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The best ski destinations to visit this winter

With Christmas fast approaching, we’ve rounded up some of the most picturesque ski resorts for a Christmas time ski trip with the fam. Step into any one of these winter wonderlands and let the magic of Christmas come alive in the form of snow-capped chalets, sensational mountain cuisine and cosy nights spent by the fireplace with your loved ones…or hit the slopes for some much-needed winter fun (we all deserve it!)

MEGÈVE, FRANCE

Megève, widely known as one of the Alps’ most stylish resorts, combines incredible skiing with breathtaking alpine scenery, making it a perfect pick for a Christmas time getaway.

Just over an hour’s drive from Geneva airport, access to the resort is quick and easy, but once you immerse yourself in Megève village, you’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With smart boutiques, alluring bars and incredible restaurants, it’s the perfect place for a spot of Christmas shopping and seasonal festivities.

The ski resort has plenty of old-world charm and is extremely scenic, with cobbled streets, old baroque clock towers and cosy wooden chalets. The skiing in Megève is as scenic as the town itself; most of the slopes are lined with beautiful and large wooded areas, perfect for snowy Christmas days of weaving between the trees.

Hotel L’Alpaga

Nestled in the heart of the Alps in Megève, L’Alpaga offers a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc. One of the most beautiful five-star hotels in Megève, Hotel L’Alpaga has just 26 rooms and seven suites along with five luxury chalets. The hotel sits just five minutes away from the centre of town, so is close to the fantastic restaurants and cosy bars of the Megève.

What’s more, La Table de L’Alpaga, the hotel’s on-site restaurant has recently been awarded its second Michelin star for its amazing food, which really does speak for itself, and guests are welcome to experience the culinary delights throughout their stay. Can you say ‘book now’?

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay on a bed and breakfast at Hotel L’Alpaga on a bed and breakfast basis, priced from £4,730pp, departing on 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND

Zermatt ski resort has unrivalled scenery and an extensive variety of high-quality restaurants and hotels. Over the years, the town has retained its traditional charm which lures guests back again and again and as the resort is car-free. There’s a wonderful and relaxed atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy the mountain air.

With traditional charm, cosy restaurants and a laid back lifestyle, it’s the perfect choice for a Christmas spent with the family. The world-famous Matterhorn speaks for itself; this stunning peak has become Switzerland’s trademark around the globe. Whether you are skiing the slopes or in the village, the peak can be noticed everywhere and dominates the skyline. At an altitude of 3,883m, the Matterhorn Ski Paradise is Switzerland’s highest ski area, guaranteeing fabulous skiing conditions all season long which truly live up to the magic of the town.

Hotel Riffelalp

Situated on a plateau high above Zermatt, enjoying a panoramic view of the Matterhorn, the ski-in ski-out location of this hotel is second to none. The hotel is the true definition of luxury and the magnificent property offers a unique experience of five-star luxury in a superb setting, and it is now a member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Each room in this fantastic hotel offers superb views of the Matterhorn, offering guests a real taste of life in the mountains. There’s plenty to do at the hotel aside from skiing with entertainment facilities including restaurants, a bowling alley, a spa, and a swimming pool making it the perfect choice for a Christmas getaway for families.

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay on a half-board basis at Hotel Riffelalp Zermatt, priced from £3,070pp, departing on 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and Swiss Rail transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND

Gstaad, known for being a glamorous Swiss ski resort, is surrounded by well-groomed slopes and tree-lined mountains, a real Christmas paradise brought to life. The charming town has traditional chalets, luxurious shops and award-winning restaurants; yet despite its growing popularity as a celebrity hotspot and one of the world’s most exclusive resorts, it maintains an understated charm with its pedestrianised centre and wooden chalets, meaning Christmas time is a truly magical time of year.

With over 200km of slopes to explore, the varied skiing options guarantee an unforgettable Swiss ski holiday. A prominent feature is the resort’s picturesque castle which sits on a hill overlooking the village. One key feature which makes this resort an obvious choice for a Christmas time escape is that, at night every building is illuminated by small strings of white lights, creating a truly charming and magical setting for a Christmas getaway.

Huus Hotel

The Huus Hotel in Gstaad is classic, charming and has a wide range of amenities including an indoor pool, two saunas, steam room, gym and beauty treatments. The hotel has 136 rooms which have all been finished with natural materials to create a comfortable and cosy feel throughout, perfect for a Christmas escape.

With multiple on-site restaurants and bars, guests are spoiled for choice. The ideal location of this hotel, its cosy interiors, fantastic dining options and practical child-friendly facilities make for a brilliant Christmas-time getaway in one of Switzerland’s most desired resorts.

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay with bed and breakfast at Huus Hotel Gstaad, priced from £2,475pp, departing on 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

CORTINA, ITALY

Nicknamed Italy’s answer to St Moritz and Aspen, Cortina is a stylish destination that is a favourite for its luxurious ambiance. At an altitude of 1,220m, Cortina is an idyllic village surrounded by magnificent peaks and about six more separate ski areas.

