Category : France
Posted in France on 30. Jun, 2011
With the winding byways of its old city, the exquisite views from Mount Boron and some of the most famous beaches in the world, you would be forgiven if you didn’t get around to visiting the museums of Nice. But if you knew what you were missing, you might not forgive yourself. Because Nice also boasts some of the best museums in the world. Home over the decades to some fantastic artists, home to some amazing architecture and culture and once home to the ancient Romans, there are plenty of reasons for Nice to have plenty of great museums. Here are some you should not miss.
Musée des Arts Asiatiques
If you’re entering the city via the Aéroport de Nice – Côte d’Azur, it’s hard to miss the Musée des Arts Asiatiques, as it’s right nearby and makes a convenient stop on your way in or out of the city. One of the only Nice museums that does not deal with a local subject matter, the Musée des Arts Asiatiques features an impressive collection of Asian antiquity dating all the way back to prehistoric times. The rare artifacts include precious stones, metals, traditional costumes, sandstone sculptures, decoratives, and contemporary art. All of these Chinese, Japanese and Indian ancient treasures are housed within a thoroughly modern building designed by renowned Japanese architect, Kenzo Tange, which features simple shapes and a lake where you can also experience the natural beauty of ducks and geese.
Musee des Beaux-Arts
Decidedly more French in nature is the Musee des Beaux Arts (Fine Arts Museum) and its amazing collection of French 18th and 19th-century paintings and sculptures. There are also many Italian 17th-century works of art, and the sumptuous 1870 villa originally built as a residence for a Russian princess fits right in with the surrounding Baumettes District. Donated to the city by a wealthy amateur artist, Jules Cheret, the museum features Impressionist and post-Impressionist treasures by Monet, Renoir, Sisley, Rodin, Carpeaux and more. Of course you’ll also find work by Cheret himself. If your tastes run more to the modern, there are two halls exhibiting contemporary art by such artists as Van Dongen, Dufy and Picasso.
Musée Chagall
Whether or not you’re moved by the paintings of Marc Chagall, you will be moved by the 17 immense, color-drenched paintings inspired by the Bible that make up the central collection of the Musée Chagall. The paintings, done towards the end of the artist’s life, can be contrasted with a hall filled with his earlier work, allowing you to take in Chagall’s entire artistic life. There are also stained glass windows created by Chagall in the auditorium. Though this is the largest collection of Marc Chagall work brought together in a permanent exhibition space, it’s the quality rather than the quantity that makes this museum a memorable experience. The surrounding Mediterranean garden makes a great place to decompress before returning to the real world.
Musée Matisse
Though the Musée Matisse is just a short drive up the hill of Cimiez, I would suggest leaving the car behind and walking. That way you’ll get to see the grand homes and buildings of Cimiez, which get grander the further you climb, culminating in the awe-inspiring Hotel Regina, where Matisse used to live. From there it’s just metres to the Musée Matisse. Though set in the grand 17th century Villa des Arènes, there is nothing historical to see, as the villa has been gutted to create the museum. You are here specifically to see the works of Matisse, and here is where you’ll find one of the world’s largest collections, tracing his evolution from the beginning to the end of his career. The museum opened in 1963 and boasts 68 paintings and gouaches, 236 drawings, 218 prints, 95 photos, 57 sculptures and 14 books illustrated by Matisse, as well as 187 objects that belonged to the painter, and prints, tapestries, ceramics, stained glass and documents.
Musee et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez
If you’re wondering what the ruins are that you’re seeing from the windows of the Musée Matisse, those are the bath houses of the Roman settlement of Cemenelum, from which Cimiez gets its name. The Romans luxuriated in this spot from 14 BCE to the 5th century CE, and they left quite a bit behind. Lucky us. Between the modern building housing many ancient Roman tools, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, engravings and coins found in the archeological digs around Nice to the well-preserved baths, the Musee et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez provides a vivid picture of what life was like here two thousand years ago. You will be surprised at the technology the Romans employed in the baths, and for just a few moments you will forget that you’re in France in the 21st century.
Accommodations
Nice provides many vintage hotels that could themselves be museums. Along the famous Promenade des Anglais is the four-star Hotel West End. Built in 1842, the ornate hotel is right on the beach. Just blocks away, the distinctive pink façade and stone lions of the Hotel Westminster hides some beautiful Victorian ball rooms and high-ceiling guest rooms. It even boasts its own private beach. But for the ultimate Nice experience, there’s the five star Hotel Negresco, whose 1912 dome, designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel himself is the Promenade’s most distinctive feature. The spectacular Baccarat 16,309-crystal chandelier in the lobby was commissioned by Czar Nicholas II, who due to the October revolution was unable to take delivery. If these options are a little rich for your blood, head inland a few blocks and settle in beneath the more reasonably-sized dome of the two-star Hotel de la Buffa, which provides Mediterranean charm and an intimate experience.
Posted in France on 21. Jun, 2011
How many cities of 35,986 do you know that has its own dialect? When you consider that city (Monte Carlo) is also a country (Monaco), it makes sense that the residents might speak something called Monégasque. This is just one of the many unique points about Monte Carlo, the only city on the French Riviera that is not part of France. Ruled by the House of Grimaldi since 1297, Monaco is also one of Europe’s newest countries, its statehood dating back to the 19th century, and it also boasts the world’s highest per capita GDP ($215,163), the world’s highest life expectancy (just under 90 years old) and at 1.98 square kilometres is the most densely populated country in the world. Oh yes. There’s also plenty to do.
