Once you’ve ticked off the sights in Rome and Milan, where to jet off to next? To make easy work of planning your ultimate Italian summer getaway, we’re rounding up the country’s “bests”—from show-stopping pools and breezy beach clubs to scenic train rides and cruises. Read on for our top picks…
Best Pool: In a country known for its dramatic pools, it’s hard to crown one winner — which is why our vote goes to not one but two legendary Italian piscinas. On the Amalfi Coast, the heated infinity pool at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is situated at an astonishing 1,000 feet above sea level, appearing to drop off the cliffs and into the Tyrrhenian Sea below. You won’t find a more scenic spot for taking in Amalfi’s soaring coastline. Meanwhile, in Umbria, the family-owned Tenuta di Murlo estate encompasses 18,000 acres of countryside and a collection of historic villas, cottages, hotel suites; one of its most lavish pools is the private L-shaped piscina at Villa Penna, which blends so seamlessly with the surrounding landscapes that you might think it was a natural swimming hole (which coincidentally, the estate also has).
Best Beach Club: Set on a private beach on Sicily’s Bay of Mazarrò, Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel occupies the island’s most covetable coastal perches. Now that the resort has launched Lido Villeggiatura, A Villa Sant’Andrea Beach Club, guests have yet another vantage point for appreciating the hotel’s seaside scenery. Inspired by the hotel’s midcentury Mediterranean glamour (the property was famously a private villa until the 1950s), the new beach club offers white-and-blue stripes sun loungers, six tented cabanas with plush sofas, dedicated butler service, and plenty of locally-inspired design details — from colorful cushions with lace-inspired “merletto” detailing, lava stone tiles from Mount Etna, Sicilian terracotta vases, and sun sails swaying in the sea breeze. Daily programming ranges from sunrise yoga by the water’s edge to open-air cinema nights in partnership with the Taormina Film Festival, DJ sets and seafood barbecues, wellness treatments in private cabanas, and excursions in the beach club’s new private speed boat Apreamare Gozzo 35, constructed by master boat builders from Sorrento.
Best for Artisans: International art gallery Galleria Continua and Belmond are teaming up for the third year on their MITICO art series. While this year’s art initiative will pop up in six Belmond properties around the world (including Rio de Janeiro and Cape Town), art lovers won’t want to miss a site-specific work by French conceptual artist Daniel Buren at Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, near Florence, where the artist has used the glass roof at Bar San Michele as his canvas. Consisting of panels of vividly colored glass in shades of red, green, blue and yellow, the retractable art piece transforms the bar into a kaleidoscopic installation of primary hues.
Best for Foodies: Umbria is ranking high on gourmands’ wish lists now that Tenuta di Murlo has launched a cooking school where guests can learn to make traditional Umbrian pizza and pasta and enroll in interactive group cooking classes. Also new for this year is a farm area that will function as a meeting place for culinary experiences like truffle hunting and apiary workshops. The hotel can organize picnics amid the property’s rolling hillsides, with estate-grown wine, olive oil, honey, biodynamic fruits and vegetables as gourmet picnic provisions. For guests wanting to get a broader taste of the region, culinary towns like Norcia (famous for its cured meats) and Castelluccio (Umbria’s lentil capital!) are just a drive away.
Best Train: What’s better than a road trip? A luxury train journey across Italy’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes. In June, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train will travel to the Ligurian Coast for the very first time in its four-decade history, connecting Paris and the breezy seaside town of Portofino, Italy. The overnight journey will wind through the French countryside and along the Riviera, ending with a two-night stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel. As part of their stay, guests will enjoy a night of cinema under the stars at the town’s iconic Piazzetta; they’ll also be among the first to check out the hotel’s newly launched Splendido Grill, where classic Italian dishes are enjoyed on a breezy terrace overlooking the Ligurian Bay.
Best Cruise: Sicily isn’t a destination you can discover in one go — or is it? Next summer, PONANT, in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, will circumnavigate the Italian island, bringing the destination’s ancient civilizations, cultural riches, and awe-inspiring landscapes into deep focus. Setting sail from Valletta, Malta on June 2-10, 2025, Le Bougainville will head towards the southwestern coast of Sicily, home to the seaside commune of Porto Empedocles and the UNESCO-recognized Temple Valley archaeological site. Next, the ship will journey to Tunisia’s alluring capital to visit the ruins of Ancient Carthage and the Bardo National Museum before arriving in Trapani to visit the San Lorenzo Cathedral and the medieval hilltop commune of Erice. From there, it’s on to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, where Byzantine mosaics and Baroque churches exist alongside chic artisan studios and trendy restaurants. After a loop around Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands, travelers will sail north to Stromboli, taking in panoramic vistas of the active volcano, before crossing through the Strait of Messina to arrive at Taormina. The final port of call is Syracuse, which Cicero called “the greatest and most beautiful of all Grecian cities,” where you’ll find the island’s greatest archaeological sites, Parco Archeologico della Neapoli.
from neighborhood scavenger hunts to Chelsea blooms…
There’s no better time to visit London than the spring, when the skies have cleared, the parks are bursting with flowers and lush greenery, and the streets are overflowing with people eating and drinking outdoors. If you’re planning a visit, here are the can’t-miss events and seasonal spots to put on your list—from the V&A Museum’s largest ever photography exhibition to a flower-powered installation at one of the city’s buzziest restaurants.
The Doyle Collection, London (The Bloomsbury, The Kensington, and The Marylebone)
The Bloomsbury is a top pick among families, thanks to its classic London style and prime location near the cool Neal’s Yard and the British Museum. This spring, families can enjoy a complimentary self-guided city scavenger hunt, created in partnership with the Blue Badge Tourist Guide and the children’s illustrators behind the Drawn Together Art Collective. The 60-minute walking tour begins and ends at The Bloomsbury Hotel, where children who show a completed treasure hunt map will earn a tasty surprise from the concierge! Also new for spring is a seasonal installation at the hotel’s buzzy Dalloway Terrace, where London-based florist Princess & Ko has created a floral wonderland of green foliage and yellow mimosa flowers (the official emblem of International Women’s Day). As part of the activation, the Provençal rosé brand Maison Mirabeau has crafted a menu of rosé-inspired cocktails inspired by some of France’s most legendary actresses including Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve.
Meanwhile, The Kensington Hotel is offering tickets to one of the season’s hottest-ticket art events: the V&A Museum’s “Fragile Beauty” exhibition, which opens on May 18 and will showcase more than 300 photographs (the largest photography exhibition the museum has staged to date!) from Elton John’s legendary art collection. Guests who book the hotel’s Fragile Beauty Exhibition Experience package will snag two tickets to the exhibition plus a full English breakfast each morning of their stay. Later in the season, The Kensington will offer a similar package for guests interested in high fashion—specifically, the world of fashion icon Naomi Campbell, the leading lady of “Naomi: in Fashion” which opens at the V&A in June.
For a quick weekend escape, consider a stay at the fashionable Marylebone Hotel, known for its unbeatable address and on-site health club (home to an 18-meter swimming pool and complimentary Pilates and yoga classes!).
The Beaumont
A hidden gem in Mayfair, The Beaumont hotel has long been an insider’s spot that feels intimate, but never snobby, thanks to a team that knows guests by name and to its acclaimed restaurants and bars that draw a local crowd. For a curated sense of place, guests receive exclusive access and offerings at nearby stores, including Heywood Hill bookstore, Leica Cameras, and leather goods boutique, Métier. This is the first spring season for the property to showcase its 29 additional rooms and suites (for a total of 101) that have been designed by the late French American designer Thierry Despont. Not to miss is ROOM, a one-of-a-kind suite that was originally designed by Turner Prize-winner Antony Gormley due to the City of Westminster’s requirement that new buildings contain public art. The Lego man-like accommodation offers a bedroom with nothing but an all-white bed – no TV, minibar, artwork or telephone – so there are no distractions for a healthier night’s sleep. Fun fact: Every first Tuesday of the month, up to six guests can order a selection of board games at the Gatsby’s Room. For those looking to add on a cocktail, the team recommends Manhattan for backgammon and Mint Julep for Scrabble.
L’oscar London
Housed inside a converted Grade-II listed Baroque church with Jacques Garcia interiors, L’oscar London is one of the city’s most fashion-forward hotels. It’s also one of the best spots to enjoy afternoon tea, especially now that the property has rolled out a new afternoon tea menu with infusions from Newby Teas (the world’s most awarded luxury tea brand) and small bites inspired by seasonal flavors (think rhubarb and strawberry choux or lime and elderflower cheesecake). Vegan guests can opt for the hotel’s plant-forward menu, with a selection of veggie-centric finger sandwiches and sweets like dark chocolate mousse with yuzu and matcha.
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel
London’s Chelsea Flower Show is an annual celebration of show-stopping seasonal blooms and innovative garden designs. As part of the floral festivities, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel will debut spectacular floral displays around the property, as well as botanical cocktails and a floral-inspired afternoon tea by star pâtissier Benoit Blin. Guests also receive early access to London’s oldest botanical garden and private tennis courts in Cadogan Place Gardens.
Nayara Resorts comprises six properties in beautiful locations: Nayara Tented Camp, Nayara Springs, and the newly reopened Nayara Gardens in Costa Rica’s Arenal rainforest; Nayara Alto Atacama in Chile’s Atacama Desert and Nayara Hangaroa on Easter Island; and Nayara Bocas del Toro off of Panama’s Caribbean coast. Here’s a look at what is happening across the brand in the year ahead…
COSTA RICA
Nayara Gardens reopened in January following an extensive transformation. The Arenal Casitas have been completely rebuilt with redesigned interiors and private decks with plunge pools enveloped by the rainforest. A new boutique showcases locally crafted artisanal goods, while a family education center dedicated to the exploration of the surrounding rainforest adds immersive learning opportunities. The spa is also going through a renovation and will reopen Spring 2024.
At Nayara Tented Camp, the new Sukha Spa (opened summer 2023) has led to enhanced wellness offerings, including several new retreats ranging from bespoke three-day itineraries with yoga, sound healing, and sunset meditation to set itineraries such as the five-day Sukha Flower Moon retreat in May and the four-day Sukha Rainforest retreat in October. The Sukha Flower Mood retreat will align with the full moon in May. This retreat’s goal is to captivate one’s emotions in harmony with intuition and purpose, focusing on introspection and aligning actions with newfound insights. The Sukha Rainforest Retreat is during the 2024 Supermoon, where the moon will be 30 % brighter than usual. Historically, during the Supermoon, hunters traditionally sought out their prey, preparing for a long winter ahead. The goal of this retreat is for guests to cultivate self-esteem and self-awareness, connecting with nature to ground one’s being and nurture one’s dreams. One not-to-be-missed spa experience is the new volcanic mud baths, where the volcanic mud is sourced from La Fortuna. Ancient Costa Ricans believed that applying this mineral-rich volcanic mud to the body regenerates and nourishes the skin and provides energy and inner peace.
At Nayara Springs, the adults-only sanctuary, the fine dining restaurant Amor Loco has launched a new Costa Rican cuisine tasting menu focused on the bounty and quality of Costa Rican ingredients from across the country’s provinces. The four or seven-course menu uses French and Japanese techniques. Chef William Weiss elevates ingredients locally sourced from around Costa Rica, including mahi mahi, coffee, chocolate, pink pineapple, yucca, rum centenario, and more, creating culinary masterpieces. There is an alternative seven-course vegan tasting menu as well.
PANAMA
Nayara Bocas del Toro – an adults-only, all-inclusive retreat on a private mangrove island off Panama’s Caribbean Coast – gives Robinson Crusoe vibes with its 16 overwater villas and three towering treehouses. Remaining true to its ethos, the resort is entirely off-grid, running on solar power, with water collected from the rain (Wi-Fi is available!). The newest additions are the fifty-foot treehouses added in 2023, designed by IBUKU with locally sourced bamboo and beams collected from petrified trees at the bottom of the Panama Canal. Getting to Panama from the East Coast will soon be faster as Copa Airlines will begin offering a new direct flight route from Raleigh-Durham International Airport into Panama City starting June 21st. Other direct flights include New York, Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Chicago, Denver, and more.
CHILE
Nestled within the red-rocks of Chile’s Salt Mountains, Nayara Alto Atacama stands as an adobe-style oasis in the heart of the world’s driest desert. Offering access to the desert and mountains, the resort has a diverse range of activities, including hiking through lunar landscapes, cycling amidst dunes and caves, exploring geysers and lagoons, and stargazing. Recognized as one of the clearest places in the world for stargazing, its open-air observatory is about to welcome a second telescope to add to the experience. Pía Urbano Mena is the resident astronomer who gives guests private lessons on celestial patterns, including the local history of how the stars were used to help navigate and in agricultural planning.
Nayara Hangaroa, at the heart of Easter Island (one of the planet’s most remote locales, known for its ancient Moai statues), gives guests an introduction to the island in many ways, from sailing through the islets by the Rano Kau cliff to traversing its rugged terrain on bike or ATV. On property, guests love the Spa Manavai, a faithful replica of an ancient Manavai dome, where coco body scrubs and massages featuring pure Tahitian coconut oil and Tiare flowers await.
Tucked amid the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is known as an all-seasons adventure playground. But in recent years, the idyllic mountain town has emerged as one of Switzerland’s hottest dining destinations, with a trendy new champagne bar, a Michelin Green Star brasserie, Zermatt’s first seafood restaurant, and a new fusion spot that melds Peruvian and Asian flavors. Let’s dig in!
La Muña
Zermatt’s iconic Schweizerhof hotel offers an unexpected (and uber-luxe) spin on a traditional ski lodge. Yes, there are common spaces done up in cowbells and quilts, as well as a traditional Valais restaurant and an eatery serving a dozen styles of fondue and raclette. But the hotel is also home to one of the town’s most innovative kitchens. Named after the name of a medicinal plant in the Andes, La Muña is a creative fusion of Peruvian and Asian cuisine, with dishes ranging from homemade gyozas and vegan ceviche to yuzu salmon with lime and coriander. The cocktails are just as inventive — try the Red Caipirinha with pomegranate.
Le Restaurant
Mont Cervin Palace has been welcoming guests since 1852, but the hotel’s newest dining hotspot is new for 2023. Zermatt’s first seafood eatery, Le Restaurant serves French-Mediterranean specialties like bisque de homard and Navarin lobster in an elegant oak-clad space with glittering chandeliers. Don’t sleep on the 34-page wine list, which spotlights Riesling, Chasselas, and other regional grape varieties.
Ristorante Capri
Located on the fourth floor of Mont Cervin Palace with breathtaking views of snow-covered Zermatt, the one-Michelin-starred Capri restaurant is a sophisticated environment in which to try chef Vincenzo Tedeschi southern Italian cooking, with particular inspiration from the traditions of Campania and the flavors of the Mediterranean. Highlights include the crunchy lobster with green apple, basil and fennel, and the taglioni with red prawns, burrata, sea asparagus and lemon.
Brasserie Uno
This newcomer to the scene has been shaking things up with creative dishes that star local, seasonal produce (think: chanterelles, radishes, and red berries), some of which is sourced from the restaurant’s three gardens. The brasserie earned a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability: food waste is recycled, food is served on vintage bowls and plates, and menus are described by the waitstaff as opposed to being printed off. Opt for the six-course surprise tasting menu.
Elsie’s Wine and Champagne Bar
Opened in 2019 in the heart of Zermatt, this wood-paneled wine and champagne bar channels the spirit of the golden twenties. First-class wines and Champagnes are complemented with a small, refined selection of international and Swiss delicacies, like escargot with homemade herb butter, mouth-watering bison filet, and the best lobster spaghetti in the Alps.
Manud
The passion project of three female entrepreneurs (all of whom hail from the same family), Manud is a warm, welcoming addition to the Zermatt culinary scene. The café-style eatery serves breakfast and Asian-inflected lunch and dinner, with options like tom kha curry, Thai cabbage salads, and tofu banh mi. The homey space is also stocked with items to go, like natural wine, coffee from Zurich’s Blasercafé, and Swiss gin.
Aroleid Restaurant
This community-centric restaurant is located right next to the ski slopes, making for easy eats on powder days. But it’s not just about the food: this remodeled bi-level chalet also brings together a ground-floor ceramics studio, an on-site coffee roastery, and community programming ranging from yoga classes and live music to weekend BBQ feasts. And while you’ll be tempted to try their 14-day cured pastrami salad or their crispy confit duck leg, Aroleid also has a strong selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
Nayara Resorts, nestled in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest, just launched two new holistic wellness retreats scheduled for August 12-18 and October 9-15. The six-night retreats offer an opportunity to reset and recharge surrounded by the serene rainforest surroundings.
Guests will immerse themselves in a range of activities, including yoga, sound healing, and sunset meditation, all conducted in outdoor pavilions cantilevered over the rainforest. In addition to the activities, guests have spa treatments and access to the wellness amenities, including the thermal mineral hot springs.
The wellness retreat industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, as individuals seek respite from the daily grind. Nayara’s retreats align perfectly with this trend, grounded in the scientifically-proven benefits of nature.
“Our retreats draw inspiration from the Sanskrit term ‘sukha,’ representing ‘equilibrium.’ They are thoughtfully curated to help guests reconnect with nature and rediscover their inner essence,” explains Jonathan Rojas, Marketing Manager. “Each retreat coincides with the New Moon, symbolizing new beginnings. Additionally, our October retreat offers a rare chance to witness the spectacular annular solar eclipse, known as the ‘ring of fire.’”
“Nayara’s retreats go beyond mere activities; they focus on nourishment too,” adds Constanza Navarro, Sales & Marketing Director. “Our award-winning culinary team has thoughtfully crafted a menu featuring locally sourced, organic ingredients, guaranteeing a healthy and authentic dining experience.”
Nayara’s wellness retreats promise a transformative journey towards enhanced health and balance. As spots are limited and demand is expected to be high, interested individuals are urged to secure their reservations promptly
As the heat and humidity start to subside in Barcelona, the crowds also dwindle, and travelers can expect a distinctly of-the-place feel as locals return from their summer holidays. Lines at the city’s cultural institutions shorten and it’s easier to book appointments and reservations at top wineries and restaurants. Don’t miss out on Barcelona’s festivities including the annual 48 Hour Open House festival, October 21-22, where over 200 emblematic buildings and museums open their doors with free admission, and the new Miró-Picasso exhibition debuting at both Fundació Miró and Museu Picasso – the first exhibition to be held simultaneously at both venues in honor of the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death. Where to stay? Situated just steps away from Passeig de Gràcia in the Gothic District, Almanac Barcelona is an ideal jumping off point with a panoramic rooftop terrace to enjoy the last sunny days, a vegetable-driven restaurant from a Michelin-starred Spanish chef, and VIP experiences for every type of traveler – from bon vivants and solo travelers to those looking for a wellbeing reset after a busy summer. Here’s what’s new and notable at Almanac Barcelona.
Almanac Barcelona has launched an all-new showcooking experience with Michelin-starred chef Rodrigo de la Calle at Virens. Available for just 10 people, Chef Rodrigo will share the vision behind his plant-forward interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine with a nine-course feast that could include kimchi empanadillas, beetroot tartare, and artichoke risotto with crispy broccoli florets. Having dedicated years to researching the best suppliers and ingredients in Barcelona and elsewhere in Spain, Chef Rodrigo is committed to showcasing only the finest homegrown product – no two dinner experiences will be the same. Available once a month, current dates include August 10 and September 7 (with additional dates to follow). To book, please visit virensbarcelona.com.
Less ‘We Time,’ More ‘Me Time’
From museums to restaurants to shopping, there is no shortage of activities in Barcelona alone – plus an easy-to-use public transportation system to explore the city. Now available this month, guests can seamlessly discover the Catalonian capital as a party of one with the ‘Almanac Solo’ package. Individuals will enjoy three nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast, private transfers to/from the airport, a private 60-minute sunrise yoga session on the panoramic rooftop terrace, and a welcome basket with a half-bottle champagne, a curated list of shopping recommendations by the concierge, and a Barcelona City Pass. Guests will also have the choice between a private, three-hour guided tapas tour to discover the city’s hidden gems and learn more about the city’s culinary history; joining a small-group hiking excursion to explore the Montserrat Trails and Benedictine Monastery; or a private shopping experience at La Manual Alparagatera to customize a pair of espadrilles. Plan accordingly and the package will also include a reserved seat at the all-new showcooking dining experience at Virens. Rates start at $645 per night for a three-night stay (price will vary depending on preferred experience).
All senses awaken while wandering down the Passeig de Gràcia, lined with architectural masterpieces, shopping outlets and restaurants. Welcoming guests with high ceiling windows, warm beige and gold tones, and the calming aromas of the sea, botanicals, and citrus by perfumer Jimmy Boyd, Almanac Barcelona offers a holistic escape that prioritizes plant-forward cuisine and active wellbeing – not to miss out on the city’s stunning sites, after all. Begin the day eight stories above the city noise with a private sunrise yoga session on the panoramic rooftop terrace – with uninterrupted views of La Sagrada Familia and Mount Tibidabo. Then step outside of the hotel’s walls for a half-day, off-the-beaten path hiking trip to explore the Montserrat Trails and Benedictine Monastery, home to La Moreneta (the Black Madonna), just outside the city led by a local mountaineer born and raised in Barcelona or enjoy access to the neighboring Holmes Place Exclusive Premium Health Club. The food is not to be missed. Eat healthy but well at Virens, where chef Rodrigo de la Calle of Madrid’s El Invernadero fame crafts plant-forward interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fermented foods and probiotic drink pairings. A champion of local ingredients and produce, menus will vary seasonally and might begin with a glass of fresh-brewed hibiscus kombucha (there’s always a different flavor on tap), followed by beetroot gazpacho, creamy rice with a Palamos red prawn carpaccio, and an apple and honey cake topped with elderberry cream to finish.
In the heart of the Peloponnese, just a 2.5-hour drive from Athens, Euphoria Retreat is a holistic-wellbeing destination spa that seamlessly blends cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom. It is also the expression of one woman’s personal story of transformation — thoughtfully conceived after years of research and planning as a space where others may experience healing and growth.
The location alone is magical: situated in the foothills of soaring Mount Taygetus, Euphoria overlooks a river valley carpeted with citrus and olive groves and is surrounded by nearly 20 acres of private forests, for walking, hiking and meditation. When Athens-born Marina Efraimoglou, Euphoria’s owner and founder, first fell in love with the setting in 2007, it had been largely abandoned, though a 19th-century villa at the heart of the property remains, painstakingly restored to showcase the off the region’s rich Byzantine history. A former successful banker and cancer survivor, Efraimoglou traveled around the world to learn about different approaches to wellness, alternative medicine and ancient practices before returning to her native Greece and creating Euphoria, which opened in 2018.
Composed of 45 rooms and suites, a state-of-the-art, four-story spa and fitness facility, as well as a restaurant, the property overlooks the village of Mystras, the last significant stronghold of the Byzantine Empire and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Taking inspiration from this fabled past, the design showcases a striking interpretation on classical Byzantium, with colors that are characteristic of the region’s rich iconography.
Interiors are understated and harmonious, with blond-wood floors, warm lighting and lots of spaces from which to take in the stunning views (many rooms come with private balconies, terraces or patios. Spacious bathrooms feature deliciously scented beauty products, adapted from ancient Greek recipes and combining healing herbs and aromatherapy. There’s also the latest technology – including subtle lighting, bio-climatization, under-floor heating and home automation systems. Everything feels in sync with Euphoria’s overall Zen vibe: details have clearly been designed to invite a thoughtful slowing down.
The pièce-de-résistance is the four-story spa, which blends Greek and Eastern philosophies in a state-of-the-art space inspired by ancient hammams and Turkish bathhouses. In its center, a spiral staircase leads from a glowing moon at the bottom of the pool to a circular skylight more than eighty feet above. Many guests have described the cocooning effects of this circular architecture.
Ambitious and comprehensive, Euphoria offers everything from multi-week retreats to massage therapies, signature bodywork and holistic healing. A day might include acupuncture and watsu, five elements meditation and energy treatments, and a lymphatic massage and challenging yoga class.
The programs (all curated by Efraimoglou) adopt a holistic approach to health to help restore physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance. They feature a host of influences, from Greek philosophers and Hippocratic healing to Taoist philosophy and Chinese medicine, but are customized around individual needs, which may include weight loss, fitness, immunity, or mental perseverance, and the team here includes doctors, mentors, nutritionists, therapists and fitness gurus. In short, each Euphoria journey is personal. While ancient knowledge and alternative medicine play a big role, there’s also the latest in scientific innovation. Meal plans, for instance, are crafted using a patented “3GL Plus” therapy. Measuring the most important nutritional and metabolic markers, it allows the team to tailor a well-balanced menu for each guest that is immediately beneficial.
Central to any stay at Euphoria is the food—the approach here is personalized and never about deprivation, and each guest eats differently according to their individual needs. With gorgeous views, the property’s restaurant, Gaia, focuses menus on locally and seasonally driven fare. Guests might start the day with homemade granola with thyme honey and creamy Greek yogurt, snack on smoothies and fresh fruit, break for lunch with soups and salads, and end the day with super light fish and meat dishes, all of which are packed with fragrant herbs, antioxidant spices and essential nutrients.
With its single-minded focus on enabling and powering healthy personal transformations, Euphoria is a true place of healing and transformation, and its effects are felt long after guests return home. This award-winning place truly lives up to its name in all ways: in Greek, the word euphoria means the state of well-being, balancing body, mind and soul, resulting in happiness.
In the summer, Napa Valley serves as an adventure-filled backyard for visitors who come to get outdoors, soak up the sun, and relax amid miles of vines and rugged mountain scenery. While wine tourism is a major draw (rosé season, anyone?), there are also plenty of other activities like ATV tours, olive-oil tastings, family picnics, and outdoor music concerts. Here’s a preview of all that the sunny season has in store:
Napa Valley: Bring the Whole Family!
The region is not just an adult getaway – many Napa Valley lodging properties are offering family-friendly accommodations. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection offers lawn games, fireside s’mores, bocce courts, a kid-friendly Splash Pad, and a personalized pizza-making experience. Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection, has a dedicated kids camp where daily activities include a hawk walk, bike rides, planting vegetables in the farm, and star-gazing on the Great Lawn. Carneros Resort and Spa offers garden tours along with other family-fun activities like a scavenger hunt, kids yoga classes, and a sleep-under-the-stars experience. The Meritage Resort and Spa has adopted a baby goat named Althea! Housed at the nearby Connolly Ranch Education Center (home to more than 85 barnyard animals), where guests can drop by and learn about life on the ranch. Check out Visit Napa Valley’s list of kid-friendly wineries to find the perfect place to taste, with the whole family in tow.
Beyond the Glass – Unique Winery Experiences
Do you like your wine with a side of adventure? Buckle up and embark on an ATV tour of the 1,000-acre mountainside vineyard at Hess Persson Estate, complete with views from Napa Valley to the San Francisco Bay. Afterward, enjoy a wine and cheese pairing or culinary tasting experience with dishes cultivated from produce grown in the estate gardens.
Blending is an art as well as a science. If you sign up for the Bottle Blending Camp at Judd’s Hill Winery, you’ll learn how to perfect your Bordeaux-style blends using samples from four red varietals. It’s a fun and educational way to hone your palate and just as enjoyable if you’re a single, a couple, or a group. There’s room for everyone!
Develop a taste for olive oil and head over to Round Pond Estate to learn about olive cultivation, harvest, and the property’s artisanal methods of production including a traditional stone mill. The estate is home to 2,200 olive trees with the five Italian varieties and three Spanish varieties—see if you can taste the difference during an hour-long tasting. Or visit the new tasting room of Grove 45, a producer of extra virgin olive oil produced in the heart of Napa Valley. Run by mother-daughter duo Ana and Marcela Hernandez, Grove 45 hosts olive oil and balsamic vinegar tastings, paired with seasonal bites.
If the great outdoors is calling you, several Napa Valley wineries host guided hikes that culminate in (of course!) a tasting, offering a true grape to glass experience. At Pine Ridge Vineyards, visitors can partake in a guided moderate hike through the vines while learning about the winery’s sustainable farming techniques and diverse ecosystems, while at Cuvaison, guests can walk through their vineyards before enjoying an ‘Estate Tasting’ and boxed lunch on the patio.
Summer of Sound in Napa Valley
Over the last decade, Napa Valley has become the premier destination for the biggest names in music, hosting both large scale and intimate shows in stunning outdoor venues. Highlights include the Golden States Festival (July 15) and the Down in the Valley Festival (September 2-3), both at the Oxbow RiverStage in downtown Napa, and the Blue Note Jazz Festival (July 28-30) hosted by Dave Chapelle and featuring headliners Mary J. Blige, Nas, and Chance the Rapper at Silverado Resort & Spa.
Other notable concert series running all summer long include the Blue Note Summer Sessions at The Meritage Resort, Festival Napa Valley (July 8-23) with country music star Carrie Underwood set to perform.
Savor After Hours (in residency from June- to September), brings a wholly unique show to Napa Valley. The first of its kind, this cabaret and wine tasting experience, featuring Dancing with the Stars champions Maks and Valentin Chmerkovskiy, is sure to surprise and delight guests. Featuring dance, music, magic, and of course wine, Savor After Hours is quickly becoming the hottest ticket in Napa Valley!
MAROMA, A BELMOND HOTEL, RIVIERA MAYA TO REOPEN IN MAY 2023
OCTOBER 2022 – On May 25, 2023, the Riviera Maya will welcome the much-anticipated return of Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, the storied hideaway in the beating heart of the Riviera Maya. Nestled between 200 acres of lush tropical jungle and the secluded white sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the legendary property will be completely reimagined with Mayan culture at its core – and will be the first, extensive transformation within Belmond’s North America portfolio under LVMH ownership. This new chapter of Maroma will reveal 10 new waterfront suites, a nature-focused wellness experience in partnership with Guerlain, ground-breaking sustainability initiatives and a new gastronomic era under Mexican-born Executive Chef Daniel Camacho.
A MAYAN LEGEND, REBORN
Internationally renowned designer Tara Bernerd is at the helm of the comprehensive restoration, working hand-in-hand with local artisans to honor Mexican heritage. Blending contemporary craft with the careful sourcing of indigenous materials, the team will create timeless spaces that are authentic to their roots and channel the healing energy of the locale. The original design and architecture of the property will be preserved, including the white stucco buildings, aligned to the Sacred Geometry of Mayan masonry. Curved lines and organic forms inspired by the property’s wild surrounds will inform the harmonious indoor-outdoor flow of rooms, suites and villas. An unrivalled beach resort, each of the 72 accommodations will be spread across Maroma’s private stretch of sand, of which three quarters now have ocean views, including a spacious new waterfront suite complete with a private pool and garden. The property’s three pools will be completely redesigned, featuring Sukabumi tiles handmade from volcanic stone, in the same vibrant turquoise tones as the region’s many natural cenotes.
“Maroma offered a rare opportunity to reimagine this iconic hotel, with its rich and storied history. We sought to retain and enhance the original character, working with local artisans, whilst simultaneously incorporating a contemporary elegance, a warmth that also has a sense of home, that speaks to the needs of the Belmond guest for generations to come,” says Bernerd. Maroma will showcase an extraordinary collection of pan-Mexican art and design. Eighty percent of furnishings and objects will be made by Mexican craftspeople, from a hand-blown glass chandelier and painted clay pots to traditional ‘Saltillo’ floor tiles, meticulously curated for guest rooms.
A WELLNESS DESTINATION WITH INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM
Founded on the principles of nature and vitality, wellness at Maroma will take on a new dimension with the launch of the first Guerlain Spa in Latin America. A temple for rejuvenation and a place of deep spirituality, guests will feel the vital flow of healing energies from the jungle oasis and wide open sea in the newly renovated biophilic space. Treatment rooms will look out onto the jungle and will incorporate local design elements with geometric shapes and artisanal objects. Healing rituals will be inspired by the power of nature, ancient practices and the sacred Melipona bee, revered by the Mayans for over 3,000 years as a symbol of spiritual resonance. Centered around balance and harmony, Guerlain will create a unique spa menu with its iconic face and body treatments as well as exclusive experiences designed around the Mayan wellness philosophy of sound and healing rituals. A true holistic wellness retreat, the spa will also include a selection of daily workshops in meditation, movement and yoga to resynchronize body, mind and spirit.
COLOURFUL AND CONTEMPORARY CUISINE
Mexican-born Executive Chef Daniel Camacho will continue his legacy of celebrating his country’s rich culinary diversity at Casa Mayor restaurant. Working on a sustainable provenance approach, 90% of ingredients will be sourced from Mexico and almost half from the Yucatán peninsula. A proud member of #PescaConFuturo, promoting sustainable fishery and aquaculture, freshly caught seafood will be sourced from Amigos de Sian Ka’an. Reinventing traditional Mexican cuisine, colorful dishes will range from seafood towers and Michoacan corundas, to Jalisco-style Birria and chocolate cake with Oaxacan black mole, flamed with house mezcal.
For the perfect sundowner, Bambuco will offer a more casual affair, where seasonal herbal drinks made fresh from the garden will sit alongside Mexican wines, tequila cocktails, and an extensive selection of Mezcal. The legendary beach hangout Freddy’s Bar will continue to channel the vibrant spirit of the Riviera Maya, with live music and DJ sets, fresh seafood and cocktails.
BIODIVERSITY: IT BEGINS WITH A BEE
Maroma has a long history of working with local organizations and will continue collaborating with Fundación Selva Maya and Mayahuum to protect the endangered Melipona bee, which is fundamentally important to the ecology of the Yucatán peninsula. Belmond will also launch a new partnership with Guerlain to further amplify this commitment. Combining a legacy of caring, research and community programs, the collaboration will include expanding resident hives, unveiling a new Melipona sanctuary for educational guest experiences and introducing Guerlain’s Bee School and “Women for Bees” initiatives into Yucatán communities. In addition to forming part of the wellness experience, Melipona and other types of honey will also be a feature on the culinary and mixology menus. Caring for the environment will be a priority woven into every aspect of Maroma and its guest programming, with further initiatives including turtle conservation and preserving the local flora and fauna.
FOTOGRAFIA MAROMA: A LIVING GALLERY OF MEXICAN TALENT
The Riviera Maya is a fertile ground for creative expression and artistic development, with its rich culture, storytelling traditions and spectacular natural landscapes. Maroma will further celebrate local artists through a multi-faceted creative concept, Fotografía Maroma, in partnership with curators Fariba Farshad (co-founder and director of Photo London) and Patricia Conde (the founder of Patricia Conde Galeria in Mexico City and the annual exhibition Proyectosjuancano68). Together with Belmond, the curators have hand-picked four Mexican photographers to participate in the inaugural photography series: renowned photographers Patricia Lagarde, Javier Hinojosa, and Ilán Rabchinskey, alongside up-and-coming talent Margot Kalach. The resulting photographs, which capture Riviera Maya through the photographers’ distinctive lenses and perspectives, will be exhibited during Art Basel in Miami, Zona Maco in Mexico City and Photo London.
Images and renderings of Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya can be downloaded here.
ABOUT BELMOND
Belmond has been a pioneer of luxury travel for 46 years, building a passion for authentic escapes into a portfolio of one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring destinations.
Since the acquisition of the iconic Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has continued to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, taking discerning global travelers on breathtaking journeys. Its portfolio extends across 24 countries with 50 remarkable properties that include the illustrious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, remote beach retreats like Cap Juluca in Anguilla, Italian hideaways such as Splendido in Portofino, or unrivalled gateways to world natural wonders such as Hotel das Cataratas inside Brazil’s Iguazu National Park. From trains to river barges, safari lodges to hotels, each unique property offers an incomparable experience with its own story to tell. The essence of the Belmond brand is built upon its heritage, craftsmanship and genuine, authentic service. Belmond sees its role as custodians of timeless heritage, dedicated to preserving its assets through sensitive ongoing restoration plans. Belmond is part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Belmond.com
INSTAGRAM: BELMOND - MAROMA
Green cuisine is sweeping the hotel industry. With properties upping their veggie-forward options and introducing meat-free variations on classic dishes, there’s never been a better time to travel as a vegan, vegetarian, or generally health and environmentally conscious traveler. By embracing plant-forward menus, hotels are appealing to a broader set of travelers and winning over a younger generation of environmentally aware travelers.
When it comes to green cuisine, innovation abounds. At Shou Sugi Ban House, the Hamptons’ first wellness resort, world-renowned chefs Mads Refslund of Noma fame designed a menu that uses a variety of techniques like fermentation, juicing, and en papillote to transform organic foods that are plucked from the hotel’s biodynamic gardens and local farms. Fresh, briny oysters might come from West Robins, a sustainable shellfish operation in Southampton, while the nearby Bhumi Farms might provide sugar snaps, heirloom tomatoes, and mini cucumbers.
At Oxfordshire’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, a Belmond Hotel, cooking vegetables is elevated to high art. At the hotel’s signature restaurant—which earned two Michelin stars during its first year and has held them ever since—French chef Raymond Blanc OBE creates stunning dishes that highlight only the finest and freshest ingredients, sourced from his two-acre vegetable garden. Among the 90+ plants that are grown include 20+ species of mushrooms, every French and English herb imaginable, plus an apple and pear orchard and more than 70 varieties. Guests can broaden their botanical knowledge by joining half- and full-day classes at the gardening school. Or they can enroll in the Raymond Blanc Cookery School to learn how to transform the seasonal bounty into multi-course meals.
In the Maldives, Gili Lankfansuhi has made a name as being one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly resorts in the archipelago. Executive chef Hari Govindaraj is passionate about plant-forward cuisine and has introduced a comprehensive veggie-centric menu that transforms locally-grown ingredients into colorful, creative dishes with a sense of place—think: Maldivian vegetable curry with coconut sauce, served with chapatti and poppadum; a beach lettuce salad with pomegranate and mint; and a steamed banana cake with fresh fruits and lemongrass sorbet. Chef Hari’s goal is to create 2,000 new plant-based recipes over the next two years (he’s currently at 600!). Guests can enjoy a plant-based tasting menu in the property’s garden, take part in a private vegan cooking class, or opt for the “Powered by Plants” package. The exclusive experience includes plant-based menus (signature dishes include aloe vera and beetroot tartare, or seared radish and spinach cannelloni), yoga classes, sustainability initiatives like the Coral Lines Project, and vegan treatments at the spa. What’s more, 100% of the resort’s food waste is processed in an advanced rocket composter, producing natural fertilizer for the hotel’s garden.
London might be better known for its bangers and mash than its vegetarian fare, but at L’Oscar, travelers can get their greens without sacrificing any flavor—or culinary prowess! The property’s vegan menu is a celebration of the freshest produce and the city’s crossroads cultures. Enjoy a chickpea velouté with French vierge sauce and seaweed oil to start, followed by an Acquerello risotto with saffron. Sides might include pak choi with shichimi or marinated Japanese aubergine with soy sauce and jalapeno peppers. And don’t miss dessert, especially the pineapple carpaccio with vegan crumble, Madagascar vanilla, and coconut sorbet.
