Travel & Hospitality Awards | European Winners 2019 | www.thawards.com

TRAVEL & 

HOSPITALITY 

AWARDS 

EUROPE 

2019

3

TEAM 

LOREM IPSUM 

CEO 

Rob Bruce 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 

Ut labo. Harchiti Katherine sitios dolessiminum Lozell que coreraera vel mo bero volorrum que nus, 

consent. Tur? Ipsam saped quas ipid untiis a nus. 

ART DIRECTOR 

Marcs Bacera 

DIRECTOR OF SALES 

Stanley Lucas 

AWARDS DIRECTOR 

Brian Anson 

EDITORIAL LIAISON MANAGER 

David Hyde 

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING 

Azim Aftab 

SENIOR WRITERS 

Tasmai Dave 

Jacqui Irvine 

Joseph Wilton 

SENIOR DESIGNERS 

Antoine Jackson 

Hafiz Arslan 

AWARDS MANAGERS 

Adam Cole 

Joseph Malabanan 

Zach Ford 

Peter Clement 

Joyce Lee 

RESEARCH MANAGERS 

Jerald Jaime 

Mukul 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Tracy Morgan 

Joseph Malabanan 

Aisha Ahmed 

Contents 

Criteria 6 

European Masters Editors Top 1010 

Elements Arctic Camp12 

The Kaprun Edition – Luxury Chalets16 

Uve Rooms & Wine Bar20 

Mykonos Princess Hotel 24 

Casa Da Eira Boutique Houses 26 

Prima Vista Boutique Hotel 28 

Hotel Bretagne 32 

Pino Di Loto Boutique Bed 

And Breakfast 34 

Maol Reidh Hotel 22 Four Doors Hotel30 

Drinking Tour Of Europe36 

Drinking Tour Of Europe 39 

Weinweg Langenlois40 

Greek Grape Wine Tours 42 

Enoteca Gatto44 

Mysenses The Bar46 

Brewers Of Europe49 

Beach Holidays – The Fab 557 

Villa Despina60 

Alojamento Batata 62 

Hyperion Oia Suites64 

Salice Club Resort66 

Kamp Galeb 68 

Ile Ou Aile Catamaran 78 

Algarexperience80 

Bertoldi Boats 82 

Luxury Catamarans 84 

The One To Watch | Armenia 87 

Hostelandtours Llc90 

The Koelsch Guys Brew House Tours 52 

Atlungstad Brenneri 54 

Planning The Perfect Charter 71 

Azure Ultra 76 

Greece92 

Crete, The Island That Offers It All 95 

History & Culture 97 

Amazing Beaches & Bustling Cities 101 

Smaragdi Boutique Hotel102 

Modern Luxury104 

Vederi Estate106 

Santorini | The Jewel In The Crown 

Of The Greek Isles109 

Villa Arlene Boutique112 

Santorini Five Top Tips115 

Ambition Suites118 

Perivolas Lifestyle Houses120 

Mykonos | Greece 122 

La Maison Blanche Mykonos124 

Karpathos | Hidden Gem 127 

Althea Boutique Hotel128 

Top Three Things To Do In Zakynthos131 

Aurora Luxury Retreat 132 

Athens | Greece134 

18 Micon Str.136 

Aegeon Hotel138 

Panorama Suites & Spa 140 

Riverland Outdoor Adventures142 

Royal Hotel144 

Iceland146 

Iceland149 

Umi Hotel 152 

Arctic Adventures Whale Watching 158 

The Hidden Gems Of Iceland161 

Iceland Air168 

Lónkot Rural Resort 172 

Jón Heiðar154 

Salt Eldhus Ehf156 

Hotel Vos164 

Nicetravel166 

Portugal174 

The Algarve 177 

10 Must Do Activities 179 

Casa Da Baia – Centro De Promocao 

Turistica182 

Balaia Golf Village186 

Lesser-Known Lisbon189 

H10 Duque De Loule192 

Sintra Marmoris Palace194 

Sheraton Cascais Resort198 

Norte Region201 

Private Villa Porto204 

Solar De Oura206 

Austria208 

Austria, The Power Of Three 211 

Summer Adventure Austria 217 

Vöstlhof Leutasch218 

Kaiserlodge220 

Austrian Mountain Getaways 225 

Hallstatt Hideaway – Adults Only 226 

Himmlhof 228 

Leogang | Austria 231 

Looking Past Brussels 235 

B&B Bergenhof 236 

Bruges | Belgium 239 

Bryghia Hotel240 

Biolandhaus Arche 222 Puradies 232 

Turkey242 

Istanbul – Stunning City Of Europe 245 

Reis Inn Hotel 248 

Ravouna 1906 – Special Category 252 

Clarion Hotel Golden Horn 254 

Casa Hermanas 258 

Beyaz Villas 260 

Hilton Marmara Region Bomonti250 Bodrum | Turkey257 

Italy262 

The Enduring Appeal Of Italy 265 Transfer & Tours Cortona, 

Tenuta Montemagno 276 

Ben Carson 268 

Hotel Le Fontanelle 270 

Prvulovic Dejan272 

Piedmont | Italy275 

Rest Of Europe278 

Barcelona And Beyond281 Mas Salagros Eco Resort 286 Ebike-Mallorca.com290 

Sandra Tours 284 Palma De Mallorca | Spain 289 

Croatia292 

Hercex Zagreb 296 

Sanda Baretic 298 

Split | Croatia303 

Heritage Hotel Antique Split304 

Malta309 

Gaulos Dive Cove310 

Top 3 Adventure Things To 

Do In Slovenia 312 

Tic Galerija314 

German Food Tour 317 

Provence, Looking Past The Reviera 321 

Le Chateau Du Bois 324 

London | United Kingdom327 

Sunborn London 328 

Road Trip County Kerry 333 

Kerry Experience Tours 336 

Slovakia341 

Beautiful Slovakia 342 

5 6

CRITERIA 

Excellence in service is an important category, as customer 

service can often be responsible for guests returning year 

after year. We look for the hotels and tour operators that 

go out of their way to please guests, those that provide a 

personal level of service and take the time to get to know 

each visitor so that they might anticipate their every need. 

This can be something as simple as a 24-hour concierge 

desk, a hotel manager who offers a personal greeting or a 

tour guide who is happy to create bespoke private tours – 

what it is, we are always pleased when we encounter staff 

that have been trained in the art of customer satisfaction. 

SERVICES 

It is no question that style and design plays a big part in 

selecting our awards shortlist. A guest will form an opinion 

about a hotel as soon as they arrive so it is important 

to us that all our winners make those first impressions 

count. We’re certainly not partial to a particular period of 

architecture – but whether we’re judging a gothic castle or 

an environmentally friendly lodge, the criteria remains the 

same. We consider factors such as architectural features, 

use of materials, creation of spaces, décor and the overall 

feel. We love it when we find a hotel that tells a story 

through its design and construction, or offers a design that 

is sympathetic to the natural surroundings of its location. 

STYLE & DESIGN 

Knowledge of the local area is essential for any 

organization, be it a hotel or a tour operator. The quality of 

services takes a great hit when the quality of this element 

is not up to the mark. Quite a few of our winners in this 

category have displayed excellent knowledge about the 

surrounding areas. The criteria for a hotel is slightly lenient 

compared to a tour operator, as the latter is expected to 

have thorough knowledge of the area in order to provide 

good services. 

Image by: Georg Nietsch 

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 

8

FACILITIES 

Award-winning guest rooms come in all shapes and sizes, 

but they all have one thing in common, a home away from 

home feel. The comfort of the facilities on offer are of vital 

importance; we look for luxurious linens, stylish bathrooms 

and a coordinated colour scheme that work together to 

create a cohesive sense of relaxation. Additional touches, 

such as complimentary toiletries, free wi-fi or tea and coffee 

making facilities are always a bonus in making us feel 

welcome. We’re always impressed to find hotel rooms that 

embrace technology and offer amenities like tablets or smart 

thermostat systems, but this does not always necessarily 

trump the traditional – four poster beds, ornate fireplaces 

or antique furniture that can add a touch of decadence to 

a hotel stay. 

LOCATION 

Location is one of the most important factors, but also 

one of the most subjective, as the ‘ideal’ is very much 

determined by the type of visitor and the type of hotel 

itself. However, there are a few factors we take into 

consideration when determining the winners of locationbased 

awards. The first is convenience; that is, hotels that 

are easy to travel to. Many of our winners in this category 

are in convenient locations, such as, adjacent to airports, 

close to beaches or found in the heart of easy-to-navigate 

cities. We are always impressed when hotels go the extra 

mile to take the hassle out of traveling and offer such 

additional services as airport shuttles or car hire services. 

However, we’re always excited to come across a hotel 

that is, to use a familiar phrase, off-the-beaten-track. A 

hotel that can offer something a little different, in terms of 

natural surroundings, can make the difference between a 

good holiday and an incredible one. 

In today’s modern age, a hotel or tour operator cannot 

rely on word of mouth to get their message out into the 

world. As social media has become a vital part of everyday 

life, we like to see companies that go the extra mile to 

engage with their guests, both past and future. Attractive 

and informative websites and engaging and honest 

content are what we look for when judging a company’s 

use of marketing; how well they display their services, how 

up-to-date their content is, how well they get their brand 

message across, and, most importantly, how well their 

marketing can tempt us to go and see what they have to 

offer for ourselves. 

What better way is there to know about an organization 

than by getting first hand reviews? Customers are the best 

judges of any service out there as they are the ones who 

experience them and can assess whether they were up to 

the mark or not. Considering reviews from hundreds of 

customers gives us a fair idea about the general pros and 

cons of any organization and also gives us valuable inputs 

for the other criteria as well. 

MARKETING 

CUSTOMER REVIEWS 

Diversity is one important aspect that needs to be taken 

into consideration in the travel and hospitality industry. 

It is essential to have with varying diversity to ensure 

that the organization can properly connect with their 

guests. Diversity is taken into account in terms of gender, 

nationality as well as languages spoken among other 

factors. Not only do we take the diversity of the staff into 

account but even that of the facilities and services offered; 

a hotel or tour operator providing a better range of service 

always catches our eye. 

It is of prime importance that an organization has thorough 

industry knowledge. Without knowing the minutiae of the 

industry, it is difficult to flourish and provide services which 

are a class apart. Before any organization ventures into 

the industry, it is essential that they know how the industry 

is moving and how they should make changes to their 

methodologies in order to remain relevant and also be a 

top-performing organization. 

DIVERSITY 

INDUSTRY 

KNOWLEDGE 

9 10

EUROPEAN MASTERS 

EDITORS TOP 10 

Elements Arctic Company | Norway 

The Kaprun Edition | Austria 

UVE Rooms and Wine Bar | Italy 

Moal Reidh Hotel | Ireland 

Mykonos Princess | Greece 

Casa Da Eira | Portugal 

Prima Vista Boutique Hotel | Greece 

Four Doors Istanbul | Turkey 

Hotel Bretagne | Denmark 

Pino Di Loto | Greece 

Image by: Pascal Debrunner 

11 12

Norway 

ELEMENTS 

ARCTIC CAMP 

Adventure Experience 

Living like Urban Gypsies 

Elements Arctic Camp offers accommodation in two rustic yurts that are best described 

as modern nomadic tents. Each yurt has four comfortable beds with duvets and pillows. 

Two extra guests can be accommodated by adding mattresses on the floor. In addition, 

guests can also spend a leisurely time in the lounge area that is decked with cozy furniture. 

Rebbenes, 9140 Rebbenes, Norway ♦ Tel +47 907 89 699 ♦ elementsarcticcamp.com 

Do you often feel 

overwhelmed by 

your routine life? The frantic 

cacophony and commotion of 

modern living can take a toll on 

your mental peace. A break from 

this fast-paced urban lifestyle 

brings you close to nature and 

lets you enjoy the bliss of silence 

and solitude. If you are craving 

a rejuvenating getaway, head 

straight to Elements Arctic Camp 

in Norway. 

Located on the island of 

Rebbenesøya, north of Tromsø 

in Norway, Elements Arctic 

Camp welcomes you for a 

unique adventure. Enjoy your 

rendezvous with splendid natural 

beauty and the exquisite marine 

life of the Arctic coast. Experience 

the thrill of sea kayaking, hiking 

and snowshoeing during winters. 

This is also the perfect spot for 

witnessing the magic of the 

northern lights. 

The journey to this beautiful property is 

nothing short of an expedition. You can 

request the administration to arrange 

for a pickup in Tromsø city. After a scenic 

90-minute drive, you will embark on a 

short ferry ride to reach Rebbenesøya. 

Thereafter, you will have to walk through 

the picturesque landscapes of the island 

for 15-minutes to reach Elements Arctic 

Camp. 

First-time visitors might be slightly taken 

aback on knowing that the yurts aren’t 

equipped with electricity or water supply. 

However, the yurts are completely 

insulated and fitted with kerosene and 

wood-fired ovens to keep you warm as the 

mercury dips. Pure water can be fetched 

from a stream located just 200 meters from 

Elements Arctic Camp. This is the closest 

you will ever get to the adventure of living 

like the early man. 

13 14

Don’t be fooled by the rustic charm of 

these yurts. They are fitted with fully 

functional kitchens featuring state of the art 

equipment such as a gas oven, refrigerator, 

and a mini freezer. You will be tempted to 

go fishing in the nearby lakes and prepare 

a hearty meal with the day’s fresh catch. 

Guests also get access to a bio-toilet in the 

boathouse at Elements Arctic Camp. The 

boathouse also offers drying and storage 

facilities for clothes. 

Prepare yourself to go off the grid as 

modern facilities like Wi-Fi, radio, and 

satellite TV aren’t available. It is the lack 

of these distractions that guarantees a 

completely rejuvenating holiday. The 

secluded ambiance inspires you to spend 

countless moments of introspection 

and self-reflection. As you listen to the 

serenading sounds of nature, you become 

more self-aware and calm. 

As you navigate through the pristine 

seawaters on your kayak, you will be 

mesmerized by the landscapes surrounding 

you. Indulge in bird watching as you pass 

many small islets and sheaves. One can 

easily spot sea eagles, otters, and seals on 

such kayak trips during the day. If you seek 

a stronger adrenaline rush, go kayaking in 

the dark. If you are lucky, the enchanting 

northern lights will make your adventure 

even more memorable. 

During winter, guests can enjoy the 

pleasure of snowshoeing and cross-country 

skiing. You can go fishing at the scenic lakes 

during the daytime. Spend the evenings 

getting cozy around a campfire while 

listening to the pacifying lullaby of nature. 

The neighborhood also offers plenty of 

hiking trails for the more adventurous. 

Recreational Facilities 

Despite its remote and cut-off location, Elements Arctic Camp offers several opportunities 

for outdoor activities. The property offers a few specially curated packages for sea 

kayaking, bonfire, and culinary exploration. Guests can choose among trips of various 

durations or request the courteous staff for a customized package. 

Elements Arctic Camp curates a unique adventure experience that allows you to unwind, 

relax and rejuvenate. You can simply spend your time stargazing and marveling at the 

serenity of nature or you can explore various outdoor activities to explore the pictureperfect 

surroundings. In either case, this getaway will charge you up and prepare you to 

face any hardships that might come your way. 

15 16

Austria 

THE KAPRUN 

EDITION – 

LUXURY CHALETS 

Luxury Chalets 

Schulstraße 15, 5710 Kaprun, Austria ♦ Tel +43 664 9416950 ♦ thekaprunedition.at 

The quaint town of Kaprun in Austria is nothing short of a winter wonderland. Nestled 

amidst the scenic Austrian Alps, it rests at the foot of the magnificent Kitzsteinhorn 

glacier. During winter, this highly sought-after destination provides tourists with ample skiing 

opportunities. The town also offers a plethora of upscale ski resorts, most exquisite of them 

being The Kaprun Edition – Luxury Chalets. 

Located just 300 m from the Lechnerberg Ski Lift, The Kaprun Edition – Luxury Chalets fills your 

holiday with utmost luxury. The spacious and comfortable chalets let you enjoy modern facilities 

in a homely ambiance. Picturesque mountains in the vicinity of this property are a feast for the 

eyes. A river flows nearby, the sound of which lulls you to peaceful slumber. 

Rustic Charm Meets World Class Facilities 

The Kaprun Edition – Luxury Chalets offers 

accommodation in the form of various 

elegant wooden chalets built with natural 

tree trunks. Don’t be fooled by the earthy 

finish of these luxury chalets. They are 

equipped with all contemporary amenities 

such as temperature control, Wi-Fi, and a 

flat-screen TV. 

The stylish chalets feature charming 

wooden furniture to ensure a comfortable 

stay for all guests. Hypoallergenic pillows 

along with a pillow-top mattress and a 

down comforter are provided in every 

bedroom. Enormous glass windows let 

you cherish the picturesque landscape 

enveloping The Kaprun Edition – Luxury 

Chalets. The experience feels straight out 

of the pages of a fairy tale. 

Each chalet has a spacious dining and 

seating area where you can relish joyous 

meals with your family. The chalets also 

have a fully-functional kitchen fitted with 

modern equipment such as a microwave 

oven, toaster, refrigerator, coffee-maker, 

and dishwasher. The units have multiple 

bathrooms featuring a walk-in shower, 

bidet, and a hair-dryer. Complimentary 

toiletries and bath sheets are also provided. 

The luxury chalets have their own terrace 

with a private hot tub. You can enjoy 

picture-perfect views of the river and 

mountains while enjoying a relaxing bath. 

The units also feature a cozy fireplace to 

help you beat the winter chill. This property 

turns your family outing into a memorable 

holiday experience. 

Guests have the option to choose from 

chalets with three, four, five, and seven 

bedrooms. Depending on their size, these 

units can accommodate between 12 and 

24 guests. Free parking is available with 

each chalet. Facilities such as a sauna and 

BBQ can be arranged on request, at an 

additional cost. 

17 18

Abundant Skiing Opportunities 

The Austrian town of Kaprun is every ski lover’s paradise. Apart from ultra-modern 

amenities, The Kaprun Edition – Luxury Chalets also has a ski school and ski storage 

space. Ski equipment is available for hire too. With the Lechnerberg Ski Lift located very 

close to the property, you will be continually enticed to venture outside.. 

The bustling centre of Kaprun 

is just a short walk away from 

this property, where you can 

find a few shops and eateries. 

A 10-minute drive will take 

you to Gipfelwelt 3000, the 

excursion destination that lets 

you experience the magic of 

Kitzsteinhorn. For days when 

you don’t feel like cooking, 

you can walk down to nearby 

restaurants for some lipsmacking 

delicacies. 

Other recreational facilities include a golf course and a tennis court. There’s even a public 

soccer, volleyball and basketball court next to the chalets which is free to use for everyone. 

The surrounding area also has a few delightful hiking trails and cycling routes. A church 

and a museum are located close by too. You can also take a stroll down the road to reach 

Burg Kaprun or Kaprun Castle. The charming 12th-century castle is located just 1.4 km 

away from The Kaprun Edition. 

The Kaprun Edition – Luxury 

Chalets transforms all 

your vacation dreams into 

reality. You can experience 

the unadulterated joy of 

living amidst nature without 

compromising on your 

comfort. 

19 20

Italy 

UVE ROOMS & 

WINE BAR 

Hotel and Restaurant 

Via Umberto I, 13, 12064 La Morra CN, Italy ♦ Tel +39 0173 50740 ♦ 

discover@uve.info ♦ www.uvelanghe.it 

For lovers of Barolo, UVE 

Rooms and Wine Bar is 

a modern and stylish boutique 

hotel located within the historical 

and cultural centre of La Morra, in 

the Piedmont region, at the heart 

of the hilly landscapes of Langhe, 

world famous for its vineyards of 

ripened Nebbiolo grapes and 

winemaking. 

Listed as one of UNESCO’s 

World Heritage sites, the Langhe 

area has always been incredibly 

important for wine growing so 

much so that, in ancient times, 

the cutting down of a vine was a 

hanging offence! 

The UVE location is a fantastic 

opportunity to discover the 

charm of these listed heritage 

hills, an area dedicated to wine 

lovers with a significant number 

of wine producers to visit and 

the chance to taste, arguably, the 

country’s most fabulous red wine, 

Barolo. 

The UVE offers eight unique and elegant 

rooms, within a converted convent, with 

original stone walls, arches and beamed 

ceilings. A contrasting mix of contemporary 

décor and soft furnishings designed and 

created by local artisans, with sophisticated 

lighting and accessories selected from the 

most beautiful interior design companies in 

Italy make this a relaxing space for formal 

or informal visits. 

The UVE wine bar and inner courtyard 

is a perfect setting to enjoy the locally 

sourced wines and cuisine including 

cheeses, cold cuts of ham, white truffles 

as well as traditional Italian sweet and 

savoury specialities. Experience how the 

characteristics of the local wines combine 

with the delicious food with the help of the 

experienced sommeliers. 

Be prepared to be in awe at the beauty and 

spirit of the Langhe region. UVE Rooms 

& Wine Bar will make the trip even more 

special, with its warm and welcoming 

team, its romantic setting and atmosphere, 

and perfect location for exploring the town 

of La Morra and the entire region. 

21 22

Ireland 

MAOL REIDH 

HOTEL 

Modern Hotel 

Tullycross, Renvyle, Co. Galway, Ireland ♦ Tel +353 95 43844 ♦ 

info@maolreidh.com ♦ www.maolreidh.com 

The hotel finds itself on the beaches of the 

Irish west coast, beneath the gaze of the 

mountains of Connemara and Mayo boasts 

a stylish restaurant serving all local produce. 

Local white fish, Clare Island Salmon John 

Wards Dooncastle Oysters, Killary Mussels, 

Cleggan Crab and Scallops, Bernard Kings 

Leenane lamb and beef sourced from 

the wild Atlantic seaboard. The team is 

always happy to oblige dietary or special 

requirements. For those not wishing the 

‘fuss’ of dinner a variety of dishes are 

served daily in the bar. 

The same bar is a haven of welcomes and 

friendliness – chat, nap, eat, read or drink – 

the choice is one’s own. 

It may be cold outside, but a warm welcome awaits you at this contemporary boutique 

hotel. Set on the stunning “Wild Atlantic Way” in the quaint village of Tullycross with its 

traditional thatched cottages, this a perfect location to discover traditional Irish landscapes and 

Irish culture. 

The hotel is family run with twelve spacious and modern en-suite rooms and free guest parking. 

The rooms have everything you could wish for including flat screen television, DVD player and 

a library of free films to choose from, tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi. 

Local activities are plentiful including cycling and walking tours, fishing and boat trips, golf and 

horse riding. The hotel is located ideally for exploring the Connemara National Park, Kylemore 

Abbey and, of course, the spectacular sandy beaches that are just a short walk from the hotel. 

Set yourself up for a day of exploring with the hotel’s hearty breakfast and take advantage of the 

delicious and generously packed lunches that may be pre-ordered to take with you. 

Traditional music and dancing are regular 

events at the hotel where you can enjoy 

Irish jigs, reels, banjos and hornpipes. Also 

in the village are a further two traditional 

Irish pubs where you will be sure of a 

friendly welcome from the locals. 

23 24

Greece 

MYKONOS 

PRINCESS HOTEL 

Stylish Hotel 

The hotel is a fine specimen of Cycladic architecture. The 39 rooms of the Mykonos 

Princess Hotel are divided into nine room categories - but not one of them lacks on 

amenities, which include, choice of pillows and a daily maid service! In addition, the 

Front Desk is at your service round the clock. The rooms offer guests exceptional value 

accommodation and magical views of the Aegean’s blue waters. All of the 39 rooms and 

suites are decorated with subtle details of marine life with their colour scheme comprising 

a natural palette of earthy tones, ideal for moments of relaxation and calmness - appealing 

to children and adults alike! 

Agios Stefanos, 84600 Mýkonos, Kikladhes, Greece ♦ Tel +30 22890 23806 ♦ 

https://mykonosprincess.com 

Greece is a magical destination that has lured travellers from time immemorial. The 

sublime climate, lip-smacking cuisine and abundance of things to do offer something 

for everyone in the family. The Mykonos Princess Hotel, on the magical and mythical island 

of Mykonos is no different. Situated at an ideal distance from the heart of the town, just a 

minute drive. The location is perfect for couples, close to shopping centres and even closer 

to the beach. 

Speaking of pampering, the staff are more than willing to go the extra mile to make your 

stay beyond comfortable. They are notorious for handing out free upgrades, especially for 

honeymooners! Well, that is the famed Greek hospitality for you. 

Speaking of gastronomic experiences, the 

poolside Kapari Restaurant offers exciting 

menu choices that you can feast on while 

you absorb breathtaking, panoramic views 

of the sea! A selection of sweet or savory 

items will tempt any appetite, large or 

small. For your breakfast, you can choose 

from a wide range of à la carte options. The 

restaurant is also offers vegetarian friendly 

options. The wide range of facilities and 

services, tailored to a variety of needs, 

will turn your stay in Mykonos Princess 

Hotel into a pleasant, comfortable and 

memorable experience. 

25 26

Portugal 

CASA DA EIRA 

BOUTIQUE 

HOUSES 

Stylish Guest House 

R. da Eira da Pedra 7, 7645-258 Vila Nova de Milfontes, Portugal ♦ 

Tel +351 283 997 001 ♦ villaeira.pt 

Casa da Eira Boutique Houses is located in the peaceful town of Vila Nova de Milfontes 

in the Natural Park of the Costa Vicentina. It is only 300 metres away from the beach and 

a few steps away from the town’s historic centre. This project emerges from the desire to 

offer a quality stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes, while standing out from other more mass 

tourism-oriented alternatives. 

Casa da Eira has won 

the European Travel 

and Hospitality Awards’ 

Stylish Guest House of 

the Year 2019- Alentejo 

Portugal! This award was 

only possible thanks to our 

guests, who nominated 

this guest house, through 

their comments on several 

platforms and the positive 

reviews given to the service 

and the clean but cosy 

décor. The final decision 

was made by a panel of 

professionals in the tourism 

sector, among which are 

magazine editors and travel 

bloggers, who compare 

the several nominees to 

determine who will be the 

winner in each category. 

The newly renovated guest house has 5 apartments and 6 double rooms with a clean, 

minimalistic and contemporary décor, all of them come with a balcony. Casa da Eira also 

offers a garden area, which will soon feature a swimming pool, and a roof top terrace. 

27 28

Greece 

PRIMA VISTA 

BOUTIQUE HOTEL 

Boutique Hotel 

To make your stay even more luxurious, they have a variety of activities and facilities in 

the hotel. You can relax in the Jacuzzi or take a dip into their open air swimming pool. 

They even have a special swimming pool for your kids to give your entire family a fun 

experience! 

Syvota 461 00, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2665 097056 ♦ primavista.gr 

Tucked away on the coast of Syvota, Prima Vista Boutique Hotel provides you the 

opportunity to live life king size in its amphitheatrically built suites with their lavishly 

spread and furnished rooms. Situated right on the beach, the resort affords some splendid 

views of the sea and the nearby Corfu and Paxos islands. 

The hotel is built keeping ecology in mind and every single room in the hotel is built by 

international ecological standards. They have a host of suites up for selection ranging from the 

simple Junior Suite to the magnificent Presidential Suite. Every single suite features modern 

amenities and plush furnishings to ensure a lavish and comfortable stay for you. 

The hotel opens up to the beach where 

there are loads of sunbeds specially for 

you to sit back and relax while seeing the 

sun kiss the horizon. For your gastronomic 

indulgence, they have an in-house 

restaurant led by experienced chefs and 

maître to bring to you the finest of dishes. 

Pair their exotic Mediterranean meals 

with a glass of cool wine that comes with 

a distinct and traditional flavour of Epirus. 

If you’d like to have a drink, head to the 

lounge bar or pool bar. 

They take their services a step ahead by 

providing a library and a fully-equipped 

business center where you can carry out 

your day-to-day business activities while on 

your vacation. You can even keep up with 

your fitness regime in their well-equipped 

gym. Prima Vista truly gives you a boutique 

experience throughout your stay by 

matching its classy location with their 

exceptional services and luxurious facilities. 

29 30

Turkey 

FOUR DOORS HOTEL 

Affordable Boutique Hotel 

Katip Sinan Cami Sok No.34, Sultanahmet, Istanbul ♦ Tel +90 212 516 73 74 ♦ 

fourdoorshotel.com 

Located right in the centre of the historic district of Istanbul, Four Doors Hotel is among the 

most popular accommodations for guests from all around the world. The hotel represents 

luxury, comfort and convenience – all at the same time. 

The hotel is equipped with 18 luxurious and luminous hotel rooms. Each room is classically 

furnished with artistic interiors. The rooms are further adorned with blackout curtains to ensure 

that guests receive maximum privacy. Basic amenities such as refrigerators, private minibars, a 

32-inch flat-screen TV, and unlimited Wi-Fi access are made available to ensure that guests are 

able to make the most of their time at the hotel. 

If you’re travelling with your family then you 

can opt for the Family Room which gives 

you a magnificent view of the traditional city 

horizons. If you’re looking to spend quality 

time with your loved one then you can 

opt for either the Superior or the Double 

Room, which is designed in such a manner 

that it allows guests to make the most of 

the space available. Guests travelling on 

a budget can choose to accommodate 

themselves in the Budget room. The 

rooms also come with amenities like 

coffee/tea machines, in-room digital safes, 

hypoallergenic pillows, cotton sheets, hair 

dryers, slippers, a complimentary Dove 

shampoo, hair-conditioning creams as well 

as shower gel sets. 

Breakfast is served in the winter garden of 

the hotel where you can enjoy the buffet 

consisting of fresh seasonal fruits, cheese, 

pastry and delicatessen. 

The major attractions of the city include 

Hagia Sophia, which is the former Greek 

Orthodox cathedral-turned museum, 

which was built back in 537 AD. In addition 

to this, Basilica Cistern, which represents 

a subterranean structure commissioned 

by Emperor Justinian, is also located at 

800-metre distance from the hotel. If you’re 

the kind who enjoys shopping, then you 

can visit the bustling Grand Bazaar of the 

city, which is a 5-minute walk away. 

Whether you wish to explore the city or 

want to just relax on your vacation, Four 

Doors Hotel makes it all possible with its 

affordable, yet luxurious amenities. 

31 32

Denmark 

HOTEL 

BRETAGNE 

Elegant Hotel 

Sauntevej 18, 3100 Hornbæk, Denmark ♦ Tel +45 22 60 31 00 ♦ hotelbretagne.dk 

The classic Bretagne Hotel 

overlooks a beautiful lake 

and Øresund Strait in the seaside 

town of Hornbæk. Imagine 

enjoying the beauty of Denmark’s 

horizons from the comfort of your 

room! This is just one of the many 

enthralling experiences that you 

can get while staying in Hotel 

Bretagne. Transportation around 

the region is easy as Hornbæk 

Station is just a 2-minute walk 

away. 

While it was standing empty 

and worn out for years, after 

undergoing extensive renovation, 

it has got back its old charm and 

elegant feel. The hotel is often 

described as being a luxurious 

version of a traditional Danish 

bath hotel which is both bright 

and simple by nature. The 

hotel has been designed in the 

Gustavian style and it features a 

lake-view restaurant and a lobby 

bar. 

The 23 beautifully decorated rooms give 

you stunning views of the city and the 

Hornbæk Lake along with the sea. But apart 

from the views, the rooms are elegantly 

decorated to make sure that your stay is as 

pleasant as the views around! 

The hotel includes a Nordic and French 

inspired restaurant that offers different 

monthly menus. The restaurant is open for 

both lunch and dinner while breakfast is 

usually served in a buffet format. 

It is merely a 15 minute drive away from the 

Kronborg Castle, which is considered to be 

one of the most important Renaissance 

castles in Northern Europe and has even 

been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage 

Sites list. If you enjoy watching the sea 

roar in its gloriousness, you can simply 

walk towards the Hornbæk Harbour and 

the beach, which are both a 10 Minutes’ 

distance. 

The hotel takes part in arranging 

Winemakers Dinner, where they typically 

invite a wine producer, who shows specific 

wines that are suited best for the guests. 

Following this, the hotel’s chef Kasper 

Larsen adapts the dishes to the wines. 

This is the perfect choice for all the wine 

connoisseurs. 

Hotel Bretagne not only affords some 

fantastic views but also gives you an allround 

indulgent experience that will remain 

etched in your memory forever. This, 

combined with the beauty of Hornbæk will 

truly make your trip unforgettable. 

33 34

Greece 

PINO DI LOTO 

BOUTIQUE BED 

AND BREAKFAST 

Boutique Guest House 

Kini, Syros, Cyclades, Greece ♦ Tel +30 22810 71504 ♦pinodiloto.gr 

Pino Di Loto Boutique Bed and Breakfast is situated on the popular Kini Beach which has 

been awarded the blue flag for its spectacular beauty. The guest house is equipped with 

six world-class suites that overlook the magnificent Aegean sea. You can expect maximum 

convenience as the guest house also offers free private parking , access to unlimited Wi-Fi, at 

no additional cost as well as Concierge Services. 

The main highlight of the guest house are its rooms. They are spacious and manage to strike 

a perfect balance between the traditional atmosphere of Greece and the advanced, modern 

facilities. For instance, each of the rooms boasts a flat-screen TV, surround-sound speakers and 

Nespresso coffee machines. The rooms contain unique interiors as well as exteriors. 

The guest house also has a large private 

pool as well as a sun terrace where you can 

lay back and relax. If you wish to enjoy the 

ultimate privacy , Pino di Loto offers two 

Executive Suites too, with a private plunge 

mini pool in front of each one! 

If you’re planning on hosting a party or an 

event, the guest house makes arrangement 

for that as well (regarding availability!). 

Refreshing drinks and light snacks are 

made available as and when required. 

Guests are happier with the privacy that 

this Boutique B&B offers and that is what 

this guest house is known for. 

Greece is a tourist spot, therefore it is natural 

for most prime locations to be crowded. 

However, the staff at Pino di Loto ensures 

that you receive an exclusive experience to 

make your journey memorable. 

Homemade traditional breakfast, a light 

snack lunch or dinner can be made available 

in the leisure of your own room.Since there 

is no restaurant at the premises yet, if you 

wish so the guesthouse staff will be more 

than happy to deliver you the dinner that 

you prefer directly from the restaurants that 

are situated down at the beach of Kini! 

There are a range of activities on the beach 

as well as watersports activities that you 

can take part in. All you need to do is get in 

touch with the guest house staff and they’ll 

arrange it all for you. 

35 36

DRINKING TOUR 

OF EUROPE 

Image by: Moss 

37 38

DRINKING TOUR OF EUROPE 

Organised pub crawls for those wishing to be guided around exciting European 

cities offer great opportunities for solo travellers or small groups as they are a fun 

and relaxed way to meet people and make new friends. 

Recommended cities for guided pub crawls include Ireland´s Galway city. A gorgeous 

city to visit especially on St. Patrick´s day and a pub crawl experience not to be missed. 

Make sure to stop by the deceptively tiny O´Connell´s, a traditional Irish pub full of Irish 

“craic” and the location for Ed Sheeran´s Galway Girl video. Situated in Eyre Square, it 

has a sprawling yard at the rear of the pub where, even in winter, is a great place to drink 

traditional hot whiskey. 

Another hugely recommended 

city for an exciting and vibrant 

pub crawl is Rotterdam city, 

especially when there are 

special events such as the King´s 

Birthday where everyone is 

dressed in orange to celebrate. 

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and 

make new friends in this iconic 

city. 

A guided pub crawl brings 

together locals and tourists for 

a tour of traditional pubs and 

night clubs. 

Cologne in Germany is another stunning location to grab some friends and go on a 

pub crawl adventure, starting at the vibrant Gaststätte Lommerzheim for a true taste 

of Cologne. Sample the traditional and time honoured Päffgen Kölschl beer served by 

grumpy waiters known as Köbes. Remember to put your coaster on top of your glass 

when you have had enough beer, empty glasses are automatically renewed by the circling 

Köbes. 

39 40

Austria 

WEINWEG 

LANGENLOIS 

Wine Tour Company 

Visitors get to know the Kamp Valley wine 

region, the Langenlois winemakers and 

wines, while learning all kinds of interesting 

facts about vine cultivation. The vineyard 

topics are illustrated by some spectacular 

installations and sculptures such as a metre 

long earthworm burrowing through the 

vineyard soil which accompanies the topic 

‘tillage’, a ‘giant pupitre’ which becomes 

a viewing platform, or a swing that invites 

you to monitor the weather and many 

more. 

Loisium-Allee, 3550 Langenlois, Austria ♦ Tel + +43 2734 2000 ♦ 

www.langenlois.at/weinweg 

Visiting Langenlois means getting to know the charming essence of the Kamp Valley. To 

discover a place whose gently contoured vineyards, gorgeous gardens and diversified 

architecture court the senses of its visitors. 

The WINE TRAIL Langenlois leads through the famous Langenlois vineyard sites Dechant, 

Käferberg, Steinhaus and Schenkenbichl, taking you on a journey of discovery into the exciting 

and challenging ‘vineyard workplace’. It lets visitors immerse themselves into the everyday life 

and minds of the winemakers, thereby revealing what constitutes the work, joys and concerns 

of a winemaker’s life. 

The rental key to open those ‘wine safes’, as well as tasting sets is a convenient shoulder 

bag that come equipped with Riedel glasses and a wine trail book. 

41 42

Greece 

GREEK GRAPE 

WINE TOURS 

Wine Tour Company 

info@greekgrapewinetours.com ♦ www.greekgrapewinetours.com 

Be prepared for the most memorable wine and food experience in Greece with Greek 

Grape Wine Tours! Whether you are visiting Greece for the first or umpteenth time, it 

would be a shame to not to explore its diverse and beautiful wine country. 

Taste through the rugged villages of Northern Greece where the lush Xinomavro grape thrives, 

down to the beautiful Peloponnese appellations of Nemea and Mantinia, and finally to the 

stunning, wine-producing islands of Crete and Santorini where the beauty of the wines are only 

rivalled by the stunning landscapes of these Cycladic islands. 

Over 11 days, your own private certified 

wine expert will guide your small group (no 

more than 10 people per trip) through each 

region as you experience a Greece rarely 

seen. You will get to know the winemaker’s 

histories and unique winemaking stories, 

become experts in the indigenous varietals 

of Greece and sample wines not available 

anywhere else in the world! Throughout 

the trip, you will enjoy these unique wines 

paired with the different gastronomical 

delights that capture the essence of each 

region. 

In addition to wining and dining, you 

will also visit some of the important 

archaeological sites of Greece, including 

the Acropolis and its must-see museum, 

Ancient Nemea, the Royal Tombs in 

Vergina and Knossos in Crete. They also 

ensure that you have time on your own to 

explore and savour each destination. This 

is an incredible experience for any wine 

lover, foodie, or history buff. 

The “Greek Grape Tour” covers all these 

wine regions and is currently held twice 

a year in Spring and Fall. They can also 

customize tours focused on just the North 

of Greece or the Islands. 

Whichever tour you may choose, you 

can count on Greek Grape Wine Tours to 

give you the best Greek wine experience 

possible. For any wine connoisseur, this is a 

trip you simply cannot miss! 

43 44

Italy 

ENOTECA GATTO 

Wine Experience 

Viale delle Forze Armate, 9, 20147 Milan, Italy ♦ Tel + 0245482571 ♦ enotecagatto.com 

Are you looking for a traditional 

wine experience in the beautiful 

city of Lombardy? Enoteca Gatto is 

your answer! Equipped with executives 

who are knowledgeable in the field, the 

wine tour company is known to provide 

the much-required cultural touch to its 

guests. 

Located in the heart of Milan, guests 

can buy and taste endless varieties 

of wines. They have about 300 types 

on the offer. Guests also receive the 

opportunity to get a taste of numerous 

artisan products of Italian food. There 

are range of different options to 

choose from, however, if you are not 

well aware of the history of wine, the 

guides at the bistro will help you to 

make a wise decision on the basis of 

your preference. The architecture of the 

region, and the bistro itself, only adds 

to the classic vibe that will definitely 

make your experience fancier. 

Image by: Adele-Payman 

45

Switzerland 

MYSENSES THE BAR 

Culinary Experience 

Bahnhofstrasse 32, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland ♦ Tel +41 43 819 17 17 ♦ mysensesbar.ch 

Switzerland is the playground of the 

rich and famous and mySenses 

The Bar is an excellent cocktail bar 

for the cognoscenti in the bustling 

city of Switzerland – Zurich. Located a 

few blocks down from the Dubendorf 

Bahnhof, in a office/ residential area, 

mySenses’s location makes it a hot 

favorite among the people of Zurich. 

The place has specialty gin, rum, 

whiskey and cocktails to cater to every 

taste. The owner and staff greets you 

upon entry with a welcoming smile. 

The staff will come to your table or chair 

to take your order and at the same time 

bring a small plate of cheese chunks on 

the house! And these accompaniments 

keep changing with different rounds 

of drinks. So it could be assorted nuts 

with one and a small plate of sliced 

salami with another. The warm scent 

of wood as you enter the dining room, 

the bouquet of wine or the powerful 

spiciness of the exquisite cigars in the 

humidor – make mySenses a multisensory 

experience. 

In case you want to stand behind the 

counter and mix your own drinks or those 

of your friends, the staff at mySenses 

will enable you to do that as well – with 

expert guidance. Thanks to state-of-theart 

acoustic technology, the contents of 

your conversations remain at your table. 

They are accompanied only by gentle 

musical sounds as well as the work of the 

bartenders. 

Then there is the focused lighting, but 

floor to ceiling windows also offer natural 

lighting, depending on the time of the 

day when you visit and the season too. 

The tasteful colour scheme of the interiors 

is a feast for the eyes and yet creates a 

cozy and welcoming ambience. Wood, 

steel and glass dominate and leave an 

impression of modernistic harmony. Sofas, 

padded chairs, stools along the walls and 

at the reverse L-shaped bar make seating 

convenient and comfortable too. 

There is a separate enclosed smoker’s 

lounge with even more exclusive alcohol 

in the case and cigars. The best is yet to 

come! There is no dress code! Come as you 

are – in jeans or dress. The place welcomes 

you and treats you as a special guest. 

47 48

BREWERS OF EUROPE 

Europe has steadily been 

experiencing a craft beer 

revolution and is now flooded with 

independent breweries in practically 

every city producing a range of 

innovative flavours and creative styles 

in state of the art breweries, many 

of which are open to a new wave of 

appreciative and cultured palates. 

Beer tours are arguably on a par 

with wine tasting tours, perhaps if 

not more enjoyable, as beer is a 

far less pretentious beverage and 

hence an exciting excuse to visit 

areas renowned for beer traditions 

and history. Every city in Europe 

will have a locally brewed beer, but 

we particularly recommend the 

following. 

Berlin for serious beer enthusiasts is an opportunity to gain 

a deeper understanding of German beer heritage. The 

16th century German sour beer Berliner Weisse is a long 

established beer that has witnessed a rise in appreciation in 

recent years simply due to the brewing techniques involved 

in its production and really should only be sampled in Berlin. 

Berlin city boasts many speciality breweries and brewpubs, 

trendy and modern but still maintaining established German 

brewing techniques using wild yeast and other raw materials 

that go into producing a quality unfiltered product. 

49 50

Why not take the opportunity to drink 

like a Viking in Iceland, where there 

are a surprising number of avantgarde 

micro-breweries in operation, 

offering award-winning ales and 

ice cold refreshingly well balanced 

blonde beers brewed in traditional 

Pilsner custom. There is even an 

opportunity to go to “beer college” at 

the oldest brewery based in Reykjavik, 

the Ölgerðin Egils Skallagrímsson 

brewery is equipped with 10 beer taps 

and provides lessons in everything 

beer related, from how to brew and 

taste to how to serve beer correctly 

English beer has never gone out of fashion, and in the capital there has been a resurgence 

and momentum offering liquid tours at various cool and trendy craft alehouses and, 

conversely, heritage London pubs, steeped in history and character, whilst the monks at 

Leicestershire’s St Bernard Abbey recently comprehended the popularity of beer over 

milk and diversified their farming production to create the quaintly named Tynt Meadow 

beer. Using traditional British brewing methods, with a great deal of research and advice 

from experts the finished product is a testament to the intrinsic vocation of hundreds of 

years of the monastic labour of brewing beer. Beer lovers can now visit the brewery and 

enjoy a tour of the Monastery, the only one of its kind in the UK. 

51 

52

Germany 

THE KOELSCH 

GUYS BREW 

HOUSE TOURS 


Guests receive the opportunity to discover 

Cologne’s unique beer culture with the help of 

a local guide. The local guide will walk you to 

four traditional pubs in one of Cologne’s most 

traditional neighbourhoods. The tours usually 

include four authentic German beers and have 

a maximum group size of 20 people. However, 

if you wish to drink more than the included 

beers, the guide will make that possible. 

Heumarkt 39, 50667 Köln, Germany ♦ Tel +49 221 65028302 ♦ koelschguys.com 

The best kind of catching up 

with friends can be done over 

a pint or two of beers and we are 

sure that you won’t deny that. Beers 

are consumed widely, yet they are 

prepared using different methods in 

each nation. 

There is a lot of history involved 

behind the origins and success of 

the drink. It can get quite fascinating 

to understand the process through 

which beers are essentially produced 

and distributed along the long run. 

The Koelsch Guys Brew House Tours 

of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany 

provide a culinary experience that is 

sure to blow your mind away. The 

company has been offering both, 

private and public tours that provide 

information about the beers of 

Cologne. 

Michael and Stefan, the founders, 

gradually welcomed thousands of 

guests on their tour and after receiving 

amazing feedback, they decided to 

expand their team. Their biggest aim 

is to make the guests happy. 

The company mentions three important 

factors as being their top-most selling 

points, in relation to their beer tours. 

They promise to provide a fun experience 

and bring guests to their favorite nightlife 

destination after the tour. Lastly, they 

plan private tours for both individuals and 

groups, tailoring the plans as per individual 

requirements, thereby offering maximum 

amount of flexibility. 

Regular public tours usually take a 

maximum of two hours. Moreover, the total 

walking distance on the tour is roughly one 

kilometre. The length of the private tours 

various according to your preferences. 

If you’re a beer lover, the tour by the Koelsch 

guys will definitely not disappoint you. 

They will bring you closer to your beloved 

drink and will give you the opportunity to 

discover it more than you ever did! 

53 54

Norway 

ATLUNGSTAD 

BRENNERI 

Cultural Experience 

Sandvikavegen 214, 2312 Ottestad, Norway ♦ Tel +47 62 33 00 55 ♦ atlungstadbrenneri.no 

Culture is a strong part of people’s lives. It is through this phenomenon that most of our 

lives are moulded. Atlungstad Brenneri of Norway is apt for anyone looking to gain a 

cultural experience. The company is known to offer open guided tours to help visitors expand 

their aquavit knowledge, further experience the atmosphere of an aquavit store and see the 

impressive fermentation tanks in Norway’s only genuine potato liquor distillery, that is still 

operational. Guided tours take place in the production plant for potato alcohol production and 

the aquavit warehouse. The company makes use of these guided tours to tell and show the 

whole process from potato to aquavit. 

Atlungstad Brenneri was established back in 1855. Ever since then, thousands of visitors from 

across the globe travel to the company to taste its aquavit. Guided tours including tasting have 

a duration of about 1.5 hours. 

The best part about the service is that it 

can also be combined with many other 

pleasant visits to Hedmark, including 

Jernbanemuseet, Anno Museum, 

Proysenhuset, Skibladner, Stange 

Vestbygd, Mios Farms, Simenstad Farms 

and the Pilgrim’s tours. The beautiful, redbrick 

buildings of Atlungstad Brenneri 

are idyllically situated at the edge of a 

lake in Stange Vestbygd, also referred to 

as “The Tuscany of the North”. The 30 

meter high burner pipe can be seen from 

Hamar, which is only a short bike ride away. 

Atlungstad is a unique cultural monument 

where you get to see both Norwegian 

industrial architecture, burning history, and 

Norwegian aquavit production in the last 

150 years. 

The company customizes the program 

based on your interests and wishes, and 

tailor a package for you. In the program 

they can offer guided tours with tasting, 

aquavit lectures with tasting, drink lessons, 

and lunch and dinner for groups of at least 

20 people. 

Why not put the meeting day in historical 

surroundings? At Atlungstad, there’s plenty 

of room for strategic meetings, seminars 

and business dinners. The company 

offers meeting rooms for groups of up to 

70 people. Together, they set up the day 

based on your desire and create a program 

that gives you a break from your hectic life. 

55 56

BEACH HOLIDAYS – THE FAB 5 

Polychrono Beach | Greece) 

Cape Columbo Beach | Greece 

Praia da Nazare | Portugal 

57 58

Salice Beach | Italy 

Velika Beach | Croatia 

59 60

Greece 

VILLA DESPINA 

Beach Front Apartments 

Polychrono 630 85, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2374 052089 ♦ villadespina.gr 

As the mercury levels dip, do you find yourself craving for the warm rays of the sun? 

Perhaps, you have a beach holiday on your mind? If so, head straight to the flawless 

golden beaches in the Kassandra peninsula of Halkidiki in Northern Greece. While you are here, 

book your stay at Villa Despina to make the experience truly memorable. 

It features fifteen self-catering accommodation units that offer the perfect combination of 

traditional Greek hospitality and ultra-modern comfort. The property is encapsulated in an 

endless stretch of 3000 square meter olive grove. The icing on the cake is Villa Despina’s 

proximity to the picturesque Blue-Flag awarded sea beach. 

All the apartments and studios at Villa Despina are minimally decorated with earthy tones, 

pastel hues, and distinct lines. Each unit has its own private balcony overlooking the garden 

and the pristine sea beach. 

Accommodation in Villa Despina is broadly 

divided into three categories. The studios 

can accommodate two adults and one 

child. The apartments have two rooms 

that can accommodate two adults and 

two children. The suites, featuring two 

bedrooms and a tastefully decorated living 

room, demonstrate the epitome of luxury 

at Villa Despina. 

Every unit is furnished with a large queensize 

double bed and a sofa-cum-bed. 

A fully-equipped open kitchen with all 

modern amenities and utensils is also 

available. 

The friendly staff and crew are always on 

their toes to make your stay relaxed and 

pleasant. A fully equipped barbeque can 

also be arranged on request. 

The vast stretch of golden sea beach is 

just a short walk away from the property. 

You can also walk to the Mavrobara Lake, 

located just 3 km away from the property. 

Take time out to marvel at the traditional 

houses with red-tiled rooftops and the 

resplendent Orthodox churches. 

Despite this exclusive experience, Villa 

Despina is easily accessible from the 

city of Thessaloniki. This ease of access 

coupled with the impressive surroundings 

and contemporary amenities make Villa 

Despina the ideal base for a leisurely beach 

vacation. 

61 62

Portugal 

ALOJAMENTO 

BATATA 

Beach Front Apartments 

Av. Manuel Remígio 84, 2450-172 Nazaré, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 919 245 867 ♦ 

alojamentobatata.com 

Nestled on the west coast of the 

Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is 

one of the most alluring countries in 

Europe. It is replete with expansive 

vineyards, lush farmlands, pristine 

coastlines, medieval towns, and a rich 

culture that dates back by centuries. 

Alojamento Batata offers an exotic stay 

in their beachfront apartments located 

on the bluewaters of the Silver Coast. 

Whether you are on a romantic getaway 

with your significant other or on a family 

trip, they have fabulous beachfront 

apartments which can host upto 7 

people. You can even choose to stay in 

one of their four independent rooms. 

Apart from the enthralling sea views 

from the balcony, the rooms provide 

ultra-luxurious stays at budget-friendly 

prices. The rooms are beautifully 

decorated with regal paintings, antique 

items, and classic furniture. Each 

apartment consists of high-quality 

bedding, spacious bathrooms, and 

a fully equipped kitchen with oven, 

microwave, electric teapot, and a coffee 

machine. 

The in-house staff are always on their toes, 

catering to every whim and fancy of their 

guests. Furthermore, Alojamento Batata 

benefits from a privileged beachfront 

location on the main avenue of Nazaré, in 

the center of the historic village. Guests can 

also indulge in several in-house recreational 

activities such as yoga and water sports like 

surfing and dolphin rides! 

Nazaré is indeed a paradise in itself. It is 

visited annually by thousands of domestic 

and foreign tourists, and today it is known 

to be the world reference of surfing with 

massive waves near its beaches. While in 

Nazaré, you can explore few of the most 

mesmerizing beaches of Portugal, marvel 

at some of the majestic surfers across the 

globe, take the funicular from the beach 

to the cliffs, witness traditional Portuguese 

fishing, explore picturesque buildings and 

treat yourself with lip-smacking seafood! 

A luxurious stay in beachfront apartments is 

on the bucket list of many, and Alojamento 

Batata is transforming that dream into 

reality. Every corner of Alojamento Batata 

explodes with fun and frolic making your 

holiday unique and memorable. It lends 

a new perspective to your Portuguese 

experience that remains etched in your 

heart forever! 

63 64

Greece 

HYPERION OIA 

SUITES 

Beach Front Suites 

You also get your very own, private-heated 

outdoor cave swimming pool. Nothing 

compares to the joy of relaxing in your own 

pool after a long day of travel. Guests can 

make optimum use of the hydro-massage 

facility in each of these pools too. Apart 

from the hydro-massage facility, the pool 

also features an outdoor Albatross hottub 

which is large enough to fit an entire 

family! Imagine spending time with your 

loved ones over a piping hot cup of tea or 

perhaps, freshly-squeezed glass of grape 

wine while sitting back here. 

Santorini 847 02, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2286 021935 ♦ hyperion-oiasuites.com 

Perched on a hill in Oia, Hyperion Oia Suites overlooks the breathtaking Caldera 

and Aegean Sea. The suites here are modernly-decorated, yet let you get a taste 

of the beautiful nature that they are surrounded with. Each of the units go on to feature 

a separate living room, a master-size bedroom, a fully-equipped kitchen and a bathroom 

with advanced-technology shower. However, the best part about the suites is their seating 

area, which lays perched on the room’s private deck. Experience the absolutely beautiful 

sea and caldera views from your own private balcony or while relaxing by the poolside. 

65 

If you’re looking to escape your day to day 

life and kiss goodbye to your weekly woes, 

then this is the perfect spot for you. The 

staff at Hyperion Oia Suites ensure that 

the spectacular views and large outdoor 

spaces are provided to you with utmost 

privacy. 

From your suites, you can enjoy the 

panoramic, unblocked vision of the 

extremely-popular sunset of Oia. You even 

get to experience the magnificence of the 

Aegean, Thirasia and Caldera Seas. Just 

below your private deck is access to the 

unique view to Ammoudi Bay too. 

Hyperion Oia’s hearty and delicious 

breakfast, lunch and dinner spreads are 

absolutely mouthwatering. You have the 

option of customizing your meals, as per 

your wishes too. You can also enjoy a fine 

selection of wines along with other types of 

alcohol mixes. Enjoy Greek hospitality at its 

finest with Hyperion Oia. 

66

Italy 

SALICE CLUB 

RESORT 

Resort 

Via Ticino, 13, 87064 Salicetti, Corigliano Calabro CS, Italy ♦ Tel +39 0983851169 ♦ 

saliceclubresort.com 

Located in the heart of the ancient Magna Graecia, Salice Club Resort is truly the place 

to be owing to its beautiful location and impeccable services. If you’re looking for an 

abundance of sun, beach and good food, you are sure to have a good time at the resort. 

The property is located in the middle of centuries-old pine trees. The best aspect about 

this resort is that it provides guests with private access to the sandy Calabro Beach, which 

is located just 3-minutes away. Besides experiencing the abundance of nature, the place 

also offers a magnificent swimming pool and other sporting facilities including tennis, and 

fishing. While the resort specializes in Continental and Italian cuisines, guests can even opt 

for the authentic Ionian Calabria spread of food. After a long and fruitful day spent exploring 

the ancient Magna Graecia, guests can retire during the evenings by the piano bar. 

Image by: Jack Ward 

67 68

Croatia 

KAMP GALEB 

Beach Front Villas 

Vukovarska ul. 7, 21310, Omiš, Croatia ♦ Tel +385 21 864 430 ♦ kamp.galeb.hr 

Once you have settled down in your room, 

you can enjoy a bunch of recreational 

facilities at Kamp Galeb. These include an 

artificial turf football field, a tennis court 

equipped with night lighting, basketball, 

volleyball, and handball courts. 

If you are toying with the idea of a grand beach holiday, you must head to Kamp Galeb in 

Croatia. Built in 1974, this three-star property is recognized as one of Croatia’s best camping 

sites. 

A 300-meter long sandy beach and exceptionally shallow water make it the ideal destination for 

a holiday with children. This makes it a popular choice for family camping. Split, the largest city 

on the Croatian coast, is just 25 kilometers away from Kamp Galeb. 

Accommodation at Kamp Galeb consists of fully furnished mobile homes overlooking the blue 

waters of the sea. Each of these energy efficient mobile homes can accommodate up to eight 

people in three bedrooms. The mobile homes feature state-of-the-art amenities including airconditioning, 

satellite TV, comfortable wooden furniture, as well as a fully-equipped kitchen. 

They also have two bathrooms and a Jacuzzi tub on the terrace. 

Young campers can have a blast at the children’s 

playground, mini club, and mini disco. An outdoor 

swimming pool is available, for both adults and kids. 

This is also one of those few properties that allow 

you to bring your pets, making your vacation all the 

more memorable. 

Apart from the luxurious mobile 

homes, Kamp Galeb provides 

camping pitches for those who 

want to park their caravan or pitch 

a tent. 

The picture-perfect beach features 

a restaurant and bar. You can sip 

on cocktails and munch on droolworthy 

Croatian delicacies while 

watching the waves lash on the 

shore. The courteous and friendly 

staff is always on their toes to 

ensure that you have the ultimate 

relaxed holiday. 

Whether you are a hardcore 

adrenaline junkie or a hopeless 

romantic, Kamp Galeb offers you 

the perfect escape from your 

monotonous life. 

69 70

PLANNING THE PERFECT CHARTER 

Sailing in Europe. 

What constitutes the perfect European sailing trip varies from person to person and 

of course, depends upon many factors such as sailing experience, qualifications, and 

expectations. 

If you hanker for the ocean, a skippered sailing vacation on board a yacht is a practicable 

option to discover specific parts of Europe such as Croatia and Turkey. Various organised 

boat charter organisations exist, catering to specific requirements such as age and 

preferred activities. 

A unique, tranquil and relaxing option is to rent a barge boat. Moreover, renting a 50- 

foot barge in France requires no formal qualifications or previous experience. After just 

a 20 minute course required to familiarise yourself with the barge, you are at the helm 

of a beautiful, four cabin, two-wheel floating house enjoying the freedom, fresh air and 

scenic French landscapes. Quickly learn to navigate locks and seek out shady spots to 

dock and explore the picturesque French towns and villages, stocking up on breakfast 

provisions such as croissants and fresh French baguettes and, of course the obligatory 

French wine and cheese. 

71 72

For an excellent sailing vacation with no maritime experience, opt for a chartered 

Mediterranean sailing holiday and take advantage of a local skipper where you are 

in safe hands. Choose to relax with your feet hanging off the side of the yacht or gain 

some useful sailing tuition. A reputable chartered boat organiser works with you to plan 

your itinerary, or you might prefer to allow them to steer the flavour of the trip, to take 

you to some of the best locations on the Mediterranean, picturesque towns, hidden 

beaches, vibrant nightlife and great stopovers. 

The same rules apply to a flotilla sailing trip around the Greek Islands. Sail the beautiful 

South Ionian Islands solo, with family or with friends. A flotilla is a group of up to 12 

boats all led by an experienced crew who plan exciting destinations, assist whenever 

needed, keep a close eye on the weather thus allowing you to be confident and enjoy 

the high seas. Flotilla sailing is a great way to meet like-minded, seafaring people, take 

part in friendly regattas, and enjoy the social aspect of life on the ocean. 

73 74

If the preference is a recreational day trip without the luxury of an on-board skipper, 

catering and amenities, there a few exciting options available. For instance, Germany’s 

northern Lake District of Mecklenburg has a myriad of natural inland lakes connected 

via meandering rivers upon which day sailing is a prevalent method of travelling and 

exploring. This peaceful and scenic region fondlyc called the “Land of a Thousand 

Lakes” is popular with kayakers due to convenient routes and stop-offs along the way, 

including campsites with picnic tables and small cafes. 

Also in Germany are the Alster Lakes, located within the heart of the city of Hamburg. 

The lakes date back to medieval times and comprise two large lakes, the Außenalster 

and the Binnenalstar. Boat rental is very popular, everything from small one-hour cruise 

boats with refreshments, chartered catamarans and sailing yachts, to simple pedal 

boats, canoes, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. Enjoy the magnificent backdrop of 

architecture from the water including Hamburg City Hall, iconic churches, impressive 

mansions and fountains, ancient trees and lush green parks. Sailing while the sun drops 

over the city horizon provides a fantastic photo opportunity with the city lights reflected 

on the lake surface. 

75 76

Malta 

AZURE ULTRA 

Destination Specialists 

What sets Azure Ultra apart is the 

impeccable service provided by its onboard 

staff and crew. They are constantly on their 

toes, catering to every whim and fancy of 

their guests. This unparalleled hospitality is 

at par with any five-star property. 

Guests can also indulge in several onboard 

recreational activities and water sports. 

The experienced professionals at Azure 

Ultra offer suggestions on how to plan 

your itinerary, including secluded beaches, 

sea caves and other hidden treasures of 

the Maltese archipelago. The destination 

specialists also curate special packages 

to other coastal gems in the central 

Mediterranean region, including Sicily and 

the Amalfi Coast. 

Pontoon B, Grand Harbour Marina, Vittoriosa, BRG 1721, Malta ♦ 

Tel +356 2778 2500 ♦ azureultra.com 

Malta gives you the perfect amalgamation of a pristine coastline, lip-smacking food, and 

rich heritage. To make your Maltese rendezvous one of a kind, make sure you indulge 

in a luxury yacht experience by Azure Ultra. 

Azure Ultra offers luxury yachting getaways in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The 

best part is that they have both fractional ownership and private charter opportunities. This 

makes the premium experience more affordable for many guests. The team of experts can also 

design tailor-made packages for weddings, anniversaries, corporate events, team outings etc. 

A luxury yacht holiday is on the bucket list of many and Azure Ultra is transforming that 

dream into reality. Every corner of Azure Ultra’s premium yachts exudes luxury, making 

your holiday a unique and memorable one. It lends a new perspective to your Maltese 

experience. No wonder the company’s official slogan states “Beyond Ordinary”. 

Guests can choose from a fleet of premium motor yachts belonging to the elegant 

Sunseeker range, a favorite of many Hollywood A-listers. The company also owns a variety 

of sports yachts, leaving guests spoilt for choice. All yachts feature fully-equipped bars, 

spacious VIP cabins, overhead flybridges, salons and much more. In order to enhance 

your experience, the company has introduced fully-accredited captains on all yachts. The 

highlight of these boats is a hydraulic bathing platform where guests can soak in the 

sunshine, while admiring the sea. 

77 78

France 

ILE OU AILE 

CATAMARAN 

Sailing Company 

France ♦ Tel +33 6 62 53 60 62 ♦ ileouailecatamaran.com 

Whether you’d like to take a boat tour around the famous Fort Boyard from Oleron 

Island or spend a peaceful evening by the Aix Island, Ile ou Aile Catamaran has a 

personalized programme for you all. The sailing company specializes in delivering memorable 

experiences for its guests. In their own words, they are the ultimate cruising specialists at Fort 

Boyard on the island of Oleron from Boyardville. 

The company was established over 13 years ago with the objective of helping its guests discover 

their passion for sailing. The services are made available for interested guests with reduced 

mobility and almost everyone can enjoy it! Those who sign up for the services will receive the 

opportunity to enjoy the advantages of the navigation on the catamaran while travelling calmly 

and in complete safety with the young sailors. 

The catamaran features a surface of 100 m2 

which gives the guests the charm of sailing, 

flat on the water, without any lodging. For 

more thrills, the more intrepid can jump onto 

the vast net located at the front of the boat. 

The famous Fort Boyard – which seems to 

be accessible only by sea is accessible via 

the catamaran! Thanks to its weak draft, 

Aile is the ideal boat to approach the 

mythical monument and go around in the 

best conditions. Imagine a stroll in the sea 

cradled by the sound of the waves. This is 

the moment of great relaxation that guests 

experience with the sailing company. Enjoy 

the rich tranquil nature and succumb to the 

charm of sailing with your loved ones. 

As far as Fort Boyard is concerned, the 

crossing lasts for over an hour. A drink is 

also offered during the crossing. In case 

you plan on bringing your children along 

with you, they will be invited to participate 

in the maneuvers. The programme is 

designed in a specific manner, so that the 

guests receive the opportunity to make 

the most of their voyage en-route to 

Boyardville. 

Ile ou Aile Catamaran provides you the 

escape you need to get away from the 

daily hustle and bustle of the city life and 

takes you to magical lands where you can 

relax and rejuvenate before returning back. 

79 80

Portugal 

ALGAREXPERIENCE 


Várzea da Orada, 707-H, 8200-394 Albufeira, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 289 591 153 ♦ 

algarexperience.com 

Portugal is famous for its outdoor 

activities for the intrepid traveller. 

And within this category, water-based 

holiday experiences are rather popular. 

AlgarExperience, a sailing company 

that has been operative since 2006 is a 

pioneer in sea and nautical activities. 

Discover The Seas 

A few of the experiences offered by 

AlgarExperience are: 

1. Caves & Coastline 

During the three hours of this adventure, 

cruising along the coastline between 

Albufeira Marina and the Benagil Cave, 

guests visit the emblematic rock formations 

and sea caves famous for their unique 

features. During the tour, guests can also 

stop for a refreshing swim in the sea! 

3. Beach BBQ 

AlgarExperience’s Beach BBQ is an 

adventurous and romantic activity lasting 

six and a half hours! From Albufeira Marina, 

the experience involves cruising along the 

coastline and visiting the sea caves in the 

region, before disembarking on a secluded 

beach for a barbecue prepared by the crew 

of AlgarExperience. 

They even organize sunset BBQ, 

parasailing, fishing and other corporate and 

private events based on your preferences! 

Within a little more than a decade, the 

company has grown from being a oneboat 

operator to a huge enterprise that 

offers a variety of aquatic and nautical 

experiences focusing on providing 

high quality service and customer 

satisfaction. 

Today, with the primary objective of 

sharing the secrets of the natural beauty 

of the magnificent coastline of Algarve, 

AlgarExperience offers a wide range of 

activities. AlgarExperience is not just 

known for its wide variety of offerings, 

but it is also known for complying with all 

legal requirements for maritime tourism 

and is registered with the Portuguese 

Tourist Board. 

2. Dolphin & Caves Catamaran 

Tour 

This very popular option amongst the 

patrons of AlgarExperience is a two-hour 

activity that combines two unforgettable 

experiences on the Algarve coastline: the 

observation of dolphins and a visit to the 

most stunning sea caves and other rock 

formations in the region. 

If you would like to spend a different day 

with family or friends and you are looking 

for something more exciting and fun, do 

try out the various water sports, such as 

parasailing, water ski, and wakeboarding. 

AlgarExperience offers a wide range of 

activities in the field of recreational and 

adventure tourism for all! 

81 82

Italy 

BERTOLDI BOATS 

Boat Tour 

Lungolago Armando Diaz, 25019 Sirmione (Brescia) Italy ♦ Tel +39 030 7778527 ♦ 

bertoldiboats.com 

Since 1891 Bertoldi Boats has organized tours, excursions and events on board to give 

a different view of Lake Garda and to transform important moments in unforgettable 

memories. Our distinguishing features are passion, experience, curiosity and friendliness: we’ve 

always been doing our best to provide unique motorboat experiences for all our clients. 

The long history of our company led our will to make something new and to innovate ourselves, 

in fact we are steadily creating and updating our offers and our boats. In line with these idea, 

in 2016 we designed and built the first electric boat on Lake Garda and in 2018 we bought 

Virgilio, our luxury boat. 

Our service proposal is extremely wide 

and unique, as the “dinner on board” 

or the “luxury service”. There are many 

possible boat experiences in store for you! 

Perhaps you’re looking for an original way 

to celebrate your stag or hen party, or a 

getaway for your birthday or graduation, 

or maybe you’ve been dreaming about 

a romantic trip to share with your loved 

one… we are the right choice! 

For all wishes there is a Bertoldi Boats 

experience: every important event of your 

life deserves to be celebrated properly 

and on a Bertoldi Boats motorboat you 

can experience a special moment, with 

your friends, family or partner. All our boat 

trips on the lake allow you to discover the 

wonders of nature, safely on board with 

expert captains, who can satisfy all your 

curiosity. 

Find the right itinerary and experience for 

you around Lake Garda and remember that 

all our tours can be personalized to match 

your needs! 

83 84

Greece 

LUXURY 

CATAMARANS 


Greece ♦ Tel +306978018355 ♦ luxurycatamarans.com 

A plethora of impeccable catamarans are 

available to navigate the Adriatic. From 

Croatia, you can sail the historical region 

of Dalmatia, starting in the exuberant Split, 

the precious city of Dubrovnik, the idyllic 

Hvar, the medieval Korcula, the vibrant 

Makarska or the gorgeous town of Trogir. 

If your idea of sailing beholds treasure 

islands and reefs, the daily cruises and 

charters around Caribbean waters have all 

the ingredients for you to experience the 

legends of the sea in a unique concept on 

the British Virgin Islands . 

If you are looking for the perfect 

sailing holiday, Luxury Catamarans 

is definitely your match. This Greek 

leading catamaran chartering company, 

with years of experience carefully 

selects the best catamarans and helps 

you plan every detail of your dream trip 

for a unique experience crafted to suit 

your demands. 

Luxury Catamarans offers an extensive 

fleet of fine, luxury equipped bareboat, 

skippered and crewed charters for up 

to 12 guests from bespoke locations. 

You can set out on the Aegean from 

the Greek capital of Athens or from 

the Cyclades, starting in the famous 

Mykonos, the picturesque Santorini, 

or Paros, the imperative island to visit 

for adventure sports lovers. If instead, 

you are on the west coast of Greece, 

you will find plenty of charters to 

navigate from the beautiful islands of 

Corfu and Lefkada in the Ionian sea. 

Shorter cruises to escape the hustle of 

Santorini, Mykonos or Crete are also 

arranged. Choose from a day cruise, a 

sunset cruise or a full-day one, private 

or semi-private. 

In case you are looking to celebrate a 

special occasion, Luxury Catamarans will 

be delighted to assist you in designing 

the tiniest of details. A team of dedicated 

staff and crew will cater to your every need 

throughout the whole process. 

Swim in crystal waters, admire astonishing 

landscapes, enjoy beautiful sunsets with 

a glass of wine, savour lavish fresh meals 

or relax on board with five-star comfort 

facilities that 

will make you feel at home. Whatever your 

paradigm of a sailing holiday, rest assured, 

Luxury Catamarans will deliver standards 

and quality beyond your expectations to 

create an unforgettable memory. 

85 86

THE ONE TO WATCH | ARMENIA 

2018 saw the number of tourists visiting Armenia increase further, year on year, with 

figures believed to be in excess of 1,600,000. This was a 10.5% growth on 2017, 

with the large share of visitors arriving from Russia, Georgia and Iran, each of the regions 

actually having large Armenian communities. 

There are a number of reasons for the increase in visitors to Armenia, a key one being the 

aviation changes in 2013 which resulted in a substantial reduction in flight costs, and in 

line with the airline changes, there has been an increase in holiday accommodation with 

new hotels and other short term options being offered. 

The road infrastructure is continually being enhanced and developed, to make access to 

Armenia’s tourist attractions more accessible. There are many interesting attractions in 

Armenia, below are a few of Armenia’s highlights: 

1. Geghard, a medieval monastery dating back to the 4th century, listed as a UNESCO 

World Heritage site, located in the Kotayk province, and partially carved into the 

mountain and surrounded by cliffs. 

Visa restrictions has also ensured travel to Armenia has become less arduous with many 

countries having visas scrapped, including the EU, USA, Iran, Japan, UAE and several 

other countries, with the purpose to improve Armenia’s tourism industry. 

87 88

2. In the centre of Yerevan, the capital of 

Armenia is the central town square, 

Republic Square, although until 1990 

was known as Lenin Square. With a 

central roundabout, and surrounded by 

five major buildings, the square also has 

musical fountains and a pool. 

3. Zvartnots Cathedral, translated to 

“celestial angels cathedral” built in 

the years 643 – 652, this 7th century 

Cathedral is located on the outskirts of 

Vagharshapat, but now, unfortunately is 

in ruins. 

4. Enjoy one of the world’s longest cable 

car journeys and see breath-taking 

scenery and landscapes travelling 

through the Vorotan canyon where 

some of the oldest and historic 

monasteries can be found. 

Travelling around Armenia has improved 

in recent years, with the ever-developing 

road infrastructure, although not all 

roads are in the best condition. With the 

option to hire a car, use the local buses 

or share a taxi (marshrutkas), the travel 

costs are inexpensive and allow you to 

travel throughout Armenia and enjoy the 

wonderful landscape and historic locations. 

Armenia may not be many peoples first 

choice when considering a new destination 

to explore, but without a doubt, there 

is more than enough on offer to see why 

popularity in Armenia has continued to 

grow in recent years. 

89 90

Armenia 

HOSTELANDTOURS 

LLC 

Private Tour Company 

7/11 Khanjyan 7 Street, Yerevan, Armenia ♦ Tel +374 55 0980 39 ♦ hostelandtours.com 

HOSTELANDTOURS LLC believes that quality service begins with the smallest of details 

and thus, works towards making your vacation experience as memorable as possible. 

Offering a multitude of packages to choose from, the tour company acknowledges that it is 

essential to make memories. The company further recognizes that while they are new in the 

Armenian travel industry, they feel that their team of highly-trained professionals have done 

their best to ensure top-quality service and promoting Armenia tourism with a touch of Filipino 

hospitality. 

In order to ensure that the guests are having a quality time, the company provides them with 

high-quality transport, including cars, buses, and even mini-buses. Moreover, they guarantee 

to send the most experienced of drivers, who are both great on the road and enthusiastic 

about what they do, providing you with a safe trip. In order to ensure the traveller’s maximum 

convenience, the company also offers transfers to/from the airport on demand. 

If you have any special preferences, you 

can simply let them know. Following which, 

they make it a point to ensure that you 

get to enjoy every single minute of your 

time spent with them. The routes are also 

tailored based on the requirements of the 

guests. 

The company consists of a separate 

customer service department, which is 

always ready to answer any queries that you 

might have. They take the responsibility to 

assist you with your concerns at any time of 

the day. The customer service department 

is capable of communicating in the 

following languages: Tagalog, Armenian, 

English, Russian, French, and Arabic. 

If you choose to travel with this travel 

company then you open yourself to the 

possibility of traveling with experienced, 

multi-lingual drivers, and guides. Guests 

need not worry about anything else as the 

company is actively partnering with several 

reputable companies to meet the quality 

standards. 

They recognize that there are no two groups 

of travellers with the same preferences and 

thus, make sure that they offer a multitude 

of packages to their guests. Therefore, it 

doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or in 

a group, there is something for everyone 

in store. 

The company also offers private tours so 

that you can have an exclusive experience 

with your close ones. Whatever may be 

your requirement, HOSTELANDTOURS 

has something for everyone. 

91 92

GREECE 

Image by: Orlando Brooke 

93 94

CRETE, THE ISLAND THAT OFFERS IT ALL 

Crete has always been a 

beautiful destination for 

sun worshipers, food lovers, 

history, culture, relaxation, 

friendly locals, stunning 

landscapes, architecture and 

entertainment. 

With so many activities on offer, 

an excellent way to learn about 

what Crete has to offer is by 

taking a tour to visit exciting 

landmarks including the 

labyrinth situated at the palace 

of King Minos in Knossos 

and a visit to Heraklion’s 

Archaeological Museum is 

necessary to realise the richness 

of the Minoan heritage. 

Apart from Greek legends and 

stunning coastline, Crete lends 

history and wisdom to wellness 

and spa therapies using locally 

sourced organic ingredients 

and skills handed down through 

centuries. 

For culture lovers, visit upcoming trendy districts such 

as Lakkos in Heraklion, a recently renovated and revived 

area full of art and culture, join in the celebration of the 

area’s colourful history. 

Crete has always been a gastronomical delight, using 

fresh, seasonal ingredients and herbs and, of course, 

copious amounts of olive oil. Meat and cheeses from 

nearby farms are typical, as is seafood cooked using the 

simple method of a sprinkle of sea salt and extra virgin 

olive oil. Enjoy the rich Cretan traditions and culture 

evidenced through the food and live music. 

When dining at local tavernas, 

expect a warm welcome from 

the hosts and complimentary 

raki, the potent liquor created 

from the by-product of 

winemaking, often flavoured 

with honey and spices. 

Whatever your ideal holiday 

activity, you will discover it in 

Crete. In fact, if you are looking 

for an unforgettable holiday 

destination Crete will steal your 

heart. 

95 96

HISTORY & CULTURE 

Crete is a perfect destination for those wishing to discover history and culture. 

Witnessing everything that has survived from the Minoan period gives us an idea 

of the culture that flourished in Crete, much of which remains today. 

The main architectural settlements to visit are the palaces at Knossos, Phaistos, Malia 

and Zakros. The extraordinary labyrinth palace of Knossos, the legendary home of the 

Minotaur, emits a strong sense of Minoan mythology and a connection to the mythical 

history of the Greek heroes. Whilst known as palaces, the complex structures appeared to 

have been centres of local administration or religious gathering areas. 

Mount Juktas, located close 

to the wonderful ancient 

village of Archanes, famous 

for its outline resembling that 

of a profile of a man, said 

to be Zeus. The mountain 

has a significant religious 

importance in history as the 

location of the Anemospilia 

temple, and peak sanctuary 

for Minoans where sacred 

religious ceremonies and 

rituals were carried out. 

The ancient cemetery of Fourni was a necropolis in Minoan times, while not open to 

the public, the guard will allow partial viewings. It is particularly interesting due to the 

discoveries including the sarcophagus of a Minoan queen containing over 140 pieces 

of jewellery. These interesting treasures from the cemetery and other artefacts from 

the Minoan civilization including ceramics, beautiful paintings and frescoes, sculptures 

dedicated to the gods and kings of the time, may be viewed at the Archaeological 

Museum in Heraklion. 

The excavations and research of art and culture of Crete during the Minoan civilisation 

provides evidence of the beginnings of Crete society and how it has evolved and shaped 

the rich and interesting society today. 

97 98

Greece 

VENEZIANO 

BOUTIQUE 

HOTEL 

Design Hotel 

The hotel features four spacious, superiordeluxe 

rooms and two double-floored 

family apartments for accommodation 

purposes. The apartments are connected 

to the couryard which, besides oozing 

the luscious green nature, also packs a 

Cafe and a Wine bar. For some relaxing 

massages, you can head to the Spa in the 

basement. In addition to all of this, you get 

to experience endless in-room amenities 

which will make your stay even more 

comfortable. 

The ornately designed structures of the 

building make it pop out among the rest 

and make it very pleasing on the eye. The 

combination of Venetian and Ottoman 

elements is done in a manner that will 

charm you and captivate your attention. 

N Kazantzaki 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece ♦ Tel +30 281 034 4758 ♦ veneziano.gr 

A 

historic landmark architectural 

structure, right at the heart of 

Heraklion, Veneziano Boutique Hotel 

provides you the finest hospitality in 

the city. Known to be one of the most 

elegant buildings in the city, it proudly 

boasts of an interior courtyard that is 

filled with sunshine and a lot of green 

plants. 

The hotel can never simply be spoken 

about without mentioning its extremely 

royal architectural elements. It will 

remind you of the Ottoman era, from 

which this structure has been inspired. 

Endless nations and cultures that 

might have been passed from Crete 

are represented in the most vivid ways 

through the exteriors of Veneziano 

Boutique Hotel. 

The history of this building began during 

the period of the Venetian occupation 

around 1510. The Aga of Heraklion once 

used to reside in the main building of 

this hotel. He made use of the beautiful 

courtyard in the form of a stable. The 

first floor was the Aga’s space where his 

wives used to reside. 

The hotel served as the meeting place of 

the nobles back then but even today, you 

can enjoy the same luxury and grandeur 

in the hotel with its spacious rooms and 

splendid services. The hotel even books 

tours and travel packages for you on 

request. This is your chance to discover the 

history of Heraklion and live in it like never 

before. 

99 100

AMAZING BEACHES & BUSTLING CITIES 

Crete has some of the world’s most stunning beaches many of which 

fall under European law protection. East of the island is Vai Beach, 

famous due to its palm forest, clear waters and sandy beach. Further north 

is Seitan Limania Beach. It is a hike to reach this small beach due to the 

rocky location, but worth it due to the deep water, and the opportunity 

to dive in from the rocks. Agios Nikolaos has stunning beaches located 

in the heart of the city and therefore easily accessible, perfect for families 

since local tavernas are nearby and facilities for showering and toilets. Also 

situated near the town of Heraklion is Psaromoura Beach in Agia Pelagia, a 

beautiful beach with clear shallow waters perfect for snorkelling. 

From beaches to cities, 

experience an authentic taste 

of Crete with a visit to one 

of its most attractive towns. 

Chania offers a kaleidoscope 

of various features including 

ancient ruins, local culture, 

and delectable local food. 

We recommend you explore 

the narrow and winding 

streets and experience 

the artisan shops, visit the 

100-year-old market, eat 

mezedes and drink raki with 

the locals. 

Visit the romantic city of Rethymnon on the north coast, the third largest town in Crete. This vibrant and colourful 

city, conquered many times over the centuries by pirates, Venetians and Byzantines, with evidence of various cultural 

influences on display from grand Venetian mansions to catholic and orthodox churches, mosques, arches and cobbled 

streets. 

Journey south of the island to find the Red Beach, close to Matala. 

The unique feature of this beach is that nudism is acceptable and very 

common, as well as to swim out to explore the caves within the sea. The 

sand at Elafonissi Beach is a beautiful shade of coral, and the waters are 

clear and shallow. One can opt to stay close to civilisation and amenities 

or walk further along the beach to find seclusion and quiet. 

Sample traditional local snacks such 

as koulouri, sip the strong thick Greek 

coffee, sweet Cretan pastries, and try the 

local cheese and olives on offer at many 

of the tavernas 

The capital of Crete and its biggest city, 

the vibrant Heraklion is sure to impress 

with its fortified walls providing fantastic 

views of the town and birthplace of one 

of the world’s most famous authors Nikos 

Kazantzakis, son of Crete and author 

of Zorba. Stay a few nights to benefit 

everything Heraklion has to offer from 

shopping, restaurants and nightclubs 

to walks along the old fishing harbour 

and waterfront. Heraklion is vibrant and 

trendy, whilst remaining rich in culture 

and history. 

101 102

Greece 

SMARAGDI 



Eleytheriou Venizelou 41, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ♦ Tel +2831 042505 ♦ 

smaragdi-boutique-hotel.business.site 

Situated in the heart of Rethymno, Smaragdi Boutique Hotel is truly mesmerizing. Guests 

from all over the world are attracted to this hotel in Rethymno due to its beautiful Venetian- 

Turkish architecture. This charming little hotel has been built in a 300-year-old building which 

makes it a must-visit spot for history lovers. 

Each of the rooms feature unique, modern touches both on the interiors as well as the exteriors. 

The rooms come with basic entertainment amenities such as flat-screen, smart televisions with 

satellite channels. You can enjoy the sunny environment by their windows, which also give you 

views of the Ammos Sea. 

The hotel also makes 

arrangement for a Bridal Suite, 

if need be. You can even feast 

on a wide variety of food 

options here. Further, special 

items can be curated as per the 

requirements of the guests 

The location is a 5-minute 

walk away from the Venetian 

Harbour. The Municipal 

Garden, which is among the 

most-visited destinations in the 

whole of Greece, is a 5-minute 

walk away from the hotel. 

Other basic facilities include 

an option of in-room breakfast 

service, an outdoor dining 

arrangement and a special 

snack bar which is stacked with 

a fresh spread of bakery items 

among others. You even have 

access to a shared kitchen that 

you can use at any given time 

of the day. Leisure activities 

that you can avail at the hotel 

include fishing, horseback 

riding and hiking. Enjoy a 

relaxing time off from your daily 

mundane life and escape into 

the world of royal treatment 

with Smaragdi Boutique Hotel. 

You can enjoy a relaxing 

ride through the city as a 

bicycle rental service is readily 

available at the hotel. The hotel 

also provides you with facilities 

such as an airport transfer, a 

shuttle service as well as a car 

rental service. For those who 

enjoy reading by their room’s 

sunny patio, the hotel has a 

library which is well-stocked 

with classics! 

103 104

MODERN LUXURY 

Crete boasts many five star highly rated resorts on the beach, many of which are very 

close to the capital city of Heraklion and a short drive from the airport in locations 

including, Chania, Sissi and Rethymnon. 

All inclusive, modern and luxurious resorts are becoming a popular option to make the 

most of the stunning holiday destination. Depending on what vibe is required, that perfect 

resort that ticks all the boxes exists in Crete, whether it’s spa facilities, beachfront dining, 

direct access to stunning private beaches, spacious rooms with private terraces, sea views 

and private infinity pools. 

Image by: Sonnie Hiles 

105 106

Greece 

VEDERI ESTATE 

Luxury Villas 

Vederi, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ♦ Tel +30 697 723 6533 ♦ vederi.gr 

Crete, the largest island in Greece, 

is an attractive tourist spot for all 

the right reasons. If you want to explore 

the beauty of this island, you must 

choose Vederi Estate as your place of 

stay. 

Set amidst a picturesque olive grove 

and lush green hills enveloped by 

cypresses and oaks, Vederi Estate is 

a complex of four luxury villas. The 

split-level villas feature traditional 

Cretan architecture. Three of the villas, 

Alkioni, Kalypso and Kyveli have three 

bedrooms and two bathrooms each. 

One of these washrooms has a hydromassage 

shower too! All the villas 

come with their own private pool, 

garden, balcony, and parking space. 

The balconies offer mesmerizing views 

of the surrounding natural environment. 

A modern kitchen equipped with 

toaster, microwave, oven, coffee 

maker and other paraphernalia is also 

available in each villa so that you can 

cook your own meals if you wish to. A 

BBQ can also be arranged on request 

for al fresco meals. 

What is also worth 

mentioning is the 

amicability of the host, 

George, and his team. 

They provide a fantastic 

welcome pack to all 

guests. It is of great help, 

especially when you arrive 

after a long journey. The 

host and the staff do 

everything to ensure that 

you have a comfortable 

stay. 

The biggest villa, named 

Melpomeni, is the most 

luxurious one. This lavish 

villa, spread across 

three levels, features 

five ensuite Jacuzzi 

bedrooms. It also has 

a big swimming pool 

along with a children’s 

pool. State of the art 

facilities such as a private 

gym, movie theatre, and 

meditation space are 

also available for your 

indulgence. 

Vederi Estate, a multiple awardwinning 

property, is a fine example 

of the signature hospitality, tradition, 

and heritage of rural Crete. Its scenic 

location gives you an excellent 

opportunity to experience the thrill of 

living amidst nature. Imagine waking 

up to the charming sound of cicadas 

and sheep bells, and strolling around 

beautiful orchards! Staying here is 

the best way to get a glimpse of the 

Cretan way of life. 

107 108

SANTORINI | THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF THE GREEK ISLES 

There are many reasons why the small 

Greek island of Santorini is so popular 

as a holiday destination, with its stunning 

turquoise waters and picturesque villages, 

great activities including wine-tasting, trying 

authentic Greek cuisine regular boat excursions 

due to its ideal location for island hopping. 

Santorini has less “resort” atmosphere 

therefore you will not see many Brits behaving 

badly here. Perhaps the luxury and high cost 

attracts a more serious and discerning type 

of traveller or a destination for small families 

who wish to take advantage of the stunning 

landscape and spectacular water activities 

such as snorkelling and sailing. 

The island certainly has some of the most 

exceptionally luxurious accommodation and 

hence it is a draw for celebrities. Santorini has 

been a fashionable Greek island for celebrities 

since the 1960s. 

Fira is the capital of Santorini and has a 

lively vibe and great shopping, restaurants 

and night clubs. For relaxing, Firostefani is 

secluded but not too remote. Oia is the most 

well-known town, it has a traditional relaxed 

and very romantic setting except for late 

afternoon when the sun starts to set. The 

sunsets in Oia are world famous and a draw 

for nearly everyone on the island. Crowds 

congregate everywhere vying for the best 

spot, although that would be the castle of 

Agios Nikolaos. However, any rooftop will 

suffice in order to gaze upon, appreciate and 

photograph this spectacular vision of the sun 

setting during that magical hour when the 

whitewashed Oia village becomes bathed 

in a golden glow. There is even applause at 

the final second when the event comes to an 

emotional ending! 

109 110

Santorini is an active volcanic island, 

and the most popular (and expensive) 

accommodation has the views of the 

legendary “Caldera”, the lagoon created 

thousands of years previously when the 

center of the island collapsed into the sea. 

The lagoon is the most photographed and 

magnetic draw for visitors to Greece. 

The beaches around the island are 

incredibly diverse, and have either red or 

white sand while one beach, Parissa, is well 

known for its black sand. Another beach 

with a difference is Black Rock Beach, with 

its tiny black pebbles. Due to its volcanic 

history the sand on the beaches of Santorini 

tends to be course and it is advisable to 

wear beach shoes when walking. 

Many people hire a car or moped to take 

tours around the island and a particularly 

unique type of tour has to be one of the 

boat tours, that takes visitors around 

the island, lunch on the boat and an 

opportunity to swim in one of the hot water 

spots created by the volcano. 

Even during the winter months, although too cold to swim the Island can be appreciated 

for its stunning natural beauty, architectural interests and that traditional Greek hospitality 

and cuisine. For wine connoisseurs, Santorini has some of Greece’s top wine producers, 

for example, Argyros wines have been growing grapes since the 1800s and, with unique 

pruning methods, the same wines are produced from this volcanic earth that were 

originally produced solely for the local Catholic sacramental wine. 

The area is expensive, especially as 

demand for the exclusive views of 

the Caldera and the celebrity draw, 

however, cheaper options exist and 

are equally luxurious, close to the 

main beaches and shopping. Areas 

such as Perissa, Kamari and Perivolos. 

Visiting from May to October is the 

busiest season, with all the attractions 

open and a great vibe all over the 

island. August is the busiest month 

with the island at over capacity. 

111 112

Greece 

VILLA ARLENE 

BOUTIQUE 

Elegant Hotel 

Messaria, Thira 847 00, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2286 031263 ♦ arlene-villa-santorini.com 

A delicious traditional breakfast is served 

every morning which is sure to get your 

tastebuds excited. 

The best part about this mesmerizing place 

is its outdoor swimming pool and sun 

terrace in the vicinity of Santo Winery. The 

pool itself is surrounded by several colorful 

flowers, creating an absolutely stunning 

sight. The area around the pool is dotted 

with sun beds and umbrellas. 

You can also enjoy a stroll around the pretty 

garden. Every corner of Villa Arlene reeks 

of a hypnotizing charm. The warm and 

hospitable hosts do everything in their 

capacity to ensure a comfortable stay for 

everyone. 

Are you looking to spend some quiet time in a countryside environment? Do the exquisite 

islands of Santorini beckon you? How about witnessing the vast blue expanse of the 

Aegean Sea with your own eyes? If you’ve answered yes to these questions, then Villa Arlene 

Boutique in Greece is where you should be headed to. 

Located at the center of Santorini, in a small village called Messaria, Villa Arlene is a family run 

hotel. This traditional Cycladic-style property consists of 19 guestrooms which are well furnished 

to guarantee a comfortable stay. Signature whitewashed walls further enhance their beauty. 

Each room opens to its own private patio where you can enjoy surreal views of the sea and the 

swimming pool. Other facilities include a writing desk, mini-fridge, a rain shower and a bathtub. 

If you are planning the ultimate 

Mediterranean holiday, Villa Arlene 

Boutique has to be a part of it. Comfortable 

rooms, serene pool, and a picture-perfect 

garden give you the chance to relax and 

unwind. This place is best suited for 

couples and families looking to get away 

from the cacophony of daily life. 

113 114

SANTORINI FIVE TOP TIPS 

Traditions are everything to Greek people, and Santorini is no exception, the island 

is full of life, laughter, and magical moments. It is an incredibly popular destination. 

2. Explore. 

The ancient Thera Ruins are located 360 metres above sea level, and the hike is quite 

arduous but incredibly worth the hard work as the ruins are vast and provide a unique 

insight into how Santorini might once have looked thousands of years ago. 

Break away from the bustling tourist vibe of Oia and visit the quieter side of Santorini. 

The charming secluded village of Pyrgos is where traditional Greek life still exists 

along with whitewashed village houses, impressive architecture and churches from the 

Byzantine era. Visit the art galleries and artisan shops. Pyrgos has some of the most 

stunning views on the island, and the climb to the castle fortress is definitely worth it to 

take in the panoramic sea views. 

1. Beaches and Water. 

Take a boat tour to visit the volcanic hot spring, or visit one of the lesser-known beaches 

such as Vlychada Beach, with its black sand and impressive cliff formations. 

115 116

3. Eat and drink. 

Eat at cave style tavernas offering delicious 

Greek dishes including fava, a bowl of Santorini 

beans blended with herbs to make a perfect 

appetiser, or tomato keftedes, fried tomato 

meatballs. Local staples such as vibrant Greek 

salads with feta and locally grown tomatoes, 

moussaka, roasted lamb, and kofta are readily 

available. Wash down with the famous local 

wines, unique in flavour due to the ancient 

vines that are grown in the volcanic soil. Close 

to Pyrgos are many of the vineyards such as 

Hatzidakis Haridimos, where wine tasting is 

essential to appreciate the unique flavours of 

the wines grown in this region. 

5. When to visit. 

July and August are two extremely overpopulated months with prices at their highest. 

During these months it is almost impossible to appreciate the island’s beauty, and 

Greek hospitality will be scarce. It is recommended instead to visit during April and May 

and maybe early June, late September early October. These are the months when there 

are marginally fewer visitors to the island; therefore, quieter beaches and more bargains 

to be had. Winter is a recommended season to visit, though many of the activities are 

closed, the beauty of the island is easy to appreciate. 

4. Travel. 

The village of Thera has the advantage of 

the island’s largest bus station and is a great 

way to explore the island. If you are feeling 

adventurous, quad bikes are reasonably cheap 

to hire by the day and provide an advantageous 

method to traverse the island and reach those 

steep hard to reach areas. 

If you visit Santorini during early October 2019, 

you will witness professional and amateur athletes 

from all over the world competing for the fifth year 

of the “Santorini Experience” a sporting event of 

running and swimming. Three routes overlook the 

Caldera and pass by the whitewashed villages of 

Oia, Firostefani and Imerovigli. Races include the 5 

km, 10 km and 15 km depending upon experience 

and level of endurance, all designed by Greek 

marathon expert and record holder Nikos Polias. 

The swimming element of the event is a 2.4 km race 

from the Caldera to the historic port of Fira in open 

water and again is under the watchful eye of race 

organiser Nikos Gemelos the Olympic and World 

Champion marathon swimmer. 

117 118

Greece 

AMBITION SUITES 

Luxury Suites 

Near Saint George, Oía 847 02, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2286 072220 ♦ ambitionsuites.com 

The greatest feature about these line of 

suites is the intimate privacy that they 

offer. Staff at Ambition Suites are especially 

careful about the privacy that their guests 

desire. Each of the suites feature some 

fantastic artistic architecture. Giving you 

the inherent sense of Oia, each suite packs 

cave-styled exteriors. Meanwhile, the 

interiors are planned to emit peace with 

their mosaic tiles and posh, cushioned 

seating areas. Let’s not forget the access 

you will get to your private, furnished 

terrace with an on-request barbeque 

facility. 

Located in the coastal town of Oia, 

Ambition Suites offers the best 

starting point for you to explore the 

Cyclades island of Santorini. The most 

beautiful highlight of this property are 

its luxurious suites. Guests find their stay 

at this quietly tucked-away hotel as the 

most comfortable one. Luxurious facilities 

paired with their hotel staff’s splendid 

services ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating 

stay for you. 

All the suites are located on the edge of 

the cliff from where you can get some 

awe-inspiring views of the vast Caldera, 

filled with sparkling blue water against the 

everlasting horizon of Oia. You can enjoy 

Oia’s beautiful sunsets from the comfort 

of your own private deck! It’s a once in a 

lifetime experience that every visitor must 

get! 

Heighten your senses with the five-star 

affair such as private access to an outdoor 

hot tub. Imagine having your favourite 

wine alongside your loved one in the hot 

tub, while you watch the spectacular sun 

of Oia set in its full glory. Staff at Ambition 

Suites ensure that the hot tub is wellmaintained 

too. 

Each guest is provided with their very own 

host, who will ensure that no trouble comes 

their way. The host is extremely empathetic 

to the guests’ special needs and is readily 

available at any given time of the day. 

Ambition Suites ensures a complete 

luxurious stay during your visit to Oia. 

119 120

Greece 

PERIVOLAS 

LIFESTYLE 

HOUSES 

Traditional Resort 

Perivolas, Oia 847 02, Santorini, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2286 071308 ♦ perivolas.gr 

If all of that might not seem 

enough, then each of the cave 

houses have a personal touch 

and also a private terrace that 

give a sea view that it ever so 

scintillating. 

A complete disconnect from 

what the world has in store, 

this place is devoid of TVs and 

DVDs for it is supposed to be a 

place where you can recharge, 

and live like you would have in 

the olden times. 

Talk about travelling to 

Greece and you wouldn’t 

want to miss out on all that this 

traditional resort, the Perivolas 

Lifestyle Houses, has to offer. 

Play hide and seek with the 

Aegean at this cliff top resort with 

the infinite view of the horizon 

that is built for an escape from 

the hustle and bustle of daily life. 

You can linger around all day in 

their infinity pool, watching one 

of the most beautiful sunsets as 

the blue sky turns into a spectrum 

of colours. 

It is hard to miss the craftsmanship 

that has gone into building the 

resort. What looks like a perfect 

blend of local materials and 

Cycladic style, it’s equally organic 

in form and is as comfortable as 

it gets. Showcasing old-school 

living, the beds have alcoves, 

rooms have handpicked flowers, 

and the whitewashed walls have 

picture-perfect archways. 

The dining offers are as varied as they 

can be and while mornings feature a 

scrumptious buffet, the nights could offer 

you a little romantic getway. Services you 

can enjoy include the swimming pool, and 

a fitness gym. For a bibliophile, this could 

be one of the best resorts out there for it 

also offers a small but cosy library. 

You can take to some trekking or go for a 

walk in the numerous vineyards around. 

You could even head to the lake and have a 

peaceful evening next to the serene waters 

of the lake. The Perivolas Lifestyle Houses 

will let you unwind, and at the same time 

offer luxury in its purest of forms. 

121 122

Mykonos | Greece 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Ferry 

One of the most famous islands in the 

world, Mykonos is a travellers dream. 

Get Around 

• Bus 

• Taxi 

• Ferry 

• Bicycle 

• Self-Drive 

Attractions & Sights 

• Little Venice 

• Folklore Museum 

• Petros the Pelican 

Things to do 

• Visit Delos 

• Shop at the Boutiques 

• Try the Gyros 

Find out more – https:// 

mykonos.gr/en/ 

123 124

Greece 

LA MAISON 

BLANCHE MYKONOS 

Unique Villa 

Agios Stefanos, Mikonos 846 00, Greece ♦ Tel +30 694 538 5404 ♦ lmbmykonos.com 

Greece has enthralled 

travellers from time 

immemorial. The idyllic 

climate, a rich historical legacy 

and the unique cuisine makes 

Greece an ideal destination 

for travellers of all age groups 

seeking relaxing and enriching 

vacations. And whilst here, 

La Maison Blanche Mykonos 

offers the best possible 

opportunities to enjoy a great 

holiday. 

Perched on the rocks, these 

villas are not only protected 

from any kind of weather, but 

also have the advantage of 

being as private and secluded 

as you can imagine a private 

vacation spot to be. Having 

said that, the architecture in 

no way hampers the gorgeous 

views of Mykonos Town (which 

is only a 5-minute drive from 

the villas), the breathtaking 

sunrise and sunset on the 

Aegean Sea as well as the 

Cyclades Islands nearby. 

You can either take in the sea from the 

large windows and private terraces or 

simply make the 700 meter dash to the 

Agios Stefanos sandy beach. The interior 

design and layout of the villas and suites 

is in perfect harmony with the prevailing 

minimal architecture of Mykonos – featuring 

white washed walls, built-in large beds and 

en-suite bathrooms. 

Crisp whites, warm beige, tranquil 

turquoise and royal azure and blue hues 

seem to bring the sea and the calm inside 

the rooms. Each Villa can accommodate up 

to six guests and consists of two bedrooms, 

two bathrooms, a spacious living room 

and a fully equipped modern kitchen. 

Each Junior Suite can accommodate up 

to 2 guests and consists of one bedroom 

and one bathroom. The Executive Deluxe 

Suite has its own private terraces and 

can accommodate four guests. This suite 

comprises a bedroom with a queen size, 

one bathroom and an open plan kitchen 

and living room, featuring a quality, double 

sofa bed. 

Speaking of food, the kitchen is fully 

stocked with the basic items to get you 

started or to satiate midnight food or midnoon 

coffee cravings. The grill, refrigerator, 

cooker, toaster and kettle etc. allow you to 

have a mini party within your room at your 

convenience and whim. 

Whether you wish to discover Mykonos or 

want to just have a secluded vacation, La 

Maison Blanche Mykonos is the place you 

should choose for the ultimate vacation 

experience in South Aegean. 

125 126

KARPATHOS | HIDDEN GEM 

The second largest of the Dodecanese and a very special island. This narrow strip 

of beauty is only 49km long with a width of 3.3km in places, giving it a low key 

vibe with a rugged backdrop of pine forests and jagged peaks. Karpathos is a sanctuary 

for those seeking peace and quiet, with a quaint village atmosphere and draw dropping 

views across the Aegean See. 

A climb to the ancient village of 

Olympos, only recently accessible 

by car, situated 7 kilometres high 

up in the mountains to experience 

literally a living museum where 

time has stood still for over 100 

years. The women still wear the 

traditional clothing and speak in the 

old dialect, where the legendary 

Greek hospitality still exists, food 

and crafts are produced using 

time honoured methods and, most 

importantly, the area is unspoilt by 

tourism. 

The beaches are certainly hidden gems, 

some are only accessible by boat, 

ensuring pristine sand and crystalline 

waters perfect for snorkelling and also 

surfing is a very popular sport here. 

Diafani is the town located on the north 

of the island and boasts the second 

biggest port. The town lacks that tourist 

resort atmosphere often found on the 

Greek islands, but there are a number of 

café bars to indulge in a thick Greek cup 

of coffee and mix with the friendly locals 

and take part in the lively conversation 

known as kouvenda whilst listening to 

live Greek music. 

Local cuisine includes homemade 

makarounes, a plate of delicious pasta 

with caramelised onions, and melitzanes 

paoutsakia, stuffed aubergine with 

garlic and freshly made tomato sauce. 

Fresh bread made in the time honoured 

method using the local windmills to 

grind the barley. 

127 128

Greece 

ALTHEA 



Amoopi Karpathos Island, Dodekanisos Greece ♦ Tel +30 22450 81152 ♦ 

email: info@altheakarpathos.com ♦ altheakarpathos.gr 

Althea Boutique Hotel 

can be found amidst 

the beautiful bay of Amoopi 

in Karpathos. As soon as 

you enter the hotel, you are 

greeted with a pleasant and 

spacious reception area. 

You can sit back and watch the 

endless blue Karpathian Sea 

while sitting by their enormous 

room decks. Althea Boutique 

Hotel offers furnished 

apartments for rent along 

with hotel accomodations as 

well. A large courtyard is also 

attached to the hotel space, 

which overlooks the deep blue 

sea of Karpathos. You can get 

your breakfast served by the 

courtyard while catching up on 

old memories with your loved 

ones. The hotel specialises in 

rich, homemade breakfast with 

geniune Karpathian cuisine. 

Althea Boutique Hotel is situated in a prime 

location and is only a five-minute drive away 

from the hearty town of Karpathos. There 

are several other tiny villages of Karpathos 

that are easily reachable too. The hotel is 

easy to reach as it is situated just seven 

kilometres away from the International 

Airport of Karpathos. 

The reception area further extends into 

a sophisticated bar where you can find 

a variety of wines and liquors. You can 

relax and enjoy the delicious drinks under 

the sparkling stars of the dark skies. Not 

only are the guests provided with highend 

toiletries but they can also make use 

of cosmetics that come at no additional 

charge. If you’re in an urgent requirement 

of a beauty parlour service then the hotel 

makes that available too. Services such 

as hair-dressing, massage, manicure, 

pedicure and so on, can be made available 

on request. For guests traveling with 

kids, there’s a kids-friendly playground 

at disposal to ensure that they are kept 

entertained too. 

There are a range of adventurous activities 

that you can indulge in as well. The list 

includes hiking, mountain biking, scuba 

diving, and windsurfing to name a few. If 

you are the athletic type, then the hotel 

can make arrangements for you to rent 

bikes through safe routes and experience 

Karpathos in a totally different way. 

129 130

TOP THREE THINGS TO DO IN ZAKYNTHOS 

Zakynthos or Zante as it is also known is probably one of Greece’s most popular and 

most visited islands. It is an island of many facets with a great deal to explore and 

an abundance of activities on offer from the moment the ferry docks in Agios Nikolaos in 

the North of the island. Prepare firstly to be blown away by the beauty particularly in the 

North and the West far away from the tourist bars and shops. 

Explore, Swim and Discover 

For a full Zakynthos experience, it is recommended to take a tour and discover the 

best bits about the island, including the famous shipwreck situated on Navagio Beach, 

boasting the clearest waters in the world, and the Blue Caves set amongst breathtaking 

white cliffs that reflect in the vivid blue ocean. The crystalline waters make this location 

perfect for snorkelling, and there are a number of excellent scuba diving schools offering 

excursions for the experienced and beginners. A good guided tour will provide some 

interesting information about the area including the history, traditions and culture. 

Visit the Keri cliffs and lighthouse 300 meters above sea level to witness the most 

stunning sunset. The peaceful town of Keri is often referred to as “Turtle Island” due to 

its outline resembling the shape of a turtle and it is the location for the National Marine 

Park dedicated to protecting the Mediterranean ecosystem. Learn about the efforts to 

defend the wildlife in the area, in particular, the Caretta-Caretta, or loggerhead turtles, 

and the Monachus-Monachus, the Mediterranean seals. 

131 132

Greece 

AURORA 

LUXURY 

RETREAT 

Luxury Villas 

Volimes, 29091, Zakynthos, Greece ♦ Tel +30 6978770759 ♦ aurora-villa.com 

Keeping all the basic amenities and its 

location aside, the villa is especially known 

for its stylish as well as sustainable design. 

There’s even a special pool area which is 

spacious and absolutely breathtaking as it 

overlooks the giant Ionian sea. 

The weather remains pleasant all 

throughout as this region usually 

experiences mild winters and warm 

summers coupled with gentle sea breezes. 

Public facilities, including transportation, 

tour guides, restaurants and markets are 

located at a walking distance from the villa. 

The extraordinary Aurora Villa can be found nested on the east sloping mountain 

of Volimes. The property is built in such a manner that each of the rooms receive an 

overarching view of the Northern seas of Volimes and the traditional port of Agios Nikolaos. 

Every room at the villa is equipped with smart technology amenities such as tablet docking 

stations, printing facilities, and a satellite TV. You can enjoy the mild winter climate of Zakynthos 

by relaxing in your exclusive, in-room jacuzzi too. You can even watch the glimmering sunset, 

while sitting in your private veranda that overlooks the sea. The rooms feature luxury-lined 

bathrooms that include signature amenities such as a bathrobe, slippers, swimming pool 

towels, hair dryers and an in-house laundry as well as a dryer. 

The visitor enjoys luxury and privacy while 

still within walking distance from all the 

public facilities. 

A large number of small beaches, feeling 

like private, are within close proximity to the 

property so that every day will be different 

from the previous. Even for those looking for 

a short getaway, the port of Agios Nikolaos 

is ideal for both yacht owners and visitors of 

the world-famous Shipwreck, Blue Caves or 

the neighbor island of Cephalonia. 

Visit Villa Aurora and get ready to 

experience everything you have dreamt of. 

133 134

Athens | Greece 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Ferry 

• Bus 

• Train 

• Drive in 

The ancient vibrant capital 

of modern Greece. 

Get Around 

• Metro 

• Bus 

• Local Taxi 

• Bicycle 


• The Acropolis 

• Ancient Agora 

• Parnitha National Park 

Things to do 

• Visit the beach 

• Enjoy Street Food 

• Shop at the Monastiraki 

Flea Market 

Find out more – http:// 

www.thisisathens.org/ 

Image by: Arthur Yeti 

135 136

Greece 

18 MICON STR. 


Recreated into a boutique hotel from a historic storehouse, 18 Micon Str. is not just a hotel 

but your gateway into the history of Athens. Moreover, the hotel is a unique destination 

not for its facilities, but also for the location. It is situated right outside Esopou, where 

there is a whole different world that you’d want to explore. 

Esopou 14, Athina 105 54, Greece ♦ Tel +30 21 0323 5307 ♦ 18miconstr.com 

Talk about Greece 

and all we can 

think about is Athens. 

Your accommodation 

plays an important role 

when you’re traveling, 

and 18 Micon Str. is the 

place that will satiate this 

need of yours to feel at 

home while in a different 

country. Built with the 3 

very basic elements of 

construction, namely, 

cement, wood and brick, 

the place ensures that it 

perfectly resonates with 

you. 

18 Micon Str. is a perfect 

mix of modern and chic. 

With spacious rooms, 

king size beds and good 

food, the hotel is a total 

winner. All the amenities 

are specially curated to 

give you a completely 

boutique experience. 

While 18 Micon Str. ensures 

that it embodies its historic 

past in its construction, it 

has also ensured that luxury 

is served just right. An 

experience that is nothing 

short of a memorable quality 

stay, you will find a story 

behind everything that’s 

been done in here. 

After your stay at this 

boutique hotel, you will 

know a little bit more about 

Athens’ rich past, their 

hospitality, and of course, 

how perfectly the city is a 

balance of extra-ordinary 

coupled with the ordinary. 

While boutique hotels in many parts of the world would give 

you luxury, 18 Micon Street. gives you a lot more than that. 

At the end of your vacation, your take away from this hotel 

will be a feeling of content and delight. 

137 138

Greece 

AEGEON HOTEL 

Hotel 

Skala Kalloni, Skala Kallonis, 81107, Greece ♦ Tel +30 22530 22398 ♦ 

Email: info@aegeon-lesvos.gr ♦ aegeon-lesvos.gr 

Furthermore, it is vital to highlight that Aegeon Hotel is surrounded by stunning landscapes 

such as the endless Gulf of Skala Kalloni, which is well known for a large number of rare 

migrating birds. So if you’re a bird and nature enthusiast, you have a lot to look forward to 

when you’re visiting our hotel. Every single room comes with huge windows to make sure 

that you can get the stunning views of the natural landscape all around. 

If it’s a relaxing vacation 

you’re looking for, then 

Aegeon Hotel is the perfect 

place for you. 

Aegeon Hotel offers, among 

others, a pristine, and clean 

accommodation. This, in 

combination with the friendly 

and hospitable staff makes the 

residence an unforgettable 

experience. We promise you 

that your visit to Greece will be 

nothing short of extraordinary 

when you stay with us. 

Apart from our unique staff, 

our hotel also provides you 

utmost peace and tranquility. 

The atmosphere of the hotel 

too is extremely family friendly 

so you can have an amazing 

vacation with your entire family. 

The peace and calm gives you 

a chance to relax and recharge 

your batteries and feel the 

good vibes on the island of 

Sappho. 

139 140

Greece 

PANORAMA 

SUITES & SPA 

Resort 

Stomio, Stómion, Greece ♦ Tel +30 2495 091345 ♦ panoramastomio.gr 

Panorama Suites and Spa, a lovely and small Greek boutique hotel, situated on the East 

Coast of Central Greece, is an award winning accommodation known for offering comfort 

and luxury at the same time. Gracefully nestled away at the foot of Kissavos Mountain, merely 

50-meters from the turquoise beach of Stomio, the hotel faces the endless blue of the Aegean 

Sea. 

The grand Halkidiki and Olympus seas also surround the magnificent structure that consists 

of exactly seven different types of suites, catering to the needs of guests. The luxurious suites 

come with private, heated mini-pools and beautiful gardens with exclusive access. Guests get 

the golden opportunity to enjoy the indoor jacuzzi, private saunas, and the incredible views of 

Greek landscapes from their glass windows. 

This place is ideal for anyone looking for a glamorous retreat to rejuvenate and enjoy 

the luxury, quality and well-being in the midst of nature. What’s more? Concierge 

service is made available to make your holidays under the Greek sun a carefree, lush 

and unforgettable experience. At the resort’s restaurant, ‘Avli,’ which is one of the most 

beautiful restaurants in Greece, you will discover the unique flavor of creative Greek 

cuisine accompanied by the Aegean vastness. 

The lush landscape and the wide sandy 

beach that come along with the tranquil 

sound of waves are sure to create the 

ideal setting for true recreation for guests. 

Among other factors, the hotel is primarily 

known for its spa services. Devoted entirely 

to relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel 

provides massage and facial treatments 

as well as nail spa in the privacy of your 

own suite, using only the highest quality 

products and ingredients. 

Health refreshments like selected teas and 

fresh fruit are available at all times during 

your private spa treatment. Guests are free 

to choose from the following given spa 

treatments such as; Holistic massage, back 

massage, reflexology, classic massage and 

deep tissue massage to name a few. 

In short, the hotel makes your holiday a 

memorable experience with a multitude 

of options, from a culinary journey in the 

superb Greek cuisine to different kinds 

of sports activities, beaches, private spa 

and advice for excursions to discover the 

incredible land of Greece. 

141 142

Greece 

RIVERLAND 

OUTDOOR 

ADVENTURES 

The Award For Excellence 

In Service 

Toxotes Xanthi, Xanthi, Thrace, Greece, 67100 ♦ Tel +30 25410-62488 ♦ riverland.gr 

Riverland Outdoor Activities is the 

result of years of engaging in 

alternative forms of tourism, combined 

with upgrading quality. They guarantee 

the best organization of outdoor activities 

that guests would truly enjoy. With the tour 

company, guests can join in the tours and 

add value to the visits that they might plan 

to do in their area. “Our goal is to meet 

the natural wealth of our country through 

attractive activities, corresponding to 

the characteristics of each age and, of 

course, ensuring maximum security,” 

reads their official website. The company 

hires executives that have a high level of 

knowledge in the field of eco-tourism. 

Further, the firm has special equipment, 

which is suitable for ensuring the comfort 

and safety required for every outdoor 

activity. 

One of Riverland’s objectives is to develop 

and operate adventure centers in specially 

selected locations in the region of East 

Macedonia and Thrace to combine 

possibilities of a wide variety of activities, 

natural beauty, and ideal conditions for 

the development of multiple services of 

outdoor activities. 

The following are the special destinations 

at which, outdoor activities are usually 

organized by the company: 

i) Nestos Adventure Park 

Operation of a central base for outdoor 

activities in the village of Toxotes beside 

the gorge of Nestos river. The purpose is 

to offer a big variety of outdoor activities 

such as zip line, archery, rappelling etc. for 

everyone with a focus on the provision of 

integrated services. 

ii) Nestos Kayak Club 

An adventure center at the valley Nestos 

River, but also equally close to the 

wonderful forests of Rodopi Mountain 

Range. Stavropolis village is the most 

appropriate place to begin your mountain 

excursions with options such as Kayaking, 

Rafting, Canyoning, Mountain Bike, Offroad 

4x4, etc. 

iii) Thassos Kayak Club 

On the Platana beach, next to the Skala 

Marion village, Riverland created the best 

base for your escapes in Thassos island, 

which certainly are not few. Sea kayaking, 

SUP, 4X4 tours but also paths that drive 

closer to the magic of nature, all at your 

disposal. 

Whatever it is that you wish to do, an 

adventure always awaits when you’re 

traveling with Riverland Outdoor Activities. 

143 144

Greece 

ROYAL HOTEL 

Stylish Hotel 

Want more from your room? Worry not, new Suites with private pool are available for 

you. With spaces up to 40m2, 1-bedroom and 1 living room, Families or couples can 

enjoy their holidays in a comfortable and modern-design (as always) environment. And 

the private pool is a welcome addition to your experience! 

Other recreational facilities include sports activities such as mini golf, table tennis, and 

chess. Bookworms will be drawn to the communal library. Children can spend a joyful 

time at the outdoor playground. The plethora of entertainment options at Royal Hotel will 

leave you spoilt for choice. 

Polychrono, Polykhrono, 63085, Greece ♦ Tel +30 23740 51030 ♦ royalhalkidiki.gr 

Looking for a holiday that is a perfect combination of sun, sea, food and ultimate relaxation 

amidst nature? Without further ado, you must head to Halkidiki. Also known as Chalkidiki 

or Khalkidiki, it is a group of three small peninsulas. Out of the three, Kassandra is a favorite 

amongst travelers because of its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts. If you are tempted to 

unwind in Kassandra, book your stay at Royal Hotel. 

Situated in the idyllic village of Polichrono, Royal Hotel is just 300 meters away from the 

picturesque sea beach. Encapsulated by lush green hills, the 4-star property is perfect for those 

who prefer the silence and isolation of nature. 

Accommodation units in Royal Hotel are broadly categorized into studios and suites. While the 

studios can easily accommodate two to three people, the suites have a maximum capacity of 

four. All units have a private furnished balcony overlooking the picture-perfect garden or pool 

area. 

The Blue-Flag awarded sea of Polichrono is just a 

short walk away from the Royal Hotel. Take a dive 

into the cool blue waters of the Mediterranean 

Sea. In the evening, head straight to one of the 

many bars lining the sea beach. 

In case you want to do some shopping, the main 

market is just 200 meters away. The market is 

also home to many tavernas and restaurants that 

serve traditional street food and other dishes. 

The highlight of your stay at Royal 

Hotel will be dining at Symposium, 

the brand new in-house restaurant. 

Apart from serving traditional 

Mediterranean cuisine, they also 

make some drool-worthy local 

dishes featuring signature aromas of 

Chalkidiki. 

145 146

ICELAND 

Image by: Balazs Busznyak 

147 148

ICELAND 

Things to Do 

Known for 

its dramatic 

landscapes and 

amazing natural 

beauty, Iceland 

maybe the most 

sparsely populated 

country in Europe 

but it has an abundance 

of wonders 

– both natural and 

man-made. 

Whether you are a fan of waterfalls or beaches, this 

country has it all. The stunning vistas and dramatic 

landscape has brought more and more avid travelers from 

around the world to this amazing destination. There is 

nothing that this much sought after European spot cannot 

offer, whether you are a nature lover or not, prepare to be 

blown away by Iceland. 

The reason for this is simple – it has something to 

offer to every tourist. If you love adventures, there are 

numerous active volcanoes across the country including 

the Eyjafjallajökull and hundreds of trekking trails with 

vast hinterlands waiting to be explored. Moreover, you 

can find geysers, black sand beaches and can even see 

the continental plates pulling away from each other. What 

makes this country even more unique is that it has had 

no standing army since 1869. With such a wide range 

of natural marvels, Iceland definitely has to be on your 

bucket list. 

Whale Watching 

The location of this island makes it possible to spot whales in the cold waters of the coast 

during the summer months. With over 20 species of whales to be spotted, nature lovers 

have a great chance to be up close and personal with these mammoth creatures in their 

natural habitat. You can easily take a whale watching tour from Reykjavik and head out 

into the deep blue with other enthusiasts. The best time to spot whales is between April 

and September. 

149 150

Birdwatching 

Iceland is truly a paradise for bird watchers. 

Not only is it home to the largest population 

of Atlantic Puffins on earth but there are 

many other rare bird species that you can find 

here including the Razorbill and Fulmar. The 

birds can be spotted in abundance across 

the country in special bird watching day 

trips. Moreover, you could head over to the 

Westman Islands where it is estimated that 

more than 4 million puffins nest. 

Hiking 

Iceland truly is an amazing destination 

for all those who love to hike. Vast 

open lands with rugged terrain make 

for some great hikes and spectacular 

natural scenery along with it only 

makes the whole deal better for 

thrillseekers. One of the most popular 

trails is the Laugavegur trail that is 

not just scenic but also has numerous 

hot springs, glaciers and mountains 

around to leave you in awe of the 

beauty of nature. 

Ice Climbing 

With 4500 square miles of glaciers, Iceland is a great place for those looking to hike on 

ice or have some adrenaline rush through the veins by climbing on it. The climate makes 

it possible to climb glaciers all round the year and this should be reason enough for the 

adventurer in you to head out to places like Snæfellsjökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers 

with your gear. 

Caving 

Ever fancied entering a magma chamber? Iceland is the perfect place for you. Thanks 

to its geological activity, this country has numerous underground caves with varied 

rock formations that will leave you astounded. The most famous one among all is the 

Þríhnúkagígur crater which is a dormant volcano that has a huge cavity and a magma 

chamber that is located right at the heart of the volcano! This thrilling experience is unlike 

any other and probably Iceland is the only place in the world to experience it! 

151 152

Iceland 

UMI HOTEL 

Hotel 

Leirnavegur, Hvolsvöllur, Iceland ♦ Tel + +354 518 4001 ♦ hotelumi.is 

The hotel offers a first-class restaurant 

with a unique view of the Westman Islands 

and the Southern coastline. There’s also 

a lounge bar with a view of the famous 

subglacial volcano Eyjafjallajökull and the 

beautiful mountain terrain surrounding 

it. The magnificent river Svaðbælisá 

peacefully flows next to the hotel. 

Meanwhile, the hotel bar is located by 

the reception with a magnificent view of 

Eyjafjallajökull. You can also snuggle up by 

the fireplace during cold winter nights. This 

is the perfect place to sit down, relax and 

enjoy a good drink while sharing stories of 

your Iceland trip. 

Located by one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Iceland, UMI Hotel offers a strong 

connection to nature. Guests at the hotel get to experience the peace and quiet of the 

Icelandic countryside here. 

The hotel features 28 elegantly designed rooms – each with majestic views of the subglacial 

volcano – Eyjafjallajökul or the Southern coast line. Internet and parking are available as 

complimentary additions to your stay package. The hotel offers both, double and twin rooms 

with private bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bathtub. The hotel’s complimentary 

toiletries are domestically sourced and include organic soaps and creams from Soley Cosmetics. 

Other basic amenities included in the package are a coffee and tea set, minibar, safety box, 

wardrobe, and writing desk. On the other hand, superior rooms include slippers, Nespresso 

coffee machine, Marshall bluetooth speaker and a wider selection of complimentary toiletries 

from Soley Cosmetics. 

There are a bunch of activities that you 

can indulge in, around the hotel. You can 

take the Northern Lights minibus to see 

the stunning Northern Lights. Such similar 

arrangements can be made by the hotel 

staff, on request. Events such as a Christmas 

dinner/party, etc. are also organized. If you 

wish to host an event of your own for your 

guests, arrangements for the same can be 

made as well. 

The starlit skies and Northern Lights 

certainly won’t let anyone down, especially 

during the winter months. Other regional 

attractions include Eyjafjallajökul, 

Skógarfoss, Skógar Cultural Heritage 

Museum, Seljalandsfoss, Dyrhólaey, 

Sólheimajökul, Vík í Mýrdal, Lava Volcano 

and Earthquake exhibition and many more. 

153 154

JÓN HEIÐAR 

Stuck In Iceland 

Q&A 

Tell us a little about Stuck in Iceland 

Stuck in Iceland is an independent travel 

magazine which I co-founded back in 

2012. It contains hundreds of articles on 

destinations in Iceland and interviews 

with interesting people detailing their 

experience and impressions of visiting 

Iceland. 

Iceland is becoming an increasingly 

popular tourist destination, why do you 

think that is? 

WIthout a doubt it is the nature of the 

country. Wide open spaces, waterfalls, 

glaciers, lava fields, black beaches, geysers, 

northern lights and so much more. 

What would you say is the most common 

misconception about Iceland? 

Hard to say actually, but I suppose that at 

least people think that Iceland is a covered 

in in ice and snow all year. 

As a local what is the best off the beaten 

path attraction? 

This is a tough one. There are so many 

places. I want to mention the highland 

hiking trails, Kjalvegur and Laugavegur. 

Also glaciers like Vatnajokull glacier or 

Langjökull glacier. Then there are the ice 

caves in Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Let me know 

if you want to arrange a tour to any of these 

places and I will do my best to help. 

How would you recommend getting 

around? 

Based on the dozens interviews I have 

done with travelers I would recommend 

renting a car and go on a road trip. 

Is there an ideal time of the year to 

come? 

I would actually recommend mid to 

late September. The weather is often 

surprisingly good and there is a change to 

catch the northern lights. 

What is a traditional Icelandic dish 

and where would one go to enjoy a 

traditional Iceland meal? 

I always say that you should try fermented 

shark with a shot of ice cold Brennivin 

Schnapps. But it is an acquired taste. 

That is always a classic! I would also 

recommending Messinn restaurant to 

get great Icelandic fish for an affordable 

price. Also try go the Icelandic lamb. I 

recommend Schnaps restaurant. It is great 

bistro with pretty affordable prices. If you 

want a more excotic take on the lamb try it 

at Sumac restaurant. 

What does the future hold for Stuck in 

Iceland? 

I am looking for new ways to create value 

for my readers. So I have added a way for 

people for look for hotel deals in Iceland, 

I have added a massive tour portal with 

reviews, people can find rental cars from 

reputable car rental companies and so 

on. But the thing I most excited about 

are the travel deals I have secured for my 

readers with independent and highly rated 

tour operators. So if you go on to the site 

you will find promo codes that get you 

discounts for their quality tours. 

Stuck in Iceland on the web: www.stuckiniceland.com 

Stuck in Iceland on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StuckInIceland/ 

Stuck in Iceland on Twitter: https://twitter.com/IcelandThrills 

155 156

Iceland 

SALT ELDHUS EHF 


Þórunnartún 2 – 105 Reykjavík, Iceland ♦ Tel +354 551 0171 ♦ salteldhus.is 

Salt Eldhus ehf offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself into Icelandic cuisine, food 

traditions and culture through highly interactive cooking classes in the capital center of 

Iceland, Reykjavik. There are different types of activities that the company conducts to provide 

guests with an authentic Icelandic culinary experience. 

If you’re on your way to Iceland, sign up for their popular, open ‘Cook and Dine’ class and enjoy 

an Icelandic cooking class, tasting session and gourmet lunch or dinner, all in one package. 

These culinary experiences are based on one primary moto, i.e. “Gastronomy is a great way 

to connect people.” With the objective of bringing families closer, the company organizes fun 

activities for friends and colleagues, making it ideal for team-building as well as fostering client 

relationships. 

If you’re traveling in a group then this is 

a great activity for you. Salt Eldhus pride 

themselves for offering first class premises 

with an incredible view of the Reykjavik 

harbor side with great atmosphere, wellequipped 

kitchen and a charming dining 

area. The cooking classes are conducted 

by skilled and interactive professional 

chefs that guide you through each and 

every step. Their classic Icelandic-style of 

cooking class is ‘Icelandic Fish and Free 

Roaming Lamb.’ 

Salt Eldhus was established back in 2012. 

Since then, they have been offering 

varied cooking classes to Icelanders and 

foreign visitors alike. They strive to keep 

their classes on top of current trends and 

offer classes that tend to cater to both, 

the beginners as well as the experienced 

guests. The classes are taught in Icelandic 

but they also offer English-speaking classes 

as per requirements. 

The English-speaking classes are primarily 

focused on Nordic cuisine and Icelandic 

produce. The owner and CEO of the 

company herself, Mrs. Sigridur Bjork 

Bragadottir, is a chef, food writer and former 

editor-in-chief of the leading Icelandic food 

and wine magazine called Gestgiafinn. 

With such experienced staff and owner, this 

is the perfect place for tourists to get to 

know Icelandic cuisine in a more intimate 

manner and take back the memories and 

the recipes home so that they can relive 

their Iceland trip yet again! 

157 158

Iceland 

ARCTIC 

ADVENTURES 

WHALE 

WATCHING 

Wildlife Tour Company 

Reykjavik, Iceland ♦ adventures.is 

Are you looking for an exciting whale watching tour from Reykjavik or Dalvik in the North 

of Iceland? Arctic Adventures Whale Watching is just the ideal option for you! This 

adventure company is conducts memorable tours where majestic sea mammals such as the 

minke, humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises and other species can be spotted. 

Arctic Adventures’ northern whale watching tours have a 98% success rate when it comes to 

whale-sightings. If no whales are spotted, customers are given the option of partaking in a later 

tour, virtually guaranteeing you the opportunity to see Iceland’s mighty ocean giants. 

The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik departs from the city’s old harbor and sails out onto 

Faxaflói Bay. The company employs qualified guides who will provide guests with all the 

information and insights they need to know about Iceland’s marine life. 

Each passenger on board will be provided 

with a special wetsuit that will keep them 

warm and dry. The company also offers 

multi-day tours to experience as much of 

the land of fire and ice as possible. 

One of the most common whales to be 

spotted on Whale Watching Tours in 

Iceland is the Humpback Whale. They are 

vigorously acrobatic and like to flap their 

fins, jump up in the air and whip their tail 

causing quite the scene and creating the 

perfect moment for you to snap a picture! 

The company also offers whale watching 

day tours from Dalvik and they have met 

with such amazing success in the recent 

years that the tour is refunded, if whales are 

not spotted during the tour. 

All along Eyjafjörður, you will find small 

villages specializing in whale watching 

tours which isn’t much of a surprise given 

that Eyjafjörður is an ultimate favorite of 

many different whale species including the 

rare Blue Whale! 

Some of the other whale watching locations 

in Iceland offered by the company include: 

Ólafsvík, Grundarfjörður, Hólmavík and 

Húsvík. 

As far as summers are concerned, you 

can enjoy the warmer weather and even 

experience the vibrant marine life including 

possible puffin sightings. On the other 

hand, winter pros include fewer tourists and 

beautiful scenery that will create memories 

lasting a lifetime. 

Whatever the season, Arctic Adventures 

will ensure that you get the best whale 

watching experience! 

159 160

THE HIDDEN GEMS OF ICELAND 

Iceland has a ton of hidden gems for the discerning Arctic explorer. Aptly known as 

the land of ice and fire, the opportunities are endless, erupting geysers, breath-taking 

waterfalls, glacier lagoons, black sandy beaches and whale watching. 

Hike the Svínafellsjökull Glacier in Skaftafell National Park. Located in the southeast of 

Iceland, in a place called Öræfi, (literally translated as “Desert”). This exhilarating hike 

traverses through crevasses and ice paths allowing an opportunity to absorb the stunning 

rocky landscape and natural landscapes carved out by volcanoes and ancient rivers. 

Do not miss an opportunity to indulge in an excursion to see the Icelandic whales from 

the Dalvik coast situated on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula in the North of Iceland. The port 

is primarily a fishing harbour but has many whale spotting tours on the Eyjafjörður fjord. 

Prepare to spot many species of whales including humpback, mink and the majestic blue 

whale. Also other wildlife such as dolphins and various fascinating bird species including 

puffins. 

Explore centuries-old caves of ice under the powerful setting of the Vatnajökull glacier; 

experience the vivid blues of the ice caused by ultraviolet rays. Use a tour guide to benefit 

from expert advice and gain the ultimate experience but in safe conditions. 

A visit to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon situated within the vast Vatnajökull is a visual 

experience of a lifetime, and an opportunity to get close to the massive icebergs and 

resident seals. A boat tour will ensure the best encounter of this area known as Iceland’s 

“Crown Jewel”. Gently navigate and zigzag through static and moving icebergs 

provides a unique opportunity for amazing photographs. 

There are a vast number of waterfalls to visit in Iceland, most of which attract huge 

amounts of tourists. Therefore, to find one that is perhaps less known is inevitably one 

that is difficult to reach! Kvernufoss waterfall is one such waterfall and definitely worth 

a visit. Situated in the South of Iceland close to the more popular Skógafoss waterfall 

and often bypassed by visitors to the area due to the 20-minute hike required to reach 

it. However, when you do eventually arrive at this breath-taking waterfall you are able 

to walk around and behind it, and chances are it will be just you! 

161 162

The North East of Iceland is unspoilt and 

has a rich and natural beauty. Remote 

and magical, long sandy beaches, 

diverse animal life. Staying in specialist 

farm accommodation allows a rare 

glimpse into this captivating region. 

A visit to Northern Iceland and Myvatn 

Geothermal Lakes is a delight but should 

be visited early in the day to avoid the 

bus tours of visitors. The steaming 

lakes, created following a volcanic 

eruption over 2,300 years ago, provide a 

particularly amazing sensory experience. 

The scenery is very surreal, with naturally 

bubbling geysers and steaming pools of 

water dotted around a vast landscape 

and a strong smell of sulphur. The area 

is a natural haven for migrating birds and 

ducks, and many fish thrive in the nearby 

rivers feeding on the midges that occupy 

the space in the summer months. 

Also in Myvatn is the 

Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, 

an area of dramatic volcanic 

rock formations, caves and 

arches formed around 2300 

years ago. Also referred 

to as Kirkjan (church) 

formations, due to the 

Gothic church atmosphere. 

Nordic Christian legend has 

it that Dimmuborgir is the 

place where Satan landed 

when he was expelled from 

heaven, and here he created 

the “Helvetes katakomber”, 

which translates as “The 

Catacombs of Hell”. 

163 164

Iceland 

HOTEL VOS 

Modern Hotel 

Submerge yourself in awe-inspiring 

gastronomic traditions of Iceland in the 

in-house restaurant, which is a modern 

and spacious restaurant, that can serve 

up to 50 people at once. They offer an 

exquisite assortment of delicious dishes 

and take pride in using only top quality 

ingredients from the local surroundings. 

You can devour exotic wines, beers, sodas 

and savor delectable cuisines. 

Norður-Nýjabæ, 851 Þykkvibær, Iceland ♦ Tel +354 554 8800 ♦ hotelvos.is 

Iceland or the ‘land of fire and ice’ is one of the most admired tourist destinations in the world. 

The affectionate and friendly nature of the locals, startling views, awe-inspiring attractions, 

lively nightlife, and rich culture and traditions make this country a must-visit for every traveler. 

Located amidst the farms in Nordur-Nyibær in Þykkvibær, Hotel Vos is a small, cozy country 

hotel run by a family. At Hotel Vos, you can rejuvenate your soul in a relaxing ambiance, which 

is enclosed by a serene and authentic Icelandic farm. 

All rooms boast a private entrance, private bathroom, television, free Wi-Fi and access to 

hot tub. You can choose from the standard, superior double/twin or a superior triple/family 

room. Here, visitors can have a peaceful stay with beautiful scenic views from the room and 

can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the ocean right from the hot tub in the garden. You also get a 

complimentary coffee and tea in the seating area. 

Explore the breathtaking Icelandic glaciers 

with a professional tour operator. Whether 

you are a skilled glacier expert or just a first 

timer that wants to go on a glacier walk, try 

out the ice climbing, discover the ice caves 

or sail on a splendid glacier lagoon that 

you will discover during your dream trip to 

Iceland. 

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the 

city and go for some soul-searching in the 

4x4 super-jeeps to the Þórsmörk valley which 

is a less explored nature reserve surrounded 

by rough mountains, that offer exclusive 

silence, perfect natural beauty and number 

of popular hiking trails. An experience that 

will remain etched in your heart forever- 

Hotel Vos is truly a dream-stay! 

165 166

Iceland 

NICETRAVEL 

The Award For Excellence In 

Branding 

Fiskislóð 45, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland ♦ Tel +354 419 0100 ♦ nicetravel.is 

Iceland holds a certain 

mystery and intrigue 

for travelers the world over. 

The nation has a lot to offer, 

especially the undiscovered 

regions that are off the beaten 

path. It is also sometimes 

as misunderstood a travel 

destination as it is also very 

beautiful. But one travel 

service is changing all of 

that and making Iceland 

easy to embrace. Founded 

in 2012 by three Icelandic 

families, Nicetravel aims to 

assist travelers to Iceland to 

have a nice, enjoyable and 

memorable experience. 

With ‘BE NICE’ as their work 

motto, the company and those 

that run it believe that travel 

services that have a personal 

and warm touch are always 

better. This is the driving 

force behind the outstanding 

services that they provide to 

their clients and customers. 

With the purpose of never compromising 

on individual attention and personal 

touch, the maximum size of a group is 19 

passengers. They offer pickup and drop 

off from all major hotels and guest houses 

(or dedicated bus stops within city centre) 

in Reykjavik, round trip transportation and 

professional tour guidance. 

Nicetravel not only offers classic excursions 

like Golden Circle, South Shore and 

Snæfellsnes tours, but also a wide 

selection of other activities like Glacier 

Hike, Jökulsárlón Amphibian Boat Tour, 

Puffin Watching Boat Tour or Lava and Ice 

Caving combined with very picturesque 

and interesting sightseeing trips. If you 

want to try bathing in famous Icelandic hot 

springs, you can also do so in tours such as 

the ‘Golden Circle’, ‘Kerið Volcanic Crater’ 

and ‘Blue Lagoon’ and the Lava Cave, 

KRAUMA SPA & Waterfalls. The team is 

happy to customize tours and experiences 

for intrepid travelers. 

If a scheduled day tour is cancelled by 

Nicetravel on account of unpredictable 

situations such as bad weather conditions, 

they can arrange for you to go on the tour 

on a different day. 

Language can be a major roadblock and 

inconvenience in a foreign country. This is 

the reason why all their tours are guided in 

English. 

Nicetravel is doing a rather good job in 

making Iceland truly a ‘Niceland’! 

167 168

ICELAND AIR 

Travelling to Iceland this year to see the puffins? Or perhaps you prefer to explore 

the vast hinterlands of the country, or even go for a little adventure to the volcanoes 

and glaciers? Whatever maybe your aim for visiting this beautiful country, it is simply not 

possible without the assistance of the omnipresent Icelandair. This airline makes it easier 

for you to reach the island from Europe and North America by providing direct flights to 

major destinations across the continents. 

This airline is the main airline of the country and operates from the Keflavik International 

Airport in the capital Reykjavik. It is also the first international airline of the country and is 

currently among the two international carriers hailing from Iceland. With services to over 

32 cities across 16 countries, this airline serves as the main mode of transportation for 

reaching Iceland. 

169 

170

Launched way back in 1937 as Flugfélag 

Akureyrar, this airline has come a long way 

to become one of the most well-known 

aircraft carriers in the world today. To 

really see the commitment of this airline 

towards the country’s tourism, you can 

go back in history books to 2011 when 

the Eyjafjallajökull eruptions had wreaked 

havoc in the tourism sector of Iceland. 

Icelandair took the initiative and launched 

the “Inspired by Iceland” campaign with 

the government of Iceland to regain the 

confidence of tourists. 

Under the visionary leadership of the 

CEO Björgólfur Jóhannsson, the company 

has won many accolades including “The 

Knowledge Company of the Year” and 

“Marketing Firm of the Year in Iceland” 

by the Icelandic business community 

and Marketing Association of Iceland 

respectively. 

The airline offers 4 classes – Economy Light, 

Economy Standard, Economy Comfort and 

Saga Class. You could choose to travel by 

the Economy Light class for an affordable 

travel experience or could choose the 

Economy Standard and Comfort classes 

for a little more comfort and baggage 

allowance. The Saga Class provides you 

with the most luxurious services like priority 

check-ins and lounge access. 

Icelandair is no ordinary airline company and it boasts some spectacular features that 

make it a unique airline. Across years, the company has grown leaps and bounds; it 

now offers attractive packages to visit Iceland and explore its beauty and is working 

continuously towards creating better experiences for their customers. 

From vacation packages to guided tours, on-board internet connectivity to flight bookings 

from Facebook; Icelandair has ensured that it provides the finest services to their clients. 

171 172

Iceland 

LÓNKOT 

RURAL RESORT 

Guest House and Restaurant 

Lónkot, 76, 566 Hofsós, Iceland ♦ Tel +354 453 7432 ♦ lonkot.is 

Lónkot, a tourist retreat located in Iceland, by the magnificent Arctic Ocean, has quickly 

become a popular tourist destination for guests. To explore and discover Lonkot like 

never before, choose to stay at Lonkot Rural Resort. 

Thanks to its flawless service and memorable experiences that it manages to provide its guests, 

the resort has received endless praise. It used to be a farm and the farmhouses were only 

converted into guest houses and restaurants in 1991-1995. The initiative was taken by a family, 

who decided to turn sheep houses into rooms and barn lofts into different areas of the resort. 

This is also one of the many reasons behind the rooms being cozy with a relaxing atmosphere. 

Each part of the resort opens to views of the mountains and sea. 

The resort offers you six rooms to choose 

from. Three rooms provide guests with 

access to private bathrooms that come 

with basic amenities such as a hairdryer, 

bathrobes, toiletries, bathroom slippers, 

and towels. Even though the resort is 

located amidst a beautiful, green landscape, 

far away from metropolitan cities, it offers 

unlimited internet connectivity to the 

guests. Due to its stunning location, events 

such as wedding ceremonies, birthday 

celebrations or even a family get-together 

will remain etched in your memories forever. 

For your gastronomic requirements, 

thoughtfully prepared local cuisine options 

are served with high-quality freshly-sourced 

ingredients. Imagine having the perfect, 

authentic meal with a breathtaking view of 

the mountains and sea? It is made possible 

at Lonkot. 

Hofsos is among the very few places that 

hasn’t developed completely. It’s a friendly 

little village that comes alive in the summer 

with tourists, hikers and seasonal residents. 

The resort itself is situated close to several 

tourist attractions. Among these is the 

Icelandic Immigration Centre, which is a 

wonderful museum that details the mass 

emigration of Icelanders to North America 

in the late 1800s. 

If you’re the kind who enjoys a quick cruise, 

then you better hop onto the boat journey 

on Skagafjörður. While you’re at it, you can 

even indulge in fishing. You can also visit 

the most beautiful infinity pool in Iceland 

in Hofsós, which is 10-kilometers from the 

resort. 

Lonkot provides you with unlimited 

experiences and gives you a chance to 

explore the rural side of Iceland. Take a 

break from your moribund routine and feel 

nature like never before at Lonkot Rural 

Resort. 

173 174

PORTUGAL 

in association with 

Image by: Luiz Felipe 

175 176

THE ALGARVE 

The Algarve is the southernmost region in Portugal framed by a 200km coastline. 

It is known for its promise of more than 300 days of sun per year, award winning 

beaches, authentic cuisine and a range of outdoor activities that attracts thrill seekers and 

nature lovers alike. For keen golfers, the region has a plethora of award winning courses. 

However there is more to the Algarve than first meets the eye. 

The Algarve is a region of hidden cultural delights; small, simple restaurants pull visitors 

back time and time again while Michelin starred restaurants attract a globetrotting 

international clientele. The sea is integral to the Algarvian way of life, one that is closely 

bound to nature. Inland, old villages preserve a life that is historic and rich in culture, 

and lived in harmony with the seasons. In villages of small cobbled streets, you will find 

whitewashed houses and small local cafes serving bica (espresso), while sardines are 

grilled openly on the streets, as they have done for years gone by. 

All year round the region’s beautiful beaches, nature 

reserves, picturesque villages, golf courses, castles and 

fortresses can be enjoyed in all their splendour. Day or 

night, visitors to the region have everything that they 

need to enjoy the delights of the Algarve, whether for sun 

and sea, or for sport, relaxation, history, culture, nature, 

golf or local gastronomy. 

177 178

10 MUST DO ACTIVITIES 

1. Take a boat trip or snorkel in Ria Famosa 

Natural Park, a unique coastal lagoon in 

central Algarve, recently elected as one of 

the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. You can 

see the largest community of seahorses in 

the natural environment here. 

2. Visit Cape St. Vincent, the southwest 

edge of mainland Europe, and enjoy 

a scenic drive up the Vicentine Coast, 

considered Portugal’s greatest coastal 

paradise. 

3. Hike part of the Via Algarviana Trail. 

The route crosses eleven of the sixteen 

municipalities of the region, offering the 

chance to discover the diverse natural 

landscapes and culture by foot. 

4. Learn to surf or body board with the 

locals at Odeceixe Beach in Aljezur on 

the west coast. Whether a confident 

surfer or a beginner, the Algarve offers 

beaches to cater for both, with surf schools 

dotted along the coastline stretching from 

Portimão to Aljezur. 

179 180

5. Sip the finest local wines produced 

across the region on The Rota Dos Vinhos 

do Algarve (The Algarve Wine Route). 

7. Enjoy an alfresco lunch of sardines or 

fresh seafood in Portimão, at one of the 

many riverside restaurants, or in Olhão, 

next to Ria Formosa promenade. Heading 

inland try the stews and dishes of rich game 

and meat with strong, aromatic flavours. 

For a sugar-fix, the almond, carob and 

orange-based sweets are worth a try, as is 

the classic Dom Rodrigo dessert. And when 

in Monchique, the Medronho (traditional 

fruit brandy) makes for a remarkable 

digestif. For those with refined tastes, try 

one of the 8 Michelinstarred restaurants, 

where local produce goes hand-in-hand 

with innovation. 

8. Play a round of golf on one of the 

stunning courses in the exclusive ‘Golden 

Triangle’ of the Algarve: Vilamoura, Quinta 

do Lago and Vale do Lobo. You will 

discover why the Algarve was voted the 

World’s Best Golfing Destination by the 

IAGTO (International Association of Golf 

Tour Operators). 

10. Walk through Portuguese history. 

The Algarve’s numerous white-washed 

parishes bordered with greenery, like the 

picturesque inland village of ‘Alte’ or the 

shore-lined ‘Alvor’ offer a glimpse into 

traditional rural and coastal living. The 

region’s sixteen municipalities each carry 

their own identity but are bound together 

through religious and cultural heritage. 

The Castelo de Silves is a great national 

monument to learn about the Moorish 

influence on the region, whilst the Church 

of Lourenço in Amancil is a wonder to 

behold with its vibrant interior of blue and 

white azulejo tile. 

6. Cycle on the Ecovia trail to discover the 

natural marvels of the region. Highlights 

include the lush greenery of the Costa 

Vicentina Nature Park, the birdwatching 

haven of the Alvor Estuary, and the majestic 

cliffs of Sagres point, to name a few. 

9. Enjoy a day relaxing on the beach. From 

sandy beaches to deserted islands, and 

award-winning beaches like D.Ana, Meia 

Praia, Praia da Marinha and Falésia beach 

(which was voted best beach in the world 

by Trip Advisor), there is plenty of choice 

to suit every taste. The majority have 

even gained recognition in the form of 

the EU “Blue Flag” for quality standards. 

On a beach break in the Algarve, a trip to 

explore the impressive Benagil Cave and 

iconic Ponta da Piedade rock formations in 

Lagos is a must. 

181 182

Portugal 

CASA DA BAIA – 

CENTRO DE 

PROMOCAO 

TURISTICA 

Local Experience 

Avenida Luisa Todi, 468, Setubal, Setubal 2900-456, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 265 545 010 ♦ 

mun-setubal.pt 

Casa da Baia - Centro de Promocao Turistica literally translates to The “House of the Bay 

- Center for Tourism Promotion.” It serves as an authentic business card of the region of 

Setubal. The space is located in an XVIII century building and gives you all the information that 

is necessary to explore the region. 

The cloisters of the building function as a winter garden, giving support to the cafeteria 

where you can taste the famous Muscatel of Setubal. You can sit back and munch on some 

delicacies along with a glass of Muscatel. 

The staff leaves no stone unturned to give you all the information that you require. 

Whether you wish to know about a local cafeteria or some trekking trail around, they’ll 

find everything that you need to know. Even if they don’t have an immediate answer to 

your query, they’ll look it up online or with their colleagues and give you the solution. 

It includes a tourist service area and a wine 

area, with a wine cellar where all the region’s 

producers are represented. It’s a great place for 

wine connoisseurs as there’s a shop where you 

can choose from the vast range of local wines. 

There’s also loads of information for tourists who 

wish to explore the Setubal region. You can find 

information related to tours, points of interest, 

and learn about some amazing options for 

tasting local food and drinks. 

You can also get a map to Setubal so that you 

can explore the entire region all by yourself. It 

also features a whole lot of cultural exhibits 

for tourists to enjoy and take in a little bit of 

Setubal right there. If you’re tired after all the 

exploration of the region, Casa da Baia serves as 

a great place to unwind and relax. You can sit 

back comfortably with a glass of wine and enjoy 

the cool and tranquil environs of this historic 

building. 

182 183

For those who wish to do some shopping, there’s a gourmet store where you can find the 

best of local products along with the wines. Additionally, there’s outdoor seating available 

where you can sit back and enjoy your wines and munchies. 

History lovers have something to look forward to here as well. The Casa da Baia is built on 

top of Roman ruins and so, you can see these historic structure right below you! You can 

even find information on dolphins around the region. 

While Casa da Baia - Centro de Promocao Turistica does give you information on Setubal, 

it is nothing short of a tourist destination in itself. It’s got everything that a tourist would 

want to see in a tourist attraction and that’s why, it’s the one place you simply cannot miss 

out on during your visit to Setubal. 

185 184 186 185

Portugal 

BALAIA GOLF 

VILLAGE 

Golf Resort 

Sitio da Balaia – Apartado 917, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 289 570 200 ♦ en.balaiagolfvillage.com 

Blessed with pristine beaches, wonderful climate and scenic fishing towns, Algarve is the 

perfect holiday destination one can dream of. It has magnificently varied landscapes and 

appeals to an array of travellers be it kids, adults or honeymooners. 

Balaia Golf Village is a four- star hotel acclaimed to be one of the most excellent golf resorts 

in Algarve. The resort boasts a unique aura and a style that makes it one of the best spots in 

Algarve to enjoy a soothing vacation by the stunning beaches with your loved ones. 

The guests here get to choose from an array of apartments as per their desire and requirements. 

These apartments are subtly decorated, spacious and are equipped with modern furniture. The 

air-conditioned apartments have a balcony, a fully-equipped kitchen, coffee and tea making 

facilities as well as ironing facilities. 

The hotel offers 6 outdoor pools, gym with professional instructors, kid’s club, a playground, a 

nine-hole golf course, a health club with wellness club, Jacuzzi, Turkish bathroom, and surreal 

massages. There is an on-site supermarket for the convenience of guests as well. There is an 

area reserved for business meetings or office work too. Guests can also rent bikes to explore 

Algarve and Albufeira. 

The hotel serves authentic South 

Portuguese delicacies in its Le Club 

Restaurant and Restaurant Veranda. Guests 

can also devour some delectable cuisines 

and munch on some snacks near the pool. 

The unsurpassed hospitality by Balaia Golf 

Village is at par with any 4 star property in 

Portugal. 

The hotels boasts a Golf Academy 

which is designed for both professionals 

and amateurs, and both can partake in 

programmes hosted by the hotel. There is 

an official golf teacher as well apart from 

a Driving Range, Putting and Chipping 

Greens area. 

A luxury holiday is on the bucket list 

of many and the Balaia Golf Village in 

Portugal is transforming that dream into 

reality. Every corner of Balaia Golf Village 

shall make your holiday a unique and 

memorable one. It lends a new perspective 

to your Portuguese experience and lets you 

experience something beyond ordinary. 

187 188

LESSER-KNOWN LISBON 

Discover the side of Lisbon as seen through the eyes locals 

“Feira de Lada” the Thieves Market, held twice a week, Tuesdays and Saturdays in 

the historical and characterful district of Alfama, easily accessible from the Santa Apolonia 

metro line. From its thirteenth century origins, the market has grown in popularity over the 

centuries and is a treasure-trove of vintage clothing, curios and collectables. 

Explore the higher areas on one of the three graphitised funiculars of Lisbon. This method 

of travel offers cheap transport options to visit elevated and quiet locations. The oldest 

funicular (or ascensor) in Lisbon trundles precariously up narrow lanes to the stunning 

eighteenth century Jardim do Tore. This particular secret gem is a hidden park, where the 

panoramic views are spectacular. 

189 190

Discover one of the oldest and most charismatic neighbourhoods of Lisbon, Mouraria. 

The birthplace of Lisbon’s famous folk music and steeped in fascinating history. Mouraria 

is a fast-growing creative hub for eclectic cultural offerings with intimate cobbled streets, 

providing a wealth of art galleries, artisan shops, trendy cafes and unique food experiences 

such as community kitchens where local chefs cook and share their food in relaxed, open 

spaces. An excellent and tasty way to connect with locals, practice Portuguese and, above 

all, share quality food. 

Up in the hills of Lisbon is Sintra, a UNESCO 

site, with its traditional pastel coloured 

castles, including the Castle of Moors and 

the National Palace of Pena. Sintra itself is 

a stunning mountain town approximately 

14 miles from downtown Lisbon, reachable 

via bus for a minimal charge. While the 

city is a tourist attraction, there are some 

secret gems including the incredible 

ornate initiation wells at the hauntingly 

architectural mishmash mansion of Quinta 

da Regaleira. These subterranean towers 

reach down 27 metres into the earth and 

are accessible via a spiral stone staircase 

with fascinating displays of symbols 

depicting Alchemy, the Knights Templar 

and Rosicrucian. 

The ruins of the medieval Carmo Church 

and Convent situated in the parish of 

Santa Maria Maior provide a glimpse of 

the devastating earthquake that rocked 

Lisbon in 1755. This was once the largest 

church in Lisbon but all that remains today 

are the perfectly preserved stone skeletal 

arches. What was once the altar now 

arches impressively over an archaeological 

ruins museum founded in 1964 holding an 

extraordinary array of various periods of 

Lisbon history including Gothic architecture, 

Roman relics and symbols, intricate stone 

carvings, a beautiful rose stained window 

and some impressive tombs boasting 

elaborate carving work, the grandest being 

that of King Ferdinand I. 

191 192

Portugal 

H10 DUQUE 

DE LOULE 


Av. Duque de Loulé 81-83, Lisboa, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 21 318 2000 ♦ 

h10.duque.deloule@h10hotels.com ♦ h10hotels.com 

The hotel even has meeting rooms which 

are fully equipped for holding both work 

meetings and private events. All the rooms 

offer luxurious amenities which provide all 

the comfort needed for a pleasant stay in 

the wonderful city of Lisbon. In the H10 

Duque, you can enjoy a delicious fusion 

of Portuguese and Spanish flavours in the 

Azul e Branco restaurant and then relax 

over a cup of coffee in the Equestre Bar 

or take in the fantastic city views from the 

hotel’s Chill-Out Limão terrace. 

H10 Duque de Loule was established back in March, 2015. Since then, it has successfully 

made a reputable name amongst top boutique hotels in Portugal. Located in a historical 

building in the heart of Lisbon, this hotel makes it easy for you to access all the primary tourist 

attractions of the city. Famous interior designer Lazaro Rosa-Violan can be accredited for 

renovating and decorating the structure with stylish, yet elegant elements. Its beautiful 18thcentury 

facade has been preserved, while its interior design is a fusion of traditional Portuguese 

elements and contemporary modern and functional elements. The four-star hotel features over 

89 unique rooms. 

There are four different types of rooms that you can choose to stay in, namely Double Rooms, 

Superior Double Rooms, Deluxe Rooms as well as Suites. All the rooms are brightly lit and 

are decorated with very elegant, contemporary interior designs where blue and white tones 

dominate the structures. The traditional Portuguese tiles – exclusively hand painted for the 

hotel – create a captivating atmosphere. In addition, some Double Rooms and Superior Double 

Rooms feature a cozy reading corner by the window. 

Since the hotel is located in the Portuguese 

capital of Lisbon, which in itself is a 

cultural hub, one can find numerous 

tourist attractions in and around the 

space. You can wander through its diverse 

neighbourhoods and discover why it 

has been given the title, ‘City of Light.’ 

Gastronomy, art and hundreds of charming 

spots make this a multifaceted city full 

of contrasts where visitors can relax and 

soak up the culture. It has something for 

everyone and the best way to discover it is 

by staying at H10 Duque de Loule! 

193 194

Portugal 

SINTRA 

MARMORIS 

PALACE 

Traditional Boutique Hotel 

Av. Barão Almeida Santos 7, Sintra, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 21 923 4504 ♦ sintramarmoris.com 

It is designed in such a manner that it takes 

optimum advantage of the breathtaking 

scenic views and natural gardens of 

Sintra. The space, which is divided into 

two buildings, offers nine individuallyappointed 

guest rooms. Guests can choose 

to stay in a Deluxe Double or Twin Room, 

which includes a garden view. 

Guests, who might be traveling with their 

families can opt for the Family Suite. 

There’s a Classic Room that comes along 

with its private terrace access. Guests who 

are staying in this room gain direct access 

to the garden as well. 

Guests will be offered a complimentary 

welcome drink upon arrival. Every morning, 

a healthy breakfast buffet is served with 

a spread of the most authentic, fulfilling 

dishes. The palace also features a shared 

lounge that offers comfortable sofas, 

where guests can relax, read a book or 

enjoy channels on a flat-screen TV. 

Sintra Marmoris Palace – a 

structure surrounded by over 

14,000 square meters of private 

garden – is an ideal place for anyone 

looking for quick unwinding from 

their daily mundane life. There are 

numerous activities that guests can 

indulge in, all the way from exploring 

wooded hiking trails to reading 

a book. Enjoy the stunning views 

of the Sintra Hills while you relax, 

listening to the echo of the birds. 

Based inside the protected Sintra- 

Cascais Natural Park, the palace also 

features a heated pool. 

The panoramic views over the 

Mourish Castle are also visible from 

each room of the palace. The house 

was re-built back in 1890’s and was 

later restored lovingly by a family. 

Since then, it has been kept updated 

by different generations working 

in the marble stone industry. The 

decision of reopening the space as 

a local lodgement was made only in 

May 2017. 

There are lots of tourist attractions located 

closely to the accommodation, including 

Park and National Palace of Pena, the 

Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, 

the National Palace of Sintra, Park and 

Palace of Monserrate, and Azenhas do 

Mar. All of these attractions have historic 

importance and are simply a beautiful sight 

to look at. 

Besides featuring a fully-equipped 

swimming pool with the latest facilities, 

guests can also get a massage. Basic 

business facilities such as photocopying, 

fax services and meeting facilities are also 

readily available as per the convenience of 

the guests. 

195 196

PAULA FRANCO 

Lisbon by Light 

Q&A 

Tell us a little about Lisbon by Light 

Lisbon by Light is a visual diary about the 

city and its locals and a place to showcase 

my work as a photographer. 

Since 2014, I’ve been telling the stories 

of makers, artists, entrepreneurs... people 

who give a true identity to the new Lisbon. 

Most of them are Portuguese but lately, I 

also include whoever started a creative 

project here. 

Lisbon is often an overlooked city in Europe 

especially when compared to its more 

glamorous counterparts such as Paris, 

London and Barcelona to name but a few. 

Why do you think this is? P o r t u g u e s e 

people are not very skilled in promoting 

themselves; the national character is 

modest and humble. As a result, Lisbon 

was until recently a hidden secret. 

Would you say Lisbon is becoming an 

increasingly popular tourist destination? 

Lisbon has caught up so much with other 

tourist destinations like Barcelona or 

Bruges it is now at the brink of becoming 

a victim of over-tourism, facing the same 

challenges these cities have to deal with. 

It will greatly depend on the decision 

makers which direction Lisbon will choose: 

towards sustainable high quality tourism, 

or rather towards short term easy money 

over-tourism. Let’s hope they balance 

it well, since over-tourism would kill the 

authenticity tourists are attracted by in the 

first place. 

What is the best off the beaten path 

attraction? 

The Lisboetas, as the inhabitants of Lisbon 

are called, are the main attraction of the 

city. To meet them turns a tourist visit into a 

real experience. 

Are there any attraction you think 

tourists should avoid? 

There are no real tourist traps in Lisbon, so 

far. 

What is the most efficient way to get around? 

By foot. 

Best place to grab a coffee and why? 

Cafe da Garagem for its amazing view. a long time favorite 

of mine and 

Cafe A Brasileira is one of the oldest coffee bars in town. 

A beautiful place where among others world famous 

Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa used to go. 

What does the future hold for Lisbon by Light? 

Lisbon by Light will continue to focus on the city and the 

locals -portuguese or not-, on supporting and encouraging 

creative people, sustainable business and other initiatives. 

In the future, and to translate my enthusiasm for the 

authentic vibes of the city, I will develop curated 

workshops and creative exchanges for curious and 

demanding visitors, in collaboration with my colleague 

and friend Lisboneye. We share the same passion and 

have been living in Lisbon since long before it became 

a tourist hotspot. We believe traveling is learning and 

exploring new creative horizons. 

https://lisbonbylight.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/lisbonbylight/ 

197 198

Portugal 

SHERATON 

CASCAIS RESORT 

Family Friendly Resort 

R. das Palmeiras 5, 2750-005 Cascais, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 21 482 9100 ♦ 

sheratoncascaisresort.com 

Portugal is known for its archaic architecture, rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and 

charming weather. However, a trip to this picturesque country is incomplete without a 

visit to the scenic fishing town of Cascais. If you are planning a vacation to this quaint coastal 

town, make it a point to stay at Sheraton Cascais Resort. 

The lavish property offers premium luxury and comfort in the most exclusive setting. Situated 

in the heart of Quinta da Marinha, the 5-star property provides accommodation in the form of 

deluxe rooms and regal suites. These accommodation units are adorned with neutral colored 

walls and elegant wood furnishings. Plenty of glass windows ensure that these units are bathed 

in an abundance of sunlight during daytime. 

The units all have contemporary amenities 

such as air-conditioning, satellite TV, coffee 

machines and Wi-Fi. While the rooms have 

a well-equipped kitchenette, each suite 

features a fully-functional kitchen with 

modern equipment and utensils. 

The rooms and suites have private 

bathrooms and spacious seating areas. The 

bathrooms feature deep tubs, overhead 

showers, double sinks, and comfortable 

robes. Recreational facilities at Sheraton 

Cascais Resort include two outdoor 

swimming pools (one heated and one not 

heated), a wellness spa, Serenity – The Art 

of Well Being, a modern fitness center, and 

Glass Terrace restaurant. Younger guests 

can spend a joyous time at Brave Kids, the 

newly opened children’s club. 

The world-class Serenity – The Art of Well 

Being, located in the midst of a scenic 

garden, allows guests to unwind and relax. 

Pamper yourself with soothing beauty and 

body treatments including hydrotherapy, 

Turkish bath, and sauna. 

The in-house restaurant lets you enjoy a 

fine-dining experience with an elaborate à 

la carte and the choicest selection of wines. 

A short four-minute drive from the property 

will bring you to the famed Guincho Beach. 

The spectacular sight of the Atlantic Ocean 

will calm your soul. The Cascais Center, 

located just 5 km from the resort, is replete 

with shops and cafes. 

Sheraton Cascais Resort offers a plethora of 

things to explore, both inside and outside 

its premises. The variety of recreational 

facilities appeals to guests of all age 

groups. This is what makes it a familyfriendly 

hotel, ideal for a getaway with your 

loved ones. 

199 200

NORTE REGION 

One region with four world heritage locations 

One region with four world heritage locations and much more to discover. In Porto and 

the North of Portugal, history intersects with modern times, breath-taking landscapes 

shine and provide unforgettable experiences. 

The trip begins in Porto, which is served by a modern airport with connections to several 

destinations. The Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport has direct and simple connections to the 

metro and also buses to the centre of Porto. 

Porto, the city that gave its name to Portugal, charms with its narrow streets in the historical 

centre, classified as world heritage, with a view of the River Douro and Port Wine cellars, 

and its vibrant and cosmopolitan city centre which, in recent years, filled with traditional 

or bolder restaurants (where you must try a “francesinha”) and hotels. All of this makes it 

an ideal destination for a city break. 

201 202

Porto is also a city of culture which 

has a world-class architecture, 

recognised with two Pritzker 

Awards, Siza Vieira and Souto 

Moura, two architects from “Escola 

do Porto”. An example of this is 

Casa da Música, a “meteorite” 

designed by Rem Koolhaas, 

and the Serralves Museum of 

Contemporary Art, designed by 

Siza Vieira. 

A metropolis facing the sea, with 

many restaurants specialising in 

fish located on the seafront of the 

nearby town of Matosinhos, Porto 

also offers the opportunity to go 

to the beach or even to learn to 

surf in the tranquil sea of Praia 

Internacional. 

Guimarães, considered the European 

Capital of Culture in 2012, offers 

a programme that enhances the 

city’s history while showing the 

most exciting and new that is being 

produced in terms of music, cinema, 

visual arts, architecture, theatre, 

among other creative areas. 

Further north, in the Minho, we have Guimarães, 

where, in the twelfth century, Portugal came to 

be. It was in the medieval castle of Guimarães 

where Afonso Henriques was born, the first king of 

Portugal (the country became a republic in 1910). 

The historical centre, where the castle is located, led 

Unesco to consider Guimarães as a world heritage 

site in 2001. Strolling around the historical centre, 

where Largo da Oliveira is the heart, you find a rare 

example of preservation. Taking the cable car up 

to the Penha hill is rewarded with one of the most 

beautiful views in Portugal. 

203 204

Portugal 

PRIVATE VILLA 

PORTO 

Historic B&B 

85-93, Rua do Monte dos Judeus, União de Freguesias do Centro, Portugal ♦ 

Tel +351 934 607 622 ♦ privatevillaporto.pt 

Private Villa Porto, as the name 

already suggests, delivers the 

essential exclusive accommodation 

experience for those looking to 

make the most of their stay in Norte 

Region. The primary reason for 

Private Villa Porto’s commendable 

success is its proximity to all the 

important tourist destinations in 

the region. Located in the centre 

of Porto, the hotel further offers 

privileged views over Douro river. 

The rooms at the hotel are designed 

keeping the convenience of the 

guests in mind. Every room at this 

accommodation is air-conditioned 

and comes with all the essential 

amenities. Each of the rooms are 

further equipped with a private 

bathroom with all the luxurious 

facilities. Depending on your 

preference, you can choose to stay 

in the Twin Rooms with the river 

view. Similarly, Double Rooms also 

come with alternatives where guests 

can either be greeted by the river 

view from their windows or the 

street views. The room located on 

the ground floor features a private 

access to the terrace as well. 

There are a range of outdoor activities that 

you can enjoy at the hotel, including taking 

a walk through the terrace and garden 

located within the hotel’s vicinity. You can 

also indulge in hiking. Basic facilities such 

as grocery deliveries, daily maid service, 

airport shuttle, luggage arrangements, 

ticketing services and meeting/banquet 

hall facilities can be availed as well. The 

hotel specializes in making the best kind 

of coffee. It is highly recommended that 

you start your day with a piping cup of 

hot coffee and some fresh baked goods. 

Breakfast-in-bed is also available, on 

request. 

There are multiple points of attractions 

located close to the hotel. The Soares 

dos Reis National Museum is situated 

300 meters away from Private Villa 

Porto. Housed in the Carrancas Palace 

of Cedofeita, it is the first Portuguese 

national museum that exhibits collections 

of Portuguese art. The collection includes 

work created by the famous Portuguese 

sculptor, Antonio Soares dos Reis. 

Private Villa Porto is a great place to 

discover the city of Porto and enjoy the 

exclusivity through its services as well. Get 

a true home away from home feel right 

here! 

205 206

NorteRegion –Portugal 

SOLAR DE OURA 

Historic Boutique Hotel 

Rua do Olmo, 37 – 5425-206 Oura, Vidago, Portugal ♦ Tel +351 924 127 970 ♦ 

solardeoura.pt 

Solar de Oura is an eighteenth century house with natural beauty and ambience, located in 

Oura, a picturesque village in Vidago, in the heart of Trás-os-Montes region. 

The pure air that comes from the mountains, together with the warm silence of the nature 

in its most precious state, makes Solar de Oura the perfect place to relax and to re-establish 

energies. 

The bedrooms feature natural elements combined with a contemporary design, blending 

details such as rustic stone walls, minimalistic décor and linen bedding. All rooms contain a 

modern en-suite bathroom. 

Solar de Oura, 

where nature 

meets the sound 

of silence. 

Everyday, we offer our guests a breakfast full of homemade and regional products. Upon 

request and availability, it is also possible to enjoy regional cuisine in an intimate and 

romantic dinner by candlelight. 

Our guests can enjoy a free bike ride 

around the village, upon availability. 

Vidago Palace Golf Club and Vidago 

Golf Club are only 1km from Solar de 

Oura, and the Ribeira de Oura swimming 

pools are just 500m from where we’re 

located. Other near attractions include 

Vidago, Chaves and Pedras Salgadas 

Thermae Spas, three Natural Parks 

(Alvão, Montesinho and Peneda-Gerês), 

the Douro Valley, Chaves Casino and the 

Camino de Santiago. The Sá Carneiro 

Airport (Porto) is 90 minutes by car. 

207 208

AUSTRIA 


Image by: Paul Gilmore 

209 210

AUSTRIA, THE POWER OF THREE 

A 

vibrant cast of culture, cuisine, and cool in a trio of Austrian cities. 

Whoever coined the phrase “Good things come in threes” likely didn’t even 

appreciate the truth this rings when applied to a round trip through Austria. While long 

hailed as a premiere destination for its stunning natural settings, which offer a year-round 

backdrop for outdoor recreation – world-class skiing in the winter, and a host of hiking and 

lakeside pleasures in the summer – Austria’s enchanting cities are also worth a starring role 

in this alpine country’s blockbuster visitor offerings. Salzburg, nicknamed ‘Stage of the 

World’, with its baroque beauty and musical score which seems to thread through much of 

its history, delights guests with some 4,500 cultural events annually. Graz, Austria’s second 

largest city, surprises with its foodie flair, laid-back attitude, and eye-catching architecture 

making many a self-guided sightseeing tour deviate off script to discover a hidden gem or 

two. And, combining a young urban feel with a cool alpine vibe, Innsbruck truly lives up to 

its billing as ‘Jewel of the Alps’ in its enviable location hugged by mountains that beckon 

exploration and set the scene for this Tirolean capital city. 

Attractively situated on the banks of the Salzach River, with its Old Town streets and 

alleyways watched over by the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the largest, fully preserved 

medieval castle in Europe situated on a hill high above the city, it’s no surprise that Salzburg 

is well-deserving of its nod by UNESCO World Heritage. In summer, the soundtrack to this 

city rings everywhere – from Mozart’s birth house at No. 9 along one of Salzburg’s most 

famous pedestrian streets, the Getreidegasse, to the many cultural events that take place 

during the summer months. 

Salzburg 

Salzburg has long been a favourite location of the cinematic world - with of course The 

Sound of Music its most notable production – and one stroll around this walkable city 

shows any visitor why. 

Among the most well-known is the Salzburg 

Festival, celebrating music and drama, and 

this year in its 99th installment when the 

curtain rises on 20 July, 2019. 

It would be amiss not to also sing the praises 

of this ‘green’ city with plenty of parks 

and the natural oasis of local mountains, 

pastures and forests that surround Salzburg. 

Whether simply out for a fresh air ramble, 

a leisurely cycle, or for those with the 

endurance for a marathon, Salzburg offers 

plenty of recreational diversion as well. 

One of the best tips to make the most of 

your stay is the cost-saving Salzburg Card 

which offers free admission to a host of city 

attractions, as well as complimentary use of 

public transportation and a variety of other 

discounts (valid for choice of 24/48/72 hrs). 

211 212

Graz 

There’s nothing better than being unexpectedly 

delighted and thoroughly captivated on any 

travel itinerary. In fact, maybe even left wondering 

why you hadn’t known of this gem before. In 

entertainment, it’s sometimes referred to as a 

‘sleeper hit’. The southerly Austrian city of Graz 

with its charming laid-back attitude firmly knows 

that dining al fresco goes hand-in-hand with its 

sunny Mediterranean-influenced climate; that 

architecture is best contemplated through the 

striking coming together of historical heritage 

and avant-garde new designs; and that culture 

transcends age with its calendar of events often 

held at out-of-the-ordinary locations. 

Much on the summertime programme also highlights Graz’s well-respected culinary scene - if food is a way to everyone’s heart then it’s hard not 

to fall in love with this Styrian capital city. From restaurants helmed by internationally-recognised chefs, to local haunts, to enticing sidewalk cafes, 

to festivals celebrating all things gastronomic, this UNESCO-recognised destination, with its landmark Clock Tower overlooking the city, knows 

the recipe to the good-life and is happy to take all the time it needs to give visitors a taste. 

213 214

Innsbruck 

The kind of mountains you well imagine in Austria ring the cool and chic city of 

Innsbruck which sits at the heart of the Tirol. As the host city of two Olympic Winter 

Games, this former imperial capital, once a favourite of Emperor Maximilian I, can 

definitely be lauded for giving summer the royal treatment as well. In fact, you couldn’t 

write a better summertime script if you tried – in the morning, explore this unique 

and appealing city influenced by not only by nature and a strong tradition, but also 

by its urban draws and sporting appeal which includes leisurely recreation as well as 

many organised events from trail running to mountain biking to urban obstacle courses 

(cool!) Then, in the afternoon, experience the futuristic vision of the late architect Zaha 

Hadid on the Hungerburg Funicular which transports visitors from the city center to the 

Nordkette mountain range in just minutes. 

From here, easily connect to the mountain cable car system taking guests to its highest 

point of 2300m from where the 360-degree panoramic views showcase this stunning 

region dotted with holiday villages. Once back down on the ground, though perhaps 

with your head still a bit in the clouds from the beauty of all of it, end the day in 

atmospheric Innsbruck doing some shopping or taking a coffee break along the broad 

pedestrian ways of Maria Theresien Street, and don’t miss a visit to Innsbruck’s most 

famous sight – the Golden Roof, tucked away in the Old Town and a reminder of 

Innsbruck’s rich imperial history. 

Three amazing cities - all worth a viewing this summer, so…do the sounds of Salzburg lure as a cultural 

A-lister? Will Graz tempt the palate and the soul with its laissez-faire attitude and sunny disposition? Or 

does Innsbruck reign supreme with its cool, alpine feel? You can always return for a sequel… 

215 216

SUMMER ADVENTURE AUSTRIA 

Forget the stress of travelling in a car. For a truly relaxing holiday choose the tranquillity 

of two wheels or two legs instead. Cycling or trekking will allow you to discover pure 

nature, woods, meadows, farms and valleys, small villages. 

Walking the Austrian Alps is a wonderfully enchanting experience, with clean, crisp air, perfect 

mountain scenery, wildflowers, snow-capped mountains, blue lagoons, waterfalls, idyllic trails 

and the soothing sound of tinkling cowbells. Mountain huts are strategically dotted around 

the Alps. Although called huts these actually resemble small hostels, where visitors can book a 

room, or simply enjoy a delicious plate of traditional home cooked food and traditional Austrian 

beer. Easily negotiate the trails due to a well-appointed system of signposts directing the way. 

The beautiful mountains of Austrian Tyrol, with 

peaks, stunning landscapes, towns rich with history, 

culture and traditions is a perfect location to explore 

and discover the beauty of this region. Innsbruck 

often referred to as the Capital of the Alps, is a city 

dedicated to cycling with hundreds of kilometres of 

trails to discover, from extreme mountain tracks to 

easy, peaceful cycle paths along the picturesque Inn 

Valley with imposing medieval castles, culture and 

gastronomic stops along the way. Various types of 

bikes are available to hire including environmentally 

friendly city bikes and sturdy mountain bikes. 

Passionate mountain bikers are in for a treat with 

over 115 kilometres of varying levels of difficulty 

MTB routes and heights of up to 2,250 metres, and 

epic adrenalin fuelled gravity-defying purpose-built 

racetracks. 

217 218

Tyrol-Austria 

VÖSTLHOF 

LEUTASCH 

Country Apartments 

Vöstlhof Leutasch not only brings you 

closer to nature but also showcases the 

beauty of the countryside of Austria. The 

apartments may be furnished lavishly but 

they bring with them a homely feel that 

makes the guests want to keep returning 

year after year. 

Platzl 112, 6105 Leutasch, Austria ♦ Tel +43 676 6833865 ♦ voestlhof.tirol 

Looking for a casual and furnished 

holiday home in Tyrol? Look no 

further than Vöstlhof Leutasch. Nestled 

amidst Tyrolean mountains, it serves 

as a cozy retreat for anyone looking 

to unwind from their hectic schedules. 

Not only do guests get to enjoy the 

peace, recharge their batteries and 

gather many beautiful memories, but 

there are numerous sports activities 

that they can indulge in, as well. These 

activities include cross-country skiing, 

sledding, hiking, biking and mountainclimbing. 

Most of the apartments here feature 

pinewood furnishings, giving the 

space a regal feel. If you’re looking to 

share space with your family members 

or loved ones, then the “Hohe 

Munde” is probably the best option 

for you. Spread across 50m² of living 

space, it even has its own balcony 

where sun shines galore. Consisting 

of a double-bed, built using pine 

wood, you can make optimum use 

of the spacious kitchen that comes 

along with a pull-out couch. 

The ‘Comfort’ and ‘Wetterstein’ apartments 

can accomodate two to four people. The 

apartments consist of a fully-equipped 

kitchen, a cozy living room, bedroom, a 

new bathroom with shower, toilet, and 

amenities like hairdryer and satellite TV. 

Guests can get their hands on the trail maps 

which have 250 kilometers of well-marked 

trails to explore around the apartments. 

Bicycle rentals as well as properlymaintained 

sports equipment are available 

for the guests as well. You can make use 

of the ski-room for grooming and the safe 

storage to secure your valuable items. For 

entertainment purposes, there’s access 

to board games, magazines, books, CDs, 

toys and much more at your disposal. A 

game room with Lego, table football, and 

pinball is accessible to all. Coffee lovers will 

have loads to look forward to as there are 

three types of coffee machines to choose 

from: tabs, pads and filters. The hotel 

also features a local bakery of its own that 

supplies guests with delicious and fresh 

bread. 

219 220

Austria 

KAISERLODGE 

Hotel and Restaurant 

Image by: Daniel Frank 

Dorf 11, 6351 Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, Austria ♦ Tel +43 5358 44300 ♦ kaiserlodge.at 

Looking for a place to indulge all your senses during your vacation? Kaiserlodge 

Resort is the place for you. Overlooking the spectacular region of Wilder Kaiser, 

the property is filled with an abundance of lake suites, penthouses, garden suites and 

mountain apartments. 

The structure is based on the traditional Tyrolean architecture and built with locallysourced 

natural materials. A luscious green ski slope lies in front of the property. The 

mountain hideaway is located in the village of Scheffau, not far from the Kitzbuhel Alps. 

Each room in the resort boasts of modern and sophisticated interiors and amenities. Out 

of the 44 apartments and penthouses, 14 give guests private access to the lake which is 

located right next to the resort. You can also get some relaxing treatments and massages 

in the resort’s state-of-the-art spa while taking in the beauty of the region around. The 

spa even features a hammam and sauna for your indulgence. If you’re an outdoor person, 

there’s the outdoor pool, and a relaxation area as well. You can find numerous hiking trails 

around and can go skiing right from the front door! Kaiserlodge truly provides you with 

the natural getaway you’ve been waiting for! 

221 222

Austria 

BIOLANDHAUS 

ARCHE 

Eco Friendly Hotel 

This hotel is a bolt hole set in a serene environment surrounded by nature. Perfect 

for those wishing to escape the busy city life. The hotel has the advantage of a wellappointed 

spa and wellness centre offering yoga and massage, and a grand library 

boasting an extensive collection of books to suit every literary palate. 

Vollwertweg 1a, 9372 Eberstein, Austria ♦ Tel +43 4264 8120 ♦ bioarche.at/de/ 

A 

ground-breaking and award-winning family run eco hotel located in Carinthia, Southern 

Austria, well-known for its mountains and lakes. The hotel has been thoughtfully 

constructed using sustainable and recycled materials with an architecturally interesting design 

to resemble the biblical Ark. 

Expect a warm welcome from the owners, the Tessmanns, who are fully involved with the daily 

running of the hotel. The chef is 81-year-old Rosalinde Tessman, a pioneering member of the 

family who runs the kitchen. She is a disciple to fresh, healthy and certified organic vegetarian 

cooking, using locally sourced ingredients to deliver delicious meals throughout the day. 

Enjoy a holiday with a conscience as this hotel has empathy for the environment and your 

health, providing a great night’s sleep due to its wonderfully peaceful location over 900 metres 

above sea level providing the most wondrous panoramic views, to be enjoyed and admired 

from many of the comfortable and spotlessly clean rooms. 

The hotel is extremely family friendly and regularly hosts excursions and activities such as 

lama petting, pony carriage rides and snowman building competitions plus so much more 

for younger guests. For everyone there are numerous activities on offer all year round 

including guided hikes, various snow sports for all levels of experience with instructors on 

hand and equipment for hire. 

Other benefits of the hotel include 

conference facilities, free parking, 

easy access for wheelchair users, 

pets are welcomed at an extra 

small daily rate. 

There are a variety of rooms, all 

non-smoking, including singles, 

doubles, large interconnecting 

family suites and three selfcatering 

apartments. 

223 224

AUSTRIAN MOUNTAIN GETAWAYS 

Austria offers an authentic winter 

wonderland experience, with so many 

activities on offer. Skiing is the most apparent 

sport to enjoy with probably the best resorts 

located in Heiligenblut and situated around 

Austria’s most massive mountain, the aptly 

named Grossglockner. However, there is so 

much more to Austria than meets the eye, 

such as climbing frozen waterfalls, organised 

frozen lake luxury car drifting experiences, 

snowboarding, sledging. For those requiring 

a more relaxed experience or just some wellearned 

luxury after a hard day of cross country 

skiing, Austria offers romantic log fired chalets, 

gondola trips up enormous mountains to view 

rivers of snow and frozen gorges and cosy 

horse-drawn sleigh rides. 

A trip on the Nordkette funicular provides a 

unique experience. Located in Innsbruck, also 

known as the capital of the Alps, the funicular 

is a 20-minute cable ride 2300 metres up to 

the peak of the Hafekelar deep in the heart 

of Olympic Skiing territory and numerous 

professional and family-friendly ski resorts. 

The surrounding villages offer mountain huts 

blanketed by snow and excellent Austrian 

restaurants, serving Italian inspired dishes. 

Back down to earth in the city of Innsbruck, 

enjoy a picture-perfect holiday atmosphere 

due to the wealth of history and culture 

and famous Christmas markets. Wander 

around the magical medieval streets, 

snack on traditional sweet doughnuts and 

purchase the beautiful handmade local 

folklore inspired Christmas ornaments and 

decorations. 

The atmosphere is a mixture of excitement 

and happy and the towering snow-tipped 

mountains provide that extra special touch 

to make this a real winter wonderland. 

225 226

Austria 

HALLSTATT 

HIDEAWAY – 

ADULTS ONLY 


The hotel itself is pitched in with an array 

of elegant and spacious suites that offer 

the most supreme views of the lake and 

mountains. Each of the luxurious suites 

come with its very own seating area, an 

iPad as well as a coffee and tea maker. The 

bathroom comes with bathrobes, slippers 

and a hairdryer with smart-technology user 

interface. If you decide to stay in a high-end 

suite, you will also get a private terrace, 

kitchen, kitchenette, fireplace, and a private 

library exclusively for your indulgence. 

Guests can also order breakfast-in-bed. 

Dr.-Friedrich-Morton-Weg 24, Hallstatt 4830, Austria 

Hallstatt Hideaway offers panoramic views of Lake Hallstatt. Surrounded by high-rise 

mountains, the hotel can be found located in the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage 

town of Hallstatt. 

The natural setting enables guests to kick back and relax, breathe in the fresh air and let go of 

everyday life. The structure is packed with modern elements and smart technology solutions. It 

represents a historic architecture, combined with sophisticated craftsmanship and contemporary 

design elements, thereby making the stay at the hotel an extremely pleasant affair for the body 

as well as the soul. 

Since it is an Adults-Only accommodation, 

children under the age of 12 years are not 

allowed. What’s more? A shuttle service 

to the hotel on arrival and departure is 

available, absolutely free of any additional 

cost. 

The extremely famous Dachstein West Aki 

Area is located roughly 20 minutes away 

from the accommodation. You can even 

unwind in the private relaxation area by the 

lake. 

The mini-market is located at a stone’s 

throw distance from the hotel and groceries 

can be arranged to be delivered to your 

room too. Other sports activities such 

as a tennis court are also included in the 

package. For elders, there’s a cozy garden 

available for walking. You can even go 

fishing or skiing around the hotel with ease. 

Hallstatt Hideaway takes you far away from 

the hustle and bustle of the cities into the 

countryside and relaxes and rejuvenates 

you throughout your stay. 

227 228

Austria 

HIMMLHOF 


Another one of the primary highlights of Himmlhof are its spa facilities.The spa area 

is deceptively large and very welcoming, perfect for relaxation. The spa area includes 

saunas, a steam bath as well as a massage room. Guests can spend a long day touring 

through the city and come back to the hotel to relax with a full-body massage. The hotel 

further sports a summer terrace, which offers panoramic mountain views. 

The open fireplace in the lounge area and completely wooden ‘Stuberls’ provide 

fantastic, traditional public areas to relax in the hotel. In the afternoon and evening, 

head to the cosy, homely lounge bar. Relax on the comfortable décor while you enjoy 

the romantic atmosphere in front of the antique, open fireplace. The interior is warm 

and inviting with high-quality Loden and heavy Persian carpets completing the cosy and 

inviting atmosphere. 

Im Gries 9, 6580 St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria ♦ Tel +43 5446 2322 ♦ himmlhof.com 

Himmlhof is a luxury four-star 

boutique hotel situated in 

the heart of the vibrant resort of 

St. Anton am Arlberg. With an off 

street location that is quiet and 

peaceful, you may forget that St 

Anton’s bustling main street is just 

a 30-second walk away, perfect for 

enjoying all the delicious culinary 

offerings in St Anton that you can 

experience when staying at a bed 

and breakfast. 

The amazing attention to detail 

throughout the hotel creates 

an intimate and cosy Tyrolean 

atmosphere. Offering a multitude 

of room styles and choices, this 

cosy lodge-style hotel adopts a 

combination of luxurious Tyrolean 

design whilst staying true to the 

region’s Alpine influences. Each 

of these rooms are equipped with 

entertainment facilities that provide 

full comfort to the guests. If you 

choose to stay in the superior suite, 

then you will get access to your very 

own balcony. 

In the mornings, a rich 

breakfast buffet with regional 

products is served. Later in 

the day, a sweet and spicy 

après ski snack is offered in 

the afternoon. Homemade 

cakes, bacon, organic cheese, 

homemade bread spreads, 

hot deer sausages, Tyrolean 

style meatloaf, delicious salads, 

hot soups, and, now and then, 

some European cuisine will 

meet the needs of the hungry 

skiers coming home. 

Himmlhof gives you the finest 

luxurious experience in Tyrol 

and gives you access to the 

very best of the area. 

229 230

Leogang | Austria 

How to Get in 

• Bus 

• Train 

• Drive in 

• Fly in 

The all season, all weather scenic 

resort in the heart of Austria. 

Get Around 

• On foot 

• Bicycle 

• Ski Lift 


• Bikepark Leogang 

• Bergbau & 

Gotikmuseum 

• Sinne Park 

Things to do 

• Flying Fox 

• Ski 

• Mountain Bike 


www.saalfelden-leogang. 

com/en 

231 232

Austria 

PURADIES 

Elegant Hotel 

Hotel & Chalet PURADIES, Rain 9, 5771 Leogang, Austria ♦ Tel + +43 6583 8275 ♦ 

puradies.com 

Lots of timber and big panoramic windows 

provide cosiness and the alpine flair of the 

mountains. The modern designed baths 

offer enough space and are equipped with 

every comfort. And after a while you will 

notice: The PURADIES is the place where 

you will quickly feel like home. A retreat on 

premium level that will remain etched in 

your memory for a very long time. 

The PURADIES is a stately 

Pinzgau farmhouse from the 

17th century. For more than 50 years, 

this historic house has not only been 

an organic farm, but also a small 

hotel in Leogang with 20 rooms for 

connoisseurs from all over Central 

Europe. 

THE NEW PURADIES – with our 

continued development, the 

Embachhof has become part of the 

heart of the PURADIES Hotel and 

Resort. The new rooms and suites will 

satisfy every need. 

Alpine, modern and on the sunniest 

spot of Leogang – this is how the 

PURADIES presents itself to our guests. 

A hotel with a feel-good factor that 

puts the focus on the guest and meets 

all the requirements of a high-class 

hotel. Chosen for „Best Newcomer 

2017“ from the Connoisseur Circle, 

our PURADIES shows highest design 

standards and offers a real and authentic 

feeling of well-being. A unique world of 

recreation which makes you forget the 

everday life easily. 

Wooden beam for 

wooden beam, shingle 

for shingle. Surrounded 

by the picturesque 

scenery of the Alps, 

you will spend a superb 

holiday in Leogang in 

our luxury chalet village. 

Hidden behind the rustic, 

sun-drenched wooden 

façades, the interiors of 

our one- or two-floor 

holiday chalets surprise 

guests with intriguing 

modern alpine design, 

tiled stove and private 

spa. We truly believe in 

presenting the best of 

the alpine region to our 

guests. 

233 234

LOOKING PAST BRUSSELS 

There is more to Belgium than meets the eye, it’s not only about major cities like 

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, there is the often overlooked towns such as 

Hoogstraten and the surrounding area, that should really be explored too. 

Take Hoogstraten for example, with a population of around 20,000, it lies in the Flanders 

region on the northern borders of Belgium. Historically, it would have started out as a 

small town but has developed and has become internationally known for its strawberries, 

although tomatoes still remain its main crop. 

Flanders, a particularly flat area, with part of the region bordering the North Sea, is 

today known for its agriculture, yet is rich in history. Although not the largest area of 

Belgium, it is the most populated. 

Flanders saw one of the greatest losses on the Western Front in World War I, in particular 

the battles of Ypres and with the well preserved and maintained wartime memorials, it 

remains a popular location for visitors to admire the many historic sites, that bring back 

memories of the historic and world changing events that have gone in years’ past 

Other reasonably sized towns are located nearby such as Tilburg, Breda and Turnhout, 

which are also worth visiting to see a different side of Belgium, away from the major 

cities. These towns will give a true taste of Belgium, including the history, architecture and 

culture, that has not been exploited for tourism like many of the major Belgium cities such 

as Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent have. 

235 236

Belgium 

B&B BERGENHOF 

Design Bed and Breakfast 

Bergenstraat 17, 2322 Hoogstraten, Belgium ♦ Tel +32 468 43 93 34 

A scrumptious continental breakfast (that 

also comprises of fresh eggs from the hosts’ 

own chickens) is available every morning at 

the property. Guests can also relax in the 

lush garden amidst the fragrance of fresh 

flowers and the soothing country breeze. 

With a quiet and beautiful location that has 

comfortable beds, clean rooms and the 

most gracious host, who is fluent in German, 

English, and Dutch, B&B Bergenhof is 

the best way for all to enjoy a homely 

environment away from home. The hosts 

also give you special recommendations 

regarding the best things to do in the town 

of Hoogstraten, best restaurants, and travel 

tips as well. 

The hostess of the B&B Bergenhof is happy 

to organise packed lunches for picnics, 

should you require those for day trips away 

from Bergenhof. 

All of Europe is renowned for its 

gorgeous views, especially in the 

countryside. Quaint cottages set amidst 

verdant rolling hills, crisp breezes and 

romantic environs have inspired writers 

and poets from time immemorial. 

One such place in the heart of chocolate 

country is the B&B Bergenhof in 

Hoogstraten in Belgium. Antwerp 

International Airport is a picturesque 47km 

drive from this charming abode. This 

seemingly old-world property has all the 

modern amenities that fulfil the material 

needs of a comfortable family vacation. 

But that doesn’t mean that couples, friends 

and business travellers can’t have the time 

of their lives here! 

Set in Hoogstraten, B&B Bergenhof is a 

comfortable accommodation with plenty 

of sitting areas and spaces to lounge 

around in. All of the units in this bed and 

breakfast include a cable flat-screen TV, a 

fully stocked kitchen with a microwave, and 

a private bathroom with a shower and a 

hair dryer. Some rooms in the abode have a 

separate dining area that affords gorgeous 

views of a typical European ‘village’. 

The modern facilities even in the midst of 

a rural area make B&B Bergenhof an ideal 

place for an eclectic family vacation where 

you can watch life go by as you put your 

feet up in the comfort of homely facilities. 

237 238

Bruges | Belgium 

How to Get in 

• Train 

• Car 

• Ferry 

• Bus 

A one of a kind quaint preindustrial 

town. A visit to Europe 

isn’t complete without a visit to 

this wonderful town. 

Get Around 

• On foot 

• Bicycle 


• Basilica of the Holy 

Blood 

• Brewery de Halve Maan 

• Lucifernum 

Things to do 

• Boat Tour 

• Hot Air Ballooning 

• Visit a Chocolate Shop 

Find out more - https:// 

www.visitbruges.be/en 

239 240

Belgium 

BRYGHIA HOTEL 

Family Friendly Hotel 

Oosterlingenplein 4, 8000 Brugge, Belgium ♦ Tel +32 50 33 80 59 ♦ bryghiahotel.be 

Eventually in 1965, after 

several centuries of 

uneventful existence, the 

building was restored and 

turned into the hotel which 

led to a new exciting chapter 

in its history. 

In 2018 the property and the 

hotel were acquired by the 

Vanrenterghem family whose 

long-term refurbishment 

programme aims to restore 

the hotel to its former glory 

in the next decade to come. 

Romantic and exuding charm, 

family-owned Bryghia Hotel 

features 22 comfortable rooms, 

many of which are renowned for 

their unique and splendid canal 

views. Praised for its intimate and 

homely atmosphere, it has been a 

firm favourite of travellers for years. 

Bryghia Hotel, its building located 

in part of the original “Domus 

Osterlingorum” or “House Of The 

Orientals”, has always been a very 

important part of Bruges’ history. 

Built during the Middle Ages 

between 1478 and 1481 it was the 

most significant of 4 trading houses 

of the German Hanseatic League. 

Due to changing circumstances 

Bruges started to lose prominence 

as a trading city which eventually led 

to the merchants moving out of the 

city around 1500 with only the coat 

of arms of the Holy Roman Empire 

hanging above the doorway as a 

reminder of its rich past. 

As a family-owned business, we expect our 

guests to make themselves at home and treat 

our hotel like their own family hideaway. We 

take great pride in welcoming everyone from 

newborns to great-grandparents and if you are 

planning a break with all of the family, Bryghia 

Hotel is the perfect place for gathering and 

celebrating with all your nearest and dearest in a 

warm and inviting atmosphere. 

Though located in a very quiet part of the historic 

city it still benefits from being very near to the 

centre with the market being only a five-minute 

walk away. 

241 242

TURKEY 

Image by: Giuseppe Mondi 

243 244

ISTANBUL – STUNNING CITY OF EUROPE 

Located in the Marmara region of Turkey, Istanbul could be one of the coolest cities 

in Europe. It is a city of culture and it was the European City of Culture in 2010. 

It is Turkey´s largest city, with a population exceeding 15 million, making it the most 

populated city in Europe, and the city continues to expand rapidly and develop due to 

the vibrant economy. 

Istanbul has stunning architecture, due it historically being a Roman, Byzantime and 

Ottoman capital, it makes Istanbul a city to visit and never forget. 

Istanbul is a colourful and vibrant city, with busy city shopping, attractions, museums, 

nightlife, bars, restaurants and the many religious and historical sites. The spiritual 

mosques and Ottoman Palaces, need to be visited to appreciate their grandeur. 

The likes of Mark Twain and Agatha 

Christie, all had clear connections with 

Istanbul, and Orhan Pamuk was awarded 

the nobel prize for Literature. Many 

other creative individuals have openly 

been inspired by Istanbul too. 

Istanbul is different to all the other major 

European cities, with architecture from 

different ages, from Ancient Hellenic 

sites to modern constructions, make the 

city beautiful and awe inspiring. There 

are many protected UNESCO World 

Heritage sites covering over 650 hectares 

of Istanbul, for example, Topkapi Palace 

and Basilca Cistern. 

245 246

The Ottoman Palaces, once the homes 

of Sultans, are now for visitors to Istanbul 

to enjoy. A number of Ottoman Palaces 

are now luxurious hotels where guests 

can enjoy high class residence and 

restaurants, true luxury. 

Hospitality within Turkey and Istanbul 

is of the highest standard, with the 

best in accommodation, service, food 

and drink. The Turkish cuisine served is 

appreciated worldwide, so where better 

to enjoy than Istanbul. 

With influences from the eight bordering 

countries, some of the most unique food 

in the world can be found here including 

Kofte, Doner, Kumpir and Lahmacun, 

There are so many attractions to see in 

and around Istanbul, a few examples 

include Aya Sofya, now a museum 

but once a Cathedral, or the amazing 

Topkapi Palace, built in the 15th century, 

for hundreds or years inhabited by 

sultans. 

The Hippodrome, construction 

commenced AD 203 and 

completed AD 330, was once full 

of excitement as chariot races 

and games took place. Very little 

remain in place, but certainly a site 

worth a visit. 

Istanbul is a city like no other, and 

a city that is a must visit for anyone 

who wants to see a city with an 

offering completely different to 

the other major European cities. 

247 248

Turkey 

REIS INN HOTEL 

Award For Excellence 

In Service 

Atatürk Mah. Adnan Kahveci Bulvarı No. 7 Beylikdüzü /İstanbul ♦ 

Tel +90 212 426 36 36 ♦ reisinnhotel.com 

Situated in close proximity 

to the evergreen Istanbul 

Ataturk Airport and Istanbul’s largest 

International Fairground, Reis Inn 

Hotel gives you access to the best 

places in town with ease. 

Owing to its central location, it is very 

easy for the guests to go around town. 

If you’re looking to get away from the 

everyday routine of your life, Reis Inn 

Hotel in Istanbul is the answer to your 

problems. The hotel boasts of 139 

Deluxe Rooms, 10 Deluxe Suites and 

1 room for differently abled guests. 

Each room is well-equipped with the 

most modern amenities including 

LCD screen television, work table, 

minibar, direct-dial telephones in the 

bathrooms and the rooms, as well as 

a safety box, among other things. 

The Deluxe Suites pack even more 

luxury and are spread out across a 

vast area of 50m 2 . Plush furnishings 

and round the clock services ensure 

an indulging and relaxing stay at the 

hotel. 

You can take a Turkish bath, enjoy the 

heat in the sauna, relax in the steam room 

and jacuzzi or take a dip in the indoor 

swimming pool. If you want to keep up 

with your fitness schedule, you can head to 

the fitness center which is equipped with 

all the necessary gym equipment. 

The Inci Restaurant will give you an 

indulgent experience with its palatial 

ambience and mouthwatering delicacies 

from both Turkey and across the world. 

Their team of chefs and the staff leave no 

stone unturned to make sure that your 

gastronomic requirements are not just met 

but are exceeded by a huge margin. 

The hotel also features meeting rooms that 

are built on the mezzanine level. These 

provide you with a relaxing environment 

in your busy meetings with their special 

billiards table and library, where you can 

relax and take a break from the meetings. 

You can even organize your own private 

events at the restaurant including company 

dinners, engagements, weddings, 

birthdays and henna nights. Reis Inn Hotel 

truly enhances your stay in Istanbul and 

serves you the very best of what the city 

has to offer. 

249 250

Turkey 

HILTON MARMARA 

REGION BOMONTI 

Hotel and Spa 

Silahsor Cad. No 42 Bomonti-Sisli, Istanbul, 34381, Turkey ♦ Tel +90-212-3753000 ♦ 

https://www3.hilton.com 

You can choose from their high-floor deluxe 

rooms, elegant suites as well as separate 

living rooms. Each and every space comes 

with complimentary Wi-Fi, space for work, 

HDTV and the all-famous Hilton Serenity 

Bed, which will give you a good night’s 

sleep. 

Located opposite the grand 

Bomontiada, which was 

also formerly known as Bomonti 

Beer Factory, the Hilton Marmara 

Region Bomonti can be found 

nestled in the most colourful part 

of the city of Istanbul. As soon as 

you step out of the hotel, you are 

met with a street that is lined with 

the most popular entertainment 

venues of the city. Transportation 

couldn’t get better with the 

bustling Osmanbey Metro Station 

just a 10-minute-walk away from 

the hotel. 

Choose to stay in one of the 

hotel’s 829 rooms, equipped 

with some of the best amenities 

in the country. Be it the grandeur 

of Bosphorus or the stunning 

Marmara Sea, the majority of the 

rooms at the hotel feature direct 

views through their windows. 

The hotel also features the 

2017 World Luxury Spa Awardswinning 

eforea Spa on three of 

the floors. 

The Globe Restaurant is helmed by some of 

the most experienced chefs in the country. 

The restaurant dishes out some exotic 

Turkish, Mediterranean and grilled dishes. 

You can enjoy a continental breakfast 

each morning with an incredible view at 

the hotel’s rooftop restaurant – Cloud 34. 

Guests enjoy themselves, savouring 

the sushi menu, Asian delicacies and 

international cocktails. 

If you’re looking to make a business trip 

then different equipment and facilities such 

as audio/visual equipment rental, business 

phone services, and cellular phone rentals 

are made available. If you’re planning on 

traveling with your children, the hotel 

provides babysitting service, a special 

children’s menu, and children’s video rental. 

The hotel makes a special effort to enhance 

the comfort of its guests by including things 

like baggage storages, barber shops, 

beauty salons, and much more. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious and 

indulgent trip to Istanbul, choose to stay 

at Hilton Marmara Region Bomonti and let 

yourself get pampered throughout your 

stay. 

251 252

Turkey 

RAVOUNA 1906 – 

SPECIAL CATEGORY 


In Service 

İstiklal Cad. No.201 Tomtom Mah. Beyoğlu, İstanbul, Türkiye ♦ Tel +90 212 924 87 60 ♦ 

ravouna1906.com 

Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most iconic cities in the world. Straddling between Asia 

and Europe, it offers an interesting amalgamation of marvelous, rich architecture, and lipsmacking 

food. If you have an upcoming Turkish holiday in your calendar, make sure you stay at 

Ravouna 1906 – Special Category. 

Located centrally on the bustling Istiklal Avenue, Ravouna 1906 offers accommodation with 

lovely views of the sea and the city. The magnificent Ravouna Building was designed by C.P. 

Kyriakides in 1894. It was meant to be an antique boutique and home for the Italian Ravouna 

family. 

Ravouna 1906 – Special Category offers 

accommodation in eight lavish suites 

spread across four floors of the Ravouna 

Building. Each suite has a distinct texture 

and color palette. Elegant furniture and 

woven fabric add to their beauty. It is 

further enhanced by the use of special oak 

flooring. While some of these suites offer 

lovely views of the sea, others face the 

vibrant Istiklal Avenue. 

The rooms feature all modern amenities 

to ensure that you have a luxurious stay. 

The suites are also equipped with fullyfunctional 

kitchenettes and dining tables. 

Don’t miss the freshly ground coffee that is 

considered to be their specialty. 

The property doesn’t miss a chance to 

exhibit grandeur, even in the minutest 

details. This is evident from the use of 

antique Carrera Marbles in the bathrooms. 

They also feature a shower, hair-dryer, and 

exclusive Turkish bathrobes. Each suite has 

a private balcony that opens to the tranquil 

sea or the busy street. 

Ravouna 1906 – Special Category lets you 

enjoy in-room dining facilities. Visit the onsite 

restaurant to try some authentic Turkish 

delicacies. 

Owing to its strategic location, Ravouna 

1906 allows guests to explore Istanbul to 

the fullest. The Galata Tower, surrounded 

by restaurants and cafes, is located just 600 

meters away from the property. 

Ravouna 1906 – Special Category offers 

the perfect combination of regal interiors 

and contemporary facilities. The property 

lets you experience the spirit of Istanbul in 

all its glory. It gives you a glimpse of the 

fascinating history and culture that hides in 

every corner of the extraordinary city. 

253 254

Turkey 

CLARION HOTEL 

GOLDEN HORN 

Waterfront Hotel 

The hotel is especially concerned about 

its guest’s convenience and thus, provides 

free shuttle services to Cevahir Mall and 

Taksim Square, four times a day. It also 

features a fitness centre and a restaurant 

that serves international cuisines. However, 

do give their Turkish meals a shot. They are 

made extremely well and will give you the 

authentic local flavors. 

At the hotel, breakfast is usually served in 

buffet style. However, you can get your 

meal delivered to your room, on request. 

Sivaseli Sokak No:10 Sütlüce, İmrahor Caddesi, 34445 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey ♦ 

Tel +90 212 314 04 44 ♦ clariongoldenhorn.com 

If you wish to discover the very 

heart and essence of Istanbul, 

choose to stay at Clarion Hotel 

Golden Horn. Located right on the 

Golden Horn, this hotel provides 

you fantastic facilities and a prime 

location to start your exploration of 

the city. 

Being right on the waterfront, 

it comes as no surprise that the 

hotel’s rooms give you some serene 

views of the water passing by. You 

can witness the primary inlet of 

Bosphorus into Turkey right here! 

Each of the rooms are equipped with 

bright interiors and plush furnishings. 

Private bathrooms, equipped with 

showers and all the bath essentials 

are included. The rooms also come 

along with their own safety box and 

a high-quality extra-long bed for 

maximum comfort of the guests. You 

can organize and enjoy your very 

own little private party on the room’s 

terrace as well. Get mesmerized by 

the Istanbul skyline, while you’re 

sipping on your favourite drink right 

on your private deck. 

The famous Taksim Square is located 

7-kilometers away from the hotel. If you’re 

the kind who enjoys shopping, the side 

streets of Takism Sqaure contains antique 

boutiques. Other primary attractions 

around the hotel include the Halic Congress 

Centre, which is 1.9-kilometers away from 

the property. 

Clarion Hotel Golden Horn ensures 

that every single need of their guests is 

taken care of. The idyllic location and 

splendid services make this hotel a perfect 

destination for your next vacation to 

Istanbul. 

255 256

Bodrum | Turkey 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Ferry 

• Bus 


A city of two halves balancing ancient 

ruins with a modern nightlife 

Get Around 

• Dolmus 

• Bicycle 

• On foot 


• Bodrum Castle 

• Karakaya Village 

• Windmills 

Things to do 

• Hamam 

• Water Sport 

• Boat Tour 

• Shop at the Bazaar 

Find out more – 

http://www.bodrum.org/ 

257 258

Turkey 

CASA HERMANAS 

Stylish Resort 

Torba Mahallesi, İnönü Caddesi No:64 Torba Bodrum, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey ♦ 

Tel + 90 252 367 18 48 ♦ casahermanas.com 

Located in the stunning 

destination of Bodrum, 

Casa Hermanas offers a unique 

experience unlike any other. 

Guests are offered the opportunity 

to immerse themselves in the 

breathtaking surroundings of nature 

and the Aegean Sea. Golden sand 

beaches can be found at a 5 minute 

walking distance. Ports, bays, coves 

or hills – there is an abundance of 

scenery just a stone’s throw distance 

from the resort. 

The resort features 36 suites each 

of which is designed to be kid 

friendly. There are four different 

types of suites for you to choose 

from; Fantasia suites, Fiesta suites, 

Amor suites and Corazon suites. 

Fantasia suites are ideal for a couple 

as they overlook the sea and consist 

of spacious living rooms with an 

exclusive jacuzzi. The rooms feature 

extra large windows that allow 

guests to stay indoors while also 

getting adequate panoramic views 

of the sea. 

The Fiesta suites, on the other hand, offer 

unmatched opulence and feature two 

bedrooms and a separate living room. The 

space is comfortably equipped with smart 

technology solutions such as a fridge, 

bathroom amenities, satellite TV and more. 

Meanwhile, the Amor suites are 60-square 

meters in size and have a separate living 

room and bedroom areas for comfort. 

The rooms also include a glass-enclosed 

shower with all bathroom amenities. Lastly, 

the Corazon suites are known for their 

comfort and style. Sip a cup of tea or coffee 

on your own private patio while taking in 

the beautiful views around. 

The resort is known to present rich, tasty 

and colorful Mediterranean cuisine. It also 

specializes in Mexican dishes. You can 

choose to eat your meal at the main dining 

room or at the exquisite beach bar, which is 

surrounded by one of the best views in the 

whole of Bodrum. 

The resort includes spa facilities and a 

fitness centre that offers yoga and pilates 

classes. Art workshops as such the Clay 

Therapy, are regularly organized for 

children’s entertainment. If you’re looking 

for a quiet getaway at an exotic location, 

Casa Hermanas is your calling. 

259 260

Turkey 

BEYAZ VILLAS 

Family Friendly Apartments 

Beyaz Villas, Gul Sokak, Dalyan, 48840, Turkey ♦ Tel +90 2522842729 ♦ beyazvillas.com 

Apartments consist of a double or twin 

bedroom, a living/kitchen area, a bathroom 

and a balcony. You can also book a family 

apartment with three bedrooms which can 

accommodate 6-8 people. Facilities within 

the grounds include free wifi, table tennis, 

swimming pool , bar, alfresco dining and 

free parking. 

After you enjoy a sumptuous buffet 

breakfast of fresh produce, the only 

dilemma is choosing between relaxing by 

the pool or enjoying one of the many tailormade 

organised private trips put together 

by the staff. 

Imagine a home away from home. A place where a holiday becomes more than a getaway; 

and becomes an experience instead. Beyas Villas – a collection of family-friendly apartments 

in Turkey is one such place. 

This beautiful ‘apart-hotel’ is just about a 5-minute walk from the picturesque centre of Dalyan 

and your indulgence begins with a homely welcome at the airport where you are collected by 

private taxi and in less than 30 minutes, you are at the villas. 

Get used to the ambience as you relax at the bar while your luggage is transferred to your room, 

each of which has a kettle, a fridge, cooking essentials, fresh and soft bath towels, as well as 

hair dryers, and a safe. A bottle of water, a carton of milk and a packet of biscuits are also there. 

If you are a nature lover, you can walk 

along the lakeside or on the beach. Across 

the river from Dalyan is the historic city of 

Kaunos. On the way up to Kaunos, you 

pass the Lycian tombs, which have looked 

over Dalyan for some 2500 years and can 

also be spotted from the main town over 

the lake. 

Iztuzu beach (also called Turtle Beach) 

is accessible from Dalyan via boat and 

dolmus (minibus). Wildlife aficionados 

can be treated to gorgeous colonies 

of loggerhead sea turtles, storks, and 

kingfishers. 

If all the sight-seeing has left you fatigued, 

come back to the comfort of your home 

away from home to the Beyas Villas for an 

evening of relaxed partying. A night-out 

right within the comfort of your vacation 

home will be the best way to round off a 

day spent in the best possible way. 

261 262

ITALY 

263 264

THE ENDURING APPEAL OF ITALY 

What is it about Italy that enthrals? It is a fusion of many things, from fast cars and 

world-class fashion design to the natural beauty of the rugged coastlines and 

verdant green hillsides, spectacular lakes, poignant islands, impressive cities and striking 

landscapes. 

Italy boasts an incredible collection of history, art and culture from the Renaissance to 

the ancient ruins including the ancient temple at Paestum and Agrigento to inspiring 

masterpieces hanging at the Vatican and Uffizi Museums. 

However, it is the people that draw 

visitors back time and time again. 

Italy is an extremely welcoming 

country with an inexhaustible zest 

for living and loving. Visitors have 

an opportunity to experience the 

famous “La Dolce Vita” in the 

form of a kind smile from a smartly 

dressed elderly gentleman, a firm 

and genuine handshake from a 

waiter, and invitations to join newly 

made friends for lunch. 

Some of the most stunning 

architecture in the world is based 

in Italy, Rome in particular. The jawdropping 

movie scene of the Eternal 

City with its Colosseum, fountains of 

fresh drinking water and monuments 

all possess the wow factor. Simply sit in 

the Piazza Navona, sip a strong Italian 

espresso and absorb the opulence 

that is Rome. An experience never to 

be forgotten. 

Of course, food plays a role in wanting 

to return to Italy. The addictive Italian 

cuisine, including pizza cooked that 

way only Italians can cook it with the 

classic thin crust, blend of Italian herbs 

and mozzarella cheese, the worldclass 

creamy gelato, Tuscan wines, 

and olive oil, no other country can 

replicate the flavours. 

265 266

For romantic and breathtaking countryside visit Tuscany. This picture-perfect region boasts 

one of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy and has a great deal to offer, from walled 

villages and medieval fortresses, stunning coastlines, marvellous cities, cooking classes, 

signature wines and food festivals. Tuscany offers an authentic Italian sensory overload. 

Lesser known gems are waiting to be explored, for example, Lake Iseo located in the 

north is an unspoilt nature spot, surrounded by the picturesque and historical “Borghi più 

Belli d’Italia” villages set against the dramatic backdrop of the Monte Isola mountains. 

In addition, the Puglia region 

is luxury, elegance and rustic 

perfectly combined with 

history, architecture, vibrant 

towns and enchanting 

beaches. Located in the 

heel on the map of Italy´s 

famous boot, it has risen 

up the ranks to become a 

perfect destination due to its 

diverse coastlines, with both 

the Adriatic and Ionian on 

either side and both easily 

accessible. For history lovers, 

visit the World Heritage 

site of Alberobello, with its 

gothic style Trulli houses that 

date back to the Bronze Age. 

Visit the cypress-lined region of 

Val D’orcia, where the site for the 

UNESCO World Heritage town of 

Pienza is located with its amazing 

architecture and wonderful markets 

selling the famous pecorino cheeses, 

homemade wines, olive oil and local 

honey. 

Also, Siena referred to as the “Little 

Sister of Florence” a city full of charm 

and history, with medieval brick 

houses, and the famous Piazza del 

Campo which hosts the biannual Palio 

horse racing event. 

Of course, Florence, the capital of 

Tuscany, is a delightful city for lovers 

of art and culture in abundance. After 

all, the Renaissance period was born 

here and that makes this city all the 

more spectacular. 

267 268

BEN CARSON 

Love from Tuscany 

Q&A 

Tell us a little about Love from Tuscany 

Love from Tuscany is an online travel guide 

to one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. 

We offer our readers a mix of practical advice 

and immersive stories that help them plan 

their trips. And we give them the knowledge 

they need to choose the destinations and 

experiences that match their interests. 

Behind the scenes you’ll find us. Sabrina, 

Florentine by birth, and Ben from Eng-land. 

We met in Florence, got married and moved 

around a bit, and today we divide our time 

between England and our house in the 

Chianti. 

Sharing our love for Tuscany has given us the 

chance to explore this incredible region in 

depth; we’re always on the lookout for the 

most charming destina-tions, hidden corners 

and ancient tradi-tions that live on in the 

towns and coun-tryside. We believe a travel 

guide should capture the authenticity and soul 

of a place, and that’s just what we are trying to 

do with every post! 

Why do you think Tuscany continues to be 

such a popular tourist destination? 

Tuscany is known for many things. Its 

countryside is one of the most beautiful in 

all of Italy, full of rolling hills, verdant valleys 

and tightly knit vineyards. People come in 

search of picturesque hilltop towns like San 

Gimignano and Volterra, the impressive 

Medieval architecture of Siena and Pisa. 

And of course the Renaissance jewel that is 

Florence, the biggest city in the region and 

still its main drawcard. There’s a lot of wine 

tourism here too as the Chianti area, amongst 

others, produces some of Italy’s best loved 

wines. Importantly Tuscany has both mountain 

areas and a varied coastline, so there’s 

something for every taste. Speaking of that, 

the food in Tuscany is amazing, and reason 

enough for a visit! 

Tuscany is often romanticized in 

popular culture. What are some of the 

misconception’s tourists have of Tuscany? 

The popular and clichéd image of Tuscany is of 

sun-drenched vineyards, and warm evenings 

spent on a terrace with a glass of wine in your 

hand. This is true for summer, but of course 

Tuscany gets cold in the winter (you can ski 

in the mountains here) and its landscapes are 

more varied than people might imagine. It’s 

not all about vineyards. There are the marble 

rich Apuan Alps which are great for hiking, the 

beaches and lagoons of the Maremma, and 

the ancient forests of Casentino which make a 

great Autumn destination. 

Tuscany is home to many artistic cities, 

which would you say is your personal 

favourite and why? 

Florence really can’t be beaten as an art 

mecca. Aside from the world renowned Uffizi 

gallery filled with Renaissance masterpieces, 

walking around in the city is a bit like being 

inside an open air art museum, with ancient 

statues round every corner. But our personal 

favourites are Siena and Lucca. For us, 

the Piazza del Campo in Siena is the most 

impressive square in the whole of Tuscany 

and the cathedral is jaw-dropingly beautiful. 

We love Lucca for its friendly atmosphere and 

delightful Medieval churches, not to mention 

its massive tree-lined walls that you can walk 

on top of. 

Tuscan food has an excellent global 

reputation, what dish would you 

recommend to travelers? Could you give 

us a restaurant recommendation? 

Sabrina: I’m from Florence, and absolutely 

adore a good Panino con Lampredotto, an 

ultra-Florentine dish which is basically cow’s 

stomach boiled in broth and served up in a 

roll with salsa verde. Not for the feint hearted! 

Ben: I love Ribollita. This is a hearty soup 

made with black kale, Tuscan bread and 

cannellini beans. It’s a winter dish, but it’s so 

good I insisted on having it at our wedding in 

the middle of summer! 

website: lovefromtuscany.com 

email: info@lovefromtuscany.com 

What is the best off the beaten path 

attraction? 

Anywhere in Southern Tuscany! The area 

known as the Maremma is still relatively 

untouched by mass tourism. It has otherworldly 

hilltop towns like Pitigliano and Sorano, long 

wild beaches and sunsets that melt the heart. 

(We go here every year in late spring, before 

all the Italian holiday makers arrive.) 

Tuscany is a fairly large region, what would 

you say is the best way to get around? 

That’s easy. A car. If you really want to 

experience the varied landscapes and be able 

to stop at that small hamlet that you spy on 

top of a hill, there’s no other way to travel. You 

can get around with public transport, but miss 

a lot of what makes Tuscany really magical. 

What does the future hold for Love from 

Tuscany? 

We’ve been doing this for two years now, and 

we feel like we haven’t even scratched the 

surface of everything Tuscany offers. So we’re 

going to keep exploring and trying to find 

more of these special places, experiences and 

stories to share with our readers. We’re also 

starting work on a book about Tuscany that’s 

tailor-made for visitors to the region. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovefromtuscany/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovefromtuscany/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lovefromtuscany/ 

269 270

Italy 

HOTEL 

LE FONTANELLE 

Wellness Retreat 

Km 14, Strada Provinciale 408 di Montevarchi, 53019 Castelnuovo Berardenga SI, Italy ♦ 

Tel +39 0577/35751 ♦ hotelfontanelle.com 

Hotel Le Fontanelle is popular for offering panoramic views from its exceptional location 

in the Chianti Hills. The hotel’s main building itself dates all the way back to the 13th 

century. In fact, The Hotel Le “Fontanelle” is named after the old “fountains, sources of stone 

used to collect spring water.” 

Being a part of an old country estate, the structure is truly a spectacular sight to view. The 

elegant and refined rooms, characterised by their size and tasteful furnishings, are surrounded 

by prestigious common grounds, where guests will always be able to enjoy the personalized 

service of the staff. 

The rooms further feature beamed ceilings and terracotta floors while each of them overlook 

the surrounding vineyards, woods, and valley. The furniture and fittings are purely of Tuscan 

tradition and the works of art that adorn the dwelling have been specially chosen by the owner 

of the house and will amaze you by their dedication and attention to detail. 

You can enjoy a refreshing swim along with 

stunning views in the hotel’s outdoor pool. 

The hotel also offers bikes, free of charge. 

Indoors, you can work out in the gym. 

There’s also an indoor pool with a hydro 

massage area. Learn how to truly pamper 

yourself at the wellness area of the hotel. 

Relax in the sauna or the Turkish bath. 

Guests are also free to request for one of 

many beauty treatments offered by the 

hotel. 

Le Fontanelle’s La Colonna restaurant has 

a panoramic terrace and serves traditional 

Italian cuisine with a creative twist. The 

restaurant is headed by the popular chef, 

Daniele Canella, who is known to create 

menus in balance between traditional and 

innovative refinement. The hotel has hired 

a sommelier, whose responsibility is to 

advise you in your selection of wine. 

For daily lunches and snacks, the Hotel 

Le Fontanelle presents its Al Fresco Pool 

Bar which is located near the outdoor 

swimming pool area. 

The hotel is an ideal choice for a leisure 

holiday, a romantic honeymoon, an 

enchanted wedding, to experience wine 

tasting tours, to host prestigious events, 

or simply to enjoy a relaxing break in 

an atmosphere of intimate wellness and 

pursuit of your inner peace. 

271 272

Italy 

TRANSFER & 

TOURS CORTONA, 

PRVULOVIC DEJAN 

Transfer Company 

Italy ♦ Tel +39 348 40 23 501 ♦ transferandtourscortona.com 

When it comes to travelling and 

exploring a region what better 

way to learn more about that area than by 

mixing with the locals and experiencing an 

authentic and gratifying connection. 

Transfer & Tours Cortona are local experts 

who have been organising travel tours in 

Tuscany for many years, and they have finetuned 

their trips to provide an authentic 

experience, taking you places where no 

traveller has been before! The service is 

punctual, with spotlessly clean vehicles 

equipped with water and umbrellas if 

required. 

Plan your itinerary with Dejan, a polite, 

knowledgeable and entertaining driver 

who strives to ensure his travellers have 

a Tuscan experience to remember for the 

rest of their lives. From collecting you at 

the train station or airport to taking you on 

a journey through breath-taking scenery of 

sunflower fields and Tuscan countryside. 

He will take you to family-run wineries, 

where you will lunch on fresh local Tuscan 

delicacies such as locally reared Chianina 

Beef or Cinta Senese cured meats and 

farmhouse produced pecorino cheese. 

Dejan will recommend restaurants and 

cafes, where to go grocery shopping, 

where the locals shop and not forgetting 

the best gelato houses. The whole 

experience is relaxed, with the opportunity 

to take a break whenever, albeit to take 

photos, stop for lunch or to visit one of the 

beautiful nearby towns to explore. 

There are many tours on offer including the 

vineyards, where the drivers are aficionados 

of this stunning area of Tuscany. Indeed, 

the drivers know these wine trails like the 

back of their hands. Off the beaten track, 

away and far from the touristy routes to 

selected wineries to meet the owners and 

expert sommeliers and gain some insider 

knowledge of winemaking and, of course, 

sampling the finished product. 

After the tour, the drivers are happy 

to deliver you safely back to your 

accommodation and help unload your 

purchases. 

273 274

Piedmont | Italy 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Train 

• Bus 

A culinary mecca at the heart 

of Europe. 

Get Around 

• Bicycle 

• Taxi 


• Bus 

• Train 


• Egyptian Museum 

of Turin 

• Lake Maggiore 

• Basilica of Superga 

• Villa Ottolenghi 

Wedekind 

Things to do 

• Truffle Hunt 

• Wine Tour 

• Ski 

• Shop in Turin 

Find out more – http:// 

www.italia.it/en/discoveritaly/piedmont.html 

275 276

Italy 

TENUTA 

MONTEMAGNO 


Gentle slopes covered with vineyards 

extend as far as the eye can see, flecked 

by ancient hamlets and imposing castles: 

our estate is the ideal place to stay for 

relaxing holidays, comforted by heartwarming 

landscapes, wine and food tasting 

enhanced by the rays of sunset, and menus 

studied to exalt local cuisine. 

via Cascina Valfossato, 9 Montemagno, 14030 Asti Italy ♦ Tel +39 014163624 ♦ 

tenutamontemagno.it 

It is in this old 16th-century 

estate, bordering on the 

edges of the Montemagno, 

Viarigi, Casorzo and Altavilla 

districts, that our dream 

became reality: to rediscover 

a land protecting ancient 

tradition, to new life in walls 

that have witnessed so much 

history and to produce wines 

that will proudly represent 

Monferrato but, through our 

own interpretation, also leave 

the mark of innovation brought 

to the vineyards and cantina 

thanks to the contribution 

of skilled technicians and 

oenologists with a lifetime of 

experience. 

Our dream is coming true: “a 

place highly suitable for vines”, 

as Tenuta Montemagno was 

defined by maps of Napoleon’s 

time is now a residence of 

excellence where guests can 

enjoy some unforgettable 

moments. 

Private rooms and comfortable apartments 

are available for short or even very long 

stays. Guests can also enjoy a stupendous 

overflow pool in the tranquillity of estate 

surroundings, as well as numerous 

activities dedicated to the discovery of 

the Monferrato district. After discovering 

the complexity and harmony of the fruit 

of the vine, the colours and fragrances of 

the Monferrato area, you will be able to 

delight your palate with our own chef’s 

interpretation of local cuisine. 

277 278

REST OF 

EUROPE 

Image by: Javier Bosch 

279 280

BARCELONA AND BEYOND 

Barcelona is a beautiful cosmopolitan city, Spain´s second city and the capital of 

Catalan. The city is vibrant, historic and cultured, ensuring visitors to this wonderful 

city have an abundance of options during their trip. 

Historic sites have been well preserved in the city, and it is essential to visit Roman 

archaeological sites to fully appreciate their splendour. Museums are in ample supply and 

other attractions of particular interest include the Picasso Museum, for example. 

And with Barcelona being a major city and tourist destination, getting to Barcelona has 

never been easier, enabling visitors to not only enjoy the city, but also the many interesting 

locations and attractions in a reasonable proximity to the city, that are well worth visiting. 

Some of the most popular destinations which are ideal for a day trip from Barcelona 

include Montserrat, a stunning monastery and one of Spain’s key religious sites, 

embedded within the mountains, and home to the famous Black Madonna, well worth 

a day trip and the guided tour. 

281 282

Another excellent day trip is to the beautiful 

coastal destination of Sitges, known for the 

mansions along the sea front, and a most 

sought after suburb of Barcelona and known 

for its restaurants and nightlife. 

For more culture, the Dali Theatre Museum. 

This has the largest collection of Dali 

paintings in a single location, but this is 

no surprise as the museum is situated in 

Salvador Dali´s home town of Figueres. 

If you want to see some of the most 

spectacular mountain scenery, take a day 

trip to the Pyrenees, and visit mountain 

villages and enjoy traditional food and drink 

whilst taking in the clean and fresh air of the 

region. 

Another interesting location to visit is Vallromanes for a day trip, 

with its own nature reserve and stunning views of the Parc de la 

Serralada Litoral. This village is located approximately 25 kms from 

the centre of Barcelona and can be accessed easily by car or public 

transport. 

The village is mountainous, with many pine and oak forests 

surrounding the village. The area is quite sought after, with a 

number of gated communities and the Vallromanes Golf Club, 

ideal if you are a golf enthusiast. 

The beauty of being based in a city such as Barcelona, is the 

opportunities you have to see something a little different. With 

many day trips on offer, whatever takes you interest is sure to be 

just a short journey away. 

283 284

Spain 

SANDRA TOURS 


Spain 

Catalonia in Spain is one of the world’s leading tourist regions. As the 20th-most-visited 

region in the world, it is rather popular too because of its several attractions - both 

natural and man-made, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. 

There is so much to see in Catalonia that it could all seem overwhelming if you don’t have 

someone to guide you with the not-to-be-missed and the avoidable. Sandra Tours, run by an 

affable and knowledgeable lady with the same name is the best bet. Sandra will help you see 

Catalonia in a real yet magical way, essentially because her company is able to adapt to visitors’ 

interests, mood, and requests - and in several languages! She can also give information that 

could be the basis for your independent exploration. 

Get professional recommendations of the 

best places to see, eat, and enjoy. Not just 

that, Sandra Tours helps you with moneysaving 

deals in the region! When you are 

in a place as wonderful and complex as 

Catalonia, it really helps to have some 

guidance so you get much more out of your 

visit. Sandra Tours makes this outstanding 

region seem familiar with their expertise! 

285 286

Spain 

MAS SALAGROS 

ECO RESORT 

Resort 

Riera de Vallromanes, S/N, 08188 Vallromanes, Barcelona, Spain ♦ 

Tel +34 935 65 60 60 ♦ www.massalagros.com 

Are you craving a holiday that offers a combination of idyllic scenery, rich heritage, and 

delectable cuisine? Spain, with its sun-kissed sea beaches, picturesque landscapes, and 

numerous historical monuments, is a delight for every traveler. If you are planning a Spanish 

vacation, don’t look beyond Mas Salagros EcoResort to book your accommodation. 

Set in an ancient farmhouse dating back to 1497, Mas Salagros EcoResort is Spain’s first 

completely eco-friendly resort. It is situated in a nature reserve in Vallromanes and offers 

stunning views of the Parc de la Serralada Litoral. Despite its secluded setting, the property 

is just a 20-minute drive away from the vibrant city of Barcelona. The Circuit de Barcelona- 

Catalunya is also located very close to Mas Salagros EcoResort. 

Mas Salagros EcoResort features spacious 

rooms and suites with a private terrace or 

garden. The rooms are equipped with all 

modern amenities such as satellite TV, free 

Wi-Fi, safety locker, and a minibar. Each 

unit has its own private bathroom with a 

shower, bathtub, toiletries, hairdryer, and 

complimentary robes and slippers. Private 

parking is also provided. 

What sets this resort apart is its quest to 

maintain a 100% sustainable operation. 

This is evident from the eco-friendly 

furnishings and building materials, energy 

efficient power system, and sustainable 

waste management. The property also 

features two fine dining restaurants and 

a wine bar. It also features the Stella Bar 

which boasts of a glass roof so that you can 

see the stars at night or the blue sky during 

the day while sipping on your favorite 

liquors! The restaurants serve impeccable 

Mediterranean cuisine prepared with 

organic and local ingredients. 

The resort has two seasonal swimming 

pools that allow guests to unwind in 

a natural setting. It is also home to 

the internationally acclaimed AIRE de 

Vallromanes Wellness Centre offering a 

plethora of natural treatments, rituals, and 

massages. Organic cooking classes, wine 

tasting sessions, art classes, and hikes can 

be arranged on request. 

A holiday in Mas Salagros EcoResort lets 

you enjoy quality time with your family and 

loved ones in the midst of nature. 

287 288

Palma de Mallorca | Spain 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Ferry 

Get Around 

• Buses 

• Train 

• By Foot 


Full of history, culture and 

natural beauty, the capital of the 

Balearics has it all. 


• Castell de Bellver 

• Catedral de Mallorca 

• The Bull Ring 

Things to do 

• Aqualand 

• Visit the Beach 

• Boat Tour 

• Rent a Bike 


www.seemallorca.com/ 

palma 

289 290

Spain 

EBIKE-MALLORCA.COM 

Tour Company 

c/o Lozano, Hilgers & Partner, Carrer del Sindicat 67, E-07002 Palma de Mallorca ♦ 

Tel +49 (0) 176 / 60313247 ♦ ebike-mallorca.com 

Gracefully nestled away 

near the eastern coast 

of the Iberian Peninsula, the 

Balearic Islands of Spain are 

known for their culture, cuisine 

and natural beauty. Imagine 

exploring the remotest spots 

of this region with an eBike! 

eBike-Mallorca works towards 

ensuring that this vision turns 

into a memorable reality for 

you. Enjoy the scent of the 

pine forests and the beauty of 

the countless olive and orange 

groves on a sporty ebike. 

The idea of providing eBikes 

on rent stems from the effort 

of ensuring that cyclists 

experience the island in the 

best manner possible. A rich 

vegetation awaits you with 

more than 1500 flowering 

plants from daisies, poppies, 

oleanders, hibiscus, gladiolas 

to more than 100 orchid 

species. 

They recently introduced a new category 

called the ‘Race Flat Bar.’ The eBike 

combines speedy, sporty driving pleasure 

with a comfortable seating position. Here 

all the positive characteristics of a racing 

bike are combined into one eBike with 

a pleasant sitting position and straight 

handlebars. The absence of a classic racing 

handlebar makes the bike much more 

comfortable and therefore also very well 

suited for sporty older riders or sporty riders 

without racing experience. All eBikes are 

equipped with fresh 500Wh rechargeable 

batteries and BOSCH Performance CX 

motors, thus optimal ranges and maximum 

riding fun are guaranteed. 

A small wine fair is held as part of the “Festa 

des Vermar”, where Mallorcan wines can 

be tasted and purchased at various stands 

by local producers. The freshly harvested 

grapes of the Manto Negro or Prensal Blanc 

grape varieties are trampled underfoot on 

the church square as part of a traditional 

competition. 

The company organizes a stay of several 

days with extensive eBike tours through the 

vineyards. The trip consists of an overnight 

stay at Bodega, a country hotel or a finca 

hotel in and around Binissalem. This can 

give you an intimate experience of the 

festival as well! eBike-Mallorca makes sure 

that every bit of your biking experience is 

nothing short of extraordinary and adds 

that fun factor to your vacation. 

291 292

CROATIA 


Image by: Ivan Ivankovic 

293 294

NATURE 

EXPERIENCES 

FOOD 

Kornati 

Plitvice Lakes 

Beach swimming 

Dalmatian dry-cured ham 

(pršut) 

Northern Velebit 

Plitvice Lakes 

Spa 

Marinated anchovies 

Dubrovnik FestiWine 

EVENTS 

Easter in Poreč 

Diving 

Pag island cheese 

Wingsuit 

Istria 

Croatia Boat Show 

Lošinj Cuisine Festival 

295 296

Croatia 

HERCEX ZAGREB 

Luxury Tour Company 

Ulica Bozhidara Magovca 153, Zagreb 10000, Croatia ♦ Tel +385 91 6013 777 ♦ hercex.com 

Looking for premium and high quality transportation services? Look no further than Hercex 

Zagreb. A luxury tour company that was established with the objective of becoming a 

valuable addition to the transportation market, Hercex Zagreb has been upgrading its fleet with 

premium vehicles for the past twenty years. They have gone on to include excursions, trips and 

special amenities for their customers through their various offerings. 

The company is built upon the fundamental principle of listening to the different needs of their 

customers to provide them with more than just regular transportation. Not only have they spent 

years traversing Croatian roads, but they have – with time – mastered the art of tailoring trips as 

per the need of the customers. 

The company offers a range of services, 

including airport transportation, business 

meetings, rental vehicles and business 

transportations. Whether you require 

transportation from and to the airport 

or wish to arrive on time for a meeting 

with a business partner – the services are 

customized for all. You can rent your desired 

vehicles and arrive at your location on time. 

You can also ensure reliable and highquality 

transportation for your partners and 

employees alike. Cars are made available 

as per the occasion. However, the client is 

free to choose from the options offered by 

the company. 

Explore some of the most beautiful 

locations in Croatia with the assistance of 

the luxury tour company. Spend the day 

vigorously exploring beautiful cities. Often 

when you go on a one-day excursion to a 

new city or place, you don’t have enough 

time for sightseeing and visiting interesting 

locations. This is exactly what Hercex 

Zagreb specializes in. They ensure safe and 

high quality transportation through the city 

and provide you with the opportunity to 

visit all the sightseeing spots and have an 

unforgettable excursion. 

297 298

SANDA BARETIC 

Croatian Experience 

Q&A 

Tell us a little about Croatian Experience 

with Sanda 

Croatian Experience with Sanda is an 

online window into Croatia, where you 

can watch inspiring and useful videos, nice 

photographs and get first-hand stories, 

experiences and useful information that I 

share about Croatia. 

I want to show people what Croatia 

offers, and share tips for future travelers, 

with my opinion on various Croatian and 

travel – related subjects. Through Croatian 

Experience with Sanda I also teach Croatian 

language to English speakers, while its 

sisterly culture and language project Curso 

Aprende Croata is a platform for Spanish 

speakers. 

My main focus is creating videos on my 

YouTube channel on a weekly basis. 

Your videos are very informative and 

offer sound advice. Who would you say 

is your target market? 

Thank you. Croatia is a beautiful country 

and it has rightly become quite popular 

worldwide. I envision my Croatian 

Experience with Sanda to connect and 

communicate with various people around 

the globe, giving them interesting 

information about Croatia, presenting it 

in a fun and personalized way. I publish 

new videos every week because there is so 

much to say about Croatia! 

My target market are people who are 

generally interested in Croatia and want 

to get an insider’s experience, people who 

already plan to travel to Croatia and want 

to check things out or get ideas for their 

stay here, and people who are looking for 

the next best destination to visit. Another 

more specific audience are the persons 

who wish to learn Croatian language and 

its culture. 

Over the last 20 years Croatia has grown 

as a tourist destination, it’s now one of 

Europe’s premier hotspots. Why do you 

think this is? 

First and foremost, Croatia is a beautiful 

country with spectacular and breathtaking 

nature. We have everything here: 

mountains, hills, plains, rivers, lakes and, 

of course, the wonderful Adriatic Sea with 

more than thousand islands! Combine 

that with hospitality, safety, delicious food, 

history, beautiful architecture, and a lot of 

amazing activities that you can experience 

here, and you will get a top destination. You 

can find something amazing for everyone 

here, regardless of age. Croatia is relaxing, 

beautiful, interesting and fun! 

Split and Dubrovnik get a lot of attention. 

Is there anywhere you’d recommend 

that isn’t visited very often? 

Of course! Croatia is full of hidden gems, 

so I would really recommend tourists to 

take time for their visit and to explore it. 

It’s great to rent a car and experience 

more of Croatia that way, or to take a 

sailing tour that you’ll always remember. 

Mediterranean coastal part, which is most 

popular is a must, but also the continental 

part of the country is really interesting, with 

a very central European feel. 

Together with Split and Dubrovnik, I’d 

recommend the Plitvice lakes and Krka 

river, both breathtaking national parks. The 

whole peninsula of Istria is magical: in the 

city of Pula you will find a Roman colosseum, 

Rovinj is a beautiful and picturesque town, 

a hidden gem in Istria is a village Bale, and 

finally Hum, supposedly the smallest town 

in the world. My favorite island is Cres, 

Croatia’s biggest island whose northern 

part has the most magical nature. The 

locals maintain a tradition of having their 

sheep running around freely, so wherever 

you go, you will encounter those nice 

animals, together with the protected and 

endangered Eurasian griffons flying in the 

blue skies. I must say that Cres is ideal for 

hiking and for nature and adventure lovers. 

My favorite place there is called Beli. 

Further south, I’d recommend the islands 

of Hvar, Korčula and Brač, and a hidden 

gem Palmižana. Of course, impressive is 

the Kornati national park, which consists of 

89 protected islands in the open sea area. 

In continental Croatia my favorite place 

is the city of Varaždin, with its splendid 

historical sites, and of course Zagreb, 

Croatia’s capital city! 

What is the best time of year to visit 

Croatia? 

The peak tourist season is in the summer 

months of July and August, when the 

temperatures are over 30°C, the sun shines 

brightly, and the skies are among the bluest 

I have ever seen. The sunsets in Croatia are 

spectacular, too! Tourists love the summer 

season in Croatia, because the sea is the 

warmest then, and they can spend the 

whole day at the beach. 

In the months of June and September 

it is still warm enough to enjoy the sea 

and swim, and all the tourist facilities are 

cheaper and less crowded. 

299 300

If you care more about the nature and 

sightseeing than spending your vacation on 

the beach, I’d recommend visiting Croatia 

in April and May, during springtime, as the 

nature is blooming everywhere! 

What advice would you give to tourists 

when dealing with locals? 

As a language and travel enthusiast myself, 

my first advice is always to learn the basic 

words in the language of the country 

where you’re going! That is so simple and 

easy to do, and it opens so many doors 

and the locals will stop seeing you just as 

a passing tourist and start seeing you as a 

person who has a deeper appreciation of 

their country. Naturally, they will feel your 

friendliness and enthusiasm and will treat 

you with even more hospitality, so you will 

get an “insider” experience of Croatia! I 

teach Croatian language online, so make 

sure to contact me if you’d like to learn 

some Croatian! Other than that, be friendly 

and patient, as sometimes Croatian people 

tend to be stubborn and grumpy (but 

usually not towards tourists). It’s always 

good to prepare yourself on time, so watch 

my videos to find out all about Croatia, it’s 

currency and similar things important for 

tourists. 

One thing that isn’t very well known 

is Croatian cuisine, what is a typical 

Croatian dish? 

If you are coming to the coast, you must try 

fish and seafood, it’s amazing, tasty and so 

fresh! There is a large variety of seafood, 

fish, shrimp and shells with pasta, rice or 

gnocchi. As a seaside dish, I would mention 

dagnje na buzaru. 

Croatia has excellent quality of meat 

and cheese, too. You should try some 

prosciutto, with sheep cheese, olives and 

olive oil. 

Typical meat dishes are also: čevapčići, 

ražnjići, sarma and gulaš. For desserts I’d 

recommend štrukli, fritule, međimurska 

gibanica, rožata. 

Contact and social media info: 

What does the future hold for 

Croatian Experience with Sanda? 

The future is very bright for Croatian 

Experience with Sanda, as bright as 

the Croatian summer sunshine! I have 

a great enthusiasm for my project and 

am putting up the website for making 

information more presentable and 

easier to find. I plan to expand and 

reach more people with quality 

content. 

People who want to get more 

involved can support me on Patreon, 

where they will get more insider 

information and exclusive content 

such as live Q&A’s. 

I believe that people need to be 

connected by travelling to countries 

where they haven’t been yet, to 

learn about each other’s customs, 

language and culture. Everybody 

gains - the visitors broaden their own 

life experience and knowledge, as do 

the locals who host them. 

I believe that communication via 

internet, social platforms and travel 

enable us to be closer than we could 

have ever imagined, to appreciate 

and together take care of this 

wonderful planet we all live on. 

www.croatianexperiencewithsanda.com (under construction, will be published in March) 

https://www.youtube.com/c/CroatianExperiencewithSanda 

https://www.instagram.com/croatianexperience/ 

https://www.patreon.com/croatianexperiencewithsanda 

In Spanish: 

www.cursoaprendecroata.com 

https://www.facebook.com/CursoCroata/ 

301 302

Split | Croatia 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Train 

• Ferry 

• Bus 

A stunning Adriatic city built 

around Diocletian’s glorious 

palace. 

Get Around 

• Bus 

• Bicycle 

• Boat 



• Diocletian’s Palace 

• Klis Fortress 

• Marjan 

Things to do 

• Hiking 

• Watersports 

• Boat Tour 


www.dalmatia.hr/en 

303 304

Croatia 

HERITAGE HOTEL 

ANTIQUE SPLIT 

Elegant Hotel 

Poljana Grgura Ninskog 1, 21000, Split, Croatia ♦ Tel +385 21 785 208 ♦ antique-split.com 

A 

family-run hotel that can 

be found in the heart of 

the historic Diocletian’s Palace, 

Heritage Hotel Antique Split 

is the kind of accomodation 

that fulfills a guest’s desires of 

living lavishly. The property on 

which the hotel is located is of 

high value, simply because of 

the priceless monuments that 

surround it. 

The hotel is built while keeping in 

mind a combination of modern 

and antique interiors. The original 

rock stone walls blend seemlessly 

with the modern handmade 

furniture that occupies each 

room. Each room gives you 

some fantastic views of the city. 

The rooms are equipped with 

all the possible basic amenities, 

including air-conditioning, LED 

TVs, telephones, unlimited 

access to free Wi-Fi, an exclusive 

and private mini bar, a safety 

deposit box, heaters, smart glass 

windows and wooden floors. 

As far as meals are concerned, they are prepared by top chefs from the town while strictly 

following Health and Safety standards. Breakfast is ideally made available in a buffet-style 

during mornings, however; guests are free to order bed-in-breakfast facility as per their 

preference. All the local delicacies are prepared with utmost care to ensure that guests 

enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. 

The hotel is just a few steps away from the Emperor’s Square which is also called “Peristil”. 

Thanks to its acoustics, it is used as a natural scene for several musical and dramatic 

spectacles. 

Apart from that, there’s also 

the statue of Grgur Ninski 

which is relatively closer to 

the hotel. Grgur Ninski was 

a Croatian bishop, who was 

of great importance for the 

Croatian language and culture. 

Other tourist attractions that lie 

close to the hotel include Riva 

and Marjan. If you wish to go 

shopping or even just grab the 

delicious local dinner, Riva is 

the way. The Marjan Hill, which 

rises to a height of 178 meters, 

is home to numerous types of 

animals and natural institutes. 

A stay at the beautiful Heritage 

Hotel Antique Split is nothing 

short of extraordinary. Not only 

do you get all the comforts that 

you may want but also get to 

experience the rich historic 

past of Croatia, and even live it! 

305 306

Croatia 

ISTRIA GREEN 

MEDITERRANEAN 

Award 

Pionirska ul. 1a, 52440, Poreč, Croatia ♦ Tel +385 52 452 797 ♦ istra.hr/ 

Located in the north-west of 

Croatia, Istria borders Italy and 

Slovenia. Often compared to Tuscany, 

and referred to as the undiscovered 

Riviera due to its rolling hills, dense 

pine forests, flowing streams and 

deep valleys, whitewashed villages, 

green meadows, olive groves and 

vineyards. 

However, this is a much less 

touristy Riviera boasting a superior 

infrastructure due to the ambitious 

rebuilding of the country since the 

end of the war of independence. With 

no expense spared to create state 

of the art roads and tunnels while 

maintaining the history and culture 

of the quaint towns and villages. 

The area is famous gastronomically 

including, but not limited to, truffles, 

oils, asparagus, honey and lavender 

with festivals held regularly for many 

of the locally grown delicacies and 

wine days allowing visitors to tour 

the wineries of Istria and taste and 

purchase the local wines and chat to 

the wine cellar owners about wine 

production. 

During the summer months, Istria takes 

on a vibrant cosmopolitan vibe to rival 

any other European city. Regular festivals 

take place including the Summer Sensual 

Days featuring top Latin American dance 

artists and DJs from around the world 

for a celebration of exciting beach and 

pool parties with over 40 hours of dance 

workshops, featuring top instructors 

teaching a variety of dance techniques 

including Salsa and Rumba. 

The Pula Arena, the mesmerizing historical 

Roman Amphitheatre based at the southern 

tip of the Istria Peninsula, is the venue for 

the Foo Fighters this summer, promising 

to be a genuinely fantastic rock music 

experience in this stunning architectural 

arena where, in Roman history, gladiators 

would fight to the death. 

To cement the cosmopolitan ambience 

of Istria is the 66th Pula Film Festival this 

year featuring international films showing 

at various locations and attracting film stars 

from around the world. 

307 308

Malta 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Ferry 

Get Around 

• On foot 

• Bicycle 

• Taxi 


• Ferry 

• Bus 

A small island nation with enough 

attractions, natural beauty, culture 

and history to compete with Europe’s 

best destinations. 


• The Hypogeum 

• Gozo 

• St Paul’s Catacombs 

• Mdina Old City 

Things to do 

• Scuba Diving 

• Hiking 

• Charter a boat 

• Visit the Jazz festival 


www.visitmalta.com/en/ 

home 

309 310

Malta 

GAULOS 

DIVE COVE 

Diving Company 

Triq Ta Marziena, Il-Munxar MXR 0001, Malta ♦ Tel +356 7909 3169 ♦ gaulosdivecove.com 

Gaulos Dive Cove is 

situated in the tiny 

village of Munxar only a few 

kilometers away from Victoria, 

Xlendi and Sanap Cliffs. 

We treat our guests as an 

important part of our day, not 

only do we take great care of 

our guests but we make sure 

that the environment and 

atmosphere is at its best in 

making your stay in Gozo not 

only a memorable one but also 

enjoyable. 

We are a team of dedicated 

divers who are not only trying 

to show you the picturesque 

blue waters of the islands but 

also share our passion that 

has been garnered with over 

17 years’ experience. From 

the saltpans of Xwejni, to the 

interesting underwater and 

on land geology from Dwejra 

to Blue hole to the inland sea 

tunnel and many more; witness 

them first hand. 

The dive sites are only about 10-20 

minutes away, making Gozo very 

convenient for travel. Every level 

is held dear to our hearts. It does 

not matter if you are a beginner 

or a pro, there will always be new 

experiences to uncover. To further 

emphasize on our hospitality, we 

hold door-to-door pick and drop 

off services to the dive center. We 

can also organize airport transfers 

on arrival and departure. 

Make 2019 your diving experience. 

Quench your diving thirst with 

Gozo’s amazing natural wonders. 

311 312

TOP 3 ADVENTURE THINGS TO DO IN SLOVENIA 

Slovenia, is known for its mountains, ski resorts and lakes, but there are many other 

adventure activities that are on offer for all to enjoy, such as city adventure, sailing, 

flying and bear spotting! 

However, here are our top 3 adventure attractions. 

2. Only 7 kms from Postojna is one of the largest equestrian centres in Slovenia. Situated 

at Castle Prestranek, a wonderful location within 300 hectares of fields and forests, 

on offer are a variety of horse activities including lessons, riding, camps and therapy, 

using their Icelandic horses. 

With accommodation also available, this is a great way to get close to nature and 

enjoy an equestrian experience in this wonderful setting. 

1. Postojna Adventure Park, located close to Postojna Cave, is a forest adventure course, 

where it is necessary to navigate yourself across different routes. To succeed, you will 

need to complete the 73 challenges which includes; ladders, ropes, nets, wires etc. 

to get from one place to another in as quickest time as possible. 

This is ideal for all, whether families, teenagers or companies on team building 

exercises. 

3. Cave trekking is another exciting adventure to be had, also in the area of Postojna 

where you can trek through the caves systems, beyond the typical tourist routes and 

do a deep exploration of the Postojna and Predjama cave systems. 

Visit networks of the caves rarely seen, but to do so, it is necessary to overcome some 

difficult paths such as water sections. 

313 314

Slovenia 

TIC GALERIJA 

Adventure Experience 

Trg padlih borcev 5, 6230 Postojna, Slovenia ♦ Tel +386 40 122 318 ♦ visit-postojna.si 

Postojna – a small town 

nestled away in the 

traditional region of Inner 

Carniola, Slovenia, has much 

more to it than meets the eye. 

The town is rich in history, 

having being populated since 

the paleolithic era which was 

found through the discovery 

of a cave settlement near the 

town called Betal Rock Shelter 

or Betalov spodmol. There’s a 

lot that Postojna has to offer 

and in order to understand 

it better, TIC Galerjia was 

established. 

TIC Galerjia embarked upon 

its journey with the objective 

of helping travelers explore 

Postojna region. Further, it 

also helps in providing guests 

with an insight into the local 

tourist offerings, free tourist 

publications, brochures, maps, 

ideas and tips for amazing 

experiences, suggestions for 

accommodation, good local 

food, and cultural events. 

There are a range of tourist attractions for you 

to explore. There’s the Postojna Cave, which 

was discovered back in 1818. You cannot 

miss the permanent exhibition Museum of 

Karst in the Notranjska Museum Postojna. 

One can view original treasure from the 

Predjama Castle. You can choose to take a 

walk through the beautiful mountain field or 

the old city center of Postojna, where the 

locals like to say that every house and street 

conceals its own story. 

You can walk on foot or go on a bicycle 

and discover unspoiled forests and nearby 

peaks. Relive the exploration of caves in a 

completely unique way in the cave trekking 

or boat tour. For those who love the clouds, 

we recommend a breathtaking panoramic 

flight above the region. 

TIC Galerija provides information regarding 

some of the best restaurants in town. 

They ensure that they provide you with 

information regarding culinary experiences 

that will satisfy everyone who swears by 

traditional Slovenian cuisine as well as 

those who love good pizzas, fish lovers or 

various meat and vegetable specialties. 

In their region you can choose from various 

quality accommodation at will – hotels, 

youth hostel, boarding houses, campsites, 

tourist farms or numerous private 

accommodations, there’s offers about all of 

these places that TIC Galerija can provide. 

Each of the offers are tailored to fit your 

budget and ensure that you get the kind of 

experience that you expect. 

315 316

GERMAN FOOD TOUR 

German cuisine has a lot to offer apart from pretzels, sausages, and beer. German 

classics are served in any good restaurant, café bar, colourful street food market 

or festival. The best dishes can be found in all the major cities, and wherever you find 

yourself there will be traditional food on offer, for example in the countryside a typical 

German culinary feast will include Osso Bucco (wild boar), braised rabbit, fillet of venison, 

and wild game sausages prepared using traditional rustic methods. 

For a German food tour, 

Munich is arguably the 

ultimate location where 

local Bavarian food 

receives top billing. 

The city is dotted with 

café bars with outdoor 

seating areas and 

garden areas, perfect 

for relaxing with friends 

and family. 

The ever-popular Schnitzel is incredibly tasty and with so many varieties on offer, it 

is difficult to avoid. Schnitzel is veal or pork, pounded into a thin steak, coated in 

breadcrumbs and deep fried until golden brown. This immensely popular German 

plate of food comes in various forms, a firm favourite is served up with two fried eggs 

and a side of chips, to be eaten hot with the egg yolk coating the crispy breadcrumbs. 

Another wonderful version of Schnitzel is a thin layer of horseradish slathered over the 

meat before dipping into the breadcrumbs so that when it is cooked and cut with the 

knife you can see the beautifully thin steak cooked with the layer of horseradish, strong 

enough to give the meat a kick, but not so hot that it burns the nose. Traditionally this 

version of Schnitzel is served on the top of a potato salad with pickled cucumber, and a 

squeeze of lemon. Locals will load up with tomato ketchup and mayonnaise, and wash 

each mouthful down with a classic ice cold German pilsner beer. Prices vary and service 

is generally relaxed after all a good Schnitzel is prepared fresh and cannot be rushed. 

317 318

The next ultimate German food 

to try on the tour has to be spicy 

bratwurst served on a bed of 

distinctive sour sauerkraut and a 

side of creamy mashed potato. 

The Germans know how to do 

comfort food! 

For food connoisseurs, roasted 

Bavarian duck is a must. 

Traditionally in Germany duck is 

served on Christmas day, but it is 

an excellent meal for any occasion. 

Restaurants will cook this with a 

side of Rotkohl, (red cabbage) and 

Spatzle, (homemade noodles) or 

Knodel, (homemade dumplings) 

and is full of traditional German 

flavour. 

Germans do amazing cakes, and for any 

discerning sweet tooth the list includes 

classics such as, Schnecken, which takes 

its name from the same word for snail 

due to the twisty style of this cinnamon 

roll lookalike, the Berliner or krapfen, soft 

donuts filled with jam and dusted with fine 

sugar and, ultimately, the Schwarzwälder 

kirschtorte, (or Black Forest Gateau) clearly 

one of the most extravagant cakes you 

will come across in Germany with layers 

of chocolate, topped with whipped cream 

and decorated with cherries. 

319 320

PROVENCE, LOOKING PAST THE REVIERA 

Give the more popular Riviera destinations such as Cinque Terre, a well-earned 

break by visiting some of the lesser known towns and villages, such as Rapallo, 

Chiavari, Zoagli, Sestri Levante and Lavagna. 

If glamour and sophistication is on the list, Portofino offers bucket loads plus more. A 

traditional fishing village retaining its popularity as one of the more famous Italian Riviera 

villages due to its idyllic natural harbour boasting luxury yachts alongside humble fishing 

boats. 

Famous since the 1950s as a destination for the rich and famous, it still the place to be if 

you enjoy a bit of celebrity spotting. Look beyond the plush boats and Ferraris however 

and you will discover more to Portofino. It stands out in particular due to the untouched 

natural beauty of its harbour, the lush green hills and parks and the picturesque village 

with colourful townhouses. Take full advantage of the beauty by climbing the gentle but 

long steps to Castello Brown to feast on the amazing views. 

Zoagli is a small yet serene town 

on the Italian Riviera and a nature 

lover’s paradise. This charming 

town is perfectly suited for those 

wanting to avoid the characterless 

chain hotels and hordes of tourists. 

Located in the eastern side of the 

Ligurian Riviera in the centre of the 

Gulf of Tigulli. Zoagli is famous for 

silk manufacturing, and is the site 

of an ancient Roman settlement. 

Thanks to its position, Zoagli 

embraces the ocean and provides 

some enchanting sites including 

paths and trails that wind their 

way through the most evocative 

and pure nature walks. Of course 

silk lovers are spoiled for choice in 

the many shops selling hand made 

goods, the blueprint for which 

have remained secret and passed 

down through the generations 

within this small town industry. 

321 322

Discover Sestri Levante, a headland 

divided into two bays, the “Baia del 

Silenzio” and “Baia delle Favole” the 

latter bay named after the famous 

author Hans Christian Andersen who 

lived in the area during the 1880s. The 

main attraction of this Italian Riviera 

town is its serenity, charm and nature. 

Quaint bed and breakfasts adorn the 

coast and are dotted around the hills. 

The main attraction of Sestri Levante 

is the opportunity to mingle with the 

locals and join in with how they live 

their life in this Riveria paradise. 

Finally, on our list of Italian Riveria´s secret gems is Ravello. 

By far the highest located, most peaceful and virtually traffic 

free resort. Ravello was a bolt hole for some of Hollywood´s 

icons including Great Garbo and Jacqueline Kennedy and 

the whole area still oozes that reserved sophistication and 

understated glamour, as you would expect for a leading or 

first lady. Visiting during spring time gives you a chance to 

witness the lush blooms from the gardens, the bright purples 

and pinks from the flowers that grow here from cyclamen, 

bougainvillea to the enticing smells of herbs bursting from 

the terracotta pots. The hills are abundant with rows of olive 

groves and lemon trees. This particular location is Italy´s 

perfect Dolce Vita! 

323 324

France 

LE CHATEAU 

DU BOIS 


In Branding 

France ♦ lechateaudubois.com 

Provence, situated in Southeastern France, near the Mediterranean Sea, is known for 

its distinctive landscape. The spectacular countryside of the region makes you feel at 

home the moment you set foot. However, the biggest treasures of Provence are its picturesque 

lavender fields. 

If you wish for a rendezvous with the finest lavender of this region, you have to venture to 

the less accessible Haute-Provence. It is here that you will find endless stretches of authentic 

lavender growing in abundance at the esteemed Le Chateau du Bois estate. The estate has 

been continuing the tradition of producing fine lavender since 1890. 

Nestled amidst the arid mountains of Provence, Le Chateau du Bois is a flourishing 350-hectare 

estate, with 110 hectares of vibrant lavender fields. Apart from growing fine lavender, the estate 

is also a pioneer in the field of organic cosmetics. 

The quality of Le Chateau du Bois’ 

products has charmed consumers across 

the globe. Four generations of the family 

have devoted their lives to preserve 

the tradition of growing and protecting 

authentic lavender. 

What sets their products apart is the effort 

they put in so as to not compromise on 

the quality of the lavender. This brand 

philosophy is echoed in each one of 

their products, from the essential oils to 

the natural cosmetics and perfumes. In 

fact, the family has been using the same 

method for distillation of lavender oil since 

the inception of Le Chateau du Bois. 

It is not astonishing that these products 

have the coveted Ecocert® certification 

as a mark of their authenticity. In order to 

further preserve this heritage, the family 

inaugurated the Lavender Museum in 

1991. It is located in Coustellet in the 

Luberon region. The unique museum 

allows tourists to enjoy a glimpse of the 

rich history associated with lavender and 

its essential oils. 

The story of Le Chateau du Bois is not only 

that of a successful estate that produces 

fine lavender. It is the continuing saga 

chronicling one family’s determination 

to prevent a rich tradition from dying an 

untimely death. The widespread adulation 

and admiration for the brand is just an 

outcome of the Lincele family’s sustained 

endeavors. 

325 326

London | United Kingdom 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Bus 

• Train 

• Drive in 

A vibrant, energetic and multicultural 

mega city, London is a glorious space. 

Get Around 

• Metro 

• Bus 

• Local Taxi 

• Bicycle 

• Boat 


• Trafalgar Square 

• The Shard 

• The Natural History 

Museum 

• Tate Modern 

Things to do 

• Watch a play in the 

West End 

• Shop at Convent Gardens 

• Try the food on Brick 

Lane 


www.visitlondon.com/ 

tag/tourist-informationcentre 

327 328

UK 

SUNBORN 

LONDON 

Unique Hotel 

If you are a water baby, you would definitely want to be here during your stay in London. 

It not only has the view of the dock and the river but is equally accessible to public areas, 

which makes it just another favourite for many. 

Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1AA United Kingdom ♦ Tel +44 203 714 8111 ♦ 

sunbornhotels.com/london/ 

Experience a different side of London at the superyacht hotel, Sunborn London. An ideal 

place for festivities or a romantic getaway, the Sunborn London provides luxury with a 

picturesque view of the dock. While the guest rooms have a view of the river through a porthole 

window the luxury suites come with a terrace to let the open air kiss your face. 

What better luxury can there be than treating yourself with a spa massage? Post the refreshing 

massage, you can walk up to the bar for a drink or to the restaurant for some soulful food. What 

makes Sunborn London Hotel unique is the fact that it is the first of its kind in the world with a 

concept of a floating hotel. 

The view of Christmas being celebrated in 

London from the Sunborn is a view to die for 

because it will show you the London you’ve 

only seen in the movies. Not that your 

stay would be any less of a mesmerizing 

experience during any other time of the 

year, but Christmas would make it a tad bit 

more exciting with all that the city and the 

hotel has to offer during this time of the year. 

The experience and the services you will get 

here are unmatched to any other. If you wish 

to make your vacation a memorable one, 

you know where you should head to for 

some adventure coupled with serenity. Just 

a casual dinner by the river with city views 

or a cosy stay in the room, Sunborn London 

is worth every bit of your time and money. 

329 330

UK 

SOFITEL 

LONDON 

ST JAMES 

6 Waterloo Place, SW1Y 4AN, London, UK ♦ Tel +44 20/77472200 

Located in the heart of the 

ancient Magna Graecia, Salice 

Club Resort is truly the place to 

be, owing to its beautiful location 

and impeccable services. If you’re 

looking for abundance of sun, beach 

and good food, you are sure to have 

a good time at the resort. 

The property is located in the middle 

of centuries-old pine trees. The best 

aspect about this resort is that it 

provides guests with private access 

to the sandy Calabro Beach, which is 

located just 3-minutes away. Besides 

experiencing the abundance of 

nature, the place also offers a 

magnificent swimming pool and 

other sporting facilities including 

golf, tennis, and fishing. While the 

resort specializes in Continental and 

Italian cuisines, guests can even opt 

for the authentic Ionian Calabria 

spread of food. After a long and 

fruitful day spent exploring the 

ancient Magna Graecia, guests can 

retire during the evenings by the 

piano bar. 

331 332

ROAD TRIP COUNTY KERRY 

A 

favourite coastal road trip is the “Ring of Kerry”, so-called due to the 110-mile 

circular route of around stunning coastal South West Ireland. 

Along the route, there are some fantastic sites to behold; starting with the Skellig Islands. 

A World Heritage, awesome site, set in the Atlantic Ocean. The larger of the islands is 

Skellig Michael, recently made famous due to a Star Wars production, and also the 6thcentury 

beehive shaped huts that form part of an ancient Christian monastery. Visitors 

must climb over 600 feet high to witness the fantastic remains of this monastery. 

Enjoy the rugged beauty of Valentia Island, a truly unique island and most westerly 

point in Europe. Famous for its annual Valentia Regatta, Valentia has a population 

of around 600 people and is approximately 11 kilometers long and 3km wide with 

dramatic coastline and stunning views. A definite location to visit on route. 

The 7th century Cahergall Stone Ringfort is another site not to overlook. A national 

monument of Ireland, the Cahergall Fort is enormous, full of mystery and said to have 

healing powers. Climbing the fort provides breath-taking panoramic views of green 

fields and the Atlantic. 

Bask in Irish history and admire the endlessly stunning Southern Irish scenery of 

Cahersiveen. This town epitomises the raw beauty and history of this area. A great Irish 

icon was born here, Daniel O’Connell, also known as the “Great Liberator” of Ireland. 

333 334

Another town and another 

excuse to stop and taste 

the sea air! Caherdaniel has 

stunning scenery and views 

over the Atlantic. Soak up 

the charm and be inspired 

by the poets and writers who 

lived here. A great place 

to stop for refreshments, 

Caherdaniel has some 

wonderfully traditional cosy 

pubs, great food, and a very 

warm welcome! 

Make sure to sojourn at the 

vast but peaceful Killarney 

National Park. This 26,000- 

acre deer filled parkland 

boasts the ruins of a 15thcentury 

abbey, an impressive 

castle, the Lakes of Killarney, 

Inisfallen Island with its 

7th-century monastery 

and Muckross House, an 

enormous 65 room mansion 

built around 1843. The estate 

is now a thriving visitor centre 

with restaurant, gardens, and 

pottery. Save some energy to 

visit the 20 meters high Torc 

Waterfall also within the Park. 

The sights and sounds of this 

force of nature will fill you 

with awe! 

For a lively and vibrant 

atmosphere, visit Kenmare 

town. This Heritage Town has 

lots to do and see including 

art galleries, traditional Irish 

pubs serving excellent food, 

live music and a beautiful 

location at this “head of the 

ocean.” 

335 336

Ireland 

KERRY 

EXPERIENCE 

TOURS 


Looking to take a break from the driving for one or a couple of days? Kerry Experience 

Tours offer spectacular private day tours that take you through the beautiful Southwest 

of Ireland. Discover the mystic mountains, rough cliffs, narrow & bendy roads, ancient 

treasures and colourful villages along the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula, the Beara 

Peninsula, Mizen Head and much more. All private tours can be tailored to suit your wishes. 

Sneem, Ring of Kerry, Ireland ♦ Tel +353 86 255 4098 ♦info@kerryexperiencetours.ie ♦ 

kerryexperiencetours.ie 

With Kerry Experience Tours, you will 

discover, explore, and experience 

the well-known highlights of Ireland as well 

as the most beautiful hidden places off the 

beaten track. The tailor-made chauffeur 

driven vacations and private day tours will 

truly show the myth & magic of Ireland. Walk 

along secret beaches, visit ancient castles 

and forts, explore tranquil villages and watch 

the wild Atlantic Ocean from the top of 

spectacular cliffs. Enjoy the warm welcome of 

the Irish people, listen to their stories, soak 

up the traditional music and enjoy a taste of 

the finest local food along the Wild Atlantic 

Way. 

Kerry Experience Tours create vacations for 

couples, families, friends and small groups 

who are looking to enjoy Ireland at an 

exceptional level. Just sit back and enjoy the 

incredible scenery, history and culture. All 

vacations are tailor-made and built around 

your needs, desires and requirements. 

Explore the Ring of Kerry, Dingle, the Cliffs of 

Moher, the Burren, Galway, Connemara, Cork, 

the Blarney Stone, Kinsale, Glendalough and 

everything else that is on your Ireland bucketlist! 

All is flexible, Kerry Experience Tours’ aim 

is for you to have the time of your life. 

Experience moments of magic, moments 

to treasure and experiences that you want 

to return to again and again. Join Kerry 

Experience Tours and find the Ireland 

you’ve always imagined! 

www.kerryexperiencetours.ie 

info@kerryexperiencetours.ie 

00353 (0)86 255 4098 

Follow Kerry Experience Tours on Facebook 

and Instagram 

337 338

Ireland 

LANSDOWNE 

ARMS HOTEL 

Country Hotel 

Main St, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, Ireland ♦ Tel +353 64 664 1368 

Standard facilities such as tea/coffee 

maker, iron, and Wi-fi are available in all 

the rooms. The hotel has a 24-hour front 

desk to address any issues guests might 

be facing. What sets Lansdowne Arms 

Hotel apart is the courteous and amicable 

staff. It is a mark of the quintessential Irish 

hospitality. 

Your stay at Lansdowne Arms Hotel would 

be incomplete without a visit to the inhouse 

bars. The Bold Thady Quill Bar is a 

traditional Irish bar that offers the choicest 

selection of Irish beverages (both alcoholic 

and non-alcoholic). Frequented by guests 

and locals alike, it offers you a glimpse of 

the signature Irish lifestyle and culture. 

Ireland, with its picturesque 

landscapes, spectacular castles, 

and vibrant countryside reminds 

you of dreams and fairy tales. The 

breathtakingly charming town of 

Kenmare is perfect for a tranquil 

Irish escapade. If you have an Irish 

holiday on your mind, don’t look 

beyond Lansdowne Arms Hotel to 

book your accommodation. 

The family-run hotel is set in a 

stunning Victorian style building 

that dates back to 1970. The 3-star 

property is situated in the heart 

of Kenmare. This makes it the 

ideal base for exploring popular 

attractions such as the Ring of Kerry 

and the Ring of Beara. 

The vintage exterior of Lansdowne 

Arms Hotel isn’t the only thing you 

will admire about it. The property 

offers accommodation in 26 spacious 

rooms equipped with all modern 

amenities to ensure that you have a 

comfortable stay. Guests can choose 

among double and twin rooms. All 

rooms are decorated with elegant 

and high-quality furniture. 

For a more quiet and relaxed time, you can 

grab a bite at the Poet Bar and Restaurant. 

The bistro-style eatery offers a warm and 

cozy environment, perfect for unwinding 

after a hectic day of sightseeing. 

It is time you book Lansdowne Arms Hotel 

and tick Ireland off your travel bucket list. 

339 340

Slovakia 

How to Get in 

• Plane 

• Train 

• Bus 

A small island landlocked nation 

waiting to be explored. 

Get Around 

• Taxi 


• Bus 

• Train 


• Bratislava Castle 

• Spis Castle 

• Gerlach Peak 

• Presov 

Things to do 

• Spelunking 

• Winter Sports 

• Ride Steam Trains 

• Try the local food & 

wine 

Find out more - http:// 

slovakia.travel/en 

341 342

Slovakia 

BEAUTIFUL 

SLOVAKIA 


The company also offers a variety of tours 

for Europeans including bus tours to 

Russia, France, Italy, Germany and also to 

Australia. 

Zariec-Keblov 210, Svedernik, Slovakia ♦ Tel +421 949 322195 ♦ beautiful-slovakia.com 

Randon Travel is a tour operator that offers a variety of sightseeing, adventure and hiking 

tours in all Central Europe, which enable either individuals or groups to experience the 

best of Slovakia, Poland, Czech republic and Austria. Through guided tours one can discover the 

most beautiful places, explore the history of life in this part of the world, enjoy the adventures 

and relax in nature. We offer a huge range of activities including cycling, hiking, sightseeing, 

golf, wellness and many other activities. We appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting 

new people as well as seeing new places. The company’s founder (Michal) has travelled the 

world extensively and even lived abroad for more than 7 years in the past including England, 

Australia and the US. Through his travels, he has been associated with tourism and worked in 

many different positions including hotel managers, but also as a voluntary lifeguard in Australia 

and also for Disney Cruise Line. 

Most of the private tours usually last up to 5 days, however, one can extend the journey on 

the basis of their requirements. The company only makes use of air-conditioned cars and 

provides free mineral water on board to ensure maximum comfort for its guests. Airport 

pick-up and drops can also be arranged, upon request. 

343 344

Travel & Hospitality Awards | European Winners 2019 | www.thawards.com

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?