Debby Donnelly Addison - House Of Coco Magazine

Croatia June 1, 2022

All Aboard Cruising with MSC Virtuosa

Multiple destinations in one trip with zero airport queues? I’m in.

I must admit, up until this year, I cannot say I had ever considered a cruise holiday. I was always under the impression that cruises were the preserve of an older, wealthier crowd, where my Zara wardrobe would be too low-key and the trip itself, well, out of my price range. However, All Aboard Cruising with MSC Virtuosa has completely changed my perspective. However, around 2018, I started noticing a shift on social media: young people, people a good decade or so younger than myself, cruising. Instagram snaps of smiling millennials drinking pina coladas in the golden hour sunlight. Long, gushing captions about waking up in a new destination every day. And if that wasn’t enough to make me green with envy: no airport queues.

With “revenge travel” (the new buzzword for catching up on all the trips you’ve missed during the pandemic) being such a huge thing right now, airports are overloaded. Flights cancelled, missing luggage, archaic scenes at security and queues of biblical proportions, it’s no wonder that nearly 40% of 16–34-year-olds are considering taking a cruise in the next few years. The joys of being able to visit many destinations without packing and unpacking repeatedly mean you can make the most of the journey without the stressors of multiple airports. So, in the name of travel journalism, I embarked on MSC Virtuosa for my very first cruise.

MSC Virtuosa is one heck of a vessel: carrying up to 6,200 passengers at full occupancy and serviced by 10 restaurants, 21 bars, a shopping galleria, multiple theatres, waterparks, an arcade, a world-class spa, and, if you’re so inclined, a gym, there’s little risk of being bored. For those wanting to avoid the hustle and bustle, an upgrade to the MSC Yacht Club provides access to the suite-only section stretching across the three decks at the front of the ship. With a members-only lounge, a restaurant with sweeping views and a glittering Swarovski staircase, and a private, adults-only sundeck, MSC Yacht Club provides an excellent option for those lusting after a little more exclusivity.

Embarkation

If you think there’s not much difference between a cruise ship and airport check-in, then think again. Once you’ve checked in and gone through security, your luggage will magically find its way to your cabin. You are free to board the ship, where you are met with a sparkling lounge and welcome drinks. Your holiday starts here.

Cabins

The cabins are clean and spacious, with excellent storage facilities plus room under the beds for storing cases. Each cabin has a ZOE speaker for playing music or audiobooks, and a large television that can be used to access your billing information in addition to the normal channels. The beds are incredibly comfortable, and the bathrooms have more than enough room for manoeuvrability (which is shockingly lacking in many ships). If it’s within your budget, an outside cabin with a balcony is a real treat, especially in the evenings. There is nothing quite like sipping wine as you watch the sunset, excited for your next destination tomorrow.

What about entertainment?

This is where MSC Virtuosa really shines. Entertainment onboard includes:

The Galleria Virtuosa contains an abundance of bars, shops, restaurants, and evening entertainment options. Cast your gaze upwards to view the 80-meter-long LED display that morphs and changes throughout the trip.
Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, surrounded by an array of sun loungers for catching those rays between ports.
An incredible spa featuring a salt-walled relaxation room, ice therapy, multiple saunas, and my personal favourite, mist showers. Whilst you’re there, treat yourself to a gloriously relaxing deep tissue massage. You will be floating back to your cabin in no time.
Matinee and evening shows including magic, musicals, and all manner of top-class performance art in the ship’s theatre and Carousel lounge.
A well-equipped gym with ocean views, plus running and walking tracks around the deck.
For the high rollers, there is an extensive casino complete with both electronic and table-based games.
Finally, for the children, there is a games arcade, rope walk, basketball court, and a LEGO-themed kids club.

The ship also provides a jam-packed daily itinerary including yoga, dance classes, karaoke, and quizzes, perfect for the longer days at sea.

Dining around

There is a general assumption that it’s easy to pop on a few pounds during a cruise and I can completely understand why: The options onboard are plentiful and delicious, and it took every ounce of self-control I have not to go all out and do my best Pac Man impression eating my way through everything the ship has to offer. The buffet restaurant provides an impressive spread of international cuisines, sides, and desserts. The speciality restaurants such as Butchers Cut Steakhouse, Indochine (a French-Vietnamese fusion), Hola Tacos, and Kaito Sushi & Teppanyaki are all worth a visit, just make sure you pre-book as soon as you can as they fill up pretty quickly.

There is a drinks upgrade package available if you are partial to a high-end tipple, and an abundance of options available if you’re saving your cash for on shore. With 21 bars on board, including one staffed by a robot bartender, there’s no excuse not to get that perfect iced cocktail shot for the ‘gram.

Insider tips:

Book a balcony cabin at the back of the ship for a hypnotic view of the wake trailing through the water.
Keep an eye out for dolphins: They love ships and can often be spotted frolicking past.
Book a massage and/or time in the spa. Your back will thank you for it.
Visit the chocolatery at Galleria Virtuosa for some tasty treats and souvenirs for friends and family back home.

