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Wake up Here : Stonehouse Court, The Cotswolds

Nestled away in the Cotswolds countryside, a mere 5 minutes from the M5 sits the majestic Stonehouse Court Hotel.  A 17th Century Manor house steeped in history at every turn and overlooking the Stroud Valley this is one of those hotels that hits the mark in such a way, you don’t want to leave and I’m not just staying that. We planned our trip around visiting friends in nearby Stroud. We had an itinerary of drinks, dinner and a walk around the grounds at Stonehouse and then on to meet them. However, when it came time to leave both my partner and I pouted at the thought of being expelled into the real world. I didn’t care that I hadn’t seen said friends in a year – I wanted to drink red wine in the paneled bar before languishing in the in room roll top bath and then falling into a deep slumber in the biggest bed you ever did see. Alas, apparently it is rude to bail on your friends that have been looking forward to seeing you for a month and so, the boyf and I agreed on a time where we had stayed just long enough to be deemed appropriate so we could get back to base and make the most of that tub!

Within the hotel are 36 bedrooms, nine of which sit in the original manor house – these are the suckers you want for the full Lord and Lady of the Manor experience. The additional rooms are housed in more modern extensions. We stayed in the Master Suite complete with a super king size bed, roll top bath, walk in shower with views over the valley and all the players you like to see – fluffy robes, coffee machine, mini bar etc.  Allegedly Queen Elizabeth I stayed in the very room – hey, if it’s good enough for Liz, it’s good enough for me. The views from this room were quite simply breathtaking, original windows sunken into the stone opening out to offer a vista of rolling hills, lush green fields and huge skies – I honestly just wanted to sip my champagne and gaze at what could be a Bob Ross painting until the sun went down but our in room checks wait for no one.

Once checked in, bed jumped on, sheet thread count checked and mince around the room in a robe complete we decided we should make the most of the last few hours of summer sun and take an amble through the gardens. As we bimbled down the gravel path, through the red brick walls, under the bowing trees we found ourselves on the Stroudwater Navigation canal complete with everything you would hope to see on a balmy summer night in the Cotswolds – weeping willow, a family of swans – goslings all flapping legs and fluffy feathers, someone off in the distance shouting at their Labrador to heel. It was idyllic, the perfect place to walk or sit and watch the world go by.

Returning to the grounds through the very Secret Garden-esque arched pathway, we made our way to the restaurant. Full disclosure, the dining room, in my opinion, does not stand up to the quality of the rooms – think table runners, striped carpets and glassware that could bounce. However, I do accept that I have exceptionally high standards when it comes to all things tableware and restaurant interiors. Our meal was good. We opted for twice baked parmesan and truffle souffle and a scotch egg to start and sirloin steak and lamb breast dish for mains. The souffle alluded that it may have seen a dash of truffle oil during some part of its birth but alas, it was missing the shavings of fresh truffle I was hoping for. The scotch egg hit the spot as any scotch egg should, jammy yolk, crispy breadcrumbs etc. My steak was cooked to perfection and served with proper chips and a vat of thick, rich Bernaise.  The FOH team are fantastic – friendly without being overbearing, knowledgeable about both the menu and wine list and happy to help in any way possible. They deserve a special shout out.

After dinner we headed out to meet our friends. Nearby Stroud is only a ten minute drive and is a bustling town full of artists and creatives. If you are staying at Stonehouse Court and want to explore a little more than the hotel grounds, I would highly recommend a day or night bumbling around. With its vast array of cafes, pubs and independent shops there is something to do at any time of the day and its music scene is fantastic so be sure to check out what is on when you are in town.

Sated on red wine, red meat and good conversation we headed back to our base, picking up another bottle of red from the bar on the way, this is what I had been waiting for. The bath to end all baths – deep enough to lose yourself in, full of bubbles, glass of red in hand and log burner burning (yes I know it was a balmy summer night but I wanted the full experience). I can never quite place my finger on what makes a tub in a bedroom such a decadent experience compared to a tub in a bathroom, maybe the absence of the toilet and the promise of what is to come and with that a jolly good sleep et al was had.

Our stay was completed by a full English being delivered to our door to help with any hangovers that may or may not have made themselves known. If a bath at the end of the bed doesn’t scream “I’m a princess and I love it” then chowing down on crispy bacon, fresh orange juice and strong coffee is crisp white sheets most definitely does.

Stonehouse Court offers decadence and convenience for those looking to explore the Cotswolds or break up a grey M5 journey with a spot of luxury. The room prices certainly dictate the level of frill you get and whilst the food offering isn’t exceptional it is very acceptable. The traditional manor house, sitting within the rolling hills is quintessentially British and certainly ticks the boxes of those looking for the Jilly Cooper country escape and because of that, it’s a yes from me.

Find out more about Stonehouse Court here.

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Dog-friendly

A dogfriendly getaway at the Beachcroft Hotel

Do you remember those quaint little beach huts your family used to frequent during those nostalgic family getaways to the coast? Well forget them – because the new Beach Hut Suites at the Beachcroft Hotel in Bognor Regis are redefining coastal chic. Intrepid doggy duo Hannah Tan-Gillies and TeamCocopup check-in to sample the doggy getaway package.

Situated on a gorgeous seven-mile stretch of coastal footpath, the Beach Hut Suites take all the charm of classic beachside huts and imbue it with a luxury twist. The Beach Huts boasts double-height ceilings and generous bi-folding doors that open to a private terrace – with panoramic views of the coast.

The Beach Huts, and the Beachcroft Hotel, are fabulously dog-friendly, boasting all the bespoke touches that are present in any Peter De Savary property. Fans of the equally dog-friendly Cary Arms in Babbacombe Bay or The Eastbury in Dorset, will recognise the handsome decanter of Sloe gin that awaits them in their suite and the impeccable, warm and friendly service that has become synonymous with all properties in the hotelier’s portfolio.

