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Where to stay in Trentino- hotels for every budget

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Last month I had a pleasure to visit Trentino for the second time. I couldn’t be happier to return to this region! Last year I published the article focusing on why you should visit this part of Italy. If you’ve missed it, you can read it here. This year, as I stayed there a bit longer ( 10 days) I had enough time to experience the best places to stay so I am finally able to also recommend you the most magical hotels that I am sure you’d absolutely love.

Chalet al Foss

Let’s start with my absolutely favourite chalet I’ve ever stayed and my personal highlight of the Trentino trip. Chalet al Foss is located just outside Vermiglio and 6 km from Passo del Tonale, in a peaceful and sunny area with the view over the mountains.

This boutique accommodation offers 44 rooms – different style at different price range but they all have one thing in common- the most magical view! When I say “magical” I seriously mean it! To me this view was a pure luxury. Apart from the most stunning views this hotel is famous from it’s incredible outdoor Alpin Spa. It also features an outdoor heated pool, a sauna with a view ( the most beautiful my eyes ever seen!) and hot tubes. What a pleasure after all day on the slopes! Oh talking about the slopes- there is a local free skibus service to the ski slopes of Passo del Tonale and not far from the cross-country ski tracks of Velon and Stavel. If you fancy driving there yourself, it takes about 20 minutes. I also need to mention the food in this hotel was absolutely delicious – both buffet and a la carte. This place is so incredibly romantic. It’s seriously a perfect getaway for couples. In the evenings the staff members light the candles around the pool and there is a beautiful fireplace too- a perfect spot for a glass of Lagrein red wine. Ahh, what’s more to add! You can book your stay here.

Rifugio Capanna Presena

When I looked this place up before the actual trip I didn’t know what to expect. I have never stayed at the mountain hut before and also the idea of going there without all my luggage – we were going up there by gondola and we were told to only pack for one night in a backpack. What a challenge for the flamingo fashionista- believe me or not, but I have never ever travelled with the backpack. You may laugh as it was only for a night, haha but I am not going to lie it was challenging for me. But do you know what? It was EPIC. Rifugio Capanna Presenna is located 3000m above the ground, in the heart of Presena Glacier. This place honestly had some kind of energy I can’t explain. The views from there were insane! It was also extremely cold up there, but hey- it was all worth it! I have never watched sunset like that in my life! It was freezing but so magical and pink!

The hotel features 8 suites where you can soak up the splendour of the nature. The design is quite simple but very unique at the same time. Each room is beautifully decorated with stones and wood and can accommodate 2- 4 people. The group suite can accommodate up to 12 people. I personally stayed in the room for 4- 2 people slept downstairs and 2 upstairs. We were sharing the bathroom. Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, bar and a lounge during their stay The food was very tasty and their lounge is so cosy- a perfect spot for a Bombardino night with friends! You do remember what Bombardino is, right?

My favourite thing about this mountain hut (apart from the most incredible sunrise and sunset I have ever witnessed in the mountains) was their stunning SPA and Wellness centre. I absolutely loved their heated pool and the sauna both with the most panoramic view over glacier peaks. It was truly magical and I would say romantic. Perfect escape for either a couple, a family or a group of friends. You can see more and book your stay here.

While staying here we also attended a very fun Ice Music concert inside the igloo. So cool! Can you believe the instruments were made of ice too? To me it was a super fun experience. I loved the colorful light effects too! And yup, I was singing like crazy, haha! This event runs from January 4th to March 29th 2020, every Thursday and Saturday. PS. Wear the ski pants, hat and gloves!

Lefay Resort and SPA Dolomiti

Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti is set in the woods, overlooking the Dolomites in the ski area of Madonna di Campiglio ( 6 mins stroll from the ski slope) and is located in Pinzolo, the largest town in the Rendena valley. This hotel would be for those looking for a luxury and also wellness and SPA lovers. Lefay is also famous for it’s BIO architecture inspired by the nature.

