Category

Experience

Category

With elegant lines and racy elegance, the renowned Italian design studio “Pininfarina” has been enriching the automotive world with extravagant designs for almost 95 years.

The story of Pininfarina began in 1930 when its founder, Battista “Pinin” Farina, dedicated himself to the design and details of limited-edition luxury sports cars. The Turin-based car body builder became famous primarily for its work for Ferrari, but in total, Pininfarina designed over 1,200 vehicles – from sports cars to compact cars. ADAM spoke with chief designer Dave Amantea about the challenges of design, and groundbreaking developments, in the age of electric mobility.

ADAM: You’ve received numerous awards in recent years. I assume it’s going well for you?
Dave Amantea: The awards are a great honour and at the same time bring with them the responsibility to live up to the Pininfarina name.

What is the significance of electri-
fication for Automobili Pininfarina?
The electric age has just begun, and the best is yet to come. Electrification allows us to set new design standards and pioneer new innovations. The “Battista” is the first Italian electric hypercar to be homologated, featuring cutting-edge technologies and a captivating silhouette that at the same time honours Pininfarina’s heritage. This car is already an icon, and expectations are accordingly high.

Can one already speak of an icon after just a few years?
A car becomes iconic not only through its design, but also through its per-
formance, innovation, and exclusivity. With almost 2,000 hp and world-leading technology, the Battista is unique – and limited to just 150 units.

What would the founding father Battista “Pinin” Farina say if he could see his namesake car?
I hope he’d say “WOW,” and I think he’d look down on us and our design with pride. He was a visionary, and his 1959 prediction that cars would free themselves from the internal combustion engine has now become reality.

What significance does the Battista have for the company?
As the most powerful Italian car ever produced, it is the first model to bear the Automobili Pininfarina name. The Battista symbolises our motto: “Dream Cars. Made Real”.

What advantages does the design of an electric car offer compared to a combustion engine?
The architecture of an electric car offers greater freedom to create a perfect silhouette and a low centre of gravity. Our goal is to combine beauty and technical excellence.

In 2023, Automobili Pininfarina unveiled three cars!
It was a spectacular year with the unveiling of the Battista Edizione Nino Farina, the B95 Barchetta, and the design concept of “PURA Vision.” The Battista connects us to the present, while PURA Vision defines the future.

What is behind the concept of “PURA Vision”?
It is the essence of timeless design, inspired by iconic Pininfarina vehicles of the past. Our goal was to create a clean, elegant design language that will shape future models.

What was the response to the B95 at Monterey Car Week?
Fantastic! It was exciting to see how enthusiastically the audience and press reacted. The bold presentation was exactly the right step.

Where did the inspiration for the B95 come from?
We combined the spirit of an open-top Le Mans racer from the 1960s with the futuristic design of modern F1 cars. The model was also inspired by Pininfarina classics such as the Maserati Birdcage 75th, Ferrari Testarossa Lamelles, Pininfarina Abarth Prototype, Pura Vision, and Battista.

What challenges need to be overcome to maintain the lead over the competition?
We need to take risks and drive innovation. Developing an electric hypercar with nearly 2,000 hp is an enormous challenge, but essential for our future.

Will Automobili Pininfarina target other vehicle categories in the future?
Yes, but step by step. Nevertheless, we want to preserve our “Pininfarina soul” and focus on exclusive small series.

You were named by Bloomberg as one of only 50 people on Bloomberg Businessweek’s 2023 “Ones to Watch” list. Your thoughts on that?
It is a great honour and a testament to the hard work of my team.

How are future design trends recognised?
With vision, intuition, and a dash of luck. You have to look at the world from different perspectives and understand how people want to live in the future.

Which car impressed you the most in your childhood?
A Ferrari Testarossa, which as a child was the object of my wonder. It was love at first sight!

Is Pininfarina the reason you became a car designer?
Yes, definitely! I was born in Turin, embraced the principles of the Pininfarina school, and now work as chief designer for Automobili Pininfarina – it feels like destiny.

And if you hadn’t become a car designer?
I would design futuristic vehicles for Hollywood – no technical limitations, just pure creativity.

