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Hotels & Spas

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Zurich probably wouldn’t be the first place you’d think of jetting off to for long weekend. Conjuring up ideas of grey skies, middle aged businessmen talking finance and impossibly expensive everything, it’s somewhere that most us try not to think of at all!

Here at House of Coco, we like to break barriers down so, when the opportunity came up to add on a quick dash around Zurich to an adventure to Gstaad (more on that later!) this writer couldn’t resist. I hastily searched Zurich on insta and armed with screenshots, I was determined to take the city on and find its hidden secrets.

One of the great perks of the city being a business hub is that the airport is so crazily efficient. Seriously, I think I landed, got through security, straight onto a train to the Zürich Hauptbahnhof train station and left the stunner of a station with 45 minutes of landing. It often takes me longer than that to buy a coffee when I land!

Through the power of comfy trainers and the Uber app I took on the challenge of exploring the city in 24 hours, first dropping my case at the super central and beautiful Hotel Continental Zurich MGallery by Sofitel (Stampfenbachstrasse 60). The hotel is a great contrast of modern (with its colourful cow statue) and traditional with multiple types of bircher muesli at the breakfast buffet in its cosy swiss style restaurant.

I started out exploring the Aldstadt (Old Town), ambling past the quirky and historic Caberte Voltaire (Spiegelgasse 1), dodging raindrops down cobbled streets and emerged to the beautiful view of the city across the river Limmat. On every corner was a cute coffee shop but I had no time to stop as I had a date with the fascinating homegrown recycled fashion and accessory brand FREITAG’s F-actory 3 miles out of the city centre in the Oerlikon which is a gritty, interesting area and as FREITAG themselves say, is “pre-hip”. The company is a fascinating example of eco fashion and planning for the future of our planet with their durable and ecofriendly productions. For more on their work, see this article.

Even if you don’t make it out to the F-actory, I’d heard that the FREITAG Tower (Geroldstrasse 17), the company’s flagship shop was worth a visit. Expecting some shiny floored, tv screen filled boutique, the store in in Zurich-West constructed from 17 shipping containers blew my mind. I even climbed to the top of the containers (with white knuckles!) to take in the view of the industrial part of the city, Zurich-West.

The FREITAG Tower is right next to two of Zurich’s most instagrammable spots. On one side, the glorious beer garden Frau Gerolds (Geroldstrasse 23/23a) which hosts independent boutiques, art and a programme of events. On the other, the colourful umbrella canopy of Gerolds Chuchi restaurant (Geroldstrasse 5) .

From here I wandered the length of Viadukt (Markthalle im Viadukt, 8005) , Zurich’s self-proclaimed most exciting shopping street. Housed in, yep – you guessed it, a viaduct I cooed over resturants, bars and independent fashion brands in a unique, industrial setting. I would have moved in but had to hot foot it back to the train to continue the Swiss adventure…

The challenge of uncovering gems in a seemingly boring city gave me such a buzz that I’ll be taking this on everytime I travel. Stopovers where you stay in the hotel are for losers! Who’s with me?

As a cosy base for my exploring of Zurich I stayed with Hotel Continental Zurich MGallery by Sofitel. It’s super central and a welcome rest for aching feet from pounding the pavements and cobbled streets! For more information and to book your stay go to sofitel.com

After months of searching, TeamCocopup Charlie and I have finally found London’s best dog-friendly hotel, and it’s the perfect place for a luxury doggy staycation.

Located in a quiet tree-lined street in Knightsbridge, just a quick walk away from the busy shoppers at Harrods’ and the lush greenery of Hyde Park, The Egerton House Hotel is classic luxury at its finest. The hotel was originally built in 1843 and overlooking perfectly manicured private gardens; a luxurious sanctuary in the heart of vibrant Knightsbridge. The Egerton House Hotel has all the signatures of a Red Carnation Hotel; from its beautiful and timeless interiors, to its warm and truly impeccable staff, and everything else in between.

The exceptional service at The Egerton House is felt from the moment you step foot in the door; and the staff pull out all the stops when rolling out the red carpet for your four legged friend. Every room at the Egerton House is pet-friendly, which is hardly the case with other London hotels. We checked into our beautiful studio suite. ‘Studio’ is an understatement, because these rooms are as spacious ad they are indulgent. A muted colour palette is contrasted with a stunning vaulted ceiling,a cosy sitting area, a king sized bed with 200 thread count Belgian linen, and two glasses of bubbles patiently waiting our arrival.

Don’t fret – TeamCocopup Charlie also got the works, with his own luxury dog bed, two bowls full of treats, doggy matts, towels, and his choice of breakfast, dinner, and afternoon tea – with his very own doggy menu. The doggy afternoon tea is held in The Egerton House’s beautiful Ivory hued Drawing Room and is definitely worth mentioning. The hotels afternoon tea celebrates the great British tradition with panache.From traditional loose leaf teas, to minimal asian flavours, and even some show-stopping herbal infusions; the Egerton House Hotel has something for even the most discerning tea connoisseur. While I enjoyed a glass of champagne with my afternoon tea, Charlie enjoyed a three course doggy menu of his own — also served in doggie-themed three-tiered tea stand. This very special doggy menu comprises of home made chicken and beef meatloaf, freshly baked dog biscuits, and some pure fruit doggie ice cream, not to mention some pup-friendly PAW-secco too — now that’s VIP (Very important Pet) treatment.

As House of Coco’s official doggie journalist, Team Coco pup Charlie has explored plenty of dog-friendly places in London, but nowhere reaches the same level of puppy-pampering as the Egerton House Hotel. The Egerton House Hotel exudes all of the essential charms of a luxury British hotel, balanced with the warm familiarity of a family run establishment.

WWW.EGERTONHOUSEHOTEL.COM

With a facade straight out of a Wes Anderson flick, The Grand Hotel Kronenhof is one of the finest five-star hotels in Switzerland. An alpine institution in its own right, this ‘Grande Dame’ of Swiss hospitality is the antithesis of mass-market hotel homogeneity – it’s beyond boutique, with a unique history that dates back to 1848. But has the fin de siècle grandeur of this historic hotel endured through the ages? We sent our girl Beth to check it out.

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Pulling up through wrought iron gates into a snow-covered courtyard, I quickly see why this hotel has earned the nickname ‘Grande Dame’. Even in the pretty swiss town of Pontresina, her enduring neo-baroque beauty stands out – an elegant exterior topped with an emerald, crown-topped dome, the gold-gilded letters ‘Kronenhof’ proudly emblazoned below the Swiss flag.

High in the Alps at 1,800m, deep in the stunning surrounds of the Engadin Valley – the scenery here is still blanketed with snow, despite it being late in the season. A stark contrast to the often lengthy bus journeys endured schlepping up to this kind of altitude – the journey to Pontresina is half the fun. While many of the hotel’s discerning guests opt for the nearby private airport, we take the pretty red mountain train from Zurich. It may take around 3 hours and 45 minutes to reach Pontresina, but the UNESCO listed Bernina Express is an experience in itself, winding its way past moody mountain lakes, meandering up into snow-covered scenery, over arched bridges and past mountain peaks. Think Hogwarts Express, Alpine Edition.

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The resemblance to the Grand Budapest Hotel doesn’t end when you enter the hotel. Swept through a grand entrance, you’ll find the picture of old-world elegance – a grand lobby with hand-painted ceilings, ornate fireplaces, velvet curtains and antique chandeliers, all overlooking a postcard-worthy picture window out over the pine-carpeted mountains and Roseg glaciers, the alps of St Moritz in the distance.

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The hotel may have seen nearly two centuries of guests pass through its doors, but even today it recalls an age of bygone glamour. From the palatial dining room, where formal dress is required and course after course arrive with the theatrical lifting of cloches by a team of impeccably smart and ever-smiling waiters.

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Even breakfast is a grand affair, served in the dining room with tables overflowing with cheese cold cuts and any pastry imaginable, as well as the free-pouring champagne, which the guests are far too posh to take any advantage of. Within the hotel’s walls, you’ll also find the award-willing Kronenstübli with its cosy wood-panelled walls and exceptional dishes from Duck a la Presse to crepe Suzette.

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The hotel’s old-world alpine pedigree speaks for itself, but if we’re measuring by modern-day standards, it has nearly 1000 five star ratings on TripAdvisor. The people-watching is a definite highlight, with a discreet, well-dressed clientele reminiscent of eclectic European high society. While St Moritz is all about the glitz, pretty Pontresina offers access to the same level of service, but a respite from the hedonistic atmosphere.

A large percentage of these guests are returning visitors, some even fourth generation. Old skis of guests presumably left here for future use decades ago still line the walls, marked carefully with the name of the owner on a luggage ticket – many of whom left to fight in the Second World War but never returned. Having survived both World Wars (thanks in part to selling wine from their cellars) you can feel the nostalgia in the Kronenhof’s creaking walls. The wooden bowling alley is one of the oldest in Switzerland, and the walls of the hotel founders original home were recently found hidden away – dating back to the early 1800s.

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With 112 rooms, the Kronenhof feels grand yet intimate. Some bedrooms echo the old-world feel, with expansive drawing rooms and views out onto the Roseg glacier beyond, while others are more to modern taste and having been recently renovated by chic French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.

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But despite its history, the hotel has kept up to date with the modern – particularly with the addition of its enormous and elaborate glass-walled spa with a huge indoor pool which, in a fusion of old meets new, sits attached to the hotel. Cocooned within its glass walls, looking out over the snow-covered scenery, it is simply bliss. The massages pair you with an element – mine is a deep wood and citrus oil for fire – and incidentally, one of the best I’ve ever had. There’s a dedicated sauna for women only, as well as an all-gender Finnish sauna. Once a month, a night spa program sees the spa open till midnight with a bar. Outside, there’s a fabulous chalet-style bar where you can lunch overlooking the skaters on the ice rink, draped in a fur and quaffing Swiss wine in the sun.

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Just a few miles down the road from St Moritz, the hotel will happily arrange the quick 10-minute transfer for you to enjoy the world-famous slopes, before scooping you up at the end of the day, or depositing you in their comfy surrounds of the raucous Sunny Bar at its co-owned hotel the Kulm. Handily, there is also has a boot room directly opposite, where I’m fitted with a pair of brand new, self-heating fur-lined beauties instead of your usual beaten up rentals – no lugging your skis around here.

Pontresina itself is a haven from the prying eyes of see-and-be-seen St Moritz, with its chocolate-box chalets, pastel-painted walls and traditional alpine atmosphere. While you have access to the slopes, the village itself boasts a multitude of activities outside of the hotel, like cross country skiing at nearby school Schweizer Langlauf- und Bikezentrum Pontresina.

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An old-world beauty that both manages to recall a vaguely remembered idea of luxury from a bygone age, and provide all the facilities you would expect of a five-star hotel – the Kronenhof has four generations to attest to its charms. All, like me – lucky enough to be guests of this enduringly glamorous Grande Dame and the little moments of history that unfold within her walls.

Winter room rates at Grand Hotel Kronenhof start from CHF565 for two people sharing on a half-board basis; book online at www.kronenhof.com

For more information on Switzerland visit www.MySwitzerland.com

Swiss International Air Lines – one way fares start from £67, visit www.swiss.com

The Swiss Travel System provides a dedicated range of travel passes and tickets offering unlimited travel on consecutive days, for more information visit www.swisstravelsystem.co.uk.

There’s nothing like London in the fall, and when the autumn leaves are turning and everyone whips out their chunkiest scarves, we’re making our way to The Coral Room at the BloomsburyHotel for a taste of the tropics and the best cocktails intown.

Located in The Bloomsbury Hotel, the Coral Room is the result of a head-to-toe renovation of the original Edward Lutyens designed hotel lobby. Helmed by Martin Brudnizki, this building has been utterly transformed into a stylish oasis right in the heart of Bloomsbury. Everything about The Coral Room pops; from the art deco inspired touches, the bright coloured walls, and alluring textures. Everything makes you feel like you have stepped into a Wes Anderson film scene (the Darjeeling Limited and the Grand Budapest Hotel come to mind) Tropical motifs add a cheeky element of warmth, and the ample amount of foliage allows some reprieve from even chilliest London afternoon. The focal point however is definitely the stylish Calcutta marble bar. Interior designer Martin Brudnizki definitely outdid himself here, by successfully making the cavernous 2,100 double ceilinged space feel both glamorous and inviting. The key? — colour, and lot’s of it.The Coral walls are accented with brass, gold, Murano glass, and the clever pink-tinted details; all making The Coral Room one of the most Instagrammable spots town.

Moving from interior design to the menu, let’s talk about the brunch. We tried the delightful Chicory Salad, the veggie Shakshuka, accompanied by a generous helping of truffle fries (of course!)Although it was almost impossible to decide because the brunch menu offers a concise but tempting selection of some revamped classics. I helped myself to a couple martini glasses of the fabulous Gin Lane cocktail. A perfect mixture of Hendricks gin, St. Germain, rose syrup, and Viognier, the Gin Lane is delicious and danger in equal measure. As one can easily knock back a few of these sinfully saccharine concoctions without even thinking twice. If you are feeling a little extra indulgent, do check out their extensive list of English sparkling wines, which is one of the largest London has to offer. Take a few recommendations from the absolutely charming bar manager, Giovanni Spezziga, whose infectious Italian charm will not just provide you with some truly fantastic sparkling wine choices, but will also leave you feeling absolutely pampered.This and so much more make The Coral Room the most stylish place in Bloomsbury for a drink, afternoon tea, brunch, or everything all at once.

The Coral Room

Jade Mountain, St Lucia, has launched a ‘Hiking Butler’ service for adventurous guests wishing to experience the island’s most iconic and scenic nature trails. Set on its own private 600-acre estate, Jade Mountain’s guests can choose from a large range of unspoilt hiking trails.

During a one-to-one consultation with the hotel’s resident hiking concierge, guests will be provided with an extensive ‘hiking menu’, from which a medley of intrepid trails can be chosen.

Guests will be safely guided and informed with fascinating knowledge about the island by the resident butler, who will then prepare a champagne-gourmet picnic which can be enjoyed at one of St Lucia’s many breath-taking spots.

Jade Mountain’s recommended hikes, available to book now, are tailored to all fitness levels, ranging from beginner and intermediate, through to advanced:

For the easy-does-it hiker: Guests who wish to soak up the beautiful scenery at a dulcet pace can book the popular Anse Mamin Plantation Walk, which visits the lush coastal jungle, adjacent to the resort’s second beach, Anse Mamin. Nature lovers will be led through the leafy terrain by their butler, who will provide an illuminating account of the history behind the 18th-century ruins of a historic sugar plantation, as well as the myriad of exotic foliage and wildlife present on the land.

For the can-do-attitude hiker: Outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a more exhilarating hiking experience can enjoy the Morne Lastic Walk, a three-hour trek which takes participants up and over the undulating mountains into the town of Soufriere. Along the way, guests will be treated to fabulous views of the world-famous Pitons and Soufriere Bay, during which time the butler will explain the history of the quaint fishing town below. Post-trek, tired hikers will have the chance to relax their weary muscles on a scenic boat trip back to the resort.

For the lion-hearted hiker: Advanced hikers looking for the ultimate physical challenge can choose to undertake the infamous ‘Piton climb’ to the top of the island’s Gros Piton. A world heritage site, guests will enjoy spectacular 360-degree views from the twin mountains that form the trademark landscape of St Lucia. The Hiking Butler will be on hand to help guests through the testing climb, safely guiding them through the best possible route.

Nightly rates at Jade Mountain start from $1,110 (£840*) per sanctuary based on double occupancy. Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 10% VAT. For more information or to book visit www.jademountain.com.*Prices in pound sterling accurate according to today’s exchange rate. Guests can book the Hiking Butler service and all nature trail excursions upon arrival. *Price in pound sterling accurate according to today’s exchange rate.

If like Team Coco, when it comes to travel you like a bit of glamour and luxury then you’ll love our round up of this summer’s stylish stays. From beachside villas in St Tropez to luxury apartments in Rome, perfect for a cultural getaway, we have selected the most exclusive and luxurious places to stay.

Located in an exclusive residential area in the prestigious Baie de Canebiers area of St Tropez, Villa Canoubwest, is a grand Mediterranean masterpiece. Its peaceful setting amongst 8,000 square metres of perfectly manicured gardens with rolling emerald lawns fringed by tropical flowers and palms and with direct access to the sea, offers the perfect backdrop for sophisticated garden parties and large family gatherings. The villa’s modest traditional terracotta exterior is a stark contrast to the opulent interiors, where gleaming marble, soft Italian stone and elegant parquet is adorned with sumptuous furnishings, stylish finishings and fine art. Features include a 20-metre outdoor heated pool, specious terraces overlooking the azure blue waters, ample parking and a staff apartment. It is also possible to moor a boat within view of the property at nearby Plage des Canebiers, where there’s also a secluded stretch of sand.
France, St Tropez: Villa Canoubwest- Five bedrooms, sleeps 10; price from £52,577 per week

Classic Renaissance architecture complete with a Baroque inspired palette blends seamlessly with modern Italian glamour and elegance at this newly renovated apartment, which stands regally on the famous Piazza Navona. Stunning Michelangelo-style frescos feature on virtually every ceiling whilst independently commissioned furnishings adorn each room like works of art. The apartment features two stunning master bedroom suites at either end of the property, each with luxury bathrooms and impressive views. The Pope’s bedroom offers a king-sized bed, theatrically placed centre stage on a raised platform, surrounded by luscious velvet curtains. The communal rooms, which separate the bedrooms include a sophisticated dining room, a music room complete with grand piano, a library and a bar with lounge and TV area. There’s also a studio, kitchen and staff quarters.
Italy, Rome: Apartment Sant’ Agnese- Two bedrooms, sleeps four; price from £46,200- £62,000 per week

Situated above a private stretch of beach and featuring a show stopping infinity edge pool overlooking the deep blue Ionian Sea, Royal Infinity Villa, with its exotic architecture, is quite simply a masterpiece. Packed with state-of-the-art amenities and bespoke luxury furnishings, the villa comprises an entrance hall, two master king-size bedroom suites with walk-in dressing rooms, a spacious living area which can be converted into a sleeping area, three bathrooms, two Jacuzzi, a work-space and kitchen. A private staircase from the infinity pool area leads directly to the sandy beach where each villa has its own private area complete with sunbeds and umbrellas. In-villa dining and spa treatments are available or guests can enjoy use of the resort’s Waterfront Spa and restaurants.
Greece, Zakynthos: Royal Infinity Villa– Two bedrooms, sleeps 7; price from £34,767

This beautiful lakeside villa offers the best of both worlds – an intimate bolthole combined with five-star hotel service. The Mosaic House is situated within the grounds of the Villa d’Este hotel estate and as such, guests benefit from access to the many bars, restaurants and wellness facilities located onsite whilst the hotel’s staff are on hand to provide attentive service to villa guests. Recently restored from top to bottom, the modern villa offers stunning views of the surrounding landscaped grounds and the calm waters of Lake Como from every window. The king-sized bedroom suite features an opulent marble bathroom and floor to ceiling windows, with direct access to a private outdoor terrace – the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast.
Italy, Lake Como: Mosaic House is sold on a weekly basis only and the starting price is 2,800 Euros per night (approx. £2,480)

Peacefully nestled amongst the vineyards and olive groves of a private estate and nature reserve that rests on the borders of Umbria and Tuscany, Villa Piantaverna offers a luxurious farmhouse experience, ideal for groups of adults and families. There’s oodles of space both inside and out across the three-acre plot plus plenty of rustic charm which is complemented by modern amenities and sumptuous furnishings. Facilities include a stunning heated outdoor infinity pool, wine cellar and impressive kitchen with separate larder for those wishing to self-cater. The estate also has a private restaurant and kitchen, the Osteria, serving a menu of delicious dishes made from fresh organic produce from the estate and wider area. It also serves hand-picked Italian wines, including its own called San Giovese.
Italy, Umbria: Villa Piantaverna– Four bedrooms, sleeps six; price from £13,100 per week

All of the properties featured can be booked through Firefly Collection. To view the full collection, visit Firefly Collection at www.firefly-collection.com

Our #CocoCouples love spending quality time outdoors. An overnight stay at Hotel Mas La Ferreria, a delightful family-run boutique property provided an excellent opportunity for our writers, Omo and Eulanda to explore the scenic La Fageda d’en Jordà forest in the Girona province of Catalonia, northeastern Spain. They found that mother nature, design and hospitality combined tastefully at Hotel Mas La Ferreria.

The world’s forests and green spaces are vital to our survival. Not only do they provide the much-needed biodiversity that our planet requires in order to sustain itself but they also provide immense psychological benefits for humanity.

Spending time outdoors improves our physical and mental health as many studies have shown.

Unfortunately, research also suggests that many of us are not taking opportunities to get out into nature due to constraints such as time and accessibility.

According to the Global Wellness Summit (2019 trends report), “more people are living in settings with little – and sometimes no – nature. Not only has this resulted in a decrease in experiencing the joys of nature, but it has also meant that the healing power of nature is not readily available for most people in the world.”

Visiting La Fageda d’en Jordà

Places such as La Fageda d’en Jordà, a forest located within the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park in Girona Province, Catalonia provide excellent opportunities to experience nature.

La Fageda d’en Jordà is only one of the many reasons to add La Garrotxa to a road trip itinerary across Catalonia, the semi-autonomous region of northeastern Spain.

La Garrotxa is home to many charming medieval villages such as Santa Pau and Besalú. Factor in the chance to visit first-century monasteries, thirteenth-century castles, see lots of Roman architecture and experience authentic Catalan cuisine and you’ll have enough to see for days.

The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park itself is an outdoor paradise.

Spread over 12,000 hectares of protected land, it is home to over 40 extinct volcanoes such as Croscat and Santa Margarida, all covered and surrounded by rich vegetation and forests such as La Fageda d’en Jordà.

Hikers will have the chance to experience the changing colours of the forest over the course of the year. In the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, autumn is the best time to witness this transformation firsthand.

For details about visiting the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, see en.turismegarrotxa.com.

Where to stay in La Garrotxa – Hotel Mas La Ferreria

While visiting La Garrotxa, we stayed one night (way too short) at Hotel Mas la Ferreria.

Hotel Mas la Ferreria is a 14th-century churchyard/blacksmith’s forge turned into a beautiful boutique property with lots of history and character.

Surrounded by a charming landscape, this is a place where you wake up to see the sunrise over the Pyrenees mountains in the distance and walk out into a private garden to feel the morning dew under your feet.

We got a north-facing room, named Suite Barcadura, which was one of eight (each one especially unique in design) in the property and located outside the main property at the back of the house.

Suite Barcadura has a modern-art-studio meets rustic-barn interior design. The wide bed, rain shower, and in-room bathtub are key highlights. The eco-friendly bath amenities are a thoughtful choice.

The hotel designers have made some effort to preserve the original character of the property and also its connection to the surrounding landscape.

Guests can enjoy stunning sunrise views of the Pyrenees mountains before heading outdoors to explore the surrounding landscape in places such as the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park and Olot.

