Hotels

2017 Hotel of the Year Award

Posted on December 29, 2017 - 10:06 am by keith_ritter

It’s the culmination of our year spent traveling the world, staying everywhere from the heart of the Patagonian Rainforest to a chef-inspired epicurean escape in Sonoma. So, which ones are our favorite?

Le Phebus

Ideally located in a quiet village in the heart of the Luberon countryside between Roussillon and Gordes, this Relais & Chateaux property is a converted farmhouse built on ruins dating back to the Knights of the Order of Malta. The Spa offers luxurious treatments in addition to a heated pool, tennis court, and even a dedicated pétanque playing area. The jewel of this hotel, however, is the Chef Xavier Mathieu’s Michelin Starred restaurant.

“There was some of the most beautifully artistic food I have ever seen and eaten at Le Phebus.”
– Jennifer, Trek Travel Guest

Trek Travel Provence Cycling Vacation Le Phebus Hotel of the Year

Not only do our guests eat at this restaurant, Chef Mathieu also leads guests in a trip to the weekly market followed by a private cooking lesson. And the best part? Le Phebus is a perfect base to explore the region’s best riding: quiet winding roads, colorful villages, gentle climbs like the Gorge de la Nesque, and more challenging ones like Mont Ventoux. This property is legendary, and we’re so glad that our guests will enjoy five full nights there this year on the newly redesigned Provence Luxury trip.

“We love collaborating with Le Phebus for our Provence Luxury trips. The team there is kind, hard-working, and prides themselves on the highest level of service.”
– Jessica Singerman, Trek Travel Trip Designer

Join us in Provence

Ojo Caliente

At the end of the day’s ride traversing the Rio Grande Valley from Santa Fe, guests roll under a canopy of shady Cottonwoods, past an expansive organic farm and into the welcoming embrace of a true high desert sanctuary, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Resort. The historic hotel nestled amidst piñon and juniper dappled mesas beneath the site of the ancient Posí Pueblo, feels like a peaceful home away from home, and for two nights guests get to literally saturate in all the rejuvenating facets of the property.

Mineral baths, an expansive spa, elegant adobe inspired rooms and an amazing restaurant provisioned by the onsite farm and local organic food, are just the beginning of the experience here. Service is truly what rounds out our stay as the friendly local staff naturally adapt to our needs and requests. The only downside to Ojo Caliente is having to check-out.

“Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Resort is such a welcome sight to guests and guides.”
– Zack Jones, Trek Travel Trip Designer & Guide

Rejuvinate in New Mexico

Pilot Cove: A Pisgah Oasis

Posted on November 2, 2017 - 2:48 pm by keith_ritter

After 20 years as lawyers, Lane and Beth decided to leave the law and take their family on a 13-month, 42-country trip around the world. It was after this sojourn they met Collin and Jenni. And Pilot Cove was born.

Tell us a little about yourselves, what did you do before you created this much needed oasis?
Collin: After graduating from college, I built multi-use trails with Trail Design Specialists for a few years. We were working much in Western NC, which brought me to the area. I currently own Altamont Property Group based in Asheville, focusing on real estate and land tract brokerage in the region. Pilot Cove evolved over time after becoming friends with Lane and Beth while they were looking for real estate. We hatched the idea and things took off from there!
Lane: Beth and I met in law school and married in 1994. In 2013, after practicing law for 20 years we planned to take a year off and travel with our three sons Mac (14), Wiley (12) and Levi (12). 13 months and 42 countries later we decided try something different. Instead of making a living helping people out of trouble we wanted to help people have fun. We returned to the U.S. and moved to Asheville. This is where we met Collin and Jenni.