From the south-facing area that comprises mainly wide open pistes, to the many ski schools and instructors, Cortina really has something for everybody. Food and drink equally play an important role in Cortina’s appeal, with some truly wonderful little wine bars for aperitivo, an abundance of good restaurants and several lively nightclubs.

Cristallow Resort & Spa Hotel

Built in 1901, the Cristallow Resort & Spa Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Cortina. With grandeur and well-appointed decor, Cristallow is a magnificent place to stay in the mountains. With a state-of-the-art fitness spa, a luxury pool and treatment rooms, this hotel is named one of the top five-star hotels in the Dolomites where guests can truly unwind. It also has four restaurants offering a gourmet experience with different styles, skiers have the opportunity to have fantastic dining experiences waiting for them once they come off the slopes.

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis at Cristallo Resort & Spa Hotel priced at £5,410pp, departing on 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

LECH, AUSTRIA

Located in the Austrian Arlberg region, Lech is often referred to as one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the Alps. Situated in the heart of a valley, Lech is a magical village that has benefited from careful and meticulous planning over the years.

Lech’s snow record shows that the area receives more snow than anywhere else in Austria and can boast one of the best snow records in the Alps, making it ideal for a Christmas ski trip. With a range of skiing to choose from, such as off-piste skiing, adrenaline-inducing slopes, or wonderful nursery slopes, Lech can cater for all abilities making it the perfect place for family and friends of varying ski abilities.

Hotel Post Lech Arlberg

Hotel Post Lech Arlberg is one of the finest luxury hotels in Austria, containing a delightfully relaxed atmosphere aimed to achieve maximum levels of comfort for the guests. Originally owned by the Moosbrugger family, and now run by Florian and his wife Sandra, the Post Lech Arlberg is the ultimate luxury home away from home. The restaurant’s excellent and extensive wine list means that visitors can indulge in local Austrian wines. After a long day on the slopes, skiers can enjoy the opportunity to relax in the hotel’s swimming pool and the ultimate wellness spa.

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay at Hotel Post Lech Arlberg, priced at £3,795pp, departing 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

MÉRIBEL, FRANCE

Experience the quintessential ski holiday in Méribel, the Three Valleys. This beautiful ski resort boasts a combination of thrilling skiing, a prime location and a stunning chalet-style village, all of which make Méribel a desirable ski destination for all kinds of winter fun-seekers.

With over 600km of skiable area, snow cover all season and a good mix of runs for every skier, Méribel is the perfect place to ski all season long. The bustling atmosphere of the lively town can be enjoyed by skiers as they explore what Meribel has to offer. From the bi-weekly street market to a host of lively après ski bars, there will always be something exciting to delve into.

Le Coucou Hotel

Situated in an enviable piste-side location, Le Coucou Hotel promises to be a luxurious hideaway that benefits from a ski-in ski-out experience. With the whole property boasting magnificent views across the snow-kissed peaks, skiers are met with an unforgettable five-star experience from a hotel that blends seamlessly into its environment.

Le Coucou strives to offer the ultimate luxury experience to guests, with its selection of rooms and suites that have wonderful terraces, where guests can sit and admire the incredible mountain scenery. After a day on the slopes, skiers can come back and unwind in the spa and wellness area which features pools, a fitness centre and a sauna. All before heading down to dine in the hotel’s Italian restaurant or Beefbar, which serves up the rarest meats from the most prestigious of origin.

HOW: Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay at Le Coucou Hotel, priced at £3,680pp, departing 24th December 2022. This price includes flights and transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7761

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Food Travel

Escape the Everyday on the Amalfi Coast at Casa Angelina

Casa Angelina: Via Gennaro Capriglione, 147, 84010 Praiano

Nestled into the picturesque hillside of the Amalfi coast lies Casa Angelina, a white washed luxury hotel that boasts luxury, minimalistic design whilst encapsulating a “home from home” experience for guests.

From the warm welcome upon arrival, you’re greeted with fresh homemade lemonade and a smile, you’ll instantly relax into life here at Casa Angelina.

The location?

Located in the sleepy village of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast, you’re just a 10-minute ride away from the beautiful village of Positano (the hotel runs a free shuttle bus to and from Positano, making Casa Angelina the perfect spot to explore).

Other villages on the Amalfi Coast within easy reach (you can catch a local bus for just a couple of euro, or take a boat from Positano!), are; Amalif, Sorrento, Ravello or hop on a boat over to the majestic isle of Capri!

*The hotel overlooks Positano, which is magical for watching the sunrise or set of an evening!

The rooms?

You’ll find no shortage of luxury in the rooms at Casa Angelina, with Jo Malone and L’Occitane toiletries, Etro towels, Nespresso coffee machines, personalised welcome notes and Casa Angelina branded bags for you to use at the hotel.

Casa Angelina leaves no stone unturned when it comes to details, and this really shines through within the rooms. Your evening turndown service includes and eye mask, a luxury chocolate and a tube of L’Occitane hand cream.

I spent one night in a “Romantic Double Room” with front sea view and balcony, the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Amalfi Coast!

The dining?

