The marriage of tradition and modernity lies right at the heart of Rocco Forte Hotels’ design philosophy. As a brand, we’re committed to building on the illustrious history of of our properties, whilst creating a destination that dazzles the modern traveller.
Similarly, Germany’s long legacy of artisan producers sees historic crafts brought into the present day. From exquisite porcelain and sumptuous leather to handmade toys, many of Germany’s most prestigious and coveted brands have roots that go back centuries. Here are a few of our favourites to discover on your next trip to Germany.
For Cutting-Edge Porcelain: Nymphenburg
Famous for its pioneering work with contemporary artists and designers like Damien Hirst and Carsten Holler, Nymphenburg Porcelain began as a supplier to the Royal family. Today, it’s revered for its avant-garde creations, which are produced entirely in the company’s workshop in the beautiful baroque surrounds of Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace.
For Classic Childhoods: Steiff
Creating timeless cuddly toys treasured by children all over the world, Steiff is synonymous with German craftsmanship. Renowned for producing the very first teddy bears back in 1902, each Steiff bear is handmade in Germany using only the finest raw materials and finished with the company’s trademark ‘Button in Ear.’
For Leather Lovers: MCM
A favourite of celebrities including Beyoncé and Heidi Klum, this cult leather goods brand was founded in Munich, inspired by the glamour and creativity of the city during the 1970s. Today, MCM is a coveted designer label, with boutiques dotted across the globe, but it remains firmly rooted in German heritage and craft.
Delve deeper into Germany’s finest artisanal brands on the Ultimate Porcelain Tour with Rocco Forte Hotels Germany.
Vivacious, glamorous, powerful. Few figures encapsulate the effortless grandeur of the Belle Époque quite like Donna Franca, our Sicilian muse. Famed for her petite frame, thick dark hair and an exquisite fashion sense that has endured for over a century, Franca was the epitome of an era that placed beauty and high fashion at its forefront.
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.
In a time when beauty shaped every facet of life — from the curve of a staircase to the vivid bloom of a painted iris — Italy’s Stile Liberty captured the optimism of a new century. Across Europe in the late 19th century, the Belle Époque blurred the line between art and the everyday, celebrating craftsmanship, elegance, and expressive freedom. Now, a new cultural itinerary, From Mucha to Florio, traces that movement between Hotel de la Ville in Rome and Villa Igiea in Palermo, two different cities, two glorious expressions of the same artistic impulse.
