Catalonia is a stunning destination with a diverse landscape — from the peaks of the Pyrenees to the rugged coastline and the wetlands of the Ebro Delta. The region is home to medieval villages and impressive Roman and Greek ruins, as well as iconic architecture, vibrant traditions, and beautiful beaches along the Costa Brava. Catalonia’s gastronomy is another highlight not to be missed. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will inspire you with the best things to see and do across the region. If you are thinking of making a visit and would like to find the best things to do in Catalonia, this guide will inspire you.

Explore Barcelona: Art, Architecture and Nightlife

Catalonia’s capital, Barcelona, attracts thousands of visitors every year thanks to its extraordinary art, architecture, and Mediterranean spirit. Modernist architect Antoni Gaudí left an indelible mark on the city’s skyline, creating a unique architectural style that blends imagination, symbolism, and organic forms. His masterpieces, such as Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens, and the iconic Sagrada Família, continue to draw admirers from all over the world.

If you’re passionate about art and culture, Barcelona’s museums are a must. The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) houses one of Europe’s most important collections of Romanesque frescoes, as well as remarkable works of Catalan modernism. You can also visit the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the artist’s early years, or the Fundació Joan Miró, which showcases the vibrant and poetic universe of the Catalan painter.

When the sun sets, the city transforms into a lively hub of nightlife. Trendy neighbourhoods like El Born, Gràcia and Poblenou are filled with terraces, tapas bars, cocktail lounges and music venues that capture the city’s creative energy. From stylish rooftop bars with sea views to intimate jazz clubs and vibrant nightclubs, Barcelona’s nightlife offers something for every taste — cosmopolitan, diverse and full of rhythm.

Discover the Catalan Coast: Beaches and Sea Adventures

No trip to Catalonia is complete without exploring its stunning coastline. Stretching from the rugged coves of the Costa Brava to the golden sands of the Costa Daurada, the Catalan coast is a paradise for beach lovers and sea adventurers alike. This Mediterranean shoreline is famous for its long, sun-drenched beaches where gentle waves lap against the shore and for its crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports.

The beaches along the coast are family-friendly, with calm, shallow waters and easy access, as well as excellent facilities that make every visit comfortable and convenient. The Costa Brava is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves with turquoise waters, and a wealth of outdoor activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. Further south, the Costa Daurada offers wide, sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families and lovers of sailing, windsurfing and other water sports.

Throughout the summer, Catalonia’s coastal towns come alive with maritime festivals, fireworks displays and lively open-air concerts that capture the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean.

The Pyrenees and Inland Catalonia: Outdoor Escapes

Catalonia offers countless outdoor escapes that showcase the region’s wilder and more authentic side. The Catalan Pyrenees are a must for nature lovers — a land of majestic peaks, glacial lakes and valleys dotted with charming stone villages. Each village preserves unique customs and traditions, and many come alive throughout the year with colourful local festivals celebrating fire, music and mountain life. The Pyrenees are perfect for hiking and mountain biking in summer, skiing in winter, and enjoying a wide range of outdoor adventures all year round.

Further south, inland Catalonia reveals a different but equally captivating landscape: rolling hills, fertile plains, vineyards and medieval towns where time seems to stand still. This rural heart of Catalonia — stretching across the regions of Lleida, La Segarra, and El Bages — offers visitors the chance to explore Romanesque monasteries, ancient castles and peaceful country trails. It’s also an excellent destination for agritourism, cycling routes, and slow travel experiences that connect you with local life and traditions.

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Catalonia’s national parks and UNESCO biosphere reserves provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through Montseny Natural Park, rafting on the Noguera Pallaresa River, or unwinding at a wellness retreat surrounded by vineyards, inland Catalonia invites you to slow down and embrace its quiet beauty.

Cultural Heritage and Local Traditions

Catalonia is a land deeply rooted in history, where traditions are still very much alive and part of everyday life. Throughout the year, the region celebrates countless festivals that reflect its strong sense of identity and community spirit. Each event has its own customs — from lively parades and human towers to ancient fire rituals — offering visitors a vivid glimpse into Catalonia’s living heritage.

Beyond its festive calendar, Catalonia invites you to travel back in time through its beautifully preserved medieval towns such as Pals, Besalú and Peratallada. Strolling through their cobbled streets, you’ll discover Romanesque churches, arched bridges and stone towers that tell stories dating back to the Middle Ages. The 11th-century bridge of Besalú is one of the most emblematic landmarks of this heritage.

Among Catalonia’s most distinctive traditions are the castells — breathtaking human towers built during festivals — and UNESCO-listed celebrations such as La Patum of Berga, a spectacular explosion of fire, music and folklore that captures the region’s creative and communal soul.

