Our home in Kigali is Heaven, a family-owned boutique hotel tucked away on a leafy street. Once a hospitality training college, Heaven now shines as a hub of creativity, offering art and cultural tours, cooking classes, banana wine-making sessions and even on-site custom tailoring.

The first stop is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a sombre and humbling experience. The museum recounts the horrors of the 1994 genocide while also telling stories of resilience and forgiveness. I find it remarkable to learn how a country scarred by such tragedy has transformed its pain into a powerful commitment to peace and unity. 

_{Kigali, Rwanda}

_{Rwanda Volcanos National Park}

Kigali itself pulses with energy; streets are alive with motorbikes and bright yellow helmets,  reflecting the city’s most efficient mode of transport. It feels modern and vibrant, with gleaming skyscrapers rising beside green parks, a golf course and a 7km running track weaving through the heart of the city. The streets are lined with charming cafes, quaint art shops and lots of restaurants.

At Repub Lounge, we savour African-inspired flavours on a shaded terrace – tender goat curry, sauteed aubergines and isombe, a rich cassava leaf dish. At Meza Malonga, Chef Dieuveil Malonga wows us with a 10-course tasting menu, mixing contemporary techniques with African heritage to create a truly unforgettable feast.

_{Meza Malonga}

_{Virunga Lodge Aerial View}

Leaving Kigali, we head northwest towards Virunga National Park, famously home to endangered mountain gorillas. As our Jeep climbs each incline with an audible exhaust, I see why Rwanda is called the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, with its terraced slopes, blue lakes and mist-surrounded volcanoes dotting the panorama. 

We stay at Virunga Safari Lodges, perched atop a ridge 2,300m above sea level, where only the sound of birds pierces the silence. The interiors strike a perfect balance between rustic charm and understated luxury, with colourful textiles and a cosy fireplace for the chilly nights. All meals are communal, allowing us to exchange stories with the other guests, who kindly offer us tips for our own upcoming hikes. 

_{Virunga Lodge Deluxe room}

The day of our trek begins at 5am, with the lodge staff softly singing and coffee in hand. After a bumpy ride humorously nicknamed an “African massage”, we meet our guide, Francis, for a short briefing about the Susa gorilla family, one of the oldest groups in Virunga.  

We hike through potato fields and bamboo forests with eager anticipation. First, I spot two playful youngsters tumbling through the undergrowth, followed by an impressive silverback, assessing us with quiet authority before settling down to chew on a bamboo. The moment peaks as we see a mother cradling her four-month-old baby, who peers curiously at us. Observing gorillas up close in their natural habitat is an unforgettable privilege. 

_{Mountain Gorilla in Volcanos National Park}

Our final destination is Akagera National Park. Home to the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes – the park spans more than 1,000sq km along the Tanzanian border and is a symbol of Rwanda’s impressive conservation efforts. With its savannahs, wetlands and red clay roads, it provides a stark contrast to the volcanic peaks of the north. 

Staying at Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, I witness stunning views of Lake Ihema stretching endlessly beyond my window. On our first game drive, we eagerly search for wildlife hidden among the bushes. Rumours of elephants send us racing through the park and soon we find ourselves face-to-face with a majestic giant. As its trunk stretches towards the branches, I pause to take it in – a reminder of the beauty of nature and a testament to Rwanda’s efforts to preserve it.

by Olga Petrusewicz

To find out more visitrwanda.com

Flight fares start from £694.52 per person. 

Book direct ticket to Kigali on rwandair.com/book 

Heaven Rwanda, Kigali – £85 a night 

heavenrwanda.com

Virunga Lodge, Volcanoes Safaris – £845 all-inclusive 

volcanoessafaris.com/lodge/virunga-lodge-rwanda

Mantis Akagera Game Lodge

£180 on standard room with B&B included

mantiscollection.com/hotel/akagera-national-park-mantis-eco-lodge

The post The Land of A Thousand Hills: Glass Visits Rwanda first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

It’s all about the food enjoyed in an intimate atmosphere that counts here; inviting guests on a journey that begins the moment they step into the townhouse, bathed in dark wood and fragrant with scents wafting from the kitchen.

