Indulge in Sweet Luxury: Top Hotels with Chocolate Experiences
Cacoa is one little bean that can connect people. It's incredible to think about the intricacy of chocolate, from how it has evolved and has become the confectionary treat of dreams. The way it is adored and moulded into large eggs during easter, with countries such as Spain producing toddler-size beauties with even more glorious stashed away inside - it just makes you feel all giddy inside. Then there are festive holidays in the winter where anything is made from chocolate to decorate your home, give away as presents or make you feel good during some much-needed time out. Most of us don't need a holiday, birthday or anniversary (though it doesn't hurt) to bite into a delicious piece of chocolate.
Chocolate isn't just good to eat. Due to cocoa's active constituents, it relieves anxiety and stress by producing and secreting endorphins in the body. Wellness started incorporating cocoa in their treatments, with such methods dating back to Aztec times. The rich scent and the smooth feel create a relaxing atmosphere during a massage, having a calming effect. It also contains theobromine, which helps burn fat and nourishes, firms, hydrates, and moisturizes the skin. Hence the benefit of hotels offering such treatments and experiences at their in-house spas. Cacao seeds had so much value that they were used as a form of currency. Can you imagine?
Those with a sweet tooth will happily travel to fully immerse and indulge in the name of chocolate. Other experiences like museums and tours can also complement such trips. Take, for example, the Chocolate Museum in Barcelona, a chocolate experience at Läderach in Switzerland, and the Royce Chocolate Museum and Factory in Japan. In this article, we aim to make you smile with delight as we share a selection of boutique hotels offering chocolate experiences.
Bulgari Hotel, London
The Bulgari Hotel London delivers effortless indulgence in chocolate and elegantly celebrates it as state of the art with Il Cioccolato. Discover the meticulous craftsmanship of master chocolatiers as they create handmade chocolate creations that are as exquisite as delectable. Each bite is a symphony of flavour, from velvety truffles that melt on your tongue to delicately crafted pralines and luscious chocolate-dipped strawberries. Purchase the delicious limited edition morsels as gifts to impress someone special. The Bulgari Lounge is also home to a residency with the eminent pastry chef and chocolatier Gianluca Fusto. You can experience desserts such as the Maya, a Tulakalum chocolate with Ispica sesame and caramel inspired by Mexico. Then there is the creative Black Caprese, which blends black olives, white and dark almonds, and rare Manjari chocolate from Madagascar.
Hotel Casa Cacao, Girona
From the moment you step inside Hotel Casa Cacao, you enter a sophisticated chocolate factory, as inspiring as the finest cocoa beans. The brainchild of renowned pastry chef Jordi Roca, with his visionary touch, Roca has created a haven where the worlds of hospitality and chocolate craftsmanship converge. Imagine waking up to a breakfast spread that resembles a decadent chocolate factory. The aroma of freshly ground cocoa fills the air as you indulge in exquisite pastries, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate spreads, and rich hot chocolates that warm your soul. These moments are just the beginning of the sensory journey that Hotel Casa Cacao offers.
As you explore the hotel, you'll notice that the interiors pay homage to the world of chocolate with warm hues and elegant furnishings that evoke a sense of indulgence. There's even a chocolate cafe opposite for guests and the general public to visit and partake in a hot chocolate or bite. You'll see the production of chocolate at the foot of the hotel, whilst sitting at the cafe - acting as entertainment down a quiet side street. Casa Cacao Girona is more than just a hotel; it's an experience that will ignite your passion for travel and awaken your inner chocolate connoisseur.
Rabot Hotel from Hotel Chocolat, St Lucia
Located on the breathtaking island of St Lucia, Rabot Hotel from Hotel Chocolat is a living ode to chocolate. The British chocolate brand bought and restored the Rabot Estate, an organic and sustainable cacao farm. Of course, guests at the hotel get to enjoy in-room treats such as Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser™ and Drinking Chocolate, and daily homemade chocolate delights. Still, there are also a variety of experiences available to reserve. Explore the cacao plantation, witness the fascinating chocolate-making process, and savour the rich flavours of freshly made chocolates. Upgrade to the full tree-to-bar adventure for an even deeper immersion into the art of chocolate production—delight in chocolate and rum tastings, discovering the perfect pairings of these two beloved flavours. At Rabot Estate, chocolate becomes a captivating journey of discovery.
Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo, Brussels
Embark on an exclusive chocolate masterclass at Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo, Brussels. Engage yourself in the captivating world of Belgian chocolate under the guidance of renowned Maître chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud. This hands-on workshop invites you to explore the intricate artistry of chocolate making, from tempering to decorating, as you create your delectable treats. Delve into the sensory delights of sampling a variety of Belgian chocolates, guided by Gerbaud's expertise. This engaging and interactive masterclass spans approximately two hours, allowing ample time to refine your chocolate-making skills and savour the essence of Belgian chocolate craftsmanship.
Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Switzerland
Indulge your sweet tooth and unleash your inner chocolatier with the immersive Chocolate Workshop at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in picturesque Pontresina, Switzerland. This hands-on experience invites you to delve into the art of chocolate making under the expert guidance of skilled chocolatiers. The workshop lasts approximately two hours and takes you through the fascinating process of tempering, moulding, and decorating exquisite Swiss chocolates. Discover the nuances of different chocolate types, from velvety milk chocolate to intense dark varieties, and learn the secrets of creating delectable truffles and pralines. The hotel is a worthy visit, as the grand luxury Suisse hotel is a heritage hotel in the picturesque Alps.
Glenapp Castle, Scotland
Attention, chocoholics! Prepare for an indulgent escapade at Glenapp Castle, a luxurious PoB Hotel and Relais & Chateaux gem in Scotland. Immerse yourself in their brand new Chocolate Master Class, where you'll discover their bespoke blend of Valrhona chocolate. This fusion of Madagascan and Grenadian cocoa, infused with Tahitian vanilla, boasts luscious fruity notes, roasted cocoa nibs, and tantalizing hints of spice and caramel. During the engaging three-hour master class, led by Glenapp Castle's expert chocolatier, you'll unravel the secrets of tempering, create divine chocolate fillings, and even enjoy a blind taste test. Take home a box of 12 handcrafted chocolates and an exclusive recipe pack to continue your chocolate adventures. Indulge in this unparalleled experience with a complimentary glass of champagne to elevate your sensory journey.
The Kai Spa at Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia
Escape to a realm of chocolate-infused bliss at Kai Spa, nestled in the picturesque Anse Chastanet of St. Lucia. Begin your journey with the tantalizing Chocolate Citrus Body Polish, where the antioxidant powers of chocolate and the rejuvenating qualities of citrus unite, leaving your skin exfoliated, radiant, and deeply moisturized. Delight in the Mocha Massage, a dream come true for chocolate lovers, as the alluring aroma of mocha lulls you into a state of pure relaxation. Experience the harmonious fusion of Ayurveda and chocolate in the transformative Chocodhara treatment, where warm chocolate-infused oil soothes your senses and melts the stress from head to toe. Reveal a revitalized and luminous complexion with the invigorating Chocolate Facial, combining the potent antioxidants of chocolate with the nourishing properties of mint. Indulge in the Hot Chocolate Candle Massage, the luxurious Chocolate Covered Hands and Feet treatment, or surrender to the ultimate chocolate extravaganza with the comprehensive Chocolate Lovers experience. Let the Chocolate Delight envelop you in a rich cocoa experience, awakening your senses and leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Unleash your chocolate fantasies at Kai Spa and immerse yourself in pure chocolate-infused bliss.
Hotel Sacher, Vienna
Hotel Sacher is an iconic establishment steeped in a rich history of chocolate indulgence. Since its inception in 1876, Hotel Sacher has been renowned for its legendary Sachertorte, a delectable chocolate cake synonymous with its name. Today, this tradition of chocolate excellence extends to its luxurious boutique spa, where guests can embark on a tantalizing chocolate-infused journey of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Step into a world of sensory bliss during the Time to Chocolate experience at Hotel Sacher. You'll find luxurious chocolate-based spa treatments, from soothing chocolate massages to invigorating cocoa scrubs, all crafted to enhance your well-being and envelop you in pure indulgence. The renowned Sacher brand's passion for chocolate permeates every aspect of the spa experience, transporting you to pure cocoa-infused delight. Hotel Sacher's dedication to chocolate goes beyond the spa, as the hotel proudly showcases its historical connection to this irresistible treat. With a legacy that spans centuries, Hotel Sacher continues to be a haven for chocolate lovers, offering a symphony of flavours and a celebration of Vienna's chocolate heritage.
Chocolate holds a unique power to connect people and evoke feelings of delight and indulgence. Its rich history and evolution as a beloved confectionary treat have made it a worldwide symbol of joy and celebration. From festive holidays to everyday moments, chocolate has become a source of pleasure and comfort for many. Beyond its delicious taste, cocoa's active constituents provide numerous benefits, from relieving anxiety and stress to nourishing and hydrating the skin. Hotels have embraced the allure of chocolate, offering experiences and treatments that cater to chocolate lovers' desires. Whether you find yourself in Marrakech, St. Lucia, Brussels, Switzerland, Scotland, or Vienna, a chocolate experience awaits you.
