Destinations: Four Seasons Hotel Baku

European Restaurants and Bars You Have to Try This Summer

Posted on by Jessica Griffin

Embark on a culinary journey this summer that spans an entire continent. From a one-of-a-kind cocktail named after the famous island ferry in Istanbul to two distinct chocolate confections even a connoisseur of the savoury can’t resist, these European restaurants and bars invite you to explore a curated list of cocktails, signature dishes and sweet treats dreamed up by award-winning Four Seasons chefs and mixologists to welcome summer with open arms.

Toast to warmer weather with exclusive cocktails that reflect the season, relish the flavours of summer coming alive in an array of savoury dishes from both land and sea, and indulge your sweet tooth with desserts that blend refinement with gastronomic delight.

Split image with one image featuring a group of four sitting at an outdoor table with views of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on the left and an image of two hands clinking together their beverage glasses over a table of food

Meet friends at Süreyya Teras Lounge in Istanbul for a round of drinks next to iconic views. Our pick? The Ada Vapuru cocktail made with limoncello, Aperol, lemon juice and simple syrup.

Rose-colored cocktail in a coupe glass topped with sprigs of flowers

Le Bar des Bergues’ Tender Blossom cocktail made with rose water, lychee, hibiscus and ginger is perfect for a warm summer’s day.

White marble-top bar with leather curved back stools and small round lamps at MÚZSA in Budapest

Have a seat at MÚZSA’s stylish bar and order a Sunglow, made with Pisco, saffron and edible gold.

Refreshing European cocktails

CHEERS TO SUMMER AT MÚZSA, LE BAR DES BERGUES AND SÜREYYA TERAS LOUNGE

Settle in at MÚZSA at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest with a Sunglow, a gem of a cocktail reminiscent of the sun itself with its golden hue, or sip a frothy Tender Blossom, ruby red from hibiscus and zingy from notes of ginger at Le Bar des Bergues at Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva. Keep the jewel-toned theme of summer going with an Ada Vapuru – available at Süreyya Teras Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet – that reflects the breezy charm of cruising the Marmara Sea in summertime and delivers a burst of citrusy flavours.

Split image of an orange-colored cocktail on the left and an image of a marble-top bar, with brown leather stools and gold hanging lights on the right

Sit down for a Legendary Negroni – made with gin, Campari and sweet vermouth – at The Bar at Wild Carrot at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire.

Overhead view of Avra bar in Athens featuring a large centre bar, lounge area and multiple dining tables

Avra at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens offers hand-crafted cocktails like the Martinez – made with Stray Dog Wild Gin, Mancino Vermouth Rosse, Boker’s Bitters and maraschino liqueur – along with striking seaside views.

Silver cocktail shaker and a highball glass half-filled with a blue beverage sit on a cocktail table next to white tree branches

The electirc blue Legacy cocktail at Atrium Bar in Florence features Patrón Silver Tequila, Martini Ambrato, clementine oleo saccharum, butterfly pea tea and sour mix.

SIP REFRESHING COCKTAILS AT THE BAR AT WILD CARROT, ATRIUM BAR AND AVRA

Looking European cocktails that are a bit more traditional? The Legendary Negroni at The Bar at Wild Carrot at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire boasts sweet vermouth to offset the bitterness of citrusy gin. Over at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, silver tequila and butterfly pea tea come together in a dance for your taste-buds in Atrium Bar’s Legacy cocktail. The vivid sapphire colour resonates with the kind of clear blue summer sky you can only find in the Italian countryside.

At Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens destination bar Avra, cocktails are the language of choice. “We love a good drink,” says Bar Manager Manon Kapfer, “and we love sharing beautifully crafted cocktails with other enthusiasts.” Experience the art of fine drinking with a gin-based Martinez, one of the bar’s Ultimate 24 Avra Classic Cocktails. This special menu showcases 24 classic cocktails accompanied by the stories of the bartenders whose careers they’ve shaped.

Executive Chef Christian Le Squer and image of Line-Fished Sea Bass with Caviar and Buttermilk dish on a white plate

While there are many incredible options to choose from at Michelin-starred Le Cinq in Paris, Executive Chef Christian Le Squer’s Line-Fished Sea Bass with Caviar and Buttermilk is one of our top picks.

Interior of Mei Ume restaurant in London with dark grey walls and flooring, large windows, brown wooden tables and red dining chairs

At Mei Ume, you can have your lobster two ways, with lobster tail sashimi, physalis and bamboo leaf served along with lobster soup made with goji berry, egg tofu and coriander.

Turkish Mixed Kebab Platter

The Mixed Kebab Platter featuring lamb chops, adana kebab, chicken wings, lamb loin and chicken shish is a must-try at Ocakbaşi.

Innovative European Dishes

TASTE THE FLAVOURS OF EUROPE AT OCAKBAŞI, MEI UME AND LE CINQ

Summertime in Istanbul means Turkish grilling traditions are on full display at Ocakbaşi (Turkish for “fireside”) in the form of a Mixed Kebab Platter – best enjoyed alongside sun-soaked views of the Bosphorus Strait from the restaurant’s terrace at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus.

Warmer weather also means warmer waters, and ocean-fresh seafood takes centre stage at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge. Discover the complexity of a single ingredient with Lobster Two Ways – a Mei Ume signature. Lobster Tail Sashimi and Lobster Soup converge for the ultimate in dual flavour profiles.

At Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, Michelin-starred Le Cinq’s Executive Chef Christian Le Squer has reinvented a dish from his childhood that’s perfect for summer dining: Line-Fished Sea Bass with Caviar and Buttermilk. He says his goal is “to get emotions going so that guests feel the love that I have for what I create” – just like his maman would do.

Split image of cafe dining area furnished with a light-green velvet sofa, small table and a bar counter behind it next to an overhead image of Nitro Tomato and Green Gazpacho at Dani brasserie in Madrid

Cool off with a bowl of the Nitro Tomato and Green Gazpacho – featuring dried tomato, green capsicum and baby prawn tartare – best enjoyed on the terrace at Dani overlooking central Madrid.

Close up image of quail, green asparagus and black truffle slices on a white dish served at Principe Cerami in Taormina

Green asparagus and black truffle perfectly complement the quail served at Principe Cerami in Taormina.

Braised lamb served on a white plate next to a glass of wine

Executive Chef Fabrizio Borraccino highlights the flavours of Italy at Zelo with dishes such as Lamb Chicory with Cerfoglio Roots.

SAVOUR LOCAL PRODUCE AT DANI, ZELO AND PRINCIPE CERAMI

If you’re in the mood for something chilled, cool off with Nitro Tomato and Green Gazpacho at Dani at Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, an Andalusian specialty developed by celebrity chef Dani Garcia. Known for their sweet, yet nutty flavour, cerfoglio roots offset the gaminess of tender lamb in Zelo’s Lamb Chicory with Cerfoglio Roots at Four Seasons Hotel Milan, where Executive Chef Fabrizio Borraccino serves up thoughtful Italian cuisine.

End your savoury summer journey at Michelin-starred Principe Cerami at San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, and delight in the classic flavours of bright asparagus and black summer truffle, both quintessential elements to their succulent quail dish.

Split image of three tables on an outdoor patio surrounded by greenery on the left and an image of crispy chocolate and hazelnuts with milk foam and light cocoa soufflé in a white bowl

Le Cap’s Crispy Chocolate and Hazelnuts dish – made with milk foam and light cocoa soufflé – offers a sweet and elegant dessert for days and nights in Cap-Ferrat.

Torroncino & Gianduja made with hazelnut gianduja royaltine and seasonal berries served on a white plate

The Torroncino & Gianduja served at Zafferano at Four Seasons Hotel Baku is made with hazelnut Gianduja Royaltine and served with seasonal berries.

Three scoops of mochi ice cream in yuzu, matcha and chocolate plated on a white oblong dish with fresh strawberries, pineapple and berries on the side

The Mochi Ice Cream Trio at O Japonês features scoops of yuzu, matcha and chocolate mochi.

Must-try summer desserts

INDULGE IN SOMETHING SWEET AT ZAFFERNO, LE CAP AND O JAPONÊS

For chocolate lovers, both the Torroncino & Gianduja at Zafferano at Four Seasons Hotel Baku and Le Cap’s Crispy Chocolate and Hazelnuts at Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel are must-tries. These refined creations are far from the too-sweet variety you’ll find elsewhere. As Executive Pastry Chef Pierre-Jean Quinonero from Cap-Ferrat explains in his unique approach to dessert philosophy, “I like to put modern spins on things, maximizing visuals and minimizing sugar.”

And while it may be on a different continent entirely, be transported to Japan with O Japonês’s authentic Mochi Ice Cream Trio – with flavours such as yuzu, matcha and chocolate offering a cool refuge during warm summer nights spent at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon.

Split image of Chef Yannick Alleno garnishing a dish while wearing a white long-sleeved chef's jacket on the left, with a close up of his Ultimate French Toast on the right

Chef Yannick Alléno’s Ultimate French Toast served with with uru ice cream and candied hazelnuts is a must-order breakfast or brunch dish at Pavyllon London.

Five-layered walnut cheesecake and scoop of nutmeg sorbet is served on a round white dish

CottoCrudo’s Walnut Cheesecake is delightfully paired with crispy honeycomb and a creamy nutmeg sorbet.

TREAT YOUR TASTE-BUDS AT PAVYLLON LONDON AND COTTOCRUDO

Saturday brunch at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane gets a makeover, Pavyllon-style, at the newly Michelin-starred Pavyllon London. Celebrated chef Yannick Alléno’s Ultimate French Toast with uru ice cream and candied hazelnuts is the perfect pick-me-up before a summer afternoon of exploring iconic sites around the city.

The Walnut Cheesecake from CottoCrudo at Four Seasons Hotel Prague is another example of a sweet summer dessert where crunchy and smooth textures meet – the crispy honeycomb and creamy nutmeg sorbet are sure to awaken your taste-buds.

Whether you’re feeling adventurous or romantic, each of these culinary creations has its own story to tell. Become a character in the story of your choice or craft your own delicious narrative this summer, starting at these renowned European restaurants and bars.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Taste your way through Europe this summer.

