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Sabrina Kaiser-Kossmayr

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Green luxury par excellence

Time for what matters: tranquillity, enjoyment and conscious moments at 1,100 meters

And then there was this place, not exactly in the middle of nowhere, but still far enough away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A place to unwind and recharge. At 1,100 metres above sea level, in the heart of SalzburgerLand, the Priesteregg Premium ECO Resort has been welcoming those who need a little time for themselves for several years now. Surrounded by nature, it offers all the wonderful things you want to enjoy on holiday: good food, stylish accommodation, and, above all, welcoming hosts. Last summer, they expanded the resort to include three lakeside cabins. They offer up to two bedrooms and an open-plan kitchen/living room. A private bathing bay, an open-air bathtub, and a panoramic sauna are also part of the offering. Green luxury par excellence.

A place of tranquillity
The resort comprises a total of 18 individual chalets and villas. Around 80 kilometres by car from Salzburg, it is nestled in the almost untouched nature of the Pinzgau region. And the intention is to keep it that way. Because even though the Priesteregg Premium ECO Resort is a real little mountain village with all the amenities, the focus is always on a relaxed atmosphere. Or as the two owners, Renate and Huwi Oberlader, put it: “In our Priesteregg, the clocks tick a little slower. It’s a place of tranquillity, of inner contemplation. A place where body, mind, and soul are in harmony. The people here also have their hearts in the right place.”Bookings from June 2025.

And they planned their paradise just as carefully: every chalet, every extra detail, and all the other highlights, such as the 34-degree sky pool or the Lapland smoke sauna, have been gradually integrated into the overall concept of the holiday mountain village. This also applies to the three new lakeside cabins. The former mountain chalets have been lovingly redesigned and feature large glass fronts on the upper floor, offering views of the bathing lake and the bay. Here, you can enjoy breakfast in the morning or simply wake up and think: Where I am, that’s where I want to be. Breakfast itself is served in the chalets and is best enjoyed after sunrise meditation on the meditation bench or yoga on an elevated platform in the middle of the forest. But that’s just a tip. Sleeping in is also good sometimes.

A place of enjoyment

Enjoying what nature gives you, combined with an exclusive experience. That’s probably the best way to sum up what awaits you at the Priesteregg Premium ECO Resort. And if it can be put into words, then the menu at Huwi’s Alm is the best proof. Pinzgau delicacies, plus modern variety, and most importantly: many items – such as the crispy bread – are homemade in the stone oven. Because enjoyment is best experienced on site. The same applies to the hearty bacon and jams. The recipes for the latter come from Véronique Witzigmann, the daughter of Austrian chef Eckart Witzigmann. She also likes to visit Priesteregg herself. Other basic ingredients, such as milk and butter, are also purchased from surrounding farms and are sometimes available in the village shop. And that’s where the natural element comes into play again.

It would be entirely feasible to quantify the resort’s sustainability in numbers. But it’s better to experience it firsthand. Because as natural as the resources are, they also resonate with the senses. A place that stays with you – in your memory, in your emotions, and perhaps even as a new inner attitude. For anyone who has experienced the tranquillity that spreads between alpine huts, meadows, and bodies of water will take a piece of this slowness home with them. The Priesteregg Premium ECO Resort is more than an exclusive retreat – it’s a statement for a mindful lifestyle. For quality over quantity, for conscious enjoyment instead of hectic consumption. It’s not about experiencing as much as possible, but rather the right things. The gentle rippling of the water, the crackling in the fireplace, the taste of real, handmade bread. Perhaps it’s precisely this simplicity that lingers in your memory. Because it’s become a rarity.

Photos Copyrights: Priesteregg Premium ECO Resort © guenterstandl.de

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Call Me Adam

Up from the attic to the main stage

DJ David Puentez is more than just a name – he’s an experience. With his electrifying beats and unmistakable sounds, he brings the biggest clubs, festivals and stages to life. His music is an invitation to leave 
everyday life behind and immerse yourself in a world full of energy and euphoria.

