Among the many high-end touches to Luxury Gold’s journeys, from fine dining to ultimate-access cultural experiences, guests can expect to stay in exceptional hotels. In Portugal’s untapped Alentejo region, in the central part of the country, this might look like staying at an enchanting convent – now a luxury hotel – with roots as far back as the 1300s AD.

Convento do Espinheiro in Evora, Portugal, was for centuries the home of monks belonging to the order of St Jeronimo. Now it welcomes culturally curious guests, who can tour its labyrinthine, whitewashed chapels, explore idyllic grounds and gardens and even eat in the monks’ old cafeteria. Guests will enjoy a stay here on Day 10 of our Spain & Portugal in Style journey. Concierge Ricardo walks us through some of the highlights.

The cloisters at Convento do Espinheiro Portugal

It started with a vision

“The spiritual origins of the church of Our Lady of Espinheiro date back at least to the 14th century,” explains Ricardo. “In the small chapel where the main altar is found, were documents that prove the existence of a religious cult here since 1365. Legend has it that, years before this, a shepherd had seen an image of Our Lady above a thorn bush (‘espinheiro’) here, which was on fire but not consumed by the flames – it’s reminiscent of the archetype of the burning bush, which Moses found in the desert. 

“Convento do Espinheiro was founded with the authorization of the Pope in 1457, and handed over to the monks of the order of St Jerome. A religious community of 12 monks settled here on 2 September 1458, once the physical works on the monastery were complete.”

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Exquisite chapels

“The church is rich in works of art, especially in the side and main chapels,” ays Ricardo. “As well as the paintings, many by Frei Carlos – a Flemish monk who professed here – the church is also rich in azulejo tile panels, which tell the life story of St Jerome. In the Capela do Senhor Morto, you’ll see some empty frames, which once held paintings by Frei Carlos which were sacked during the French invasions.

“The choir loft was where the monks gathered to sing psalms, and beside it is the organ – one of the most magnificent pieces in the Alentejo region. It was produced by the famous Italian organ maker Pascoal Oldovino around 1757. The same year, an agreement was made with the monks: annual payments in exchange for an organ concert before community festivities. The payment was 20 bushels of wheat each August, a pig and a cartload of firewood.”

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The monks’ refectory

“Here the two most awaited feasts were held annually, on Ascension Day and 29 September, the day of the patron saint Jerome. A cook was hired especially for these occasions, fresh fish and shellfish were ordered from the port of Sesimbra, and the best chickens and game killed and prepared. Desserts were prepared using plenty of eggs and sugar. These days were exceptional, because the monks mainly lived by the rule of abstinence.

“Taking a tour of Convento do Espinheiro’s kitchens today, you can see the great chimney where all of the ingredients were cooked, especially beef. This is one of the best-preserved 16th-century monastic kitchens in all of the country, and its vault is one of a kind. It has a bread-baking oven where our guests still witness the tradition of Alentejo baking.”

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A very royal scandal

Portugal’s historic royalty and noblemen have stories bound up in Convento do Espinheiro, too, Ricardo explains. “Not only the Portuguese royal family, but also many noble families are buried here, as was their wish. You can explore the chapel of Garcia de Resende, [a great poet and storyteller in Portugal] who designed his own tomb here before his death in 1536. 

“Spain’s Princess Isabella of Aragon also spent a night at the Convento after she was brought to Portugal to marry the country’s Prince Afonso. On the eve of the royal wedding, the princess was visited by a party from the Portuguese royal court – or so writes Garcia de Resende. He tells us that the bride and groom met in her room at the convent, and on the same night a storm caused one of the building’s battlements to fall onto the roof of the couple’s room  – a sign of displeasure from the heavens. The monks immediately took this as a sign of misfortune. A few months later the prince was actually killed as the result of a fall from his horse in the Santarem region.”

Touring the building

During a stay here, a historic tour from in-the-know staff will give you a fascinating overview of the historic golden era of this monastery. A guided tour by one of the hotel’s concierges is included in your stay, available at 5.30pm each evening. “In the ancient cistern, we see King John II’s coat of arms above the door, under the vaulted ceiling, as well as a pelican which was his personal symbol. The construction of a water cistern was one of the first works done in the monastery. 

