Whether looking for long haul or UK honeymoons, Your Bristol and Somerset Wedding has lots of ideas along with essential travel advice.
Escape to an idyllic villa this winter
With Autumn around the corner and the infamous British weather making a comeback, holidaymakers are already looking forward to their next getaway with October half term on the horizon.
Those wanting to refresh their Vitamin D levels will be spoilt for choice with Villa Plus' vast collection of stunning, specially selected properties. From secluded beach escapes to picturesque sea views – Villa Plus offers holidaymakers the ultimate getaway experience.
With a spectacular choice of holiday homes that each come with a private pool in destinations around Europe, the villa specialist truly handpicks each property within its portfolio to make sure that guests experience an unforgettable break from the moment they arrive.
Posted: 20 September 2022
Harvest season has arrived at Château Troplong Mondot in France
To mark the year's grape harvest or 'vendange' at Bordeaux's Château Troplong Mondot, in September and October overnight guests at this Premier Grand Cru wine estate are invited to experience the legendary vineyard at this most exciting time in the wine-making calendar. During the harvest season, there is a very distinctive feel to a stay at Troplong Mondot, as a whole year of working in the vineyard comes together to create a new vintage, and oenophiles gather across France's most well-known region to experience the buzz in the air.
This year's hot and dry weather means that harvesting started on Monday 29 August, with around 12 to 13 days of picking taking place over the course of approximately one month. The team take their time, ensuring the grapes are picked at their perfectly matured state, with Merlot the first to be harvested, and Cabernet Sauvignon the last ripen. While staying at the estate during harvest, overnight guests will witness the team's camaraderie first hand; from the vineyard views offered by the château's elegant accommodation, they may spot the team proudly loading the precious berries onto Troplong Mondot's tractors, which work right across the terroir's 43 hectares of vines.
Posted: 15 September 2022
Enjoy a late summer getaway at Burnham Beeches Hotel
Enjoy a tranquil late summer getaway at Burnham Beeches Hotel in South Buckinghamshire this September with 15 per cent off stays until the end of September and a whole host of exciting attractions to explore.
Ideally situated at just a 15-minute drive from nearby Windsor and set in 10 acres of quintessential English countryside, Burnham Beeches offers a hassle-free late summer break for all members of the family. Guests can refresh with a welcome drink on arrival, and the stay includes a delicious breakfast each morning to set guests up before a day of activities.
Make the most of the late summer sun with a round of golf at nearby Huntswood Golf Course, an 18-hole course with stunning views of the surrounding woodland and countryside. Or tee off on the Championship course at Lambourne Golf Club. Set in mature parkland and surrounded by oak and beech trees, it's regarded as one of the most prestigious courses in Buckinghamshire.
Posted: 13 September 2022
New experiences at COMO Castello Del Nero in Tuscany
COMO Castello Del Nero, the 12th-century castello set within 740 acres amidst the rolling hills of the Chianti region, is extending its opening to 1st December, enabling guests to experience Tuscany's autumnal splendour through a curated collection of new experiences.
As the air turns mild and the leaves begin to scatter, the Italian countryside comes alive in a kaleidoscope of colour. A veritable feast for the palate, this is the season that boasts porcini, chestnut and freshly pressed olive oil, all of which take centre stage on the menus of the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, La Torre. Showcasing the abundant white truffle that graces the region year after year, the Truffle Festival of San Miniato is just a short drive away and takes place on the second, third and fourth weekend of November.
Posted: 8 September 2022
The best beach honeymoon destinations
A study by Cult Beauty analysed Instagram post data and the number of Google articles containing the word 'beautiful' for each beach to reveal the top 20 best beach honeymoon destinations.
The study found that Venice Beach, California, is the best beach honeymoon destination in the world with the highest number of Instagram posts and more than 5.4 million articles online containing the world beautiful. Its wide stretch of sand is lined with palm trees and an iconic boardwalk. The beauty of this beach is amplified by the stunning mountain views – get your bikini on, style your best boho waves and get set to mingle with California's coolest residents.
Main Beach, Byron Bay, Australia, comes second on the list and the one that features in the highest number of Google search results containing the world 'beautiful', 6.92 million to be exact! Main Beach in Byron Bay is a mecca of sand, sun and serenity.
Posted: 6 September 2022
Tolcarne Beach Village reveals its new rooms for 2022
Tolcarne Beach Village in Cornwall has added new rooms for 2022 to the beach side hotel which includes private sea front hot tubs.
Made up of a collection of beach huts and a boutique hotel rooms on a private beach on the Cornish Coast, the family-ran village is open all year round. Facilities available at the luxury destination include a dedicated surf school, on-site award winning restaurant, private hot tub suites and boat tours. The hotel is child friendly and dog friendly rooms are also available.
To find out more, visit www.tolcarnebeach.co.uk
Posted: 30 August 2022
The Luxury Travel Book adds new villas to its collection
This luxury villa to rent on the Algarve is located at the heart of Armação de Pêra, a resort situated on a large sandy bay, around 15 kms to the west of Albufeira. Built at the turn of the 20th Century, and used as a family summer home for nearly 80 years, the villa is now a listed historical building and a famous landmark on the Armação de Pêra coastline.
Moorish influences, including geometric designs on the shutters and ceilings, are reminders of the region's rich history and, although renovated, the villa has retained many original features, including the wooden floor, a spectacular staircase and antique chandeliers.
Despite its central location and luxurious interiors, the secluded villa offers a unique and authentic holiday escape. In the main house, the large kitchen opens to a living and dining area, with a beautiful terracotta terrace in a spectacular seafront setting. The terrace has both direct access to the beach and the historical town centre, combining the traditions of the Algarve, from the pretty historic church square it overlooks, to the flavours of the beach front restaurant below the villa.
Posted: 25 August 2022
Romantic holidays in the Maldives
In the Maldivian language of Dhivehi, 'Lobi' means love and 'Gili' means island. OBLU SELECT Lobigili is, in essence, the island of love. This contemporary adults-only five-star resort allows for a truly romantic getaway, exclusively for couples.
Set along a dreamy white beach and over a sparkling turquoise lagoon are 68 stylishly designed villas. Guests can experience colourful sunsets, exotic dining and snorkelling at the marine-rich house reef. All guests stay on the Lobi Plan, a specially designed all-inclusive offering that includes not only villa accommodation, delicious food and beverages, excursions and non-motorised water sports, but also a unique romantic dining experience at Only BLU – the largest underwater restaurant in the Maldives.
Posted: 23 August 2022
Embrace the Wilderness Nature Package at five-star Palazzo Ducale Venturi in Italy
Renowned for its outstanding wild and natural beauty, Puglia provides the perfect destination for those seeking a serene sanctuary amidst the verdant hills of Italy. To celebrate this spectacular landscape, five-star hotel Palazzo Ducale Venturi is offering guests an immersive experience with their new 'Embrace The Wilderness Nature Package' to bring peace and calm to both mind and body.
Mixing the elements of wellness, exploring Pugliese nature at its best, plus delicious gourmet food, this new set of experiences allows guests to rest and replenish. The new 'Soul of the Trees' full body treatment, focusing on natural tree products is the ultimate way to relax and unwind, whilst a trip to the nearby Vallonea Oak, one of the oldest trees in Italy, provides the perfect way to connect with nature. Great gastronomy lies at the heart of Palazzo Ducale Venturi, and during their stay guests can experience locally foraged ingredients and home-grown vegetables and fruits for an authentic farm to fork experience.
Posted: 18 August 2022
Reconnect with your senses with botanical trails and discovery walks at Val d’Isère
For those looking for a sense of discovery this summer, Val d'Isère is offering visitors the opportunity to venture on a botanical trail to explore the rich flora and fauna or try their hand at mindfulness on a discovery walk.
Franck Bortolotti, an enthusiastic Val d'Isère based mountain guide hosts walks where walkers can learn to reconnect with their senses, offer lessons on how to protect the environment, identify wild plants for those interested in cooking and themed walks. Sunrise lovers can enjoy a slow mindful walk in the heart of the nature, where these early risers can focus on engaging with oneself, with the aim of opening to others and to their surroundings. Franck also offers a dusk forest walk with no artificial lights around to introduce walkers to nature and to reconnect them with their senses and a 'grandmother's garden' walk where participants are educated about the wild plants and herbs like wild spinach, dandelions, and yarrow that grow in Val d'Isère. The last is the extraordinary 'world of trees' walk, where visitors will be introduced to Val d'Isère's larch and pine forests. Partakers can choose from a gentle stroll or a longer more strenuous hiking route for the active walker.
Posted: 16 August 2022
Quinta do Lago Resort has introduced a new beach bar
Quinta do Lago has announced the opening of Gigi's Bar, located right by the beach and next to the iconic hotspot Gigi's Restaurant on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. This is Quinta do Lago's 14th F&B offering, opening during the resort's 50th anniversary and following significant culinary investments. The bar offers breathtaking views, Ria Formosa-inspired cocktails and light-bites created from ingredients sourced in the local area. The launch of Gigi's Bar is complemented by the reopening Gigi's Restaurant, a privately-owned and muc- loved favourite of Quinta guests - which has recently completed a significant renovation.
Accessible via the resort's boardwalk bridge and complete with panoramic terrace overlooking the beach, Gigi's Bar has been perfectly designed for visitors to bask in the late afternoon sun, a spot to take in the best of the surroundings and connect with nature in a laid-back, convivial setting. Gigi's Bar is dedicated to creating a space in which guests can come together and feel revived by the surrounding nature sanctuary that is the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It aims to inspire and celebrate the local area, providing a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere until dusk settles.
Posted: 11 August 2022
Careys Manor & SenSpa has launched a new overnight spa package
Beat the blues and reset the body and mind with the new Ultimate SenSleep overnight spa package at Careys Manor & SenSpa. Featuring a rejuvenating 45-minute Ayurvedic Head Massage, access to SenSpa's health club and hydrotherapy facilities, and an ultimate sleep gift box to aid a blissful night's rest, the package aims to offer even the most stressed-out traveller a ticket to slumberland.
Nestled in the heart of the New Forest national park, Careys Manor is home to the award-winning SenSpa - a world-class Thai spa blending ancient traditions with state-of-the-art technologies, boasting spectacular hydrotherapy facilities and holistic wellness treatments.
Take advantage of the array of spa and leisure facilities that work in perfect harmony to promote deeper, longer-lasting sleep and thus reducing stress and enhancing energy levels. Start in the hydrotherapy pool to balance the body and release muscle tension, before heading to the ice room or experience showers to activate the sympathetic nervous system, facilitate blood flow to the brain and increase blood levels of beta-endorphin. This balancing of blood pressure can help reduce anxiety, headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues, in turn improving inflammation as well as quality of sleep.
Posted: 9 August 2022
Time + Tide Safaris unveil a stylish transformation to its seasonal camps in Zambia
This month, Time + Tide Safaris unveils a spectacular new look to three of its seasonal camps – Time + Tide Kakuli, Time + Tide Mchenja and Time + Tide Luwi – inviting travellers to connect with the natural world and experience the beauty of Zambia's prime South Luangwa National Park.
In keeping with all of Time + Tide's properties, each newly-redesigned camp has been inspired by its diverse tapestry of habitats, from the ancient ebony forests and the open pans of the South Luangwa, to the intimate river lagoon frequented by wildlife and the lofty perch along the Luangwa River's sweeping curve.
Mirroring their unique locations and individual stories, each camp's design has developed its own distinctive personality. From Kakuli's modern masculinity and storied history, to Mchenja's elegant romance, to the all-new vintage-style tent safari setup of Luwi – each has their own look, yet all share the same ethos and are underpinned by the same warm and generous Zambian hospitality.
Posted: 4 August 2022
DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort and Spa has launched a new range of itineraries
DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort and Spa is welcoming new visitors to the Seychelles by offering exciting, bespoke itineraries that can satisfy even the most adventurous traveller.
Discover an underwater paradise with Allamanda's array of water activities such as an unforgettable reef safari adventure on Moyenne Island to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles' exotic marine life.
Those looking to explore Mahé on land can choose from a range of adventurous guided hiking trails that offer guests the chance to explore the natural wonders of the Seychelles.
Posted: 2 August 2022
Masseria Calderisi in Italy is open for its first full season
Masseria Calderisi, Puglia, has reopened its doors to welcome guests for its first full season. Launched in Spring 2021 as a newly-revived, charming boutique hotel set amongst eight hectares of secluded olive and citrus groves in the Puglian countryside, this is the region's latest farmhouse stay for couples looking for a laid-back, authentic Italian escape, a stone's throw from the Adriatic.
Guests will have exclusive access to Calderisi Beach, a private strip of sand equipped with sun loungers and parasols, offering drinks and light bites.
Posted: 28 July 2022
Hotel Union Øye in Norway has re-opening its doors
Hotel Union Øye is delighted to be re-opening its doors this June, following an extensive transformation. A hidden jewel, located by the remote and beautiful Norangsfjord in the Sunnmøre region on the North West coast of Norway, it has been a firm favourite with mountaineers, artists, writers and royals since its origin.
The remote location in which the hotel resides makes it a wonderful, limitless playground for guests. With a plethora of hiking trails and cycling routes directly from the front door, couples can spend their days exploring this mountainous region either solo or accompanied by an expert local guide.
Posted: 26 July 2022
The Lighthouse Athens is a new hotel in Greece
The Lighthouse Athens, by Browns Hotel, brings contemporary urban glamour to the city of Athens. The 220 room hotel is the latest to open in Greece and boasts two restaurants, a nightclub, and a rooftop complete with a pool, open-air bar and panoramic views.
The property has an elegant yet eccentric design aesthetic with superb amenities to serve the needs of travellers and locals alike.
The Lighthouse Athens will host weekly DJ parties, weekend brunches, art exhibitions and special events on the first floor bar and restaurant.
Posted: 21 July 2022
Cotton Club Mallorca is a new beach club on Balearic Island
Located on Balearic Island's pristine Costa de la Calma, on a hillside above the spectacular Cala de Santa Ponça, is Cotton Club Mallorca.
This new beach club offers breathtaking sea views, a stylish restaurant and bar area with a 70-sunbed deck surrounding a grand pool.
Like the Cotton Clubs in Ibiza and Zakynthos, Cotton Club Mallorca delivers an authentic, welcoming albeit exclusive atmosphere with a sense of place that makes guests feel at home and wanting to return, again and again.
Posted: 19 July 2022
Kanava Hotels & Resort’s new Luxury Collection Resort in Paros is now open
Kanava Hotels & Resort's new Luxury Collection Resort in Paros, Cosme, opened on the 15th June, 2022.
This luxury escape, moments from the island's lively harbour village of Naoussa, will feature an outdoor living spa and private beach club overlooking the turquoise Aegean Sea.
Cosme promises to be a spirited, cosmopolitan home, exuberantly celebrating the enjoyment of life. The natural-chic décor elegantly blends rare elements from around the world, which can be experienced throughout the resort's 40 suites and the beachfront Mediterranean restaurant where guests can revel at the uninterrupted panoramic vistas.
Posted: 14 July 2022
Glenapp Castle has introduced a new restaurant
Glenapp Castle, a 21-bedroom Relais & Chateaux Hotel in Ayrshire, Scotland, is a leading destination for delicious cuisine. With the introduction of the new The Azalea, Glasshouse & Bothy Restaurant, which is opening this summer, the hotel plans to take its dining experience to new levels with this informal venue.
Situated in the centre of the castle's Walled Garden, The Azalea, Glasshouse & Bothy Restaurant are adjoining, giving guests the choice of the surrounding gardens or picturesque views of the Azalea Pond.
Posted: 12 July 2022
Ruby opens second design hotel in Munich
Ruby Rosi is the latest design hotel of the Munich group and has 101 rooms are spread over three floors of a former 1950s office building with a total area of 4,100 square metres.
Rosi was inspired by an iconic Munich figure, Bally Prell: singer and 'the beauty queen of Schneizlreuth' and her Isar fairytale. The combination of stately castles and rustic village life, typical of traditional fairy tales, is evident in the public areas on the fourth floor, where the 24/7 bar is located, in every hidden nook and cranny. Luxurious materials and hand-picked vintage furnishings skillfully complement the wooden timbering and mediaeval style to create a unique Bavarian fairytale world.
The second Munich hotel also follows Ruby's Lean Luxury philosophy: a location in the heart of the city, top design, high-quality furnishings, and affordability, by removing superfluous non-essentials. In Rosi's rooms, the trademark elements are the open vanity and glass rain shower; lots of fresh white and cherry wood wall panelling; and extra charm with the addition of a canopy above the bed.
Posted: 7 July 2022
New gin & gelato Italian summer experience at The Culloden Estate & Spa
Hastings Hotels' five-star The Culloden Estate & Spa is bringing a taste of Italy to Northern Ireland this summer with the launch of its new outdoor experience, Gin and Gelato.
Guests can enjoy Ginato gin ice cream floats, wine, prosecco and draft beer from the bespoke timber bar installation in the comfort of a deck chair, located outside the Cultra Inn in the beautifully landscaped grounds of the five-star boutique hotel.
Ginato Gin is the world's first Prinot Grigio Gin, capturing the very essence of Italy - effortlessly chic, timeless, and sunshine-drenched. The gin is distilled with the finest Italian grapes selected from the wine-growing regions of Friuli in the north of the country, juniper sourced from the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the citrus is picked from the sunny climate of southern Italy.
Posted: 5 July 2022
Eight extraordinary activities and experiences in the Cayman Islands
Famous for unspoilt beaches, crystal waters and paradise scenery, the Cayman Islands is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. However, many travellers considering the destination for their next holiday might not be aware of the variety of activities and adventures available in the archipelago.
Adrenaline seekers, active travellers, and intrepid explorers of all ages will have ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. From kayaking through mystical mangrove forests to rock climbing 'the bluff' on Cayman Brac, hiking, biking and - of course - world-class diving, there are plenty of ways to get your adventure on in the Caymans Islands!
The Cayman Islands is home to spectacular scenery, flora, fauna, and breathtaking views. Discovering them by foot is one of the easiest ways to get active, with hiking trails available for all fitness and ability levels. The 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman is a popular two-mile route that will take visitors past silver thatch palm (the islands' national tree), wild banana orchid (Cayman Islands' national flower) and flocks of Cayman Parrots (the islands' national bird).
Posted: 30 June 2022
Radisson Blu Euphoria Resort, Mykonos is the group’s latest destination
Radisson Blu Euphoria Resort, Mykonos is located steps from golden Kalo Livadi beach with its bars, restaurants, and vibrant live music scene. Mykonos is a favorite summer vacation destination, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, trademark windmills, gorgeous, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant café, bar and nightlife scene, all within a mere 20-minute drive from the resort. The island's stunning natural beauty, sunsets, and architecture make it the perfect destination for travelers looking either for seaside revelry or for quiet relaxation soaking up the calming blue of the Aegean Sea. The island also offers a wide range of attractions beyond water sports and sun seeking, such as archaeological and nautical museums, monasteries and churches with Byzantine icons, as well as ancient castles designed protect the island against invading pirates.
The resort features 34 stylish rooms and suites that draw inspiration from the famous whitewashed architecture of the Cyclades, with white walls and furniture complemented by light wood tones, creating an elegant and soothing ambiance and that special island vibe. Most rooms offer spectacular views of the bay and the Aegean Sea, including the grand Euphoria Suite with its spacious terrace and private pool.
Posted: 28 June 2022
Check out The Botanical Experience at Ca’ di Dio in Venice
Ca' di Dio, Venice, a Patricia Urquiola-designed hotel, opened at the end of last year and offers many experiences which allow guests to see a different side of Venice. The Botanical Experience offers a special tour of the lagoons accompanied by Botanist Gabriele Bisetto. Gabriele shares the secrets of lagoon life and explains how the herbs and plants are used in the restaurants and bar at Ca' di Dio.
Guests will set sail from Ca' di Dio to the colourful Burano Island. From here, they will embark upon their discoveries on Bisetto's traditional boat called a 'Carolina'. The Carolina has a flat bottom which allows the boat to get close to the island banks. The route follows the traditional wooden structures called bricole, along the navigable canals from the Bacino di San Marco. After travelling along the San Felice Canal, the boat will enter the heart of the northern lagoon, a silent and highly evocative place where the sandbank plants continuously change.
Posted: 23 June 2022
