Choicest Seastays: European Edition Part Un
Cannes Soleil (July 2018) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2018
As the season of sun has drawn dolefully to a close once more, it is only fitting to proffer a curated collection comprising my favored seaside summerscapes. Spanning the Mediterranean from Portugal to the ancient Cypriot port of Paphos, these select properties are ideal irrespective of the amount of time that might be afforded to holiday. You can thus indulge in either a rare weekend away, or opt to linger long-term, whilst ever feeling completely chez vous. The following are particularly tailored to the luxury inclined and warm weather affined, with an eye for modern or indigenously inspired design.
These elect hostelries stand ideally situated, perfected for either an entirely residential retreat or offering readily accessible and exploratory environs for the more venturesome. This two-part editorial will showcase my preferred European hotels across the Mediterranean, beginning with my favorite cityscapes followed by slightly more secluded but equally entreating resorts.
Serenity in Cyprus
The Cypriot getaway of Almyra stands an idyllic holiday destination, especially for those seeking serenity, and even solitude, in comfortable proximity to a city and antiquity. Seeking just such a place, Almyra delivered on every count. Upon arrival, I was promptly greeted by the most brilliant and piercing red sunset poignantly puncturing the silent evening sky. Such an engrossing ember had me indelibly entranced, as did the entirety of my Almyra and Paphos stay.
Centrally located in the ancient harbor turned city of Paphos, this Grecian side of Cyprus toasts some of the most pristine and breathtaking coastline, and also serves as the legendary birthplace of the Greek goddess of beauty, love, and pleasure herself, Aphrodite. Almyra follows similar suit, taking inspiration from its spectacular surrounds. This Design Hotel invites its rendition of upscale chic and brings relaxation to new heights, brandishing the essence of modernity in perfect contrast to the mesmerizing Med and enveloping millennia of history. For this particular trip, I balanced copious relaxation and ample sun within the premises during the day with explorations of antiquity each afternoon. This daily ritual culminated in closing out the evenings by reveling in Paphos’ delectable seafood. The property abundantly provisions several pools and restaurants (and a most amazing spa and massage treatments), optimal for sun saturated lazing yet within easy access to a plethora of excellent nearby restaurants, often complete with complementary Hellenic serenades at night. Additionally, for lovers of history, Paphos presents a past spanning from Neolithic times to the modern day, fully encapsulating its Hellenic, Roman, and Christian past. Notably, you mustn’t forego a visit to the neighboring Archeological Park, located only two kilometers away, to revisit hallowed history, and also take a moment to admire Nea Paphos’ mosaics, which remain some of the world’s most beautiful and enviously doted today.
Almyra truly affords a most indelible “taste of the sea” and exquisite insight into antiquity, all the while immersed in tranquility beset by a most complimentary modern and effortless chic, that will surely leave you longing to return.
Regality in Cannes
Cannes unequivocally stands la reine of regality with Five Seas Hotel serving as the ideal auberge to discover this long-standing luxuriant Rivieran retreat. This French cosmopolis interminably allures, ever-striking exceedingly glamoured bounds and ceaselessly espousing definitive cinematic renown. Thanks to Five Seas’ central location, it stands perfectly postured, only steps away from the famed Boulevard de la Croisette yet quietly cached for a supremely serene stay. Not only does its proximity to la Croisette appeal, but it also stands similarly equidistant to Rue d’Antibes, one of the city’s prime shopping havens, particularly during my favorite (albeit dangerous) saison des soldes, or seasonal sales. Yet shopping is not all Cannes blithely exhibits. Perhaps its greatest facet of fame can be optimally admired visiting the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès and the Allée des Étoiles du Cinéma, where you will certainly experience the city’s cinematic past and prestigious international film heritage.
Escape to Cannes (July 2018) — Available for Purchase in our Shop — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2018
Borne in 1946, only one year after the conclusion of the Second World War, the Festival of Cannes convenes annually, serving to celebrate cinema and further foster its development globally. Upon amply perusing its resplendent film past, no holiday is complete without abundant time au soleil, which Five Seas brilliantly accommodates compliments of its rooftop pool and partnership with Festival des Plages. To arrange a spot on the latter (and one of the city’s most prestigious beaches), the concierge can easily arrange reservation of your personal transat (beach chair and parasol) and also accommodate transportation. Similarly, the concierge proved particularly adept at furnishing superbly curated restaurant recommendations. Their suggestion of La Môme proved exquisitely divine, delivering cannois délices true to the city’s sublime azuréen atmosphere. Such an incredible city incontrovertibly merits a stay at its most wondrous establishment, Five Seas. Especially for the discerning traveler seeking a boutique experience fully espousing the glamorous heights of Côte d’Azur, a stay at this “best kept secret” is an absolute must.
Balearic Beauty in Mallorca
Set amidst the backdrop of sheer Balearic beauty, Spain’s Nakar Hotel humbly boasts the most enviable piscine and dulcet retreat in Mallorca. Nestled within the island capital of Palma de Mallorca, this sublime city also stands the largest in the autonomous Spanish island chain and hosts the terribly impressive Catedral de Mallorca (also known as La Seu). This Roman Catholic and Gothic architectural gem prominently overlooks the picturesque Palma bay, beckoning a walkabout absorbing the city’s other iconic features. Palma’s highlights can easily be admired in a day or two, while the more exploratory traveler can opt to wind aimlessly further through the city’s less traversed rues. Either way, Nakar’s warm staff will happily accommodate, providing a perfectly tailored itinerary, even for those short on time. Finding myself amongst the latter, the Front Desk’s recommendation optimized my compressed timeline, providing the most idyllic agenda to amply marvel at the city’s juxtaposed Moorish and Spanish influence. They similarly endorsed only the most perfect locales to indulge in exceptional tapas and other culinary delights.
Palma Piscine (July 2019) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2019
Centrally located, Nakar affords an optimal starting point to venture out into the city. Step out onto Avenida Jaume III toward the Grand Hotel, Teatre Principal, and the Plaza Mayor de Palma. After sufficiently basking in these Spanish sites, head south to find the iconic Catedral, La Seu, en route to the coast, traversing the Baños Arabes and tranquil Parc de la Mar. At summer’s height, however, for those keen to escape the peak daily heat, be sure to indulge in the city’s prolific retail scene (especially if you find yourself here during the seasonal rabajas, or sales). One brand you mustn’t miss is the Barcelona-based Systemaction, which exhibits an array of bright and breezy linens perfected for Palma and uniquely stylized pieces to showcase upon your return home.
Retreat once more to Nakar’s indescribably beauteous rooftop pool or the hotel spa (where I received the most magnanimous facial to date). Additionally, the breakfast views are astoundingly breathtaking, while the entirety of the staff proved most hospitable and attuned to immediately address every inquiry and interest. Finally, in the evening don’t miss dining at the quaint La Rosa Vermutería (adjacent to the aforementioned Plaza Mayor) for authentic tapas and abundantly inviting ambiance. Additional exquisite tapas can also be found at El Camino on Can Brondo, though you certainly mustn’t depart Mallorca without dining at Ombu. This tantalizing taverna offers inventive tapas and crafty cocktails, both of which delectably entreat and are bound to enchant.
