Why not make a 2018 New Year’s resolution that you don’t mind keeping for once, such as a luxury stay at one of Virgin Limited Edition’s hotels and retreats? From active breaks on the slopes, to learning new skills in Morocco and volunteering as you travel, let Virgin Limited Edition create the holiday of a lifetime.
Sir Richard Branson is well known for his marketing and publicity stunts—he was once quoted as saying he spent 25 per cent of his time doing drumming up whacky ideas and stirring up excitement about projects, new and old. While these next properties are not wacky, they will certainly stir up excitement and hopefully an adventure or two!
1. The Lodge, Verbier
Get out in the garden while the chefs prepare a farm to fork feast (Credit/Virgin)
There’s no better place to get active than the privately owned ski chalet, The Lodge, Verbier. Advanced skiers will jump at the chance to take their experience to the next level with Heli-Skiing, an experience that’s sure to get the adrenaline pumping! If warm weather and sunshine is more your thing, stay at The Lodge come June, when it reopens after the busy winter season. Hard to imagine but it’s even more beautiful in the spring, and there’s no shortage of activities (and great food) to be had.
Good for: Those of you who want to start off the new year with some exercise and fresh air.
2. Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyard, South Africa
26-bedroom hotel and vineyard an hour’s drive from Cape Town (Credit/Virgin)
Escape to warmer climes at Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyard located in Franschhoek, South Africa. Catch a little sunshine and enjoy a gourmet picnic from the Country Kitchen accompanied by a chilled glass of Mont Rochelle Sauvignon Blanc.
Good for: Foodies who would prefer to picnic amongst the vines.
3. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Ulusaba is a family-friendly safari destination (Credit/Virgin)
Make the most of your time in South Africa and combine the wine lands with some wildlife at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve. In 2016, Ulusaba was voted the number 1 top resort and safari camps in Africa by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Ulusaba brings the thrill of adventure to life with twice-daily game drives led by expert rangers and trackers. Head into the local community with Pride ‘n Purpose and volunteer in one of the local villages to experience the area near the Sabi Sand reserve on a different level.
Good for: Combining breathtaking safaris with voluntourism.
4. Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco
Supporting the local community: 90 per cent of staff are local (Credit/Virgin)
Those looking for a little peace and quiet after December’s festivities can find the ultimate retreat at Kasbah Tamadot, situated in Morocco’s tranquil Atlas Mountains. Learn a new skill with an interactive cookery session under the careful guidance of highly trained chefs and create a delicious three-course meal, including salads, soup, tagines and a dessert. Not tooting horns, but the Virgin Resorts just keep doing it! Kasbah Tamadot has been named Best Resort Hotel, North Africa and the Middle East in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2017 readers’ survey.
Good for: Fresh mountain air free of noise and air pollution.
5. Mahali Mzuri, Kenya
Luxury tented safari camp in Kenya (Credit/Virgin)
Chase away the January blues and witness Africa’s legendary wildlife race around the bush at Mahali Mzuri, situated in the exclusive Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Enjoy a front row seat to all the action as well as every creature comfort you can imagine in one of 12 luxury tented suites.
When packing your bags why not Pack for a Purpose and make a lasting impact in the community at your travel destination. If you save just a few kilos of space in your suitcase and bring supplies for area schools or medical clinics in need, you’ll make a priceless impact in the lives of our local children and families.
Good for: A chance to witness the Great Migration, first hand.
Be a Virgin (traveller)
Bookings: 0800 716 919 (UK toll free).
E-mail: [email protected]
Want something a bit more secluded for 33 of your closest friends and family? The most famous Virgin luxury stays is Branson’s own Necker Island private retreat in the British Virgin Islands.
How does Branson get your attention, besides with ultra-luxury resorts and accommodation, and what’s his advice for building a successful business?
Written By: Adriane Rysz