If you had to write the “sound of your life”, what would it sound like?
It would be a sound that draws you into the moment and makes you happy. That sound will put a smile on your face, even when you’re not feeling well. For me, music is a way of putting people in a better mood and letting them forget their everyday lives for a few minutes. And first and foremost, that applies to me myself.

Has music always been so important in your life?
Music was always present in my family and therefore in my childhood – but in two extremes (laughs). My father listened to Schlager (German-language folk pop) and alpine folk music, my mother to techno songs by Sven Väth. But it wasn’t difficult for me to decide between the two and so my mum was delighted. But I also quickly realised that I was really hooked. I remember well what she said: “If you really want to spend your days on tour buses, aeroplanes and always in different places, then go for it.” She has supported me in my musical ambitions from a young age.

How did you go about realising these ambitions?
I took my grandma’s old record player from the attic, got a CD player and a simple mixer and started practising transitions in my room back when I was a teenager.

Can you give our readers more details?
The CD player only had a stop and a play button; and the record player had its own dynamics in terms of speed. So, 10 vinyl records on one side, 10 self-burnt CDs on the other, and I tried to guess the speed of the CD player and adjust the record player accordingly. Come eight in the evening, I immersed myself in my own little world every day.

Did you have any musical role models?
Daft Punk, for sure. A track like “One More Time” has not lost its timeliness and popularity even after decades. And that is the fine art in our industry, to create something lasting.

Were there moments when your dream of making music was in doubt?
Yes, it was tough during Covid. No shows, no stages – the job thrives on people coming together, celebrating and having fun. That was suddenly gone. Of course, I thought about what I would do if it stayed like this for longer. Social media has helped me to find a new path and expand my community. It has shown me that even in difficult times you have to stay creative, but above all stay in touch. It also made me realise how quickly and how drastically something from outside that you can’t influence yourself can sabotage your job.

Did all that change you as a person and in your career?
Most definitely. I relearned how to stay optimistic, even though it’s not always easy. And I have realised that standing still is not an option – you have to constantly reinvent yourself, especially in creative professions. As a musician, you always work in the moment and there is no classic career ladder to climb like in a company, for example. You’re constantly caught between the dichotomy of “I am up for some radical change” versus “alas, things are going quite well”. Covid has pulled the handbrake here, and that was very good for me personally.

“Relearned” sounds like it wasn’t always easy…
I am a divorce child and that was not always easy. But the bottom line is that I came out unscathed. I was always aware that others were much worse off. Nevertheless, it is challenging when break-ups are played out at the expense of the children. That shapes a young person.

How have these experiences shaped your life, especially your relationship?
I have a different kind of marriage and am very close to my wife, but that doesn’t mean we’re glued to each other all the time. I also enjoy spending time with friends. That’s why you won’t find me at parties too often. I prefer a quiet dinner and a glass of red wine.

Is it true that you got married without friends – just the two of you – and in jeans?
Yes, that’s right. And it was the best decision. Weddings are pure stress for the bride and groom themselves, we have spared ourselves that. Of course there was also criticism from family and friends and we always said that there would be another party. Now we had our 10th anniversary and celebrated alone once again… and that was great. After all, we are both heavily involved in our respective professions. Louisa as an influencer and with her interior label “Within Mood”, me as a producer, DJ and good mood spreader on Instagram.

You’re turning forty this year …
Thanks for the reminder (laughs).

You’re very welcome. But you just mentioned the reinvention thing. How important is it to keep moving as an artist and creative?
Important! I started DJing up during my vocational training. So during the week it’s wholesale and foreign trade, and at the weekend a mixer. But after that there was always stagnation and that was annoying. It always worked somehow, that was okay. But then again, it did not. After all, you always want to achieve more. Everyone wants to be on the big stage one day: Las Vegas, Shanghai …

Really?
Of course. You also do this job to inspire thousands of people at once. And preferably all over the world.