Monte Carlo Casino
If there was ever a place to order your Martini “shaken, not stirred,” it is the Monte Carlo Casino, after Wall Street the most famous gambling establishment on the planet. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect of the Paris Opera House, this 1863 Beaux Arts gem is also the most famously beautiful gambling establishment on the planet. You’ll need a passport to enter the Grand Casino, as Monégasque citizens are prohibited from gambling there – which probably explains their long expectancy. And you’ll be losing money before you even start losing money, as there are fees to enter each room, ranging from 30€ right up to “you don’t want to know.” Even if you’re not much of a gambler, your socks will be knocked off by the stained glass, paintings, and sculptures in the gaming rooms. And of course, don’t forget to bring your coat and tie, and don’t forget to leave the Bermuda shorts and flip-flops at the hotel.
The Palais Princier
Commanding the nicest and most elevated spot in the historical Monaco-Ville, the Palais Princier (Prince’s Palace) offers guided tours every day of the week. You won’t need a tour to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the Port and Monte Carlo. But you’ll want to take it anyway to see all the amazing stuff inside, from the State Apartments to the Museum of Napoleon Souvenirs to the more modern Private Collection of Antique Cars. If you’re there in the summer, be sure to take advantage of the concerts. And if you’re there at 11:55 AM, head to the front of the Palace’s main entrance to see the changing of the guard ceremony performed by the Carabiniers.
The Monaco Opera House
If you don’t come away from Monte Carlo impressed by Charles Garnier, you might want to consult a doctor. More of his impressive work can be seen at the Monaco Opera House, also known as the Salle Garnier. From the frescoes and sculptures to the red and gold ornamentation to the paintings on the ceiling, the auditorium is an experience that may move you to tears well before the fat lady sings. Speaking of the Fat Lady, some of the world’s best ballet, opera and other concerts have been performed here for over a century and continue to be performed here. But be warned: You get what you pay for. Rather, you pay for what you get! Just a taste of what you get when you look up to the vaulted ceiling are four panels that were painted on canvas that was then stuck on to the ceiling , including “La Musique Instrumentale” by Gustave Boulanger, which was winner of the “Prix de Rome” in1849, which hangs above the stage.
The Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
Monte Carlo is also known for its natural beauty, which is in a large part due to that big blue thing that seems to be everywhere, the Mediterranean Sea. No wonder that Monte Carlo boasts the amazing Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium. Set 279 feet above sea level, this 1910 establishment features that distinctive Monte Carlo architecture on the outside and more fish than you can shake a stick at inside. For example, there are 4,000 species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates, as well as spectacular shows of marine flora and fauna. There’s also a variety of sea related objects, including model ships, sea animal skeletons, tools and weapons. If you’re the one in the family who doesn’t care for marine life, then you can enjoy the views over lunch from La Terrasse, towering over the sheer cliff face that drops those 279 feet to the sea,
The Jardin Exotique
Strolling through the wide expanse (both horizontal and vertical) of the Jardin Exotique (Exotic Gardens), it’s hard to imagine that you’re in the most densely population country in the world. It’s also hard not to be overwhelmed by the natural beauty coming at you from every direction.
The differences in altitude allow several thousand rare plants from around the world to grow, ranging from desert plants to subtropical flora. The walking tour starts at the beginning of every hour and lasts around 25 minutes. Open since 1933, the garden also features a large natural underground cave at the foot of the cliff with many stalagmites, stalactites, draperies and columns. If you have time, be sure to see the Jardin Exotique’s Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology displaying many prehistoric remains.
Accommodations
Monte Carlo is not the place to go for youth hostels and Motel 6’s. As you might expect, staying in a Monaco hotel is a great way to find out how the other half lives. If you can afford it. Here are some choices that are worth the money. For four-star luxury right on the water, there’s the Fairmont Monte Carlo. For four-star luxury near the airport, there’s the Hotel Port Palace. The four-star Le Méridien Beach Plaza provides modern accommodations, which are a rarity in this classic city. And for the ultimate Monte Carlo experience, the Hotel Metropole, Monte Carlo provides five-star service and a glimpse into the past.
One of the most popular activities in Europe is visiting Cathedrals. But did you know that Europe also boasts a large collection of amazing Mosques and that many of them are open to the public, just as the Cathedrals are? Most are found in Spain, where the Moors ruled for centuries and in south-eastern Europe, which was Ottoman Turkish territory. But with the recent influx of Muslims into Europe, there are Mosques being built everywhere from Berlin, Germany to Reykjavik, Iceland. Here are a few worth visiting:
Ali Pasha’s Mosque, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Listed by Lonely Planet as one of the most top ten cities to visit in 2010, Sarajevo is so famous for its mix of Islam, Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Judaism that it has often been called the “Jerusalem of Europe.” Standing out among many amazing Churches, Synagogues and Mosques is Ali Pasha’s Mosque, which was constructed during the rule of the Ottoman Turks in 1561 by Hadim Ali-pasha, the former Ottoman governor of the Budapest administrative district and the Bosnia Pashaluk. Built in the classical Istanbul architectural style, the Mosque features a large dome to cover the central prayer area and three smaller domes to cover the cloister. Unfortunately, the Mosque was heavily damaged by Serbian forces during the war in the 1990s – much like the rest of the city – but it was lovingly restored in 2004 and 2005, which led to its inclusion on the list of National Monuments of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Banya Bashi Mosque, Sofia, Bulgaria
Completed just 15 years later in 1576, the Banya Bashi Mosque gets its name (“Many Baths”) from the natural thermal spas that it was built over. It is possibly the only Mosque in the world that boasts steam rising from vents in the ground just outside the walls. You’ll be impressed by the size of the dome and the beauty of the minaret as it rises to the sky. You’ll be impressed by the beauty of the tile work. This is also an active Mosque, used by the nearly 9,000 Muslims living in the city, so you can only go inside when there are not services being performed. In a city once boasting over 70 Mosques, the Banya Bashi is actually Sofia’s only active Mosque. It was closed under Communist rule and opened and restored after the fall of the Iron Curtain.
