Category Archives: Hotels

From the greeting you receive when you walk through the door to the pillow you lay your head on at night, our team of expert trip designers take special pride in selecting the best hotels for your vacation. We’ve spent years researching the ins and outs of every place worth visiting, but once in a while even we are surprised by exceptional quality of accommodations found in far-flung corners of the Earth.

 

 
 

 

Our Hotel Of The Year award is designed to highlight those properties that set the bar a little higher. This year’s winners, La Plaça de Madremanya and h2 Hotel, redefine charm and exceed every expectation of hospitality. Savor the rich flavors, lavish in picturesque views, and cherish every minute of well-earned relaxation because it doesn’t get much better than this.
 
 

 
 

Hotel La Plaça de Madremanya
Costa Brava

Situated halfway between the hinterland of Girona and the neighboring Empordà district is a small paradise of gentle hills, with the village of Madremanya at its heart. Positioned on a hilltop and crafted exclusively from honey-colored stone, the village has an Italian look to it. It is here, with meandering streets and Spanish sunshine, that time truly stands still.

The jewel at the heart of it all is the Hotel La Plaça de Madremanya. Somewhere off the grid of any map, between decadent meals and exemplary service, is a place that cannot be forgotten. Surrounded by a sweet-smelling garden and looking out over the green Gavarres Mountains, the setting is nothing if not extraordinary. So celebrate you must, among friends old and new, as the sun sets on another day in this sweet Spanish paradise.
 

h2Hotel
California Wine Country

From an undulating roof alive with succulents to ripples on the creek by its feet, h2hotel is rooted in nature and fluid by design. Its light-flooded space makes you want to stay. Espresso with your check in? Cocktail with your keys? Just step up to the multitasking Receptobar or join the crowd at Spoonbar for modern Mediterranean nibbles and an artisanal cocktail.

Striped bamboo floors, funky Peace Industry rugs and local art draw you in. Chef Louis Maldonado’s earthy favorites and unexpected flavors leave you wanting more. Mostly, though, it’s the vibrant energy of people enjoying what’s become the gathering hub for Healdsburg. It is a place where happiness comes easily and adventure is just waiting to be had.
 
 

 
 

“The Lesic Dimitri Palace was not only one of the most memorable hotels I have ever stayed in, but also one of the most luxurious. With each residence having a different theme based on Marco Polo’s journey along the Silk Road, we had a blast showing each other our meticulously-designed spaces.”

– Lindsay Juley, Travel Coordinator at Trek Travel

 

 
 
The Lešić Dimitri Palace stands within the heart of the old town of Korčula, with a refined elegance that represents the rich history and culture of its destination. Celebrating the marriage between old and new, this boutique property has just five unique and spacious suites. They were designed by an Asian-Croatian team of architects and interior designers and inspired by Korčula’s famous resident, Marco Polo, and his travels along the Silk Road. Now restored and adapted as a first-class hotel, the buildings of the Lešić-Dimitri Palace originally evolved as part of Korčula’s medieval urban matrix.

Towards the end of the seventeenth century, the aristocratic Lešić family, local landowners prominent in trade and commerce in Korčula, began to acquire a number of contiguous properties in town in order to create a prestigious urban residence. By systematically merging six buildings that lay in two back-to-back rows, the basis for a prestigious urban palace was obtained. The separate properties date back to the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, and three more floor levels were later added to accommodate the family’s needs and reflect its significant social position. While the simple forms of these late medieval cottages have substantially survived to the present, the Palace itself displays the more sophisticated revisions and decorative detail characteristic of the later eighteenth century.
 
 

 
 
By the time of Napoleonic rule in the early nineteenth century, the buildings were suffering neglect. Ill-suited to the needs of more modest family living, the buildings were put to public use. For a period, part of the property was leased as a school, while part was given over to occupation by a large number of tenants. Finally, the Palace stood empty. It’s future was unsure. Soundly constructed and secure, the buildings’ structural masonry did not suffer from this abandonment. Timber elements were less fortunate and without proper maintenance roofing spars, floor and ceiling beams, windows and doors were all considerably damaged. The old cottage properties were left roofless and the space within their walls was used for a long time as a garden.

From this depressing and uncertain state the Lešić-Dimitri Palace was rescued in 2000 when the complex was purchased by a new owner. By 2008, following a necessarily prolonged period of painstaking survey work, archival research, architectural intervention and high quality craftsmanship, the restoration and adaptation of the Palace was largely complete. Not only do the buildings now provide tourist accommodation of the highest category, but an important part of Korčula’s unique urban fabric has been secured to be enjoyed by Korčulani and visitors alike. In developing this new residential accommodation, the existing spatial organization of the Palace has been stringently respected. Each floor is a single large apartment, lavishly appointed with everything needed for relaxed modern living. The cottages are being adapted to house a restaurant, bar and health spa.
 
