DestinationsExperiencesIdeal for CouplesWedding Venues 5 top rental villas for weddings and other special events by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 23, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Renting a luxury holiday villa in a unique location for a milestone event like a wedding, reunion or anniversary celebration is a memorable way to celebrate or commemorate a special day. This is also a way to share a special place with those you love and spend quality time with them, creating lasting memories. These five luxury villas in Passepartout Home’s exclusive property portfolio located in unique locations offer an exceptional setting for your special event to remember: Celebrating your wedding at Villa La Tosca An oceanside villa in southwestern France Villa La Tosca is a unique heritage beachfront villa built at the turn of the century and located just steps away from the ocean off the coast of southwestern France. Located on the Bay of Arcachon, a natural cove jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, this is the perfect setting for beach and nature lovers. This elegant property has 4500 square metres of lush landscaped gardens which offer the perfect romantic venue for an outdoor wedding, followed by a reception by the natural spring water pool in a completely private setting. With 8 double bedrooms with attached bathrooms, this luxury heritage villa can sleep up to 15 guests, perfect for a small wedding party, special family gathering, or exclusive corporate event. Wedding at Villa La Tosca A tropical paradise on Mexico’s Riviera Maya Imagine saying your vows with your feet in the white sand and with the turquoise blue of the waters and palm trees of Mexico’s Riviera Maya as a backdrop. Many dream of getting married in the exotic setting of a tropical paradise: what better location than the beaches of the Caribbean Sea? Villa Esmeralda is located just off the shores of Puerto Morelos on the Riviera Maya, just south of Cancun on the eastern shore of the Yucatan Peninsula. This completely private beachfront villa furnished in a contemporary style has 6 bedrooms and many luxury amenities and services to ensure a stay to remember. The huge 70 square-metre beachfront deck overlooking the ocean is the perfect setting for a special event. Or how about boarding a yacht at the villa’s private pier and setting sail into the sunset? Tropical setting at Villa Esmeralda, Mexico An elegant island villa in Thailand Villa Riva sits on a hidden headland on the unspoilt northern shore of the Thai island of Koh Samui. This luxury holiday property offers an exclusive retreat in an exceptional and romantic setting, in a quiet location on a semi-private cove on the north-western coast of the island. This exclusive villa has 7 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms spread out across the property, several multifunctional living spaces decorated with Asian artefacts and contemporary artwork, and a fabulous 32-metre infinity pool overlooking the sea. The specially designed covered platform complete with a marriage gazebo adjacent to a food and beverage service area and DJ podium is a popular venue for weddings, special occasions and corporate events. A highlight is the villa’s semi-private beach offering breathtaking sunset views over the bay to the neighbouring island of Koh Phangan. Dream wedding at Villa Riva, Koh Samui An elegant estate in a picturesque Sicilian coastal town Villa Giardini del Principe is a charming and elegant property which includes a large house, two independent cottages and a guesthouse set in a large botanical garden with stunning views of the hills and the sea, which is just 50 metres away. This luxury estate is located in a picturesque Sicilian coastal town situated between Palermo and Cefalù. The main house boasts a large terrace overlooking the sea and even a sea view from the bathroom. The four bedrooms on the upper floor all have private balconies overlooking the sea. The two cottages each have lush private gardens with a patio and barbecue. Perfectly suited for large groups with a capacity of 22 guests, the property has direct access to the beach as well as three large swimming pools, including a large heated Jacuzzi. A romantic gazebo and covered outdoor kitchen overlooking the pools offer the perfect spot for al fresco events in the vast green gardens. Villa Giardini del Principe, Sicily A hilltop retreat in the Tuscan countryside Villa La Borghese is a historical luxury Tuscan villa dating back to 1204 and carefully renovated by its owners in 1994, who took utmost care in preserving the villa’s original characteristics. The villa can welcome large groups with 14 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, sleeping up to 28 persons. The property is made up of three adjoining buildings, creating a small hamlet, and also includes a wellness center with indoor