Everything about this place was perfect from the moment I stepped in. The service was incredible! We didn’t stay here over the night ( I wish we did) but we were lucky to experience their famous and absolutely gorgeous SPA- one of the largest ones in the Alps.

Their wellness centre features 9 saunas, cold water bath, ice & tempered waterfall, sensory showers, fitness centre and stunning relaxation areas. There is also a huge heated outdoor pool with the magical view over the mountains. Wow!

This luxury accommodation offers 22 residences and 88 suites spacious and lightened by the big windows, with oak woods and natural fabrics to create a cosy atmosphere. Dining wise, there are two chic restaurants, and indoor and open-air bars. There are also two golf courses located just a few minutes from the Resort and those who are looking for adventures may choose among horse riding and mountain bike excursions. I highly recommend this hotel if you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a SPA break. To me it would be a perfect place for a honeymoon too. You can read more and book your stay here.

Hotel EDEN Andalo

Eden Hotel is a family run place set amid the Brenta Dolomites. This relaxed mountainside resort has a great location – only 4-minute walk from the lifts at the Paganella ski resort. Depending on your needs and budget, there are different types of accommodations to choose from including: rooms, suites, and apartments.

My room was really quite small, modern and fresh but also very cosy. I really liked the view from my little balcony.

This family- run hotel would be a perfect hotel for families travelling with kids. There’s a Baby Club and Miniclub with afternoon and evening entertainment, where your kids are well looked after so you can enjoy the Eden Spa Wellness and Beauty Centre. I absolutely loved their relaxation area with Himalayan salt to regenerate after snowboarding for hours. PS. I obviously loved the egg chairs too! You know me already, haha!

Image source – booking.com

What’s really special about this property is the atmosphere. The staff really makes you feel like home. You can experience the real Italian hospitality and cuisine here. Oh these sweet Italian breakfasts and lots of carbs and wine every night! I miss it!

This property offers lots of greats packages full of fun activities – guided hiking tours, trekking, fat biking. You can check their packages out here.

I hope you will get to experience beautiful Trentino soon! I love this region so much and I hope to visit again next season!

This post is in collaboration with Visit Trentino

Detox weekend in Glass House, Essex

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Hello in 2020 everyone!

I hope you all started the year with a new, positive energy! One of my 2020 resolution was to look after my health (both physical and mental a bit more). I have recently visited a place that seriously inspired me (and helped me) to do and I would love to tell you all about it!

When thinking of detox retreat, we often think of those far away from home, usually quite pricey when adding the costs of plane tickets but sometimes we don’t have to look this far! I have discovered an incredible and super relaxing place less than an hour drive from London called Glass House.

A little bit about the retreat

The Glass House is set in the heart of the Essex countryside and has been designed from scratch and built by industry experts. Offering a unique programme of wellness, fitness and nutrition led by their team of expert therapists, instructors and coaches, Glass House will be the go-to place for those seeking the ultimate wellness experience.

How to get there?

Less than an hour drive from London

What makes it special?

I truly loved this place as they were treating everyone individually. They do tailor and suggest a specialist programme to give you the most self-beneficial experience however it’s not enforced- it’s only recommended. Your journey here, can be either intense or relaxed- it’s all up to you. If you feel like a personal training session rather than a group class, that’s fine. If you feel like staying in the pool, no problem.

Personally I done a bit of both- one intense day full of fitness classes and one day of relaxation – long sleep, yoga class, pool, sauna sessions, a massage and a facial and I loved it. What I also found great were the long countryside sunrise walks. We were lucky as it was so beautiful and sunny at all times so it was such a magical and relaxing experience and a break from busy and noisy London life. ( I would recommend you to pack warmer jacket and wellies as it was quite muddy). Also every evening after dinner they organise the wellness talks. I found them so interesting, useful and it was also a great way to connect with others attending the retreat.