The gardens are also a highlight, says Ricardo. “The convent’s estate is a vast area of grounds with extensive farmlands and olive groves – one of them over 1,000 years old. It has witnessed a great amount of history and still produces olives. We annually pick the olives from which our olive oil is made.” Even the ancient cellar is utilised. “The monks’ ancient cellar is where wine and olive oil were produced and stored in large clay pots like the ones found here. Today it is our main restaurant, Divinus, where the delicious flavors of Alentejo gastronomy may be savored.”

Mountain summits, lakeside forests, sculptural desert rock forms, luminous lagoons… the world is full of wonders to nourish the eye. But where to start? You could form a whole separate bucket list of the most beautiful places in the world, before you begin to break that beauty down by scenery, nature, manmade forms and wildlife. Some landscapes are just pleasing to the eye, and must be protected at all costs; tread lightly when visiting these exceptionally beautiful spots across the globe.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Famously up there with the most beautiful places in the world, the world’s largest coral reef system gleams a neon turquoise. Sailing around and landing on its islands, you’ll see white sand beaches and spot turtles, clownfish and giant clams on snorkels. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia tour.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Machu Picchu, Peru

Set 7,972 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains, this mysterious citadel is not just one of the most beautiful places in the world, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Reached at the end of an epic hike – or a scenic train ride – the classic view of the city is from the Guardian’s House. Take the train option on Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas tour.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Pamukkale, Turkey

This western Turkish town is famous for its natural white travertine terraces, their scoops of natural pools filled by nourishing hot springs. Their gleaming white frame makes the pools an exquisite, luminous ice-blue. Visit on a day-trip from Marmaris or Dalaman on the coast.

Pamukkale’s travertine terraces, Turkey

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Enormous and pillar-like, there’s something uncanny about these vast baobab trees, some of which are over 800 years old and over 98ft tall. Often photographed silhouetted against a fiery Madagascan sunset, they’re found on the road between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Fiordland, South Island, New Zealand

Another country that pops up on list of the most beautiful places in the world is New Zealand. Peaceful, uninterrupted nature sprawls across much of its South Island, but most famous is Milford Sound, a shimmering fiord backed by peaks and waterfalls in the Fiordland region. On Luxury Gold’s tour, you’ll visit lesser-known but just as ravishing neighbour, Doubtful Sound, on an overnight cruise.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Bagan, Myanmar

This ancient city and Unesco World Heritage Site is an arresting mix of stupa-topped temples and dense forest, often seen in magical mists. There are more than 3,500 temples and pagodas here, some dating back 800 years and many eerily overgrown with mossy foliage.

Temples in Bagan, Myanmar

Redwood National and State Parks, California, USA

California’s towering redwood trees are one for the bucket list: this west coast state’s hiking trails and national parks are some of the most beautiful places in the world, let alone in North America. Home to the world’s tallest trees – some more than 370ft high – these forest dwarf their visitors and emphasize the sheer force of nature.

Redwood National and State Parks, California

Okavango Delta, Botswana

One of the few wetlands systems that does not flow into a sea or ocean, this complex inland waterway is a honeypot for incredible wildlife, with little human development to spoil the view. Visit during the dry season to see elephants, leopards, lions, buffalo and over 560 bird species.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Close to Kyoto, this dense forest of light-filtering bamboo is a restorative place to spend an afternoon. Hiking trails through the tall, thin stems, you’ll feel an immense sense of peace, before exploring the nearby Togetsukyo Bridge and temples in Sagano.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Petra, Jordan

Rose-gold pillars and ornate panels carved into sheer rock face, this desert city in the ancient kingdom of Jordan is a must-see on your travels. Built by the Nabatean civilisation over 2,000 years ago, it looks like a scene from a sci-fi film set on another planet; visit at night to see it illuminated by hundreds of candles.

The ancient city of Petra, Jordan

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Known for the rainbows that float above their crashing mists, these vast waterfalls form a natural border between these two African countries on the Zambezi River. Take the path along the edge to be misted with spray and hear the roar which gave them the local name Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The Smoke that Thunders”.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão, Brazil

A protected swathe of land in northeastern Brazil, this national park has surreal sand dunes cradling turquoise lagoons. A Unesco world heritage site and one of the less obvious of our most beautiful places in the world, its white sand against bright water has an otherworldly beauty to it.

