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Weekend escape to the seaside at Tintswalo Atlantic.

Arriving at Tintswalo Atlantic is like entering a remote private paradise. The property is nestled on the cliffs of the famous Chapmans Peak Drive in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town.

Upon arrival we were warmly greeted with a glass of bubbly each from Melissa and immediately felt like we had been visiting for years.

The welcoming lounge is beautifully decorated and looks out over the ocean towards Hout Bay.

There are 10 suites in total that are all stylishly decorated and themed around different islands. Our suite was the Robben island suite and was a magnificent room, decorated in browns, greens and paying tribute to Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president in South Africa. The bathroom was my absolute favorite part about the suite; The colours, décor and large open windows create a beautiful and intimate setting.  Our suite had a beautiful fireplace which was lovely to come back to in the evenings after dinner and enjoy a glass of merlot. The suites are literally right on the ocean, the crashing waves lull you to sleep and waking up with a cup of coffee on your private deck is an absolute Treat.

Breakfast is served on the main deck in the mornings. A large cappuccino and diverse breakfast is the perfect way to start the day, not forgetting the breathtaking views. The hotel staff were so helpful in letting us know of activities available in the area. We booked ourselves a full body massage and  within the privacy of your suite, with the sound of the waves and the skilled therapists, you will feel definitely like a new person afterwards.

The 5-course dinner at Tintswalo was simply superb. The food was creative, well presented and absolutely delicious. With the sun setting over the ocean, fantastic wine and great service, it is an absolute must!

Overall, I can sum up our visit to Tintswalo Atlantic as magical. It truly is the hidden gem of Cape Town. With the location, intimate setting, fine food and the ocean, it is the perfect place to just unwind and take a break from it all. Melissa and Ryno the General Managers were also fantastic hosts and really make you feel like part of the family. You really do feel sad having to say goodbye.

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If your goal is to relax and to just enjoy the beauty around you, Tinstwalo Atlantic is the spot.

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt-World Luxury Hotel Awards Executive manager

To view or book this property please follow the link here

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These 10 Design hotels are a feast for your eyes…

The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel

This state of the art historical design hotel has everything you need. Offering 126 rooms with 10 categories starting from Premium and Superior room types up to imperial and Presidential residences. All the rooms are decorated in exquisite styles replicating the imperial chambers of the Winter palace. Only natural materials are used for the decoration of the guest rooms like natural wood, different sorts of Greek and Italian marble, silk wallpapers and hand crafted plaster gilded with gold.

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Art and culture meet at the Ovolo Woolloomooloo. Located in Sydney, Australia this hotel is bold, innovative and community minded. Creating a design centric, social space where like minded individuals can enjoy everything from accommodation to co-working. The unique and intriguing design features of Ovolo Woolloomooloo effortlessly combine heritage with modern luxury, breathing a new lease of life into this historic Wharf in an absolutely stunning location over the picturesque Sydney Harbour.

Sarai Resort and Spa

Situated in the exotic city of Siem Reap, Sarai Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique, Moroccan-inspired design resort. Sarai has been designed to be a destination where travelers from East and West come to pleasantly discover superior services, beautiful and comfortable rooms, great food, exquisite spa, and a tranquil swimming pool. Its rural atmosphere makes Siem Reap the perfect destination for your vacation. Take a break from the demands of every-day life; take a breath, relax, look up to the stars and take a moment to just gaze at their gentle beauty.

Hotel VIC on the Harbour

Hotel VIC on the Harbour has been built to the most exacting standards through the combined star power of renowned award-winners Rocco Design Architects Ltd as project architect and Hirsch Bedner Associates as guestroom interior designer.

Conservatorium Hotel

This hotel is a Architecture design hotel based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Located in the Museum Square district, the true heart of the city, the Conservatorium is an architectural masterpiece that combines a landmark heritage building with graceful, contemporary design.

The Salil Hotel Sukhumvit 57 – Thonglor

A “Concept Living Space” representing a tranquil heavenly luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok.The hotel boasts the most original and soulful luxury destination in Thong Lor, where business and chic living style are intertwined. All guest rooms are designed with a contemporary interpretation of the East meets West cultures through the pattern of wallpapers.

Alentejo Marmoris Hotel & Spa

At the heart of Alentejo, 180 km east from Lisbon and located in the historical town “Vila Viçosa”, the Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa presents itself as the most luxurious new hotel of Portugal. This hotel is unique and distinctive – a real museum dedicated to marble.

The Torch Doha

At 300m high and with 360° panoramic views across Doha, THE TORCH is the centerpiece of Doha’s vibrant Sports City – Aspire Zone. This iconic 5-Star hotel features 51 floors, a revolving restaurant on the 47th floor and a cantilevered swimming pool anchored to the 19th floor. All rooms feature a mood-lighting system with 12 different colours, a unique iPad in-Room Solution and LED TVs.

Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal

A striking design hotel in Luxembourg’s historic center Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal gazes magnificently over the picturesque Alzette and Pétrusse valleys and Luxembourgs UNESCO Old Town. A grand modern glass structure of dramatic lines and curves, this 5-star hotel in Luxembourg is a landmark amid a tapestry of cultural historical and natural sites.

Hotel Éclat Beijing

This 5 star hotel is a stunning landmark on the Beijing skyline, standing impressively in the heart of the city’s downtown Central Business District – a perfect location for both business and leisure travelers. A focal point of the award-winning Parkview Green, the luxury boutique Hotel Éclat Beijing offers the rare opportunity to experience museum quality art while enjoying stylish accommodation, outstanding cuisine, intuitive yet non-intrusive guest services and a spectacular Mall within its unique architectural design.

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Prana Lodge An absolute stunner!

Prana Lodge is a unique small luxury beach lodge and wellness spa situated in a pristine forest alongside the spectacular Chintsa Bay, within minutes of rolling savannah and private game viewing.

My Husband and I had the pleasure of spending two nights at Prana Lodge in Chintsa. We were greeted by two staff members standing waiting for us to arrive. Once we stopped our vehicle they introduced themselves and took our car to park it as well as our luggage to put in our rooms. We were then welcomed with a  delicious refreshing drink.

We then went to the sauna, steamer, jacuzzi and then went to have a full body massage! It was amazing! Quiet and tranquil. It was so incredible that even my husband even fell asleep half way through.

They have 7 different suites. Ours was called the Citrine Suite. Each Suite is named after a different gem stone and they have the colour elements in the suite. Ours had yellow elements in the room. It was defiantly striking. Each suite has their own pool, and I absolutely loved relaxing outside there. The outside shower was exquisite as well.

Now for the food, one word… SUPERB! We were served a three course meal every night and had two options for the main dish. They decorated the plate beautifully, and served just enough to be able to get through the three course meal without feeling to full.

I have been telling people that this is a place they have to visit! Especially if you are needing a get away from your busy life and are needing time to relax and get your thoughts together. I cannot think of one thing to complain about! The staff always had smiles on their faces and were always eager to help when necessary. I would come back in a heartbeat.

Reviewed By L’toya and Neville Da Silva – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representatives

To view more about this property go to www.pranalodge.co.za

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13 Hotels you must see in 2018!

Be Grand Resort, Bohol -Philippines

BE Grand Resort in Bohol is strategically tucked away on the exclusive oasis of the blue waters of Panglao Island. Boasting diverse dining options, a blissfully wonderful spa experience, and within minutes from bountiful underwater paradise, step into a luxurious resort hideaway to reset, refocus, and relax.

InterContinental Hua Hin Resort- Thailand

InterContinental® Hua Hin Resort lends to Thailand’s premier seaside community with unrivaled style, sophistication and comfort. Combining Eastern and Western design heritage, the low-rise beach-front destination spans a prime stretch of white sandy beaches alongside sparkling gulf waters – a truly alluring setting.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa- Kuwait

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait, is ideally located in the secluded area of Messilah situated along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, with easy access to Kuwait’s Central Business District, airport and major attractions.

Pondoro Game Lodge- South Africa

At Pondoro situated on the banks of the Olifants River in the exclusive Balule Private Reserve inside Greater Kruger National Park, you will discover the true way to experience the African Bush.

Hotel VIC on the Harbour- Hong Kong

Hotel VIC boasts panoramic views of the harbour. Located in the newly-fashionable district of North Point on Hong Kong Island, Hotel VIC boasts panoramic views of the harbour, and is steps away from an MTR station, ferry pier, and other public transport.

Hotel Le Bonne Entente- Canada

Le Bonne Entente Hotel has redefined the traditional luxury hotel market. In addition to it’s 160 rooms & suites, the hotel encompasses 11 acres of outstanding landscape surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Health and Beauty centre is located right by the beautiful outdoor pool and spa. The hotel also offers a luxury Shuttle service and exclusive access at the renowned Golf La Tempête.

Constance Ephelia Seychelles

Constance Ephélia Seychelles is a family-friendly resort with adapted accommodations. Besides the usual sport facilities, it proposes adventure activities and the Kids Club has themed programs run by the dedicated staff. Foodies will appreciate the wonderful diversity of cuisine at its five restaurants, each with its own culinary concept.

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana – Kazakhstan 

With a prime perch in the city’s gleaming Talan Towers, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana is one of the first luxury hotels in the capital of Kazakhstan. A welcoming retreat of exotic marble and elegant wood, the hotel features accommodations with spectacular views of the city’s modern skyline.

Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri -Spain

A leader in wellness, Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri Spa & Resort is located in Cadiz’s coastal paradise, along the spectacular La Barrosa. Its original and modern design with more than 35,000 m2 of gardens will make you feel like you are in a tropical destination without ever having to leave Spain.

Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort- Tanzania

Step into a world of luxury with unprecedented accommodations and service, a la carte all inclusive fine dining concept with respect to individual wishes, oceanfront swimming pool and our exclusive Inaya Spa.

Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & SPA -Morocco

This luxury 5-star resort and hotel in Essaouira, Morocco, evokes peace and calm in an oasis of French hospitality.
The sleek new Essaouira hotel in the heart of the Mogador resort overlooks the Atlantic ocean and Mogador golf course designed by Gary Player.Elegant décor by Didier Gomez blends contemporary French design with authentic Moroccan details like mashrabiya windows.

Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel-Egypt

Located in the centre of Hurghada`s touristic complex on the Red Sea in Egypt. Peace and privacy pervade this exclusive, 5-star deluxe beach hotel, located directly on the azure blue Red Sea shore. Let your mind rest in the green of landscaped gardens, the aqua-marine of the Red Sea, and the reds of the dramatic mountain ranges in the background.

Nermo Hotell- Norway

The Nermo Hotel, part of the Historic Hotels of Norway, is a family owned hotel situated 1,5km above the valley river with beautiful views, and 10 minutes north of the Olympic city of Lillehammer.

 

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Kolbe Hotel Rome; an enchanting experience from the city of Rome.

The city of Rome, Italy is an enchanting experience. Rome is a vibrant and decadent destination. It is filled with passionate Italian locals and rich history. Rome has played an important role as a political and religious capital during centuries of human civilization and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Walking amongst the historic ruins of the Roman Forum is an experience that will leave you with goosebumps, not to mention a tour of the Colosseum where one can imagine gladiators having a brutal battle.

What made my Roman tourist experience truly special was the fact that our hotel was located right in the middle of all the important historic sites. Just a brief walk from Kolbe Hotel Rome brings you to the centre of it all.

“Surrounded by the magnificence of ancient Rome, only a few steps from the Circus Maximus and the Imperial Roman Forum, the building is located in an evocative and prestigious area right in the heart of the city.”

Kolbe Hotel Rome is a blend of modern and ancient décor; the furniture and finishing are modern and comfortable, yet the hallways are decorated with examples of ancient Roman clothing which is fascinating and really gives you an idea of what was worn back in the day

       

Upon entering the lobby guests are met with extremely friendly staff welcoming you to the hotel. The lobby leads into a contemporary bar lounge as well as the Garden Restaurant – Al Palatino. Guests can choose to sit inside or outside to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. The garden outside is breathtaking.

“Keeping Mediterranean traditions alive, the courtyard reflects calmness, tranquility and peace. Guests can drink, dine or simply relax in this private sanctuary that is unique in all of Rome.”

The Kolbe Hotel Rome offers a variety of rooms. This includes double rooms, deluxe suites as well as family rooms. Rooms are generally decorated with maroon and light pastel colors and guests can enjoy bathroom amenities from Roberto Cavalli. One of the great features of the rooms are the big windows which open with a view of the surrounding area.

The hotel also offers great meeting and function facilities. During my stay at the Kolbe Hotel Rome, the hotel hosted a large corporate group with ease and professionalism.

Breakfast is served as an informal affair and leaves guests to help themselves to coffee and snacks from the buffet. This provides a relaxed environment for families or businessmen that want to grab a quick snack before heading to the next meeting.

Overall it was a wonderful stay that provided me quick access to the best that Rome has to offer.

Reviewed By Michelle Snyman

Brand Manager World Luxury Awards

To see more of this hotel click here

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Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre – Service Excellence Personified…

The first word I would like to use to describe this hotel, is surprising. And it’s not that the hotel doesn’t look great online, it’s why I chose it, but the pictures simply do not do it justice in comparison to what you actually experience when you enter the lobby, glistening with lighting and marble yet soft to the eye, immediately giving you a welcoming and warm feeling.

I arrived late in Dubai, and as such only reached the hotel at midnight. This didn’t stop the service from bustling to my attention; “Good evening Mrs. Evans and welcome, allow me to show you straight to your room.” Wow, no check-in, known by name, staff rushing around me to open elevators and take my bags. I’m already very impressed, and this was only the beginning

Junior Suite

I was treated to a Junior Suite on the 11th floor during my stay here, and apart from the fact that the view of Dubai is majestic from that high, the room itself was incredible. Large and spacious, one of the best beds and pillows I have ever had the pleasure of sleeping on during my travels, two televisions, a comfortable lounge and a generous bathroom filled with every amenity you would require.

View from my suite on the 11th floor

During my stay I was able to enjoy the bar on the 1st floor which has an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Every time you take a seat you are served some pub style snacks like popcorn, nuts and olives, and you can leisurely enjoy your drink while watching either sport, playing a game of pool or simply listening to the music. On Friday nights, Medley Restaurant holds what is known as the Art of Spice. An Indian cuisine delight created proudly by celebrity Chef Sweety Singh. Rows of serving pots line the buffet and you can sample as many as you want or can handle. I had a special dietary requirement yet this was no issue. Two delectable curries arrived at my table, served with fresh naan bread and all the sides required to make this a true Indian feast. I can see why the General Manager personally recommends this experience, as I will not soon forget it.

Soma Spa was by far the most relaxing experience on my journey. If you can, get a lady by the name of Chon to get her hands on you, I can guarantee you this will be worth every penny as her healing hands find every knot and aching spot on your body. The spa itself is beautifully laid out, tranquil and relaxing. The change rooms hold the sauna and steam room for use before your treatment, and after being sent into seventh heaven you are seated quietly to some ginger tea while you let the experience run over in your mind, relaxing you even further before returning to your day.

Soma Spa

All in all, a hotel is not only made up of walls and glitz and glamour. The true heart of a hotel, and what makes your stay memorable, is the hospitality of the staff that surround you. This hotel has it all. The glam, the rooms, the food, the spa, yet what stood out to me the most during my time here, was the staff. I have always said hospitality is a special sort of kindness, and it is something that you either have or don’t, it cannot be taught. Not a single member of their team made me feel that they were there because they had to be; they wanted to be. Their service excellence echoes through every corridor, radiates out of every meal served, in every passing greeting, in every room service delivered. And this single point alone is what made this one of the best and most enjoyable hotels I have had the pleasure of visiting.