How to book:

Bookings can be made directly with MSC here. Alternatively, call 0203 893 4203 or request a call back via the website. Current deals include a 7-night Northern Europe cruise from the UK for only £449pp (see website for full details).

Italy May 31, 2022

Wake Up Here: Amare Beach Hotel Marbella

Introducing you to Amare Beach Hotel Marbella: The new masterclass in cool

Stepping out onto my balcony, the heat of the coffee cup cradled in my hands contrasting with the cool, sleek wood of the deck against my feet, my lungs filled with fresh, salted air as I took in the magnificent sunrise over the whitewashed terraces and sapphire sea of Marbella. The late spring sunshine stretched its rays of coral, orange, and amber across the promenade as a pair of joggers shuffled past a lady unrolling yoga mats ready for an early Vinyasa session on the beach. It’s the kind of fleeting moment that may only last a few minutes, but the memory, the feeling, will last a lifetime. And there are plenty of those to be found at Amare Beach Hotel Marbella.

Where is it?

A beach front property a few minutes walk from the charming Marbella Old Town, the adults-only Amare Beach Hotel is situated slap bang in the centre of Marbella itself. Perched upon the promenade alongside the dazzling Mediterranean sea, the hotel is flanked by an abundance of pretty cafes, bars, sun loungers galore, and sits upon the pathway leading to Marbella’s famous “Golden Mile”, their very own 4.6 mile yellow brick road leading towards the party hot spot of Puerto Banus. Guests can take a 5 minute stroll uphill to Marbella Old Town: a quaint, whitewashed treasure trove of boutique stores and independent restaurants, with their geranium lined walkways and air heavy with the scent of churros and chocolate. With average temperatures of a pleasant 20C in spring and a sunbathers dream of 29C in summer, there’s a Marbella month for everyone, from spring golfers to summer sun goddesses.

Costa del Cool

Drawing inspiration from the sea and the traditional crisp white aesthetic of Marbella Old Town, the interiors fuse together the light, airy feel of the Mediterranean with the luxurious modernity synonymous with the Amare brand. Bleached wooden decks and gleaming marble allow the interiors to blend seamlessly with the outdoors regardless of what floor you happen to be on. The vertical wall garden and indoor water features bring the outside in, bolstering the feeling of airiness and wellbeing. Luxe, contemporary features such as rotating art installations and the most Instagrammable of feature walls in the hotel lobby add to the cool, effortless vibe that radiates throughout the property.

The effortlessly cool characteristics of the hotel continue into the outdoor area, where you will find dozens of comfortable sun loungers (and even the odd swing chair) around the chequerboard pool and outdoor hot tub. Cross the promenade to find Amare Beach Club, a chic waterside bar serving up cocktails and light bites adjacent to the sandy beach bedecked with loungers and parasols. The perfect spot for sun, sea, and social media snaps.

It’s not all sun and games

If you’re not one for lounging on the beach or sipping cocktails by the pool all day then fear not: the hotel boasts an array of additional features to make your stay a memorable one. SPA by Germaine de Capuccini offers a number of indulgent treatments including soothing facials and muscle melting massages alongside a hydrotherapy circuit including a hot tub, sauna, and relaxation areas. DJ’s and musicians perform regularly beside the pool and beachfront, elevating the ambiance as the sun goes down. For those who prefer a little more spring to their sojourn, the hotel offers daily bike rental, perfect for a 45 minute spin down the Golden Mile to Puerto Banus. There’s an onsite gym, gold courses within a reasonable distance, and for the truly insane, personal training is available by prior booking.

What about the rooms?

In keeping with the rest of the hotel, the room interiors follow the same cool, effortless flow from inside to out. The clean white and soft grey palette allows the striking blues of the Mediterranean and burnished Spanish skies to take centre stage, like an ever changing art installation. Details are muted, yet ever reminiscent of the sea: The headboards resemble the soft white foam of the surf, the curves of the loungers and ceiling lights echoing the waves of the waters beyond. Despite the assumption that Marbella is in party mode 24/7 (a mistake initiated by reality tv shows that are filmed several miles away in Puerto Banus), the rooms are well insulated and quiet, guaranteeing a peaceful nights sleep. For rainy days or when you just need a little “me time”, the balconies are spacious and clean, the mini bars are well stocked, and the room service menu is abundant with options for an early morning feed or late night bite. Rooms vary from “I was here”: an intimate, cosy space with views of the Sierra Blanca mountains, or “Oh La La The One”, featuring a rainfall shower, Molten Brown toiletries, and access to the premium lounge space in the hotel lobby filled to the brim with complimentary drinks, wine, and snacks.

