In a land shaped by artisans, we became artisans of the impossible. This wasn’t a vacation, it was a feat of orchestration, unlocking doors that don’t open, bending time, and carving out moments that don’t exist on maps. Europe, yes, but not the one you think you know.
We crafted a journey where velvet ropes vanished, palaces opened after hours, and cathedrals whispered just for us. From mountaintop mornings in Gstaad to candlelit dinners beside Roman ruins, each experience was hand-forged with precision, privilege, and poetry. This was not about seeing Europe. It was about stepping into a version of it that only exists when the right hands hold the keys.
Bruges: Cobbled Streets & Chocolate Treats:
Bruges is a city where history hums through cobbled streets and canals whisper old-world secrets. But this journey wasn’t just about postcard-perfect views: it was designed to peel back the layers, uncovering its quirks, indulgences, and hidden corners.
The home base, The Notary, set the tone: an elegant five-star retreat balancing classic charm with a touch of unexpected flair. From there, Bruges unfolded like a well-kept secret. A private Secret Passages Canal Tour led through secluded waterways, revealing forgotten courtyards and clandestine hideaways, each with a story more intriguing than the last. But Bruges isn’t just about history, it’s about indulgence. And what better place to embrace that than an exclusive brewery experience?
Here, guests savored the full-bodied richness of Belgian brews, climbed to exclusive rooftop views, and feasted on hearty Flemish fare infused with local beer.
For a touch of aristocratic allure, a horse-drawn carriage swept through the streets to a historic estate, where an exclusive welcome into its noble past awaited. And because Bruges loves a little mystery, a Historian’s Bike Quest through its backstreets revealed the city’s finest chocolate and warm, golden waffles straight from the iron.
Art and medieval medicine made an unlikely but fascinating pairing at a museum showcasing Flemish Primitives and ancient healing practices, where history and artistry intertwined. And, of course, the experience closed out the Bruges way: a Belgian beer in hand, watching the sun dip over the canals.
This was Bruges beyond the clichés: indulgent, intriguing, and utterly unforgettable.
Paris: La Vie en Rose
Paris is not just a city, it’s a performance, a dazzling ballet of history, elegance, and indulgence. From the moment Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter stepped into the grandeur of Four Seasons Hotel George V, the city set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Paris unveiled itself through its hidden layers, starting in the bohemian heart of Montmartre, where cobbled streets echoed with the spirit of artists past and present. A private stroll led through tucked-away ateliers, revealing the secrets behind some of the world’s most celebrated painters. Down in the city’s golden core, the group ascended the Eiffel Tower with exclusive behind-the-scenes access. No crowds, just breathtaking views and a toast to the City of Light.
The magic of Paris extended beyond its skyline. A custom treasure hunt at the Louvre transformed centuries-old masterpieces into an adventure, while the Le Marais Epicurean Walk brought intimate encounters with master chocolatiers, patissiers, and fromageries whose traditions date back generations.
The tastes of Paris lingered on the palate, from a Michelin-starred dinner at Le Cinq to an immersive Chinese fine-dining experience at Imperial Treasure.
But Paris isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about transformation. The children embraced the city with an interactive “Parisian Teen” experience: navigating the metro, tracing hidden street art, and even stepping into the literary world at an old-world bookshop. Meanwhile, the adults ventured into the realm of haute couture, unlocking doors to exclusive fashion houses and ateliers, culminating in an intimate Dior experience few ever get to witness.
Paris saved its grand finale for a private Seine River dinner cruise, where the twinkling cityscape and gentle lapping of the water set the tone for a final toast to the French capital. It was more than just a visit: it was Paris, lived and breathed in all its effortless charm.
Montreux: Lake-Side Serenade
On the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux is where nature and refinement blend into a seamless symphony. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at the iconic Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, a retreat that perfectly reflected the town’s mix of Belle Époque glamour and Swiss tranquility.