La Mezquita, Córdoba, Spain
Moving from the Ottomans to the Moors, we now go to one of the most impressive places of worship on the planet, the famous Mezquita of Córdoba. A Cathedral since the Reconquista in 1236 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this was once the second largest Mosque in the world, and its forest of 856 columns is a sight you will never forget. The use of this spot as a religious site predates the Mosque. Before construction started in 784 (and additions that spanned the next 200 years) it was the Visigoth St. Vincent’s Basilica. At some point before that it was a Jewish Synagogue and before that a Roman Temple. Unfortunately the conquering Christians destroyed the centre of the Mosque and replaced it with a chapel, which is actually quite lovely, but also quite misplaced. Still the remaining columns, made of jasper, onyx, marble, and granite and some coming from Córdoba’s Roman buildings, create a magical atmosphere not replicated anywhere else in the world.
The Grande Mosquée de Paris
Located in the romantic 5th arrondissement, the Grande Mosquée de Paris is the largest mosque in France and the third largest in Europe. Unlike the Mosques in Sarajevo, Córdoba and Sofia, this is a 20th century affair, built after World War I as a sign of France’s gratitude to the the help of the Muslims in the French colonies, 100,000 of whom died fighting against Germany. Its rich history also encompasses World War II, when it served as a secret refuge for those persecuted by the occupying Germans, providing fake Muslim birth certificates for Jewish children. Built in the Mudéjar style, full of mosaics, wood carvings and wrought iron from Morocco, the Mosque’s gorgeous interiors could are reminiscent of the Alhambra in Granada. The Mosque is an active place of worship for North Africans living in Paris, and tours are given of the building, its central courtyard, and its Moorish garden. The marble Turkish baths are also quite popular, as is the couscous and sweet mint tea at the Muslim Restaurant de la Mosquée de Paris.
The Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, Gibraltar
Officially inaugurated in 1997, the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, also known as the King Fahd bin Abdulaziz al-Saud Mosque perfectly represents the history of the Muslim presence in Europe. The southernmost Mosque on the continent, the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim was built to accommodate the new Muslim population in a location just a few metres from the Roman Catholic Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, which itself started out as a Mosque until the Muslims were expelled from the continent in the 15th century. Boasting a school, a library and a lecture hall, the Mosque also boasts fantastic views of the mountains of Morocco from its perch at Europa Point. It’s one of the largest Mosques in a non-Muslim country and an underwater cistern right next to it dates back to the age of the Moors, cementing the relationship between past and present.
Accommodations
Seeing these cultural treasures is made easier when you stay in a local hotel, and there are many hotels from which to choose, whether you’re in Sarajevo, Sofia, Córdoba, Paris or Gibraltar.
A lush Mediterranean island to the west of Italy, southeast of France and north of Sardinia, Corsica is a place of great contrasts: Its intriguing landscape features everything from rugged mountain outcrops to secluded bays, and its unique culture reflects its location. While it is politically part of Metropolitan France, Corsica has an identity all its own. The territory features a blend of French and Italian influences, and its long history has left an array of fascinating landmarks. Its dynamic terrain, meanwhile, makes it a veritable mecca for hikers and rock climbers. What follows is a brief introduction to the island’s most popular destinations:
Calvi
A beautiful seaside resort on Corsica’s northern coast, Calvi is closest to the French Riviera and seven hours by ferry from Nice. It is famous for being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, and also for its fantastic nightlife scene. Trendy bars and cafés line the town’s palm-shaded promenade, and spectacular beaches line the bustling centre. There are also great hotels in Calvi, like the Hotel Balanea and the Best Western Premier Hotel Corsica.
Sant’Antonino
To experience the contrasts and diversity that Corsica is known for, head from Calvi to Sant’Antonino (15 minutes away.) Unlike the lively seaside resort, this quiet town is perched atop a rocky hilltop above sea level. Its unforgettable views encompass the Mediterranean Sea and the Balagne region, once known as the “Garden of Corsica” for its vast orchards. The centre of Sant’Antonino is a mysterious maze of hidden alleyways and quaint cobbled streets, set against a truly remarkable backdrop.
The Scandola Nature Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Gulf of Porto, the Scandola Nature Reserve is one of the island’s prized possessions. It and Girolata, an isolated hamlet home to a small fortress and Genoese tower, are accessible only by boat. However, they are well worth the trek! The stunning rock formations, carved out over the years by volcanic activity and other forces of nature, make the Scandola Nature Reserve a magical place. Set aside a full day to tour the dramatic cliffs, grottos and caves.