If you’re looking to dine at Casa Angelina, pick from either “Seascape” – the hotels casual all-day dining restuarant, or opt for the fine dining option at “Un Piano Nel Cielo” located on the fourth floor with beautiful views across the coast.

I dined at Seascape during my stay, I started with some warm Focaccia bread with oils, followed by a locally caught fish dish (delicious!), and ended with Pistachio & Hazlenut ice cream. The meal was absolutely incredible – and the best part? I enjoyed a date night for one, reading my book and watching the beautiful sunset over Positano – it really was a night to remember!

Enjoy breakfast on the fourth floor resturant, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the buffet, fresh juices, pastries, cooked meats, local yoghurts, fresh fruit and a menu to order a cooked item of your choice too – a wonderful spot to start your day before exploring.

Need to know?

There’s no shortage of things to do here at Casa Angelina! Whether you’re looking to hire a boat and explore the coast by sea (you can also hire a private chef for the day too), book a treatment at the hotels spa, unwind by the indoor or outdoor pool, workout in the gym, relax by the library, wander down to the beach club or check out Casa Angelina’s newly added garden (this is also the spot for morning Yoga / Pilates – stunning!).

I loved spending the night at Casa Angelina, a truly refined hotel in the heart of the Amalfi coast – making this hotel the perfect spot for exploring!

Situated against the white wash walls of the hotel, Casa Angelina offers an ecletic art collection, full of hand picked pieces from around the world!

To book your stay at Casa Angelina, visit HERE.

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City breaks

Rhinoceros Roma: An Artsy Hotel in the Heart of Romes Historical Centre

Rhinoceros Roma, Via del Velabro, 9, 00186 Roma

Located in the very heart of Rome’s historical centre lies Rhinoceros Roma, an incredible artsy hotel established by Alda Fendi in 2018 and designed by world renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.

Here you’ll find luxury, but in a slightly unconventional way. A contemporary design infused with raw materials and a splash of Italian architecture leaves the senses pleasantly surprised for the outcome is truly a one of a kind masterpiece.

What will I find at Rhinoceros Roma?

Home to 25 unique apartments, Rhinoceros Roma offers something for everyone, from Superior Apartments to Suite Apartments. Each apartment uses a juxtaposition of materials including my favourite; the exposed concrete with remnants of Graffiti from a past life.

Where is the hotel?

Set in the Velabro district, the hotel is located at the foot of Palantine Hill next to the Roman Forum. Less than a 10 minute walk from The Colosseum, the historic centre of Rome starts just footsteps from the hotel.

Also within walking distance you’ll find Circus Maximus, Venice Square, The Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, making Rhinoceros Roma the perfect hotel for exploring this ancient city.

Need to know?

Rhinoceros Roma also doubles up as an art gallery, currently showcasing an exhibition on the life and works of Pablo Picasso. Drawing in hundreds of visitors a week this gallery is a must if you’re in the area.

The place to relax

Located off the beaten track, Rhinoceros Roma is THE place for your next stay in Rome. The perfect spot to relax at the end of a day walking around The Eternal City, take a soak in the bath tub (the Himilayan bath salts were very kindly left in my bathroom along with a hand written note – a lovely touch after a long day), or cook yourself a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, this hotel really is the home away from home that you’ve been searching for!

Check out Rhinoceros Roma HERE, and book your stay HERE.

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Hotels & Spas

Wake up Here: Starhotels Terminus, Napoli

Where? Starhotels Terminus: Plaza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 91, 80142 Napoli

I rounded off my three week trip to Italy by spending two nights in Naples, I checked into the Starhotels Terminus – directly opposite the Napoli Centrale station, it was the perfect spot to jump off of the 9pm train, and check straight into!

Need to know?

Located on Piazza Garibaldi in the center of Naples, Starhotels Terminus offers 169 rooms and suites spread across 7 floors, the hotel immediately offers a warm and relaxing welcome the moment you step through the doors. Step off of the bustling hub of Napoli straight into the serentiy of the hotel!

Dining…

A complimentary breakfast buffet is served in the Odeon restaurant, here you’ll find a cooked breakfast, natural yoghurts, fresh pastries, fruit and delicious coffee – a great way to start your day in Naples.

A great base for exploring…

I booked Starhotels Terminus as it was a great base for exploring Naples, I booked onto a guided tour of Pompeii and Mount Versuvius, the tour actually picked us up from directly outside the hotel (handy!), then in the evening it was off to L’Antica Pizzeria de Michele to try out some of Napoli’s best pizza; Eat, Pray, Love style – delicious!

Extras?

The hotels 8 meeting rooms make this hotel a great spot for a business trip. Don’t forget to check out the Odeon Bar to experience a genuine Neapolitan coffee or panoramic terrace on the 7th floor, overlooking the Bay of Naples – the perfect spot to catch a magical Italian sunset!

Book your stay at the Starhotels Hotel Terminus HERE.

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Adventures

Madeira: The rise of active tourism in the archipelago

The island has been undergoing a major transformation in the last decade. Increasingly the more mature demographic of tourists is replaced by younger travellers looking for adrenaline-fuelled adventures. And with such a dramatic landscape there is plenty to offer for those seeking to embrace the great outdoors.

