Excitement is building in the run up to next month’s Audi Hamilton Island Race Week (19th-27th August 2011), Australia’s largest and most prestigious offshore yachting event. With 100 entries received to date, a new Superyacht division for motor yachts and a stellar social programme, Hamilton Island’s 28th annual regatta is set to be a runaway success.
Offshore highlights will include:
New motor Superyacht division
New entries including radical new 42-footer Grand Prix racer, ‘Q’, and the Superyacht ‘Janice of Wyoming’ , designed by prominent English superyacht specialist, Ed Dubois
Past contenders such as supermaxi ‘Loyal’ as well as five-times Rolex Sydney to Hobart winner, ‘Wild Oats XI’
Categories for top-class racers ‘Grand Prix’, an IRC Passage class for modern fast-cruising yachts, performance racing and sports boat classes. There are also cruising, corporate, bareboat and non-spinnaker divisions
Onshore highlights will include:
Audi will present Australian fashion designer Collette Dinnigan’s ‘Collette Dinnigan Cruise Collection 2011’ at Hamilton Island’s exclusive qualia resort. For the first time, Collette will also show her diffusion line ‘Collette by Collette Dinnigan’ as part of the Wild Oats Ladies Lunch to be held at the iconic Hamilton Island Yacht Club
The stylish Moet & Chandon lunch and the Audi Robert Oatley Vineyards chefs’ table dinners with celebrity Australian chefs Matt Moran from acclaimed Aria restaurant and Melbourne’s Shannon Bennett from Vue de monde
Pandora will once again host its jewellery styling workshops with top tips from Australian Harper’s BAZAAR’s fashion editors
Golf clinics with Golf Pro Craig Parry, to bring performances up to par at the new championship Hamilton Island Golf Club
On Lay Day, Wednesday 24 August, Hamilton Island’s ‘Great Barrier Reef Airport’ runway will turn into a thrilling drive test challenge devised by Audi’s motorsport champion. To win the major prize at Audi Hamilton Island Race Week, a new Audi A1, all crews must demonstrate skills both in sailing and driving with the final winner being chosen from the divisional winners and the Audi Final Drive Challenge. The winning crew will be announced at the presentation dinner on the regatta’s final day
Couples who prefer action adventures to lying on a bright white beach should definitely consider Kangaroo Island South Australia for their honeymoon. The destination is home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife that cannot be seen anywhere else in the wild including the elusive Echidna and Glossy Black Cockatoo. Venture down to Seal Bay which is home to 600 Australian Sea lions and New Zealand Fur Seals. Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours offer personalised 4WD tours of the island, taking in the beautiful scenery and native wildlife. Many of the tour guides have lived on Kangaroo island all their lives and as such have an extensive knowledge and great passion for all things Kangaroo Island! With a maximum of just 6 passengers, you are guaranteed a good view and can easily interact with your tour guide who will be happy to answer any questions you may have. There are day tours available to book but if you would prefer to tailor make your tour, your tour guide will be happy to help. For such a special occasion, we would suggest hiring the vehicle exclusively, which gives you far more flexibility.
If you are looking to add a touch of luxury to your stay, Seascape Lodge offers a fully hosted experience with stunning sea, beach and rural views from every room. The luxury hideaway, located at Emu Bay has a sense of exclusivity as it is only available to Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tour’s clients. Seascape Lodge has 3 spacious suites available which can accommodate up to 7 people per night. All rooms are of a modern and contemporary style, complete with all your home comforts. The three bedrooms boast en-suite bathrooms with pure rainwater showers, flat screen televisions and DVD players. Sitting out on the deck, guests can wonder at the stunning views of the commanding ocean, coast and rural landscape.
Your hosts, Paul and Mandy Brown welcome you into their home for home cooked cuisine, award winning Kangaroo Island wines and fantastic hospitality. The dining experience is a major aspect of the trip. The evenings are spent in the company of your hosts who prepare a 3 course dinner, made from fresh island produce. Dishes include pan fried haloumi cheese, produced at Kangaroo Island’s sheep milking dairy and locally caught fresh seafood.
With a name like One&Only, you really can’t afford to have too many properties in your portfolio, and true to the name, this luxury hotel brand feature just seven luxury spa hotels worldwide.
Dubai is the only place in the world to boast two One&Only resorts; the distinctive Royal Mirage featuring three separate accommodation wings (The Palace, Arabian Court & the Residence & Spa) and The Palm located close to the Atlantis Resort. Having visited the former I can vouch for its elegance and understated, tasteful luxury. This is a very fine place to stay, not too stuffy – it’s unmistakeably classy but not in an inaccessible way. The lawns and grounds are immaculate, the pool areas beckon you in, and the Arabian styled guest rooms are lavish in just the right measure.
The Palm is a relatively new offering, and is clearly visible across the water from the Beach Bar & Grill located at the Royal Mirage. When I visited it was in was in the final throws of completion awaiting a soft opening, but 12 months on from that its flourishing with rave reviews. No surprises there.
Leaving the Middle East for the Indian Ocean (as many honeymooners do for an ideal twin centre holiday) you will find a One&Only presence at both Mauritius and the Maldives. One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah is one of the best loved of all of their resorts, and a true favourite on dedicated luxury hotel review sites like Been, as well as Tripadvisor. Located in the North Male Atoll this multi award winning all-villa resort symbolises casual elegance to a tee. An international tennis academy, modern Japanese sushi restaurant and minimum villa size of 135 square metres are just a few of the things you can expect to enjoy whilst here.
Their highly coveted offering in Mauritius is equally as impressive, the slightly larger, French styled Le Saint Géran which features 175 rooms and suites set in a 60 acre site on the east coast of the island. A dedicated kite surfing centre, an Alain Ducasse acclaimed 3 Michelin starred restaurant, and a Gary Player designed golf course are key elements of this fine escape.
That leaves three hotels to tell you about, the newest of which I shall leave until last. If anyone has seen the movie Casino Royale, you will have also seen the One&Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas which was featured for filming of this hugely successful British film. An outstanding address in the Bahamas, Ocean Club is set on perfectly manicured grounds which overlook the stunning golden sand beach and sparkling Atlantic Ocean from an enviable position. Bond checks into an Ocean View Suite here, but he spends too much time playing poker and not enough time exploring the Balinese spa concept, pools and water sports of this luxury retreat.
A resort that should rank highly on anybody’s list of ’must visits’ is Palmilla at Los Cabos in Mexico. All the charm and attraction of Mexico combined with the ambiance of an O&O resort makes for an intriguing combination. Highlights here include the Charlie Trotter restaurant C and the Jack Nicklaus designed golf course which features breath taking ocean vistas and no less than 27 holes. There’s also a romantic chapel for weddings and events.
The portfolio is completed in South Africa at One&Only Cape Town, a marvellous city hotel graced by Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Restaurant and the largest rooms and suites to be found in the ‘Mother City’. All rooms look out to the harbour and Table Mountain and guests must try to take a trip to the Spa Island for a massage with a difference. By night you can sample some of the finest wines of the country in the 5,000 bottle Wine Loft which acts as a Sommelier led walk in wine list for guests dining at Maze.
To summise, each of One&Only’s seven hotels are uniquely different, embodying facets of the culture of their location, whilst being underpinned by seemingly effortless service, tasteful decor and resounding helping of style with substance.
Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.
The Maldives is an island in the Indian Ocean; it is located to the south of the Lakshadweep islands. The country is a made of a group of 1,192 islands, of which 200 are inhabited. The area is famous for its hot weather, sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Due to its perfect weather many people from the west visit the island for their honeymoons. We have taken the time to pick out the top must-see places in the Maldives:
Male
The country’s capital Male is the heart of all of the areas commercial activity. Approximately one third of the country’s population lives in the capital city and many more commute to the area to work. The area is filled with great architecture including elegant mosques, parks and the grand National Museum. The National Museum is a local landmark and the relic of the previous Sultan’s Palace.
Seenu Atoll
The area is known as the “second city” of the Maldives. With 25 great diving locations located the island is perfect for those that love to see great reefs and underwater mammals including the manta ray, green turtles and lobsters.
Naifaru
Naifaru is one of the most romantic islands in the country and perfect for honeymooners. The white beaches and vibrant blue sea make it a heavenly location to relax with a loved one. If you visit the island we suggest you explore the sand mountains area during one of your days. Located through the mountains is also a selection of shopping malls, allowing you to indulge in fashion while on your trip.
Penang has a reputation for being a food lover’s paradise. Really? I’ve looked hard but very rarely seen it, and that’s despite being a nomadic gourmet who likes to try all kinds of new things. I’m always on the lookout for exceptional places which provide an oasis from the usual fare. And I have just found one!
I’m delighted to share my good fortune with you, our luxury travel readers. It’s That Little Wine Bar in George Town, Penang. The wine bar is tucked down a side-street a little way out from the old town, so it’s unlikely you’ll find this place unless you go looking for it. Of course, once you know where to look, it’s very easy to find and only a short taxi ride from any George Town hotel.
This European-style boutique wine bar and lounge provides excellent wines and delicious food in a very comfortable and relaxed environment. It’s a relatively new place and is run by Louise, front of house, and Chef Tommes, who together with their very able and friendly staff have created a congenial atmosphere in which to enjoy good food and wine. The wine bar is consistently receiving great reviews on Trip Advisor, which was another reason why I was so keen to try the place.
After being greeted at the door by Louise and seated inside at a large comfortable table, we started off with a friendly conversation about wine. Louise is an enthusiast and an expert and we are certainly enthusiastic about wine too. We like a nice crisp dry white wine (perhaps typically a New World Sauvignon Blanc). Louise asked our opinions on Chardonnay and we said that we had gone off it some time ago when over-oaked, flabby Australian and Californian Chardonnays had become so prevalent everywhere. She suggested we could try a Chardonnay which would maybe entice us back to the grape. We were very willing to try.
We were impressed! The wine was excellent and definitely not over-oaked, crisp and dry, and we now think Chardonnay may well make a comeback, just as Louise predicts. The wine in question was Austrian, a Chardonnay from Claus Preisinger’s biodynamic vineyard. (I wasn’t sure what biodynamic farming was, so I looked it up. Apparently it’s similar to organic farming, but goes one stage further by actively replenishing the soil’s fertility.)
Rather than order a more formal three-course meal each, we expressed an interest in trying things by sharing our plates. Louise and Tommes were happy to oblige us. We started with mushroom soup, which was described as being a light soup, and it certainly made a change from the mushroom cappuccino which seems to have become so popular. The soup was light, in as much as it was a clear broth rather than a creamed soup, but it was bursting with flavour and had plenty of mushrooms in it and a subtle taste of Parmesan and herbs. I spotted about five different kinds of mushrooms in there, including slices of those big eryngii mushrooms and plenty of enoki too. It was really very good.
Next we tried the seared tuna, with black and white sesame seeds, which was absolutely delicious. It came beautifully presented, with little jasmine flowers, which apparently are edible. Lovely! The tuna was placed atop thin, thin disks of daikon radish, which added an interesting complexity, and a ginger-based sauce. We were supposed to be sharing but I must confess I rather took the lion’s share of this one.
Next up came black cod, beautifully cooked, with Pommery sauce, which was a fairly delicate mushroom sauce. We loved it. It was accompanied by cauliflower purée and vegetables, and the pea sprouts round the edges perfectly set it off. The flavours were subtle and the fish was fantastically moist. This was truly fish cookery at its absolute best.
By this time, we had moved on to red wine – a 2004 Madiran. Ooh! Seriously good with so many flavours going on in there. The Madiran vineyard’s been producing wine since the fourth century BC, so they’ve had plenty of time to perfect it.
Then we had a superb piece of crusted beef tenderloin, with Mushrooms Royale, special mash and a red wine sauce. It was so perfectly cooked, I can hardly do justice to it with words. Chef Tommes, as well as being amiable and informative, is one of the most talented chefs whose food we’ve had the privilege to eat.
For dessert we had filo apple parcels with macadamia ice-cream and whipped cream. It was gorgeous with a nice hint of cinnamon in the apples, and despite it being pastry, ice cream, and whipped cream, it was surprisingly very light.
If this has whetted your appetite you can find That Little Wine Bar’s menu online, as well as their extensive and fascinating wine list. In addition to their usual menu, they also hold regular wine tastings, food and wine pairings, and fine dining events. There are also two private dining rooms, each with their own private balconies, for parties of 10-12 people. The private dining rooms offer a more extensive and refined bistro menu.
We had a wonderful evening and I’d recommend this place to any luxury traveller who is looking for something a bit more special than the usual culinary offerings of Penang.
So, next time you’re in Penang and looking for something delightfully different, head on over to That Little Wine Bar. You’re in for a gourmet treat!
Africa is home to the finest safaris in the world, and this is reflected in the quality of the resorts on offer. A safari holiday can be done on a budget, but for the ultimate in indulgence, you should stay in some of the best resorts Africa has to offer. This is a list showing 3 of the finest, and it may provide food for thought if you thought an African safari was about staying in tents in the wilderness.
3. Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve – Botswana
Botswana is uniquely situated in Africa between the Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta, positioning it perfectly for a vast array of wildlife and culture. Botswana offers some of the most luxurious safari experiences available, and there are a good number of luxury retreats across the country. Chief’s Island is home to some of the nicest private lodges you will find. With spacious living areas and beautiful bedrooms, you will have a tranquil and comfortable base while you aren’t exploring the reserves. The hotel is situated in the Moremi Game Reserve which is known to be the ‘predator capital’ of Africa, so is perfectly suited for a high end safari holiday. The lodge also offers a swimming pool and a range of spa treatments if you want to really treat yourself.
Taking a safari in Lamu is a quieter affair than to some of the better known African countries, but this doesn’t mean they can’t provide luxury. Manda Bay is a fabulous private resort offering 10 cottages with en-suite facilities. Situated among coral gardens and woodland, Manda Bay feels secluded, which is exactly what you want when you are resting in the cool of the tamarind and coconut trees. The resort offers plenty for all the family, including private boat trips, deep sea fishing and of course safari excursions. Manda Bay is graced by white, unspoilt beaches and a pure blue sea where you can dine under the stars and enjoy the finer things life has to offer.
Funzi Keys offers pure, unadulterated luxury on the Coast of Kenya. The resort offers unparalelled hospitality and gardens of paradise surrounding its remote location. The idyllic beachfront private cabins come complete with king-size four poster beds, jacuzzis, and of course a picturesque view. The heart of the resort has a restaurant and bar offering the finest in local food and freshly caught fish. The onsite concierges can arrange water sports or excursions at your convenience, so you can enjoy a private safari. Kenya is known for having the most diverse array of wildlife in Africa, and this place proves that Kenya can also be all about luxury.
If a week or two doesn’t seem long enough, Funzi Keys even has a private island for sale; if you’d like to indulge yourself in paradise all year round.
Peter Richards is a Digital Marketing Manager at Tropical Sky.
I recently took some of our sales staff to Mauritius for an annual educational visit and our group were captivated by an amazing experience that apparently can only be encountered in three places in the world.
Our team of intrepid travel advisors were treated to the thrill of walking with lions at Casela Nature Park. These beautiful, fearsome creatures closely interacted with our team allowing us to stroke and photograph them giving us memories and mementos to treasure forever. We were also able to meet Bengal and white tigers, plus a very playful cheetah.
Whilst being a little apprehensive about the conditions these magnificent imposing creatures are kept in, the group were pleasantly surprised to find them in very good health and visually enjoying life. These cats we met were around 13 months old but to the untrained eye looked almost fully grown and the experienced rangers who escorted our team had a genuine affection for them which was seemingly reciprocated by the cats.
The group were then reliably informed that the park is currently finishing a large reserve for the cats to be released into once they are fully matured and that this area will become a game reserve where they will spend the rest of their lives. Guests to the park will be able to then enjoy Jeep safaris and more animals are expected to be introduced as well.
There is a photographer who will escort you during your visit and will take photos as well as recording a DVD so you don’t need to miss out on anything. But worry not as visitors are welcome to take their own photos as well.
My thoughts on the trip are difficult to put into words. It’s not easy to summarise the feeling of being so close to these creatures, I certainly felt privileged and they seemingly took to humans having a walk with them as a regular everyday occurrence making the whole experience slightly surreal. In a good way though – I’d certainly recommend anyone visiting Mauritius to make a beeline to walk with the lions as we did.
Our park ranger was very informative and detailed everything about the ethos surrounding the set up of Casela Nature Park. The park featured a petting farm and other activities like quad and mountain biking as well as rock climbing, photo safaris with deer and zip lining – so there’s lots to justify a full day trip.
The cost is surprisingly reasonable for what is essentially a once in a life time opportunity with prices starting at £50 per person for a 45 minute walk. At the time we visited there was a chap who was so enamoured by the experience that he went every day of his holidays to see and walk with the lions.
Like with everywhere in Mauritius no matter where you are staying, the park is accessible due to the size of the island, but Casela is situated especially close to Anahita the Resort, Long Beach and Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa.
Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.
1. Club 55 – the classic place to sip Champagne and enjoy a long lunch.
2. Brigitte Bardot exhibition – visit from 23rd June to 31st October 2011.
3. Nikki Beach – perfect to people watch and lounge in the sun.
4. & 5. Wine tours – visit Chateau Minuty vineyard in the harbour for an aperitif, watch the yachts come into moor, then head to its’ sister restaurant Grand Joseph for dinner in one of St Tropez hot spot restaurants.
6. Marineland – great fun for all the family, try swimming with the dolphins or a VIP dinner and evening show.
7. Hire a boat – arrive at the beach in style or just to avoid the traffic.
8. Visit the ‘Le Musée de l’Annonciade‘ - a collection of avant garde paintings ranging from the 1890 to 1950.
9. Le Lagon – perfect for a lazy lunch, try their signature salad: king prawns, pink grapefruit and avocado – it is stunning.
10. St Tropez market – soak up the local atmosphere every Tuesday and Saturday morning.
Nothing can match the joy of going on a trip to France. The options you have here for dining, drinking and sight-seeing are simply magnificent. One French destination where you can be sure of having a great holiday is Bordeaux, one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Here are some activities to engage in and options to explore when you visit this city:
Wining and dining in Bordeaux
As the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux has numerous restaurants and bars with cellars and wine lists featuring products from the best wineries. You will get to taste the local produce, which will have you going back for more. With over 116,150 hectares of vineyards and 10,000 châteaux that produce wine, any wine you drink here is likely to come from one of the 960 million bottles produced in Bordeaux every year.
You can choose from everyday wines or expensive wines – red, white, or any other variety you prefer that the bars and restaurants feature here. The city also has numerous cafes where you can relax after a few hours of shopping. Visit the restaurants that use organic produce to prepare their delicious fares. If you are a wine connoisseur, you should opt for a location close to a wine-producing chateaux or vineyards, so you can visit whenever you feel like it.
Shopping and arts in Bordeaux
Bordeaux has numerous shopping locations. Whether you want to pick a designer dress from one of the high-end stores in the city, or a curio from a local store, you will have plenty of options. Rue Sainte-Catherine is a 1.2 kilometre long stretch from where you can shop for small, inexpensive French artefacts, and Place de Comedie is a great location from where you can pick chic items. Bordeaux has a love of arts which is evidenced by the numerous museums that exhibit royalist souvenirs, paintings, tapestry art and much more.
Andy Butler is the Online Marketing Manager at Burger Davis.
Vertu, a manufacturer of luxury mobile phones, has announced further details of its enhanced concierge service. Designed to be the perfect companion for the luxury traveller, they now have three levels of concierge at the touch of a button.
Firstly their Concierge Classic service provides the customer with round the clock access to a team of lifestyle managers. Vertu Concierge Dedicated provides the user with a dedicated lifestyle manager and nominated support team, and finally the newest addition Vertu Concierge Ultimate. This service is tailored to each customer and may range from assistance with a one off project to provision of a full time personal assistant for a designated period of time.
As well as the updated services Vertu has also increased the number of their City Briefs. Not unlike a typical guide book, the city briefs are detailed reviews of the latest restaurants, bars, museums and much more in almost all major cities. Where this service differs is the speed at which they are updated many guide books feature the most ‘hip’ restaurant of the time but by the time of printing usually the scene has passed on. Vertu with the help of their Brand Ambassadors ensures their customers are the first to hear of any new happenings. Most recently singer/songwriter Seal has added his views to London, New York, Paris, Aspen and many more.
Seal recommendations for fantastic food with a view include Montagna at the Little Nell offering breathtaking views of Aspen Mountain and Imago at the Hassler Hotel for panoramic views of Rome.
I was sent down to London recently on a two day conference and tasked with finding a reasonably priced hotel close to where I was working and also finding somewhere to eat at night that wouldn’t break the bank.
After several fruitless online searches I reserved a room at a small B&B by the name of Regency Hotel located at Nottingham Place just a stone’s throw from Baker Street and the shops and bars of Marylebone High Street. It proved to be a good little find.
I was in the territory of Holmes and Watson, but thankfully there were no hounds on this particular visit.
An immaculate collection of three storey townhouses lined the street and the Regency occupied one of these. Whilst certainly not being what you’d call luxurious, the hotel provided me with a clean, comfortable and soundly located base for me to attend my conferences whilst offering a bounty of choice in terms of places to dine at night.
Now, when you are dining alone you don’t always fancy doing anything too flouncy. I didn’t want to go into a restaurant with couples and sit at a table by myself to eat. I told myself I wanted a nice pint of real ale and a hearty meal to accompany. But first I needed to check out some of the pubs and build up my appetite.
First port of call was dropping in at the Prince Regent, a pub that I could tell from the outside I’d like just by looking at it. Its hanging baskets and dark panel beamed exterior opened onto a smallish pub with ’snug’ and old style ladies ‘opium room’. A good start, I thought.
After sampling the London Pride I quizzed a local on good places to dine expecting him to come back with the nearby Italian restaurant or Indian across the road that I’d spied on the walk from the hotel. Far from it. ‘Head to The Gunmakers‘ I was told, because ‘the food there is amazing’ and with that ringing endorsement I finished my drink and wandered back outside.
Next stop was The Marylebone, a slightly more upmarket pub but this time busier and frequented by young professionals who’d just finished their working day. A nice environment for a quick drink and I walked on, taking a detour up a side street to look in the window of a deli whose aromas had grabbed my attention.
Glancing across the road I spotted The Gunmakers, it was fate! So I headed over there to find a cosy pub with original features, a good range of ales, wines and spirits and live cricket being screened on the televisions. I was in hogs heaven.
The menu seemed to revel in London charm, featuring such delights as pie and mash with ‘liquor’, and beer battered cod with ‘real English chips’. I plumped for the homemade burger and when it arrived it not only looked amazing but the flavours were sensational, a beautiful blend of spices, herbs and succulent beef. I don’t do burgers often, but when I do, this is what they should taste like.
Simple pleasures are what define us as Englishmen and women. Now, you might read through this and think, ‘hang on, you’ve done a blog about going to London, staying in a B&B, going to a few pubs and having a burger’ and you’d be right. Well yes, that’s exactly what I’ve done… but remember this, luxury comes in all different shapes and sizes, and can often creep up on you when you least expect it.
Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology.
Many of you will be aware that Google’s answer to Facebook is very much doing the rounds. It’s still earlier days but I have an account on there so, if you’d like to add me, please do so. You’ll find me at http://gplus.to/luxurytravel
Also, if any of you don’t yet have a Google+ account but would like one, send in your email address via the contact page and I’ll send you an invitation.
We have just returned from an utterly unique and memorable stay on the remote Scottish island of Jura. Our first glimpse of the island and its three Paps was just before touching down on our flight from Glasgow to Islay. From there, it was a short drive and a ferry crossing before reaching Jura.
We were blessed with weather not usually associated with Scotland but, for the week we have been away, we have enjoyed glorious sunshine and blue skies more reminiscent of a holiday in the Mediterranean than the west coast of Scotland. Furthermore, we had the privilege of staying in the beautifully stylish Jura Lodge, next door to the Isle of Jura Distillery in Craighouse.
The moment we arrived on the island, after the 5-minute ferry crossing from Port Askaig to Feolin, we were greeted by three red deer peering down upon us as we travelled along what must surely be the UK’s bumpiest A-road.
After a short drive along this single track, we reached the island’s only significant settlement of Craighouse, home to the island’s one shop, one distillery, one hotel (and pub/campsite/petrol station) and one very unique lodge.
Jura Lodge is lavishly adorned with antlers on the walls and with various quirks, from the unlucky 13th step to the wooden seagull in one of the bedrooms that, if you rub it, will bring you luck for the duration of your stay. And, if that wasn’t enough, there’s also Archie, the resident suit of armour in the living area, and purportedly a ghost underneath the farmhouse dining table in the kitchen. In short, the accommodation is perfectly in keeping with the island.
On the first floor of the accommodation there are four double bedrooms, all en suite. The master bedroom offers beautiful views over the bay at Craighouse, as do the two living areas on the second floor above. From here you can marvel at the ever-changing colours over the sea as the sun rises or sets.
Most views from the property look out over Craighouse, its jetty and towards a cluster of islands in the Souind of Jura known collectively as the Small Isles.
On our arrival, after a warm welcome from Catriona, we were thoughtfully provided with all the basics we might initially need, from bread and milk, to a basket of fruit, bottles of wine, Jura whisky and breakfast for the next morning (the breakfast, not the wine and whisky). Housekeeping are at your beck and call should you need them. You can arrange a daily housekeeping service or request special deliveries of fresh seafood or seasonal game – the kind of service that goes above and beyond what you might normally expect from self-catering.
Jura Lodge would serve as an ideal getaway for writers seeking inspiration. Indeed, it was on Jura that George Orwell wrote the classic novel 1984. And the Jura Whisky Writers’ Retreat progamme devised by the Scottish Book Trust with the help of the Jura Distillery has built on that heritage with the publication of ‘Spirit of Jura‘, a compilation of fiction, essays and poems from Jura Lodge.
As well as writers Jura is also a haven for walkers and lovers of wildlife. The three Paps are arguably Jura’s most significant features and are a challenge even to experienced walkers. Those looking for something less arduous could take on the Evans Walk (as we did) or the 15-mile circular walk to a viewpoint for Corryvreckan, the third largest whirlpool in the world, and where Orwell once nearly drowned.
As far as fauna is concerned, deer outnumber people by approximately 30 to 1 on Jura, and seals, otters and other wildlife are all plentiful. The island is also home to golden eagles, sea eagles, buzzards and other bird life, making it and the neighbouring island of Islay something of a birdwatchers’ paradise.
Families with young children will expecially enjoy exploring Jura’s many beaches. Even the adults will, too, particularly at the remote community of Inverlussa at the far end of the road where ‘Tea on the Beach’ is served by a local resident via a walkie-talkie system.
Jura is one of those places that has to be experienced in order for it to be truly appreciated. It is also one of those magical places that, once visited, you are never likely to forget. And the ultimate place to stay on the island is of course Jura Lodge. Stays at the lodge are available from £2,500 per night, with a minimum stay of three nights.
While basking in the sun is undoubtedly relaxing, today’s smart sunbathers understand the dangers associated with the sun’s rays. But rather than smothering sunscreen all over your body, what if there was an easier way to protect yourself on a warm-weather vacation?
Look no further than Mott 50, a stylish new clothing collection that absorbs the sun’s rays before they reach your skin. The brand boasts a full range of skirts, tees, polos, tunics dresses, pants and jackets for women, t-shirts and polos for men, and a range of hats for both sexes. What’s even better? A percentage of proceeds from the protective skincare line is donated to cancer research. Talk about the perfect pieces to pack for a beach vacation! Prices range from $35-$145.
Most people go on holiday for rest. However, there is a group of tourists who do not seek rest, but thrills on their holiday. This type of person seeks a large injection of adrenalin, of which bungee jumping provides probably the biggest dosage of any sporting activity.
Bungee jumping is the kind of activity that needs a little courage. It also helps if you are a little loopy. It probably comes the nearest to staring death in the face of one’s own volition, albeit within a certain safety margin. Bungee jumping may have started out with jumping from bridges or cranes but these days it is so much more than that.
Although bungee jumping had started with native Aztecs in Mexico and natives in Papua New Guinea and other places, the first modern bungee jumpers in the western world were five colleagues from the Oxford University Extreme Sports Club who jumped from Clifton Suspension Bridge in April 1979. The sport was developed commercially since then by the New Zealander AJ Hackett, who has developed a number of sites around the world.
Bungee jumping is now a whole new experience. The locations have become ever more special and unique. The views can be spectacular, and people will travel ever longer distances to partake of this activity. You may have decided that you will jump, but have you ever thought about the distances you might jump from? Some of the distances are well over 100 metres high, with the highest being 321 metres high in Colorado, in the United States.
One of the most spectacular sites is in Queenstown in New Zealand at the Nevis Highwire Bungee. The jump site can only be reached by cable car and is set between two hills at 134 metres. The jump canyon is wide at the top but narrows considerably at the bottom, making for a breathtaking site. It is a pretty awesome sight to risk one’s life.
Another recommended site is the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge in Canon City in Colorado. This bungee jump is on the highest suspension bridge in the world at 321 metres high above the Arkansas River. However bungee jumping only takes place once a year during the time of the Go Fast Games. Jumpers have to walk out across the wooden boards to the jump site with the sheer drop below staring you in the face. The views all around are splendid with the stunning combination of the river and the canyon.
Another stunning location for bungee jumping is the Colorado River Bridge, in Costa Rica. The bridge stands 81 metres high and stands around a tropical rainforest of vast dimensions. The views of the rainforest before jumping are amazing, which adds to the overall experience.
Verzasca Dam in Switzerland became very popular since James Bond jumped here in the film Golden Eye. The jump is one of the highest at 220 metres, and is a real test of nerves.
A supreme test of nerves is also required at the Volcano Bungee in Pucon, Chile. This is because this involves jumping about 105 metres from a helicopter into the mouth of an active volcano. You fall within 200 metres of the molten lava, bubbling within the volcano. You can feel the heat of the volcano as you dangle below the helicopter, and you continue to dangle below the helicopter until it returns to base over 35 miles away.
So if you fancy a big dose of adrenalin, choose your site for Bungee jumping carefully. The locations can be mouth watering, the jump stupendous, the buzz incredible, and you can almost fly yourself home!!
Portugal has established itself in recent years as a luxury destination for travellers, with a wealth of luxury hotels, golf courses and exclusive beach resorts. Combined with quaint villages, wine estates, historical monuments, castles and palaces, you have the perfect destination for a luxury driving tour.
The Bohemian city of Lisbon, the oldest city in Europe is a good starting point. Arabic and European influences have created a beautiful city that displays its history and culture with pride. The golden age of Lisbon, when the first Portuguese explorers –Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, Prince Henry the Navigator began to trade in exotic products from India and the Far East, elevated Portugal into the wealthiest nation on earth. Lisbon still displays evidence of its grand history in the Belem Royal Palace, the magnificent Jeronimo’s Monastery, and the priceless treasures of the Gulbenkian Museum. The city is home to some of the wealthiest people in Europe, and sophisticated theatres, cafes, bookshops, and antique jewellery stores can be found in the elegant district of Chiado, which sits to the west of central Lisbon.
The delights of Portugal don’t end in here however, and it is possible to hire a luxury car in Lisbon and head north to discover the beautiful countryside, with incredible towns, roman ruins, medieval castles and palaces in an area rich with Portuguese history. This region is also well known for its wines and gastronomy and is home to the ‘Vinho Verde’, as well as to the world-famous Port wine.
Sintra
(30km north from Lisbon)
This town was once popular as the summer residence of Portuguese kings and aristocrats and boasts the wonderful Palacio Nacional de Sintra, the Palacio da Pena and the Palacio de Monserrate. The luscious hills which surround the town offer the visitor wonderful views of its’ magical castles and historic mansions.
Obidos
(80km north of Lisbon)
The medieval town of Obidos, once the wedding present of the Queen is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, which lead you up to the castle that sits atop this walled city. The Moorish influence of this town can be see in the shining towns white buildings that have changed little over the centuries.
Alcobaca
(124km north of Lisbon)
In the foundation of Portugal, the King donated the land to the Cistercian monks. Here they built the simplest yet most spectacular building in Portugal, the 12th Century Monastery of Alcobaça, which today is a world heritage site and has a magnificent untouched beauty.
Conimbriga
(175km from Lisbon)
The largest Roman settlement in Portugal is one of Europe’s great archaeological discoveries. Conimbriga dates back to the first Iron Age in the 9th Century B.C. The Romans arrived in the 2nd Century A.D., conquering the Celtic inhabitants and establishing a city that grew and flourished. On display are examples of early Roman architecture, with bases of columns, fountains, paving stones and mosaics that are in near perfect condition.
Porto
(194km north of Lisbon)
Portugal’s second largest city, also known as Oporto, is gloriously located on a steep hillside above the River Douro. Visit the Cais da Ribeira, the quayside of the fascinating Ribeira district, where some of the city’s most beautiful monuments include the opulent 19th Century Stock Exchange, the cathedral and Bishop’s Palace. Drive out to the bustling suburb of Vila Nova de Gaia, which lies on the opposite side of the Douro River, and take a tour of one of the many Port wine lodges, followed of course by wine tasting.
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Most people go on holiday for rest. However, there is a group of tourists who do not seek rest, but thrills on their holiday. This type of person seeks a large injection of adrenalin, of which bungee jumping provides probably the biggest dosage of any sporting activity.
Portugal has established itself in recent years as a luxury destination for travellers, with a wealth of luxury hotels, golf courses and exclusive beach resorts. Combined with quaint villages, wine estates, historical monuments, castles and palaces, you have the perfect destination for a luxury driving tour.