H2. Flavours of Catalonia: A Culinary Journey

No visit to Catalonia would be complete without indulging in its rich and varied gastronomy. The region’s cuisine reflects its Mediterranean roots, combining mountain flavours with the bounty of the sea. Seasonal and local products play a starring role, turning even the simplest dishes into something unforgettable.

Be sure to taste calçots in winter — tender spring onions grilled over an open flame and served with romesco sauce — as well as hearty mountain recipes like olla aranesa and trinxat. Classic accompaniments such as allioli and seafood paella highlight Catalonia’s culinary diversity. From lively calçotades and tapas bars to creative Michelin-starred restaurants, every meal is a celebration of flavour and conviviality.

Food festivals across the region offer the perfect opportunity to experience authentic Catalan dishes and local wines. And for wine lovers, the vineyards of Penedès and Priorat are unmissable: follow their wine and cava routes to taste some of Spain’s most renowned sparkling and red wines amid breathtaking landscapes.

Events and Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss

Catalonia is alive with festivals all year round — each one reflecting its deep-rooted traditions, creativity and community spirit. From ancient rituals to cutting-edge music events, there’s always something to celebrate.

Some of the most iconic include La Mercè, Barcelona’s grand festival honouring the city’s patron saint, and the castells, or human towers, that symbolize teamwork and balance. In April, the streets of every town and village fill with books and roses during Sant Jordi, a day devoted to love and literature. Coastal towns like Calella de Palafrugell host the Cantada d’Havaneres, a charming summer night of traditional sea shanties sung by the water.

For music lovers, international events such as Primavera Sound and Sónar turn Barcelona into a global stage for the latest trends in pop, electronic and experimental music. Meanwhile, traditional celebrations like Els Tres Tombs, where horses parade through historic streets, offer a glimpse into Catalonia’s rural past.

No matter the season, Catalonia’s festivals are a vibrant expression of its culture — a perfect way to experience the warmth, creativity, and passion of its people.

Practical Tips for Your Catalonia Trip

Catalonia is a fantastic destination to visit at any time of year, but the best seasons to explore are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Spring is perfect for hiking, cycling and discovering Catalonia’s natural parks, while autumn offers warm sea temperatures, colourful landscapes and a more relaxed atmosphere in the cities and along the coast.

If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, summer (June to August) brings long, sunny days and lively energy. It’s the best time to enjoy the beaches of the Costa Brava and Costa Daurada, head into the mountains, or join one of the many cultural and music festivals that fill the calendar. Winter, on the other hand, is quieter and perfect for skiing in the Pyrenees or exploring Catalonia’s cultural heritage at a slower pace.

Whenever you choose to visit, Catalonia promises a rich mix of culture, nature and unforgettable Mediterranean charm.

The post Things to Do in Catalonia: The Ultimate Guide to Culture, Nature and Events first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Camiral Wellness Centre Thermal Pavillion}

Curated by Nùria Camins, a trained naturopath and ayurvedic practitioner, the centre balances cutting edge treatments like cryotherapy (a favourite of American NFL football players), hyperbaric oxygen chambers and photobiomodulation alongside treatments like massage, lymphatic drainage and nutrition coaching.

The centre also boasts full spa facilities including saunas and plunge pools as well as an extensive menu of facials, body and beauty treatments, hammam, gym and yoga and reformer pilates studio for personal or group lessons. The centre offers three protocols: Detox & Cleanse, Longevity & Vitality and Wellbeing, with protocols available on a three, four or five day basis.

_{Camiral Cryotherapy}

There is also an intimate wellness kitchen helmed by Chef David Vives and on-site nutritionist, Mireia Cervera, featuring a menu inspired by the world’s ‘Blue Zones’ – regions in which inhabitants have the longest lifespans and, perhaps more critically, healthspans in the world.

The menu centres around phytonutrients – the health-giving plant molecules like antioxidants, polyphenols, Omega-3 fatty acids and prebiotics and also emphasises high-biological value proteins such as responsibly-raised meat, fish and eggs. All are cooked slowly at low temperatures to preserve maximum nutritional value and biological activity. 

_{Wellness Kitchen Showcooking}

_{Camiral Pool}

Guests who book a wellness programme have exclusive access to this innovative culinary experience, where personalised nutrition meets gourmet cuisine. There are also opportunities to expand personal nutrition knowledge with Mireia, who wants guests to go home feeling empowered in how to nourish and nurture themselves. 

Long renowned for its PGA course, Camiral has been the go to destination for golf enthusiasts since 2016 and has just been announced as the host of the 2031 Ryder cup, cementing its place in Spanish golfing history. And with the Wellness Centre there is truly something for everyone, from the England rugby and football teams who train there, to the tired mother needing a health retreat – like me. 

Outside of the wellness centre, the hotel is the perfect refuge from busy modern life. Rooms are stylish and peaceful and overlook the stunning grounds and pool. The breakfast buffet is simply to die for with a chocolate fountain that makes even the grown-ups feel like kids again. And the resort boasts five eateries, from the more casual club lounge to fine dining experience Origin which offers exceptional haute cuisine. 

_{Camiral Wellness treatment}

There are also a plethora of on and off site activities available including bike tours, yoga, paddle and tennis lessons, guided walks and food tours of Girona to name a few. The beach is also just a 30 min drive away. 

I left Camiral feeling deeply recharged. The wellness treatments made even my cells feel like they’d had some TLC. There is something so deeply restorative about taking a few days to do nothing but rest and regroup. I felt like I had been in excellent hands, with everyone from the masseuses to the yoga instructor, to the chef having a deep well of knowledge to draw from and thus create a remarkable sanctuary of wellbeing. 

by Nicola Kavanagh

Rooms start from £250 based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Room Double Bed on a B&B basis.

camiral.com

The post Wellness on a whole new level at Camiral, a Quinta do Lago Resort first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Encircled by the beauty of the snow-capped Brenta Dolomites, a Unesco World Heritage site, and the Adamello-Presanella Alps, I take a deep breath of crisp alpine air. The dazzling winter sunlight reflects off the snow, casting a magical glow over the landscape. In this moment of perfect solitude, I feel utterly at peace.

I am here to experience the newly launched Yin-Yang Active and Balance three-day programme, created by the Lefay Spa Method Scientific Committee at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, a spectacular retreat perched above the village of Pinzolo, Italy – a two-hour drive from Verona, the nearest international airport. 

_{Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti exterior}

In traditional Chinese medicine, yin and yang represent opposing yet connected forces – coolness and water versus warmth and fire. For the body to achieve optimal health, these elements must be in balance. Lefay’s wellness philosophy embraces this principle with treatments focused on harmonising these energies, with the Active and Balance programme thoughtfully curated to complement these elements. 

My morning itinerary begins with a three-hour guided mountain hike through undulating, snow-draped terrain led by two expert local guides, Andrea Chesi and Mirko Ferrari. Afternoons are dedicated to indulgence and restoration within Lefay’s award-winning three-storey spa, featuring a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western wellness traditions. These include saunas, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and three stunning pools that feature a lap pool and a warm indoor/outdoor infinity pool offering uninterrupted alpine vistas.

My spa journey begins with the water element as I immerse myself in a deeply restorative salt bath, followed by a mud wrap and a detoxifying, exfoliating massage on a waterbed. My highly skilled and nurturing therapist, Katarina, effortlessly blends gentle preening with invigorating pressure, leaving me both refreshed and cocooned.

_{Family Suite}

On my second day, the fire element takes precedence. After a morning hike, I indulge in a deeply rejuvenating muscle massage, followed by a sauna stretching session, a unique Lefay therapy. As fragrant essential oils infuse the steamy air, Enrico, the intuitive in-house personal trainer, guides me through mindful breathing and slow, deliberate stretches to release built-up tension. This experience, both meditative and reviving, will benefit my body long after my departure.

The resort is also a gastronomic destination. Its fine-dining restaurant, Grual, was recently awarded a Michelin star, celebrating its commitment to sustainability and exquisite flavours, with the menu crafted from locally sourced organic and sustainable ingredients. 

_Pool

Evenings at Dolomia, the resort’s main restaurant, are the ultimate celebration after Lefay’s rejuvenating daily schedules. The healthy dining option offers a selection that aligns specifically with the Active and Balance programme, but the allure of decadence on the main menu might prove irresistible. I surrender to the temptation of tortelli filled with locally produced Casolét cheese, saffron cream, caper powder and cocoa beans – a dish that lingers long after the last bite.

_Lobby

Returning to my Lefay suite adds another facet of serenity to my stay. Each room is designed in soothing neutral tones, featuring glass and leather, with wooden accents and at a touch of a button, I ignite my stylish “log fire”, casting a warm glow. The marble bathroom, with its standalone bathtub and bespoke Lefay amenities, enhances the sense of indulgence. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a balcony, where panoramic mountain vistas form a dramatic backdrop to the village below.

As my time at Lefay draws to an end, I already feel the pull to return. And with any luck, I will – very soon.

by Amanda Bernstein

Prices start from €1,650 per person for the Active & Balance three-day programme with a stay in a Prestige Junior Suite (57 sqm), double occupancylefayresorts.com

The post Discovering balance in the Dolomites at Lefay Resort & Spa first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

It was one of those rare English summer days when the mercury dances at thirty degrees. As I arrived, the idea of an outdoor pool bordered by manicured lawns and accompanied by frozen daiquiris felt like a dream delicately plucked from the ether. My guest and I clinked glasses in celebration of our brief sojourn, savouring the first moments of tranquillity.

_{The Grove’s Walled Garden}

The heart of this idyllic scene is The Grove’s Walled Garden, where the heated pool gleams beneath an open sky. Luxe daybeds are draped in soft linens, offering a calm that transcends the frenetic hum of London lidos. Beyond this oasis, 300 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside stretch out — a realm of golf fairways, woodland trails, and an ever-evolving calendar of activities and masterclasses.

_{Freestanding bath in a room at The Grove}

_{Feast on Cloud}

Our suite, one of 214 beautifully appointed rooms, was a private retreat in itself. A freestanding bath stood poised beside wide windows framing verdant hills, while in the distance, The Grove’s newest culinary venture, a hot-air-balloon-inspired restaurant, promised delight.

Dinner was a journey in its own right. At The Glasshouse, buffet dining is elevated to theatre. Each station – from the roast carvery to the sushi counter, from a fragrant Thai kitchen to a decadent cheese bar – is a stage where chefs craft plates to order, blending precision with flourish. I lingered over fresh pasta, sampled sashimi as delicate as silk, and surrendered to the charms of a 2022 Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc, its wild New Zealand character igniting the palate.

_{Sequoia Kitchen at The Grove}

_{Vitality Pool at Sequoia Spa}

Morning brought the part of our visit I had most anticipated – the Sequoia Spa. A haven of hushed corridors, warm stone, and softly diffused light, it invited us to shed the last vestiges of festival fatigue. We moved slowly between sauna, steam room, and vitality pool, each step drawing us deeper into a quiet rhythm.

Then came the De-Stress Massage, 80 minutes of restorative artistry. I chose rosemary oil for its invigorating clarity, surrendering to the therapist’s intuitive touch as muscle and mind dissolved into stillness. My guest emerged equally transformed. This was not simply a treatment, but a recalibration. Marking the gentle return to the self after days of exuberant disarray.

_{Sequoia Spa}

_{Sequoia Spa Sauna Showers}

The De-Stress package at the Sequoia Spa invites you to step away from the everyday and into a world of considered calm. Including breakfast in The Glasshouse, The Stables, or the quiet privacy of your room, an overnight stay for two, an 80-minute de-stress massage and complementary access to the serene Sequoia spa facilities, it offers a retreat for body and mind. Whether shared with a partner, a friend, or someone you wish to gift with the luxury of stillness, this is a rare chance to rejuvenate without the distractions of life.

At The Grove, time is not merely passed; it is savoured, steeped in beauty, and restored to balance. As we departed, I felt the rare lightness that comes only when body and spirit have been cared for in equal measure.

by Lily Rimmer

The Sequoia Spa is open 7 days a week at The Grove, and can be booked here.

The post The Grove’s Sequoia Spa: An Ode to Rejuvenation first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

For my stay, I checked into one of the hotel’s Shoreditch Sky Terrace Suites, a space that feels more like a chic city apartment than a hotel room. With modern finishes and so much room to breathe, it was the kind of suite that invites you to unpack fully and live in it – rather than just pass through. Floor-to-ceiling windows poured in natural light as well, creating the perfect backdrop for both lazy mornings and pre-evening prep.

_{Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch exterior}

_{Shoreditch Sky Terrace Suite}

The suite’s real showstopper, though, was its private entry bridge to the Upper 5th rooftop bar. It felt like having a secret key to one of Shoreditch’s best social spots, with the ability to drift effortlessly between the lively rooftop scene and the quiet luxury of our suite whenever the mood struck. One moment it was skyline cocktails and music, the next it was back to plush interiors and total calm. It gave the stay a sense of exclusivity that’s rare in London.

_{Upper 5th rooftop bar}

Step outside the hotel and Shoreditch itself picks up the story. This pocket of East London has become one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, full of contrasts, graffiti walls and gallery spaces, vintage markets, and designer pop-ups. Staying here means being surrounded by energy and creativity, with Old Street and Liverpool Street stations close by if you want to venture further.

Come morning, the pace slowed. The breakfast buffet set the tone with an abundance of choice, traditional English fry-up favourites, fresh pastries, fruit, juices, and barista coffee, the kind of spread that makes it easy to linger over seconds (and thirds). It was a reset before diving back into the city.

_{Main bar}

And for when you want to retreat from the outside world altogether, the Courthouse Hotel has plenty to keep you occupied: a spa with indoor pool and steam room, a private cinema, even the playful touch of a boutique bowling alley. Every corner of the hotel seems designed to surprise, reminding you that it’s much more than just a base.

The Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch is indulgent without ever feeling over the top, and stylish without trying too hard. For those who want to experience East London in all its vibrancy, and still have a private rooftop bridge waiting at the end of the night, it’s a seamless mix of city energy and laid-back luxury.

by Vivian Hui

For room rates and bookings, visit Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch

335-337 Old St, London EC1V 9LL

The post Rooftop Views and East London Energy at Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Created by Matteo Carretta, Director of Beverages, the new cocktail menu showcases the use of seasonal, fresh, and natural ingredients. The menu is divided into three distinct categories: Unique Experiences, Seasonal Pairings, and Signature Classics, highlighting some of the most exclusive high-end spirits. The Green Bar has tapped into the hotel’s rich heritage, with some of the recipes being revived from the 1937 Café Royal Cocktail Book.

_{Hotel Café Royal}

Menu highlights include the Unique Experiences’ D’Azur Aperitivo – a gin-based beverage spotlighting the delicate flavour of Provençal botanicals and the Seasonal Pairings’ Rum & Pina – a tangy, refreshing number brought to life by Appleton Estate 12yo Rum, Campari, Evangelista Amaretto, pineapple juice, and coconut syrup.

_{The Glenfiddich Old Fashioned}

_{The Scotch & Mango}

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there’s an array of elevated alcohol-free options. The menu’s Peach & Hibiscus is a delicate, refreshing choice to enjoy whilst soaking up the sun on Green Bar’s outdoor terrace.

Green Bar has also joined hands with some of the world’s most luxurious spirit companies for a series of exciting collaborations. For example, guests can sip on Mint Juleps made with sustainable Fielden Rye Whiskey, or enjoy martinis crafted with Berry Bros & Rudd’s No.3 Gin.

_{Green Bar Terrace}

Alongside the cocktails, the new menu offers some delightful small plates, sandwiches, as well as oyster and caviar selections. Think: seasonal vegetable rolls, mini beef burgers, black truffle pizzetta, lobster rolls, and more.

by Sophie Richardson

For more information or to book a visit, please visit here.

Unique Experiences Cocktails range from £30 – £55. Seasonal Pairings are all priced at £25. Signature Classics are all priced at £25. Non-Alcoholic Cocktails are all priced at £18.

The post Hotel Café Royal’s Green Bar Launches New Cocktail Menu and Outdoor Terrace first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The mist delicately blankets the 150 acres of lush grounds, where sheep graze peacefully in the distance. Nearby, children delight in petting miniature goats and run freely through the soft, emerald grass.

_{Reception entrance © Matthew Shaw}

On entering the hotel, I ascend the grand staircase into the reception, where an inviting blend of opulence and warmth immediately greets me. My suite, a perfect reflection of the hotel’s ethos, echoes the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside while embracing the finest in design and amenities.

Each of the hotel’s 41 suites has been meticulously crafted to marry the charm of the area with the epitome of luxury. Elegant furnishings, sumptuous fabrics and thoughtfully curated décor set the stage for a serene, indulgent retreat.

_{The Langley Junior Suite © Matthew Shaw}

_{Drawing Room © Matthew Shaw}

In the drawing room, I order a Caesar salad, accompanied by golden, crisp chips and a glass of house white. Presented on exquisite crockery, my elegant place setting adds a touch of regal charm to this tranquil moment.

Later, I head to the Langley Spa, which I am told is one of Europe’s largest indoor hotel spas. Rich golds, warm beiges and mahogany elegantly drape the ceilings, floors and walls, creating an atmosphere of timeless indulgence.

After a refreshing dip in the softly lit indoor pool, I choose the full body exfoliation and wrap from the treatment menu, hoping to rejuvenate my skin after the winter months. A nourishing body wrap is applied to reduce water retention and detoxify the body and I depart feeling completely revitalised with my skin glowing with a newfound radiance.

_{Spa Reception © Matthew Shaw}

_{Indoor pool at the spa © Matthew Shaw}

I will certainly be returning here with my family. The Langley combines aristocratic grandeur with a bespoke, homely charm, and has provided an experience for me that blends sophistication with total relaxation.

by Rachel Spencer

Room rates at The Langley vary depending on category, location and season and are subject to availability – ranging from £450 per night to £1,300

marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/loniv-the-langley-a-luxury-collection-hotel-buckinghamshire

The post The Langley Provides a Royal Rest in Buckinghamshire first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{San Montano Resort & Spa}

_{Panorama path}

Ischia’s reputation has flourished in no small part due to the success of Ferrante’s novels, which have since been adapted for television, film and theatre. For Elena, the island represents an escape and, upon visiting, I found it served much the same purpose for me.

With its turquoise waters, verdant slopes and rugged coastline, Ischia is a sanctuary of natural beauty and adventure. Famed for its thermal spas, sun-drenched beaches and rustic cuisine, the island offers pockets of refined luxury, among which the San Montano Resort & Spa stands as one of the most distinguished.

_Lobby

Perched majestically atop a hill, 108m above sea level to be exact, this exquisite five-star hotel commands breathtaking views over the serene Bay of San Montano and the expansive Gulf of Naples. Nestled within a lush Mediterranean garden, it enjoys an unrivalled position on the promontory of Monte Vico, setting it apart from the grandeur often associated with large resorts. 

_{Sea Water Pool}

Rather than imposing itself upon the landscape, the hotel reveals itself gradually, a secret to be uncovered. You meander down flower-lined steps, pass beneath graceful arches nestled among fragrant lemon groves, or gaze down from the hotel’s highest vantage point, where breakfast is served against a panorama of endless blue. This enchanting setting cultivates an atmosphere of seclusion and exclusivity that few resorts of its calibre can match.

_{Thermal Water Main Pool}

The resort is a sanctuary of wellness and indulgence, featuring a natural sauna, 11 outdoor thermal pools, an indoor pool, a state-of-the-art wellness centre, fully equipped gyms, manicured gardens and four restaurants. Accommodation ranges from seven luxurious suites to a selection of elegant villas and 65 rooms.

The interiors pay homage to the surrounding landscape – reflected in a palette of gleaming white, framed by vibrant blue, yellow and green tiling. Subtle maritime accents nod to the island’s seafaring heritage, seamlessly blending elegance with a deep sense of place.

_{Franco’s Restaurant}

The resort’s culinary philosophy, “from land to hand”, is exemplified by its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, particularly in its exceptional wine selection. The attentive staff can point to the very vineyard from which your wine originated, visible from your dining table. Guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining: for lunch, the poolside Acropoli Bar and Franco’s Restaurant serve freshly caught seafood, crisp salads and pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven.

As evening falls, La Veranda offers a refined taste of Ischian and southern Italian cuisine. For those wishing to explore beyond the resort, a short walk or complimentary shuttle ride leads to the charming, cobbled streets of Lacco Ameno, where acclaimed restaurants such as O’Pignattello serve exquisite tasting menus celebrating the island’s rich gastronomic heritage.

_{La Veranda}

From the rejuvenating hydrotherapy and thermal pools overlooking Negombo Bay to the Ocean Blu Spa – the first and only spa on the island with an uninterrupted view of the Ischian Sea –San Montano Resort & Spa is a masterclass in harmonising architecture with nature’s splendour.

This is a place that transcends the pages of Elena Ferrante’s novels, a haven where luxury meets literature, and where every moment feels like an escape into a timeless Mediterranean dream.  

by Lily Rimmer

Double rooms from €300 in low season; and from €600 in high. Breakfast included. 

sanmontano.com

The post Relaxing in Ischia at San Montano Resort & Spa first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Located in the charming village of Flims, Hotel Adula is a 4-star superior Michel Reybier hospitality destination. Boasting 93 rooms and suites, luxury dining destinations, and a 1,200 m2 spa, this seasonal hotel is an ideal spot for those eager to explore the surrounding wildlife and alpine landscape.

_{Hotel Adula}

From the moment you walk into the lobby, the hotel feels like a home away from home. Plush furnishings, contemporary design, a crackling fireplace, and top-tier hospitality greet you with open arms. Having been recently renovated, the lobby and onyx bar blend modern elegance with enchanting warmth, offering a welcoming space to unwind after a day of travel or hiking.

The rooms are equally inviting. Raw wood panels adorn the space, creating an intimate alpine chalet atmosphere, balconies and windows offer sweeping vistas of mountains occasionally cloaked in clouds, and textural paintings decorate the walls, inviting guests to engage in a dialogue between nature, comfort, and craftsmanship.

_{Hotel Adula}

Amongst the hotel’s sparkling amenities is Adula Kitchen & Bar, the hotel’s dining hotspot, where international and national dishes are carefully crafted. Here, the cuisine places a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Led under the expert guidance of Chef Domenico Zizzi, Adula Kitchen offers up refreshing light snacks, elevated classics, and seasonal chef d’oeuvres. If you’re lucky with the weather, you can also dine outside, taking in the distant view of sun-drenched snow-capped peaks.

As a seasonal hotel, Hotel Adula’s dining experiences change throughout the year. During the winter season, La Muña – Michel Reybier’s Japanese Peruvian fusion restaurant – opens its doors, attracting many guests with its tender teriyaki, fresh sashimi, and ceviche. 