Food and drink

One thing’s for sure, you’re not going to go hungry: boasting multiple restaurants including the roof top Belvue with panoramic views, the contemporary Amare Lounge, and the oceanside Amare Beach, guests are spoilt for choice. Serving up tasty tapas, stone-baked pizzas, fresh salads, sushi, and Iberico ham, you could easily dine around the hotel for a week and not experience the same dish twice. Should you fancy a more sophisticated affair, the Michelin Starred, award winning restaurant, Messina, is located a few yards from the hotel. Whether you’re indulging in the ten course tasting menu or freestyling with the a la carte offerings, bookings can be made via the hotel concierge and the bill charged to your room for convenience. Breakfast is served buffet style with freshly squeezed orange juice, omelettes made to order, and a large variety of hot and cold options including chorizo, fresh honeycomb, and a wide selection of bread and pastries. The generous drinks menu offers everything from Aperol to whisky, with many frosted cocktails in between. There’s no danger of you running out of options here.

Insider tips:

Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride up to Puerto Banus. There are plenty of safe places to lock up your wheels whilst you take a relaxing stroll around the marina and designer stores of this prolific end of the Golden Mile. Just make sure to book your bike rental with reception as far in advance as possible as they tend to get reserved quickly on sunnier days.
Reserve a table at Belvue, the panoramic bar located up on the 9th floor, for sunset cocktails. If you’re in it for the ‘gram, free apps such as Phototime will let you know what time golden hour and sunset will begin. Perfect for those cocktail sipping selfies.
End your trip with a massage at SPA by Germaine de Capuccini. Located on the sub-levels of the building, it’s the perfect sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the pool bar.

How to book:

Bookings can be made directly with the hotel here.

Hotel address: Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, 29603, Marbella, Málaga, España

Email: booking@amarehotels.com

The nearest airport is Malaga, approximately 40 minutes drive away.

Recipes May 16, 2022

Coco Kitchen: Chocolate Shortbread

Because no great adventure started with salad

A cosy recipe for a rainy May weekend, this scrummy chocolate shortbread takes less than 5 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to bake.

Ingredients:

270g plain flour
75g caster sugar
200g butter
40g cocoa powder
1tsp vanilla extract

To decorate:

4tbsp icing sugar mixed with 1-2 tsp water
Dried edible flowers

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180C/160C (fan)/gas mark 4.
Cream together the butter and caster sugar until soft and fluffy. Sift in the flour and cocoa, stirring until well combined. If the mixture looks a little flaky, use your hands to bring the dough together.
Roll the dough out to approximately 5-8mm thick. Cut out the shortbread biscuits and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the biscuits have set around the edges. Leave to cool on a wire rack.
When the biscuits are completely cool, stencil the icing over the top and scatter with edible flowers. If you don’t have a stencil to hand, drizzle with icing and decorate with flowers. Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days.

Croatia April 18, 2022

Wake Up Here: Regent Porto Montenegro

A young country with an old soul, welcome to the best kept secret of the Balkans

The tranquil emerald waters of Boka Bay catch flecks of gold as the sky puts on a show of burnished orange, pinks and violets. The early evening air heavy with the scent of salt from sea and butter from bakery, the only sounds being the clinking of champagne glasses and the slow, low beat of jazz from a yacht being prepared for an evening sail. Serenity. I take a sip of my mimosa and take in the brooding mountains, their rugged silhouette breaking up the dazzling waters below and hypnotic light show above. This is no unpredictable event, no twist of fate or great kismet on my part. This is a regular evening at Regent Porto Montenegro.

A Different Energy

The atmosphere, the energy here, it’s different. You know that feeling when you’re meeting up with friends after a long period of absence? You know, the warmth, the familiarity, sharing in-jokes as you uncork the wine and settle in for an evening of updates and anecdotes? That’s Regent Porto Montenegro. Behind the elegant, Venetian-Renaissance architecture is a tight-knit team of creative, diligent staff, committed to ensuring that your stay is as exceptional as it is relaxing. Sure, the overriding experience is one of luxury, but the approach is that of the warm aunt making cocoa for her guests at the end of a long day. The substance exceeds the style, no mean feat given the style is, well, off the scale.

Where is it?

Regent Porto Montenegro sits proudly on the waterfront of Tivat, its grand Italianate facade looking out onto the 460-berth super yacht marina and snow-tipped mountains beyond. Located 15 minutes from Tivat airport and with a flight time just shy of 3 hours from the UK, Regent Porto Montenegro is an excellent choice for anyone looking for luxuries most often found further afield, but with a substantially shorter flight time. Those looking for something a little more rustic can take a short 4 mile drive to Kotor, the UNESCO World Heritage site boasting narrow streets of charming stone buildings, ancient churches, and many, many cats. Additionally, Perast, and it’s mysterious Lady of the Rock (a little church with a big history), can be reached in under 30 minutes. With an abundance of walking, hiking, and cycling routes available, Montenegro is more than gleaming yachts and designer shopping. With average coastal temperatures of 28C in the summer and a pleasant 17C in the spring, the climate here offers the perfect vacation weather for sailing fanatics and sun-worshippers alike. I’m not sure what else I could ask for, but I’ve no doubt if I could, the staff would have it to me in two shakes of a lambs tail.

A Masterclass in Design

A proud tribute to their Venetian roots, Regent Porto Montenegro pays homage to its Italian history whilst creating a new, contemporary style of it’s own. Designed by Tino Zervudachi of MHZ, the interiors are stylish and uncluttered, allowing the sweeping views to do all the talking. Thoughtful, yet comfortable, the public areas of the hotel boast electrifying Italian style with the comforts and luxuries synonymous with many of the super-yachts moored outside. If Venetians made cruise ships, this is what they would look like.

The crisp, clean craftmanship spills out of the hotel interior and into the perfectly manicured gardens, outdoor seating areas, and many, many infinity pools on site. The beautifully refined Beach Club features cabanas curtained with crisp, white linen, and a multitude of pools directly overlooking the marina and bay beyond. If sundowners and good conversation are more your thing, Onyx Bar, with it’s delicate water features and fragrant shrubbery faces out to the west, meaning you can enjoy your Aperol beneath one of those trademark Montenegrin sunsets.

What about the rooms?

With the palm lined bay to the front and majestic mountains to the back, each of Regent Porto Montengro’s 175 rooms, suites, and penthouses evoke a feeing of quiet luxury. The accommodation is spread across three wings, each with its own distinct flavour: Venezia plays tribute to Montenegro’s nautical past, whilst the Regent Pool Club Residences feel more reminiscent of the Italian Riviera. The dazzlingly diverse views of both land and sea mean you could stay a dozen times and experience a different vista on each occasion. Views aside, the quality of the interiors remain uniform across all classes of room. Irrespective of whether you’re staying in a room or a penthouse, the beds are marshmallow soft, the linens impeccable, the bathrooms unscrupulously clean. For those staying with family, the penthouses offer ample space for excitable children and tumbling tots, whereas couples may prefer the discreet luxury of a suite complete with oversized rainforest shower and deep ceramic tub with an optional bath butler service.

Whilst some rooms include cooking facilities and refrigerators, the comprehensive room service menu means you don’t have to leave the comfort of your bed for breakfast or quit sunbathing on your balcony if you get a bit peckish. Lovely jubbly.

Food & Drink

Not many hotels boast a restaurant that could survive and thrive as a stand alone entity, but Murano at Regent Porto Montenegro is certainly one of them. Headed up by Chef Marko Zivkovic, Murano is quietly creating impeccable dishes with an attention to flavour and flair synonymous with the quality and grandeur of the restaurant interior. With a focus on Adriatic seafood and local, seasonal ingredients, this is the closest you will get to Michelin Star quality dining outside of a Michelin Star restaurant. The dishes pack a punch whilst retaining simplicity, the balance of land and sea harmonised on the plate. The dining room, with its high ceilings, chandeliers, and opulent Murano glass artwork is the perfect setting for a three course feast, whereas the outdoor seating in the Italian Garden provide a more relaxing al-fresco option for the warmer months.

For a more casual affair, Gourmet Corner is the go-to restaurant for a breezy lunch or afternoon treat. The sweeping glass counter filled with all manner of cakes and pasties is impossible to resist (trust me, I ate four in one sitting), the menu offering light bites such as creamy croquettes and peppery steak sandwiches. If it’s a tipple you’re after, the Library Bar, reminiscent of an old London gentleman’s club, can serve you a dram of classic malt or shake up a custom cocktail whilst you sink into one of the many sumptuous wing-backed chairs. Alternatively, the expert mixologists at both The Onyx Bar and Pool Bar offer an array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails alongside a variety of light bites. You are in no danger of going hungry here.

A Little R&R

Step out of the second-floor elevator and you’re greeted with the drifting scent of eucalyptus and camomile from the world-class spa facilities. Here, relaxation is serious business: whether you’re indulging in a Finnish sauna, Turkish Hammam, or custom massage treatment, your serenity is their priority. The therapists act with a sense of care and calm, drawing from the gentle, nurturing energy that seems ever present throughout the building. With a selection of treatments available, including Ayurvedic massage, rose infused facials, and revitalising body scrubs, you’ll be floating back to your room for the best night’s sleep you’ve had in recent memory.

If you’re already fully de-stressed, the spa is also home to a 20 metre indoor pool and oversized mosaic-lined hot-tub, each with awe-inspiring views of Boka Bay. If you fancy a bit of fresh air, you can slip outside to the secluded infinity pool on the second floor balcony. The perfect place to quietly drink in that sunrise.

Insider tips

While the bay view rooms are fabulous, don’t dismiss the mountain facing rooms on the opposite side of the building. The mountain views are magnificent, especially during the cooler months when they’re topped with snow. Try both for a unique travel experience.
There are numerous luxury boutiques on site, including Dior, Rolex, and Zimmerman. Bring your chequebooks.
Try the ceviche at Murano. More importantly, book Murano before the rest of the world finds out about it, so you can brag that you got in before the waiting list.
The indoor hot tub at sunset is a special experience indeed. The mosaic glows during the golden hour, and the spa is generally quite empty as most guests are at dinner.
Take a day trip to Perast and visit The Lady of the Rock. You don’t need to be Catholic or indeed religious to enjoy the architecture and story of this unique spot. If you think on, book a table at Conte for lunch afterwards.