Their journey began with a visit to the Château de Chillon, a medieval fortress standing on the lake’s edge, whispering stories of knights and poets. The adventure continued with a scenic boat ride across Lake Geneva, where the water mirrored the sky in an endless dance of blues. In the heart of Montreux, they strolled along the flower-lined promenade, a lakeside pathway where statues of music legends hinted at the town’s deep ties to the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival.
Music became the rhythm of the evening as they stepped into the festival itself, granted VIP access to its exclusive venues. Whether it was the electrifying energy of rock icons or the smooth embrace of jazz under the stars, Montreux’s legendary musical heartbeat was on full display.
The second day brought a journey into Switzerland’s high-altitude wonders. A cogwheel train ride to the Rochers de Naye lifted them above the world, where panoramic views stretched across the Alps and playful marmots peeked curiously from their burrows. Lunch was savored on a terrace with breathtaking vistas, where Swiss cheese melted into a perfect fondue and crisp white wine accompanied each bite.
Descending back into the vineyards of Lavaux, a private tasting with a local winemaker introduced them to the unique terroir of Swiss wines, a secret well-kept from the world but cherished in the region. As the sun set, they dined at La Terrasse du Palais, a lakeside haven where Mediterranean flavors met the crisp mountain air.
From medieval castles to jazz legends, alpine peaks to vineyard rows, Montreux was an ode to refinement, adventure, and effortless Swiss charm.
Gstaad: Where Alpine Spirit Meets Understated Luxury
Gstaad greeted Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter with the soothing chime of cowbells and the crisp air of the Swiss Alps. Their stay at the iconic Gstaad Palace set the stage for a retreat where exclusivity met nature’s raw beauty.
The adventure unfolded high above the valleys at Glacier 3000, where the group braved the only suspension bridge in the world connecting two peaks. Some sought adrenaline on the Alpine Coaster, while others soaked in the serene, snow-capped horizon from the Ice Express chairlift. A special meeting with a glaciologist added depth to the experience, revealing the hidden mysteries of the glacier’s slow-moving heart.
Back in Gstaad, they ventured into the heart of Swiss tradition with a visit to an alpine farm, where a cheesemaker demonstrated the art of crafting the region’s famed dairy delicacies. The experience culminated in a rustic barbecue at a secluded chalet, where the only soundtrack was crackling embers and the distant calls of mountain wildlife.
As the evening descended, the family dined under the grand ceilings of the Gstaad Palace, a setting where Old World elegance and modern comfort intertwined seamlessly. Those willing to wake at dawn were rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride, drifting silently over the Alpine peaks, where sunrise painted the mountains in a golden glow.
In Gstaad, luxury wasn’t about excess, it was about space, silence, and a profound connection to the natural world.
Turin: The Refined Pulse of Piedmont
Turin is where regal grandeur meets a vibrant, contemporary heartbeat. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter checked into the elegant Principi di Piemonte, their gateway to a city that seamlessly blends aristocratic charm with modern-day passion.
The journey began in the grand Piazza San Carlo, where a morning espresso at a historic café set the stage for exploration. Meandering through the city’s Baroque arcades, they discovered Turin’s love affair with both the past and the future: whether in the awe-inspiring Egyptian Museum, boasting one of the world’s most extensive collections, or in the avant-garde displays at the National Cinema Museum, housed within the iconic Mole Antonelliana.
Crossing the Po River, they wandered into Vanchiglia, a lively district where old-world trattorias stood alongside trendy wine bars. Here, a private tasting introduced them to the bold elegance of Piedmont’s famed Barolo and Barbera wines, paired with the region’s prized truffles.
As the day melted into evening, the city’s regal spirit came alive. The group indulged in a decadent multi-course feast, where each dish celebrated the richness of Piedmontese cuisine, before strolling beneath the softly lit arches of Via Roma, letting the city’s rhythm guide them into the night.
Turin, with its grand palaces, cinematic allure, and gastronomic excellence, left an imprint of refined Italian soul, one that lingers long after the last sip of espresso.
Rome: A Tapestry of Timeless Splendor
Rome is a city where ancient ruins, Renaissance opulence, and modern vitality create an irresistible blend of past and present. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at the Rocco Forte Hotel de la Ville, perched above the Spanish Steps, offering the perfect gateway to the Eternal City.
