MEDITERRANEAN HOTSPOTS Italy, Ibiza, Malta, Montenegro and Turkey TRAVELSPEAK 24-page ‘Ready-Mades’ Series
Independent Luxury Travel Xxxxx xxxxxx, Xxxxx xxxxx, Xxxxxxx, xx12 7xx Email: sales@independentluxurytravel.com Tel: 01XXX 3XXXXX www.independentluxurytravel.com Your contact details HERE Welcome to our latest travel magazine where we cast our spotlight across the Mediterranean in search of some of the region’s most inspiring sunshine destinations. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast continues its phenomenal growth in popularity spurred on by the wonderful sea terrain for its thriving gulet and yacht cruises as well as the amazing quality of accommodation to be found all along its beautiful shores. It is also a destination where the rate of exchange for foreign visitors is particularly favourable. The new kid on the Mediterranean ‘block’ is the compact Balkan country of Montenegro. Lying just south of Croatia, the Fjord-like stretches of the Bay of Kotor is the ideal gateway to a land of amazing natural contrasts and colourful culture. For those in search of an early spring or late summer break, why not consider a trip to the Island of Malta with its ancient citadel capital, Valletta, a historical jewel that is a joy to meander through. For a more upbeat experience, the buzzy Island of Ibiza beckons in a region that is becoming very focused on environmental issues. And of course, there is Italy, a country packed with delights for the visitor. With so much on offer around her ample coastlines we identity some of her classic seaside hotels and resorts. With kind regards and ‘Bon Voyage’. Xxxxxxx Xxxxx Your expert travel advisor Contents Published by Travelspeak Limited 7 10 3 Travel News 4 Malta 7 Turquoise Coast, Turkey 10 Seaside Classics of Italy 16 Ibiza 16 20 20 Montenegro Your Company Logo Here Your accreditations HERE
Regent Porto Montenegro has been awarded the coveted Green Key eco-label certification for environmental excellence. The Green Key assures guests( that, by staying there, they are helping make a difference for the environment. This is reflected both in minimising impact to the environment and also striving to integrate with the local culture and community. (Featured on page 23). Green footprints at Regent Porto Montenegro, Boka Bay, Montenegro A ban on single use plastic products, which was already implemented in local supermarkets, has now been extended to all hotels on Spain’s Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera) under a new Tourism Law. With an eye on environmental and social sustainability, packs of disposable welcome products such as combs and toothbrushes that generate large volumes of waste and so contribute to pollution will be eliminated. It is expected that this initiative will soon be exercised in other Spanish regions soon. Balearic Islands step up measures to combat waste Travel News 3 The memory of a happy experience lasts forever, but at the same time it is even more beautiful sharing it with your friends and relatives when you return home. Hotel Byron, the jewel of Forte dei Marmi on the North Tuscany coast, offers visiting families a complimentary one hour photo session with a professional photographer, specialised in family portrait photography. . (Featured on page 13). Family photoshoot at Hotel Byron, Forte dei Marmi, Tuscany, Italy From the dizzy heights of Ravello the sea may seem a long way below, but at Palazzo Avino you don’t just get the stunning view you also get your own waterside ‘Clubhouse by the Sea’. A complimentary shuttle takes guests to the small town of Marmorata to enjoy their exclusive beach platforms along with a small pool, the casual Clubhouse Restaurant, changing rooms and relaxing living rooms.. (Featured on page 11) Clubhouse by the Sea Palazzo Avino, Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy Lying in close proximity of two marinas in one of the key staging points for ‘Blue Cruises’ along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, D-Resort Gocek is the ideal land-based combination for those seeking a luxury holiday based both on the water and land. (Featured on page 9). The perfect base to start or finish a ‘Blue Cruise’ in Turkey
ith over 7,000 years of history, the Maltese Islands of Malta, Gozo and little Comino are steeped in culture and heritage. They’re also surrounded by the bluest (and cleanest) sea and sit under cloudless azure skies for much of the year, whilst the honey-coloured landscape is as warm as the welcome extended by the islanders. Everywhere you go on the main island, unique historical sights await. Temples, palaces, cathedrals, and forts provide a living history you can almost touch. Sound plays an important part in the life of the Islands. The mix of fireworks and music transforms a summer night into a special memory, a period of the year when lots of festivals (‘festa’) take place. To eat is to taste the islands' multicultural heritage. The history of the Maltese Islands reads like 'who's who' of military and economic powers holding sway over the Mediterranean through the ages including the Romans, Arabs, Turks, The tiny Mediterranean nation with special appeal to UK visitors W Tucked inside encircling fortifications with sea on three sides, Valletta’s layout is unchanged since 1570. Just 1km by 600m, Europe’s smallest capital is a wanderer’s paradise, a grid of mostly pedestrianised alleys and limestone stairways. The city is noted for its fortifications, consisting of bastions, curtains and cavaliers, along with the beauty of its Baroque palaces, gardens and churches. Sometimes called an ‘open air museum’ The city has 320 monuments, making it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. Valletta Malta
Valletta Marsaskala Xaghra Rabat (Victoria) St. Paul’s Bay Mdina Knights of St John, French, British and even the Normans. After dinner, night clubs, wine bars and casinos beckon with their own brand of excitement. And best of all: to experience all this, Malta is a short flight away. Gozo is the sister island of Malta. Situated a short 20-minute ferry ride away it is much smaller and quieter than Malta, and offers visitors a very different experience from its more party-minded neighbour (there’s one club on the whole island!). It is far more a “local” experience filled with calming serenity, hidden beaches , spectacular basilicas like Malta and vast areas of unspoilt nature. GOZO COMINO MALTA Mdina, once the capital of Malta, is one of Malta’s most popular destinations to visit, because there’s no place like it anywhere. Sitting on top of a hill overlooking large parts of Malta, it’s a small town, rich in history and fortified by tall bastion fortifications. It’s filled with centuries-old buildings that have been well maintained throughout the ages. Outside its walls, those that could not afford a palace within built their own settlement, Rabat. Mdina (The Silent City)
Rosselli is a boutique, luxury hotel located in the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, comprising 25 designer rooms and suites, each with its own unique character and charm, some of which offer private sauna facilities. In addition, the hotel features a rooftop plunge pool and a panoramic terrace with breathtaking views of the city. Rosselli is the only hotel in Malta with two MICHELINrated restaurants: Under Grain and Grain Street. Under Grain restaurant, which has been awarded a prestigious Michelin star for four consecutive years, offers a refined dining experience, showcasing the best of French – Mediterranean Cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Grain Street, recipient of a Bib Gourmand, offers a more laid-back atmosphere with al fresco dining at an affordable price. Both venues benefit from the same chef team, ensuring the same level of quality and attention to detail. The historic building also features an internal courtyard adorned with a restored 400-year-old fountain and an inhouse private meeting room. Roselli AX Privilege 167 Merchants Street, Valletta, Malta Where to stay ... Valletta ... Mdina Perched on ancient bastions within the original walls of a 17th century Palazzo and surrounded by stunning baroque architecture in Malta’s former capital, the silent medieval walled city of Mdina, The Xara Palace is family run and deliciously exclusive, ideal for the most discerning of travellers and a perfect secluded setting for anniversary celebrations and romancing honeymooners. 17 individually designed rooms and suites are decorated with genuine antique furniture and original works of art. Four of the rooms feature Jacuzzi on their private terraces. 4 dining venues. including Michelin-starred De Mondion. The Xara Palace A Member of Relais & Chateaux Mdina, Malta 6
COAST 7 TURQUOISE Discover the ancient Turkish Riviera amous for the iridescent turquoise waters, the Turkish Riviera is one of the most stunning places in the world, and undulates for almost 600 miles around a series of craggy peninsulas and along hundreds of soft sandy beaches framed by fragrant forests and rugged mountains. Steeped in history and myth, the region was the seat of the ancient, iron age Lycian Empire, and numerous sites dating back to this period and onwards through Hellenic, Roman and Medieval times offer some of the finest archaeology in Turkey. Mark Anthony is reputed to have gifted the region to his bride, Cleopatra, as a reflection of her own beauty. Remains of two of the seven wonders of the ancient world are to be found here - The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Izmir) and the Mausoleum of Mausolus at Halicarnassus (Bodrum). The heart of the region stretches from Bodrum to Antalya and a long summer season together with elegant, world-class resorts has established this area of southern Turkey as a worthy alternative to established favourites in the western and central Mediterranean. Key suburbs of Bodrum have been described as the St.Tropez of Turkey, whilst those in search of the ultimate beach will want to head to Ölüdeniz near Fethiye. On the following pages we feature two very special resorts, one located in splendid isolation in the middle of a nature reserve on the Datça Peninsula, whilst the other occupies prime position in the beautiful, island-studded Bay of Göcek, an area popular with ‘Blue Cruises’ on traditional gulets and home to seven marinas. RHODES (Greece) Gocek Antalya Marmaris Bodrum Kusadasi KOS (Greece) Kalkan Fethiye Datca Dalaman Gulet in anchorage at Ölüdeniz Beach Ölüdeniz Beach Peppered with islands - Bay of Göcek
D Maris Bay Datça Peninsula, Turkey Perched above a scenic cove where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, D Maris Bay is a secluded luxury resort immersed in nature. Situated on the picturesque Datça Peninsula in southwest Turkey, guests are invited to a hidden paradise where every modern comfort awaits. The sun-kissed destination is home to an impressive collection of five private sandy beaches, scenic restaurants, an indoor and outdoor infinity pool as well as a tranquil Mytha Spa and an array or water sport activities to choose from. Sleek and minimalist in design. D Maris Bay is flooded with natural sunlight creating spacious and bright indoor spaces. Each of the 196 guestrooms, 36 suites and the private villa host sophisticated interior design that blends the comfort and contemporary minimalism of the west with the exoticism of the east. There is also a wide selection of dining options to choose from including the award-winning Japanese restaurant Zuma, and steak restaurant Nusr-Et owned by Nusret Gökçe (also known as 'Saltbae'). Manos would be a perfect choice tor those seeking delicious seafood in Greek taverna style. Inspired by the beach clubs of Cannes and St. Barth's, La Guérite Beach is the resort's most stylish beach front setting, serving zesty signature cocktails and flavoursome Mediterranean sharing platters, with live music from dusk ‘til dawn. 8
D-Resort Göcek Göcek, near Fethiye, Turkey Cosily situated at the edge of the calm waters of Göcek Bay next to D-Resort Beach and amid green hills, D-Resort Göcek welcomes its guests with an extraordinary level of service and accommodation that combine elegant detail with the peace and comfort of its 102 stylish rooms. Enjoy a variety of culinary delights across the resort. Start your day with an abundant breakfast on the shady terrace of the Olives Restaurant cooled by the gentle sea breeze. As the sun goes down, delight in a stunning dinner enhanced by magnificent sea views at D’ Breeze Restaurant. Grab a sweet refreshment at DD Scoop cafe during the day with delicious ice creams and coffees. For a truly unique gastronomy experience offering breathtaking sunset views, Q Lounge features DJ performances whilst showcasing contemporary Japanese cuisine enriched with local and Peruvian flavours. Göcek is a poetic seaside town where untouched countryside meets hundreds of small bays and islands. This mountainshrouded paradise with its unique blend of rich greenery and deep blues, provides an authentic Aegean experience that has been a protected development zone since 1988. Explore this historied region with its meticulously preserved Lydian ruins, and the splendid natural landscape of mountains that rise out of the crystal-clear waters. 9
easide Classics of Italy 1. Palazzo Avino, Ravello, Campania 2. Splendido, Portofino, Liguria 3. Hotel Byon, Forte dei Marmi, Tuscany 4. Relais Villa del Golfo, Sardinia 5. Gabbiano D’Azzurro, Sardinia 6. Borgo Egnazia, Puglia 7. Therasia Resort, Sea & Spa, Aeolian Islands 8. Villa Igiea, Palermo, Sicily 9. Verdura Resort, Sciacca, Sicily 3 4 5 1 7 8 9 6 2 10 With over 7,900 kilometres of sparkling Mediterranean coastline spread across mainland Italy and her islands (the second longest after Greece), visitors are spoiled for choice, but hopefully we can help you find some of her finest seaside hospitality. Campania's Amalfi Coast is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Italy, and is our first call in the search for seaside classics. For chic beach towns head for Northern Tuscany to Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi. The ultimate VIP address is to be found in postcard-perfect Portofino. The region of Puglia, on the heel of Italy is a relative newcomer, but is now luring visitors with crystal-clear waters, fine, sandy beaches and delicious food and wine. In Sicily summer lingers longer whilst in Sardinia the northern coast is home to the prestigious Costa Smeralda where the beautiful flock to.
Palazzo Avino Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Campania Known affectionately by the locals as ‘The Pink Palace’, Palazzo Avino is a stunning five-star deluxe hotel on Italy’s famed Amalfi coast. Built in what was once a 12th century private villa for an Italian noble family and opened as a hotel in 1997, Palazzo Avino has been applauded as one of the world’s finest hotels and boasts one-star Michelin dining. Tucked away in the medieval hilltop village of Ravello, perched high on the cliffs, 350 m (1,000 ft) above the sparkling Mediterranean, Palazzo Avino overlooks some of the coast’s most picturesque fishing villages. Journey down to the sea to bask at the hotel’s exclusive beach club, located 15 minutes from Ravello in the small town of Marmorata, or stay up high and relax at the 20 metre, outdoor, heated pool. Guests can expect the highest quality of service and hospitality whilst staying in the choice of just 33 rooms and 10 suites, and with a staff to guest ratio of two to every room offering 24-hour room service! Furthermore, a broad range of facilities include a spa and beauty centre, the Lobster and Martini Bar, and various sun decks including a spectacular rooftop terrace with an infinity hydropool. The accomplished concierge will arrange exciting excursions as required including VIP limousine and helicopter trips. 11
Overlooking the picturesque Gulf of Arzachena, the Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort is 10 minutes walk from the village of Cannigione. Built in traditional Sardinian style, it has 56 bedrooms, each with a sea view and balcony or terrace. There are varied dining options. on and off the property. Miraluna has excellent views over the bay from its panoramic terrace. The hotel’s second restaurant, ‘La Colti farmhouse’ is a short drive away and serves organic specialities of the Gallura region. The ‘Cutter Lounge & Restaurant’ on Cannigione beach serves pizzas and local dishes whilst enjoying a wonderful view of the crystal-clear sea. The hotel's sailing boat, ‘BonAria’ is available for exclusive or group excursions to the Archipelago of La Maddalena. Relais Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort Cannigione, Bay of Arzachena, Gallura, Sardinia Nestled in a corner between two fine sandy beaches, Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites is surrounded by crystal-clear, shallow waters with stunning views out over the bay and across the coastline on one side, while having direct access to a narrow stretch of gently shelving beach on the other. One of the region’s first hotels, its long standing staff members offer a genuine warmth and friendliness which adds to Gabbiano Azzurro’s relaxed and welcoming feel. Modern white furnishings and shades of pale blue provide a light and airy seaside ambience within the spacious reception areas which open out onto sunny terraces and a pool area from which there is ample seating to admire the sea view. All the bedrooms are comfortably furnished and each has a balcony overlooking the sea, beach or village. High quality and beautifully presented cuisine is available from the hotel’s two main restaurants, with views across the beach. The town of Golfo Aranci is just a few minutes stroll away making this hotel an excellent base for both couples and families seeking accommodation right by the beach with a range of facilities on the doorstep and within walking distance of bars, shops and restaurants. Gabbiano D’Azzurro Hotel & Suites Golfo Aranci, Gallura, Sardinia 12
There’s a reason that Hotel Byron is considered one of the most alluring places in the heart of Forte dei Marmi. As a guest here, you will find yourself luxuriating in this intimate resort villa overlooking the sea, surrounded by a private garden against the majestic backdrop of the Apuan Alps. Each of Hotel Byron’s 47 rooms and suites, along with two prestigious penthouses on the top floor, have their own unique style and personality. They have also been recently renovated. Ristorante La Magnolia welcomes its guests with elegance and sophistication. The gourmet dishes from Chef Marco Bernardo takes inspiration from the tradition of Mediterranean cuisine, combined with local flavours. Surrounding the villa is the chic seaside town of Forte Dei Marmi, full of ancient splendour and contemporary design. Hotel Byron Forte dei Marmi, Tuscany Splendido, A Belmond Hotel & Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel Portofino, Liguria Having played host to a glittering procession of celebrities since the golden years of the 1960s, the elegant Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino is one of the world’s most iconic seaside hotels converted from a 16th century monastery. Over the years, it has acted like a magnet to a fashionable and celebrated clientele, pictures of whom grace the walls of its lobby. It offers the highest standards of hospitality whilst cleverly managing to retain a relaxed Mediterranean ambience. Pretty pathways lead down to the most celebrated crescent shape harbour (so beautifully preserved from untoward development),while many of the rooms boast tiled terraces or balconies, allowing guests to take full advantage of the enviable setting. For those preferring a base at the waterfront, but still benefitting from all facilities, there is also a small, sister property on the main square of the port, Splendido Mare. 13
Therasia has an enviable position overlooking the sea stacks and other Aeolian Islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel has been cleverly designed and built using locally sourced materials such as lava stone and cedar wood where possible, so it only adds to its unspoilt natural surroundings. The low-rise buildings feature arched picture windows that draw your eyes to each unique view, and the two infinity pools seemingly blend into the sea. The beautiful spa is an idyllic spot to retreat to following time out exploring Vulcano and the other islands, and you can even enjoy treatments exclusive to the region such as the Vulcano Black Sand Scrub. Therasia Resort Sea & Spa Vulcano, Aeolian Islands 14 Borgo Egnazia Savelletri di Fasano, Puglia Borgo Egnazia is located where the hills of the Itria Valley gently fall away to the Adriatic Sea, and the property itself is inspired by the shapes, materials and colours of a typical Puglian village. This authenticity was conceived to bring a fresh and original feel that is found ‘nowhere else’, alongside impeccable service. It is a miniature world of homemade breakfasts prepared by Puglian Massaie, delicious food experiences both gourmet and traditional that are strongly related to the Mediterranean Diet and then Vair, the poetic Puglian Spa, two beautiful private beaches (Cala Masciola and La Fonte) and the scenic San Domenico Golf surrounded by ancient olive trees with views that stretch to the sea.
Villa Igiea, A Rocco Forte Hotel Palermo, Sicily Re-opened in 2021 as a Rocco Forte Hotel , Villa Igiea is a turn-of-thecentury palazzo, blending period features with contemporary flair to exquisite effect. The handsome, art nouveau property occupies a premium position on the Bay of Palermo with views of the sea and Monte Pellegrino and features a range of beautiful guest rooms and suites. The hotel has beautiful tiered gardens that lead down to the outdoor swimming pool and terrace with sunbeds. When dining at Florio Restaurant travel back through time to the peak of the Belle Époque in Palermo, where the Florio family’s most distinguished guests would have dined in this original Louis XVI hall. Verdura Resort, A Rocco Forte Hotel Sciacca, Sicily The fulfillment of Rocco Forte’s ambitions to create the perfect Mediterranean sunshine retreat, Verdura Resort is a tour de force that caters for most holiday desires within a spectacular 250 hectare seafront estate on the southern coast of Sicily. Sleek, environmentally sensitive architecture fuses with terracottas, ochres and violets. Local charm with universal style. Italianate furnishings, breeze-brushed white muslins and, always, a sea view. Verdura’s vast scale and escapist atmosphere afford endless indulgence and choice. Choice to unfurl in its capacious spa, or lap its infinity pool. To play tennis among its orange groves. A round or two of golf. To master Sicilian cooking, or simply savour it by the sea. 15