The accommodation

The room I have stayed at was very comfortable, spacious and cosy. What I loved the most was the huge and super comfy bed. I was sleeping like a baby! The en-suite bathroom was really pretty too! I loved going back to this room after all day of treatments. They also had a great selection of herbal tees in the room. I really enjoyed having one every evening before going to sleep.

The food

The food at the retreat was absolutely delicious and all plant- based. Everything was natural and clean. I have chosen the Equilibrium Diet which is suitable if you want to detox, but weight loss isn’t a priority. I really enjoyed all the meals, especially the soups ( I will never ever forget the mushroom soup- it was the best one I ever had in my life!) and yummy juices. I wish I could eat this healthy everyday! They also offer and Weight loss Diet and Pure Juicing Diet. You can read more here.

The facilities

During the stay I was actively using all the Glass House facilities- the heated leisure pool, Himalayan salt block sauna, yoga & pilates at their fitness studio, gym ( I had an amazing session with a personal trainer!) cryo chamber and the spa.

SPA

As I struggle with acne I was recommended The Elemis Skin Soother which was absolutely incredible. My skin was so smooth and calm after all. I have purchased couple of Elemis products after this facial as I loved how my skin felt! I have also tried the Dermalux® LED Phototherapy which instantly energises skin cells to revitalise a dull and tired complexion. I think it seriously helped to heal the acne. You can check out all the spa treatments they offer here.

    After the retreat…

    After the retreat I felt so restored and relaxed. My skin got better too! I also learnt how important is to drink lots of water- I always forget which is so bad but after this retreat I started to think about it more. I also started to begin my day with a glass of warm water with lemon- just like at the retreat and having morning walks more often. I feel honestly grateful I have went on this little detox weekend and I would recommend you to do the same weather you’re looking for relaxation or would like to learn how you could improve your lifestyle. You can have a look at all packages and book your stay here.

    Post in collaboration with Glass House Retreat

    Finding my balance at Absolute Sanctuary, Koh Samui

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    How have I ended up going on a retreat? Well, let’s start with saying that doing what I do is not always that colourful and easy as it seems on the photos. I do realise that to some people it may look like I am only having fun. And it’s true! Most of the time I do, but its also my own company, a real, full-time job and business. Business I’ve started from the scratch without even knowing that I am really building a business and a full-time career. As much as I absolutely love what I do and would never ever change any decision I’ve taken so far, after few months of working 7 days a week, constantly researching, learning, travelling non stop, being jet-lagged all the time, forever chasing on invoices, payments and deadlines, at the beginning of this year I started to feel really stressed, tired and overwhelmed. All the upcoming opportunities sounded incredible however it’s only me who really knows how much it costs me. I felt huge anxiety like I’ve never felt before. I was constantly worried about something and couldn’t make the deadlines and my work done. It was a very scary feeling knowing you’re completely on your own. I felt like I needed help as I also felt so lonely trying to explain my feelings to other people who really got no idea what my job is about. And then suddenly the incredible invitation came through my email – a retreat at Absolute Sanctuary in Koh Samui, Thailand Asia’s top wellness resort, located on the North Eastern side of Koh Samui, also known as the island of healing. I’ve felt like it was a destiny! This was exactly what I needed in my life! I said yes straight away!

    So, where to start…

    First thing I had to do is to choose the program for me. How did I know what program would be the right fit? Before the arrival I had a phone consultation that helped me to choose the right programme that would suit my needs. As I’ve been going through some tough time we both agreed that what I really needed was to relax. That’s why I decided to go for an Anti Stress & Burnout program which is designed to those who are in need to escape from their hectic lives, recharge and rebalance their mind, body & spirit through a combination of relaxing & healing spa treatments and massages, healthy foods and supportive emotional therapies.

