The marriage of tradition and modernity lies right at the heart of Rocco Forte Hotels’ design philosophy. As a brand, we’re committed to building on the illustrious history of of our properties, whilst creating a destination that dazzles the modern traveller.
Similarly, Germany’s long legacy of artisan producers sees historic crafts brought into the present day. From exquisite porcelain and sumptuous leather to handmade toys, many of Germany’s most prestigious and coveted brands have roots that go back centuries. Here are a few of our favourites to discover on your next trip to Germany.
For Cutting-Edge Porcelain: Nymphenburg
Famous for its pioneering work with contemporary artists and designers like Damien Hirst and Carsten Holler, Nymphenburg Porcelain began as a supplier to the Royal family. Today, it’s revered for its avant-garde creations, which are produced entirely in the company’s workshop in the beautiful baroque surrounds of Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace.
For Classic Childhoods: Steiff
Creating timeless cuddly toys treasured by children all over the world, Steiff is synonymous with German craftsmanship. Renowned for producing the very first teddy bears back in 1902, each Steiff bear is handmade in Germany using only the finest raw materials and finished with the company’s trademark ‘Button in Ear.’
For Leather Lovers: MCM
A favourite of celebrities including Beyoncé and Heidi Klum, this cult leather goods brand was founded in Munich, inspired by the glamour and creativity of the city during the 1970s. Today, MCM is a coveted designer label, with boutiques dotted across the globe, but it remains firmly rooted in German heritage and craft.
Delve deeper into Germany’s finest artisanal brands on the Ultimate Porcelain Tour with Rocco Forte Hotels Germany.
Agrigento’s roots run as deep as the gnarled olive trees that dot its landscape, stretching back over 2,500 years to its founding as Akragas, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Greek world. Set against a breathtaking coastline, this once thriving cultural and political hub was praised by the Greek poet Pindar as “the most beautiful city of mortals”. Today, this splendour is immortalised in the Valley of the Temples.
In 1925, a world still shell-shocked from the ravages of World War I found renewal in a burgeoning artistic movement: Art Deco. It reflected motion, progress, the future. Immediately embraced by famed Belgian architect Victor Horta, he laid the foundations for Art Deco in Brussels with his plans for the Centre of Fine Arts (Bozar). This marked the inception of a radically modern approach to architecture and art in the city. Now, as Brussels marks a century of Art Deco style, it’s the perfect time to explore this distinctly walkable city with your own budding artists.
Along Italy’s dazzling southern coastline, two Rocco Forte Hotel retreats prepare to welcome spring’s arrival. Each destination, from Puglia’s rolling hills to the sugary shores of Sciacca, exudes charm and space to unwind while offering personalised onsite activities and local experiences.
