Kiwi Curated

Trip Tips: 6 Spring Getaways in Europe

by Joy Pecknold

As the chill in the air subsides and buds begin to unfurl, scores slough off their homebody ways and seek spring escapes. Offering quaint countryside and culturally-rich cities, and wine, so much wine, Europe is the holy grail of charming getaways. Herein, six to consider, from Portugal to Poland.

Portugal: Malhadinha Nova Country House & Spa

This estate in Portugal’s Alentejo plain also entertains guests, and everything is well thought out. Case in point: their theme weeks, which include sports, wellness, culture and wine-centric breaks. To support those ends, they’ve got a spa, stud farm, and, naturally, their own winery.

Switzerland: Park Hotel Vitznau

Dating back to 1903, the Park Hotel Vitznau offers castle-like accommodation juxtaposed with thoroughly modern interiors—not to mention a front row seat to Lake Lucerne. Explore the lake by boat, see a concert in Lucerne and in between savor the culinary creations of two Michelin star chef Nenad Mlinarevic. A heated outdoor infinity pool means even a spring swim is in the cards.

Austria: Hotel Sans Souci Vienna

Vienna is a very good idea anytime of year, and with its clean white exterior and fresh interiors, Hotel Sans Souci dwells in a spring state of being. Between the city’s 1st and 7th districts, the property provides a central spot from which to explore and a plush pad to return to, complete with a wellness spa, 20 meter pool and chic restaurant.

Germany: Hotel Bachmair Weissach

Bavaria’s charms are in full display at Hotel Bachmair Weissach, set alongside Lake Tegernsee with the mountains nearby. There’s rowing, golfing, hiking, hot air ballooning and more to be had, fueled by the Bavarian delights they serve at their century-and-a-half-old gastropub.

Italy: Relais San Maurizio

What was once a 17th century Franciscan monastery now spoils visitors to Piedmont with vineyard vistas, spa treatments and fine dining. Each room is different so those who return are treated to an utterly unique experience every time.

Poland: Hotel Galery69

Poland might not be high on travelers’ bucket lists, but it should be, especially if a jaunt here includes a stay at Hotel Galery69 in the northern village of Dorotowo. The 21-room lakeside property is an ode to art with creative couple Malgosia and Wojtek Zóltowsky at the helm. Simply sitting on the dock and devouring a novel is a day well spent.