Their journey began with an immersive exploration of the Colosseum, where a private guide unraveled the brutal yet fascinating world of gladiators and emperors. From there, they strolled through the Roman Forum, picturing a time when togas were the height of fashion and orators shaped the world with their words.
Vatican City provided a feast for the eyes and soul, with exclusive access to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s frescoes stretched above in breathtaking grandeur.
A private tour through St. Peter’s Basilica unveiled the genius of Bernini and Raphael, ensuring a deeply personal encounter with some of the world’s most celebrated masterpieces.
Evenings in Rome were an affair of culinary delight, from traditional trattorias in Trastevere to refined dining overlooking the Pantheon. A guided twilight walk through Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon added a magical glow to the city’s timeless allure, concluding with the ritual tossing of a coin, because who wouldn’t want to return to Rome ?
Rome wasn’t just a visit; it was a visceral experience, an invitation to walk in the footsteps of emperors, artists, and dreamers, ensuring that Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter carried a piece of the Eternal City with them forever.
Amalfi Coast: Sun-Kissed Splendor
The Amalfi Coast is where dramatic cliffs embrace the sapphire sea, and every winding road leads to another breathtaking view. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at Borgo Santandrea, their clifftop sanctuary overlooking the Mediterranean, where luxury and authenticity blended seamlessly.
The adventure began in Positano, where pastel-colored houses tumbled down the hills in a cascade of beauty. A private guide led them through its labyrinthine streets, pausing for artisanal sandal fittings and lemon-infused delicacies. The day continued aboard a sleek yacht, cruising along the coastline to Capri, where they explored the island’s secret grottoes and dined at a hidden beachside restaurant with views that stretched beyond the horizon.
Ravello added a touch of timeless elegance to their journey. A private tour of Villa Cimbrone’s lush gardens led to the legendary Infinity Terrace, where the sky and sea melted into one. Later, a visit to a family-owned lemon orchard unveiled the secrets behind the region’s famed limoncello, with a hands-on tasting session under the shade of fragrant citrus trees.
Evenings on the coast were a sensory delight: fresh seafood feasts at Borgo Santandrea’s panoramic terrace, moonlit strolls through ancient piazzas, and the ever-present lull of the waves.
The Amalfi Coast wasn’t just a destination; it was a sun-drenched dream, captured in golden light and salty breezes.
Vienna: Waltzing Through a Living Museum
Vienna is a city where history dances, and elegance never goes out of style. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at the legendary Hotel Sacher Wien, their gateway to a world of imperial grandeur and cultural brilliance.
A private tour led them through the Hofburg Palace, where they traced the footsteps of the Habsburgs through gilded chambers and opulent halls. At Schönbrunn Palace, they stepped into the private quarters of Empress Maria Theresa, unveiling stories of royal intrigue and grandeur.
Vienna’s musical soul resonated in every moment. An afternoon at the House of Music turned into an interactive exploration of sound, while a private visit to the Vienna State Opera offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the city’s most revered stage.
As night fell, the family enjoyed a VIP performance at the Belvedere Palace, where Mozart’s compositions filled the baroque halls in a candlelit concert to remember.
A culinary adventure awaited at Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäckerei, where they mastered the delicate art of crafting the perfect apple strudel. The city’s legendary café culture enveloped them in old-world charm, sipping melange and savoring Sachertorte in an intimate corner of history.
Vienna wasn’t just about admiring history, it was about stepping inside it, waltzing through its golden past while indulging in its timeless pleasures. The city’s melodies and memories lingered long after the final notes played.
Athens: Where Every Step Echoes History
Athens is a city where the echoes of ancient philosophers, warriors, and visionaries still resonate in the streets. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at the Four Seasons Astir Palace, a seaside haven offering a perfect balance between luxury and history.
The adventure began at the Acropolis, where a private guide unraveled the myths and truths behind the Parthenon’s iconic columns. The grandeur of ancient Greece unfolded beneath their feet as they strolled through the Agora, where Socrates once debated and democracy was born. The journey continued to the Acropolis Museum, where artifacts revealed the artistic brilliance of the ancient world.
A walk through Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood, led to a charming taverna where traditional Greek dishes were savored alongside tales of gods and heroes. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the family embarked on a private Dinner in the Sky, an exhilarating meal suspended high above Athens, with panoramic views of the illuminated city.
The next day was dedicated to the city’s vibrant modern life. A Segway tour through the bustling streets provided a fresh perspective on Athenian culture, while a private visit to a local artisan workshop showcased the meticulous craft of Greek jewelry-making. A leisurely afternoon by the Athenian Riviera allowed for relaxation, with the gentle waves of the Aegean providing a soothing soundtrack.
Athens was a city of contrasts, where ancient history met contemporary luxury, where ruins whispered stories of the past, and where every step was a journey through time.
Santorini: Where Sunsets Dance and Whitewash Whispers
Santorini is a living painting, a jewel of the Aegean, where light and shadow dance across a canvas of iconic white and mesmerizing blue. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at Canaves Epitome, a clifftop retreat offering unparalleled views of the caldera and the promise of serene luxury.
Their journey began in Oia, where paths lined with bougainvillea led them through a labyrinth of whitewashed houses, their windows framing endless horizons. The cliffs stood as silent witnesses to the island’s legendary sunsets, where the sky erupted in deep purples, fiery oranges, and passionate pinks.
A private archaeological tour of Akrotiri unveiled the mysteries of an ancient city buried beneath volcanic ash, often called the “Greek Pompeii”. In Megalochori, the family wandered through cobbled alleyways, discovering centuries-old churches and hidden courtyards.
A wine-tasting experience in a cave winery introduced them to the island’s famous Assyrtiko wines, each sip infused with Santorini’s volcanic soul.
The afternoon brought a private pottery session, where local artisans guided them in crafting their own Aegean-inspired ceramics, a tangible memory of the island’s creative spirit.
Evenings on the island were magical: a private dinner at Selene, where they embarked on a gastronomic journey through time, savoring flavors inspired by the island’s ancient culinary traditions.
Their Santorini adventure ended aboard a luxurious catamaran, gliding through the crystal-clear waters, past the Red Beach, White Beach, and Venetian Lighthouse. They swam in the volcanic hot springs, soaking in the island’s geothermal energy, before watching their final sunset at sea, the horizon ablaze in gold and amber hues.
Santorini wasn’t just a destination, it was a dream woven in light, color, and the whispers of the Aegean breeze.
Oslo : A Summer Symphony of Culture, Nature, and Nordic Innovation
Oslo is a city where history and modernity coexist effortlessly, set against a backdrop of forests, fjords, and cutting-edge design. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at the Grand Hotel Oslo, a landmark that has hosted Nobel laureates, artists, and royalty, offering the perfect blend of heritage and contemporary luxury.
Their journey began in the Viking Ship Museum, where centuries-old vessels told tales of Norse explorers and ancient sea conquests. At the Fram Museum, they stood in awe of the world’s strongest wooden ship, which once braved the Arctic’s unforgiving ice.
From history to modern creativity, a stroll through the vibrant Grünerløkka district revealed Oslo’s artistic pulse, where street murals, indie boutiques, and cozy cafés lined the streets. A coffee-tasting session with a local barista introduced them to Norwegian coffee culture, a ritual taken as seriously as its seafaring past.
In Frogner Park, they wandered through the iconic Vigeland Sculpture Park, where over 200 bronze and granite sculptures captured the raw essence of human emotion. From there, a kayaking adventure along the Oslofjord provided a new perspective of the city, gliding past islands, lighthouses, and nature reserves.
Evenings were reserved for culinary discoveries, a dinner at Maaemo, Oslo’s Michelin-starred culinary temple, where New Nordic cuisine transformed local ingredients into an art form. On their final night, they dined at Ekebergrestauranten, perched on a hill overlooking the city, with a panoramic view of Oslo’s twinkling skyline and fjord below.
