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Archive for ‘Hotels Spain’ Category

Mar
09

Easter Egg Hiding Spots: Our best Family Hotels

by Gesa Noormann March 9, 2010, 2:11 pm

In this year especially, we are longing for Easter, the celebration of which marks in our latitudes the beginning of spring. When the first snowdrops and crocuses sprout, we yearn to go outside. Celebrating the Easter holidays with the family means hiding eggs in the garden, having an abundant brunch and enjoying the first sunrays together. Who wants to get pampered and is looking for an extraordinary environment for chasing chocolate eggs should book one of our top-five family hotels for the Easter holidays. Here, you can be fairly certain that it will be warm and you can recharge your batteries with the whole family.

Possessio Binicomprat Possessio Binicomprat

1) Castello della Castelluccia, Rome, Italy: In the old castle, you will enjoy the historic masonry and the elegantly furnished rooms, while your children are frolicking around in the garden. Looking for Easter eggs, they will explore the vast park. You are in the middle of nature, yet Rome is in only 20 minutes driving distance. Thus, you can even witness the “urbi et orbi” blessing of the German pope.

2) Hotel Possessió Binicomprat, Algaida, Majorca: For dinner, the guests are allowed to help themselves at will from the organic garden of the vineyard; and the spacious and very tasteful apartments offer enough room for families. Breakfast is simply fantastic, and you can eat it wherever you want: it is beautiful everywhere, and there are plenty of hiding places for Easter eggs.

3) Château d’Isenbourg, Alsace, France: The family-friendly castle is only a stone throw from the German border. The ca. 10-acres park offers nearly unlimited room (you can even bring your dog) and invites you to long Easter walks. Afterwards, wine and gourmet cuisine beckon.

4) Hotel Albergo Villa Marta, Tuscany, Italy: That charming country house in the Tuscany is situated near Lucca. A familial and personal atmosphere characterizes the beautiful hotel, which is surrounded by a great garden and the typical Tuscan hills. After hiding Easter eggs outside, you can go for a walk with the whole family on the historic town walls of Lucca.

5) Kloster Marienhöhe Hideaway & Spa, Hunsrueck, Germany: The recently re-opened hotel is the perfect place for people who want to unwind and take a break from the daily routine. The forest grounds offer absolute peace and quiet and much room for frolicking around and chasing Easter eggs with the children. In the vast spa, the entire family will have much fun.

Chateau Isenbourg Chateau Isenbourg


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Feb
24

Special easter offers: Paradores in Spain and Italy hotels

by Holly Maguire February 24, 2010, 11:01 am

Across Germany, the thick and now dirty snow which refuses to melt has made green grass and colourful trees all but a distant dream. This deep freeze winter has made the holiday-hungry even more desperate and without a sign of spring on its way, having an Easter escape booked up might just see March through. Whether a sexy city break, romantic rural retreat or lounging on the beach tickles your fancy, here are some ideas and great special offers for Easter and the month of April.

If you fancy a countryside getaway in any of Spain’s charming villages, Escapio has exclusive offers (up to 60% discount) on many of the traditional “Paradores” across the country, which are housed in rustic, romantic old monasteries and churches and historic buildings (make your own way there in a rental car).

Relais VignaleParador de León

Anyone craving mamma mia pizza, a good glass of Chianti and a chuckle at the passionate temperament of the south wont shy away from these tempting spring offers for our Italy hotels – all in relaxing locations within easy distance of stunning cities.

Hotel RaitoRelais Hotel Ca Maffio

Relais Hotel Ca’ Maffio in Treviso, northern Italy is offering a 5% discount when staying for more than 3 nights in the Calycanthus or Wisteria rooms Enjoy this tiny romantic hotel, close enough to Venice for a day trip. For a warm April beach break south of Naples, Hotel Raito in Vietri sul Mare is offering a 15% discount. Not too far from Perugia. Relais Vignale too offer 10% off when booking for more than 3 nights.


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Feb
05

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.

Hotel AbaluBoutique Hotel Casa de Madrid

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.


