The hopes of travel are not yet completely dashed… we take a look at some of the sought after destinations we can’t wait to get back to…
Villa Lena, Italy
Nearest airport: Pisa/ Florence
Situated amongst the rolling hills of rural Tuscany, Villa Lena is simultaneously a creative residence, agriturismo and holiday destination. Guests are invited to stay with Villa Lena’s creative family celebrating local Tuscan history, culture and food within an environment that offers international artists, writers, designers, filmmakers, musicians, chefs and agricultural experts’ space to explore and hone their respective crafts.
Creativity and collaboration underscores life at Villa Lena with a programme of events ranging from artists’ talks to children’s activities; al fresco film screenings to cooking workshops and candlelit concerts to poolside DJ sets. Guests can spend their days exploring the woodlands, visiting nearby, legendary towns and cities such as Lucca, San Gimignano, Siena or Florence. They can also learn to make fresh pasta, forage for truffles, socialise over cocktails or simply relax poolside. Each evening guests and artists gather in the terrace restaurant for a communal dining experience based in a seasonal organic menu that is rooted in Italian cuisine and prepared by the visiting chef-in-residence. https://www.villa-lena.it/en/
Chapter Roma, Italy
Nearest airport: Rome
The 42-room hotel Chapter Roma creates an intimate atmosphere for those checking in. The first location in the newly established Chapter Italia Portfolio developed by Marco Cilia (formerly of Hotel Americano in New York City), Chapter Roma will open on 14th May 2019. The hotel, proudly part of the Design Hotels™ collection, acts as a catalyst for change for Italian travel by providing something currently unattainable – an accessibility to luxury that is not just saved for five-star hotels.
Embodying a true fusion of gritty and glamorous, with a contemporary and classic aesthetic, South African based designer Tristan Du Plessis of Studio A has breathed new life into the building which dates back to 1880. Chapter Roma’s laidback yet spirited vision in contemporary interiors brings Du Plessis’ signature industrial-chic, sultry style and strong local connection to this ancient cosmopolis. https://www.chapter-roma.com/
Closer to home…
Locke Hotels
Airports: Edinburgh, Manchester and London
Perfect for a staycation and exploring new cities in style, home-meets-hotel lifestyle brand Locke Hotels boasts locations across the UK’s major cities in London, Manchester and Edinburgh. Locke aims to engage with travellers that have an expectation for personal awakening and the opportunity to forge spontaneous connections with like-minded travellers and locals. Celebrating the character and social fabric of each locality, Locke creates destinations that inspire and connect through mindful design and meaningful human connection and offer much more than just a place to sleep.
For its latest opening, Locke will launch its third London property in bustling Bermondsey this September (pictured). Comprising 143 apartments, Bermonds Locke will also be home to Robin Gill’s newly homed The Dairy Bermondsey, all-day food and drink destination Shaman, co-working areas, bar and workout studio. www.lockeliving.com
