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Skip The Jacuzzi and Brave the Ice Bath: Industry Insider Joanna Moran Reveals Her Top Spa Secrets

August 27, 2024 by Leanne Williams No Comments
Aqua marine water sits in a long, thin indoor plunge pool at Asford castle spa, with white comfoy seats along the edge and ornate decorations on the walls.

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

Joanne smiles with blond hair, a white shirt and black blazer, against a blurred red background.

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.”

You may also enjoy reading: A Haven of Tranquillity: Discovering the Best Luxury Spas in Japan

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.”

Bookmark for later: Ayurveda to Onsen: These Wellness Practices Have Stood the Test of Time

Try The Big Freeze

An outside bath is full of water with a background of snow capped mountains

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.”

If you like wellbeing you may also enjoy reading: 100% Meaningful, 100% Memorable: Why Every Luxury Gold Journey Matters

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.”

You may also be interested to read: How You Can Stay in Europe’s Finest Private Castles

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.”

A must read for luxury hotel lovers: Experience Remote Luxury at These Extraordinary Hotels

A Day at Ashford Castle Spa

The elegant grey facade of Ashford Castle is shown with green manicured lawns and a bright blue sky.

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.”

You may also be interested to read: How Luxury Gold Journeys Go Above and Beyond with Expert Karen Gower

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

Pale blue water in an elegant indoor pool reflects the light from the window at Ashford Castle spa

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.

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Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Luxury Journeys, USA and Canada

21 of the most romantic anniversary trip ideas

August 27, 2024 by Jess Williamson No Comments
couple overlooking sacred valley peru

Does 2025 mark a big milestone for you and your partner? If you’re searching for anniversary trip ideas to make sure you properly mark the occasion, you’re in the right place – whether you’re looking to spoil them with a luxurious weekend away or take the trip of a lifetime together, we’ve rounded up 21 locations that will help you feel the love wherever you are.  

Read on to discover the best anniversary vacation ideas for your next romantic trip away, from eco-retreats to wineries, secluded coasts and pristine beaches. 

 

Romantic anniversary trip ideas for 2025

 

Italy 

couple in open top car in Capri

Speak the language of love as you immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of Italy on our Ultimate Italy journey. Across 12 unforgettable days, you’ll get behind-the-scenes access at some of Italy’s most incredible locations, celebrating your anniversary with some of the finest Italian food. Get a little zesty with lemon granita and a meal at the Michelin-starred Le Monzù in Capri, sample local wine with vineyard owners, and savor decadent gelato with a World Champion Gelato maestro. Taste truffle-infused cured meats and olive oils in Umbria, and even learn how to roll pasta by hand with a professional Italian chef in Tuscany. You’ll take home memories of delicious meals shared, and maybe a tip or two on how to recreate the Italian magic at home. 

Experience it on: Ultimate Italy

 

England 

stratford upon avon house

Many a romantic story has been set in England, likely because the country’s charm has a certain quaintness about it. Perhaps it’s the winding country roads, architecture steeped in history, or the prestige of the Royal Family. On our British Royale journey, you’ll even visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Let the “marriage of true minds” meet in Stratford-upon-Avon as you visit the bard’s home, and amble through the Tudor cottages and medieval buildings that line the cobbled streets. Continue your next chapter in the Lake District, where you’ll stay in the five-star Grand Hotel & Spa. 

Experience it on: British Royale

 

France 

Carcassonne castle hotel

When it comes to anniversary trip ideas Paris is always up at the top, why not make 2025 the year you explore outside of the French capital? On Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Southern France tour, you’ll spend your romantic vacation soaking up the 1950s glamour of St. Tropez as you dine at La Magdeleine for a Michelin Star meal. From private concerts to accompany dinner to a chauffeur-driven ride in a vintage car through the countryside to an acclaimed winery for a private tour, and even stay in a luxurious hotel built within the medieval walls of Carcassonne. France knows how to do romance wherever you are in the country, and with Luxury Gold you’ll see it all. 

