The inside scoop: The Capital Hotel and The Levin
Recently the heart of fashion was in London, however we also must not forget that some of the finest Small Luxury Hotels of the World are also in this vibrant cosmopolitan capital. We recently got the inside scoop from the family run business, The Levin and The Capital Hotel & Apartments. Here is what one of their team had to say about their thoughts on ‘luxury’, what makes them part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and some of the highlights so far this year.
So tell us about your hotels?
Shop till you drop! The Levin and The Capital are world’s closest hotels to Harrods.
The Capital Hotel and The Levin are the only luxury boutique hotels in Knightsbridge. Their location is truly unique, being just next to Harrods but in a very residential and quiet street. The first time I came to The Capital was as a hotel guest about 6 years ago. I loved it because I felt like living in this area, because this is the feeling you experience staying at the hotel. The greeting of our doorman makes sure everybody has a good day, the welcome is warm and very personal, the food is a delight and the rooms are quintessentially British. What else are you looking for in a hotel when coming to London? Also, you can get everywhere very easily by foot to Harrods, Hyde Park, South Kensington or Buckingham Palace for example, you can catch a taxi and even the underground is just 150 metres away.
So what’s your idea of ‘luxury’?
To me luxury is all about service, making the guest feel comfortable at all times. There are a lot of grand hotels with huge and luxuriously fitted rooms, but sometimes you can feel that the staff are just doing “a job”. Luxury is when you’re treated like a king, no matter if you booked a standard room or the most expensive suite, and where you feel that everybody who works there is passionate about making your experience truly exceptional.
What sets you apart from the other luxury hotels in London?
The first thing that springs to mind is our location. We are the world’s closest hotels to Harrods – who else can say that? We are also a family run business, which is something you can note the minute you step into our hotels. It’s not a rare occasion that our guests are personally greeted by the owner of our hotels, Mr. Levin, and again…who can say that? This personal touch and culture of offering sincere hospitality makes us quite different too, because it has been lost in many hotels these days.
Why do you think the Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand fits The Capital and The Levin’s ethos so well?
SLH has a great collection of hotels that are run with a similar philosophy than ours and that are privately owned. The fact that the concept of being independent as a hotel is embraced via the brand. SLH helps us reach out to a huge customer base that is looking exactly for that unique hotel experience we offer.
What’s your most popular cocktail or wine you sell at the bar?
Levin wines are our most popular wines, especially the Levin Sauvignon Blanc.
The owner of our hotels, David Levin, owns and operates a winery in France. Hence Levin wines are our most popular wines, especially the Levin Sauvignon Blanc, as the link between the winery and the hotel is so unique. Our guests like the idea that they can drink the hotel’s own wine at the bar or the restaurant.
What’s the chef’s signature dish?
Baked Dover Sole “Silver Jubilee”, Terrine of Duck, Pork and Foie Gras, Roast Fillet of Lamb “Grand Mere”. My favourite is the Terrine. You can also order it in our bar and I like to have it with a good glass of wine.
What has been the highlight of the year for The Levin and The Capital?
The arrival of our new Chef Jerome Ponchelle, together with the appointment of our new restaurant manager Donato Colasanto is definitely the highlight of this year. The team reintroduced traditional French and English dishes with a modern twist, keeping them classic but without making them too heavy. Alongside with the new restaurant concept we also re-launched our private dining offers and party packages, together with a new approach on our wine list, making it as accessible as possible. We have adopted a new pricing policy where bottles that are bought for a cost price of over £ 100 now only have a small corkage charge added to them in contrast to other establishments where the mark up can sometimes be up to four times the wholesale value.
I hope that this just gives you a taste of what there is to look forward to if you’re thinking of visiting London. See Small Luxury Hotels of the World in London
More later, Paul
It’s not just ‘Casino Royale’ in Monaco….
Hello all,
I can’t believe how fast this year is going by! Have you booked your next stay at one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World? I’m travelling around south-east Asia at the moment and visiting some of the world’s most exotic hotels. I will tell you about my experiences at a later date.
Whilst I have a moment, I just wanted tell you about our first Small Luxury Hotel of the World in Monaco, Port Palace in Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo is famed for its fast cars, Formula 1 Grand Prix, the high-dollar casino, royalty and being a haunt for the rich and famous. It has the best boutiques in Europe, and, most importantly its’ where the world’s best yachts are moored.
