Lifestylehotels™
Stylish retreats for inspiring timeouts
EDITORIAL
Stylish retreats for inspiring timeouts
Since 2001 we have been searching for the new, the aesthetic, the inspiring. Looking for places, experiences and people that broaden our horizons, appeal to our senses and inspire our thoughts. When we find what we are looking for, we come to rest. Then we have discovered one of the hotels that we would like to introduce to you as a Lifestylehotel.
Lifestylehotels™ takes you to places where you are allowed to unfold. Not only discover new places, but also discover yourself. The world we would like to take you to, is a world of allowing and mindfulness. Mindfulness is more than a buzzword in many of our member hotels. Farmtotable concepts, the support of local artists, a particularly resourceconserving operation and handling of the hotel, or the meditative experience of nature are just a few examples of the innovations of our member hotels. The demand for aesthetics and quality is and remains central to our vision of a modern hotel industry, but more mindful and sustainable in the sense of the new spirituality.
Behind all this are ideas and above all people our hoteliers who create something unique with their honest efforts. We want to understand their vision in order to continue telling their stories. At some point, we start searching again, put out our feelers and activate our sensors, because new things are always being created and existing things are changing.
Thomas Holzleithner & Hardy EggerNew Members
SEE | AUSTRIA
Bergwiesenglück
Moments of happiness at 1,250 m above sea level are promised by the boutique hotel Bergwiesenglück in the middle of the Tyrolean Alps. How could it be any different. It is a place where the view wanders over the lush green mountain meadows to the rugged peaks of the Silvretta Group and the fresh air clears the mind. — 116
Refugium Lunz
The Refugium is located directly on the church square in Lunz am See, the Ybbs and the Gothic parish church from the 15th century to the side. The history of the house with its 23 rooms also goes back 5 centuries.
The owners, Joachim Mayr and Heinz Glatzl, felt obligated to this history when remodeling. They did not want to create just another design hotel, but rather a tender coexistence between old and new, a place of contemplation and refuge, precisely the Refugium. — 74
Stylish new member hotels await you in this issue as well. For the first time Lifestylehotels™ is represented on the American continent, in Mexico and the USA. In Europe, there is news in Austria, Belgium, Switzerland and Spain.LUNZ AM SEE | AUSTRIA
Hotel August
A former Augustinian monastery is transformed into an urban retreat that embraces the sacred soul of the site while captivating with modernist touches in every little detail. The hotel is located in Het Groen Kwartier (the Green Quarter) a traffic-free area on the site of a large 19th-century former military hospital that once belonged to the Belgian Army. — 156
| AUSTRIA Kai 36
Right on the quay, between the Schlossberg and the river Mur, you’ll find the building housing the Kai 36 hotel, which has been listed for several decades. With its modern feel, stylish design and outstanding quality, it’s a popular meeting place for travellers from all over the world. — 40
Hotel Julien
In the heart of the historic city of Antwerp is the upscale and beautifully designed Hotel Julien. This urban retreat offers guests an oasis of calm in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Housed in two 16th century buildings, the hotel has been lovingly restored, effortlessly combining authentic elements with modern furnishings to provide guests with every comfort. — 160
ANTWERP | BELGIUM GRAZ ANTWERP | BELGIUMLa Valise Mexico City
Along the colonial street of La Roma in Mexico City are the most elegant townhouses in the Mexican capital. One of these houses is home to the exclusive boutique hotel La Valise Mexico City. This hidden gem with only 3 rooms has become a real insider tip since its opening. — 276
La Valise Tulum
A small beach house has been transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel. La Valise Tulum is a place that revives the local Mayan craftsmanship and puts it in a contemporary setting. With great sophistication, traditional craftsmanship and modern design are combined in a unique concept. Tulum is known for its serenity and spiritual vibe. This is exactly the feeling that comes over you when you enter the hotel. Hammocks swaying in the breeze, the scent of copal incense filling the air, the sound of the sea and the breathtaking nature immediately create a feeling of relaxation. The infinity pool is just a few steps away from the dream beach. A little bit you feel reminded of Robinson Crusoe, only hipper and more luxurious. — 284
La Valise San Miguel
The heart of La Valise is the oasis in the courtyard. Here, time ceases to exist. The gently swaying lemon trees, the murmur of the water and the sun’s incoming rays make space and time melt away. A double Chichimeca staircase forms the center of the garden and frames the ancient cultural omens. The aesthetics of the architecture and the staged design elements create a serene, almost mystical athmosphere. — 280
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE | MEXICO CITY TULUM | MEXICO MEXICO CITY | MEXICOMALLORCA | SPAIN
LJs Ratxó Eco Luxury Retreat
Located 20km from Palma, LJs Ratxó is close to the island’s capital, but a world away from the stresses of daily life. LJs Ratxó is located in the “Puig de Galatzó Reserve” with 2.5 million m2 and surrounded by the mountains of the Serra Tramuntana. A magical valley with its own stream where nature and peace reign supreme. — 350
Hotel des Horlogers
Imagined by the global architecture firm BIG | Bjarke Ingels Group designed Hôtel des Horlogers for architecture and nature to be one, complying with Minergie Eco Standards. Thanks to an avant-garde concept, visitors are immediately immersed in the natural environment of the Vallée de Joux, one of the cradles of Swiss complicated watches. — 370
ARIZONA | USA Ambiente Sedona
The Ambiente™ Sedona offers discerning guests an immediate nature experience. Located on the edge of Red Rock State Park, the architecturally interesting resort is a modern and elegant retreat surrounded by stunning scenery. The landscape hotel is the first of its kind in North America. During construction, careful attention was paid to disturbing the surrounding natural environment as little as possible. Respect for the land and the flora and fauna it contains is evident throughout the property. For example, the restoration of an ancient watercourse was included in the design, which guests can admire as a calming production. — 382
LE BRASSUS | SWITZERLANDBAD GOISERN AM HALLSTÄTTERSEE | AUSTRIA
Hallstatt Hideaway Mountain | Lesehotel Surrounded by books and silence
This place of longing with a view over the Hallstättersee and Dachstein glacier offers retreat to all who at the same time feel safe in the scent and silence of the forest. 12,000 books in 20 rooms, stocked with new publications from 20 publishers, provide a constant flow of inspiration and happiness. Because reading makes you happy and healthy.
Who among us is not assailed by attention-fracking and longs for effortless concentration? At the “Predigstuhl” in the heart of the Salzkammergut, this can be easily achieved. Sustainability is the top priority here: the cooking is vegan, vegetarian - and with fish and meat on request.
Extensive hiking and mountain biking routes start directly at the hotel, climbing tours can be started directly behind the house. Mental training and nutritional coaching can be booked as well as massage and yoga classs.
Arrive, take off your shoes and feel the oak floor barefoot, fall into one of the comfortable reading chairs and let your gaze wander to the horizon. Because here you can do one thing above all: bathe in a sea of books and simply do nothing!
Panoramahotel
and
At the Alpenstern Panoramahotel in the Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg, rest and relaxation are a priority. The hotel offers a breathtaking view of the idyllic mountain landscape of Damüls. The distinctive modern yet timeless design by architect Johannes Kaufmann and Tyrolean interior designer Stefan Ghetta, provides the Alpenstern with a uniquely cosy flair. Thanks to the high-quality materials and the homely atmosphere, the hotel invites you to relax and let go. You will find peace and coziness, paired with hospitality. The Bischof and Steinfeld families, and their hotel team, provide friendly personal care and attention on your summer holidays and winter vacations. In particular Bertram Bischof, who has already converted the original guesthouse into a hotel and then together with his daughter, son and son-inlaw expanded it into the current hotel, is the good soul of the house and indispensable for the guests. Peter Bischof and Sandro Abel treat their guests to traditional, but newly interpreted dishes in one of the three hotel restaurants: the Restaurant 1580 for house guests, the à la carte Restaurant „Genusshalde“ and the gourmetrestaurant “Löffelspitze” Fine Dine & Cocktails. From the sun terrace, you have a unique view of the mountain peaks of the Damülser Horn, the Zitterklapfen or the Zafernhorn. Aperitifs and cool drinks can be enjoyed in the Bar Novum, where unusual and creative cocktails are created on a world-class level. Those who feel more at home in the world of wine are in good hands with the hosts and sommeliers Corina and Maximilian Steinfeld. The informal atmosphere invites to a relaxed wine tasting evening.
Tranquility awaits you in the adults-only spa area of the Alpenstern. Here you immerse yourself in a world of deceleration, for a refreshed mind and a regenerated body. In the Alpenstern SPA above the rooftops of Damüls, guests are pampered with complete tranquility and pleasant warmth. Families can enjoy their own textile family sauna on the ground floor. Here you will also find the water world, with an infinity and indoor pool as well as other lounging options to enjoy time together as a family.
Alpenstern
Indulgence
relaxation at the highest level
“A perfect setting welcomes you to the top.”
Alpenstern Panoramahotel, Damüls: Time for two
Finally, you can have time for one another. Time to devote yourself to your favourite person in total tranquillity, in a setting simply made for well-being. At the four-star Alpenstern Panoramahotel in the Bregenz Forest, anyone longing for togetherness will find the ideal retreat.
Embedded in the picturesque landscape of Damüls, in the heart of the Damüls-Mellau skiing and hiking resort, the wellness hotel boasting the prestigious Leading Spa Award is home to everything you need for a couple of days dedicated to love, relaxation and the finest cuisine.
But what makes the Alpenstern in Damüls THE place to be between the mountain and the valley? Here comes our top three:
Location
The striking mountain panorama surrounding the hotel at 1,600 metres above sea level provides the perfect backdrop for starting the day relaxed and excited about an active day in the mountains. Right outside the hotel, alpine athletes will find the very best kind of winter holiday: top-class ski in, ski out. For those who would rather use the snowy landscape as a place to recharge, the best way to do this is during a romantic snowshoe hike or a winter hike starting from the hotel itself. Summer is brimming with hiking experiences and a variety of cycling routes, summit tours and delicious food at the mountain restaurants.
Cuisine
The half board Alpenstern is all about exclusive, award-worthy dining. The breakfast buffet offers freshly prepared eggs, and in the evening there’s a gourmet set menu with five courses to provide a feast for both the taste buds and the eyes. A further option for connoisseurs is the Alpenstern’s fine dining restaurant, where everything from cocktails to a tasting menu are served. The exclusive Novum hotel bar, which was recently mentioned in the Falstaff bar guide, a wine cellar with more than 1,000 options for tastings and the Genusshalde à la carte restaurant with a sun terrace will be a treat for all discerning foodies.
Relaxation and togetherness
Being the winner of the Leading Spa Award guarantees that wellness at the Alpenstern will meet all requirements. Guests seeking peace and quiet will appreciate the heavenly SPA on the third floor, with its various saunas, cosy and calm oases, sun terrace and vitamin bar. The stylish infinity pool on the ground floor has a stunning panoramic view and tempts you in from both inside and out to swim a few lengths and relax in the weightlessness of the water. The masseurs at the Alpenstern will treat you to an excellent selection of exclusive massages. Expert knowledge, skill and a focus on personalisation guarantee the ultimate relaxation. The state-of-the-art gym rounds off the wellness experience at the Alpenstern Panoramahotel.
It’s time to create shared memories and give love more room to blossom. Grant your wish for comfort and togetherness in Damüls’ romantic mountain setting.
Alps Lodge
Exceptional alpine lifestyle
The Alps Lodge is in a dream location on the sunny plateau in Serfaus Fiss Ladis with direct access to the slopes and trails – the ideal option for guests, who can ski right up to the hotel door. The boutique hotel lures guests also with its straight lines and use of authentic and Alpine materials. Floor to ceiling windows open up the building to the full and ever-changing beauty of the Tyrolean mountain landscape and every one of the 25 highquality suites and rooms offers panoramic views.
The hotel exudes an exceptional wellness ambiance which assures guests of a stylish stay: The panoramic roof terrace with Zen Garden and the Sky Relax Lounge with sauna and steam bath are a great place to unwind and concentrate on the good
things in life. Moreover, the new Sky Pool on the rooftop offers an amazing view of the surrounding mountain scenery. In the trendy Alps Lounge with fireplace lounge guests can end the day in a relaxed atmosphere. The Alps Lodge is the perfect place for a lifestyle holiday with Tyrolean charm.
The 42 sqm Penthouse Suite is an exclusive private retreat. A sleeping area with canopy bed, a fireplace in the room, as well as a free-standing bathtub and shower are all waiting to be discovered. To encourage relaxation, one level contains an infrared sauna with a “chill out” lounge area. The suite is completed with a large panoramic terrace offering a spectacular view of Tyrol’s alpine world.
Mia Alpina Zillertal Family Retreat
Lifestyle for families
Mia Alpina Zillertal Family Retreat in the Zillertal valley perfectly combines family, wellness and lifestyle and is just the right thing for families with children who are looking for a mix of style and child-friendly facilities.
The hotel is made up of Junior Suites and spacious Family Suites from 40 sqm to 105 sqm, which feature a separate children’s room. Warm colours, plenty of wood and modern furniture ensure that the entire family will feel like at home. The cuisine at the hotel spans a wide range of tastes, with special meals for young gourmets. On the top floor of the hotel you’ll encounter not only a fantastic view of the mountains surrounding the Zillertal valley, but also the hotel’s absolute highlight –its amazing adults-only PenthouseSPA on the 5th floor with sky pool, which is heated all year round. Depending on the season, you can bathe in bright sunshine, in front of snowcovered peaks, or under a clear starry sky. The spectacular view of the Zillertal mountains is just one highlight of many.
There’s so much to explore for children on an activity area on a total of 4,000 sqm: The „Woody’s“ indoor and outdoor activity pool, water slide, a child care and play area with gymnastics room, soft play area, climbing wall and trained care givers to look after the children. And if you want to relax after splashing around, the family textile sauna and the cozy panorama lounge gallery await you.
Mia Alpina: One for all
Holiday time is precious. Holiday time spent together is priceless. That’s exactly why it’s all the more important on family holidays to make sure the conditions are absolutely right. Like they are at the Mia Alpina, the hotel for young and old alike. Here are four good reasons to spend your family holiday in Zillertal.
1. So near, so good
An unwritten rule for all families with small children is that the shorter the journey, the better. After all, the holiday doesn’t start at the destination – it starts in the car, on the plane or on the train. So it’s great that the Mia Alpina is so easy to get to. From Munich, it’s just a 90-minute drive, and the closest airport is barely 45 minutes away. Short travel time = happy children AND parents.
2. Everyone has their own time
Time spent together is made all the more enjoyable when everyone gets to treat themselves to a little time out on their own every now and then. The Mia Alpina has plenty of options to make this happen. Even the suites, which measure up to 105 square metres, seem to be purpose-made for lavish comfort on holiday. Variety and huge amounts of fun are guaranteed in the 4,000-square-metre family play zone. And while the kids let off steam there under the best possible supervision, mum and dad can relax in the exclusive adults-only PenthouseSPA.
3. No time to be bored
At the Mia Alpina, it’s not a matter of what to do, it’s what to do first. Indoors and outdoors, there is so much to explore! For example, the large wellness area for the whole family, the play zone with adventure play areas, bowling lanes, bouncy castle, zip line, trampoline and so much more – at the Mia Alpina, adventure is the order of the day, every day.
4. The way to the heart is through the stomach
Every family has different requirements, including when it comes to food preferences. In this case, it’s not just tastes that are taken into account at the Mia Alpina but also nap times and early wake-up times. And not just that: families decide whether to go for a cosy family table or to switch to a romantic dinner for two. And the kids? They get to eat dinner with their friends in the kids club. That way, everyone is happy.
GASCHURN | AUSTRIA
Montafon Lodge
The Design Lodge Hotel and Spa in the Montafon mountains
The Montafon Lodge Design Lodgehotel und Spa is 1,000 metres above sea level in the middle of the resort town of Gaschurn in the Montafon region, just a few minutes’ walk from the base station of Silvretta Montafon, the largest skiing and hiking area in Vorarlberg. The hotel combines tradition with a contemporary spirit. The 26 individually designed rooms have an alpine touch but are hip at the same time and provide one thing above all: a breathtaking view of the mountain backdrop of the Montafon.
Designer pieces often made from local materials like oak or slate give the rooms their unique flair. The hotel’s own spa offers every imaginable amenity from the hay saunarium to the waterfall, indoor pool and Kneipp course to the private spa.
Geinberg5 Private Spa Villas
‘Pure Privacy’ nestled amidst the hills of the Upper Austrian Innviertel, Geinberg5 Private Spa Villas offer an exclusive refuge. The 21 private spa suites guarantee peace and intimacy. Every suite has its own private spa area, and a walkway leading to a private bay in the pond. The 114 to 300 sqm suites offer a completely private spa experience, with a free-standing bathtub, Finnish sauna, steam bath, open fireplace and an outdoor hot tub.
A butler service is also available. The butlers bring drinks, dishes from the gourmet kitchen of the Aqarium restaurant, and anything else a guest might need at any time of day or night.
The Exclusive Spa, with its swimming areas, relaxation zones and a lounge bar, ensures additional leisure. Oriental World facilities include a hammam with a seraglio bath, a warm grotto, an Oriental tea bar, an inner courtyard and a rooftop garden with a sauna. Guests can also enjoy the entire World of Wellness at the Spa Resorts Therme Geinberg.
A place that touches the heart and the soul, and provides every imaginable form of luxury.
“Every corner of the hotel is an oasis away from everyday life. Nestled in the rolling hills of Upper Austria‘s Innviertel.”
Aiola Living
A favourite symphony composed of colours and patterns
You would probably expect to find this extraordinary hotel in Paris. The Aiola Living Boutique Hotel in the middle of the old town of Graz scores with an extraordinary concept. It is a hotel for everyone. For guests, for animal lovers and all those who are looking for something special. The lobby with breakfast room is connected „Bar Amouro“ - a restaurant & Bar which offers not only great breakfast but also exquisite levantine cuisine throughout the day.
As a special treat, you can purchase the entire inventory - be it interior design, furniture or decoration - directly from the room, or from the Aiola Living Store next door and take it home with you. Not surprisingly, the hotel‘s slogan is „A stay to take with you“.
The hotel is located near the main square of Graz in a side street surrounded by restaurants, stores, sights and museums. Everything can be reached within a few walking minutes.
The 46 rooms and three apartments are furnished in Moulin Rouge style with fine fabrics, velvet, floral wallpaper and favorite pieces of the charming owner family Schwarz. Rather unusual for hotels - you will find many unusual decorative objects that contribute be a „home away from home“ for its guests. Each one of the individually designed rooms is furnished with fantastic ideas - with rain showers and wooden floors, box spring beds to dream in and your own coffee machine to wake up to, with flat screen TVs, comfortable slippers and lots of little crushes.
“It is as if you were visiting a lovable, adventurous, wonderful and slightly crazy friend”.
Augarten Art Hotel
Art lovers tend to display an uncompromising dedication to individualism and the pursuit of a vision. The Augarten Art Hotel designed by star architect Günther Domenig is as surprising as it is unusual. Contemporary art, furniture by A. Thaler and unique designer pieces by more than 200 artists await its guests by creating a harmonious composition that delivers an ideal frame for art and design and a perfect place for everyone.
The design hotel boasts 57 rooms all furnished with high quality works of art, including 5 spacious and fully furnished apartments, as well as a penthouse. Among the special features of this modern business hotel is the 24-hour spa with a heated indoor pool, sauna, gym and relaxation area. At the same time, the Augarten Art Hotel offers a summer terrace with stunning views over the rooftops of Graz all the way to the Schlossberg.
The breathtaking Penthouse 601 suite offers an indescribably beautiful, light-flooded 80 sqm apartment above the rooftops of Graz. Elegant interiors and contemporary art stand at eye level with the clock tower - the symbol of Graz.
A hotel filled with original modern art in the City of Design
“I don‘t like to say I have given my life to art. I prefer to say art has given me my life”.
– Frank Stella –
GRAZ
| AUSTRIA
Kai 36
Quietly located above the busy city center of Graz
Right on the quay, between the Schlossberg and the river Mur, you’ll find the building housing the Kai 36 hotel, which has been listed for several decades. With its modern feel, stylish design and outstanding quality, it’s a popular meeting place for travellers from all over the world.
One of the most striking features of Kai 36 is its unique design and architecture. The hotel building presents a fusion of modern and classic styles, with elegant, clean lines and contemporary artworks to be seen throughout the hotel. The interior design of the hotel impresses with its eye-catching artworks on the walls and in the public areas. The attention to detail and sense of style is sure to leave a lasting impression on guests.
“Old meets new. A historic ensamble is reimagined as Kai 36 Hotel, where the city’s historic architecture and a new design language collide, reimagining the inimitable tranquillity of a patio in the heart of Graz’s downtown.”
“Split level Garden Terraces leed to the outdoor pool and lounge area, overlooking Graz old town.”
| AUSTRIA Hotel Nesslerhof
Relaxation paradise in the heart of the mountains
From host to “guest whisperer”: this is the philosophy of the Neudegger Family at Hotel Nesslerhof in the heart of the Großarl-Dorfgastein linked ski area. Experience genuine hospitality and wonderfully spacious interiors at this design hotel. 62 rooms combine cosiness with alpine charm: wood from local forests, loden, leather and breathtaking views of the Salzburg mountains create a welcoming and homey atmosphere.
Every moment at Hotel Nesslerhof – from a trip to the sauna area, to sweating in the steam bath or swimming in the pools and natural bathing pond – is transformed into a special holiday experience. Treat yourself to time in the spa and relax in one of the 8 different saunas or in the 3,000 sqm gardens and sunbathing lawns while enjoying the breath-taking views of the alps. The 800 sqm “Wasserwelt” (“waterworld”) has an indoor pool with panoramic view, an outdoor pool, a salt water outdoor pool and a natural swimming pond. Six different quiet rooms offer plenty of space for all guests.
Choose a table in one of the rustic, stylish parlours or vault; dine in the sunny restaurant; or enjoy your meal under the breath-taking timber ceiling. Regardless of where you choose to dine in the restaurant in Grossarl, you can expect first-class service and the highest-quality food at the Nesslerhof Restaurant. The hotels own butcher’s shop stands for quality, craftsmanship and passion, combined with the highest-quality Austrian ingredients and seasoned with fresh herbs and spices from the Grossarl region.
Situated just a few metres from the Hochbrandbahn lift valley station, the design hotel is the perfect starting point for great sporting experiences in the Großarltal ski resort and hiking region.
A heaven of calm in the rolling hills of the Salzburg countryside
“Relax body and mind in a breathtaking alpine natural scenery”
Hallstatt Hideaway
A silent place for meaningful experiences
Hallstatt Hideaway lies in the centre of Hallstatt amidst of the Salzkammergut and is a haven of peace surrounded by mountains. With five unique private suites to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect home away from home. The „Holz“ suite is the oldest – dating back around 500 years. Baroque doors from the 18th century plus elements of modern design: this suite is a wonderful testimony to the history of the hotel.
The house was built in 1740 by Empress Maria Theresia for her “Forstmeister“ (forest conservator). Guests today are spoiled for choice: a suite with an extensive terrace and modern architecture? Or with a library, fireplace and views of the lake and mountains, or the one with a unique stucco ceiling?
Or 100 sqm of pure luxury with an outdoor whirlpool and breathtaking panoramic views? Discover the power of historical architecture beautifully and skilfully combined with modern design. Enjoy magical views out over the rooftops of Hallstatt, the lake and the mountains.
HALLSTATT | AUSTRIA
“You feel in every inch of the hotel the rich history of the Salzkammergut”.
“The Gradonna****s Mountain Resort stands on a high sunny plateau in an impressive location at 1340 m above sea level in Kals am Großglockner”.
KALS AM GROSSGLOCKNER | AUSTRIA
Gradonna****s
Mountain Resort
Breathtaking location and outstanding architecture
The Gradonna****s Mountain Resort with its 41 chalets and the hotel is located directly on the Kals slope in the Großglockner Kals-Matrei ski area. The designer alpine hotel at an elevation of 1,350 metres offers pure natural pleasure inside and outside. The wood shingle facade and the large window fronts allow the landscape to “flow” into the hotel. The materials and colours of nature define the interior down to the smallest detail. Local spruce, stone pine, linen and loden create a pleasant atmosphere. Kals marble and wood sculptures award the resort an exclusive but down-to-earth flair.
The 115 rooms, 41 wooden chalets and twelve suites in the hotel tower offer a direct view of the Großglockner and 60 further 3,000-metre-plus peaks in the Hohe Tauern. The carfree resort with about 3,000 sqm of wellness, bathing and sauna landscape and a kid’s club offers indoor and outdoor pools as well as a solar-heated natural swimming pond that covers 700 sqm.
The buildings should not only be preserved, but be showcased in a design that would breathe new life into their walls. The new design compliments their brutality with elegant interventions and transform their austere functionality into a place of calm, comfort and relaxation. A complimentary palette of concrete, steel, timber and engineered glass ensures that new construction elements tread lightly, leaving the existing buildings relatively untouched and retaining their strong presence.
„The châlets in wooden construction and the high-quality suites in the hotel tower are reminiscent of an alpine amphitheater, which opens up to
the spectacle of the natural scenery“.
Gradonna****s Mountain Resort: MAGDALENA’S natural cosmetics that get under your skin
The MAGDALENA’S made in Tyrol range of skincare products draws its power from nature. Containing vegan and regional ingredients, the products don’t just pamper guests at the Gradonna****s Mountain Resort (the home of the beauty brand), they’re also available to visitors to the magdalenas.tirol online shop.
Finding a cosmetics line is easy – finding the right products for natural beauty, on the other hand, is not. For Martha Schultz, co-owner of the Gradonna****s Mountain Resort the ideal option for your skin is sustainable, vegan and contains local ingredients. As she told us while talking to The STYLEMATE: “Regionality and the exceptional quality of the products are essentials for us.” But they weren’t able to find a partner on the market that could meet their high expectations – and that’s why they decided to launch MAGDALENA’S.
Their demands when it comes to skincare products are stringent: high quality, regional, free from animal testing, organic and vegan, attributes that are as important for the four-star hotel as they are for the beauty products. “Our herbal experts worked closely with my son Lukas in 2012 to develop an innovative skincare and cosmetics range that will be loved by both men and women,” explains Schultz when discussing the origins of the brand.
Vegan, regional and high quality
The recipe for the products has been refined over the last few years, and manufacturing has been adapted to meet increased demand: MAGDALENA’S made
in Tyrol doesn’t just impress consumers with its short transport distances, the skincare range is also made entirely by hand. And since last December, the hotel’s own range of cosmetics products has been certified organic. “MAGDALENA’S cares for the skin of those who use it. All of the products in our extensive range are suitable for all skin types and are fragrance-free – instead they smell of the Alps and give you a sense of the freedom of the mountains,” says pharmacist Lukas Schultz. At first, the new range was used exclusively at the resort in Kals am Großglockner, “but because demand was so high, you can now also order it from home,” adds Martha Schultz, and refers us to the website magdalenas.tirol.
The skincare range is a true family success story, and the brand name is part of that: MAGDALENA’S namesake is Martha Schultz’s niece. And what do guests have to say about it? “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The indulgent feel of the creams and lotions in particular, as well as the moisturising properties of the skincare and cosmetics products are always mentioned positively. We also get a lot of glowing reviews on our magdalenas. tirol online shop,” says Martha Schultz, happily. With the range of Alpine cosmetics products from the Gradonna****s Mountain Resort, the experts have created therapeutic treatments that will appeal to those who are conscious of being respectful of nature.
KALTENBACH | AUSTRIA Das Kaltenbach
The Apart Hotel “Das Kaltenbach” blends into the surrounding countryside like a Tyrolean mountain village. Up on the mountain plateau at the edge of the Jungwald and Bergbach, it offers breathtaking panoramic views. The owners of this family-run hotel have combined nature, local flair and modern architecture so that visitors experience the full glory and revitalising power of nature.
With 45 rooms in Arolla pine and oak, suites, apartments and chalets for up to 13 people, Das Kaltenbach offers the perfect holiday setting just for you – on your own, in a couple or with family or friends.
A perfect place to relax and re-energise is the exclusive Rooftop Spa. The Fine Art of Relaxing.. The ForestSPA is located on the rooftop of the nature hotel, a true rooftop spa in a class of its
own with divine views of the mountains in Ziller Valley, located by the young forest and mountain stream. Awash with light across several levels with an infinity pool, adult spa and a 5,000 sqm large nature garden and cocoon daybeds. In the brand-new Sky Sauna with fantastic views across Ziller Valley, Outdoor Lounge on the roof and yoga platform in the nature garden, much more space has been created for a precious time out in the Tyrolean mountains.
From Alpine spring all the way into winter, from summer retreat all the way to colourful golden autumn. Located on the valley floor in the heart of Ziller Valley, it is an ideal base for exploring the Zillertaler Hauptkamm Nature Park, the five-minute drive to Zillertal golf course and close to the gondola lift in the Hochzillertal ski area for all sports fans.
A natural gem in the perfect natural setting.
“Tranquillity, energy and nature. In the Hotel Das Kaltenbach you get to enjoy a restorative holiday, one which you will remember”.
“Experience unique moments in the midst of the wonderful mountains in the Zillertal valley!”
KITZBÜHEL
| AUSTRIA
Alpenhotel Kitzbühel am Schwarzsee Lakeside
hotel and lodge
The Alpenhotel Kitzbühel is situated in a unique location directly on the shore of Lake Schwarzsee near Kitzbühel with a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains and the Wilder Kaiser. With its own access to the lake and located in a nature reserve, guests can enjoy the international flair of the worldfamous skiing resort and the beauty of the surrounding nature at the same time.
After intensive new construction, the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel welcomes its guests with all the comforts and amenities that make for unforgettable holiday moments. The architecture of the newly built rooms is a successful combination of typical Alpine Tyrolean characteristics and a modern lifestyle touch. Natural materials, exclusive textiles and fine local woods create a feel-good atmosphere. In addition, there are unique suites in the two annexes, the Das Steghaus, located directly on the jetty of the Schwarzsee, and the Lakeside Lodges, some with their own garden.
There are five elegantly and cosily furnished suites on the 1st and 2nd floors of the Steghaus. From their terraces, you have the feeling that you are not only on Lake Schwarzsee, but directly
in it. The perfect interplay of modern architecture and cosy atmosphere ensures a very special kind of luxury. Here, lingering is taken to a new level. In the Lakeside Lodges, the two-storey panoramic window fronts with spacious lounge areas allow you to experience the soothingly beautiful view of Lake Schwarzsee and the adjacent flora and fauna even more intensely and clearly. The extremely high-quality yet simple interior design additionally emphasises the idyllic view that makes these suites so unique.
The infinity pool with a view of the Lake Schwarzsee and the lake sauna are the highlights of the 1,300 m2 wellness oasis. In addition, the sauna area, steam bath, infrared cabin, fitness room, sun deck and refreshing Seebrise fresh air room as well as various indoor & outdoor relaxation zones offer pure relaxation from head to toe and a break from everyday life.
Regional specialities and pure culinary delights can be experienced in the hotel’s own restaurant and in the new à la carte restaurant Das Steghaus with sun terrace directly on Schwarzsee. The new wine cellar not only houses some precious drops, but can also be booked for private parties or corporate events.
“The stylish ambience - in warm bronze tones - is equally inspiring indoors and outdoors”.
“In turn, we enjoy the freedom of the silence and breathe in the fresh, clear air, which encourages us to go out and adventure and allows us to sleep much better at night”.
Preserve the future with the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel
The issue of sustainability is becoming more and more prominent, even when you’re on holiday, so it’s good to know that hotels like the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel on Lake Schwarzsee exist. Read on to find out more.
Location
The Alpenhotel Kitzbühel on Lake Schwarzsee is located on the edge of a nature reserve, has its own private lake access and offers unobstructed views across the lake, forests and mountains. That comes with great responsibility. It was important not to encroach on the natural surroundings any more than necessary, so careful consideration had to be given to how the building was illuminated at night. Even the colours of the lights were agreed with entomologists and implemented based on their recommendations.
Architecture
Great emphasis was placed on regionality during construction. “Native wood was used wherever possible, be it as a structural material, for surfaces in the interior or the untreated larch that dominates the new façade. The larch will weather over time and the colour will end up closer to that of the forest,” explains architect Sebastian Mitterer from the team at Firn Architekten. “That means the building will age gracefully and become part of the natural surroundings.” The green roofs also contribute to the overall eco look and feel.
Mobility
How does an environmentally friendly and comfortable arrival by train sound? Perfect! Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee station is only about 500 metres away on foot, but guests don’t need to walk to the hotel –thanks to the private pick-up train service, they can be collected frwom Kitzbühel train station for free.
Cuisine
Natural, regional and seasonal are the three main ingredients of sustainable culinary delight at the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel. The kitchen has relied mainly on produce from local farmers for many years now, while the game comes from hunts in the Karwendel and Brandenberg Alps mountain ranges and the dairy and cheese products are sourced from the hotel’s own farm and dairy in the Zillertal valley. Top quality tastes so good!
Just because you didn’t bring your car doesn’t mean you have to miss out on excursions, because electric cars and bikes are available to guests so they can head off on voyages of discovery. There are also electric charging points right outside the hotel, so anyone arriving by electric means will find it easy to charge their car on the premises.
Energy Management
To ensure the suites stay cosy and warm and the infinity pool provides a comfortable temperature for bathing all year round, geothermal energy and biomass consisting of wood chips are obtained from local forest resources. Geothermal energy can also be used to cool the building, making it an environmentally friendly and effective alternative to air conditioning in summer.
PURADIES Mein Naturresort
Cosiness in the design hotel and the premium chalets
In an area that spans over 300,000 square metres, PURADIES, in the Pinzgau region of Salzburg, presents itself as its own private, traditional village with a closeness to nature. The hotel and chalets form a harmonious unit, which blends in seamlessly with its surroundings. With its own style created by marrying the traditional with the modern, the nature resort succeeds in producing a feeling of truly being at home, which it invites you to enjoy.
The characteristic modern-alpine style runs through the whole house and brings the resort’s values to the forefront of the mind. In this way, PURADIES presents itself as inobtrusive, subtle and pure, with maximum comfort. The nature resort lies at the heart of the expansive Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn ski area. Located directly adjacent to the slopes, PURADIES offers a “ski-in, ski-out” facility in winter. Enjoy an unobscured view of the Birnhorn peak and its brothers on top of the “Steinernes Meer” from the sunniest hill in the Leogang mountains. The PURADIES Nature Resort, its chalets and suites offer a uniquely modern alpine style with superb, award-winning design and facilities.
Simple and tasteful, the rooms are inspired by the natural surroundings and manage to incorporate ideas from across the world, built with wood from the local forest. The spa facilities of the alpine design hotel are also unique and luxurious. Absolute relaxation is guaranteed in the “Innere Mitte” sauna house with four differently themed saunas. Always accompanied by incredible 360° mountain views - enjoy the fantastic spa facility that includes a Swiss pine sauna, infrared cabin, exceptional showers, and a two-story relaxation area.
Guests can enjoy gourmet delights from a range of restaurants, with cuisines assembled with high-quality ingredients sourced from the hotel’s own organic farm and regional producers. Sustainable and fair; vegetarian and vegan if desired. Lovingly prepared with passion - the culinary highlights will take you to extraordinary places. Paradise for gourmets, filled with special moments.
“In the middle of the picturesque scenery of the high mountains you will spend a holiday of superlatives in the idyllic premium chalet village in Leogang”.
PURADIES: The Garden of Eden
Could wellness be a sin? Not at the PURADIES Nature Resort: the extended Heaven Spa has been embedded into the landscape with great care and regard for sustainability. The new sauna building, with its own restaurant, will open its doors from summer 2023 - not just for Adam and Eve but for all guests at the nature resort in Leogang.
Since the family-run Embachhof in Leogang was modernised and stylishly extended in 2016 and reopened as PURADIES, it has been clear to hotel managers and brothers Michael and Philipp Madreiter that the day would come when they would need to expand the wellness facilities. Now, after a few years of careful planning, it’s time. From the 1st of June, PURADIES guests will be able to explore, experience and enjoy the extended Heaven Spa and restaurant.
When planning the new wellness area, the topic of water was clearly a priority for guests – as well as for the two hotel managers. Michael Madreiter: “For a number of years, our sauna building „Innere Mitte“ has provided a range of saunas and relaxation rooms. With the new extended Heaven Spa, it’s possible to enjoy a bathing experience at a pleasant temperature while looking out at the mountains 365 days a year.” In addition to an outdoor pool that can be accessed from inside, a shallow children’s pool and cosy new relaxation rooms, the Heaven Spa also offers a light-filled yoga studio with direct access to the garden.
Michael Madreiter: “It was important to us to be able to give our guests more space for relaxation while remaining true to our principles, so the new Heaven Spa rooms have been carefully set into the landscape. We wanted to keep any interference with nature to a minimum. Earth and greenery is embedded in some of the roofs and walls. The geothermal energy ensures an atmosphere of well-being, and the large glass surfaces capture the light and landscape perfectly. The view of the Steinernes Meer from the new wellness area is fantastic. And the new sauna building also provides unobstructed views – our goal was to refine the view, to focus on the essentials, as it were.”
The icing on the cake – in the truest sense – of the new space is the restaurant that is also open to external guests, located on the upper floor. The restaurant, with its open kitchen and large terrace, is affectionately known as the Bistro, and offers an exquisite cuisine with a focus on sustainability and an informal atmosphere at lunch and dinner.
LUNZ AM
Refugium Lunz
The Refugium is located directly on the church square in Lunz am See, the Ybbs and the Gothic parish church from the 15th century to the side. The history of the house with its 23 rooms also goes back 5 centuries.
The owners, Joachim Mayr and Heinz Glatzl, felt obligated to this history when remodeling. They did not want to create just another design hotel, but rather a tender coexistence between old and new, a place of contemplation and refuge, precisely the Refugium.
The vision of a place where the desire for new things and the appreciation of the past find common expression has taken shape with the Refugium. Heart and soul, dedication and the clear aesthetic concept are reflected in the design of the rooms. It is a skillful play with textures, structures, shapes and colors. The commitment to authentic craftsmanship and attention to detail can be seen and felt throughout the hotel.
Numerous partners, from the Formdepot cooperative founded by Joachim and Heinz, were involved in the remodeling and furnishing of the hotel. Formdepot is an association of craftsmen, architects and designers based in Vienna Ottakring.
SEE | AUSTRIA
Dive into the lake of naturalness.
„For the weary and the energetic. All who like to eat and drink. Who like to see beautiful things and seek adventure. Or rest. Or anything in between.“
„Not everything anymore, but enough of the essentials“
A home away from home –Refugium Lunz
You come home in the evening exhausted from work, from the traffic, from stress. You need a holiday, relaxation, to unwind. What if there were a hotel, a home away from home, a retreat where you could feel at ease? A place where the fox and the hare wish you goodnight, where it’s calm and you can do what you like, but also don’t have to do anything at all? Such a place does exist: Refugium Lunz.
The story of the Refugium takes us back to a snowy winter’s night. Joachim Mayr, born and raised in Lunz, was trudging through the snow in the main square with Heinz Glatzl, past his favourite building, and noticed a for sale sign. They decided that very evening that they were going to transform this building into a bed and breakfast. But Joachim and Heinz like to think bigger and better, so the bed and breakfast quickly became a hotel –because an upgrade is always better than a downgrade. The idea of the hotel was established and, during the planning process, carpenter and interior designer Joachim and Heinz weren’t just able to capitalise on the full spectrum of expertise of their interior design and construction planning company M&G – they were also able to draw on the experience of their Vienna-based design forum FORMDEPOT, a cooperative for craftsmanship, architecture and design. At that point, all that was missing was everything else, but that was never cause for concern. It was a fortunate circumstance that Stefanie Metzger and her husband Christian Metzger, along with their experience in the hotel and food industry, suddenly
came on board. But the two of them live by the saying anyway: Chance treads paths that the intend could never even reach. It was no coincidence that the two successfully ran the restaurant “Die Metzgerei” in Vienna.
And that’s where the adventure started. With the primary focus on designing the ideal hotel where people could finally feel like they mattered – and that’s so obvious here. The concept of the Refugium Lunz blends 20 years of collective experience of bringing to life ambitious architectural and residential projects with a great deal of passion for hospitality and delight. From the paint colours to the parquet flooring and the infinite details, everything is of the highest quality. As hosts, people always go the extra mile. The architects also created a balance between old and new, and in doing so were able to preserve the character of the building. They are especially proud of the heart of the hotel, the Salonküche. It’s a genuine kitchen in the hotel that looks like one guests would have at home. That way, you can feel like you’re really at home. You bring back ingredients after a stroll, and suddenly there’s an apple strudel in front of you. You can watch head chef Christian while he cooks, ask him questions and listen to his answers. You can even cook, bake and of course chat alongside him. The ingredients for the dishes you can later savour at the Refugium are sourced from the region. By doing this, Refugium Lunz wants to make a contribution to maintaining sustainable agriculture and traditional production in the area, and drive it forward in future.
It’s now not long until the historic building opens its doors in April 2023. As a place of tranquillity and well-being, the Hofhaus and the garden are the ideal spots to unwind. But you can also go hiking, swimming and walking, before paying a visit to the hotel’s own sauna in the evening, or you might find inspiration among the yoga and exercise options.
Hotel Eder
The king of the Hochkönig
Hotel Eder in the centre of the picturesque village of Maria Alm offers the perfect conditions for anyone who loves the high alpine life: the sporting adventure starts right behind the hotel in the ski and hiking region Hochkönig.
The design hotel Eder has been carefully extended and modernised by local skilled crafts and trades and is exciting, unique and refreshing. Its creatively designed spa with 25 m pool, steam bath, bio sauna, massages and more leaves nothing to be desired. The 72 rooms and suites are modern equipped with lots of wood, stone and Loden, resulting in a homely atmosphere. The hotel is committed to a long tradition of Austrian hospitality,
friendly cosiness, good food and rural conviviality. As the village restaurant it has been serving guests with Pinzgau delicacies and international cuisine for 60 years. The hotel Eder is located directly in the village centre, surrounded by the stunning natural scenery of the Hochkönig.
“Whether hiking, biking, skiing or golfing, Maria Alm and the Hochkönig region invite you to the experience”.
Hotel Sepp
Hotel Sepp is characterised by the philosophy of togetherness. The Alpine Boutique Hotel, made for adults only and guests over 21, is a special place that brings together old and new, tradtion and zeitgeist. But most importantly, guests - as together we are all less alone. No matter whether it’s sports, events or theme weekends - the Sepp connects people. However, the hotel still offers plenty of room and possibility for individual recreation.
The unique rooms at Sepp satisfy with stylish and casual ambience and unconventional feel-good atmosphere as each one of them is equipped with the latest design extras and stylish details for a special feeling. Furthermore, the hotel’s relax area is perfectly made for extravagant relaxation as the airstream sauna and the infinity pool in front of the impressive alpine panorama are just stunning.
Lovers of culinary delights will also be connected in Sepp’s restaurant (with live cooking kitchen). There, the lovely get together is celebrated with global delicacies that have been given a regional twist.
MARIA ALM | AUSTRIA
Alpine lifestyle, everything but ordinary
“Attention to detail combined with a great sense for materials makes the Sepp the place to be in Maria Alm”.
Open door, open mind at the SEPP hotel
The SEPP boasts Alpine charm, modern twists and delightful coolness – you might call it exSEPPtional. The hotel doesn’t just blend old and new, tradition and contemporary influences –it also brings all of its guests together, in line with the philosophy that you’re never alone when surrounded by others. We found out why the hotel is only open to those over 21, whether SEPP is better in summer or winter in Maria Alm and what they actually mean by “open door, open mind”.
Why adults only?
The Eder Collection consists of several hotels, and we want each of them to appeal to a specific target audience. The Tante Frida hotel, for example, is the wacky, family-friendly equivalent of the SEPP. With the SEPP, on the other hand, we want to provide a retreat for those over 21 – with no families or frantic kids running around, so there’s a really tranquil, cosy feel to the place. That means the boutique hotel doesn’t just feel exclusive – it IS exclusive.
Summer or winter?
It’s so difficult to choose. We’re open all year round. The infinity pool is heated so it can be used in winter, plus there are of course saunas for our guests. And no matter what time of year it is, summer or winter, there’s always something going on in the area around Maria Alm. In spring and autumn, you can get around by hiking or on an electric bike. In summer, it’s all about biking, hiking and wine, with
the option to hike to the summit and be treated to a wine tasting at the top. For the more adventurous, there are also mountain bikes so you can cycle around the mountains and forests, and for those who enjoy things a bit more on the comfy side, there are the SEPP Classics – a classic car tour around the beautiful nearby areas of Kitzbühel, Königsee and beyond. In winter, the ski lifts are running to whisk you off to ski and tour, before you settle down at our hotel to toast marshmallows over the fire or stay into the evening for the DJ session. Then the next morning, it’s time for the floating brunch in the infinity pool. What more could you want?
Open door, open mind: what does this saying mean?
Open door, open mind simply means that we’re open to everyone and that everyone can feel at ease when they stay with us. Even in the kitchen and in the services we provide, we are open-minded. Our employees come from all over the world, and in addition to the refreshing caipirinhas made by our Brazilian bartender, there are vegan and vegetarian dishes, plus traditional sausages and beer. In the evening, top chefs from across Austria serve up their creations on the rooftop of the hotel and open the show kitchen for guests –bartender included. Sustainability is also a huge priority for us. The hotel is heated via district heating and was constructed using recycled scrap timber and natural stone sourced from the Rauris Valley, which we’ve used inside and out. For us, all of that is the essence of open door, open mind.
The family-run ElisabethHotel is situated at the very centre of Mayrhofen in Tyrol. Just a few minutes from the oasis at the foot of the Zillertal Alpine divide, the design hotel is the ideal base for sports. Alpine style meets elegance and modernity at the heart of the Zillertal: the main building with gable, balconies and carvings fuses with the sweeping lines of the modern new build.
“Premium Private Retreat” is the philosophy of the ElisabethHotel and is designed to reflect the high standards of hospitality and relaxation. The hotel is also the first in the Zillertal to cater for adults only. An open and spacious layout, large windows, natural materials such as wood, natural stone and sheep’s wool and colour-coordinated features throughout the hotel and in the 70 bedrooms create the perfect ambiance for relaxing and unwinding. Rest and relaxation are also to be had in the 1,600 sqm “Elisense” spa with its basalt indoor pool, whirlpool, saunas and range of indoor and outdoor quiet areas.
The 120 sqm Heaven Penthouse Suite is the highlight of the hotel. The suite has a spacious living area, two bedrooms with a steam shower and a freestanding bath, as well as a private spa. The Heaven Penthouse Suite is on the top floor of the hotel and has wonderful views of the magnificent mountain panorama of the Zillertal.
Sonne Lifestyle Resort
Bregenzerwald
Perfect moments at the foot of the majestic Kanisfluh mountain
A mere 30 kilometres from Bregenz, amidst mountains, forests, alpine pastures and lakes, a symbiosis of new and old has arisen. An ultramodern annex was built onto the long-established Sonne Inn to create a new lifestyle resort. The new part of the Sonne Lifestyle Resort is also very down to earth, but only as far as the materials are concerned. Otherwise, clarity and modernity drive the design.
2 Designer Comfort Rooms, 36 Designer Superior Rooms and 8 Designer Penthouse Rooms meet even the highest of demands. The restaurant spoils guests with regional and international dishes in a five-course gourmet dinner.
The well equipped and elegant wellness-ground of more than 1,500 sqm is waiting to provide you with a variety of new sources of energy, with private steam baths, a massage and wellness center that includes a peaceful silence zone and a heated swimming pool. Or why not take advantage of a rejuvenating treatment in one of the several beauty departments. With a new and unique well-care concept you will be pampered in an incomparable way.
MÜHLDORF | AUSTRIA
La Petite Ivy
Modern art between ancient walls
The history of the Trenninghof in Mühldorf goes back to the year 1302. Since 2018 it is the backdrop for a very special boutique hotel. But La Petite Ivy is more than a hotel. It is an art gallery, retreat and source of inspiration in the heart of the Wachau Area in Lower Austria. No wonder, as owner Martin Ho is an exceptional art collector and scene restaurateur nearby Vienna.
All rooms in La Petite Ivy are curated by Martin Ho and Alexander Riegler. As a guest you do not only have the opportunity to escape everyday life, but also to immerse yourself in new “thought worlds”. Stay for a while among the works of wellknown artists like Erwin Wurm, Jonathan Meese, Julian Khol, Petra von Kazinyan, Franz West, Jeff Koons, Norbert Brunner, Tomak, Martin Grandits, Jona Cerwinske and Andy Warhol. La Petite Ivy can also be rented exclusively. The hotel and the beautiful garden are the perfect setting for extraordinary events and private parties.
The Deluxe Room with Balcony „Bukkake“ is certainly one of the most unique experiences. The special design with focus on photographs of artist Nobuyoshi Araki creates an exciting atmosphere and invites to forget the everyday stress. The private balcony and the free-standing bath tub are further highlights of this deluxe room.
NAUDERS | AUSTRIA
Arabella Retreat & Spa
Family run hospitality in the three-countries region
The individual Arabella Retreat & Spa is the perfect way to discover the very best of Nauders, Tyrol, where the borders of Austria, Italy and Switzerland meet. Close to the town centre, enjoying a picturesque panorama and with access to the pistes at the Reschen Pass and a great network of hiking trails, every guest will soon feel at home in Arabella and in the region.
It is the personal touch that makes the 20 apartments so exclusive: natural materials such as local timber from the surrounding forests, furniture in Swiss stone pine in the bedrooms, oak flooring, artisan furniture and large windows that open out onto the surrounding mountains create a cosy atmosphere in sustainable Alpine style.
In the Arabella Retreat & Spa a total of 1,200 square meters are dedicated to letting go, relaxing and recharging your batteries. After an active day on the mountain or just because you‘re allowed to be good to yourself, Arabella guests choose between the luxurious Sky.Sauna above the rooftops of Nauders and the brand-new and innovative spa oasis WOLKE 78 (Cloud 78) on the garden floor. Here you float away from everyday life and immerse yourself in a sensual world of well-being in eight new areas: the large pool, different saunas, steam bath, quiet room, spa-lounge, outdoor whirlpool, massage studio and the unique rooftop lounge are the perfect places to unwind.
The Crystal VAYA Unique A hotel as clear as crystal
Located directly on the slopes in the midst of the impressive Ötztal Alps, The Crystal, as part of the VAYA Group, is a unique retreat for those who love the extraordinary. Clear lines and cubic design are striking features of modern architecture. This style is carried over into the hotel’s interior and its 102 guest rooms. Sleek, simple shapes, exclusive furniture and warm wooden surfaces set the tone. Large windows afford an unobstructed view of the snow-covered mountains, and each room has its own balcony where guests can savour the excitement of getting out onto the slopes. The 2,000 sqm spa area is made up of three pools, a sauna area, a fitness studio and a beauty spa, leaving nothing to be desired.
The vision for this hotel concept was to create a noble yet modern-puristic retreat for all those who love the extraordinary. To combine modern luxury with alpine lifestyle – and that at almost 2,000 m above sea level. First-class residential design, service and amenities at the highest level, haute cuisine, exquisite wellness enjoyment – among other things with luxurious Espa treatments – allow guests to immerse themselves in a world apart from the everyday.
The Crystal is the perfect home away from home for people who love and appreciate something special. For demanding and quality-conscious trendsetters, connoisseurs and luxury travelers. Due to its predestined location on the slopes in the middle of the Ötztal mountains, The Crystal is also the first address for all sporty lifestyle fans. But The Crystal is also the perfect vacation location for the non winter sports enthusiast: The Crystal Spa, The Crystal Gym, exclusive ESPA pampering treatments and a wide range of leisure activities offer the ideal alternative to fun on the slopes. It is the combination that creates the perfect big picture at The Crystal, making your stay an unforgettable experience. Because here, guests are offered casual living luxury and first-class living design for every taste, while relying on a unique energy concept: Thus, part of the house is supplied with renewable energy and can be operated environmentally friendly and sustainable through deep drilling.
OBERGURGL | AUSTRIA
“The ideal winter holiday destination for both skiers and non-skiers alike, The Crystal VAYA Unique offers an exceptional mountain experience in the heart of the Öztal Alps, with an holistic approach to the perfect mountain holiday.”
The
Crystal VAYA Unique, Ötztal valley, Austria: Sparkling mountain landscapes, a myriad of possibilities
Located directly on the slopes in the midst of the impressive Ötztal Alps, The Crystal, as part of the VAYA Group, is a unique retreat for those who love the extraordinary. The modern architecture with lots of glass, leather and modern elements dominates the design concept. Here you can expect sparkling mountain scenery as well as diverse opportunities.
The vision for this hotel concept was to create a noble yet modern-puristic retreat for all those who love the extraordinary. To combine modern luxury with alpine lifestyle - and that at almost 2,000m above sea level in the middle of one the regions in Austria with the most reliable snow conditions. First-class residential design, service and amenities at the highest level, haute cuisine, exquisite wellness enjoyment - among other things with luxurious ESPA treatments - allow guests to immerse themselves in a world apart from the everyday, because The Crystal lifestyle should not only be felt, but also experienced.
The Crystal is the perfect home away from home for people who love and appreciate something special. For demanding and quality-conscious trendsetters, connoisseurs and luxury travelers. Due to its predestined location on the slopes in the middle of the Ötztal mountains, The Crystal is also the first address for all sporty lifestyle fans. But The Crystal is also the perfect vacation location for the
non winter sports enthusiast: The Crystal Spa, The Crystal Gym, exclusive ESPA pampering treatments and a wide range of leisure activities offer the ideal alternative to fun on the slopes.
The energy concept
It is the combination that creates the perfect big picture at The Crystal, making your stay an unforgettable experience. Because here, guests are offered casual living luxury and first-class living design for every taste, while relying on a unique energy concept: Thus, part of the house is supplied with renewable energy and can be operated environmentally friendly and sustainable through deep drilling - and that at almost 2,000 meters above sea level. A groundbreaking project that could be realized here.
The hotel is a power place in the middle of the Alps, where you can treat both your body and your mind to an exclusive time-out. Through special treatments, such as luxurious ESPA treatments, which are offered in the hotel as the only resort in the Alps, and highly trained staff, the guest completely regains himself. Breathes again through. Releases.
Fine Dining
The team at The Crystal spoils its guests with alpine refined fine cuisine: day after day, refined culinary masterpieces await them on their plates, accompanied by a selection of exquisite wines from around the world.
Outdoors, 112 kilometers of slopes wait to be discovered. Ski-in and ski-out, ski boutique and ski rental in the hotel allow guests to fully enjoy these special days from the first to the last second.
Since spring 2020, the hotel is part of the VAYA Group. The group’s portfolio currently includes almost 30 unique resorts and apartment houses in Austria. These are located in the heart of the most exclusive top vacation destinations in the Alpine region such as Fieberbrunn, Galtür, Saalbach, Serfaus, St. Anton, Zell am See or Zillertal. This is where high vacation and living comfort meets exclusive, alpine charm.
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Alpin Juwel
Exclusive, individual, different
The family-run lifestyle and nature hotel is situated amidst an unique scenic location overlooking the valley, in the centre of Hinterglemm directly at a ski slope and in the middle of an enormous hiking & biking area.
The hotel promises 100% of nature with local organic food and only fresh herbs and pure and natural produce, power sleeping rooms with grounded pine beds, isolated wires and no wireless from 22.00 till 6.00 as well as special energized water and no electric smog. Furthermore chemical free cleaning and water saving technologies are used for a better world. Modern and traditional Austrian architecture with absolutely natural building materials creates an unique atmosphere of relaxation, wellbeing and energy. The hotel offers seven cosy traditional “Stuben”, two bars and a wine cellar where guests are able to enjoy a wide variety of Austrian specialties.
An “over the edge” panorama pool is one of the highlights lo cated at the 800 sqm sun bathing rooftop. For relaxation the body & soul spa offers different massage treatments and much more.
The Alpin Juwel follows a healthy living concept based on the five elements. All rooms and suites are primarily made with spruce and Swiss pine. These natural building materials create a unique atmosphere of relaxation, wellbeing and energy. In the Penthouse and Alm Suite, you’ll discover cosy, luxurious living spaces with unique panoramic views.
“All rooms have been built around the 5 elements and simply ensure health, well-being and all the comfort you need for your time”.
SALZBURG CITY | AUSTRIA
Hotel Goldgasse A home in an artistic jewel
Located in the heart of Salzburg’s old town, there lies Hotel Goldgasse. The approximately 700 year-old house welcomes its guests with exclusive charme and excellent service - just get in and feel at home. This charming boutique hotel is worth a visit at any time of year. But during the Salzburg Festival, the Hotel Goldgasse sets the scene for an even more profound experience.
Much older than the Salzburg Festival is the stone building in the charming little alleyway called Goldgasse. In the historic stone house incomparable stucco ceilings, unique frescoes, exposed wooden ceilings and original marble floors have been stylishly and subtly paired with modern interior. The 16 individual rooms exude an outstanding attention to detail and luxury. Each one is a homage to famous Salzburg Festival as each room is dedicated to a special performance. However, this small-but perfect retreat doesn’t just provide cultural inspiration, it also offers exceptional cuisine. Lately awarded with the prestigious Gault Millau for culinary excellence. An outstanding breakfast is served every day and the residence is also home to one of Salzburg’s hotspots for traditional Austrian cuisine - the Gasthof Goldgasse.
SALZBURG CITY | AUSTRIA
Hotel Stein Salzburg meets Venice
Italian influence in Salzburg began in the 16th century, when Venetian architect Vincenzo Scamozzi was comissioned with the planning of a new city layout. In cooperation with his successor Santino Solari, he created the look for which the city of Mozart today is world-famous. The connection of Salzburg and Venice is emphasized with an innovative concept.
Located in one of Salzburg’s top locations, the hotel is dominated by the colour blue: blue as the lagoon and the heaven. Thanks to this colour scheme an unique atmosphere and style have been created that convey an incomparable lifestyle experience.
In 56 exclusive rooms, that show exceptional attention to detail, new standards have been set. These can also be found at the hotel’s rooftop location on the 7th floor - with an outstanding view of the city.
Located on the hotel‘s 2nd floor, the Honeymoon Suite offers a breathtaking view of the Fortress Hohensalzburg as well as the Salzach. The suite itself is absolutely made to fall in love with, but its eye-catcher definitely is the historically protected stucco ceiling, which is one-of-a-kind with its beauty and opulence.
“The roof terrace offers the best view over the romantic old town of Salzburg”.
SCHLADMING | AUSTRIA
Stadthotel Brunner
Boutique hotel for body, mind and soul
Take a 500 year-old house, add stylish architecture and Asian influence and what do you have? A comfortable, accessible boutique hotel with 24 rooms. This is urban style in the heart of Schladming ski resort – not Alpine kitsch, but simple elegance. Stadthotel brunner’s architecture, complete with glittering façade, make the building a real eye-catcher in the region.
Sustainability is the theme running throughout the hotel, with materials from the region and local, Ayurvedic and alkaline cuisine in the adjoining à la carte restaurant with bar and “Lounge 1919“ with excellent wine assortment. Enjoy the sauna, massage, yoga or meditation or patronise the tea house at the SPA up above the rooftops of Schladming. Guests can also sample the hotel’s great cultural programme and use the nearby Klangfilmtheater venue – on offer is everything from talks on diet and cookery courses to film nights, musical events and art exhibitions. A place to find yourself, to learn, and to enjoy music and art.
“Mindful Far Eastern lifestyle in the stunning mountain scenery of the region Schladming –Dachstein”
Privat happiness close to the stars
Moments of happiness at 1,250 m above sea level are promised by the boutique hotel Bergwiesenglück in the middle of the Tyrolean Alps. How could it be any different. It is a place where the view wanders over the lush green mountain meadows to the rugged peaks of the Silvretta Group and the fresh air clears the mind.
On a sunny place presents the elegant Chalet village, in the center the Bergwiesenhof. The authentic Alpine Suites, the restaurant “Hermann’s kitchen” and the reception are located here. On the roof top you find a 12-meter heated infinity pool and a small fitness cube, with a magnificent view of the surrounding mountain landscape.
The architecture is reminiscent of the Tyrolean “Heustadl” which is typical of alpine farming. The clarity of the architecture is continued in the interior - you won’t find any overloaded alpine chic here. The use of traditional materials is interpreted in a modern way and creates an authentic, contemporary ambience, designed with a lot of respect in dealing with nature and the environment. Especially local materials from Tyrol, such as loden and Tyrolean wood were incorporated into the planning.
“The 12 chalets are a commitment to the region and fit naturally into the alpine environment. Wood meets concrete and stone meets loden.”
Bergwiesenglück, Paznaun, Austria: In
Happiness at the Bergwiesenglück. Slow living. Breathtaking views. Unwinding. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the retreat in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps. Not far from Ischgl and Kappl, this boutique hotel is the ultimate haven of tranquillity. Rudolf Schuchter told us all about it.
Q - Lifestylehotels: How did the Bergwiesenglück come to be?
Rudolf Schuchter: It started as a small private property that offered immense potential because of its stunning outlook, and it became something unexpectedly larger – the Bergwiesenglück. And from what was originally planned as a village of barns eventually became the boutique hotel that stands here today in the Tyrolean Alps. But we retained the barn aesthetic. We placed great emphasis on using natural materials like stone and recycled scrap timber – that really adds a sense of peace and cosiness, and encourages guests to unwind.
Q - What makes the Bergwiesenglück so special?
RS: We’re far away from any urban hustle and bustle and the stresses of everyday life. Nature, the view and the peacefulness here on the mountainside allow people to forget what day it is. You feel like you’re actually in a classic Alpine movie, with a deer really standing outside your door in the morning and the birds chirping all around. We’ve also got Hermann’s Kitchen, where there aren’t any menus – guests just order what they feel like eating.
Q - What’s the best way to unwind at your hotel?
RS: Our guests say that they already feel 80% calmer as soon as they walk in the door – at least after the eventful journey to get here. The atmosphere here is so cosy that the hotel could be full and you wouldn’t notice.
Q - Where is your favourite place to retreat to in the hotel?
RS: I like sitting by our adventure barn, which we built for children. Beneath the adventure barn there is a small restaurant that we hire out to small groups, and just in front of this restaurant there is a small table – the view from up there is simply magnificent.
Q - What can everyone experience when they stay with you?
RS: We’re right next to the ski slopes and have shuttle buses to all of the other slopes in the surrounding area. People also like to bring the grandparents along with them, and they then go off on a winter hike. Coronavirus has changed travel a little, in that people prefer enjoying the peacefulness and a good bottle of wine rather than partying long into the night. At our hotel, every chalet also has its own private spa with a sauna and a hot tub so you can unwind in your own personal space. For Christmas, we’ve planned a small Tyrolean Christmas celebration with a selection of fondues and a small dessert. At New Year we’ll have a cosy meal in the evening, and then those with
the stamina can ring in the New Year in our barn – with a DJ or a two-man band, and of course fireworks.
Q - What do you personally associate with slow living?
RS: I think that peace is becoming more and more important in today’s world. Day in, day out, we’re bombarded with bad news and we’re looking for a place to retreat to, where we can shut ourselves away a bit. When staying here, guests can unwind and switch off – that to me is slow living. You can close your eyes, open them again and see the world in a totally different way.
the mountains, I am happy.
dasMAX
Nordic minimalism at the best spot
DasMAX is a stylish lifestylehotel in the perfect spot in Seefeld in Tyrol. Located directly at the railway station and only a few minutes’ walk from the centre, the ski area and cross-country skiing trails are within easy reach. The bright rooms radiate Nordic elegance and are furnished in a reduced way with Bo-Concept design classics. Every detail and all the materials used are of the highest quality and the guests notice that quite quickly. The hotel deliberately avoids superfluous „Nice-to haves“ and pompous chic. Contemporary luxury is welcome –but only where it makes sense.
Plenty of possibilities without any obligations. That is how the hosts of DasMAX summarize their philosophy. After an active day you can relax in the wellness area with Finnish sauna and spa. Be sure to enjoy the sensational view of the Seefeld mountains from the rooftop terrace. In the Honesty Bar you shouldn‘t miss the great selection of cocktails, in the DasMAX Bistro you can enjoy your breakfast, an extensive brunch or afternoon snacks.
“The perfect homebase in Seefeld for adventurers, peace seekers or global citizens”.
dasMAX, Seefeld Tyrol DIY drinks
At the dasMAX lifestyle hotel in Seefeld in Tirol, there’s a bar. Nothing special about that, you might say. But oh, how wrong you would be! Because the philosophy of the Honesty Bar at the dasMAX is “Sisters (and brothers) are doing it for themselves”, and that means you can pour and mix your own drinks or cocktails 24/7.
Sometimes, the craving for a refreshing drink, savoury snacks or a sweet treat just comes out of nowhere. Thank goodness there’s the Honesty Bar. As well as non-alcoholic drinks, you’ll find beer, wine and various spirits that you can help yourself to. What’s more, guests can put their bartending skills to the test and mix their own cocktails. And if you’re feeling a bit peckish between meals, there are sweet and savoury snacks available. The self-service bar is straightforward and always open. Simply grab what takes your fancy at the time and write it all down on the Honesty Bar list, then you can pay when you check out. Then what? Take your drink out to the roof terrace and marvel at the view across Seefeld and the mountains. Or just enjoy your drinks and snacks in your room! So, got the urge to make a homemade cocktail? Don’t forget that if making your own drink doesn’t sound all that appealing, you can order one from the dasMAX Bistro, where you’ll also find breakfast, delicious drinks and tasty snacks to keep you going.
| AUSTRIA
Nidum Casual Luxury Hotel
Perfect moments on the Seefeld sunny plateau.
High above the rooftops of the Inn Valley in Tyrol sits the NIDUM Casual Luxury Hotel, the perfect place for a generation of travellers hungry for life. Staying here is an absolute pleasure: designer furniture in red wood and accessories in soft natural tones from beige to lime green create a relaxing, cosy ambience. The huge window fronts elegantly leave the stage to the true star – the wonderful nature. Right behind the house lies the forest and thus access to countless cross-country ski trails in all levels of difficulty, the nearest ski resort can be reached in a few minutes by ski bus.
The 57 spacious bedrooms all face the sunny south and combine fresh style with luxury fittings and furnishings. A top-of-the range establishment, but one that puts guests at their ease: this is “casual luxury”, the design hotel’s philosophy. To round off the relaxed atmosphere there is a 1,500 sqm luxury spa facility with an infinity pool, saunas, whirlpool and quiet rooms.
Gourmets and gourmands will love the different restaurant areas – after enjoying an aperitif on the sunny “Apero Terrace”. Luxury meets casual, and elegance meets cosiness - this philosophy extends to the kitchen of the casual luxury hotel, with a perfect symbiosis of traditional and modern culinary specialities.
Alfa Hotel Tradition meets modernity
The Alfa Hotel combines modern & alpine flair, contemporary and timeless. The hotel offers a symbiosis of architecture and 21st century lifestyle. The rooms of the casual luxury hotel set themselves apart with clear, linear structures and natural materials. The use of light and colours gives the hotel a modern ambience.
Regardless of whether you come in for breakfast, or a five-course gourmet dinner, you will be treated to culinary excellence in the hotel’s restaurant, which features a cool atmosphere. The rewarded Incontro Gin & Cocktailbar is the get-together place with more than 100 gins and signature cocktails and invites guests to linger.
The wellness area offers a 7x7 metre indoor pool with a whirl bench, a bio sauna, a Finnish sauna, an infrared cabin, a steam bath and a brine steam bath.
The hotel’s Superiore Double Rooms not only offer you an extremely central location in Serfaus, but will also make you feel like you’re on top of the world! The panoramic view from the top floor will evoke that superior feeling. And you’ll experience it all in modern, open rooms featuring a light and airy design with 30 sqm of space.
“Due to its connection to Austria as well as its geographical proximity to Italy, the culinary handprint is noticeable in all dishes”.
Bergland Designand Wellnesshotel Sölden
In the vibrant centre of FIS World Cup host town Sölden, at the heart of the beautiful Ötztal valley, the Bergland Design- and Wellnesshotel Sölden is the ideal place for “active relaxation and enjoyment”, which is the hotel philosophy. A philosophy that is reflected throughout the Bergland and all of its 86 bedrooms and suites. You can enjoy moments of quiet and relaxation in the 2,200 sqm Sky SPA on the 5th floor, with its pool, saunas and steam baths, and get active with the extensive range of sports on offer at the hotel.
The design hotel also follows the lifestyle trend “slow aging”, working for the well-being of its guests with a special spa, beauty and exercise programme. The stylish and elegant surroundings of the wine & dine à la carte restaurant provide the ideal backdrop for a meal to remember. Apart from that you can also enjoy culinary delights from local produce in the new fine dining restaurant black sheep which also conjures a special tasting menu. Actor Daniel Craig is just one of the guests to have enjoyed the hotel’s excellent service and overall facilities: he stayed at the Bergland during the filming of the James Bond blockbuster “Spectre”.
A fusion of minimalism and traditional alpine style
“The Sky SPA at the Hotel Bergland is the ideal place to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life for a few precious hours”.
Bergland Designand Wellnesshotel Sölden: Back to their roots
Sara and Anna grew up at the Hotel Bergland in Sölden and have been an active part of the family business from a young age. For them, it was enriching to grow up in the hotel in the middle of the Ötztal, surrounded by guests. Following their education, they’ve now gone back to their roots.
Modern traditional interpretation with materials from the region
Sara is studying tourism and leisure in Innsbruck and is currently in the middle of her course. Learning, learning, learning is the order of the day. Her sister Anna graduated from tourism college last year and before she returns to the family hotel kitchen this summer, she’s currently expertly mixing drinks in an ice bar. But the fact that both of them will end up in the tourism industry wasn’t always the obvious outcome – at least not for Sara. “I actually wanted to be a ski racer. But then I enjoyed the tourism industry so much that I chose this path,” explains Sara about her career choice. Anna knew early on what she wanted to do. As a child, she helped her grandmother in the kitchen and knew there and then that that would be her future profession. The many new faces and nationalities that she encounters every day at the hotel make her work in this industry even more exciting and extremely varied.
Keeping it in the family
There are huge benefits to working with family. “My dad does this, my mum does that and Anna does something else.”
Everyone has strengths in their own area so it’s easy to distribute the work like that. Anna’s favourite area is the kitchen
where she tries out new recipes – as long as it’s not baking. Meanwhile, Sara advises guests at reception: “I enjoy getting the best for our guests. It’s really important to me to find solutions that are perfectly adapted to what they want.” Sara’s way of actively contributing to the guiding principle of the dynamic hotel is through “active relaxed enjoyment”.
So that everything else also runs in an active and relaxed way, the rest of the hotel staff look after the 86 suites, 2,200 m2 spa and of course the hotel’s own culinary offering: the Wine & Dine à la carte restaurant, the black sheep gourmet restaurant and the hotel restaurant. “Some of our employees have been with us for 30 years. They’re simply part of the family.” Sara and Anna grew up with them as if they were uncles and aunts. And just like real uncles and aunts, the long-standing employees of course know about all the mischief Sara and Anna got up to when they were younger. But secrets stay within the family, naturally.
Back to the future
Handing over the hotel to Anna and Sara is the aim for the future. With Anna’s practical mind and Sara’s analytical thinking and love of numbers, the sisters complement one another perfectly. But they don’t want to think so far ahead and prefer to enjoy the here and now and looking forward to the weekend. Anna will be jumping straight into the new outdoor pool and after a brief detour to the kitchen, she’ll meet Sara on the activity terrace for yoga and meditation. “Active relaxed enjoyment”, you could call it!
The Secret Sölden
A place where freedom, joy and magic meet. The Secret Sölden immediately captivates you with its mysterious and stylish design. A place to marvel, switch off and enjoy. From March 2022, The Secret Sölden will finally open its doors. The golden entrance with sloping wooden panels gives an idea that something new is being created behind it, something exclusive and mysterious.
Ingenioused evenings in an extraordinary ambience find a new home in the new skybar THE VUE above the rooftops of Sölden. Here, bartender art meets extravagant interior and countless stars: half of the ceiling is glazed. The spectacular skybar, the only one in the center of Sölden, invites you to magical hours under the sky roof and is also open to visitors in the evening.
On a property area of 6,000 square meters, the house convinces with a lot of spaciousness, a generous garden as well as 44 spacious rooms, including 21 new Signature Apartments. The new house breaks up existing structures and follows an open-house concept.
SÖLDEN | AUSTRIA
Magical and mysterious resort in the middle of the Söldener alps
Gästehaus Krenn
Personal retreat with contemporary comfort
Gästehaus Krenn is an exceptional destination characterised by warm hospitality, cherished traditions, its incomparable location and the offer of culinary delights. This special location has earned the Tauroa seal of quality and is proudly recognised as being ‘out of this world’. It is situated in the picturesque village of Pürgg, nestled in the beautiful Ennstal valley, opposite the mighty Grimming mountain range. The amazing view over Trautenfels Castle down to the valley and the surrounding mountains is impressive. Originality, deceleration and enjoyment - if you are looking for an ideal retreat without sacrificing the comforts of modern comfort, then you will feel at home at Gästehaus Krenn.
The boutique hotel is a haven of peace in fast-moving times, it almost seems as if time stands still here. The lavishly renovated house convinces with an exciting mix of tradition and modernity: from the original tiled stoves, stylish designer furniture to impressive works of art. The hotel offers a total of four spacious rooms and three suites. A lovingly furnished „Greißlerei“ with handpicked assortment and homemade petit dessert invites you to linger on the terrace or in the lounge of the Gästehaus.
Sportresidenz
Zillertal
Sports meets exclusive lifestyle
The Sportresidenz Zillertal has a direct access to the “Leading Golf Courses“ Golfclub Zillertal Uderns – a 65-hectare, 18 hole facility for both beginners and professionals. The course is characterized by gently inclining landscapes with fruit trees, wonderful pond sceneries, many bunkers and well-tended fairways with wavy greens.
Guests in the 33 exclusive and elegantly furnished rooms of the boutique hotel can enjoy unrestricted views over the fantastic golf course and Zillertal mountains from every single room. Rest, culinary enjoyment with finest award-winning cuisine and sportive pleasure are top of the agenda at the Sportresidenz Zillertal. The cozy lounge area in front of the restaurant offers a
view of the imposing mountains as well as the harmonious hilly landscape of the golf course and invites you to relax and enjoy in style. In the wine lounge, exquisite wine and drinks are waiting to be enjoyed.
Tired souls can relax and revitalise in the exclusive 1,000 sqm “CLOUD 7” spa area with a heated infinity pool on the roof, sun terrace, winter garden, day sauna and steam bath. Special massages and treatments for even more well-being round off the range.
“When you’ve played your fill, relax at the sundrenched rooftop pool, overlooking the golf course.”
VIENNA
| AUSTRIAHotel Das Tyrol Urban treasury in the heart of Vienna
A perfect mélange of art, culture and charming hospitality: that’s what the lovley luxury hotel of host Helena Ramsbacher embodies. She likes to describe her small boutique hotel in central Vienna as an ‘extend living room’ that conveys a homeaway-from-home atmosphere for travelling art lovers. Extremely exclusive furnishing and hand-picked details ensure an outstanding hotel experience and an extraordinary high feel-good factor. Furthermore, an extensive art collection makes the hotel’s guests feel as if they visited an art gallery and gives an interesting insight in today’s art scene.
The hotel has 30 rooms which, thanks to the use of warm colours, radiate a lot of warmth and cosiness. Apart from that, the rooms’ high-quality furnishing as well as unusual addons, such as a Nespresso maschine and bathrobes in every room, make a splash.
A stay at Das Tyrol can be rounded off perfectly by visiting the hotel’s (luxurious) private spa area, where a sauna, a hot room and a light therapy shower can be reserved for exclusive private use. Rest & relax. Wellness & art.
Senses Violett Suites Luxury and inner satisfaction
The Senses Violett Suites (adults only) nestle up at the foot of Zell am See’s local mountain - the Schmitten: nature, style and luxury combine here to pure relaxation. In the Senses Violett Suites design speaks a grounded language. Straightforward shapes allow a focus on the essential - nature and oneself. A luxury in modern times.
The materials used nurture calm; wood as the most natural element runs through the Boutique-Suites like a scarlet thread. Stone and structured concrete provide the design with an anchor, acting as a companion to the wood and yet a close ally of the natural materials. Health and contentment are interwoven at this location, a modern luxury among the everyday hurly burly.
Sporting activities will increase your heart rate and feelings of happiness, before the wellness oasis, with its sauna, massage and relaxation area, returns you to a feeling of grounded contentment.
Sometimes, only something special allows one to relax. One finds this special something in the Senses Suite Deluxe View. Not only the view is deluxe - the 55 sqm suite, as a space to relax and let go, will delight you on your holiday in Zell am See. Belgian linen lulls one to sleep, so that the impressions can manifest in one’s innermost being, and wood full of character calms the senses. A generously-sized balcony connects one to nature and invites one to linger a while.
Hotel August A former Augustinian monastery as an urban retreat
A former Augustinian monastery is transformed into an urban retreat that embraces the sacred soul of the site while captivating with modernist touches in every little detail. The hotel is located in Het Groen Kwartier (the Green Quarter) a traffic-free area on the site of a large 19th-century former military hospital that once belonged to the Belgian Army.
The neighborhood is very lively with many new stores, restaurants and small cafes. It is close to the Zurenborg neighborhood with its impressive Art Nouveau and fin-de-siècle mansions.
For the reconstruction of the property, consisting of 5 buildings, the well-known Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen could be won. He is one of the leading figures in the Antwerp design scene.
The former monastery houses 44 rooms and suites, no two rooms are alike, each has its own unique charm. If you want to stay extra comfortable we recommend the August Suite. With a personal living room, a large sleeping area and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and large bathtub, it offers every imaginable comfort. Enjoy views of the courtyard, chapel and swimming pond from your private balcony. The room is accessible via a small staircase.
The atmospheric restaurant, located in the corridor surrounding the original chapel, offers creative dishes that follow the rhythm of the seasons. The hotel’s own wellness area invites you to warm up in the sauna and hammam. Cool off with a fresh ice scrub, in the outdoor shower or in the outdoor swimming pond. August also has 4 meeting rooms, a private library and a pavilion in one of the gardens. Perfect places for a business meeting or a private party.
Hotel, restaurant, bar, wellness, shop and gardens located in the vibrant city of Antwerp.
ANTWERP | BELGIUM Hotel Julien
A townhouse gem in the vibrant city of Antwerp
The hotel’s location makes it the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful city. A haven for cosmopolitans, it is within walking distance of the main shopping streets and some of Belgium’s most famous design studios and hottest restaurants.
In the rooms, heavenly beds await with custom Egyptian percale linens and soft down pillows to lull you to sleep at night. Designer furniture and limited edition photographs by Gallery 51, highlight the unique character of each room. The softest, fluffiest towels to snuggle into after a luxurious shower or bath in a Carrara marble bath. The exclusive skin care products are from AESOP.
Enjoy a delicious cocktail before dinner at the bar, lounge with the daily papers by the open fire or enjoy a fine glass of wine on the rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the cathedral.
A hidden treasure in the historic cellars of Hotel Julien, consider The SPA your personal inner city sanctum. Take time out from the stresses of daily life and experience wellness personified. You will be pampered from head to toe from the moment you set foot in The SPA. The ancient practice of Feng Shui was employed during the design process to ensure complete harmony and inner balance.
The bright and airy function room overlooks the lushly landscaped courtyard and offers all the facilities you need for your meeting or presentation. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and full audiovisual equipment are at your disposal. Hotel Julien staff will also take care of any other needs, including catering for your event.
Meneghetti Wine Hotel and Winery
The perfect blend of luxury accommodation and lush nature
Located amidst untouched nature – in Istria, Croatia’s largest peninsula and most developed tourist region – Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery offers luxury and unique privacy, sophistication and elegance in its architecture. Wooden beams and floors, modern and antique furniture that evoke the atmosphere of the past enhanced with modern amenities, create the perfect setting for an ideal vacation. Meneghetti is a true beauty made of centuryold stone, evoking respect towards the tradition of its region.
Like any real paradise on Earth, this place is hard to find. Magic only happens off the beaten path. One of them leads to Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery. To find it, you need to explore the hidden paths, turn your journey into an adventureit is worth every effort. That way, the journey becomes the destination. Once you reach it, you will find a perfect blend of luxury accommodation including villas and residences with private pools, rooms & suites, gastronomy including 2 restaurants, 1 recommended by the Michelin guide, and lush nature including 12 hectareas of vineyards and olive groves as well as a private beach area with a beach club.
Meneghetti Spa Center is a luxury oasis that heals the soul and the body and offers relaxing massages, nurturing body treatments and anti-stress sauna. For active relaxation you can visit the fitness area, indoor pool, and two outdoor pools with sundecks. In the summer season enjoy swimming in the Adriatic Sea on the beautiful Meneghetti beach with a beach bar located close to the estate.
The resort and property are designed to be different from what owners and guests have seen on their travels around the world. Meneghetti has worked closely with its designers and hardworking local craftsmen to create a design which is both modern and traditional at the same time, which is light in space and does not burden with its presence.
“A hidden gem behind centuries-old cypress trees, vineyards and olive groves”.
Meneghetti Wine Hotel and
Winery, Bale, Kroatien: It’s mostly calmer in Croatia
When the stresses of day-to-day life get too much, holidays can be spent relaxing and soaking up the sun while enjoying some privacy. In line with their philosophy that “time and privacy are the new luxury”, the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery provides the innovative approach of the villa concept – a private hotel just for you.
Nestled in the Meneghetti resort and embedded in marvellous nature, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and vineyards, the villas and residences offer an atmosphere that is extremely intimate and private. However, they are still close enough to the hotel in order to provide the ultimate guest experience.
The looks
Mediterranean elegance, elements from the Istrian region and traditional architecture enriched with modern touches have been incorporated into the design of the two luxury villas created exclusively for couples – La Alta and La Bassa. Outstanding furnishings, the stylish layout of the villas and features such as a private walk-in bar provide the opportunity to create cocktails according to guests’ wishes – all in the comfort of their own villa. Meneghetti also offers three villas with up to three bedrooms for families.
The experience
Private doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s more varied than ever – from lying on a sunlounger all day in your own garden and taking a cool dip in the private pool to watching the sunset from Meneghetti’s private beach area. And if you don’t feel like leaving the villa in the evening, you can enjoy dinner in the comfort of your private space thanks to the butler service. If you start craving some outdoor experiences, Meneghetti’s Experience Ambassador is on hand to create unique memories of the Croatian region – options include island hopping, spending your day on a yacht in the Adriatic, hunting for truffles or visiting Rovinj, Pula or the medieval town of Motovun.
The tasty bits
A unique dining experience is the best way to round off a lovely, relaxing holiday. Spend the evening at a secluded location under the starry sky savouring a romantic dinner under centuries-old oak trees, with seasonal creations brought to you by the Meneghetti culinary team. If private dining isn’t for you, you can always book a table at the Meneghetti restaurant, where you will experience the modern interpretation of traditional Istrian cuisine – prepared using fresh, authentic and local ingredients chosen according to the season. For wine lovers, the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery offers an exclusive tasting of its flagship wine label – a vertical collection of the best vintages of the Meneghetti Red label.
Hotel Lemongarden
Colourful Hideaway with a paradise like garden
The Hotel Lemongarden is located amidst the picturesque fishing village Sutivan on the north-west coast of the island of Brac. The boutique hotel exudes unparalleled charm, not least because of its three almost 300 year-old stone buildings. It was from three protected buildings that a harmonious unit was created in the course of the renovation, where only the best materials from the island were used. Slowing down, relaxation and enjoyment is the hideaway’s motto today. 22 suites, 13 superior rooms and 4 Marina studios overall in timeless design, and the colour concept of the south invites you to feel at ease. The interplay of colours in nature plays an important role inside as well as outside: at the pool you can enjoy the fragrance of the lemon trees and the magnificent colours of the surrounding paradise garden.
Another highlight is the private Lemongarden beach, which is a 10-minute walk away. Situated in a natural bay with an area of 8,000 sqm and surrounded by pine woods, it invites guests to exclusive days on the beach. Authentic, genuine and simply Mediterranean is the kitchen in the hotel’s own restaurant, which invites you to take a break and rest with a view over the harbour.
“Life in full bloom. Residents of Lemongarden have the luxury of enjoying the vibrand private garden which is a world of its own. Majestic palm trees, lemons and lush flowers create a paradise like atmosphere.”
Maslina Resort
Mindful Luxury set in peaceful Mediterranean splendor
Maslina Resort is a modern, five-star resort on the Croatian island of Hvar, a sublime hideaway enveloped in rich history, untouched nature, culinary arts, and cultural heritage. Situated near the UNESCO-protected town of Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns on the eastern Adriatic, Maslina is also not far from the famous city of Split in Croatia. The resort is located in the breathtaking bay of Maslinica, surrounded by olive groves and terraced vineyards. It stretches over 2 hectares in the middle of a pine forest, with a view of the crystalline Adriatic Sea.
With 50 spacious rooms and suites and 3 villas – with stunning sea views, total privacy, and absolute comfort – Maslina follows the ‚Mindful Luxury‘ philosophy. This is reflected in every detail of the guest experience; the non-intrusive architecture blendsin with the island environment; they have reforested trees and protected native species, and their interior and exterior coalesce, honoring the natural world in place by celebrating the beauty in the local materials used. Maslina strongly encourages energy efficiency and procurement practices that promote local and regional suppliers. The cuisine delights the senses thanks to organic and seasonal ingredients, and all signature in-room guest amenities and natural spa cosmetics are locally designed, non-toxic, and made without any plastics.
The low-intrusive architecture floats on the landscape like scattered pavilions, decorated with a ventilated wooden facade that blends in with the island environment. The integrated interior design is inspired by the four elements of nature, which helped construct a palette driven by the cerulean Adriatic Sea, salty summer breeze, pearly white rocks, and dense green forest.
STARI GRAD | CROATIAResting amid olive groves and pine trees on Hvar Island’s serene coast, Maslina Resort is a secluded resort offering an abundance of space and privacy.
“Maslina’s approach to wellness is focused on personalisation, privacy and seclusion. A journey of reawakening.”
Best Sustainable Tourism-Destination: Stari Grad, Island of Hvar
Maslina Resort, Croatia’s very first Mindful Luxury property, is delighted that Stari Grad has been named as one of the three top Croatian destinations in the category of ‘Best Sustainable Tourism Destinations – Innovative and Smart Destinations’. The city of Stari Grad is dedicated to protecting the environment, promoting sustainability, and improving the quality of life in the local community – a philosophy that Maslina Resort has held since it opened in the summer of 2020.
With a history dating back to the pre-historic era, Stari Grad is a quiet town on Hvar Island, untouched by mass tourism. With six UNESCO World Heritage protections, the six-kilometre Stari Grad Plain being one of the best-preserved systems of Greek field architecture, and the nearby Grapcˇeva Cave having the largest number of prehistoric drawings in Europe dating back to 4000 BC, being named one of the Best Sustainable Tourism Destinations in Croatia is vital in ensuring Stari Grad’s preservation for future generations. The UNESCO-protected Stari Grad presented innovative approaches to promoting cultural wealth and how to use “green technology”, particularly in the hospitality industry, to provide an unforgettable experience for every guest.
Maslina Resort, a member of Lifestylehotels, has perfectly balanced using the natural healing properties of the Hvar environment with promoting environmental sustainability. Surrounded by olive groves and a pine forest, nature is interwoven throughout the 50 rooms & suites and three villas at Maslina Resort, and celebrating it is a priority for the Mindful Luxury property. The luxurious resort has made several innovative steps to promote sustainability. To eliminate food miles and to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint, the Michelin-Recommended restaurant sources its fish and meat from Hvar Island, mainland Croatia, and the glistening waters of the surrounding Adriatic Sea. Further strengthening the zero-kilometre approach to dining fruit, vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and spices are grown in the 7,000 square metre Organic Garden which doubles as a chic and rustic sanctuary for guests to explore.
The commitment to supporting local suppliers and producers whilst being eco-conscious also extends to the selection of award-winning wines available at Maslina Resort. Not only does sourcing wine from Croatian vineyards reduce the resort’s carbon footprint, but Croatian wine is also renowned for being one of the best in the world. Croatia has over 130 grape varieties producing up to 700 wines annually from almost 20,000 registered winemakers. Time and time again, Croatia is celebrated at wine awards, with 254 Croatian winemakers winning a medal at
the Decanter World Wine Awards 2021, including three wineries winning a platinum medal and eight winning a gold. The Wine & Culture Club at Maslina Resort is where guests can enjoy tasting delectable wines whilst learning more about the rich history of the local winemaking region from the resort’s experienced sommelier.
Maslina Resort’s Pharomatiq Spa uses the innovative garden-to-skin wellness concept, which draws upon the natural healing environment of Hvar, inspired by the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Europe’s sunniest island, Hvar, is renowned for its lavender fields, which are celebrated at the annual Lavender Festival. The soothing lavender fields, fragrant herb bushes, and rugged olive groves are a rich source of locally grown herbs and essential oils used in the extensive list of restorative and rejuvenating treatments and therapies available at the Pharomatiq Spa.
GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN
Das Graseck
Mountain hideaway in the middle of nature
Das Graseck, a former forester’s lodge, looks down over Garmisch-Partenkirchen from a sun-kissed mountainside location. The exclusive boutique hotel has 33 bedrooms and suites in modern Alpine elegance, with breathtaking views of the Upper Bavarian Alps.
Das Graseck certainly lives up to its slogan „my mountain hideaway“: It is the perfect retreat, only accessible with the hotel’s own cable car or, in exceptional cases, with the hotel shuttle. One highlight is the preventive medicine centre which adjoins the hotel. The centre provides a complete range of check-up and preventive medicine services.
Laurichhof
Dream suites for every lifestyle and interior taste
The design hotel Laurichhof is located in Pirna, at the gateway to Saxon Switzerland, just 30 minutes from Dresden and 90 minutes from Prague. The design hotel is as versatile as its guests, as inspiring as a showroom and as homely as the most beautiful home you have ever seen. In 27 different, luxuriously furnished suites, which are equipped with designer pieces ranging from the tiles, the lamps to the reading chairs, guests are taken into fascinating dream worlds. The range of styles extends from classic over romantic to modern while the different suites tell sophisticated stories. The cinematic staging of high-quality furnishings and designer furniture in the suites is intended to surprise, inspire and transport guests into functional fantasy worlds. Rooms were defined down to the smallest detail, from the tap to the socket.
The passionate hosts want their guests to be introduced to the inspiring world of interior design, where they can try out and experience the extraordinary furniture and furnishings of
renowned designers during their holidays. After their stay all pieces of furniture can be purchased and complete design concepts can be taken home.
In the wellness area grasses, ferns and moss grow from the ceiling and guests can enjoy physiotherapy sessions, massages or the sauna. The restaurant Lazy Laurich also offers plenty of pleasure and should be enjoyed to the fullest. The chef spoils guests with regional and seasonal dishes, refined with exotic nuances from distant countries.
Laurichhof is one of the 2021 winners of the German Design Award in the category “Interior Architecture”, which honors innovative products and projects, their manufacturers and designers, which are pioneering in the German and international design landscape. “The Laurichhof operators’ idea is as inspiring as it is consistent and coherently implemented in their hotel down to the last detail”, writes the jury in its statement.
TIMMENDORFER STRAND | GERMANY
SAND
Barefoot beachlife under northern lights
Along the seven kilometres long sandy beach of Timmendorfer Strand in Lübeck Bay you can find the Baltic Sea lifestyle hotel, SAND. The boutiqe hotel is only 50 m from the beach with numerous beach bars and the Sea Life Centre situated in the direct vicinity.
The philosophy “Sand Aspires Natural Design” is reflected in the natural products that have been used in every area of the hotel from the interior to the kitchen. Natural materials and accessories made of items that have been washed up on the beach, in combination with clear colours and fine design, create a unique atmosphere for moments of relaxation.
The furnishings in the 72 rooms and 3 suites are made of recycled teak and the bedding of pure natural materials, offering sophisticated living in a relaxed atmosphere.
Perfect relaxation can also be found in the SAND feel well-area on the hotel’s rooftop: an outdoor sauna, ergonomic sun loungers and an outdoor sleeping beach chair offer best preconditions to enjoy some calm hours.
The SAND bistro offers fresh and regional delicacies and the environmentally-friendly use of geothermal energy to cool and heat the floors in the rooms with heat pumps. This natural atmosphere makes it easy for guests to relax and enjoy their holiday to the fullest.
“True awareness, responsible as well as sustainable action can be recognized from the interior to the kitchen”.
SeeHuus Modern maritime lifestyle by the sea.
The SeeHuus in Timmendorfer Strand/ Niendorf offers highquality furnishings and a gorgeous location by the sea. Here, lifestyle meets warmth; wood, light sand tones and fresh ocean colours give the SeeHuus its individual modern maritime flair. Guests are offered a spacious lobby, a restaurant with a large outdoor terrace overlooking the sea, a conference room and an underground car park.
All 67 rooms and 7 suites are equipped with balconies – sea view is optional – as well as comfortable seating and a rain shower. The hotel’s wellness area offers massages and beauty treatments and is equipped with a pool, gym, steam bath, Finnish sauna, sanarium and a relaxation room. The many golf courses nearby provide an alternative to wellness and relaxation. A day of sightseeing in the nearby Hanseatic City of Lübeck can embrace the luxury of browsing the shops of individual character.
TIMMENDORFER STRAND | GERMANY
Dexamenes Seaside Hotel
Rough
luxe experience in converted concrete wine tanks
Dexamenes Seaside Hotel is located on one of the most unspoilt coastlines of the Western Peloponnese, on Kourouta Beach. The former winery, located directly on the sea front, consists of wine tanks, which have been minimally restored to retain their original industrial appearance, and are laid out in two parallel rows of concrete blocks with an extension in steel frame construction. The renowned Athens architecture firm k-studio was commissioned to redesign the former wine factory. From the outset it was clear that the strong history and raw beauty of the existing buildings should not only be preserved, but be showcased in a design that would breathe new life into their walls. The new design compliments their brutality with elegant interventions and transform their austere functionality into a place of calm, comfort and relaxation. A complimentary palette of concrete, steel, timber and engineered glass ensures that new construction elements tread lightly, leaving the existing buildings relatively untouched and retaining their strong presence.
34 industrial chic suites in converted former wine tanks dating back to the 1920s are available for design-loving guests to enjoy an exceptional stay from April to October. Many of them have a wide covered terrace overlooking the Ionian Sea. The patina of exposed interior concrete walls contrasts with engineered glass partitions and polished terrazzo floors while elements of timber add dashes of warmth in a nod to the area’s nautical history. Dexamenes is an architectural slice of Greek trading history on the mainland’s western Peloponnese coast.
In addition to its architectural roots, the luxury resort also focuses on regional culture and local experiences. Considering that the Peloponnese peninsula has more vineyards and grape varieties than any other region in Greece, it is not surprising that local specialities and viticulture play an essential role at Dexamenes Seaside Hotel. The kitchen prepares a variety of choices from breakfast to dinner that vary from degustation menus to hyperlocal meals with traditional references, putting in high priority the dietary preferences of each guest. Guest can indulge in Greek cuisine at the taverna or enjoy a drink at the beachfront bar-lounge. The boutique “Bakaliko” with local products and delicacies also embodies the regional culture of Greece.
Peace and relaxation can be found in an ex wine Silo Tank converted into a contemporary sanctuary where therapies such as yoga, sound healing and massage treatments take place.
“Dexamenes focuses on hospitality as an experience through art, wine, nature and conscious wellbeing”.
Dexamenes Seaside Hotel, Western Peloponnes, Greece: Unpretentious, conscious luxury
Dexamenes Seaside Hotel - a wine factory turned into a stunning seaside hotel that truly cares about the guest experience. Owner Nikos Karaflos felt the powerful energy of the place and knew „that that a hotel would have to be the next stop in the history of this place.“
wineries and distilleries. A perfect example of the architectural methods employed at the time, the winery that houses Dexamenes was built on the water so that the wine could be pumped directly onto ships.
The winery belonged to the „Autonomous Currants Organization“, an organization that was founded in order to face the currant crisis that broke out in Greece by the beginning of the 20th Century. In 1997 this organization quit its operation and so the winery got abandoned. The property was later sold to the Karaflos family.
„Being a native, I knew the place and its history since I was a student. In fact, when I was a student, in the context of a piece we had to do for history class I researched the topic and even met with people who had worked at this winery“, remembers Nikos Karaflos the owner of Dexamens Seaside Hotel. „In that way, I collected information about how the winery operated and how it contributed to the economy and social development of the broader region.“
He was sure that a hotel would have to be the next stop in the history of the place. And he was so right about his gut feeling. The vision of Dexamenes is that it will work as an open platform for contemporary art, wine, cultural activity as well as a platform for giving back to the local community: All employees are local, only the freshest ingredients form local farmers are used and we highlight the local culture incorporating it in the experience of our guests.
And he is quite proud of what he and his team have been able to achieve. „I am really proud of the concept of sustainability that has been a strong motivating factor that has followed this piece of land from the beginning: From the design approach (maintaining the existing buildings, upcycling materials, etc), to the daily operation that is as paperless as possible, with minimum impact on the environment and it focuses on the really valuable aspects of the guest’s experience like the reconnection with nature through unpretentious, conscious luxury.” —
Let yourself be sucked into the intriguing story of how Dexamenes Seaside Hotel - a conscious luxury resort located in the Western Peloponnese that once was a wine factory - became a highlight of hospitality.
Let’s go back in time
Come on, stroll along with me: After achieving independence from Ottoman rule in 1830, Greece made currants its main export. However, following a drop in demand for the fruit in the late 1800s, the country began to explore possible new uses for its unsold currants. This gave rise to the construction of the first
The history and the vibes of the site were so strong that instinctively the owner Nikos Karaflos felt that the buildings should be preserved, this part of modern Greek history should be respected and highlighted.
„I started analyzing the layouts of the Wine tanks and I decided that these spaces would be perfect for hotel rooms. I felt that the energy exuded by these buildings was extremely powerful. I imagined how it would feel to sleep in the tanks and wake up to see the sea first thing in the morning.“ says Nikos Karaflos
“The concept of preservation can be found in every little detail to discover at the site.”
– Nikos Karaflos –
SIFNOS |
In the boutique hotel Verina Astra you have the feeling of becoming one with the Aegean Sea and its endless expanses. The hotel is located on a hill in Poulati, directly above the Panagia tis Poulatis Church, viewing the picturesque village of Kastro. Thanks to breathtaking panoramic views and enchanting nights on the island, the stars over Sifnos are within reach from the Verina “Astra” - which means “stars” in Greek. The total of 16 rooms and suites are named after constellations and are set amid romantic gardens. The private terraces and infinity pool offer stunning views of the sea, which merges with the horizon to form a seemingly endless blue.
The hotel’s design is minimalistic and understated in a Cycladic style. An exceptional and unique combination of traditional architecture and modern design elements that blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Organic materials such as natural stone, ceramics and flowing linen fabrics create a calm and cozy atmosphere.
Seasonality and regionality are top priorities at Verina Astra. The Mediterranean cuisine relies primarily on fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding Sifnos area and from their own organic cultivation. The cuisine combines the local culinary heritage and traditional dishes with today’s modern approaches. Sophisticated combinations of food from the sea and land make the stay on the Greek Cyclades Island unique.
Verina Astra
Where the stars are within reach
“Sprawling on the side of a steep hill with nothing between you and the endless Aegean blue, Verina Astra leaves you speechless and transcendent.”
Let’s talk about Sifnos food…
Food is a distinct chapter in Sifnos. The island has a great gastronomic tradition; you can taste it in every single bite. There’s no wonder why Nikolaos Tselementes, the Greek cook that changed the course of Greek gastronomy, was born here. While Greece is well-known for its cuisine and most of the travellers are interested in tasting traditional dishes, the food in Sifnos has something unique that differentiates it; maybe it’s the way that humble ingredients transform into an explosion of taste.
fresh ingredients of unprecedented taste. Especially the manoura cheese is one of the best things you can try in Sifnos.
If you are planning to visit Sifnos, you should certainly taste “revithada” and “mastelo”, the two most famous main dishes. Also, look for traditional “melopita”, “loli” and almond macarons.
Revithada & Mastelo
“Revithada” is a chickpea soup with onion, garlic and bay leaves, slowly-cooked in a wood oven for 6 hours. Don’t be mistaken from the humble ingredients, its taste will simply blow your mind! The secret lies in the slow cooking and in the utensil used for baking called “skepastaria”. “Revithada” has always been part of the Sunday meal, but nowadays you can find it in almost every restaurant in Sifnos. “Mastelo”, on the other hand, is a festive dish, usually made for the Easter Sunday lunch. It is also slowly-cooked within a utensil called “mastelo” and contains lamb, wine and dill. After 6 hours in the oven, the meat becomes very tender, while the dill and the wine add a very delicate flavour.
Melopita, Loli & Macarons
sesame seeds. The main ingredients are the same, yet every housewife makes this cake in her own way, that’s where this weird name comes from. Finally, there is no chance you visit Sifnos and don’t try “amigdalota”, the greek macarons. They are a very popular dessert, especially in all Greek islands; actually, each island has its own variation. In Sifnos, there are four different variations of “amigdalota”, all of them made with almonds, sugar and citrus zest. This dessert is traditionally offered to guests during weddings and christenings.
The majority of traditional dishes are made of simple ingredients (usually fresh seasonal vegetables) and are slowly cooked in a wood oven. Vegetables and legumes are the base of Sifnos food, but there are dishes with fresh fish and meat as well. Of course, the long tradition of Sifnos in pottery has played a significant role in its cuisine, as many ceramic utensils have been used and continue to be used in cooking, undoubtedly positively affecting the final taste of the food. Moreover, in Sifnos travellers and foodies can find cheese, charcuterie and other
Generally, the traditional Greek desserts are made with ingredients that can be found in abundance, like honey, milk and eggs. The same happens with Sifnos desserts. “Melopita” is a pie without pastry, made of honey and a fresh cheese with delicate flavour called “anthotiro”. Along with other ingredients, honey and “anhtotiro” create a mixture that is baked in the oven. The taste is absolutely incredible, but at the same time you won’t believe how light this dessert is!
In Greek, “loli” means “crazy”; in Sifnos, if you ask for “loli”, you will get a pumpkin cake with raisins, honey, orange and
How could we complete an article on Sifnos food without mentioning the most special local product? “Manoura gilomeni” is an aged cheese made of goat and mutton milk, that is preserved into red wine sediment. Its appearance usually makes people doubt its taste; imagine a small round piece of cheese with a red and black exterior. However, without a question, it is one of the most luscious cheese you will ever try. Thanks to its acerbic and spicy taste, “manoura” is best accompanied with dried fruit and aged wines, like porto and vinsanto. Can you think of a better gastronomic combination for a summer night by the sea?
Verina Terra Understated luxury meets Cycladic
chic
Verina Terra is located in Platys Gialos in the middle of an olive garden, just a few steps away from one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Sifnos.
Discover a wonderful mix of “local & hip” and tranquility and Greek flair: the young team and the sandy beach right in front of the door, a good selection of restaurants, taverns, cafes and beach bars and high quality food and entertainment. Local inspired architecture, combined with luxury, design and the highest quality standards, create the ultimate vacation ambience. Light colors, simple design with many natural materials and a very pleasant room layout convey understated, contemporary elegance. Verina Terra is a small hideaway: 11 aesthetic rooms and apartments in natural earth colors, combined with white and details in marble.
The pool with the bar is the ideal place to live moments of relaxation and light-heartedness, enjoying the best summer cocktails. Breakfast and daily snacks are largely sourced from the hotel’s own garden - and are even served poolside.
Earth and blue tones blend with whites, while the marble details and built-in furniture create a sense of indulgence.
Verina Terra is a wonderful place from which to enjoy Platys Gialos, the largest and most cosmopolitan beach of the island.
SUMBA | INDONESIA
Nihi Sumba Modern design meets wild nature
Nihi Sumba is located 50 min away via air from Bali Denpasar airport, in Sumba Island, Indonesia. A pristine and less crowded island. The resort is an example of a sustainable operation in harmony with the environment and the Sumbanese people. At Nihi Sumba the wild nature traditional culture meets unique luxury and becomes an unseen place of freedom, adventure and relaxation.
Nihi Sumba is a haven for the adventurer, for the wanderer. Every detail in the rooms – crisp white bed linens on the signature canopy beds, handmade chocolate in the mini bar, sweeping panoramic views of the Indian ocean – is designed to make you feel both at home yet completely transported. The various unique open air restaurants make for the perfect dining experience. From weddings to birthdays to romantic dinners on the beach, we make it all possible.
The Spa Safari™ Nihioka is a one of a kind experience not to be missed. It provides having experienced both adventure and serenity in equal measure. After a trek through hills and rice fields and a traditional Sumbanese village you will be refreshed and enjoying a spa session at the private cliffside Bale. Guests are driven in open-air vehicles back to the resort as the sun sets, having experienced both adventure and serenity in equal measure.
Depending on your appetite, you can try the flavors that set our corner of the world apart, or fall back on familiar cuisines. The kitchen is vast and the menus reflect the many traditions – old and new, east and west – that make up the diversity of Indonesia. They offer cooking and mixology classes for those who want to take a taste of Sumba home with them or you could visit the Chris and Charly Chocolate Factory and make your very own creation.
Sumba Foundation –Preserves its history
A rare and fascinating story that began when Sumba’s ancestors, the “Marapu,” landed on the remote beach centuries ago.
The Beginning
The Sumba Foundation had an unlikely beginning. The founders, Claude and Petra Graves, first developed a hotel resort, called Nihiwatu. In the early years of the development of Nihiwatu (1988 to 1994), Claude and Petra Graves lived much the same as the villagers around them did. They didn’t have running water, electricity, or clinics to go to if they were sick. They each contracted malaria dozens of times, experiencing firsthand the debilitating disease.
Claude and Petra committed to finding solutions to these core issues their neighbors were struggling with: no access to water, poor health, widespread malaria, malnutrition, no health facilities within a day’s walk, and minimal education. The vehicle they would use to fulfill the needs of the community was Nihiwatu. Claude and Petra started by getting their guests involved in helping them help the community around the resort.
In 2001 they met Sean Downs, who was a guest at Nihiwatu. He was at a stage in his life where he was looking for something more meaningful, and he found it in Sumba. After reading Claude’s 20-year Sumba Foundation business plan, which outlined the many projects, how and when they would be initiated and their cost, Sean offered his help.
Soon after, the Sumba Foundation was established as a private, non-profit, non-governmental organization. The goal of the foundation: To help ease the burdens of poverty the Sumbanese communities were living under.
Sumba Foundation Philosophy
Despite all that the Sumba Foundation is small, it is a very effective organization that is fully committed to helping the people of Sumba while preserving and respecting the cultural traditions of the people. The aid plan is based on 30 years of first-hand knowledge of the island and its people.
During these years, the organization has closely observed the way of life of the Sumbanese and talked with them about their most pressing needs and desires. Information was gathered from anthropologists, foreign volunteers, development workers and the government to determine the way forward.
This philosophy of aid is to help people help themselves; they do not believe in constantly handing out handouts or spending large sums of money to solve problems. The Sumba Foundation knows that small projects that are well managed and cost effective bring the best results.
The team at this foundation believes that each and every one of them has a responsibility to make better use of their position and resources to help people living in poverty realize their needs and their vision of a better world. This is not just about sharing any resources with others in need, but perhaps more importantly, getting involved in the world around us with the goal of gaining a new perspective.
The work of the Sumba Foundation is based on the recognition that the most effective actions must come from the context of one’s own life and heart. As members of the human family, everyone is responsible and all are accountable. The work of the Sumba Foundation is consistent with many of the Millennium Development Goals established by the United Nations.
Partnerships
With the hotel guests’ involvement, miracles started to happen. Their support was and still is instrumental to the success of the Sumba Foundation.
Guest donations went directly to funding specific projects, and the donors often became personally involved in their projects. Knowing they were helping added value to their stay at Nihiwatu.
Nihiwatu’s role, in the joint mission to alleviate poverty in the region, was to be the economic engine of the Island. Hundreds of jobs were created in and outside of the resort. Without that employment there would have been no hope of lifting the community out of the harsh conditions they were living under.
The Sumba Foundation and Nihiwatu model, that of a non-profit working side by side with a for-profit business, each with its own role to play in poverty reduction, was recognized in 2007 when the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) awarded Nihiwatu the Tourism for Tomorrow Award, the “Oscars” of all travel awards. And again in 2008, this tourism model was the winner of the PATA Gold Award.
“We are fully committed to helping the people of Sumba prosper while preserving and respecting the cultural traditions of its people.”
The cooperation with Nihi Sumba Resort
The Sumba Foundation and the recently renamed Nihi Sumba Island resort are two separate entities working side by side to improve the lives of the people of Sumba.
Since its opening in 2001, the Nihiwatu, renamed Nihi Sumba Island, has been the most important economic factor on Sumba. Over the years, thousands of jobs have been created, in addition to millions of dollars spent on locally sourced products. This has transformed the communities, which are now more prosperous than ever before.
Nihi Sumba Island and its owner Chris Burch have played a key role in the success of the Sumba Foundation. Since 2014, Mr. Burch has been the largest single donor to the Sumba Foundation, and Nihi Sumba Island’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program has been working with the Foundation on projects close to their hearts that focus on helping local children.
Locanda al Colle
Retreat and perfect backdrop for modern art
The boutique hotel Locanda al Colle is in the northern coastal part of Tuscany, on a sunny hill just outside of Camaiore. After an extensive renovation, the building, which was once a farmhouse, has blossomed into a sophisticated and modern hotel where the air is as imbued with art as it is with the scent of the gardens. The Locanda is able to surprise and move you in every corner of each room with interesting works of art in a variety of expressive forms. The owner’s private collection has grown over the years, and guests are able to share in the pleasure of the artwork. Sculptures, created by contemporary artists who find that the property is the ideal setting for their works, are scattered around the guesthouse.
There are a total of 12 stylistically confident and tasteful rooms on three floors. Elaborate details, selected individual pieces and vintage design classics give the nine double rooms and three suites their distinctive character.
Due to the boutique hotel’s hillside location, situated between olive trees, lavender, rosemary and sage, visitors enjoy a breathtaking view of the Tuscan coast and landscape from the panorama terrace.
Quiet and stylish places of retreat are the hotel’s own heated saltwater pool, surrounded by olives and fragrant herbal plants, as well as the private pavilion in the nearby beach club, just a ten-minute drive away from the hotel. When entering the Locanda al Colle, you can already sense a relaxed environment, which makes it a one-of-a-kind location for hospitality, harmony and warmth.
“Located amidst the unspoiled beauty of the Tuscan cultural landscape.”
“A renovated old farm has been transformed into an inn that, with its charm and elegance, offers the perfect backdrop for charming, surprising and enchanting contemporary art.”
Locanda al Colle, Camaiore: Tuscan chef Gian Luca and his personal style of cooking
High up on a hill, overlooking Camaiore in the province of Versalia, you will find Locanda al Colle – an ancient farmhouse that has been restored into a contemporary guest house. Not far from the sea, surrounded by the Apuanian Alps and close to surrounding cities, the country home offers activities for everyone. In the evening, once the guests return from their adventures, they are greeted by chef Gian Luca’s exceptional dishes. We asked how he comes up with new dishes every day, what ingredients he likes to use and what he loves most about being a chef!
How do you devise a new menu every day?
The process of creating the menu mostly depends on what’s available at the market. We propose a small number of options that change every day. I usually buy the ingredients first and then write the menu based on what I’ve bought fresh no more than two days in advance. We are only a small hotel and we want to serve fresh food. I prefer to buy less and more often, as nowadays it’s important to avoid unnecessary waste. With this in mind, we never repeat the same course or a similar preparation two days in a row. Every day we try to serve some fish or seafood, some meat and a vegetarian course, so that guests staying with us every evening during a week can enjoy several different dishes. It’s also important to consider guests’ dietary needs; if I know in advance, I can decide on a menu that will be suitable for someone with food allergies, intolerances or other special dietary requirements.
What ingredients do you use?
Is regionality or local produce a big factor for you?
We don’t buy anything that is already prepared, for example we bake bread and pastries in house, we make our pasta and ravioli and only use our own homemade fresh tomato sauce. It’s a lot of work but being a small hotel, it helps us to maintain a high standard.
started with, and that’s always fascinated me. Doing it at Locanda al Colle is an even greater pleasure, as I have direct contact with the guests and that’s an amazing feeling. People passing by going to the pool or having a coffee can watch me roll out the croissant dough and have a chat. I have learnt a lot. I have the opportunity to talk with people from all over the world, and there’s always an interesting story to hear, or sometimes it’s just a friendly greeting. It’s a human touch that isn’t really possible in a restaurant kitchen.
What do you like about the cooking classes and what can participants expect?
It’s a great pleasure to serve food that is completely homemade, but of course buying local food also plays an important role in our kitchen. The vegetable market nearby provides most of the vegetables and fruit we use. The nearby city of Viareggio is by the sea and it’s famous for fishing, so anchovies and other local fishes are always present on our menu. The corn we use is also milled in town.
Even the charcuterie is prepared by our local butcher, who also selects the meat I use. Obviously, not everything is sourced locally but the majority of the products I use are from Tuscany.
What do you like most about being a chef?
There’s a kind of alchemy to the cooking process. You have some ingredients and you combine them together to create something totally different to what you
They can expect fun. The cooking class must be an experience, a moment where I can share some tips, teach something new while people get stuck in, but it has to be relaxing, too. I like to tell my students stories about what they’re cooking and share some jokes. They have to feel like they’re at home preparing dinner with the family, and of course at the end of the class we always have a toast. What I like most about the cooking classes is this human touch, this exchange. They learn something about my cooking, and I have the opportunity to learn something from them. It has changed me in so many ways; it has opened my mind and it’s something I really treasure.
ISOLA DI CAPO RIZZUTO | ITALY Praia Art Resort
Italy lovers
The Secret Destination in Calabria: This is probably the best description for the Praia Art Resort. The luxurious resort is located on the border with the protected marine area of Isola Capo Rizzuto, nestled in the uniquely beautiful landscape of Calabria. Surrounded by Mediterranean flora and the scent of myrtle bushes and mastic trees, guests are welcomed here with a dazzling panoramic view over the Ionian Sea.
In 31 authentic rooms, all just few metres from the beach and with their own terrace, the focus is on the natural, with a hint of luxury. Furnished with warm materials such as wood and terracotta, and with great attention to detail, feel-good moments are guaranteed. Pure relaxation awaits guests in the pool area, surrounded by pine trees.
The in-house restaurant Pietramare Natural Food has been awarded with a Michelin-star and invites its guests to try culinary temptations in a class of their own, created from the best ingredients throughout the region. It is an authentic culinary journey that the gourmet restaurant invites its guests to embark on, profound and intense.
Well kept secret for bohemians and
LIMONE SUL GARDA | ITALY
Eala My Lakeside Dream
Exclusive adult-friendly luxury hotel on Lake Garda
Embedded between the glittering Lake Garda and the imposing mountains not far from Limone sul Garda lies the 5-star Design Hotel Eala My Lakeside Dream. The spectacular building is nestled against the rock, the contemporary architecture blends in with the surrounding landscape and is characterised by the use of local forms, colours and architectural traditions. An evergreen garden full of palm trees and cypresses and a private beach make the hotel a place of peace and serenity. The elegant swan, Eala in Celtic, served as a source of inspiration for the hosts in designing the hotel.
Eala is designed for guests over 16 years old, who will find an oasis of peace and tranquility, allowing them to live a unique experience of relaxation on Lake Garda.
The exclusive hotel has a total of 55 junior suites and 12 suites, all with lake view and terrace. The interior design is characterised by elegant shapes, high-quality materials, harmonious colours and well thought-out details. The rooms are flooded with light and all offer a fantastic view of Lake Garda. The suites, which are particularly well equipped, shine in pure white, blue, grey and silver and, depending on the size, are equipped with airpools and a panorama sauna.
In the Eala Luxury Spa you can pamper yourself on 1,500 sqm. Several saunas, a steam bath, two indoor pools and an outdoor infinity pool leave nothing to be desired. In this wellness oasis it is easy to bring body, mind and soul back to radiance.
Star chef Alfio Ghezzi is responsible for the culinary concept at Eala. In the restaurant “Fine Dining Senso” the dining room, which seems to hover above Lake Garda, alone is quite spectacular. The menu offers typical Italian dishes at a high level. In selecting the ingredients the restaurant works together with small local farms that are committed to sustainability. The “Alfio Ghezzi Bistrot”, directly on the lake’s shore completes the culinary choice.
In the south of Italy in the Sassi of Matera, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita was constructed as a cultural project of restoration of ancient caves. With the project, the Sextantio Group wants to honor the historical heritage. The buildings and caves now serve as spacious, romantic boutique rooms and suites and impress with authentic romance. The suites and common room in the Cripta della Civita, an ancient rock church, offer breathtaking views of the Gravina stream against the backdrop of Murgia Park.
Culinary wishes remain unfulfilled at Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. The day starts with a hearty breakfast on the terrace overlooking the dramatic landscape. The famous bread of Matera, freshly baked focaccia, homemade sweets, fresh seasonal fruit, mozzarella, ricotta, natural yogurt and delicious jams are supplied by the organic farmer in the area.
At the exclusive dinner, by candlelight, flickering fireplace and classical music, local wines and traditional dishes of Matera are served in the rock church. Under the guidance of a talented cook from Matera, you can learn the ancient art of making homemade pasta according to authentic recipes. The deconsecrated 13th century church can also be booked for a private dinner for 2 - a suggestive and distinctly romantic experience in a mystical setting.
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Particular atmosphere evoking the cultural & human history of the Sassi of Matera
Le Grotte della Civita is placed in the oldest part of the Sassi, the Civita, facing the spectacular Murgia park and its rock-hewn churches.
MERANO | ITALY
Steinach Townhouse
Urban retreat in the heart of Merano
The Steinach Townhouse Meran is located right in the heart of the old town of Merano, right behind the Dome of Merano where the narrow streets lead to the medieval gate to the Passeier Valley. The atmosphere of the quarter, one of the oldest parts of Merano, is calm and low-key. You will seek out this place of tranquility where you get to recalibrate your inner balance while indulging in the luxury life offers. The 800-year-old shopping promenade “Laubengasse” with numerous sights, boutiques, bars and restaurants is just 150 m away.
The 8 spacious and welcoming Suites, designed by Roger Botti with great attention to detail, make you feel at home and to enjoy absolute privacy in your own cozy living room. Every corner reflects the soul of the city of Merano - from the original furniture to the artworks. Many elements of the Steinach Townhouse come from local artists and manufacturers. The Suites are furnished with king size beds which are equipped with extra-comfortable allergen-free mattresses with toppers, duvets and set of different pillows. Some of them are also equipped with a small tea-kitchenette.
The Steinach Townhouse is an urban retreat for every season and ideal to explore the city and its surroundings offering great outdoor activities and a wide variety of culinary delights.
“A hidden gem with South Tyrolean history and a modern Milanese design affinity.”
Steinach Townhouse Meran: A never ending love story
Merano: for many, it’s love at first sight. That’s exactly how it was for Milan native and designer Roger Botti who, many years ago, fell in love with what was then a run down Merano townhouse. What became of it? It was transformed into a romantic hideaway in the heart of the old town. We present five townhouse facts that are sure to set guests’ hearts aflutter.
The personal touch is the new chic
The Steinach Townhouse is less of a hotel, and much more of a very lovingly and personally furnished private home, where every picture, every piece of furniture and every decorative object has a story to tell. Designer pieces have been skilfully combined with the latest in modern comfort by the owners. As Roger Botti reveals, it “brought great joy to renovate and furnish the old house”.
Suites for my sweets
As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” Great attention has been paid to the eight suites at the Steinach Townhouse. Measuring between 55 and 65 square metres, the individually designed suites offer ample space, they all have the perfect indoor climate whether it’s summer or winter, and of course the double beds are extremely comfortable. Soft duvets and a range of pillows ensure the sweetest of dreams.
The way to a man’s heart is through the stomach
Breakfast isn’t just a meal. On the menu at the Steinach Townhouse are culinary delights like pancakes, porridge with nuts and fresh fruit, smoked fish with horseradish and chutney, freshly pressed
juices and sausages from South Tyrol. Great emphasis is placed on the origin of the individual products – they have to be regional and seasonal. Everything is served by the international Townhouse team in the hotel’s bistro, or in your suite on request.
Location is (nearly) everything
Have you been to Merano? No? Then what are you waiting for?! The Steinach Townhouse is located in the oldest part of Merano, away from the hustle and bustle but only a stone’s throw from the lively Laubengasse and the beautiful promenade along the Passer. The Steinach neighbourhood around the Townhouse is popular mainly with artists, and the paths leading towards it draw you up the hill for extended strolls with spectacular views.
True love in all seasons
The Steinach Townhouse is the perfect holiday destination in spring, summer, autumn and winter! Open all year round for its guests, you can keep discovering Merano and the surrounding area anew at any time of year. Spring and early summer are ideal for long mountain or bike tours, golf and shopping. At the peak of summer, the many lakes, the high mountain areas and the warm city nights are what attract visitors. In vibrant autumn, you can enjoy Merano’s natural surroundings in all their colourful glory, and in winter you can go snowshoe hiking, skiing, ski touring or cross-country skiing, and experience everything that your winter heart desires. After all of that exertion, the Therme Meran thermal baths, a trusted partner of the Steinach Townhouse, is then the perfect place to unwind.
MONTEFOLLONICO
| ITALY Follonico
Unique country house offering an authentic and relaxed Tuscan experience
In the heart of the dreamy landscape of Tuscany, surrounded by vineyards in the province of Siena and where time seems to have stood perfectly still for decades, you will find the boutique hotel Follonico in the little town of Montefollonico. The hosts, Suzanne and Fabio, have created a cosy hideaway from an ancient farmhouse, following a long, laborious but passionate renovation of the property.
Six beautiful restored suites have been created with utmost respect fort he history and environment surrounding Follonico Modern elements combined with traditional Tuscan style create a homely atmosphere. You can also enjoy pure privacy at the
Follonico: Each of the suites has its own entrance as well as direct access to the generous gardens full of fragrant flowers, olive trees and vine. Set in the most panoramic spot of the garden you can also find a beautiful salt water infinity pool with magical views towards Montepulciano and Montefollonico.
Guests are invited to escape stress and surrender themselves completely to Tuscany with its seasons. This philosophy is also experienced by the fact that guests enjoy only the best products from the region for a homegrown, organic breakfast.
“Follonico is the perfect destination for those travellers looking to experience some authentic time-out in the heart of the Tuscan countryside”.
NATZ
NEAR BRESSANONE |
ITALY
Seehof Nature Retreat Cocooning place
The Seehof Nature Retreat in the Eisack Valley in South Tyrol is located on the apple plateau of Natz, at about 900 meters, not far from the town of Bressanone and the Augustinian canon monastery of Neustift. Here nature draws an idyllic cocooning place - Seehof is best viewed as an homage to the senses, an experience that has been lovingly staged with a great deal of thought, yet with a light touch. This home away from home is an enchanted world just waiting to be brought to life with laughter and lively conversation… or with the delicious pleasure of doing nothing.
Whichever of the 40 rooms and suites you choose, one thing is the same in all of them: the unmistakable coziness that always leaves enough space for individual vacation moments.
In fact, the heart and soul of the Seehof experience is the time you’ll spend just lounging in the spacious garden or by the private natural lake, hiding away in your own little niche, or cozily cocooning yourself inside one of the elegant rooms or suites. In
the 1.200 sqm La PrimaVera Spa, the hands of Mother Nature deliver relaxation in the form of panoramic views and direct access to the lake. All you have to do is let your mind wander, whether luxuriating in the exquisitely designed relaxation rooms, floating in the infinity pool or de-stressing in the panoramic saunas. Well-being is ensured by the Finnish panoramic sauna with direct access to the private natural lake, the Roman steam bath, the bio sauna, the exquisitely designed relaxation rooms and by the heated infinity pool that leads from the inside to the outside. All you have to do is let your mind wander. Beauty reatments and revitalizing massages are as much in the focus of the Seehof Nature Retreat as the conscious natural cuisine, which meets the Italian lightness with fresh, seasonal, alpine and Mediterranean quality products.
A space where deceleration, originality, nature and comfort are in harmony with each other.
“Seehof Nature Retreat is a place dedicated to the cult of calm, where you can take the time that you need to just be”.
Paragon 700
Boutique Hotel & Spa Red palazzo in the White City of Ostuni
History paired with elegance and an eclectic antique design meets contemporary touches and global elements from Africa and India. The one of a kind hotel Paragon 700 convinces with jaw dropping interior design and exceptional service. The original Palazzo Rosso from 18th century, once the residence of the city’s mayor, are now the hallow halls of Paragon 700. Architect and Interior Designer, Pascale Lauber, tried to maintain the original details, such as the red stones, the high ceilings and frescoes. In combination with the unique selected décor and special attention to details in every corner, the Palazzo turned into a luxurious hotel.
This quintessentially Puglian property has been restored to boast 11 individually curated rooms including 7 suites with a cosmopolitan soul. Standing in stark contrast to the whitewashed buildings of Ostuni, Paragon 700’s red brick façade cocoons a lush garden, a swimming pool and a rare green space in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil and exclusive oasis.
Revel in relaxation in the 7 meters below ground spa at the Paragon 700, with a hydromassage basin, a steam bath , an emotional shower and a relaxing lounge clad in Himalayan salt walls to enhance an inclusive wellness experience.
In the truest sense of the word, local products from local farmers, respect for the seasons as well as the variety of tastes have top priority in the Restaurant 700. You can taste that. Not without reason their Apulian gourmet style cuisine is included in the Michelin Guide. A typical Italian aperitif, a glass of local wine or a signature cocktail, created by Mixologist experts, can be enjoyed at the Lounge Bar 700. During summer and hot days in the city, the Pool Bar and Restaurant provides instant leisure.
“A unique decor, down to the smallest detail, repurposed monumental lighting fixtures, South African custom-made sofas and headboards, braziers from India turned into bathtubs, closets and night-stands from antique fairs from all over the world”.
All-suite design hotel in Rimini by the sea
The first all-suite design hotel on the Rimini Riviera is right at the heart of the action, directly on Rimini’s beach promenade. Guests are welcomed into a spacious lobby that is dominated by brilliant whites and features a cosy fireplace. The bar is surrounded by mirrored walls while bright green artificial trees are scattered throughout the room. The 52 suites are up to 70 sqm large, so guests enjoy the comfort of an apartment and service of a hotel at the same time.
The hotel’s own i-FAME restaurant, where the chef Daniele Succi also likes to create futuristic dishes using regional products, promises unforgettable culinary highlights. The challenge in
doing so is the hotel’s ”zero food miles” concept: the food may only have covered a few kilometres from the producer’s to the guest at the restaurant to keep the ecological footprint as small as possible.
The i-FEEL Good spa also leaves nothing to be desired: on the top floor of the hotel it’s not just the heated infinity pool that offers a magical view over the sea but also two saunas, a Turkish bath, a Thalassotherapy pool, sensory showers, an ice room and a relaxation area with fireplace.
“Bold futuristic design, superior luxury and a movie like atmosphere.”
Zash Country Boutique Hotel Design hotel in an acient palmento on a vulcanic island
Zash is a boutique hotel where guests rediscover a time where they live in another dimension, made of slow gestures, new visions and mysterious voices: zash, splash, cucù, crag, ciuf, druum, pluf - the instinctive and hidden sounds of nature. To be surrounded by the volcano stones and scents of orange blossom, then all is quiet. It is the pleasure of life.
The aim of the design concept of the architects Antonio Iraci and Carla Maugeri was that elegant historical fragments meet the contemporary. The 17 rooms which include 6 suites, bring out the physicality of nature respecting the traces of the past. The majesty of Mount Etna and the transparency of the sea are the two strong contrasts that join together in the micro territories of this splendid side of Sicily.
This concept is carried through to the culinary experiences of the hotel. The Zash Restaurant is located where time has stopped: a special cozy intimate space. Where wine was fermenting in the old days, guests can experience the slow dimension
of tastes, space and times. The Chef Giuseppe Raciti and his team mix creativity, tradition and territory to create the one star Michelin cuisine.
Inside the Nature at Zash there is the Zash’s nature: a retreat for contemporary wellbeing. Experience the outdoor pool with Etna view or the silent lemon garden. The pool is made of Etna lava stone, strong and powerful. Bare feet touch the water and feel the wood, while the warmth of intimate spaces meets the local aromas. At the Zash’s Spa area guests can immerse themselves in the nature with a yoga class at the orange garden or have a massage, nothing is left to chance.
In this intimate and private retreat, the combination of Mediterranean and volcanic influences will make the relaxing experience unique.
“An atmosphere in balance between nature and design”.
“Historical fragments meet contemporary taste to bring out the physicality of nature respecting the traces of the past”.
SAN MARTINO IN PASSIRIA | ITALY
Apfelhotel Torgglerhof
Refreshingly different
The Apfelhotel Torgglerhof is a delightful and traditional hotel located in San Martino in Passiria valley. It is surrounded by the beautiful Alpine landscape of the region and offers its guests a peaceful and laid-back setting.
The hotel has been run by the Torggler family for several generations and provides guests from around the world with an unforgettable experience. No matter whether you want to unwind while immersed in picturesque nature or discover the culture and traditions of the location, here you’ll find everything your heart could possibly desire. The Apfelhotel Torgglerhof is an oasis of tranquillity and relaxation, where well-being resides amid tradition and innovation.
“Apfelhotel’s young new generation of owners are breaking new ground while staying true to their traditional roots.”
“In every corner of the hotel, a unique atmosphere is created by meticulous attention to detail in design.”
Sextantio Albergo Diffuso
Culturally historical project that evokes the spirit of ancient rural life
Sextantio Albergo Diffuso is a fortified medieval village in the mountains of Abruzzo in the National Park Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga. The hotel breathes life back into the historic castle village. With the help of the Museum “Genti d’Abruzzo” over 10 years has been tried to remain faithful to the ancient traditions and customs and to give the hotel as best as possible the original identity stamp of a medieval village. Travel through time, into another world and let yourself be enchanted.
The interior design of the rooms is inspired by pictures taken by the Swiss guide Paul Scheuermeier in Abruzzo in the 1920s. In order to preserve the unity of the aesthetic-affective interior design and avoid the excessive use of contemporary elements, native objects, as well as ancient and traditional local materials are used. The search for the archaic soul of these spaces has led to the preservation of the small windows, the subdued light, the uneven floors. Handmade soaps from olive oil and other products made strictly according to traditional methods are part of the thoughtful decoration of the rooms.
The restaurant “Locanda sotto gli Archi” is dominated by two large stone ceiling arches and a central fireplace. All furniture is primitive, minimal and antique dark wooden furniture. The museum dedicated to the people of Abruzzo was the inspiration for the handcrafted plates and mugs used for all meals and drinks. All food is based on what would have been available and eaten back then. Local ingredients like native, locally grown crops are prepared into traditional dishes according to the original recipes.
All food is based on what would have been available and eaten back then. We use native, locally grown crops and recreate original recipes.
Hotel Heureka
The quintessence of the Venetian way of life
Hotel Heureka is situated in the authentic heart of Venice, in the Cannaregio district, where the original Venetian life pulsates and is the ideal starting point to discover Venice and its versatility. The hotel combines the comfort of a modern boutique hotel, the charm of a private residence and the magical beauty of a 16th Century Venetian palazzo with breathtaking Venetian architecture. The hotel interiors are a fascinating mosaic of styles that give each space a highly original and unique look.
Each of the 10 rooms is characterized by a precise identity. During the restoration, the history and traditions of Venice were carefully preserved, and are now enhanced by the modern design of the selected furnishings and fabrics. The interior of the rooms is a successful mosaic of different styles, which give each room its unique character. In many places in the hotel there are paintings by Julian Kohl, which the artist painted exclusively for the hotel.
The idyllic walled garden of Hotel Heureka, sipping a perfect breakfast espresso with the gentle sound of birdsong, is the true treasure of the Palazzo. On warm days it is an oasis of coolness and tranquillity, an ideal refuge to relax. At nightfall it enchants with its charm and ambience.
The two great Piani Nobili, the music room and the bar are open to all guests for pleasant hours or a relaxed end to the day. Fresh modern twist brings these rooms to life, and an exacting attention to detail has been given throughout, to create a design and decor that reflects the atmosphere and the grandeur which Venetian nobility would have.
Shapes, styles, epochs and arts are composed like the tiles in a mosaic and they bring life to a harmonious work in which they support and reinforce each other.
Hotel Heureka, Venice, Italy: A mosaic of styles and arts
Hotel Heureka combines the comfort of a modern boutique hotel, the charm of a private residence and the magical beauty of a 16th Century Venetian palazzo. It is situated in the authentic heart of Venice, in the Cannaregio district, where the original Venetian life pulsates. For design and style lovers, and all the guest that are looking for a Home feeling, privacy and a quite place with high level service and accommodation.
The hotel interiors are a fascinating mosaic of styles that give each space a highly original and unique look. The palazzo was built in the late sixteenth century. The facade overlooks the tranquil and enchanting canal of Madonna dell’ Orto. Built during the transition between the Renaissance and Baroque periods, this frontage has an extraordinary compactness and regularity, divided between the ground floor, two main floors and an attic.
Following the dictates of Venetian architecture, the facade is arranged around a central axis with an elegant stone balustrade balcony right and left of the main entrance are two lancet windows. The interior layout of the palazzo is organised around a “portego” – a typical Venetian passage – leading into the atrium, the main lobby area, and the private garden beyond.
The owners have been true lovers of Venice for many years and have made their dream come true with the opening of the boutique hotel. This also enabled them to
fulfil their wish to create a place and space for the public where beauty and art are the motif of light. Both took a lot of time in choosing the materials and furniture to meet their ideas of a Venetian palazzo of today.
Thus, guests will find a tasteful combination of several different designers and brands, which find their place in an old traditional environment. Thanks to the careful restoration work and the exceptionally designed interior promoted by MasterPlan A of Angela Silarna Valach, one of the owners of Hotel Heureka, the architectural splendour of its past has been brought back to life, while maintaining its peculiarity of being a secret place, thanks to its discretion and its almost invisible exterior.
The interior of the Palazzo whose design and decor speaks of creative inspiration and a luxuriant secret garden will allow guest to breathe in a scent of Venice that echoes poetry and suggestion. Each of the 10 rooms, however, remains unique, a magical refuge, thanks to the choices of colours, fabrics and decorations including the magnificent paintings by Julian Khol, made exclusively for the hotel, interpreting the spirit of each room. The result is a unique atmosphere that makes Hotel Heureka a magical retreat, epitomising comfort and luxury.
“A place where beauty and art are the motif of light.”
Monaci delle Terre Nere Country retreat in the foothills of Mount Etna
Spacious outdoors are waiting for you: take your most comfortable shoes and discover the fields and landscapes of the ecocertified estate Monaci delle Terre Nere. The dreamlike residence at the slopes of Mount Etna is devoted to the concept of Slow Living - back to the roots and a true quality of life paired with fine luxury are the country boutique hotel‘s philosophy.
It took 8 years to finish the estate, however, the result was definitely worth every effort: original features have been preserved in the rooms and suites and traditional Sicilian architecture has been lovingly paired with contemporary art.
Monaci delle Terre Nere offers all in one place: an eco-sustainable resort with its own wine estate and organic farm. Self-grown products can be enjoyed in the restaurant „Locanda Nerello“,
which treats its guests with exclusive culinary sensations and reflects the Eco-Bio identity. The restaurant is the expression of the estate, where the dedication to the lands and the respect for the environment are combined with passion for food and for the territory, with the refined wines of Etna as protagonists.
The resort is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and find your inner vitality. Transform your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing and find the ideal path to a new, healthy routine.
At Monaci delle Terre Nere everything is focused on nature and respect for the environment.
“The cuisine is deeply inspired by the sicilian terroir and the hotel’s locally produced products.”
Monaci delle Terre Nere
In vino veritas – 3 questions for a sommelier
Right on the slopes of Mount Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, you’ll find the historic estate of Monaci delle Terre Nere and its own vineyards. Full of extraordinary charm and natural beauty, this spot was originally chosen by the monks of St Anne’s order in the 17th century. Terraces were built for the cultivation of vines given the area’s propensity for wine, which today is part of the Etna DOC area. We met with Marco Torrisi, Monaci’s very own sommelier, to ask him three very important questions about wine.
Can you give us some tips on how to choose good wine?
You need to consider a number of elements and find the right balance. A tip for choosing a good-quality wine is evaluating the area of origin. Ask yourself: do the grapes come from a vineyard owned by the producer?
The second secret is to give priority to wines with origin marks (e.g. IGP, IGT, DOP, DOC), and to avoid buying wines that don’t have one. Finally, the last tip concerns the price: in the absence of further elements to evaluate, to be sure you’re getting a wine of average quality, it is better to buy bottles starting from an average price upwards. This is not a strict rule, as some excellent wines can cost less than you think and vice versa, but it is a parameter to be taken into consideration.
At the end of the day, however, you must always keep in mind what you want to eat with the wine. So as not to risk ruining the meal, you need to know how to combine wine with food, or at least the basic rules. Finding the right combinations is a
real art and you cannot expect to become an expert immediately as if by magic. You have to build up your own experience. So, just like everything in life, it comes down to learning by doing.
How do wine and sustainability work hand in hand?
Environmental sustainability is the human activity that regulates its practice according to ecological assumptions in the framework of sustainable development. The renewal of resources is at the centre of the discourse surrounding sustainability and is seen as the intrinsic capacity of the world to transform itself in a cyclical manner – a capacity that must be defended in order not to modify the delicate balance on earth. The sustainability of wine is man’s ability to preserve nature so that future generations can take advantage of the same quantity of resources we have available today. At Monaci, we try to preserve nature as much as possible by using as few chemicals as possible. We aim for the quality and not the beauty of the vineyard. For us, the customer who drinks wine must drink healthily.
What was your favourite vintage of the past few years, and what do you like most about the wines produced at Monaci delle Terre Nere?
My favourite harvest has to be the one from 2014. Our elegant wines, certified organic, are distinguished by strength, finesse and elegance, respect for the land and its product – namely, the grapes. Obsessive care of the vineyard, precisely because: “Great wines are produced from great grapes,” a phrase that summarises our philosophy.
Monaci delle Terre Nere is a privileged place, the first where you can taste the wine produced from the estate’s vineyards. Several autochthonous varieties from the Etna region can be tasted at our Locanda restaurant. Nerello Mascalese and Carricante stand out, varieties of white grapes exclusively found in Etna.
The biggest mistakes to avoid?
– Don’t judge the book by its cover... or the wine by its label!
– Don’t take wine too seriously
– When choosing your wine, don’t be afraid... TAKE THE RISK!
– Don’t be fooled: picking the same variety doesn’t mean it’s the same wine
– If there is a wine that intrigues you, explore. It is never bad!
La Valise Mexico City Local upon arrival
Along the colonial street of La Roma in Mexico City are the most elegant townhouses in the Mexican capital. One of these houses is home to the exclusive boutique hotel La Valise Mexico City. This hidden gem with only 3 rooms has become a real insider tip since its opening. An expansion to 8 rooms is planned by mid-2023. However, anyone who wants to stay here should plan well in advance in any case. Curated collectibles and antiques combined with Namron’s own design create a world that enchants. In the middle of the lively metropolis and yet an oasis of tranquility.
Housed in a gorgeous townhouse located in the “historic center”, packed with colonial artifacts, galleries, and hip restaurants.
La Valise San Miguel
Boutique hospitality in the city of art and culture
After careful restoration, the classic structure of the house blends seamlessly with the local architecture and complements the beauty of the surroundings.
The heart of La Valise is the oasis in the courtyard. Here, time ceases to exist. The gently swaying lemon trees, the murmur of the water and the sun’s incoming rays make space and time melt away. A double Chichimeca staircase forms the center of the garden and frames the ancient cultural omens. The aesthetics of the architecture and the staged design elements create a serene, almost mystical athmosphere.
The rooms and suites highlight the uniqueness of Mexican craftsmanship and Aztec symbolism. Contrasted with modern design elements, an ensemble is created that combines the past and the present.
The original building, which now houses La Valise San Miguel, belonged to a friend of the Mexican-Italian artist Pedro Friedberg who gave the property a very special touch with his art. The artworks were more or less the essence of the house. This was also the reason why they were included in the overall concept during the conversion to the Hotel San Miguel and can still be seen there.
They enjoy their breakfast either in the suite, in the courtyard or another cozy niche in the hotel. Ingredients for the delicious smoothies or local pastry specialties all come from the region. La Valise doesn’t have a restaurant, but it does offer a range of appetizers, wines, and cocktails to round out your culinary stay.
Spa treatments are performed right in your suite. The experienced therapists offer a range of massages, facials and rituals for body, mind and soul.
“When the best of Mexican design history is combined with modern luxury, the result is pure, natural bliss in the artful city of San Miguel de Allende.”TULUM | MEXICO
La Valise Tulum
Crafted for the perfect barefoot luxury experience
A small beach house has been transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel. La Valise Tulum is a place that revives the local Mayan craftsmanship and puts it in a contemporary setting. With great sophistication, traditional craftsmanship and modern design are combined in a unique concept. Tulum is known for its serenity and spiritual vibe. This is exactly the feeling that comes over you when you enter the hotel. Hammocks swaying in the breeze, the scent of copal incense filling the air, the sound of the sea and the breathtaking nature immediately create a feeling of relaxation. The infinity pool is just a few steps away from the dream beach. A little bit you feel reminded of Robinson Crusoe, only hipper and more luxurious.
Each of the 22 spacious rooms is a private oasis with breathtaking views. 11 rooms facing the beachside and another eleven rooms open up to the lush jungle. The hotel’s design concept is reflected in the rooms - lots of art, local craftsmanship and every luxury imaginable. Relax at the recently opened La Valise Spa. A wide range of services awaits you. Spiritual ceremonies and yoga are particularly suitable for bringing body and mind into
harmony. The in-house therapists offer massages and various treatments not only in the wellness area of the hotel, but also practice directly on the beach. Become one with the beautiful nature.
La Valise Restaurant & Beach Bar offers authentic Mexican dishes, a finely selected wine list and local spirits. Chef Luis Aguilar is tireless in his search for the best fish, the most sustainable ingredients and the most refined flavor creations. At La Valise you can also enjoy a special menu provided by the Restaurant NÜ. But you should not miss to visit this iconic Restauraunt itself. At NÜ Tulum, in addition to the excellent food, you can expect a bohemian-style ambience typical of Tulum.
“La Valise in Tulum is nestled between the jungle and the Caribbean sea, where we dream, rejuvenate and celebrate.”
Yves Naman –Namron Hospitality
The story begins with one man’s dream to create the ultimate boutique hotel experience.
Namron was founded with the goal of perfecting the operation and development of the ultimate boutique hotel experience.
The collection of artfully designed and locally rooted boutique hotels and restaurants serves as a private sanctuary. Relaxed luxury and inspiring design create a sense of privacy. In each room, you will experience a state of total relaxation. In this atmosphere, discover not only the magic of your resort but also your inner desires.
Each individual house presents itself as a unique, artistic gem and offers the highest level of personal service.
Founder of La Valise: Yves Naman
Yves Namans tireless imagination and passion for travel inspired him to create the ultimate boutique hotel experience. With the creation of Namron Hospitality, he has turned his passion into reality. His unique hotels and restaurants are located in the most desirable locations in Mexico. With a keen sense of design, local connection and attention to detail, places have been created that are memorable and inspiring.
Environmental awareness is also a characteristic that distinguishes the entrepreneur. With the Tulum Pledge, he has launched a grassroots movement calling for environmentally friendly travel.
“We ban single-use plastic on our premises, compost our waste, recycle what we can, and source only local ingredients for our restaurant. We also offer eco-friendly cosmetics, organic insect repellent, and reef-friendly sunscreen in all of our accommodations.”
– Yves Naman says –
La Valise Tulum
A small beach house has been tranformed into an exclusive 22-room boutique hotel. La Valise Tulum is a place that revives local Mayan craftsmanship and puts it in a contemporary setting. It’s a little reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe, only hipper and more luxurious.
La Valise Mexico City
Along the colonial street of La Roma in Mexico City are the most elegant townhouses in the Mexican capital. One of these houses is home to the exclusive boutique hotel La Valise Mexico City. Curated collectibles and antiques combined with Namron’s own design create a world that enchants and has a loyal following.
La Valise San Miguel
La Valise San Miguel has been carefully restored and combines old world elegance with modern design. The classic structure blends in with the local architecture, complementing the beauty of the surroundings and housing a true oasis.
Yves Naman
Even if the unique design and the service quality are in the foreground to the outside world, the core of the corporate culture is the idea of sustainability. This is also reflected in the selection of the chosen hotel locations, where attention is always paid to biodiversity.
Hotels
Namron Hospitality designs, markets and operates boutique hotels and high-end restaurants. Both in new projects and in the remodeling of existing ones, authentic design and local reference are at the heart of the company’s work.
Encantada Tulum
Pure Caribbean and the jungle at your doorstep, that’s Encantada Tulum. With only 8 rooms and located on one of the quietest stretches of beach in Tulum, this boutique hotel is the perfect retreat.
The NEST Tulum
Nomen est Omen. Here you’ll be eye level with the canopy of palm trees that line the beach at Tulum. A retreat for stylish globetrotters.
Radhoo Tulum
Artfully staged luxury in the middle of the jungle, that’s Radhoo Tulum. 14 stunning rooms where you feel close to the heartbeat of Mayan culture. Breathe-in, Breathe-out.
ALENTEJO | PORTUGAL
Sublime Comporta Country Retreat & Spa
Rustic-chic retreat with ecological consciousness
Sublime Comporta is nestled on a stunning 17-hectar estate, surrounded by undulating umbrella pines and cork trees, sand dunes, vineyards, rice fields and 60 kilometres of pristine whitesand beaches. The boutique hotel is close to the tranquil fishing village of Comporta on the west coast of Portugal’s rustic Alentejo region, one hour south of Lisbon.
The resort includes a total of 90 rooms, suites and “Comporta Cabanas” – villas with a contemporary take on the architecture of the area. The rooms have an airy-style with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and their all-white minimalism. Warm wooden artefacts, such as Balinese doors or petrified wood sculptures, accentuate the modern feel. All rooms have a private terrace looking out at the fragrant pine forest. The biological pool of the resort is one of the largest in Europe. A wide variety of wellness treatments await guests in the Spa, fully equipped with a sauna, steam bath, heated indoor pool and a gym. Children are
welcome at Sublime Comporta. The resort offers a free kids club from June to September and a children’s swimming pool. Sublime Comporta offers 3 restaurants. “Semporta” concentrates on typical Portuguese and regional dishes. The organic outdoor-restaurant “Food Circle” allows you to dine under the starts while watching the chefs use only ancestral cooking methods with fire playing the leading role. “Tasca da Comporta” is the second outdoor-option with sophisticated traditional Portuguese “petiscos” – small sized dishes which are perfect for sharing. All restaurants take advantage of the resorts organic garden, orchard and forest garden. The restaurants are complemented by a bar that features a large deck overlooking the pool.
The hotel offers luxurious simplicity and tranquillity while at the same time showing a deep respect for nature and the cultural heritage of the region.
“The food concept at Sublime Comporta tells the story of its portugese origin”.
“The rooms, suites and villas are distributed across several buildings adding to the intimacy of the hotel”.
Sublime Comporta, Muda, Portugal: an uplifting feeling
Listen to the sea, breathe in the salty air and feel the breeze in your hair at Sublime Comporta. On a small jetty located on an estuary, feel the wood under your feet, watch the waves dancing and listen to the fisherman at work.
Comporta is a small Portuguese community on the Atlantic coast that borders the Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado nature reserve, and is home to a unique little fishing port called Carrasqueira. Over two centuries ago, locals created a traditional anchorage system consisting of multiple wooden jetties on stilts (cais palafitico) that run in zig-zag patterns across the muddy marshes. The tides are particularly strong here – at low tide, the colourful fishing boats lie on the silt and wait to be launched, while at high tide, the water level rises and the fishermen can get to work.
Reaching many metres out to sea, the jetties invite you to wander out to the end and experience the sheer contentment of being truly alone, at one with yourself and the world around you in perfect tranquility. You can also join the locals in enjoying the freshest fish and most delicious seafood you have ever tasted at one of the little restaurants alongside the beautifully painted or naturally weathered fishing huts.
Sustainability
A short distance away, nestled between the sand dunes and surrounded by pines and cork oaks, vineyards, rice fields and white sandy beaches, lies Sublime Comporta. This 17-acre complex boasts 23 rooms and suites, 22 villas, a spa, three restaurants, a gym, a yoga and pilates room, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a tennis court and a paddle court, all of which offer a friendly, welcoming atmosphere despite how spread out the facilities are. A key focus of the architecture and landscaping of the estate was sustainability, meaning the materials and techniques used create as little environmental impact as possible.
Owners of Sublime Comporta Gonçalo
Pessoa and Patrícia Trigo believe that sustainable investments of this kind represent a contribution to the region, to
Paying hommage to Carrasqueira
The new Bio Pool Suites are reminiscent of the little fishing port of Carrasqueira, with architect José Alberto Charrua using traditional materials and techniques to create a feeling of natural minimalism combined with a cosy atmosphere.
The fresh water of the biological pool is of course free of chemicals and can be accessed directly from the private terrace of the suite. The hotel’s permaculture organic garden is home to over 300 species of plants, including aromatic herbs, edible flowers and vegetables, all of which are cultivated for the exclusive use of the hotel restaurants and the Sublime Spa.
In the hotel’s orchard, you will also discover a number of traditional regional and Portuguese citrus fruits. Guests at Sublime Comporta will experience true luxury and enjoy life at a slower pace –simply sublime, just as the hotel name promises.
its future, to its history and to the local community. Heat energy is provided by solar panels, and the hotel is even self-sufficient in terms of having its own drinking water supply.
“We even built the villas around the existing trees so that we didn’t have to cut them down, the owners explain with a laugh.”
White Exclusive Suites & Villas
Meters from the Atlantic coast, White Exclusive Suites & Villas are the result of a passion that João and Catarina Reis share for creating unique, intimate places in singular landscapes. This devotion to providing an exclusive experience, where time crawls at another pace and nature controls our rhythms, is emblematic of a stay at the resort.
The stillness, calm and ocean breezes provide the tranquility that most need for a truly relaxing vacation. When João and Catarina discovered the ruins of an old summer house with magnificent views overlooking the ocean, they knew they had a magical place. At White Exclusive Suites, guest can choose from nine suites and one exclusive villa with 42 sqm comfortable space. Nearly all accommodations offer sea views and fully equipped kitchenettes.
An organic farming project is currently being developed to supply the restaurants with incredibly fresh, tasty and healthy organic, self-produced groceries at competitive prices, while promoting and developing an ecologically and socially responsible production chain that is integrated into the entire operation.
The organic farm project is based on a chain of trust and sustainability with the aim of knowing and controlling the various stages of the food production cycle, right up to the table in the hotel’s restaurants such as Cardume restaurant. Cardume is a gastronomic trip around the world using the best products from the Azores: locally caught fresh fish and pasture-raised meat, aromatic herbs, the freshest fruits and vegetables from our farm. Nothing is left to chance by Chef William Blake and his team. Every moment is planned with an intense purpose: to savor.
The hotel offers a wide range of wellness services for all preferences: Signature rituals, classic treatments, alternative treatments, hydrotherapies, yoga and personal training.
An exclusive experience, where time crawls at another pace and nature controls our rhythms
“The stillness, calm and ocean breezes provide the tranquility that most need for a truly relaxing vacation.”
LAGOS
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Vila Valverde is located in gloriously peaceful surroundings at the edge of town with a view of the bay of Praia da Luz. This former 19th century country estate has been fully restored, expanded, and, with great devotion to detail, turned into a small 5 star design and country hotel. Combining elegance and modern interiors with the historical architectural style and its wonderful location. Situated on the outskirts of Luz with a beautiful view over the Bay of Praia da Luz the stately home overlooks a 5 ha property planted with a mature tree population, orange trees, biological market gardening, its own spring, a small pond and wide panoramic lawns.
The interiors of the 15 individually decorated rooms, who’s light colours create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere, playing perfectly with the straight lines of the furniture. In some rooms, the wall between bathroom and bedroom is glasswhich, besides being highly original, creates a sense of space.
Torel Palace Lisbon
A royal place full of magic
The charming and romantic palaces will steal your heart. Be Queen or King for a day in the historic Torel Palace boutique unit. With their luscious gardens and a stunning view over the city of Lisbon guests can experience the city of Lisbon in the way of royals.
Torel Palace Lisbon is one of the latest wonders of Lisbon’s seven hills. Consisting of two mansions built in 1902 and 1904, it combines different histories in one. The main building was a private residence, while the other was the Bishop of Lisbon’s former guesthouse. In 2019, these two buildings were joined by a modern apartment building. The outer courtyards decorated with a flower garden make the colors of the buildings stand out. The overall renovation respected the characteristics of the architecture and kept the details of the old rooms, stairs, floors and gardens. Isabel Sá Nogueira, the designer of the Torel Palace in Lisbon, invited to give the interior areas of the unit a new set of clothes. The objective was to create spaces that were unforgettable, functional and comfortable and that create a unique and inimitable atmosphere. An atmosphere that could reflect the past while creating new memories for those who experience them.
This set of historic mansions needed an appropriate theme, and with the Portuguese Kings and Queens, it was quickly found.
The décor of the 39 rooms and apartments is a mix of past and present, creating an atmosphere full of charm and personality. The rooms remind of the comfort of home, but with an elegant atmosphere that together with simplicity of the details underlines traditional Portuguese style, united with modern and contemporary touches.
All rooms are designed individually. The unit wanted to create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere while mixing modern amenities with the history of Portugal. At the private gardens or from the pools, guests have a breathtaking view over the city. Honoring the royals of Portugal, the unit gave the name of the Portuguese Kings and Queens to all of the rooms. In the pink building, each room is named after Queens, the name of the Portuguese Kings were given to the rooms of the blue building and the rooms in the white building were named after houses of the monarchy.
In 2023, Torel Palace Lisbon will be extended with another stunning palace with a view tower; a heated outdoor pool; a Spa and two restaurants: Black Pavilion with a focus on Comfort food, and the fine dining experience 2Monkeys.
Quinta da Bela Vista Luxury hotel in a family mansion
Quinta da Bela Vista promises a wonderful view over Funchal. The more than 160-year old pretty family-owned manor house was turned into a luxury hotel and provides a view over the surrounding gardens, coast and the Atlantic. The hotel is not just impressive on the outside but on the inside too.
The hotel is surrounded by a lush 25,000 sqm garden full of exotic plants and filled with valuable antique furniture and artistic treasures. The 89 elegantly furnished rooms and suites are equipped with a luxurious marble bathtub and a balcony with a panoramic view of the surrounding botanical gardens, the Bay of Funchal and the alpine landscape.
Quinta da Bela Vista has two renowned restaurants and a snack bar by the pool, which offer a cozy environment to relax and enjoy a great variety of dishes and drinks. The restaurant serves local and international dishes in a cosy wood-filled atmosphere complete with fireplace and marble floors. An ideal location for travellers who appreciate tradition and are seeking a peaceful atmosphere.
Torel Avantgarde Celebrating Portuguese art, design & crafts
The award-winning hotel Torel Avantgarde is Porto´s sexiest five-star hotel. It’s a place for the traveler who seeks the extravagant and the extraordinary art of Portugal. The building’s origins date back to the 1940s when “creativity” in its broadest sense was the watchword. Art at the time was no longer seen merely as a complement but as the focus. The break with what came before and the championing of anti-traditional art forms and new frontiers of experimentalism inspired the artists of this generation and marked an era of artistic excellence. Inspired by this era, the Torel Avantgarde welcomes you with its museum-like experience in complete harmony with the comfort and detail characteristic of the Torel Boutiques. The aim behind the approach was not just to emphasize the country’s virtues, but also to challenge guests’ senses – they are invited to live, sense and experience art.
Also the design of the hotel’s interiors was inspired by the Avantgarde years. It was planned by Isabel Sá Nogueira, who was responsible for designing the common areas and some of the
rooms. Most of the rooms & suites were styled by Paula Vasconcellos and Francisca Navio from Nano Design.
All of the 60 rooms and suites of the hotel are designed individually. In addition, all of the rooms got a specific name after famous Avantgarde artists, for instance from the fields of design, literature or architecture. The design of each room reflects the personality and vision of the artists the room is named.
At Torel Avantgarde guests can find the Calla Wellness & Spa with treatment rooms for facial and body beauty and relaxation treatments, one gym fully equipped a turkish bath, sauna and two sensory showers. Tenro by Digby is the hotel’s restaurant where meat is the main protagonist at the menu. It features products from native Portuguese breeds that are prepared in a special manner. What sets Tenro apart from a steakhouse is the cuts of meat and the pieces used. Tenro by Digby is a restaurant born from the passion to celebrate the traditions of Portuguese cuisine, while adding a new twist.
Torel Palace Porto
Home for writers and poets
A five-star poets palace, a writers shelter, a travelers favorite story housed in a stunning historic mansion: The new five star hotel Torel Palace Porto. The hotel was opened in 2020 and is the exclusive address for travelers seeking an elegant, exclusive and unique experience in the heart of Porto with a historic touch and a modern interpretation. The hotel is a completely renovated townhouse from Porto. The original Palacete Campos Navarro was built in 1861 and is one of the most impressive and distinguished examples of the romantic architecture in Porto. During the renovation, the hotel tried to keep the details, features and the history of the stunning old house. The greatest highlight of the architecture is the amazing skylight called Claraboia.
The portraits on the ornate ceilings in the rooms on the first floor set the tone for the hotel’s concept: literature. This is how the hotel and its 24 individually designed rooms and suites, pay homage to famous Portuguese men and women of literature.
The Calla Wellness Suite offers guests a Menu with body and facial beauty and relaxation treatments. At the BLIND’s restaurant the culinary proposition is deeply rooted in the chef’s memories
and Portuguese ingredients with a strong international connection, an expertise that values technical excellence, seasonality and the origin of the produce.
All over the hotel, literature and books from famous authors can be found. From the common areas, at the rooms, to the reception and the restaurant. Especially old ones, can be found on side tables, in niches and most visibly on the library ceiling - an installation where the books appear like stars. In addition, every room at the Torel Palace Porto which was designed by Isabel Sá Nogueira was named after a Portugese writer or poet.
The two Royal Suites “Fernando Pessoa“ and “Eça de Queiroz“ with their rich ornamental stucco ceilings and handcrafted doors give with almost 60 m2 enough space for the traveler who likes to enjoy the privacy and beauty of his room. The modern bathrooms placed in the middle of the room with mirrors reflecting the environment add a spectacular and unusual design touch to the experience.
“Honor the most iconic Portuguese writers and poets”.
Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments A luxury stay in the heart of Porto
The award-winning Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments in the heart of Porto is dedicated to explorers who seek more than just a room key. Torel 1884 offers 12 rooms and suites at the main building. Not far at the Rua das Flores, the property offers 11 more apartments for an authentic stay in the city of Porto.
To make it the best stay in Porto possible guests can enjoy self service drinks at the honesty bar on the top floor, as well as experience the Portuguese culinary in the “Bartolomeu Bistro & Wine”. A very intimate and elegant space, where typical Portuguese specialties are served.
The boutique hotel has an interesting history, as the stunning building was built in 1884. The palace’s grandeur – with its magnificent windows, spacious rooms, high ceilings, elegant staircase and fabulous crowning skylight – demanded a superlative theme. The one chosen was that of the cultural diversity of the faraway lands. The concept is inspired by the exotic discoveries which Portugal’s mariners made along the sea and trading routes they
followed. Many of the materials and products found in these distant lands, including pepper, porcelain, coffee and silk, continue to be a part of the Portuguese lives and culture today.
The architectural project was the work of Miguel Nogueira, a Portuguese architect. The interiors were conceived by Nano Design and features the work of the artists Jorge Curval and João Pedro Rodrigues. The remit was to enhance the architectural beauty of the building, with the theme of the cultural diversity of the voyages of discovery eviden throughout. Close attention has been given to every detail, with bespoke wooden fittings, the showcasing of the traditional art of handmade tassels, and a decorative finishing which gives each room a personalized touch, while using Portuguese suppliers and artisans whenever possible.
Santa Bárbara Eco Beach Resort
Natural coastal landscape meets modern luxury
Overlooking the grand beach of Santa Barbara, Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, the Azores’ first ecologically-friendly eco beach resort was opened in 2015. It began with a passion for the natural black beaches along the picturesque northern coast of São Miguel in the Azores. The unique, almost magical, green pastures and mountain hues that contrast with the azure blue oceans are the ideal backdrop for a calming resort retreat. The inviting natural coastal landscape, the elegance of the modern luxury spaces and the commitment to a full-range of experien es epitomizes the passion for the art of hospitality, nature and, above all, the Azores.
The resort is dedicated to sustainability: The architecture and luxury amenities, the Farm-to-Table supply chain, environmental support and energy/water efficiency programs were constituted to reduce the ecological impact, maintain the natural beauty and environmental balance of the coastal ecosystem. The architectural design and the choice of materials were selected to blend harmoniously with natural surroundings. The minimal-
ist architecture was adjusted to the morphology of the land, in order to minimize its impact on the natural landscape. This was enhanced by the use of natural building materials sourced locally or nationally, such as the islands’ cryptomeria, exotic bamboos and domestic cork that built on the simple natural setting.
Construction of the Santa Bárbara resort prioritized the use of natural materials, primarily the use of local wood (cryptomeria), cork and bamboo, and infused decorative elements that callback to traditional Azorean motifs and accents. Santa Bárbara’s furniture was designed and built exclusively for the resort. Other decorations were made from repurposed materials, such as lamps which were made from oil containers of an abandoned farm, and the restaurant chairs and tables which were made from reused iron and covered with vegetable fiber, using matting crafts.
Ecohotel El Agua
A handmade retreat for holistic health
Ecohotel El Agua is set amidst a beautiful natural landscape in the peaceful historic village of Arico el Nuevo in the south of Tenerife. Based on the ideas of holistic health and healing, naturopathy and mindfulness, a wide range of therapies is offered.
The main therapies include deep fasting and regenerative autophagy with medical assistance and Cryotherapy, the specific use of cold to bring about therapeutic effects. The offer ranges from yoga and pilates to vegan nutrition, various relaxing and therapeutic massage techniques such as shiatsu, to breathing exercises and meditation. Hydrotherapy, a particularly gentle treatment option, is also used for regeneration. A stay at the Ecohotel will help you in transforming your mind and in rejuvenating your body.
The resort has been designed with a very natural and unique aesthetic line and places great emphasis on sustainability, which can be felt and seen in all areas. The opening of the first villa was in June 2022. In the 80 square metres villa with infinity pool and jacuzzi, you can retreat on 200 square metres of private terrace and garden to enjoy silence and to reconnect with yourselve. At the same time, you can choose from a wide range of holistic integrative medical therapies or explore the extraordinary surroundings.
“Each corner of the hotel was designed and handmade with its own character and feel to blend with the romantic village life of Arico el Nuevo.”
The hotel’s draw is its unique take on simple luxury. El Agua offers the ultimate experience in relaxation and rejuvenation.
Es Racó D’Artà
A destination where you can reconnect with yourself through the Mallorcan way of life
On the edge of the National Park of the Llevant Peninsula near the town of Artà in northeast Mallorca, the proprietors; Jaime Danus, a well-known constructor and Toni Esteva, a famous architect, have created a wellness hotel in a class of its own - Es Racó D’Artà. A retreat full of color and texture, unique smells and tastes, sounds of nature, elegant art and minimalist architecture.
In addition to classic Mallorcan life, Es Racó D’Artà offers a variety of workshops from culinary, agriculture, handicrafts, meditation and yoga. Alone or in a group, guests can explore the surrounding area on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Afterwards, the spa and wellness area with whirlpool and sauna offers the perfect place to unwind.
The old Mallorcan estate from the 13th century is a great project of nature, culture and sustainability. On almost 200 hectares of land, in addition to the hotel complex, there are vineyards, orchards, wheat fields and beehives for its own honey production. A place to connect with oneself and one’s surroundings and to follow new spiritual paths.
The 34 double rooms are spread throughout the grounds, some in the main building, some in casitas with private pools. Minimalist design and noble, natural materials characterize the interior and reflect the harmony with nature. Ecological and regional diversity can also be found throughout the groundsin the hotel’s own restaurant in the form of traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
At Es Racó d’Artà they believe in a lifestyle connected with oneself and with what surrounds us, aware of the details and discovering the authenticity of things.
Hiroshi Kitamura –El Japonés d‘Artà
Art is everywhere in Es Racó d‘Artà, a unique enclave in the Balearic Islands. Today we dedicate ourselves to a very special artist whose works can be seen and felt in different places of this extraordinary place. Namely Hiroshi Kitamura, who was born in Hokkaido (Japan) in 1955 and settled in Camallera, a small village in the Empordà, with his partner Marta in 2012. Today, he tells us about his approach to art, his inner conflict and who his art ultimately belongs to.
„Half of me is in Japan and the other half is here. I am a hybrid. Sometimes, the feeling of being divided can cause a conflict in me, but it also does positive things. The mother, the language, the culture I belong to is Japanese. There are feelings in me that cannot be transferred because of that, and despite the memories of Japan that are anchored somewhere deep inside me, I still look for the culture here too. I‘m not interested in the differences (of which there are thousands), but in the similarities we have.“
Despite his academic training as a sculptor and graphic artist, Hiroshi is nevertheless rather self-taught. When he comes up against the limits of technique, he doesn‘t try to overcome them, but to figure out his own way. For his creations, he uses all the materials at his disposal to create something - be it pencil, earth, cement, titanium lux, pigment, glue, paper or bitumen. What others throw away, he rescues - from felling, storm or fire - so that, after being processed through him, it takes on a new life beyond its original form.
„I never know exactly what I will use, because it is the materials that find me. The forests are full of life. I always find broken, rotten materials - trunks, branches, stones, moss, which I can transform into a composition, as in ikebana, which eventually takes over the space in the room. The gaps or voids it leaves are fundamental elements of the overall perception.“
So, Hiroshi chooses his material very conscientiously. He chooses everything that is accessible, that is reachable, that surrounds his living space. With him, we don‘t have to look beyond the here and now.
„All these forests or branches were born here, they belong to this land and that is exactly why I use them. It is a branch, for example, that has long since ceased to live. It has already dried up or died, but its bend has survived. Its bend has a cause just like the life of a human being. It is not linear, it branches out, it crosses my path, a shoot comes forth, it seeks the sun, it seeks other things. I converse with each branch and admire it. That‘s the way I relate to the material of my work. It‘s a very deep relationship. My feeling is like this plant matter that holds the power of life and its beauty. Once I create something, because of that, it doesn‘t belong to me anymore.“
Fontsanta Hotel
Thermal Spa & Wellness
Privileged location in the middle of a natural park
The Hotel Fontsanta, next to Es Trenc beach, is located in the southern part of Mallorca. It is much more than just an exclusive adults only +18 hotel in that it has the only natural thermal waters in the Balearic Islands, making the Fontsanta an oasis of well-being. What is special is that this underground spring supplies the swimming pool, the Jacuzzis and the Vichy showers with water rich in minerals.
Most of the 37 stylish rooms offer a private terrace with a stunning view over the Es Trenc conservation area. Discover exclusive and healthy gastronomic innovations in a secluded spot or on the communal terrace in the hotel’s own restaurant. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment or improve your game at the nearby Maioris Golf Club.
CANYAMEL
Hotel Can Simoneta
Unique location by the Mediterranean Sea
The Hotel Can Simoneta is situated on the north-eastern coast of Mallorca, only 2 minutes from the village Canyamel and the beach. Its privileged location on a cliff offers an amazing sea view and makes it an ideal location for those travelling in search of tranquillity. Vast gardens surround the finca hotel’s buildings, including the Beach House right on Canyamel beach.
Each room in the Can Simoneta is individually and exclusively furnished. The restaurant with exquisite cooking and even some home-grown products also has a magical view over the Bay of
Canyamel. Enjoy the spa services, the sauna, the Turkish bath and the outdoor pool. Besides tranquillity and harmony, Can Simoneta also offers its guests lots of sporting opportunities, there are several golf courses and a tennis court in the near vicinity.
“Discover a luxurious escape ideally located, authentically designed to put you in the sights, sounds, and flavours that define this laid-back destination.”
LJs Ratxó Eco Luxury Resort
A sanctuary of nature and relaxation in the Serra de Tramuntana backlands
Located 20km from Palma, LJs Ratxó is close to the island’s capital, but a world away from the stresses of daily life. LJs Ratxó is located in the “Puig de Galatzó Reserve” with 2.5 million m2 and surrounded by the mountains of the Serra Tramuntana. A magical valley with its own stream where nature and peace reign supreme.
Owner Lisa Jane Cross, together with interior designer Blanca Rosselló, has transformed this 14th century Mallorcan finca into a paradise for lovers of the new sustainable luxury. An authentic hotel in the heart of the Tramuntana mountains.
At LJs Ratxó, everything seems to have its place. Despite the cozy and very familiar atmosphere, no detail is improvised. The hotel is the realization of the dream of its owners, Lorenzo Fluxá Domene and Lisa Jane Cross. If you want to know the real DNA of Mallorca and also have an affinity for design, this 5-star hotel with only 25 rooms is the place for you.
The complex is surrounded by holm oaks, pines and olive trees. The necessary pruning in caring for the trees passes through the hands of the 6-person carpentry team employed by the hotel. The result of their craftsmanship is reflected in the rooms and suites - terrace tables, wooden boxes, elegant lamps, various bathroom utensils.
The rooms are decorated in neutral tones, with cool stone underfoot and the unique furniture made of sustainable wood. The ambience is best described as a mix between boho chic and the charm of rural Mallorca.
“The entire retreat have a soothing mix of neutral tones, with cool stone underfoot and unique pieces of furniture, carved from sustainable wood”
LJs Ratxó Eco Luxury
Retreat offers you a haven of sustainable wellness in which to recover
LJs Ratxó Eco Luxury Resort, Puigpunyent, Spain: Natural and committed design
Owner Lisa Jane Cross, together with interior designer Blanca Rosselló, have turned this Mallorcan finca into a haven for lovers of the new sustainable luxury. This authentic destination hotel, located in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana (Mallorca), has its own team of 6 carpenters, who have made wood the common thread of their creative concept.
At LJs Ratxó everything seems to have its place. Despite its cozy and extremely homely atmosphere, no detail is the result of improvisation. Its luxury is intentional, and the result of the dream of its owners, Lorenzo Fluxá Domene and Lisa Jane Cross, to make this beautiful corner of the island of Mallorca, the home of many travelers who decide to visit it to get to know its authentic DNA, the other Mallorca: the unknown, the unexplored, the green. A green that in the Sierra de Tramuntana is legion, and that has inspired Lisa Jane Cross, a great lover of design, and the interior designer Blanca Roselló, when creating the creative concept of this authentic 5-star, 25-room destination hotel.
LJs Ratxó enjoys a privileged location in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana, in a 14th century estate, which occupies 2.6 million square meters of land. This exuberant nature, full of oaks, pines and olive trees, is what Lisa and Blanca have wanted to transfer to the interior of the hotel, using the wood from its forests. In this sense, LJs Ratxó is the only hotel in Mallorca, and one of the few in the world, that has its own team of carpenters, formed by 6 professional cabinetmak-
ers. Through their hands pass every day pieces of trees, which are discarded in the always necessary cleaning of the forests, and trunks that come from their usual pruning. And from there, just like the ancient carvers of the island, they work their magic, turning nature into pure art. The result? Beautiful wooden boxes for bathroom amenities; supports for TV remote controls; the most ecological room numbers; elegant “do not disturb” signs; lamps and terrace tables in boho chic style, which invite you to enjoy a natural furniture, and absolutely committed to their environment.
An environment that has been respected, and wonderfully recreated, in the interior of her a la carte restaurant “Roots”, in an interior design project that for Blanca Rosselló has been “a beautiful adventure, which has allowed me to work, as never before, in a natural environment of great beauty, and to create inside a space that respects the aesthetics and the Mallorcan landscape”. Built literally next to the mountain, whose spectacular nature is revealed through a large window, “Raíces” emulates a Mediterranean forest formed by huge trunks and branches that support its roof, and whose main pillar is covered by the trunk of a sturdy tree. Bunches of light bulbs recall the fruit of the earth and illuminate the experience, while the dry stone walls, exceptionally cut by the estate’s own “margers” to fit together, without the need to add cement, evoke the typical terraces of the Sierra de Tramuntana. A decoration that, according to the well-known Mallorcan interior designer, “reflects Mallorca in its purest state”.
Eco Project
Luxury and sustainability in perfect harmony. The Eco-Luxury Retreat tries to keep its guests and interested parties constantly up to date on their projects, so they have developed a traffic light to represent which goals have already been achieved, which are currently being implemented and which are still in the future.
Achieved - 100 %
– Use of umbrellas with solar panels to illuminate the restaurant
– Reuse of the wood of the environment to create decorative pieces
– Use of Cups made from coffee beans
– Installation of a reverse osmosis drinking water system
– Garbage compactor machine (plastic, cardboard and paper)
– Use of wooden cards as a room key
In progress - 50%
– Implementation of a renewable energy system to produce hot water, electricity and heating
– Implementation of a sustainable guest transportation system, using hybrid and electric vehicles
– Eco-friendly water-powered gym machines
Future - 10 %
– Implementation of international eco-standards, such as EMAS (Eco-Management Audit Scheme), and ISO 14001, emphasizing organizational environmental performance to achieve sustainability
Convent de la Missió
Grand Luxury boutique hotel Adults Only
In Palma’s old town, surrounded by alleyways and blooming courtyards, lies the Convent de la Missiò Hotel. Built in the 1700s for missionaries in training, it underwent extensive restoration into an exclusive boutique hotel. Art is pervasive in each room. The talent and vision of each artist is expressed in each remarkable work of art.
The 27 individually designed rooms combine spaciousness, calmness and luxury. The Michelin star Marc Fosh restaurant features a large terrace and the renowned chef Marc Fosh presents a delicious and appetizing Mediterranean menu full of originality and creativity. Formerly it was the refectory of the convent. Today, it is a multifunctional space: an exhibition hall and bar, a space for discovering art, and a very special place to share the excellence of a good drink or cocktail.
On the artistic side, the Art Bar house works by contemporary artists from multiple disciplines: photography, painting, ceramics and sculpture. Along with the Urban Spa’s sauna, heated pool, whirlpool and beauty area, the sun terrace contains relax loungers.
PALMA DE MALLORCA | SPAIN Pleta de Mar
Adults Only Luxury hotel by nature
Located on Canyamel beach on Mallorca’s north coast, the 5-star boutique hotel, Pleta de Mar, opened in spring 2017. Surrounded by Mallorca’s nature and looking out onto the sea on top of the steep coast, the hotel and its elegant style blends into the landscape perfectly, offering a wonderful view of the Canyamel bay with direct access to the sea.
The Pleta de Mar’s 30 suites offer pure elegance and luxury with their stylish interior and décor. The highlight of each suite is its private jacuzzi. The relaxation area offers two infinity-pools, a sun terrace with ocean-view and selected massage and beauty treatments. Guests can also enjoy culinary delicacies with the best seasonal ingredients at the hotel restaurant Sa Pleta by Marc Fosh, the stared michelin Chef in the Convent de la Missió, with his restaurant Marc Fosh.
“Completely surrounded by nature and overlooking the sea, the architecture of this new property is distinguished by its elegance, its perfect integration with the environment and the natural look & feel of its interiors.”
HARADS | SWEDEN Treehotel
If you are looking for a place far away from the stresses and demands of your daily life, the Treehotel up north in Sweden could be your ideal retreat. At Treehotel, nature, ecological values, comfort and modern design are combined for an exciting adventure, surrounded by seemingly endless pine forests overlooking the Lule River.
8 rooms with exciting names such as “Biosphere”, “Mirrorcube”, “Bird’s nest” , “The Cabin “ or “The UFO” are designed to be a part of the spectacular nature and landscape. Gaze out at Sweden’s spectacular nature from separate, unique and secluded and comfortable rooms in the trees, located about 4-6 meters above the ground. They are accessible by ramp, bridge, or stairs. From September to March you have the chance to watch the Northern Lights illuminate the sky above you. Designed by renowned Scandinavian architects the tree rooms are as special as they could be and they are all built and equipped in a sustainable way.
The founders of the hotel were the locals Britta Jonsson-Lindvall and her husband Kent Lindvall. The love for their home region is reflected in this extraordinary hotel project. Since September 2022, Treehotel is owned and operated by the couple Jonas Olsson and Hannah Wennebro at Meditron Holding AB. Together with their staff, they are now raising Treehotel to a new level. The strong connection to the region remains part of the concept and is also clearly visible in the Culinary. The best of Swedish cuisine is on offer. From delicious game to the finest hand-picked berries, only authentic dishes from the far north are on the menu.
Two different sauna buildings with shower and relaxroom, one of them with a private outdoor jacuzzi, await you after an exciting day exploring the outdoors in all four seasons. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a relaxing break or simply to wind down in nature, Treehotel invites you to experience nature, culinary delightst and surroundings, in the most unique and memorable way you can imagine.
Where nature and imagination run wild
“Set in an enchanted forest in the Arctic Circle, the architectural jewels soar amidst the tall pines creating a unique experience.”
“Treehotel offers meditative silence at the ultimate off-grid place to stay. It is so still and quiet, that you can hear the water freezing.”
LE BRASSUS | SWITZERLAND Hotel des Horlogers
Imagined by the global architecture firm BIG | Bjarke Ingels Group designed Hôtel des Horlogers for architecture and nature to be one, complying with Minergie Eco Standards. Thanks to an avant-garde concept, visitors are immediately immersed in the natural environment of the Vallée de Joux, one of the cradles of Swiss complicated watches. BIG conceived the hotel so that all the rooms would offer a breath-taking view over the Risoud forest. Departing from the usual codes of hotel architecture, the building consists of slabs descending towards the valley and tilting slightly to embrace the topography while creating a continuous path into nature.
Inside AU*M breaks down boundaries, allowing harmony to arise between architecture and nature. The interior concept is inspired by a walk through the Risoud forest. An interior passageway follows the hotel’s atypical zigzagging structure and connects the 50 rooms, varying into different categories, from the Valley Guest Room to the Signature Suite. The hotel also encompasses two restaurants and a bar open to everybody, a wellness area with two treatment rooms, a hammam, a sauna, a relaxation space, one sensory shower and a fitness room as well as three seminar rooms. The two restaurants take their guests on an exclusive culinary journey and impress with the use of local products and ingredients, enhanced by a selection of regional wines as well as locally brewed beers. In addition, the hotel has its own fruit and vegetable garden.
As a meeting place for locals, mindful travellers in search of the power of nature, watch, architecture and food lovers, Hotel des Horlogers invites visitors to connect with nature, make time for yourself and the things that matter. Its sustainable approach encompasses local partnerships to reduce its carbon footprint, support local communities and participate in the region’s economy.
A place to connect to nature, make time for yourself and the things that matter
Bringing the outside in –Hotel des Horlogers
Nestled in the Vallée de Joux, surrounded by woods, mountains and lakes, Hotel des Horlogers has broken down the boundaries between nature and architecture – creating a space of harmony. We asked the architects of Hotel des Horlogers how they came up with the concept and how exactly they brought the two together.
1. How did you come up with the zigzag design of the floors?
The hotel celebrates the Vallée de Joux’s topography; the zigzagging floors gradually descend towards the valley, tilting slightly to embrace the site and create a visual path between nature and architecture. While the Audemars Piguet museum located just a few steps away (also designed by BIG) defines a visitor experience inspired by the centripetal and centrifugal forces of time through the spiral form, the hotel welcomes its guests into the “time” journey by reimagining the historic winding watchmakers’ trail that the region is known for. In the interior, the building’s zigzag five-floor layout forms a single, continuous ramping corridor – connecting the interior spaces and facilitating both guest and service circulation. This layout also provides all guest rooms with views of the surrounding Risoud Forest.
2. What were the main materials that you used for the hotel?
The materials were very much selected for their performance and natural properties. In a similar way to watches, the interplay between finishes and structural or mechanical properties is what gives the design its unique character. For example, the hotel’s sustainability commitments can be seen in the careful selection of
materials and design. Solid timber is used for the roof structures in the hotel rooms. This holistic, eco-friendly approach has enabled Hotel des Horlogers to obtain the Minergie-ECO® certification based on its energy efficiency and building ecology. The hotel is equipped with 86 photovoltaic panels, which fulfil part of the building’s energy needs. As guests transition from the main entrance into the reception area, the visual language becomes more sinuous and rustic, with materials such as glass, concrete, stone and wood blurring the delineation between the constructed and the natural.
3. How did you manage to incorporate nature within the hotel?
In the same vein as the BIG-designed Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet next door, we knew that we had to design the hotel with the same sensibility to the landscape and the valley. We thought about the two buildings as part of the same landscape, guided by the idea that visitors and guests seamlessly move between the village, the hotel and the museum – blurring the boundaries between landscape and building. There is a local cross-country trail just in front of the building, so we instantly felt that visitors should be able to arrive and enter the building from the valley. So, we designed the roofscape as a continuation of the valley, with trails and native planting. Skiing in Switzerland is obviously a very integral part of the culture, and being able to ski directly out from your hotel and into the landscape as intended in the original design gives people a very seamless and exciting way to explore the surroundings.
LUCERNE | SWITZERLAND
Hotel des Balances
Charm & excellence in the heart of Lucerne
The wonderful Hotel des Balances, a place steeped in history, lies in the heart of Lucerne’s old town right on the banks of the River Reuss. Unique façade frescoes give the hotel the air of a Venetian palace, and the Venetian feel continues on the restaurant terrace of this design hotel where diners can enjoy magical views of the river and of the mountains beyond. The Hotel des Balances dates back to the 12th century.
Now, the hotel offers not just historic flair but also elegant, modern design and warm but stylish furnishings in each of the 56 rooms. Culinary delights are guaranteed from the creative Restaurant Balances kitchen – this establishment with lounge, bar and terrace boasts 14 Gault Millau points. The design hotel’s prime location makes it the perfect starting point for shopping and sightseeing expeditions.
Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel Room with a view
The Design Hotel Matterhorn Focus is situated on the outskirts of Zermatt, in a prime location right at the „Matterhorn glacier paradise” valley station. The hotel blends perfectly with its natural surroundings and offers wonderful views of the magnificent Matterhorn and the Zermatt mountain panorama.
Guests at the design hotel can choose from 30 rooms and suites, each with a balcony or terrace, in three connected buildings. Enjoy modern architecture, art and design from the famous artist Heinz Julen – at one with nature; young, bold and innovative. Relax and unwind in a charming atmosphere and beautiful surroundings down to the last detail. The spa area with its mystical flair and smart design offers an oasis of calm after a long day’s hiking or skiing. Indoor pool, outdoor whirlpool, salt bath, caldarium and sauna ... What more could you want?
Hotel Matterhorn Focus: cool design and luxury in a relaxed, private ambience.
ARIZONA | UNITED STATES
Ambiente Sedona
The Ambiente™ Sedona offers discerning guests an immediate nature experience. Located on the edge of Red Rock State Park, the architecturally interesting resort is a modern and elegant retreat surrounded by stunning scenery. The landscape hotel is the first of its kind in North America. During construction, careful attention was paid to disturbing the surrounding natural environment as little as possible. Respect for the land and the flora and fauna it contains is evident throughout the property. For example, the restoration of an ancient watercourse was included in the design, which guests can admire as a calming production.
Also in the furnishing of the residential units, emphasis was placed on transferring the original beauty of Sedona to the interior of the rooms. The interiors are designed with casual elegance. The 40 atriums are decorated in soft earth tones, and floor-to-ceiling windows offer 180-degree views of the national park and iconic red rock formations. Each atrium is luxuriously appointed and features a rooftop deck, fire pit, and day bed. Thus, they can enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing the comfort and style of your atrium. The modern ambiance of the hotel is uncompromising and authentic. The location in the “Red- Rock-Statepark” is unique. Thus, contemporary luxury and the natural environment combine in a harmonious way.
All about connecting to a dramatic landscape
“Framing the dramatic Red Rock mountains and ridges, Ambiente Resort embraces the wild aesthetic of Arizona into its interior concept.”
“Ambiente Sedona blends into the wild Red Rock nature of Arizona.”
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Lifestylehotels.net
Lifestylehotels™ takes you to places where you are allowed to unfold. Discover not only new places, but also discover yourself. The world we would like to take you to, is a world of allowing and mindfulness. Mindfulness is more than a buzzword at many of our member hotels. Farm-to-table concepts, the support of local artists, a particularly resource-conserving operation of the hotel, or the meditative experience of nature are just a few examples of the efforts of our hoteliers. The demand for aesthetics and quality is and remains central in our vision of a modern hotel industry, but in the sense of the new spirituality more mindful and sustainable.