This hotel will suit every travel requirement, so when passing through Dubai and looking for accommodation for one or seven nights, you will not be disappointed to make this your selection.

Book or view this hotel by clicking here

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

World Luxury Awards Marketing Communications Manager

 

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Paris InterContinental Le Grand, a spectacular stay in the city of love and light…

This superbly renovated luxury hotel is at the heart of Parisian society. Opened in 1862, it defines historical grandeur, from Café de la Paix to La Verriere Restaurant, set in an 800 square metre winter garden.

Arriving at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand , I was taken aback by the sheer magnificence of the Hotel. It is an absolute jewel in the city of Light.

Fresh fruit and champagne in our room on arrival.

After a quick check in we were shown to our room where a bottle of champagne and fresh fruit awaited us. Our elegantly designed room overlooked the Paris Opera museum and I certainly spent some time simply enjoying the views over Paris. I love how the historic detail is still apparent in all the décor.

Our elegantly designed room

Breakfast at Café de la Paix was a phenomenal experience. The buffet breakfast was the largest I have ever experienced and sitting in the café with my fresh chocolate croissant I really did feel like a Parisian.

Cafe De Le Paix

Although I was only there for one evening, the service from every staff member from beginning to end was impeccable and I truly enjoyed my stay at this magnificent hotel.

Winter indoor garden.

I hope to return one day soon for a longer visit at this jewel of a hotel.

To view more click here

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards

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The Chedi Andermatt – A Dream Come True Destination

Andermatt is a village in the Ursern Valley in the Swiss Alps; nestled in the heart of this quaint, snowy wonderland is The Chedi Andermatt, a ski hotel quite unmatched in its beauty and winter charm. The Chedi Andermatt will captivate and move you.

We were afforded the luxury of being accommodated in the two-bedroom Grand Deluxe Suite at this property and although we are sure every room at this hotel is phenomenal, this particular suite was breathtaking. Walking in to a more than spacious lounge, an electric fireplace blazing like it’s been waiting to welcome you all day, a well equipped kitchen and an 10-seater dining room table; you feel like you are right at home. A very luxurious home!

The bedrooms are sublime. Massive open spaces with balconies overlooking the snowy town below, beds and pillows that kiss you goodnight each time you enter their soft haven, and bathrooms so large and spacious, you feel as though you are royalty living in a palace.

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Dining at the hotel was superb. There are four outstanding restaurants and bars to choose from which boast a menu range enough to suit anyone’s requirements. The staff are friendly, polite and very dedicated to providing top quality, international standards of service throughout your stay. A particular highlight in The Restaurant is The Wine and Cheese Cellar: at five meters high it attracts cheese connoisseurs who marvel at its delights through the glass walls.

One of my most favourite places to visit in any hotel is the spa, and The Chedi Andermatt lives up to and surpasses the standards of luxury. I took some time out especially to enjoy the 35 meter indoor pool, and this was topped by the 12 meter outdoor pool, filled with blissfully hot water to swim around in while the snow pours down your head as you take in the beautiful Alpine surroundings.

If you feel like skiing, you will receive your own personal Ski Butler, a feature we have yet to see in any other hotel we have visited. He will take care of your every need from getting up the mountain, renting your equipment and ensuring you have an international ski instructor available to show you the ropes. Another favourite feature was that The Chedi Andermatt has its own ice skating rink for when you feel like lazily skating around a rink in the snow surrounded by the resort and mountain views.

All in all, The Chedi Andermatt is probably the most unique, stylish and luxurious hotel I have ever had the privilege of staying in. The staff are above the quality of what one could hope for, and no doubt in my mind that whatever your reason for travelling to this destination may be, you will feel relaxed, pampered and ready for anything by check out.