Experience it on: Ultimate Southern France

 

Red Rock, Arizona

Red rock arizona

Imagine an anniversary trip filled with hot air balloons, hiking, and unforgettable natural beauty. If that sounds like the way you want to spend your romantic holiday, then head to Red Rock national park, Arizona. You can see the namesake geology either on horseback, on foot, or on a hot air balloon ride (which has to be the frontrunner if you’re looking to make an impression). Let nature do the talking as you watch the sun set over these incredible rock formations. 

Related reading: The 30 Most Beautiful Places in the World You Need to Visit

 

Fiji 

fiji island resort

Treat your partner to the beach vacation of dreams with a romantic trip to Fiji, a tropical island paradise. You can let your worries float away amidst the beautiful beaches, private island resorts, award-winning hotels and sensational cuisine. There are ample opportunities to create memories on these islands, from a beach picnic to scenic flights over the archipelago, or venturing out to swim beneath the waterfalls. 

 

Prague 

prague charles bridge

Perhaps not top of the list of anniversary trip ideas, Prague shouldn’t be overlooked – the City of Spires, is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Dive into its history as you begin Luxury Gold’s Harmony of Central Europe tour in the capital of the Czech Republic, immersing yourself in the architecture and atmosphere of Prague Castle as a Local Expert takes you through its thousand-year history. Head back to your hotel, the ornately-decorated Neo-Renaissance NH Collection Prague Carlo IV or take a romantic moment across the iconic Charles Bridge, where countless proposals have taken place. 

Experience it on: Harmony of Central Europe

 

Hawaii 

view from hawaii mountain

Forget about choosing between beachside relaxation, lush natural landscapes, and active adventures – an anniversary trip to Hawaii has it all. Embrace your adventurous side together with a trip to the active Kīlauea volcano, or seclude yourself in a luxury hotel with a private pool. Have romantic dinners by the ocean, take a boat out at sunset, and relax in one of Big Island’s many hot springs. 

Related reading: Skip The Jacuzzi and Brave the Ice Bath: Industry Insider Joanna Moran Reveals Her Top Spa Secrets

 

Banff, Canada 

banff lake view

The azure lakes, glaciers, mountains, and alpine meadows of Banff make a scenic backdrop for any occasion, but particularly for an anniversary trip. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park, the perfect place to reconnect with nature – and each other. Journey with Luxury Gold’s Majesty of the Rockies tour and stay at the 5-star Fairmont Banff Springs Resort nestled deep within the park, and ride the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of the Rockies. As you unwind to the calming sounds of rushing waterfalls and bubbling mineral pools with spa treatments, take a deep breath, then let the scenery take your breath away. 

Experience it on: Majesty of the Rockies

 

Kyoto, Japan 

sunset view of kyoto japan

Kyoto is certainly one of Japan’s most romantic cities, with its atmospheric streets, numerous temples, and cherry tree-lined canals. Travel on Luxury Gold’s Majestic Japan journey and see one of the country’s most sought-after sights: the Geisha. You’ll witness a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, skilled in the art of classical dance and entertainment, as you savor traditional Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine. Marvel at stunning temples, and take a quiet stroll together through a grove of bamboo and maple trees. 

Experience it on: Majestic Japan

 

The Maldives 

couple walking on maldives beach

As far as romantic resorts go, the Maldives has got to take the cake. There are over 1,000 islands, and there are numerous luxurious hotels to choose from. This tropical island paradise has everything you’ll need for a secluded, mindful anniversary trip; private villas, secluded beaches, and dinners on the beach. In the day, there are colorful coral reefs to explore, diving excursions for the more adventurous, and spa treatments to unwind with. 

 

Isle of Skye, Scotland 

sunset over isle of skye

Let your love run wild with an anniversary trip to rural Scotland, where you’ll find some of the most remote landscapes in the world. Feel like you’re on the edge of the world on Isle of Skye, where you can try oysters straight from the sea. Brave a dip in the Fairy Pools, a series of natural pools and waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin mountains, and take long, romantic walks along the island’s rugged coastline. 

 

Australia 

couple watching sunset at kings canyon, australia

There’s so much to explore across Australia, you won’t be short of anniversary trip ideas in this diverse country. Whether you want a wild trip into the Outback or a city trip to Sydney, you can see the breadth of Australia’s beauty on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia journey. Make romantic memories as you watch the colorful sunset and sunrise over Uluru, experience the magical sound of the digeridoo, visit (and taste) Australia’s wine region, and cruise around Sydney harbor.  