Inside, white-washed walls meet light grey floors, ocean-inspired interiors and vibrant punches of colour, fabric and texture. Each Beach Hut Suite can house up to four people – with a double bed atop the mezzanine and twin bunk beds right by the entrance. We highly recommend requesting a breakfast hamper to your suite, which foregoes the need for rushing to the restaurant on those lazy summer mornings by the seaside.

Instead, the hotel delivers a fabulous wicker hamper with all your continental breakfast favourites already included. From freshly-baked croissants, ham, cheese, yoghurts, porridge, fruits and of course a nice cuppa – there is undoubtedly no better way to enjoy breakfast by the sea.

You can take it up a notch and order a champagne picnic hamper for lunch – which was a glorious experience – especially when enjoyed in your private terrace during one of the UK’s hottest summers of recent memory. The hamper includes classic sandwich fare, but also boxed fish and chips – the quintessential coastal meal.

The Beachcroft Hotel has three fabulous restaurants: the classic Tamarisk Restaurant, Monty’s Bistro Restaurant and Blake’s, which is an outdoor garden terrace restaurant complete with dining pods. Tamarisk offers elevated pub classics without any faff. Don’t expect fancy foams here, but instead hearty and delicious British dishes with a twist.

We were particularly impressed with the hospitality of Lucas the restaurant manager – and how all three restaurants were able to accommodate vegan, diary, gluten alternatives. Like other De Savary properties – doggies are treated like royalty at all restaurants and TeamCocopup Charlie got to enjoy some special meals too.

There’s quite literally an ocean of possibility surrounding the hotel in terms of activities. Enjoy a coastal walk using the hotel’s curated walking guides, go beachcombing or birdwatching at the neighbouring Pagham Harbour biological and geological site, wine tasting at the nearby Tinwood estate or visit Arundel Castle or the Portsmouth Historic estate.

There are buckets, spades and fishing nets for children available at the Beach Hut Suite. For the young at heart, the hotel also offers paddleboarding and adult bicycles – perfect for exploring the beautiful coastal landscapes surrounding the Beachcroft Hotel.

While travel has well and truly returned to the UK, it sometimes becomes easy to forget the beauty that we have in our own backyards. Our stay at the Beach Hut Suite offered ample amounts of nostalgia for those family holidays of old, but also showed us that a UK beach break, especially one at the Beachcroft Hotel, can outdo an expensive holiday at the Med any day.

A night at one of the Beach Hut Suites at the Beachcroft Hotel starts at £415 based on two people sharing B&B. For more information https://beachcroftbeachhuts.co.uk

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Behind the bar

Retox to Detox at the South Place Hotel

These days, it’s rare to come across something that makes you think – ‘why hasn’t anyone thought of this before?’ which was exactly the case with South Place Hotel’s new Retox to Detox package. Team Coco ventures into the buzzy City to see if South Place Hotel’s new package is worth the hype (spoiler alert: it is)

If you’ve ever gone out out over 30, then you must try South Place Hotel’s new Retox to Detox package. City’s most vibrant boutique hotel has teamed up with Vitamin Drop specialists Get A Drip to offer the ultimate party-weekend experience for partygoers whose hangovers have worsened with age.

No need to sacrifice a whole weekend binge-watching the latest reality show after a night out, because South Place has created the solution with its Retox and Detox package.

South Place Hotel is artsy, cool, vibey and effortlessly so. A destination within a destination, South Place Hotel Is conveniently located to all of Shoreditch’s hipster haunts and the City’s sky-high bars – a perfect base for a night out. Not to mention, the hotel’s Secret Garden – which opens every Friday from August – is also an excellent spot for cocktails with guest DJs adding further allure.

We checked into one of the studio suites, one of the 80 stylish bedrooms in South Place Hotel. The suite was stylish, spacious and had plenty of delightfully clever amenities that we didn’t know we needed in our lives until right now. The BNO TV, for example, can be spun around remotely. No need to fumble with HDMI wires, because you can connect your laptop to the TV straight from the desk. The minibar, if you can call it that, contains a fabulous selection of artisanal gins and spirits – perfect to get the party started.

RETOX

There is also an in-room ‘Black Book’ Party Guide which gives you the low-down on the coolest late night spots this side of East London. We were also greeted with some champagne and delicious fruits – perfect to set the pre-game mood.

Package guests can enjoy a complimentary Tanqueray Gin cocktail at the hotel’s buzzy 3 Bar in the lobby, but we recommend also having a cocktail (or two) at the rooftop terrace just before sunset. We promise that you won’t get better views of the City.

For dinner, check out South Place Chop House’s new summer menu. Led by Head Chef Jack O’Riley, there’s plenty to chew on here (pun intended). From the generously sized Large King Prawns starter, which is cooked with chili, garlic and parsley butter to the Cobble Lane Charcuterie-board which offers Cappa, Lomo, Salami and Chorizo with a creamy celeriac rémoulade.

The star of the show is of course the Josper grill. Here, you can enjoy a selection delicious, juicy grass-fed steaks. Each cut is carefully aged, succulent and works perfectly well with a variety of delicious sauces and sides. They say a good meal is a precursor to a good night out, and so after our delicious dinner at Chop House – we danced the night away in East London.

DETOX

Going ‘out out’ often results in dehydration, headaches, and a general fatigue -which gets worse with age. Don’t fret – because South Place Hotel comes to the rescue with the detox part of the package. Start with a hearty breakfast the Chop House, followed by a Vitamin Drip treatment in your room.