In Cologne you played at the Palladium to kick off the tour, there were almost 4,000 people attending…
Yes, it was incredible. When the curtain fell and I saw the people, it took me a few seconds to realise it. There was a wall of emotions, of feelings… it was definitely challenging and on the other hand just incredibly cool. Especially in my old and much-loved hometown of Cologne.

But there were also smaller gigs during the tour. Pizza comes to mind.
That’s right, we played a small gig in a friend’s pizzeria in Hamburg at lunchtime. The hot pizza oven next to us, 50 fans in the shop and 600 outside the door. Very wild, but unforgettable.

Because we were just talking about abroad, your biggest market is Germany?
Definitely, yes. I would say that 80, if not 90 per cent of our market is in German-speaking countries, including Austria and Switzerland. This is also reflected in the followers on Instagram. Germany is one of the four most important markets worldwide when it comes to music. To be so successful here is of course a huge success, not just for me, but for everyone in the team.

How big is your team?
I would estimate, some 35 people.

And they’re all on your payroll?
No, for God’s sake. That includes everyone who is employed by our booking agency, music label or other companies, but who are also responsible for the “David Puentez” project.

Speaking of the project. How are new songs created?
That is teamwork. We organise so-called “Writing Camps”, i.e. we invite singers, producers and songwriters. We usually meet in Berlin. To kick things off, we decide on a topic, usually something from my personal life or something that is currently on my mind. And then everyone thinks about it. The first goal is to find a vibe. First words, a rhyme, blocks of text, but also a kind of melody. I myself listen in here for 30 minutes and spend half an hour discussing with someone else. Production then really only takes place at the end. And then throws everything overboard once again.

Is this approach standard in the industry?
In any case, even David Guetta doesn’t do it any differently. In the end, you might have up to 500 songs or song parts after such a camp, but only four or five are really good. Only these are being produced.

How do collaborations such as yours, for example with the Romanian artist Inna, come about?
The vocals from the “Writing Camp” don’t always fit the song perfectly. In this case, my management contacts the management of a singer. The most important question is then for the artist: Do you feel the song?

And how often do you get a “yes”?
Not that often. But an honest “no” is better than a half-hearted yes.

Without mentioning your age again: But at the beginning you were still playing records. What has changed here?
I was a vinyl DJ in the past, and I still have a full cellar of it. But I’ve since switched to USB sticks. My shows are all on there: my set lists and the songs are organised by theme and mood. This is unbeatable when travelling. However, I certainly remember the days when I travelled with heavy record cases.

But a USB stick is small and can get lost…
That’s why my team members always have a backup with them.

To conclude, let’s talk about Instagram again; here, too, you want to put people in a good mood.
It was never my goal to use Instagram for advertising. I may surprise people and be funny, and when we do a collaboration with a brand, it’s also initially about posting authentic and humorous content. We already made videos that were not approved by a brand because we don’t just hold a product in front of the camera.

And then…
The video is not published. We don’t get paid, but it’s worth it to me. Sometimes companies approach us a few weeks later and ask us to release the film after all.

I remember a Lancôme advert. It was very “out of the box”. I’m just saying reindeer briefs…
(laughs) Oh yes, what can I say. We made the video, sent it to the company and it was waved through immediately. It has now been liked around 12,600 times. And many influencers still want to know how we got it through.

Your answer?
Advertising has to be good. And good advertising is ironic, has humour and is about the advertising as such and less about the product. That’s like a good song. You don’t have to be a fan of the band, but if you like the song, if it touches you in some way, then you’ve done it right.

David Puentez is at the top of the 
international music scene. With over 400 million streams and the Gold Award-winning hit single “Superstar”, the DJ and producer has celebrated worldwide success. He has made a name for himself by creating chart-topping remixes for stars such as Post Malone, Tiesto and Rita Ora, including multiple number 1 spots on iTunes and top positions in the Shazam Top 200. He is currently thrilling audiences with the single “I Want You”, which was created in collaboration with Bonn, and the collaboration “The Love” with INNA. The 39-year-old also impresses on social media: Around 340,000 followers enjoy his music and positive vibes. He lives in Hamburg with his wife Louisa.