Experience it on: Inspiring Australia 

 

South Africa 

Lion Sands hotel Kruger South Africa

Celebrate your anniversary with a walk on the wild side: a South African safari. On Luxury Gold’s Spectacular South Africa tour, you’ll head to Kruger National Park, staying in a luxury suite in the Lion Sands Lodge where you can glimpse wildlife from your deck, and relax in your plunge pool after each exciting day. But you won’t need to search for the Big 5 from your room – you’ll venture deep into the heart of one of the world’s largest game reserves on a thrilling three-day safari, experiencing six game drives in a private, open-air safari vehicle as you lay eyes on lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and more. Finish your stay here with dinner under the stars of the Kruger sky, courtesy of Lion Sands’ expert chefs.  

Experience it on: Spectacular South Africa

 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam canal lit up at night

Spend your anniversary walking and cycling through the charming streets of Amsterdam, a city that often gets left out of the conversation when it comes to anniversary trip ideas within Europe. With its cosmopolitan cafes and magical art history, you can take things slow here. Take a canal boat at sunset and see the city from the water, or book your trip during tulip season (between March and May) to witness the colorful flowers in full bloom. You can spend your time wandering the streets and admiring Amsterdam’s quirky architecture, or sitting by the canal with a celebratory spritz in hand. 

 

Maine, New England 

Maine lighthouse at sunset

Discover the craggy coastlines and secluded beaches on your anniversary trip to Maine, one of the best couple vacations in the U.S. thanks to its slow pace and calm nature. Nature plays a big part in what makes Maine special, with it beaches, mountains, and vistas. Watch the sun go down behind a picturesque lighthouse, and celebrate your anniversary with an unforgettable meal – Maine balances being a quiet coastal retreat and a culinary destination. It goes without saying you need to try the famous Maine lobster, known for their sweeter taste.

 

California  

vineyard at sunset

What better way to toast to your anniversary than with a glass of something delicious? Head to California’s Wine Country in the northern San Francisco Bay Area and travel through the rolling hills, brimming with vineyards. It’s not just wine that draws couples here, but luxury hotels, Michelin star restaurants, and unique architecture across the region. You’ll come home with newfound wine knowledge, rose-tinted memories, and a bottle of something special to remember your anniversary trip with. 

 

Bavaria, Germany 

Neuschwanstein castle, germany

The land of fairytale castles, Bavaria is the place to treat your partner like royalty. Based in southwestern Germany, you’re spoilt for views in Bavaria with its countless castles and stunning natural scenery. You can tour famous castles like Neuschwanstein, or take it one step further and stay in one of the several historic castles that have been converted into hotels. Make sure to mark your anniversary by taking the Romantic Road, a route between Würzburg and Füssen that can be driven in 1-2 days, passing iconic castles and sparkling lakes, winding through Franconia’s wine country and Bavaria’s beer territory against a picturesque backdrop of the Alps. 

  

Norway 

Geiranger fjord, norway

Escape to one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world for your anniversary: the Norwegian fjords. Stay in the heart of Geiranger on Luxury Gold’s Timeless Scandinavia journey – as you gaze at the magnificent fjords and mountains from your room at the Hotel Union Geiranger, you’ll hardly want to leave your hotel. But it’ll be worth it for one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world on the Flåm railway, taking you 866 meters up the mountainside, weaving in and out of tunnels and past dramatic waterfalls.  

Experience it on: Timeless Scandinavia

New York City

new York city skyline at sunset

Want to indulge in a weekend of culture and curiosity? Take your partner on an adventure to New York City, where you can wander round world-famous art galleries during the day, and toast in award-winning restaurants and rooftop bars by night. Visit some of the city’s most iconic destinations as you walk through Central Park, go shopping on Fifth Avenue, catch a show on Broadway, and take your time through the halls of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Go big for your anniversary in the Big Apple! 

 

Lima, Peru 

Chinese Garden in Lima, Peru

If food is your love language, then look no further for anniversary trip ideas – head to Lima, Peru’s capital city, a stop on Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas journey. Dine on the country’s specialty, ceviche, in one of Lima’s 30 Michelin star restaurants, and cheers to the occasion with pisco sours. When you’re not sampling the city’s gastronomic delights, head to Parque del Amor (Love Park) for unparalleled Pacific Ocean views, and make sure to stock up on Peruvian chocolate to surprise your partner with on your special day.  

Experience it on: Treasures of the Incas

 

New Zealand 

te waonui forest retreat, new zealand

Journey to New Zealand on Luxury Gold’s Southern Drift tour, and lose yourself (but connect with each other) during your stay at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat. This 5-star haven is surrounded by pristine wilderness, combining New Zealand’s wild landscapes with impeccable luxury. You’ll feel also though you’re the only guests in this boutique hotel, with mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and coastline on you doorstep should you wish to venture out. 

Experience it on: Southern Drift

Plan your perfect anniversary with a Luxury Gold journey – where will you celebrate?

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Europe, Luxury Journeys

How to Spend 48 Hours in One of Norway’s Most Scenic Hotels

July 26, 2024 by Leanne Williams No Comments

At the heart of the small village of Gerianger lies one of Norway’s most scenic hotels, The Hotel Union. Blessed with sweeping views of the UNESCO listed Geriangerfjord, this first-class establishment is a destination in its own right.

A family run business for four generations, we spoke to husband-and-wife team and current managers Sindre and Monja. The share with us the Hotel Union’s history and the many ways you can pass a relaxing 48 hours in these blissful surroundings.

For travel inspiration: Norway destination guide

 

The Hotel Union – A Destination in Itself

The front of the Hotel Union, one of Norway's most scenic hotels, is shown at night with the windows lit up.

“My wife Monja and I have been running the hotel for over 25 years and our family have owned it since 1899,” Sindre tells us, adding that The Union’s history began with his great grandmother who came from the area outside Lillehammer. “She moved to a village not far from here in the 1890s, working herself up from being a maid to the managing director [of a hotel].

When she met his great grandfather, they shared a mutual desire to buy the hotel in Geiranger. “It was my great grandmother who bought the hotel,” he says. “She’d inherited money and they bought it in 1899.”

Discover this on: Timeless Scandinavia

 

Rooms With a View You Won’t Want to Leave

A hotel room is shown with wide windows and a view of rhe Geirangerfjord, with floral curtains and red and white linens.

Originally built in 1891 out of timber, Sindre tells us that that the hotel was constructed in “the Swiss Norwegian dragon style”. Having been expanded and renovated several times, today the Union is a modern hotel with 197 rooms. Over and above standard rooms, guests can choose deluxe rooms with a fjord view.

With this kind of scenery, you may not even want to leave your room, but there are plenty of reasons to. “The hotel is a four-star hotel but is also a full-service hotel with all everything you can imagine for a [fabulous] vacation,” says Sindre. “We have two restaurants, a small cafe, bars, and even a nightclub if you want to go dancing. We also have our spa.”

For more spectacular views: Discover the Boutiques, Vineyards and Views of the Swiss Riviera

 

Wining and Dining

Two people sit on an outdoor terrace eating breakfast under a parasol with the Geirnagerfjord in the background in Norway

Of course, exceptional dining comes hand in hand with a hotel of this caliber. Fjorden is the main restaurant which serves a breakfast and dinner buffet, with a wide selection of both hot and cold dishes. You can also lunch outside with spectacular views of the fjord at the hotel’s Café Løsta.

For a bespoke fine dining experience, Restaurant Julie is the a la carte restaurant, serving a seasonal lunch and dinner menu. Enjoy dishes showcasing fine local ingredients such as halibut, served with nashi pear, green chili, Tamari soy sauce and finger lime. You can also savor a fine range of selected international ingredients and a great vegetarian menu, the perfect way to spend an evening. The hotel has its own wine cellar and offers wine tasting for groups upon request.

You may also be interested to read: Best of British: How This 5-Star Hotel Elevates the Beef Wellington

 

Geirangerfjord, a Natural Paradise

Aerial shot of Geirangerfjord in Norway showing deep blue water and steep green mountains alongside

The Geirangerfjord was created over a succession of ice ages, its deep blue waters surrounded by mountainous peaks and numerous waterfalls which create a never-ending display of rainbow colors. The perfect setting to create one of Norway’s most scenic hotels, Sindre explains that “the nature here is dramatic and beautiful,” and has not only placed the fjord on the UNESCO World heritage list but has also been creating tourism for the area since 1869.