Get A Drip is London’s top IV clinic and offers different drips depending on your needs. We went for the Energise drip, but you can also opt for Hydration Immunity or Detox. The IV Drops are administered by a certified nurse – and will not just give you a post-drip boost of energy, but leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and energised for up to four weeks after your treatment.

Once properly detoxed, South Place Hotel takes the relaxation further with a one-hour full-body massage at the Wellness Centre, so you can banish the aches from the night before. Believe us – once you check out of the South Place Hotel – you’d be asking yourself ‘where has this been all my life?’

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Why Mauritius makes for a mesmerising escape

Whether you are seeking adrenaline-boosting activities or relaxing on a stretch of white sand that nuzzles crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, this gorgeous island in the Indian Ocean ticks all the right boxes and more…

At first glance, you might think you have stepped into some kind of dream, a film set or an enticing Instagram post. But this place is very real and does a pretty stellar job of cranking up the dreaminess levels and spiriting you away on a paradisiacal retreat.

Writer Mark Twain was rumoured to have declared Mauritius as ‘heaven on Earth’ – and it’s easy to see why.

Mauritius is blessed with majestic mountains, lush forests, stunning national parks and spectacular waterfalls, which all go a long way to entice visitors to where it sits in the Indian Ocean.

Put quite simply, Mauritius is a feast for the senses – in particular, from a visual perspective. Gaze in wonder at the rushing waterfalls, mountainous vistas, as well as tropical forests like the mystical Black River Gorges National Park.

But if you’re yearning for more than a gorgeous view while sipping a cocktail, then you’re in luck – Mauritius is much more than just a pretty face.

An intriguing archipelago surrounds Mauritius and one of the best ways to explore this collection of islands and islets is via an organised tour by boat or catamaran. One Love Tours will whisk you away on an unforgettable island adventure, where you can explore the turquoise crystal waters of the Indian Ocean.

Sit back, and relax with a cooling drink as you experience the pure exhilaration of a thrill-a-minute ride on a speedboat. Each tour can take several hours and there are several stopping-off points along the way where you can snorkel, swim and explore.

Step off the boat into the waters and climb up to see Île aux Fouquets, also known as the lighthouse island by the locals, which is located in the bay of Grand Port, southeast of Mauritius. Despite falling into disrepair, this rocky island remains very popular with both locals and tourists and is one of the highlights of these curated tours.

For me, an absolute standout moment was seeing a pod of dolphins that suddenly appeared out of nowhere as the colour of the water transformed from shades of turquoise blue to more of a greenish hue whilst on our way to see the spectacular waterfall at the Grand River South East.

One of the island’s highlights is Île aux Cerfs, which has plenty of restaurants, shops and even a golf course! After a delicious meal, why not relax on the sandy beach, which nestles the turquoise coral-reef lagoon?

For those who hanker after some land-based action, the La Vallée Des Couleurs Nature Park – close to the village of Chamouny – is not only home to some pretty stunning flora and fauna, but is also a great place to enjoy some fun activities that have been designed in tune with nature. Try hiking, quad biking, or zip lining across the world’s third longest zip line, where you can enjoy a birds-eye view of waterfalls, canyons and valleys below.

You can also visit the geological wonder 23-coloured earth palette, which is spread over 450 acres of land. If you want to amp your coloured-sand game even further, head over to Chamarel to see the Seven Coloured Earths where you can find sand dunes in seven different colour ways.

Our tip – plan a trip to see it at sunrise to really see the colours in all their glory.

If happen to up at sunrise, we are sure you will be feeling peckish and if you are looking for a great place for a flavoursome breakfast – that is also totally instagrammable – head over to the Casela Nature park where you can eat with giraffes.

You also have the opportunity to feed these curious and gentle creatures! Be prepared to see a strutting peacock or two as well, as they catwalk across the viewing deck. Afterwards, if you feel the need to walk off your breakfast, why not do so with some big cats?

Along with the larger members of the animal kingdom, Casela is also home to smaller creatures like monkeys, giant tortoises and over 1,500 birds.

Mauritius is renowned for its wildlife which includes the fruit bat (also known as the Mauritian flying fox), geckos and lizards, colourful tropical fish, and, of course, the Aldabra giant tortoises. It was previously the former home of the dodo, undoubtedly the best-known extinct species, but this flightless bird was last seen in 1662

The Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens is an excellent place to learn about rare and endangered species, as well as being an incredible setting to capture some epic shots for Instagram. Prepare to get snap-happy at some of the attractions you can see throughout Mauritius, from the dormant crater Trou aux Cerfs to The Sacred Lake of Mauritius, also known as the Grand Bassin.

Here you will find a parade of Hindu goddesses and gods, from the majestic Lord Shiva to Saraswati – the goddess of music. It makes for quite the spectacle and visitors are able to light a candle and wash their feet in the lake, which, according to local folklore, is meant to encourage fertility.

You can also pay your respects to the larger-than-life statues of Hindu gods Shiva and Durga Maa at the entrance of this sacred site. Shiva is the highest-known statue in Mauritius – standing at 108 feet tall, she is absolutely awe-inspiring.

The Citadel perches above the city on top of Petite Montagne Hill, or to give it its formal name, Fort Adelaide – a famous spot for impressive views of the Capital.

The Fort itself is an impressive sight and provides a 360-degree view of Port Louis from Champ de Mars to Chinatown, which, despite being fairly traditional, has seen a degree of rejuvenation thanks to a group of young people who formed the New Chinatown Foundation in an attempt to bring some identity and vibrancy to the district.

Mauritius is world-renowned for its tea plantations, sugarcane production and, of course, rum distilleries. From the Bois Chéri tea plantation to the Chamarel Restaurant and Rum Distillery, where you can try all manner of rums as well as touring the distillery itself.