_{The Cocochine}

Opened last year by Chef Larry Jayasekara and Tim Jefferies, owner of the Hamiltons Galleries, this well-oiled duo reaches further than just dining – aiming for a holistically artistic experience merging food and art. Rooms and corridors’ walls are adorned with Richard Avedon and Irving Penn with their stark black and white photography shining against the warm darkness of the moody interior.  

_{The Cocochine}

Now, in his solo venture, Sri Lankan-born Jayasekara made his name learning his craft in some of the world’s finest kitchens, training under big names such as Raymond Blanc and Gordon Ramsay and eventually leading the Michelin-starred Pétrus in London.

Pouring his heart and soul, he created a deeply personal dining experience for each guest, one rooted in old-school hospitality and choice of the best ingredients. Sourcing seasonal produce from a farm in Northamptonshire and seafood from the Scottish coast, he crafts modern dishes inspired by his Sri Lankan heritage.

_{Dry Aged Rowler Farm Sika Deer}

Spread across four stories of a beautifully designed Georgian townhouse, each floor is its own secluded world, resembling more of an exclusive members’ club than a typical restaurant. The ground-floor dining room is soaked in warm, dim lighting – carefully angled to not cast any shadows on the table – delicately illuminating burgundy leather sofas and classic herringbone parquet. 

Upstairs, the first floor hides an exclusive seven-seat section allowing guests to observe the magic happening at the chef’s counter – a must-have in any fine dining restaurant. The very limited seating that shares an enclosed space with the chefs makes you feel fully submerged in the creative process. I’m surprised to hear that the restaurant sits only 35 tables, instead dedicating almost a third of the entire space to, arguably, the most important element of fine dining jigsaw – the kitchen. 

_{The Cocochine}

We are led to the top floor, where a high-ceiling private dining room awaits us to start with a glass of champagne. With a long central table and surrounding sofas, the space is far from resembling a restaurant, more similar to a comfortable living room – albeit one with its private bar. A selection of canapés arrives: delicate burrata and tomato tartlets, a truffle ball crowned with even more shaved truffle, and a reimagined cheese and onion bite, finished, naturally, with caviar.

When we sit at our table, we are presented with a basket of warm bread, which feels like a welcome to heaven, if the door to paradise offered a limitless array of gluten. Each piece is equally irresistible: a sweet onion brioche or crusty sourdough loaf, which disappears in seconds, smeared generously with soft, salted butter. 

_{Japanese tuna otoro}

I enthusiastically order otoro tuna topped with golden Oscietra caviar – a meticulous pairing developed by Jayasekara during his visit to a soy shop in Japan. It melts on the tongue with flavours perfectly complementing each other. The lobster that follows is barbecued on an open grill in front of our table, still sizzling as it arrives on the plate. Wrapped in a banana leaf, a nod to Southeast Asian technique, it’s deeply infused with earthy, smoky notes that balance the subtle sweetness of the meat.

For the main course, I chose wild John Dory, paired with lobster (you can never get enough), a delicate courgette flower, and an intensely orange pickled peach. On a whim, we follow the sommelier’s suggestion and pair it with a glass of 2019 Kracher Zweigelt – the subtle berry notes of the red wine complement the dish’s gentle sweetness beautifully.

My guest selects the dry-aged turbot, presented in a vibrant, floral composition, finished with shavings of Australian truffle and edible blossoms. It’s a dish as visually striking as it is delicious – an artwork that vanishes as quickly as it arrives.

_{Larry Jayasekara}

Although tempted to skip dessert, the staff gently insist we try the Tahitian vanilla ice cream – and what better sign of a brilliant meal than being persuaded to reconsider what might be the plainest contender in the pudding world? Unsurprisingly, it is a revelation. Enveloped in a warm embrace of caramel sauce, the ice cream has the texture of a perfectly chilled cloud. A definition that what is simple does not have to be boring. 

