What’s your ultimate holiday? Unearthing treasures in a quirky, off-the-map market? Sampling from local wine lists and learning new foodie secrets?
Perhaps you prefer diving into local culture, scouring museums, attending festivals or tackling challenging new fairways?
Fortunately, Europe is the holy grail for all these pursuits. Our endless gastronomic experiences, unique shopping finds, art, music and pleasure will last a lifetime. Here are a few of our favourite spots for your spring holidays – and the beautiful historic hotels in which to base yourself for your adventures.
For art lovers: Schwarzenberg, Switzerland
Gasthof Hirschen
If you’ve a penchant for unique culture and world-famous art, head to Zürich.
The Kunsthaus Zürich houses one of the most important art collections in Switzerland, spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary age. Artists to be found in the gallery are astonishing: Claude Monet, Edvard Munch, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh to name a few.
Gasthof Hirschen is only 30 minutes from downtown Zürich. The 16th century hotel was renovated between 2003 and 2007 and now offers seven preciously decorated rooms and suites, conjuring the charm and beauty of yesteryear.
Relax after a long day art-hunting with a meal in the exclusive gourmet restaurant or, for less formal dining, in the vivid bistro.
For foodies: Llanarmon, Wales
The Hand at Llanarmon
Passionate foodie? Want to do Wales in style? Go to The Hand at Llanarmon. The ancient hostelry, set deep in magnificent Ceiriog Valley, has taken the weight of the world from weary travellers for centuries.
All the classic attributes are there – old beams, roaring fireplaces, rich wood furniture, real ale and exceptionally good food. The latter is award-winning: delicious country fare that takes full advantage of the finest seasonal local produce, with a metropolitan twist.
Country lovers will take great pleasure in exploring the surroundings. You can walk in the Berwyns for hours with only the sheep for company and staff at The Hand are happy to arrange many outdoor pursuits, including horse riding, fishing and shooting.
