Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and friends, laughing, relaxing and being merry. Tradition dictates lively feasts and banquet-esque gatherings to celebrate this November holiday affectionately known as Turkey day.
How about avoiding the allergies, turkey stuffing and forget about washing the dishes?! What a great opportunity to escape with a bunch of friends to a gourmet hotel where everyone will be satisfied… endless drinks, round-the-clock service and luxurious touches you wont find at home. How about panoramic views in the mountains or a warm rooftop pool? A few steps from the beach or a delightful spa retreat to escape from rowdy kids… here are our Top 5 gourmet hotel tips in culinary heavens to ensure happy holidays, no dirty dishes, and über-comfy beds to sink into after too much indulgence!
Valldemossa Hotel Restaurant, Majorca, Spain
Up in the lush green mountains in the north east of Majorca, this small hotel’s famous restaurant serves up fabulous fresh seafood including prawns, turbot and sea bass; creatively combined with local seasoning from cinnamon, licorice and lemon. The panoramic terraces and twelve suites make the ideal, private getaway for a large group of friends & family.
This five-star contemporary lodge in St Tropez leaves nothing to be desired. The interior of sister property of Paris’s famous Sezz match the surroundings of this small hotel- turquoise chairs and pool to complement the bright blue sky; wooden walls to fit in with the trees; minimalist whiteness to correspond with the pure, relaxing atmosphere. As well as an exclusive Dom Perignon champagne bar, 3 starred Michelin chef Pierre Gagnaire will ensure guests’ taste buds are truly pampered in the Colette restaurant with a menu featuring lobster, beef tenderloin and a medley of local ingredients.
The calm lakeside setting of this truly unique “floating” hotel will make the fresh menu melt in the mouth. The changing daily menu guarantees locally sourced meats, vegetables and delicious desserts; rabbit, squid, dove and foie gras are hard choices even for the starters. Main course includes risottos, meats and fish combined creatively with exciting truffle, chocolate and juicy sauces – a long Thanksgiving weekend here in Hotel Palafitte will excite the palate considerably more than the standard turkey and stuffing!
Hotel Certosa di Maggiano, Siena, Italy
The Il Canto restaurant at this ancient hotel has been voted one of the world’s 50 best. Each and every dish is meticulously planned to incorporate the best locally produced seasonal produce and to suit the particular time of day. Chef Paolo Lopriore uses a fusion of international culinary movements especially Japanese, to whisk diners on a multi-sensory journey in this old monastery near Siena.
Regional kitchens in the Paradores hotels, Spain
For more adventurous groups of friends looking to tick all the boxes and please everyone, the Paradores are a good place to start – spanning centuries of history, the historic buildings promise culture, history and comfort; as well as stunning views, spa areas and fantastic food. The kitchens in each of the many hotels reflect traditional, regional cuisine and use only the best local ingredients in exemplary, surprising cuisine. Paradores in the Basque region are best for fish lovers; Andalusia for venison and boar; everywhere serves excellent wine and sherry.