In a part of London saturated with polished tasting menus and impeccable service, The Cocochine quietly carves out its own path, defined not by spectacle, but by having a soul and a story behind it. Its commitment to traditional hospitality and a personal approach results in a dining experience that feels genuinely thoughtful. And what better proof of its success than the calendar already booked up for the upcoming months? 

by Olga Petrusewicz

To book visit here

The Cocochine, 27 Bruton Pl, London, W1J 6NQ

The post Serving fine dining with a side of fine art at The Cocochine, Mayfair first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{The Hut from water}

The experience begins before we even leave the mainland. Forget boring and tedious ferry journeys – instead a bright red, James Bond-esque speedboat from Attitude Charter awaits in Lymington. Arguably the sleekest way to arrive at The Hut, maybe only besides the helicopter, and who doesn’t like to arrive in style?

With champagne flowing and a surprisingly powerful sound system playing our favourite tunes throughout the journey, we slice through the Solent. The wind is taking full control of our hairstyles, but no one minds as we leave grey clouds behind us chasing the sun shining above the island.

_{Attitude charter boat}

Nestled among colourful beach huts is The Hut, its bold name stretches across the rooftop, making it impossible to miss. Music drifts over the water, luring us in as small tenders speed across the bay, ferrying guests safely from boat to shore. Its irresistible appeal lies in its perfect blend of fun, flavour, and scenery.

Once a humble beach bar, the venue has transformed into a glamorous seaside destination without losing its laid-back soul and has been welcoming guests since 2013. With its reputation firmly established among the yachties, it delivers premium hospitality as well as a carefree coastal spirit – think staff in beach attire weaving between tables carrying endless bottles of rosé. It’s all too easy to forget you haven’t actually left the UK.

_{Welcome drinks at The Hut}

After welcome drinks we are shown to our table overlooking the blue waters of Colwell Bay where the seafood feast begins. We are spoiled for choice; there are cod croquettes, pork belly with cucumber, deep fried shrimp pop corn dipped in aioli, finely sliced hamachi with mango salsa and beautifully assembled lobster salad. Attempting to pace myself is not easy, but I’m more than happy to give up my restrain and dive head first into the spread. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

As we arrange the heaps of food on our lobster-adorned plates, a live band begins making rounds, performing personalised numbers for each table. Normally, I shy away from this kind of entertainment during a meal, but to my surprise, I find myself involuntarily nodding along.

It all just works – sunshine, sea views, and cheesy hits played by The Strikes on the contrabass and acoustic guitar. The entire terrace is loving it. But perhaps the most charming of all is the staff, who seem to be having genuine fun serving plates of food and refilling our glasses, all whilst dancing around with laughter. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

While seafood is definitely the main focus at The Hut, the menu does offer delicious looking alternatives such as a classic cheeseburger or milanese veal for those less adventurous. Admittedly vegetarians might struggle with only a couple of simple options to choose from. The star of the show though is the surf and turf, arriving with a lobster tail and a tender beef fillet. Served with a green salad and a mountain of chips it’s exactly what it’s meant to be – simple and unfussy in its form but full to the brim with flavour. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

To aid digestion, we’re swept up onto the deck-turned-dancefloor with the rest of the guests as the 2014 anthems play loudly, now performed on a trumpet and saxophone by Kiss My Brass band. The Hut’s signature Painkiller – a dangerously drinkable mix of rum, coconut, and pineapple – keeps finding its way into our hands. Dessert is served in the form of cakes on sticks, a clever choice given that by now, everyone’s dancing, throwing their hands carelessly in the air. 

As we jump back onto our red speed boat to cruise back towards the mainland I’m already making plans to visit The Hut’s sister Little Jumby in Antigua to try and recreate this perfect getaway in the Caribbean. With its playful spirit and irresistible food, it’s undoubtedly a destination worth adding to the summer list.

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{Charter price is £675 for up to 6 people and with Champagne to The Hut
To book visit to The Hut click here}

The post The Isle of Wight’s The Hut serves a taste of unforgettable British seafood this summer first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Kimpton Main Frankfurt}

Expectedly for Kimpton boutique property, the Frankfurt hotel shows its own unique personality – one that reflects the city’s deep-rooted appreciation for design and its dynamic urban energy. The interiors take bold inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, blending modern minimalism with playful elegance.

Clean lines and saturated hues, most notably royal blue and deep burgundy combination, dominate the palette, while chrome accents contrast with tactile touches like velour cushions and geometric pattern textiles. The result is a space that feels effortlessly luxurious and particularly inviting.

_{Kimpton Main Frankfurt}

Of course, food and drink remain at the heart of the Kimpton experience with guests invited to indulge across three various venues. From ordering a perfect dry martini at the elegant lobby bar May; trying a german-style brasserie Anni serving modern European staples, to visiting rooftop Lazuli for an evening cocktail overlooking the panorama of the city. 

_{Kimpton Main Frankfurt}

Guests will find no shortage of thoughtful touches to improve their stay, from in-room yoga mats for a mindful or energetic start to the day, to rental bikes for discovering the city at your own pace, whilst those who are keen to connect with fellow travellers will be able to enjoy social hour over delicious drinks. 

by Olga Petrusewicz

The post Kimpton Main Frankfurt opens as a stylish new city escape first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

With a thoughtfully curated calendar of summer events and exclusive open-air settings, the hotel’s grounds are set to become one of the capital’s most sought-after spots for long, sunny days.

_{Montague on the Gardens}

For a limited time, the hotel unveils its Montague Garden Series, a collaboration with Bedford Estates which offers the guests a rare access to the usually private Montague Street Gardens, normally hidden behind the ornate iron gates.

The lush oasis is a fair opponent to a countryside weekend welcoming with meticulously trimmed hedges and towering trees framing the beautiful and elegant Georgian architecture. It’s the ideal setting to unwind with an afternoon tea picnic enjoying finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and a glass of fizz beneath the canopy of green.

_{Montague on the Gardens}

Culture lovers can book an unforgettable weekend stay that includes a night of open-air theatre or music. On select evenings, the acclaimed Lord Chamberlain’s Men will perform Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s beloved romantic comedy and Montague’s signature jazz evening will be brought outdoors to enjoy with a backdrop of London’s sunset.

The performances will be preceded by cocktails and canapés on the Garden Terrace, setting the tone for an enchanting, al fresco experience under the stars.

_{Montague on the Gardens}

The Beach Bar, now an iconic summer fixture of Montague, takes the guests away to the coast without ever having to leave London. Real sand underfoot, tropical cocktails served in coconuts, and staff serving drinks in lifeguard uniforms, means that the immersive pop-up manages to successfully blur the line between Bloomsbury and Barbados, especially after a few delicious drinks. 

_{Montague on the Gardens}

As the city starts to get hot, Montague on the Gardens offers a perfect hideaway from the heat and aims to delight its guests with all things unexpected throughout this season. 

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{To book summer events at Montague visit here}

_{Live Shakespeare in the Gardens Tuesday 24^th June, from 6pm onwards
Live Jazz on the Gardens Thursday 26^th June, 5pm to 9pm (£20 per person)
Enquiries for Beach Bar are now open for parties of 10 or more guests, available from 12 May to 26 September 2025}

The post An elegant summer in the city at Montague on the Gardens first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Rocas Espresso Martini}

To celebrate the Velasco exhibition at The National Gallery, Ochre has crafted a tequila-based cocktail menu drawing inspiration from the painter’s breathtaking views of the Mexican countryside. The result? A collection of drinks that feel as much like a journey through Mexico’s natural beauty and refreshing flavours. 

_{The Forest of Pacho}

Each cocktail is a little nod to Velasco’s world and to the artistry of cocktail making. The Forest of Pacho is light and green, layered with elderflower, lime, cucumber, and just enough jalapeño to awake me after a long day. 

Then there’s Rocas, a rich, bold take on the espresso martini, made with Tapiato Anejo, smooth coffee, and a cloud of traditional Mexican salted horchata foam – silky and familiar, yet with a note of surprise. 

