HOTEL FAVOURITES

Madeira is a lush, mountainous Portuguese island situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It has earned the title of "World's Leading Island Destination" nine consecutive times in the World Travel Awards. Each year, millions of tourists flock to the island, captivated by its stunning landscapes, extensive hiking trails that span over 2,000 kilometers along the irrigation channels (known as levadas), and its mild, pleasant climate. During summer, the island enjoys an average temperature of around 25°C. Believing that the best way to experience Madeira was from a seaside resort — of which there are many — I chose to stay at the five-star Saccharum Resort & Spa in Calheta, approximately 35 kilometers from Funchal, the capital. My goal was to escape the busy tourist spots and fully immerse myself in Madeira's diverse natural beauty. The resort is ideally located on the island’s sunny southwest coast, nestled between the sea and mountains. I eagerly anticipated da...

Bad Gastein has been on my radar for some time due to its Belle Époque architecture and breathtaking mountain views. Once a favored spa destination for royalty during its golden era, the town evokes a beautiful sense of nostalgia. Today, Bad Gastein remains popular for its thermal waters, celebrated for their regenerative and holistic wellness benefits. Another highlight of the area is the 140-meter-long suspension bridge at Stubnerkogel, which soars 2,300 meters above sea level — an incredible way to take in the surrounding mountain views! Badeschloss Hotel In this town, the contemporary architecture and creative design of the Badeschloss Hotel (recently renamed Urban Nature Bad Gastein) immediately caught my attention. Originally built in 1971, the hotel has recently undergone extensive renovations, including the addition of a striking new concrete tower that stands in bold contrast to the grand historic buildings in the area. Following these renovations, the hotel reopened at the en...

I love authentic boutique hotels! With fewer rooms and a focus on guest experience, they offer a more intimate and personalized stay. This contrasts with the often impersonal nature of larger chain hotels, providing guests with tailored service and a warm, homely ambiance. Additionally, boutique hotels in Portugal are often located in historically significant buildings, seamlessly blending traditional architecture with modern design elements, giving them a great deal of character and soul. These qualities, along with a convenient location, were the reasons I chose to book Timbre Virtudes for my two nights in Porto. Porto is situated along the Douro River in northern Portugal. Its historic center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a rich cultural experience, from its wine cellars and Fado music to its growing appreciation for contemporary design and art. Six bridges span the Douro, serving not only as vital transport links but also as dramatic vantage points for pa...