_{Adula Kitchen & Bar}

Just a stone’s throw from Adula Kitchen’s outdoor terrace is La Mira spa. Naturally, tranquillity and rejuvenation are central to Hotel Adula, inviting guests to enjoy the spa’s impressive amenities. With a sauna, outdoor saltwater pool, indoor pool, fitness suite, and more, this spa is fully equipped. So, when your body feels sore after trekking some trails or skiing the slopes, La Mira spa will ease and massage away any cramps and pains.

_{Hotel Adula}

In terms of hiking trails, Flims has no shortage. For a relaxing and scenic walk, a visit to Lake Cauma is a must. This crystal-clear, cyan-blue lake is just 20 minutes from the hotel and can be easily reached by gondola, requiring minimal walking. Here, one can swim in the serene spring waters, rent a pedalo for the family, or enjoy a bite to eat whilst taking in stunning mountain views. Slightly further afield is Lake Cresta, another idyllic landmark, which is certainly worth a visit if you are exploring Lake Cauma.

Alternatively, for those looking to stretch their legs a bit more, a slightly longer hike leads out of Flims towards the breathtaking Rhine Gorge – often referred to as the Swiss Grand Canyon. Carved over millennia by strong currents, this natural wonder offers cinematic sights of cascading cliffs, lush forests, and the occasional glimpse of rare Alpine wildlife, including harmless grass snakes, so be careful where you step.

With its thoughtful balance of luxury and authenticity, Hotel Adula proves that the mountains aren’t just for winter escapes. After watching the molten sun set behind the peaks or enjoying a trip to the spa after a day of trekking, you may find yourself planning your next alpine getaway before you’ve even checked out.

by Sophie Richardson

Rates start from £233 per night, including breakfast. For more information and to book, please visit here.

The post Exploring the Scenic Swiss Mountains at Hotel Adula first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Retaining the rustic charm of original features and fireplaces, there are cosy nooks with roaring fires, and beautifully appointed sitting rooms filled with board games, perfect for switching off devices and remembering the joy of play. 

_{The Yellow Lounge}

Despite its size, the hotel boasts several culinary outlets. The AA rosette-awarded and Michelin-starred MO is where chef Mathieu Blanchard unleashes his creativity upon an eight-course tasting menu served to just 12 guests at a time. The Back Garden restaurant gives away its ethos with its name, showcasing ingredients grown and raised very close to home.

The restaurant works with local farmers to source excellently cared for rare-breed animals and seasonal produce – in short, exactly how we are supposed to eat. The Shed bar offers all day casual dishes, cocktails and local beers for more laid back dining. And, finally, there is The Greenhouse – the dining space attached to the spa, which serves health-conscious dishes and superfood juices as well as cream teas and luxurious hot chocolates.

All menus also offer £5 “zero calorie invisible chips”, a humorous and thoughtful way to encourage guests to support Hospitality Action – a charity that helps people in the hospitality industry who have suffered life-changing events. 

_{A Top Notch Room}

The hotel’s pièce de resistance, however, is the stunning spa, complete with a large indoor pool and outdoor hydro pool with roaring fire. As well as saunas, snow shower and floatation tanks, there is an extensive menu of treatments including the highly indulgent “champagne and truffles” anti-aging facial that includes ingredients like gold, champagne, black truffle, silk and diamonds to hydrate and renew skin. 

_{Outdoor Hydro Pool}

After a day of indulgence there is nothing better than retiring to one of the thoughtfully designed rooms. Styled in muted colours with plush furnishings, they are full of helpful little touches like welly boots for walking the gorgeous local trails. 

by Nicola Kavanagh

Rates start from £340 for an intimate room on a B&B basis. Find out more: dormyhouse.co.uk

The post Unbridled Relaxation at Dormy House, Cotswolds first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The 14th-century monastery appears almost suddenly. Arches, cloisters, and bell towers rising from manicured lawns, a scene as serene now as it must have been when monks first settled here in 1355. Today, 16th-century stone floors, and golden church altar stand alongside elegant lounges and terraces, the old and the new woven seamlessly together. After seeing the space turn into a wedding venue for the weekend, I’ll be adding Penha Longa to my destination wedding list.

_{Penha Longa | © Matthew Shaw}

_{Monastery © Matthew Shaw}

My suite, part of the hotels lighter and brighter renovation, carried that same balance of heritage and modern comfort. A palette of soft green, ocean blue and earthy brown echoed the landscape beyond my terrace. The furnishings were light and contemporary, oversized king bed, spacious living area and a marbled bathroom make up my spacious suite.

_{Junior Suite | © Matthew Shaw}

It’s easy to make a case for Penha Longa as a gastronomic destination. Seven restaurants cover a spectrum from poolside snacks to Michelin-starred artistry. The most memorable is dinner at Midori, Portugal’s only Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant. The name means green, and here it nods to the surrounding park.

