Most travellers want to cross off the Eiffel Tower or the Berlin Wall on a bucket list trip to Europe. But there are so many gorgeous destinations still relatively undiscovered, away from the crowds and full of authenticity. Below are a few of our favourites.

Head to Bern for its preserved medieval Old Town and the world’s first Lindt chocolate factory. Stay for the surprising small-town charm that’s so easy to fall in love with. Known as Switzerland’s beer capital, Bern boasts a 6-km stretch of arcaded walkways lined with shops, breweries, and parks filled with flower-covered water fountains. The stunning beauty is all tied together by an old-world atmosphere that makes you question if it really is Switzerland's capital city.&nbsp;Following an unhurried tempo alongside the locals (who clock the slowest average walking speed in the world according to <a href="https://www.bern.com/en/fun-facts#:~:text=The%20canton%20of%20Bern%20contains,city%20Switzerland's%20%E2%80%9Cbeer%20capital%E2%80%9D.&amp;text=Toblerone%2C%20still%20produced%20entirely%20in,most%20famous%20of%20Swiss%20chocolates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Welcome Bern</a>), there really is no better place in the world to slow down and take in the sights. In the summer you can stroll along the banks of the River Aare and enjoy live music while sampling local treats at pop-up bars and food trucks. The Zytglogge clock tower is Bern's oldest and most recognizable monument, a UNESCO-listed landmark with its 15th c. astronomical clock that enthralls travellers every hour with a performance.

1. Bern, Switzerland

We recommend following your nose through Bern’s rich chocolate history—Toblerone is still entirely produced here, but its reputation as the birthplace of modern chocolate started in 1879 when Rudolf Lindt left a mixer running, resulting in the creamy chocolate we love today. Experience Bern's old-world charm on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/switzerland-e-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Switzerland E-Biking</a> trip.

Walking through <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/uncovering-the-baltics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lithuania’s</a> capital city is like stepping into a Baroque fairytale. Every step paves the way to elaborate churches, castles, colourful shops and restaurants. The Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in all of Europe, a UNESCO site since the 90s now lined with cute cafes and amber jewelry shops.On top of being the largest Baroque city in Northern Europe, Vilnius is also known for its expansive green spaces and incredible network of bike paths—almost 50% of the city is blanketed in parks and forests where local chefs often visit to forage ingredients. The food scene ranges from farm-to-table, local and seasonal to traditional Lithuanian dishes with Nordic or Jewish-inspired elements, always accompanied by local craft cider or beer.

2. Vilnius, Lithuania

Just 30 minutes from town is Trakai Island Castle, a stunningly beautiful Gothic water castle connected to the mainland by a moat, considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Visit Vilnius and Trakai on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/lithuania-to-latvia-multi-active" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lithuania to Latvia Multi-Active</a> trip.

Just a short boat ride from Naples, Ischia has been a secret home of Italian wellness for centuries. While most travellers cruise the Amalfi Coast to glitzy Capri, you'll find the locals prefer Ischia to get an authentic dose of Italian living while still being immersed in the unbelievably beautiful scenery.Spend your days hiking the stunning coastline, gazing at views of Capri and Procida in the distance. Perfectly manicured gardens and whitewashed villages are the dominant sights, while the island's bounty of natural springs, thermal spas and farm-to-table restaurants make for a rejuvenating day's end.

3. Ischia, Italy

The jewel in Ischia's crown is the enchanting Mezzatorre Hotel, housed in a stylish 16th c. watchtower and nestled on a private bay overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Here you can enjoy the Turkish baths and natural thermal pools at the spa; you can even swim in the Med directly from a staircase leading down from the pool. It's the perfect place to indulge in Ischia's famed reputation as a relaxation haven dating from the Roman Empire, and we settle into the Mezzatorre for three nights on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/capri-ischia-walking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Capri to Ischia Walking</a> trip.

Georgia’s capital Tbilisi is a fascinating blend of old meets new. Because of its location between Europe and Asia and its proximity to the Silk Road, a crossroad of culture and global powers has left its mark throughout the centuries—but a new wave is transforming Tbilisi’s relatively undiscovered landscape.Trendy hotels and restaurants are opening up beside old Art Nouveau and Stalinist buildings. You can ride a cable car over a former Persian citadel in the morning, explore the ultra-modern glass Peace Bridge in the afternoon and hop from one hip wine bar to the next as the sun sets over the Caucasus Mountains. The city is the perfect size for exploring on foot, and the culinary scene is fuelled by chefs sprinkling their creative touches on classic Georgian recipes.

4. Tbilisi, Georgia

Experience Tbilisi on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/georgia-wine-country-walking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Georgia Wine Country Walking</a> trip.

When most travellers think of a trip to Portugal, they'll head straight to Lisbon or Porto. And while these cities are worth a visit for the culture and incredible scenery, we love&nbsp;Évora&nbsp;for its layered history.&nbsp;Évora is the culinary heartbeat of Alentejo and a place that moves slower than other cities of the same size. It's UNESCO-listed due to its profusion of historical architecture and neolithic sites, including Roman ruins dating back to 1000 B.C., Renaissance castles and astonishing sites like the Chapel of Bones (with interior walls encrusted with human bones and skulls). This plays a testament to the city's spiritually rich reputation. It was once a place that performed witch trials and the only place in Portugal where one prosecution was actually carried out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not far, a pre-Stonehenge monument adds to the sense that time moves slower, beckoning to different ages throughout the centuries wherever you step. But not all feels old in Évora. Modern life abounds, with businesspeople and families living and working amongst the historical monuments. The music conservatory also attracts jazz and classical music students from around the country. Students are inspired by Alentejo's local music genre: Cante Alentejano, a style of vocal music carried out with no instruments traditionally sung in large groups and bound to make the heart flutter.&nbsp;

5. Évora, Portugal

Évora is set to be one of the <a href="https://culture.ec.europa.eu/news/evora-to-be-the-european-capital-of-culture-2027-in-portugal" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">European Capitals of Culture</a> for 2027, making now the best time to experience this incredible destination. Visit Évora and the Chapel of Bones on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/portugal-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Portugal Biking</a> trip.

This romantic corner of France has it all. Candy-coloured villages, an incredible network of well-polished bike routes, a rich wine culture and cuisine you won’t find anywhere else in the world. <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/deep-alsace" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alsace</a> passed between French and German powers several times since the 17th c.,&nbsp;resulting in a unique blend of cultures seen through the Alsatian dialect, the steep-roofed Germanic architecture and culinary specialties such as gingerbread and tarte flambée. The region is popular among locals looking for a weekend getaway thanks to its location off the trodden French tourist route. This means you’ll feel a little more like a local while you cycle the Route des Vins or go tasting with winemakers.

6. Alsace, France

Join an <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/alsace-e-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alsace E-Biking</a> departure to get immersed in this underrated European destination.

Vis is a small but enchanting Croatian island nestled off the <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/best-way-see-croatia" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dalmatian Coast</a>, encompassing all the beauty of Hvar without the busy crowds. Once an army base for Yugoslavia, the island was rendered off-limits for years before opening to travellers in 1989. This isolation resulted in untouched natural landscapes and access to local, organic produce as a way of life.Hop on a ferry from Split and cruise the turquoise Adriatic to dock on the island, where you’ll be welcomed with vineyards and olive groves, a bounty of mom-and-pop seafood restaurants and virtually no tourists outside of the locals looking for a domestic escape. Major drawcards of this serene oasis include the bustling coastal town of Komiza and the towering Hum hill—the highest and most magical mountain peak on the island offering specular hiking routes.

7. Vis Island, Croatia

Visit Vis as you cruise from one sun-drenched island to the next on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/dalmatian-coast-active" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dalmatian Coast Active</a> trip.

Vlad the Impaler once roamed the streets of Sighisoara. He was a former ruler of Wallachia who was known for impaling his foes and, naturally, an inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula. But there are so many treasures that await in Sighisoara beyond its bloodthirsty history.&nbsp;The candy-coloured town circles a hill surrounding ​​the only inhabited medieval fortress in all of Europe. A UNESCO site since 1999, the old town’s unique architecture combines elements of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque, with the jewel in its crown being the 14th c. Clock Tower that’s visible from every corner of Mures County. Sighisoara makes a great base from which to explore the Saxon villages of Viscri and Biertan, where you can visit a fortified church that was once used as a prison for couples who wanted to divorce.

8. Sighisoara, Romania

Discover what awaits in Sighisoara and the Transylvanian Alps on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/romania-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Romania Biking</a> trip.

When you think of a typical Greek escape, whitewashed towns and beaches on the Cyclades most likely come to mind—but up north is where the real Greece reveals itself, and Metsovo is a place entirely of its own. This charming mountain village is a year-round destination brimming with stone and wood houses, wonderful tavernas and museums, and incredible hiking trails with fewer crowds.Metsovo is the perfect gateway to explore the jaw-dropping Meteora monasteries, a UNESCO site soaring over 1,000 feet high on rocky megaliths (it’ll be hard to imagine going back to a crowded Santorini beach!). Don’t leave without sampling the region’s famous Metsovone cheese, awarded the coveted Product of Designated Origin in 1996.

9. Metsovo, Greece

<a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/northern-greece-e-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bike</a> or <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/northern-greece-hiking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hike</a> your way through Metsovo and Meteora on our trips to Northern Greece.

Charming Ålesund is a great starting point to make your way to Norway's famous Geirangerfjord. The town’s most iconic feature is the colourful art nouveau architecture—the result of a devastating fire that took place in 1904, destroying the wooden buildings characteristic to the times.Today Ålesund is a cultural centre of the region, home to a variety of museums that showcase Norwegian coastal culture and way of life. The town is best explored on foot (or kayak!), with impressive panoramas of the fjords and the Sunnmøre Alps no matter where you turn.

10. Alesund, Norway

Experience Ålesund's coastal charm on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/norway-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Norway Biking</a> trip.

10 Underrated European Destinations to Visit in 2023

Rajasthan is India’s largest and most colour-infused state. From cities dappled in pink and blue to wildlife sanctuaries teeming with endless opportunities for safari drives, you’ll find a little piece of magic suited for every type of traveller in the land of many colours, culinary delights and captivating natural landscapes.&nbsp;Lavish palace-turned hotels rise up from lakes like a mirage, the sound of haggling and the sight of sparkling handicrafts permeates through hidden bazaars, and pure white temples perfectly contrast against mesmerizing desert landscapes. Add historical forts, world-renowned cuisine and a regal culture that reflects the bygone era, and it’s easy to see why travelling to <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/in-rajasthan-a-range-of-emotion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Rajasthan</a> concurs as one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that’ll change your worldview and never let go of your heartstrings.While the Taj Mahal in Agra is one of Rajasthan’s main drawcards (and a must-see if you’re visiting India for the first time!), there’s so much more to this sun-dappled state. You can easily spend a lifetime peeling back the layers of rich heritage, surprising traditions and warm hospitality that goes beyond the famous world wonder. Below are a few of my favourites.

In a kingdom that celebrates colour like nowhere else on earth, choosing which Rajasthani city to explore is like taking your pick from the rainbow. For starters, there’s the Pink City of Jaipur, the Blue City of Jodhpur, the Gold City of Jaisalmer and the White City of Udapair—and each have their own story to tell.

Explore rainbow coloured cities

Jaipur’s most distinctive landmarks include salmon-hued structures like the honeycomb Hawa Mahal and the shimmering pink City Palace, which houses the former Maharajas of India. The city’s pink history commenced in 1876, when Queen Victoria’s son, Albert Edward, visited India. Maharaja Ram Singh had the whole city painted pink since the colour represented hospitality at the time, and a law was later passed to maintain the colour for all future buildings.

Meanwhile in the Jodhpur, the history behind its blue hue still remains a bit of a mystery. Some say the colour represents the Brahmins, which are castles within Hindu society. Others say it’s because the colour reflects sunlight and keeps houses cool during the sweltering summer months. This dazzling oasis of a city sits in the vast Thar Desert and is known for its spectacular architectural masterpieces - namely the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, which rises upon a hilltop around 122 metres above Jodhpur’s glittering skyline. It's one of the most magnificent forts in all of India and is still run by the Jodhpur royal family. Looking straight across, you can see Umaid Bhawan Palace, the stunning heritage hotel B&amp;R calls home on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/essential-india-rajasthan-the-taj-mahal" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Limited Edition Rajasthan &amp; the Taj Mahal</a> trip.

From stylish tented camps to opulent palaces that were once home to royalty, Rajasthan is known for their wide array of unique accommodations perfect for every taste. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping palaces, havelis and forts that have been converted into some of the world’s most over-the-top heritage hotels.

Retreat at the world’s most extravagant palace hotels 

Another favourite is Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, run by the Taj Group of Hotels and still lived in by the city’s royal family—meaning you might even spot the Maharaja when roaming the halls when <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">visiting Rajasthan with B&amp;R</a>. A section of the hotel is a museum dedicated to the history of Jodhpur’s royalty, and the grounds have been a favourite among Hollywood movie sets and lavish royal weddings.

Track big cats on safari

You’ve heard of tiger parks in India and the famous tigers in Rajasthan, but one little-known secret is that Rajasthani leopard safaris reap the rewards - you’ll spot leopards anywhere at any time. Our favourite spot to catch glimpses of these graceful creatures roaming in the wild is an isolated area close to Jawai Bandh Lake in the region known as Sena. The area’s tiny villages, dams and forested hills make the perfect setting to hop on open Jeeps and cruise into the sun-lit sand dunes, spotting leopards that reside amongst the rocky hills. The big cats can be seen foraging for food or roaming through granite hills, and according to the <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/about-jawai-bandh-in-rajasthan-where-the-leopards-do-not-harm-the-unguarded-locals/photostory/82155431.cms?picid=82155460" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Times of India</a>, the Rabari tribe considers leopards to be the guards of their local deity, and hence, the leopards in this area reside safely.

Dubbed the ‘Venice of the East,’ the city of Udaipur is built around three interconnected lakes—Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the smaller Swaroop Sagar Lake—and is encircled by the hills of the Aravalli mountain range, creating one of the most romantic settings in all of India. Marble temples, family mansions and fairytale palaces (several of which have been converted into luxury heritage hotels), rise up from the shimmering lake like a mirage, most notably Udaipur’s Lake Palace, which is set on a small island in the middle of Lake Pichola and can be seen in the James Bond film Octopussy. There’s a wealth of great lakeside cafes and restaurants along Lake Pichola, and you can even take scenic cruises to the lake's surrounding islands (we recommend going at sunset!).

Embark on a regal lake cruise 

Rajasthan has a thing for festivals. As one of the most colourful, culturally-rich states in India, you’ll find all types of celebrations—from Makar Sankranti, which is the first major celebration of New Year, to Teej, which is dedicated to the Goddess Teej and traditionally observed by women celebrating the monsoon season in correlation to the Hindu calendar.Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun positioning itself from Capricorn to Sagittarius and is observed in correlation with the Jaipur Kite Festival, which celebrates basking in the long summer days after the winter season comes to an end. The festival is one of Jaipur’s most popular events and attracts travellers from all over the world with good reason: watching the sky transform into a million colours of flying kites is an exhilarating experience to behold. Delicious Rajasthani treats are served around every corner and the festival also includes folk culture performances and dance exhibitions.

Embrace Rajasthan’s rich heritage through festivals

Dubbed the greatest literary show in the world, the Jaipur Literature Festival takes place every January,, bringing together the world’s top writers, politicians, entertainers and humanitarians to have an open discussion about culture, history and social issues. The festival's core values are to serve as a democratic platform offering fair access and to express and engage in thoughtful debate and dialogue.

