At the heart of St Petersburg's cultural attractions, a great hotel with a story to tell.
Great cultural attractions surround Grand Hotel Europe, long-time host to celebrated guests from the worlds of theatre, music and dance. Positioned on St Petersburg's major thoroughfare, Nevsky Prospekt, such world-famous attractions as the Mariinsky Ballet and St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra are close by its elegant doors. Indeed, this magnificent hotel is a work of art in itself, with exquisite neo-baroque decor and stained-glass windows. Be sure to sample the hotel's wide array of vodkas, or enjoy a dance or performance while dining in L'Europe Restaurant. Or explore the city's canals on special boat tours.
At a glance
LOCATION: Situated in the heart of St Petersburg, within walking distance of the Russian Museum, Mikhailovsky Imperial Theatre and the Hermitage Museum.
ACCOMMODATION: 89 suites and 212 bedrooms.
DINING: 5 restaurants and bars, including L'Europe (European), Rossi's (Italian), Chopsticks (Pan-Asian), the Caviar Bar and Restaurant, Mezzanine Cafe and Lobby Bar.
FEATURES: Historic suites—Fabergé, Pavarotti, Amber and others. Fitness centre, health club and spa. Superb banquet and conference facilities for up to 300 guests. Catering service. Our own chocolate factory. Fleet of luxury limousines. Les Clefs d'Or concierge.
GENERAL DIRECTOR Mr Leon Larkin
THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN
Luxury train journeys from Edinburgh through Scotland’s dramatic landscapes
Scotland, United Kingdom
Mountains and lochs, purple heather and green forests - the magic of the Scottish Highlands lies in its magnificent landscapes and mysterious castles that evoke stories of legendary characters such as Bonnie Prince Charlie and Rob Roy. Travelling along a selection of different routes, this luxury train takes passengers from great cities to the remotest virgin coast. Along the way, guests disembark to meet local personalities, talk to experts on subjects from salmon fishing to gardening and take part in fun activities. Enjoy the special atmosphere of travelling through wild landscapes in a convivial country house atmosphere.
At a Glance
LOCATION: 2- to 7-night journeys through Scotland's ever-changing landscapes of sweeping glens, towering peaks and mirror-calm lochs. Departs from Edinburgh.
ACCOMMODATION: Limited to 36 guests with 14 twin, 2 double and 4 single state cabins beautifully decorated in rich marquetry, all en suite.
DINING: 2 dining cars.
FEATURES: Observation Car furnished with sofas and armchairs, with open-air verandah.
NORTHERN BELLE
Day excursions around the heart of Britain, departing from northern towns and cities
United Kingdom
Evoking the opulent “Belle” trains of the 1930s, this luxurious yet intimate train explores Britain's beautiful countryside. Guests travel in one of 7 individually designed carriages fashioned by some of the country's top craftsman and women, including marquetry experts, muralists and mosaic artists. The superb on-board cuisine is created using locally sourced specialities, all paired with fine wines and Champagnes. The wide variety of day trips and weekend breaks includes visits to magnificent castles, destinations such as Edinburgh, Bath, Portmeirion and the Lake District, and events including Ladies Day at Ascot and the Chelsea Flower Show.
LE MANOIR AUX QUAT'SAISONS
A country house known for the Michelin-starred cooking of its chef patron, Raymond Blanc
Oxfordshire, England
Celebrated chef-proprietor Raymond Blanc OBE presides over one of Britain's most exceptional experiences: a gastronomic menu based on ingredients fresh from his celebrated gardens. After dining, guests stay in suites that are every inch as original and indulgent as the food and wine. Set among lawns and orchards decorated with sculptures, Le Manoir is the perfect base from which to explore the cities, grand homes and landscapes of central Britain.
At a Glance
LOCATION: In the heart of the English countryside 8 miles from Oxford, 45 minutes from London Heathrow Airport.
ACCOMMODATION: 32 individually designed suites and bedrooms.
DINING: Renowned two Michelin-star restaurant.
FEATURES: Organic kitchen garden, Japanese garden and tea house. Raymond Blanc Cookery School with 1-4 day courses for adults and children. Private dining for 50 people for corporate and private entertaining. Croquet and cycling. Golf, horse riding, clay-pigeon shooting and fishing nearby. Member of Relais & Châteaux.
CHEF PATRON: Mr Raymond Blanc OBE
The Raymond Blanc Cookery School
The word used most often by our cookery school students to describe their experience is “fun”, and this is what the school is all about: offering people with a passion for food the skills to prepare fantastic dishes—and have a great time while doing so. During one-, two- or four-day courses, anyone from a complete novice to an accomplished enthusiast can learn the secrets of producing fine food.
BRITISH PULLMAN
Travel in vintage carriages from London on day excursions to Britain's greatest destinations
United Kingdom
Experience the golden age of travel in day excursions to destinations that include great cities, castles and sporting events. Share an exciting experience with family and friends travelling through the British countryside. This legendary train also makes weekend journeys with overnight stays in beautiful locations such as Cornwall. Superb on-board cuisine is a highlight of every trip, served in style among the vintage marquetry, gleaming brass rails and richly upholstered armchairs. Each historic carriage is unique and comes with its own fascinating story of the great journeys it has made.