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Swellegant Stays: Little River Inn – Little River, California

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In the heart of the picturesque Mendocino coast, the Little River Inn stands as a beacon of swellegant charm, offering an enchanting retreat for those seeking a taste of coastal elegance. My recent stay at this timeless inn was a journey back in time.

The inn’s exterior exuded classic coastal charm, with its white clapboard facade framed by colorful gardens. As I approached, the scent of saltwater mingled with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, setting the stage for the refined atmosphere and sense of place that is the Little River Inn.

Upon entering the lobby, I was immediately struck by the inn’s timeless charm. The warm tones of wood and the subtle coastal hues created an inviting ambiance. Antique furnishings and tasteful artwork adorned the common spaces, hinting at the inn’s rich history and commitment to timeless elegance.

My accommodations were a sanctuary of comfort and style. The room, with its plush linens and thoughtfully chosen decor, offered a perfect blend of modern amenities and classic charm. A private balcony provided panoramic views of the rugged coastline, inviting moments of quiet contemplation as the waves crashed against the cliffs below.

Dining at the Little River Inn was a culinary journey that celebrated the bounty of the region. The inn’s restaurant offered exquisite meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Each dish was a testament to the chef’s dedication to showcasing the flavors of Mendocino, from succulent seafood to fresh produce harvested from nearby farms.

One of the highlights of my stay was the inn’s commitment to recreation. The on-site golf course, with its breathtaking views of the Pacific, offered a leisurely way to spend an afternoon.

Exploring the surroundings of Mendocino was a delight, with the inn’s convenient location allowing for easy access to trails and charming boutiques. The nearby Russian Gulch State Park provided an opportunity to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the area, with towering redwoods and cascading waterfalls creating a serene backdrop for exploration.

I carry with me the memories of a swellegant stay that transcended the ordinary. The inn’s timeless charm, coupled with its commitment to warm hospitality, created an experience that will linger in my heart.

www.littleriverinn.com

San Francisco Hits the Mark – Time and Time Again

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Nob Hill is the highest point near downtown San Francisco, built atop its summit on the 19th floor of The InterContinental Mark Hopkins, is their sky lounge, The Top of the Mark, and as I take in one of the world’s most famous panoramas from inside what has been a literal Must See Venue for 75 years, The Top of The Mark’s spectacular wraparound windows frame the Golden Gate and and Bay Bridges, Transamerica Pyramid, Chinatown, and the shopping and open spaces of Union Square, and save the bridges, all are in walking distance. My outdoors view, especially the skyscrapers and the engineering marvels that are the bridges are wonderful contrasts to the interior, where the Top of the Mark’s old world wood and wrought-iron charm speak or craftsmen from a bygone time.

Through this blend of past and present I see my future, and that future is dinner at 7, downstairs at the Intercontinental’s Nob Hill Club. Meals are available at the Top of The Mark, by special arrangement only, so I arranged one up here for tomorrow when in addition to my meal, light appetizers and desserts will be served. Those take placein the evenings with Nick Rossi and his Swing Four playing live on the first Saturday of each month.

As I step from the elevator, on the far side of the lobby are two historic ballrooms, 4,400 square feet and 2,128 square feet, painstakingly redesigned in 2022 reviving their perennial blend of sophisticated elegance and modern comfort now convey their rich history with the glamour and glitz of vintage San Francisco, but I turn right and am seated at my dinner table in the Nob Hill Club, a shared space restaurant, bar, grab and go, with Club InterContinental ® Lounge posing another iconic setting of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins, this one at ground-level where locally-sourced ingredients drive the seasonal menus and California-centric wine list highlights Napa, Sonoma, Monterey and Alameda Counties.

Beyond dinner hours, The Club InterContinental ® Lounge is particularly convenient, opening at 6:30 daily with a la-carte breakfast and available to guests with a 1 O’Clock late check  out, have continued access to the Lounge until their departure.

I rode the cable car back to the hotel after a day out exploring the city and popped upstairs to find turndown service complete, not hungry enough for room service I pour a glass of red from my welcome basket of fresh fruit and wine.  Mine and the other Full-sized suites on this floor have an enclosed sunroom with wonderful exposures, especially for the stretch of cloudless days that made this weekend by The Bay even more enjoyable. And as it was at The Top of The Mark, the interior’s wonderful appointments and local original art are exactly what a seasoned traveler expects from an InterContinental.

My bed’s a king but double-doubles are an option and like mine, all 26 Full-sized suites and rooms in the Club Category are fitted with flat-screen televisions in living and sleeping areas, with complimentary access to breakfast at Club Intercontinental, for guests not in a suite, that service is available as an add-on.

As wonderful as my Full Sized Suite’s accommodation is, the Mark Hopkins offers another level, their Luxury Suites, and the Nob Hill suite is an exemplar. The building’s French Chateau and Spanish Renaissance architectural style  allow the shape and size of its suites’ physically larger windows and their placement along one of two sides of the building’s central arch, referred to as the hotel’s “arms” lent the designer freedom to present expansive views. And even with the view in mind, the suite’s interior impresses with 1,100 square feet of home away from home, or as guests may call it, home suite home away from home. The Nob Hill Suite offers choice: Either 24-hour laundry, and in-room dining for breakfast and dinner or self sufficiency, there’s a washer-dryer, full kitchen, walk-in closet, daily turndown service.

So as I reflect on my time at The Mark Hopkins InterContinental, I’m reminded the more things change, , the more they stay the same, with service, luxury and comfort watchwords at The Mark Hopkins.

www.sfmarkhopkins.com

Winery Rundown – Mendocino’s wine scene is intoxicating

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Nestled in the bucolic beauty of Mendocino, Lula Cellars and Father & Daughter Cellars beckon wine connoisseurs on an exquisite journey through the region’s vinicultural treasures. Here’s the inside scoop:

Lula Cellars: A Symphony of Sustainably Crafted Elegance

Lula Cellars, a hidden jewel in the Mendocino wine scene, seamlessly blends luxury with a commitment to sustainable practices. The winery, surrounded by rolling hills and ancient redwoods, offers a serene escape for those seeking an intimate and sophisticated tasting experience.

The architecture of Lula Cellars’ estate is a harmonious fusion of contemporary design and rustic charm. The tasting room, which is exclusively outside, is a unique experience in and of itself.  The location provides breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and pond. As you enter, oak barrels are repurposed as part of the decor hinting at the promise of carefully crafted wines.

It’s not just the location of the tasting room that sets Lula Cellars apart. Its dedication to sustainability is visible throughout the estate, ensuring that each vintage reflects the pure essence of Mendocino’s terroir. The result is a portfolio of wines that captivate the palate, from the crisp Chardonnays to the award-winning Pinot Noirs, each bottle telling a story of its environment and unparalleled craftsmanship..as any good wine should.

Visitors to Lula Cellars are treated to tastings led by a knowledgeable team. The experience extends beyond the glass as guests are invited to explore the vineyards that define Lula Cellars’ commitment to a swanky wine list. It’s a short hike from the tasting table to the rows of grapes that create the final elixir.

www.lulacellars.com

Fathers & Daughters Cellars: A Heritage of Love and Tradition

A short drive away, Fathers & Daughters Cellars stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of familial passion for winemaking. This boutique Cellars, rooted in tradition and familial ties, invites guests to savor the essence of Mendocino through its exceptional wines.

The tasting room at Fathers & Daughters Cellars is also outside, but there is a massive twist. With a name that exudes warmth and heritage, one may envision an oaky room adorned with family artifacts and the unmistakable aroma of aging barrels. That’s where this story takes a turn (and a climb and a few twists) up to the hilltop overlooking the vineyard and the valley. Taste at the Top, as their appointment only tastings are called, offer a dramatic scenic overlook. As one sips…every bottle is a testament to the family’s dedication to crafting wines of distinction. From the elegant Sauvignon Blanc to the bright Rose of Zinfandel, each varietal reflects the artistry and expertise that encircles this family vineyard that is intended to be handed down through generations to come.

The personalized touch at Fathers & Daughters Cellars extends to vineyard tours led by the winemaker and family, if you get so lucky to find them all in the same place at the same time. Guests are welcomed into the heart of the winemaking process, gaining insights into the meticulous care that goes into producing wines that stand as a true expression of the family’s love for the craft.

For those seeking a swanky retreat in Mendocino, Lula Cellars and Fathers & Daughters Cellars offer an unparalleled immersion into the region’s vinicultural excellence. Each sip is an invitation to indulge in the artistry and heritage that define these boutique wineries, creating an unforgettable escape for the wine enthusiast with an appreciation for luxury and tradition.

www.fanddcellars.com

Can You Canoe?

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Embarking on an adventure vacation in Mendocino is incomplete without the unique offerings of Catch A Canoe. Here’s why this outdoor haven should be a must-visit on your next escapade to the region:

Scenic Exploration:

Catch A Canoe provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Mendocino, particularly along the pristine Big River. Paddle in their distinctive canoes, immersing yourself in the beauty of towering redwoods, lush forests, and the serene waters, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your adventure.

Versatile Outdoor Activities:

Whether you’re an avid kayaker, a leisurely canoe enthusiast, or a biking aficionado, Catch A Canoe caters to a variety of outdoor interests. From peaceful paddling experiences to invigorating bike rides, there’s an activity for every adventurer, ensuring you can tailor your experience to match your preferred level of excitement.

Environmental Stewardship:

Catch A Canoe is committed to environmental sustainability. The eco-friendly redwood outrigger canoes are designed to minimize their impact on the environment, allowing you to explore nature responsibly. This commitment to conservation aligns with the values of travelers who appreciate businesses dedicated to preserving the beauty of the destinations they serve.

Memorable Experiences for All Skill Levels:

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, Catch A Canoe caters to all skill levels. The calm waters of Big River provide a welcoming environment for beginners, while the more adventurous can opt for longer paddles or challenging bike trails, ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.

Enhanced Vacation Experience:

Adding Catch A Canoe to your adventure vacation itinerary enhances your overall experience of Mendocino. It offers a unique perspective of the region, allowing you to create memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience and providing a sense of accomplishment as you navigate the picturesque waterways and trails.

Incorporating Catch A Canoe into your Mendocino adventure vacation promises not only exhilarating outdoor activities but also a deep connection with the natural beauty that makes this coastal destination so captivating. It’s an opportunity to explore, unwind, and create lasting memories in one of California’s most enchanting settings.

www.catchacanoe.com

Swellegant Stays: The Langham Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

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The Langham’s address is Surfers Paradise, and it’s no joke: this suburb of Gold Coast stretches along an idyllic sandy beach, looking out to the Coral Sea in the South Pacific. Surfers Paradise boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. Today there is a dramatic contrast between the high-rise developments and one of the best beaches in eastern Australia. When you stay at the sky-high Langham, the area’s first new beachfront luxury hotel in 30 years, you’ll scarcely be aware of the city: your eyes will be fixed on the beach and the ocean, exactly as it should be.

Accommodation is divided between rooms and residences, the largest of which is the 256-square-meter Four Bedroom Ocean Penthouse. The dining area is big enough to host a dinner party for eight, but make sure that when your guests have gone you still have time to soak in the bathtub and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views. The gray and white color scheme is a reminder of the ocean spray.

Dining at The Langham is a taste sensation, with flavors from across the world. The Palm Court looks out on the lagoon pool and is the place to indulge in an afternoon tea crafted by pastry chef Johann Vanier, whose chocolate tart once tasted will never be forgotten. T’ang Court won the Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat for 2023 for its sophisticated Cantonese menu; and at Akoya you can taste the very best of Queensland’s local produce in a laid back setting. The eight plates set menu is perfect for sharing and includes fresh Pacific oysters, Rocky Point black kingfish crudo, and smoked Gooralie pork jowl with toasted buckwheat and Capricorn spiced rum. The pina colada-inspired pavlova is the perfect way to finish off your meal.

The Langham’s wellness offering rivals its culinary pleasures, and the hotel has a signature sleep program, “Sleep Matters by Chuan”, with curated treatments and amenities. The two swimming pools are open until 10pm should you want a late evening dip, and yoga, pilates and meditation sessions take place in the Health Club. The icing on the cake, however, is the Chuan Spa, where therapists are guided by principles of traditional Chinese medicine.

www.langhamhotels.com

Swellegant Stays: Palazzo Santa Spirito – Bergamo, Italy

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The Italian city of Bergamo is one half of Bergamo-Brescia Italian Capital of Culture 2023. If you want to lap up the city’s history and architecture, not to mention enjoy the major arts program running until the end of the year, then check into the gorgeous 4-Star Palazzo Santa Spirito, the newest and most exciting addition to Bergamo’s hotel scene. Set within a converted convent dating from 1309 in the Citta Bassa (the Lower Town), the hotel’s designers have kept many of the building’s original architectural features, including its huge courtyards, stone columns, and magnificent vaulted arcades. Arriving at the hotel you will feel like a guest in a palace, but as the stylish interiors reveal, if this is indeed a fairytale, it is very much a contemporary one.

Start and end your days outside: Bergamo can be pretty hot in summer, but in the early morning and late evening, the temperature is balmy. It is heavenly to sit a while with a proper Italian espresso and a freshly baked pastry (or perhaps an Aperol Spritz, if it is later in the day) on the patio at the edge of Palazzo Santa Spirito’s verdant green lawn, soaking up the atmosphere and admiring the historic buildings around you. Depending on the time of day, you might hear the tolling of the church bells echoing over the city’s terracotta rooftops.

With so much to see and do on the hotel’s doorstep, you are unlikely to spend much time indoors. When you are exhausted from sightseeing and it is time for a rest, however, you would do well to retreat to the fabulous spa and wellness center for an hour or two. If you splash out and book the Imperial Suite, you’ll be staying underneath the convent’s vaulted ceiling, with a private spa at your disposal. The suite has its own Finnish sauna and whirlpool. Palazzo Santa Spirito’s 80 guest rooms and suites are decorated in a palette of white and neutral tones, tasteful and calming in equal measure. The en suite bathrooms are a fair size for a city center hotel, with good lighting so you can dress up in your most fabulous frock and check you are looking your very best before heading back outside for dinner and another taste of la dolce vita. www.palazzosantospirito.com

A Letter From…Kimpton Surfcomber, South Beach

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Hey – we made it! After a few schedule changes, rearrangement of dates and maneuvering our way through Miami traffic, Simón and I finally made it to our Sleepover at Surf. We almost missed the driveway though – should have taken the advice and done a rideshare in, but we had to bring the electric bike, so here we are (lol). The valet was great though, allowing us to leave the car up front while we unpacked and settled in before he whisked it off to the off-site parking lot. Our long awaited and well-deserved staycation was about to begin. It was as if we had entered a new reality. In one step across the lobby threshold, the hustle and bustle were a forgotten memory and literally behind us beyond the glass doors. For a moment, I forgot that we were in Florida. We suddenly felt transported to a different country. You know how you’re always posting your fabulous getaways in Europe? I was ready to get my gram worthy photos posted and have people guessing the locale. The Kimpton Surfcomber has really made a conscious effort to capture the essence of a South of France vibe, from the climate to the cuisine. The clean, simple, Earthy atmosphere and furnishings make it easy to attract new friends or cozy up on our own. We didn’t waste any time diving into our French-inspired personalized culinary experience, after a quick tour of our lodging, which was absolutely adorable – more on that in a bit. First, I have to “dish” on the Surf’s small group curated experience in the Vines Cabanas where we created our very own Bordeaux and named it Nauravsimón. It was smooth, with notes of oak, tobacco and yet fruity, of course. What did you expect from a non-drinker like me? No worries – the connoisseurs in the group made sure it was satisfying to all palates (smiles). I should have known that our evening would be immersed in wine as we had quite the sommelier directing us – I guess the “wine valet” on the wall in our room should have been another subtle clue. We were guided not only through our Bordeaux experience, but with an astonishingly impressive wine flight that paired perfectly with every course of our group’s private Sleepover dinner. Shall I tell you what was on the menu, foodwise? First was the Amuse-Bouche, not only a delight for the tastebuds but visually so delicate and extraordinary. Remember, that South of France feel I mentioned before? I said oui, over and over, to the not-a-citrus-sorbet compressed watermelon with sudachi vanilla, garnished with fruit caviar. The little cubes made our night and were quite the conversation piece as the caviar pellets popped in our mouths. I guess you also want to hear about the rest of the dinner. The starter was a tomato-beet salad with tomato truffle vinaigrette. The varied colors of tomatoes and the sweetness of the beets combined perfectly – another stimulus for the senses.

However, what really got everybody exclaiming “encore!” was the main course, served family-style. Between you and me, we conducted ourselves way more politely than family would, if you savor what I mean. Who wanted to share the tender, melt in your mouth French boned tomahawks? Cooked and seasoned to perfection, they didn’t even need the accompanying morel cream sauce! The black grouper with sage bearnaise had its fans, as well. I don’t know if it was the wine accompaniments or the fresh, savory fare, because as much as we were consuming, there was still room for a lavender crème crème brûlée that lingered on your tastebuds – imagine the infusion of lavender, what a special treat. The fact that the psychic card reader provided as part of the evening’s entertainment did not foretell any need to change exercise routines, I’d say that it was a go for guilt-free indulgence.

Either way, we headed up to the room with all good intentions to take an evening stroll, but the sky was warning that a downpour of rain was approaching.  As we sank into our ultra comfy bed with heavenly pillows, there wasn’t a sound to be heard beyond the confines of our accommodations. Two things that I really loved about the room were the ample space and the window overlooking the foliage laden pathway that easily opened to take in the breeze and the sounds of the nearby ocean.

By sunrise, Simón was up and out for his bike ride down Collins, where he ended up at an outdoor gym on the beach. I guess he worked off last night’s decadence. We grabbed a shower and headed poolside. Of course, I took my Instagram worthy shots as we meandered down the walk and at the beachside cabanas. I even braved a ride down the boardwalk on the electric bike. Before we knew it, our Sleepover had ended, and we had experienced so much. We checked out, had breakfast at the Social Club and headed back into the fray. This time, relaxed and feeling a bit more French.

The next time we return, it’s definitely the following on my checklist: 1) a stay in the suite with the private balcony and walk-in closet that could hold its own bed, 2) a K’Alma Spa cabana experience, 3) secure one of the old-fashioned, pedal yourself bikes that the Kimpton Surfcomber offers, and 4) stay at least a couple nights! When do you want us to book?

www.surfcomber.com

Swellegant Stays: QT Sydney – Sydney, Australia

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QT Sydney is as much a theatrical experience as it is a hotel stay. Stepping into the foyer of the heritage-listed Gowings and State Theatre buildings on Sydney’s Market Street, the original Art Deco and Gothic architecture has been beautifully restored and it feels like you are on the cusp of a spectacular night of entertainment. In fact, you don’t have to go anywhere: staying at QT Sydney you are guaranteed a great night in.

The drama of the stage spreads across the hotel from the public areas to the guest rooms: do keep an eye out for the vintage theater costumes on display. At Parlour, where Kir Royale, steak hache with pomme frites, and coffee creme brulee are all on the menu, there is more than just a nod to Paris, while Gowings takes its creation direction from the glamor and nostalgia of New York. The lavish QTea High Tea has been masterminded by pâtissier Adriano Zumbo, and it is appropriately decadent that there are more Champagnes on the menu than teas! Combine one of these culinary experiences with the Femme Fatale Facial or The Plush Prince(ss) package in spaQ and you will already have done the groundwork for an unforgettable weekend.

Bedrooms and suites at QT Sydney are equally luxurious but more contemporary in their design: it seems that Broadway has collided happily with the 21st century. Monochrome walls and linens are complemented by small accents of color, and a combination of large windows, stylish light fittings, and mirrors bring life to the spaces. The amenities in the bathrooms are by cult hair and beauty brand Kevin Murphy, further reason to splash around beneath the rain shower or to soak in the giant tub.

For the ultimate indulgence, book yourself into the QT State Suite. The huge windows and private balcony look out onto the heritage skyline of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), tempting you out into the city, but with such a lot of space and a fabulous interior, you will most likely want to make the most of it, invite a friend or two round, and order cocktails from room service. Drink a toast to QT Sydney with an Archie Rose Espresso Martini or a Tequila Tromba Tommy’s Margarita.

www.qthotels.com/sydney-cbd

Exploring Paradise – Unveiling the Allure of Casa Morada in the Florida Keys

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“Like a pearl hidden in an oyster shell, Casa Morada effortlessly captivates with its understated charm and sophistication.”

As I stepped onto the tranquil shores of the Florida Keys, I knew that this tropical escape was going to be something extraordinary. Nestled amid the turquoise waters of Islamorada, Casa Morada beckoned with promises of luxury, relaxation, and a perfect blend of natural beauty and contemporary elegance. In this exclusive luxury travel magazine feature, I invite you to join me on a journey through this hidden gem and discover the allure of Casa Morada.

A Serene Oasis of Sophistication:

Like a pearl hidden in an oyster shell, Casa Morada effortlessly captivates with its understated charm and sophistication. The moment I entered the property, I was greeted by a warm and friendly staff, making me feel right at home. The boutique hotel’s design embraces the laid-back vibe of the Keys, seamlessly blending modern architecture with touches of tropical decor. Rustic wooden elements, breezy open spaces, and lush greenery create an inviting ambiance, reflecting the essence of paradise.

Breathtaking Accommodations:

Casa Morada boasts 16 exquisite suites, each offering a unique and unparalleled experience. From the moment I stepped into my private oasis, I was embraced by a sense of tranquility. The suite’s tasteful design, featuring a harmonious blend of natural materials and contemporary furnishings, instantly put me at ease. As I opened the sliding doors, a private terrace with stunning ocean views awaited, inviting me to revel in the soothing sound of lapping waves and balmy sea breeze.

A Gastronomic Delight:

The culinary journey at Casa Morada is nothing short of divine, at the hotel’s Island Oasis Cabana Bar. Whether it was savoring fresh seafood caught that very morning or indulging in gourmet dishes influenced by local flavors; dining under swaying palm trees with my feet nestled in the sand, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the Keys.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation:

If relaxation were an art form, Casa Morada would be its masterpiece. With an adults-only policy, the hotel ensures an atmosphere of serenity and privacy. I spent my days basking in the sun beside the infinity pool, where time seemed to stand still. For those seeking ultimate pampering, the on-site spa offered an array of indulgent treatments inspired by the ocean’s healing powers. As the skilled therapists worked their magic, I drifted into a state of pure bliss, feeling the weight of the world lift from my shoulders.

The Key to Adventure:

Beyond the confines of this idyllic retreat, the Florida Keys are a playground for adventure seekers. Casa Morada offers a range of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, all easily accessible from the hotel’s private beach. Exploring the diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs left me in awe of nature’s wonders.

A Sunset to Remember:

As the day waned, I headed to the Sunset Terrace to witness a spectacle that will forever be etched in my memory. The golden orb of the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple. With a chilled glass of champagne in hand, I toasted to life’s simple joys and marveled at the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Casa Morada, a secluded haven in the heart of the Florida Keys, exceeded all my expectations. From its serene ambiance to its exceptional service and unforgettable experiences, this luxury retreat embraces the very essence of paradise. If you seek an escape from the ordinary, where relaxation meets adventure and nature’s wonders enchant the soul, then Casa Morada is your ultimate destination. Embrace the allure of this hidden gem, and you will leave with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

www.casamorada.com

Swanky Sips: Hunter Valley, New South Wales

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I am a sucker for wine tours and seek them out in many of the destinations I visit, but the Hunter Valley in New South Wales seems particularly well suited to this kind of tourism. The area is close to Sydney, a two-hour drive away, so locals can pop up for the weekend, but at the same time there is enough to see and do to warrant traveling here from further afield. None of the vineyards are particularly large, and they are situated close enough together that you can easily cycle between them, visiting three or four different properties in a day. In that respect, the Hunter Valley feels a little like California’s Napa, but with added kangaroos.

My guides, Will and Liam, have spent quite a bit of the past two years working their way through the Hunter’s wineries, so I felt that I was in safe (or at least experienced) hands. As we drove out from Sydney in a roaring Toyota Hilux, the dark clouds threatened rain, despite it being the end of the Australian summer. I didn’t grumble too much, though: the grape vines were no doubt in need of a deluge, and their needs must come first.

We pulled up at Spicers Guesthouse and I did a double take. I am familiar with this style of colonial architecture from South Africa and Zimbabwe, but this was the first time I’d seen it in Australia. For good or bad, the British Empire spread its tentacles pretty much everywhere, so I shouldn’t have been surprised. Here were the perfectly manicured lawns surrounding a classic white farmhouse, and shady verandas where you could sit with a pot of tea enjoying the faint waft of breeze. Indoors, there are stone walls and open fireplaces where you can no doubt sit cozily, watching the dancing flames on a cold winter evening. The couches are well stuffed, interesting books are scattered on tables and shelves, and the ambience is best described as convivial. It’s a country house, a country club, an idyllic country retreat.

At Will and Liam’s insistence, we started our vineyard tour at Tyrrell’s, which conveniently is located less than five minutes away from the hotel. Tyrrell’s is one of the oldest wine companies in Australia, owned by the same family since 1858. Edward Tyrrell settled here from England, buying 320 acres of land in the Hunter Valley. His original ironbark hut still stands on the property. Around it he planted Semillon and Shiraz vines. 160 years on,  Bruce Tyrrell is the Managing Director, and his three children, Jane, John, and Christopher, all still work for the business. You could say that winemaking is in their blood, but their passion for their products is such that it is probably more accurate to say that it is in their hearts.

Tyrrell’s welcomes wine lovers through their cellar door every day of the week, but it is so popular that you need to book in advance. The purpose built tasting room has a clean, modern aesthetic so your attention remains focused on the wine, not the decor. The introductory level tasting packages, Tyrrell’s Tasting and the Single Vineyard Experience, are fine way to get a first sip of what Tyrrell’s can offer, but if you have a more demanding palate and really know your wines, book in for the Vat 1 Vertical Experience instead. It focuses on Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Semillon, one of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic wines.

From Tyrrell’s we continued on to see Andrew Thomas, a man the Sydney Morning Herald declared to be “a shining light in the Hunter Valley.” Thomas Wines are renowned for their complex and refined Semillon but also a really classy Shiraz. With The Journey tasting you can mix and match as many as 15 wines from the wine list, shaping the session to your tastes or, as we did, letting the sommelier choose so that you can discover something new. Make sure you ask for the Braemore Semillon and Kiss Shiraz, two of Thomas’ flagship wines, and also the 2013 Elenay Shiraz, which was re-released from the cellars in small quantities in 2023.

I have mentioned Semilon quite a bit, because it really is the signature grape of the Hunter Valley. The species is native to Bordeaux in France, and at one stage it was probably the most planted grape variety in the world, dominating the vineyards of Australia and South Africa. The vines do well in warm climates, in part because they are fairly disease resistant, and on long, sunny days the fat, white grapes gain a pinkish hue. When it is young, Semillon wine has a fresh, almost citrusy taste and goes well with seafood, but if you are patient enough to wait for five to 10 years, it develops into something altogether richer. A bottle such as Thomas WInes’ 2016 Cellar Reserve Braemore has a taste reminiscent of roasted cashew nuts, or even buttered toast!

Though we had snacked throughout the tastings, we returned to Spicers Guesthouse for dinner. The menu at the hotel’s restaurant, éRemo, claims to be a celebration of Italian cuisine, but although Italy may have inspired Head Chef Jayden Casinelli, it really offers a prime opportunity to try contemporary Australian fine dining. And that’s a wonderful thing, because the fresh, seasonal produce in this part of the world is divine. Jayden and his team do masterful things with their ingredients, combining flavors and techniques in the most unexpected ways. Browsing through the a la carte menu you will be hard pushed to choose: should you start with the charred grapes with gorgonzola or the Wagyu bresaola with capers and truffle mayonnaise? And when it comes to main courses, should it be the market fish with saffron fennel, or the rib eye filet steak accompanied by celeriac remoulade and truffle pecorino? My only recommendation when faced with such complex quandaries is that you dine with two or more friends, all order something different, and are generous enough to share. Be sure to look at the wine list, too: it embodies the best of the Hunter Valley, and many of the wines are available by the glass so you can try something new with every course. When you do finally leave the table, there is no need to order a cab: your guest room will be waiting for you a few minutes’ walk away. 

www.spicersretreats.com

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art’otel, AmsterdamAmsterdam, NetherlandsLife equals art at Amsterdam’s swankiest hotel. Signature artist Atelier van Lieshout, one of the biggest and most prolific names in the...

The Birthplace Of Wine

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The country of Georgia is building its brand as the birthplace of wine. Those in the know also rave about Georgian cuisine, including delicious...

NEW Chef-Led Culinary Cycling Tour of Sicily Announced by Tourissimo

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by Sophie Ibbotson(Turin, Italy) --- Tourissimo is thrilled to announce a NEW culinary cycling tour of Sicily being led by two different celebrity chefs....