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Archive for ‘Boutique Hotels’ Category

Mar
15

Small Hotels Hamburg – Port City and Metropolis

by Sonja Franke March 15, 2010, 11:37 am

Hamburg can without doubt be called one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. It’s the unique atmosphere of the Port of Hamburg – with its numerous freighters and from time to time even a luxury liner – which make this city special. You can put yourself at best in the bustling life there in the “Hamburger Fischmarkt”. And of course you have to eat one or the other fish sandwich there, for nowhere fish and seafood tastes better than freshly caught from the North Sea.

A harbour tour should not be missed out and neither a tour of the warehouse district. When this “Speicherstadt” was built in the 19th Century, it was the largest connected warehouse complex ever. There are also very special museums: the “Deutsches Zollmuseum” (German Customs Museum) or the museum of spices “Hot Spice”, which focuses on the history of Hamburg’s “Pfeffersäcke” or “Moneybags”, as the wealthy merchants were named.

Those looking for a beautiful hotel in Hamburg should perhaps stick to city center, as from there the sights can me reached fastest. But to get the real “Hamburg feeling” you should definitely stay in a small Hamburg hotel.

My Place My Place

There is, for example, the charming My Place Hotel: Some of the 18 rooms have a rooftop terrace others an idyllic terrace facing the inner courtyard. For those of you who are looking for a little more luxurious hotel we recommend the Hotel Abtei. Here you’ll stay in Harvestehude, one of Hamburg’s most luxurious districts, enjoying one of the 11 rooms of this 5 star boutique hotel within walking distance of the Alster lake.

Hotel Abtei Hotel Abtei
Whether it’s the tasty and fresh food or a glimpse in the artistic life (for exmaple: “Hamburger Kunsthalle” art gallery where you can find paintings of Edward Munch, Manet, Caspar David Friedrich) – this romantic Hamburg, small hotels and the view of the Alster makes your short trip an unforgettable city break.


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Feb
09

Top 5 Palace Hotels in Europe

by Gesa Noormann 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.

Hotel Château GrattequinaChâteau de la Couronne

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!
Alma Schlosshotel im GrunewaldPousada de Estremoz Rainha Santa Isabel

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.

Glenapp CastleGlenapp Castle


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Jan
27

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:

One by The Five Hotel Recamier

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.

Hotel des Archives Hotel des Archives


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Jan
21

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 …

Bellesuite Rome Suitesistina


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Jan
07

Honeymoon Hotels & Valentine’s Day: Say “I do!”

by Justyna Piepiorka January 7, 2010, 1:54 pm

New game – new luck! For those of you who have particularly romantic New Year’s resolutions we’ve got the most beautiful places to fulfill your plans. Whether you want to get down on one knee to pop the question or have already set a date to marry your loved one, with us you’ll find the perfect hotels to propose on Valentine’s Day, breathtaking spots for a wedding and wonderful honeymoon hotels.

  1. Clos Medicis Hotel, Paris, France: During the winter months, there is always the charming lobby with its cozy fireplace where you can sit back and relax. Especially romantic is the small blooming garden perfect for a breakfast in the morning sun on warmer days. The icing on the cake for your proposal plans is the Valentine’s Day Package with a bottle of champagne and a “Love Box” surprise the hotel offersbetween the 13th and 15th February.
  2. Boutique Hotel Heidelberg Suites, Heidelberg, Germany: Whether a honeymoon or a romantic short trip – for those of you who are in love until the 31st May the hotel offers a very romantic package for two including: 2 nights in the spacious penthouse suite with private Jacuzzi, cozy champagne breakfast in the room, a 4-course dinner and a romantic trip with your personal tour guide – bundled up in warm blankets.               Clos Medicis Hotel Heidelberg Suites Boutique Hotel
  3. Royal Hotel Sanremo, Sanremo, Italy: Among the amenities of the luxury hotel, you will find a sensually designed spa with a steam bath, pool and exclusive treatments. Win hearts with the “Non stop Valentine’s day” package including: 2-night-stay with upgrade to sea view junior suite, buffet breakfast with biological corner, a dinner, one couple massage and free use of the exclusive Royal Wellness with hammam.
  4. Villa Mangiacane, Florence, Italy: A romantic hotel in Tuscany, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, vineyards and olive groves – and 5 star luxury to complete the experience. The hotel is located only 12 kilometers from Florence, centered in a large estate. The wonderful premises are the perfect place for a wedding, and the staff will gladly assist you in making this very special day perfect. Of course, you can also spend your honeymoon here.                                                                                   Royal Hotel Sanremo Villa Mangiacane
  5. Schlosshotel Kronberg, Kronberg, Germany: This historic hotel that was once a residence of Empress Victoria still retains many of her ideas and reflects her tastes. If you love a fine historic ambience, you will be hard pressed to find a better place to be. Enjoy your honeymoon or simply Valentine’s Day with the “Honeymooning in Hotel Schlossberg” package which will melt your heart away… (bookable until the 28th February).                                                                                                                                                                         Schlosshotel Kronberg Schlosshotel Kronberg

Did we inspire you? Here you’ll find more romantic hotels


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Jan
05

Staying at an art hotel, sleeping in unique hotel rooms

by Justyna Piepiorka January 5, 2010, 1:41 pm

White snow outside the window and temperatures around the freezing point make us dream of a warm, cosy bed… isn’t this the perfect time to relax and read a good book? And why not combine pleasure with even more pleasure? Each of the following ten hotels is a work of art in itself, so charming and unique that you will not want to leave your hotel room…

  1. ART HOTEL Atelier sul Mare, Tusa, Sicily: The hotel offers memorable experiences since its main feature is the presence of many important contemporary artworks of well known artists inside and outside the hotel. In fact 20 out of 40 rooms were realized by important internationally recognized artists like e.g. Danielle Mitterand, Agnese Purgatorio or Antonio Presti.
  2. Arte Luise Kunsthotel, Berlin, Germany: This city hotel calls itself a “gallery in which to stay overnight” and thus briefly sums up its unique concept. The idea: Every room in the Arte Luise Kunsthotel in Berlin has been designed by a well known artist according to his/her ideas. No room is like an other in any way—some make you laugh, some make you think, and others are just plain pretty.                                                 Atelier Sul Mare Arte Luise Kunsthotel
  3. ART Fabrik Hotel, Wuppertal, Germany: This historic hotel makes room for art and vacation in North Rhine Westphalia. The idea: A variety of artists are given a studio for free at the ART Fabrik Hotel. In return they let the guests of the hotel observe them as they work. All of the public rooms in the family hotel have been designed by artists. More than 50 artists have had a hand in the decor of the art and design restaurants, the Persian hammams, the gallery and the studios with the artists café.
  4. art’otel berlin city center west by park plaza, Berlin, Germany: The art’otel berlin city centre west by Park Plaza combines travel, art, photography and design to create a unique ambience. Dedicated to Andy Warhol, the hotel features a Warhol exhibition comprising of 221 items and photographs by Christopher Makos. Visit the art’otel’s Factory restaurant, where your can enjoy delicious modern cuisine amid a welcoming atmosphere.                                                            Art Fabrik Hotel art`otel berlin city center west
  5. Hotel Fox, Copenhagen, Denmark: This completely crazy design hotel in the center of Copenhagen features 61 uniquely furnished rooms. International artists from areas such as graphic design, street art, and illustrations have designed the Hotel Fox, making it the unchallenged leader of lifestyle hotels in Copenhagen. The interior design ranges from crazily funny to clear and straightforward to full of details in the themed rooms to totally eccentric design ideas.
  6. B&B Antica Dimora Residenza D’Arte, Torrita di Siena, Tuscany, Italy: Those who are looking for something a bit more exciting than a conventional countryside vacation in Italy will love this hotel. Looked upon from outside, the country house hotel is a splendid romantic manor house, while inside it’s the touches of modern art that dominate the ambiance. The ancient rooms are equipped with many original objects of art by the well-known Italian modern artist Anna Izzo, who also happens to be the mother of the hotel’s owner. She has created a mayor part of the furniture and interior design throughout the place.                                             Hotel Fox Antica Dimora Residenza d
  7. art’ otel budapest, by Park Plaza, Budapest, Hungary: This hotel in Budapest was decorated with the help of American creator of modern art Donald Sultan. His design ideas and art pieces give the lifestyle hotel a unique character. The second highlight of the art’ otel Budapest is the fantastic view out over the Danube to the banks on the Pest side of the city with the parliament building, and the famous Chain Bridge.
  8. art’otel dresden, by Park Plaza, Dresden, Germany: As all the design hotels in the art’otel group, this city hotel in Dresden is also centered on modern art. That goes for many aspects of this hotel: For one, the art’otel dresden has been designed by modern artists and designers from the lobby to the roof. Also, this hotel offers the possibility to hold events of all kinds in the attached art gallery.                    art`otel budapest art`otel dresden
  9. Villa Warhol, Marrakech, Morocco: Considering its name, the interior of the Villa Warhol comes as no surprise. This villa is a romantic hotel in the Palmeraie quarter of Marrakech that combines Moroccan lifestyle with pop art. What a great idea, what a way of carrying it out, what a magical result: bright colors are central to Oriental interior design. This small city hotel has fused two worlds with much in common. The rooms with their brilliant colors and a mix of classic and modern art, such as Andy Warhol reprints on the walls, offer an incredibly pretty atmosphere.
  10. Classical BabyGrand Hotel, Athens, Greece: 10 international artists from the areas of urban art and graffiti art have created a unique design hotel with New York charm in the midst of Athens. It has 79 rooms and suites, each of which is absolutely exceptional and highly individual in its style. The 55 Graffiti rooms are each a walk-in piece of art in itself. Depending on the room, you can spend the night in Smurf Village, in the midst of a roaring waterfall, or join Spiderman in climbing up the walls of this original city hotel. This is truly the perfect luxury hotel in Athens for anyone wanting their world in a bit more color.                                                                                                        Villa Warhol Classical BabyGrand Hotel

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Sep
17

Hotels Greece: Santorini in winter

by Holly Maguire September 17, 2009, 3:59 pm

Super volcano views, infinity pools, hickeldy pickeldy villages and divine Greek hospitality. Santorini is one of our ultimate islands and features many of our finest boutique Greek hotels. Luxury lovers may be inclined to head over in the high season – but to avoid the tourists and cruise ships, many of our small design hotels and suites are open all year round. And, there is plenty more to the Aegean Sea island than reclining in a Jacuzzi on the terrace, gazing at the sunset.

Honeymooners are guaranteed a luxurious pampering at the Rocabella Santorini Resort & Spa in Imerovigli, which is offering an irresistible 20% off from September to March.

Even in December and January, guests enjoy huge blue skies and temperatures above 10°C. Christmas or New Year on the island is a highly attractive prospect for hikers and history lovers wanting to discover prehistoric settlements like Akrotiri, minerals, pumice quarries and black sand beaches. Wine lovers may also be surprised by the numerous vineyards and wineries on the island for evenings of tasting, whilst local fish taverns will tantalise your tastebuds with specialities like Tomato Keftades. Kali Oreksi!

SantoriniRocabella Santorini Resort


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Jul
23

Turkey Hotels: ancient Antalya, contemporary design

by Holly Maguire July 23, 2009, 11:35 am

Antalya glitters by the waters of the Mediterranean on the Turkish Riviera. Near the Beg Dagi National Park and stunning caves and mountains, the city itself tells stories from Roman to Ottoman times through its charming architecture and little port.

The old town is teeming with little restaurants, shops and tea houses. The hickeldy-pickeldy mix of antique buildings and newly restored houses is much-loved and truly romantic – any stroll should begin through the ancient Hadrianus Gate.

Tucked away in the maze of alleyways, the small boutique hotel Mediterra Art Hotel has just 20 rooms and whisks guests back to the Ottoman Empire with handcarved wooden fittings and intimate courtyard in the midst of the city. The nearby Puding Suite boasts a range of stylish suites and is within walking distance of the marina and Konyaalti beach.

The gorgeous design hotel Hillside Su Hotel is a refreshing contrast to the typical architecture, with minimalist white walls accented with bright colour and groovy lighting concepts. Overlooking the beach park, the hotel is a great location for people spotting and favoured by Istanbul’s high society and celebs who may be hanging out in the delicious sushi and Kirimizi (Mediterranean cuisine) restaurants.

Recently opened Mardan Palace Hotel is also on Antalya’s Lara beach – read about the lavish opening here.

Mediterra Art Ottoman styleHillside Su sea view


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Jul
07

Hotels Greece: Island Hopping

by Gesa Noormann July 7, 2009, 2:47 pm

A rather loved tourist destination, Greece houses many wonders for travelers to admire – well-preserved remains of Antique buildings, fabulous landscapes, dormant volcanoes, sandy beaches, and hospitable people. Some of these treasures are not to be found in continental Greece – you will have to hop from island to island to wholly capture the charm and beauty of this country. Insular Greece is different – it is peaceful, serene and sometimes a bit too relaxed.

Never-the-less, Greek islands are a worthy destination for any traveler. Marvelous by themselves, these Mediterranean jewels harbor classy hotels to match, ready to treat you to the finest insular luxury that may eclipse other well-known resorts.

You should begin with Rhodes – or finish with it, for it is recognized as the best island resort in Europe. Vibrant and luxurious, it is a home to sumptuous establishments like the Ixian Grand Hotel, challenging your imagination and your own standards of stay. Though urban enough to interest nightlife enthusiasts, Rhodes also boasts genuine natural surroundings, breathtaking gems of Greek scenery. After it, even the most beautiful island may seem bleak and ordinary.

There are also Corfu, Crete, Myconos, Santorini, Paros and other insular destinations you should venture – each is special, each has a comfortable accommodation for you, as well as sandy beaches, sweeping views, tasty cuisine, vibrant city life and serene rural atmosphere.

Greek islands are a puzzle – small fragments of incomparable pleasure and excitement. Assemble it the way you like, to get your own unforgettable picture!

1736_dreams_luxury_suites_232053_suites_of_the_gods_spa_hotel_15


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Jul
06

Lake Garda: Northern Coast

by Gesa Noormann July 6, 2009, 2:01 pm

Northern coast of Lake Garda is a perfect place to visit for those travelers who enjoy scenic views of the mountains and take great pleasure in serenity and peacefulness of their surroundings. Among many Lake Garda hotels, there are few manually selected clienteles located in the northern part of the lake valley that Escapio considers worthy of your visit.
Peaceful Hotel Orione lies near the small town of Castelleto di Brenzone – it is a real haven for tourists, tired of humming and hawing cities. It hosts a private beach on the lake shore and a splendid gourmet restaurant overlooking the fabulous Alps, not to mention its sumptuous Mediterranean design and genuinely romantic atmosphere – everything to ensure your most comfortable stay.

A beautiful Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda will definitely rock you to the core with its sumptuous and monumental design, modern technologies, superior spa area and delicious cuisine – it is undoubtedly the yummiest and the most relaxing experience to have on Lake Garda.

Surrounded by fabulous woodland, Hotel Villa Sostaga is a real fortress safeguarding your rest to make it untroubled and pleasant. Well-designed historical exterior is complemented by inner perfection and contemporary conveniences. Nothing like warm and friendly atmosphere to ensure you are relaxed and happy.
Lake Garda hotels in the north coast are more than mere clienteles – they somehow manage to blend with the atmosphere of serenity and beauty of these shores and these landscapes… and magnificently stand out among other establishments with their superior standards and irresistible charm.

Suite Villa SostagaVilla Sostaga


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