Photos Copyrights: © Automobili Pininfarina

The Lamborghini Temerario opens a new chapter in the era of super sports cars

The brand-new Lamborghini Temerario combines uncompromising performance with groundbreaking electrification. With its hybrid powertrain, it not only sets new standards in electric mobility but also offers the ultimate driving experience worthy of the Lamborghini name. With its 920-hp V8 biturbo hybrid engine, it is a true masterpiece, and of course, a real eye-catcher. CEO Stephan Winkelmann was also given to eulogising: “The Temerario is truly unequalled: a car in a class of its own, an exceptional and innovative vehicle, both in technical and stylistic terms.” He then went on to point out the new strategy of all luxury sports car manufacturers, which has been on almost all of their radars in recent years: electrification. Or to put it in his own words: “With the Temerario, we have closed an important chapter in the electrification strategy of our Direzione Cor Tauri plan.”

Green high-performance cars
The electrification strategy of sports car manufacturers marks a profound shift in the automotive industry. Traditionally, sports cars were known for their powerful combustion engines, which offered impressive performance and, above all, a distinctive sound. Brands such as Porsche, Ferrari, and Lamborghini have already firmly integrated this shift into their future strategies. They are all pursuing a common goal: to combine the driving pleasure and performance their brands stand for with modern electric and hybrid technology. Of course, they also want to improve their carbon footprint at the same time, which is also due to the new regulations.

Porsche was one of the pioneers with its all-electric Taycan, demonstrating that electric sports cars can be not only powerful but also suitable for everyday use. Lamborghini has followed suit with its Direzione Cor Tauri plan, setting a clear roadmap toward electrification. The goal is to present the first all-electric model by the end of the decade and to electrify all existing model series. The foundation stone has now been laid with the Lamborghini Temerario.

Tradition versus innovation
For manufacturers, electrification represents a balancing act. On the one hand, they must meet expectations for lower-emission, more environmentally friendly vehicles, while on the other, the soul of the sports car – the emotional driving experience, the unmistakable sound, and pure performance – must not be lost. This has been skilfully implemented in the Temerario. The combination of a twin-turbo engine with three electric motors is unique and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 50 percent compared to previous models. CEO Winkelmann commented: “The Temerario is not only a technical marvel, but also a statement for the future of super sports cars.”

Nevertheless, let’s quickly look at a few numbers. 920 hp has already been mentioned, along with 10,000 rpm and a top speed of over 343 km/h, plus acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The braking distance from 100 to 0 km/h is 32 metres. This is roughly the average for the braking champions among sports cars. The Porsche 911 GT3 manages 30.7 metres, the Ferrari F430 33.5 metres.

Just looks good
The design of the Temerario is naturally striking, but also functional. Lamborghini engineers have equipped the vehicle with completely new aerodynamics, increasing downforce by 103 percent compared to the previous model. The aluminium chassis has been redesigned, significantly improving driving dynamics. Head of Design Mitja Borkert describes the Temerario as “bold, authentic, and unexpected.” The vehicle combines futuristic shapes with classic Lamborghini elements such as the hexagonal light signature and the bold shark nose, which creates an aggressive look. “With the Temerario, we are giving new form to the Lamborghini design language and taking a major step into the future,” says Borkert

In the interior, Lamborghini relies on the “Feel like a pilot” principle, where the driver feels as if he or she is sitting in a cockpit thanks to the low seating position and intuitive controls. Carbon fibre and leather, as well as the newly developed Lamborghini Vision Unit system, ensure an unparalleled driving experience. “The interior of the Temerario is the perfect interplay of digital and physical experiences,” Borkert continues. The fully customisable displays offer both the driver and passenger maximum control and overview. Lamborghini has also placed particular emphasis on comfort: the Temerario offers more space than its predecessors, making it suitable for everyday use. So: get in and step on the gas. The future of the automobile is electrified, we’re under no illusions about that – but without losing the healthy thrills and emotions that a true sports car such as a Lambo offers.

Photos Copyrights: Lamborghini

Amidst dreamlike landscapes of forests, vineyards and olive groves, the Castelfalfi offers new exclusive suites, a new gourmet restaurant and a new spa in a historical setting, which now makes your stay even more relaxed and exclusive.

Tuscany – a fusion of rolling hills with cypress avenues, spicy-smelling rosemary and breakfast in the gentle morning sun. Just an hour away from the hotspots of Pisa, Florence and Siena is the Castelfalfi estate, embedded in the mountain village of the same name and surrounded by a picturesque backdrop.

Historic walls, contemporary design

After an extensive transformation, the five-star luxury hotel reopened this spring. Among the 146 rooms, Castelfalfi now offers four new Signature Suites designed by the French architecture studio Affine Design with bespoke fabrics, fine artwork and private outdoor living rooms. Also new are two stylish, historic villas, the spa and a restaurant. The existing villas with two to eight bedrooms and space for up to 16 people are now joined by the 18th century Casa Medici designed by Raed Abillama. As a guest you have three bedrooms with arched windows, a dining room, kitchen, lounge, your own botanical garden as well as elegant, modern interiors and glamorous mid-century elements.

Experience being close to nature

The 2,700 hectare estate with vineyards, forests, a 27-hole golf course and olive groves offers numerous individual experiences. From tennis, archery and a climbing wall to yoga, axe throwing, kickboxing, fishing and fly fishing, everything is possible in Castelfalfi. Of course, the fantastic landscape can also be explored by hiking or by e-bike; whether on a professionally guided tour or on your own, the majestic castle of Castelfalfi looks really impressive from a distance. During walks through the magical Carfalo forests, the fragrant rose garden, the vineyards and the lakes, you will meet foxes, deer, rabbits and partridges and become aware of the uniqueness of the estate. Consideration for animals and the protection of the local ecology are taken very seriously here and can be experienced first hand: when meeting the bees that live in 40 hives, with Thor, the falcon of Castelfalfi or when hunting for truffles with dogs. The latter is particularly exciting; the Marzuolo truffles can be found on the estate from February to April, the black summer truffles from April to September and the white noble truffles from September to December.

Wellness with a hint of Thailand

Brand new at Castelfalfi is the RAKxa wellness spa. The elegant wellness area covers a generous 1,500 square metres with seven treatment rooms, two saunas, a steam bath, a relaxation area, the salon and a granite-lined heated infinity pool where you can swim both indoors and outdoors. The spa treatments focus on healthy sleep, stress and healing. RAKxa, which stems from Thailand, combines various therapies and wisdom that have been developed over thousands of years with modern knowledge from medicine and mindfulness. Individually personalised healing programs such as «A Day Retreat», «Calm and Restful» or «Active Recovery» serve personal health goals and the new hydrotherapy suite promotes relaxation. With carefully curated wellness menus, the professionally trained team of therapists ensures that body and mind are brought back into harmony.

Italy’s authentic flavours

The seasonal vegetable garden supplies the resort’s restaurants and the certified organic farm extends over 62 hectares and produces six wines. Guests can help harvest the olives from the trees themselves, of which there are more than 10,000, after which the fruit is pressed in the in-house mill. Six restaurants and bars serving creative, modern menus make the resort a culinary hotspot. The choice is extensive: between the romantic panoramic terrace at La Rocca, the open show kitchen at Olivina, wood-fired pizza at Trattoria Il Rosmarino, the menu at the Country Club House and international cuisine with live music and cocktails at the Ecrù Lounge Bar, the decision is sometimes not easy.

Jewel of the region

Of course, Tuscany also has a lot to offer culturally. The classical cities of Florence and Siena are definitely worth seeing, where
you shouldn’t miss the Gothic town hall, the Piazza del Campo
and a delicious ice cream while strolling through the cosy streets. Trips to smaller towns such as San Gimignano, which is also known as the Manhattan of Tuscany due to its numerous towers, or to Volterra, which is not far away, are also extremely worthwhile. Experiencing the restfulness of the historic towns and enjoying a doppio in the Tuscan sun after a fragrant pizza – it couldn’t be more dolce vita.

Photos Copyrights: Castelfalfi

«Rocco Forte» hotels are the epitome of luxury, elegance and uniqueness. And that, of course, also means providing guests with personalised experiences. 

Hospitality is deeply rooted in the Italian way of life. «Ospitalità» is literally the epitome of cordiality. It comes to no surprise that it is, of course, also lived to perfection in the «Rocco Forte» brand of hotels. Thus, the new season starts with the old imperative: Offering guests the best service in beautiful locations! And that also means taking people on a journey into the world of «la Dolce Vita».

Masseria Torre Maizza, Apulia

However, chef de cuisine Fulvio Pierangelini not only offers his guests culinary highlights in Florence, but also spends part of his time at the «Masseria Torre Maizza». The old farmhouse in the picturesque Apulian countryside has also been completely renovated and converted into a luxury hotel. 40 residential units, a 9-hole golf course and all this not far from the sea give those who decide to stay there a stylish break.
The resort offers a five-day gourmet tour, led by Fulvio Pierangelini himself, so that guests can consciously experience the flavours of local cuisine. This journey of discovery takes you along the Apulian coast, through sunny olive groves to local producers. Travellers can join the locals during production and see how things are made, and of course the products are then enjoyed over a hearty meal. The chef de cuisine himself will be present as a cook, sharing the little details of the country’s culinary secrets.

Hotel Savoy, Florence

«Fresh» is also the subject of the menu at the «Ristorante Irene» at the «Hotel Savoy» in Florence. The crockery at this «Rocco Forte» hotel is just as fresh. Together with the Florentine brand «Loretta Caponi», chef de cuisine Fulvio Pierangelini has created his own spring-inspired tableware. Artfully embroidered sets and napkins are now placed on every seat in the restaurant, beautifully setting the scene for the culinary experience on the plate.
The city palazzo in which the «Hotel Savoy» is located dates back to 1893. From there, just a few minutes on foot bring you to the famous cathedral «Santa Maria del Fiore» and the «Piazza della Repubblica». The rooms and suites were completely renovated just a few years ago and, thanks to Italian craftsmanship, they welcome guests in high-class Florentine style. Almost exclusively local works of art decorate the walls throughout the building.

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

In the shadow of the majestic Spanish Steps, in one of Rome’s most historic locations, the «Hotel de la Ville» welcomes its guests. Luxurious comfort paired with the history of the city make for a unique experience. The 18th century mansion has been extensively renovated, while care was taken to preserve the charm of the past. Both rooms and suites have all been individually designed and always offer a view of the city. Furthermore, the hotel is also host to several restaurants and bars, including «Mosaico», a place that is known far beyond the city limits and above all for its great wine cellar.

In addition to the perfect ambience, the luxury hotel also offers its guests customised experiences that exceed any normal city tour by far. Just in time for the 100th birthday of Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni, the «Hotel de la Ville» is now offering an evening tour in a restored vintage Fiat 500. Guests can go on a tour through the eternal city, which is a very special adventure, especially at night, and stop at places where famous film scenes were shot.

Verdura Resort, Sicily

The «Verdura Resort», which forms part of the «Rocco Forte» brand of hotels, also allows people to immerse themselves, in this case in the history and beautiful landscape of Sicily. This year, the hotel is offering its guests a morning excursion instead of an evening one. This takes guests on a journey through the «Valley of the Temples», one of the most important archaeological sites in Sicily. This is followed by a traditional Sicilian farmers’ breakfast. There, granitas are waiting with their sweet temptation. A granita is an icy refreshment made from water, sugar and various flavours. It goes well with a brioche, which is often served warm.

The Verdura Resort is an impressive retreat nestled on the southern coast of Sicily. There are views of the Mediterranean Sea from everywhere on the 230-hectare (568 acres) site. Guests are spoilt for choice between a classic double room, a large suite or their own villa. When it comes to culinary delights, Mediterranean specialities are on the menu in the «La Zagara» restaurant, while the «Amare», located directly on the beach, focuses on freshly caught fish from the sea.

Photos Copyrights: Rocco Forte-Hotels

For 150 years, «Zwiesel Glas» has been synonymous with impressive craftsmanship. A homage to a product that many of us have taken for granted.

Drinking from a glass – whatever the drink – is something we take for granted. However, very few people think about where it comes from and how it was created; we prefer to enjoy the content. The craftsmanship behind the production is exciting, impressive and, above all, it has a long history. The first glasses were made many centuries before Christ; the first official production record can be found on a clay tablet from the library of the Assyrian King Ashurbanipal. And even back then, in the 7th century BC, sand, ash and chalk were used. Little has changed in these substances to this day; quartz sand, potash, lime and metal oxides are still used today. The latter are primarily used for colouring.

A world leader, a world favourite

Today, around 39.5 million tons of glass are produced in Europe every year. In Germany, the company «Zwiesel Glas» is synonymous with modern, high-quality and beautiful glass variants – and has been for more than 150 years. This is appreciated by the catering and hospitality industry in particular. It’s no wonder that we were once again named «World Market Leader Champion» this year. And for the seventh time in a row. Zwiesel Glas produces up to 60 million glasses a year – with a very unique sound. Or as it is called internally: «Glasses with a special note». Glassmakers can recognise a Zwiesel glass by the sound it makes when it is hit discreetly.

In addition to quality, Zwiesel glass also focuses on design. And also very successfully. The «Symbiosis» decanter received the «Iconic Award: Innovative Interior 2024» in the product design category this year. However, resting on these laurels is not in the company’s philosophy. Or as company owner Dr Andreas Buske says: «We are very proud to have been recognised as world market leader again in 2024. This title is a nice confirmation for us, but at the same time further incentive to become the worldwide brand for all the moments that make life special.»

Nice motivation, because yes, even if we often unconsciously hold a glass in our hand, we have not forgotten many of the moments in which we toasted with it. «Cheers!» «Santé!» «Prost!» «Jámas!» «Skål!»

Photos Copyrights: Zwiesel Glas

Learning from nature. IRÄYE products contain an active ingredient that regenerates the human lymphatic system.

The founding fathers, Professor Michael Detmar and Dr Epa Gousopoulos, carried out extensive research over a long period to reach their goal. It took around 20 years to develop the perfect skin care product that activates the lymphatic system and thus ensures a radiant complexion. Using external influences to highlight inner beauty, to simplify the
process somewhat. And no matter whether the product is «The Shaping Body Cream», the «Eye Revive Cream» or the «Radiance Firming Serum», the IRÄYE brand is revolutionising skin care.

Prof. Michael Detmar and Dr. Epa Gousopoulos

A real Booster

The human lymphatic system is our own internal vacuum cleaner. Unfortunately, as with all «devices», its performance decreases over the years. And that’s what happens here too. Keeping with our example, the by Detmar and Gousopoulos developed Lymphactive™ complex essentially performs a general overhaul. The products available under the name IRÄYE contain five plant-based activators that renew the lymphatic structures of the skin and therefore ensure the natural repair process. And in the long term. Harmful oxidants, metabolic waste and cell debris have no chance. Studies confirm this, because IRÄYE products with the Lymphactive™ complex increase lymph activation by almost 300 percent.

One for all

There are currently three products under the IRÄYE brand that, thanks to the new active ingredient, have been proven to tighten the skin and fight cellulite. And the best thing is: all the products are suitable for all skin types and either gender. «The Shaping Body Creme» provides moisture and at the same time reduces unwanted water retention. The «Eye Revive Cream» also has the same effect, making puffy eyes and dark circles a thing of the past. And the «Radiance Firming Serum» ensures an even complexion. Fine lines and wrinkles will disappear within a few weeks after the first and then regular use.

Demonstrably better

Professor Michael Detmar and Dr Epa Gousopoulos investigated more than 2,200 plant extracts to decide on the five that would create the perfect mixture and thus the revolutionary Lymphactive™ complex mentioned. But the effort was really worth it, because around 9 out of 10 people confirm that their skin feels firmer, healthier and looks brighter as a result of using the products.

The IRÄYE brand is revolutionising skincare. All the products are suitable for all skin types and either gender.

Photos Copyrights: IRÄYE

For more than 100 years, the Boesch brand has represented unique watercraft like no other and has revolutionised the world of motorboats with its «Boesch Horizon Gliding Technology».

There are things that you have to have experienced yourself just to be able to understand them. Simply because you really felt it. One of these things is riding a Boesch boat. Thanks to the Horizon Gliding technology developed and constantly refined by the Swiss family that owns the company themselves, the ride feels as if you were floating above the water, becoming one with the horizon. This makes both relaxed tours and water skiing competitions unique experiences of their own.

Not higher, but faster

For more than 100 years, the name Boesch has represented exceptional watercraft. And innovative strength, too. After all, it is thanks to Walter Bösch that boats can cruise at such high speeds nowadays while still safely gliding through the water. Back in the 1920s, gliding boats became a trend and were something Mr Bösch knew how to construct. Still, as a trained boat constructor. Mr Bösch had a completely different idea of how a boat should move.

He really wanted a fast vehicle, something sporty. However, the hull shape of the boats at the time made this impossible, from a purely physical point of view, as they were merely displacing water. But Walter Bösch found an answer to this by taking his cue from seaplanes. At the same time, it was also clear to him that he didn’t want to build boats that pointed their noses skywards, but rather a fast boat that moved horizontally to the surface of the water. The rest is history still being written.

Both strong and beautiful, all at the same time

Today, just like in days gone by, Boesch boats are among the most innovative, but they are also among the most beautiful. Every single one is a perfect combination of wood and leather and a real powerhouse inside: the Ilmor MV8 with a 5.7 litre displacement is one of the most powerful and robust engines in the motorboat sector. Nonetheless, it can optionally be replaced in a Boesch boat by an even more powerful Ilmor MV8 engine with a 7 litre displacement.

And with regards to the instrument panel, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC is a strong partner, too. In addition to the high-quality standard equipment, individuality is a must. This means that many details are customised at the customer’s request.

Just a bit more elegance and excellence make the difference

The company itself is now run by the 4th generation, but still in the spirit of the founder. You might perhaps already have realised that the family name is Bösch, yet the company is called Boesch. This is not due to an error on our part. It was simply because another, somewhat larger company was afraid that Bösch would be confused with Bosch too quickly. But the additional «e» in the name emphasises the excellence of the boats once again. And they have rightfully earned it.

Photos Copyrights: Boesch

For people in the south of Switzerland, a good meal is the perfect combination or regional food paired with wine that was also pressed in Ticino. The traditional winery «Terreni alla Maggia» has therefore laid the perfect foundation with the new brand «Cantina alla Maggia».

Nothing goes better with polenta than a good wine. The same is true for risotto. And all three are best enjoyed in the Ticino sun. Thanks to this, the ingredients are perfectly ripened. This has regularly been part of the agenda of the «Cantina alla Maggia» winery since 1930. Today, wine, rice and corn are passionately grown on almost 100 hectares between Ascona, Locarno and the Magadino plain. The only thing that has changed now is the name. The agricultural business was once called «Terreni alla Maggia».

«With the new brand Cantina alla Maggia, we are emphasising the dedication with which we care for our vineyards and produce our wines,» says Simon V. Jenny. And the Director of the «Cantina alla Maggia», «Terreni alla Maggia» and the «Castello del Sole Beach Resort & Spa» adds: «The new appearance of the wines and especially the wine labels reflect the excellence of our wines. It is a tribute to our growth and is an expression of the quality efforts of our employees in recent years.»

Enjoy originality

The vines currently take up around 11.5 hectares of the total cultivated area, with a diverse variety of grapes. Starting with the traditional Merlot and ending with Bondola, an indigenous grape variety from Ticino, the taste portfolio is challenging. And of course the grappa should be mentioned also, three varieties are produced every year. Plus the aforementioned corn and rice production. It’s hard to know where to start sampling.

The products are sold in our own store directly in Ascona. The «Enoteca Alimentare» also offers tours, tastings and events. But it’s also worth asking in your favourite restaurant, because the products from «Cantina alla Maggia» and «Terreni alla Maggia» are in demand throughout Switzerland when it comes to fine dishes and tasty accompaniments.

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

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