Before their departure, they soared above the city at Holmenkollen Ski Jump, not to compete, but to take in the breathtaking panoramic views from one of Norway’s most famous landmarks.
Oslo was a celebration of contrasts: where the ancient Viking spirit met modern sustainability, where nature intertwined with innovation, and where every experience was bathed in the golden glow of the Nordic sun.
Porto: A Local’s Palette of Passion and Pride
Porto is a city where history and modern vibrancy dance along the Douro River, where tiles tell stories, and every sip of wine carries centuries of tradition. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at G.A Palace Hotel, their gateway to a city alive with Portuguese soul.
The adventure began in Ribeira, where colorful houses stacked along the riverbank painted a postcard-perfect view. A private sidecar tour took them through the historic center, weaving through S. Bento Station’s mesmerizing azulejo-covered walls, the Stock Exchange Palace’s opulent interiors, and the city’s winding medieval streets.
Crossing the Douro River by cable car, they arrived in Vila Nova de Gaia, the heart of Porto’s famed wine cellars. A private tasting at a renowned port lodge revealed the intricate process behind Portugal’s legendary Port wines, where aged barrels held the rich essence of tawny, ruby, and vintage blends.
From wine to art, the family explored the city’s burgeoning cultural scene at WOW – World of Wine, diving into the story of cork harvesting, its role in architecture, design, and even NASA rockets.
For a taste of the Atlantic, lunch was served at Vinum, overlooking the Douro’s tranquil waters, where fresh seafood paired harmoniously with local wines. As the golden light bathed the city, they embarked on a private river cruise, gliding beneath Porto’s iconic bridges, each one an architectural marvel in its own right.
Evenings in Porto were a feast for the senses, whether indulging in a traditional Francesinha sandwich at a beloved local eatery or savoring modern Portuguese gastronomy at Brasão Coliseu. The city pulsed with fado melodies, a melancholic yet mesmerizing soundtrack that echoed through the night.
Porto wasn’t just a destination, it was an immersion into Portuguese passion, artistry, and warmth. A city where history and contemporary culture blend effortlessly, leaving an indelible mark on all who wander its streets.
Douro Valley: A Realm of Regal Retreats and Riveting Rambles
In the Douro Valley, time slows to the rhythm of the river, winding through terraced vineyards that cling to rolling hills, a landscape where winemaking is both art and heritage. Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter arrived at Six Senses Douro Valley, a sanctuary of tranquility and refined indulgence, where centuries-old traditions met contemporary luxury.
The journey began on horseback, trotting through sun-drenched vineyards at Casa Viscondes da Várzea, where they were welcomed by the Countess Maria, who unraveled the history of this noble estate. In the ancient kitchen from 1804, they took part in a culinary workshop, crafting Douro’s traditional dishes, followed by a wine-paired lunch beneath a canopy of olive trees.
Afternoons in the valley were a love letter to nature and craftsmanship. A private tile-painting session at Six Senses let them create their own azulejo masterpieces, a hands-on tribute to Portugal’s ceramic legacy. For the more adventurous, a hiking trail through the valley’s vineyard-studded hills led to a private tasting at an exclusive Quinta, where the family sipped on aged Tawny Port while soaking in panoramic views of the Douro River below.
Aboard a vintage wooden boat, they cruised along the meandering river, drifting past stone-walled vineyards, grand Quintas, and century-old winemaking estates. A picnic lunch on a secluded riverbank was a moment of pure serenity, the only sounds being the gentle lapping of the water and the distant hum of cicadas.
Evenings in the Douro Valley were nothing short of magical. At Castas e Pratos, housed in a converted train station, they savored elevated Portuguese cuisine, where every dish paid homage to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Their final night was a celebration of the valley’s wine legacy, an intimate chef’s table experience, where a ten-course feast unfolded in perfect harmony with hand-selected Douro wines.
The Douro Valley wasn’t just about wine and landscapes, it was about tradition, connection, and the rhythm of a land that has mastered the art of slow living. As they bid farewell to the valley, Lisa, Douglas, Mathew, and Peter left with a piece of its soul bottled, painted, and etched forever in memory.
