Dream hotels we wished we booked for Spring Break
...If you were lucky to escape from the mundane, let the man-built marvels of this world whisk you away. We’ve found designer approved hotels across Europe to inspire your next vacation.
1) Akelarre
San Sebastian, Spain
Set atop Monte Igueldo, Akelarre is a treat for all the senses. It was built around the three-Michelin starred restaurant of the same name by Pedro Subijama, making it a destination on itself. It is conveniently located five minutes away from one of the best beaches in Europe, La Concha, and a short commute will take you to its town square.
The Madrid-based architecture firm, Mecanismo, directed the 22-room project with jaw-breaking views of the Bay of Biscay. Marta Urtasun and Pedro Ricase implemented pale oak wood, black marble, soft hues and panoramic windows for a timeless design. Complete your stay at the spa with a hot-stone massage or a hydrating facial with Sisley products. Now, that’s time off!
2) CanBordoy, Grand House and Garden
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The posh capital of the Bealearic Islands is fertile land for an enjoyable break. Packed with historical landmarks, trendy restaurants and exclusive boutiques, there’s plenty for you to do. As firm believers that accommodation should be as aesthetically pleasing as the scenery, we came across the new CanBordoy, Grand House & Garden.
Its original stone walls from the XII century will make you feel at a contemporary fairy tale. The 24-suite hotel is a home away from home designed by the architecture studio, Ohlab, that keeps the buzz of the city at distance with a romantic decor and a mesmerizing interior garden. It's prestige address locates it at the Old Quarter and its the closest hotel to the harbour and yacht moorings. Make sure to dine at the restaurant Botànic to complete your visit.
3) Istoria
Santorini, Greece
A week at this 12-room sanctuary and it will be the toughest farewell! The charming hotel was conceived by Design Laboratorium with a simplistic apporach to architecture. Its soft hues blend perfectly with Perivolos’ volcanic stone coastline and midnight blue water of the Aegean Sea. Wooden furniture and handcrafted textiles can be found throughout the space proving how well-versed the place is in luxury.
Attention to detail can be perceived at every step of the way. A welcoming drink sets the tone and a surprise treat at the end of the day betters the experience. Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis sources vegetables from Istoria’s organic garden and serves freshly caught fish to top it all of. Head over to the Asian Spa where you can pamper yourself to refreshing reatments for whole body relaxation rituals. Told you– this is the hardest goodbye!
4) Little Green Bay
Hvar, Croatia
Self-proclaimed “The Non-Hotel”, it is the perfect scenario for those looking for an intimate vacation. The luxury guest house is only three hours away from London and offers a relaxing break. Noble materials such as wood, stone and glass co-exist with wickerwork lampshades and grainy linen textiles.
All of their 15 rooms offer enchanting views to the Adriatic sea from their private terraces. You’ll love being at a secluded area where the beach is not crowded at all. Head to The Little Spa for instant relaxation, upon entering you’ll be whisked away to a zen state with the aromas coming from its herb garden.
5) Juvet Hotel
Valldal, Norway
Be prepared to be one with nature. Individual cabins ensure a secluded retreat with views of the beautiful landscapes. The architecture studio, Jensen & Skodvin devised a place worthy of a Hollywood set. This is not a theory, it was actually the backdrop for the sci-fi movie, Ex Machina.
This could be reserved for the more adventorous travelers in the crowd as the smallest room, “The Bird Nest”, does not have a shower, you must visit the spa to take a bath (we’d also make an appointment for a facial while there).
6) Pillows Anna van den Vondel
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Open the door of the 19th century building and take notes of the elegant and minimalistic interiors. There are a few tips you may want to take back home. Natural colors, soft fabrics and solid materials are at the forefront of the design.
The thirty rooms and suites have splendorous views to either the Vondelpark and Amsterdam gables, a selected array of accomodations have french balconies for you to admire the landscape. Access to the open kitchen and an interior garden will make you feel like a local.
7) Schgaguer
Castelrotto, Italia
This hotel overlooking the Dolomites is breathtaking. From a minimilistic design perspective, it can be considered Nirvana. Recently renovated by architect Peter Pichler, revived the thirty-year-old hotel, almost from scratch. The light colored wood, local materials and simplistic furniture conveys the sense of well-being.
After hiking (or skiing) take a moment to visit the hotel’s spa. Its indoor pools, outdoor whirpool, sauna, and top-of-the-line spa treatments will provide the vacation you were looking for.
