Life.  One day, you’re wrestling fistfuls of Spaghetti Bolognese from the hands of a ‘terrible twos’ toddler and in what seems like a blink of an eye, said toddler is halfway through university, living independently and hopefully, now using a fork.

I promised myself that once I’d got my son through school and off to university (which I did as a single mother), I would spend as much time as possible travelling and immersing myself in the world.  So, on a recent trip to Ibiza, rather than coming back home, I went somewhere else.

A 45-minute plane hop from the White Island took me to Valencia, one of Spain’s most vibrant cities, one which is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Barcelona and Madrid.

Recently voted as the best coastal destination in Europe, Spain’s third largest city which enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year sits on the east coast of Spain, surrounded by 77 miles of beach.

As far as cities by the sea go, this 2000-year-old Valencia has the blend of everything you would want from a short break away; beaches, attractions, history, heritage, culture and as it turns out, an extraordinary food and drink scene, with no fewer than 22 Michelin-starred restaurants spread across the region.

In most of the cities I’ve visited for the first time, I’ll do the tourist thing, but on this occasion, probably thanks to my four days of blissful decompression at Ibiza’s A-lister, bohemian retreat, Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel, my inner compass was telling me to explore both avenues and alleyways to discover the city’s hidden gems. 

Staying at the chic, boutique hotel, Hospes Palau de La Mar (the former nobleman’s mansion had views of the sea before the city was developed), I was perfectly placed to explore the must visit attractions and wander a little off the beaten track.

First on my list was Mercat Central, the largest fresh produce market in Europe and one of the most emblematic examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the city, with its wrought iron, brightly coloured ceramic tiles and ornate stained-glass windows.

Brimming with Mediterranean life, the market has more than 1500 stalls with fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, spices, nuts, cheese and meats.  Watch out for those live eels… A top market eatery and must visit is Central Bar, with its tapas, local dishes and gourmet sandwiches by local superchef, Ricard Camarena, whose restaurant was named 96 in the World’s Best Restaurants 2023.

I leave one market and head for another, Mercado de Colón, another jaw dropping example of Art Nouveau architecture with its brick façade, interior glass walls and finely crafted mosaic features.

I’m here to visit Horchatería Daniel, one of the most iconic places in the city to drink horchata, a cool milky drink made from tiger nut and one of the region’s most famous specialities.

Horchatería Daniel have been making natural artisan horchata and the accompanying sponge fingers since 1949; the café has welcomed the most famous celebrities of every era, from Salvador Dali to the Valencia FC football stars of today.

Valencia was awarded the accolade of World Design Capital in 2022 for its outstanding architecture and the design of its public buildings and infrastructure. Design and personality oozes through the ancient city’s streets with its ornate, historic buildings and contrasting bold, futuristic structures. It’s a city with one foot in the past and one foot firmly in the future.

I spend hours wandering through the old town’s maze-like streets, immersed in an architectural blend of Roman, Moorish, Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau buildings.

I stumble upon the Museum of Ceramics, said to be the jewel in Valencia’s architectural crown and marvel at this seventeenth-century palace’s imposing Rococo alabaster entrance. One of the most photographed sights in the city, it’s home to 5,000 exhibits dating from prehistoric, Greek and Roman times as well as contemporary pieces, including works by Picasso.

Valencia has a vision of making life better for residents through green initiatives and Turia Gardens is just one example of that and Valencia’s ingenuity. A nine-kilometre green oasis and one of the biggest urban parks in Spain, winding its way through the city. Turia Gardens was created after a tragic flood in 1957 which saw almost three quarters of the city under water. The following year, planners, landscapers and architects diverted the river around its western outskirts towards the Mediterranean and transformed the riverbed into a leisure area and a favourite spot in the city to go running, cycling and enjoy events and attractions.

I wander through the gardens, en-route to an intriguing casual eatery, Kiosko La Pérgola, which has been serving a special kind of sandwich for more than 30 years; so much so, it’s now viewed as a Valencian Institution. 

According to one of Spain’s top chefs, Vicky Sevilla, they serve the best lunch in Valencia.  That’s good enough for me.  It’s not quite lunch though, it’s almuerzo, a traditional bite in Spain taken somewhere between breakfast and lunch, but never referred to as brunch… Having clocked up many thousands of steps, I’m ready for my midday bocadillo.

The queue I spot in the distance, which snakes round the early 20^th century kiosk and restaurant, is an early indicator that this is going to be every good as bit as the word on the street.

The Super Bombón is their signature sandwich; a Spanish baguette which nods to a Portuguese Roll, served with pork loin, cheese, garlic, sautéed mushrooms, mayonnaise, salsa verde and chips.  Yes, all in the sandwich.  I go for the Pucho – chicken, cheese, tomato, mayonnaise, served with a topping of chips.  If anyone wants to open a bocadillo café in Scotland, I can guarantee that a filled baguette and chip combo is everything we didn’t know we needed.  It’s sandwich heaven on earth.

Determined to clock up some more steps (after that lunch…), I head to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex, designed by world renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and one of many examples of Valencia’s commitment to innovation and culture; it’s a true symbol of Valencia’s modernity, progressive spirit and quiet confidence.

The campus is home to the majestic, 14 storey Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía which has four venues for opera, theatre, music and ballet; Oceanogràfic, Europe’s biggest aquarium with 500 different species, Hemisfèric, a digital 3D cinema and the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, with its interactive science exhibitions and refreshing philosophy of ‘Not touching is prohibited’!

With a few more steps left in me, I head to Café Madrid, once the focal point of Valencia’s bohemian, artistic and literary life and birthplace of the legendary Agua de Valencia.

The cocktail which comprises fresh orange juice, cava and a generous splash of gin and vodka over ice was invented at the cafe in 1959. With its mix of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, Café Madrid is a deliciously decadent step back in time and a must visit for cocktail lovers – the perfect place for a preprandial.

Dinner is at Bar Ricardo, a third-generation tapas bar which has been around since 1947. A modest looking, no-frills restaurant located in a residential neighbourhood, its clearly one of Valencia’s best kept secrets.

Tables are all booked, there’s space to eat at the bar but within ten minutes, it’s full of diners and the place is abuzz with locals enjoying food, wine and lively conversation. I go for the patatas bravas which are tipped to be the best in town followed by the other worldly Tarta de Queso.

