It may be one of the smaller continents but what Europe lacks in size it makes up for in style: rolling fields of lavender & vines, limestone cliffs gazing above turquoise coastlines and architecture to match nature's finest.
From private islands to ancient cities; wild beaches to undulating countryside – or experience it all while sailing from coast to coast. With summer well and truly upon us, look no further than our favourite hotspots for the ultimate in European escapism.
Set in a 16th-century palazzo on Venice’s Grand Canal, Aman Venice is as romantic & historical as the city itself. Housing original Tiepolo frescoes framed by gilded ceilings and Rococo décor, this grandiose mansion is an opulent jewel on Venice’s sparkling Grand Canal. The hidden jetty entrance, private garden and 26 pastel-hued ornate guest rooms retain the intimacy of a private palazzo with all the comforts of an indulgent Aman.
The exclusive-use estate: La Chartreuse, Bordeaux
Nestled among the vines of Cos d’Estournel in France's acclaimed region of Bordeaux, La Chartreuse is the private residence of Michel Reybier – owner of our favourite La Réserve hotels. Set amidst a 200-acre vineyard, a stay at La Chartreuse offers an exclusive opportunity to experience life on an award-winning wine estate. The luxurious mansion features eight sublime suites, an indoor pool and interiors courtesy of renowned architect Jacques Garcia, with embroidered silks, gold-leaf chandeliers and blackened ancient-Indian doors all adding to an air of Old World glamour.
The private island: Tagomago, Ibiza
Charming chiringuitos & coastal coves, Ibiza remains one of Europe's most popular summer destinations; but set on a private paradise 900 metres off its north-east coast lies a serene retreat like no other. Accessed by boat or helicopter to arrive in style, Tagomago's five-bedroom estate is the ultimate way to experience Ibiza. Perched on a hill surrounded by spacious terraces with panoramic views in all directions, this is beyond luxury. The perfect place to party or make the most of the private island with family & friends, you are just a stone's throw from one of Europe's most sought-after spots.
The off-the-radar beach escape: Casas Na Areia, Comporta
Fishermen, salt makers and rice farmers have been coming to Comporta since the beginning of time. Fertile lands and rice paddies are separated from the wild Atlantic by a criss-cross of canals leading to dune-backed beaches. Since João Rodrigues and architect Manuel Aires Mateus opened a small hotel, Casa Na Areia – comprising of just four rustic-chic cabanas with traditional thatched roofs and sand floors – Portugal's well-guarded secret may well be on our minds but certainly hasn't lost its under-the-radar charm.
The classic sailing yacht: Satori
With all the comforts of a refined boutique hotel, the traditional hand-built wooden schooner, Satori, is the newly launched 41.5-metre yacht designed by the super stylish Danish owners of Borgo Santo Pietro in Tuscany. Expect Michelin-starred dining, an on-board spa and all the water toys you could dream of for a state-of-the-art sailing odyssey across the Mediterranean.