What inspired you to start Pilot Cove? And to go into hospitality? Why this area?
Collin: The growth in tourism is apparent throughout Western NC, and we saw the potential for a unique project in Brevard and Transylvania County. We see many travelers come to Asheville for great food, craft beverages, shopping, and a thriving art community. Travelers are drawn to Brevard for many of the same reasons, but also for the world-class outdoor recreation so accessible from town. We designed Pilot Cove to be approachable to travelers from all walks of life, yet focused on cyclists and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Our 124 acre property offers ride in–ride out access to Pisgah National Forest!
Lane: We chose Asheville because we love the mountains and were excited about the changing seasons. I am a native Floridian and Beth and I spent our first 20 years together in St. Petersburg, FL. Having just traveled for 13 months we felt we had some insight into the hospitality industry. We stayed in all kinds of lodging from tents and hostels to castles and resorts. Collin had the idea of starting a resort that catered to bikers. We started looking at properties and were fortunate to find our current location. It was the perfect spot, surrounded by Pisgah National Forest and with direct access to some of the best biking in the country. We were most excited about creating a career where the focus is helping people have fun and get the most out of our amazing natural playground.

How did you all meet?
Collin: My wife Jenni and I connected with Lane and Beth when they were looking for real estate in the area. We were joined by our property manager Syl Neel before we started construction. I met Syl on the Appalachian Trail in 2008 and we’ve stayed in touch over the years. He has been instrumental in the development of Pilot Cove.
Lane: Once we decided to move to Asheville, Beth emailed multiple realtors in the area and Collin was the first and only response.

What has been the most rewarding part about this change in venture?
Collin: The community response has been tremendous! We saw demand and designed a project that would fill it, but never envisioned the support we would receive from the community. We can’t say enough great things about Brevard and Transylvania County. The people, businesses, and civic leaders care deeply about their community and great things are on the horizon.
Lane: I love seeing the dream become a reality. We spent two years figuring out how to turn a forested mountain side into Pilot Cove. In the process we became good friends with our contractors, graders, designers and workers. My old college roommate saved the day with the wonderful forest lodging design. Local artisans built the furniture from local resources. I’m happy to say that the final result has exceeded our expectations. Remember we were lawyers and not developers. Pilot Cove is the result of lots of people buying into an idea and coming together to create something special.

What’s your favorite part about the nearby Pisgah National Forest?
Collin: For me it’s the four distinct seasons. Spring brings rebirth and blooms. Summer is great to hit the trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. The Fall season is my favorite, offering cooler temps and breathtaking leaf colors that sweep across the mountains. Winter brings less crowded trails, fishing holes, and endless views with leaves absent from the trees. There’s something for everyone in every season.
Lane: Pisgah is truly one of nature’s greatest playgrounds. It offers outstanding hiking, road and mountain biking, waterfalls, sliding rock, rock climbing, fly fishing, mushroom hunting, wildlife viewing, and I could go on and on. I went to camp one summer in Brevard when I was a child. I remember riding up Hwy 276 to Sliding Rock along the Davidson River and thinking this is the most beautiful road I have ever been on. Now Pilot Cove’s entrance is right on 276 at the entrance to the forest and I get to take that ride on a regular basis.

Top three things to do in Brevard?
Collin: 1) The local music scene is great, be sure to catch Mountain Song Festival in September hosted by local favorites the Steep Canyon Rangers. 2) Enjoy Brevard’s quaint downtown! The Heart of Brevard is a great resource for authentic locally-owned business. 3) Enjoy the forest and mountains! Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest offer a world of possibilities on foot or in the saddle.
Lane: 1) Sliding Rock. Nothing refreshes and brings a tired body back to life like a trip down Sliding Rock into cool pool below. 2) Black Balsam hike. Just off the parkway this hike takes you along the Art Loeb trail and over a 6000 foot bald with amazing views in every direction. 3) Dupont State Forest. 15 minutes from Pilot Cove with spectacular waterfalls and mountain biking.

Favorite bike ride you’ve ever been on?
Collin: Tough to say! We frequent Breckenridge CO, and the Peaks Trail is a favorite when there in Summer. For road cycling we are lucky to have the Blue Ridge Parkway so close to home.
Lane: Locally, I love Ridgeline in Dupont. A bombing two mile downhill with flowy lines and bermy curves. Best ever, biking down Cotopaxi (the world’s highest active volcano) in Equador with Beth and our boys.

Visit Pilot Cove as you adventure from Asheville to Brevard

Book Now

Hotel of the Year Award

Posted on December 14, 2016 - 10:27 am by keith_ritter

We cover the globe in adventure, exotic experiences and first-class memories. We’ve been to every corner of the world, from the back roads of Chile to the riverbanks of the Danube to the singletrack of Iceland, and we’ve tested the thread-count of practically every hotel along the way. So what’s the best of our best? Drum roll, please…

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa

Transformed from former military barracks to a country club hosting Hollywood’s most glamorous elite, the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa is our favorite new source of inspiration, rest and relaxation. Here, five stars is only the start. This impeccable resort has won a host of awards including Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List and Top 100 Resort Spas in the US, Travel and Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, and AAA’s Five Diamond Resort Award nine years in a row! With over 200 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, seven restaurants, four pools, a lavish spa and one expertly designed golf course, it’s no wonder the Ojai Resort is where we’d choose to stay if we had one night away. And to think, the Spanish-colonial-style escape is only 90 minutes from L.A.

Join us on our Ojai to Santa Barbara vacation
to rest your head in world-class style.

Learn More

“Lesic Dimitri Palace was incredible. We could have
gone swimming in our bathtub!”
– Mary Sue, Trek Travel Guest

Lesic Dimitri Palace

If it’s an undiscovered hotel gem you want, look no further. A masterclass in first-class accommodations, Lesic Dimitri is a recently renovated 18th century Bishop’s palace tucked away in the winding alleyways of old town Korcula. Designed by an Asian-Croatian team of architects and inspired by Korčula’s famous resident, Marco Polo, and his travels along the Silk Road, every aspect of this luxury hotel was thoughtfully planned to celebrate the rich culture and exquisite beauty of the area. Best of all, this Relais & Chateaux retreat is comprised of six luxurious apartments and five medieval cottages, striking a perfect balance of intimate yet unobtrusive service.

We’ve stayed in hundreds of hotels.
Join us in Croatia to discover our favorite.

Learn More

Creating Community at The Edenwild Inn

Posted on October 4, 2016 - 7:45 pm by keith_ritter

When Anthony Rovente lost his job in New York in the spring of 2013, the San Juan Islands were the furthest thing from his mind. Though he had never heard of this little archipelago in the Salish Sea until stumbling upon it on Google Maps, that summer he and his wife decided to move their family some 3,000 miles across the U.S. to Lopez Island. In his own words, this is the story of how his family’s dream became reality.

“At some point or another I feel that most people are drawn to certain destinations, whether it be fate or curiosity or some other power. During a particularly trying period in my life after a layoff, I began to dream of other opportunities and possibilities for myself and family…things that you simply don’t consider when you are tied to a job. I had never lived anywhere outside of Upstate New York and had no clue where to start. Searching Google Maps for potential places to live became a new hobby.

Living in a rural area in close proximity to the ocean was our dream scenario, and a moderate climate would be even better. During one particular Google Maps session I grazed over the San Juan Islands. It was the perfect little island of farms, surrounded by beautiful craggy outcroppings and beaches; an absolute unspoiled paradise. We took our first trip to Lopez in March of 2013, and in August we packed up our four boys and everything that could fit into our minivan and made the move. Three years later and Lopez is home.

Growing up in a tight-knit family, the idea of owning and operating a family business has always been a dream of mine. When Crystal and I married and started our family, we knew we wanted to create a life we could all invest in and share together. The Edenwild Inn seemed like a perfect opportunity. It had become a major landmark in the center of Lopez Village, and was up for sale when we arrived. It’s no easy feat to run a busy inn but we cherish the opportunity to build a family business with our four sons while sharing Lopez Island with guests. Everyone has a job and we all work together to get it done. Even our four-year-old has his little chores!

Our vision for the Edenwild has been the same idea since day one–to create a sweet little retreat from the stressors of daily life. Visitors come to Lopez Island to relax and enjoy the beautiful peacefulness of the natural surroundings. Our goal is to turn a long weekend at The Edenwild into beautiful, life lasting memories. It’s the small things that people appreciate the most, whether helping to plan an evening out or adding thoughtful touches to their room. Our guests know we care and I think that connection means a lot to them!

I think what drew me to the San Juan Islands three years ago, and what continues to excite me most today, is the incredibly special relationship residents and visitors have with natural environment around them. Being isolated on an island, away from the stressors of everyday life allows you to re-connect with nature and ultimately yourself. A walk on a quiet beach, a spectacular sunset, ocean views all around; this truly creates an environment of serenity so difficult to find in the modern world.”

New in 2017:
Stay at the Edenwild Inn on our San Juan Islands Vacation

Learn More

Photos: The Villas of Barcelona

Posted on July 13, 2016 - 6:59 pm by keith_ritter

Barcelona can be an action-packed combination of passion, nightlife, food and culture. Or it can be the getaway to end all getaways, with the serene escape of your own private villa. New in 2018, you can now choose one of three luxury villas and say goodbye to the bustle of civilized life.

Casa Felix

Casa Felix is beautifully located in Barcelona, on the edge of the charming village of Olivella, with stunning views over the Garraf National Park and just a short drive from the Mediterranean coast. A traditional Catalan Masia dating back to the 11th century, the villa has been lovingly restored to include 16 bedrooms, many sitting rooms, a library, game room, private garden and two swimming pools. Perhaps the best part, however, is the large terrace with beautiful sunset views over the surrounding vineyards!
Stay at Casa Felix»

Villa Isla Cozumel

Perfectly located on the beachfront promenade, a stone’s throw from the white sandy beaches of Sitges, Villa Isla Cozumel is an iconic colonial mansion. Originally built in 1940, it has recently been exquisitely refurbished by the renowned Interior Designer Sandra Valenti. The main villa boasts 6 bedrooms, and the ground floor has spacious living area inviting relaxation and enjoyment of the fabulous sea views. Relax and enjoy the pool surrounded by tropical gardens or stroll into town for a cocktail and tapas.
Stay at Villa Isla Cozumel»

Ca L’Almiral de la Font

Ca l’Almiral de la Font is an exquisite, private villa situated among olive trees and vineyards in the Penedès wine country. This traditional “basilica” style manor formerly used for winemaking has been refurbished to maintain the original building’s historic charm, while also affording guests every possible luxury – inside and out! A large tiled courtyard, complete with a Moroccan lounge, leads to a breathtaking infinity pool, and the 330 acres of private grounds include vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees.
Stay at Cal L’Almiral de la Font»

Hotel of the Year

Posted on October 15, 2015 - 8:26 pm by keith_ritter

From the greeting you receive when you walk through the door to the pillow you lay your head on at night, our team of expert trip designers take special pride in selecting the best hotels for your vacation. We’ve spent years researching the ins and outs of every place worth visiting, but once in a while even we are surprised by exceptional quality of accommodations found in far-flung corners of the Earth.

Our Hotel Of The Year award is designed to highlight those properties that set the bar a little higher. This year’s winners, La Plaça de Madremanya and h2 Hotel, redefine charm and exceed every expectation of hospitality. Savor the rich flavors, lavish in picturesque views, and cherish every minute of well-earned relaxation because it doesn’t get much better than this.

Hotel La Plaça de Madremanya
Costa Brava

Situated halfway between the hinterland of Girona and the neighboring Empordà district is a small paradise of gentle hills, with the village of Madremanya at its heart. Positioned on a hilltop and crafted exclusively from honey-colored stone, the village has an Italian look to it. It is here, with meandering streets and Spanish sunshine, that time truly stands still.

The jewel at the heart of it all is the Hotel La Plaça de Madremanya. Somewhere off the grid of any map, between decadent meals and exemplary service, is a place that cannot be forgotten. Surrounded by a sweet-smelling garden and looking out over the green Gavarres Mountains, the setting is nothing if not extraordinary. So celebrate you must, among friends old and new, as the sun sets on another day in this sweet Spanish paradise.

h2Hotel
California Wine Country

From an undulating roof alive with succulents to ripples on the creek by its feet, h2hotel is rooted in nature and fluid by design. Its light-flooded space makes you want to stay. Espresso with your check in? Cocktail with your keys? Just step up to the multitasking Receptobar or join the crowd at Spoonbar for modern Mediterranean nibbles and an artisanal cocktail.

Striped bamboo floors, funky Peace Industry rugs and local art draw you in. Chef Louis Maldonado’s earthy favorites and unexpected flavors leave you wanting more. Mostly, though, it’s the vibrant energy of people enjoying what’s become the gathering hub for Healdsburg. It is a place where happiness comes easily and adventure is just waiting to be had.

Where the Silk Road Begins

Posted on October 5, 2015 - 7:55 pm by keith_ritter

“The Lesic Dimitri Palace was not only one of the most memorable hotels I have ever stayed in, but also one of the most luxurious. With each residence having a different theme based on Marco Polo’s journey along the Silk Road, we had a blast showing each other our meticulously-designed spaces.”

– Lindsay Juley, Travel Coordinator at Trek Travel

The Lešić Dimitri Palace stands within the heart of the old town of Korčula, with a refined elegance that represents the rich history and culture of its destination. Celebrating the marriage between old and new, this boutique property has just five unique and spacious suites. They were designed by an Asian-Croatian team of architects and interior designers and inspired by Korčula’s famous resident, Marco Polo, and his travels along the Silk Road. Now restored and adapted as a first-class hotel, the buildings of the Lešić-Dimitri Palace originally evolved as part of Korčula’s medieval urban matrix.

Towards the end of the seventeenth century, the aristocratic Lešić family, local landowners prominent in trade and commerce in Korčula, began to acquire a number of contiguous properties in town in order to create a prestigious urban residence. By systematically merging six buildings that lay in two back-to-back rows, the basis for a prestigious urban palace was obtained. The separate properties date back to the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, and three more floor levels were later added to accommodate the family’s needs and reflect its significant social position. While the simple forms of these late medieval cottages have substantially survived to the present, the Palace itself displays the more sophisticated revisions and decorative detail characteristic of the later eighteenth century.

By the time of Napoleonic rule in the early nineteenth century, the buildings were suffering neglect. Ill-suited to the needs of more modest family living, the buildings were put to public use. For a period, part of the property was leased as a school, while part was given over to occupation by a large number of tenants. Finally, the Palace stood empty. It’s future was unsure. Soundly constructed and secure, the buildings’ structural masonry did not suffer from this abandonment. Timber elements were less fortunate and without proper maintenance roofing spars, floor and ceiling beams, windows and doors were all considerably damaged. The old cottage properties were left roofless and the space within their walls was used for a long time as a garden.

From this depressing and uncertain state the Lešić-Dimitri Palace was rescued in 2000 when the complex was purchased by a new owner. By 2008, following a necessarily prolonged period of painstaking survey work, archival research, architectural intervention and high quality craftsmanship, the restoration and adaptation of the Palace was largely complete. Not only do the buildings now provide tourist accommodation of the highest category, but an important part of Korčula’s unique urban fabric has been secured to be enjoyed by Korčulani and visitors alike. In developing this new residential accommodation, the existing spatial organization of the Palace has been stringently respected. Each floor is a single large apartment, lavishly appointed with everything needed for relaxed modern living. The cottages are being adapted to house a restaurant, bar and health spa.

The restoration of the Palace maintains the building’s historical detail. Existing structural masonry and ornamental stonework are harmonious with more contemporary elements. And while the historic townscape scale continues to be respected, smooth rendered walls subtly but clearly differentiate the old from the new.

STAY AT LESIC-DIMITRI PALACE ON TREK TRAVEL’S CROATIA BIKE TOUR»

Top 5 European Spas

Posted on September 15, 2015 - 9:59 pm by keith_ritter

For the lovers of luxury who want to sip wine off the Mediterranean coast or lounge in Europe’s finest hotels, we’ve got great news. In addition to posh lodging and choice amenities, these five hotels also offer world-class spas perfect for treating yourself or your loved one to the ultimate relaxation experience. They’re so indulgent, you may feel guilty. But don’t. We both know you deserve it.

1. Les Sources de Caudalie: Bordeaux

In perfect harmony with the surrounding vineyards, Caudalie’s distinctive style blends wood and stone materials inside an old tobacco kiln to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The exclusive wellbeing treatments at this Vinothérapie Spa are based on vine and grape-based extracts and natural hot spring water rich in minerals.

Signature Treatment: Crushed Cabernet Scrub
The most popular treatment from the Vinothérapie Spa, this scrub is developed with a base of grape-seed, honey, brown sugar and essential oils, and designed to regain your skin’s radiance and softness.

2. Jumeriah Port Soller Hotel and Spa: Mallorca Luxury

With its abundant sun, sea, nature and culture, Mallorca is an ideal place to escape to for a rejuvenating break. Offering a new generation of spa treatments, the Talise Spa uses natural ingredients such as citrus, almonds and olive oil that will transport you to a serene state of mind and body.

Signature Treatment: Talise Signature Massage
This exclusive therapeutic massage uses a variety of techniques from the best treatments in the world. A unique combination of pressure points and a massage sequence using healing oils enhance this unforgettable experience.

3. Lešić Dimitri Palace: Croatia and Dalmatian Coast

Set in the midst of an ancient city, an exotic experience awaits you at the Lešić Dimitri Spa. Blending cultures and techniques from along the Silk Road, indulge in the therapeutic benefits of spa therapies offered by the palace’s Thai therapists who are trained to world-class standards in a country with centuries’ worth of spa tradition.

Signature Treatment: Thai Traditional Massage
A therapeutic treatment developed to promote energy, stimulate the nervous system and support the development of the body, mind and spirit. The stimulating hand massage combines with stretching to improve circulation and energy.

4. La Coquillade: Provence Luxury

Located in the heart of Luberon Natural Park, the Coquillade Spa is the ideal space to fully recharge, increase your energy levels and restore your equilibrium. The comprehensive treatment program–including an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, relaxation room, fitness area, and salon–allows you to find something that suits your needs.

Signature Treatment: Signature Face and Body Care
This all-inclusive treatment allows you to personalize your experience with a bath, scrub or wrap of your choice. Embark on a comprehensive wellness experience unlike any other, including a massage and facial treatment.

5. Alentejo Marmòris Hotel And Spa: Portugal

Implanted in an ancient olive oil mill and dug in a quarry, entering in the Stone Spa is an unforgettable experience. The beauty of the marble that adorns its original walls transport you to another place as your enjoy the amenities and genuine hospitality offered at this Small Luxury Hotel of the World.

Signature Treatment: Marble Stone Massage
Developed by the Stone Spa team, this deep tissue massage was designed for lovers of vigorous massage. It is the fusion of Eastern wisdom and contemporary therapies combining various massage techniques, stretches and digit pressure.

The Suite Life

Posted on August 11, 2015 - 1:31 pm by keith_ritter

Madison’s most celebrated boutique hotel, The Mansion Hill Inn is renowned for its signature blend of intuitive service and warmly sophisticated design. For 160 years, the Mansion Hill Inn has been host to travelers from around the world and is today a chance to experience a glimmering time past. Discover our favorite Midwestern retreat when you join us for your personalized Project One experience.

In 1857, Alexander A. McDonnell bought a small wood lot on one of the most prominent hills in Madison. The town was nearly twenty years old by that point, and the fledgling state of Wisconsin was experiencing such a boom that the old Capitol building had been outgrown. McDonnell was the contractor for a new Capitol building and the lot he selected on what was known as Big Bug Hill was a short walk from the construction site. McDonnell hired the architect August Kutzboch, a German émigré who was renowned as one of the premier architects in Madison along with his partner Samuel Donnell. Together the two men built what McDonnell termed “the best house money could buy.”

The German Romanesque Revival building, considered by some to be the finest of its type in the country, includes wrought iron from the balconies to buttresses and arched windows. Inside the 9,000 square foot Madison hotel is a four-story, oval-shaped mahogany spiral staircase leading to a belvedere. Light passes into the marble foyer through etched Venetian glass windows. Originally, there were oil-painted wall designs.

The hotel’s days as a single-family residence ended at the turn-of-the-century. It then became a fashionable boarding house run by Carrie Pierce, where some of Madison’s most notable citizens lived. In the 1930’s, well after boarding houses fell out of favor, the building was converted into apartments, a condition that persisted until 1983, when the Alexander Company purchased the Inn, transforming it into a boutique hotel.

For over twenty years, the Mansion Hill Inn lived up to the ideals set forth by all those whom invested so much time, effort, and money into this house. In March 2008, the Mansion Hill Inn was purchased by Trek Bicycle and Trek Hospitality. At that point, Trek embarked on an extensive renovation project that sought to update the hotel’s amenities and preserve the home’s history. Each of the ten charming rooms has been restored, highlighting the property’s historical charm. Trek sought to expand the amenities available by preserving the hotel’s classic parlor and creating a majestic bar for entertaining. The house has been furnished with elegant pieces and state of the art fixtures. Additionally, Trek restored the belvedere at the top of the stairs and some of the ornate wrought-iron on the balconies and front porch among other pieces.

From its origins as a small woodlot on Big Bug Hill to Madison’s finest hotel on Mansion Hill, the sandstone home at 424 North Pinckney Street has emerged as a landmark in both the hospitality industry and the history of the city of Madison. The elegance, beauty, and history of the home undoubtedly will continue to impress visitors for many years to come.

Experience the Mansion Hill Inn on your Trek Factory Experience»

The Wild Coast

Posted on May 31, 2015 - 5:14 pm by keith_ritter

It’s early morning but I wake well rested. The sunlight is soft, the Mediterranean calm, and now the alarm clock buzzes in the background. From the comfort of our hotel room, my eyes slowly open and I am reminded of the counsel from my father, half a world away:

Don’t you know you’re living the dream?

And, as it turns out, I am. I woke this morning in a Leading Hotel of the World. A five-star paradise. A Mediterranean retreat. If the spectacular beauty of the surrounding rocky coastline and unspoiled beaches aren’t enough to put a smile on your face, then surely the balcony, spa or pool outside your door will do.

Stay at Hostal de la Gavina, a Leading hotel of the world, on Trek Travel's Costa Brava vacation

Stay at Hostal de la Gavina on Trek Travel's Costa Brava Cycling Vacation

You wouldn’t pick our group out of a crowd – a couple of studious doctors, a NASA flight controller chasing a dream, a self-proclaimed half-assed real estate lawyer and a State Department diplomat to Cyprus. But as I walk downstairs I am reminded that after just one week and a handful of conversations, names are known and stories are shared. The receptionist embraces my broken Spanish because she knows I’m trying to progress. The bellman admires our bikes because a former racer knows a good machine. The teachers will arrive outside early after years of preaching punctuality to their students.

Trek Travel Costa Brava Cycling Vacation

It’s the second-to-last day of our weeklong Costa Brava trip but there came a point this morning when I couldn’t focus on preparations for tomorrow’s trip end. The sun was shining bright and I filled water bottles for the umpteenth time, grease smeared across my calf, bike tools in my pocket, and a fresh cortado cupped in my hands. The caffeine had combined with the excitement of the day and left me far too distracted for the likes of goodbyes and shuttle transfers.

So with the wind in our hair and sun on our faces we took to the road. Pedal we did, hill after hill, turn after turn. Open roads are places to escape with friends. Views are supposed to be shared. After yesterday’s recon of the costal road from the comfort of a sailboat, today we took to the pavement and made our way to the next seaside village. Turns out heaven lies somewhere between S’Agaro and Tossa del Mar, with a finely tuned bicycle and good company, beside rugged cliffs and contrasting colors.

Boat on the Mediterranean on Trek Travel's Costa Brava bike tour

Explore Tossa del Mar on Trek Travel Costa Brava Cycling Vacation

After exploring the seaside villages and centuries-old castles, we turned back the way we came. It would be hard for the flavors of tonight’s Michelin-starred dinner to improve upon such a perfect day, but seamless conversation and bottomless laughter erupted effortlessly in-between each decadent course. So with tired legs and energized hearts we raised a glass of cava and toasted the wild coast.

Lucky, lucky me.

Trek Travel Costa Brava Michelin-starred meal

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Category Archives: Hotels

2017 Hotel of the Year Award

Le Phebus

Ojo Caliente

Pilot Cove: A Pisgah Oasis

Hotel of the Year Award

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa

Lesic Dimitri Palace

Creating Community at The Edenwild Inn

Photos: The Villas of Barcelona

Casa Felix

Villa Isla Cozumel

Ca L’Almiral de la Font

Hotel of the Year

Where the Silk Road Begins

Top 5 European Spas

The Suite Life

The Wild Coast

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