BELMOND INTRODUCES ITS NEW TRAVEL SERIES

 

An invitation to savour stolen moments in breathtaking surroundings 17 May 2021 – Belmond unveils the first chapter of its new series of one-of-a-kind experiences, inviting guests to indulge their longed-for moments, while reconnecting with loved ones in the most breathtaking surroundings. With the aim to inspire travelling once again, chapter one celebrates beautiful European escapes that connect deeply with the soul of the destination, setting the scene for unforgettable journeys. The experiences on land, rail and river range from artistic encounters, living the passion of exceptional curators and collectors in Italy; savouring local ingredients and tales of treasured traditions; raising a glass to missed celebrations on legendary trains or seeking private escapes on scenic waterways in France. Let’s steal away on a journey that will never be forgotten.  Let’s embark on new adventures and reconnect with loved ones. Let’s get dressed up and clink glasses at sunset.  Let’s Belmond, Together.

CHAPTER 1: EUROPEAN ESCAPES 1. LET’S SAIL AWAY IN THE BAY OF PORTOFINO Framing the blue views and Portofino’s nautical spirit, this June, guests of Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel embark on a new weekend sailing experience aboard the beautiful Anywave sailing boat with Mauro Pelaschier, founder of the One Ocean Foundation. After discovering marine parks and sustainable practices at sea, immerse in a bespoke cookery class at the hotel, savouring the freshest Ligurian ingredients with harbour views.  2. LET’S PLAY WITH CHAMPIONS For guests dreaming of serving aces, a new tennis weekend this June at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Mallorca is the perfect occasion to enjoy the hotel’s two excellent tennis courts, with views of the ocean and spectacular Tramuntana Mountains. In the company of former Spanish tennis star Nicolas Almagro, winner of 13 singles titles, enjoy a variety of fun-filled tennis experiences and one-on-one tuition. When downtime calls, wander through sweet-scented citrus trees to the sensational restaurant for post-match dinner. 3. LET’S LUNCH ALFRESCO IN MADEIRA The best food of provenance is celebrated at Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira this September, as part of the hotel’s annual ‘Art of Flavours’ culinary weekend. As well as a series of exceptional Michelin Star dining experiences with legendary chefs, guests will be transported to Fajã dos Padres by cable car, a secluded paradise nestled in a small cove on the south coast of Madeira with a flourishing organic garden. Chef Luis Pestana shares the island's secret to cultivating sweet fruits and vegetables, as freshly caught fish arrives by boat ready for an unforgettable alfresco lunch with spectacular coastline views. 4. LET’S MEET HISTORICAL HERITAGE ON THE AMALFI COAST Uncovering a world of archaeological treasures, Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast, offers special-access tours of Pompei, Ercolano & Oplontis this summer. In October, guests are invited to unleash their creativity with Golden Hour workshops with a master jewellery designer, revealing the age-old techniques of “granulazione” and “cera persa” used historically in Oplontis. 5. LET’S LIVE THE RENAISSANCE IN FLORENCE This season, take a tour in Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel’s vintage FIAT 1100 Musone, for behind-the-scenes access to the ateliers and artisans spearheading Florence’s New Renaissance. From fashion to perfumery, learn how they preserve tradition with contemporary style, join a bespoke ‘Art of Packing’ experience at Louis Vuitton, or marvel after-hours at the Zeffirelli museum to learn more about the art of making in the theatre realm. 6. LET’S DO BLUE JEANS IN GENOA Another outing steeped in history and glamour, this October, guests of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino visit Museo Diocesano to discover the full creative process and ancient painting and cutting techniques behind a fashion collection entirely made of jeans. For the inquisitive traveller, private tours of Genoa’s enchanted palaces are available throughout the season, followed by lunch in an opulent dining room overlooking the city’s rooftops. 7. LET’S TASTE AN ETNA VINTAGE Board the historical Circumetnea steam train to Mount Etna, winding over the lunar landscape overlooking Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Sicily, for Belmond-only tours of sprawling wineries. Local delicacies are served among sun-splashed vineyards before making tracks to the homes of Le Mamme del Borgo, local Mamas revealing treasured recipes passed through generations. In October, the experience also includes a private wine tasting on Etna with celebrated wine master, Tom Harrow. 8. LET’S TRAVEL IN TIME IN LA SERENISSIMA Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice unlocks the door to 1,600 years of Venetian history for guests in search of rare books and precious manuscripts, with behind-the-scenes visits to monumental libraries and hidden archives. In November, those who wish to immerse in ancient disciplines that travelled through the Silk Road can join a master of Kintsugi, the delicate art of fixing ceramics with gold, or traditional silk printing workshops, followed by a magical sunset dinner beside the lagoon. 9. LET’S SERENADE THE SENSES IN TUSCANY Enveloped by rolling hills and sprawling vineyards, Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany, transports guests on a sensory journey in October, in partnership with Marchesi Antinori, one of Italy's most renowned wineries. As part of the three-day escape, impassioned wine expert, Tom Harrow leads special-access winery tours including Tenuta Tignanello estate and Tenuta Guado al Tasso, tasting some of the most sought-after wines in the midst of Tuscany’s vendemmia season. 10. LET’S UNCOVER THE MAGIC OF NOTO Combining art and culinary flair, Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Sicily launches a ‘Secrets of Noto’ itinerary with Belmond-only access to beautiful Baroque palaces and celebrated artisans. After discovering the ethereal magic of Palazzo Castelluccio and Palazzo Modica, those looking to fuel their artistic spirit further can visit the atelier of Sicilian painter, Sergio Fiorentino, or savour sweet Sicilian delicacies in a workshop with celebrated Pastry Chef Corrado Assenza. 11. LET’S SAIL INTO SECRET CHAMPAGNE Private charters aboard Afloat in France’s luxury barges are the ultimate exclusive affair, with personalised itineraries and cinematic scenes bringing families and friends together. The new six-night vintage champagne-tour is no exception; Pivoine, A Belmond Boat, invites guests to taste the best of Vintage champagnes with unparalleled access at Maisons Ruinart, Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot and Krug, from 28 August 2021.  12. LET’S TAKE LEGENDARY TRACKS TO NEW CITIES ACROSS EUROPE Step into the mystery of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train with new journeys to cities including Amsterdam, Brussels and Florence. Upgrade to a new Grand Suite for the ultimate private celebration with free-flowing champagne and a personal steward taking care of every detail. 13. LET’S FEAST ON THE RAILS IN THE BRITISH COUNTRYSIDE New gastronomic pursuits onboard Belmond’s Great British trains celebrate the journey as much as the destination. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England announces a menu of sumptuous five-course dinner experiences by Michelin Star chefs, Ollie Dabbous,  Simon Rogan, Michel Roux Jr and Raymond Blanc, dates available from July onwards. For more information or to make a reservation please visit Belmond.com/experiences or call 0845 077 2222.