TRAVEL NOTES
Snowy winter relaxation in the Pyrenees
Classy Spanish boutique hotel specialist Hospes Hotels has launched a new winter package at its hotel in the mountains, Hospes Villa Paulita. An original 19th century art nauveau family mansion, it sits above the Pyrenees snowline on the shores of a beautiful lake, and is equipped with its own state-of-the-art spa. The three night White Winter package includes a snowmobile excursion, dining in the mountaintop Costa Rasa restaurant, skiing by torch light and a spa day, as well as the avant-garde cuisine of the hotel’s Senzone L’Estany restaurant. The three night package starts from €1,170. www.hospes.com
Catch the bird migration at Hell Bay
As you’d expect from its name, Hell Bay in the Isles of Scilly is a pretty dramatic place any time you visit it – think vast Atlantic skies, wildflowers and lonely beaches. If you go in the autumn though, you can catch the annual migration of birds on their long-haul trip across the ocean. Raptors, waders, warblers, pipits and wagtails all stop over in Bryher on their way south, though they don’t have the luxury of a smart New England-style house hotel to relax in. Five night Migration Break, Sept 29-Oct 4, from £945 including half-board accommodation, boat excursionas and guided tours. www.hellbay.co.uk
Mind, body and soul retreat in Bali
If you’re needing your chakra sorted, your chi balanced and your wellness made even, er, weller, you might want to consider the Oracle Retreat at Spa Village Resort Tembok in Bali. Taking place from 22-29 October at the seaside resort which sits on the ocean front in the shadow of the mountains, the retreat includes interactive workshops, group holistic activities and healing techniques, guided meditation classes and a 50-minute Balinese massage. Prices are US$1,740 for double occupancy and US$1,950 for single, and includes healthy meals, nature walks and more. www.ytlhotels.com