Dunes at Lençois Maranhenses National Park

Rocky Mountains, Canada/USA

These dramatic mountain peaks cut down through North America from Canada well into the United States, a series of craggy charcoal mountains swathed in handsome evergreen forest. Banff National Park is one of the most gorgeous spots; while the Rocky Mountaineer train, travelling through the area, is a bucket list favourite. See the best of the area on Luxury Gold’s Majesty of the Rockies tour.

Sunset in Banff National Park, Canada

Yuanyang Rice Terraces, China

There are around 17,000 hectares of gently shelving rice paddies in this area of Yunnan, China, prompting intrepid visitors to come from far and wide for the local hiking trails and photography opportunities. Part of the UNESCO-recognised Honghe Hani Rice Terraces area, they’re not just one of the most beautiful places in the world, they’re one of the oldest continually-farmed areas anywhere, using the same methods for centuries.

Mount Teide, Tenerife

The highest mountain in Spain sits on the dramatic, volcanic Canary Island of Tenerife. A striking, Mars-like terrain of crumbling black rock and lava forms, it’s also a great place to go stargazing, with some of the clearest skies in Europe. Take the challenging hike or catch the cable car up to the summit.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

This Nordic country is home to more than 20 hot springs and geothermal pools, but this most famous turquoise lagoon is known for its luminous powder-blue waters, mystical clouds of steam and black rocky surrounds. Geothermal heat warms the water to a comfy 99-102 Fahrenheit, creating a natural hot tub with otherworldly views all around.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

A spectacular, barren landscape, Sossusvlei contains both enormous, rust-red sand dunes and flat, white salt pans that make it one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s part of the Namib Desert, with curious plant and wildlife that have adapted to the extreme, arid conditions. You can camp at a luxury tented camp in the area, or fly over the landscape by hot air balloon.

The Pitons, St Lucia

These lush, emerald twin mountain peaks are the gateway to dense forest, cocoa plantations and exotic wildlife on this – perhaps the prettiest of all Caribbean islands. You can see their majesty from many a luxury resort or white sand beach in the area, but the brave choose to climb them at sunrise, or hike around their foot trails.

Trans-Bhutan Trail, Bhutan

Of all of the world’s most naturally-blessed hiking trails, this might be the ultimate. Winding through the cut-off-from-the-world Asian country of Bhutan, the 403km route dates back to the 16th century, but is only just opening up to global tourists. You’ll see rice paddies, huge Buddha statues, incredible mountainside temples and villages with fluttering prayer flags along the way.

St Moritz, Switzerland

Views of the Swiss Alps from the Alpine towns of St Moritz and Zermatt are unparalleled. Expect snow-capped mountain peaks, mirror-smooth lakes, fairytale evergreen forests and more from one of the most beautiful places in the world. To see these areas and ride the sought-after Glacier Express train, visit on Luxury’s Gold’s Majestic Switzerland tour.

St. Moritz at dusk

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

With enormous limestone karsts rising up from tranquil waters like the humps of a sea monster, this bay in northeast Vietnam is one of the most sought-after sights in Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s traditional wooden junks and overnight tourist cruises ply the waters, passing white beaches and turquoise lagoon – visit on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Indochina tour.

Serene Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Geirangerfjord, Norway

Norway’s fjords are a soothing prospect: vast and unspoiled, their towering, mossy cliffs lead to pure forest and snow-capped heights. This Unesco World Heritage Site might be the most fairytale-perfect, with skyscraper-tall waterfalls and tiny, elfin cottages trimming its shores. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Timeless Scandinavia tour.

Geraingerfjord is Norway’s largest fjord

Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s carefully protected interior is known for its complex ecosystems – in Monteverde, you’ll find over 2,500 species of plant and more than 500 types of orchid alone, not to mention 30 species of hummingbird and sloths, toucans and golden toads. Strolling along suspended walkways through the treetops is a magical experience.

Colorful toucan in Costa Rica

Table Mountain, South Africa

South Africa is packed with incredible vistas, from its wave-lashed coastline (where whales and sharks can be seen from above) to the dense green pastures of its Cape Winelands, and idyllic Garden Route beaches. Table Mountain is the must-see for visitors to Cape Town, with panoramic views over the city’s skirts and a “tablecloth” of mist and cloud often draped over its heights. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Spectacular South Africa tour.

Table Mountain’s “tablecloth” of mist

Monument Valley, USA

There’s a lunar-like quality to this dry, nature-sculpted valley on the border of Arizona and Utah; but rendered in fierce Martian reds. Huge sandstone buttes and mesas are the “monuments” here, where hiking trails, sunset tours and Navajo heritage tours best showcase one of the most beautiful places in the world. 

Monument Valley, magical even at night

Iguassu Falls, Argentina

It’s hard to get your head around the sheer scale of these powerful, semicircular falls, thundering down from 80m at their highest. Dividing Argentina and Brazil, and visited in protected parks either side of the border, the area is also a honeypot of great wildlife: tapirs, howler monkeys, caimans and even jaguars. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Grand South America tour.

Iguassu Falls, on the Brazil/Argentina border

Scottish Highlands, UK

Not all beautiful locations are sun-soaked and tropical – many come in frostier, mistier forms. Take Scotland’s remote, rambling Highlands, where you might visit the enchanting Loch Lomond, see coastal castles crumbling into the sea, spot a stag on heathery heathland or visit a far-flung whisky distillery on a tiny island.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands

Jaipur, India

Known as the “Pink City”,  Rajasthan state’s rose-tinted capital is packed with some of India’s loveliest architecture. Alongside the ornately decorated, 18th-century City Palace, there are forts, temples and bazzars to explore – visit on Luxury Gold’s Essence of India tour.

The Pink Palace, Jaipur

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

This South Pacific nation is about as paradisiacal as paradise gets, but Bora Bora is the real pin-up. White sand beaches, thatched bungalows on stilts in neon bright lagoons, looming, forested island and some of the world’s best reefs to snorkel and dive mean it’s a magnet for super-luxurious resorts.

Palm trees on French Polynesia

Wulingyuan, China

Another Unesco World Heritage Site, this area of Hunan Province is famous for its natural sandstone pillars and slim mountain peaks, rising out of misty, remote countryside. It inspired film director James Cameron’s “floating islands” in the movie Avatar, and intrepid tourists still visit to see its dizzying cliffside walkways, local caves and waterfalls.

The limestone karst towers of Wulingyuan, China

Serene surroundings adorned with elegant decor, soothing sounds of water, and the gentle aroma of essential oils – that can only be a luxury spa.  But how do you make the most of your visit? And what treatments do you try? To find out the spa secrets to make the most of your visit, we spoke to Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle.

Luxury Gold guests visit this sensational 5 star hotel on our Castles & Kingdoms, and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys. Not only home to one of Ireland’s most prestigious spas, the  castle features elegant rooms, fine dining, and a range of activities including falconry and golf.

Discover this on: Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland

The Secret to a Great Luxury Spa

Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle has worked in the industry for over 20 years.

“A great luxury spa is a place where you can truly relax and rejuvenate, it’s a sanctuary, ”Joanna explains when asked her spa secrets. “It is somewhere you can immerse yourself in a transformative journey of well-being, whilst being nurtured and nourished by beautiful surroundings and high-quality treatments.”

“At the heart of a great luxury spa lies exceptional service, with highly trained staff ensuring a unique and tailored experience for every guest. Having a dining menu available that complements the spa’s wellness philosophy is also a great way for guests to finish of a day of pampering.”

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Four Hands are Better Than Two

“The most incredible spa treatment I ever had was in Ananda in The Himalayas where I experienced their exclusive Four-Handed Abhyanga Massage,” she tells us.

“This ancient Ayurvedic massage involves two therapists working in perfect harmony, using synchronized movements. The result is a deeply relaxing and profoundly rejuvenating experience. Even with all my experience in the wellness industry I was impressed, this is definitely a spa secret worth sharing!

“The massage comes with significant mental and emotional benefits too. The synchronized, rhythmic movements help to release accumulated stress and tension, giving a feeling of inner peace and rejuvenation.”

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Try The Big Freeze

Whilst the main aim of a spa is of course relaxation, that doesn’t mean that you can’t step a little out of your comfort zone and try something new. The jacuzzi, sauna and steam room offer a familiar comfort, but there’s much more on the menu these days.