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Feb
02

Gomera: The Best Hotels

by Gesa Noormann 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.
Hotel Rural Ibo AlfaroRoom Ibo Alfaro
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.

Swimming PoolRoom Parador de la Gomera


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Dec
31

Majorca – Valldemossa Hotels

by Sonja Franke December 31, 2009, 9:37 am

Those who travel to Majorca will normally touch down in the capital Palma. From there you then continue to the numerous famous beaches … but places like the contemplative Valldemossa are usually visited only by day-trippers. On the one hand, it is a pity because this mountain village is an insider’s tip, not only since the times of Frederic Chopin, who lived here. On the other hand, the lack of concrete hotels is also a blessing, because you can relax undisturbed in Valldemossa, and the Valldemossa hotels have a unique charm. This can be felt in particular in the Hotel & Restaurant Valldemossa, a romantic country house, which sits on a small hill. The location is particularly significant because from the hotel there’s a spectacular view over the Bay of Palma, and you can enjoy this calmly. The house itself belonged to the monastery of Valldemossa for a long time and is today housing a 4-star hotel. Three double rooms and nine junior suites are waiting for guests. Of course, all rooms are equipped with air conditioning, telephone, internet access, satellite television, DVD player, mini-bar, safe and cosy bathrooms. In addition, antique furniture and precious originals by Majorcan artists can be found.

Who feels like can spend his days in the huge wellness area (with whirlpool, sauna and indoor pool) or go on an excursion to Palma which is merely 18 kilometer away. Of course, there is also superb hiking in Valldemossa and finally there is as well the legacy of Chopin to admire. A true insider’s tip.

Valldemossa Hotel RestaurantValldemossa Hotel Restaurant


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Dec
30

Majorca – Puigpunyent Hotels

by Sonja Franke December 30, 2009, 9:43 am

You would like to spend your holidays in Majorca, but you have no desire for mass tourism? No problem, because in Puigpunyent you can retire without any problems. Where? In one of the Majorca Puigpunyent hotels, like for example the Son Pont Agroturismo SL. We are talking about a classic finca which still offers the amenities of a 4-star hotel. The sea is nearby and easily accessible on foot. The special features of this house, however, are the individual facilities. Historical canopy beds are ensuring sweet dreams and the view with its olive groves and almond trees are among the best things Majorca has to offer. Then, in the garden a small pool is waiting for the guests and the entire atmosphere is relaxed, quiet and traditionally beautiful.

An additional star can be presented by the luxury hotel Gran Hotel Son Net. Here, true luxury is guaranteed, because after all, this hotel boasts with 5 stars. And they are certainly well-deserved, just considering that the structure is still from the 17th century, and that the hotel operators have simply placed a luxury restaurant in an old oil mill belonging to the property. But also friends of rustic delicacies get their money’s worth. Thus, in addition to the fine gourmet menu of the Gourmet Restaurant Oleum Mallorca, the Restaurant Gazebo, right at the pool, is also open during summer.

The view over the village of Puigpunyent is gorgeous too and can also be enjoyed from the outdoor jacuzzi with its lovely Arab fountain. And as an added goody: Tennis and golf courses are of course also nearby.

Son Pont Agroturismo SLGran Hotel Son Net


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Dec
28

Majorca: Son Severa Hotels

by Sonja Franke December 28, 2009, 10:46 am

Son Servera is located in the province of Llevant and thus in the east of Majorca. This community with approximately 11,000 inhabitants is characterized by the local mountain Puig de Sant Font. Situated at its foot are numerous beaches and the lovely old town. Certainly one advantage of this place is that mass tourism has not yet much advanced. This is also reflected in the hotels of Son Severa, like in Hotel Rural Son Corb. This 4-star hotel imbeds itself harmoniously in a widespread property and offers, in addition to calm, above all one thing: sheer nature. The property measures a sumptuous 300,000 square meters, which boasts with gnarled old trees, beautiful plants and even an old fountain. Space enough to simply hang out or maybe play a round of golf. Even four golf courses within a radius of ten kilometer are waiting for the player. Those who consider this as not active enough can rent a bicycle for free or enter one of the countless hiking trails. Of course, the beaches of Son Severa are also nearby.

