«Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.» – Dalai Lama
The quote by Dalai Lama is something I have been doing all my life. Every year, I have to see at least one new place on this planet. In 2019, it was São Paulo. So many destinations are still on my bucket list.
Need some inspiration planning your next luxurious adventure? I recommend a stay at one of The Oetker Collection hotels, where you can experience award-winning service and everything you can dream of. The most iconic hotels belong to the collection, from the famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc to Le Bristol Paris. I’ve rounded up all of their amazing holiday or city destinations – from tropical Caribbean islands to vibrant London. Some places will take your breath away.
It may be a stunning natural setting, remarkable architecture and landscaping, or a sense that somehow you feel at home. In each destination, the teams dedicate themselves to ensuring your stay is an experience you will treasure forever, because endearing experiences start with the people who make the place. Let the journey begin, discover the Masterpiece Hotels #endearingplaces below and don’t miss the video at the end of the post…
LoL, Sandra
L’Apogée Courchevel / SWITZERLAND
Your stylish alpine home
Relax in effortless style at our alpine retreat on Courchevel 1850’s prettiest peak. L’Apogée Courchevel was created for lovers of snowy mountain beauty in Jardin Alpin, and is acclaimed with Palace Distinction. High above an historic Olympic ski jump, the views are spectacular, while ski in-ski out facilities open onto the world’s finest slopes, heaven for both families and super schussers.
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa & Villa Stéphanie / GERMANY
A fairytale in the Black Forest and your House of Wellbeing
Centrally located in the renowned German spa town of Baden-Baden, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa is an urban oasis set in a private park facing the famous Lichtentaler Allee. A harmonic combination of elegance, tradition, and innovative future concepts are the hallmarks of this city resort.
At their House of Wellbeing Villa Stéphanie expert hands are ready to tune up your body’s health and beauty, while the kitchens at our renegade restaurant, Fritz & Felix, is brimming with seasoned dishes made for sharing, with plenty from the charcoal grill.
FOR A DETAILED TRAVEL REPORT, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Le Bristol Paris / FRANCE
Historic grandeur and gastronomic excellence
Since 1925, Le Bristol Paris has been celebrated for its unique definition of luxury, and for offering service of the highest order. The world’s most discerning travellers choose Le Bristol for a first-class Parisian experience, and this illustrious palace has become a benchmark for luxury hotels all over the world. Le Bristol Paris, honoured to receive the «Happy Guest Award 2019» discerned by the Leading Hotels of the World.
READ MORE ABOUT MY STAY AT LE BRISTOL HERE.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa / FRANCE
Hilltop retreat amidst nature and art
Immerse yourself in blue skies and olive groves, fabulous views of the Côte d’Azur and a legacy of art. Our style entwines contemporary elegance with historic charm, and we have been awarded both «Palace Distinction» and «World Luxury Romantic Hotel». Come for culture too, with sculptures by Manolo Valdés, Nuits du Château concert series, and Les Canthares wine tastings. The new Riviera season begins 1st May 2020.
Eden Rock – St Barths /FRENCH WEST INDIES
Home away from Home
With its spectacular location in St Jean Bay, Eden Rock – St Barths has been the byword for one-of-a-kind hospitality ever since mercurial French Caribbean aviator adventurer and occasional treasure-seeker Rémy de Haenen first welcomed guests to his Eden Rock home on the ocean, during the 1950s. The place quickly established itself as the preferred private and discreet bolt-hole of many glamourous Hollywood characters who quickly became friends of St Barths. Howard Hughes, Greta Garbo, Robert Mitchum, Baron Rothschild David & Peggy Rockfeller, Princess Lee Radziwill… amongst numbers of other fine beautiful and talented men and women… A sense of safety and freedom was established… and of style… and of casual elegance… and of spirit… and of ambition… and all of which continues to this day and is strengthened now with the regular welcoming of very many current and similarly interesting and brilliant celebrity guests and friends of modern times.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE HOTEL, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc /FRANCE
A thoroughly modern Grand Dame
Secluded behind statuesque pines is the most stylish playground of the Riviera, exuding Gatsby glamour. Generations of families and friends reunite for the season at this legendary Palace, voted Best European Hotel by Condé Nast Travelers and Best Grande Dame Hotel by Tatler. Revealing her seasonal revamp, our Grand Dame opens on 17th April 2020, join it for stylish celebrations, fresh new designs and an exhibition by the great expressionist Manolo Valdés.
FOR SOME MORE PHOTOS FROM MY STAY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Jumby Bay Island & Jumby Bay Private Residences / ANTIGUA – WEST INDIES
A private island paradise
Touch down in Antigua, jump on board of the private yacht and breeze across turquoise seas. In two miles and less than ten minutes you are on your island home, one of the most desirable, all-inclusive retreats in the Caribbean. Jumby Bay Island is a haven of carefree pleasures, stroll barefoot along three stunning white sand beaches, fringed with swaying palms, inhale and revive in the lush landscapes that enrich our 300 acres.
The private residences at Jumby Bay Island offer access to a secluded Caribbean paradise in discreet, modern luxury. Each family home possesses a unique character and vantage point for experiencing the private island’s exquisite nature and elegant amenities.
The Lanesborough
The quintessence of graceful London living
Awarded No. 1 Hotel in London in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, on the doorstep of Hyde Park, just a short walk from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and London’s most exclusive shopping district; Sloane Street and Knightsbridge, this grand luxury mansion has undergone an inspired renovation by the famed interior designer Alberto Pinto. The hotel is home to 93 luxurious suites and bedrooms, Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant, the vibrant Library Bar and Garden Room and the magnificent Lanesborough Club & Spa.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MY VISIT TO THE HOTEL, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Palácio Tangará
An extraordinary urban oasis in the heart of São Paulo
Palácio Tangará is exceptionally located in the heart of São Paulo, surrounded by the lush greenery of Burle Marx Park, with easy access to the main business, leisure and culture districts of the city. Palácio Tangará brings the refined European hospitality combined with Brazilian art de vivre to the biggest city of Latin America. Guests are welcomed with a refined contemporary décor, bathed in natural daylight throughout its spacious rooms and suites, variety of culinary venues signed by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten as well as the state of the art recreational and well-being facilities. A peaceful retreat in a vibrant city.
FOR A TRAVEL REPORT ABOUT SAO PAULO, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
«I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.» – Susan Sontag
Photos/ Video: Courtesy of The Oetker Collection and © Sandra Bauknecht