16 mall coves lapped by the intense blue Mediterranean, pine forests that practically embrace the sea, days spent on-board a yacht, sleepy villages full of rural charm, luxury beach clubs, accommodation in paradise-like settings… Ibiza is a heavenly Mediterranean destination, a place where you can let your hair down and enjoy the laid-back hippy atmosphere of its fashion and street markets, chill out on a Bali bed next to the sea or watch the sunset surrounded by beautiful scenery. Ibiza is so authentic that it can combine the world’s most exciting nightlife with a UNESCO World Heritage town and Biodiversity Reserves. Comfortable clothes in cool white fabrics are part of the identity of Ibiza’s fashion and island lifestyle. Ibiza means freedom, finding yourself, and comfort in every sense. Because everything is close by, and it’s easy to find spaces where you can relax, be refreshed and feel younger than ever. The turquoise waters of its coves suggest relaxation and privacy. You can discover some of the quietest with a delightful sailing expedition from the ports of Eivissa, Sant Antoni de Portmany and Santa Eulària des Riu. Lunch or dinner on or around their seafront promenades is a great way to enjoy the island’s seafood. There are many ways to experience the coast of Ibiza - the beaches of Cala d’Hort, opposite the beautiful nature reserve of Es Vedrà, and Es Caló d'es Moro, with one of the most admired sunsets to be seen on the island; the rocky shore of Ses Variades, full of lively bars and nightclubs; Cala Benirrás, epicentre of the hippie lifestyle every Sunday with its drum parties; coves like Tarida, Jondal, Conta, and the beaches of Ses Salines and d’en Bossa, with a variety of beach clubs; or Cala Llentía, with standing stones on the cliffs, regarded by many as Ibiza’s Stonehenge. ibiza & Formentera s Long seen as a tolerant, magical place, in the mid-Sixties Ibiza became a favoured hippie destination. Known locally as ‘peluds’ (long-haired), they found welcoming locals, deserted beaches and cheap accommodation, and soon set up communes on old fincas (farm estates), with a circuit of parties. The clubs that now form the centre of the island’s nightlife grew organically out of this counter-culture. The oldest, Amnesia, was a former farm on the road between Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni. A cheap, bohemian party venue for hippies and artists, it didn’t even have electricity at first, the revellers dancing round bonfires in the house! Come the 70s and the disco revolution things really took off ...and the rest is ‘party party’ history! from ‘hairies’ to hip hop Eivissa (Ibiza Town) Santa Agnès Sant Antoni Sant Josep Es Cubells Sant Miquel Sant Joan Sa Canal San Rafael Santa Gertrudis Sant Carles Santa Eulària Roca Llisa San Francisc Javier Sa Caló Pilar de la Mola Q
17
Ibiza’s unique natural environment is also home to other landscapes of great interest. Places like Benimussa Valley and the plain of El Pla de Corona stand out for their rural charm. Apart from their traditional country houses and lush olive groves and vineyards, they are particularly attractive in winter when you can see thousands of almond trees in full bloom, adorning the countryside with delicate white flowers. Another great place to visit is Ses Salines Natural Park. The salt pans and maritime marshes extend across the south of Ibiza and the north of Formentera, and the sea here is home to a large part of the posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows. These meadows have earned the island its place on the World Heritage biodiversity list. Ibiza’s cultural World Heritage sites are mainly concentrated around the upper part of Eivissa, Dalt Vila, considered the best preserved coastal fortress in the Mediterranean. The area is perfect for strolling around the small streets and hidden squares. Sa Caleta, the nearby Phoenician settlement, and the necropolis at Puig des Molins also form part of Ibiza’s UNESCO World Heritage assets. If Ibiza is synonymous with the energy of the dance floors then her little sister, Formentera, is the total chill-out zone. A bolthole since the 1960s, the beaches and coves, with their fine white sand and unique turquoise sea, are the perfect place to switch off completely. Let’s be honest, it’s so detached that the urge to go naked seems to occur quite a lot (on the beaches)! Adored by the Italians, there is an island slogan that describes Formentera as “the last paradise of the Mediterranean”. Modern tourism hardly exists - there’s no airport, very few hotels (though no shortage of luxury villas), no designer shops and no American fast-food chains. Instead the coastal landscapes are dotted with little villages, natural harbours, and picturesque lighthouses, such as La Mola or Cap de Barbaria. Inland the scenery is just as enchanting - lakes, salt pans, caves, and woods of junipers and pines. Visitors will also find three historic villages: Sant Francesc Xavier, Sant Ferran de ses Roques, and El Pilar de la Mola. Cala d’Hort and Es Vedrà Dusk falls over the waterfront and Dalt Vila (Ibiza Old Town) Chill out in the countryside around San Gertrudis Formentera is a very small island (18 km long) and quite flat, ideal for cycling. The elevated area of La Mola is the only difficulty (200 metres above sea level), otherwise the beaches and villages are easily accessible by bike. If worried about slopes then go for an e-bike. Turquoise waters off the white sands of Ses Illetes. Formentera pedal power 18
Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay Talamanca, Ibiza Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is ideally positioned on the shores of Talamanca Bay. Away from the hustle and bustle, step from the hotel straight onto the soft sandy beach - or your yacht (at the hotel’s moorings). With the beach promenade right outside your door, in a short walk you will be wandering through the trendy boutiques and restaurants of Marina Botafoch and Ibiza old town. Laze seaside by the beach club or head to the pool deck for creative cocktails served alongside fresh seafood and delicate sushi rolls. Linger over cocktails or retire to your room; the night is as old or as young as you like. From days spent by the pool to rejuvenating spa treatments while the kids learn to DJ - Ibiza Bay is an escape like no other. white isle wonders You are spoiled for choice when it comes to 5-star luxury: 7Pines Resort Ibiza Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Ibiza 7Pines Resort Ibiza nestles in a pine grove on the cliffs of the west coast of Ibiza between Cala Conta and Cala Codolar. With unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea and the magical rocky island of Es Vedrà, it is a truly unique location on the white isle and a prime vantage point to enjoy a memorable sunset. The all suite resort spreads over an area of 56,000 m2 of an Ibizan inspired village of whitewashed houses with 185 suites, 3 restaurants and 3 bars, a spa and wellness centre, 3 pools, a Kids' Club and 2 Pershing Yachts available for charter. Agriturismo Atzaró Sant Llorenc de Ballafia, Ibiza Enshrouded by the fragrant zing created by 13 hectares of stunning orange groves, Agriturismo Hotel Atzaró has long been a luxurious Ibiza institution and spa retreat. After an impressive recent refurbishment by Atzaró Design, this lavish bolthole in the island’s rural north offers even more deliciously authentic appeal. The signature Atzaró style harks back to its rustic roots, with typical Ibicenco architecture accented by pared-back decor and the occasional opulent nod to its North African heritage. With additional features ranging from fireplaces and private pools to gardens and secluded private terraces, not to mention all the latest technology, each of the 24 rooms and suites is a masterclass in laid-back luxe. 19
Montenegro A special corner of the Balkan Peninsula Canyon of Rijeka Crnojevica The spectacular peaks of the Durmitor National Park Old Budva Town 20
ord Byron, the 19th century romantic poet and European traveller, wrote of Montenegro ‘At the moment of the creation of our planet, the most beautiful merging of land and sea occurred at the Montenegrin seaside. When the pearls of nature were sworn, an abundance of them were strewn all over this area.’ He was not wrong! Montenegro is a very small European country, located in the most beautiful corner of the Balkan Peninsula. The landscapes are magnificent, with majestic mountains, a beautiful Adriatic coast with the Fjord-like Bay of Kotor, amazing rivers and canyons, lakes, and five national parks. With a small, but friendly population of just over 600,000, there are vast open spaces to explore and relax in. In summer you can laze on tranquil beaches or hike in the national parks, whilst in winter why not consider some skiing in the Durmitor or Bjelasica mountains as an alternative to the Alps. Recent openings in the Bay of Kotor and on the Adriatic coast of world-class five star resorts has elevated standards of accommodation, so that even with the current closure of Aman Sveti Stefan and Villa Milločer, those wishing to experience this spectacular destination will still be spoiled for choice... L 21 PODGORIKA Kotor Dubrovnik Tivat Herceg Novi Durmitor National Park Prokletije National Park Biogradska National Park Lovcen NP Lake Skadar NP Budva Q Q ALBANIA CROATIA KOSOVO SERBIA BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA a near Lake Skadar Perast
22 One&Only Portonovi Herceg Novi, Montenegro Resplendent at the entrance of Boka Bay, a fjord-like idyll on Montenegro’s Adriatic Sea, One&Only Portonovi is the jewel of Europe’s most fashionable new riviera, all year round. A rare nautical playground offering fresh air adventures through sapphire waters, dramatic forest, and medieval towns. Perfectly balanced with chic, water-front relaxation, world-class dining, and pioneering wellness by Chenot. At the top end of One&Only Portonovi's accommodation choices, the private 2/3 bed villas undoubtedly offer the finest accommodation in Montenegro. Each expansive standalone villa, serviced by a dedicated team of butlers and private chefs, is set in its own blooming garden with a private swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, massage stations, and incredible sunset views over the Adriatic Sea. At the nexus of gentle azure seas and majestic mountains, you’ll find The Chedi Luštica Bay, a luxury 5-star hotel. Located on the magnificent Montenegrin coast 16 km from Tivat, The Chedi Luštica Bay welcomes travellers to unwind amidst authentic, breathable luxury. This luxurious retreat, a member of The Leading Hotels of The World, encompasses 111 exceptionally elegant rooms and suites, two restaurants, two bars, versatile meeting facilities, a private beach, an Asian-inspired Spa, an indoor pool, and an outdoor infinity pool. From its culinary artistry to the thoughtful guest amenities, The Chedi Luštica Bay offers everything you could expect from one of the most exclusive luxury Montenegro hotels, brought to life with genuine hospitality and flawless service that has anticipated every need. The Chedi Hotel & Residences Lustica Bay, Near Tivat, Montenegro
Regent Porto Montenegro Porto Montenegro Village, Boka Bay, Montenegro Regent Porto Montenegro brings a blend of grace and glamour to glittering Adriatic shores. The elegant hotel with its Italianate gardens deftly retains the essence of the country’s history, with a subtle nod to the grand Italian palazzi found in the region. The hotel offers 175 rooms and one-to-three-bedroom suites in three hotel wings: Venezia, Aqua and Baia, where guests can experience chic, Riviera-style, five-star luxury, set against one of the most dramatic backdrops in Europe. At the heart of the glamorous Porto Montenegro nautical village, directly on the waterfront of the elegant Boka Bay, the hotel’s Venetian-inspired architecture blends seamlessly into its marine setting and this beautiful UNESCO destination. Featuring the freshest ingredients cooked with passion and plated to perfection, Regent Porto Montenegro’s restaurants focus on authentic flavours and local ingredients, blending Mediterranean and Adriatic specialities. Regent Porto Montenegro has four in-house restaurants & bars: Murano Restaurant, Gourmet Corner, Pool Bar and Onyx Bar & Garden. The hotel’s signature Regent Spa offers a wide array of treatments and a holistic approach to rejuvenation combining ancient traditions with fresh, organic ingredients to nurture mind, body and spirit. It includes three treatment rooms, an experience shower, a sauna, a steam room, a fitness studio, an indoor pool with Jacuzzi, an outdoor pool, Pool Club with 2 infinity pools and 2 children’s pools. 23
Plan Your Outer Back Page Your opportunity to close the issue with your own material. personal travel memoirs - advertisers - news Select your preferred ‘Outer Back Page’ layout from Layout Planner: Your own full page story with three key images and a text limit of 1350 characters (150 words approximately). 2 x half page stories with two key images per story and a text limit of 900 characters per story (100 words approximately). 3 x third page stories with one key image per story and a text limit of 650 characters per story (75 words approximately). 3 x ‘news shorts’ with one key image each and a text limit of 500 characters (55 words approximately) PLUS Half page vertical. Full page ‘Bleed’ ad. Specifications are shown on above graphic and should be forwarded to advertiser. 2 x HALF page ‘Panel’ ads. Specifications are shown on above graphic and should be forwarded to each advertiser. HALF page ‘Panel’ ad PLUS HALF page editorial (here shown as 3 x ‘news shorts’ but could also be 1 x HALF page). Vertical alignment available. NO choice required as using a front to back cover wrap FULL page story 2 x half page story 3 x 1/3rd page story 1 x half & 3 x news FULL page AD 2 x half page AD AD & Story Combo Wraparound cover
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjE5ODQ=