Lonely Planet Asia - June 2016

EXTRAORDINARY PLACES TO STAY

PHOTOGRAPHS: BELMOND HOTEL CIPRIANI , SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE

SPICERS VINEYARDS

ESTATE

Polkobin, Australia

WHAT IS THE EXOTIC EXPERIENCE? Picture a

luxuriously appointed estate set amongst rolling

vineyards and native bushland, a place to relish

in fresh food produce and wine. Spicers

Vineyards Estate is the perfect recipe for

relaxation and was recently voted as one of the

top romantic getaways in Australia. There are

plenty of romance packages to choose from

including a unique culinary haven experience

where you can indulge in a five-course

degustation dinner at acclaimed Restaurant

Botanica in the evening.

WILL I BE CONVINCED? The cosy private

property has 12 luxurious guest rooms,

complete with en suite spa and open, wood-

burning fireplace, created to be a personal haven

to relax and unwind in. If you will like a drop of

adrenaline with your wine, Hunter Valley serves

up a variety of options such as hot air

ballooning, a helicopter tour, mountain biking

and sky diving. Several world-class golf courses

are also on site, including The Vintage designed

by legendary Greg Norman.

RATE: US$515++ per night

spicersretreats.com/spicers-vineyards-estate

BELMOND HOTEL CIPRIANI

Venice, Italy

WHAT IS THE EXOTIC EXPERIENCE? If this is George Clooney’s wedding destination of choice,

then you can bet it’s one of the best around. Belmond Hotel Cipriani is five magical minutes by

private boat from the bustling St Mark’s Square. This exquisite establishment sits on the stunning

Giudecca Island with incredible views of Venice’s picturesque lagoon, and holds a rich history of

over 50 years of glamour and legend. You can be assured of impeccable service throughout your

stay, and each room is furnished with a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary

Venetian details.

WILL I BE CONVINCED? The hotel boasts a stunning collection of 95 rooms, including 53 suites

and junior suites. The spacious Palladio Suite is the key highlight; situated within the main

building, it has a private entrance via an exclusive dock, personal plunge pool, terrace and Jacuzzi.

Did we mention complimentary breakfast, yacht racing, kayaking and even panoramic helicopter

rides on request? There’s even an Olympic-size swimming pool filled with heated seawater, the

only hotel pool in Central Venice.

RATE: US$665++ per night

belmond.com/hotel-cipriani-venice