Relaxation isn’t the first word that springs to mind when you think of Mallorca. But a little resort nestled in Santa Ponça—just 15 minutes from Palma de Mallorca—is aiming to change that notion. Falling under the IHG Hotels & Resorts umbrella, Kimpton Aysla Mallorca is a tranquil hotel surrounded by lush, fragrant gardens and serene sun-drenched spaces to hide away in. As soon as you step onto its grounds, its tranquillity seeps into you like the Mallorcan sun.
Room-wise, there are 79 in total, all boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies in every single one. The vibes are rustic, arty and stylish with bright furnishings (a very Spanish flair!), local artwork dotted about the rooms and the novelty quirk of being able to access your wood-drenched terrace from your own shower. Designed by local architect Guillermo Reynés, it’s all very bright and cheerful with clean, zen lines, stunning leafy views and quirky features.
There’s a huge emphasis on wellness here. The spa is a whopping 900sqm and you can spend a whole day here with its 25-metre indoor pool, salt cave, sauna and steam room. If you can manage to drag yourself away from the sauna-to-steam room rounds, there’s a MAISON CODAGE spa which offers a generous treatment menu filled with tailored facials and some great body treatments. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the generous gym stocked full of the latest Cybex machines and a workout class timetable chockablock with all kinds of classes. For the more outdoorsy sports enthusiasts, there’s the Golf Santa Ponsa golf course and tennis courts of the Mallorca Country Club right on the resort’s doorstep.
It’s not all virtuous lemon-infused water and fitness classes, however. Kimpton Aysla boasts some great eats. There’s the uber-chill Zayt pool bar, which serves up classic Mediterranean eats—think burrata salad, pizzas, croquettes, grilled meats and fish—under a shaded canopy where you can lay back and look out at the Mallorcan mountains. Dishes are full of fresh flavours and carefully crafted with local ingredients, capturing the essence of the region in every bite.
For evenings, the Saba Restaurant offers a unique dining experience where Asia meets Mallorca. Headed by Executive Chef Juan González, the goal is to create Korean and Japanese dishes using only locally sourced ingredients. Dishes are adventurous, playful—take the grilled artichoke kimchi or the eggplant marinated in miso and meats flavoured with herbs from Kimpton’s own gardens—and insanely delicious with sushi and sashimi galore. To really appreciate it, go for the Omakase menu and let the chef dish out the best for you. Unlike the super laidback Zayt, the atmosphere at Saba is (pleasantly) loud and lively thanks to the open theatre kitchen.
Ideal for a weekend wellness detox or a chill-out-by-the-pool-and-do-absolutely-nothing getaway, Kimpton Aysla Mallorca is a serene getaway tucked away in the heart of a lively city.
Schön! alive rediscovers the enduring allure of Italy’s heritage and craftsmanship.
The newly renovated Hotel Gabrielli, Venice, opening later this year
The newly renovated Hotel Gabrielli, Venice, opening later this year
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With origins dating back to the late 16th Century, the term ‘Grand Tour’ was officially first used in the 17th Century book ‘The Voyage of Italy’by Richard Lassels, a priest and travel writer.Over time, the Grand Tour was seen as the ‘finishing touch’ for noble and wealthy young men coming of age in England and Northern Europe. They would be accompanied by a ‘cicerone’ (guide), and would typically travel through countries like France, Italy and Greece to help round out their classical education. Now, in the 21st Century, the historic European tradition is being revisited, with Starhotels inviting us to experience some of the Italian destinations at the heart of the original Grand Tour and witness the work of the modern-day artisans that help to keep the energy of these cities alive.
At the time, embarking on a Grand Tour was generally reserved for a privileged few, lasting anything from one to several years, depending on family wealth. The young men were expected to return home with newfound knowledge and maturity, usually laden with an impressive collection of commissioned art, books and luxury goods to symbolise their intellectual growth and cultural sophistication.
left: Fondazione Rubelli, Venice. Right: Hotel d’Inghilterra, Rome
left: Fondazione Rubelli, Venice. Right: Hotel d’Inghilterra, Rome
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But no matter the route, a Grand Tour was rarely completed without a stop in Italy. Many would choose to spend months there, not wanting to miss out on the picturesque canals of Venice, or the chance to absorb the legacy of Renaissance artists like Leonardo da Vinci in Florence.
While the magic of these destinations endures, travel in the 21st Century brings its own unique issues; in Florence and Venice, the weight of modern-day tourism currently threatens the very essence of these cities, as governments and local inhabitants search for a sense of balance.
left: Gucci Osteria, Florence. right: Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
left: Gucci Osteria, Florence. right: Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
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A major project that hopes to address an aspect of this is La Grande Bellezza – The Dream Factory by Starhotels. Founded in 2019, the contemporary patronage programme is the brainchild of Starhotels’ President and CEO Elisabetta Fabri, alongside Fondazione Cologni dei Mestieri d’Arte, Gruppo Editoriale and OMA – Associazione Osservatorio dei Mestieri d’Arte. Fabri states, “With La Grande Bellezza project, we set ourselves the ambitious goal of giving a voice, space and concrete opportunities to the workshops and enterprises of Italian craftsmanship.”
Recently La Grande Bellezza – The Dream Factory launched Craft Experiences, a new initiative which sees artisans pull back the curtain on traditional craftsmanship by allowing guests of the Starhotels Collezione to enter workshops to experience these historic cities through its artistic history.
Splendid Venice Hotel
Splendid Venice Hotel
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when in venice
Our personal Grand Tour kicked off at the charming and elegant Splendid Venice hotel. Every arrival is celebrated with a gift from the historic Italian leather goods brand Pineider: a gorgeous diary to write down your own travel experiences, like the Grand Tourists before you.
Each craft experience allows you to immerse yourself in the destination, and in Venice, our first took us into the heart of the city to visit Fallani Venezia. The silk-screen printing lab dates back to 1968, and Gianpaolo Fallani was on hand to explain his family’s history, while guiding us in creating our own print as a unique souvenir to take home.
Fallani Venezia, Venice
Fallani Venezia, Venice
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The private tour at Fondazione Rubelli allows visitors to step back in time thanks to the Rubelli Historical Archive boasting more than 50,000 textile artefacts, and more than a thousand pointed papers and preparatory drawings highlighting the creation of the fabrics: an unmissable chance to dive into the intricate craft and the excellence found in Rubelli textiles from 1889 to the present day, five generations later.
Fondazione Rubelli, Venice
Fondazione Rubelli, Venice
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when in florence
Next up? Firenze. Accessible from Venice in just over two hours by train, Florence is also home to Helvetia & Bristol, a recently renovated hotel and part of the Starhotels Collezione since 2016. With a heritage as a hotspot for past travellers on their Grand Tour, the latest updates pay homage to the building’s place in history – with one or two contemporary updates, of course, the Cibrèo Helvetia & Bristol being one of them.
Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
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Already an icon on the Italian food scene, thanks to the legacy of Florentine chef Fabio Picchi, the Cibrèo Helvetia & Bristol Ristorante & Cocktail Bar is a stunning space with high ceilings and decadent furnishings that feels both chic and cosy. But if you fancy something sweet, you can head a few steps further to Iginio Massari Alta Pasticceria, the artisanal high pastry brand next door. It’s also conveniently connected to the hotel and provides the tasty breakfast served up every morning in the sumptuous Tinello (dining room).
left: Cibrèo Ristorante and right: Cibrèo Caffè, both Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
left: Cibrèo Ristorante and right: Cibrèo Caffè, both Helvetia & Bristol, Florence
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So with Helvetia & Bristol as the perfect launch pad to explore the ‘Renaissance city’, we headed to Il Bronzetto artisan workshop, a treasure trove of knowledge and artifacts specialising in decor and lighting in brass, bronze and other metals. The infectious love for the medium shines through in the tour, given by one of the Calcinai brothers, who carry on the legacy that started with their father in 1963. After a demonstration, we were able to create a souvenir to add to our growing collection of Italian artisanship.
To discover why the ‘Made in Italy’ tag is so coveted, take a trip to the Scuola del Cuoio. Founded in a former convent after World War II as a place for recent orphans to learn a trade and earn a living, it now welcomes visitors to watch the leather artisans at work and to make their own creation using knowledge passed down through time. A walk through the building is a reminder of its deep history and a small, curated gift shop allows for a little treat after all your hard work.