“Geirangerfjord has so many waterfalls and also its mountain farms, which make not only the nature but also the life stories around Geiranger such a very special experience,” he says.

More Scandinavian inspiration: Alternative dining and CO2 absorbing aprons: welcome to Fotografiska 

 

Lose Yourself in Nature

A red kayak paddles on the still blue waters of Geirangerfjord with steep green mountains and a waterfall.

There’s plenty of ways to enjoy this natural paradise, using the Union Hotel, one of Norway’s most scenic hotels as a base, “You can go on different hikes around in the area here, or spend time cycling and kayaking,” says Monja. “You can sail the fjord, either with tours or small private boats.”

She also recommends spending time at the World Heritage Center right beside the hotel. The exhibitions and interactive stations give you an opportunity to learn about the geological processes that formed the fjord landscape, and to see what the landscape looks like today.

“Of course, you have to see the Seven Sisters,” she enthuses, talking of the famous and most photographed waterfall in the fjord. The 410m waterfall consists of seven separate cascades, one of which has a 250m freefall.

“The Flydalsjuvet is a beautiful viewpoint where you can take great pictures,” she advises. Divided into an upper and lower area, this is one of the most popular photography spots in Norway and for good reason

You may also enjoy: Dine, Sleep, Do: How to spend a chic 24 hours in St. Moritz

 

While Away Time Admiring Vintage Cars

The front half of a vintage car gleans in the lights in tis vintage picture

Image credit: @hoteluniongeiranger
on Instagram

For all petrol lovers, the Union Hotel has a unique vintage car museum, featuring American and British cars from the 1920s and 1930s and is open for all guests staying at the hotel. Perfect way to while away a few hours in admiration.

“The car museum was established by my father,” Sindre explains. “He was interested in the history and the culture of the village, and in the 1930s there were a lot of taxis in Geiranger.” Fascinated by these vintage cars, Sindre’s father, together with friends, collected and bought them.

When asked his favorite from the collection Sindre says “the Studebaker 1932 model, which is the only one existing in the world. With a sentimental thought, Monja says the Buick 9032, because that’s the one “I was driven in by my father-in-law when we got married.”

If you love vintage cars and nostalgia, you’ll enjoy: Napier, New Zealand is a Gateway to the Glamorous 1930s

 

Relax in the Spa

A lady is shown form h=behind relaxing in an outdoor pool with the Geirangerfjord in the background

“We Norwegians love to be on the couch, relaxing and maybe watching TV,” says Monja, “but we also like to go to different hotels, enjoy the food and wine and the spas. So, we built our Spa at The Union with this coziness in mind.” With Norway’s hygge culture gaining an international following, the cozy, intimate and welcoming vibe is something you must experience for yourself.

There’s no nicer way to enjoy the views from one of Norway’s most scenic hotels, than to while away a morning, afternoon or even a decadent full day at the Spa. A place where the body and soul can rest, swim inside or out. Enjoy a sauna, Japanese hot bath or a hydra walk, then choose from the extensive treatment menu. The signature ‘Geirangerfjord’ massage and facial with hot black stones is highly recommended.

“You can be in your bathrobe, lay down on the sofas and enjoy a glass of wine as you look out over the fjord and the mountains,” says Monja. “That’s how we do it in Norway – here you relax by just being and not doing.”

Bookmark for later: A Haven of Tranquility: Discovering the Best Luxury Spas in Japan

 

Simply Unmissable

High waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs into dark green water of the Geirangerfjord in Norway

Its undeniable that this is a place you simply must have on your travel bucket list. “UNESCO have listed Geirangerfjord as one of the top natural sites in the world,” says Monja, adding that National Geographic have rated it as one of the top five unspoiled places on Earth. “You should absolutely come here to see it once in the lifetime and all of us at the Union Hotel look forward to welcoming you.”

To enjoy a stay at The Hotel Union, one of Norway’s most scenic hotels, take a look at our Timeless Scandinavia small group journey.

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