How to book

Bookings can be made direct with the hotel here. Accessible and inter-connected rooms are available upon request.

Regent Porto Montenegro is located at Obala BB, Porto Montenegro Village, Tivat, 85320, Montenegro.

Telephone: +382 (0) 32 660 660

The nearest airport is Tivat, less that 5km from the hotel. You can also arrive via Dubrovnik and Podgorica airports, each one located about 90 minutes drive away.

Gallery:

Recipes April 15, 2022

Weekend Bakes: Golden Blonde Hot Cross Pudding

An easy, one-pan pudding for a relaxing Easter treat

I’ve got a nerve even calling this a recipe given it’s just a case of chucking some ingredients in a dish and popping it in the oven. You family and friends don’t have to know that though…

Golden Blonde Hot Cross Pudding

Serves: 4-6

Prep time: 5 minutes

Bake time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

1 packet of 4 M&S Golden Blonde Hot Cross Buns

1 x 500ml tub M&S fresh custard

100g Biscoff spread

100g M&S Golden Blonde chocolate

100g Biscoff biscuits, crushed

Method:

Preheat the oven to 200C/180C (fan)/gas mark 6
Slice the hot cross buns in half. Spread a generous spoonful of Biscoff spread over the cut side of the bun and add a square of blonde chocolate before sandwiching back together.
Place the buns in a 22cm (or thereabouts) round pie dish. Pour the custard over the buns.
Bake the pudding in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the custard has started to set around the edges.
Chop the remaining blonde chocolate and the Biscoff biscuits. Sprinkle over the top of the pudding and serve immediately.

Israel April 12, 2022

You’ve Got to Eat Here: Burleigh Court Hotel & Restaurant

Low food miles, foraged ingredients, and locally sourced fare with a modern twist? Count us in.

Proudly perched atop the Cotwolds hills, Burleigh Court has quietly been serving up some of the best local produce Gloucestershire has to offer. The award winning, two-rosette restaurant headed by chef Shaun Jones has been showcasing the very best locally reared meats and home-grown vegetables from the kitchen garden, all garnished with foraged ingredients plucked from nearby fields and hedgerows. With grand windows boasting sweeping views of the open countryside beyond, here you will find a classically styled restaurant with modern, delicious fare.

The restaurant is a clear reflection of its surroundings, the beautiful Burleigh Court Hotel. Wood panelling and a wide selection of artwork are complimented by the considerate soft touches scattered around the property: snuggly blankets for late evening al-fresco dining, sinkable plush sofas with dangerous nap potential. The dining room is formal enough to feel special, yet comfortable enough to feel like home. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon tea or a souped-up celebratory dinner, the Burleigh Court backdrop will have you feeling relaxed, nurtured, and well fed.

The menu, bustling with modern classics, will tempt even the fussiest of eaters. As an eco-conscious restaurant devoted to keeping food miles to a minimum, you can bet your bottom dollar that what arrives on your plate has not been languishing in the deep freeze for the last six months. The opportunity to sample a variety of local produce, cooked with the utmost respect and care, is one not to be missed. Whilst the menu boasts variety, for me, the true star of the show was their 30 day Dry-aged Local Chateaubriand. Seared to utter perfection, I have tried, and failed, to find a cut as succulent and perfectly cooked elsewhere. Served as a sharing dish for two, Burleigh Court’s take on steak was so delicious, I’d be tempted to have a solo bash at it on my next visit.

Herbivores, fear not: it’s not all about the meat. Burleigh Court’s bustling kitchen garden allows for some seriously delicious meat-free options. The Burleigh Court Garden Jerusalem Artichoke Pearl Barley with devilishly tart pickled shallots is a firm favourite for plant-based diets, whilst pescatarians can enjoy the best of the sea with Burleigh’s Tarragon Beurre Noisette Halibut with fennel, samphire, and clams. Desserts range from refreshing to indulgent, my favourites being the Stem Ginger Steamed Pudding with poached rhubarb, and the delectable yet aesthetically pleasing White Chocolate Mousse. Perfect for luring in the double taps on Instagram.

For the wine lovers, Burleigh Court’s expert staff are on hand to recommend a variety of grapes that will complement your dish, from champagne and sparkling to white, rosé and reds. The bar is also stocked with a wide variety of classic favourites, from Aperol Spritz for a hazy summer evening dining on the terrace, to Sandeman 10y Tawny Port to accompany your cheeseboard.

Insider tips:

1: Afternoon tea on the terrace can book up quickly in the summer months. Be sure to book ahead as far as possible.

2: A glass of Toffee Apple Moonshine liqueur is the perfect accompaniment to Burleigh Court’s Sticky Toffee Pudding.

3: Al Fresco dining with home-made sourdough wood fired pizzas is available in the warmer months. An experience not to be missed, curl up next to the firepit with a slice of pizza and a cocktail on a hazy summer night.

How to book:

Bookings can be made online or by telephone. For those making a night of it, rooms start from £139 per night.

