Luxury and Lights: A Glamorous Christmas Escape Across the UK and Europe

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a Christmas getaway that goes beyond the usual festive fare? Ditch the typical Christmas markets and embrace the opulence of dazzling lights, pampering spas, and Champagne-filled evenings. Join us on a tour of the chicest Christmas getaways in the UK and Europe, designed for those seeking a touch of luxury amidst the holiday cheer.

Amerikalinjen, Oslo – Nordic Elegance with a New York Twist
Oslo’s Amerikalinjen, housed in the former headquarters of the Norwegian America Line shipping company, offers a unique blend of Nordic cosiness and New York-style sophistication. The lobby boasts a captivating gold Christmas tree, setting the tone for a festive stay. The Pier 42 bar invites locals to indulge in Peer Gynt spritzes, jazz clubs play seasonal tunes in the subterranean depths, and the entire atmosphere exudes charm and elegance.

Explore the nearby Christmas market in the city centre, complete with an ice-skating rink. Take a stroll down the light-lined shopping strip, Torggata, and venture to the Royal Palace to witness its magnificent outdoor Christmas tree.

Dormy House Hotel, Worcestershire – Cotswold Magic Wrapped in a Bow
For a Christmas escape in the heart of the Cotswolds, Dormy House Hotel beckons with theatrically wrapped exteriors and festive interiors. Multiple Christmas trees, glittering baubles, and roaring fires create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in a ‘Champagne and truffles’ anti-aging facial at the spa and savor Comté souffle with Sauternes-poached apricots in the Back Garden restaurant.

Head to Moreton-in-Marsh for the Christmas lights switch-on and festive markets. Explore the picturesque Cotswolds with countryside walks and visits to the Blenheim Palace Christmas Festival or Tewkesbury Christmas Market.

Four Seasons Gresham Palace, Budapest – Grandeur and Tradition in Hungary
Budapest’s Four Seasons Gresham Palace turns into a holiday haven each December, with locals queuing for a selfie with the magnificent Christmas tree in the grand lobby. Set under an art nouveau ceiling, the lobby offers a luxurious setting to nibble afternoon tea or sip Champagne. The rooms provide seasonal cosiness with views of Buda Castle across the Danube.

Budapest hosts one of Europe’s best Christmas markets in Vörösmarty Square and the Basilica courtyard. Indulge in sugar-dusted kürtőskalács (chimney cake) pastry and mulled wine as you explore the festive atmosphere.

Castle India, Cornwall – Maximalist Magic in the Tamar Valley
For a grand Christmas celebration with family and friends, Castle India in the Tamar Valley awaits. Owned by House of Hackney co-founder Frieda Gormley, this opulent retreat boasts eight bedrooms adorned in maximalist prints. Festive decorations mirror the brand’s aesthetic, featuring botanical-inspired garlands, whimsical baubles, and leopard-print bows.

Take blustery walks through the Tamar Valley AONB or Dartmoor National Park. For a burst of festivity, Plymouth’s Christmas market offers a Santa’s Grotto, musical performances, and 50 vendor cabins.

Villa d’Este, Lake Como – Opulence on the Italian Shores
While Lake Como is typically a summer destination, the Villa d’Este transforms into a winter wonderland in December. Elaborate illuminated floral decorations, panettone baking classes, a dedicated chocolate room, and immersive dinners with Super Tuscan wine and Alba white truffles make it an opulent Christmas escape.

Enjoy the serenity of Como as it quiets down for Christmas. Take a boat ride on the lake, sip fizz, and return to the hotel’s warmth for a truly immersive and tranquil experience.

This holiday season, elevate your Christmas experience with a getaway that goes beyond the traditional. Whether it’s the Nordic elegance of Oslo, the Cotswold magic of Worcestershire, the grandeur of Budapest, the maximalist retreat in Cornwall, or the opulence of Lake Como, each destination promises a unique blend of luxury and festive cheer. Unwrap the extravagance of the season and create memories to cherish for a lifetime.