Europe Reawaking with Aman

By Christina Tsangaris

As Europe awaits the welcome arrival of summer, Aman’s hotels and resorts in the region are preparing to invite guests into their warm, Mediterranean embrace. Providing opportunities to relax and restore to all those able to travel safely, Aman’s spacious and peaceful sanctuaries are offering new experiences to help foster reconnection with the world’s natural beauty; from wellness initiatives to soothe the soul, to culinary experiences for the ultimate indulgence.

AMAN SVETI STEFAN, Montenegro

A spellbinding outpost stretching from Montenegro’s coast, the island of Aman Sveti Stefan re-opens for the season on 27 April. From helicopter tours over the Durmitor National Park to kickboxing sessions with the resort’s fitness coach, a 2021 stay among the cobbled streets of Aman Sveti Stefan is sure to be memorable. An idyllic location from which to explore the region’s rich cultural history, the resort’s 19th-century villa, is now available throughout the season for exclusive occupancy, providing groups with the perfect excuse to reconnect.

Once the summer residence of Queen Marija Karadjordjevic, Villa Miločer overlooks the Adriatic Sea from its position on the mainland, surrounded on three sides by dense forests. Home to characterful yet elegant suites as well as a bright communal living room, expansive meeting/dining room and a book-filled library, the villa is ideal for celebrating an occasion with loved ones or simply an overdue catch-up with friends. The residence is home to six elegant suites, with two further suites in a separate building ensuring ample private space all within near proximity.

AMANRUYA, Turkey

Bodrum’s balance of Turkish heritage and beguiling shoreline makes Amanruya an idyllic location for those seeking cultural immersion. Opening its doors for the season on 1 April, there are several new experiences on offer to help guests fully experience the resort and its surroundings.

Explore the country’s vibrant culinary landscape with visits from award-winning guest chefs from the capital of Istanbul. Chef Turk FatihTutak, whose elegant restaurant Turk rose to fame using ancient techniques and traditional ingredients, will take over Amanruya’s kitchens twice in July, serving his famous contemporary twist on Turkish dishes. The chef is just one example of several chefs who will visit Amanruya during the summer months with a more detailed calendar coming soon. Those who prefer a more laidback dining experience will enjoy Amanruya’s new Barbeque Pop Up every Wednesday and Sunday evening, running from 12 May until 24 October.

AMANJENA, Morocco

A tranquil retreat just outside the bustling fabled Red City of Marrakech, Amanjena is offering a range of new activities to celebrate the summer season - from wellness initiatives on property to experiences that immerse guests in the naturally beautiful surroundings. A short drive southwest of Marrakech lies the magical setting of Lake Lalla Takerkoust. Marvel at the valleys and villages ofTahanaout,Asniand Moulay Ibrahim on route, with a winding narrow road through the plain leading to the Kik Plateau.

The road crosses vast blue lakes and farmlands, offering astounding panoramas of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains before reaching a serene secluded spot for self-reflection. Here, guests can take part in a rejuvenating yoga lesson followed by a delicious picnic prepared by Amanjena’s chefs.

AMANZOE, Greece

Reopening on 1 April, the Grecian hilltop paradise of Amanzoe awaits those looking to switch off and connect with the resort’s breathtaking location, with new exceptional experiences available this season. New for 2021, the resort has introduced new Wellness Retreats which run for four-nights or more. The first, the Restore & Rebalance Retreat, sees the focus placed on achieving a deep sense of inner balance, peace and relaxation while developing the skills for managing a stressful lifestyle.

Though a range of wellness treatments and nurturing activities such as an Aroma Balancing Massage, Aquatic Bodywork, Movement and Mindfulness sessions and Sound Therapy, stillness is created in the mind and body leaving guests feeling lighter, more empowered and with a deeper sense of clarity, self-awareness and focus. Alternatively, the Sleep Enhancement retreat works on balancing the energy system through the combination of Sound Therapy, Thai Massage and Aromatherapy Massage to promote deep relaxation. 

AMAN VENICE, Italy

Housed in one of the city’s eight great monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice embodies its grand location. For 2021 the hotel is offering a handful of new experiences, allowing guests to marvel the skills of local artists and visit undiscovered locations. Those with a love of architecture or simply an admiration for the beauty of the city can now take part in a private Discover Contemporary Architecture Tour, inspired by the Biennale Architecture Exhibition that takes place in Venice this year. While the city is often famed for its historic buildings, alongside an experienced guide, guests will learn about some of the city’s contemporary additions.

The three-hour walking tour focuses on the works of Carlo Scarpa and Mario Botta, paying a visit to the Olivetti Store on Piazza San Marco and the Palazzo Querini Stampalia. On return to Aman Venice, the hotel’s head mixologist will serve a choice of cocktails from a specially curated menu inspired by Italy’s contemporary architects and their buildings – from the Auditorio della Musica in Rome to the Bosco Verticale in Milan - to end an afternoon of exploration in style. The cocktail menu will be available to all guests from 1 April until the Biennale Exhibition closes in November.

ROSA ALPINA, Italy

he newest member of the Aman portfolio, the family-run Rosa Alpina rests in the peaceful village of San Cassiano, in Italy’s monumental Unesco-listed Dolomiti mountains. In the summer, the surrounding landscape comes alive, with Rosa Alpina the perfect base for those wishing to explore it. With extensive trails winding throughthe mountains and an expert team of guides,guests are invited to experience the incredible terrain of the Dolomites on foot or by bike for a few hours or a full day.

Different hikes are available for varying fitness levels and families, with easier routes that meander through villages and meadows and access tothe peaksby cable car. For keen trekkers, the more challenging renowned ‘Alta Via’ trails weave their way through the jagged mountains, with stunning views around every corner. A mini hiking backpack for children containing a magnifying glass and a book to identify wild flowers is also provided to help complete the journey and lunch can be incorporated into the day, with a picnic prepared by Rosa Alpina chefs or a well-deserved barbeque served at the resort’s own private mountain huts. 

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By Christina Tsangaris