Concierge

Passport to Europe: 9 Cities to Explore This Summer

Posted on by Ellise Pierce

Europe is always a great idea – but Europe in the summer is pure magic. Cities are alive with bustling cafés, the parks are filled with people enjoying the warm weather and the finest produce is deliciously in season. Discover the best things to do in Europe this summer with the help of Four Seasons experts who can curate an unforgettable vacation for you and your loved ones. From a speedboat ride along the Danube in Budapest to a tapas bar–hopping tour in Madrid, these nine alluring cities offer a range of experiences to put on your Europe bucket list. We’ve gathered some insider recommendations from Four Seasons team members in some of our favourite cities to give you the local advantage when you set out to explore.


Open-air restaurant dining patio with very large orange shade umbrellas surrounded greenery and city views of Madrid

Things to do in Madrid: Secret finds in the Spanish capital

According to Almudena Durango, Assistant Chief Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, the city is filled with hidden treasures to be found in the small neighbourhoods within walking distance of the Hotel. “Spend a morning in the Palacio del Principe de Anglona Gardens in the La Latina district. It’s truly a place of peace and calm in the city,” suggests Durango. “Then wander into the small boutiques nearby, such as Cocol for local crafts and ceramics, and Casa Hernanz for espadrilles.”

For lunch, opt for a meal at one of the sidewalk cafés in the Chueca neighbourhood before exploring one of Madrid’s little-known jewels: the 17th-century baroque Church of San Antonio de los Alemanes. “It’s unassuming from the outside, but once you walk in, you’re surrounded by frescoes,” says Durango.

On your way back to the Hotel, stop by the Monastery of Las Carboneras for a bag of traditional sweets and pastries. “They’re handmade by the cloistered nuns, who sell them through a panelled counter because they can’t be seen,” notes Durango. Then, end your day with a signature gin and ginger-infused Flamenco cocktail at Dani on the Hotel’s rooftop terrace, watching the sun set as you admire the beautiful views of the city.

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The Hotel also offers exclusive experiences you’ll only find at Four Seasons. Whether you take a historical walking tour into the heart of the city, attend a Flamenco guitar workshop and show, or taste your way through some of Madrid’s top tapas bars with a local expert, these are the moments you’ll remember long after you’ve gone home.

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Indoor pool with lounge chairs on the side set beneath a slanted wall of windows

Things to do in Geneva: Laid-back days in nature

When summer arrives in the Swiss capital, activities shift outdoors, from al fresco lunches to lacing up your hiking boots for a trek. “Summer in Geneva means at least one boat day,” suggests Audrey Mercier, Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva. “Hop aboard one of the Hotel’s private boats and go wakeboarding across Lake Geneva, then head to the charming medieval village of Yvoire. Order the fresh filets de perches at Le Passe Franc, where the owner serves wine from his vineyards in the South of France.”

For another scenic option, take a walking tour through the cobblestone streets of Old Town and visit the most ancient rooftop in Geneva: the 12th-century Saint Pierre Cathedral. After you’ve climbed back down those 157 steps, have traditional fondue lunch on the terrace of the iconic Restaurant Les Armures. Then wrap up your day with a lakeside bike tour that’ll also take you past the Palais des Nations, headquarters for the United Nations.

Have some extra time? “Spend your last day in the mountains,” recommends Mercier. “Board the famous Belle Epoque steamer for a ride on the lake or the contemporary GoldenPass Panoramic train for a scenic, two-and-a-half-hour journey to Glacier 3000 for a hike that will cross the Peak Walk by Tissot – a suspension bridge connecting two mountain summits.”

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For a one-of-a-kind souvenir, the Hotel’s concierge team can arrange for a private visit to nearby Swiss watchmakers, including the prestigious Roger Dubuis Haute Horlogerie atelier. Or pay a visit to the Hotel’s Spa Mont Blanc and sign up for the Haute Couture by Dr. Burgener Switzerland ritual, a personalized session using the latest technology, skin analysis and Swiss skincare products.

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Two people riding horses, one brown horse and one white horse, on a grassy field with an English manor hous in the distance

Things to do in Hampshire: Scents of the season

Deeply connecting with a place means taking in all that it has to offer. “It’s the simple things such as the smell of fresh Hampshire flowers that bring some of the greatest pleasures,” says Andrei Pascut, Concierge Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. To see some of the area’s best florals, Pascut recommends taking a short drive from the Hotel to the beautifully restored house and gardens of natural history pioneer Gilbert White. After taking in the aromas of the quintessentially British gardens, travel the natural world through the collection of explorer and naturalist Frank Oates, as well as that of Lawrence Oates, who was part of the fateful Terra Nova Expedition to the South Pole, notes Pascut.

To go even further back in history, Pascut recommends visiting the historic city of Winchester and taking a walk around the towering Winchester Cathedral, where centuries of events left their mark. “I recommend going first thing in the morning on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Start off with a guided tour, where you’ll learn about Winchester during Anglo-Saxon times, what changed when the Normans invaded, and the many characters and events that shaped England’s history.” Have the Hotel arrange for a curated itinerary to make your time spent exploring even more personalized.

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With a nod to its countryside setting, the Hotel offers several unique outdoor experiences, including English-style horseback riding, archery and taking a traditional hawk walk with a falconry expert and a real Harris hawk. And for fans of “Downton Abbey,” the Hotel can also arrange for a private tour of nearby Highclere Castle, given by its owner.

Explore the English countryside in Hampshire

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Things to do in Budapest: Walks through history

Because Budapest is divided into two districts separated by the Danube River, the best way to see Budapest, says Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest Head Concierge Peter Buday, is by foot. “I love wandering around the medieval cobblestoned streets of the Castle District. It offers great views, as well as narrow, charming alleys with hidden spots for strudel, art or simple souvenirs,” he says. Buday also recommends a visit to the Hungarian National Gallery, currently housed in the former Royal Palace, to see the incredible collection of works by Hungarian artists from the 11th century to present day.

While Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion are on everyone’s must-see list, there are also plenty of hidden gems, such as the 18th-century buildings on the western and eastern sides of Castle Hill and Szalag stairway, a winding path of tree-lined steps leading to the bottom of the hill.

“City Park features excellent playgrounds for kids and plenty of green areas, too,” says Buday. “Go see the fairy tale–like 19th-century Vajdahunyad Castle and take a boat ride around its adjacent lake. Just a few steps away is the charming Budapest Zoo with its houses built in different architectural styles, something that both animal lovers and architecture enthusiasts will enjoy.” After the zoo, consider taking a hot-air balloon ride in the Varosliget Ballon, suggests Buday. A short ride takes you up 150 metres and offers one of the best views of the city.

As night falls, the romance of the city comes alive. “A stroll along the Danube, whether on the Pest side or the Buda side of the city, and crossing its many bridges, is equally romantic and breathtaking – especially at night, when the city lights are reflected in the river,” says Buday. Walk up to Gellert Hill for a panoramic view of Budapest, or take a leisurely walk along the river from Gresham Palace to the Central Market Hall, or the other way from Gresham Palace to the Parliament Building.

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Ready to venture a little farther afield? Have the Hotel arrange for a road trip to Etyek – a small village outside of Budapest that produces some of the country’s best wines – where you can taste some of the best varietals. Or opt for a sunset ride along the Danube on a private, Venetian-style speedboat, complete with sparkling wine, or an appointment for the Spa’s signature two-hour Touch of the Earth treatment, a scrub-wrap-massage combo that promises to leave you relaxed and glowing for the next day’s discoveries.

Walk Budapest’s most romantic streets

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Two people ride in a small wooden boat along the river in Prague approaching Charles Bridge

Things to do in Prague: Ancient to avant-garde

With its stunning architecture and Gothic towers, the Czech capital’s ancient past seamlessly co-mingles with today’s modern world. To find out more about how its historical eras coexist, spend an afternoon visiting the 800-year-old, Baroque-style Strahov Monastery Library, one of the most well-preserved in the world, suggests Vaclav Hugo Kominek, Guest Experience Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Prague.

“The book rooms are beautiful, with more than 200,000 volumes on their shelves, including ancient first editions,” says Kominek. “The vaulted, frescoed ceilings are magnificent, and there’s even a rarity cabinet with curious objects.” Afterwards, dine at Stangl, Prague’s contemporary gastronomic restaurant best known for its creative interpretation of locally sourced and wild ingredients. Another not-to-miss foodie experience: If you’re in Prague over a weekend, ask the Concierge to make a reservation for the Sunday Art Brunch at Kunsthalle Praha Bistro, which includes a ticket to the Kunsthalle Museum and a breakfast buffet filled with experimental dishes.

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See how the famous Czech crystal is made with a visit to the Rückl glass factory in nearby Nizbor, where you’ll meet the craftspeople and even get to blow glass yourself. The Hotel can also arrange a romantic ride in a charming wooden boat for a cruise along the Vltava River, complete with sparkling wine and the captain’s captivating stories about the history of the city.

Old meets new in Prague

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Things to do in Baku: Craftsmanship and cultural icons

Located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea along the curved Bay of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan has been an economic stronghold for centuries, with a rich cultural history that thrives today. To get to know the city, the Concierge team at Four Seasons Hotel Baku suggests visiting the Mardakan Quadrangular Tower, a 12th-century coastline castle fortress, and afterwards, exploring Shah Dili and Zire Eco Park, a nature reserve on the edge of a long, thin peninsula.

ONLY AT FOUR SEASONS

Unlock the mystery – and learn about the history – behind the art of Azerbaijan’s famous woven carpets on a private tour into the workshop of a 100-year-old carpetmaker in the heart of the Old City. You’ll also be able to weave a one-of-a-kind carpet of your own and take it home with you. Afterwards, taste the region’s world-renown caviar – from classic beluga to rare types of sturgeon – on the rooftop terrace of Baku Caviar, complete with bubbles and breathtaking views of the city.

Get to know the culture of Baku

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Aerial view of Greek peninsula

Things to do in Athens: Make a splash

Located on the tip of a peninsula on the Athenian Riviera, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens is in the enviable position of being close enough to the city to visit and far enough away for a peaceful, relaxing sojourn. Here are some of the property’s top curated experiences in and around Athens.

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Spend a day zipping through the Saronic Gulf in a private rib boat, discovering the picturesque islands of Hydra and Spetses. Swim in clear, sparkling waters; have a leisurely lunch at a seaside tavern; then shop at the boardwalk boutiques before your captain whisks you back to the Hotel.

You can also dive deep into Athens’ rich history with a private, guided tour of the Acropolis, the iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on a hill high over the city, you’ll take in magnificent views of Athens and the Aegean Sea as you learn about famous monuments such as the Parthenon and Nike Temple. Concierge Danai Papachristofilou also suggests a walk through the charming neighbourhood of Plaka at the bottom of the hill, stopping for meze at one of its outdoor cafes. Afterwards, let your mind and body continue to absorb the rituals of an ancient civilization with a soak in the Hotel Spa’s Fountain House. With a steam grotto, sauna and hammam, it aims to provide healing through the waters – sanus per aquam – a long-held Greek belief.

And if you’re looking to really get a taste of Greek culture, you can find out what makes Greek olive oil so unique as you taste the four indigenous varieties during an interactive, expert-led workshop. You’ll learn how to select the right olive oil for the task at hand, and how to appreciate the differences between them. And since all olive oil needs a vessel, you can also learn how to make pottery like the ancient Greeks during a class that covers its history as an ancient form of storytelling.

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Things to do in Istanbul: Capture the magic

Spread across two continents, Istanbul is a city like no other. The Concierge teams at both Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet recommend seeing this ancient city by land and sea, and can arrange private guides to accompany you, whether you’re on foot or on the water.

Spend a morning on a private yacht, cruising along the beautiful Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that divides Europe and Asia; then go to a traditional meyhane restaurant, where locals typically gather to share meze platters and listen to Turkish music. Afterwards, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world, and pick up a bag of Turkish delights, the iconic sweets of Istanbul, to take home.

Cruise along the Bosphorus

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Did you know that the bits of coffee sediment at the bottom of your cup of Turkish coffee hold clues to your future? Find out more at a traditional Turkish coffee reading, known as fal. Let the magic continue as you learn about the ritual of the ancient Mevlevi Order, a mystical Ottoman artform in which pigments and dyes are suspended in drops of water; then try it out for yourself, and even get to take your finished piece with you.

Find your delight in Istanbul

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Man floats on steps of an indoor pool while woman stands next to him leaning on the hand rail

Things to do in London: Iconic shopping and dining

Let Four Seasons make your trip to London a breeze by taking care of all the planning. The Concierge teams at both Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane and Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge can make arrangements for whatever you’re in the mood for, from curated sightseeing excursions to witness the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, to trips to London’s top shopping districts – with tea and scone breaks as needed.

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Michael Hagen, Head Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, recommends you see London from a different perspective with a private cruise along the River Thames (offered by both properties), with your guide telling stories about the landmarks you’ll pass along the way, including London Bridge, the Tower of London and more.

After your tour, the team at Park Lane can set you up with a shopping expert who’ll whisk you away in a private car to the city’s famous Mayfair district, which includes renowned Savile Row for bespoke men’s tailoring; Davies Street for galleries and boutiques; and the elegant, glass-covered 19th-century Burlington Arcade, London’s oldest luxury shopping destination. While your packages are being delivered to your room, toast to your smashing day with an Allenotic – Chef Yannick Alléno’s innovative take on the classic gin and tonic – at Bar Antoine, followed by an al fresco dinner on the terrace at Pavyllon London, Alléno’s first restaurant in the U.K., which has already received its first Michelin star.

Experience London from Park Lake

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If you’re staying at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, you may want to spend the morning taking a private guided walking tour through the city’s historic district, followed by a couple’s swim in the private pool – champagne included. And if you’re feeling peckish after all of that activity, your dinner table is waiting: legendary French chef Anne-Sophie Pic’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Le Dame de Pic London is located right in the Hotel.

See a different side of London

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YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Have your best European summer with us.

Concierge

A New Season in Napa: Fall Fashion
Inspired by Wine Country

Posted on by Alycee Byrd

California’s Napa Valley is ideally suited for Cabernet Sauvignon grapes: The region offers a sunny, warm climate; good drainage; and volcanic soils that add an earthy, rich complexity to its wines. At the new Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley, where the vineyard is protected by the Palisades mountains and oak-covered hills, world-class winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown and his team at the on-site Elusa Winery have carefully designed and planted it to intensify the grapes’ flavour. Take part in the winemaking process, from harvesting grapes to blending and ageing the wine, or learn about Calistoga’s unique terroir during a tasting session – the Resort provides the most complete grape-to-glass experience in Napa.

“The moment guests step foot on the property, they are welcomed into an extraordinary wine country oasis,” says General Manager Mehdi Eftekari. “Awe-inspiring views of the vineyards and Palisades Mountains are an idyllic backdrop to enriching experiences at TRUSS Restaurant + Bar and Elusa Winery. In guests’ suites, the vines are mere inches from their terraces and balconies.”


The dramatic scenery of North America’s wine capital – and the Resort, set to open later this year – also provide an idyllic background for the season’s most stylish new fashions. The looks pair perfectly with the Resort’s natural colour palette, rich textures and easy elegance.

Explore Napa Valley with Four Seasons

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The Resort spreads across 22.5 acres (9 hectares), offering dramatic scenery and viticultural discovery at every turn. It’s a natural hideaway for relaxation and indulgence, framed by picturesque forests and majestic mountains.

Left to right: On Julia: Genny top and skirt; Alexander McQueen boots. On Miki: Reem Acra dress. On Breanna: Valentino gown, Sethi Couture earrings.

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Make the most of Napa’s idyllic setting with a swim in the Resort’s two outdoor pools – the adults-only pool overlooks the vineyard, while the Resort Pool features shallow splashing areas that are perfect for families. Or celebrate the sunshine with elevated Napa cuisine at the modern TRUSS Restaurant + Bar or Cal-Mexican favourites at open-air Campo Poolside.

Left image, left to right: On Julia: Stella McCartney dress and boots; JYE ring (index finger); Sethi Couture ring (middle finger); Guess bag. On Miki: Gucci cardigan, jumpsuit and sandals; Wolford undergarments; Alexander McQueen clutch; Fabergé necklace and rings. On Breanna: Alyson Eastman dress; Chelsea Paris shoes; Tiffany & Co. necklace; Grace Lee ring (index finger); Katkim rings (ring fingers); Vhernier pink gold and jade bracelet; Sethi Couture bangles (near hand); JYE bangle (near sleeve). Right image: On Breanna: Reem Acra dress; JYE earrings.

Taste the Flavours of Napa

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Elusa winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown is celebrated for his non-interventionalist approach, letting the vineyard’s character shine. It’s a style that has paid off: Renowned wine critic Robert Parker Jr. has awarded him 23 perfect 100-point scores for his Cabernet Sauvignon projects over the past decade.

Left to right: On Breanna: Chloé coat, skirt, top and boots; Adeam earrings and ring. On Miki: Chloé poncho; Partow dress; Michael Kors Collection skirt; JYE ring (right hand); Vhernier ring (left hand). On Julia: Chloé jumper and skirt; Brunello Cucinelli boots; Sethi Couture necklaces, rings and earrings.

Savour Napa Valley wines

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Spa Talisa celebrates Napa’s rich vineyard heritage with treatments incorporating grape seeds – long recognized for their potent antioxidants and skin-pleasing polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Try an exfoliating scrub of sugar and grape seeds to give your skin a soft, luminous glow. “Spa Talisa is rooted in Calistoga’s 150-year history as a wellness destination,” says Eftekari. “Guests can enjoy holistic treatments and private patios, or head to the steam decks for a locally-inspired steam experience.”

On Breanna: Gucci jacket, vest and trousers; Tory Burch ring.

Relax at Spa Talisa

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Century-old olive trees dot the Resort, adding character to the rustic yet elegant ambience indoors and out. Acres of vineyards, farmhouse-chic villas and romantic private terraces: It’s California wine country at its finest.

Left image: On Breanna: Brunello Cucinelli dress and cardigan; Katkim earring; Sethi Couture band (left hand) and stacked rings (right hand); Tiffany & Co. ring (middle finger). Right image, left to right: On Breanna: Dolce & Gabbana jacket, skirt and earrings; Akris top; Dior sunglasses. On Julia: Prada dress, top and stole; Tory Burch necklace; Katkim earring and rings (index and middle fingers); Grace Lee ring (index finger); Aaron Basha ring (right hand) and beaded bracelet; Vhernier gold and carnelian bracelet; Dior pearl necklace worn as bracelet; Stella McCartney sunglasses. On Miki: Altuzarra dress; Tory Burch top; Dior scarf; Max Mara head scarf; Dolce & Gabbana earrings; Alexander McQueen sunglasses.

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The Resort’s Vineyard Barn – with lofty beamed ceilings and prime views of the vines – is a coveted venue for weddings and events. Say “I do” in the vineyard, or gather with friends and family for a dinner party in The Cork Room, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the winery.

Left image: On Miki: Chanel coat, boots and earrings; Grace Lee ring (index finger); Sethi Couture rings (middle finger). Right image: On Julia: Harry Winston earrings, necklace, brooch, ring and cuff; Marina Moscone pajama shirt.

Photographer: Eric Ray Davidson

Stylist: Julie Matos

Assistant Stylists: Alyson Eastman and Johanna Houska

Makeup: Karina Moore

Hair: James Harris Jr.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will you explore next?

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Reconnect With the World:
How Travel Can Transform Your Outlook

Posted on by Jennifer Sanchez

Human brains are hard-wired to connect. It’s how we learn about the world around us and how we learn about ourselves. And in the series of moments that make up our lives, it’s moments of genuine personal connection that shine the brightest. This is never more true than when we travel.

For Jessica Nabongo, writer, entrepreneur and the first Black woman to visit every country in the world, making those connections is one of the most important and cherished parts of her journey not only throughout the globe, but through life.

“One question I ask people a lot is, what makes you happy?” Nabongo says. “Whether I’m talking to royalty or if I’m talking to someone who has nearly nothing living in a village, the messages remain very, very similar. It’s all about our personal relationships.”

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The daughter of Ugandan immigrants, Nabongo has been travelling internationally since she was 4 years old. In 2008, she left her corporate job and moved to Japan to teach English. She ended up living abroad for seven years, with stints in London, Benin and Rome, before returning to her hometown of Detroit, Michigan. But in 2017, with 60 countries already under her belt, Nabongo decided that she would set out to visit every single country in the world and share it all on Instagram under the handle @jessicanabongo. Two years and 136 countries later, she accomplished her record-breaking feat.

 


Recently, she connected with Florence, one of Italy’s most beautiful cities and centre of the art and culture of the Italian Renaissance, during a visit with Alicia Miller Corbett – editor of Four Seasons Magazine – to record a podcast sharing more about her personal journey and perspective on connection.

At Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, centuries of history lie within reach in the Hotel’s expansive private garden – the largest in the city. Originally planted in the 15th century and filled with statues, fountains and a small Ionic temple, the garden retains its ancient beauty and charm. After a stroll under centuries-old trees and a Michelin-starred dinner garnished with views of iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Nabongo could maintain the Renaissance mood in her guest room, where frescoes and original architecture bridge the gap between their time and ours.

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Explore With Your Heart

Deep in the Tuscan countryside, Giotto, a curly-haired Lagotto Romagnolo, goes sniffing through the woods in search of the elusive truffle. His owner, Luca, is close by. About an hour’s drive from Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, this truffle-hunting expedition offers Nabongo a rare glimpse into the rural heart of the region, both through the bucolic scenery and, later, through the cuisine. “To learn so much about the history of truffles, and to learn about it through [Luca’s] clear passion for it, it was such an amazing experience,” she says.

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Extending an exploration beyond the major cities is one of the best ways to get know a new country. And for Nabongo, experiencing a destination is much more than a change in geography. “I think even beyond going outside the main cities, it’s about how you explore any place you visit,” she says. “My passport into a country – my entry point – is always the people.”

What happens if you don’t speak the language? No problem, says Nabongo. Her philosophy? “I speak with my heart and not with my mind.”

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Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Whether you’re worried about travelling alone, visiting certain countries or even sampling the street food, Nabongo always encourages people to leave their fears at home. “I would say that my travel philosophy is to travel without fear. And to travel with positive energy,” she says. “I always say positive energy coats my stomach, because I’ve never had food poisoning!”

It’s true that one of the easiest ways to connect with a new culture – and with new people – is to sit down for a meal. In Florence, it could be a four-course gourmet meal designed by the Hotel’s Michelin-starred chef and served on the famed Ponte Vecchio – an experience available exclusively to Hotel guests – or standing in line with the locals for an order of trippa or lampredotto at one of the city’s ubiquitous food stands. Either way, being open to new foods and new people doesn’t just satisfy your body, it satisfies your soul.

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“I’m constantly living outside of my comfort zone. I think my comfort zone is discomfort,” Nabongo says, laughing. “Even beyond travel, my life philosophy is to live fearlessly – and live a life without limits.” By documenting and writing about her travels, she hopes that her journey and everything she shares can help inspire people to move past their limits, whatever they may be. “Because for me, I feel like I’ve created the life that I want to live,” she says. “And I feel that the reason I was able to do that is because I realized everything that I need is already inside of me.”

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Redefine Your Idea of Home

Connections, expected or unexpected, can help inform how we interact with the world. And that can ripple out beyond us. A friendly encounter at a restaurant may inspire you to recommend it to a friend who’s visiting the same city. A conversation with a tour guide or fellow traveller might change your itinerary for the better. Or a new dish or drink is shared with you and you in turn share it with your family back home.

Nabongo can think of many of these moments that have impacted her throughout her travels, particularly when it comes to hospitality. “I think that hospitality comes from the experiences that I’ve had because so many strangers around the world have welcomed me into their home and cooked me meals,” she says. “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve made sure to sort of perfect how I’m welcoming people in my home. And honestly, it’s also redefined my definition of home. For me, now, home is in people. Yes, I physically live in Detroit, but I have homes in London, Accra, Dakar, Bangkok, Rome – I can think of so many places that I have homes because my people are there.”

To feel at home in the world. What more could a traveller – or a human, for that matter – ask?

Four Seasons Experiences That Can Inspire You to Connect

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At Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, you’re in the heart of the world’s most celebrated wildlife reserve. Set out with a Maasai guide for an intimate look at the animals who call Africa’s stunning savannah home.

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See the wonders of the universe like never before at Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel. Join a world-renowned scientist for an astronomy lesson in the Hotel’s park – one of the top places for celestial observations in the French Riviera.

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Explore new flavours and take home a delicious souvenir during a cooking class at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. Shop for fresh ingredients in local markets with a Resort chef, then learn to prepare them during a hands-on lesson in traditional Thai cuisine.

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Tequila might be Mexico’s most popular drink, but mezcal is a close second. Set out from Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City for a day trip to Oaxaca to visit local distillers to see how this agave-based spirit is made, then try your hand at making your own.

RECONNECT THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL

Your journey begins here

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Reconnect With the World: How
to Travel With Intention

Posted on by Jennifer Sanchez

A stay in Costa Rica is a feast for the senses: sounds of ocean waves rolling in and out and animals rustling through the tropical dry forest, cool water hitting your skin as you swim beneath a thundering waterfall, the scent of the salty breeze. Tucked between two unspoiled beaches on the verdant north Pacific coast, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica is surrounded by rugged yet tranquil natural beauty that eases into your psyche, connecting you to this lush paradise. Our senses feed our brain information about the world around us, but if we let them, they can tell us much more.

“Your body is always speaking to you,” says Georgina Miranda, social entrepreneur, coach, activist and mountaineer athlete. “The question is, are you going to listen to it?” She recently explored this question during a visit to Costa Rica with Patrick Janelle – the creative director and world traveller behind A Guy Named Patrick – to record a podcast on personal experiences and perspective on exploring the world through our senses.

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For Miranda, who is also an energy practitioner and yogi, tapping into her senses and using them to keep her attention on the present moment is a big part of her mindfulness practice and of the way she moves through the world. In 2008, she set out to accomplish the Explorer’s Grand Slam – climbing the highest peak on each continent and skiing the last degree to the North and South poles – to raise funds for two non-profits combating gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Only 15 women in the world have ever completed the challenge, and Miranda is well on her way to adding her name to that list.

She has six of the Grand Slam summits done, including Mount Everest, and 10-plus years of far-flung adventures under her belt. And as she meets the challenges one by one, she’s seeing the world – and her place in it – in a new light. “There’s a moment when travelling that you realize you will never be the same because of what you’ve experienced,” Miranda says. “You have felt, touched, tasted and been immersed in a new reality, and so now your own reality is different. I felt this when I reached the top of Everest, and I felt it eating my first gelato when I was 21 years old and in Rome.”


Feeling is Believing

As she forges deeper connections to the destinations she visits and the people she meets, Miranda has a new-found appreciation for the life-changing benefits of travel. “It’s been in the recent years that [I realized] my travelling has changed so much. I no longer want to see the world – I want to feel the world,” she says. “And that really shapes how I travel.”

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For most of us, the seeing part of travel is easy enough. But how does one actually go about feeling the world? “It’s utilizing all of your senses, but then also the energy of a space,” Miranda says.

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It’s one thing to read about the biodiversity that exists on an island like Costa Rica and research the birds you’ll see, the animals you’ll encounter or even the average size of the swells you’ll surf. But it’s not until you’re walking among the towering trees on the Trail of Giants, looking up to see monkeys jump from branch to branch, or you’re sitting beneath a twinkling canopy of stars and sipping a Cabernet Sauvignon aged with a real meteor, that your recognition of the experience transforms it into something you understand not just with your mind and your senses, but with your entire being.

“My travels have helped me feel more connected and in touch with humanity and the earth,” Miranda says. “Time with pristine nature – no matter where I am in the world – and learning about new people is a gift. It offers a sense of renewal in my soul unlike anything else. It’s like coming home to a part of myself that was forgotten.”

The Power of the Present

Even if you don’t practice mindfulness, tapping into the feel and energy of the destination you’re in is something every traveller typically aims for. “I think one thing [you can do] is to just be fully present,” says Miranda, who is an energy practitioner and yogi. “If you’re travelling long distances, you get to a place and you might be so caught up in the excitement of the list of things you want to go see and do that you don’t give yourself the opportunity to actually just arrive and really be there.”

She suggests giving yourself 20 to 30 minutes upon arrival to be present in the moment. Don’t have anywhere to go or anything to do except observe. “It’s this art of being versus doing,” Miranda says. “And I think Western culture really encourages us to constantly be doing, but you miss out on so much magic.”

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If you are having a hard time switching gears and tapping into the present, head to the Resort’s Spa. A yoga session, spa treatment or meditation class can help you find balance and set your intention for your stay. The Resort’s Wellness Concierge is on hand to design a custom plan with you to help your best self emerge – centring your breath, body and mind for balance in your life.

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Stepping out into nature, even for a few moments, can also do wonders: Float in the clear blue waters surrounding the Resort, dive under the waves on a snorkelling adventure, or set off with the Resort’s in-house adventure outfitter, Papagayo Explorers, for a guided trek to help you discover the peninsula through experiences with purpose.

“If you’re open enough, you can let a lot of wonderful things come into your life when you travel,” says Miranda. “It snaps you out of autopilot and it gives you the opportunity to wake up to yourself again.”

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Stepping Into the Flow

When we can live with intention and travel with intention, it’s all the easier to experience that magic that Miranda talks about. We can choose a purpose for a trip – to get a break from work, recharge or strengthen bonds with loved ones – but she cautions travellers not to get too caught up in ticking boxes and checking off items on to-do lists.

“I think every experience can be abundant. And somehow, you’re limiting that abundance with a list,” she says. She knows first-hand the feeling of disappointment that comes with not being able to do every single thing she had planned for a trip, and how it can get in the way of focusing on the beautiful things she did do and the people she connected with along the way.

The unofficial motto you’ll hear almost everywhere you go in Costa Rica is “pura vida.” The literal translation into English is “pure life,” but in reality it’s much more than that. It’s an attitude, a way to approach life that says “it’s all good,” both when things are going your way and when they’re not – especially then. It’s an outlook that perfectly lends itself to staying present and being open to new connections and discoveries – and the benefits that life has to offer right here, right now.

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Having travelled so much over the years, Miranda has a motto, too. “It came to me around 25, I think, and it’s really shaped everything,” she says. “The extraordinary is always possible. Never limit yourself or life’s potential.” And the extraordinary, she notes, is not someone else’s extraordinary. It’s yours. It’s whatever that means to you.

Whether you’re climbing real mountains or figurative ones, the world is filled with endless possibilities for connection. Stay present and you’ll feel it.

Four Seasons Experiences to Help You
Travel With Intention

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Discover a new sense of self-awareness and serenity with a mindfulness-inspired singing bowl ceremony at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An. Eight synchronized quartz-crystal alchemy bowls are tuned to 432 Hz, believed to be the harmonic frequency of the universe.

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Reconnect and recharge at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, where expert coaches will help you learn personalized strategies for life balance and optimized energy, health and well-being.

Find joy and harmony in an ordinary activity: At Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, a Bath Butler will turn your routine shower into an indulgent soak to suit your mood and help you clear your mind.

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Set your intentions for the coming day, breathe and clear your mind during a smudging ceremony at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, where energy-balancing treatments align mind, body and spirit.

RECONNECT THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL

Your journey begins here

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