The alternative in town is Pula Suites Hotel Golf & Spa. As the name already implies, the focus is on spa and golf here. Built in 1999, the hotel shows the typical Mediterranean architecture, but has also been equipped with a total of 14 additional buildings, where the 68 suites are located. An outdoor pool with a separate section for children, a spa with extensive fitness complex and two tennis courts are completing the offer … naturally, golf courses are also nearby.

Hotel Rural Son CorbPula Suites Hotel, Golf & Spa


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Dec
22

Majorca – Sights and Stops

by Sonja Franke December 22, 2009, 4:46 pm

A Majorca tour in the course of a holiday is perfectly feasible, given the relatively small size of the island. You should then start in the island capital, Palma de Mallorca, not least because most holiday flights are landing here, and the city therefore provides an ideal base for exploring the various tourist attractions. The city itself offers a picturesque old town – especially the Gothic cathedral La Seu is a must-see for tourists. In addition there are – believe it or not – 31 more interesting churches and an old town, which also reveals Arab influences at every turn. An insider’s tip is the suburb Cala Major, where the famous Spanish painter Joan Miró lived for a long time and where today his former studio and numerous artworks can be visited.

Being a traffic hub the streets are leading from Palma to every corner of the island. You should opt for s’Arenal also known as El Arenal, as this beach resort is well worth visiting. How long the stay in El Arenal in fact lasts depends first and foremost on to what extent the travelers are in need of rest, as it is still the undisputed center of mass tourism in Majorca. Also in El Arenal is the beach section Balneario 6 located, after which then the beach bar “Ballermann 6” has been named.

We continue to Manacor in the east of Majorca. With approximately 40,000 inhabitants, the city whose name translates as “hand on the heart,” is the third largest municipality on the island and a vibrant regional center. Extensive forests are sprawling around Manacor, and in particular people with a prehistoric interest will get their money’s worth. That is because near Manacor the settlement Hospitalet Vell can be found, which provides an insight into the life some 3,500 years ago.

Manacor is also a good place for souvenirs, for here the two pearl manufactories Majórica and Perlas Orquidea are residing. In their shops you can find many small treasures.

Cases de Son BarbassaProtur Biomar Gran Hotel

We then continue to Son Servera, also in the east of the island. Here, in the tourist heart of the Llevant you can confidently take a break from everyday life and have a swim in the beautiful bay Badia de Son Servera. Interesting is also the market, which is held in the heart of the village every Friday.

Now we leave Son Servera and turn towards the north of the island. The name of our next travel destination originates from Arabic and translates as “the hill”. But don’t worry: Alcudia isn’t too hilly anymore nowadays, though the city center is a little elevated. In addition to the picturesque beaches it is mainly the churches and monasteries, which makes a visit to Alcudia worthwhile, but also the cave of Sant Marti is well worth a visit. Otherwise Alcudia is the unofficial capital of the sailors and it hosts a marina, which holds space for about 100 sailing boats.

The penultimate stop of the tour is Valldemosa, north of the island’s capital Palma. Located in the Sierra del Norte, late spring is a particular good season to travel there. Then the fruit trees are blooming and are transforming Valldemosa into a real blaze of color. Moreover, the famous composer Frederic Chopin lived in Valldemosa and composed some of his best known works there. Just walking in the footsteps of the musician makes a visit to this small town a must. The wide range of colors and the picturesque surroundings go one step further.

Right before we arrive back in Palma de Mallorca, we take a rest in Puigpunyent. The place is hardly spectacular but that’s precisely where its charm lies. Located near the fast-paced metropolis of Palma, one can justifyingly speak of an insider’s tip. The little village church of Santa Maria Asunció is worth a visit, but above all it is the golf courses and hiking trails in the area that ensure that holidaymakers are feeling comfortable in this small town.


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Dec
07

Short Majorca Travel Guide

by Sonja Franke December 7, 2009, 11:31 am

Majorca is considered to be the epitome of tourism and the favorite holiday destination for the Germans. And yet, this Balearic island has a lot more to offer than the usual stereotypes like Ballermann and the unfortunately popular sangria buckets.

Located 170 kilometers away from Barcelona, around 800,000 people are living on the island, which has an east-west distance of 98 kilometers and a north-south distance of 78 kilometers.

Particularly impressive on Majorca is the diversified scenery. In addition to the all too familiar beaches, the island also offers mountains, which – in the case of Puig Major – are up to 1,445 meters high and have lots of wonderful hiking trails through the interior.

The zoning of the island is also very interesting as there is talk of six different landscape zones. On the one hand, there is the Serra Tramuntana, a mountain range with fertile valleys, which runs parallel to the north-west coast.

Adjacent to it is Es Raiguer with the emphases of Majorcan industry and fertile soils. Then, in the center of the island is Plá de Mallorca, a plain where agriculture and tourism is flourishing and which is also Majorca’s hottest region.

Llevant – as the name already suggests – is the eastern part of Majorca and is traversed by the eponymous mountain range. Approximately two thirds of the inhabitants of this region are living in the capital Manacor. The tourist strongholds, however, are the coastal areas between Cala Rajada and Cales de Mallorca.

The fifth region is adjacent to the Plá de Mallorca and is called Migjorn. The region starts at the famous beach resort s’Arenal in the west and ends in Portocolom.

Finally, the most populous region around the capital Palma de Mallorca, which – with the Bay of Palma – can coincidentally exhibit one of the most attractive holiday areas.

The climate is excellent in all regions, but there are certain months, during which a Majorca trip is particularly worthwhile. This is on the one hand the almond blossom, which already begins in January or February, but on the other hand also the spring months when the island is not yet overcrowded, but nevertheless offers plenty of sunny days and warm temperatures. During the almond blossom the entire island is shrouded in a white dress. The climate is mild then, no hot summery temperatures yet. Spring is already distinctly warmer than in Germany and in addition to a first swim in the Mediterranean Sea you can admire the countless blossoming fields and trees.

Less suitable, however, are the months of July and August, unless you are a friend of high and sweat-inducing temperatures.

Aside from the choice of the season, of course the choice of the right holiday area is likewise of importance. Anyone who appreciates sandy beaches without large concrete hotels can find a true paradise for example in El Trenc, in the south of the island. The beaches are still natural and the sea is shallow, which is also pleasing families with children.

For a comfortable stay on the island find here our Escapio Majorca hotels.

Esplendido HotelMeliá De Mar


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Dec
04

Hotels Palma de Majorca

by Sonja Franke December 4, 2009, 2:38 pm

Majorca, this is always Palma as well. No matter how you look at it, the island’s capital has simply the most to offer. This starts with its shopping facilities, continues with the extensive and legendary nightlife and ends with the seemingly endless beaches, which are also part of the urban area.

It’s hardly surprising that this variety is also reflected in the hotels in Palma de Majorca. Anyone who loves it simple and cheap may have a look – for example – at UR Portofino. At a price below 50 euros this charming beach hotel offers a lot of amenities. 70 rooms, a pool, a private bar service and the hotel’s own restaurant are creating a very distinct island atmosphere, and above all: the beach is just about 100 meter away. But the best thing is that with a little luck or negotiating skills one can grab a room with sea view. It’s worth it.

An entirely different type of hotel is the design hotel UR Palacio Avenida. The difference already starts with its location, as this 4-star hotel in Palma is directly situated at the busy Plaza España, right at the subway station. A true city hotel, which is accordingly urban styled. A stylish setting, friendly and open-minded staff and technical equipment with WLAN and SAT-TV: One cannot really ask for more. Incidentally, the rooms were furnished by the famous architect and designer Bruno Borrione.

True luxury reigns in the 5-star luxury hotel Castillo Hotel Son Vida. The building of this luxury hotel dates from the 13th Century. The furniture is from here and now, and the building was of course comprehensively renovated. In the former mansion many distinguished restaurants keep open and spoil your palate with exquisite dishes and a selection of – believe it or not – no less than 800 wines. Why not have a look out of the window with a glass of wine? The view over the Bay of Palma is, at least, absolutely unique.

Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a Luxury Collection HotelUR Palacio Avenida


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