Ajaccio
The capital of Corsica, Ajaccio is sure to have something for everyone. It is definitely the most urban of the island’s towns, and a great place in which to mingle with the locals and experience daily Corsican life. Shop for gourmet foodstuffs and souvenirs in the shops and markets, sample the specialties served in the restaurants and bakeries, tour the exhibits of Ajaccio’s museums and art galleries, and take time to relax on the picturesque beaches. The local farmers’ market, open daily, is a major gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Ajaccio also has an array of historic monuments, and it is a popular starting point for boat excursions to Scandola.
The Costa Serena
If you are looking to truly get away from it all, head to Corsica’s Costa Serena. The picture-perfect coastline connects Bastia and Porto-Vecchio by miles of untouched beaches, acres of green farmland, and remote campsites. The Bavella Mountains by Solenzara, the ancient Roman ruins of Aleria, and the banks of the Tavignano River add key elements to the landscape. However, what really makes the place special is its lack of civilization.
Corte
Corte is an ancient town in the heart of Corsica, and it is filled with typical restaurants and tourist attractions. Hotels in Corte, like the Vanina Park and Du Nord, offer privileged access to local landmarks like the museum of Corsican history and the citadel. Additionally, Corte’s location between the rivers of Restonica and Tavignano places you near the best hiking trails of the Restonica Valley.
Bonifacio
At the southernmost tip of the island of Corsica, you will find the quaint fishing village of Bonifacio. Its lively marina is typically filled with sailboats, fishing boats, and even luxurious yachts. Meanwhile, the paths leading from the coast are lined with unique tourist attractions. Cobbled streets will take you past beautiful examples of local architecture, as well as an array of typical bars and cafés. The waterfront offers great opportunities for boating and windsurfing, and it is only an hour’s ferry ride from Sardinia. For an unforgettable adventure, enjoy a one-hour boat trip to the island’s inlets and marine caves!
Recommended hotels in Bonifacio: the Hotel Genovese, La Caravelle
It recently came to my attention that the Musée Picasso in Paris is closed for renovations until sometime in 2012. What’s a Picasso lover to do? Plenty. Because an artist as prolific as Pablo Picasso needs more than one museum to show his work. It seems that Picasso Museums are scattered all over Europe – though mostly in France and Spain. From his birthplace in Málaga to the French capital of Paris, wherever the artist painted, sculpted or glazed ceramics now has its own Picasso Museum, creating a whole new genre of “Picasso Tourism.” Here are five Picasso museums worth visiting.
Musée Picasso, Antibes, France
The Côte d’Azur city of Antibes has the distinction of being the first city to open a museum dedicated to Picasso, having beaten out both Málaga and Paris. They did not take this decision lightly, as they chose for the museum site the Château Grimaldi, a beautiful building enjoying both a wonderful location on the city’s ancient coastal ramparts and an important place in the city’s history. Belonging to the Grimaldi family since 1608, the Château was home to Picasso for six months in 1946. Much of the 245 works of art at the Musée Picasso was given to the museum by Picasso himself, with some extra exhibits were provided in 1990 by his second wife, Jacqueline Picasso. Here you can see such iconic works as “The Goat” and “La Joie de Vivre” and many other drawings, paintings, etchings and ceramics. When it’s time to bed down for the night, most of Antibes’s hotels are in the newer part of the city, but if you want to remain within the ancient city walls, you can stay at the Pierre et Vacances Antibes, which is only several blocks from the museum.
Musée National Picasso La Guerre et La Paix, Vallauris, France
Just 15 minutes from Antibes, nestled in a valley just inland from Golfe Juan is the sleepy village of Vallauris. Strolling through the tiny town square and gazing at the handful of shops, restaurants and bakeries, you may be surprised to learn that Pablo Picasso lived here from 1948 until 1955 and that one of his greatest works of art is only metres away. He also returned in 1961 to secretly marry Jacqueline in the town hall. The artist came here to learn how to make pottery, something the town has always been famous for. And the museum is full of them. But the main attraction in Vallauris is the nearby Chapel of Peace, where decided to decorate a small 12th-century chapel with a mural entitled War and Peace, which takes up the entire interior. Walking through the tunnel-like work of art is quite an experience. The closest hotels to Vallauris that are still on the water can be found in Golfe Juan.
Museu Picasso, Barcelona, Spain
Much earlier, in 1894, a 13 year-old Picasso arrived in Barcelona with his family. This is where the young artist completed his first major works, such as The First Communion (1896), and Science and Charity (1897), both of which are at the museum. In fact, the Museu Picasso has one of the most extensive Picasso collections on the planet. Even if Picasso isn’t your favorite artist, the five adjoining medieval palaces that make up the museum are worth seeing. Since opening in 1963 with 574 works, the museum has greatly expanded its collection and now includes over 3,500 pieces in its permanent collection alone, including school books, academic pieces and paintings from Picasso’s early Blue Period. Located in the neighborhood of La Ribera, the museum is close to many excellent Barcelona hotels.
Museo Picasso Málaga and the Museo Casa Natal, Málaga, Spain
As Picasso’s birthplace, Málaga has the distinction of being the only city to host two Pablo Picasso Museums, the Museo Picasso Málaga and the Museo Casa Natal. Though the Museo Picasso Málaga didn’t open until 2003, the idea of it began in 1953. The grand opening drew such luminaries as the King and Queen of Spain, and the museum has an impressive collection, much of which was donated by members of Picasso’s family. The collection ranges from early academic studies to cubism his late re-workings of Masters, and there’s also a library and archive including over 800 titles on Picasso, along with many interesting photographs. The museum is housed in the 16th century Palacio de Buenavista, which was built on the site of a Moorish Nasrid Palace, some of which can still be seen, making the museum a unique historical experience as well.
The Museo Casa Natal, literally “Birthplace Museum” also houses the Fundación Picasso. Set on the Plaza de la Merced, the Foundation is set up to promote the work of the artist – which seems like a pretty easy job. In addition to the Museo Casa Natal, facility includes a Picasso documentation center and many art collections. Of course Picasso’s work is well-represented and includes paintings, drawings and sculptures. But the museum also highlights the work of many other artists, including Pablo Palazuelo, Marc Chagall, Joan Miró, Christo, Francis Bacon, Max Ernst, Jaume Plensa, and many local artists as well. Málaga offers a wide variety of accommodations near both museums and near the city’s many other attractions and landmarks.
Golf and luxury hotels go together like… luxury hotels and golf. Dating all the way back to the game paganica played by the Romans, golf’s hold on the world has spread to just about every corner. Even the first written record of modern golf, regarding James II’s banning of the game in 1457, as an unwelcome distraction from learning archery, speaks to the obsession of golf fans. This is a game that drives Japanese tourists all the way to Australia and drives enthusiasts of all nations to its Scottish homeland. Here are five European hotels that provide golf for the golfer and other activities for the golf widow or widower.
Pestana Sintra Golf Resort & Spa Hotel, Sintra, Portugal
Brand-new on the scene, the four-star condo-style Pestana Sintra Golf Resort & Spa Hotel first opened its doors in April, 2006. Though new, the hotel allows you to mix some history in with your golf game, as its proximity to the famous 18-hole golf course is complimented by its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site village of Sintra. While your partner is hitting the greens, you can be making the seven kilometer trip to seaside resorts Cascais and Estoril, or stay closer to discover the Pena Palace and Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Or just stick around and enjoy the hotel’s outdoor and indoor swimming pools and the massage treatments offered at the spa. If you’re required to fit in a little business with your golfing pleasure, the hotel also has a business centre.
Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, Aberdeen, Scotland
If one wants to get back to the roots of golf, one must get back to Scotland. Golf lovers have been visiting the five-star luxury Marcliffe Hotel and Spa since it first opened its doors back in 1852. Billing itself as “A relaxed and elegant retreat in the heart of Scotland’s Castle and Whiskey Country,” The Marcliffe is also a traditional country estate set on eight acres of land. It also offers a spa, fireplaces, oil paintings, a first-class restaurant featuring Aberdeen Angus beef and game and over 400 wines in the cellar and a drawing room bar featuring over 100 malt whiskeys as well as opportunities to go hunting and fishing. But that’s not why we’re here, is it? We’re here because the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa provides access to the legendary Royal Aberdeen Golf Club.
Hotel Golf Chateau de Chailly, Chailly-sur-Armancon, France
If you want to stay in an authentic French chateau when you’re not out on the links, then head to the four-star Hotel Golf Chateau de Chailly. This exquisite residence allows you to visit the past as you visit the hotel’s own 18-hole golf course. Beginners can enjoy lessons, pros can enjoy a challenging course, and everyone can enjoy the excellent cuisine at the hotel’s two restaurants. If you’re not the golfer in the family, the hotel’s location in the heart of Burgundy is perfect for daytrips, as Dijon and Beaune are 30 minutes away, and even Lyon is just a two-hour trip. The Chateau also welcomes business guests and anyone holding a special event, with its terrace and its meeting rooms, function spaces and wedding halls. And don’t forget about the swimming pool.
Golf Und Wellnesshotel Reith, Kitzbühel, Austria
Though the mountain town of Kitzbühel is more known for its skiing, the real fun begins after the spring thaw. That’s when you can play a round of golf 762 metres above sea level on the18-hole Schwarzee Golf Course as you enjoy spectacular mountain views, all right next to the Golf Und Wellnesshotel Reith. Kitzbühel boasts three other golf courses, and there are 19 others in the area. This should keep you busy for a little while. And though golf isn’t known to be the most physically demanding sport in the world, it seems every golf hotel worth its weight offers many ways to relax. As the name suggests, the Golf Und Wellnesshotel Reith is no exception. Here you’ll find a sauna, a Jacuzzi, an aroma steam bath and indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a full fitness centre, a massage centre and three tennis courts.
The St. Pierre Park hotel, Guernsey, United Kingdom
So what do you do when you find yourself in the island paradise of Guernsey, just off the coast of France? Play golf! Welcome to the St. Pierre Park Hotel. Set in acres of parks, woods and lakes, this four-star luxury accommodation boasts a 9-hole par 3 golf course designed by Tony Jacklin CBE. Three tennis courts are available for those rare moments off the course, as well as all the standard luxury facilities we now know to expect, which can be found at the hotel’s Le Mirage Health Spa. When you’re through for the day, you can indulge in that tradition that is as old as golf; telling golf stories. The St. Pierre Park offers the perfect venue for that in its Renoir Restaurant, which overlooks the hotel’s beautiful lake and gardens. If the adults get tired of hearing about your exploits on the greens, there’s also a children’s play area where you might find more sympathetic ears.
The Pompidou Centre, the Orsay, the world-famous Louvre—Paris is home to some of the world’s most remarkable art museums. But where do you go once you’ve already seen the “Mona Lisa” and Degas’ masterpieces? Well, you might be surprised to discover how many interesting museums the city actually has! Book a room at one of the finest hotels in Paris (consider the Emeraude Lodge du Centre or the Hilton Arc De Triomphe Paris) and set off to tour one of these unique collections:
Musée de la Magie
Perfect for the young or the young-at-heart, Georges Proust’s Museum of Magic is sure to spark curiosity and imagination. Its collections are housed in ancient vaulted chambers, built of stone beneath the ground of the trendy Marais district. Interactive illusions, magic-themed antiques, various magical devices and more are waiting for you at the end of a descending staircase. Start the tour in the Musée de la Magie’s small theatre, which features a 20-minute live magic show. Also be sure to check out the optical illusion machines, and the weird devices used by fraudulent fortune-tellers to conjure up “ghosts” during their rituals.
the interior of the Musée de la Magie
Musée des Egouts de Paris
An urban sewer system may not be on your list of must-see tourist attractions. However, rarely is one so important that it has its own museum! The Musée des Egouts de Paris (Museum of the Sewers of Paris) is located near the Quai d’Orsay, beneath the Pont de l’Alma. A far cry from the glitz and glamour of Paris, the underground museum shows a very different side of the city. A guided tour will take you approximately 500 metres, through tunnels that once functioned as sewage canals. They have been transformed to contain interesting exhibits on everything from the water cycle to the history of Paris’ sewers.
Musée Fragonard
Just as the Musée des Egouts de Paris shows us the hidden mechanical workings of the French capital, the Musée Fragonard sheds some light on our own human infrastructure. The legacy of Honoré Fragonard (an anatomy professor during the 1760’s, and a cousin of the famous painter’s) houses major collections of anatomical “pieces” that portray the various systems that make up the living body. One of the museum’s main highlights is its third room, in which you will 21 of Fragonard’s famous models (ie. preserved skinned cadavers.) Throughout his lifetime, he supposedly made 700; these are the ones that remain. The Musée Fragonard also contains other unique artifacts—many of which are not suitable for the faint of heart or stomach!
one of the tamer displays at the Musée Fragonard
Musée de la Publicité
Are you a fan of those vintage advertising posters by Toulouse-Lautrec? If so, you should not miss Paris’ Musée de la Publicité! Although the museum, which chonicles the history of advertising in France, incorporates multiple mediums, it mainly focuses on print. The gallery houses an impressive collection of posters by Toulouse-Lautrec and his contemporaries. There are about 40,000 French and foreign period posters from the 18th century to 1949, and then 45,000 more from that year to today. Donated by various ad agencies and graphic designers, the posters sell everything from travel to liquor to cabaret. There are also film, TV and radio commercials on display in this unique museum that incorporates avant-garde video technology into its architecture.
Musée Baccarat
Once the private home of art patron Marie-Laurie, Viscountess de Noailles (1920-1970), this extravagant mansion has led an interesting life. It used to draw the likes of Dali, Cocteau and Man Ray to incredible parties on the Place des États-Unis. Since then, it has been transformed into the Musée Baccarat, a museum entirely dedicated to all things opulent and eye-catching. The décor is the work of cutting-edge designer Philippe Starck, and it features a stunning array of unique details. Note the crystal chandelier sunk in an aquarium of water, precious antiques like Tsar Nicholas II’s candelabra and crystal glassware once used by Pope John Paul II, and the “talking” Baccarat vases. If you can swing it, finish the tour with a meal at the in-house Baccarat Cristal Room—one of the finest (and most expensive!) restaurants in Paris.
the Musée Baccarat
Though the true origin of Art Deco is open to interpretation, as is the true definition of an architectural style that includes so many different styles under its umbrella, we all know it when we see it. And though we associate Art Deco with the gleaming skyscrapers of Manhattan (the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building) and the Day-Glo hotels of Miami (the Astor and the Berkeley), the style originated in Europe. Thus, it should come as no surprise that the Old Country still boasts many breathtaking examples of this architecture style we all love so much. Here are five notable examples.
Palais de Tokyo, Paris France
For our first Art Deco treasure we go to the city where it all started; Paris, host of the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, where we find the Palais de Tokyo. Built for the 1937 International Exhibition of Arts and Technology as the Palais des Musées d’art modern, this extraordinary building is now home to a museum, as well as a studio and laboratory space for resident artists and curators. The Palais de Tokyo also boasts a wonderful location, set right between the River Seine and the Avenue de New York and just across the river from the Eiffel Tower. With such a central Paris location, it’s no surprise that there are so many excellent hotels surrounding it.
Guildhall, Swansea, United Kingdom
It’s hard to miss the towering Guildhall. But one would expect the building that served as the City Hall, City Hall, Brangwyn Hall and the County Law Courts for Swansea to be built to attract attention. Built between 1930 and 1934, the Guildhall was quite controversial, as it was certainly a departure for civic architecture of the times. But the building has become one of Swansea’s most iconic symbols. Clad in white Portland stone, the Guildhall boasts a distinctive clock tower. If you look closely, you’ll see the sculpted the prow of a Viking boat, representing Sweyn Forkbeard and the rest of the city’s Viking founders. Many of the nearby hotels provide excellent views of the Guildhall.
Tuschinski Theatre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
With its iconic Graumann’s Chinese Theatre and Radio City Music Hall, the USA is home to the greatest Art Deco movie palaces in the world. And then there’s Amsterdam’s Tuschinski Theatre. Built in 1921 by theatre owner Abraham Icek Tuschinski, this hauntingly beautiful theatre transforms you to another world. Designed for live entertainment as well as movies, the Tuschinski still has its Wurlitzer-Strunk organ, a rarity even among the rarity of surviving movie palaces. Designed by Hijman Louis de Jong, the theatre also retains its original stage. Tuschinski also had four movie palaces built in Rotterdam between 1911 and 1928 but all were destroyed in that city’s World War II bombing. In fact, Tuschinski, being Jewish, also did not survive the war, meeting his end in Auschwitz. But a visit to his masterpiece proves that his name will live on. Located in Amsterdam’s centre, the Tuschinski is close to many hotels.
Bucharest Telephone Palace, Bucharest, Romania
This imposing piece of Art Deco architecture, known locally as the Palatul Telefoanelor, was finished in 1934. In the throes of the Depression, the building was funded by the American Morgan Bank, which was rewarded with a 20-year monopoly on the Romanian telephone industry. A resilient building, the Telephone Palace survived not only the earthquakes of 1940, 1977, 1986 and 1990, but also the Allied bombings of 1944. Designed by Edmond Van Saanen Algi, the building has lasted longer than the Morgan deal, as the post-World War II Communist government nationalized the telephone industry. After years of neglect, a €1 million renovation was undertaken, which was completed in 2005, returning this wonderful Art Deco gem to its original grandeur in the largest architectural reconstruction project ever undertaken in Romania. To see the results, you might want to check out one of the nearby Bucharest hotels.
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Koekelberg, Belgium
In a continent full of Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque Churches, the Art Deco National Basilica of the Sacred Heart (French: Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Cœur, Dutch: Nationale Basiliek van het Heilig-Hart) is truly unique. And truly beautiful. When construction began in 1905 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Belgium’s independence, there was no such thing as Art Deco, and a more traditional look was intended. But with two World Wars interrupting construction, the final stone was not laid until 1969, and by then architect Albert Van Huffel 1930s plan was adopted. Gazing up at the two thin towers and 89 metre-high green copper dome is a memorable experience, and the Basilica has become an integral part of the city skyline, allowing you to view the hilltop from many a Brussels hotel room.
Anyone who had to struggle through Physics, Chemistry and Biology classes in school might not put spending time in a science museum at the top of their list. But with the amazing array of science museums throughout Europe, you’d be missing out by skipping them. From sci-fi futuristic architecture in Valencia’s Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències to the arcane-bordering-on-macabre ancient cabinets in Leiden’s Museum Boerhaave, there’s a wide range of science museums, covering a wide range of interests. Here are some of the most interesting.
Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, Valencia, Spain
Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences is located in the dry riverbed of the River Turia, whose recent de-watering has given Valencia the opportunity to create a vast network of modern buildings and parks. The already classic museum, designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, has been thrilling visitors with its exterior and interior since opening in 1998. Actually made up of many buildings, the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències features the 13,000 square metre eye-shaped L’Hemisfèric (featuring an Imax Cinema, Planetarium and Laserium), the 40,000 square metre El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe (an interactive museum resembling the skeleton of a whale) and L’Umbracle (a landscaped walk with lush gardens and an outdoor art gallery with work by Miquel from Navarre and Yoko Ono). There’s also L’Oceanogràfic, El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia and El Puente de l’Assut de l’Or, huge bridge spanning the former river. Nearby hotels provide excellent views of the complex.
Cité de l’espace, Toulouse, France
Going from the future to the world of outer space, we go to Toulouse and its famous Cité de l’espace. More of a theme park, the City of Space features many full-scale models, ranging from Ariane 5 to the Mir space station, to a collection of Soyuz modules. You can look to the stars in two planetariums, one with 140 seats and the other with 280, and the control room for the Ariane 5 lets you experience the thrill of a rocket launch. The Terradome presents the history of space in an exciting way, and there’s an IMAX screen showing Space Station 3D, which was filmed on board the International Space Station. There’s much more to see in this three and a half hectare park featuring 2,000 square metres of exhibition space, and there are plenty of great Toulouse hotels that put you close to the museum.
Science Museum, London, United Kingdom
From space to history, London’s Science Museum is part of the famous Museum Row, set in South Kensington, close to Hyde Park. Part of the National Museum of Science and Industry, the museum was founded in 1857 and features a mind-boggling 300,000 exhibits, enough to last the whole day. If you don’t have the whole day, you might want to skip ahead to such historically important exhibits as Stephenson’s Rocket, Puffing Billy (the oldest surviving steam locomotive), the first jet engine and a reconstruction of Francis Crick and James Watson’s model of DNA. You can also see the first prototype of the 10,000-year Clock of the Long Now, along with such modern interactive features as the IMAX 3D Cinema, which seems to be a staple of most science museums. If you’re traveling with kids, you might want to take advantage of ”Science Night,” an all-night extravaganza where up to 380 children, accompanied by adults, are invited to spend the night sleeping in the museum galleries amongst the exhibits. Otherwise you’ll have to settle for all the excellent, though less interesting, hotels in the area.
Museum Boerhaave, Leiden, the Netherlands
To delve back further into history, step right up folks, into the Museum Boerhaave. Though this natural history museum only dates back to 1907, the collection in the Museum Boerhaave stretches all the way back to the 1500s, when the Netherlands began several centuries as one of the planet’s leaders in the sciences. In addition to the world’s oldest herbarium, the Museum Boerhaave boasts Willem Blaeu’s giant 17th century quadrant, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek’s microscopes and the planetarium and telescope of the iconic Christiaan Huygens. You can step back to the 18th century in the cabinets of professors ‘s Gravesande and Van Musschenbroek, and there are also physiotherapeutic devices and the papier-mâché anatomical models from the 19th century. And don’t miss the Theatrum Anatomicum, a reproduction a 1596 anatomical theatre where corpses were dissected. If that’s not creepy enough for you, look up to the wall to see three ancient paintings, one of which shows a Prussian peasant from whom a 10 inch sword, swallowed in a drinking bout, has surgically been removed. Leiden also features many great hotels, both inside and outside the canals of the Old City.
Nikola Tesla Museum, Belgrade, Serbia
The scientist and inventor Nikola Tesla has developed quite the loyal following, and the Nikola Tesla Museum, set in the heart of Belgrade pays homage to the man and his work. Here in this 1927 villa, you’ll find over 160,000 original documents, over 2,000 books and journals and, more interestingly, over 1,200 historical technical exhibits. In 2006, in honor of Tesla’s 150th birthday, the museum started an exhibition called “Tesla’s everyday life” which features a collection of textiles and other objects that he used in his everyday life. There are also over 1,500 photos, over 1,000 drawings and plans and many models of Tesla’s inventions. The museum’s archive was inscribed on UNESCO’s 2003 Memory of the World Programme Register for its role in the history of electrification of the world. Due to its central location, the museum is surrounded by many of the best of the city’s hotels.
Many of Europe’s most prized works of art—its brilliant paintings, ancient tapestries, awe-inspiring sculptures—are kept indoors. However, the grounds surrounding the best museums and landmarks of Europe can be equally incredible. With springtime just around the corner, it is the perfect time to explore the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Here are favorites:
Royal Botanic Gardens – Kew, London
Covering over 300 acres in the heart of London, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew can easily fill a whole day. It is home to over 38,000 species of flora and fauna—some of which are completely extinct in the wild! A few of the magnificent garden’s major highlights are the Queens Garden (located directly behind Kew Palace, and designed in the 1960’s) and the Aquatic Garden (supposedly inspired by the sunken Garden at Hampton Court Palace.) The ten-story Pagoda and the Aroid House (a humid facility that houses an array of tropical plants) are also worth a visit.
Recommended hotels in London: Saint Georges Hotel, Best Western Premier Shaftesbury Piccadilly
the Aquatic Garden at the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew
Royal Botanic Gardens – Edinburgh
Actually comprised of both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Royal Botanic Gardens spreads out over 70 acres. The fascinating rock garden is a major draw, as is the beautiful Scottish-Heath garden. The colorful Queen Mother’s garden showcases plants from all around the world, and the Chinese hillside is especially extensive. Tropical flowers and indigenous European species mingle throughout Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Meanwhile, lovely glass houses (including the popular Victoria glass house) welcome you indoors to marvel at other unique exhibits.
Recommended hotels in Edinburgh: Barcelo Edinburgh Carlton, Apex International Hotel
Generalife – Granada
The elegant Generalife compound is often said to have been the summer palace of the Sultans. However, the charming villa overlooking the Alhambra was actually built as a hunting lodge and country retreat. Spanish aristocrats once occupied the upper floor of the 19th-century buildings, and sought refuge in the shade of surrounding trees. Today, the extensive gardens of the Generalife provide the same tranquility and beauty to visitors. Fountains and flourishing flora fill the romantic Generalife courtyard and enhance adjacent panoramic patios. The colorful gardens and accompanying views make this one of the most picturesque places in Spain.
Recommended hotels in Granada: Saray Hotel, Melia Granada
the Generalife villa
Nymphenburg Palace Gardens – Munich
Impeccably manicured and perfectly maintained, the park adjacent to Nymphenburg Palace is truly fit for a king. The grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace Gardens, originally Italienesque, were beautifully transformed and expanded in the 17th century. They still retain all of their Old World glamour and opulence. Imposing statues of the Greek Gods oversee verdant lawns and large, crystal-clear ponds. Meanwhile, diverse flowerbeds and roaming birds add flair. This is an ideal spot in which to enjoy a picnic with your family or friends after taking a tour of the palace’s interior.
Recommended hotels in Munich: Hotel Polo, Four Points By Sheraton Munich Central
Monet’s Garden – Giverny
A far cry from the manicured lawns surrounding Europe’s palaces, Monet’s Garden is known for its wildly rustic atmosphere. The untamed hedges and overgrown flowerbeds create a lush, romantic atmosphere that art-lovers will immediately connect to Monet’s messy brush strokes. The colorful gardens that surround Claude Monet’s mansion are truly indicative of his paintings and personality. Take a leisurely stroll around the fragrant homestead to follow in the master’s footsteps. Located in Giverny, about 50 miles from Paris, Monet’s Garden is a wonderful place to spend a quiet afternoon.
Recommended hotels in Paris: Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, Emeraude Lodge du Centre
Claude Monet's greatest inspiration