hot baths, two swimming pools, a Turkish bath, sauna and a yoga room. The villa is located in the Tuscan countryside just 25 km away from the historic city of Siena in Tocchi, which is situated in the municipality of Monticiano, between the town of Petriolo, famous for its ancient Roman baths, and San Galgano, the site of a Cistercian abbey. The town is perched on a hilltop with a 360-degree view of the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside. Receptions can be held in the Domus, a Roman-style gazebo set in a beautiful garden on the edge of the woods, or in the romantic rotonda above the vegetable garden, offering the perfect setting for romantic weddings and receptions. Villa La Borghese, Tuscany By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer March 23, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: Faroe IslandsDestinationsTravel News The solar eclipse in the Faroe Islands by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 18, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande The Faroe Islands are on every global news channel all week this week. Why? (In case you have been living in a cave?) Because these tiny, windswept islands between Iceland and Norway are the very best place in the whole world to watch the solar eclipse this Friday March 20 2015. That’s right. On the entire planet. Solar eclipse in Faroe Islands Five fun facts about this solar eclipse: This is the first solar eclipse of the year. March 20 is really special because it is also the March Equinox. A total solar eclipse coinciding with the Northern Hemisphere’s Spring Equinox hasn’t happened since 1662 and will not happen again until March 20, 2034. Only Svalbard and the Faroe Islands will show the sun totally eclipsed from land.It’s very dangerous to look directly at the sun and you need special protective glasses or a pinhole projector. There will be a lunar eclipse just two weeks later but that will not be visible from the Faroe Islands or anywhere in Europe! We asked Jens Kristian Davidsen, owner of The Blue Sail and The White Sail, and a passionate and learned authority on the Faroes, to tell us a little bit more from his unique personal vantage point. Jens told us that The Blue Sail was booked two years ago for the eclipse and all hotels and holiday accommodations are fully booked and many private homes have been made available for visitors to rent. The Blue Sail and The White Sail are two beautiful luxury apartments located in the capital of the Faroes, Torshavn. Jens is also opening a stunning eight bedroom villa later this year. Where is the very best place on the Faroes to watch the eclipse? There are many good venues in the Faroe Islands where you can see the eclipse, as long as you are looking in a direction of approximately 135 degrees you will see the sun. Please see this excellent web site where you will get a lot of information about the eclipse: http://bit.ly/1FCSL6h My biggest concern is how the weather is going to behave. I do not know if you have heard we do have a saying in Faroe Islands “you can easily experience all four seasons in one hour in the Faroe Islands”. Where will you be watching the eclipse, and why? Who will you be watching it with? This is a special event which we have to wait another 240 years to see again in the Faroe Islands. Some of the older generation in the Faroe Islands have experienced two total eclipses as we had one in 1954. It is very rare that you will experience two eclipses in you live at the same place. As I am a family man and not a fan of big parties I will be together with my wife and my two daughters at The Blue Sail . We will have a good breakfast and then just relax and enjoy the “darkness”. We will stay at The Blue Sail and enjoy it from there. Please see the attached picture which is from the 25th February 2015 from the terrace at The Blue Sail – maybe you can understand why I will watch it from the The Blue Sail? Sheep at Faroe Island.s Photo courtesy of BBC.co.uk What would be your perfect way to spend the day after the eclipse? When the total eclipse is completed we will have a nice launch talk with our family and friends and exchange our eclipse experiences. We will be staying in Torshavn during the day. There will be a number of activities during the whole day such as concerts, tours and many other things. During the night we are invited to a dinner party at one of the hotels in Torshavn together with guests from an English travel agency. I have been very much involved with the planning of their tour. At midnight there will be a big sing along in the centre of Torshavn : http://bit.ly/1GoNBJz. There may be up to 10.000 people there. Do you have any stories about the special things people have done to make sure that they get to watch the eclipse from the Faroe Islands? I heard a very good story today, it was from one of the villages that one guy said he would make sure he was having a pie during the totality just to make sure there at least was one ray at that time he he he he! I can see there are many various types of people in the streets in Torshavn: families with kids, some are on bicycles (which is not normal this time of year), and seven big passenger vessels in the Faroes: some of them hold around 1000 passengers. We do also have a lot of foreign cars on the roads. We have a lot of media coverage, including live BBC coverage. What I have heard is they will have a plane in the skies to transmit live pictures, and we have other TV and radio stations here as well. View from apartment The Blue Sail By Phileas French, Travel Writer March 18, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsFood and Drink 24 culinary hours in Bruges by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 5, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Since moving to Bruges, I have been asked by many friends and friends of friends to recommend nice places to eat while visiting the beautiful historical UNESCO town in West Flanders. Everybody is keen in avoiding the mediocre meals served at the overly-priced, badly- serviced restaurants and cafes around the Mark and Burg. It is proven that the best French fries or “frietjes” in town are served at the two stalls on the Markt square (don’t forget to add mayonnaise!). And with over 50 passionate chocolatiers and more than 100 sorts of biers (“Brugse Zot” to name a cult one), you are certainly not going to starve. Very few people however know that Bruges is actually a gastronomic mecca for those with finer palates. The city places itself on the menu with an impressive list of first-class restaurants.There are six Michelin starred restaurants and over 30 restaurants with accolades from GaultMillau and Bib Gourmand. I have compiled a list of my recommended places to eat and am pleased to share this with you. Make your table reservation well in advance and please note that, sadly, some of the best restaurants are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. FOR THOSE WHO DON’T GO LESS THAN 3 MICHELIN STARS Hertog Jan Located in a fully renovated farm in Zedelgem, close to the city of Bruges, where they grow their own vegetables, fruits and flowers, Chef Gert de Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens welcome you to a unique culinary experience of seasonal dishes. Best leave the kids at home. Reservation required. www.hertog-jan.com/en/ Loppemsestraat 528210 Zedelgem – Belgium+32 (0)50 67 34 46info@hertog-jan.com Hertog Jan – The kitchen FOR THOSE WHO PREFER ASIAN TO FRENCH FRIES Tanuki (Japanese) Best sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki in town. Reservation required. Children welcome although best at lunchtime. As each meal is freshly prepared, meals at dinner are slowly served. www.tanuki.be Chef Ivan VerhelleOude Gentweg 1 tel. +32 (0)50 34 75 12 MODERN FLEMISH WITH ITALIAN HEART Bistro Bruut Located along one of the most picturesque canals on the Groenerei, this is a small and cosy bistro offering superlative Flemish dishes and an incredibly good value lunch menu at €16. Reservation required. Meals may be too creative for kids palates, best to leave your little ones at home. www.bistrobruut.be Chef Bruno TimpermanMeestraat 9 +32 (0)50 69 55 09 CREATIVE FRENCH KITCHEN Rock Fort Restaurant and Bar in the old town but away from the hustle and bustle of the touristic sites. Reservation required. www.rock-fort.be Chef Hermes VanliefdeLangestraat 15 +32 (0)50 33 41 13 Rock Fort BEST BURGERS Ellis Gourmet Burgers Decently priced burgers, good and quick service. Located on a cute square in the old town, off the main shopping street. Unlike many restaurants in Bruges which are often closed during the weekend or shut their kitchens at 2.00 pm or 9.00pm , you can pretty much pop in Ellis at any time and be served a succulent burger. Great for those of you, me included, who cannot get used to the ridiculous Belgian opening hours. www.ellisgourmetburger.com/en/ Simon Stevinplein 14 +32 (0)50 80 00 00 BEST FOR COFFEE LOVERS I Love Coffee Espresso coffee aficionados must head to the best coffee place in town, Espressobar I Love Coffee. They roast their own beans and offer the perfect cup of coffee. And please, do not ask for “Decaf” coffee, like I did, or you will be thrown out of the shop. If however cannot tolerate caffeine, the bar offers a decent selection of teas and an impressive list of hot chocolates. www.ilovecoffee.be Sint-Jakobsstraat 10 +32 (0)498 516 340 I Love Coffee in Bruges OLDEST PUB IN TOWN Cafe Vlissinghe Celebrating 500 years this year, a visit to the oldest pub in town is a must. Since 1515, Café Vlissinghe is hiding in the beautiful historical Saint-Anne quarter. Ideal for a pub lunch inside or in the garden or for a nice beer in the evening. The unique atmosphere and the friendly ambience make Vlissinghe a favorite meeting place for Brugeans and for tourists from around the world. Make sure you ask for Chef Bruno’s signature fish soup. Please note, they only accept payments in cash. www.cafevlissinghe.be Blekersstraat 2 BEST FOR BAGEL LOVERS Sanseveria Bagelsalon First ever bagel boutique not far from the Vismarkt. Friendly service, cosy atmosphere. To take away or sit in. Our favourites are the the classic Lucy (smoked salmon and cream cheese) or the Elliot (Nutella and banana). The bagel salon also offers a couple of freshly prepared salads, quiches and a generous portion of soup. www.sanseveria.be/en/ Predikherenstraat 11 Sanseveria Bagelsalon For a full list of award-winning restaurants in Bruges visit https://bezoekers.brugge.be/award-winning-restaurants By Paola Fiocchi, Director, Passepartout Homes Bistro Bruut Brugge March 5, 2015 2 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Travel Tips 5 Reasons Why Private Jet Travel is the Way to Fly by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande January 13, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Few people are enthusiastic about air travel, especially when you consider the tedious and time-consuming security procedures at airports, frequent flight delays, baggage restrictions, the inconvenience of lost or delayed luggage, and all the time wasted at airports waiting for connecting flights. Photo courtesy of Affluent Marketplace Luxury Directory When you take all these factors into account, nothing can beat the convenience, comfort and flexibility of travelling by private jet. Here are 5 good reasons why: 1/ Private jet travel allows you to fly to many more destinations. Private jets can use the many small regional airports which cannot accommodate the much larger aircraft used by commercial airlines. Some luxury resorts even have landing strips for guests arriving by private jet, or offer helicopter transfer services from the nearest airport. 2/ You choose the departure time. One of the best things about travelling by private jet is the flexibility it offers. You decide when you want to fly, and you don’t have to worry about arriving at the airport on time or missing your flight because the jet will wait for you. 3/ You don’t lose time waiting. Not only is there no need to arrive at the airport in advance, but you don’t have to go through the hassle of waiting in long lines at check-in or security. You can arrive just minutes before your planned departure. On arrival, there’s no waiting by the luggage carrousel either, you just step off the plane with your luggage and are sure that it will arrive each time without delay. Since you fly directly to your destination, there is no time wasted making flight connections either. 4/ You have more legroom. Having a seat by the window or the aisle is not a concern on a private jet, as space is not an issue. You’ll definitely have enough room to stretch your legs and even stretch out for a nap on a lie-flat bed. Some private jets are even fitted out with private suites, meeting rooms, and even shower and spa facilities. 5/ You don’t have to own a jet. You don’t have to have your own jet to benefit from all the advantages of private jet travel. There are many companies offering the possibility to charter a plane by the hour. Some commercial airlines like Air France and Emirates have even introduced private jet services or have teamed up with private charter flight operators to offer this exclusive service. Photo courtesy of Private Jets Review Want to fly with a private jet? You may want to have a look at these suggested companies: Netjets: https://www.netjets.com/AboutNetJets/Our-Companies/ Xojet: http://www.xojet.com/Our-Company/Best-Private-Jet-Company.asp Private Fly: http://www.privatefly.be Abelag: http://www.abelag.be Photo courtesy of Luxactu By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer January 13, 2015 2 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: family-friendly villasDestination: ItalyTravel Tips 24 Hours in Siena – Tuscany’s Medieval City by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande December 11, 2014 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande If you are visiting Tuscany I recommend you spend at least a day visiting the wonderful medieval city of Siena and have put together some suggestions of what you can see and do, as well as where you can stay. Your first stop really should be the heart of the city which is the Piazza del Campo where you can take in the atmosphere of Siena and the Fonta Gaia, the city’s largest fountain. Take a look at the amazing red brickwork and then take a stroll around the narrow streets and discover for yourself the different areas of this historical city. You will stumble upon some lovely little places to grab something to eat or quench your thirst after all that walking and may even decide to pick one for a relaxing dinner later on, where you can talk about all the things you discovered in Siena that day. Photograph of Duomo Siena by Oke via Wikimedia Commons A visit to the red bricked city hall Palazzo Pubblico is well worth your while for its view over the Campo. Do pay a visit to the Piazza del Duomo and wonder around the inside Siena’s splendid Gothic Cathedral (Duomo) and make sure you also go inside The Piccolomini Library and The Crypt under the Cathedral. It only costs €4.00 per person to get in and there are concessions for families. A visit to Siena is not complete without seeing the Duomo. One of Italy’s oldest private museums is Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and can be found on the south side of the Cathedral and is where you will be able to see some of the original statues from the front of the Cathedral. Photograph of Piazza del Campo by flissphil courtesy of Wikimedia Commons For those of you wanting to do some shopping, Siena has its fair share of small boutiques, clothes and shoe shops which you can find on Via Banchi di Sopra, the city’s main shopping street. The other two noteworthy areas are Via di Citta and Via Pantaneto. If you happen to be in Siena on a Wednesday there is an outdoor market close to Piazza Gramsci which opens at 7:00am and closes at 1:00pm with stalls selling anything from fresh vegetables and fruit to clothes and shoes. Then on a Friday morning, there is a Farmers Market where local farmers sell their fresh produce and you will be able to find some really good quality meat to take back and cook at home. Spending a day exploring a new city with children can be a challenge, particularly when they start getting bored and tired. Fortunately Siena has a few playgrounds where you can rest your weary legs and let the kids have some fun. You will find playgrounds at Piazza Amendola, another very close to Piazza Gramsci and a third close to Piazza del Campo in a park called Orti Dei Tolomei. View over Piazza del Campo from Appartamento La Duchessa Where to Stay Of course the best way to experience Tuscany and in particular Siena, is by renting a villa, be it for a family holiday or adult get away. Passepartout Homes has a wide selection of over 15 to choose from in Tuscany, ranging from the beautiful hilltop Casale Le Pratola just 15km from Siena with its amazing panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape and tempting infinity swimming pool, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Villa La Boghese, 25km from the city, is another great holiday location for friends looking to escape the 9 to 5 daily drudgery and can sleep up to 28 people in comfort, also offering wonderful views from its hilltop location. You can’t however beat the views provided by Apartment La Duchessa, right on the Campo, the ideal location to enjoy the Palio from the comfort of your living-room. Well, this is called VIP Treatment! So whatever you plan to do on your next holiday to Italy, if you happen to be in Tuscany, a day walking around Siena taking in the sights is a day well spent. Poolside at Casale Le Pratola in Gaiole in Chianti By Simon Burrell, Editor-in-Chief of Luxury Travel Website www.omotg.com December 11, 2014 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: family-friendly villasFamily TravelTravel News Multigenerational family holidays: a continuing trend by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande December 8, 2014 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Family holidays are no longer about mom and dad travelling with the kids – today grandma and grandpa are more and more likely to also join in the annual family vacation. Multigenerational travel, where at least three generations of a family travel together on holiday, is a steady trend. The 2014 edition of the Virtuoso Luxe Report (http://blog.virtuoso.com/return-on-life/whats-hot-in-the-2014-luxe-report/), which examines international luxury travel trends, has identified multigenerational travel as a top trend for the past four years in a row. I have noticed this increasing trend, and definitely seen an increase in multigenerational travel among our clients booking our luxury holiday villa rentals for a family holiday. We are receiving more and more enquiries for a villa large enough to accommodate parents and kids, and also grandma and grandpa. There seems to be several possible reasons for this holiday trend. Modern families lead increasingly busy lives and often don’t have time to spend ‘quality time’ together with grandparents. A multigenerational family vacation is a great way to reconnect and have shared experiences that become cherished memories. Choosing an exotic holiday destination abroad is also an increasingly popular way to celebrate a special occasion or milestone together with the whole family. The Dimitris and Carbonis on holiday in Spain A shared holiday experience is also a good way to bring families together who live on different continents, often with a ‘middle point’ destination selected for everyone’s travel convenience. Villa La Tosca, a spacious luxury beachfront villa in south-western France, is a popular multigenerational family holiday destination. Families who live in different corners of the world come here to spend time together and share a holiday memorable experience. A holiday villa rental is ideal for large families travelling together. There are common living spaces for the whole family to come together, and multiple bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms offering enough privacy for everyone. Fully-equipped kitchens provide the opportunity for family members to prepare a meal together, or if they have a busy holiday schedule planned, they can use the services of the villa’s cook who can plan the menu, shop for ingredients and cook up three meals a day. Many exclusive villas also offer other convenient services like childcare, maid services, and spa facilities. Countryside villas in France and Italy are ideal for family holidays because they have a lot to offer: excursions to nearby towns, visits to vineyards and mills, outdoor activities, markets and fabulous food. There’s a variety of activities with something to please everyone. Today holiday villa rentals in exotic locations across the world can be easily researched and booked online. High-quality photos and testimonials of the property written by other visitors provide an accurate idea of what to expect from the property. When booking with a reputed villa rental company with an exclusive property portfolio, you can be sure you’ll be booking a great family vacation. Here are some of the unique luxury holiday villa rentals which are part of Passepartout Home’s exclusive property portfolio that are especially popular with families: Villa La Tosca is a gorgeous 8-bedroom / 8 bathroom beachfront villa just steps away from the ocean on the coast of south-western France. Villa Sasa is a spacious and elegant 3-bedroom villa located on the exotic Thai island of Koh Samui. Masseria La Raganella Celeste is a delightful 6-bedroom family home located in a secluded, centuries-old olive grove in beautifully rugged region of Puglia, South Italy. Casale Le Pratola is a scenic 5-bedroom/bathroom farmhouse villa located on a private hilltop in the middle of the lush countryside of Tuscany. By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer December 8, 2014 1 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Food and DrinkTravel News Worth the journey: 4 Michelin starred restaurants in small towns by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande November 13, 2014 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande The promise of good food is always a good excuse to explore an unfamiliar town or region. The famous Michelin guide, considered to be the holy grail of fine dining establishments around the world, was first published in 1900 by the Michelin brothers to encourage motorists to take road trips – and boost demand for their car tyres! Today the guide’s 1-, 2-, or 3-star ratings are highly coveted by restaurants chefs and are the indicators of fine dining for food connoisseurs. While the Michelin starred restaurants of cities like New York, London and Paris are well-known, those located in smaller towns and rural areas often need to be sought out and discovered. The majority of the most highly-rated restaurants in the Michelin guide are not to be found in big cities, but in small towns, so the journey out of the big city is well worth it! Osteria Francescana Here are a few of our favourite Michelin starred restaurants situated in small but picturesque towns which are worth the drive. Each of these are rated 2- or 3-stars which means they definitely merit a detour or special journey just for the culinary experience they offer and diners can expect excellent (2 stars) or exceptional (3 stars) cuisine of outstanding quality. Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy Located in the charming medieval centre of the town of Modena in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, Osteria Francescana is owned and run by internationally-reowned Massimo Bottura, one of the country’s best-known chefs. Not only does Osteria Francescana boast 3 Michelin stars, but it was also voted third best restaurant in the world by Restaurant Magazine in 2013 and 2014 and numero uno by the Italian food guide l’Espresso – Ristoranti d’Italia. When he first opened Osteria Francescana in 1995, Chef Bottura’s goal was to combine culinary innovation with contemporary art and design. Today this culinary institution is known for its avant-garde and experimental dishes inspired by traditional Italian cuisine. The restaurant has only 12 tables in a muted setting decorated with modern art works. Website: Osteria Francescana Where to stay: Palazzo Torriani Hertog Jan in Zedelgem, near Bruges, Belgium The medieval town of Bruges in Belgium’s Flanders region is a must-visit for its atmospheric architecture and romantic canals. Another good reason to make the trip is to dine at Hertog Jan, managed and run by Chef Gert De Mangeleer and Sommelier Joachim Boudens. ‘Driven by simplicity’ is the message which welcomes visitors to their website and less is certainly more at this 3 Michelin starred restaurant which focuses on authentic dishes, local ingredients and natural flavours. Earlier this year, Hertog Jan moved to a new location in a unique rural setting on the outskirts of Bruges where they grow their own vegetables, fruits and flowers used in their signature dishes. Menus are seasonal featuring Hertog Jan’s classic dishes, as well as the chef’s latest creations. Website: Hertog Jan Where to stay: Huyze Weyne B&B Hertog Jan – The kitchen St Hubertus in San Cassiano, Badia, Italy The mountainous region of South Tyrol in Italy’s far north is best known for its spectacular Dolomites mountain range and great skiing. But the stunning mountain landscapes are not the only reason to visit this unique and beautiful region. South Tyrol also boasts the most Michelin starred restaurants in the whole of Italy, with 23 Michelin stars shared by 20 restaurants. Hotel Rosa Alpina’s 2-starred St Hubertus restaurant, named after the patron saint of hunters, is the creation of Chef Norbert Niederkofler. The Michelin guide describes Chef Niederkofler’s cuisine as “a superb mix of precise, technical know-how and delicious Italian flavours.” In his ‘Cook the Mountain’ approach, he uses only local ingredients gleaned from the mountains and cooked up in innovative ways. Website: St Hubertus Where to stay: San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge St Hubertus Bastide de Capelongue in Bonnieux, Vaucluse, France Nestled in a fabulous landscape of lavender fields near the historic hilltop village of Bonnieux in southern France, Chef Édouard Loubet’s 2 Michelin starred Bastide de Capelongue offers a veritable feast for the senses. A lover of nature and gardener at heart, Chef Loubet creates his fragrant culinary masterpieces with the freshest of local seasonal ingredients, herbs, and flowers he grows in his own vegetable and herb garden or sources from local farmers in the region. The bright and airy restaurant is located in an elegant stone farmhouse which also houses a hotel. There are 6 tasting menus offered here featuring meat and vegetable dishes infused with the flavours and colours of Provence. Don’t miss the chance to sample the fragrant truffles which grow here and are used in a variety of dishes. Website: Bastide de Capelongue Where to stay: Terrace de Provence Bastide de Capelongue Post by Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer November 13, 2014 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Our PartnersRecipes Home-made Ravioli: Ricotta and Spinach with Mint Pesto by Michelle November 5, 2014 written by Michelle Gianna Strambi from Cooking on Holiday shared with us this mouthwatering recipe of home-made ravioli with mint pesto and almonds. Ravioli have their roots back to the Middle Ages and were originally used only as stuffing (“Gnudi”) made of beet, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese and eggs (according to Artusi). Later the stuffing started to be wrapped into hand-made pasta. It appears that the name “Raviolo” is originated from “Raveggiolo”, a cow or goat cheese often used in the stuffing. Gianna’s version is the most classic one enriched however by her special mint pesto which reminds us of bright summer days. Ravioli with Mint Pesto Ravioli Ricotta and Spinach with Mint Pesto – THE RECIPE Serves 5 Pasta: 300 grams of flour 00 (plain, wheat flour) 3 medium eggs A pinch of salt Filling: 200 grams boiled spinach 150 grams ricotta cheese 50 grams parmesan cheese nutmeg salt and pepper Mint Pesto: 150 grams fresh mint leaves 100 grams parmesan cheese 100 grams peeled almonds 10 tsp extra virgin olive oil A pinch of salt In a bowl, add flour, eggs and salt. Knead until the mixture is thoroughly mixed. Place the mixture on a wooden surface and work vigorously for at least 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Create a ball with the dough and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. While dough is in the fridge, prepare the spinach and cheese filling. Squeeze the boiled spinach to remove excess water. Mix spinach with ricotta, parmesan cheese, nutmeg and salt. Place spinach and cheese mixture into a sac-a-poche and let cool in the fridge. When dough is set, roll out very thin (1 mm) in at least 8-cm wide strips and put the spinach and cheese filling in small piles spaced at least 3 to 4 cm apart. Fold the dough, letting the air out. Cut into the shape you like, making sure the ravioli is securely closed. For the