Want to shop until you drop? There are ample opportunities all over the island thanks to a wide selection of malls including the cavernous Bagatelle Mall but for a more traditional Mauritian shopping experience, head to the capital of Port Louis and meander around the bustling Central Market where you can let your senses be tantalised with herbs, spices, exotic fruits and more.

Considering where to stay in Mauritius is really easy when you see resorts like the five-star luxury resort Maradiva Villas. This stunning resort offers a pretty unique experience – every one of the 65 villas has a private infinity pool and an outdoor garden shower.

If you prefer your bathing experience to be more communal, then there is a gorgeous communal infinity pool, which has views of the dramatic Le Morne Brabant and is surrounded by swaying palms.

Maradiva also has private access to the gorgeous Tamarin Bay beach, which is made up of reef-sheltered waters and white coral sand. There are plenty of opportunities to soak in Mauritius’ cultural influences, from relaxing holistic spa treatments, including revitalising Ayurvedic massage, to witnessing the dazzling dance of Sega, an intoxicating traditional dance that originated in Africa and is regularly performed around the island.

Foodies will relish in the fine Indian cuisine at Cilantro and the sizzling dishes served at Teppan, an authentic Japanese restaurant, although you can taste traditional Mauritian cuisine which is a fusion of Chinese, European and Indian cuisines at Coast2Coast or via the in-villa dining.

For a slightly more cost-effective stay, Maradiva’s sister hotel, the Sands Suite Resort & Spa where you can enjoy ocean views from your balcony is a superb choice and has a great choice of water sports activities to choose from.

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The Lime Tree Hotel : A Rather Toasty Stay…

Perhaps travelling on one of the UK’s hottest days wasn’t the best idea to begin with, but travel does not wait for the weather, especially in the UK.

I was staying at one of London’s best-rated hotels, the Lime Tree Hotel in Belgravia. Established in London’s most elegant of neighbourhoods, you’ll find this lovely “bolt hole”, which has been ranked as one of the Sunday Time’s Best Places to Stay in 2021.

The Lime Tree Hotel is quaint and charming in many ways; with a decorative personality throughout, it offers rooms of all sizes from singles, doubles and even triples. This makes it a hot spot for anyone looking for a group weekend away, a sightseeing couple’s trip or a solo adventure, the latter being me.

For the centre of London, the rooms are reasonably priced and great for almost any budget, starting from around £125 for a single room and reaching up to £340 for a triple room.

Divided by three makes it nearly as cheap as staying in the North!

My evening was spent in a cosy double room, which was on the “snugger” side, but the room was still beautifully presented and comfortable for the most part. Unfortunately, the only let-down was a technicality that was overlooked during my stay.

As mentioned, I stayed during the height of the hottest day, and the hotel heating seemed to remain in full swing. This led to me having a far from comfortable night’s sleep and requesting ice and water at 4 am– which no one wants to do.

Thankfully, the hotel staff were brilliant and more than accommodating, for which I couldn’t thank them enough. The heating note was taken on board and was addressed helpfully.

The following day I relieved my slightly disrupted evening with a gorgeous breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, The Buttery. The theme is rustic chic with country vibes, and the food delivers just that.

I delved into a delicious plate of Stracciatella on toast, and while my sleep cycle may have been left unsatisfied, my stomach left fully satisfied.

The testament to any excellent hospitality venue is how they respond when things go wrong, not just when things go right. And I must say, the staff at The Lime Tree Hotel were beyond helpful and did all they could to ensure I had a great stay.

And all in all, I did, and I will be returning soon.

For a centrally located boutique hotel, The Lime Tree Hotel is marvellous value for money and offers charm and style all wrapped up in one neat package.

It’s easy to understand why this one has become a travel favourite to so many passing through London!

Doubles start from £170. For more information or to book please click here.

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Fraser Place Canary Wharf : Where the canary sings, the canary also sleeps….

Fraser Place, Canary Wharf offered undoubtedly one of the best night’s sleeps I have experienced in a very long time. My beauty sleep is of the utmost importance to me when travelling, so Fraser, you’ve ticked one major box to start!

And what’s more, the views of the famous financial district and the Wharf are spectacular. Alan Sugar, eat your heart out!

One of London’s leading financial centres is placed tremendously on the riverfront, and Fraser Place brings everything you’d expect from a serviced apartment complex. As one would hope, this is a brilliant location for those visiting on business and comes packed with the amenities to boot.

From studio flats to a penthouse suite, Fraser Place boasts an impressive 108 apartments to choose from in total. They are subtle sophistication merged with modern convenience – of which they have plenty.

On-site, you will find a gym to keep your fitness regime on track, even when working away. A business lounge fit for meetings or boxing off projects. Throughout the hotel and complex, you can access free Wi-Fi with complimentary newspapers and magazines to keep you updated with world affairs (did someone say House of Coco latest issue wink wink). Simply scan the QR codes dotted around to access this brilliant little extra.

Rest assured, you’ll always be well looked after as there is 24/7 security and a concierge service to ensure you’re in safe hands at all times. There’s even a private on-site car park which is a haven given how difficult parking in London can be, just don’t forget about those pesky congestion charges if coming from out of town!

Most of the apartments come featuring their own private balconies, which means more epic views of Canary Wharf while you take stock over a glass of fizz. For those more extended stays, you can even make the most of the in-house laundry services and daily housekeeping to keep on top of the chores!

The rooms are spacious and calming respite – the perfect retreat to switch off after a busy day in the office.

Locationally, the apartments a tip-top for airport travel whether you’re coming or going. Heathrow is 45 minutes away, London City airport is 10 minutes away, and Gatwick is an hour’s drive. Airport transfers are available from Fraser Place on request as well.