_{Dishes at Midori}

Presented with the Kiri menu, we enjoy a procession of plates alongside a view of the stunning Sintra Mountains. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, each course felt like a small celebration, with an infused taste of Portuguese and Japanese flavours.

Starting with Hassun, a selection of playful bite-sized appetisers. Then Omiotsuke, a Portuguese stew reimagined as miso-shiro, was deeply comforting, and sushi was a highlight: striped prawn nigiri, turbot brushed with fig tree leaf, and buttery chutoro tuna. Dessert, Dezato, brought sakura, almond and cherry together in a sweet, airy finale.

Another evening, I settled into LAB by Sergi Arola, where we journey with a ceramic cockerel taking us on an edible tour of the country, Portuguese tapas is served at every stop on the map carved table. The tasting menu that follows brought refinement and surprised with every course.

_{Creme de Amêijoa, caviar balsâmico e tempura de ostra}

Days have a way of stretching at Penha Longa. Golfers moved between the 18-holes on the Atlantic Championship Course, while the smaller Monastery Course offered a gentler pace for those new to the game. The Penha Longa Spa & Wellness became my early retreat, waking up with morning yoga in the zen-inspired garden before heading in for my personalised massage, where my masseuse Monique knew exactly how to release all the tension I had.

_{Outdoor Family Pool © Matthew Shaw}

If exploring local towns is part of your travel ritual, Cascais is well worth the short drive from the hotel. Often referred to as the Portuguese Riviera, this charming coastal town draws both visitors and locals with its relaxed elegance.

A guided tour with Visit Cascais reveals the bay from the water and the cobbled streets on foot, each turn revealing a layer of the town’s history. Our walk led us to the lively farmers’ market, where stalls brimmed with handmade crafts, clothing, and an abundance of fresh local produce. From there, we headed west to Boca do Inferno and Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, to take in sweeping views of rugged cliffs and the Atlantic horizon before returning to the hotel.

_Cascais

Penha Longa isn’t simply a place to stay — it’s a place to inhabit. Whether you come for the golf, the gastronomy, the spa, or simply to let the rhythm of the park set your pace, it leaves you with the rare sense of having lived inside a story, one still being written after more than six centuries.

by Vivian Hui

Nightly rates start from €360 a Deluxe Room at Penha Longa.

Book directly on Penha Longa Resort

The post Penha Longa Resort: Golf, Gardens and Gastronomy in Sintra-Cascais National Park first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{The Langham, London}

I am shown to the newly refurbished Portland Suite, and it is, quite simply, breathtaking. This two-bedroom signature suite has been entirely reimagined by Richmond International and handcrafted by Ben Whistler.

Every detail – embossed leathers, Murano glass chandeliers, precious wood veneers – speaks of exquisite craftsmanship and bespoke design. The bathroom is wrapped entirely in floor-to-ceiling black and white marble. The dramatic veining of the marble-sharp sweeping lines in inky black against brilliant white create a bold, cinematic contrast.

_{Portland Suite terrace}

_{Portland Suite master bedroom}

I unwind with an early afternoon espresso on the suite’s terrace, perched atop the hotel’s porte cochère, watching the world go by on Portland Place. Afterwards I make my way to the atmospheric Chuan Spa, where I surrender to the expert hands of Kumi as he guides me through the exquisite ‘Chuan Yu’ facial – a 75-minute ritual of energy balancing and lymphatic massage that detoxifies and revitalises.

The signature Gua Sha technique breathes new life into my skin, expertly sculpting and de-puffing my face, erasing every trace of water retention along my jawline. The immediate transformation is profound and I’m already dreaming of my next visit.

_{Portland Suite bathroom}

As evening falls I head over to Artesian, The Langham’s award-winning cocktail bar, where a newly launched menu has been creating quite the stir. In need of a gentle revival after a blissfully serene afternoon, I opt for the ‘Parsnip’, a playful reimagining of the classic Espresso Martini. A smooth blend of Grey Goose vodka and brandy, elevated by an unexpected savoury note of parsnip, it’s bold, balanced, and delightfully unconventional.

_{160th Anniversary Afternoon Tea}

The Langham isn’t just preserving history, it’s rewriting it. As their CEO Bob van den Oord aptly put it, “we’re building great memories for our customers and giving back to the communities that support us.”. After such a memorable stay, I couldn’t agree more.

by Rachel Spencer

The Langham London is located at 1C Portland Pl, London W1B 1JA.

Book via https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/london/

The post The Langham, London – A Storied Icon Is Reimagined first appeared on The Glass Magazine.