Address: Burleigh Court Hotel, The Roundabouts, Brimscombe, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 2PF
Phone: +44(0)1453 933043

Email: reservations@burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk
Website: www.burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk/restaurant

Recipes March 20, 2022

Easter Bakes: Lemon, thyme, and white chocolate bunny cake

Get ready for a very hoppy Easter

Simple yet striking, this citrussy bunny cake is speckled with thyme and white chocolate for a grown up twist. If you need to work ahead of time, the cake can be frozen for up to a month. Just pop it in the freezer and defrost thoroughly before filling.

Lemon, thyme, and white chocolate bunny cake

Prep: 30 mins

Bake time: 45-60 minutes

Serves: 2-4

Ingredients:

For the sponge:

75g unsalted butter
75g caster sugar
2 medium eggs
50ml milk
90g self-raising flour
1tsp baking powder
2tsp chopped fresh thyme

For the filling and decoration:

3tbsp lemon curd
75g unsalted butter
170g icing sugar
2-3tsp lemon juice
40g white chocolate
8-10 sprigs of fresh thyme
Mini eggs

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180C/160C (fan)/gas mark 4. Grease and line a 4″/10cm round cake tin in preparation.
Cream together the butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the thyme leaves and eggs.
Sift together the flour and baking powder. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture a spoonful at a time, alternating with a glug of milk. Continue until mixed thoroughly.
Transfer the batter to the cake tin. Bake in the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool on a wire rack.
For the filling, whisk together the butter, icing sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. If the frosting is a little stiff, add a drop of milk to loosen.
Slice the cake into three even layers. Fill each layer with a good, thick dollop of frosting. Stack the layers and spread any remaining buttercream around the cake before scraping with a butter knife to create a semi-naked effect.
Heat the white chocolate in short spurts in the microwave. Spoon the chocolate over the edges of the cake, leaving it to create its own drip effect.
Take two pieces of white florists wire and bend them into two bunny ears. Wrap some thyme around the wires before inserting into the top of the cake.
Wind some thyme around the base of the cake. Decorate with mini eggs and serve.

Coco Kitchen February 24, 2022

Weekend Bakes: Blood Orange Bundt Cake

Start your weekend RIGHT with this easy one tin bake

An easy bake using seasonal ingredients, the zest and juice of blood orange creates a bold yet sumptuously moist cake. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Bake time: 45-50 minutes (plus one hour for the oranges)

Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

260g baking margarine
260g caster sugar
4 eggs
260g self-raising flour
2tsp baking powder
Zest and juice of 2 blood oranges

For the decoration:

200g icing sugar
Juice of 1 blood orange
Sprinkles
1 blood orange, thinly sliced

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180C/160C (fan)/gas mark 4. Grease the Bundt tin with a little butter/margarine and dust with flour.
Whisk together the margarine and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs, flour, baking powder, juice and zest, mixing until a smooth batter has formed. Transfer the batter to the prepared Bundt tin and bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer into the cake comes out clean.
Leave the cake to cool on a wire rack. Do not try and remove it from the tin until cold.
Whilst the cake is cooling, place the orange slices on a sheet of baking paper and bake in the oven for one hour on its lowest setting. Turn the slices over after 30 minutes to ensure both sides are evenly done.
When the cake is completely cool, easy it out of the Bundt tin. If it is reluctant to leave, you can loosen it by gently easing a palette knife or other blunt knife down the ridges of the cake.
Whisk together the icing sugar and blood orange juice, adding a little water if it seems too thick. Pour the icing over the cake and top with orange slices. Enjoy.

Staycation August 1, 2021

Wake up here: Number 41 York

Stylish accommodation within walking distance of the city gates: Welcome to the dazzling home of your next weekender

“Wow”. Dropping my bags on the floor of the imposing townhouse, I immediately regretted not making this a girly weekend. I had just arrived at Number 41 York, a jaw-droppingly stylish offering a mere 10 minutes walk from the city gates of York. The furnishings, voguish yet comfortable, the artwork, jocose and carefully selected by a keen eye, this is clearly a property for comfort, joy, and coming together.

Sleeping 8 guests over three floors, this open plan Airbnb gem boasts a king, double, and twin bedroom on the first floor, followed by a spacious master suite in the attic. Serviced by three bathrooms (one family, one ensuite, and one cloakroom), and mod-cons such as a smart tv, excellent wi-fi, and a bluetooth speaker in the dining area, this property just screams family get away or stylish weekender with good food, good friends, and great wine. The chic open plan dining area is just darling laid out with the eclectic crockery and glassware provided in the kitchen, the perfect setting for a post-lockdown catch up or hearty family meal. During the warmer months, you can enjoy a more al fresco affair in the walled garden just off the dining room.

With each bedroom characterised by fun artwork and striking wallpaper (some in exclusive prints), Number 41 York is an Instagrammer’s dream. Quirky touches such as the city print wallpaper in the downstairs bathroom and the cheeky rhino’s head popping out of the dining room wall mean any photos from your stay will most certainly be Insta-worthy (in addition to preserving those treasured memories, of course). From the linens to the unique antique furnishings, the striking quality of the interior puts this property up there with some of the city’s more costly hotels, but with less noise outside (zero, in fact), free parking for one vehicle, and the space to relax without being constricted to your room.