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Rajasthan, you’ll quickly realize no other place in the world can compete with its ancient cities and fertile jungles; spirituality and vibrant festivals; incredibly warm locals and quirky traditions. Discovering Rajasthan is discovering a secret of life, all made possible by our close friendships with local teams. ﻿Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(18, 20, 22);">Get in touch with Karen MacRae</a> to start planning your next trip to India’s most essential state.

Things To Do In Rajasthan Beyond The Taj Mahal 

Ever wonder what it's like to race alongside international cycling superstars in an Italian Grand Tour? Now, a ticket to the Giro-E is all you’ll need to ride the "world’s toughest race in the most beautiful place."…. on e-bikes.

In Italy, cycling is a type of religion.It’s a land where you’ll find bikes outnumbering the number of parked cars. Where you’ll see locals of all ages riding on two wheels from dusk ‘til dawn. And where you’ll feel the excitement surrounding its annual bike racing event—the <a href="https://www.giroditalia.it/en/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Giro d’Italia</a>—months&nbsp;in advance.Following closely behind Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia is one of the cycling world’s prestigious three-week-long Grand Tours. Since 1909, Giro fans have been gathering around their television sets to witness the nation’s top cyclists embark on a gruelling race around the country.Whether riders are zipping through the twisting vineyards of Prosecco Hills or trekking up the scarped edges of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/destination/europe/italy/dolomites" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the Dolomites</a>, Giro d’Italia’s scenic route shines a spotlight on Italy’s incredible diversity and beauty—it’s easy to understand why bicycles have been synonymous with Italian culture for over a century.&nbsp;

For avid cyclists, the thought of participating in a Grand Tour like the Giro d’Italia—racing alongside elite athletes as echoes of the roaring crowd fill the air—has historically been reserved for that of a daydream. But as a company that’s in the business of turning dreams into reality, we had to find a way for our travellers to experience the thrill of it all for themselves.&nbsp;

Giro-E: A Professional Cycling Dream

Thanks to the 2018 introduction of the Giro-E biking event, a golden ticket is all that’s required to live out your wildest cycling dreams. Giro-E, the only stage event in existence reserved exclusively for pedal-assisted <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/get-inspired/your-e-bike-questions" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">e-bikes</a>, is the brainchild of RCS Sports, the same organizer of the Giro d’Italia.The event comprises 18 stages ranging from 70 to 115&nbsp;kilometres daily, along the same route, and during the same time the Giro&nbsp;d’Italia takes place. Best of all, it’s open to riders of all levels—from amateur cyclists to self-proclaimed pros; there’s a route and region perfect for everyone.Veteran Trip Designer <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/who-we-are/meet-the-designers/georgia-yuill" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Georgia Yuill</a>, our go-to expert for&nbsp;the Dolomites, had the chance to experience the Giro-E’s third official year in 2020, scoping out the circuit for future guiding endeavours. For Georgia, dropping into the Giro-E was like dropping&nbsp;into the Olympics and being allowed to run around the track ahead of the sprinters who are competing.“For the amateur, it’s like stepping into the big game and being part of that," Georgia said. "The Giro d'Italia is one of our annual major sporting events that people tune into even though they’re not cycling, like the World Series or the Superbowl. It’s an emotional event for Italians and the sport is growing everywhere around the world.”

The (Bike) Path to Glory

The Giro-E’s 2020 regional sectionals comprised six slots, with each slot passing through Italy’s bounty of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/get-inspired/2017/06/29/the-8-best-biking-routes-in-italy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">contrasting landscapes</a>: <ul><li>Slot 1 Sicily</li><li>Slot 2 Calabria and Apulia</li><li>Slot 3 Abruzzo, Marche, Emilia Romagna, San Marino</li><li>Slot 4 Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia</li><li>Slot 5 Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, Lombardy</li><li>Slot 6 Lombardy, Piedmont</li></ul>Georgia was designated Slot 1.&nbsp;“As the Giro-E, we’re advancing all of the professionals. We don’t start at the same point; we start further into the route," she said."By the time we finish our route at our pace, the Giro d’Italia racers come through and will cover the same final distance that we did.”

Georgia’s captain was <a href="https://www.maxlelli.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Max Lelli</a>, an ex-pro racer who lead the ENIT team to the most victories. <a href="https://www.procyclingstats.com/rider/moreno-moser" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Moreno Moser</a>, also an ex-pro racer, was great support for her along the routes as he shared a wealth of technical racing tips.“You’re riding with people who are very accomplished and captains who want you to be successful," she said. "I certainly came off learning so much about cycling and the world that surrounds it. They’re very passionate, and you just get taken into the professional side of the event.”

An E-Bike Boost

Although the circuit comprises steep ascents up rolling hills, up the mountainous Dolomites and even up Sicily’s active Mount Etna volcano, the boost from the e-bikes provides riders with as little or as much assistance needed—you don’t have to be an elite athlete to race alongside one.“Cycling up Mount Etna in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/destination/europe/italy/sicily" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sicily</a> was phenomenal. The Giro d’Italia racers were getting closer and closer….we had to get off the road so it wouldn’t conflict with their speed! We were moving at an accelerated speed the entire time, so going uphill is much faster," she said. "One of the great benefits is that the road has been cleared for you. There’s a sensation that you can really allow yourself to go at maximum speed.

This year’s Giro-E concludes at the end of May, but there are high hopes for those wishing to live out their Olympic dreams in the future.“Every year comprises a different route, and so once we hear where the Giro d’Italia is racing, we can design our own B&amp;R trip to move in parallel with it," she said. "Dolomites stages are always some of the most exciting aspects of the Giro. We could design a pre-event experience on classic Dolomites routes, following which travellers participate in some stages of the Giro-E.”

From the azure coastlines of Sicily and Sardinia to the twisting trails of the Dolomites, exploring Italy is best done on two wheels. <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Get in touch with Georgia</a> to see how she can craft your biking adventure of a lifetime.

Giro-E: Racing the Giro d'Italia Route on E-bikes

Whether it’s to spot the northern lights, a solar eclipse or the Milky Way, night sky tourism is on the rise.&nbsp;A growing number of travellers are booking trips to explore locations around the world by day, and then experience them in a different way at night. The appeal of dark skies is multilayered. For city dwellers, they offer an escape from screen time and city light and provide a way to engage the eyes with a different kind of light source – the solar system. Nature lovers get to discover animals and ecosystems that thrive after dark. And everyone reaps the mental health benefits of the experience. Stargazing and time spent outdoors under darkness is calming, it fosters mindfulness and helps you put things in perspective.&nbsp;Night sky experiences typically happen in designated dark sky reserves, areas found around the world that are protected from development and committed to reducing or eliminating light pollution. They might involve a guided tour, astronomy lesson or storytelling, a photography tutorial or simply embracing the quiet and taking it all in.&nbsp;

New Zealand is attempting to become the world’s second certified dark sky nation. (The tiny island country of Niue, in the South Pacific, became the first in 2020.) With the South Island’s Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, as well as off-grid islands like Aotea (also known as Great Barrier Island) and the peaks in Queenstown, there are <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/new-zealand-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">plenty of spots in the Oceanic country</a> to set your sights high.&nbsp;

But you don’t need to be in a dark sky reserve to go star spotting. Because of their remote locations, countries in the far north and south lend themselves especially well to stargazing. Being in the <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/norway-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">arctic wilderness of Norway</a> offers a high chance of seeing the northern lights, while a <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/iceland-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">winter escape in Iceland</a> is another optimal opportunity to be dazzled by the aurora. Like New Zealand, <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/patagonia-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Patagonia is another prime location</a> to catch sight of constellations unique to the southern hemisphere.&nbsp;You’re not limited to those locations, either. Nights spent on the water along <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/croatia-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Croatia’s Adriatic coast</a> will reveal spectacular nocturnal sights. And <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/portugal-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">cycling through Portugal</a> offers the opportunity to meet with an astronomer for a guided viewing of the night sky.&nbsp;&nbsp;There’s a whole world after dark, and so many ways to explore it. The choice of which star to wish upon is yours.

How to Experience the Magic of Night Skies

Sicily has it all. It’s Italy’s largest island and the country’s largest wine-producing region, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and incredibly diverse landscapes.

The varied landscapes are only topped by Sicily’s rich culture—influences can be seen from the Greeks, Romans, French, German, Normans and Moors, making Sicily a world of its own through the architecture, cuisine and dialect found nowhere else in the country.It’s a feast for the senses, and we couldn’t think of a better way to experience the best of the region on a trip that’s as rich in <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/sicilys-arab-influence" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">culture</a> as it is in the incredible sites, hotels and wine.We chatted with Dana Quinn, Experience Designer for Sicily, about the highlights travellers can expect on our Limited Edition <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/sicily-volcanoes-the-aeolian-islands" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sicily, Island &amp; Volcanoes</a> trip.

While each B&amp;R Limited Edition will have its own special background story, it’s been a dream for me to offer the Aeolian Islands on a Scheduled trip for the first time in over 20 years. My grandparents are also Sicilian and eventually emigrated to America—<a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/the-taste-of-a-place-how-to-savour-like-a-sicilian" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Italian cuisine</a> was such a huge part of my childhood and that special Sicilian hospitality always remains close to my heart.&nbsp;Sicily is huge and varied, so on this trip travellers will explore three unique areas: the Baroque southeast corner of Noto, the laidback and spectacular Aeolian Islands, and the neighbours of Taormina and Mount Etna, offering the perfect variety of landscapes and experiences.Add to the mix a panoramic helicopter ride over Mount Etna, a luxurious private yacht, and differing activities from classic biking and hiking to e-biking or kayaking.&nbsp;

The 8-day journey also takes a bit of a volcanic theme, which is emblematic of Sicily. Linking hikes and winery visits on Mount Etna and Stromboli volcano is a special combination we don't usually offer. Stromboli’s active volcano produces a dramatic firework show with lava every 20-30 minutes, and we’ll see this from our private boat while enjoying a dinner spread on board. It’s an experience that will remain etched in our travellers' minds long after they’ve returned home.

Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, on the east coast of Sicily between Messina and Catania. We choose to visit it two ways for the full Etna experience! First, we enjoy a panoramic helicopter flight, offering a clear view of the craters from above. Then a few days later we return for an emotive hike, where you'll see incredible lunar landscapes of black lava craters and volcanic soil made from centuries of ancient lava flow.We purposely choose the northern area of Etna to explore, which is an off-the-beaten-track alternative to where most travellers opt to visit. Add that to having our local expert with us, making it a learning experience and a breathtaking hike, with the added momento speciale of a B&amp;R-style lunch right on Etna.

While the thought of hiking up an active volcano may sound intimidating, the conditions are very safe (especially when you’re with a trusted guide!) and we drive up to our point, so this is not a gruelling hike but the perfect offering.&nbsp;Etna is around 3,357 m tall - the height alone means that the lava flow will cool down before reaching any inhabited centre, and even when you’re hiking on the mountain, you can safely gaze at the fiery eruptions in the distance.

Stepping foot onto the Aeolian Islands is like stepping back in time. Apart from the natural beauty (perfect for hiking and the outdoors), there is something very casual and reminiscent of a past with a slower-paced life, and don’t we all crave that?

In the early 2000’s B&amp;R was running an Aeolian Islands By Sea trip, where we visited each one. As the researcher, I found many stories exploring this area for the first time. I was staying at one of the few B&amp;Bs on Filicudi and the owner told me to go to Antonio’s for the best almond pasta around (and to get her the recipe!) I went down to the restaurant and took a stroll on the beach while waiting for it to open. A man stops me in my deep thoughts and said‘Here on Filicudi, we say buongiorno to each other and you are way too deep in thought to say that.’&nbsp;I say ‘buongiorno’ and walk down the beach. An hour passes and I head into the restaurant to discover that the sought-after owner and chef Antonio was the man who stopped me on the beach. Rather than thinking I was rude, he told me that he could see straight through my eyes and into my soul and that there was a connection. So yes, we got an agreement for our perfect lunch on trips, although I didn’t manage to walk away with the almond pasta recipe.

We love the Belmond property of Villa Sant'Andrea down on the Taormina beach, with its enchanting setting and high-level service. But there's something special at the Capofaro Locanda &amp; Malvasia on Salina island, with its simplicity and island feel that I love. And not to forget the rooftop terrace of Hotel Gagliardi in Noto with the lovely Corrado as our host.

We love meeting Enzo, who gave up his job to look after the land and grow sesame, keep the trails clear and provide us with a great local lunch. But the special contact we get the most kick out of is definitely Emanuele, our local guide on the island of Salina. He is full of passion, has a great smile and knows all nooks and crannies to explore. All while keeping that laid-back island charming personality. So we just follow him!

Sicily, Volcanoes & the Aeolian Islands

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The Slow Road

Best Hotels

Kasbah Tamadot

Morocco

The Best Hotels in Morocco

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Mallorca

Son Brull Hotel &amp; Spa Pollenca

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<h2>A Family Affair </h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-49711 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-480x300.png" alt="Son Brull Hotel Mallorca" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />Son Brull’s striking gold exterior and sophisticated detailing make for a regal façade at first glance. But the personalized greetings that each guest receives from the Suau siblings upon arrival create a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the laidback island lifestyle of Mallorca.
“Being the only family-run boutique hotel on the island makes a huge difference because we’re on the property every day, and most of our team has been with us for years,” she said. “We have a lot of regular guests who return year after year and see the same faces greeting them. Our staff remembers them and knows how they like their coffee in the morning and what kind of cocktail they drink. All of our staff are local from the surrounding villages, we train them ourselves, and they’ve been with us for many years.”
<h2>Continuing the Legacy of Son Brull</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-49731 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-480x300.png" alt="Son Brull exterior" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />For Mar, the business of hotels has always pulsed through her veins. And while being the daughter of a hotelier prompted her childhood to look a little different, she’s had the advantage of gaining experience in every aspect of the business. 
“When I was a kid, I didn’t play with dolls. I played hotels. I played the role of receptionist, cook, waiter. We were always at the hotel to be closer to our father because he was working all the time. He never planned for us to continue his legacy, but it just happened,” she said. 
Continuing her father’s legacy at Son Brull also meant continuing the legacy of the 17th c. monks who lived off the land and welcomed tired travellers in search of food and shelter. Three centuries later, the Suau family has restored the property into one of Mallorca’s top boutique hotels while maintaining its unique heritage and natural resources.
<figure id="attachment_49732" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-49732" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-49732 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2.png" alt="Son Brull Pool" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-49732" class="wp-caption-text">One of Son Brull&#8217;s four newly renovated Villa Suites</figcaption></figure>
All in all, a stay at Son Brull encompasses award-winning cuisine, a wealth of adrenalin-pumping activities, cozy interiors and <a href="https://sonbrull.com/en/spa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">organic spa treatments</a>—all tied together with family-friendly service and an atmosphere brimming with environmental sustainability and Mediterranean magic.
If you’re feeling inspired to experience the rich heritage of Son Brull for yourself, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">get in touch with Christine Tucker</a> to see how she can craft your ideal Mallorcan escape.

