Belmond has created the first chapter of its new series of one-of-a-kind experiences, inviting guests to indulge their longed-for moments in the most breathtaking surroundings.
With the aim to inspire traveling once again, chapter one celebrates beautiful European escapes that connect deeply with the soul of the destination, setting the scene for unforgettable journeys.
The experiences on land, rail, and river range from artistic encounters, living the passion of exceptional curators and collectors in Italy; and savoring local ingredients and tales of treasured traditions; to raising a glass to missed celebrations on legendary trains or seeking private escapes on the scenic waterways in France.
Italy
Exploring Portofino’s nautical spirit this month, guests of Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel can embark on a new weekend sailing experience aboard the beautiful Anywave sailing yacht with Mauro Pelaschier, founder of the One Ocean Foundation. After discovering marine parks and learning about sustainable practices at sea, guests will return to a bespoke cookery class at the hotel, savoring the freshest Ligurian ingredients with harbor views.
This October, the hotel will also offer access to the Museo Diocesano, at which guests can discover the full creative process and ancient painting and cutting techniques behind a fashion collection entirely made of jeans. For the inquisitive traveler, private tours of Genoa’s enchanting palaces are also available throughout the season, followed by lunch in an opulent dining room overlooking the city’s rooftops.
Alternatively, guests can uncover a world of archaeological treasures at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast, which will offer special-access tours of Pompei, Ercolano, and Oplontis this summer. In addition, this October, guests are invited to unleash their creativity with Golden Hour workshops with a master jewelry designer, revealing the age-old techniques of granulazione and cera persa historically used in Oplontis.
For auto fans, Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel offers guests access to a vintage FIAT 1100 Musone for a behind-the-scenes tour of the ateliers and artisans spearheading Florence’s New Renaissance. From fashion to perfumery, learn how these artisans preserve tradition with contemporary style. There’s also a chance to join a bespoke ‘Art of Packing’ experience at Louis Vuitton, or marvel after-hours at the Zeffirelli museum to learn more about the role of art in the theatre.
Guests of Sicily’s Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel can board the historical Circumetnea steam train to Mount Etna, winding across the unique lunar landscape before departing on a tour of local wineries and enjoying a touch of home-style cooking at Le Mamme del Borgo. In October, the experience also includes a private wine tasting on Etna with celebrated wine master Tom Harrow.
Also in Sicily, guests can combine art and culinary flair at Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, which presents a ‘Secrets of Noto’ itinerary with Belmond-only access to beautiful Baroque palaces and celebrated artisans. After discovering the ethereal magic of Palazzo Castelluccio and Palazzo Modica, those looking to fuel their artistic spirit further can visit the atelier of Sicilian painter Sergio Fiorentino, or savor sweet Sicilian delicacies in a workshop with celebrated Pastry Chef Corrado Assenza.
Harrow also leads guests of Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel in Tuscany on a sensory journey this October, in partnership with Marchesi Antinori, one of Italy’s most renowned wineries. As part of the three-day escape, the wine expert will lead special-access winery tours to Tenuta Tignanello estate and Tenuta Guado al Tasso, tasting some of the most sought-after wines in the midst of Tuscany’s vendemmia season.
Finally, Venice’s Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel unlocks the door to 1,600 years of Venetian history for guests in search of rare books and precious manuscripts, with behind-the-scenes visits to monumental libraries and hidden archives. In November, those who wish to immerse in ancient disciplines that traveled the Silk Road can learn from a master of Kintsugi – the delicate art of fixing ceramics with gold – or join a traditional silk printing workshop followed by a magical sunset dinner beside the lagoon.
Spain
For guests dreaming of serving aces, a new tennis weekend available from June 24-27, 2021 at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel in Mallorca is the perfect occasion to enjoy the hotel’s two excellent tennis courts, which offer views of the ocean and spectacular Tramuntana Mountains. In the company of former Spanish tennis star Nicolas Almagro, winner of 13 singles titles, guests can enjoy a variety of fun-filled tennis experiences and one-on-one tuition. When downtime calls, wander through sweet-scented citrus trees to the sensational restaurant for post-match dinner.
The best food of provenance is celebrated at Madeira’s Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel this September, as part of the hotel’s annual Art of Flavours culinary weekend. As well as a series of exceptional Michelin Star dining experiences with legendary chefs, guests will be transported to Fajã dos Padres by cable car, a secluded paradise nestled in a small cove on the south coast of Madeira with a flourishing organic garden. Chef Luis Pestana shares the island’s secret to cultivating sweet fruit and vegetables, as freshly caught fish arrives by boat ready for an unforgettable alfresco lunch with spectacular coastline views.
France
Private charters aboard Afloat in France’s luxury barges are the ultimate exclusive affair, with personalized itineraries and cinematic scenes bringing families and friends together and the new six-night vintage champagne tour is no exception; Pivoine, A Belmond Boat invites guests to taste the best vintage champagnes with unparalleled access at Maisons Ruinart, Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot and Krug, from August 28, 2021.
On the Rails
Alternatively, step into the mystery of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train with new journeys to cities including Amsterdam, Brussels, and Florence. Upgrade to a new Grand Suite for the ultimate private celebration with free-flowing champagne and a personal steward taking care of every detail.
In addition, new gastronomic pursuits onboard Belmond’s Great British trains celebrate the journey as much as the destination. British Pullman, A Belmond Train announces a menu of sumptuous five-course dinner experiences by Michelin Star chefs, Ollie Dabbous, Simon Rogan, Michel Roux Jr, and Raymond Blanc, dates available from July onwards
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