The perfect location

Located on St. Olaves Road, Number 41 York is within staggering distance of the city’s Bootham Bar entrance. A historic walled city famous for it’s gothic 13th century cathedral, ghost stories, plethora of quality restaurants and shops, and, of course, the Harry Potter-esque Shambles, you could stay for a long weekend and just about fit in most of the key attractions. If the weather isn’t particularly kind, you can batten down the hatches, get the fire going, and sink back into the marshmallow soft sofas of Number 41, pop on some jazz, and converse the night away as the rain pitter patters down the window. Elegant enough to feel luxurious, but cosy enough to feel comforting, Number 41 retains that “home from home” feeling without compromising on style.

A foodie favourite

Whether you’re eating in or eating out, York has something for the refined palate and the picky eater alike. Number 41 York sits within walking distance of an abundance of independent cafes, delis, restaurants, and wine bars, all serving unique, quality dishes washed down with all manner of delicious beverages. If you’re in the mood for something a little more lively, you can stroll into the city and indulge in some pizza and grapes at boutique wine bar, Cave du Cochon. With a concentrated food menu and extensive wine list, this popular haunt fills up quickly and is best booked in advance. If you’re happy curled up in the cocoon of your lounge chair and don’t fancy venturing out for the evening, be sure to visit Henshelwoods Deli, an independent delicatessen nestled at the side of the historic Shambles market. Selling cheese, charcuterie, and their famous brownies, stock up for an indulgent evening back at the townhouse as a great way to end your trip.

Insider tips:

Number 41 York is within delivery distance of several supermarkets. If you’re travelling with family or a larger group, book the basics in advance. The kitchen features a full size fridge freezer and plenty of cupboard space, so get stocked up and feel at home from arrival.
If you want to get the classic Shambles shot devoid of tourists, prepare to get up early. We arrived at 06.00, the advantage of which being you can drive through the city before the bollards go up (which is a wonderful experience in itself). Our only interruption was a delivery van dropping off produce, other than that, it felt like the city was ours. We drove into the centre rather than walking (to save lugging camera equipment), and parked in the Shambles Q park, 2 minutes walk from the historic street itself. York is a stunning city, but many features can be overlooked when the streets are filled with sightseers. Get up early and make the most of views before the rest of the world wakes up.
Unlike some Airbnb’s, Number 41 York is generously equipped with fluffy towels and crisp, fresh bedding. Save a bit of suitcase room and leave those bits at home, you’ll be more than well provided for.

The lowdown:

Why visit Number 41 York? Perfect for couples, families, groups of friends, or solo travellers who value space, you would be hard pushed to find this level of quality elsewhere within this price point and location.
What’s the difference between a hotel and hosted accommodation? You’re getting substantially more space for your buck, and with that comes better value for money, especially if you’re travelling with more that two people.
What are the hosts like? Wonderful. Bonhomie and welcoming, you cannot ask for more. They have a portfolio of properties including a further townhouse across the street, so get in touch if you’re travelling with a larger group and are in need of additional accommodation.
I’m used to city life, will I get bored? Absolutely not! The property is with a short walk of the city and it’s many attractions, but far enough to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep. Plus you won’t have to fight for parking.

How to book:

You can book directly with the hosts via Airbnb here. There are discounts for longer stays plus, at the time of going to print, Christmas week is still available! You can plan the rest of your trip over on the Visit York site, which contains links to dozens of attractions within a short distance of Number 41 York.

France August 1, 2021

Wake up here: Burleigh Court Hotel, Cotswolds

In search of halcyon days and epicurean nights, Food Editor Debby Donnelly-Addison takes a summer sojourn at the Cotswolds best kept secret: Burleigh Court

“You have all the time in the world” Oana assures me as she places my order of bacon French toast down on the crisp white linen of the breakfast table. “You’re here to relax”. It’s my first morning at Burleigh Court, a 200 year old, 18-room country house hotel perched high on a hill overlooking Gloucestershire’s golden valley, and I’m only just disengaging work-mode. Oana’s gentle reminder rings synonymously with the overriding feel of the building: you are, indeed, here to relax, and it’s abundantly clear that much heart has gone into ensuring you do so.

Since taking over the business in 2019, owners Corinna and James Rae have created something really rather special: a boutique retreat where you can eat well, sleep well, and feel well. The grandeur of a country house hotel with a warm, homely atmosphere, it’s the hotel equivalent of eating freshly baked cookies in an extravagant ballgown. Do not let the resplendent frontage and acres of lush gardens fool you: when you’re coming to Burleigh Court, you’re coming home.