One of the only let-downs I can note is that getting an Uber from the apartments is somewhat of a nightmare – though I suspect that is more a London/Uber issue than a Fraser Place issue and standing around waiting for the cab just meant that I had more time to enjoy the stunning views and day dream about hopping onboard one of the many boats on the Docklands!

What’s great about these apartments, though, is the extended-stay discount – if you need more than seven nights or even more than twenty-eight nights, they offer long stay packages starting from a very low and reasonable £221. *Books an entire month stay*

Fraser Place is more suited to the business tripper than the traveller, but it has amenities to suit all and welcomes everyone – so if you fancy seeing what all the Canary Wharf fuss is about, this is your Place.

Fraser Place Canary Wharf

80 Boardwalk Place, London E14 5SF, United Kingdom

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Adventures

A Guide to the Best Luxury Summer Stays

If you still haven’t managed to book a summer break, then take inspiration from our round-up of some of the best luxury stays. Whether you are looking to recharge your batteries, explore, bar-hop or dine out, we have some of the best places to enjoy a long weekend in style.

JW Marriot Venice Resort & Spa

Avoid the crowds at this luxury hideaway in Venice

Situated on the secluded private Venetian island of Isola delle Rose, travellers can choose to unwind at the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, a luxury five-star hotel that offers the perfect hideaway from the excitement of the city and busy crowds. New arrivals are transported by the hotel’s glamorous private water shuttle to the 40-acre resort, surrounded by charming views of the beautiful gardens and olive groves. Guests can choose to book from a choice of luxurious rooms, suites, and JW Retreats with private gardens, and enjoy award-winning cuisine, cooking classes and a choice of three pools. While those seeking a little downtime can head to the JW Venice Spa, a unique sanctuary that overlooks the Venice skyline.

Rates start from €450 per double room per night.

The Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort

Exclusive beach club access and benefits

The Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort has refurbished its Purobeach rooms with a design inspired by the beaches and sea of the Algarve. Guests staying in these rooms are offered free access to the beach club, Purobeach Vilamoura, along with a range of exclusive benefits including free sun loungers, towels and parasols, iced water, a welcome drink and after sun lotion plus a 10% discount on treatments at the Tivoli Spa Vilamoura. Purobeach features a programme of themed events and visiting DJs over the summer.

The club has two distinct zones – beachfront on the 5km long Praia de Vilamoura and poolside around the black tiled pool in the gardens of the resort, which is an adults only space. Guests can sunbathe either beachside or poolside on Balinese and Nomad style sun beds, enjoy cocktails brought to their loungers and dine on local seafood specialities to the relaxed sounds of the club’s DJs. At Purobeach poolside, guests can also join in morning yoga sessions and relax with a massage.

The 42 newly refurbished Purobeach rooms and suites are on the seventh floor of the hotel – each with a balcony or terrace. They have been decorated with soft tones and natural materials, inspired by the sand and the light on hot days, while the striped fabrics are a nod to the sails of the boats in the marina. Situated in the prime location of Vilamoura Marina the hotel is close to the shops and bars.

A stay at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort in a Purobeach room in August, costs €600 per night (double occupancy) with breakfast and other Purobeach room benefits included.

Explore Madrid’s Golden Mile

The cosmopolitan, five-star BLESS hotel re-opened late last year in the heart of the glamorous Salamanca district, known as Madrid’s Golden Mile, following a major refurbishment with sensory interiors by Lazaro Rosa Violán. Each of the 111 rooms has unique details, with some retaining original Murano crystal features from the former hotel that occupied the historic building in the 1950s. Others have private terraces with hydromassage jacuzzis and anti-ageing sleep system technology.

Signature cocktails have been newly crafted by Libe’s expert mixologists and stylish events on the Picos Pardos Sky Lounge transform the hotel into a buzzy social hub for BLESS guests and Madrileños alike.

The hotel offers a range of experiences exclusively for guests, establishing it as a reference point in Madrid’s fashion, art and gastronomy scenes. Guests can make the most of their city break by immersing themselves in the capital’s cultural hotspots with a private five-hour tour of the Museo del Prado; Palacio Real and Madrid Antiguo, before enjoying a traditional lunch from the Executive Chef. Alternatively, the ‘BLESS Art Madrid’ tour of nearby private art collections allows guests to create their own piece of art with a local artist. Meanwhile an expert personal shopper and butler are on hand during the ‘BLESS Your Golden Mile’ experience, taking advantage of the Salamanca district’s many boutiques, followed by a relaxing in-room Bathology ritual.

Double rooms at the BLESS hotel are priced from £462 a night, room only.

Get a little dose of zen in Sicily

Having launched last summer, the10-hectare Grand Palladium Sicilia resort is the only five-star all-inclusive resort on the stunning island of Sicily. Perfect for a relaxing long weekend, the Zentropia Palladium Spa offers a complete wellness experience. Equipped with all the latest technology, it features a fabulous hydrotherapy zone, dry and humid sauna, chill-out zone, hot and cold hydromassage baths, and a sensation shower. Guests can treat themselves to a range of exclusive aesthetic treatments for the face and body and relaxing massages.

The magnificent white sand beach is just a stone’s throw away, while guests can also cool down in four spectacular pools within the resort. There is plenty to do to fill a weekend, as the resort is ideally situated for discovering both the city of Palermo and other coastal settlements such as Bagheria, Termini Imerese, and Monreale. Those who unwind best in nature will enjoy visiting the nearby Serra Guarneri nature reserve, whilst culture enthusiasts can head to the world-famous Mandralisca museum or cathedral in Cefalù.

Deluxe rooms are priced from £253.08 on an all-inclusive basis.

Mistral Beach Club, Split

Sundowners in Split

As part of the five-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spas, the Mistral Beach Club has become one of Split’s most sought after destinations, open to resort guests as well as outside visitors. This luxury beach club combines sunset and sundowners to make an unforgettable evening. International DJs and lounge music provide the perfect sound any time of the day.

Staying in the Radisson Blu Resort & Spas, however, comes with its own perks. Not only do guests get to enjoy luxurious facilities and an outstanding service within the resort grounds, they can make use of all the facilities Spalato Spa has to offer, dine in high-class restaurants, and explore the historical old town of Split, located only a stone’s throw away. A stroll through the romantic old town eases you into the Dalmatian way of life. Charming cafés offer foamy Cappuccinos in an oasis of calm within the lively city centre.

Rooms at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spas are from €309.13 per night

Lakeside Luxury for Less

Tucked inside the lower reaches of the Alps, the Northern Italian region of Trentino is famous for its Dolomites (UNESCO World Heritage Site), stunning landscapes, olive groves, rich history and picture-perfect historic towns and villages.

On the northern shore of Lake Garda in Trentino lies the beautiful town of Riva del Garda boasting a Mediterranean climate and filled to the brim with olive and lemon trees, palms, views of turquoise waters, and mountains for a majestic backdrop. This chic & stylish town with cobbled streets and historic buildings has great culinary offerings such as Al Volt, with seasonal tasting menus using local produce from across the region and is a short distance from the Dolomites mountain range, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town is home to many activities such as sailing and windsurfing, paragliding, wine-tasting, hiking up soaring mountains, mountain biking, rock climbing & canyoning. A must-see natural attraction is picturesque 100-metre Varone waterfall.

Enjoy a 6-night stay at Hotel Portici Romantik & Wellness in Riva del Garda from £990 for two adults. The hotel is located in the picture-perfect historical centre of Riva del Garda and just moments from the crystalline waters of Lake Garda with soaring views of the mountains. Based on two adults sharing a double room, on bed and breakfast basis 21 – 27 August 2022.

Nourish your body and mind in Tuscany

Tucked away in between the pristine Serchio Valley and the Apennine Mountains, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is the perfect retreat to unwind away from the stress of everyday life. This small piece of paradise is located near the town of Barga in one of the most breathtaking locations in Italy and offers a variety of activities to care for the body and mind.

Guests can refresh in the sparkling waters of the hotel’s two pools or breathe in relaxation as they enjoy the spa’s extensive services, treatments, and amenities. The spa menu includes a special wine treatment using Tuscan grapes, a couples wine ritual that ignites the senses and treatments especially for men.

For those that would like to be a bit more active in their time away, there are a plethora of hiking paths, allowing visitors to be one with nature during a peaceful wander. The Garfagnana is known to be excellent for mountain biking and the many bike paths are perfect for exploration of the area on two wheels. There are also tours offered to discover all that is to see in the towns of Barga, Pian di Fiume, Guzzano, Isola Giovanna, Pieve di Controne and more and visitors can bring a packed picnic basket from the hotel’s kitchen to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.

To nourish the body, the hotel offers a special ‘From The Land To The Plate’ day-experience where you visit the local market with a trained chef to pick out the freshest ingredients and afterwards prepare a three-course meal to enjoy alongside some local wine.

Double room per night in Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is priced at £196

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Destination Inspiration

Perfect late summer picnic spots

What better way to maximise the rare UK heatwave than with a quintessential summer picnic in some of the UK’s most idyllic picnic locations. Team Coco has rounded up our top three summer picnic picks so you can have a summer to remember House of Coco style.

A regency style picnic at the Francis Hotel, Bath

The Francis Hotel Bath has created a summer picnic offering that will ensure all the family enjoy a day out in the sunshine. Francis Hotel’s picnic hamper includes glassware, crockery and comes with a picnic rug so that you can set up camp wherever and whenever.

The delicious summer menu includes a selection of cheeses, charcuterie, a sumptuous baguette with a range of fillings and all accompanied by a bottle of water. For those with a sweet tooth, strawberries and cream are just the thing for dessert, giving explorers a burst of energy as they continue their recce of Bath and its surrounding areas. The team at Boho Marché also offer bespoke picnic hampers for guests with special dietary requirements.

Set in the heart of Bath, the Francis Hotel is a 98-room boutique hotel that was first opened by Emily Francis in 1884 (perfect for Bridgerton fans!). Emily was ahead of her time and was a leading entrepreneur who merged seven Georgian townhouses to form the Francis Hotel. Located in the heart of a World Heritage Site, the Francis Hotel has plenty to explore on its doorstep.

HOW: Room rates at Francis Hotel Bath start from £139.00 inclusive of breakfast and VAT. For more information visit www.francishotel.com. Francis Hotel Bath’s picnic hamper starts from £15 per person and includes a bottle of water. A choice of drinks are available – including wine and champagne – and will be an additional cost. Bespoke options are available providing the team has 24 hours notice.

A quintessentially English picnic at Castle Hotel Windsor

Castle Hotel Windsor is undoubtedly one of Windsor’s finest boutique properties. The castle is steeped in history dating back to 1528. With just 108-rooms at the heart of Windsor, situated opposite Windsor Castle and the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum – there is no better place to join a Windsor Guided Tour and explore the local sites than at Castle Hotel Windsor. The hotel is also just a short walk from a plethora of wide, open spaces including the famous Long Walk, Windsor Great Park – including the Long Walk – Savill Garden and the River Thames. All of which are perfect spots to set up and soak in the great outdoors whilst enjoying a picnic.

