An immutable travel tradition, acquiring a cherished souvenir or two is a popular pastime of any escape. Yet there’s another brand of memento that means so much more than the traditional token. Authentic, immersive and enriching, this kind of souvenir comes in the form of a newly mastered skill. Discover a selection of the many experiences we offer, inviting guests to master time-honoured techniques from the expert artisans that know them best.
Ancient Apulian artisanship
Taranto is a region that has always been famous for its fine craftsmanship, so where better to learn to create an exquisite Romanesque objet d’art. From Masseria Torre Maizza, you’ll be chauffeured to the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, where you’ll be invited to explore a vast collection of ancient terracotta pottery, precious gold jewellery and stunning mosaics. Depending on what inspires you, you can choose to enrol in a Roman mosaic workshop, learn the jewellery techniques of old or discover how to restore antique ceramics. Having mastered the art, venture on to explore the boutiques of Grottaglie’s Quartiere delle Ceramiche, appreciating the hand-crafted works through expert eyes.
Classic Russian ballet
As Russia’s capital of culture and home to the world-renowned Mariinsky Ballet, there are few places more apt in which to perfect your pirouettes and pliés than St. Petersburg. Slip on a pair of satin shoes and dance your way through history as part of a special stay at Hotel Astoria. Enjoy stretching and ballet classes at a prestigious studio founded by acclaimed ballerina Diana Vishneva, principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet. Whether you’ve mastered the art or are yet to put your feet in first position, learning from veteran dancers who’ve enthralled thousands on the stage is an experience unlike any other.
Precious porcelain production
Fine porcelain from Frankfurt is coveted the world over, and this cultural hub is home to Germany’s second-oldest porcelain producer. Step into the world of Höchster Porzellan-Manufaktur for an immersive journey into the craftsmanship that goes into each piece, including the opportunity to try your hand at producing a precious memento. Enjoy a limousine transfer from Villa Kennedy to Höchster, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through each stage of production, offering insight into the techniques used since 1746. Then, under the tuition of a master potter, shape, fire and finish a delicate keepsake of your own to take home.
To book your experience at Masseria Torre Maizza, email reservations@torremaizza@rocofortehotels.com or call +39 06 32 888 890.
To book your experience at Hotel Astoria, email reservations.astoria@roccofortehotels.com or call +7 812 494 5770.
To book your experience at Villa Kennedy, email reservations.villakennedy@roccofortehotels.com or call +49 69 717 12 1430.
In a city with a legacy like Florence, it is only natural for inspiration to take root. And alongside the bigger, global brands, small artisans flourish through their innate ability to tailor their ideas to an individual’s taste and dreams.
Milan moves differently. With an unhurried confidence that sets its own pace. Afterall, there’s no need to rush when you know where you’re going. This is a city that reinvents itself with purpose. At its heart, where Via della Spiga meets Via del Senato, The Carlton enters its own renaissance – one rooted in style, substance, and soul.
Contrary to popular belief, a sense of wellbeing doesn’t have to follow a set formula. Rather, it’s simply the moments which bring you back to yourself. For some, it’s a morning swim followed by a restorative massage. For others, it’s curling up in a quiet corner with a good book, or a pause beneath a centuries-old fresco in a hushed church. In Europe’s capitals, these precious moments of calm are easier to find than one might expect. Whilst a city break is often imagined as a fast-paced affair, sometimes we discover more when we choose to stand still.