_{The Valley of Mexico}

But the real showstopper is The Valley of Mexico. Inspired by Velasco’s most iconic painting, this cocktail arrives with an edible artwork – an actual transfer of the painting – perched delicately on top. It’s a little surreal, a little theatrical, and, without a doubt, absolutely delicious. 

Paired with a selection of bar snacks – think plump green olives, freshly baked bread with whipped butter, or golden mac & cheese croquettes. Weekday evenings in London just got a serious upgrade.

By Olga Petrusewicz

_{The cocktail menu is available Monday to Thursday. Book table here.
National Gallery, Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DN}

The post A Mexican summer in a glass: Ochre presents artful new cocktails first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Hithe+Seek Interior}

Stepping inside you can feel the atmosphere instantly shifting. Calm, intimate, and cinematic, the bar feels like the setting of a classic film. Dim lighting sets the tone for quiet conversation, while the glass-wrapped lounge frames the city outside the tall, shadowy outline of Tate Modern looms to the right, and the softly illuminated Shakespeare’s Globe peeks out across the inky waters of the Thames.

Dark green velvet window seats invite guests to settle in, watch the city slowly fade into the night, and lose track of time.

_{Hithe+Seek Scotch Egg}

The extensive cocktail list only enhances the mood. The menu covers everything from timeless classics think Margarita, Old Fashioned, and a playful Lemon Drop Martini (a softer alternative for those who shy away from the sharpness of a traditional vodka martini)  to inventive house signatures.

The Red Smoke entices with Aperol, Orr Bay syrup, and Oban 14, crowned with a light lime foam, while By the River is a heartier gin-based creation lifted by maraschino liqueur. On chillier days, the selection of Hot Toddies provides a perfect antidote to grey London afternoons, each one made with fragrant ingredients to warm from inside out.

_{Hithe+Seek Octopus carpaccio}

The food offering, though more concise than the drinks list, is equally thoughtful and creative. Designed for mixing and sharing, the menu journeys across cuisines with dishes like fluffy Bao buns stuffed with braised pork belly and peanut crumble, or seared scallops served atop black, crunchy paella rice. Delicate octopus carpaccio arrives paired with crisp Jerusalem artichoke chips, a light yet indulgent choice.

Craving comfort, I also couldn’t resist the buttery lobster roll topped with trout roe, followed by the bright, punchy tuna tartare tacos. The vegetarian dishes are equally tempting: smoky baby aubergine moutabal and playful patatas bravas, served with manchego cheese and a rich black garlic aioli, proving meatless plates can be just as exciting.

In a part of London where business is at the forefront, Hithe+Seek feels like a secret, which is meant to be savoured and invites you to linger just a while longer.

by Olga Petrusewicz

The post Discovering London’s secret culinary corners at The Westin’s Hithe+Seek first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Maintaining the brand’s signature oval shape, the glass bottle now features a medallion on the side – an ode to the recognisable Diptyque label.

_{Diptyque Home Diffuser Collection}

Crafted for immersive scent diffusion for any occasion, the diffuser uses rattan reeds to slowly and continuously release fragrance, subtly enhancing interiors with signature aromas.

Available in three sizes – from 100ml to a striking 2-litre format designed for expansive spaces – the collection caters to every type of interior. A new scent, Ambre, joins the lineup of iconic fragrances such as Figuier, Baies, and Roses, inviting customers to explore and personalise their olfactory journey based on their needs and occasion.

_{Diptyque Home Diffuser Collection}

Infinitely refillable and now paired with a new Stopper accessory that allows for scent diffusion to be paused at will, the diffuser reflects Diptyque’s commitment to sustainable luxury and timeless sophistication with a wide range of cold diffusion products.

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{Available to buy here.
Home fragrance diffuser, Glass vessel from £60 for 100ml to £360 for 2L}

The post Diptyque launches new home fragrance with bespoke diffuser collection first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Nestled in the northwest of the country, the region lies surrounded by the towering peaks of Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa. Home to some of Italy’s most glamorous and prestigious resorts, recognised for miles of picturesque slopes and a variety of off-piste entertainment, it made a name for itself as a top winter destination.