The hamper includes a charcuterie board complete with cheese and rustic bread for starters, followed by a choice of either a healthy superfood or Niçoise salad. Afterwards, guests can indulge in either a Coronation chicken wrap or hummus with grilled pepper vegan wrap. Finally, and remaining very English strawberries with cream offer a final sweet flourish to the hamper.

Castle Hotel Windsor is undoubtedly one of Windsor’s finest boutique properties. The castle is steeped in history dating back to 1528. With just 108-rooms at the heart of Windsor, situated opposite Windsor Castle and the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum – there is no better place to explore the local sites than at Castle Hotel Windsor. The hotel is also just a short walk from a plethora of wide, open spaces including the famous Long Walk, Windsor Great Park – including the Long Walk – Savill Garden and the River Thames. All of which are perfect spots to set up and soak in the great outdoors whilst enjoying a picnic.

HOW: Room rates at Castle Hotel Windsor start from £154.00 inclusive of breakfast and VAT. For more information visit https://castlehotelwindsor.com/. Castle Hotel Windsor’s picnic menu starts from £30 per person and includes a bottle of water.

A picnic fit for royalty at Glenapp Castle

It is easy to get lost within the castle’s 110 acres of private estate and local woodland or escaping to the majestic Scottish countryside for long romantic walks and beautiful views of Ailsa Craig and Northern Ireland. Glenapp Castle offers 65 diverse activities from stargazing, canoeing, coasteering, kayaking, yoga, forest bathing – making sure there is something for every kind of traveller.

One of the main attractions is exploring the west coast on the Glenapp Castle RIB boat. From the local port of Girvan, guests can spend the day on a private boat tour visiting the iconic Ailsa Craig, the volcanic outcrop that is home to an abundance of bird life. While not exactly a summer picnic, you can also enjoy a meal outside your glamping tent, cooked by a private chef. Now this is the kind of picnic that would impress even the most discerning luxury traveller.

The wonderful Glenapp Castle team can prepare a wonderful picnic with freshly prepared sandwiches, delicious salads and fresh fruit to enjoy after a busy day of exploring. There is also plenty of opportunity to spot amazing marine life, from twenty-foot-long basking sharks to dolphins, minke whales, and seals!

HOW: Glenapp Castle offers a private boat trip to the iconic Ailsa Craig costing from £750 for half a day. Picnics cost from £27.50 per person / www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831212

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Hotels & Spas

Wake Up Here: M.Ou.Co. Porto, Portugal

Introducing you to the M.Ou.Co. hotel in Porto.

When I say Porto’s nightlife is eclectic, I really do mean it. The bars in Porto can be found in the most random of places from former churches to courthouses.

If you are looking for a great night out in Porto, you won’t be disappointed. However, nocturnal shenanigans aside, there’s a whole lot more to Porto than meets the eye, but as House of Coco’s Music Editor, one of the main things I look for in a city break is what gigs are on whilst I am in town.

There’s just something about going to a gig in a different country isn’t there?! So, when I had the opportunity to visit Portugal’s second largest city, the first thing i looked at was what bands were in town during my visit.

As luck would have it, there were a few gigs on – Simple Minds and James. Both of which were absolutely incredible.

It was clear that this trip was going to be heavily music-focused and a large part of that was where I stayed, at the music-themed hotel M.Ou.Co. in the hip neighbourhood of Bonfim.

This quirky district is a twenty minute walk from the centre of Porto and is chock-full of coffee shops, little bars and the odd vintage boutique or two. Despite being a relatively busy district, it’s a peaceful escape from the city. There’s a sun-drenched courtyard where you can relax or enjoy a drink or two and there’s even has a swimming pool which is a lovely addition.

If there was ever an ideal hotel for a Music Editor to stay, it’s M.Ou.Co. whose ethos is “Stay. Listen. Play.”. Even the name M.Ou.Co. – M=música; Ou=outras; Co=coisas (Music and Other things…) emphasises how music is EVERYTHING at this hip hideaway.

Fancy channeling your inner Sheeran, Swift or Styles? Why not try one of the musical instruments available to play in your room and rock out? We hired the most beautiful Ibanez guitar that played like an absolute dream! What other hotels can lay claim to having their very own guitar menu?!

There are also rehearsal rooms where you can rock out and a treatment centre where musicians can enjoy specialist treatments. M.Ou.Co has devised a collection of unique ‘Music and Health’ programmes where musicians can visit the performance clinic and have a specialist assess and advise how to integrate health into instrumentalist training.

The night prior to our arrival, the hotel hosted indie rockers James who used this space as a warm up gig prior to their electric gig at the Super Bock Arena in Porto which was one of two gigs we attended whilst staying in Porto. On Saturday nights, they even have a DJ on hand to get the party started.

It’s fair to say that music is at the heart of everything at M.Ou.Co.- you can even pick five vinyls to listen to in your room too. Whilst there’s some eclectic choices in the music library, there’s also some evergreen classics in the shape of Nirvana, The Doors, Beastie Boys and Curtis Mayfield.

Whatever your musical leanings, you are certain to find what you are looking for in the music library which has over 600 records to choose from.

The hotel’s friendly staff had set up a record player in our room and it was really lovely to enjoy some downtime from exploring the city and relaxing with a coffee while listening to records.

You can even borrow books too – all music-orientated as well. Music is piped out everywhere in the hotel, at the bar, and in the restaurant and you can expect to hear tracks from everyone from The Beatles and The Cure to blues artists and more.

There’s a professional sound bar system and sound amplifier which you can use in conjunction with any of the musical instruments that you hire from reception.

Whether you are a newbie wanting to test the waters of guitar playing or you are an experienced musician, you will be impressed with the different guitars available at M.Ou.Co. You can borrow guitars from world-renowned brands like Gretsch, Gibson and more.