I love city breaks but if you’re like me and you just need to escape from the hustle and bustle, then Port Palace ticks all the boxes. Expect world-class service from this understated yet elegant luxury hotel. It might be the second smallest country in the world but it most definitely can be described as ‘the jewel in the crown.’
Stunning views from your dining table Port Palace, Monte Carlo, Monaco
It’s the ideal place to relax, eat and sleep and admire the spectacular views of the yacht-filled harbour and the grand prix circuit. If you take a room on the front you can actually overlook and look vertically down on the track!
After a day out in Monaco I recommend taking an hour or two to chill-out at their spa before you hit the casino in the evening.
Interestingly the bedrooms were designed by Leïla Menchari of Hermes, which adds an air of sophistication to this luxury hotel.
Dining at the Michelin-starred Mandarine restaurant is also a must! Chef Patrick Raingeard, serves up the most inventive and inspiring cuisine influenced by the Mediterranean …you’ll also receive exceptional wine, which complements the culinary experience. This trendy boutique really has great attention to detail.
Port Palace's impressive wine cellar
Check out the amazing gourmet and spa packages
Have any of you visited this? I would love to hear more about your experiences.
More to follow, Paul.
My first trip to Japan
I recently enjoyed my first trip to Japan and I just don’t know why I’ve left it so long – it is a beautiful country. I was there visiting my daughter, Nicky, who lives in Tokyo. I took the opportunity to visit two SLH properties, Hoshinoya Karuizawa and Hoshinoya Kyoto, both of which joined the brand this year.
During my visit I had the pleasure of meeting the President of Hoshino Resorts, Mr Hoshino, who is a fourth-generation hotelier. All of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties are independently owned and family-run so it is always a pleasure meeting the owners who are as passionate about hotels as I am. Mr Hoshino’s vision is about incorporating traditional Japanese hospitality and values with all the mod cons and comfort of contemporary hotels. He wants to bring the ryokan concept into the 21st century without losing any of the charm or traditions.
As you may know, ryokans in Japan are traditional inns which were originally built in the 17th century along the highways in Japan. Common features include straw-matted rooms, communal baths, hot springs or ‘onsen’, and futon beds. The Hoshinoya properties are built around this concept – but are ultra luxurious as you would expect.
Hoshinoya Karuizawa is only about one hour from Tokyo on the Shinkansen bullet train. The train system in Japan is one of the most efficient and cleanest I have ever experienced – and you get a great view of Mount Fuji on the way. Karuizawa is well-known as a summer holiday destination for discerning Japanese and is apparently favoured by local celebrities. It is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The property is located in the most tranquil setting along the Yukawa River in a valley surrounded by over 400 acres of forest and mountains, next to a wild bird sanctuary. Hoshino Resorts take their responsibility towards the environment very seriously and over 70 per cent of the energy needed for the guest rooms comes from renewable sources, including the under-floor heating.
Hoshinoya Karuizawa - the perfect place to discover living Japanese culture.
Bathing in natural hot springs seems to be a way of life in Japan – it was interesting to learn more about this ritual. At Hoshinoya Karuizawa there are two natural hot springs, including a meditation bath. It is certainly very relaxing. I particularly like not having to dress for dinner as guests are free to wear the robes (yukatas) provided for the whole duration of their stay. After all, there is a Japanese proverb ‘Go ni itte wa go ni shitagae’ which means literally, ‘When in a village, do as the villagers do’. I think this is the equivalent of the English proverb ‘When in Rome do as the Romans do’ which I subscribe to. The spa at Hoshinoya is based on the Zen concept of ‘Cho-shin, Cho-soku, Cho-shin’ which means the ‘adjustment of mind, breath and body’.
Hoshinoya Karuizawa - Tombo-no-yu Hot Springs
I was only in Karuizawa for a flying visit but next time I am definitely going to visit the Sake breweries nearby. I acquired a real taste for it during my trip.
A few days later I went to visit Hoshinoya Kyoto, which hadn’t opened yet so I was given a sneak preview. The hotel since opened its doors on the 12th of December. It is a century-old ryokan on the banks of the Ooigawa River which has been lovingly restored. It used to be the home of a wealthy Kyoto merchant and is in Kyoto’s historic Arashiyama district. The boat ride to Hoshinoya Kyoto is an experience in itself. Once guests have checked in they are treated to a ten-minute boat ride to the hotel – talk about making an entrance! I would love to go back to Kyoto during autumn or Cherry Blossom season.
