CALM IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

These beautiful destinations have some equally stunning activities to offer. Honouring their surroundings, you can get back to nature with guided walks, be at one with the water with wild river fishing or really get to understand the terrain with a photography tour. Here are a few of LURA’s favourites for you to try.

Scotland is home to a varied, intriguing landscape that cries out for you to discover it. At the Fife Arms they take full advantage of their beautiful scenery and have an in-house forager, who is passionate about sharing their expert knowledge of the local plants and vegetation. Leading tours of the surrounding areas, identifying, explaining and sharing the taste of plants that can be transformed into teas, tinctures, condiments or cosmetics, both adults and children will love these guided walks. Or if it’s the thought of wild fishing that takes your fancy, The River Dee is one of the most famous salmon rivers in the world and it runs just past the hotel. The hotel works with its Wild Resources team to offer guests the chance to fish in this exceptional location.

Bodrum is a fascinating mix of old and new. Whilst staying at the luxury Amanruya, full of modern conveniences and the latest comforts, why not escape back in time on an excursion to the village of Etrim, which is known for producing wonderfully intricate hand-knotted carpets. Or travel to the village of Mumcular for a masterclass in ancient Turkish pottery, a tradition and art-form since the early days of the Ottoman empire. Using distinctive red clay, the artisans of the village offer you the opportunity to watch the creation process and then invite you to try it for yourself and take home the ultimate souvenir.

Mallorca is not only a great place to go for fun in the sun but also for artists who are looking to find inspiration. At Belmond La Residencia there are unique and exclusive activities available for creative types, all easily accessible from the peaceful mountain base of the hotel. In a remote enclave in the north of Mallorca, combining art, nature and architecture, the Fundación Yannick y Ben Jakober is a sensory experience not to be missed, a complete palace of art waiting to be explored. Or if photography is your medium of choice, see the majesty of first light on a dawn walk, on a private tour with celebrated photographer Sebastià Torrens, or opt to be led by an expert nature guide and discover the wildlife surrounding you. Perfect for beginners, you could revel in the unique artistic spirit of Deià with a collection of creative classes in sculpture or painting with the hotel’s resident experts. No matter your level of experience or interest, you’ll definitely leave feeling inspired.

The Dolomites are home to one of the world’s best spas and it is here you should head should you need to unwind and relax. The Lefay Spa is over 5,000 square metres of pure tranquillity, set high up in the mountains. Their concept is ‘a universe of different elements in the same space’, with a wide range of signature treatments created according to the principles of Lefay SPA holistic well-being, including face and body energy massages, face and body aesthetic energy rituals. Of note is their “Scents of the Forest” offering, where treatments and rituals of the local area combine the wisdom and purity of the alpine nature with the therapeutic properties of the natural products obtained from the forest, water, minerals and plants. There is also a large fitness offering, as well as non-invasive aesthetic medicines and medical offerings with specialised doctors on hand. So whether it be just a simple massage or a complete body overhaul, Lefay has it all.

With a whole world to explore and a host of activities to enjoy, LURA is always on hand no matter where your travels may take you. Contact your Lifestyle Manager today to organise your next adventure!