Deals of the day
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Manoir de Plaisance is an enchanting 19th century Manor House, standing in the centre of over 12 acres of private parkland. The Manoir has been sympathetically renovated to provide four sumptuous hotel suites, all with undisturbed views of the grounds and countryside beyond.
We use the best seasonal market produce to produce a ‘menu du soir’ each evening served in the candle-lit dining room or in the park by the river in the warmer months.
This is a truly tranquil retreat tucked away in the French Countryside, with the beautiful Marais Poitevin (‘Green Venice’) to explore and historic cities of La Rochelle & Niort both half an hours drive away. Manoir de Plaisance offers a luxurious, private and romantic place to get away from it all.
THE SUITES
Each of the suites at Plaisance are spacious with floor to ceiling windows & Juliette balconies. A neutral colour palet of whites, greys & taupes has been used in all the rooms with French antiques adorning these serene spaces.
All the suites have their own personality and unique quirks, such as Chambre Maurice’s exposed plaster wall, Chambre de l’écrivain’s shower in a tower, and Chambre Christiane’s enviable balcony.
We’ve added all the facilities that make staying away all the more comfortable – 2000 pocket sprung king size beds, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Nespresso Machines & luxurious Molton Brown toiletries, We have however left out TVs – but all rooms have wifi to keep you entertained.
SUITE DELMAS
Our grandest suite is named after the Delmas family who owned the Manoir for over 100 years. A large original plan of the 10,000 acres once owned by this family is displayed in this suite.
Enter into a generous corridor leading onto a separate dressing / study area. Two doors lead to rooms of equal proportions – one to the bedroom, the other to your own separate sitting room with antique French salon.
EVENING DINNERS
Chef Ben takes to the kitchen drawing on his years of restaurant experience and general love of food to produce a set ‘menu du soir’ – a delicious and seasonal three course meal plus cheese course using only the best locally sourced ingredients.
Dinner is 42€ per person and includes aperitifs, either in the grounds (weather permitting) or in the main salon. The meal is served at individual candle lit tables in the dining room. A carefully chosen wine list including local Ile de Ré wines, is available.
The menu is announced on the day, and is centred around seasonal local produce. If you would like to dine at the manoir please let us know in advance (please also include any specific dietary requirements).
BREAKFAST
A French continental breakfast is served every morning from 8.30 – 10.00 (times are flexible).
A bountiful selection of croissants & breads fresh from the Boulangerie, orange and grapefruit juice freshly squeezed each morning, a selection of hams & cheeses, home baked treats such as banana bread & almond cake, brioche, a selection of conserves, yoghurt, homemade berry compote & plenty of fresh fruit.
THE MANOIR
Hidden amidst rolling fields and the dense forêt de Benon, Manoir de Plaisance sits quietly nestled among the trees and its own 12 acres of parkland. Carved stone balconies adorn the tall french windows and Virginia creeper softens the architecture with gentle green foliage.
Originally a smaller hunting lodge, the building was doubled in size in the late 19th century and two petite towers were added. With its new grander stature, Plaisance was acquired by the Delmas family and used as a much loved holiday home for over 100 years.
Following a sympathetic renovation the manoir now offers a petite hotel de charme where guests can share in this tranquil corner of France.
THE SALONS
The cosy entrée salon is the first room upon entering the manoir. A yellow silk salon set is arranged around the French doors where the evening light is particularly pretty. Old school maps of France feature on the walls, cut wild flowers & foliage from the park adorn the coffee table and taxidermy sits on the side
The main salon is the heart of the house, with a grand marble fireplace and leafy views from the tall windows. There is an honesty bar available – pour a drink and make yourself at home. Every evening the salons are lit by gentle candle light.
Choose a cosy sofa and flick through coffee table books or enjoy a drink from the honesty bar. In the winter enjoy the warming glow from the fire.
THE GROUNDS
Whilst the grounds blend seamlessly into the French countryside around them, the park was infact the creation of an English landscape gardener in the early 20th century, with the placement of every tree carefully planned to create the beautiful haven that now exists.
Two lakes are also nestled amongst the grounds, both are supplied with fresh spring water coming directly from our source and are connected by a stream that meanders gracefully through the park, reminiscent of the Marais Poitevin.
Why not bring along a fishing rod and enjoy the peaceful pace whilst waiting for the first bite from our resident fish? A 14m x 7m heated Swimming Pool is open late May – September, or for something a bit more active why not brush up on your tennis skills on the Tennis Court?
LA ROCHELLE
The stunning Maritime city of La Rochelle is just a 30 minute drive from Plaisance. There is a beautiful old port and a city centre of narrow streets lined with medieval and Renaissance houses. The city has an abundant supply of restaurants and is also ideal for shopping. Beach lovers should head to the Plage des Minimes.
ILE DE RÉ
From La Rochelle a 3km long bridge takes you to the îlé de Ré – a beautiful island surrounded by sandy beaches. Head to St Martin de Rè for picture postcard narrow streets adorned with hollyhocks as well as a busy harbour lined with cafés and restaurants – we highly recommend the Bistro du Marin.
NIORT
A 30 minute drive east of Plaisance will take you to to the pretty historic town of Niort. The Donjon is a must-visit, on the river bank it is part of a medieval castle with parts dating back to the 12th Century.
The castle was started by Henry II and finished by Richard the Lionheart. Breathtaking panoramic views over Niort can be enjoyed from the top of the towers.
Amongst the many stunning buildings in Niort Le Pilori is particularly interesting. Built between 1530 – 1535 once the town hall and now used as a visual arts space exhibiting contemporary works.
MARAIS POITEVIN
The Marais Poitevin – known as ‘Green Venice’ – is a wonderful place to explore, where the countryside is intertwined with canals. Take to the waters yourself by renting a boat. We highly recommend visiting the Abbaye de Maillezais and the nearby village of Coulon.
ROCHEFORT, FOURAS & THE ILE D’AIX
Further south on the coast the seaside town of Fouras has large sandy beaches. Along the beach you will find the medieval Fort Vaudan de Fouras which commands some beautiful views out to sea.
Take a boat to the Ile d’Aix, a small island just 2km long which is virtually car free and wonderful for ambling around. For something a bit more cosmopolitain pop over to the nearby town of Rochefort.