Photos Copyrights: © David Puentez / Universal Music

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Adam

Arrived, stayed, returned

With the «Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam», Tivoli Hotels & Resorts is opening its first hotel in the Netherlands – and, as always, it’s stylish, elegant and endowed with that very special charm that turns a break into a rest.

Came to stay? Definitely the hotel when it comes to dependability. As a guest, you are more likely to be a repeat visitor. That’s because the Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam is more than just a hotel. It is the perfect temporary home for anyone who wants to experience the Dutch metropolis right outside the door during the day, but wants to enjoy peace, time away and style again in the evening. Newly opened this spring, the establishment offers 81 superior rooms plus suites and canal views. And from as little as EUR 250 per double room. You have to keep on coming back. There’s just no other way …

New, yet steeped in history
The Tivoli Doelen may have recently opened, but that does not mean that the establishment lacks history. The neoclassical building dates back to the 16th century and was home to Rembrandt’s painting «The Night Watch» for 70 years. The famous Dutch painter lived very nearby, which inspired the new owners to create a suite that bears his name and his art can be found throughout the hotel – not exclusively, but impressively recreated. And the Empress also liked to step through the doors to enjoy the proximity to the canal and the elegance of the discreet demureness. Because Sissi appreciated exactly that.

First class, and colour-coordinated
The culinary delight in the establishment goes by the name «Omber».

The in-house restaurant serves Dutch fusion dishes, which are also dedicated to Rembrandt. Namely in colour in this case, since the famous painter was satisfied with just 12 shades of colour in his time and yet combined them to create unique images. Each dish therefore contains at least one of these colour nuances and, as the name suggests, the restaurant was decorated in the painter’s signature colour. An inviting shade of brown that is as warm as it is elegant and even more refined for an interior.

Wonderful inside, even more to experience outside
But as beautiful as the hotel is, during the day you just have to step out and let yourself explore. Either on a guided tour of the city or on a cruise through the canals of the metropolis. A boat tour with drinks and snacks can be booked directly at the hotel. At the sightseeing event «In the footsteps of Rembrandt» you can go into the studio of this luminary of the art world, who died in 1669, and then visit all the places that he captured forever in his paintings. Make sure to also include a visit of the iconic Rembrandthuis. Or you can simply enjoy Amsterdam with all its beautiful and unique attractions such as the Rikjksmuseum, the Ice Bar or the Anne Frank House. Amsterdam has everything, but only one Tivoli.

Photos Copyrights: Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam

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Adam

1+2=3 – and provide culinary delights

Three likeable guys, one mission and a restaurant in Vienna’s hotspot – that’s all that is needed for success. And this success is damn tasty.

The Chef
Alexandru Simon

The Sommelier
Max Populorum

The Manager
Andreas Rehrmbacher

“Ringstrasse” sounds somewhat bland, but “world heritage site in the historic centre of Vienna” is a lot more exciting. Still, both names denote this one special place in Vienna that is more than just a street leading from A to B. Many historic buildings grace its path and anyone visiting the Austrian capital must stop by here. The latest highlight of the 5.3-kilometre-long street is the “Glasswing”, which is considered a new top culinary address.

And thus, they came in a group of three – and as always, to stay: Chef Alexandru Simon, sommelier Max Populorum and restaurant manager Andreas Rehrmbacher. The meeting point for the three exceptional talents is the luxury boutique hotel “The Amauris Vienna”. And those who love puns are welcome to speak of “ama”. That is, Alexandru, Max and Andreas. And “ama” in Italian means “he or she loves”. That is basically all we need to say. But, after all, just “basically”, because who are these three successful guys who are making a culinary statement in the Austrian metropolis?

The Chef

First of all, we have Mr Alexandru Simon. A connoisseur of the world, and no, not a globetrotter. Trotting is much too slow for the French-born chef. He is bursting with energy and manages to combine the experience of his numerous international stations in one dish. As, for example, in the lukewarm Norway lobster combined with cauliflower parfait, Vadouvan hollandaise and Walter Grüll caviar. That doesn’t just sound exotic, it’s real master cuisine. And because Ringstrasse is definitively Austrian tradition after all, new interpretations of Styrian chicken and national innards cuisine are also served in modern form.

The Sommelier

Max Populorum is the youngest of the trio and even boasts a “2” as the first digit in his age. Young, however, does not mean inexperienced. He already knows exactly which aroma goes best with which course – and he knows this at a professional level. With a classic 7-course menu, as served at “The Amauris Vienna”, he always hits the mark. He has had a selection of around 350 international wines put on the menu – starting with the Austrian Grüner Veltliner to classics like the Montrachet or Château Pétrus. And if a wine won’t fit, the expert knows how to convince with the appropriate cocktail accompaniment.

The Manager

Well, someone has got to do the job. And who could be a better boss than the unexcited Mr Rehrmbacher? Whereby unexcited is a compliment, because it means that he holds all the strings and knows how to pull them with precision and professionalism. Andreas brings the expertise of the Hotel Sacher with him and sees himself as a link between guest and kitchen. The manager from the state of Lower Austria ensures the service, staff structure and purchasing harmonise perfectly. And that every guest simply feels like visiting the Ringstrasse a second time.

Three cheers and bon appetit!

Photos Copyrights: The Amauris Vienna

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Adam

A gem in the heart of Vienna

For almost a year now, “The Amauris Vienna” has been welcoming its discerning guests full of viennese cordiality, with style, elegance and upscale comfort making a stay in this luxury boutique hotel unique.

Not even a thick blanket of snow covering the city of music in winter could mean that there is nothing going on in Vienna. Quite the opposite. Especially in the cold season, the Austrian capital is a place full of life and numerous experiences. Museums and galleries invite you on a voyage of discovery and the concert halls invite you to enjoy the music. Strolling through one of the many Christmas markets or through the small alleys, the festively decorated Vienna evokes a real Advent atmosphere.

To be able to enjoy the city ideally these days, you need a fine little home, of course – and preferably right in the cultural centre. A place of tranquillity that invites you to relax. And thus, this home, called «The Amauris Vienna» opened its doors at the beginning of 2023. This luxury boutique hotel is located directly on the famous Ringstrasse in a magnificent 19th century city palace. 62 elegant rooms and suites offer guests a stylish retreat.

With modern furnishings, interior and design, fans get their money’s worth. And even though every room, every suite is elegant and beautiful, two of them deserve special mention. The «Opera Suite», for example, not only has its own dining room and marble bathroom, it is the private balcony that sets it apart. From here you have a direct view of the Vienna State Opera, which is within walking distance. And those who like it even more luxurious can spend the night in the «Loft Suite». A freestanding tub in the bathroom, a private living room and your own terrace above the city rooftops for a bird’s eye view of the winter lights.

Culinary seductions are offered to guests in the hotel’s own gourmet restaurant «Glasswing». Which – like the hotel itself – was named after a butterfly, by the way. And for those interested in art, the private exhibition of the Breiteneder family that owns the hotel is highly recommended. The exhibition is located in the bar as well as the lobby. And to complete the stylish hospitality, the Amauris of course has a wellness and spa area.

Photos Copyrights: The Amauris Vienna

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Experience

Benvenuti estate!

The doors of Il Sereno on Lake Como have been open again since March and you are invited to discover one of the most beautiful regions in Italy in style and delight over the summer months. But above all with a view.

The locals call it «Lario», but to most people the 146-square metre tourist magnet is known as «Lago di Como». The third largest lake in Italy is one of the most popular holiday regions in Lombardy and the views over it from the rooms of Hotel Il Sereno are particularly outstanding. The hotel designed by Patricia Urquiola opened its doors in 2016 and has not only captivated numerous guests with its elegance and uniqueness, but also renowned media representatives. The Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice named Il Sereno the best Italian hotel in 2022. And ELLE Decoration also thinks that it is one of the «10 best design hotels of the last two decades».

Just seclude yourself
The drive to Il Sereno from Zürich takes around three and a half hours. Depending on the route, you can enjoy views of «Lago» before you have to take the small driveway that leads to the hotel. However, the lack of large advertising boards and signposts are intentional, as the focus is on the privacy of the guests. The hotel is a real retreat for discerning travellers who value not only first-class service but also individuality. Arrive, park up, experience the personal check-in and then, of course, it’s time for some delicious food. Why else go to Italy?

Just enjoy
Raffaele Lenzi, who comes from Naples, conjures up real culinary delights with the local and seasonal ingredients. That’s why the «Ristorante Il Sereno Al Lago» has already been awarded a Michelin star. His speciality is the «Contrasti & Contraddizioni» inspired by his own career, as well as the «Vegetali, Tuberi & Radici» – and an insider tip: the olive oil that he makes himself.

Just experience
The in-house pool is small but exquisite, because you would be also to jump out of the pool directly into Lake Como if that were allowed. However, it is better to climb from the jetty into the cooling water of the lake.

All guests also have the option of taking part in the «Wild Swimming Tour Experience». Which means to experience the most concealed and most beautiful bathing spots on the lake. Or to throw yourself into an adventure in the truest sense of the word and jump into the water from the famous bridge on the Isola Comacina.

Just combine
New this year is the partnership with the Bürgenstock resort on Lake Lucerne, which was christened «Dual Stay». And as the name suggests, guests begin their «vacanza di lusso» at Il Sereno. Two nights at the luxury hotel right on the lake, and then move on to the Bürgenstock resort above another lake – in the form of a leisurely walk or, if you wish, by helicopter. Culinary explosions await at Lake Lucerne, but above all an exquisite 10,000-square meter spa. But a little tip: nobody should miss the «Feet in Heaven» care treatment in the Il Sereno Spa!

Photos Copyrights: Il Sereno

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Adam

Curtain up!

The Sanders is Copenhagen’s first luxury boutique hotel. An elegant venue that combines the glamorous age of travel with the drama of the theater. 

Denmark – copenhagen / Dänemark – Kopenhagen
55° 67′ N / 12° 58′ 0

He felt at home in the Royal Danish Theatre for many years, and now the Danish ballet dancer Alexander Kølpin has made a new home for himself, so to speak, around the corner from his former place of work. Since the end of 2017, the luxury boutique hotel Sanders has been welcoming its guests in the historic centre of Copenhagen. But the former insiders’ tip has now become a real hotspot – but has lost none of its tranquillity, elegance and quality. «Walking into the Sanders is like walking into a theatre», says Kølpin himself. Guests will always be the focal point, but the set design and carefully curated interiors will provide the elegant and exquisite backdrop to their experience. The passion, generosity and professionalism of our staff will coordinate the enactment to offer our guests an unforgettable experience. The entire building has an elegant mise-en-scène. Stylish but understated luxury meets lovingly designed retreats. The 53 rooms as well as the «Sanders Kitchen» restaurant and the «TATA» bar give you the feeling of being welcomed into a friend’s home as soon as you enter.

The roof terrace is open all day and offers a great view of the Danish capital’s old quarter. And in the inner courtyard you can enjoy an apéritif in the late afternoon after a tour of the city. The design of the hotel was influeced by Alexander Kølpin. Together with the London studio Lind + Almond and the founders of the Kølpin Hotels Group, which also includes the Sanders, they planned and implemented every detail of the building. What particularly pleases the former ballet dancer is the fact that many locals are also regulars. They like to drop by to enjoy a cocktail at TATA or a culinary highlight in the restaurant. «The mixture of international hotel guests and locals makes for an interesting dynamic,» says Kølpin. «We are neither complicated nor formal. We want to be simple and focus on the quality of the products and the ambience.» And that is exactly what has been achieved in a unique way for five years now. A warm welcome!

Photos Copyrights: Sanders Hotel

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Adam

A “rock cristal” for that feel-good feeling

Four Stars, an impressive spa and genuine hospitality, the “Bergkristall” resort in Oberstaufen invites you to pamper yourself. And offers comprehensive support at a very high level.

As is so often the case, big things start out small with great attention to detail – and that is also how it was with the Bergkristall resort in the Allgäu. More than 50 years ago, Hans Lingg and his wife Hedi opened a small guest house on the local farm. Word got around quickly, although in addition to the hospitality, it was also their knowledge of the best regional dishes that inspired people. More rooms were quickly made ready to show holiday guests one of the most beautiful sides of Bavaria at an altitude of 850 metres: the Allgäu. The establishment has been known under the name Bergkristall since 2018 and with its extensive range of facilities it can justifiably call itself a superior four-star hotel. The hotel is currently managed by Hans and Hedi’s son and his wife, who now welcome the guests together with their own children and their partners.

The complete package

For the Linggs, being a host means offering a stylish retreat. An oasis of pleasure – for the spirit, for the soul, and to recharge your batteries. In the 2,700-square metre SPA, the crystal is the main protagonist, after the guest, of course. That’s why the motto «Out of love for me» is the focus of everything. A highlight is certainly the wavebalance® room, in which nature’s energy fields can be meaningfully enjoyed in the form of water, sounds and touch. To remind themselves to always do something good for themselves, each guest receives a personal crystal after a treatment. In the restaurant, head chef Andreas Krohn also conjures up à la carte dishes every day in line with the 80/20 principle. Which means no sugar and no white flour, but absolute enjoyment. On request, simple, vegan fare can also be provided, which aids purification and detoxification.

For individualists

And of course top dog Hansi should not be forgotten. As the secret ruler of the Bergkristall, he and his flock make sure that everything matches expectations. Which brings us back to the famed hospitality. Everyone is welcome in the hotel, and everyone is treated as an individual. Starting with the choice of room: classic single and double rooms are available as well as a penthouse or fitness suite. Before each treatment in the spa, you can have a discussion with a therapist to work out the most suitable option. And yes, the cuisine is still Bavarian, but with even more creativity and lightness. Because even if this small hotel has grown into the colossus it is today, the attention to detail is still an integral part of one of the best wellness hotels in Oberstaufen.

Photos Copyrights: Hotel Bergkristall

“In the morning, straight after getting up, look out at the magnificent mountain panorama and breathe in the crystal-clear air. This is the pinnacle of pure relaxation.” 

 Germany – allgäu / Deutschland – allgäu

47° 31′ N / 10° 14′ 0

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Passion

Culinary Dialogue

The new Mikuriya restaurant in The Dolder Grand signifies enjoyment with all your senses. Unique culinary art, for the guest, in front of the guest. The host is Atsushi Hiraoka and he enters into a culinary dialogue with the guests

Omakase, Mikuriya & Atsushi Hiraoka – the concept «made in Japan» now reigns supreme in the Swiss luxury hotel the Dolder Grand. And it’s a concept full of pleasure and one that provides even more in the way of an experience. «Omakase» signifies a very special Japanese menu. The guests sit, mostly in small numbers, directly at the kitchen counter and watch the chef prepare the dishes. Above all, however, they rely or trust in the selection of the right dishes by the master at the stove. «Mikuriya» means the kitchen in which «special guests are served with something special». Very fitting, therefore, that this is the name given to the new luxurious restaurant in the Dolder Grand, as everyone in charge thinks. And Atsushi Hiraoka? He is the master who prepares the omakase for the selected guests in the Mikuriya restaurant. A unique experience repeated every evening.

Located on the fourth floor of the traditional Dolder Grand hotel, the restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday. A maximum of eight people can sit at the counter to watch Atsushi Hiraoka prepare the 18 courses and to enjoy his culinary artistry with all their senses. The cost per person is CHF 300.00 excluding drinks. But it’s definitely worth it. Since during the preparation, the chef initiates his guests into the art of Japanese cuisine, the culinary dialogue is about preparation, origin and of course the centuries of omakase. Because, as Atsushi Hiraoka himself says, it’s «a form of eating that is revered in Japanese culture and arouses curiosity.»

Info:
Part of the spectacular Suite 100 in the Dolder Grand was converted for the new restaurant concept. The restaurant impresses with its puristic design, artwork and a unique view of the historic main building, the city, Lake Zürich and the Alps. The restaurant seats eight people and is open from Wednesday to Sunday evenings. Booking essential.

Photos Copyrights: Dolder Grand

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Globetrotting

I’m on my way

The new luxury retreat “The Lodge” in the middle of a conservation area offers the perfect combination of individuality, privacy, relaxation and an experience of nature.

Bumblebees buzzing, brimstone butterflies fluttering by and that incomparable scent – if you visit Mallorca in summer, you will experience this beautiful natural spectacle on the edge of the lavender fields with all your senses. Other features of the backdrop are the numerous almond, olive and carob trees, which also enrich the diverse fauna of the Balearic island. And yes, Mallorca is certainly still a party hotspot for many – but that’s just one aspect of the 3,620-square kilometre island. Embedded in Mediterranean nature, however, there are also many special places of silence. Places where switching off, pressing pause, and simple enjoyment define the day. Places like «The Lodge», the new luxury retreat in the middle of the Sierra de Tramuntana.

«Simple luxury, things that are well done – at The Lodge we offer a holistic experience,» says Pau Guardans, owner of Único Hotels, which also includes the new Majorcan residence with a total of 24 exquisite suites. «With this project, we are offering an experience where people can find peace and quiet all year round.» The individual suites are designed and placed on the 157-hectare site in such a way that privacy is the top priority. In addition to the deluxe suites, there are pool-side and garden suites, so that everyone stays exactly where it best suits their needs and desires. The Private Pool Suite offers the ultimate in intimacy.

It’s all about personality first

Two infinity pools are available to all guests. And plenty of space to explore the surrounding area. Whether on a bike or on foot, hiking and biking trails can be found in the immediate vicinity. Likewise, several golf courses can be reached quickly and easily. And the enchanting villages of Pollença, Sa Pobla and Campanet can be found in the immediate vicinity. The Lodge stands for individuality in the truest sense of the word. Everything is possible, but you don’t have to do anything. And of course that applies above all to your own wellbeing. A modern fitness room, regular yoga classes, a wellness suite, massage rooms and of course the advice of experienced beauty experts – there is a wide range of options for enjoying sustainable luxury holidays.

The culinary temptation at The Lodge is called «The Singular Restaurant». With «Le Cocina del Fuego» the chefs put on a gastronomic firework display here. Whether it’s fish, meat or vegetables, everything is cooked on the wood of different trees so that the aromas become a taste explosion. «With our We Care by Único Hotels program, we are making a sustainable commitment to the environment,» says Pau Guardans. «The careful use of resources, including in relation to energy and water, is an integral part of our vision.»

The best in just one place

The Lodge is the sister establishment of «Hotel Finca Serena», which since 2019 has been inviting its guests to relax and experience life in the midst of centuries-old olive trees and Mallorcan vineyards. The renowned interior designer Pilar García-Nieto has already received international praise – rightly so – for the design of this oasis of calm. With The Lodge, however, he has shown once again that elegance, modernity, freshness and warmth can be presented perfectly if you rely on natural and organic materials. Soft earthy tones, sensuous lighting, retreats as well as meeting places – The Lodge is a real masterpiece.

Photos Copyrights: The Lodge Mallorca

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