“I highly recommend ice baths, I’ve tried them and they’re transformational,” says Joanna, “with so many benefits, both physical and mental, they are the best spa secret if you’ve not yet tried one. The cold temperature can help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. They also help to flush out metabolic waste from the muscles and boost the immune system.

“What I love about though are the mental and emotional benefits. The experience of enduring cold water stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones, which make you feel fantastic.”

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Reach for the Hot Cups

“Hot cupping is another therapy that I really love and encourage everyone to try,” says Joanna, explaining that hot cupping is an ancient therapy with roots in traditional Chinese medicine.

“It’s been used for thousands of years to promote healing and balance in the body. The process involves placing heated cups on the skin to create a vacuum, which draws the skin and underlying tissues upward into the cup. It’s believed to stimulate the flow of energy, or “qi,” and aid in overall wellness.

“One of the primary benefits that I have experiences is its ability to relieve pain and relax muscles. The suction and heat from the cups help to increase blood flow to the affected areas. It really is very effective especially when used in conjunction with acupuncture and massage therapy.”

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My Bucket List Spa

Guests at Six Senses take part in a Cacao ceremony: Photo credit: @sixsenses.ibiza on Instagram

“The Spa at Six Senses Ibiza is certainly one that stands out on my bucket list,” says Joanna, sharing more spa secrets. “It offers a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on mind, body and spirit, and it is renowned for its combination of cutting-edge therapies and traditional healing practices. This comprehensive approach to well-being is something I find incredibly appealing and beneficial for achieving overall balance and rejuvenation.”

Located on the picturesque northern tip of Ibiza, Six Senses offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea – the idyllic setting alone makes it a desirable destination.

“This spa offers a level of exclusivity and personalized attention that sets it apart,” she continues. “With a limited number of guests at any time, they ensure that each visitor receives individualized care and bespoke treatments. This personalized approach is something I deeply appreciate, as it enhances the overall spa experience.”

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A Day at Ashford Castle Spa

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

A highlight of your stay at the magnificent Ashford Castle, under Joanna’s careful eye the Spa and Wellness Centre offers an experience second to none. Located in County Mayo, Ireland, this 13th-century castle was once the ancestral home of the Guinness family and has been meticulously restored to offer an opulent retreat. Surrounded by 350 acres of lush grounds, guests can explore extensive gardens, woodlands and Lough Corrib.

“If you were to spend a day with us at Ashford Castle spa I would advise you to begin by indulging in our luxurious Ashford Castle Ritual,” says Joanna. “This is our signature spa treatment and combines a soothing back massage with warm aromatherapy oils, a relaxing foot massage, and a mini spa facial for an instant glow.

“Then you can spend time in our lavish steam room, to detoxify and relax your muscles, and open your pores. Follow this with a refreshing dip in our heated indoor pool with stunning views of the castle grounds, then, after your treatment, retreat to our Relaxation Room to enjoy fresh, healthy nibbles and soak up the ambiance of the spa and the beautiful Ashford Castle estate. We’d love for you to come an experience true relaxation and rejuvenation with us.”

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Joanna’s Top Tips to Make the Most of Your Luxury Spa Experience:

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

Before your visit: choose treatments which best suit your needs and preferences. Booking in advance is always a good idea so that you can get your preferred time and treatment.

Arrive on time: Arriving at least 30 minutes before your appointment allows you to check in, change into your robe and slippers, and start unwinding in the pool or thermal relaxation areas. This sets a calm tone for your entire visit.

Share your preferences with staff: Whether it’s the pressure of a massage, the temperature of the room, or any allergies, clear communication ensures a personalized and comfortable experience.

Turn off your phone: or leave it in a locker to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Disconnecting from technology helps you to relax and be present in the moment.

Drink plenty of water before and after your treatments to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to use saunas or steam rooms. Many spas offer healthy snacks and beverages, so take advantage of these to keep your energy levels up.

Don’t rush through your spa day. Allow yourself to linger in the relaxation lounges, enjoy the amenities like relaxation pool and steam room and savor the experience fully.

Post-treatment care is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your spa treatments. Follow any aftercare instructions provided by your therapist, such as avoiding direct sunlight after a facial or staying hydrated after a massage.

Remember to reflect on your experience. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, sit quietly in the relaxation lounge, and let the feeling of relaxation and rejuvenation sink in before you return to the outside world.

To experience the luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself take a look at our Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys.