The best travel experiences to indulge in this Christmas
As the first frosts and the soothing colours of winter bring a new freshness to the air, usher in the festive spirit with your loved ones this winter at Rocco Forte’s elegantly designed suites offering contemporary luxuries unified with heritage accents of the best of European design. From the stunning coastlines of Sicily and the architectural wonders of Rome to the cultural excitements of St. Petersburg, find the magic with our selection of hand-picked experiences. Just as the world buzzes with excitement once again, splash out for those who matter the most and discover an array of journeys and the perfect itinerary curated exclusively for you.
Bring home the scent of Scotland
Our botanical inspired Bowes Lyon suite at The Balmoral brings to life the verdant shades of the countryside. In partnership with Kingdom Scotland - Scotland’s first fragrance house, we share with you stories of the country’s rich heritage through the lens of scent on your next stay at the suite. Delight your senses as Imogen Russon-Taylor, founder and owner of Kingdom Scotland, visits you in the comfort of the suite and takes you on a scented journey. Following her insightful masterclass, we invite you to take home the essence of Scotland’s natural wonders and historical richness in the form of a carefully created fragrance.
Experience the historic grandeur of St. Petersburg
A stay at Hotel Astoria this festive season comes with a selection of exclusive experiences to give you an insight into the rich heritage and traditions of St Petersburg. Our guided walking tour allows you to discover the city and its culture through the eyes of a local. You might prefer to focus exclusively on culture with an audio tour of the renowned Fabergé Museum, or simply enjoy traditional afternoon tea, which has occupied an important place in the Russian narrative since the 17th century, in our elegant Rotonda Lounge. Gaze onto the shimmering golden dome of St. Isaac Cathedral and launch into the festive spirit with a chilled flute of Champagne and Keta caviar as you spend quality time with your loved ones.
Discovering the flavours of Sicily
Set within the luscious hills and vineyards that gently roll towards the sun-kissed coastline, our Grand Suites at Verdura Resort harmonise contemporary comforts with local art and ceramics. With personalised concierge services and breakfast served in your suite, reconnect with your family over exquisite meals on the private sea-facing terrace and experience the freshness of the flavours of Sicily. Uncover the histories and decadent richness of Sicilian wines with an exclusive wine tasting with our sommelier and enjoy the timeless charm of the captivating landscape of Sicily.
Embrace la dolce vita on a drive through Palermo
A stay at Villa Igiea’s beautifully designed George V suite with its serene natural elements, or the luxurious Donna Franca Suite adorned with local artworks, comes with a wide selection of personalised experiences for the ultimate Sicilian getaway. Feel the wind in your hair and weave through Palermo’s bustling boulevards past ornate palaces in a vintage Fiat 500 on a guided tour through the city. For those in search of the perfect Italian wine, take a day trip down to the coastal town of Marsala and discover two of its most prized wineries while experiencing the best of the countryside.
A Belgian adventure to remember
Home to picturesque river valleys and troves of forests, a tandem skydive over the Belgian Ardennes is the ultimate way to experience the wonder of the countryside and the thrill of an unforgettable adrenaline rush. Continue exploring the landscape in an excursion with a 2CV convertible, and finally, unwind at the Thermes de Spa. Complete your trip with Royal Belgian Caviar, Ruinart Champagne and a 4-course Italian meal - the perfect combination for an extravaganza for you and your loved ones to look forward to next year. Enjoy this unforgettable package when you book our Forte Suites at Hotel Amigo in Brussels.
An aerial view of Rome
Offering some of the most exclusive views in the city, our stunning Forte Suites at Hotel de Russie offer awe-inspiring experiences to discover the best of Rome. Get a taste of Roman hospitality and warmth with an array of gifts on your arrival. Treat yourself to the ultimate spa day, replete with sea salt scrubs, nutrient rich mud-wraps, an indulgent massage and a dip in the salt-water hydropool. Mark the highlight of your festive escape with the unforgettable crimson glow of the morning light from the basket of a hot air balloon, flying gently over the stunning Italian countryside. Conclude your day with a romantic 4-course Italian meal cooked on your suite’s terrace by a private chef.
Let us take you on a journey through the best of Europe this festive season. As always, our concierge teams are on hand to plan the perfect getaway for you and your loved ones. Book your Forte Escape or get in touch with us through www.roccofortehotels.com.
You may also like
A remedy for winter: Discover Palermo’s hidden warmth
There’s something wholly restorative about a Sicilian winter, two words not often paired together. A slower pace of life takes hold, as cool mornings lead into soft, golden afternoons, summer’s haze giving way to fresh breezes and crystal-clear skies. Once a winter secret, now shared as Villa Igiea remains open throughout the season.
Secret Florence: The Unseen Haunts of Botticelli
A cornerstone of the Florentine Renaissance, and widely considered one of the most influential artists of all time, Sandro Botticelli's legacy continues to impress over half a millennia since his death. His captivating depictions of mythological themes, characterised by graceful lines and pale hues, have inspired generations of creators across art, film, and fashion. Today, along the walls of the Botticelli rooms within the Uffizi Gallery, crowds queue ten-deep just to catch a glimpse of his most iconic works, The Birth of Venus and La Primavera.
Family Treasure Hunts Across Edinburgh, Brussels and Florence
As Christmas comes to Europe, it’s the perfect time for literary-minded families to write their own festive stories. This year, embrace the magic of the written word on a snow-dusted adventure, exploring cobbled city streets and uncovering clues and treasures at every turn. Guided by favourite characters who have inspired generations, embark on a unique excursion with your little ones before returning home to one of our warm hotels to tell Yuletide tales, gathered around a crackling fire.