Son Brull Hotel & Spa: Embracing Sustainability in Mallorca 

Jerusalem

Africa and Middle East

Banner photo by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/@haleyve?utm_content=attributionCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=pexels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Haley Black</a> from <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-concrete-buildings-on-high-ground-2087392/?utm_content=attributionCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=pexels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pexels</a>

Our Favourite Hotels in Jerusalem

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Our Favourite Hotels in Jordan

E-bikes

Italy

<figure id="attachment_48841" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48841" style="width: 2400px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48841 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10.png" alt="Giro E Racers In Italy" width="2400" height="1500" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10.png 2400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-10-960x600.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48841" class="wp-caption-text">Stage 10 of the Giro-E 2020</figcaption></figure>
<h2>An E-Bike Boost</h2>
Georgia’s captain was <a href="https://www.maxlelli.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Max Lelli</a>, an ex-pro racer who lead the ENIT team to the most victories. <a href="https://www.procyclingstats.com/rider/moreno-moser" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Moreno Moser</a>, also an ex-pro racer, was great support for her along the routes as he shared a wealth of technical racing tips.
<figure id="attachment_48904" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48904" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48904 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Mount-Etna-225x300.jpeg" alt="Georgia Yuill At Mount Etna" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Mount-Etna-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Mount-Etna-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Mount-Etna-450x600.jpeg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Mount-Etna.jpeg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48904" class="wp-caption-text">Georgia Yuill taking a quick pit-stop in front of Mount Etna, Sicily</figcaption></figure>
“You’re riding with people who are very accomplished and captains who want you to be successful,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I certainly came off learning so much about cycling and the world that surrounds it. They’re very passionate, and you just get taken into the professional side of the event.”
Although the circuit comprises steep ascents up rolling hills, up the mountainous Dolomites and even up Sicily’s active Mount Etna volcano, the boost from the e-bikes provides riders with as little or as much assistance needed—you don’t have to be an elite athlete to race alongside one.
“Cycling up Mount Etna in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2017/03/21/sicily-land-myths-maidens-monsters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sicily</a> was phenomenal. The Giro d’Italia racers were getting closer and closer….we had to get off the road so it wouldn’t conflict with their speed! We were moving at an accelerated speed the entire time, so going uphill is much faster,&#8221; she said. &#8220;One of the great benefits is that the road has been cleared for you. There’s a sensation that you can really allow yourself to go at maximum speed.”
<figure id="attachment_48844" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48844" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48844 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AGiro-E-2020.png" alt="Stage Two of the Giro-E" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AGiro-E-2020.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AGiro-E-2020-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AGiro-E-2020-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AGiro-E-2020-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48844" class="wp-caption-text">Stage 2 of the Giro-E 2020</figcaption></figure>
This year’s Giro-E concludes at the end of May, but there are high hopes for those wishing to live out their Olympic dreams in the future.
“Every year comprises a different route, and so once we hear where the Giro d’Italia is racing, we can design our own B&amp;R trip to move in parallel with it,&#8221; she said. &#8220;Dolomites stages are always some of the most exciting aspects of the Giro. We could design a pre-event experience on classic Dolomites routes, following which travellers participate in some stages of the Giro-E.”
Feeling inspired to take part in the world&#8217;s toughest race in the most beautiful place? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch with Georgia</a> to see how she can craft your adventure of a lifetime in Italy.

Thanks to the 2018 introduction of the Giro-E biking event, a golden ticket is all that’s required to live out your wildest cycling dreams. Giro-E, the only stage event in existence reserved exclusively for pedal-assisted <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2020/01/09/changing-course-the-e-bikes-ascent-toward-the-mainstream/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">e-bikes</a>, is the brainchild of RCS Sports, the same organizer of the Giro d’Italia. The event comprises 18 stages ranging from 70 to 115 kilometres daily, along the same route, and during the same time the Giro d’Italia takes place. Best of all, it’s open to riders of all levels—from amateur cyclists to self-proclaimed pros; there’s a route and region perfect for everyone.
Veteran Trip Designer <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/experts/georgia-yuill/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Georgia Yuill</a>, our go-to expert for the Dolomites, had the chance to experience the Giro-E’s third official year in 2020, scoping out the circuit for future guiding endeavours. For Georgia, dropping into the Giro-E was like dropping into the Olympics and being allowed to run around the track ahead of the sprinters who are competing.
“For the amateur, it’s like stepping into the big game and being part of that,&#8221; Georgia said. &#8220;The Giro d&#8217;Italia is one of our annual major sporting events that people tune into even though they’re not cycling, like the World Series or the Superbowl. It’s an emotional event for Italians and the sport is growing everywhere around the world.”

<figure id="attachment_48839" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48839" style="width: 2560px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48839 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-9.jpeg" alt="Giro E Italy E Bike Race" width="2560" height="1707" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-9.jpeg 2560w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-9-450x300.jpeg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-9-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Giro-E-2020-Stage-9-900x600.jpeg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48839" class="wp-caption-text">Stage 9 of the Giro-E 2020</figcaption></figure>
<h2>The (Bike) Path to Glory</h2>
<figure id="attachment_48848" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48848" style="width: 228px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48848 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Yuill-Giro-E-228x300.png" alt="Georgia Yuill Racing The Giro-E" width="228" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Yuill-Giro-E-228x300.png 228w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Georgia-Yuill-Giro-E.png 380w" sizes="(max-width: 228px) 100vw, 228px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48848" class="wp-caption-text">Georgia Yuill racing in the Giro-E 2020</figcaption></figure>
The Giro-E’s 2020 regional sectionals comprised of six slots, with each slot passing through Italy’s bounty of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2017/06/29/the-8-best-biking-routes-in-italy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contrasting landscapes</a>:
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 1 Sicily Region</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 2 Calabria and Apulia Regions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 3 Abruzzo, Marche, Emilia Romagna Regions, San Marino</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 4 Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia Regions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 5 Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, Lombardy Regions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Slot 6 Lombardy, Piedmont Regions</li>
</ul>
Georgia was designated Slot 1. 
“As the Giro-E, we’re advancing all of the professionals. We don’t start at the same point; we start further into the route,&#8221; she said. &#8220;By the time we finish our route at our pace, the Giro d’Italia racers come through and will cover the same final distance that we did.”

Biking

Croatia

Orebic

Wine

Europe

<h2>A Villa That Gives Back</h2>
Although Korta Katarina&#8217;s roots run deep in offering guests unparalleled luxury, the first of its kind in Orebić, its philosophy still remains ingrained in engaging with its local community.
&#8220;All of our employees are from Orebić—the villa is a real source of pride for the people of the village, many of them are employed there—even during COVID, we never made layoffs, and we paid them the whole time,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said. “The greatest reward is the people we work with. We’re very proud of what we’ve done.
<figure id="attachment_48789" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48789" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48789 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic.png" alt="Villa Korta Katarina And Winery" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48789" class="wp-caption-text">Views of the Adriatic from Korta Katarina&#8217;s patio</figcaption></figure>
<hr />
<h2>The Future of Korta Katarina </h2>
<figure id="attachment_48730" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48730" style="width: 480px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48730 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-480x300.png" alt="Orebic" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48730" class="wp-caption-text">Cruising the Adriatic Sea</figcaption></figure>
So, just how bright is the future of tourism for Orebić? With lots of talk about the Pelješac Bridge finally connecting southeast Croatia to the rest of the country, there’s sure to be a rise in visitors wishing to cast anchor and unearth the secrets of this dreamlike town. According to Mr. Anderson, this is marvellous news for Korta Katarina, as completion of the bridge will cut down the amount of travel time to get to Orebić by a third. It would appear as if venturing off-the-beaten-path in Orebić—and savouring the exuberance of Korta Katarina—is a voyage that’s slowly creeping out of the shadows to compete with its glitzy neighbour Dubrovnik.
If enjoying fine wine and gourmet cuisine over panoramas of the sparkling Adriatic sound enticing, a stay at Korta Katarina is a must. <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/">Get in touch with Tom</a> to see how he can craft your idyllic getaway to Croatia.

<h2>A Labour of Love</h2>
Six months later, the Anderson’s were offered a jaw-dropping property that was taken back by the government.
&#8220;A four-story hotel—and it&#8217;s empty, and they&#8217;re willing to sell it to you—if you promise you&#8217;ll rebuild it,'&#8221; he was told.
<figure id="attachment_48777" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48777" style="width: 480px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48777 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina &amp; Winery Villa" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48777" class="wp-caption-text">Villa Korta Katarina &amp; Winery in Orebić, Croatia</figcaption></figure>
Mr. Anderson said yes.
And with that, the Anderson&#8217;s purchased the well-known Rivijera hotel, a sumptuous seaside villa nestled on the shores of the shimmering Adriatic.
&#8220;We suddenly had this little piece of heaven—a building we have sitting on top of a hill overlooking the Adriatic—with the promise to put it back into service,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said.
After an intense labour of love and almost a decades-worth of planning, one of Croatia&#8217;s most exclusive properties was on the horizon. <a href="https://www.kortakatarina.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Korta Katarina</a>, member of Relais &amp; Châteaux, finally opened its doors in 2018.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-48751 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-750x600.png" alt="Villa Korta Katarina And Winery Gallery" width="750" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-750x600.png 750w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-375x300.png 375w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-768x614.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery.png 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" />
&nbsp;

<h2>The Space</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48718 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-480x300.png" alt="" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />This secluded property is so much more than your average hotel. Consisting of a winery, vineyard, the villa and even a 201 ft luxury yacht, every room has a story to tell at Korta Katarina. These stories are illustrated through the refined antiques and elegant attention to detail found around every corner. Through its serene splashes <img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48719 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina Winery" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />of pastel blues, milky whites and sandy ivory coating every inch of its interior. And best of all, through its <a href="https://www.kortakatarinawinery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sustainably farmed vineyards</a> and lavish collection of KK award-winning vintages—a favourite among the locals.
&#8220;Years went on; we started our winery—we made wine in the building. Eventually, we decided to <img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48720 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina Wine" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />move it adjacent to the building, but co-join it with the villa,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said. &#8220;We make a limited production of 60,000 bottles per year—most of it sold in Croatia, though we do export to some areas in the US.&#8221;
Today, Korta Katarina hosts gastronomy wine tastings paired with an upscale introduction to Croatian cuisine. Guests also have the option to sample some of Orebić&#8217;s most palatable delicacies with trips to local oyster farms—the perfect combination of salty seawater and freshwater makes this an idyllic experience. And after exuberant days of soaking up the sunshine, guests can revel in the little touches of luxury and personalization that the Anderson&#8217;s put into every aspect of the villa, including the bedtime stories found on each room’s pillow come day&#8217;s end.
Korta Katarina’s prime location ensures there’s no shortage of activity for all levels. Cruise to Korčula by speedboat to embark on a bike ride through Pošip vineyard, the region’s finest white variety. Walk the longest walls in Europe in the 14thC town of Ston. Kayak, kitesurf and scuba dive along the coast of the turquoise Adriatic. No matter what the day calls for, the area is ripe with adventure for even the most intrepid of travellers.

Spectacular Stays: Villa Korta Katarina & Winery

Asia-Pacific

Vietnam

Take a Virtual Ride on the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

Experts + Insiders

Must Sees

England

Ireland

Scotland

History Meets Modern Luxury: Top Hotels of England, Scotland and Ireland

Rome

Italy Travel Expert Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist

Begin at around 10:00 am with an espresso at the Capitoline Museums, where you can catch an incredible view over the city from the rooftop café. This also just happens to be one of my top museums in Rome, and I highly recommend paying a visit to the gallery before you take off. You&#8217;ll find two Caravaggio works here—The Fortune Teller (this one is my favourite!) and St. John the Baptist.
<figure id="attachment_45335" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-45335" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-45335 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/caravaggio.jpg" alt="Walking Tour of Rome" width="380" height="285" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-45335" class="wp-caption-text">Caravaggio inside the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi</figcaption></figure>
From here, wander down past the statues of Castor and Pollux and cross a couple of major roads to arrive at the Pantheon, and ultimately at the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi.
There are some wonderful Caravaggio masterpieces here that you can view for free. Well, not exactly &#8216;free&#8217;: you need to pay for the light to see them, but it will only cost you a few Euros.
Coffee time again—this is <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/02/28/insiders-guide-rome/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rome</a>, after all! Down the road is one of the most famous coffee places in the city: Café san Eustachio. Ask for a Grand Café and they&#8217;ll do their thing (though you may want to add a bit of sugar). It’s a bustling place where locals stand around and brush shoulders. Insider tip: most places in Italy double or even triple the price of a coffee if you sit at a table versus if you stand up.

From here, it&#8217;s a short walk through Piazza Navona—be sure to walk up Navona and not along the busy via de Rinascimento. Near the North end of the piazza is the Church of Sant Agostino. This church displays a fantastic Caravaggio painting and admission is free. Note that the church is sometimes closed. Regardless, it’s still a great walk.
Wind your way farther north to the Piazza del Popolo by way of Via Di Ripetta. Across the Piazza, on your right-hand side, will be Santa Maria del Popolo. It&#8217;s here you&#8217;ll find The Conversion of St. Paul and The Crucifixion of St. Peter. Same as with the works in the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, you&#8217;ll need a few Euro coins to illuminate them.
If you really want to prepare for your journey, I recommend reading Caravaggio: A Life Sacred and Profane by Andrew Graham-Dixon. 
This tour just scratches the surface; if you want to see more Caravaggio works beyond this walking tour, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1IuNh180uccheYQDbokJY49_N2NZVA6y6&amp;ll=41.90221757349994%2C12.47174814999994&amp;z=15" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here&#8217;s a map</a> where you can find them in Rome. Let me know if come across any others! You can also feel free to reach out to one of our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/where-we-go/italy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Italy Experts</a> and see how we can put together a bespoke trip for your group catered to your interests in Rome and beyond.

A Walking Tour of Rome: Discovering Caravaggio

Safari

Madagascar Travel Expert (and born-and-raised South African)

<h2>Continue your travels in Africa</h2>
A retreat at Miavana works well as an add-on to either an East Africa or Southern Africa safari experience. Take a look at <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/experts/michele-harvey/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">my trip portfolio</a> for inspiration: I&#8217;d be delighted to speak with you about any of these destinations, too!<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44974 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/poolside-miavana.jpg" alt="Madagascar Miavana Luxury Resort" width="380" height="253" />
Miavana also works wonderfully as a stand-alone destination lodge. My suggestion is a 5 to a 7-night stay.
With its ample activities and serene setting, you can create your own adventure here that&#8217;s at once exhilarating and effortless.

<h2>Madagascar&#8217;s Unparalleled Biodiversity</h2>
From the world’s tiniest chameleon to the Crowned Lemur conservation efforts and the many turtles in between, Miavana’s raison d’etre is clear, making this more than your average beach destination. During my visit, I gained a real appreciation of how special the environment and wildlife here is. 
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44978 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/madagascar-lemur.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />
Of course, Madagascar&#8217;s unofficial mascot, the lemur, is a crucial part of any visit. Nosy Ankao is known for the endangered Crowned Lemur, which you can spot on a stroll through the island&#8217;s forests. For more lemur adventure, they offer treks on the mainland via a helicopter excursion.
I also had a brief swim with dolphins. They were hunting, but we got to be with them for a short while before they charged off. During whale season, whales can be seen breaching in front of the lodge, and you can catch whale sharks at various times throughout the year, too.
<h2>The Activities at Miavana</h2>
Kite-surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling and scuba – the well-rounded activities at Miavana cover water, underwater, land and air.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44983 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/snorkelling-miavana.jpg" alt="Madagascar Miavana Luxury Resort" width="380" height="253" />You can set sail on fabulous boat excursions to other islands in the archipelago and snorkel at different sites, and anglers can cast their reels for some ocean fishing.
No matter what you choose, the lodge&#8217;s guides are passionate and engaging. The calibre of the staff here is truly beyond compare: they would probably go to the ends of the archipelago to please every guest. Plus, the naturalist guides are like walking encyclopedias!

<h2>The Accommodations</h2>
Villas with one, two or three bedrooms come with a lounge area, butler service, a stocked kitchenette and a private, sea-side pool. These guest sanctuaries are spacious, with the smallest coming in at a generous 450 square metres (4,843 square feet).<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44989 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Room-miavana.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="242" />
The decor is reflective of the beachy vibes that permeate the throughout the island: bright and fresh, with crisp whites, pops of blue and ocean views at nearly every turn.
For families and large groups, each villa has an additional bathroom along with a study which can be flipped into a kids room. Guests can navigate the resort and explore the island using the property&#8217;s complimentary bicycles or electric buggies.
<h2>Getting to Madagascar&#8217;s Miavana Luxury Resort</h2>
There are two &#8216;launching&#8217; points from the mainland to Nosy Ankao. I flew from Johannesburg to Nosy Be, but the other option is to head to Diego Suarez from Antananarivo, Madagascar&#8217;s capital.
From Diego Suarez or Nosy Be, the Miavana&#8217;s helicopters whisk you away. The helicopter ride was an unexpected highlight for me; I saw more of Madagascar’s diversity during the 1-hour flight from Nosy Be to Nosy Ankao than I did during my entire 15-day research trip last year!<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44987 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/helicopter-miavana-1.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />
The pilots give brilliant commentary as you swoop past points of interest. You gain a tremendous understanding of the country&#8217;s biodiversity as you fly over so many different landscapes – from sea to tsingy (karst mountain formations) to agriculture to seaweed farms, forest and mangroves.
The helicopter flights give you great insight to the northern region and the complexities of the island’s biodiversity, history and social-economic challenges.

Miavana: Madagascar's Luxury Island Escape

South Africa

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
The multitude of natural habitats within Kruger National Park’s 19,485 square kilometres (7,523 square miles) give way to the various wildlife who call the land home: elephants, white and black rhinos, cheetahs and herds of buffalo, to name a few. 
The star performer, however, is none other than the king of the jungle: lions reign supreme in this corner of South Africa, and spotting one of the ‘Mountain Prides’ tops the list of heart-racing moments at the Lebombo Lodge.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43159 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="532" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Twice daily game drives in open Land Rovers are included in your stay. To keep the experiences intimate and safe, a maximum of six guests are allowed per vehicle. Thrill-seekers may choose to embark on a walking safari, and traverse the pan by foot for a closer look at the plant life and to track down smaller game. 
You’ll want to catch these incredible moments on film, but if your heavy-duty camera didn’t make it into your suitcase, the lodge carries specialized kits catered to wildlife photography that are available for rent. 
If you’re visiting with your young ones in tow, the Mini Rangers’ Course is a kids’ club where they can learn the ins and outs of tracking, bush survival techniques and bird-watching, and earn a certificate at the end of their ‘studies.’ Note that child participation on the game drives will be at your guide’s discretion.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43162 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Like the rest of the Singita collection, conservation and community efforts are vital here. One of these endeavours comes in the form of a culinary school, offered by the Lebombo Lodge to students from the local communities. 
Guests can learn alongside these budding chefs by participating in a hands-on cooking lesson, where you’ll whip up some of the lodge’s specialty dishes.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43160 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
And as for the cuisine, it too is just as innovative as the property. Headed under chef Liam Tomlin, who also runs a popular Cape Town eatery called Chefs Warehouse, flavourful meals are prepared using fresh ingredients and local produce. 
Cooking techniques like sous-vide and smoking reflect the lodge’s contemporary edge, while meats cooked on a spit and over an open fire assert its African heritage. 
Items like homemade muesli and Norwegian salmon grace the table at breakfast, lunch sees artfully plated tapas and tasting dishes, and dinner is a three-course affair paired with delightful South African wines. 
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43157 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-4_378x252.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="378" height="252" />Light spills into each of the glass-walled suites, decked out in safari-chic decor: think muted tones, netted beds, unstained wood and sisal carpets. 
A sliding door opens to a private game-viewing deck, seemingly suspended over the river, complete with a daybed and bistro set. 
Other in-room perks include Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine, air conditioning, fireplaces and solar-powered plugs. 
The suite’s luxurious en-suite bathrooms feature deep, window-side bathtubs and separate indoor/outdoor showers.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43158 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
If your group outnumbers what one unit can offer, there are two suites found lower on the hill that connect to become a villa, married by a private pool. 
The villa comes with a full staff, a kitchen and it’s own boma area for dining al fresco. 
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
If you’re looking to check off more bucket list items on your visit to Africa, wedge the Lebombo Lodge between two other spectacular stays. You can begin your trip with a visit to the <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/stays/singita-ebony-lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Singita Ebony Lodge</a>, the brand’s flagship property in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. 
With its old-world vibe and distinct game watching, it offers a different experience where you can catch sight of the elusive leopard and dine among monkeys.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43166 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Another Singita option in the Sabi Sand is their Boulders Lodge. Here, nature is infused into every element—from the stone walls to the tree trunk support beams to the encompassing sprawl of tangled trees and free-flowing rivers. 
After a few nights at the Lebombo Lodge, catch a flight to the Livingstone International Airport for a sojourn at the Royal Chundu to revel in the rush of Victoria Falls. 
This vibrant camp on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia is just 30 km (18 mi.) upstream from the mighty cascades. It offers riverside suites with private balconies and activities include helicopter tours, canoeing, fishing and nature walks.

Spectacular Stays: Singita Lebombo Lodge

Latin America

Chile

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Patagonia inspires movement—this is the epitome of the great outdoors, and there are no limits as to what you can discover. 
The Singular Patagonia makes it a cinch to explore with a wide range of activities: You can embark on a rewarding hike through the Torres del Paine National Park, take a horseback riding lesson at the Puerto Consuelo ranch, kayak along the Señoret Channel, or fly fish for salmon and trout—all while in the company of an English-speaking guide.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43117 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
If you find yourself craving some civilization, you can hop on one of the property’s bikes (which are free for rent) and pedal to the nearby town of Puerto Natales, only a 15-minute ride away. Resting on the shores of Seno Última Esperanza (Last Hope Sound), the beaches here are a bird-lovers delight, brimming with swooping condors, cormorants and Chilean skuas. 
While in town, check out the Museo Histórico for artifacts ranging from the Indigenous populations to colonization, pop into one of the galleries along the waterfront, sip a coffee in the main square or observe the daily local life at the Fisherman’s Wharf.  
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43118 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Come day’s end, relax your worked muscles with a dip in the heated indoor/outdoor pool, best experienced when the sun’s last rays dance across the water, eventually dropping behind the Patagonian fjords. 
For added indulgence, book a spa treatment at the eco-wellness centre, SPA (short for Salut Per Aqua or ‘health through water’), which uses plant and fruit oil extracts for your pampering.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Dining</h3>
All this activity requires refuelling with a nourishing meal. Even the cuisine is evocative of The Singular’s vibe, focusing on substance over excess and using ingredients from the regional terroir. The food is fresh, healthy and always just the right amount, plated like a work of art.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43112 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-2_378x252.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="378" height="252" />When booking, guests can choose from a bed and breakfast plan or a full-board option that includes all three daily meals. 
It begins with breakfast—a sumptuous spread of every imaginable fruit, viennoiseries, made-to-order omelettes, yogurt, cereal, just-squeezed orange juice—you get the idea. 
If you’re out on an excursion during lunch, the hotel will craft a picnic for you to enjoy amid the breathtaking scenery. 
Plan on sticking around for the day? Then head to The Singular Restaurant, where award-winning Executive Chef Hernán Basso prepares Chilean staples—like guanaco (a local type of llama), Patagonian lamb and king crab—with a French twist.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43111 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Before dinner, sink into a perfectly-worn leather couch with an author-inspired cocktail in the sleek bar, with its exposed-brick walls and wooden stairways that maintain the pared-back atmosphere. 
Once you and your appetite are recharged, make your way to the dining room to sink your teeth into yet another exquisite meal or check out the barbecue grill, El Asador, that offers an intimate experience and delicacies like rabbit, beef and more cooked over an open flame.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
There are three categories to choose from: the Singular Twin with two double beds, the Singular King with one king-sized bed and the Singular Suite with a king-sized bed in addition to a couch and sitting area.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43114 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="462" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462-480x277.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462-768x444.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Each generously sized room (the smallest coming in at 45 square metres, equal to around 500 square feet) boasts an entire wall’s worth of floor-to-ceiling windows that look out at the fjords while the Last Hope channel wades in between. 
The decor is kept minimal with elegant touches like custom-made, Victorian-style furnishings and black and white photographs so that Mother Nature can remain the real showstopper. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43115 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="462" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462-480x277.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462-768x444.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
All beds are outfitted with hypoallergenic pillows and 500 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, and every category has an ensuite marble bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower area. 
Despite being in the depths of the natural world, each guestroom comes with complimentary WiFi (and the common areas do, too).
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">How to get here</h3>
International flights will arrive in Santiago, Chile. During your stay in Santiago, consider booking a room at The Singular Patagonia’s sister property, <a href="https://thesingular.com/en/hotel/santiago">The Singular Santiago</a>. 
From Santiago, it’s a 3.5-hour flight to Punta Arenas, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to the hotel. It may not be the easiest place to get to, but I assure you, it’s worth the journey.

Spectacular Stays: The Singular Patagonia

Zimbabwe

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Hwange National Park offers one of the highest concentrations of animals in Southern Africa; it’s home to no less than 107 mammal species and 450 bird species. 
With such a diverse habitat, the variety of wildlife within your range of vision is immense, and the Somalisa Camp places you in the heart of the action.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42980 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="531" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531-452x300.jpg 452w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531-768x510.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Rise and shine early for breakfast on the desk, watching the sun rise while the morning mist lifts from the plain. After fuelling up on slow-cooked oatmeal, fresh fruit and made-to-order eggs, it’s time to set out on the first game drive of the day.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42979 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="532" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Game drives are aboard open 4x4s with the camp’s expert guides and trackers. Elephant, sable antelope, zebra, giraffe, lion, leopard, hyena, wildebeest and the rare and endangered roan antelope are but a few of the creatures you’re likely to encounter.
You could choose to shake up your routine with the Somalisa’s other offerings, such as bird watching (Hwange boasts some of the best birding in these parts of Africa, with opportunities to catch rare creatures like the magnificent Martial eagle) or cultural visits to gain further insight into the local communities.  
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42982 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="534" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534-768x513.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
After your morning exploration, retire to the camp for brunch—a heartier meal consisting of warming dishes in the cooler months and light, fresh fare in the summer. 
Afterwards, you can either venture on another afternoon game drive or balance out the adventure with some pool time and an afternoon nap before sundowners on the deck. 
As for dinner, a three-course meal consisting of African and international cuisine and paired with South African wine is served outdoors, allowing the game-watching action to continue while you dine. 
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42976 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-2-1800x1200_378x252.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="378" height="252" />Seven wood-framed, stretch sail canvas tents are scattered throughout a grove Acacia trees, loosely forming a horseshoe around the communal lodge. 
Each suite is finished with hardwood floors and brimming with old-world charms like antique furnishings, Colonial-era artifacts and locally made handicrafts.
Vintage-style bathrooms bask in natural light and feature deep copper tubs, a separate shower area and flushable toilets. 
A glass-wood fireplace and the option to roll down the canvas sides keeps the tent cozy and warm during Hwange’s chilly nights.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42974 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Wood-framed beds draped in plush bedding neighbour a seating area with a sofa and chairs that are dressed in vibrant Kudhinda textiles. 
Large glass walls showcase the cluster of trees and bush outdoors, and slide open to a private deck with an outdoor shower, a hammock and a seating area.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
Before settling in at the Somalisa Camp, why not spend a few nights at the Camp Amalinda, Located in the mysterious Matapo Hills—approximately 400 km ( 250 mi.) southeast of Somalisa—this area is best known for its granite wilderness and native black and white rhinos. 
Stay in one of nine hillside retreats carved out of natural stone with thatched roofs and panoramic views.  
With the Victoria Falls nearby, it seems only logical to follow up your visit to the Somalisa Camp with a stay at the Victoria Falls River Lodge. Seated along the edge of the Zambezi river, this tented luxury lodge is so close to the grand cascade that it even catches a view its spray off in the distance. 
Kick back on your private deck with views over the river, while hippos wallowing in the water keep you entertained.

Spectacular Stays: Somalisa Camp

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Skilled trackers and drivers from the local Shangaan community lead you on game drives to scope out the area’s residents: a list that includes elephants, buffalo, rhinoceros and lions. Leopards are especially known to strut around unperturbed in these corners, and you may even spot one catnapping on the lodge’s deck.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43133 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
The Dulini’s open-roof Land Rovers—equipped with binoculars and fleece-lined ponchos—can carry a maximum of six guests at a time and offer the perfect vehicle to navigate the terrain and get up-close to the animals. 
Game drives happen twice daily: once in the early morning and the second later in the afternoon. These later ones stretch into the evening after the sun has set for a look at the nocturnal creatures, like the white-tailed mongoose and spotted hyena.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43128 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="529" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529-454x300.jpg 454w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529-768x508.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
An absence of fences between this corner of the Sabi Sand and the Kruger National Park means the wildlife are free to roam at their will. The nearby Sand River is a favourite haunt for hippos and crocodiles that come to bask in its water, while the dense reed beds host multiple bird species (over 300, to be precise). 
Lovers of birding should take advantage of the Dulini’s interpretive safari walks that venture into the bush by foot.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43146 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Mealtime comes in many guises, from candlelit dinners to outdoor festivities. A leafy Jackalberry tree canopies the outdoor eating area, where guests dine on Pan-African creations by Dulini’s talented chefs. 
If you’re looking for some alone time with your loved one, you can inquire about booking a private dinner in the wine cellar—well-stocked with the finest South African wines.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43130 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Torches and lanterns, a fire pit and linen-draped tables come together beneath a circle of trees to make a boma. Every few nights, guests gather here with members of the community to sing, dance and celebrate during a traditional African cookout beneath the night sky.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43136 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Suite-1800x1200_378x252.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="378" height="252" />All of the spacious suites (though, given their size, are more comparable to cottages) are located just a stone’s throw from the river’s edge. 
Hardwood flooring, a four-post netted bed and Colonial-era furnishings come together beneath an exposed thatched roof, giving way to an effortless blend of rustic and romantic. 
Keep warm on chilly nights with the fireplace, while air-conditioning offers relief during the height of summer.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43137 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Large windows fill the rooms in natural light and keep you in constant connection with the surrounding environment. Admire the views from the four-clawed bathtub of your ensuite bathroom, or while soaking in the heated plunge pool of your private deck. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43138 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Add to this the option to have a masseuse pay you a visit and in-room dining, and you could find yourself luxuriating in your suite all day long.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
Get the most out of your journey to South Africa and round-out your travels with other must-see places. Your point of arrival into the country will likely be Cape Town, a stunning city that merges sea to sky landscapes and a buzzing metropolis. 
Hunker down here for a few nights and rest up at More Quarters, a boutique property comprised of apartments and located within walking distance of shops, restaurants and bars. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43148 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
En route to the Dulini Lodge, you can make a stop in South Africa’s wine country and stay at Le Quartier Français, a five-star property found in the heart of Franschhoek.
If the wild continues to call following your visit to Dulini, you can carry on to the Thorntree River Lodge in Zambia, an eco-conscious retreat in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, seated just up the river from the remarkable Victoria Falls.

Spectacular Stays: Dulini Lodge

Insider's Guides

Panama

<h2>Teatro Nacional: Neoclassic Splendour</h2>
<figure id="attachment_43994" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43994" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43994 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/El_Teatro_Nacional_de_Panamá.jpg" alt="Reasons To Visit Panama City" width="380" height="253" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43994" class="wp-caption-text">Panama City&#8217;s Teatro Nacional</figcaption></figure>
Panama City&#8217;s Teatro Nacional is the embodiment of elegance. While its modest pale yellow and pink facade fit in effortlessly with the other buildings of the Casco Viejo, inside lies a dazzling display of opulent gold balconies, red curtains and a glass chandelier lighting the room in a soft glow.
Don&#8217;t forget to look up for a glimpse of a beautifully frescoed ceiling, painted by one of Panama&#8217;s most celebrated artists, Roberto Lewis.
You can stop by for a tour and get a view over the city from the balcony or, even better, book tickets for one of the theatre&#8217;s performances.
<h2>Panamanian Flavours and Exclusive Treats</h2>
Coffee, chocolate, sugar cane and tropical fruits—some of the best things in life are harvested right in Panama&#8217;s backyard.
<figure id="attachment_43990" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43990" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43990 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/panama-coffee.jpg" alt="Reasons To Visit Panama City" width="380" height="253" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43990" class="wp-caption-text">Pour-over Geisha bean coffee</figcaption></figure>
Its highly coveted coffee bean, the Geisha bean, is perhaps the country&#8217;s most elite export. Coming in at over 600 USD a pound, Geisha is the most expensive coffee in the world.
What better place to sample this silky-smooth and fruity java than straight from the source? Expect a cup to set you back around 9 USD (a steal versus 18 USD in New York City) and your tastebuds to savour the best coffee they&#8217;ve ever tasted.
As for the food, Afro-Caribbean, Latin American and European influences combine to make up some of the country&#8217;s top dishes, like stuffed yuca fritters and sancocho, a hearty chicken soup.
Given Panama&#8217;s position between ocean and sea, it only makes sense that seafood here is at its prime. Make sure you head down to the seafood market at the Cinta Costera, a walkway seated on the water, for the best Panamanian ceviche, seasoned with paprika, coriander and ají chombo pepper.
As Panama turns its gaze toward becoming a leader in outdoor and adventure travel, much like its Westerly neighbour <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2018/04/16/best-time-year-visit-costa-rica/">Costa Rica</a>, you can expect to see tourism here boom. For now, we&#8217;re the first active travel outfitter forging paths through its virgin landscapes — so join us and our trailblazing spirit, and see what adventure awaits.

<h2>Casco Viejo: The Heart of Panama City</h2>
The Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe) is Panama City&#8217;s old quarter. Pastel Colonial homes adorned with balconies bursting with flowers and plants line its narrow pedestrian-friendly streets, making the district perfectly walkable—not to mention photographable!
<figure id="attachment_43985" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43985" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43985 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Panama-city-Casco-Viejo-1.jpg" alt="Reasons To Visit Panama City" width="380" height="264" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43985" class="wp-caption-text">A stunning street in the Casco Viejo</figcaption></figure>
Panama City&#8217;s vibrant history comes to life in the Casco Viejo. It was built in 1673 after pirates ransacked the original Panama City, Panama Viejo, which lies northeast of the neighbourhood, in 1661. Listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this up-and-coming barrio is a delightful place to wander, marvel at Spanish-inspired architecture and pause for a coffee or cocktail.
<h2>Whimsical Architecture</h2>
Contrasting the archways and stucco walls of the historic quarter are the contemporary structures that rise from the city&#8217;s business district, like the F&amp;F Tower. Also known as El Tornillo, this twisting and turning glass skyscraper is an icon of the Panama City skyline.
<figure id="attachment_43984" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43984" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43984 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/biomuseo.jpg" alt="Reasons To Visit Panama City" width="380" height="289" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43984" class="wp-caption-text">Frank Gehry&#8217;s Biomuseum</figcaption></figure>
Down on the Amador Causeway, the second longest boardwalk in the city that connects the islands of Naos, Perico, Culebra and Flamenco, is the Biomuseo.
This eye-catching and avant-garde building was designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, whose other works include the Guggenheim in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2017/07/12/basque-country-exploring-san-sebastian-bilbao/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bilbao</a> and the Foundation Louis Vuitton in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2018/10/18/top-10-five-star-hotels-in-paris/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Paris</a>.
For his only work in Latin America, Gehry was inspired by the story of the isthmus of Panama rising from the sea to unify two continents, divide the ocean and change the planet’s biodiversity forever. It&#8217;s only suiting that the Biomuseo features exhibitions on Panama&#8217;s incredible flora and fauna over its eight galleries, as well as outdoor exhibits displayed in the botanical gardens.

<h2>Vestiges of Panama Viejo</h2>
History wasn&#8217;t so kind to Panama Viejo, the first Panama City, which today rests approximately 6 km (4 mi.) from the city centre.
<figure id="attachment_43997" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43997" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43997 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Torre_de_la_Catedral_en_Panamá_La_Vieja.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43997" class="wp-caption-text">Cathedral ruins in Panama Viejo</figcaption></figure>
After facing near destruction during a pirate invasion in the 17th century, the country was forced to rebuild its capital in a different location, which is now the Casco Viejo. 
The ruins of Panama Viejo are a stark contrast to the modern suburb that surrounds them. Many are still mostly intact, such as the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion (pictured right). 
Along with the &#8216;newer&#8217; historic centre Casco Viejo, Panama Viejo is a World Heritage Site protected under UNESCO.
<h2>Wildlife in the City</h2>
You don&#8217;t need to go far to experience the incredible biodiversity of Panama has to offer. The Parque Natural Metropolitano, located not far from the downtown centre, is a 265-hectare urban jungle teeming with wildlife. There are two loop walks you can take on here, with panoramic views over the city as your reward.
<figure id="attachment_43998" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43998" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43998 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Geoffroy’s-tamarin.jpg" alt="Reasons To Visit Panama City" width="380" height="227" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43998" class="wp-caption-text">The Geoffroy’s Tamarin</figcaption></figure>
Nature-lovers can scope out tropical bird species like toucans and macaws, and other native creatures, like the adorable Geoffroy&#8217;s Tamarin.
Other furry friends you might spot on include tití monkeys, white-tailed deer and sloths chilling out in the trees. Of the not-so-furry variety, keep your eyes peeled for reptiles like tortoises and iguanas.
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7 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Panama City

Eat &amp; Drink

Norway

Oslo

<h3><a href="http://lebenjamin.no/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Benjamin</a></h3>
Sleek and hip, this casual bar and bistro is the result of the owners’ many trips to France, a country they hold close to their hearts. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43078 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Indulge in French cheeses and wine &#8211; by the bottle or by the glass &#8211; and homemade meals made from scratch from a three-course menu.  
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.arakataka.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arakataka</a></h3>
For Nordic cuisine, head to Arakataka. This modern bistro is a favourite spot for concertgoers given its prime location across from Oslo’s Rockefeller Music Hall. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43082 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="537" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537-420x300.jpg 420w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Its menu consists of small plates many of which include catches from the frosty Norwegian shores such as King Crab, langoustine, and mackerel.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://hanami.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hanami</a></h3>
Enjoy Japanese robatayaki, Izakaya and a sushi bar in the chic and modern atmosphere of Hanami. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43085 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="523" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523-431x300.jpg 431w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Their beautifully presented plates come paired with an equally stunning waterfront view.
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://maaemo.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maaemo</a></h3>
Bearing an honourable 3-star Michelin badge, all the ingredients at Maaemo are entirely organic and natural, featuring a variety of seafood, vegetables and herbs from exclusively Norwegian producers. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43087 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="501" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Its minimalist setting allows you to place all the attention on the dishes crafted in their innovative kitchen that encourages employees to add their personal touch to each plate.
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<h3><a href="http://www.brasseriefrance.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brasserie France</a></h3>
Transport to Paris at the Brasserie France, where French dishes like steak frites and bouillabaisse grace the menu in a traditional bistro setting. 
For dessert, an unlimited buffet-style dessert trolley spoils diners with crème brûlée, puff pastries and macarons.

The 6 Best Restaurants in Oslo

Florence

Tuscany

The 19 Best Shops in Florence

Marrakech

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Marrakech&#8217;s Best Concept Shops</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.jardinmajorelle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boutique Majorelle </a></h3>
So stunning it could serve as the main attraction, the boutique inside the Majorelle Gardens—a dreamy botanical garden and one of the most visited sites in Morocco—is immaculately curated by creative director Stephen DiRenza. 
From an in-house workshop, they create their own clothing, drawing inspiration from designs by Yves Saint Laurent (who purchased the gardens in the 1980s). 
Hand-hammered silver jewelry, chic throw pillows and clutches embroidederd with 16C Islamic art prints round-out this truly unique collection. 
<h3><a href="https://maxandjan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Max &amp; Jan</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42669 size-large" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maxjan_002-400x600.jpg" alt="max and jan, best shops in Marrakech" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maxjan_002-400x600.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maxjan_002-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maxjan_002.jpg 681w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />The self-made description of ‘glam in the Medina’ is quickly understood as you enter the eclectic and colourful store of Max &amp; Jan. 
Go either all out with an attention-grabbing print tunic or stick to something more subdued by opting for an equally beautiful colour-block dress. 
<h3><a href="https://www.33ruemajorelle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">33 Rue Majorelle</a></h3>
Take a breather from the busy souks at this airy lifestyle boutique with a Moroccan twist. 
Showcasing nearly 100 independent of the country’s designers and artisans, you’ll find an array of items for your wardrobe (think: vibrant scarves, brass jewelry and jacquard babouches) and for the home like glasses for mint tea, patterned potteries, crocheted Hamimi lanterns… and really, anything else you can think of! 
The collection changes frequently, so stop in to see what’s new.
<h3><a href="http://www.hanoutboutique.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hanout</a></h3>
Owner Meriem Rawlings mastered her talents at Saint Martin’s School of Art in London, where she lived with her British husband for several years. 
It was there she designed her first collection of kaftans which earned their way to the shelves of Selfridges. Upon returning to her native Marrakech, Hanout Boutique was born. 
This delightfully-curated shop sits beneath one of our favourite lunch spots (<a href="https://terrassedesepices.com/en/">Terrasses des Epices</a>) and is filled with contemporary pieces fused with Moroccan-inspired flavour like silk tunics, leather handbags and kilim boots. 
<h3><a href="https://el-fenn.com/boutique/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">El Fenn</a></h3>
Housed in a restaurant and bar, here you’ll find a selection of items that highlight the designers and artisans of Marrakech. 
Owned by Vanessa Branson, El Fenn is ripe with vintage clothes and bags, locally-crafted housewares, dazzling jewelry, coffee table books and more. 
Expertly edited in a stunning location, pop in if you want the vibe of the Souk without the haggling. 
<h3><a href="http://michele-baconnier.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michèle Baconnier</a></h3>
With flower-toed ballerina flats, babouches speckled with hardware, beaded necklaces and gold rings anchored by gemstones, you can immediately sense the quirk and playfulness at the core of French expat Michèle Baconnier’s shop found on a small street down in the Gueliz neighbourhood. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42673 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/michellebaconner_001.jpg" alt="michele baconner, best shops in Marrakech" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/michellebaconner_001.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/michellebaconner_001-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
Often, Baconnier will be present to assist with sizing (she also sells dresses, tunics and more) and to share the stories behind her hand-made pieces of jewelry.  
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Marrakech&#8217;s Jewelry Shop</h2>
<h3>El Abidi Nasser Eddine</h3>
A few steps away from Au Fil d’Or, this shop is brimming with one-of-a-kind items, from antique finds to semi-precious stones amidst silverware and gold. 
Their eye-catching jewelry are the ultimate statement pieces like gold bangles, colourful stringings of Moroccan coral and their collection of Berber-inspired necklaces anchored by a Hamsa, the ancient Middle Eastern talisman that protects against the evil eye. 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Shops for Home/Decor in Marrakech</h2>
<h3><a href="https://www.chabi-chic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chabi Chic </a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42676 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/chabichic_002-300x300.jpg" alt="chabi chic, best shops in Marrakech" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/chabichic_002-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/chabichic_002-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/chabichic_002.jpg 376w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Pick up a special piece for your home at this trendy boutique adorned with Moroccan housewares with an updated appeal. 
A variety of hand-painted ceramics lend a Bohemian look to a cup of Moroccan mint tea; perfect to sip while perched on one of their throw pillows, each of which is uniquely hand embroidered with Berber motifs. Or pick up a handcrafted terracotta tajine to concoct Moroccan feasts back home. 
Along with your new house-enriching pieces, you can peruse their brand of Moroccan skincare essentials like argan dry oils and milk-based soaps. 
<h3><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mustaphablaoui/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mustapha Blaoui</a></h3>
We’re convinced the unmarked door of Mustapha Blaoui’s shop is secretly a portal to another world; an enchanting one packed with whimsical carpets, antiques hailing from different countries, tables and chests that surely come with a story, carved wooden doors, lanterns worthy of being hung in Moroccan places, art, pottery, cabinets and more. 
A real emporium of wonder, it’s worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. 
<h3><a href="http://www.almatjarmarrakech.com/en/bazar.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Al Matjar</a></h3>
A specialist in carpets, Chabi Mohamed himself is the son of a shopkeeper (Au Fil d’Or). Among his collection, you’ll find anything from antiques to Berber rugs (which can be shipped internationally). 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42680 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/almatjar-marrakech_001.jpg" alt="al matjar, best shops in Marrakech" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/almatjar-marrakech_001.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/almatjar-marrakech_001-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
Here’s a good opportunity to play the bargaining game and land on fair prices without sacrificing quality.
<h3>L’Art du Bain</h3>
If you plan to indulge in a spa treatment in Morocco, chances are you’ll cross paths with savon noir: a thick, dark-coloured soap that is used in the hammams. 
Also known as beldi, this ‘black soap’ is rich in vitamin E and made entirely of natural and organic product. 
You can stock up on jars of it in this tiny store along with other handmade, pure plant-oil soaps with scents like rose and orange blossom. 
<h3><a href="https://valeriebarkowski.com/vb-store/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">V Barkowski</a></h3>
Hailing from Belgium, Valérie Barkowski came to Marrakech some 20 years ago to open <a href="http://www.darkawa.net/">Dar Kawa</a>, a minimalist, white-washed riad (a traditional Moroccan guest house) in the heart of the Medina. 
A woman of numerous talents, her eye for design includes creating luxury home linens like hand-embroidered pillowcases and bedsheets and tasselled hand towels which you’ll find in her showroom just a few minutes away from the riad. Be sure to call ahead to make an appointment.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42682 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/vb_001_720x460.jpg" alt="best shops in Marrakech" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/vb_001_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/vb_001_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Footwear Shop in Marrakech</h2>
<h3>Atika</h3>
Visit Atika for a rainbow of designer-looking loafers at a fraction of the price. 
Whether you like to stand out in a crowd or simply keep your feet looking classy, chose from a spectrum of shades that range from earth tones to neon. 
Atika doesn’t have a website, but you can visit their store in the Nouvelle Ville to scope out their selection. If you want something custom, give them a call ahead of time to put in your request.

The 18 Best Shops in Marrakech

Canada

Vancouver

North America

<h3><a href="https://www.farmersapprentice.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Farmer’s Apprentice</a></h3>
Vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters alike can convene over farm-to-table meals in an inviting and minimalist setting at this organic restaurant in Kitsilano. 
The chefs let the ingredients do the talking, serving locally sourced fish, meat, fruits and vegetables with simple dressings. 
Their light weekend brunch swaps out typically heavy breakfast foods for cheese &amp; meat boards and creative salads.  
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<h3><a href="http://www.burdockandco.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Burdock &amp; Co</a></h3>
Chef Andrea Carlson and her team draw inspiration from the valleys, mountains and ocean to execute refined dishes through foraging (like their braised forest mushrooms) and produce from nearby farms.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42762 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
They serve entrées you can keep all to yourself, but the best route is to order several small plates and share with friends over a bottle from their selection of all-natural wines.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.kissatanto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kissa Tanto</a></h3>
Japanese meets Italian in the sleek dining room of this Chinatown haunt that’s renowned for their imaginative fare, fusing ingredients like stracciatella and seaweed without a moment’s hesitation. 
While they offer fantastic wines and spirits to accompany their world-melding creations, I suggest going with one of their expertly crafted cocktails. Mezcal with ginger chestnut honey vermouth and a toasted sesame rim, anyone?
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://mikurestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miku Vancouver</a></h3>
For a new way to sushi, visit Miku—a waterfront restaurant that specializes in Aburi sushi, where the fish is partially grilled rather than served raw. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42764 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
You can give it a taste by ordering a Kaiseki: the traditional Japanese tasting menu that includes a sublime presentation on delicate pottery. À la carte options are also available to sample as you’d like.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://masayoshi.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Masayoshi</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43867 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302-375x300.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="375" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302-375x300.jpg 375w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" />In an intimate room permeated with Japanese zen, experience omakase—a culinary performance where Chef Masayoshi Baba carefully assembles works of art with nigiri sushi at his whim. 
Be sure to make a reservation for this dinner that doubles as a show as there are only two seatings available per evening: one at 6 p.m. and the second at 8 p.m.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.saviovolpe.com/menu/dinner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Savio Volpe</a></h3>
Taking cues from the osteria’s of Italy, choose from a menu of wood-fired meats, charcuterie planks and handmade pasta ranging from traditional spaghetti and meatballs to veal tagliatelle. 
The stylish and warm sepia-toned salle, the banquet seating and the wafting heat and aroma from the open-flame oven invite you to linger over your meal in true Italian fashion.
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<h3><a href="http://www.stlawrencerestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. Lawrence Restaurant</a></h3>
Chef JC Poirier brings his home province to British Columbia, serving up a blend of Quebecois and French haute cuisine in a charming dining room that’s reminiscent of the classic bistros of France.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42766 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">EXTRA ATTRACTIONS</h2>
Vancouver’s privileged location make it perfect for outdoor activities: bike riding, walking, hiking and tracing the seawall—the stone border that lines Stanley Park and a favourite jogging spot for Vancouverites. 
There’s also an array of cultural sites that are worth working into your itinerary. Here’s where we suggest checking out. 
<h3><a href="https://lynncanyon.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lynn Canyon </a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-42886 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lynn-canyon_002_378x240.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="240" />Head to Lynn Canyon for a less-crowded (and free!) alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which tends to garner more attention from tourists. 
The views here are just as spectacular, stretching over a deep gorge of rushing water and lush forest. 
Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes as there are tons of stunning trails to explore within the park.
<h3><a href="https://granvilleisland.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Granville Island</a></h3>
This market is a must on any trip to Vancouver, brimming with gift boutiques, food stalls, gourmet shops selling specialty items, art galleries, craft breweries, distilleries and more. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42770 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Even without spending a dime, it’s worth a wander for the sights and smells and to check out the boats stationed along the dock. Make the journey by water taxi to add to the experience.  
<h3><a href="https://moa.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UBC Museum of Anthropology</a></h3>
Here you’ll find the artwork of Bill Reid, one of the country’s (and arguably—the world’s) most celebrated sculptors whose work celebrates the Indigenous cultures of the West Coast. 
You may already be familiar with his awe-inspiring piece, The Spirit of Haida Gwaii, the Jade Canoe, which can be seen upon arrival at the international terminal in the Vancouver Airport. We recommend allocating at least two to three hours of your day to check out his work at the Museum of Anthropology. 
If you don’t have time this much time to dedicate, you can scope out his orca at the <a href="https://www.vanaqua.org/">Vancouver Aquarium</a> or the <a href="https://www.billreidgallery.ca/">Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Art</a> located downtown. 
An insider tip: after your visit, there are fantastic hiking trails in the UBC endowment lands if you want to give your legs an extra stretch.  
<h3><a href="http://granvilleislandferries.bc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Water Taxis</a></h3>
These adorable tugboat-style watercraft are both a novel and affordable way to get around the city. Visit their <a href="http://granvilleislandferries.bc.ca/dock-locations/">website</a> for dock locations and the available sites to check out along their routes.

The 11 Top Restaurants in Vancouver

France

Loire Valley

Loire Valley Travel Expert (and bona fide Loire resident)

<h2>Revisiting Renaissance Life</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43049 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/blois-3234508_1920.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />
Other events will offer travellers an in-depth look at what life was like during the Renaissance, such as the Children of the Renaissance exhibition at the Château de Blois. 
Running from May to September, this display will narrow in on the upbringing of Renaissance children—from their roles in royal families to their education—through a series of artworks, some of which are on loan from the Louvre and the Château de Versailles. 
Meanwhile, at the Château de Chambord, visitors can take a step back in time with their exhibit Chambord 1519-2019, utopia at work, which takes a look at the development of this spectacular work of Renaissance architecture. It will showcase over 150 temporary works, including three original leaves from Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus.
<h2>The Songs and Sounds of Renaissance</h2>
From the courts to the church, music was an integral part of Renaissance life. The exchanging of ideas, evolving musical instruments and new inventions such as the printing press allowed music to be spread far and wide. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43050 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/renaissance-music.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="227" />
There will be a few opportunities to revel in the polyphonic chants and strumming of lutes across the Loire Valley this year. From September 27 to 29, the Clos Lucé will host the 14th European Renaissance Music festival. 
The Clos Lucé called upon the world-renown conductor, Jordi Savall, to draw inspiration from da Vinci and embody the spirit of the Renaissance in his carte blanche show, which he will perform alongside a dozen other musicians. 
At the Noirlac Abbey, a striking Cisterian structure resting pretty on the Cher river, you can stop by their summer Noirlac Festival for an immersive choral concert held in a spectacular setting from June to July.
If there were ever a prime opportunity to bring the family to the Loire Valley, 2019 is it. Add to reliving Renaissance glories the quiet and quad-friendly bike paths, the endless array of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2017/04/19/love-loire-6-unforgettable-family-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">kid-friendly activities</a> and <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/04/25/vines-101-loire-valley-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fantastic wines</a> for the adults—and you have the makings for an unforgettable adventure.

<h2>Clos Luce: Leonardo da Vinci&#8217;s Last Home</h2>
One of the Loire Valley&#8217;s many renowned castles, the Clos Lucé was the residence of Leonardo da Vinci from 1516 up until his death in 1519. Da Vinci made the move from his native Italy to work on a commission for King Francis I. His project was to construct a mechanical lion that could walk, open its chest and present the King with a fleur de lys (oh, to have been a royal in the 16th century!). 
The lion never came to fruition, but da Vinci still left an impression on his former residence. Today, the Clos Lucé (pictured below) is a public museum dedicated to the late polymath. In honour of the 500 years since his death, the museum will be hosting a temporary exhibition from June to September: Leonardo da Vinci, his students, the Last Supper, and François.
The exhibit will include a tapestry of The Last Supper (coming by way of the Vatican). Later in the year, there will also be a new cultural centre added to the museum, which will showcase his work as both a painter and an architect through a virtual gallery and 3D animation show.

<h2>The Royal World of Catherine de Medici</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43042 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/catherine-de-medici-1-237x300.jpg" alt="" width="237" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/catherine-de-medici-1-237x300.jpg 237w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/catherine-de-medici-1.jpg 380w" sizes="(max-width: 237px) 100vw, 237px" />
French Queen Catherine de Medici played a central role during the French Renaissance through her humanist ideals and passion for the arts. 
Some of her lavish art collection will be on display at the Château de Chaumont, the castle Medici acquired in 1550 and later traded to Diane de Poitier for the Château de Chenonceau. 
Located between Blois and Amboise, the Château de Chaumont will be showcasing an exhibition titled The Queen’s Tapestries, which will run from September through December. 
Beauty lovers will want to check out her apothecary house (historians say that Catherine de Medici is responsible for having introduced perfume to France), which has recently been restored at the Château de Chenonceau and will be revealed this spring.  
<h2>Castles and Gardens by Candlelight</h2>
The Loire will be aglow with dazzling displays across the valley, one of which will be at the Château de Valençay, where during its Chandelles de la Renaissance (Candles of the Renaissance), 3,000 candles illuminate the property and its gardens come nightfall from May to October.
Other such shows will take place at the Château de Villandry (pictured below) during its Nuits de Mille Feux (Nights of a Thousand Flames) and at the Château Azay-le-Rideau with its immersive Renaissance light and sound show.

5 Ways to Relive the Renaissance in the Loire Valley

<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.comohotels.com/en/metropolitanlondon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Como Metropolitan</a></h2>
The simple stylings of the Como Metropolitan offer a Scandi-chic option in the heart of Park Lane. Minimalist rooms see clean lines and fresh white walls, with pops of colour for added warmth. Large windows drench the guest rooms in sunlight and give way to views over London’s famous Hyde Park. 
The Como’s Nobu restaurant is a local favourite, serving Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a zen dining room. For a break from the shopping and museum hopping, book an appointment at the Shambhala wellness centre, featuring a tranquil spa and 24-hour gym. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43007 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/ham-yard-hotel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ham Yard</a></h2>
The young-at-heart will be smitten with the whimsy of the Ham Yard. This quirky boutique hotel is bursting with colour and character, spread across its common areas and guest rooms. 
Topping it all off is a delightful rooftop terrace with wicker furnishings, hanging lanterns and greenery galore. Add to the playful atmosphere an onsite bowling alley and kid-friendly menus, and you have a hotel that’s perfect for the whole family. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42631 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.stjameshotelandclub.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. James Hotel Mayfair</a></h2>
This crimson-coloured Victorian mansion exudes old-world English charm with contemporary touches. Common areas see sparkling Murano chandeliers and walls lined with wood panelling and wallpaper, while guest rooms are fresh in pastel shades, taupes and greys.
Michelin-starred chef William Drabble is at the helm of the hotel’s two celebrated restaurants. You can tuck into French fare at one of only nine tables at the renowned Seven Park Place, or savour a seasonal British meal in the cozy William’s Bar &amp; Bistro. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42633 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/browns-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown’s Hotel</a></h2>
The Brown’s Hotel has welcomed guests through its doors since 1837. Effortlessly elegant, this five-star hotel delivers a proper British experience. Guest rooms appointed by world-famous interior designer, Olga Polizzi, see an eclectic—yet tasteful—mix of patterns and hues. The Brown’s includes a spa and three dining options: Italian at the Beck at Brown’s restaurant; caviar and cocktails at Donovan’s Bar; and an award-winning afternoon tea in The English Tea Room. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43008 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.editionhotels.com/london/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The London Edition</a></h2>
Find The London Edition in the city’s hip West End Fitzrovia neighbourhood. The feel is akin to a getaway in a luxury cabin, thanks to oak floors, wood-lined walls, soft lighting and furry throw blankets. Be sure to check out the Edition’s Berners Tavern, wherein an eclectic room covered in artwork, you can dine on innovative British cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42638 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Lanesborough</a></h2>
Occupying a Neoclassical mansion in a corner of Hyde Park, inside The Lanesborough is just as regal as its exterior would suggest. Gold-leaf embellishments and ornate chandeliers are commonplace here, as are oil paintings and fresh flower arrangements. 
Guest rooms are awash in soft and sweet hues of pink, green and blue, in addition to floral fabrics and wool carpets. For added theatrics, each room also comes with a personal butler available on demand. The Lanesborough is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Céleste and the exclusive Lanesborough Club &amp; Spa. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42639 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/number-sixteen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Number Sixteen</a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42640 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460-470x300.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="470" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px" />Number Sixteen enjoys a quiet location, set within a crisply white Victorian townhouse. A private English garden, darling outdoor terrace and lilypad-covered pond—combined with subtle glamour—make this markedly 5-star accommodation manage to feel like home. 
Put your days to rest after exploring nearby attractions—like the Victoria &amp; Albert Museum and Harrod’s—in vibrant guest rooms, with brilliant colours and bold patterns. Rooms overlook the leafy courtyard or face the white-stucco terraces of Sumner Place. 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thehari.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Hari Hotel</a></h2>
Find this sleek boutique hotel in Belgravia: the quintessentially British neighbourhood lined with white townhouses and lovely stone churches. Joining the area’s refined ambiance is the stylish decor of The Hari, where rooms draped in velvet fabrics are complemented by sparkling glass fixtures and chrome finishes. 
Mornings begin with a sumptuous spread that includes omelettes and fresh-pressed juices at its il Pampero restaurant. Come dinnertime, feast on southern Italian cuisine and homemade pasta in the restaurant&#8217;s glitzy vintage-inspired setting. You can burn off the extra carbs at the 24-hour fitness centre or continue to indulge with an in-room spa treatment. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42642 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park/luxury-hotel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park</a></h2>
Situated between the famed Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, one glance out your room&#8217;s window and you&#8217;ll know you&#8217;re at one of the most exclusive, fashionable and convenient addresses in London. Like its palatial location, all rooms are one-of-a-kind and distinguished by the hotel&#8217;s art collection, antiques, and luxurious fabrics.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49214" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-480x300.png" alt="mandarin oriental" width="720" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch with Dane Tredway,</a> our Experience Designer for the United Kingdom, to see how he can reserve you a spot.

The Top 11 Luxury Hotels in London

San Sebastian

Basque Country

<h3>Santa Clara Island</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-full wp-image-42415" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-island.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="272" />Perched between Mounts Urgull and Igueldo, Santa Clara is a tiny island that offers stunning views of San Sebastian&#8217;s shore.
Most famous for the (long unmanned) lighthouse perched at its peak, the island has a small beach that only appears during low tide. As in the rest of San Sebastian, food and drink are never far from reach. Enjoy a snack and a glass of wine at Chiringuito de la isla Santa Clara, and drink in the views of Donostia in all her glory.
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<h3><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-full wp-image-42418" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-old-town.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-old-town.jpg 380w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-old-town-169x300.jpg 169w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-old-town-338x600.jpg 338w" sizes="(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px" />Stroll la parte vieja (the Old Town)</h3>
Lying at the foot of Mount Urgull and bordered by two bodies of water, the sea and the River Urumea, the Old Town is the beating heart of San Sebastian.
As mentioned, the streets are packed with pintxo bars and bustling with energy, and dotted with landmarks like the Basilicata of St. Mary of the Chorus, St. Vincent’s Church and the Plaza de la Constitucion.
While there’s plenty to see during the day, at night is when the Old Town really comes alive. Head out around 8 pm and begin bar hopping from one pintxos bar to the next for a quintessential San Sebastian experience.
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<h3>See the Casino-cum-City Hall</h3>
Built between 1882 and 1887, the building that now serves as San Sebastian’s city hall might just occupy the best piece of real estate in the entire city. Originally the home of the Gran Casino until gambling was outlawed in 1924, politicians, writers, artists and many others gambled the nights away during the Belle Epoque era.
In 1937, the building quite literally found itself in the middle of the Spanish Civil War, and bullet holes from the conflict can still be seen to this day.
The city council moved in a decade later, in 1947, and the building has served as the city’s civic headquarters ever since.

<h3>San Telmo Museoa</h3>
Partially housed in a 16thC Dominican convent in the heart of Old Town, San Telmo Museoa, or STM is dedicated to all things Basque.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-42486" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-museum.jpg" alt="" width="782" height="514" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-museum.jpg 782w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-museum-456x300.jpg 456w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-museum-768x505.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 782px) 100vw, 782px" />
Boasting more than 26,000 historic Basque artifacts, this is the best place in the world to learn about the rich heritage of Basque culture. In addition to its many treasures, the building itself is worth exploring for its mixture of architectural styles; Gothic, renaissance and contemporary designs are all incorporated into the building, making it a must-see.
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<h3>Soak up the (Beachside) Spa</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-full wp-image-42489" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-spa.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="242" />There are admittedly more luxurious spas in San Sebastian, but none quite as interesting as La Perla, located on La Concha beach (and when I say on the beach, I mean that literally).
La Perla offers thalassotherapy, which uses seawater as a form of therapy. Various salt water pools filled with water pumped in directly from the bay offer various forms of water therapy, primarily through the use of high-powered jets that target specific muscle groups.
While the water therapy can be incredibly soothing, the real benefit of La Perla is the beachside views offered by the panoramic jacuzzi. Relax in the water or on a nearby heated lounger and bliss out as you take in views of the beach and the bay.
If a rainy day keeps you from exploring as much as you&#8217;d like, La Perla offers the perfect in-door alternative.
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<h3>Admire the Views from Monte Igueldo</h3>
Described as the limit between the city and the sea, Monte Igueldo sits at the western edge of La Concha Bay and offers some of the very best views of the city.
A 1912 funicular railway brings you to the top of the mountain, where you can take in views of the entire city, as well as the Gipuzkoan coastline and the sprawling Cantabrian Sea.  The mountain&#8217;s summit also boasts an amusement park and the 16thC El Torreón tower, on top of which you can get the best views of the city.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-42491" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-view.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="356" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-view.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-view-480x214.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-view-768x342.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
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<h3>Bask in Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro</h3>
Perched on the corner of Mayor and Trinidad streets, construction on the &#8220;modern&#8221; part of Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro, designed by Pedro Ignacio de Lizardi, began in 1743.
I say &#8220;modern&#8221; because the church actually predates Lizardi&#8217;s 275-years-old building. Originally built by the Kings of Navarra in the 12th and 13th centuries, the previous structure was enlarged in the mid-16th century in the Gothic and Rennaisance styles by the Asturians. In 1668 a cache of gun powder being stored in the building accidentally exploded, severely damaging the previous church and necessitating Lizardi&#8217;s redesign.
The church&#8217;s rich history, combined with Lizardi&#8217;s remarkable design and classical style, makes it one of the oldest and most storied in San Sebastian.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-42494" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-church.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="978" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-church.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-church-231x300.jpg 231w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-church-461x600.jpg 461w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />

<h2>The Food</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41400 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="338" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate-399x300.jpg 399w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />The morning and afternoon meals are reminiscent of home-cooked fare; unfussy, yet delicious and satisfying. Each day begins with à la carte breakfast options such as granola and fresh fruit and eggs benedict, along with a selection of smoothies and fresh-pressed juices. 
While there is an indoor dining room for iffy weather, meals are best enjoyed on the large outdoor deck that faces the river. (Though keep an eye out for cheeky monkeys that want to steal your bagel—I speak from experience!) You could also order room service and enjoy your meal seated at the marble and iron table of your private deck. 
Lunch and dinner are dishes typical of the area: lamb is the meat of choice, and you’ll likely find in the form of a flavourful curry—a nod to South Africa’s Indian population. Plating is contemporary and elegant. Meals are paired with a selection of vintage wines, which are included in your stay. The dining staff shared with me that serving farm-to-table fare is paramount for them, and specified that they use only local farmers to supply their meats and produce, translating to you always getting a meal that is fresh and in season.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41401 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="489" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732-449x300.jpg 449w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
About every third night, the lodge hosts a traditional boma dinner. During this camp-style cookout, guests and staff gather around a fire pit beneath the night sky and feast on a spread of barbecued meats and veggies, while members of the Shangaan community serenade with song and dance. 
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-41402" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="641" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-899x600.jpg 899w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2>The Rooms</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41408 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singita-small-room-450.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" />There are a total of twelve (totally dreamy) stand-alone suites built in a safari-tent style, elevated with modern flourishes like glass walls and an ensuite bathroom with a four-claw bathtub and separate shower area. A large four-post bed anchors the room, while a spattering of vintage lacquered furnishings from the family&#8217;s private collection, glamorous animal prints, artwork from the local tribes and sepia-toned photographs fill the surrounding space. 
My favourite part of my suite was the private game-viewing deck that watched over the river, complete with a heated plunge pool. From here I’d look on in wonder as—each day at the same time—a giant herd of elephants would cruise past, pausing along their route for the babies to frolic in the water or to snack on some trees. 
Individual suites are best-suited for couples and solo travellers. There are two family suites, which offer an en-suite master bedroom and en-suite twin bedroom, plus a dining area, a lounge area, and a private deck with a plunge pool. Larger groups can opt for the villa, which is comprised of two family suites in addition to a lounge, a swimming pool, a personal guide and vehicle, a chef, wait staff and a private entrance. For families with teenage children, your best option is to book the Lewis suites, which are located next to each other and close to the main lodge.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41409 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2>How to Get Here</h2>
A multi-season destination, you can come home to the Singita Ebony Lodge year-round. There are daily direct flights to and from the Singita Private Game Reserve from Johannesburg, South Africa, and scheduled commercial flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit, which is about an hour from the lodge. There’s also a private airstrip on the lodge grounds so that private planes can be flown in.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41411 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

A South African Original: Singita Ebony Lodge

The Experience
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41429 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="375" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />To separate the property from the experience would be a false binary, for the very ideals of the property are the ideals that motivate the activities: that of preservation, conservation and education.
The most pressing question each day should be: how best shall I split my time between sea and land? That is the crux of the experience: a gentle divvying up of your time between the two worlds, which of course inform each other.
The water-based realm is the province of fly-fishing, heli-fishing, kayaking, SUPing, whale-watching, crabbing, boating, or kayaking—which often includes crossing paths with orcas or sea lions.
As you head inland, it means such coveted activities such as scenic helicopter rides, bear viewing (black bears are around all season, while grizzlies are only present in the fall) and hiking (look up to see bald eagles and other impressive bird varieties). The Murrays have also partnered with First Nations communities to highlight connect lodge visitors with authentic cultural experiences.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41430 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="423" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400-213x300.jpg 213w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Or, simply stay at the lodge and relax in nature, with an added dose of pampering. I’m thinking specifically of the Spa’s new full-day program called “Wild Within Wellness,” five glorious hours of holistic, nature-based spa immersion.
Sometimes though, wellness is the simple care and pleasure you make for yourself. One of my standout moments here was a rather simple one: on the day I decided to hike the old-growth forest, the kitchen sent me along with a to-go lunch. It was, quite frankly, exquisite.
Everything was delightfully fresh and prepared that very morning—the goodies were delicious, the charcuterie board succulent; it was the realization of a perfect sojourn in the woods complimented with a nourishing and elaborate meal in a truly unexpected spot.
That seems to be a re-occurring theme in the tale of Nimmo Bay Resort: finding yourself at the heart of pristine wilderness with a host of thoughtfully-conceived amenities—working in concert with the natural—to bring your stay to new heights.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41432 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Serenity on the Pacific: B.C.'s Nimmo Bay Resort

Wellness

United States

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40129 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/bathhouse-outside-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="232" />If the kids (or grandkids) are joining you, there’s plenty available to keep young ones amused, and the safe and tranquil environment allows them to run free. Excursions can be tailored to suit all age levels and preferences and while on the grounds, lawn games during the summer and board games in winter ensure ongoing entertainment.
No matter how you decide to spend your day, it wouldn’t be complete with a dip in the resort&#8217;s eponymous hot springs. All guests are welcome to sink into the indoor and outdoor pools of the restored bathhouse, soak beneath the stars in the mountains at the springs’ source or plunge into the river at Christoph&#8217;s Spring.
<h3>Accommodation Styles</h3>
The Dunton Store cabin boasts a pool in its own backyard. Well-suited for families, this lodge can sleep up to four people and sees fun Western film memorabilia line its walls. Larger and multigenerational families may prefer the Tipping House, with two floors, two bathrooms and three bedrooms. For couples, my top choice is the Well House cabin. This country-chic room features a king-size bed, a private indoor hot spring and cold plunge tub, a wood fireplace, and views of the mountain range for romance to boot.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40128 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="639" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-768x511.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-901x600.jpg 901w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
It’s back to the Saloon for dinner for where an antique communal table, a nod to Dunton’s outlaw past, awaits for a feast on Chef’s daily seasonal menu paired with wine from Sutcliffe or a selection of labels from around the world. For a more personalized experience for special occasions, a private dining area is also available.
<h3>Getting there</h3>
Nearby Cortez and Durango airports receive flights from Denver and Phoenix. Private charters can arrive in Telluride Airport, located an hour’s drive from the resort.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40130 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

An Escape in the Mountains: Colorado's Dunton Hot Springs Resort

Around The World

<h2>Trace the Tour de France in the French Alps</h2>
The peaks and passes of the gorgeous French Alps have been challenging people for centuries. With veering roads over steep grades, you can truly appreciate what it takes to ride in the Tour de France in the French Alps on a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bespoke bike trip</a>. While the climb itself is a feat to remember, the outstanding views will make for an unforgettable journey. And, of course, no trip to the French Alps would be complete without a trip to the famous crystal-clear Lake Annecy.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38648 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h2>Venture into the Atlas Mountains of Morocco</h2>
Morocco provides a variety of landscapes to traverse, from Berber villages to stunning oases. However, the true magic of Morocco lies in wandering the Atlas Mountains. The tranquillity and fresh air of the mountains are an escape from city life. Travel off the beaten path on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/morocco-walking/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Morocco Walking </a>trip where you will hike and dine in style every night.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38649 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h2>Experience the Yellow Mountains of China</h2>
In modern Beijing there is so much to see and do; ride past hutongs, walk through Tiananmen Square and climb the Great Wall. But delve deeper than China&#8217;s bustling cities and you&#8217;ll discover magical sites like the Li River, scenic bamboo forests and the stunning. Yellow Mountains. On a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/custom/china-bespoke/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bespoke trip to China</a>, take time to appreciate the tranquil side of China while discovering mountain vistas overlooking infinite valleys that seem to stretch out forever.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38650 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h2>Trek Mount Etna in Sicily</h2>
Centuries of civilizations have left their mark; rich in culture, art, gastronomy and architecture, Sicily has immense opportunities to offer. Along with a rich history, one of the oldest attractions in Sicily is Mount Etna. Found on the coast of Sicily, this active volcano is the highest summit at about 11,000 ft. It is truly a sight to behold, taking in the stark contrast of black lava amongst the evergreen pine forest.
We love a good hike as much as the next person but something we love just as much (if not more) is a spectacular wine tasting at the end of an adventurous day. On our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/eastern-sicily-walking/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eastern Sicily Walking</a> trip, we give you the best mix of adventure and wine that Sicily has to offer.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38651 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h2>Discover the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia</h2>
British Columbia feels untouched by human hands. Hike through ancient groves of giant trees and climb the breathtaking Coastal Mountain range. With an amazing mix of rugged nature and inspiring culture, British Columbia will keep you captivated at every turn.
If you don’t feel like climbing, why not chairlift to the top of the mountain for a scenic hike and views of the surrounding peaks? Feel like biking the Valley Trail, or kayaking to Meares Island, or maybe just walking along endless beaches? All this and more is possible on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/west-coast-multi-active-private/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">British Columbia Wilderness</a> trip where adventure awaits.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38923 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />

Our Favourite Jaw-Dropping Mountain Ranges to Explore

<h3><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38051 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/The-Painswick-Nook-350px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="262" /><a href="http://www.thepainswick.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Painswick</a></h3>
Originally built in the late 18thC at the height of the wool trade, it became the village’s vicarage at the start of the 1900s, adding some Victorian refinement to its Palladian architecture. It is located in the heart of the village of Painswick, famous for its wool heritage and amongst other treasures, St. Mary’s Church from the 1300s, and its ninety-nine famous yew trees, some dating back 300 years.
The hotel’s contemporary restaurant is steered by chef Michael Bedford. For further pampering, try their Calcot Spa treatment rooms or a drink at sunset on the terrace overlooking dulcet hills.
<h3><a href="https://thewildrabbit.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Wild Rabbit Inn</a></h3>
A modern British inn that’s set on the Daylesford estate, one of the UK’s most sustainable organic farms, this stone-walled inn features airy, bright and modern lodgings, whether individual rooms or small cottages set upon the estate (which also houses a spa and yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes).
Set in a quiet area that’s perfect for a cozy hideaway, you can also enjoy a pint or grab a meal of refined, yet hearty British pub fare, which showcases the fresh seasonal produce from the farm.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38053 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-480x300.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-768x480.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
With wild coastlines, beautiful coves, golden beaches, and fresh seafood, Devon and Cornwall are the perfect places to experience coastal England. Located on a peninsula in the southwest, this is where the Brits go to holiday; its chic resorts and picture-perfect postcard villages reminiscent of the Hamptons and Nantucket.
Immerse yourself in all the region has to offer as you traverse country roads and seaside paths, dining on delicious lunches and visiting a lost garden, a famous gallery, and historic spots along the way.
<h3><a href="https://tresanton.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Tresanton</a></h3>
Owned by Olga Polizzi, the younger sister of Sir Rocco Forte, Tresanton is a jewel in South Cornwall’s crown. Located in one of the most charming fishing villages in Cornwall, St Mawes, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views of the sea and Sir Anthony’s Lighthouse.
Their fabulous onsite restaurant with a large terrace overlooking the ocean participates in the Slow Food movement, offering regional produce and traditional foods, often grown organically or foraged.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38074 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.gidleigh.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gidleigh Park, Dartmoor</a></h3>
Gidleigh Park is the premier hotel in Devon, nestled right in the heart of Dartmoor. With a 2-starred Michelin restaurant on site, the culinary experience is unrivalled and complemented by beautifully appointed rooms. The property is surrounded by over a hundred acres of stunning grounds and boasts facilities such as croquet grounds, tennis courts, and a putting course.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42820 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
&nbsp;

The Top 7 Countryside Hotels in England

Essentials &amp; Advice

Peru

<h3><a href="https://titilaka.pe/en/lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Titilaka Lodge, Puno</a></h3>
Walk into each room and pull the curtains aside: voilà—you’ve got a live nature documentary all to yourself, looking out with undisturbed views of Lake Titicaca. The hotel itself, a Relais &amp; Chateaux property, is very well-styled, with a great menu including local produce and even trout caught right in the lake. Sit out on the hotel patio and watch the sunset over Titicaca. With a pisco sour in hand, you can’t go wrong; the colours are stunning. High up at this elevation, the stars are also super bright and in abundance, so don’t forget to look up for a star-gaze session before you call it a night.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37687 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg" alt="titilaka lodge" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.explora.com/hotels-and-travesias/sacred-valley-peru/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Explora Lodge Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
Gorgeous views over the cornfields and the mountain vistas of the Sacred Valley, the property has its very own farmlands and grows crops nearby for the absolute freshest meals. Four-hundred-year-old Inca terraces were discovered on-site, and you are surrounded by them here. Located in one of the most remote haciendas in the Valley, the excellent hotel spa is located in a 17th c. colonial mansion that once belonged to a Peruvian independence hero. The lodge has a roaring fire to cozy up to with an alpaca blanket, and there&#8217;s also a pool, should you wish to have a dip.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38168 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg" alt="Peru" width="960" height="387" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-480x194.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-768x310.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.hotelsolyluna.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sol y Luna, Urubamba, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
A gorgeous little place, the Sol y Luna has just upgraded their grounds to include a bigger pool. With all-private casitas (there are no rooms here), it feels like your own hideaway in the Sacred Valley. The location is excellent as well, as you can easily make your way to and from activities all throughout the valley. There’s also a school on-site for local children that guests can support with donations during their stay towards this educational endeavour for the local community.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37688 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="Sol y Luna" width="960" height="641" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-899x600.jpg 899w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cuztl-tambo-del-inka-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-valle-sagrado/?scid=cba116a5-7a93-4271-8658-c1cef149bc63&amp;ppc=ppc&amp;pId=ustbppc&amp;nst=paid&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwhaaKBhBcEiwA8acsHLWH9x26WuY0Fr7I9KDfn8-0JUM_p6ObsP8m2mQFJNfwhz2ehGIxpBoCTzAQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
With Inca-inspired architecture, get into the Andean spirit in the Sacred Valley. I like this property for families or groups; the hotel’s many room styles and sizes mean you can find a configuration that works for you. With a dramatic stone fireplace in the lobby and large panoramic windows, you can gaze at the mountaintops on the horizon. The biggest spa in the Sacred Valley is located here, along with a much-coveted pool, should you want to take a dip.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37689 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="400" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed-480x262.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3></h3>
<h3><a href="https://naturavive.com/web/skylodge-adventure-suites/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bonus: Skylodge, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
This one-of-a-kind lodge is for the adventurous type only: perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Sacred Valley, all guests must climb up a 400-metre via ferrata to access it, and zipline down on their way back! Not for the faint of heart or any sleepwalkers, each small capsule suite gives you a 300-degree view of the valley. The luxury here is being totally disconnected. A stay you’ll never forget!
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37708 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="538" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed-408x300.jpg 408w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/south-america/peru/lima/belmond-miraflores-park/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miraflores Park, Lima</a></h3>
A true urban sanctuary set in Lima&#8217;s bustling metropolis, Miraflores Park is only steps away from the city&#8217;s hottest restaurants, galleries and a breezy six-mile boardwalk. Although set in Peru&#8217;s cosmopolitan capital, the hotel itself is surrounded by historical hotspots, blooming gardens and nestled right next to the Pacific, so you truly get the best of both worlds. The perfect mix of glamour and tranquillity for an unforgettable stay.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49895 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png" alt="Miraflores Park Peru" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself?<a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Get in touch with Veronika Macas</a> to see how she can craft your perfect trip to Peru.

Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Peru

<h2>Andalucia</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.hotel-alfonsoxiii-seville.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville</a></h3>
Constructed by command of King Alfonso XIII of Spain in 1928, Hotel Alfonso XIII remains the place to stay for royalty, heads of state and those keen to share in its aura of history and glamour. Today its distinctive Mudéjar-style architecture of sweeping arches, decorative brickwork, wrought-iron, ornamental towers and ceramic finials continues to charm guests and locals alike.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37516 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="449" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.fincacortesin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Finca Cortesin, Marbella</a></h3>
A stunner of a resort, this whitewashed hotel sits upon 215 hectares of land, showcasing aspects of Castilian and Moorish architecture. On the sprawling grounds, jump into three pools, make the most of the 2,200 square-foot spa (including a unique &#8216;snow cave&#8217; feature), head to the beach club just a short walk away, or partake in a bit of sport with tennis courts, a golf academy or one of Spain&#8217;s best golf courses.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37563 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="439" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed-480x288.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.hotellafuente.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fuente de la Higuera, Ronda</a></h3>
In a renovated rural olive mill, with beautiful Ronda within sight, where traditional Spanish architecture meets post-modern design and eclectic furnishing. A ten-minute drive from cosmopolitan Ronda but with all the country house comforts to tempt you to just siesta by the pool or on the lawn.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37519 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="423" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed-480x277.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.palaciodesantapaula.com/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AC Palacio de Santa Paula, Granada</a></h3>
The Santa Paula is ranked among Granada’s top hotels, providing topnotch service and amenities within the walls of a renovated convent—a perfect mix of modernity and history. Its 75 rooms are spacious and comfortable, while facilities include a fitness centre and sauna for exercise and relaxation. The hotel is ideally situated in the heart of the city, allowing easy foot access to the Alhambra and other areas of interest.
<h2>Camino de Santiago</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-santiago-de-compostela" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37549 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="344" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed.jpg 350w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed-305x300.jpg 305w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Parador Dos Reis, Santiago de Compostela</a></h3>
Situated at the centre of the universe for millions of pilgrims, this spectacular hotel, initially built in the 15thC as a royal hospice, is right next door to the cathedral-shrine of St. James, and sits right on the main plaza of Santiago de Compostela. Dripping with gargoyles and four stunning courtyards in the Gothic/Renaissance style, you’ll also find religious art, rich tapestries and gorgeous sitting rooms and quiet corridors to wander within. 
<h2>Catalonia</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.masfalgarona.com/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mas Falgarona, Avinyonet de Puigventós</a></h3>
This quiet and serene hotel is located just outside of charming Figueres. Built in the 15thC, it is now a stylish, contemporary hotel with all modern amenities, yet it still retains its country charm thanks to the surrounding farmland. Mas Falgarona has been a labour of love for centuries with walls dating from the 15th, 17th and 21st century, the latter which transformed it to the hotel it is today. It is owned currently by a local family from Dali’s hometown of Figueres.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37521 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.andilanahotels.com/en/hotels/hotel-malcontenta" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Malcontenta, Palamos</a></h3>
Translated to ‘The Unsatisfied One,’ this beautiful property was named after the mother of the owner whose perfectionism was a relentless force during the creation of the hotel. Its spacious environment extends outdoors to a great garden and pool, complementing a classic Mediterranean décor. The sea is a mere 15-minute walk away ending up at one of the most tranquil beaches along the Costa Brava.
<h3><a href="https://www.hotelmastorrent.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mas de Torrent, Baix Empordà</a></h3>
A former 18thC Catalan farmhouse, this Relaix &amp; Chateaux property is set amongst the medieval villages of the Lower Emporda, as well as the wine-growing region of the area. An outdoor pool, spa, tennis court, lush gardens and gorgeous farmland surroundings invite you to while away the time. The beaches of the Costa Brava and several golf courses are just a short drive away.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37535 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="476" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed-461x300.jpg 461w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h2>Mallorca</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.belmond.com/la-residencia-mallorca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca</a></h3>
La Residencia, a 17thC manor house turned divine hotel, has everybody talking, including the folks at Condé Nast Traveler. Rumour has it the King of Spain has been known to drop in, as well as British royalty and several pop stars. Do they come for the spa treatments, the secluded gardens, the restaurant renowned as one of the best in all of Spain or to hear the 1887 Steinway piano? We suspect all of the above.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37158 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="642" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-768x514.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-897x600.jpg 897w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.fontsantahotel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Font Santa, Mallorca</a></h3>
This minimal, modern hotel highlights the tranquility and beauty of Mallorca&#8217;s natural elements: sea and sky. The biggest draw here is its on-site thermal spa, the only place in the Balearic Islands with natural hot springs, first discovered by the Romans. Soak in peace in the therapeutic waters, take to nearby beaches, or swim in the outdoor pool for the ultimate hydrotherapy circuit.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37565 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="356" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed-480x233.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.hotelcort.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Cort, Palma de Mallorca</a></h3>
Located in the city’s famed square, Placa de Cort, and heart of Palma de Mallorca, Hotel Cort offers guests 14 suites and 2 guest rooms, each designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violan. Once a 19thC bank, the hotel has been redesigned with Moorish tiled floors, maritime-chic designs, island-inspired details and features a stunning rooftop swimming pool and bar.
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37154 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></h3>
<h2>Rioja</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.granhotellaperla.com/en/hotel.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gran Hotel La Perla, Pamplona</a></h3>
Family-run for over 130 years, this 4-star property is set in the pedestrian heart of Pamplona. Its exceedingly warm Spanish welcome and large, comfortable rooms make for a relaxing stay, while the adventuresome are steps away from the cider and tapas bars that make this city lively year-round.
<h3><a href="http://www.ledomaine.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Domaine, Valladolid</a></h3>
There&#8217;s room to roam at Le Domaine, a former 12thC abbey, which sits pretty amongst a whopping 1,730 acres of land (including 500 acres of vineyards and an on-site winery). From its magnificent vaulted ceilings, sandstone exterior and reverent atmosphere, this luxe retreat also features a 10,000-square-foot spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37547 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="458" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed-480x300.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37525 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Rioja-Hotel-Viura-Alava-350px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="224" /><a href="http://www.hotelviura.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Viura, Alava</a></h3>
Nestled in the magical Rioja wine region, the Hotel Viura offers avant-garde architecture and impressive luxury, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the 33 guest rooms, a superb restaurant that doubles as an art installation and the most modern of technological amenities throughout. It also rests in the shadow of the magnificent San Andres Church.
<h3><a href="http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?language=en_US&amp;propertyID=1539" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marques de Riscal, Elciego</a></h3>
Designed by Frank Gehry—responsible for the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum—the Marques de Riscal Hotel is a masterpiece of modernity. Inside, you’ll find 43 spacious, minimal rooms fitted with full amenities, marble baths, and high-speed Internet access. A Vinothérapie spa and amazing, unforgettable gastronomy round out this top-shelf property.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37526 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

The 16 Best Luxury Hotels in Spain

<h4>Belmond La Residencia: Art and Beauty</h4>
Live in a sun-drenched artist’s dream at this exceptional hotel set amongst private olive groves. <a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/europe/mallorca/deia/belmond-la-residencia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Belmond La Residencia</a> was formerly a set of manor houses built with local stone, the hotel dates to the 16th and 17th centuries. Terracotta tiles, whitewashed walls, and exposed wooden ceiling beams are complemented by local art and Mallorcan antiques, lending an earthy, grounded vibe to it all. Set amongst the hills and mountains, you’ll fall in love with its stunning surroundings. If this could be home, why ever leave?
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37158 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="642" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-768x514.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-897x600.jpg 897w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Cap Rocat: Glamour Abounds</h4>
Mallorcan history reigns in many of our favourite properties: the heritage site where<a href="http://www.caprocat.com/en/index/another-world-luxury-hotel-mallorca.html" target="_blank"> Cap Rocat </a>stands today was once a (decidedly unglamorous) military fort. What a difference a few centuries make: this grand hotel sits in a prime position cliffside, complete with an Instagram-worthy infinity pool overlooking the sea. It’s shamelessly luxurious; depending on the suite you opt for, you can even enjoy your own private cliffside pool overlooking all that endless blue.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37160 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="633" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-455x300.jpg 455w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-768x506.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-910x600.jpg 910w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Son Jaumell: Resplendent &amp; Rustic</h4>
Feel like royalty when you retreat to <a href="http://www.hotelsonjaumell.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Son Jaumell</a>, a rural 17thC estate, overlooking the medieval castle of Capdepera. A tranquil and timeless quality permeates the air here; gold-and-green rolling hills and forested areas give you a panoramic view of the land as you unwind poolside. The cuisine here is equally esteemed: Mallorcan-born chef Andreu Genestra (a Mugaritz and el Bulli alum), is the mind behind the eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant on site, as well as Senzill, a casual bistro also located on the hotel grounds.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37161 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="515" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed-480x258.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed-768x412.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

<h4>Metropole Hanoi: Colonial Flair</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36831 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-room-350px-cmopressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="262" />With an unmistakable neoclassical vibe, this old-world hotel, built in 1901 and designed by the French, graces Vietnam’s capital city with colonial elegance. From its twinkling lanterns, original wrought iron exterior and green wooden shutters to the crisp interiors, rich in mahogany and teak contrasted against crisp white linens and rich furnishings, there’s no question that your stay will be impeccable. (Ambassadors and foreign dignitaries, actors, authors, and royals are among those who have stayed here).
Located in the French Quarter of Hanoi, steps from the Opera House and from the banks of the Red River, you’re free to explore the best of the city from this ideal home base. A curious side note: the Metropole recently rediscovered and re-opened its subterranean air raid shelter, its tightly packed tunnels (Joan Baez spent time here during the Christmas air raids of 1972) are now open for tours, to hotel guests only.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36825 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="696" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-414x300.png 414w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-768x557.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-828x600.png 828w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Emeralda Ninh Binh: A Hidden Gem</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36846 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Emeralda-Pavilion-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="234" />Truly one of Vietnam’s hidden jewels, the jaw-dropping rural beauty of Ninh Binh is amongst the finest in Southeast Asia.
It’s the scenery that you’re here for: set amidst the soaring green limestone mountains, you’ll find temples and pagodas, amidst a wild profusion of nature: underground cave systems, emerald rivers snaking through valleys, steep stone steps winding through mountain paths, and temples carved out of mountainsides. (Its cinematic wonders aren’t lost on Hollywood: the region served as a backdrop for the recent Kong: Skull Island movie). The richness of this area with its unexpected beauty and drama makes the hotel an ideal upscale hideaway with a casual and family-friendly feel.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36847 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>We Also Love: Pilgrimage Village</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36828 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Pilgrimage-Village3-Pool-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="235" />A resort located just outside of the city of Hue, this family-run resort is one of our favourites for its welcoming atmosphere and charming staff, even if it isn’t the fanciest. Just a short drive away from town, this welcoming and family-friendly resort features a variety of lodging styles, from multi-bedroom villas to individual rooms.
Relax at the mirrored pool amidst thatched umbrellas, or head into the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hue, the old imperial capital, resplendent with its ‘forbidden city’ of old, and rich in royal traditions (from some of Vietnam’s most delicious regional foods, to the invention of the Vietnamese national dress for women, the ao dai).
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36851 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="436" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed-480x218.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed-768x349.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

Upon arriving at the hotel, you&#8217;ll find that no two suites at the Vina Vik are the same, so it’s a delightful surprise to see which room awaits you.
The Viks are serious art collectors and their aesthetic extends into the hand-picked room decor, complete with unique pieces and artist collaborations. From an Hermès-themed suite to another celebrating the vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro, you and your fellow travellers will delight in the differences.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36181 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed.png" alt="Vina Vik" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed-450x300.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-36185 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed-200x300.png" alt="Vina Vik" width="200" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed-200x300.png 200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed.png 250w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" />Similarly well-appointed, the kitchens prepare locally sourced products from nearby farms, under the watch of executive chef Rodrigo Acuña Bravo, a Santiago native.
When it comes to unwinding after a long day of biking, the on-site Wine Spa uses byproducts like grapeseed oil, grape skins, and, of course, wine to help relax and rejuvenate.
Combine the spectacular setting of the valley and mountains with an outdoor infinity pool, Zen garden, sauna and relaxation lounge, and you have a recipe for calm.
It’s no wonder why this is the last stop on our trip.
Feeling inspired to experience the Viña Vik for yourself? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch</a> with Steph Gulledge to see how she can craft your next trip to Chile.

See + Do

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