Kiwi Curated
Where to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
by Joy PecknoldWith so many different cultures and landscapes easily reached by short-haul flights, Europe is the ultimate long weekend continent. Put these 10 destinations on your summer bucket list.
Where to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
In contrast to the constant pulse of Ibiza, its harder-partying Balearic Islands’ sister, Menorca takes it nice and easy. Cugo Gran Menorca makes the living extra easy. The boutique hotel has but 12 rooms (for the ultimate friends or family weekend, book out the whole property) and sits on 250 acres, with a vineyard, lavender field and infinity pool.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
Those looking for a low-key long weekend of lake swimming and wine drinking will find it in the Three Lakes Region of Switzerland. Stilted above Lake Neuchâtel, the bungalows of Hôtel Palafitte utmost serenity and privacy. Canoes, stand-up paddleboards and fishing rods are all complimentary. To take a dip, just climb down your terrace’s ladder.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
You can’t go wrong with Portugal, period, but the Azores islands, off on their own in the Atlantic, makes for a next-level escape. Most of their lush lands are protected making it a nature lovers paradise. Stay in one of 10 rooms at the cliffside White Exclusive Suites & Villas to feel like you live here.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
If rosé is your summer beverage of choice, you might as well go straight to the source—Provence dedicates half of its wine production towards the pink drink. Better yet, stay right on a vineyard for easiest access. La Bastide de Marie is a restored 18-century inn surrounded by vines and fragrant lavender and sage. The atmosphere is relaxing enough, but there’s also a spa.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
Just a 30-minute drive from Heathrow airport, Coworth Park gets guests to the good countryside stuff stat. On its idyllic 240 acres, there’s an equestrian center and spa specializing in organic treatments. It’s a long weekend getaway fit for a queen. Speaking of, Royal watchers should know that Windsor Castle is but 15 minutes away.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
There’s no need to pick sides—history buff or beach lover—when a trip to Athens includes a stay at Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso. The hotel is 25 minutes from the Acropolis and right on the Athenian Riviera, with a private beach and two pools. They also deal in thalassotherapy, which draws on the beneficial effects of water for health and wellness.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
The beautiful beach towns strung along the Aegean on Turkey’s south coast brings in sun worshippers annually. One of those is Bodrum, and its pristine resorts know how to make a weekend escape. At Nikki Beach Bodrum, there’s nothing to worry about. Just park yourself at the pool (a private one attached to one’s suite, even better) and have the drinks brought to you.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
Can’t get enough of canal cities? Neither can we. Bruges’ are lined with beautifully preserved medieval structures—no wonder it carries a UNESCO heritage designation. The Van Cleef hotel marries that history with a welcome splash of panache. Right on the waterfront, it’s close to all the key attractions, including St. Anne’s Church, Bruges Market Square and the Groeningemuseum
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
Slovenia‘s capital makes for a refreshing city break. Green spaces and historic buildings abound. The center is completely car-free and the River Ljubljanica is lined with cafes and shops. Occupying four old town houses on the bank, the boutique, design hotel Vander Urbani Resort has a riverview restaurant, champagne bar and rooftop pool.
BOOK NOWWhere to Long Weekend in Europe This Summer
With its colorful cliffsides and umbrella-dotted beaches, Italy’s Amalfi Coast is iconic for a reason. Dating back to the 13th century, NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi is one of Amalfi’s gems, replete with two restaurants, including one with a spectacular outdoor terrace, and a heated infinity pool. To get on the water, it’s just five minutes to the harbor.
BOOK NOWIn contrast to the constant pulse of Ibiza, its harder-partying Balearic Islands’ sister, Menorca takes it nice and easy. Cugo Gran Menorca makes the living extra easy. The boutique hotel has but 12 rooms (for the ultimate friends or family weekend, book out the whole property) and sits on 250 acres, with a vineyard, lavender field and infinity pool.
BOOK NOWThose looking for a low-key long weekend of lake swimming and wine drinking will find it in the Three Lakes Region of Switzerland. Stilted above Lake Neuchâtel, the bungalows of Hôtel Palafitte utmost serenity and privacy. Canoes, stand-up paddleboards and fishing rods are all complimentary. To take a dip, just climb down your terrace’s ladder.
BOOK NOWYou can’t go wrong with Portugal, period, but the Azores islands, off on their own in the Atlantic, makes for a next-level escape. Most of their lush lands are protected making it a nature lovers paradise. Stay in one of 10 rooms at the cliffside White Exclusive Suites & Villas to feel like you live here.
BOOK NOWIf rosé is your summer beverage of choice, you might as well go straight to the source—Provence dedicates half of its wine production towards the pink drink. Better yet, stay right on a vineyard for easiest access. La Bastide de Marie is a restored 18-century inn surrounded by vines and fragrant lavender and sage. The atmosphere is relaxing enough, but there’s also a spa.
BOOK NOWJust a 30-minute drive from Heathrow airport, Coworth Park gets guests to the good countryside stuff stat. On its idyllic 240 acres, there’s an equestrian center and spa specializing in organic treatments. It’s a long weekend getaway fit for a queen. Speaking of, Royal watchers should know that Windsor Castle is but 15 minutes away.
BOOK NOWThere’s no need to pick sides—history buff or beach lover—when a trip to Athens includes a stay at Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso. The hotel is 25 minutes from the Acropolis and right on the Athenian Riviera, with a private beach and two pools. They also deal in thalassotherapy, which draws on the beneficial effects of water for health and wellness.
BOOK NOWThe beautiful beach towns strung along the Aegean on Turkey’s south coast brings in sun worshippers annually. One of those is Bodrum, and its pristine resorts know how to make a weekend escape. At Nikki Beach Bodrum, there’s nothing to worry about. Just park yourself at the pool (a private one attached to one’s suite, even better) and have the drinks brought to you.
BOOK NOWCan’t get enough of canal cities? Neither can we. Bruges’ are lined with beautifully preserved medieval structures—no wonder it carries a UNESCO heritage designation. The Van Cleef hotel marries that history with a welcome splash of panache. Right on the waterfront, it’s close to all the key attractions, including St. Anne’s Church, Bruges Market Square and the Groeningemuseum
BOOK NOWSlovenia‘s capital makes for a refreshing city break. Green spaces and historic buildings abound. The center is completely car-free and the River Ljubljanica is lined with cafes and shops. Occupying four old town houses on the bank, the boutique, design hotel Vander Urbani Resort has a riverview restaurant, champagne bar and rooftop pool.
BOOK NOWWith its colorful cliffsides and umbrella-dotted beaches, Italy’s Amalfi Coast is iconic for a reason. Dating back to the 13th century, NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi is one of Amalfi’s gems, replete with two restaurants, including one with a spectacular outdoor terrace, and a heated infinity pool. To get on the water, it’s just five minutes to the harbor.
BOOK NOW