_{Montana Lodge & Spa at La Thuile}

We arrive at La Thuile, a peaceful resort perched at 1,500 meters above sea level, bordering France, only a 90 minute drive from Turin airport. With an impressive 150 km of cross-border slopes, it’s an unbeatable heaven for skiers. The town itself is quaint and unhurried, dotted only with a few charming shops selling the essentials and local cheese and wine.

Our hotel, Montana Lodge & Spa, part of Italian group R Collection, is the perfect hideaway and the only five-star property in La Thuile making it a favoured meeting spot in the area. Offering bright and early mornings on the slopes, you can expect first class treatment in the afternoon choosing from long, tranquil evenings by the fire with an aperitivo, dinner in a glass-walled Bistrò Alpino, or relaxing at the Erre Spa – particularly in the outdoor hot tub with a sunset backdrop.

_{Erre Spa at Montana Lodge}

In the morning, my rental equipment is waiting in the ski room. The sky is flawless, and Christiano, the hotel’s events manager, hands me sunscreen with a knowing smile. A quick five-minute shuttle ride later, we’re at the gondola, ready for our Alpine adventure. La Thuile has something for everyone.

Gentle forest trails for beginners, thrilling red and black runs for the fearless. As we ascend, someone warns not to end up on Pista 3 Franco Berthod – Italy’s beast of a slope with a terrifying 73% incline, which I quickly mark on my map with “avoid” in capital letters.

_{Bistrò Alpino at Montana Lodge}

After a few hours of carving through the snow (and avoiding wrong turns), we gather at Lo Ratrak, basking in the sun with other skiers. The feast begins – cured meats, nutty Fontina cheese, and the region’s beloved polenta concia, drenched in cheese and butter. Topped with venison ragu or wild mushrooms, it’s the mountain meal which aims to fuel you for an entire day – or makes you want a nap in the sun.

_{Montana Lodge & Spa}

The following morning starts with a thrill – a helicopter ride from Montana Lodge to Grand Hotel Courmayeur, another one of the R Collection properties. Part of the “Fly the Alps” package, the experience lets guests split their stay between two luxury resorts, making the most of and exploring both skiing destinations.

Soaring over villages and between towering peaks at sunrise is pure magic. We touch down just meters from the hotel’s restaurant, making an unexpected spectacle for diners enjoying their breakfast as we stumble out of the helicopter trying to sneak in a picture. 

_{Grand Hotel Courmayeur}

The hotel’s floor to ceiling glass walls frame picturesque mountain views, as we sip our cappuccinos, seamlessly blending modern design with the snowy landscape. Grand Hotel Courmayeur, the only luxury property outside the city centre, offers a peaceful escape just a short walk from the business of Via Roma.

Inside, natural wood, soft lighting, and chic neutral tones strike a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. With the spa for unwinding and fantastic massages, so needed after a day on the slopes, and incredible ravioli at La Fourchette, hotel’s restaurant, it radiates Alpine luxury.

_{La Fourchette at Grand Hotel Courmayeur}

Unlike La Thuile’s tranquil charm, Courmayeur exudes an air of exclusivity. Known for its pristine slopes, dramatic Alpine scenery, luxury shopping, and lively après-ski scene. Despite having only, in comparison, around 40 kilometres of ski routes – I quickly find out it’s impossible to get bored with a variety of routes meandering through the forests.

Popular for its freeride opportunities, due to its high altitude and abundance of fresh snow, off-piste thrill-seekers head straight for the glacier – providing us with a great spectacle of carving through untouched powder, whilst we sip our Aperols at Christiania Ice Bar perfectly content. 

Beyond skiing, Courmayeur isn’t short on activities. The Skyway Monte Bianco takes us up to 3466 meters above sea level, where we take in jaw-dropping glacier views, watch skiers glide through the sky, and stroll through the snowy park. We are being told that on calm days, there is an opportunity of taking a five kilometre cable car ride taking you straight to Chamonix – a perfect way to explore nearby resorts on the other side of the border for more adventurous souls. 