Two days is enough to get a good feel for a city but not quite enough to explore all of Valencia’s hidden and more obvious gems.  I felt a real sense of connection to the city in my short time there; enough to feel comfortable, at ease, stimulated and rewarded.  It’s also very relaxed, upbeat and friendly so it’s somewhere I’d choose to visit again, and probably again.

A true travel gem, uncovered.

Where to go on honeymoon after a dreamy elopement surrounded by the romance and renaissance of a 16th century Medici villa in Florence? A honeymoon for… six.

A ‘familymoon’. Hmmm. Where in the world..?

Then I remembered ‘the sign’.

Ibiza is the answer – who cares what the question is?

I’m guessing the Ibiza Airport sign writer hadn’t ever considered the question would be ‘Where should these middle-aged newlyweds take four teenagers to celebrate their blended familyness?’

‘Why don’t we all go to Ibiza? There’s everything to make everyone happy and we can sneak off to Pikes for a party”, said I. My husband agreed enthusiastically. Maybe a little too quickly.

Our first taste of Ibiza hit us as we boarded the plane, Ibiza of course being the answer to many other questions such as ‘Where can I go to party non-stop for a week?’. Judging by the demeanour of 80% of our flight companions, that will be the question they asked themselves and found Ibiza to be the answer.

The White Isle is of course known for its dusk till dawn hazy hedonism but in recent years, the original spirit, soul and bohemian character of the island has drawn a new (or indeed, slightly older) visitor in search of a quiet, restful and distinctly more grown-up experience.

We’re there for that, and whatever fun gems we unearth as a new family of six. The upside of having teenagers is that you can go on holiday with them and get away with becoming one of them, as we found out pretty quickly.

We left our travel companions in various states of ‘tired and emotional’ at Ibiza airport and headed to our resort, The Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa, a sprawling five-star resort on the beachfront of Playa d’en Bossa, just 10 minutes away.

The largest all-inclusive resort on the island, the hotel is a cluster of Mediterranean style buildings, situated around a large freshwater lagoon pool which buzzes with energy and comings and goings; perfect for people watching, equally ideal for siesta snoozes under the palm trees, drifting off to the poolside beats.

The hotel has recently been renovated with minimalist, fresh décor which creates the impression of added space and an air of relaxation. The vibe is a mixture of free and floaty with little pockets of fun.

Fancy a bolder buzz? Trip trap over the connecting bridge and you’ve arrived at the Grand Palladium Palace hotel next door with its two large pools, waterslides, pool games, tennis courts, big beats and sports bars. Livelier, with a more energetic vibe.

Guess where we’re headed five minutes after arrival…

I swap my usual arrival Prosecco for a blue slushie. With vodka. If you can’t beat the kids join them.

The Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa is at the far end of Playa d’en Bossa beach, perfectly placed for beach and beach club access and just a 10-minute wander from the superclubs such as Ushuaïa and HÏ Ibiza, which I didn’t think would be particularly relevant for our stay. Wrong…

Behind the hotel you’ll find the salt flats of Ses Salines natural park; historically, Ibiza was nicknamed ‘the island of salt’. More than 210 species of birds live in the park – go flamingo watching, you’ll find them wading here towards the end of the summer. Beautiful at sunset.

There are seven restaurants, including two buffet restaurants, four a à la carte and seven bars; more than enough to cater for the whims and fancies of our teens. Being all inclusive means that they can feed when they want, where they want and eat whatever they want which quite frankly means more poolside lounging and freedom for my husband and me.

Must visits are La Dona for à la carte Mexican gastronomy in a stylish outdoor terrace, Il Palazzo for a delicious al fresco dinner of Italian classics and Portofino on the beach front for Mediterranean cuisine.

There’s an extensive activities programme all day and pretty much all night for all ages; football, archery, darts, ping-pong, pool games, Padel tennis, tennis and paddle surfing. The Mini Club has a huge range of activities for little ones and the Junior Club gives teenagers an added escape with a full activities programme, interactive zone and they can have DJ lessons and become as cool as they really think they are.

The resort’s Zentropia Spa is a daily reviver for me. It has a tranquil sunny outdoor area, large, warm water dynamic swimming-pool, sensation showers, a Turkish massage area and loungers for soaking up the rays under the swaying palms. Head indoors to the wellness zone with special cabins for relaxation and thermal treatments. Brave the cold and immerse yourself in the plunge pool for the ultimate ‘sharpener’.

Our daily pattern of activity consists of breakfast with whatever children choose to join us and basing ourselves at the pool for the day; everyone has freedom to come and go, chat, eat, zone out, go to their rooms and do whatever makes them happy. An early evening visit to the beach becomes a family ritual and we soak up the beach club sounds in the sea as the day gives way to apricot skies and the ‘magic in the air’ spellbinding vibe which is so unique to the island.

Most nights are spent with the kids, however we have a ‘green pass’ for one night only as I’ve got us on the guest list to see The Avalanches at Pike’s, an iconic rock n’ roll institution and home to 30 years of hedonism, including that party to celebrate Freddie Mercury’s 41st birthday (Google it…) and of course, the pool in the Club Tropicana video.

‘Freddie’s’ is where we’re spending the night, an intimate party space which was transformed from the original suite where Freddie Mercury spent many months each year, recording and escaping from the public eye. His bed is still there, a place for louche lounging and moments of escape from the heat of the dance floor. Pike’s is a ‘if the walls could talk’ kind of place… History and hedonistic heritage ooze out of every secret nook and cranny. It’s a nighttime wonderland of fairy lit twist and turning pathways, neon signs, captivating art, Balearic beats, happy people and decadently grown up party vibes.

We return to our hotel, just in time to take the kids for breakfast. A ‘sunglasses indoors’ kind of morning…

My husband and I float through the day with our dreamy memories of the disco ball and get ready to do it all again, this time at nearby super-club Hi! Ibiza, formerly Space nightclub, a mecca of electronic music for 27 years, a 10 minute walk from our hotel.

I’ve promised my son a night at Future Rave with David Guetta, which I begin to regret somewhere around about 10pm when getting ready to go out, rather than to go to bed. My faith in the dance floor is however restored, somewhere around 3am when I see his face lit up by lasers and the energy of 3000 clubbers, delighting in the digital sounds.

Our final big experience happens off the dance floor. We’ve chartered a boat from Boats Ibiza for swimming, snorkelling and sunset seeking. Our captain, Dan, skippers us out to sea and round the coastline from Ibiza Town where we drop anchor and immerse our happy souls in the turquoise waters of Cala Roja bay before losing ourselves in the spiritual spectacle of an Ibizan sunset at sea.

Every party must come to an end and as we head to the airport I remind myself that the goal of every holiday is to leave feeling better than when you arrived. As I looked at our four kids, headphones on, hoodies of their new Usuhai and Hi! Ibiza hoodies up (airport purchase), freckled and zoned out, I thought to myself, ‘Ibiza really is the answer’.

Six new experiences, one happy family, tired feet and heads, sunshine filled hearts.

Looking for a quick escape to recharge, recalibrate, restore and return renewed?

Ibiza is the answer.

Ibiza is of course the answer to many questions such as ‘Where can I go to party for three days and nights on the bounce?’.  Judging by the demeanour of 80% of our flight companions, they will also have asked themselves that question and found ‘Ibiza’ to be the answer. 

Ibiza is of course known for its dusk till dawn hazy hedonism but in recent years, the original spirit, soul and bohemian character of the island has drawn a new (or indeed, slightly older returning) visitor in search of a quiet, restful and distinctly more grown-up experience.

The goal of every holiday is after all, to leave feeling better than you arrived.  So, with that in mind, we leave our four kids, dog, two businesses and full-on lives to escape to the white isle for a large dose of ‘healthy hedonism’.

For two days, we’re going where the A-listers recharge and retreat; Atzaró Agrotourism Hotel and Spa.

An easy three-and-a-half-hour flight from Edinburgh, followed by a 25-minute whizz in a taxi to San Lorenzo in the north of the island and we’ve arrived at our heavenly hideaway feeling a million miles away from the beats and buzz of the dancefloors (which we did actually find ourselves on a few weeks previously…).

Nestled at the foot of the Atzaró mountain, against a lush backdrop of Sabina and pine tree forests, the hotel is built on the site of a 300-year-old finca.  The sprawling, secluded estate is 13 hectares of thriving farmland, fragrant orange groves, tropical palms and Mediterranean herb and fruit gardens.

Climbing roses and cascading bougainvillea cover the original finca which has been converted and developed by the fourth generation of the Gausch family. Black and white photos of the family with a legacy now talked and written about all over the world, adorn the walls of what has become an Ibizan institution (if you know, you know…).

The hotel is luxurious, serene and secluded; a ‘respectful hush’, under-the-radar destination which has made it a favourite of celebrities and A-listers ranging from Rihanna and Shakira to actress Kate Hudson and the Fendi family.

There are 24 individual suites at the hotel; 10 are close to the original finca with a rustic, authentic Ibizan feel, the 14 hillside villas and suites which sit in a private, elevated position are more modern in design.

My husband and I have a vast but cosy suite (September in Ibiza can come with a slight chill at night), with a covered, private terrace shielded by an orange tree.  Polished terracotta floors stretch from the suite’s charmingly rustic lounge and fireplace past a four-poster bed and beyond, into our natural marble bathroom.

I’m gently struck by the intricate craftmanship and authentic aesthetics of the interiors which pay homage to the hotel’s rural heritage, creating the feeling of being somewhere back in time; the 300-year-old Sabina tree roof beams, teak four poster bed dressed in crisp white linen, the locally crafted furniture and lighting and mother of pearl in-laid doors. 

The Atzaró Design team source items which fit with the energy of the spaces within the hotel, creating a unique feel from the bedrooms to the outdoor spaces, the restaurant to the spa.  The welcome table which unusually, has been carved from the roots of the tree is an item like no other.  Perhaps, this is why everything here has a strange air of serendipity, a sense of things being ‘meant to be’.

The connection to nature is 360 degrees strong and a unique energy washes over each of the senses as you meander through the village like whitewashed pathways and tiptoe across the lilypad pond stepping stones.  The air is filled with the tranquil sounds of palms swaying in the wind; a family of peacocks strut majestically across the gardens, rustling their tails and displaying their plumage.  The soothing sound of trickling water is all around; there are nine pools dotted throughout the estate (one is 43 metres long).  Body and soul are filled with the gentle warmth from the fiery red earth as you wander through the three hectare vegetable garden, home to passion fruits, apples, avocados, papayas, lemons, pomegranates, limes and oranges, cucumbers, lettuces, tomatoes and herbs.

After a dreamy wander through the grounds, cocoon yourself in the Atzaró spa for an other worldly experience in one of the carved wooden treatment rooms.  Immerse yourself in a vinyasa flow yoga session in one of the spa temples, detox in the sauna and renew your skin cells with a soapy scrub in the hammam.

Emerge in a blissful, zen like ‘zero worries’ state, float through the spa and herb gardens (the botanicals provide the ingredients for the organic Atzaró Spa product range) and spread out on one of Atzaró’s famous giant outdoor four-poster daybeds where I promise, you’ll be asleep within minutes.

Food is one of the strongest points of the hotel.  Ex-River Café chef and food consultant, James Adams, famous for his work with Somerset House, Heckfield Place and some of London’s top restaurant kitchens partnered the Atzaró team earlier this year to launch a new concept for the hotel’s restaurants.

The farm-to-fork Mediterranean menu at the hotel’s main restaurant, La Veranda connects every dish with nature; organic vegetables, fruits and herbs are plucked daily from the Atzaró Vegetable Garden. 

Simplicity and taste are key features of the menu; the Seabass Citrus Ceviche on our first evening was a truly uplifting, zesty experience, the grilled beef fillet with sage sauce, roasted potato and sweet potato a beautifully warming dish and harissa roasted carrots with tahini yoghurt and pistachios a deliciously moreish side. 

The breakfast buffet offers a selection of fruits, pastries, meats, cheeses, yoghurts, cereals, fresh juices and Cava.  The menu features a range of healthy options such as coconut chia pudding with mango and strawberries, acai banana bowls with pomegranate, smoked salmon with avocado on toast, eggs any way you like it and a rich, smoky, spicy Shakshuka which my husband and I chose.

Take a trip to Aubergine by Atzaró, a ten-minute trip from the hotel which is the must-visit, bucket list Ibiza restaurant of 2022, serving homegrown, home-made vegetarian, vegan, meat and fish specialities.

Set in a restored, rural finca, a rustic, thoroughly wholesome menu bursting with fresh and temptingly tantalising dishes presents the best kind of menu dilemmas.  The restaurant, popular with families, locals and tourists is pared back with a chilled, welcoming, typically Ibizan vibe. There are five cosy dining rooms and three outdoor terraces.  We choose our spot in the twinkling light of the gardens and to dine beneath the stars.

My starter of roasted aubergine carpaccio, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, pomegranate, dates, pistachio and rocket pesto with naan bread, tahini sauce and chilli oil was deliciously healthy – other worldly good. My main, Turkish aubergine stuffed with beef and lamb meat, honey, chili, spices with creamy yogurt and tahini sauce was comforting with a glorious collision of warmth and spice; all set off magnificently with a glass of 2013 Juvé & Camps Iohannes Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot.

A two-day trip to Atzaró is an authentically restorative, blissful bohemian break; a truly uplifting, mellow and restful experience in the most idyllic, quiet and exclusive surroundings. We decompressed, nourished our bodies, souls and senses with uninterrupted time to connect with nature (and each other) and returned home, ready to turn the volume back up on life.

Visit atzaro.com to book. Prices start at 230 euros for a double room, including breakfast. For Atzaró Beach restaurant and beach club, go to atzarobeach.com. To make a reservation at Aubergine at Atzaró, see aubergineibiza.com

It’s 9.30am and I’m the only person over the age of 16 on the top deck of a crowded double decker train heading at breakneck speed towards somewhere in Belgium that lies way, way in the opposite direction of where I want to be. I’ve become a frantic blue dot on a Google map on a dying phone, lurching southwards until I am replaced entirely by a blank screen, filled with the realisation that I may spend the rest of the day on a bizarre trans-Europe express adventure with a school party from Brussels.  I dig deep for my schoolgirl French.

There is a much, much easier way to get to Ghent, my weekend destination.  The early morning flight from Edinburgh takes just over an hour, hop on a train from the airport to St Peter’s station in Ghent and in another hour you’re there.  Or not, if you go the ‘long’ way…

My home for the weekend is Zannier Hotels 1898 The Post in the heart of the historical centre of Ghent, a dramatic Neo-Gothic structure next to the river Leie.  I step off the tram and gaze upwards at the 54-metre clock tower spire as it chimes 1pm (only two hours later than my ETA…); I half expect a bat to fly past and the north wind to blow an unexpected, chilling gust.  Standing on St Michael’s Bridge, I feel as if I’m about to enter my own little dark fairytale.

Ghent feels like a hidden treasure, slightly off the radar in comparison to neighbouring Bruges.  It’s a university town with 14 centuries of history on show through its blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture and cobbled streets, sitting on the banks of a web of meandering canals.

The approach to the hotel, once a historic post office building is through an illuminated flower garden and once you’re in the building you’re presented with an imposing, cast iron spiral staircase that winds all the way up to the tower – an altogether unique entrance. 

In stark comparison to the grand, dark and intimidating exterior, the inside of the hotel has a warm, inviting feel.  It’s like stepping into an elegant timewarp of 20^th century European casual refinement. 

Luxurious, comfortable and quirky, 1898 The Post is a characterful slice of gothic marvelousness with personality in every room, corridor, nook and cranny; there’s always something I’m gravitating towards to pick up, read, look at quizzically and photograph. 

It all feels entirely authentic and a shade eccentric, as if every object has travelled great distances through history and time to spend the rest of its days in the great company of similar items, a kind of curio nirvana.  Nothing feels staged or contrived.  Everything feels slightly like a museum of world travel.

The hotel has 38 rooms and I’m staying in a ‘Letter’ duplex overlooking the Korenmrkt, one of the city’s busiest squares and home to the St Nicholas Church, an iconic architectural feature in Ghent.

My room is a moody blend of dark hues; deep-green walls, antique furniture including a writing desk adorned with curious trinkets and postcards, a double height ceiling, expansive windows dressed with heavy cross grey curtains, wooden floors and a staircase that winds upwards to the bathroom on the mezzanine floor. 

Octagonal white marble bathroom tiles, a huge walk in shower room and dark brass fixtures give a contemporary but luxuriously retro feel.  Vintage books sit on either side of my bed alongside that small rectangular hole in the wall that any traveler finds huge comfort in seeing – the thoughtfully placed USB charging port.

The room has generous open storage and the chicest mini-bar I have ever encountered; a huge collection of spirits, cocktail making accoutrements and importantly, the right types of glasses, so you can mix your own Negroni in style with everything you need.

The earthy interiors of 1898 The Post lull you into a dark and dreamy escape where time seems to exist elsewhere; it’s so tempting to be seduced by my sultry surroundings with the glowy amber light shining onto my enormous crisp white linen covered bed, and just cosy up and close my eyes but explore I must.

I’m delighted that my tourist adventures begin right at the doorstep to my hotel, the Graslei which sits on the right bank of the Leie river.  Once a medieval port, this is now one of the city’s tourist and cultural hotspots with a collection of bars and restaurants occupying the ground floor of town houses and guildhalls that ooze history and tales from the city’s merchant past. 

A five-minute wander and I’m at Gravensteen, a 12^th Century stone castle with a moat, turrets and torture museum.  Beautiful from the outside and fascinating I’m sure on the inside but I have so much ground I want to cover in less than 48 hours so I dig out my map and 30 Euro City Card and get walking.

Everything you’d want to see is probably within a ten-minute walking radius in the historic centre.  Have a quiet mosey around the streets and churchyard of the Saint-Elisabeth Beguinage, an enclosed religious community established for women in the 13^th century during the Crusades.

A two-minute walk and you’re back in amongst the meandering throng where you can wander down towards Korenlei, opposite Graslei, passing the famous Fallen Angels shop which houses the most enthralling mix of nostalgia in its window display (I have never seen such impressive window displays in any city – Ghent really has the edge on this…). 

Street art is a big thing in Ghent, but you’ll have to seek it out as it’s all in the one place – Graffiti Street on Werregarenstraatje, a five minute walk from Patershol where artists are free to tag as they wish.

Learn more about the secrets of the city in a 40-min boat tour and view Ghent’s architectural gems from the water as you drift along the canals.

A visit to Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is a must.  Home of the Van Eyck brother’s masterpiece, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, the cathedral has the most breathtaking Gothic façade and a rich, Baroque interior filled with sculptures, carved tombs and religious artefacts and paintings.

Cross the square and climb the stairs of The Ghent Belfry, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage to enjoy a 360 vista of Ghent from 91 metres up.

Have a wander round the Design Museum, which has a collection of more than 20,000 objects and decorative arts from the 18^th century to present day.

Ghent is also a shopper’s paradise, whether you’re looking for high end fashion, quirky boutiques, charming gift shops or gourmet food stores. 

Head to Veldstraat, the main shopping area and wander aimlessly through the twisting cobbled lanes of Patershol, the culinary heart of Ghent; a charming, picturesque collection of old-fashioned shops, cosy dining spots, bohemian vibe and some of the oldest bakeries and confectioners in the city. 

Ghent offers an array of gastronomic experiences; the food here is very, very good and the city is home to some of Belgium’s best restaurants.  Visit Brasserie Pakhuis, a warehouse from the 1800s that’s been turned into a three-level restaurant with a very super cool, relaxed vibe serving local dishes with a modern twist.

Beer and frites is big on my to do list; for the former I visit Dulle Griet, which offers a selection of 500 beers.  If you’ve got your ‘good’ socks on, order the Max van het Huis, served in a traditional Kwak glass.

You’ll have to swap one of your shoes as insurance for the glass (the pub was losing 4000 Euros worth of glasses a year with tourists smuggling them out as souvenirs) before you sit back with your beer, relax and watch as your shoe is hoisted up to the ceiling in a basket.

Visit Michelin star-chef Sergio Herman’s Frites Atelier, recently named Europe’s No 1 place for fries, for a box with their freshly made sauce and a beer while you watch the world go by in Groentemarkt square.

Ghent has a gentle tranquility, there’s a dreamy stillness even amongst the bustle around the city’s cobbled streets and canal side eateries, possibly due to the fact that there are very few cars; it’s mostly pedestrianised, so the only sound of traffic you’ll hear is a bicycle bell and a tram as its glides past.  The pace is slow and one thing that’s really noticeable is that everyone is really enjoying life and their surroundings, stress free.

Pretty by day, Ghent by night feels like a glittering costume change thanks to the city’s award-winning light plan which provides sustainable lighting without wasting energy. 

Museums, streets, shops and squares are lit up, casting soft light and shadows across the surrounding buildings, transforming the city into a twinkling wonderland. 

You can’t help but feel drawn in by the magic around you and filled with the urge to wander further in and out of the winding streets and alleyways, exploring the light and dark corners of the city, which of course you can do in the city’s Light Walk.

A visit to The Cobbler, 1898 The Post’s bar and one of the most famous bars in Ghent for a cosy late night glass of red next to the fireplace is a must after my weekend’s walking adventures.

My 48 hours immersed Ghent’s old-world charm, rich history and culture and cool, cosmopolitan vibe has left me feeling completely enchanted, enough to tempt me back for another adventure and most certainly, for these frites…

Rates start at €180.00 per room per night including city tax, excluding breakfast. www.zannierhotels.com

For information on visiting Ghent, visit www.visit.gent.be/en 

MC
xx

It’s 3.30pm on a Friday afternoon and today I’m not in ScotRail carriage, travelling home after what will have been an excruciatingly busy week, with a body that is craving sleep and a nodding head that has just switched itself back on upon hearing the crack of a G & T can two seats down.

Today I’m sitting in a restaurant terrace overlooking the river Arno, watching the calm waters running slowly towards the rolling Chianti Rufina hills, a glass of Prosecco in hand, the golden, mellow mid-Autumn sun shining down on my ‘end of week’ face. My mind is slowly hypnotised watching the wood smoke from a nearby house drift downstream in the still air against a backdrop of endless vineyards, olive groves and Cypress trees rising towards the cloudless blue skies.  It feels like one of life’s perfect moments, one you’d like to press the pause button on by sitting completely still; my eyes are drinking in my surroundings with every mouthful of chilled bubbles that pass my lips. I want to screengrab this moment.

I am without a doubt, in adult fairytale land.  You’d be hard pushed to find a Scotrail carriage with that description; it could well be that I just get on at the wrong time of course…

I’m staying at Villa La Massa for the weekend, a 16^th century Medici villa, home to Tuscan aristocracy for hundreds of years, which was turned into a luxury hotel in 1953.  The hotel was bought by the Villa d’Este Group in 1998 (Villa d’Este in Lake Como is its sister hotel) – both are in the Leading Hotels of the World collection.

Sitting majestically in 20 acres of lush gardens, just five miles downstream from Florence at the gateway to the Chianti region, the hotel is perfectly placed for a tranquil escape with easy access to Florence and a variety of cultural and gastronomical experiences on your terracotta doorstep.

The hotel has 51 rooms, each one with a unique style, layout and interior, spread throughout its five Tuscan-style properties. The architecture in Villa La Massa is in complete harmony with its surroundings, the golden ochre of the hotel’s main building, Noble Villa; the soft amber of The Villino, a seven bedroom private villa overlooking the Arno on one side and the estate’s lemon and olive groves on the other, the rich terracotta exterior of The Mill, the soft, neutral tone of Casa Colonica, an ancient farmhouse with four suites and a charming, rustic courtyard for eating and the recently renewed and relaunched Limonaia, a soft grey two storey stucco building, once home of the lemon trees in winter, now my home for two days in October.

I have a spacious Prestige Double room with a private terrace overlooking the river beyond the dove grey floor to ceiling shutters.  The room has a colour palette that reflects the hotel’s Renaissance splendour with hues of ochre, burnt sienna, aquamarine and emerald green; the rich, vibrant colours of jewels translated into sumptuous velvets, silks and damasks, including a hand-made silk cream rug that sits on top of the rich durmast oak flooring.

The feel is luxurious and contemporary with a nod to authentic Tuscan style; a warm, charming embrace of colour and personality with a refreshing airiness which is carried through to the vast marble bathroom with its magnificent bathtub, enormous double sinks, separate wc and walk in shower room.

A large basket of luxury toiletries and grooming accoutrements sits between the two sinks, two giant white fluffy robes folded in their own little grooved compartments underneath.  A sprawling bed sits in the middle of the room, covered in perfectly creased 100% linen white sheets with pillows the size of clouds.  My ‘end of week’ self could be forgiven for just going to bed for 48 hours…

The level of luxury and the craftmanship in the interiors (the furniture and interior details such as the lamps and pictures have all been masterfully designed by local craftsmen) is one of the many reasons why Villa La Massa is one of the Leading Hotels of the World.  My inner and outer surroundings are magnificent.

Eating is a huge part of my experience here, as you would expect.  It’s Autumn, so I enjoy a special truffle themed menu prepared by Chef Simone Paredi who joined the hotel from Villa D’Este.  I start with a risotto prepared with Alba white truffle followed by beef fillet with mashed sweet potatoes, Porcini mushrooms and white truffle flakes and Madagascan vanilla ice cream with white truffle for dessert.  I’m treated to the most incredible selection of friandises to follow, accompanied by the beautiful honey, vanilla and apricot sweetness of a Vin Santo Serelle Chianti 2015 dessert wine.

Restaurant Il Verrocchio is an elegant, refined but entirely comfortable and relaxed dining experience, made so by the charmingly attentive and genial host, Restaurant Manager, Paulo Micheli and his team who deliver the most seamless, unobtrusive, impeccable service.  The menu offers a choice of both national and regional dishes. Try the grilled octopus on Tuscan breaded cream with herbs to start, the pappardelle pasta with wild boar ragout and pecorino cheese for first course and the grilled lobster with wild rice and artichokes in a bisque for your main.  The food at Villa La Massa is exquisite. Breakfast is a buffet of fresh juices, fresh fruit, local meats and cheeses, cereals, breads, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs and of course Prosecco – is there a better way to start the day?

During your stay, take a dip in the heated pool, lounge on the lawns, wander around the Iris gardens or accompany Chef around the Chef’s Garden, where he grows a range of aromatic herbs and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Take tranquillity to another level with a trip to the Arno Spa in the cellars of the hotel; it has a Turkish bath, sauna, Roman bath with hydromassage and sensorial showers along with a range of treatments.  I had an hour-long massage which was quite possibly the best I’ve ever had.  The spa uses products prepared by Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, meaning you’re literally covered in high end luxury from head to toe.

The hotel’s shuttle bus will have you at the famous Ponte Vecchio in Florence within 20 mins where you can begin your exploration of culture, Renaissance art, architecture and of course some high-end shopping.

Visit Caffe Gilli, the oldest café in Florence and the city’s ‘sitting room’ for over 270 years, grab a gelato, people watch in Piazza della Repubblica and wind your way through the tourist filled streets towards the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Take a trip away from the bustle of the city into the luscious, rolling green hills of the Chianti region to visit Badia A Passignano, home of an ancient Benedictine Chapel and Ristoro L’Antica Scuderia. Warm, welcoming and relaxed, this restaurant offers one of the best, authentic dining experiences in the region with breath-taking views of the Tuscan landscape.  Go for the guinea fowl stuffed with Chanterelle mushrooms, roasted potatoes and seared chicory – it’s one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.

Visit the Cusona Estate spread over 530 hectares near the medieval town of San Gimignano, home to the Guicciardini Strozzi family, an ancient noble Florentine family who have owned the estate for over 1000 years.  Book a truffle hunting experience with Princess Irina, truffle master Andrea and the Princess’ dogs Bozia and Macchia.

This was an absolute highlight of the trip for me, strolling through the estate watching the dogs sniff out the White Truffles in the golden late afternoon sunshine before taking a tour of the winery and enjoying the afternoon’s spoils grated over a selection of foods, all washed down with some of the finest wines from the estate.

Villa La Massa offers an experience that can’t be matched. There is no property like this in the world.  It offers the best of entirely everything – the warmest of welcomes, impeccable service, luxurious, characterful and authentic interiors, the highest level of comfort and refined ambience in the most serenely majestic surroundings.  The hotel has cultivated an environment where you can’t help but slow down and enjoy a full appreciation of the finer things in life, the surrounding countryside, the beautiful accommodation, the history of the property, the gastronomy and warmth of the hospitality around you.

I still marvel at the fact that I can be standing on the Ponte Vecchio Bridge at 4pm on a Sunday afternoon and tucked up in bed by 11pm, at my desk at 8am the next day.  It’s never been easier to get about so quickly and more possible to be somewhere reasonably far away but still home for bedtime. Sometimes at the weekend I won’t venture further than M & S Food.  This weekend I went to Tuscany and had the experience of my life; the most sublime, enchanting episode, a fairytale to which I very much hope to return.

MC
xx

Villa La Massa

www.villalamassa.com

Rates start from €590 (approx. £530) per room per night, based on double occupancy including breakfast

Via Della Massa 24, Candeli, Frienze
Italy

Tel +39 055 626 11

To say that the way we travel nowadays has changed beyond recognition is an understatement.  I can’t remember the last time I had a two-week holiday – the very thought gives me serious ‘in-box dread’ anxiety, so much so, all the good work that a 14-day trip does would be unravelled between the hours of 9am and 10am on a Monday and by midday I’d be booking another holiday…

Travel is so good for the soul though; no matter how tired your body feels when you return from a trip, your inner being tends to feel restored and renewed, your mind open to new ways of thinking and doing things, with a whole new perspective on life.  Especially after a three-day ‘drink in all these sights with your eyes’ trip, which is probably one of the reasons why more of us are taking micro-breaks rather than 14-day fly and flops.

My micro-break this time is Malta, one of Europe’s most talked about destinations since Valletta became European Capital of Culture 2018, an island situated at the centre of the Mediterranean, basking in over 300 days of sunshine a year and just a four hour hop from Glasgow on a rainy Monday morning.

My ‘base’ for my three-day culture, cuisine and continuous sunshine trip is The Phoenicia Malta, one of Europe’s Grande Dames – an upscale 5-star architectural treasure steeped in history and charm in Floriana, overlooking the City Gates to Valletta, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built by the British in the 1930s and opened as a hotel in 1947 following its requisition by the RAF in the Second World War, the hotel was a favourite of the Queen when she and the Duke of Edinburgh lived in Malta in the 1950s and since its recent refurbishment has become one of the Leading Hotels of the World.

Grand in stature with its Art Deco façade; elegant, airy and refined, The Phoenicia Malta matches its magnificence with the warmest of welcomes.  I’m shown to the Palm Court lounge at the heart of the hotel for a glass of Prosecco where I can relax in the most gently uplifting surroundings – high ornate ceilings, 1930s glass doors, grand arches and marble floors, potted palms dotted around the lounge with its cornflour blue, white and bright pink décor.

Doors lead to the main restaurant, The Phoenix Restaurant and its terrace overlooking the hotel’s lush 7.5-acre manicured grounds at the foot of the bastion walls of Valletta.

I’m taken to my Executive Room and instantly throw open the doors to my balcony to take in the most breathtaking view of Valletta and the Grand Harbour.  This is a real pinch yourself moment.  It’s like looking out towards the most glamorous of Bond movie settings – rows of yachts and superyachts floating on the glistening blue Mediterranean waters with a dramatic backdrop of Valletta’s unique mix of Baroque and medieval architecture.

The room is all whites and cool blues, dark natural wood and huge blue and white chinoiserie lamps at either side of what may be the largest bed I’ve ever seen.  The authentic tiled floor, one of the original features of the room adds classic elegance to the fresh, modern and luxurious interior of the room.  The bathroom is another treat – a mix of beige, white and chrome, Art Deco in style with a huge bath and all the luxury products and comforts you would expect from a hotel that has a place in the top 400 in the world.

I visit The Phoenix restaurant on my first night, a stunning room inspired by the grand cafés of Europe; the food is as you would expect, exquisite, courtesy of Executive Chef Daniel de Battista, who trained with the late Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles.  His philosophy is built around conscious eating, using the freshest of produce and local ingredients.

I had the lobster tagliatelle followed by a delicate monkfish curry, courgette and green olives.  I struggled (but managed) to find room for the dreamiest of puds – a chocolate and orange mousse with orange creméux and vanilla ice cream, all accompanied by a deliciously drinkable bottle of Melqart – a Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot from Malta’s Meridiana Estate.

Breakfast at The Phoenicia Malta really is fit for a king… platters of smoked salmon, local cheeses, cold cuts including ham cut from the bone, freshly squeezed Maltese oranges, the usual cooked breakfast staples, cereals, breads and a showstopping whole honeycomb. I’m tempted to live like a queen in the beautiful confines of the hotel for my three-day trip but I have a list of ‘must sees’ as long as my arm.

For a small island of 16 by 9 miles, there is an unbelievable amount to see and do but if you plan your visit well, you’ll get to ‘tick off’ these must do experiences in a relaxed, enjoyable way.

Start off at the magnificent Triton Fountain, situated a few metres from the entrance to the hotel, next to the City Gates.  You’ll pass Parliament Square with Renzo Piano’s awe-inspiring Parliament Building – an architectural innovation, two huge blocks of stone, seemingly suspended in mid-air.  Stroll down Republic Street and visit St John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta’s most impressive church (there are 313 churches in Malta).

You won’t be immediately impressed from the facade but as you step inside, you’ll find what is considered to be one of the finest examples of high baroque architecture in Europe.  Richly ornamented in typically baroque exuberance, the church is also home to one of the greatest art treasures in the world, Caravaggio’s ‘Beheading of St. John the Baptist’.

From there, visit the 16^th century Grandmaster’s Palace, the residence of the Knights of St John which now houses over 5000 suits of 15^th century armour, intricately ornate in design and a huge collection of weapons from muskets to swords.

Take time to pop into Café Cordina opposite the palace for a caffeine fix and some sweet treats. Established in 1837, it’s a Maltese icon and the perfect situation for some palazzo people watching.

Meander down one of Malta’s most famous streets, Strait Street, once the seedy underbelly of Valletta where military men docked in the harbour for a good time throughout the 19^th century right through to the 1950s.  You’ll see these reminders of the past – the faded exteriors of bordellos where the ‘wine, women and song’ helped soldiers forget about the horrors of war. Visit StrEat Whisky & Bistro for some of the best cocktails in Valletta.

Valletta feels like a city proud of its character and history with a renewed confidence and easygoing warmth.  The streets are vibrant, welcoming, casual and cosmopolitan with bars and restaurants abuzz with life and laughter.  You could spend the whole day mooching through the streets and alleyways, looking upwards to admire the colourful balconies – the gallerias – a unique and iconic feature of traditional Maltese buildings.

Wander up to Upper Barrakka Gardens for some peaceful respite from the buzz and grab some shade. Built on top of a bastion at the highest point in Valletta, this was a private garden of the Knights and offers the most stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the three cities of Senglea, Vittoriosa and Kalkara.

The Upper Barakka Lift is a must do.  The panoramic outdoor lift will take you 20 stories down from the gardens straight to Valletta’s waterfront where you can hop in a Dghajsa, a traditional Maltese gondola across the water to the Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua; ancient and full of mystery, with narrow streets and winding alleyways, they offer a real insight into authentic Malta life.

A short journey from there lies Mdina, an ancient fortified city dating back over 4000 years, known as the ‘Silent City’.  Home to Malta’s nobility descending from Norman, Sicilian and Spanish lords as far back as the 12^th century, Mdina is one of Europe’s most famous walled cities, with an extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture and a distinctly Arabic influence.  There’s something very ‘Thieves of Baghdad’ about the maze of narrow, winding alleyways, lit by lanterns on the walls. It feels like walking around a film set and was in fact used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Do not miss the opportunity to visit the small, charming, picturesque (and entirely Instagrammable) fishing village of Marsaxlokk (pronounced marsa-schlock) on the South East of the island, famous for its fish market, seafood restaurants, palm tree lined promenade and colourful Luzzu boats dotted around the harbour.

The famous Luzzu fishing boats are brightly painted in shades of yellow, red, green and blue with a pair of eyes at the front.  The eyes are believed to be a modern survival of an old Phoenician tradition and are normally referred to as the Eye of Orisis, the Phoenicians’ god of protection from evil. They are a symbol of protection and good health and are believed to protect the fishermen from any harm while they are out at sea.

Food is a big thing in Malta and the food is really, really good (portions are on the large side so bear that in mind whenever you feast your eyes on the menu). If you have time, make a point of visiting Diar Il-Bniet in Dingli, Malta’s first agritourism venture. Located in an idyllic valley of olive trees this is a family run farm and restaurant producing some of the Mediterranean’s finest and most iconic food with a ‘farm to table’ approach. The restaurant is full of rustic charm and the food is fresh, wholesome and authentic.

My sightseeing days in Malta feel pretty full (there’s just so much to see), however, my travel adventures and discoveries are complemented perfectly by my stay at The Phoenicia Malta.  There simply is nothing better than going into full on exploring mode during the day before returning to world class luxury to wash away the day with a swim, taking in one of the most magnificent views in Europe and of course a classic Martini from the Club Bar, shaken, not stirred…

Malta was so much more than I was expecting – it was an experience of a lifetime and one that will pull me back in Summer 2020 without a shadow of a doubt.

Rates at The Phoenicia start from €250 (Approx. £230) per room per night including breakfast. https://www.phoeniciamalta.com/

Fly from Glasgow to Malta with Jet2.com – return flights start from £153

For more information on Malta, visit http://www.visitmalta.com

Rhodes – a place where my best friend from primary school went on her holidays circa 1985, not somewhere I have ever really considered visiting, unless of course they still sell ‘I ❤ George Michael’ pencil cases.  When I get on a plane, I like to go far, far away (probably more so now than ever…) and get right out into the world for big adventures but this year’s different.

I need to go on holiday to rest, renew and re-energise.  Neighbouring ‘it island’ Mykonos floats all my boats but this summer, cosmopolitan partying is off the holiday wish list.  I need to hit the re-set button.

Rhodes is a four and a half hour hop from Glasgow, just enough time for four episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm, a couple of glasses of wine and a few close your eyes and dream of what lies ahead moments.

What lies ahead for me (as far as I know…) is the Gennadi Grand Resort, a new minimalist luxury eco-resort, blending into the Aegean coastline of the less-explored Southern corner of the largest Dodecanese island.

From the airport the resort is a 50-minute drive – a dreamy whizz past clusters of white sugar-cube houses, Byzantine churches and endless miles of mountainside scattered with cypress and pine trees, far away from the tourist resorts; everything begins to feel quite rustic quite quickly.

Until we arrive at the resort… a stunning, ultra-modern collection of buildings.  Futuristic in style, it feels very LA with the white angular buildings set against the mountain backdrop – a bit like going on holiday to the Getty Museum.

The design philosophy is built around the concept of ‘Wellness Architecture’; healthy, sustainable buildings if you like.  Spaces that have been designed to look structurally beautiful whilst delivering a checklist of seven healthy building categories – air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort and mental health.

Gennadi Grand Resort delivers this through a seamless balance of style, luxury and thoughtful design and architecture; a neutral palette, sharp angles and slanted roofs that complement the surroundings and optimise the micro-climate conditions, its low-slung buildings are made from locally sourced porphyry rock, chosen for its minimal maintenance properties. The resort has a focus on water consumption and uses a reverse osmosis system to deliver 20,000 litres of clean, sustainable water.

Floor-to-ceiling windows allow the natural sunlight to stream through the buildings, paths around the resort are dotted with all manner of pools and glistening water features and low sunken lush gardens with indigenous flowers and olive trees – it all makes for the most incredibly uplifting experience.

Gennadi Grand is stylishly sophisticated in an entirely feel good, minimalist way.  Zero opulence and unnecessary fuss.

Our room is a spacious Scandi-chic Junior Suite which has a separate lounge area, terrace and private pool.  Decorated in creamy neutrals with ocean blue accents, natural wood surfaces with mood lighting, the room is designed in such a way that every bit of space is maximised for function and utility but not at the cost of comfort and luxury.

White fluffy bathrobes hang in the bathroom area, double sinks set in a long marble surface with generous storage beneath; ample drawer and cupboard space with probably enough space to hang the entire contents of your suitcase.  In keeping with the resort’s eco-ethos, there’s no bath, but it’s not missed.  The walk-in waterfall shower is instantly invigorating and there are pools in every direction you turn your head anyway.

With 288 rooms, nine restaurants, lounge bars, a spa, gym, three huge swimming pools, chill pools, water features, tennis courts and private beach, the resort is vast; everything thoughtfully spaced out so it always feels peaceful, quiet and totally relaxed.

I’m a 6am riser, even on holiday (I know – what sort of person am I..?) but there’s something about being in this resort that makes you want to embrace as many opportunities as possible to ‘be well’. The hotel has a well kitted out gym which becomes No 1 in my morning routine, followed by breakfast where I can grab a smoothie, a continental breakfast or go for the standard cooked breakfast buffet fare, pancakes, waffles and pastries – my 16-year old son is in breakfast nirvana.  I draw on every bit of my willpower to steer clear of breakfast heaven and stick with my smoothies, detox juice and lemon tea.

My pool side days are sun filled and chilled, drifting off for sunny snoozes under the swaying palm trees, taking wake up dips in the pool and late afternoon meanders along to my yoga and Pilates classes.

I continue my wellness theme with a morning at the spa which offers a range of Greek inspired signature rituals, facials and body treatments that focus on releasing tension and promoting inner balance.  I float back to my sunbed after my 70-minute exfoliating massage and spend the rest of the day totally blissed out while my son takes himself off for his daily afternoon menu of of beach volleyball, water darts and water polo.

There are 12 bars and restaurants where we can spend our evenings.  Dinner at Filoxenia, the main restaurant is a mix of Greek specialities and international fare.  Provenance is an important part of the dining ethos at the resort, with much of the produce coming from local and independent suppliers, offering a quality, authentic dining experience which can be missing in many large resorts.  Greek meze snacks are served at Ouzo which becomes STK in the evening, serving grilled premium cuts with a deliciously mouth-watering selection of side dishes, sauces and salads.  This was the culinary highlight of the holiday and a perfect last night.

Sustainability within travel is no longer a ‘nice to do’, it’s top of the travel trends and what an entire new generation of travellers is looking for.  The Gennadi Grand Resort delivers this impactfully, subtly and very stylishly, offering a totally immersive and holistic experience, so much so, we didn’t venture out of the resort until it was time to leave.

My stay here gave me everything that I needed at a time when I needed it most. When I arrived, my head felt like a toxic junkyard.  As we drove away from the resort, I felt completely restored, all junk processed and filed away, my mind, body and soul nourished by every part of the Gennadi Grand experience.  The reset button on life firmly pressed.

Gennadi Grand Resort, Rhodes