 

 
 
The restoration of the Palace maintains the building’s historical detail. Existing structural masonry and ornamental stonework are harmonious with more contemporary elements. And while the historic townscape scale continues to be respected, smooth rendered walls subtly but clearly differentiate the old from the new.
 
 

 
 
STAY AT LESIC-DIMITRI PALACE ON TREK TRAVEL’S CROATIA BIKE TOUR»

For the lovers of luxury who want to sip wine off the Mediterranean coast or lounge in Europe’s finest hotels, we’ve got great news. In addition to posh lodging and choice amenities, these five hotels also offer world-class spas perfect for treating yourself or your loved one to the ultimate relaxation experience. They’re so indulgent, you may feel guilty. But don’t. We both know you deserve it.

1. Les Sources de Caudalie: Bordeaux

In perfect harmony with the surrounding vineyards, Caudalie’s distinctive style blends wood and stone materials inside an old tobacco kiln to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The exclusive wellbeing treatments at this Vinothérapie Spa are based on vine and grape-based extracts and natural hot spring water rich in minerals.

Signature Treatment: Crushed Cabernet Scrub
The most popular treatment from the Vinothérapie Spa, this scrub is developed with a base of grape-seed, honey, brown sugar and essential oils, and designed to regain your skin’s radiance and softness.

2. Jumeriah Port Soller Hotel and Spa: Mallorca Luxury

With its abundant sun, sea, nature and culture, Mallorca is an ideal place to escape to for a rejuvenating break. Offering a new generation of spa treatments, the Talise Spa uses natural ingredients such as citrus, almonds and olive oil that will transport you to a serene state of mind and body.

Signature Treatment: Talise Signature Massage
This exclusive therapeutic massage uses a variety of techniques from the best treatments in the world. A unique combination of pressure points and a massage sequence using healing oils enhance this unforgettable experience.

3. Lešić Dimitri Palace: Croatia and Dalmatian Coast

Set in the midst of an ancient city, an exotic experience awaits you at the Lešić Dimitri Spa. Blending cultures and techniques from along the Silk Road, indulge in the therapeutic benefits of spa therapies offered by the palace’s Thai therapists who are trained to world-class standards in a country with centuries’ worth of spa tradition.

Signature Treatment: Thai Traditional Massage
A therapeutic treatment developed to promote energy, stimulate the nervous system and support the development of the body, mind and spirit. The stimulating hand massage combines with stretching to improve circulation and energy.

4. La Coquillade: Provence Luxury

Located in the heart of Luberon Natural Park, the Coquillade Spa is the ideal space to fully recharge, increase your energy levels and restore your equilibrium. The comprehensive treatment program–including an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, relaxation room, fitness area, and salon–allows you to find something that suits your needs.

Signature Treatment: Signature Face and Body Care
This all-inclusive treatment allows you to personalize your experience with a bath, scrub or wrap of your choice. Embark on a comprehensive wellness experience unlike any other, including a massage and facial treatment.

5. Alentejo Marmòris Hotel And Spa: Portugal

Implanted in an ancient olive oil mill and dug in a quarry, entering in the Stone Spa is an unforgettable experience. The beauty of the marble that adorns its original walls transport you to another place as your enjoy the amenities and genuine hospitality offered at this Small Luxury Hotel of the World.

Signature Treatment: Marble Stone Massage
Developed by the Stone Spa team, this deep tissue massage was designed for lovers of vigorous massage. It is the fusion of Eastern wisdom and contemporary therapies combining various massage techniques, stretches and digit pressure.

Madison’s most celebrated boutique hotel, The Mansion Hill Inn is renowned for its signature blend of intuitive service and warmly sophisticated design. For 160 years, the Mansion Hill Inn has been host to travelers from around the world and is today a chance to experience a glimmering time past. Discover our favorite Midwestern retreat when you join us for your personalized Project One experience.
 

In 1857, Alexander A. McDonnell bought a small wood lot on one of the most prominent hills in Madison. The town was nearly twenty years old by that point, and the fledgling state of Wisconsin was experiencing such a boom that the old Capitol building had been outgrown. McDonnell was the contractor for a new Capitol building and the lot he selected on what was known as Big Bug Hill was a short walk from the construction site. McDonnell hired the architect August Kutzboch, a German émigré who was renowned as one of the premier architects in Madison along with his partner Samuel Donnell. Together the two men built what McDonnell termed “the best house money could buy.”

The German Romanesque Revival building, considered by some to be the finest of its type in the country, includes wrought iron from the balconies to buttresses and arched windows. Inside the 9,000 square foot Madison hotel is a four-story, oval-shaped mahogany spiral staircase leading to a belvedere. Light passes into the marble foyer through etched Venetian glass windows. Originally, there were oil-painted wall designs.

The hotel’s days as a single-family residence ended at the turn-of-the-century. It then became a fashionable boarding house run by Carrie Pierce, where some of Madison’s most notable citizens lived. In the 1930’s, well after boarding houses fell out of favor, the building was converted into apartments, a condition that persisted until 1983, when the Alexander Company purchased the Inn, transforming it into a boutique hotel.
 
 

 
 
For over twenty years, the Mansion Hill Inn lived up to the ideals set forth by all those whom invested so much time, effort, and money into this house. In March 2008, the Mansion Hill Inn was purchased by Trek Bicycle and Trek Hospitality. At that point, Trek embarked on an extensive renovation project that sought to update the hotel’s amenities and preserve the home’s history. Each of the ten charming rooms has been restored, highlighting the property’s historical charm. Trek sought to expand the amenities available by preserving the hotel’s classic parlor and creating a majestic bar for entertaining. The house has been furnished with elegant pieces and state of the art fixtures. Additionally, Trek restored the belvedere at the top of the stairs and some of the ornate wrought-iron on the balconies and front porch among other pieces.

From its origins as a small woodlot on Big Bug Hill to Madison’s finest hotel on Mansion Hill, the sandstone home at 424 North Pinckney Street has emerged as a landmark in both the hospitality industry and the history of the city of Madison. The elegance, beauty, and history of the home undoubtedly will continue to impress visitors for many years to come.
 
 

 
 

Experience the Mansion Hill Inn on your Trek Factory Experience»

It’s early morning but I wake well rested. The sunlight is soft, the Mediterranean calm, and now the alarm clock buzzes in the background. From the comfort of our hotel room, my eyes slowly open and I am reminded of the counsel from my father, half a world away:

Don’t you know you’re living the dream?

And, as it turns out, I am. I woke this morning in a Leading Hotel of the World. A five-star paradise. A Mediterranean retreat. If the spectacular beauty of the surrounding rocky coastline and unspoiled beaches aren’t enough to put a smile on your face, then surely the balcony, spa or pool outside your door will do.

You wouldn’t pick our group out of a crowd – a couple of studious doctors, a NASA flight controller chasing a dream, a self-proclaimed half-assed real estate lawyer and a State Department diplomat to Cyprus. But as I walk downstairs I am reminded that after just one week and a handful of conversations, names are known and stories are shared. The receptionist embraces my broken Spanish because she knows I’m trying to progress. The bellman admires our bikes because a former racer knows a good machine. The teachers will arrive outside early after years of preaching punctuality to their students.

It’s the second-to-last day of our weeklong Costa Brava trip but there came a point this morning when I couldn’t focus on preparations for tomorrow’s trip end. The sun was shining bright and I filled water bottles for the umpteenth time, grease smeared across my calf, bike tools in my pocket, and a fresh cortado cupped in my hands. The caffeine had combined with the excitement of the day and left me far too distracted for the likes of goodbyes and shuttle transfers.

So with the wind in our hair and sun on our faces we took to the road. Pedal we did, hill after hill, turn after turn. Open roads are places to escape with friends. Views are supposed to be shared. After yesterday’s recon of the costal road from the comfort of a sailboat, today we took to the pavement and made our way to the next seaside village. Turns out heaven lies somewhere between S’Agaro and Tossa del Mar, with a finely tuned bicycle and good company, beside rugged cliffs and contrasting colors.

After exploring the seaside villages and centuries-old castles, we turned back the way we came. It would be hard for the flavors of tonight’s Michelin-starred dinner to improve upon such a perfect day, but seamless conversation and bottomless laughter erupted effortlessly in-between each decadent course. So with tired legs and energized hearts we raised a glass of cava and toasted the wild coast.

Lucky, lucky me.

Our private trip coordinator, Kari K., was recently able to travel to and stay at our newest hotel partner, Blackberry Farm. She got to experience the slower pace of life in this little paradise. Here are her takeaways from her own break from reality.

Traffic lights, car horns, overloaded inboxes, and the bottom-less pit of meetings and conference calls. If your substitute these everyday things with the likes of fly-fishing, farm-to-table gourmet cooking, the crackling of a campfire next to a moonlit pond, wine-tastings from an oak cellar, and rides through the majestic Smoky Mountains then Blackberry Farm might be the place for you.

Let’s talk about the unique and extraordinary cuisine you will experience at Blackberry Farm; known as the “Foothills Cuisine”. Your taste buds will be moving more than your legs as you taste the fresh and local flavors recognized as the number one hotel for food lovers by Bon Appetit in 2013.

Some getaways leave you feeling anxious, ready to get back to the daily grind because they are a one-trick pony–sitting on the beach, laying by a pool, but not at Blackberry. The array of activities will provide you with an enriching experience, one that challenges and inspires mind, body, and spirit. Cycling through the mountains will make the private yoga class and massage at the new wellness facility feel well-deserved. Fly-fishing with seasoned instructor’s in the pristine Hesse Creek, and kayaking in one of the nearby lakes will make your wine from the best producing wine-regions in the world taste even sweeter that evening.

When thinking about a getaway, Blackberry Farm offers the right mix of relaxation and adventure. I know I can’t wait to get back to the Farmstead.