Despite personally coming down with Covid for the first time on the last day of this epic conference, the rest of the team remained healthy and I am happy to highlight some major Wows courtesy of Shanna and Kendall and all the separate meetings they enjoyed last week. I am just about good to go again, but I'm actually grateful for the 5 days of hibernation I went through as it gave me a chance to focus on work and play some catch-up. Demand from our clients remains incredibly strong and we are already busy planning many Summer 2023 trips.
My top advice for any trip remains the same - plan EARLY!
Top 5 - The Wows of Virtuoso Travel Week, Part 2
1. Villa Korta Katarina & Winery, Croatia (above and below)
Rising proudly above the Adriatic coastline, and with just 8 rooms, Villa Korta Katarina, a Relais & Châteaux member, is located in the picturesque seaside village of Orebić on the delightful Pelješac Peninsula. While you can easily get there from Dubrovnik, the hotel is also wonderfully removed from the frenetic tourist activity of the city. With panoramic views of the glistening Adriatic, nearby islands, and breathtaking natural beauty all around, this seaside hotel is perfectly positioned for visitors who want to experience southern Croatia’s incredible gifts.
2. The Maybourne Riviera, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France (above and below)
With its modern appeal and mesmerizing views, the Maybourne Riviera is securing its spot as the Côte d’Azur’s newest and most sought-after seaside retreat. Take a stroll around the property past fragrant citrus orchards and seasonal herb gardens. Savor sea-to-table cuisine handcrafted by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco. Or gaze out onto the water from your private balcony (standard in all 45 rooms and 24 suites) with a chilled rosé de Provence from one of the local vineyards. Discover medieval castles, ancient caves, and a two-thousand-year-old olive tree in the historic town of Roquebrune, once the inspiration for legends like Cézanne and Coco Chanel.
3. Fonteverde Lifestyle & Thermal Retreat, Siena, Italy (above and below)
Step back in time to the 17th century at Fonteverde, a Tuscan resort and spa in the Siena hills. The villa was built by the Medici family on precious hot springs that are known for their therapeutic properties. In timeless Tuscany, take time to explore the surroundings and experience the exclusive Tuscan Route offers: winetasting in prestigious wineries; sampling olive oil, pecorino cheese, and truffles in farmhouses; and sightseeing in Perugia, Siena, or Montepulciano by vintage car. Spa lovers can enjoy the healing hot springs, which are the foundation of the resort's innovative Equilibrium wellness philosophy and programs.
4. Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, Italy (above and below)
Remaining in Italy and also featuring a Mandarin Oriental property for the second week running, this was the brand's first European resort, and it plays steward to a lakefront botanical garden. Guests easily lose track of time wandering the landscaped pathways between the nine villas or lounging by the spectacular floating swimming pool. Water plays a central role at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, blending East Asian philosophy with a Western approach. Italian cuisine comes with a twist at the fine dining restaurant L'ARIA, while the CO.MO Bar & Bistrot is perfectly relaxed and informal; both restaurants offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. With its unbeatable sceneries, understated luxury and unregulated beauty, guests will enjoy a rare sense of magnificence that will be discovered in every single minute of their stay on Lake Como.
5. Sublime Comporta, Grândola, Portugal (above and below)
Portugal’s up-and-coming Alentejo region makes the perfect setting for Sublime Comporta. The aptly named hotel takes minimalist design to the max, with floor-to-ceiling windows that put the focus squarely on the surrounding sand dunes, wildflowers, and woodlands dense with umbrella pine. Cork walls and straw lampshades bring the outside into the 45 rooms and villas. Some suites are set upon stilts over a biological pond; dive off your own terrace into its clear waters. Order a passionfruit mojito by the adults-only pool and then cozy up around the adjacent fire pit. Nature heals body and soul at the holistic spa, which uses locally sourced rice and sea salt, plants from the organic garden, and pure essential oils. Consider a massage amid the pines.
If you're ready to take advantage of the Virtuoso & J5Travel advantage to get the most memorable vacation let us know by clicking the button below.
I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and I am proud to be building a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
Follow along on our next adventures and get insider tips on the latest in travel.
Want our blog posts delivered straight to your inbox? Enter your email below to subscribe to our newsletter.