M.Ou.Co. is a relatively new hotel, a former warehouse that has received a meticulous redevelopment, it’s been transformed into a contemporary space filled with light (and music!) the rooms are a smidge on the small side, but are light and airy.

Like the rest of the hotel, the aesthetic is minimalist with post-industrial leanings, with large windows and high ceilings, but still retains a real sense of chic.

There’s plenty of storage which is always helpful, although a couple of things that were omitted from the room such as toiletries and bathroom hooks which would have been appreciated. Again, thematically, all the rooms are named after a piece of music which is a lovely touch.

Guests are presented with a smartphone upon arrival which is a nifty little addition which provides you with a direct way to contact the hotel. It also has little guides and recommendations for local attractions, things to do and restaurants.

The breakfasts in the hotel are excellent, as a coeliac on a gluten-free diet, they were able to provide me with some delicious treats which included gluten-free bread, pastries and muffins. The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner and is set in a relaxing room with exposed brick walls, lush greenery and some of the best coffee in the city.

We ate both lunch and dinner at the restaurant and were really impressed with the food that was served. If you are looking for a budget-friendly lunch, then definitely eat at the hotel’s restaurant, the menu changes every week and you can enjoy three courses (which includes a starter and dessert buffet) plus a ‘main’ for less than 20€ each.

When in Porto, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants to choose from, but by far and away our favourite was tia tia. Not only was the food absolutely delicious, but guess what? It was music themed too.

Similarly to M.Ou.Co. guests can choose what they want to listen to – there’s a fantastic selection of records to choose from and we adored trying some of chef Tiago Feio’s menu which is centered around a combination of pescatarian, vegetarian or vegan dishes.

Tia tia’s style of cuisine is contemporary, seasonal Portuguese and all ingredients are sourced locally. We enjoyed carefully-crafted dishes like turnip, cashew and chilli oil, the most amazing mackerel, almonds and apple dish and line-caught hake, carrot and chard – absolutely exquisite! The service was exceptional and I would strongly recommend visiting tia tia whilst in Porto.

If you are looking for a city break that delivers on incredible things to do, an excellent selection of restaurants, a lively and vibrant nightlife coupled with a hotel that offers a completely unique experience that focuses on music, then definitely add Porto to your travel bucket list.

How to book:

Stay – Rooms at M.Ou.Co. start at 78€ for a basic room or 110€ for rooms with a kitchenette. Book via the hotel’s website for the best price. It’s situated around 45 minutes by metro from the airport and is a mere five-minute walk from Heroismo metro station.

Fly – Fly with TAP Air, Portugal’s flight carrier. We flew from London Gatwick directly into Francisco Sá Carneiro airport in less than two and a half hours.

Explore – We were lucky enough to be gifted two Porto cards from Visit Portugal which is essentially a city pass and a great way to explore the city on a budget. You can purchase one for 24, 48, 72 or even 96 hours which will give you free entry to the main museums, monuments, and tourist attractions in Porto. You are also entitled to a huge 50% discount on the entrance fees to a further 14 landmarks such as the Clérigos Tower, the Military Museum and many more.

You can purchase the Porto Card directly upon arrival, at the Airport or at any of the official tourist offices in the city.

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Behind the bar

TH@51 is reinventing modern Indian cuisine at the St James Court Hotel

Fans of the fabulously opulent Taj Hotel Group will surely be familiar with the old world glamour of the St. James Court Hotel. However, those expecting the same classic atmosphere as the esteemed hotel are in for a surprise, as the TH@51, its newly-refurbished modern Indian restaurant, is anything but traditional.

A sleek black hallway greets visitors at the door, revealing a stylish pale pink and mint green bar area, accented with gorgeous copper details. The TH@51 is a refreshingly modern juxtaposition to the hotel’s timeless interiors and stepping into it is like stepping into a completely different universe.

The pastel colour palette extends throughout the space, which features a large teak-wood bar area, minimalist grey marble accents and breezy salmon-coloured booths. The restaurant opens to a sun-lit glass half-dome, offering fantastic views of the hotel’s historical courtyard and the beautiful Edwardian buildings that surround it.

TH@51 reimagines traditional Indian dishes for the curious palates of the hotel’s international luxury clientele and London’s cultural elite. The restaurant draws colourful inspiration and flavours from around the world and brings these to life using only the freshest seasonal ingredients available. The adventurous menu offers just the right balance of exotic flavours and familiar home comforts, with each dish executed with flair.

We started with the Superfood Salad, which offers a generous serving of mixed sprouts with zesty pomegranate dressing, enhanced by a dash of sweet blueberries and roasted pine nuts.

The Portobello Phuket was a standout dish. A portobello mushroom is baked with sambal and aubergine and serves as the perfect base to absorb the rich Thai Green curry and cream cheese sauce, while the basil crisps add a welcome crunch.

The Teriyaki Salmon Risotto, a deceivingly simple dish, is a clever, lighter Japanese take on the Italian classic, resulting in a truly delicious risotto that you can eat forever.

The Bao Buns are a thing of beauty and are made with fluffy white buns and punchy, aromatic fillings. There are two Bao Bun fillings to choose from, the Indo-Chinese Chicken with pickled cucumber or the Tofu & Orange Marmalade. The latter is an excellent and tasty vegetarian version of the dish.

Finally, no meal would be complete without some cocktails, which is where TH@51 pulls out all the stops. All cocktails were curated under the theme ‘Biomes of the World’, with each creation inspired by different climates and cultures from across the globe.

These beautifully crafted and delicious cocktails add a final flourish (or in this case garnish) to what has been a superb meal at TH@51. It is clear that while the restaurant may have only opened recently, it already exudes the menu, service and confidence of the beloved St. James Court establishment it is soon to become.

https://www.th51.co.uk/en/

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