Home-cooked meals (the manager’s mum is also the chef) are available in the family-style dining room. In ancient times, we were told that the multi-purpose space was used as an animal shelter and sleeping quarters for the family.

The dinner menu is uncomplicated and offers guests an opportunity to sample produce from farmers and producers local to the region. The ingredients are fresh and the quality of food excellent.

This is one property where you will want to stay a few days longer…for nature, design and simple Catalan hospitality.

Prices for the room pictured are €230 per night including breakfast. Off-season discounts and special packages are available. Visit the Hotel Mas la Ferreria website for details, email info@hotelmaslaferreria.com or call +34 972 29 13 45

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With its desert-like landscapes, crumbling castles and rocky coves, the Peloponnese in southern mainland Greece is all too often shunned for the sandy beaches on the islands. We sent Rachael Lindsay to one of the most luxurious hotels in the region, the Kinsterna Hotel, to see if this remote area of the country is really worth a visit.

A Byzantine mansion, horse rides, Ottoman fireplaces, red grape body wraps and ruins…

I suppose this isn’t what you imagine when you think of travel to Greece. But I have lived in Greece for almost a year now and am perhaps too familiar with the stereotype of cutesy tavernas, sweeping sandy beaches and azure blue seas. Don’t get me wrong, all of this is lovely stuff! But the Peloponnese is one of my favourite spots in Greece precisely because it eludes such cliches.

I like to think of the Peloponnese as Greece’s wilder alter ego and I haven’t heard of many luxury hotels in this barren, untamed landscape. So I jumped at the chance to experience the five-star Kinsterna Hotel.

The hotel is built on the site of a restored Byzantine mansion near the almost-island of Monemvasia, and tumbles down the hillside with cobbled lanes lined by fir trees. Olive groves and vineyards reach to left and right, and you can smell jasmine at every turn.

The design of the hotel preserves original features and compliments them with modernity. The interiors feature wide stone arches and vaulted ceilings with embroidered rugs and cushions in the traditional Byzantine style. The junior suite boasts an Ottoman fireplace with fur throws, lovely on a cooler night if you visit in autumn or spring.

The sun sparkles on the sea in the distance, brightly coloured wildflowers bloom between cracks in the rock, and a natural cave in the dilapidated mansion is left exposed for us to explore. Somehow the hotel seems to balance luxury with a celebration of the unique Peloponnese landscape.

Even the activities that the Kinsterna Hotel offer to guests are all designed to make the most of this magical space. You can help out with their local production of velvety olive oil and fruity house wine, or grab a bike and cycle round the grounds, or even to the sea for those feeling sporty. One of the highlights of my stay was a horse ride, guided by a half-Australian half-Greek lady who was warm and friendly, telling stories of her horses in this barren but beautiful place.

And let’s not forget about the opulent luxury. There are two large infinity pools, one for families and one reserved for adults…this is where you lounge, contemplate the view and take a few hotdog leg pics. After unwinding by the pool, it will be time to relax in your flawless suite. Each residence boasts huge stone walk-in showers, pretty private courtyards, enormous beds with your choice of pillow and complimentary bottles of home-made liquor.

If you aren’t truly relaxed by that point then head straight for the cooling greys of the Kinsterna Spa. It features indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, a Turkish hammam, rhassoul cabins with heated mosaic surfaces and a tempting relaxation area bathed in sunlight. I opted for the Grape Expectations treatment which involves a vigorous body scrub followed by an anti-aging body mask and a relaxing scalp massage. Unlike those treatments that leave you feeling sleepy and dazed, I feel seriously energised on leaving the Spa, and more than ready to try out the Kinsterna Hotel’s restaurant, Mouries, for a moonlit dinner.

The candles lit at nightfall are oh so atmospheric. The storm that rages around the hotel one night even heightens the feeling that I am in a fabulously romantic Gothic novel. And then the food arrives and it is all I can focus on…the mushroom ravioli made with wild Laconian mushrooms is earthy and creamy, the orzotto with shrimps and home-made tsipouro liquor manages to be both meaty and light and the meat mains of lamb, veal and rooster are tender and cooked to perfection.

The menu changes regularly based on what is available from local producers, all of whom are personally named at the beginning of the menu, from Dimitris who contributes greens and bulbs from the mountainside to Thodoris the baker. Breakfast is also served in the sea-facing Mouries Restaurant at the Kinsterna with a buffet featuring spinach and cheese pies, Greek honey, local cheeses, fresh fruit and hot drinks served in attractive black clay teapots.

Dragging myself away from the hotel (and the food) is a struggle but worth it for an afternoon in nearby Monemvasia. It is a tiny castle town that was carved into the sea rock in medieval times with a paved pathway linking the castle entrance to the mainland. This is where its name came from, meaning ’single passage’.

Wander around the tiny streets of the lower town with its shops and tavernas, and climb up to the upper town for breathtaking views and spectacular ruins. If that leaves you a little sweaty then take a swim off the rocks at Portelo – if you swim out a little then you have an equally wonderful view of the island from the sea. There is nowhere else quite like it, and it really is a world away from touristy Greek package holidays.

So the answer is yes, this remote area of Greece really is worth a visit. If you think you know Greece and have only visited the islands, then try the Peloponnese and the Kinsterna Hotel, and let us know what you think.

As I drive away down a narrow dirt back leading eventually back to Athens, I get the strange feeling that I am leaving a fairy tale behind…

So I make a small promise to myself: I will be back.

Address: Monemvasia, Laconia, Peloponnese 230 70 / 2732 066300

Nestled on the banks of the world’s largest tropical lake, I discover one of Uganda’s best hotels: the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa.

We check in after a dusty journey from Jinja, where Lake Victoria meets the source of the River Nile. A fresh fruit juice and a cool napkin are just the ticket before settling into our opulent room with its walk-in shower, TV and enormous bed. The balcony looks out onto the expanse of water below, foregrounded by acacia trees and the pristine golf course.

Settling into the rhythm of life in the resort, I swim a few laps in the pool before lazing at the water’s edge with a pina colada. Made with fresh pineapples of course. A lifeguard treats my partner to a spontaneous swimming lesson (learning to swim in the world’s best resorts is really the only way).

This is just one example of the fantastic staff. Everyone we meet is courteous yet friendly – and particularly useful when we lose our way. The winding pathways, bridges and fountains of the Lake Victoria Serena Resort make it a joy to get lost in. And yes, we even had to ask for directions on our third and final day.

Before our first dinner, we fit in a quick visit to the gym and make use of the deserted sauna and steam rooms, with an ice-cold plunge pool to boot. Our table at the fine-dining restaurant, Lago, is strewn with rose petals and makes an intimate setting for a delicious dinner. The chef serves up a hearty steak for my partner and a creamy avocado pasta for me with the aptly named ‘Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate’ for dessert.

The food at the resort is a highlight with a hugely extensive breakfast buffet as well as chefs on hand to cook up anything your heart desires. The main restaurant, Citadel, offers a delicious Mongolian-style BBQ on the night we try it out, and we visit the Marina restaurant for seafood specialities twice during our stay.

After eating my weight in fresh fruit and homemade cakes for breakfast, the resort organises a bespoke expedition to nearby Ngambe Island. A virgin island of tropical trees, birds and insects, Ngambe is also home to 49 orphaned chimpanzees.

Just talking to the staff about the chimpanzee politics on the island has me fantasizing about an alternative life as Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist. The chimps are so human-like in their interactions with one another and their cunning in stealing food! We are told that some chimps escaped into the human-only kitchen just the day before our visit. Part of me is quite sad to have missed the drama, but also relieved to have avoided a potential monkey attack.

After a tranquil ride to get to the island, the unpredictable Ugandan rainy season makes for a very bumpy journey back to the resort. I am heartened to be back in the cosy sheets of my huge bed for a nap as soon as I get back. The perks of Ugandan storms is that they tend to pass quickly, if aggressively, and I awake to glorious sunshine. As the warm sun sets, we enjoy grilled fish and salad by the water’s edge at the Marina restaurant.

Boarding my flight back to London, I feel both exhilarated from my adventures and rejuvenated from the pampering at the Lake Victoria Serena Resort. This is the perfect base from which to take boat expeditions to islands on the lake or to recuperate after a few nights on safari with a touch of luxury. The resort is renowned for its golf course and is a picturesque setting to try out golf for the first time. For the chimps, the pool and those views of the lake, this is one special East African resort.

For more information, visit serenahotels.com.

Spring is upon us and that usually means lots of new and exciting adventures here at House of Coco. Team Coco recently went to experience world-class Mexican hospitality at UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riveria Maya. One of the region’s youngest resorts, UNICO seeks to redefine the concept of all-inclusive holidays through immersive and conscious travel experiences.

A few feet away from me, a small team were hard at work, setting up a beach gazebo for either an intimate dinner or wedding ceremony. The gazebo’s white curtains fluttered in the same ocean breeze that gently caressed my skin.

“Lucky couple!” I thought to myself. The turquoise colour of the sea, the soft white sand and the golden hues from the sunset were sure to provide an excellent backdrop for whatever celebration followed.

I was enjoying the beach at UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riviera Maya, an adults-only, all-inclusive luxury property located along Mexico’s Caribbean coastline.

Although I was only an hours’ drive from Cancun International Airport, I could not have felt further away from the riotous stag and hen parties synonymous with destinations further north along the Yucatán Penninsula coast.

I typed some text into my phone. “¡No pajitas de plástico, por favor!” was how Google Translator told me to say to the beach bar waiter that I needed no plastic straws with my mojito order.

I needn’t have bothered. I later discovered that UNICO has eliminated the use of plastic straws and keeps the use of recyclable plastic to a minimum.

My mojito arrived soon after. It tasted perfect. I adjusted my sombrero, applied some more sunscreen and reclined on the beach lounger, fully embracing the tranquillity of my surroundings. If this was the world UNICO (‘unique’ in Spanish) had created for their guests, I was happy to live every moment in it.

Visiting Mexico’s Riviera Maya

Coastal Mexico remains popular as a spring getaway destination (Playa del Carmen reported a hotel capacity of over 90% in 2018).

Towns and cities across the Yucatán Peninsula, a region which separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea, pull their share of visitors, competing with equally popular destinations around the Gulf of California.

The Yucatán Peninsula offers UNESCO World Heritage pre-Hispanic ruins, colonial towns, tropical beach playgrounds and plenty of nightlife fun. From Campeche to Mérida and from Isla Mujeres to Cozumel, there’s something for every budget.

Sandwiched between the rambunctious Cancún and the quieter Tulum however, is the Riviera Maya in the state of Quintana Roo. This stretch of coastline is known for its long beaches, cenotes (underground pools) and the Mesoamerican coastal reef (second largest in the world) which makes it perfect for aquatic activities.

UNICO 20˚87˚ (a name inferring its geolocation) seeks to stand out in this fast-growing tourist corridor as a resort that combines contemporary Mexican architecture with modern luxury and beach chic.

UNICO seeks to redefine the term ‘all-inclusive’, avoiding the impersonal mega-resort approach and instead immersing guests in a meaningful way into the region’s music, art, history, geography and gastronomy.

Exploring UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riviera Maya

Done with my drink, or maybe two (drinks are inclusive here), I sunk my feet in the white coral sand and willed myself to move in the direction of my ocean-view room.

Walking along the beach, I skipped over some seaweed that had begun to collect on the sand. This naturally recurring nuisance along Mexico’s Caribbean coast keeps UNICO’s groundskeepers and environmentalists busy, a few times each day, in a bid to contain mother nature.

My afternoon plans included a scheduled spa session – steam room, sauna, hydrotherapy and a 50-minute massage. The joy of vacationing at an all-inclusive property is that you’re never in a hurry to be anywhere else.

I took a circuitous route back to my room, passing by the lively La Unica pool where a small group had gathered for an afternoon game of water volleyball. Thanks to being an adults-only property, there were sun loungers in abundance. Being able to order drinks from the swim-up bar using the hotel app was a nice touch.

At that moment, my dilemma was between lounging by the pool or enjoying a relaxing massage. Life gives us tough choices sometimes!

Luxury vacation with a cause

Like other popular destinations across the world (Venice and Barcelona spring to mind), the Riviera Maya is a region where mass tourism has also raised environmental impact concerns.

It was heartwarming therefore to learn that UNICO 20˚87 ° recognises this and has incorporated sustainability into their operating philosophy.

Efforts to manage their environmental footprint include the use of solar power to complement the energy resources needed for street lighting and water heating of their three swimming pools. An on-site nursery, housing trees and ornamental plants native to the region, also hints at a conscious effort to preserve the natural environment.

Additionally, UNICO is a certified turtle camp. Eco-conscious guests can support wildlife preservation initiatives to help endangered sea turtles nest and survive. Day tours to places like Isla Mujeres (where there are larger scale wildlife conservation projects) also offer guests a controlled yet immersive experience of the local landscape.

Guests who are keen to positively impact the everyday lives of the local community during their visit will find opportunities to do so through donations (such as school supplies) to UNICO’s ‘Vacation with a Cause’ volunteer program.

Over dinner later that evening, during a chat with Irma Yeo, UNICO’s Director of Sales, I learned more about UNICO’s approach to conservation.

Re-emphasising what I had already begun to learn, she said, “Our trees have transformed this place since we completed construction and opened two years ago. When I first heard birds singing, I knew then that we had done something right.”

The next day, I walked out onto my private balcony to welcome a glorious sunrise over the Caribbean. In the morning stillness, I heard them singing too.

Travel information

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 5* UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya from £1,269 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing an Alcoba Room on an all-inclusive basis. Price includes return World Traveller flights from London Gatwick to Cancún (based on selected September departures).

Select tours, golf, spa services and beauty salon treatments are available to all guests for a 25% service fee. An 80-minute UNICO 20°87° relaxing massage costs £70 as part of the Unlimited Inclusions programme.

Visit unicohotelrivieramaya.com for further enquiries