONNECT

www.zeitzmocaa.museum

@zeitzmocaa