_{Grand Hotel Courmayeur}

_{Grand Hotel Courmayeur}

A short drive away, a family-run Les Crêtes winery is another highlight of the region. During the exclusive tasting we have a chance to try the local wines: from the crisp and floral Petit Arvine (I immediately grab two bottles) to the bolder, fruity Nebbiolo, as well as eat our body weight in delicious local cheeses and meats – experiencing Aosta from inside out. 

In the evening we visit another hidden gem: La Grolla, a family-owned restaurant tucked away in the mountain forest. The visit starts before we walk through the front door, as the only way to get to La Grolla is via a snowmobile ride under the moonlit sky. The food is hearty starring the local produce – rabbit ragu pasta, boar tortellini and polenta taragna finished with tiramisu or affogato. Pure indulgence.

_{Grand Hotel Courmayeur}

Whether carving through fresh powder, sipping wine overlooking ancient vineyards, or ending the day with a fireside aperitivo, Aosta offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. And with the ease of getting there, I know this won’t be my last time in this part of the Alps.

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{To book visit Montana Lodge & Spa, Deluxe room with breakfast starting from €239
Grand Hotel Courmayeur, Classic room starting from €215
Fly The Alps package – summer rate: €1.700, winter rate: €2.350}

The post Glass experiences adventure on an alpine escape to Valle d’Aosta first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Tailored to each guest’s dietary needs, the private chef curates an unforgettable experience with gourmet breakfasts, afternoon teas and indulgent four-course dinners served six evenings per week. Additionally, those who want to explore the local food scene, Purple Ski’s concierges are on hand to secure the most sought-after restaurants in the area.

_{Chalet Harmony in Méribel}

Chalet Harmony in Méribel, a stunning four-story luxury property sleeping up to 15 guests, is equipped with a cinema room, indoor pool, and a dedicated wellness area. At the culinary helm is Chef Manuel Schmuck, a Munich-born chef with over 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, including Berlin’s Restaurant Marthas.

His cooking, influenced by his travels from Colombia to Bali, brings an international flair to the chalet’s refined Alpine ambiance. One of his signature dishes, Chakapuli – a Georgian lamb shank stew with a modern twist – delights guests with its bold flavours and inventive presentation.

_{Chalet Harmony in Méribel breakfast}

Another luxury Méribel property, Chalet Lapin Blanc, welcomes Brighton-born Chef Daniel Ibboston specialising in serving his spin on traditional British comfort food. From elevated fish and chips to ‘dippy egg and soldiers’ – a slow-cooked duck egg with parsnip purée, smoked duck ham and brioche fried in generous amounts of duck fat, the guests won’t be left unsatisfied.

_{Chalet Lapin Blanc}

Nestled in the exclusive Le Crêt area and voted France’s best chalet, Chalet Machapuchare in Val d’Isère offers panoramic views of the valley alongside luxury amenities including outdoor jacuzzi, indoor pool and gym.

_{Chalet Machapuchare}

Leading the culinary experience is Chef Hugo Attou, a rising star with an impressive background in some of Europe’s most acclaimed Michelin-starred kitchens, including Frog by Adam Handling in London. Specialising in modern fine dining, guests can expect bold flavours and innovative approach to local dishes such as truffle and black garlic Agnolotti. 

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{A seven-night stay at Chalet Harmony starts from €59,720 on a catered basis. For more information or to book visit https://www.purpleski.com/chalets/harmony/}

_{A seven-night stay at Chalet Lapin Blanc, Meribel starts from €36,541 on a catered basis. For more information and to book, please visit https://www.purpleski.com/chalets/lapin_blanc/}

_{A seven-night stay at Chalet Machapuchare, Val d’Isère starts from €47,065 on a catered basis. For more information and to book, please visit https://www.purpleski.com/chalets/machapuchare/}  

The post Purple Ski elevates Alpine luxury with private world-class chefs first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Infused with supercharged vegan ingredients, the formula delivers a lightweight, velvety texture while offering anti-aging benefits, hydration, and nourishment for fuller, plumper lips. The 50-Peptides Complex enhances firmness and youthfulness, while the Ruby Radiance Complex gently exfoliates for a smooth, radiant finish. Raspberry and goji berry extracts provide 24-hour hydration, leaving lips soft and luminous all day long.

