STORIES

Small hotels offer some of the most spectacular stays. Personal service is their heart and soul, while boutique bedrooms and unique extras give them the edge required for a truly memorable escape.

Did you know that we’ve got some wonderful small hotels in our historic Collection? Learn about a few of our finest below.

Villa Bergzauber: Roßleithen, Austria

How many rooms? 13

What makes this small hotel special? The Austrian countryside is simply a must-see. Between its emerald valleys and sparkling blue vistas, you feel as though you’ve entered another world – one in which serenity and natural beauty sits firmly at the core.

There’s no better place to see it all from than Villa Bergzauber, either. This romantic locale lives on top of a hill, promising vibrant views from its beautifully-kept rooms – of the pool, mountains, lake and more – depending on which one you book.

Inside is a real treat, as well. From a relaxation cabin to heated outdoor saltwater pool, you’ll find a dozen dreamy ways to unwind. You’ll be well looked after by the hoteliers, too, for which the hotel is a real passion project – it’s been run by the same family for years. A real winner.

Old Bank House: Kinsale, Ireland

How many rooms? 17

What makes this small hotel special? For one thing, Old Bank House boasts an incredible location – set in quaint Kinsale on the cusp of the Wild Atlantic Way. You won’t be short of entertainment, here. It’s a stone’s throw from the town’s best boutiques, restaurants and amenities, and is only half an hour’s drive outside of Cork.

History lovers have plenty to see at the hotel itself. The hotel’s exciting history is evident on arrival: its impressive architecture whispering of a long and storied past. A staple of the Kinsale landscape since the 1800s, you’ll see traces of its history as you traverse the building – from the period pieces and original art lining its walls to its arresting Georgian exterior.

Better yet, this hotel isn’t just a pretty face (or, should we say, facade!). Along with its staff’s stellar reputation for customer service and delicious onsite cafe – from which you can pick up picnics to take on any number of Irish adventures – a getaway here is nothing short of charming.

Sterkenburg Castle: Driebergen-Rijsenburg, Netherlands

How many rooms? 12

What makes this small hotel special? Appreciators of history and nature will fall head over heels for this captivating castle. Sterkenburg Castle dates back to the thirteenth century, and along with the seven regal rooms found within its walls, guests can also stay at the gorgeous Coach House or Gardener’s House on the castle grounds: choosing from several singular stayovers.

Whichever exciting location you choose to make your temporary home, you won’t be disappointed. The castle and its properties are surrounded by canals, meadows, orchards, wooded banks and more, guaranteeing plenty of walking, biking and other outdoorsy activities. Elements of the Netherlandic wilderness can also be found on your plate at the hotel’s restaurant. The family who owns the hotel use apples and plums from their orchard to make homemade apple juice and preserves. It’s thoughtful touches like this that set this hotel apart from the rest: and best of all, you’re even allowed to bring your four-legged friend along for the ride! Dogs are welcome. 

Penrhiw Priory: St Davids, Wales

How many rooms? 7

What makes this small hotel special? Now this is a truly tiny hotel. With less than 10 rooms under its roof, it promises a private escape just outside Britain’s smallest city. The beautifully-restored Penrhiw Priory has been brought back to life with the utmost attention to detail, its original features coupled up with modern touches in perfect balance. You’ll revel in its cosy atmosphere: from the warm furnishings in its corridors to the amenity-stuffed rooms, which come complete with aromatherapy toiletries, tea and coffee making facilities and more.

Ensuring that no stone is left unturned during your stay, the hoteliers also offer a complimentary transfer to and from Blas Restaurant. It’s just a few minutes away by car, and offers the best in local and seasonal Welsh meals. You’ll want a full stomach, too, because there’s lots to explore around here – Whitesands Beach, the breathtaking hills of Carn Llidi and St Davids historic cathedral are all just a short trip away.

Relais Antico Monastero di San Biagio: Nocera Umbra, Italy

How many rooms? 16

What makes this small hotel special? Peaceful days in a truly spiritual setting. That’s what Relais Antico Monastero di San Biagio delivers, based in the mythical setting of Perugia on the slope of a vast park. You won’t be hard pressed to find ways to unwind, here. The Holistic Centre of Regeneration and Wellness at the centre of this centuries-old monastery combines oriental arts with western disciplines for a truly unique spa experience. Their onsite experts can even advise you as to which treatments you should take to nourish your mind, body and spirit – the perfect way to kick off your relaxing retreat.

There are other things that this hotel offers that nowhere else can, too: notably, its own-brand beer. This old monastery has its own brewery onsite, from which it makes craft drinks including a “Monasta” beer, which contains laurel from the building’s own plant and rare Gubbio honey. The brewery tour they offer is fascinating and a great way to spend an evening before returning to your room, which comes complete with antique furnishings and traditional wooden beams. In such a history-steeped and reposeful setting, it won’t be hard to imagine the medieval monks that used to dwell there.