Levada walks in Madeira are one of those unique bucket-list experiences you must try when visiting the island. Levadas are incredible irrigation systems built in the 16th century to ensure water was distributed from the north and wetter side of the island to the south and relatively drier side. There are around 2,500km of levadas crisscrossing the most scenic parts of the island. There are varying levels of difficulty for the tours run by the likes of Madeira Adventure Kingdom. The less adventurous hikers can opt for “Levada dos Maroços”, which trails through the valley in the city of Machico, the second largest town in Madeira. Whilst the Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo hike involves a mountain route that links the three highest mountains of Madeira. On the journey, you might come across the Freira da Madeira, an endangered and majestic bird endemic to the island. You’ll walk by the mighty urze trees which predate the discovery of Madeira.

Mountain biking has been growing a loyal following on the island in recent years. With mild temperature all year round and very few flat areas, this was always going to be a paradise for bikers. You can ride from peaks to sea-level, traverse rocky trails and adventure into the tropical rain forest or eucalyptus forest. You can ride all-terrain bikes or motorcycles. There are exciting dirt tracks on both Madeira and Porto Santo islands. There are growing numbers of tour operators offering biking holidays, which is ideal given they sort out the logistics for you in terms of transfer and matching the right routes for your skill level. There are growing numbers of BTT circuits on the island currently undergoing certification.

With a surfeit of steep inclines and descents, you won’t be surprised to discover climbing and canyoning are hugely popular sports on the island. Climbing on the island started back in the 1940s when it was more about exploration but nowadays, sporting climbing is very much a hobby. With the basaltic nature of the rocks, the mountain cliffs are extremely solid and hence considered very safe for climbers of all skill levels.

Canyoning might seem like the reverse of climbing up a mountain but it also involves abseiling, climbing, jumping and even swimming as you navigate your way down a rapidly flowing mountain stream in a gorge. You get to explore untouched parts of the island that are rarely visited by tourists. The tourism board recommends the northern part of the island in the summertime when the flows are high. Whilst suggesting the southern part of the island in the wintertime when the streams are generally calmer. The sport has been credited as contributing the most to outdoor tourism in Madeira in the last 7 years. If you want to try this sport whilst visiting the island, you can book with the likes of Madeira Adventure Kingdom.

There are more sedate options if you still want to enjoy outdoor tourism. Golf is always popular on the island with two very different courses, Palheiro Golf and the Santo da Serra Golf Club. The former has 18 holes whilst the latter has 27 holes. The Madeira Island Golf Open is always a popular spectacle every year and is part of the Main Tour of the European PGA with many famous sportsmen participating.

If you love sightseeing, then you must consider a jeep safari tour and also chartering a sailing boat cruise around the island. With the former, you get to travel off-road to discover hidden gems on the island. They’ll drive along steep ravines and through Madeira’s ancient laurel forests. You might encounter herds of cows high on the mountain top. With tours run by the likes of Madeira Mountain Expedition, you get to stand up to admire the magical scenery as they operate open-top 4×4 jeeps.

Companies like Happy Hour Madeira Sailing Charter started during the pandemic in 2021 as more and more tourists preferred to travel outdoors rather than stay in crowded all-inclusive resorts. They have sunrise and sunset tours or you can go on a gastronomic cruise where you taste the local cuisine whilst admiring the highest sea cliffs in Europe. They are flexible in terms of the itinerary, so they can pick you up after lunch from Fajã dos Padres and drop you off at Funchal.

Madeira has been very intelligent with its tourism strategy. By broadening their portfolio and increasing their tourist demographic, they are ensuring tourism will play a key role on the island in the decades to come.

www.madeiraallyear.com/en/

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City breaks

Explore Lisbon like a Night Owl

Lisbon may be one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, but it’s a city that really comes to life when the sun goes down. From vibrant bars to cool night clubs and jamming party boats, Lisbon nightlife starts late and finishes early in the morning. Team Coco has rounded the best night clubs, bars and lowkey foodie finds for night owls looking to make the most of the warm summer nights in this beautiful Portuguese city.

Start the night in Bairro Alto

The bohemian district of Bairro Alto is the place to meet for a drink at the start of the night in Lisbon . With its narrow cobbled streets, it’s one of Lisbon’s oldest areas and is home to an eclectic bar scene. The bars here tend to be very small so most people head outside and join the street party, meeting new friends and enjoying the buzzing atmosphere. But, there’s more to Bairro Alto than just bars. With some of the best restaurants in the city found here, it’s perfect for partygoers to enjoy a pre-party meal and will impress even the most discerning foodie.

Paint the town pink

Locals say that nightlife in Lisbon follows a steady downhill motion. So, travellers looking to party like a Lisboeta should take the short ten-minute walk downhill from Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré, one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods. This vibrant neighbourhood brims with lively bars and poppin dance clubs – some not closing until 6am. At the heart of the action is Rua Nova do Carvalho, once the city’s red light district and now known as “Pink Street” due to its bright pink pavement. You’ll surely be dancing the night away!

Head to the trendy riverside district …

Trendy Alcântara is one of the liveliest places-to-be in Lisbon. Docas de Santo Amaro, a marina beneath the breathtaking 25 de Abril Bridge, is filled with popular bars and restaurants converted from old warehouses and with outdoor terraces overlooking the waterfront. Nearby, Village Underground Lisboa is built out of abandoned shipping containers and double-decker buses and hosts an exciting programme of DJ sessions and other live music performances. Perfect for those looking for artsy, underground vibes.

Explore the newest happening neighbourhoods

To the east of Lisbon, bordering the River Tagus, the neighbourhoods of Marvila and Beato are becoming Lisbon’s newest happening districts after dark. Once the city’s manufacturing heart, these neighbourhoods are now nightlife hubs with abandoned warehouses and industrial buildings converted into fashionable bars, restaurants and clubs … while Marvila’s artisan breweries make sure there’s plenty of beer on tap!

Sail on the River Tagus

The River Tagus is at the heart of Lisbon and provides the perfect backdrop for a night on the water. Party boats offer live DJ music, drinks and appetizers… while partygoers enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city. The partu boats often depart at sunset and return by midnight, the night is still young for those looking to continue the party at one of the many waterfront bars. Visitors looking for quieter options can enjoy a sunset cruise with wine or hire a boat for a private party with friends. The departures are made in the South and South-East Station, near Terreiro do Paço. Life by the river has never sounded so sweet!

Reach for the stars

As ‘the city of seven hills’, it’s no wonder that Lisbon is home to a vast choice of rooftop bars with spectacular views, the perfect place to enjoy a drink or two while watching the sun go down. From relaxing hidden gems to sophisticated nightspots for people watching, there’s a bar for every mood.

Partying in Lisbon is not just limited to the city centre, and its waterside location offers other great party options, ideal for the summer months.

For more information, ideas, and inspiration on enjoying Lisbon after dark, please go to www.visitlisboa.com

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Adventures

Madeira: Rural tourism showing the key to sustainable travel

Madeira has long been popular with the fly and flop generation and the cruise crowd, in particular, fantastic Funchal with its countless exotic gardens and historical monuments. However, there’s so much more to see on the island apart from the capital. With an increasing focus on sustainability, discerning travellers are increasingly opting to visit the more rural parts of Madeira. Boutique hotel options are boundless depending on what you are looking for. Below, we’ll consider options for food lovers, imbibers and environmentalists.

Gastronomic enthusiasts should put the newly opened Socalco Nature Hotel high on their list of places to stay at. It is situated in Calheta with many points of interest like the lighthouse, Ponta do Pargo and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Casa das MUDAS. The latter is a curious architectural entity that looms over Calheta like a bond villain lair. The hotel is owned by renowned chef Octávio Freitas, who is a true champion of Madeiran regional cuisine. There is a vineyard on site and they’ve recently bottled their first vintage. Most of the vegetables and fruits used at their restaurant are grown on-site. You can partake in jam-making, and bread-making masterclasses and you won’t find a menu on their website, as they are printed daily depending on what seasonal ingredients they can find. It has spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and you won’t fail to be amazed at the ingenuity of Madeirans, who manage to grow countless crops on such steep slopes.

Wine connoisseurs should consider booking into the homely, informal, Quinta das Vinhas. The hotel includes a historic 17th-century house,15 cottages, 2 outdoor swimming pools and an organic vineyard that spreads across most of their 30,000 sq m. They can arrange for a tour of their vineyards where you can learn about the popular Madeiran grape varietals like Verdelho, Malmsey and Bastardo. Their restaurant and wine bar are perfect for conducting wine tastings of Madeira wine or enjoying local specialities like their grilled sea bream. There is a breathtaking view as it is situated on top of the Quinta and you have uninterrupted views of the vineyard and the ocean.

If you are looking for luxury along with sustainability, then the hotel to check out is Quinta da Serra. They proudly proclaim themselves as a bio hotel and you can’t argue with that when you’ve won countless environmental awards such as the green key award. It’s not just about installing solar panels and using wastewater for irrigation but also preserving historic trees, they have monumental eucalyptus trees that are over 200 years old. They also grow plenty of fruit trees and vegetables to ensure there are minimal miles travelled for the ingredients used in the restaurant.

Apart from Madeira wine, the local drink to try is Poncha. It’s a very summery concoction of citrus juice, honey and aguardente. It is typically muddled meticulously in front of you. Most of the aguardente is made with sugar cane from the island which is in abundance along with bananas. The drink is the ideal Dutch courage before you partake in any adrenaline-inducing activity.

In every corner of the island you will encounter dramatic scenery, but none more so than Fajã dos Padres. It is an organic farm and restaurant that is only accessible via cable car. The ride takes you down a 300-metre steep slope where you can admire the beauty of the southern coast of Madeira. Before reaching their restaurant, you will walk through their farmland with countless mango trees (over 20 different varieties), avocado and banana trees. They even grow more tropical fruits which are harder to find in the rest of Europe such as araçá, Suriname cherry and tabaibo.

Their restaurant is all about letting the ingredients speak for themselves. It’s mostly gently grilled local fish like scabbard accompanied by produce from the farm like banana or mango. Tuna fish and octopus are equally popular whilst shellfish lovers will rejoice at the sight of periwinkles and limpets on the menu. The latter items are such a rarity on British menus but they are inexpensive and very much in abundance and should be considered a more sustainable food source.

The cable cars stop operating at 18:00 during the winter and 19:00 during the summer, so if you want to observe the mesmerising sunset, then you should stay at one of their homely cottages. Alternatively, you can hire a sailing boat with the likes of Happy Hour Madeira who can pick you up from the pier and take you on a scenic cruise to Funchal. You will pass the majestic cliffs of Cabo Girao which are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

If you head to the north coast of Madeira, you will come across an even more stupendous landscape which is more reminiscent of scenes from Jurassic Park. One of the most popular beaches on the island is Seixal beach. The fine black scene beach with the lush green surrounding mountains is one of the most photographed beaches on the island. You might spot adventure-seekers learning how to surf there or if you are lucky like us, participate in a yoga class with such a remarkable backdrop. Another must-do activity is to swim in the volcanic, lava-rock tidal pools there. It is a very calming experience, sheltered from the open sea breeze. It is one of the best free experiences on the island especially since there are convenient changing facilities at a nearby bar, Clube Naval do Seixal.

Driving around Madeira sightseeing is one of the true highlights of exploring the rural countryside. With over 44km of tunnels around the island and over 100 tunnels with the longest being 3km, traversing the island is a much speedier process than previously. Whether you want to visit Calheta or Seixal, it takes very little time from Funchal. Increasingly more and more tourists are opting to have a slower pace of holidaying and enjoying the delights of the rural Madeiran countryside.

https://www.visitmadeira.com/

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Destination Inspiration

TeamCocopup: A dog-friendly getaway with Coppa Club at The Swan Streatley

Our roving doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup and doting dog mum Hannah Tan-Gillies went for an idyllic weekend getaway with Coppa Club at The Swan Streatley, for a taste of life by the river.

Located in what probably is the most picturesque riverside location on the Thames, The Swan Streatley (operated by Coppa Club) is an homage the beauty of the Great British countryside.

The Swan, hotel, gym, yoga, gardens, river, gardens

In quiet yet charming Streatley, The Swan is the heart of the community and the centre of its vibrant social scene. There is the country house hotel of course, which offers different rooms that would suit all sorts of travellers. From the compact yet cosy Loft room, to the generously-sized dog-friendly rooms that open the hotel’s beautiful grounds.

The grounds themselves are a sight to behold. In the summer, they come to life – becoming a hub for families, home workers or boating enthusiasts who moor there for the afternoon. Charlie was allowed in every space at the hotel and was greeted with a dog bed, dog bowl, dog treats and a dog towel too. Not to mention our room opened out directly to the lawn, perfect for night-time doggy business. The Swan at Streatley gets five stars for dog friendliness and the TeamCocopup seal of approval.

The Swan at Streatly, hotel, gym, restaurant, gardens, River Thames

The main attraction at The Swan at Streatley is or course, the Coppa Club. A sprawling restaurant which smartly occupies both indoor and outdoor spaces, The Coppa Club seems to be at the epicentre of community life in Streatley. This gorgeous restaurant offers multiple vibes for all-day dining. From a sleek den, cosy nooks, spacious lounges, a vast garden and a breath-taking deck – there’s something for all kinds of diners here.

The Coppa Club Menu serves up a selection of time and tested British bistro classics with a twist. For starters, we especially enjoyed the garlic king prawns on toast and the Buttermilk Fried Chicken (which came with chili mayo and crunchy slaw). For mains – the British Flash Steak with chimichurri certainly doesn’t disappoint; and the Roasted Halibut Fillet, made with the day’s fresh catch, was equally delicious.

For cocktails — we liked the Garden Spritz which was exactly the kind of refreshing summer drink to enjoy during the day and night. The wine menu is concise yet filled with some excellent and reasonably-priced choices too, with our favourite being the delicious rosé from Tropezian winery Chateau Minuty. Thoughtful, unfussy yet undeniably delicious – we know for a fact that a good meal will be had at Coppa Club, no matter if you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Beyond great food and superb cocktails, there’s plenty to see and do at The Swan Streatley. Home to one of the most impressive gyms I have ever seen in a country house hotel, The Gym at The Swan is filled with the latest equipment and offers fun classes that include paddle-boarding, wild swimming, running clinics, outdoor yoga, stretching, meditation and so much more.

The Swan, hotel, gym, yoga, gardens, river, gardens

You wouldn’t be the first to think that The Swan at Streatley would make a great wedding or anniversary party venue, which is why it is so apt that the hotel has a specific area for meeting rooms and event spaces. Here, food is prepared by Coppa Club while guests stay at The Swan – an idyllic combo of excellent grub and stylish rooms in the heart of the Berkshires.

Between the sun-soaked gardens, warm and inviting hotel and fabulous restaurant — there’s plenty to fall in love with at The Swan at Streatley, a dreamy and beautiful riverside getaway. If you are exploring other riverside locations like Henley and Sonning – don’t forget to visit Coppa Club Henley and The Great House at Sonning too, sister properties of The Swan at Streatley.

WWW.COPPACLUB.CO.UK

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Nikki Beach: A celebration of the ‘joie de vivre’ of Saint Tropez

Hannah Tan-Gillies hopped on a private jet to Nikki Beach Saint Tropez to celebrate 20 years of the original beach club.

Even the word Saint Tropez immediately conjure up visions of yachts, swanky luxury boutiques, packed Mediterranean cafés and glamorous beach parties. Nikki Beach Saint Tropez, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, is all this and more – epitomising the ‘joie de vivre’ of the South of France.

Nikki Beach Saint Tropez is the first European beach club of the Nikki Beach Group. To celebrate its milestone 20th anniversary this year, Nikki Beach is inviting some of the world’s biggest DJs and chefs to take over its idyllic Pampelonne location. This includes music legends like Bob Sinclair, Martin Solveig, Cerrone and David Guetta, and 3-Michelin Star Chef Glenn Viel.

Our visit to Nikki Beach, while missing those big music names, was satisfyingly hedonistic. Nikki Beach is the kind of place that transforms throughout the day and the day of the week. At lunchtime, Nikki Beach is a family affair – a perfect spot for a delicious meal while sipping on rosé from the nearby Minuty winery. In the early afternoon, fabulously talented singer Abel serenades guests in French, Italian, Spanish and even Arabic, getting Nikki Beach’s international jet set crowd on their feet and sometimes on tables too.

When the sun begins to soften, influencers, models and Saint Tropez’s glitterati begin populating Nikki Beach’s pool area, and Sandy Sax the saxophonist (yes – indeed that is his name) comes out to play sweet tunes accompanying an endless array of club hits. Soon – the pool area becomes the epicentre of the beach club with bottles of champagne (sometimes arriving by rocket – and other times arriving by treasure chest) come out with much fanfare. It is a transformation that is fascinating to see but even more fascinating to be a part of.

There is something for every kind of vibe at Nikki Beach and if the bass-thumping, fist-pumping day club atmosphere isn’t your scene, then head over to the newly-opened Butterfly Bar for a champagne tasting at the Salon Dom Pérignon. Sundays are reserved for Nikki Beach’s ‘Amazing Sundays’ brunch and offer a more relaxed atmosphere perfect for lounging poolside or sipping cocktails by the beach.

There is also an on-site masseuse to help soothe the aches and pains from the previous day’s festivities. All of the food at Nikki Beach Saint Tropez, whether you’re enjoying fresh sushi or partaking in the buffet of the Amazing Sunday Brunch – scores top marks. Crafted by Executive Chef Alessandro Pizza, who has been with Nikki Beach since day dot – there is something to impress even the most discerning foodies at Nikki Beach.

The staff at Nikki Beach Saint Tropez are excellent. First of all – everyone looks like they jumped out of a Ralph Lauren print campaign. Second, when they’re not making sure you have everything you need to enjoy a VIP stay in one of the pool beds or serving up some of delectable cocktails – you will find them dancing on the tables adding fun and excitement to an already excellent beach club atmosphere. Anything goes at Nikki Beach – and the thick tables were created for exactly this kind of blissful table-dancing debauchery.

Beyond Nikki Beach, St Tropez has plenty to offer for travellers looking for style, culture and gastronomy. A visit to the nearby Chateau Minuty is highly recommended. During our visit, we went on a private tour led by owner Jean-Etienne – who took us through the winery and shared some of his favourite bottles of rosé. Minuty is the rosé of choice for anyone and everyone in St. Tropez and it would be an absolute sin to not enjoy a glass or five during your visit.

A quick walk around Saint Tropez reveals plenty of marvels too. Every Saturday, there is fabulous market in the town square. Here, you will find everything from spiced saucissons, recycled silk kaftans to mid-century modern furniture. Surprisingly – the market draws a crowd that blends both locals and tourists alike. It is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the daily hustle and bustle of Saint Tropez away from the curated glitz of its luxury hotels and restaurants.

Just across the market in Place de Lices is Le Café, a fabulous spot for an evening of romance, piano tunes and excellent Provençal cuisine. Opened in 1789 and still run by the Costa family, Le Café is one of the oldest, most beloved restaurants in St Tropez. Here, amidst a vibrant hodgepodge of low-hanging wicker lamps, rich Turkish fabrics and colourful ceramics, you will find a fantastic dining experience that celebrates local ingredients and time-honed Provençal recipes. At Le Café, you will come for the food and stay for the atmosphere – there is certainly plenty to go around.

After a day of sun, spritzes and sensational tunes – head back into the Byblos Hotel Saint Tropez to experience the very best of Mediterranean hospitality. Byblos has been a Saint Tropez institution since the 1960s, a true temple of pleasure originally conceived by Jean-Prosper Gay-Para. Over the years, this iconic hotel has hosted the likes of Cher, Mick Jagger, Jack Nicholson and Brigitte Bardot. Today, Hotel Byblos maintains this mythical quality.

From the fantastic Arcadia poolside restaurant to its cool Lounge Bar B – and of course the timeless and elegant suites – it’s easy to see why this is one of the most beloved hotels in St Tropez. In the evenings, head down to Le Cave du Roy, lovingly referred to as the ‘Temple of Tropezian nights’, for an unforgettable night of drinks and dancing.

After a few truly decadent days in St Tropez, we ended our Nikki Beach experience with a bang, flying back to the UK via private jet with Aero. Aero offers semi-private jet flights all over the world, creating an effortless and intimate flying experience between private terminals. All Aero jets have been meticulously designed and the service onboard is second to none.

Aero passengers also benefit from a personalised concierge service. Amidst the current chaos of UK flight cancellations – Aero brings the joy and luxury back to travelling. It was the perfect way to end our Nikki Beach Saint Tropez immersion, which was all about celebrating life and all its pleasures.

For more information visit https://saint-tropez.nikkibeach.com/

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Come and discover the Emerald Coast, Florida – Panama City Beach

When you think of Florida, most people will immediately conjure up images of Miami or Orlando. However, for a state with the longest coastline in the contiguous United States, it has a multitude of scenic regions for tourists to discover. Over the next few weeks, I’ll introduce you to some hidden gems along the Emerald Coast, which might be well-known to local Americans but as yet undiscovered by the British and European contingent.

Our first destination is Panama City Beach. An area that promises sun, sand and seafood is never going to disappoint travel-goers. Whilst they do have a major shopping and entertainment hub in the form of Pier Park, the focus here is on the unspoiled natural surroundings. On either side of the long stretch of beach are protected state parks with St Andrews State on one side and Camp Helen on the other. The latter is particularly popular with hikers, swimmers and fishermen and also borders Lake Powell, which is the largest coastal dune lake in Florida. It’s a great spot for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Marine life is a key fabric of society in Panama City Beach and one of the must-do activities is to go dolphin watching with operators such as Paradise Adventures. There are several species in the local area, but the most common type you will come across is the highly intelligent bottlenose dolphins. You will see their playful nature out in the wild as opposed to seeing them in an aquapark. Whilst on the tour, there is also time for swimming to uninhabited islands and appreciating the pure white, fine dunes that populate all their beaches.

If you are a fan of beach life, then you should check out a particular Floridian speciality: beach bonfire for hire. Companies like Endless Beach Rentals, help you arrange all the pesky details like bringing in deckchairs, hammocks, bonfire equipment and the icebox for your bottles of wines. You can also try that ever-popular American classic, s’mores which consist of toasted marshmallows and a layer of melting chocolate sandwiched between pieces of graham cracker. Is it a culinary classic? Possibly not, but as a great campfire treat and bonding experience with your family and friends, it is impressively unbeatable.

What the Emerald Coast does offer is world-class seafood. Oysters might be a delicacy in the United Kingdom, but over in this part of Florida, it’s a staple of life. Oyster bars are frequently spotted as you drive along the motorways and one of the most iconic seafood restaurants in town is Capt. Anderson’s. It has been serving seafood and steaks for over 50 years and has won countless accolades and with a seating capacity of 725 people, there’s little doubt about the freshness of its ingredients. The specialities I would recommend include their crab fingers (the crab claws are de-shelled) and their truly jumbo-sized sea scallops. It’s hard not to be jealous of the locals who have been blessed with such an embarrassment of seafood riches.

Breakfast is also a much-loved institution with the Floridians. They have hip coffee bars like The Pour that offer trendy iced lattes matched with almond butter and banana toast. And more substantial offerings like Andy’s Flour Power which offers the classic biscuits and gravy to vegetarian-friendly offerings like their colourful vegetable frittata. I wouldn’t normally recommend ordering a cocktail for breakfast but their world-class breakfast martinis are not to be missed. Their secret ingredient is their orange marmalade, which makes it taste that much healthier with inviting citrus notes.

A great place to enjoy the scintillating sunset is Runaway Island. It’s a relaxed, casual beach bar and grill with live country music daily. It has a boardwalk that extends directly to the sandy coastline. You can arrange your beach bonfire right there for a post-dinner rendezvous. The food is on the no-fuss spectrum of restaurant menus, but you can sample local specialities including the blackened Mahi, creole redfish and something you rarely see on British menus, Alaskan snow crab. The latter is a particularly meaty but fiddly affair, so make sure you are dining with patient guests if you are ordering the dish.

In some respects, Panama City Beach is the polar opposite of Miami. It’s not about dressing to impress, putting on makeup and fussy fine dining. It is all about being a family-friendly, all-inclusive experience. Outstanding natural ingredients are given a chance to shine in their own right without overcomplicated preparation work.

Next up, we’ll be visiting art-focused South Walton, which is affectionately known as 30A by the locals.

https://www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/

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