Margherita Puri Negri

Stripes of umbrellas and loungers line the Olympic‐sized pool. Lanes fit active swimmers, while families and sunbathers spread out on lawns. A five‐metre diving platform also adds playful competition with the kids. Champagne on ice and croque monsieurs are the go‐to order at lunchtime. The combination of open‐air swimming, sun, and dramatic views makes it a lively, social summer spot.

Often dubbed Gstaad’s “living room,” The Lobby Bar at Gstaad Palace sits just off the garden terrace with classic low‑slung seating and polished wood shine. It’s the obvious rendezvous for an aperitif or nightcap – think club sandwiches and signature cocktails alongside fine Swiss wines. Bartenders craft classics from Martinis to Old Fashioneds with expert mixing technique, while live piano or jazz sets fill the room as the evening rolls on.

The go‐to for fondue lovers seeking the real deal in a classic chalet setting, with recipes that date back to 1958. The kitchen’s thick, velvety fondue arrives with traditional trimmings, yet their Swiss fried‐cheese fritters and zucchini tart also shine. Friday and Saturday evenings come alive with Swiss folk music as locals gather, making it a memorable place to tune into rooted traditions.

Book a room at this luxury hotel situated in a 19th-century palazzo right in the centre of Rome. Drinks in the courtyard garden at Stravinskij Bar are a must.

You can't miss the large, neon green sign of Nino. A famed spot since 1934, the legacy of this spot is unmatched. Make sure to order a plate of their Tuscan white bean speciality. 

Perched above the village, The Alpina combines contemporary design with a museum-level art collection - curated by Jean-Claude Mimran and his son Nachson – featuring Tracey Emin and Henri Matisse. The Six Senses Spa centres on salt-stone rituals and high-tech wellness, while destination dining draws guests, from pop-ups of Milan’s Sant Ambroeus to counter seats at Megu for sliced sashimi. A discreet international crowd come here for wellbeing and considered luxury.

There's nothing quite like tucking in on some fresh seafood linguine and a perfectly iced white wine in hand listening to the soundtrack of the lapping waves. Especially when the view is as good as it is at Carmen Bay. Serving fresh seafood with generous helpings of our Italian favourites, Carmen Bay has stolen our hearts!

One of Gstaad Palace’s most recognisable dinner rooms, filled with crisp white linens, polished silverware and subtle tableside theatrics. Think Chateaubriand carved at the table and salt‐crusted sea bass deboned on the platter. A broad European‐leaning wine list with Swiss representation complements the classics. Evenings draw a smart crowd who know exactly why they come, and what to order. It remains one of the village’s most booked dinner reservations.

The freshest of fish, spaghetti perfectly al-dente and the most refreshing of cocktails await you at La Dogana. Sip a glass of wine at the beach club before settling down for dinner with views out across the ocean. 

With multiple installations spread across Maremma, Hypermaremma is its own self-proclaimed 'galaxy' of contemporary art. Check out its permanent exhibitions such as the remarkable large neon light installation, Spazio Amato, by Massimo Uberti, and Luca Bertolo's Osservatorio M1 striped cabin in the dunes.