Finally, if you’d like to complete your tour with a unique taste of Florence look no further than Gucci Osteria. The Michelin-starred restaurant is the brainchild of chef Massimo Bottura, infusing his vision with the energy embodied in the Gucci philosophy. At the helm in Florence, Co-Executive Chefs Karime López and Takahiko Kondo deliver their own interpretation of contemporary Italian cuisine which they’ve dubbed: ‘Nuove Memorie’ (New Memories). We had the pleasure of being guided through a delicious seasonal menu by expert hosts who enhanced the meal with an element of theatre – as every delicate dish arrived with a story, providing the perfect end to our journey.
Gucci Osteria, Florence
Gucci Osteria, Florence
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when in rome, milan and beyond…
Although we left our hearts in Florence and Venice, your own Grand Tour doesn’t need to stop there. With Starhotels in Rome and Milan, you can curate an adventure that doesn’t just involve returning home with unique and handmade goods but also allows travellers to meaningfully contribute to the local economy in a way that supports these magnificent cities, honouring both their rich history and future.
Hotel d’Inghilterra, Rome
Hotel d’Inghilterra, Rome
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Read more about Starhotels’ Craft Experiences here.
I was looking over the pristine, snow-covered Alps in Lech am Arlberg. It was at that moment – struck by a sense of calm and reflection – that the idea for Schön! alive came to me. I wanted to create a magazine that moves beyond the surface, that goes deeper into the minds, stories and insights of the individuals who are shaping how we live and connect with the world.
For years, Schön! has celebrated images – the artistry of fashion, the drama of style. With Schön! alive, my team and I invite you on a journey beyond the visible, exploring the stories, philosophies and creative souls shaping the way we live, think and feel.
This first issue focuses on mindfulness – an exploration of how intentionality can transform our everyday reality. On the Croatian island of Hvar, we visit the Maslina Resort near the 2,400-year-old town of Stari Grad which epitomises the philosophy of ‘mindful luxury’. In Tuscany, the serene Castelfalfi Resort offers a unique escape where guests can connect with nature and history. In Bonaire, photographer Stephanie Pistel captures the unspoilt magic of the Caribbean Island. Adventure lovers will find inspiration in the story of BMW Motorrad riders who embarked on an epic 40-day motorcycle journey from Europe to Namibia. We also meet visionary Banu Akan, whose Maxx Royal Resorts redefine luxury and relaxation.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping how we experience the world. Helen Neumann, Chief Lighting Designer at Occhio, offers insights into how lighting affects our well-being, complemented by a feature showcasing furniture illuminated by Occhio’s designs. Sound, too, shapes our lives in profound ways. In an inspiring interview with Steph Carter, Director of Culture Marketing at Marshall, we explore how sound serves as a powerful force in our lives.
We journey into vastly different spheres when it comes to taste, from a whirlwind 72-hour tour of Oslo to the wisdom of culinary legend Raymond Blanc OBE. Michelin-starred chef Hélène Darroze discusses how creating emotions, rather than chasing stars, lies at the heart of her restaurants, while Scottish chefs are rewriting the story of British cuisine, proving that innovation and heritage can coexist beautifully.
As with Schön!, creativity is dear to us. There’s an intimate look into the world of scent with Frédéric Malle, an exploration of champagne’s evolution with Ruinart’s Chef de Caves, Frédéric Panaïotis, and Philippe Starck’s avant-garde olive mill, where art, history and gastronomy merge seamlessly. We meet four artists, suggested by Fabien Vallérian, International Director of Arts & Culture at Maison Ruinart, who celebrate natural elements through their work, while advocating for sustainability.
As you turn these pages, I hope you’ll feel inspired to pause, reflect and explore the stories that make life richer – just as I was in the Alps – because life isn’t just about what we see: it’s about what we feel and how we connect.
Welcome to this exciting new chapter. Welcome to Schön! alive.
— Raoul Keil, Editor in Chief at Schön! and Schön! alive
Matisse was drawn to Morocco’s rich culture, Yves Saint Laurent to its vibrant colours, and The Rolling Stones to its traditional music. From the coastal city of Essaouira to the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco has been a magnetic destination for decades. For anyone in the market for a long – and hopefully sunny – weekend escape, Marrakesh is one of the best gateways to this country. Although not the largest city in the country, it was a key political, economic and cultural hub for a long time and continues to be a place of influence.
Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura. Photography | Alamy
Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura. Photography | Alamy
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Arriving in Marrakesh can involve a bit of a wait – be prepared for queues at passport control – but it will all be worth it once you step outside the airport. First, settle into your accommodation before setting out to explore the splendour of the city. For a 48-hour break, the 5-star Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura is a worthy option: it is a stone’s throw from the historic Medina but also manages to feel completely removed Marrakesh’s constant hustle and bustle. During check-in, a staff member mentions that we’re likely to wake up to the sound of birdsong and, sure enough, the next day, cheerful chirping can be heard from the balcony overlooking the outdoor pool.
When considering accommodation options in Morocco, the question of riads often comes up. In addition to its 85 rooms, Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura has separate riads (each with a private pool) hidden behind high walls. They are ideal for families or groups who would like the experience of staying in accommodation designed like a traditional Moroccan home.
Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura
Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura
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Once you’ve checked in, it’s time to step through one of the old city gates and let yourself get lost in the narrow, winding streets within the Medina’s ramparts. The ancient city features many masterpieces of architecture for which it is inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. There’s the busy Jamaâ El Fna Square, the 19th Century Bahia Palace or the walled Kasbah district, for example. While in the Medina, it’s also almost impossible to miss the souks: here, you’ll be able to discover the deeply engrained craftsmanship of the country and buy items to fill your suitcase, from the ubiquitous Moroccan rugs to ceramics, jewellery and leatherware. If the fast pace is overwhelming or you’d prefer not to haggle, shop for souvenirs at the Ensemble artisanal instead. Just around the corner from Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura, the complex houses an array of shops, including those dedicated to brasswork, woven goods, leatherwork and slippers by state-qualified craftsmen.
Marrakesh has many cultural sites and landmarks – including palaces, museums and gardens – so you’re sure to find your culture fix. Icons like the Majorelle Garden need no introduction and are a must on any visitor’s itinerary (just be sure to book in advance). However, make time for some of the city’s hidden gems, such as La Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech, which is set in a beautifully preserved traditional building and offers a captivating journey through Morocco’s history. Inside, a collection of photographs from as far back as the 1870s reveals this land through the ages and through the eyes of both renowned and anonymous photographers. After your visit, climb the final flight of stairs to reach the museum’s rooftop from where you can enjoy a refreshment while taking in the panoramic views of the city.
Dardar. Photography | It’s Me Louis
Dardar. Photography | It’s Me Louis
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Rooftop venues, much like beach bars, have a timeless, universal appeal when you’re on holiday, and in this regard, Mazel and Dardar certainly deliver. Belonging to the same owners, who will soon open a third rooftop establishment, both places offer a relaxing vantage point over the city. On the edge of the Medina, Mazel serves its take on street food classics such as filled pitas making it an ideal pitstop for lunch. At the heart of the Medina, Dardar is a buzzy venue for Moroccan-inspired food and signature cocktails split over two levels with evening entertainment, ranging from live traditional music to DJ sets.
Mazel
Mazel
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Just outside the high-energy city lie the open spaces of the Agafay desert with the Atlas Mountains in the distance. If you’re short on time and can’t stay overnight in a tent at a desert camp, you can discover facets of desert life through daytime activities. The newly refurbished Inara Camp, for example, has a whole range of options for daytime guests. The camp was founded by Vincent Jacquet, a Frenchman who fell in love with Morocco over a decade ago and who wants guests to experience firsthand the beauty and magic of the country that captivated him. There are quad- or E-bike tours for the adventure-hungry. Food-loving travellers might prefer a traditional family-style lunch in a private tent using local ingredients prepared on-site by a chef trained at the Royal Monceau, while evening activities include stargazing.
Inara Camp
Inara Camp
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No trip to Morocco is complete without a sauna and hammam session, so why not end your trip on a relaxing note? It’s the perfect antidote to a busy day of shopping and sightseeing. Options are plentiful across the city, and you can even book yourself in for a treatment at Hôtel Barrière Le Naoura, where you’ll be immersed in the soothing scents of orange blossom, oud or cinnamon. You’ll leave Marrakesh wanting to return at the earliest opportunity.