    As everyone is a need or something different, Absolute Sanctuary introduced 6 new wellness and fitness programs to make sure everyone will find something they truly need wether is a rest, rebalance, weight loss, increasing the fitness level or changing the lifestyle. The 6 new programs are : Women’s Holistic Health, Men’s Vitality, Body Realignment, Sleep Well, Mindfulness, Rest and Rebalance. You can find all the details about the programs here.

    Couple of weeks later after the phone call I was already sitting on a plane to Thailand with my friend Bonnie both super excited for this incredible trip.

    I’ve fallen in love with the Absolute Sanctuary at first sight. It had this incredible energy that is really hard to describe. We’ve arrived in the late evening, we’ve checked in, our schedules were all ready for us. We’ve been shown around the Sanctuary and taken to our beautiful rooms.

    Accommodation

    They have 38 rooms in total inspired by architecture of Morocco with bright colours and moroccan tiles. You can choose between Sanctuary Suite, Sanctuary Deluxe and Sanctuary Superior rooms– whatever matches your budget and comfort level. I personally stayed at Deluxe room with a beautiful moroccan bathroom and a large bathtub.

    Schedule

    So how my daily schedule looked like? I would normally start my morning with a ginger tea by the pool watching the sunrise and listening to the birds sing. It felt so incredible to be there completely on my own, at peace and contact with nature. Will never forget this view!

    After that I would head for a group meditation and yoga class. That was the perfect way to really wake up.

    Myself and Bonnie who I went on this incredible retreat with. We both needed it so much! We’re wearing matchy activewear from Evveervital

    And then time for breakfast served at Love Kitchen ( where you could seriously feel the love with every dish and every smile from the staff members. I am still smiling when I think of them!) The food was delicious. There was seriously not a single thing I did not like. Everything was super fresh, high in nutrients, low in calories, enriched with superfoods and wholefoods. They also served healthy juices, smoothies and herbal teas ( my favourite was goji berries, honey and lime).

    After breakfast I was usually soaking up the sun that I’ve missed so much, relaxing by the pool and enjoying coconut water or super juices.

    Then I would head to their beautiful spa to enjoy a massage and spa treatments. My favourite and was 60 mins Indian Head Massage and 90 min Traditional Thai Massage with Herbal Heat Compress.

    Usually after that I had lunch, a little nap and attended another yoga session in the late afternoon. My favourite but also a very hard experience (for the beginner as myself) was a group hot yoga session. It was my first time and I honestly really enjoyed it even though my muscles felt really painful the day after. However that was not a problem at all. They were very accommodating and let me change the schedule the way my mind and body was happy at all times. One day I skipped some of the classes and gave myself more relaxing time, longer sleep and a stroll at the beach nearby the hotel.

    Here’s some photos of the Absolute Sanctuary. Ahh just looking at it brings all the positive energy and peace back!

    Juice bar located by the pool

    5 days spent in this place honestly changed me and my life. The stress management session with a therapist helped me a lot too as I found a real reason where is my stress and anxiety coming from. I’ve found my inner peace, I’ve rested, I’ve finally had enough sleep, exercised, ate super healthy and set the new goals. My skin also got better. As some of you know I am dealing with adult acne that has been such a pain since couple of years now and I left Absolute Sanctuary with cleaner, healthier looking skin. I came back to London new-born and by saying new-born I really mean it! I’ve started to wake up earlier which gave me more time in a day. I’ve started to exercise regularly, I’ve stopped skipping breakfast and I’ve started to listen to relaxing music in the morning (rather then getting into my Instagram and emails straight away) to get me in a good mood before a busy day. This trip honestly changed my lifestyle so much! I am forever grateful! Thank you so much to all team at Absolute Sanctuary for incredible hospitality and looking after us so well! I can’t find words to describe how much I miss this place every single day. I promised myself I will return one day as I haven’t found a place that has such an incredible energy. I can’t recommend it enough!

    Thank you for bringing back the happy, healthy me!

    Post in collaboration with Absolute Sanctuary