Time to switch off

You cannot so much as walk down a hallway in Burleigh Court without stumbling across signs of the care and keen eye that have gone into the gentle restoration of the property that will no doubt appeal to a new generation of traveller. A basket of blankets in the entrance hall for al fresco drinks late into the night, warm throws casually draped upon overstuffed sofas, the soft touches that make one feel cossetted and content. The same applies to the rooms, where antique furnishings, hand printed wallpapers, and quality linens meet quirky, thoughtful design features such as retro telephones, glass carafes laden with mineral water, and botanical themed door hangers. All rooms boast a power shower and/or bath, sumptuous bedding atop marshmallow soft beds, and complimentary tea, coffee, and home-made shortbread from the kitchen downstairs. With a variety of accommodations including family friendly, pet-friendly, and a recently refurbished romantic getaway, all rooms are blessed with either panoramic views at the front of the building, or the lush greenery of the secluded garden and pool to the back. Window seats and wing backed chairs provide the perfect perches for gazing dreamingly out over the gardens and beyond.

Making a splash

As is the overriding theme at Burleigh Court, the outdoors are just as well cared for as within. The four acres of gardens, meticulously curated by a team of passionate gardeners, include a croquet lawn, oversized hammocks, deckchairs, and dining areas, amidst wildflower patches, the kitchen garden, bee hives, and a charming swing framed by a magnificent tree and sea of ruby red poppies. The outdoor Art Deco pool, created by the esteemed Sir Clough Williams Ellis, is open from mid-June to September and provides a most welcomed cooling dip on a hot summer’s day. Surrounded by loungers for those who’d rather not get their hair wet, the pool area is a great boon for those who are serious about relaxing and rejuvenating during their Cotswolds break.

Food with a view

The “Eat well” philosophy at Burleigh Court is well evidenced in their two AA-Rosette restaurant. With a strong commitment to keeping food miles low and produce standards high, all ingredients are sourced within a 30-mile radius, many of which coming from their onsite kitchen garden. The uncomplicated, seasonal menu is available to residents and non-residents alike, with the option of dining in the historic oak panelled restaurant or al-fresco on the terrace outside. The dedication to supporting local suppliers and maintaining a low carbon footprint is a refreshing change from the mass-produced offerings in the larger chain hotels, but that is the beauty of embracing the independent, modern minded properties such as Burleigh.

If you’re a meat-eater dining with a fellow carnivore, the Chateaubriand is a real treat. Served with chunky chips, buttered greens, and a delicious sauce for drizzling, the chefs at Burleigh Court know how to cook a steak to perfection. The majority of dishes are garnished with microgreens and various other goodies from the kitchen garden a few metres away, the epitome of freshness, consideration, and respect for ingredients. Allergies are carefully considered, with the kitchen staff kindly whipping up a separate sauce for me, to negate the risk of cross contamination. The drinks menu is extensive, the wine plentiful, you really could not ask for more.

A foraged feast

I was fortunate enough to take part in the Wild Foodie Foraging Experience, a new offering for Summer and Autumn this year. Led by kitchen gardener and foraging expert, Emanuelle Paulson, we took a stroll beyond the hotel grounds and into the village on the lookout for edible treats, often overlooked by the untrained eye. After a quick safety briefing on what and what not to eat (“check. Double check. Triple check. Then check again”), we toddled off down country lanes, sampling wild strawberries, lime tree leaves, even stinging nettles (the trick is to smooth down the hairy fibres as you first handle the leaf). A morning of leafy nibbles, storytelling, and a brief, refreshing downpour, ended in the hotel gardens, where we were introduced to the Burleigh bees, buzzing away in their eau de nil beehives. We are told that the bees will remain nonplussed if we respect them and their space, respect being a running theme here: the hotel interior is contemporary, yet respectful of its history. The gardens neat enough to appear curated, but with an element of wild growth to respect the greenery and its quest for sunlight. Everything you experience here is based on respect, care, consideration. A much-appreciated rarity these days.

Insider tips:

The newly refurbished room 2, with it’s four-poster bed and spa bath, is a real treat. Spacious, serene, with a window seat overlooking the gardens, this room would make the perfect mini-moon or anniversary stay.
Whilst you may not want to leave your room at all, no stay is complete without an evening drink on the terrace. Granted, you lose the stunning views once the sun goes down, but bundling yourself up in a blanket under the stars and sipping a drink next to the globe shaped firepit is a very special experience indeed.
The afternoon tea at Burleigh Court is the stuff of local legend. Pre-book to avoid disappointment.
The exclusive foraging experience runs on limited dates and is a must for novices and seasoned foragers alike. You can check dates and prices here.
Burleigh Court also offers/can point you in the direction of a vast array of experiences including spa treatments, floristry course, golfing, and mountain bike trails. You can check out the full list of activities on offer here.

BOOKING

Debby Donnelly-Addison was a guest of Burleigh Court, a boutique hideaway hotel with a 2 AA Rosette restaurant in The Cotswolds. Weekday B&B stays are priced from £119 per night. New for 2021, Burleigh has launched a Wild Foodie Foraging Experience available on select dates July-October. Priced from £60 per person, this includes a guided foraging walk and wild food lunch. To book a stay at Burleigh Court, please call 01453 883 804 or visit www.burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk.