As flames crackle, the Christmas tree twinkles and parents relax with a glass of something strong, our expert chefs are delighted to entertain younger guests of Hotel Savoy and Villa Kennedy this festive season. We’ve curated a selection of fun, safe and educational cooking classes to delight budding chefs, designed to inspire them to get creative in the kitchen.
Chocolate classes
16th December – 6th January
Little chocolate-lovers will relish this chance to become a Festive Chocolatier with Hotel Savoy. Under the guidance of a friendly professional chocolatier, together children will learn to create exquisite classics including melt-in-the-mouth chocolate truffles and dainties as well as inventing their very own Christmas treats. Blending all the spices, aromas and flavours typically used in festive treats, they’ll make up their own – and if any souvenirs survive, bring them back for you to try.
Santa’s mocktail masterclasses
16th December – 6th January
A chance to learn the art of mixology in sophisticated surrounds is a grown-up gift for any child this Christmas. Held in Hotel Savoy’s stylish Salotto Lounge and led by Irene’s head bartender Denis, this masterclass will teach kids to mix up three merry mocktails: the Christmas Carousel, the Reindeer and the Candy Cane. Stirring, measuring, pouring and shaking syrups, herbs and juices will make them feel all grown-up, and they’ll love recreating these delicious concoctions for their loved ones at home.
Villa Kids Bakery
2nd December
Taking place in our grand Konrad Adenauer Ballroom, the culinary team behind Villa Kennedy’s award-winning restaurant Gusto will be delighted to teach children their secrets during this Christmas cookie crafting session. After each child has enjoyed a welcome drink, they’ll don Gusto aprons they can take home as mementoes. Then, alongside our chefs, they’ll start mixing dough and choosing cookie cutters. After baking and sprinkling snow-like sugar on the final creations, they’ll get to bring you what they’ve made to share with the family.
Book your stay at Hotel Savoy by emailing reservations.savoy@roccofortehotels.com or calling +39 06 32 888 930.
Book your stay at Villa Kennedy by emailing reservations.villakennedy@roccofortehotels.com or calling +49 69 717 12 1430.
The sound comes first - the soft thud of a well-struck ball, rising into a clear blue Sicilian sky. Ahead, fairways unfold in undulating greens towards the blue calm of the Mediterranean. The air is warm, perfumed with orange blossom and sea salt. There’s no rush, only a meditative rhythm: swing, step, breathe and repeat, interrupted only by the sound of waves.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
Preparations were in full swing at the North Pole - ribbons tied, sleigh bells polished, and lists checked twice - yet Father Christmas kindly agreed to pause his busy schedule for an interview. We met him at SCOTCH at The Balmoral, just as the famous clocktower struck 12:03 - it stands watch over Waverley Station, running three minutes fast, so no one ever misses a train. Settled into a deep armchair with a favourite dram in hand, he shared his most treasured places to pause, indulge and unwind across Europe every festive season.
