Five of the best European hotels for outdoor space and activities
With social distancing measures likely to be in place for many months to come, luxury travellers are increasingly looking for hotels that provide plenty of outdoor space, as well as the necessary COVID health and safety measures.
Countryside, coastal and mountain resorts in particular lend themselves well to this and are likely to be popular with corporate clients when they feel ready to travel again. To coincide with our own #SpaceToBreathe campaign, we explore five European properties that have plenty of space from the ruggedly stunning east coast of Scotland to the picturesque Tuscan countryside and striking Tyrolean mountains…
Fairmont St Andrews, Scotland
Part of Accor Group, this luxury Scottish hotel is set in a 520-acre estate in a unique coastal setting, offering unrivalled views across St Andrews Bay and beyond. As part of its ‘Space’ programme, the 209-room property is offering a series of unique, thoughtfully designed experiences, responding to guest preferences and government guidelines for social distancing.
These include guided coastal path walks with Neil Dobson, St Andrews Marine Archaeologist to learn about the astonishing array of flora, fauna and history that surrounds the property, and the opportunity to learn more about Fairmont’s Bee Sustainable programme and explore bee habitats and hives with one of hotel’s three onsite Beekeepers.
Guests are also able to enjoy a delicious selection of cocktails and craft beers within a luxurious yurt, located on the dramatic cliffs that overlook St Andrews Bay. The yurt provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature and comfort in an appropriate socially distanced setting.
Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol, Austria
There’s nothing quite like an escape to the Alps for an invigorating and active incentive experience away from the crowds, and this luxury five-star resort is located on an expansive high plateau, at 1,300 m above sea level in an unspoilt location. Surrounded by striking mountains, Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol offers spacious ‘Tyrolean’ rooms, sleek contemporary lodges and opulent Penthouse Suites that are the definition of alpine chic.
This destination resort is certainly not short on “space to breathe” and it’s location makes it ideal for active groups, with the region offering skiing, cross-country skiing or winter hiking, while the hotel itself can arrange swimming, indoor golf, yoga or personal training.
Chateau La Coste, France
Set between the striking Luberon Natural Park and vibrant Aix-en-Provence, Chateau La Coste is surrounded by a 200-hectare vineyard and is the ideal destination for groups in search of fine wine, art, architecture and well-being.
Guests can stay on the hillside, in the Villa La Coste, which boasts 28 suites, ten of which include their own private pool. This is the perfect Provencal hideaway, with terraces overlooking the Luberon, a range of indoor and outdoor dining areas plus poolside gardens, a bar, a library and the most inviting spa.
There is plenty of outdoor space for Provencal picnics or al fresco drinks overlooking the vines. Guided tours of the various outdoor art installations and of the Chai, designed by Jean Nouvel, followed by wine tastings, are also available.
Belmond Castello di Casole, Italy
Spread across 4,200 acres, this 10th-century Tuscan estate is the perfect place to experience the wonders of rural Italy. Belmond Castello di Casole offers 39 indulgent rooms and suites making it the perfect size for exclusive hire. Groups visiting the property can while away the hours outdoors with many unique outdoor experiences on option including hunting for rare truffles.
The estate boasts its own game reserve perfect for exploration and wildlife spotting – it is home to an abundance of hare, pheasant and deer. Meander through more than 25 acres of organic vineyards or 30 acres of Olive Groves and experience dining outdoors with a difference at the Enchanted Table, which is suspended from a towering oak tree, lit by candelabra and twinkling lights and covered in a traditional Tuscan feast.
Penha Longa Resort, Portugal
Set within the 545-acre Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Penha Longa Resort is a historic estate that traces its origins back to the 14th century when both hermit monks and Lisbon royalty called the tranquil Sintra Mountains home.
The 94-room luxury property is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts with a 27-hole golf course; a historical circuit that takes guests past a 14th-century monastery; and easy access to beaches in nearby Cascais and Estoril, just 10 minutes away.
It also boasts eight innovative restaurants, including two Michelin star options, 27 meeting and breakout rooms mostly set in the historic Monastery, as well as unique outdoor spaces for dining and celebrations.
