Design Hotels, Wellness Hotels, Boutique Hotels, Luxury Hotels, Spa Hotels

Feb

Top 5 Palace Hotels in Europe

by Sonja Franke February 9, 2010, 10:31 am

Why do we need Palace or Castle Hotels? Of course, to give our dreams the perfect setting and to make sure to have a sparkling bending of reality from time to time. Secretly we all cry when watching the Czech fairytale Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella (or even worse, when watching Sissi), although after Arnold Retzer’s pamphlet “Lob der Vernunftehe” we definitely wanted to say goodbye to the unrealistic image of the knight in shining armour on a white horse. After all, Valentine’s Day is approaching fast and it is now high time for romance – here are our top 5 Palace Hotels:

1) Hotel Château Grattequina, France

The Hotel Château Grattequina is the epitome of the French Schlosshotel: situated on the banks of the Garonne River outside the city of Bordeaux, this 4 star hotel dated from the year 1872 is fantastically located right in one of the most famous wine-producing regions in the world. Completely renovated in 2004, it nowadays depicts a perfect symbiosis of elegant furnishings with exquisite antiques and modern technology. In particular romantic is the junior suite with a chimney and an ultra-large plasma screen.

2) Château de la Couronne, France

This small Schlosshotel is located in Aquitaine, at the foot of the village Marthon. The classic brickwork with its honey-coloured towers takes us by surprise with its inside state-of-the-art design: the five lavish suites with its stylish mix of classic French design and natural materials are extremely nice to look at. This small, exquisite boutique hotel should therefore also score with the cool version of the modern princess.

3) Alma Schlosshotel im Grunewald, Germany

No less a figure than designer prince Karl Lagerfeld has equipped this luxury Schlosshotel in fancy Berlin Grunewald. Fifty historically furnished rooms and suites are characterized by his skilful signature and exude a noble, cosy atmosphere. An English-seeming bar and an excellent restaurant also attract Berliners to this unusual hotel. And the German national football team, which resided there in 2006 during the World Cup, was reportedly downright pleased there too.

4) Pousada de Estremoz Rainha Santa Isabel, Portugal

This historic country house in Portugal is characterized by a spectacular location in the center of the Estremoz Castle. This magnificent palace, which once King Diniz had constructed for his wife, Queen Santa Isabel, has been carefully modernized and converted into a noble Schlosshotel. The interior is dominated by antique furniture and heavy fabrics, which are in complete harmony with the historic masonry. Princess Isabel got married here in 1490 – why don’t you just do the same!

5) Glenapp Castle, Scotland

Of course, a Scottish Castle should not be missed out in our Top 5 – and the Glenapp is truly a magnificent specimen of a castle! Situated near the fishermen’s village of Ballantrae, this luxury hotel is not only surrounded by superb gardens with Victorian greenhouses, but also offers a terrific view on the Irish Sea. In its 17 elegant suites with period furniture, precious carpets and fabrics, it is so comfortable that it doesn’t matter if it is storming and haunting outside.

Tags: castle, palace, pousada, prince, princess, romantic

Category: Boutique Hotels, Designhotels, Honeymoon Hotels, Uncategorized, romantic hotels

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Feb

Madrid – Spain’s Castilian pearl

by Sonja Franke February 5, 2010, 10:31 am

Without a doubt, one can say that Madrid is the metropolis of Spain. Everything revolves around a central point: the Royal Palace. It appeals downright pompous, housing not only the city palace, but also a cathedral and the Sabatini Gardens. The royal family, however, turns up there only at major festivals and is living most of the time north of Madrid at the Zarzuela Palace.

Nevertheless, there is a changing of guard at the Palacio Real, a spectacle similar to that in London, which is a must see.

Madrid is home to many wonderful hotels. In particular, Madrid small hotels are very popular among travellers. Many are located very centrally in the city centre and are extremely charming hotels.

In Madrid, you should absolutely include visits to the numerous tapa restaurants. Utterly recommendable is the Cerveceria Alemania – Ernest Hemingway was already dining there. His then regular table is still particularly marked. But also the central located Cerverceria Santa Barbara is offering notably tasty appetizers and great Spanish wines.

And then there is of course, the Prado, one of the greatest museums in the world. Exceptionally impressive and worth seeing are the paintings of Goya, such as the famous “The Naked Maja”.

Position yourself for a moment on the vast Plaza Mayor. Surrounded by buildings which reflect thousands of years of history, you are witnessing at first hand the history but also the hustle and bustle of the Spanish capital. Then you will be looking forward to return to your beautiful hotel and totally relax.

But first you should enjoy the unique view of the sunset over the Plaza Mayor.

Tags: Madrid sights, Madrid small hotels, Spain hotels

Category: City Hotels, Hotels Spain, small hotels

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Feb

Berlinale 2010: The Hotels of the Stars

by Sonja Franke February 4, 2010, 9:43 am

Renée Zellweger will participate in the jury of the 60th Berlinale. She will be one of the high-profile members of the jury headed by German director Werner Herzog. Not only the committee, which awards the famous “Bären” is prominent: a veritable parade of movie stars is expected at the jubilee festival, including director Martin Scorsese (67) with main actor Leonardo DiCaprio (35), actor Sir Ben Kingsley (65) and Sex and the City star Kim Catrall. And “with the Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan (44) even some Bollywood feeling could arise”, festival director Dieter Kosslick (61) announced according to bild.de. Whoever likes to see a close up of his personal favourite can mingle with the fan crowd at the Potsdamer Platz, where the stars are strutting down the red carpet to the premieres. However, to capture a glimpse or even an autograph is rather difficult considering the crowd. Amateur paparazzis have better chances for success when they drop by at the hotels where the stars are accommodated during their stay in Berlin and hold out long enough in the lobby until the beloved he or she passes by.

The highest concentration of celebrities should be at the Grand Hyatt Berlin. This exclusive luxury hotel with a privileged location at the Potsdamer Platz is also hosting the press conferences this year. That’s why – according to hotel management – pretty much every VIP should pass by here sometime. Also located at the Potsdamer Platz is the five star hotel The Mandala, whose entrance is as discreet as the hotel itself: Several stars will most certainly sleep in this hot spot of Berlin’s hotel scene, but who exactly … Traditionally well occupied by celebrities is the Hotel Q!, where not only Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie spent the night, but also Amy Winehouse, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Mischa Barton and Barbara Becker. Recently, one of the Ochsenknecht boys has been sighted in the bar – no wonder, since this family is a long-stay guest here.

Tags: Berlinale 2010, Berlinale hotels, stars berlinale

Category: Berlin Hotels, Events, Uncategorized

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Feb

Top 5 hotels for party weekends

by Holly Maguire February 3, 2010, 11:04 am

Europe’s cheap flight revolution means we can jump on a plane to get away from it when we’re in need of a change of scenery. Weekend breaks and party nights are perfect for sampling the booming nightlife in any of these cities – and staying over in one of our handpicked hotels lets you lounge in luxe and rise feeling well rested – even after an evening of excess.

1. Casa Camper, Berlin, Germany.
Slap bang in Berlin Mitte, within walking distance of Hackescher Markt, the lively Oranienburger Straße and Alexanderplatz, the Spanish shoemaker brings smooth, functional design to the hotel world. a stylish abode for gourmet lovers, fashionistas and party lovers.

2. Lanchid 19 Design Hotel, Budapest, Hungary.
Balance out Budapest’s reputation as a stag do paradise by checking into this sleek property with fabulous panoramic views over the Danube river.

3. CitzenM Hotel, Amsterdam City, The Netherlands.
The Netherlands’ city of culture, canals and cool. This stylish abode is just minutes from the World Trade Center. The 24/7 canteen, touch screen technology and designer furniture will impress hip party goers – and surprise with decent prices.

4. Petit Palace Opera Garden Hotel, Barcelona, Spain.
The slate grey walls are pepped up with citrus highlights in this perfectly placed boutique hotel on Plaza Catalunya – endless shopping, fabulous architecture, great bars, restaurants and clubs.

5. The Bloomsbury Hotel, London, UK.
In the bustling centre of London, the British capital’s many theatres, restaurants, markets and museums surround this luxurious hotel.

Category: City Hotels, Party hotels, Top 5, Uncategorized

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Feb

Gomera: The Best Hotels

by Sonja Franke February 2, 2010, 9:21 am

The former dropout and hippie island of La Gomera has now turned into a coveted winter destination for individual travellers fed up with the cold. The scenic beauty of this seemingly tropical island with its unique laurel forest is especially suitable for hikers and those seeking silence – the nightlife is limited to the collectively experienced sunset in front of the Casa Maria in La Playa and the legendary enraptured moon parties at the Castillo del Mar. Even the Bhagwan Farm presents itself now rather modern and relaxed, and between El Faro and the port of Vueltas in Valle Gran Rey so many hotels were emerging, that visitors from the ’80s seem not to recognize the valley anymore.

However, the gorgeous Valle Hermigua with the charming Hotel Rural Ibo Alfaro is fairly untouched. The former mansion from the year 1850 is managed by the German Ina Stomberg, who lovingly furnished it with Spanish antiques and turned it into a gem amidst green nature. Hikes and walks can be undertaken straight from the house; so that according to Ina, “the best air on the island” can be enjoyed to the fullest. The view from the hotel is fantastic and the Garajonay National Park with its rain forest is just a few miles away, making it a dream accommodation for guests who like it special, individual and very personal and wish to get to know the other side of the island of Gomera.

From Valle Hermigua it is just a 20 minutes drive to the capital city of San Sebastian de La Gomera, where the ferries from Tenerife are berthing, with which most visitors come to the island (a real advantage for all like me, who after about an hour’s drive over serpentines into Valle Gran Rey get really sick – may the view on the sea be ever so magnificent). The “capital” isn’t really attractive, apart from one exception: the Parador de la Gomera, one of the most beautiful historic mansion hotels in entire Spain. Situated high above the harbour, it is offering a fantastic view, during good weather even as far as to the opposite Teide on Tenerife. A terrific garden with swimming pool, an excellent restaurant and nobly furnished rooms offer pure luxury – also great for a few days after the rustic finca vacation.

Tags: Gomera, Hermigua, Mansion hotels, San Sebastian de la Gomera

Category: Hotels Spain, On tour

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Jan

Valentine’s Day: The Best Gift Ideas

by Sonja Franke January 29, 2010, 5:54 pm

The 14th February is creeping up on us again: Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and with it the challenge of giving a thoughtful and original something to your loved one. A present which should represent love, affection and passion and not awkwardness and lack of creativity.

I find particularly romantic, Valentine’s Day presents which awaken the anticipation of an extraordinary, mutual experience – a pleasant, relishing element in times where love is, above all, associated with “relationship work”. As specialists for romantic weekends, the Escapio team recommends our hand-crafted gift voucher. You can determine the value yourself and perhaps the loved one receiving the voucher could also decide on one of our many choices of Escapio’s romantic hotels. Or you can be inspired from one of our Top 10 romantic Valentine’s Day hotels.

You could expect a passionate evening on Valentine’s in the Ellington Hotel. Here, the lovebirds could treat themselves to a four-course meal. In between meals, Germany’s erotic voice, Irina von Bentheim (who has her own column in the Escapio blog), will be reading out of Gloria Vanderbildt’s novel “The Queen Bee” (Die Bienenkönigin). I could warmly recommend that, as the cuisine at the Duke restaurant is as fantastic as Irina’s voice!

Whoever would prefer a tangible gift, but has not yet got any concrete ideas, should consult the DaWanda-Gift Finder. In DaWanda you will not only find great tips for gifts, but also original, home made gifts which you can order directly. Likewise, Edelight also offers a choice of great gift ideas for Valentine’s Day – Just click on and let yourself be inspired!

Tags: Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day

Category: Valentine's Day, gift voucher, romantic hotels

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Jan

Top 10 sexy Valentine’s Day Hotels

by Holly Maguire January 28, 2010, 10:48 am

Valentine’s Day is just a couple of weeks away. More playful types may shy away from red roses and candlelit dinners, but they’ll definitely jump into bed at the thought of an erotic weekend away. Escape lovey-dovey poetry and chocolate romance, forget gold rings and French kissing by sunset. For the spontaneous and racy, here’s a dreamy affair: grab the saucy lingerie and some naughty accessories of choice and check into one of these seductive boudoirs. A shared bottle of champagne would do no harm – but here are 10 sexy hotels where you’ll be quite satisfied tied up all night…

1. Classical 2, Fashion House Hotel, Athens, Greece.
This designer pad in the centre of Athens is colourfully and flirtatiously decorated in blossomy colours with cartoony touches. Perfect for adult playtime!

2. Hotel Masseria Torre Coccaro, Apulia, Italy.
Vaulted ceilings, and antiquey furniture provide a sexy stage for 16th century role play after a day splashing in the turquoise pool or in the sea.

3. Maison La Minervetta, Sorrento, Italy.
The bold and the beautiful will find a room with a view in this bright and sexy hotel looking over the Gulf of Naples.

4. Maison Moschino, Milan, Italy.
The utter un-romantics won’t mind waiting till this fashion paradise with dress-shaped beds and sensuous reds against pure white walls opens at the end of February.

5. Adam & Eve Hotels Belek, Antalya, Turkey.
Once voted the sexiest hotel in the world, this Turkish delight has über-chic designer rooms, turquoise sea views and sexy suites to hide away in.

6. Hotel Walliserhof, Brand, Austria.
A cutting edge design hotel with warming open fires to curl up in front of, tucked up high in the Austrian Alps.

7. The Ring Hotel, Vienna, Austria.
Romp around in the intimate yet discreet environment of this central Vienna hotel.

8. Les Jardins de la Medina, Marrakech, Morocco.
Princely palace with lush gardens and refreshing pool, just waiting for royal behaviour.

9. Cases de Son Barbassa, Mallorca, Spain.
Romantic retreat within historic walls – flee to pulse-raising climates and shack up in this traditional Mallorcan abode with fantastic landscape views.

10. East Hotel, Hamburg, Germany.
The smooth forms and sensual colours of this design hotel near the Reeperbahn arouse the senses, and the European-Asian fusion cuisine will tickle the tastebuds. XL-XLarge Double rooms still available for February 14th!

Category: Erotische Hotels, Top Ten, Valentine's Day, romantic hotels, sexy hotels

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Jan

Romantic Weekend: Small Hotels Paris

by Sonja Franke January 27, 2010, 12:14 pm

When planning a romantic weekend, Paris has always been ranked among the top 5 of desired destinations – which hardly comes as a surprise, considering that the city conjures up images of loving, kissing couples in tight embraces on the banks of the Seine in almost everyone’s head: Who doesn’t have Robert Doisneau’s famous kiss or movies such as Breathless (A bout de souffle) by Jean-Luc Godard in mind when thinking of Paris? And the best thing is that although romantic, Paris is never corny. Anyone can fill the myth with new life for themselves : during a walk across the Ile de la Cité with Notre Dame, while climbing the many steps of Montmartre to Sacre Coeur, or when indulging in a glass of wine in one of the many old bars in Ménilmontant.

And because lovers are busy enough with each other and like it cosy, small hotels Paris are ideal for overnight stays: they should be located in a nice area, with fresh croissants brought straight to the bed and with a personal, intimate atmosphere. For this romantic desire the Escapio team (and there’s always one of us who is passionately in love!) is well prepared. Here are our top tips:

The absolute highlight of small hotels Paris is the One by The Five, which consists of only a single, although stunning suite. The furnishing seems to be made of light. Around the seemingly floating double bed, colours, stars and clouds are shining, so lovers feel like they’ve been beamed into the galaxy. Of course this uniqueness has its price, but it provides an experience that your sweetheart will never forget!

Characterized by Parisian elegance are the 24 themed rooms of the four star Hotel Recamier. Here, modern design is paired with a familiar atmosphere, and the location in appealing Saint Germain-des-Prés is just perfect: with a view on the Church St. Sulpice (where incidentally Heinrich Heine got married) you are accomodated in the former quarters of the existentialists, with the famous Café de Flore, very centrally located close to many tourist attractions.

In the cosy Hotel des Archives, located in my favourite district Marais, all 19 rooms are individually furnished. And at a great value for money, this boutique hotel offers Parisian flair with beautiful furniture and exquisite art on the walls. From here you can easily explore the Jewish quarter of Paris with its many boutiques and the gorgeous Place des Vosges on foot. And all the other sights are also within very easy reach.

Tags: Hotels Paris, romantic hotels, romantic hotels Paris, small hotels, small hotels Paris

Category: Boutique Hotels, City Hotels, Hotels Paris

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Jan

Discover the Eternal City: Small Hotels Rome

by Sonja Franke January 21, 2010, 12:07 pm

Rome does not carry the title “Eternal City” in vain – it has always been something like the hub of the world and already for thousands of years attracts visitors from around the world. Something very special in Rome is the fact that the Italian capital hosts in its interior an independent state, the Vatican – definitely a must see. One thing is for sure: You’ll love the St. Peter’s Basilica – a magnificent monument and the church with the largest dome ever.

But Rome is not only known for its many churches, there are also the many relics of antiquity. The Colosseum, for example, once the site of gladiator fights, today it’s known for concerts and various events. The Forum Romanum or the old aqueducts are just two more examples of living antiquity.

A day in Rome, full of breathtaking impressions, can be also exhausting, and then you are looking forward to a charming hotel, in which you can retreat later. Small Hotels Rome are ideally suited for that. Only this little hotels are able to capture the atmosphere and the unique flair of Rome.

A hint for a beautiful hotel is the Bellesuite Rome: With only 10 rooms this cozy small Rome hotel attracts its guests with a romantic breakfast terrace and its own tour guides. Moreover, one can recommend the hotel Suitesistina – also a gorgeous and small hotel (4 rooms), which is as well close to many historical sights – here you’ll be within walking distance of the the Spanish Steps.

How convenient – Like Paris Rome is called also a city of love. As a couple, one should stroll over the Spanish Steps. This brings good fortune, they say …

Tags: Rome, Rome Hotels, small hotels, Small Rome Hotels

Category: Boutique Hotels, City Hotels, Hotels Italy, Rom

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Jan

Top 5 Golf Hotels

by Holly Maguire January 20, 2010, 9:52 am

Golf’s a pretty hot topic this year after the woeful Tiger Woods affairs which are sure to boost celebrity spies’ interest in the sport. Tempting technological advances like Segway’s individual golf vehicle, or Triumph’s saucy reversible putting mat lingerie set, complete with golf balls and score cards, (“Nice Cup in Bra”), prove golf is keeping up with the latest gadgets and fashion. The golfing season is nearly upon us and we’ve got the most fabulous design, boutique and luxury hotels with extensive courses and spa retreats for cooling off after tee time.

For serious golfers looking to combine a golfing break with Spanish sun, head out to Fairplay Golf Hotel & Spa, a glamorous resort in Marbella on the Costa del Sol – one of Europe’s top golfing coasts; or Gran Hotel Guadalpin Banus, luxury wellness, spa and golf resort in beautiful Andalusia.

Son Penya Petit Hotel, Mallorca. La Rotana, Pula Golf, Canyamel Golf and Capdepera Golf courses are with in easy reach of this pretty finca which is surrounded by olive groves, pines and almond trees.

Penha Longa Hotel SPA & Golf Resort, near Lisbon. A 16th century monastery now converted into a luxury 5 star property with 2 world class golfing greens.

Gloria Golf Resort, Antalya, Turkey offers entertainment for families and couples alike on the beach in Belek.

And for some family fun, Hotel Minigolf in South Tyrol’s Merano region is a sport lovers heaven with mountain bikes and crazy golf. The design hotel is decorated in moody purple and plum hues and the generous breakfast buffet ensures an energetic start to anyone’s day!

Category: Golf Hotels, Top 5

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Top 5 Palace Hotels in Europe

Madrid – Spain’s Castilian pearl

Berlinale 2010: The Hotels of the Stars

Top 5 hotels for party weekends

Gomera: The Best Hotels

Valentine’s Day: The Best Gift Ideas

Top 10 sexy Valentine’s Day Hotels

Romantic Weekend: Small Hotels Paris

Discover the Eternal City: Small Hotels Rome

Top 5 Golf Hotels

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