For ease and comfort, the formula ensures rich, intense colour that lasts up to eight hours, reducing the need for frequent reapplication all while preventing smudging.

Boasting 12 shades from bright and bold Red Alert to deeper and darker Spicy Kiss, the collection also embraces sustainability with a refillable keepsake design, allowing for shade swaps while maintaining its luxurious packaging. With its elegantly chic design, The Rouge Opulent is a perfect Mother’s Day gift to show love and appreciation for the most important woman in your life. 

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{Available at byterry.com and at all global beauty partners from February 2025.
Full Size £49. Refill £34 (3.5g)}

The post BY TERRY introduces The Rouge Opulent – a timeless beauty essential first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Scully St James’s is tucked away just on the corner in a quiet mews, offering a welcome escape from the chaos into a warm embrace of minimalist interior design.

The entrance is adorned with rows of jars filled with nuts, preserves, and an array of dried herbs, reminiscent of my grandmother’s pantry. The dim lighting and open kitchen, placed at the heart of the restaurant, create an inviting and cozy atmosphere – almost like stepping into a friend’s living room.

_{Interior at Scully St. James}

After years of training under Ottolenghi and heading up the kitchen at NOPI, Chef Ramael Scully has forged his own path, establishing a restaurant built on sustainability and minimal waste. His innovative dishes maximise ingredients’ full potential and blend cuisines in the most exciting ways, drawing inspiration from his rich cultural background and I am more than curious to discover what new flavours I will be able to taste.

We settle into a dimly lit corner of the restaurant – a perfect spot to observe the kitchen’s activity while browsing the à la carte menu. Designed with sharing in mind, we begin with a selection of snacks to ease us into the experience. We opt for salt and pepper shimeji mushrooms served with an addictive and tangy yeast vinaigrette, followed by burrata with blood orange drizzled with sweet honey and a floral hint of lavender.

Yet, the true standout is the puffed beef tendons. Crispy and crunchy, they are accompanied by a generously sized bowl of tomato pancetta and oyster mayo.

_{Snacks and starters at Scully}

Scully’s global influences shine through the menu, which showcases a fusion of flavours. One of the standout starters is the restaurant’s signature dish: Arepa with eggplant sambal and labneh – the hollow inside South American dough, served with a side of smoky aubergine sambal, which Chef Scully enjoyed at his mother’s house. As we learn, the dish was created by accident but gained such a devoted following that it now holds a prime spot on the menu. 

_{Arepa with eggplant sambal and labneh}

Unable to resist, I order the crispy pork belly, which arrives alongside Piemontese bagna cauda – a rich, slow-cooked blend of oil, garlic, and anchovies. The dish is complemented by chicory, fennel, and endives, topped by a black garlic dressing, which adds an extra layer of umami depth.

_{Chef Scully}

The portions at Scully’s are generous, so we pace ourselves, eager to leave room for the dishes yet to come. Opting for a lighter main, we choose the sea bass with brown shrimp. The fish is delicately cooked, infused with Ethiopian spice-butter, and brightened by pickled green tomatillos. The combination creates a deeply layered flavour that challenges my usual expectations of seafood.

_{Piura Porcelana 75% Chocolate Sorbet}

Desserts at Scully change frequently but there is one crowd pleaser, which managed to win the guests hearts: Piura Porcelana 75% Chocolate Sorbet hidden underneath a layer of bright green pistachio and tonka bean. The chocolate hides raspberry flavours  and is a beautifully sweet, yet delicate end to an indulgent evening. 

As we step outside back onto the busy streets, the warmth of Scully’s atmosphere follows us. With its innovative pairings and unexpected flavours, the restaurant truly leaves a lasting impression. 

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{To book visit here
4 St. James’s Market
London
SW1Y 4AH}

The post Expect the Unexpected at Scully St. James’s first appeared on The Glass Magazine.