pesto, place washed mint leaves into a blender with a couple of ice cubes (to avoid oxidation of the leaves during the blending process), parmesan cheese, almonds and olive oil. Blend until you reach the texture you prefer – not a puree. Add a pinch of salt for taste. Cook the ravioli in boiling water for 3 minutes and put them into a pan with the mint pesto. Mix the raviolis well with the sauce (the burner should be off). Serve hot with some freshly grated parmesan. Recipe by Gianna Strambi, Cooking on Holiday November 5, 2014 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: BulgariaDestination: ItalyDestination: MexicoDestination: ThailandDestinationsSpa WeekSpas Our best luxury holiday rentals for spa lovers @SpaWeekUK by Michelle November 4, 2014 written by Michelle The recipe for a great holiday calls for a big dose of rest and relaxation. What better way to get your R&R fix than to indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or treat yourself to some serious pampering with a massage or a lazy soak in a Jacuzzi? Many of the luxury holiday homes in Passepartout Homes’ exclusive property portfolio have spa facilities which offer guests the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in comfort and style. Here are a few of our luxury villas which offer the most tempting and luxurious spa treatments and facilities: Villa Riva, Koh Samui, Thailand Does your gym have a view? Villa Riva’s state-of-the-art fitness and health room does – a spectacular view of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. This luxury 7-bedroom villa rental on the island of Koh Samui is perfect for those looking for a relaxing holiday in an exotic location. The health facilities at Villa Riva Unwind in the whirlpool Jacuzzi which seats 8 persons or have a relaxing massage with a professional masseur to ease your sore muscles. There’s also a dry sauna and steam room to help releases toxins and promote a feeling of well-being and complete relaxation. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, head to the 32-metre infinity pool overlooking the sea, or the semi-private white sand beach. San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge, South Tyrol, Italy The special wellness packages on offer at San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge are ideal for stressed-out high profile executives in need of some serious pampering. A full- or half-day package of wellness treatments prescribed by the villa’s well-being coach is sure to awaken your senses and make you feel whole again in the beautiful natural setting of the Dolomite mountains. Treat yourself to a custom full-body massage or a lazy lounge in the sauna infused with natural herbal essences. Indoor whirlpool at San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge Your private coach will lead you through relaxation exercises designed to release stress and help you feel completely rejuvenated. If you’re feeling adventurous, try cromotherapy, or colour therapy, in the specially-designed Turkish bath, or experience weightlessness in the outdoor natural spring whirlpool. Villa La Borghese, Siena, Italy There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in la dolce vita at Villa La Borghese, a 14-bedroom ancient Tuscan villa which has been lovingly restored in the beautiful historic town of Siena. One of the pools at Villa La Borghese The luxury villa has a dedicated wellness centre boasting indoor hot baths, a fully equipped gym, a yoga room, a Turkish bath and two swimming pools. Here you can do as the Romans, by relaxing in the Roman-style baths. First unwind in the tepidarium, a heated room which soothes the body, before moving into the caldarium, a hot and steamy room with a plunge bath which opens the pores of the skin. Finish off in the frigidarium, a cold pool of water which then closes the skin pores. You will feel completely refreshed and invigorated! Villa Esmeralda is a private 5-bedroom luxury beachfront property just steps away from the beach. The villa has its own spa with a dedicated massage room, a sauna seating 10 adults, and a large luxurious outdoor Jacuzzi. There’s also a fully equipped fitness centre for fitness buffs. Villa Gella, Bulgaria The 10-meter in-door swimming pool at Villa Gella For those who like to be close to nature, this luxury holiday getaway in Bulgaria’s scenic Rhodope mountains is the perfect spot to experience the rejuvenating effects of a peaceful natural setting. Villa Gella is a unique luxury holiday home offering its guests a spa centre to help relax the mind and body, with a steam room, massage table, Jacuzzi, gym and a 10-metre indoor pool. The villa also has the services of a professional masseur available, offering sports massage and post-traumatic treatments. By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer. November 4, 2014 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail