Swiss Not to Miss

I’d never really considered Geneva for a leisure break before – especially one that didn’t include skis - but after spending two nights at the gorgeous La Reserve Geneve I’d recommend it to anyone for a super-stylish city break in a heartbeat.

Tucked away in beautifully landscaped grounds just minutes from the city, the hotel boasts one of the fastest and easiest transfers I have ever experienced. And, of course, being Switzerland, it naturally ran like clockwork ensuring we arrived in perfect time for lunch.

Like its sister hotels in Paris and Ramatuelle, near St Tropez, the Geneva property has its own distinctive scent which greets you the moment you step into the reception, thanks to the lovely lit candles dotted decoratively around. The dark wood and cosy crimson interiors are brilliantly balanced by huge glass windows throughout the hotel, inviting the crisp, autumn sunshine and bright blue skies in. The juxtaposition creates at once a very open, yet intimate, atmosphere and I immediately felt at home.

With its giant display case of exotic butterflies in the lobby area, and magnificent wildlife portraits adorning walls throughout the property, the hotel is reminiscent of a grand African game lodge. I don’t think I would have batted an eyelid if a herd of elephants had lumbered their way slowly past the window! Touches of African influence can also be seen in the large, super-comfortable bedrooms that boast just about every modern convenience you can imagine and French doors out on to your own terrace.

The bed was a dream and the super-size flat screen TV made the thought of a night in with a Michelin-starred takeaway and a glass of the house ‘Reybier’ Champagne more than tempting. But who wants a takeaway when you can dine at Switzerland’s first-ever Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant without even having to venture outside the hotel? Yes, the already lauded Tse Fung on the lower ground floor of La Reserve, led by celebrated chef Frank Xu, has recently been awarded a very well deserved Michelin star. Moving continents from Africa to Asia, the restaurant’s decadent surroundings, inspired by a 1930’s Shanghai grand palace hotel, provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable gourmet feast that delivered melt-in-the mouth Cantonese classics like dim sum, with a new and exciting twist. It does come with a warning, however…it will ruin your appetite for the usual Friday night take away forever!

Tse Fung is one of five dining options at the hotel and they are all worth a visit. The Loti, in particular, is another really exciting restaurant with a very distinctive menu and a relaxed atmosphere. Award-winning French chef Virginie Basselot is doing it for the girls with stunning combinations of the best locally sourced produce delivering powerful and subtle flavours in equal measure, but always in perfect harmony.

Before dinner, we enjoyed impressive early evening cocktails in the sexy bar that undergoes a complete transformation from its lakeside lounge daytime persona. As well as the hotel guests, the bar attracts a young, sophisticated, local crowd who make the most of the plush, laid back surroundings – and the lengthy cocktail menu! After all that great food and wine – including an afternoon’s chocolate tasting with Swiss chocolatier extraordinaire Philippe Pascoet at his nearby village shop – a visit to the hotel’s award-winning spa was definitely on the cards for the following day.

The Nescens Spa at La Reserve Geneve is a destination in its own right. Elegant, contemporary interiors and soft, gold-hued lighting immediately plunge you into a world of essential oil aromas and pure tranquillity. Just thinking about it now slows my breath and helps my shoulders relax back to where they should be. No mean feat as I crouch over my mac on a wet winter afternoon in Hertfordshire!

A formidable menu of treatments that cover all areas of wellbeing and anti-ageing are offered using a combination of Nescens, La Prairie, specialised cosmecutical brands and a crack team of seriously qualified medical practitioners to administer them all. There’s a whole brochure of treatments dedicated purely to creating lovely legs – smooth, shapely and cellulite free – and don’t even get me started on the fabulous, age-defying facials. Really, just fabulous. There is also a gym, pool, steam room, sauna and a choice of studio classes throughout the day. I did a really good body balance class before breakfast with a very patient American teacher who managed to make it as fun as it was challenging.

The spa is also home to another of the hotel’s dining venues, the Café Lauren. Serene, clean and deliciously guilt-free (well almost, we did enjoy a glass of crisp white wine with our healthy lunch), the café boasts a lighter menu that certainly doesn’t skimp on taste or variety. Again, the spa and its restaurant attracts a laid back Genevan crowd who use the facilities as a local country health club and only add to the chic, yet welcoming vibe that greets every hotel guest.

There is so much more to tell you about La Reserve Geneve – the magical winter lodge and skating rink in winter; the lakeside outdoor dining and great family activities in the summer; the extremely stylish water taxi that provides a free shuttle across the lake to the city centre; the BEST service you will probably ever experience. I could go on, but I really think it’s time you went and checked it out for yourself.

Highlife Marketing’s Perfect Christmas Wish List

Highlife Marketing’s Perfect Christmas Wish List

It’s that time of the year again and finding the perfect present for that special someone who seems to have it all is now one less-stress your clients need to worry about. We’ve come up with our top recommendations for the most romantic Christmas gifts of all time. Easy to book, hard to beat and definitely a more satisfying way to do the Christmas shopping than hitting the streets, or waiting in for the postman. Spread the word..your clients will love you for it!

Petit St Vincent

Create lifetime memories with a loved one, friends, or family on a lush 115-acre tropical island. With just 22 spacious one bedroom cottages and two bedroom beach villas, you can enjoy the privacy you desire with gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea at Petit St Vincent.

This is the perfect location to unplug and unwind. With no telephones, TV’s or Wi-Fi in the cottages this island is all about stopping time, putting the brakes on life and taking a second to breathe. Those looking to relax can lounge with a book on the beach without another soul in sight while sipping a fresh piña colada or spend the afternoon at the open-air treetop spa listening to the sound of the warm breeze gently blowing through the trees.

For those looking to keep active, the island has a hiking trail and two beachside yoga pavilions, and all non-motorized water activities—snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing and Sunfish or Hobie Cat sailing—are complimentary. But the dive centre is where PSV really excels. Owned and operated by Jean-Michel Cousteau, dive in and enjoy the hidden secrets of coral reefs and be dazzled by the array of colorful coral reef fishes, secretive sea turtles, graceful eagle rays and inquisitive lobsters.

PSV isn’t for everyone, but it is for those looking for somewhere completely different; somewhere that offers a true escape from the frantic pace of modern life. It could be the greatest gift you give, a chance to detach from virtual reality for a moment, re-connect with loved ones, celebrate the simple pleasures in life and soak up the beauty of Caribbean life.

Crillon le Brave

Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves our hilltop village hotel in Provence is the perfect destination for a romantic short break. The views from the rooms, terraces and gardens are simply stunning at Hotel Crillon le Brave.

They have created the package “Crillon for Two” which is the perfect gift to share with a loved one who is in need of some indulgent pampering. When you arrive at the hotel flowers, champagne and a small bottle of massage oil will be waiting for you in your room. Later, or the next day, take an unhurried ride through the surrounding vineyards and olive groves on our state-of-the-art Co-motion tandem bicycle with a picnic hamper stuffed full of special Provencal treats, a bottle of Domaine Vintur rosé and a map of suggested routes and scenic locations for a lazy picnic along the way.

And afterwards, enjoy a well-deserved 60-minute massage each in the spa des écuries. In the evening, the head chef Jerôme Blanchet, one of the finest young chefs of his generation, will prepare for you his ‘menu de saison’, served on the main terrace overlooking the Mont Ventoux or in our stone vaulted dining room, depending on the weather.

Portetta

Swap white sand for white snow this year and opt for the plush surroundings of this retreat high in the French Alps. Portetta sits on the slopes of chic Courchevel 1650, moments away from a ski lift. Piste-facing bedrooms have stunning vistas, valley-facing bedrooms offer complete tranquillity, or for those with a larger budget, the luxurious lofts or mountain lodges offer the ultimate in ski-in ski-out luxury.

Enjoy the best sun terrace, lounge, bar and restaurant in Courchevel. The hotels Fire and Ice bar is right at the bottom of the main piste and has huge log burning fires, flaming torches, wood fired pizza oven, ice shots, fur snugs and heated bar seating. And for full on foodies, the hotel has partnered with Angela Hartnett to open the new restaurant Cucina Angelina which serves Italian influenced mountain food.

For more information on any of the featured properties in our wish list, including rates and availability for 2017, please contact Danielle at Danielle@highlifemarketing.com, or call us on 01923 286002 – we’re full of good ideas all year round!

Hotel Palacio Estoril

More than FIT for purpose

There are many great things about Portugal, not least the ease and speed with which you can get there. After an early Monday morning start from Stansted, I was already on the road from Lisbon to the small, coastal suburb of Estoril, by noon. Once the favoured resort of the Kings and Queens of Europe, Estoril is also home The Hotel Palacio, where they chose to stay, and my home for the next 36 hours.

Hotel Palacio is without question the town’s most elegant and well-connected building, sandwiched between the pretty seafront and the renowned Casino Estoril. This grande white dame may be elderly, but she is exquisitely preserved and still giving off more than a whiff of decadence and glamour. Service is strictly old school here with no stone left unturned; every guest is treated like royalty at the Palacio.

My opulent suite with a double balcony overlooking both the Adriatic and the casino, was hard to leave (especially with a tempting plate of the hotel’s famous Portuguese custard tarts awaiting me), but I was here in the pursuit of wellness. During my short stay I would be experiencing the health-promoting benefits of the hotel’s exceptional (but up until now relatively undiscovered) spa and wellness centre and sampling some of its unique facilities and treatments. I couldn’t wait.

Located in a separate, state-of-the-art building across the road from the hotel itself, the spa and wellness centre can be reached via a rather clever corridor and lift route leading directly from the hotel. So making your way from your room straight to the spa is a doddle – you can do it in your robe and slippers if you choose.

In contrast to its grandiose parent, the wellness centre is a contemporary high-rise with sharp, clean lines and a cool, slick interior. Arriving at ground level, I was greeted by the rich, warm tones and delicious jasmine oil aroma of the Banyan Tree Spa reception and given my schedule for the afternoon. An hour in the Dynamic Pool, followed by a 90-minute traditional Thai massage and relaxation – I love my job!

The Dynamic Pool was a revelation. A giant pool filled with comfortably warm water and a number of different ways to reap its benefits. From the gently soothing bubbles of the Jacuzzi at one end to the extremely powerful jets at the other, designed to pummel any shoulder and back tension into submission, this was no ordinary swimming pool. In the centre, a strong circular current enables you lay back and be transported around without the slightest effort, or alternatively you can choose to swim against the flow and get a really good workout.

Completing the Hydro Banyan Circuit there is a hammam, sauna, steam room and refreshing sensations showers, making this watery wonderland the perfect place to relax, unwind and reconnect with a work-weary body. It worked wonders for me, and when the therapist arrived to take me for my Thai massage the morning rush hour and airport chaos already felt like a distant memory.

The massage, on the other hand, is something I won’t forget in a hurry. And for all the right reasons.

Having suffered from neck and shoulder pain for sometime, I took the brave step and opted for a ‘strong’ massage, softened slightly by the rose-scented essential oils that accompanied it. All of the Banyan Tree Spa therapists are trained in Thailand in traditional techniques and you can definitely tell that you’re getting the real McCoy. After 60 minutes of serious pressure and gentle body strokes pulling me this way and that I was offered a very welcome pot of ginger tea and floated back to my hotel room in a delicious daze. I can’t remember the last time I felt so totally relaxed and after an early ‘clean’ dinner of salmon and lemon vegetables in the Bougainvillea restaurant, I fell into my big comfy bed and slept like a baby. 

Next morning I was up with the larks (and a few other willing bodies) for my 8.15am Hydrobike group fitness in the Wellness Centre. I took the lift up to the second floor, left my clothes and my inhibitions in the super-smart changing rooms and joined the rest of the class in the special healing waters of the thermapool. Much like a spin class, but with the bike and your bottom half under water for the duration, hydrobike is a great way to burn calories and strengthen leg, arm and core muscles without putting any strain on your joints. It’s certainly not a soft option, but the low impact of pedalling in water and pushing against its weight with your arms, makes it suitable (and popular) for all levels of fitness. Our enthusiastic instructor did a brilliant job of making herself understood in both English and Portuguese and we all finished feeling wide awake and ready to face the day.

Butt buffed and bingo wings banished, I was led to the epi-centre of the wellness clinic where the seriously impressive treatments take place. In direct contrast to the deep brown tones and intoxicating aromas of the Banyan Tree Spa downstairs, the Wellness Centre is a clean, white clinical space. It boasts a number of specialised treatment rooms and an outstanding role call of reputable doctors and practioners, ranging from oesteopaths to hydrologists, rheumatologists, podiatrists, nutritionists and experts in anti-ageing. Here I was treated to a jet shower that involved being blasted from a distance by something resembling a fireman’s hose. The clever therapist turned up the pressure as my body became more acclimatised to the assault and then made tiny circles with the end of the hose to give every muscle on my body a serious pummelling. Designed to improve circulation, encourage the elimination of toxins and tackle cellulite, you can feel this treatment breaking down the fat and getting your system working – I would have one very morning if I could.

Hard work over, what comes next is pure pampering. Submersion in a warm hydromassage bath filled with moisturising almond milk-enhanced water, while gently bubbling jets soothe your muscles. Then it was into the next room for an invigorating deep tissue Vichy Shower Massage conducted under warm sprinkling water to soothe away aches, pains and any lingering cares you might still have after 24 hours in healing heaven.

Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by the whole experience I decided to finish my Hotel Palacio Spa and Wellness Centre experience with a group yoga class. It’s been an amazing 36 hours and as I board the plane to come home I look and feel like I’ve been on holiday for a week or more.

Hotel Palacio Estoril offers a range of superb value 3 to 7 night Spa and Wellness packages, from beauty boosters to anti-ageing, detox to weight loss, all including accommodation, treatments, classes and specified meals. To find out more contact lisa@highlifemarketing.com, or click on the link: http://www.palacioestorilhotel.com/wellness/packages

La Reserve Ramatuelle Fam Trip Sept '16

Heaven is a place on earth. And it’s called La Reserve Ramatuelle.

I hadn’t been to the south of France for many years and so the opportunity to accompany six luxury tour operators on an educational to this stunning five star resort and spa was simply too good to turn down. The Cote D’Azur was even more vivid and beautiful than I had remembered and as we took the picturesque coastal road from Nice airport alongside the sparkling Mediterranean, the sky seemed to be competing with the sea for blueness.

We arrived at lunchtime to a warm welcome and a chilled glass of champagne while we took in the breathtaking views that greeted us in the lobby. White muslin curtains blew gently in the lovely breeze, bringing the outside in to the cool, contemporary reception area. A neutral palette of whites, creams and soft pebble colours combine with natural textures, like leather, local stone, terracotta and glass, to provide the perfect contrast to the vivid blues and greens of the rugged coastal landscape. There is no formal check-in to interrupt the immediate feeling of calm and relaxation that pervades as soon as you set foot in the hotel, so we enjoyed taking our time to savour our surroundings and La Reserve’s faultless hospitality. I cannot remember a more leisurely or pleasant arrival.

A ‘light’ lunch with deputy manager Veronique – and visiting counterpart from La Reserve Geneva, Claudine – proved to be an equally leisurely affair as several courses of delicious fish, chicken and salads were served in the light and airy La Voile restaurant. All accompanied by a crisp local Rose wine that looked as good as it tasted, in a beautifully decorated bottle.

Food at La Reserve Ramatuelle is fresh, natural, organic and healthy. Clean eating and general wellbeing is an important part of the philosophy here, but don’t let the idea of a ‘healthy menu’ put you off. This food is seriously scrumptious and incredibly creative. Two Michelin-starred chef, Eric Canino, manages to make the most saintly ingredients taste wickedly indulgent – it’s the dream combination. If only we could take him home!

After a longer than expected lunch (after all, what’s the rush?), we were treated to a memorable massage in the super-stylish spa. Gleaming white walls and surfaces again provide the perfect foil to the brilliant blues of the scenery that can be seen from every treatment room, thanks to large windows and lots of glass everywhere. Products used here include those from Swiss brand Nescens, which focuses on better aging, and beauty editors’ favourite, Crème de La Mer. I can thoroughly recommend the signature ‘better-aging body massage’ that left me floating back to our truly fabulous five-bedroom villa in a blissful state. I might not have looked 10 years younger after just 90 minutes, but I definitely felt it.

So, the villa…there are no words! If you’ve never witnessed a room of silent travel professionals before, you should bring them to Villa 19, it really is breath (and speech) taking. One of 16 villas here –  ranging from three to six bedroom, each different from the next – ours had five bedrooms and had recently been completely refurbished. The view from the huge living room, and two of the main bedrooms is spectacular, looking out as it does across a terraced seating area, sparkling infinity pool and perfect manicured lawns, down to the Mediterranean beyond.

We were all amazed at how big the villa was with four, more-than-generous double rooms and one twin-bedded room, each with their own state-of-the-art bath and/or shower room en-suite. The kitchen is fully equipped and, again, HUGE, with a range-style cooker, excellent coffee maker, giant fridge and separate wine chiller for all that lovely Rose. Plus, there’s a large dining table leading straight off the kitchen area for great dinner parties and family lunches.

The beauty of the villas at La Reserve is that you can self-cater, order home delivery from the hotel’s Michelin-starred chef, or pop into the picture-postcard village of Ramatuelle for a bite to eat at one of the charming (and extremely good) restaurants there. I can personally recommend La Forge after a wonderful meal on our first night. All that, and the glamour and buzz of St Tropez and its famous beach clubs just a 15 minute drive away, makes for the perfect holiday home-from-home.

Every villa has the services of a housekeeper for six hours a day who will happily prepare breakfast out on the terrace, afternoon tea and take care of the all the general household duties, including laundry. On the second morning, we also booked for one of the Personal Trainers from the spa to come up to the villa at 8am for a yoga and stretch session in the sunshine around the pool. It was a great way to start the day and while we worked out, a delicious organic breakfast of fresh fruits, warm, nutty breads, pancakes and granola was prepared and served on the terrace as our reward. Sounds wonderful, right? But the great thing is if you don’t want to be disturbed by anybody, just leave a sign on the door, or call down to the hotel, and you’ll be left in total peace.

It’s not hard to imagine a family or group of friends living here really comfortably for a couple of weeks, or even longer – it’s just such an easy place to be. Stunning, exclusive and totally private, yet completely understated and unpretentious in any way. That pretty much sums up the whole experience at La Reserve Ramatuelle. I cannot wait to return.

La Reserve Ramatuelle

To say I was excited about my trip to La Reserve Ramatuelle would be an understatement and having already visited La Reserve Geneva and the exquisite La Reserve Paris, my expectations were high! They say timing is everything and when I arrived at Nice airport to be greeted by a throng of press, I wondered if mine was not ideal!

“Of course “, I thought it’s Cannes Film Festival and they were waiting for Angelina and Brad, George and Amal, not me and my two partners in crime -  industry colleagues! Nevertheless, we were swiftly whisked away by our very friendly and efficient driver and in one and a half hours arrived at La Reserve Ramatuelle (though the journey can take up to two hours in high season).

My initial impression was “Wow”. As you enter the lobby you cannot help but be drawn to the amazing rugged coastline vista before you. It struck me how modern the property is in comparison to the other La Reserve hotels. It felt clean and crisp with white, ochre and neutral shades, very relaxed and inviting .There is no formal reception desk but attentive, smiling staff to take you to your room or villa either on foot or in a golf cart.

I checked into my Junior Suite and had that “Gosh I love my job” feeling! The Junior suite is the third room category (superior & deluxe being the lead in room types) and I would definitely suggest this room type as the best option.  The room felt huge, approximately 55 sqm all to myself, not to mention the garden terrace on the other side of the picture window. I stood for a moment taking in the ever changing hues of the Mediterranean.....even in the drizzle, it was spectacular!

There was a welcome gift of perfectly formed marshmallows, a small lemon cake and chocolate bites and a bottle of rose, all so beautifully presented that I did not dare touch them.

Lunch was calling. La Voile restaurant is close to the lobby area and very open in style with many different terraces and a small garden  which come into play in high season .Chef Eric Canino , formerly with Michel Guerard has two Michelin stars and incredibly manages to combine indulgence with balance so nothing I ate felt heavy or excessive. The lunch menu is comprehensive and the whole ethos of Eric Canino’s cuisine is to cater for those who want to enjoy healthy food without sacrificing taste and creativity. Dishes range from €30-60 for lunch.

In true French style, it was a long lunch finishing at 4.30pm (we were late arriving!) and had time to relax and enjoy the facilities before leaving the hotel to dine in Ramatuelle that evening. Ramatuelle is a quaint little, hilltop village far from the madding crowds with a handful of good local restaurants and a wonderful art gallery – well worth a visit and I can certainly recommend La Forge a family run Italian with great food and hospitality.

La Reserve Ramatuelle provides a complimentary shuttle service for guests between the resort and   Ramatuelle or St Tropez.

I slept like a baby and awoke to glorious blue skies, perhaps a little earlier than I would have liked but keen to experience the Nordic walk which starts at 8am and forms part of La Reserve Ramatuelle’s Bootcamp programme. I hasten to add that this was the only part of the programme we tried!

Our guide was eagerly awaiting us at reception so after a “green juice” off we went, all so thrilled to see blue skies and a glistening sea. The coastal walk took us though rugged terrain with spectacular views of the sea and many photo opportunities of little bays and single yachts that had moored overnight in a tranquil piece of heaven.

For those who want to explore the region, there is a plethora of activities on offer from vineyard tours in Domaine de la Tourac and local Provençal markets to golf, helicopter rides and yacht charters. 

In addition to the 28 resort rooms, there are 14 stunning villas at La Reserve Ramatuelle. I was surprised by the standard of the villas – each one could have been a privately owned stand-alone villa finished to a very high spec and with individual interiors, homely and stylish. The individuality of each means that guests can have a different experience each year as they have lots of repeat clients. Villas range from three to six bedrooms (just one) and include a housemaid six hours per day who will prepare breakfast afternoon tea, ensuring that guests are relaxed and well looked after throughout their stay. Each has its own pool, lovely garden with barbeque area so for those clients seeking total privacy, they are an excellent choice. Two new villas will open  earlier than planned on July 7^th – villa No .1 (5 bedrooms) , a vintage villa dating back to the 1970s and lovingly restored maintaining many of the original features such as the tower section and Villa No .2 (3 bedrooms) a panoramic villa overlooking L’Escalet.  Guests can access all the hotel facilities and  avail of the complimentary shuttle service to St Tropez and Ramatuelle which operates between 8am and 10.30pm subject to availability.

Our last night was a gourmet sensation with the  7 course Gourmet menu in La Voile – there are not enough superlatives but unusually when dining in a  two Michelin star restaurant, I did not need a crane to lift me from the table! The lemon and lime melee for dessert was the highlight for me. I tried to recreate it at home but failed miserably.

From June onwards guests can enjoy the fabulous Roof Terrace which will welcome a new Japanese chef for this season so sushi and champagne on a candlelit terrace - it doesn’t get much more romantic and it can be privatised for proposals or private parties.

The next morning we were treated to a wonderful treatment in the anti-aging Nescens spa which is a destination spa and was recently featured in Conde Nast Traveller.

Needing all the help I can get these days in an effort to rejuvenate myself, I opted for the Better – aging body massage. The description read “Combined with the use of a lymph drainage device for the 80 minute treatment, this massage releases blockages and eases tension, while activating cell regeneration and stimulating skin oxygenation and muscle tone.” That was enough for me. I came out feeling like a new woman and did not relish the thought of packing my bags to leave this wonderful resort. I would highly recommend it whether for a family villa holiday, romantic and relaxing couple getaway or a few days rejuvenation in the spa!  

Back to reality!

Portetta Fam Trip

 My first trip to Portetta started off early with an 8am flight from Heathrow to Lyon. However I was delighted to find that once on board the new British Airways aircraft that I had a whole row of seats to myself, one of quite a few perks I noticed while visiting Portetta in low season. After a very comfortable 90 minute flight we regrouped at the baggage reclaim area and made our way through a very quick and painless passport control. On the other side we were greeted by Sebastian who was holding a Portetta sign at the arrivals area, he took us to our private mini bus and we started our two hour transfer to Portetta.

We arrived in Portetta’s heated driveway ahead of schedule and I was eager to see the hotel for myself. We walked into the warm cosy reception and I instantly felt relaxed, we were greeted by Nicolas and Mehdi the hotel director and assistant manager and were shown to our rooms. My valley facing room was simply gorgeous; it was rustic in style with exposed wooden beams and plush, cosy textiles that created a sense of warmth and comfort. After I unpacked I was keen to see the rest of the hotel.

We walked through the large spacious lounge and into the new bar area and restaurant Cucina Angelina and I could see that the interiors throughout have been designed to the highest standard, with large open fireplaces and elegant furnishings - think alpine-chic with a warm, laid-back vibe! The hotel had everything one could need for the perfect ski break, a top notch ski room and shop where staff will even warm your boots for you to a lavish spa where you can relax and rejuvenate after a long day of skiing. I was very impressed but more importantly after a busy morning I was very hungry, it was time to experience what culinary delights Portetta had to offer.

We made our way outside to the Fire and Ice Bar, Portetta’s outdoor terrace bar which is right at the bottom of the main piste and took a seat. The sun was shining down on us and view was breath-taking. I perused the menu and I was spoilt for choice, the Italian influenced mountain food included pastas, salads, grills, pizza and more and I wanted to try everything! Finally I decided to try an old favourite of mine and an Italian dish carbonara and I was not disappointed.  We decided that despite the fact that we were already full to burst it would be rude not to try a dessert and make the most of this sunny afternoon so I ordered the chocolate torte and felt no ounce of guilt.

After an absolutely perfect lunch there was only one thing to do, take a nap in my peaceful room and prepare for dinner which was only a couple hours of away (maybe I shouldn’t of had dessert!).

We met in the lounge for a quick glass of champagne before we went to visit the lodges which were simply stunning, each one unique and furnished to the highest standard by Laure the lodge manager who joined us for dinner in Blanchot. It was clear to see from spending a short amount of time with Laure just how passionate she is about the lodges and how much she strives to make sure that each guest has a great experience. She is involved in every aspect of their stay from the booking right through to departure to make sure everything runs smoothly.

We enjoyed a delicious three course meal cooked by the wonderful chef Céline before retiring to the hotel for a quick night cap and an early night before a busy day on the slopes.

Today was my first day skiing and to say I was apprehensive would be an understatement. Nevertheless I got into my ski gear and met the rest of the group downstairs in Portetta’s very own ski room. I was greeted by my instructor for the day the lovely Christine from the ESF 1650 ski school who quickly made my nerves disappear. Our first stop was the baby slope which I managed to complete with ease so we then moved up to a slightly steeper slope which I must admit I was a lot more ‘wobbly’ on. After a few successful runs on the learning slope Christine decided I was ready for my first green run and I thought she had gone crazy! So I found myself on my first drag lift which I absolutely loved! The views were incredible and the weather was simply perfect, I could have easily stayed on the lift all day but I think Christine had other ideas.

My first run resulted in a few crash landings but after that I started to get the hang of it and really enjoyed myself; Christine was amazing and kept pushing me to tackle more difficult slopes. So after a long morning on the slopes I was exhausted and ready for my next meal. We decided to try a local French restaurant a short walk away from the hotel which was superb, I had my first tartiflette which is a French dish from the Savoie and Haute Savoie region of France. I spent the rest of the afternoon in the hotel spa relaxing my very tired legs.

Dinner this evening was in Cucina Angelina, Portetta’s brand new restaurant in partnership with top chef Angela Hartnett. The restaurant builds on the relaxed, casual style at Portetta with rustic mountain chic interiors. The food was simply divine and I enjoyed every single bite! It was the perfect end to a fabulous stay at Portetta. Now I’m home and ready to hit the gym after an indulgent few nights. 

Danielle McDaid

Mustang Monument Fam Trip - Nevada, USA

Having not been away all summer and with the depressing weather, I was very much looking forward to my trip to Mustang Monument in mid-August so with my cowboy chic wardrobe safely packed, I boarded my flight to Vegas which I thought would be an exciting stop over, having never been.

I was making myself comfortable and relishing the thought of being able to read the Saturday Telegraph undisturbed when my fellow passenger, a friendly American on her way home asked where I was going so I told her “Mustang Monument" to which she replied "oh are you nervous about going there?" "Why would I be nervous?" I queried rather confused. "Well you know, it's men only?" I laughed and explained that this was definitely not the case.

Evidently there is a similarly named establishment of ill repute so Mustang Monument Wild Horse Eco Ranch is not to be confused with this one.

 After checking in to the Four Seasons Vegas, we had a quick turnaround before being collected by Maverick Tours for our sunset helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon .There was a little too much waiting around for my liking ...almost an hour from arriving at the terminal to departure but they had to weigh everyone and allocate groups on that basis so I guess there is not much one can do to change that. We met our very suave pilot Kevin; clearly straight out of Top Gun and after a safety briefing we boarded the helicopter. This was my first helicopter ride since a very unfortunate incident in one some five years ago so I was feeling a mixture of excitement and trepidation but as we rose over Hoover Dam with the bright sun shining over the Canyon, I relaxed and took in the incredible views below. One can certainly appreciate why it is listed amongst the wonders of the world.

We landed to enjoy the sunset deep in the Canyon where rustic wooden benches had been built to host champagne and snacks. As I sat there in awe, it struck me just how insignificant we are as humans when one takes in this feat of nature and yet we think we are so powerful.

Flying back into the sunset and along the "strip" now illuminated for the nights activities, I thought about how lucky I am and would definitely recommend this experience for clients.

We were transported back to our hotel and had intended to go out to see the nightlife but by 9pm the jetlag was taking hold and so after a delicious slice of New York cheese cake, I nestled into the divine Four Seasons bed....

I didn’t need the 5am alarm call - I was up and ready for the next stage of our trip, the reason for being here  - to visit Mustang Monument Eco Horse Resort (mustang monument.com)and was very excited.

We left the hotel at 6am for the short drive to the airport with a very chirpy cab driver who insisted on giving his opinion of USA politics .We nodded and smiled politely, well as much as we could muster at 6am on a Sunday after a transatlantic flight!

We had the usual queues for check in and paid for our bags on Delta (which I have not experienced before), grabbed a leisurely coffee and made our way to the gate 20 minutes before departure only to be told by a very discourteous member of Delta staff that we would not be boarding the flight and it became apparent when she said to another woman who looked very embarrassed "Do not speak to them”.  After much debate it transpired that she had sold our seats which is evidently not that unusual with American carriers and with only standby status for the next flight, we decided to hire a car and drive from Vegas to Salt Lake City!

As we stood at the Avis desk the receptionist said "Do you ladies know what you are doing driving through Death Valley when there is a heat warning? Make sure you take plenty of water and snacks as there is nowhere to stop!"

At that point I was wondering whether this was a good decision but the alternative was sitting in Vegas airport all day so we had little choice and figured it would be fun to do a road trip!

Actually the journey passed incredibly quickly, the highlight being stopping for a Haagan Daaz which  had almost melted by the time we'd walked back to the car....There were actually several places to stop and refuel so admittedly we had a day of eating trash but after six hours we recognised the  iconic tepees  of Mustang Monument on our right and finally we arrived at the ranch at 5pm. Sadly we had missed the days ride up Spruce Mountain which the other guests said was amazing, particularly the picnic lunch with breath taking views across the valleys.

I checked in to my cottage which was a very high end version of something from "Home on the Range", beautifully furnished with a big bathroom featuring a free standing bath. With 20 rooms in total, there is a choice of accommodation, tepee or cottage and the general consensus from the group was that the cottages are preferable for adults mainly due to the fact that the bathroom is outside in the tepees but we all agreed that the tepees were fabulous for maybe one night or definitely for teenagers. They too are beautifully designed but much colder at night.

There are also a number of dining tepees and dinner was served in one of the larger ones that night ...a unique experience and hats off to the waiters who have to negotiate the low level entrance when serving each course!

Owner Madeleine Pickens is currently building a new kitchen and restaurant overlooking the plains which will be ready for next season and this will make a huge difference to the food service as currently they have to walk quite a way from kitchen to dinner venues.

Traditionally everyone retires to the Saloon after dinner and I have to say this was my favourite place of all in the ranch be it for cocktails, lunch or cards and games. It has been beautifully restored in true Wild West style with original saddle seats and tasteful throws; it really comes to life in the evening.

Breakfast the next morning was served at the saloon deck and offered an array of fresh fruits, homemade oatmeal and scones, yoghurts and smoothies.

It was a very relaxed affair and I am told that when Madeleine is in house, guests are invited to her house for breakfast.

After breakfast we were taken out to feed the horses which was an incredible experience as there is clearly a pecking order in which they feed and during the course of two hours , the mustangs come to feed , some more nervous than others but with them all together including young foals, it was a spectacle to behold. A big part of the whole experience at Mustang Monument is undoubtedly chatting to Clay, head rodeo and his team whose knowledge of these horses and close support of Madeleine's cause to save America's mustangs is very apparent. Hearing all about how Madeleine started and the lengths they have gone to thus far was fascinating. I have no doubt that this would be a highlight of the whole guest experience as well as the expert riding and plethora of activities on offer.

Lunches tended to be delicious salads and cold meats or fish and these were well presented and served mainly in the saloon. It's fair to say that we all looked forward to the lunches.

The afternoon of Day 2, we left in convoy for the 90 minute drive to Goshute Valley for what I had considered the highlight of the trip and the part I was most looking forward to (a little ironic as I like my creature comforts!)

We were treated to a session on the shooting range under the expert guidance of Niks, an ex US Navy seal and whose main priority was safety but he made it fun and even by his own admission was surprised at the expertise of his all female group!

Those who did not want to do shooting went on a safari drive and saw herds of mustang cantering across the spectacular valley.

Dinner was a barbeque, served by the Mustang Monument team and as all meals and drinks (excluding champagne) are included, guests were offered a selection of wines, beers and a mean punch which went down far too easily!

There are nine Californian trail wagons in situ at the Goshute Valley and all can accommodate two people. They are basic but clean and there are plenty of blankets as it did get chilly during the early hours. Each has hot water and a basin but we were told to just take our toothbrush and PJs. Being the cold creature I am, I wore PJs and my clothes and at one point with Clint Eastwood nowhere in sight, I was still tempted to hop in beside my colleague Frangelica! Next morning, we discussed placing fleecy pyjamas in the wagons for next year.  

Of course we had all woken up early and breakfast was a simple affair with fruit, yoghurts and the most delicious homemade lemon cake and brownies. I have to admit I have never actually had cake for breakfast but I thought I'd try it and ended up having both ....in hindsight it was good preparation for the Napa Valley experience ahead where we were tasting wine at 11am!

On journeying back to the ranch, we were all looking forward to a hot shower but actually when Niks suggested taking the mavericks out, we found renewed energy and decided the shower could wait as we were going to get very dusty anyway! Wow ... What an experience that was! If your clients like adrenalin fuelled activities, they will love this. There are four people to a maverick and we nominated our American travel industry colleague as our driver, little did we know that she clearly had Ayrton Senna blood in her somewhere. We drove up Ruby Mountain at great speed and at the top climbed to the top of the ridge which had the most incredible vista. It was on the way down that the "girl racer" kicked in and boy was I scared.

Once we reached home, I got out, heart racing but pleased that I had opted in for such an exhilarating experience. Be warned....

Dinner on the last night was in the saloon and with much to talk about Clay and the team gave us a great send off. We had shared much fun and laughter and created memories which would stay with us for a long time to come.

The alarm was set for 4.15 am for the drive back to Salt Lake City for the next leg of our trip to Napa Valley which I thought would combine well with Mustang Monument.

We were met at San Francisco airport by Michael of Napa Valley Tours and Transportation who turned out to be our guardian angel for the next three days.

Having arrived at Auberge du Soleil slightly later than planned due to heavy traffic, we had a quick turnaround before a site inspection and dinner. I loved this hotel and we were made to feel so welcome by Carol and Renee and their colleagues.

Dinner was absolutely spectacular and of course accompanied by delicious wines from the region expertly explained by the sommelier.

The next morning we were leaving early to visit some wineries and see what all the fuss is about!

For me the olive oil tasting at Round Hill winery was very special. We learnt all about the process involved in making the different oils from traditional olive oil to orange, basil and lime fusions, each one tastier than the other and the small bites we were served to taste the oils were scrumptious.

It's fair to say that between us we did considerable damage in the shop before leaving!

Merus was the second winery we visited and this is by appointment only and much smaller operating for private members only. As I am not a wine drinker and there was no champagne in sight I took my colleagues word for the fact that each one excelled .Here we tasted wine at $800 per bottle so one for your discerning wine lovers.

Lunch was at Calistoga Ranch where we were greeted by the iconic General Manager Connie and her team and enjoyed yet another outstanding lunch at the Lake House restaurant overlooking Lake Rommel. Calistoga Ranch is all about nature and actually fits extremely well with Mustang Monument as a two centre combination. There are over 100 acres in which to explore be it hiking, cycling or running followed by relaxation in their state of the art spa.   

Dinner that evening in The Cave was a real treat - such a unique venue as the name implies and ideal for private family affairs and weddings. As we walked in we were all wondering how we would actually face another meal but Chef Aaron Meneghelli who has an impressive CV which includes Carneros Inn did us proud and we soon forgot that we had been eating virtually all day!

Aaron is inspired by nature and uses virtually everything in the gardens at Calistoga Ranch and I mean everything so you will find flowers and unusual wild herbs in his creative dishes, all beautifully presented.

After a busy but wonderful culinary day, we waddled to bed....

Four of us booked a wakeup call for 7am to do a hike before we left and after the previous day’s indulgence we were so glad we did, not just for the spectacular views in the morning mist but also to make up for all our sins the day before!

Before we left, we visited the chicken coup which may sound rather an odd thing to do but trust me you have never seen anything like this chicken coup. It is Connie’s treasure and the chickens (Connie’s girls as they are affectionately known) enjoy art work on the walls including a portrait of Connie and a fabulous chandelier. She is even talking about putting a shower in for them. Rumour has it that when she needs a break, she goes and talks to her girls!

After collecting our eggs and enjoying a delicious omelette, we were met by trusty Michael who would transfer us to our last destination, San Francisco.

We were greeted enthusiastically by all the team at Loews Hotel (previously  Mandarin Oriental). Loews is located in the financial district but actually it was only a 10 minute walk to Union Square and the main shopping area. We had been allocated Superior City View rooms which were very spacious and comfortable. The views were indeed amazing and Greg Nigh the DOS had generously arranged for us all to have a complimentary massage in their lovely spa which was a haven away from the buzz of the city. The hotel itself feels slightly corporate but the staff were absolutely superb and dinner on Friday night was very pleasant.

On Saturday morning we hit the shops (unfortunately we did not have time to do Alzcatraz) which was very successful as there was a huge sale at Macy’s with one of the group purchasing six pairs of shoes....well a girl can never have enough!

One of the highlights for me was wandering around The Ferry Building which was just a five minute walk from Loews and on a Saturday morning there is an amazing organic food market. There was a great buzz and with Golden Gate Bridge in the background I would definitely recommend it. We had a light lunch in the sun and then treated ourselves to an ice cream from the infamous Humphry Slocombe...it had to be done especially as we’d starved ourselves all week!

So that was the end of our trip and we headed for the airport mentally preparing for our forthcoming detox......