Reviewed By Joanna Evans

To book this breathtaking Hotel follow the details below.

website – click here

email- info@chediandermatt.com

 

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Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel

Travelling to the city of Venice in Italy is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I suggest taking a private water taxi from the airport and entering the hotel via the water canals with style.  If you are lucky enough to enter Venice just before sunset, the experience will be even more romantic. Imagine sailing into a city filled with beautiful historic buildings, arched staircases and the suns’ reflection on the water streets. The water taxi takes you directly to the hotel entrance and kicks off your love affair with the city of Venice forever.

Arriving at Hotel Papadopoli Venezia – MGallery by Sofitel is an exciting experience. Once you enter the lobby of the hotel the glamour and elegance of this intimate boutique hotel is overwhelming. Close to the reception desk is a display case fill with shoes and handbags decorated with Swarovski crystals. The lounge is decorated with vintage furniture that includes throne chairs, carved giltwood tables and mirror frames, 18th century Italian style sofas as well as breathtaking chandeliers that provide just enough light to feel cozy and relaxed.

 

 

The stairway to the GIARDINO D’INVERNO (Winter Garden) restaurant is framed by two fashion mannequins, each dressed in a ball gown skirt and colorful ladies jacket. One soon discovers that the skirts actually consist of a tree and flower decoration. The beautiful artistry of this hotel is mesmerizing and the use of pastel colors is calming and poetic. Once you reach the Winter Garden one is transported to a scene from the magical Shakespearean play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

The hotel has 96 rooms and suites that are finished with furnishings reflecting the elegance and splendor of the 18th century, and views of the Tolentini Canal and Papadopoli Gardens. Each of the rooms are themed and I was fortunate to be accommodated in the Marco Polo room.

One of the special qualities of Hotel Papadopoli Venezia is the spectacular view the rooms provide.  I would suggest starting your day with breakfast on your balcony and a wonderful view of the city rooftops.

The location of the hotel is great and within walking distance of most of the tourist attractions. It is a real treat to explore the busy allies of Venice and stumble upon unique gift shops and restaurants. If you have a lot of luggage the hotel will organize you a city porter in no time to assist you with the heavy load.

Overall, I can recommend Hotel Papadopoli Venezia to any traveller visiting Venice. Personally, the comfortable stay and attentive service contributed to a wonderful experience and many cherished memories.

Hotel Reviewed by Michelle Snyman – Brand Manager of World Luxury Hotel Awards.

To view this hotel click here

To phone +39 041 710400

 

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Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage

Situated in the heart of medieval Brugges, rich in history and gastronomy, Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, is the exquisite setting for your romantic getaways and for all your special celebrations in life.

Photo with Nagi, one of the amazing employees at Hotel Heritage.

Upon arrival at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, we were warmly welcomed and checked in by Jessie who showed us to our room. Our room was absolutely stunning and elegantly decorated with exquisite attention to detail. The hand written welcome note from Johan and Isabelle really made us feel welcomed.

Our beautifully decorated room.

The Hotel’s location is in the heart of Brugges, close to the market square and the city’s many canals, this is ideal for sightseeing, museums, chocolate shops and theatres.

Exploring the market and canals.

Each morning we had a full buffet champagne breakfast, which was served in their beautiful dining area. The food was absolutely divine and local Belgian waffles were definitely a highlight.

We were personally greeted by owners Johan and Isabella and had lovely chats with them. All the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive and provided the highest level of service.

A glass of red wine and snacks at Bar le Magnum in such a beautiful setting truly relax’s you before dinner at Le Mystique Restaurant. This was without a doubt the best 5 course meal I have ever experienced. Chef Gregory Slembrouck is a true master in the kitchen and this is one meal I will never forget. Only the finest seasonal ingredients are used and combined with World class flavours to create these wonderful gourmet delights.

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Johan and Isabelle are true visonaries in creating the perfect boutique hotel.
Rich in history, charming and absolutely magnificent would be the best way to describe my stay at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage. I do hope to return one day in the near future.

To view more click here

To send a booking inquiry – info@hotel-heritage.com

Reviewed By Tanique Echardt- Executive Manager World Luxury Hotel Awards