Hoshinoya Kyoto - tranquil riverside retreat in the picturesque Arashiyama region of Kyoto
We are delighted that our portfolio is growing in Japan as we can now offer you more choice and diversity. Having visited both properties I would say it is worth visiting Japan just to stay at the two Hoshinoya properties! They really are gems. Have any of you visited the hotels already? We would love to hear more about your experiences. Don’t hesitate to contact our reservations team if you need any more information or visit www.slh.com.
Paul
An Ex-sail-lent Time in Palma, Mallorca
Hi there,
A very Happy New Year to you all! I’ve just come back from a sailing trip and I must say I had an ex-sail-lent time with the family.
On our trip I stopped off in sunny Palma, Mallorca, a truly beautiful Spanish island. There’s a large sailing community so this town naturally appeals to me. Palma is renowned for its stunning sunsets, its history and it’s Spanish cosmopolitan society.
On land there are plenty of things to see and do. The narrow lanes and cobbled streets of this medieval town give a historic contrast to a typical urban sprawl. Tucked away are some charming cafes and an abundance of restaurants and tapas bars.
In the heart of the old town, we stopped at Hotel Tres. This luxurious hotel is cool and relaxing and a great location for getting out and about in Palma. You’ll be in for a treat if you’re planning a stay there this year!
Take a sauna, then plunge into the rooftop pool with views over the Gothic cathedral.
Hotel Tres has a contemporary look and feel and maintains it’s rustic Mallorcan charm and history as part of a 16th century palace. If you opt for the Grand Suite you’ll have your own rooftop terrace, complete with a Jacuzzi and a sensational view facing Palma cathedral.
Palma is a wonderful place to spend your holiday, and Hotel Tres is definitely one to add to your wish list. Have you visited Palma? Or stayed at Hotel Tres? Do let me know.
More later, Paul
Join The Club of Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Hi there everybody,
Club members can enjoy a delicious complimentary continental breakfast by the sea
It’s me again. It’s amazing not all of you are members of The Club!
If you want to get really, really special treatment and make your life easier, then become a member of The Club (www.slh.com/club). It’s free to join and you receive all these great benefits. You’ll have your own Club concierge so there is no need to tie up your PA’s time or ask for help from your husband, wife, girlfriend or boyfriend! So why not take advantage of this? After all, when I’m staying at a hotel I want to explore all my surroundings so the concierge and hotel will be able to help you.
And if you want to personalise your stay and you’re a bit fussy you can put in a request for your favourite pillow, flowers, room temperature or even request a Ferrari from airport pick-up! You’ll also be able to take advantage of a free room upgrade or late check-out to 4pm (subject to availability). All Club members can now indulge in a delicious complimentary continental breakfast whilst admiring breathtaking views of the stunning scenery on an exotic island or enjoying the creature comforts in the breakfast room at a country retreat.
Anyway I thought I’d just drop you a quick note and let you know about all of these benefits. It doesn’t matter how short your stay is, whether it’s a weekend getaway or longer. Being a member of The Club will make your stay even more enjoyable.
I probably won’t have another blog until the New Year so I’d like to wish you all a Happy Holiday! Also before I head off, if you’re thinking of going skiing, I think the snow has arrived so lookout for the superb ski packages on www.slh.com/ski.
I must go now…I’m off sailing for my break. I hope the New Year is a good one for you all.
Paul
The joys of sailing – freedom, tranquillity and variety
I always tell my children, most people like 20% of their job and hate the other 80%. Luckily for me, I am now at a stage where I love it 80% of the time. However, such reward doesn’t come without a lot of hard work and it hasn’t always been plain-sailing.
When I first took over SLH in 1991 there were 75 hotels in the brand, today we stand at 500 hotels in over 75 countries. The growth of the brand has been due to a number of factors: the increase in demand for the small, independent boutique hotel, the advent of low air fares and the unbridled success of the internet as a reference and research source as well as a direct booking channel.
However, most importantly it has been due to a tremendous amount of effort and I still remember the nights toiling away until 3am, smoking cigarette after cigarette and hoping that it would all come together. It has, of course, also been down to the fact that I am lucky enough to have a very talented crew; pardon the pun.
So if you spend your working hours in luxury hotels what do you do for a holiday? You take up sailing! I discovered sailing eight years ago and I find it such a liberating experience. I love to travel, yet I don’t really like schedules or airports. With sailing there are no queues, no delays and no lost baggage and I suppose the only schedule is that determined by gravity, the tide.
For me the enduring appeal of a sailing holiday is that there is something timeless about making a journey by means of just the wind and the sea; the days feel much longer and afford a greater opportunity just to think and to relax which is something hard to find the time for. This is why you’ll never catch me on a gin-palace in Monaco!
Aleenta Resort & Spa Phuket - Thailand On the sunset side of the Andaman Sea
Our last family holiday was to Thailand and we sailed from Phuket to Langkawi stopping off at some of the truly outstanding SLH properties along the way. It was a fantastic experience. We started off at Aleenta Resort and Spa Phuket. It sits on the edge of Pilai Beach, a long stretch of pristine white sand. The sunsets are amazing and the hotel is very tranquil, so perfect for easing you in to “holiday-mode.
The Racha - Thailand - On a small tropical island near Phuket
The next day we set sail for Ko Racha Yai, an island 15 miles south of Phuket, where another SLH hotel, The Racha, is located. The island is popular with divers who come for the spectacular crystal-clear waters, hard coral forests and varied tropical fish. Ko Racha Yai literally means “big king island” and in Paul’s eyes it is definitely “a king of resorts”.
The Racha embodies what the discerning traveller is seeking from a resort today – pristine and chic yet surrounded by natural beauty and operating on ecologically sound principles. And, of course, with a holistic spa and a choice of exciting restaurants.
People want to go somewhere exclusive and private where they can relax. Resorts on islands, which are accessible only from the sea, are the ultimate embodiment of this concept and arriving by yacht makes it seem all the more of a hideaway.
Zeavola - Thailand - Set on the northern tip of the Phi Phi Islands
However, if you yearn to emulate Robinson Crusoe and get away from it all in slightly more traditional surrounds I recommend Zeavola, the only luxury villa resort on Phi Phi Island. Set on the beach it is easily accessible by dinghy.
Although you have to watch the corals, this is an enchanting eco resort with traditionally-styled teakwood villas. For dinner here we ate on the beach underneath the stars and the understated, natural setting made the experience even more magical.
Some of the best moments on this holiday were on the journey getting to the resorts. Simply being able to drop-anchor off an uninhabited island and snorkel or enjoying a deserted island is very special. By taking a yacht even the travelling part of the holiday becomes such an incredible experience. I also think that people today are much more restless and whilst they want to relax at a luxury resort they also want adventure.
So, if you want a varied and luxurious sailing holiday SLH’s award-winning collection of hotels scattered over the islands in the Andaman Sea offer the perfect opportunity; each hotel is unique yet each upholds the international standard of luxury which is the underpinning philosophy of the SLH brand. Meandering between such exquisite properties by yacht is the perfect way to island hop.
The family and I visited:
Aleenta Resort and Spa Phuket
The Racha
Zeavola
Nakamanda Resort & Spa
Pimalai Resort & Spa
Paul
So many luxury beach holidays and so little time…which Small Luxury Hotels of the World property do I choose from?
You’ll be spoilt for choice after reading this post!
For some of us the conversation for your next beach holiday might go….
“Where shall we go for our next holiday?”
“Anywhere, as long as there is a beach….oooh and a spa with great food!”
“I don’t just want to lie on a beach all day, I want to explore, absorb the culture and history.”
“I agree. Well let’s do both!”
We all have different ways of relaxing when we’re on holiday, whether you’re going with a friend, your family, as a couple or just wanting complete time out from everything… some of us will just want to simply laze on the beach and soak up the sun to get our vitamin D intake topped up. Others want amazing beaches, the dreamy scenery and more. We all have a different way of relaxing when we go on holiday.
So you’ve decided a luxury beach holiday is what you are after. What type are you looking for?
Velassaru Maldives for peace and quiet
I want to be left alone….
Right… you don’t want to be disturbed. You just want sun, sea and sand and freshly caught cuisine to eat. Why not head to one of the SLH Hotels in the Indian Ocean? The weather is perfect about now. Velassaru in the Maldives, is a beautifully secluded resort set on a luxurious private coral island surrounded by a beautiful turquoise coloured sea and white powdery beaches. Or maybe you’re thinking of the Caribbean. The Sand Piper in Barbados is a popular choice. This relaxing resort has visitors who return for the winning mix of relax elegance, fantastic food and atmosphere.
I can do the beach for a couple of days but I want to explore….
Greece is a popular choice for people looking for a mixed bag from their beach holiday. Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas could be right up your beach! This modern sanctuary sits within the ancient fortress of Akronafpila, above the historic town of Nafplion, with delightful views of the bay. Try the ultra-chic spa, the wonderful choice of restaurants and bar. It’s also surrounded by three World Heritage sites which are worth exploring.
Altogether on holiday… with friends & family
Group holidays need variety. You’ll have plenty to do at Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort in Mauritius. This hotel faces the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean with the Plaine Champagne Mountains as a stunning backdrop. It’s a perfect for those who love golf, spa, nature and water sport activities.
Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort, Mauritius - Off the beaten track
‘Love is in the air!’ for those looking for a romantic getaway….
If you want to spice up your love life and bring romance into your holiday, then any of these beach escapes would be ideal really! Take your pick! You’ll fall in love with Pacific Resort Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. The view of the lagoon, the tropical gardens, the wonderful local food and island-inspired healing treatments of the spa will just leave you speechless.
Somewhere you may never have thought of going to…
Perhaps Azura Hotel in Mozambique might be a place which you may not have thought of going to? This boutique hotel was hand-built by local people. There are fifteen villas each with their own infinity pool, amazing spa facilities and local cuisine. Built and operated in partnership with the local community, Azura’s initiatives include protecting the endangered dugongs and building the island’s only school.
Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali - Situated on the north-eastern edge of Bali
Or for pure indulgence, set in the dramatic volcanic landscape on Bali’s north-eastern coast, Spa Village Resort Tembok in Indonesia is where your restorative journey begins. This adult-only retreat has no distractions and it’s all about unwinding and relaxing.
We have so many beach escapes we could be writing about. Why not take a look at Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s portfolio….there are some great beach offers.
Do let us know if you have any beach-style SLH Hotels which you recommend? We’d love to hear from you.
There is more to a ski resort than just skiing with Small Luxury Hotels of the World
It’s true…there is more to a ski resort than just skiing. From chic, contemporary lodges to cosy chalets dotted throughout the world’s most renowned ski resorts, there is something to suit everyone, regardless of your skiing ability. Ski and snowboarding enthusiasts will be ducking and diving, searching for the next challenge…whilst some of us are “arm chair” skiers lured by the appeal of the après ski, where we can sit back and relax, enjoy the fresh air and take in the breathtaking views. Rest assured, whether you’re going with a part of a group, couple or flying solo you’re guaranteed to find an amazing Small Luxury Hotels of the World ski resort catering for all.
For those looking for a different ski experience somewhere a bit different you can take your pick. Here are some just to name a few…
Sun Mountain Lodge, China
If you want snow at your door step then Sun Mountain Lodge in China is a fabulous choice. This year-round luxurious resort is set in a spectacular mountainside setting. The Sun Mountains Yabuli is China’s largest ski resort and has recently undergone a complete renovation. Perched high on the summit of Sun Mountain Yabuli Resort, this boutique hotel offers state-of-the art snowmaking, heated high-speed gondolas and chair lifts. Its varied terrain is ideal for first-time skiers and the advanced trails are 3,080m in length with a whopping 804m vertical drop! Yikes! Sun Mountain Lodge is also the ideal place to relax. This all-suite retreat has restaurants, vibrant bars, a superb spa and a heated outdoor pool, so there is always something to do.
Alternatively, why not head to the world’s most southerly ski area in Argentina where you can enjoy and absorb the Latin American culture at Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa? You’ll be overwhelmed by the natural setting in this amazing part of the world. Nearby is the Cerro Castor Ski resort, which is perfectly positioned for skiers to receive the best quality snow. After a hard day’s ski, you can ease the aches and pains with a holistic massage and hot spring bath at their spa followed by magnificent Patagonian cuisine.
Then there are the amazing ski resorts in Europe. You’ll be spoilt for choice in choosing where to go in Europe. The Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa is one of the best in Bulgaria. Situated in the heart of Rila Mountain, at this charming ski-in, ski-out hotel you’ll receive a warm welcome at the piano bar, tuck into a hearty meal and party the night away in their nightclub…and then hit the ski slopes again the next morning if you’ve got the stamina.
Kristiania Lech, Austria - Sit back, relax & enjoy the stunning views
For more daring activities, Blanket Bay in New Zealand offers heliskiing. And if you’re a fan of horse racing, experience the International Races of St Mortiz, known also as White Turf, which take place in February, near The Crystal Hotel in Switzerland. For kings or queens of ski fashion then Kristiania Lech in Austria will have your ski boots customer-made!
The list of things you can get up to at a ski resort is endless. If you’re tempted to splash out and play in the snow this winter, see Small Luxury Hotels of the World ski breaks.
More later
Special Treats from Windsor Arms Hotel….
The Tea Room for traditional afternoon tea
‘I’ll be right back with your chocolate-covered strawberries,’ said the butler. Ten minutes later, there he was, with a small plate of two perfect berries. Every night, guests at the Windsor Arms Hotel are surprised with a different treat at turndown! There are no mints on your pillow here! It’s a wonderful treat whilst you’re curled up in bed, basking in the most delicious aroma that can be smelled throughout the hotel.
Into the candlelit lobby the next night, to our delight we returned to a warm suite with a beautifully decorated plate of biscotti, adorned by a picture of a wine glass, made of chocolate.
It’s not just the special evening treats which makes this small luxury hotel of the world memorable. Windsor Arms Hotel is an ode of neo-Gothic architecture. Set in the heart of Toronto’s cultural centre amongst the city’s oldest buildings, this charming hotel offers spacious suites, elegant dining and superb spa facilities… fit for a King or Queen! How about a dip by the fireside indoor pool? After a hard day of shopping in the hub of Yorkville at the designer boutiques, and pottering around the museums and art galleries, this is a perfect place to unwind, relax and put your feet up!
During your stay you must experience afternoon tea or dine at Prime, a steakhouse that is a popular choice of the locals. Tea at the Windsor Arms has been a complete afternoon of indulgence for guests. There’s a selection of teas from Russian Caravan to Sencha to a delightful range of yummy sandwiches and seductive-handmade pastries… you can even select the tea room that best suits you! Choose from the purple room, swathed with deep purple valances or a more traditional French-style setting. Regardless of what you choose, high tea here will certainly be experience to remember!
There is so much this charming hotel offers and is perfect for both business or pleasure. Have you been to this luxury hotel? Get in touch and let us know.
Classically Italian, Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte
We recently visited the super duper Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte in Italy. This delightful hotel overlooks the beach at Viareggio, a classic Italian seaside resort, pristine water for a dip in the sea. It’s a popular holiday choice amongst Italians…which will certainly add a colourful flavour to your holiday.
A funky corridor with purple light
Principe di Piemonte hotel simply oozes class. Its grand public rooms with high ceilings still give a very informal and friendly atmosphere. Each floor of this magnificent hotel interestingly reflects a different era. Rooms and suites are beautifully decorated in international, Art Deco, Colonial, Empire and modern styles. You can take your pick of different hotel rooms – so if you are a regular visitor you can have a different experience every time!
For food lovers, the breakfast buffet is superb, as is the Michelin star restaurant on the top floor. In summer, the tables actually surround the roof top pool – very romantic and a great view of the town and Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel has very friendly staff and valet car parking. This is also a spa hotel which includes a wellness centre with sauna, massage and aesthetic treatments, Jacuzzi, and waterfall.
Very close to the hotel is the city park which must have one of the best children’s playgrounds in Italy. Viareggio has very easy access to the Tuscan ‘greats’ of Pisa, Lucca, Siena and Florence – all reachable within an hour and a half. So the hotel is a great location for families combining beach and culture. The weather is usually great, being on the same latitude as Monte Carlo.
Delicious gourmet dishes at the Michelin Star Restaurant
If you didn’t want a beach hotel, you could try the equally fabulous Albergo Pietrasanta a few miles away in Pietrasanta, which is a smaller hotel in a charming Tuscan town but minutes to the beach, or indeed the Relais Dell Orologio right in the heart of Pisa. All are part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Overall this is a must-stay hotel if you love beaches and culture in one.
Have you been to Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte?
Share your experiences; we’d love to hear from you!
