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Even the most devout urbanista needs some downtime. Here are
our top picks for weekend getaway hotels—all destinations in themselves, and within 100 miles or so of the world's greatest cities.
Best Weekend Getaway Hotels in....
Best Weekend Getaway Hotels
London
Amberley Castle
Nr. Arundel, West Sussex, 017.98.831.992, €€€ amberleycastle.co.uk
The Draw: This fairy-tale castle is nestled in romantic gardens on West Sussex's rolling chalk downs. The Scene: The castle dates back to the 12th century, with its original walls and a portcullis that is lowered at night. Though the architecture may be Medieval and the rooms decorated accordingly, the comforts are anything but. All rooms have Jacuzzis and four-poster beds, and the cuisine is gastronomic. Worthy of particular mention is the Mistletoe Lodge, a treehouse that can be reserved for a very romantic dinner from May to September. In addition to the castle's gardens and surrounding lakes, there's also a professional golf course on-site and the promise of longer walks for restless types. Hot Tip: If you're keen for more history, a day trip out to Chichester, one of the country's oldest cities, is worthwhile. Get there before the first week of October to catch one of the Festival Theatre's much-lauded plays.
Chewton Glen
New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6QS, 01425-275341 chewtonglen.com
The Draw: With numerous votes for the UK's best hotel, this classic English country house is hard to beat for its location and across-the-board luxury. The Scene: Walking distance from both the beach and New Forest National Park, Chewton Glen is surrounded by 130 acres of countryside, offering stunning beauty and endless possibilities for outdoor pursuits. Those after a little more pampering will not be disappointed by the luxury of the hotel itself. The individually decorated rooms marry classic English style with plush modern comforts, some with private balconies. The spa offers the latest in indulgent treatments, and the gym, tennis courts, swimming pools, and golf course cater to sportier whims. The cuisine on offer is as compelling as the hotel—the chef makes use of local organic produce, and the sommelier finds the best bottles from France, as well as emerging regions such as Slovenia. Hot tip: You may have missed the sailing frenzy of Cowes until next year, but a ferry to the Isle of Wight is still well worth the trip.
Reserve at wightlink.co.uk
Le Manoir au Quat' Saisons
Church Rd., Great Milton, Oxford, 018.44.278.881, €€€€ manoir.com
The Draw: Two words: Raymond Blanc. The Scene: Britain's most celebrated French chef has turned this charming country manor just outside Oxford into a gorgeous gourmet retreat. Rooms are individually decorated in styles ranging from classic to trendy, and kitted out with the latest in modern conveniences. The manor is surrounded by vegetable and herb gardens, awash with the scent of lavender in late summer, which supply the kitchen with organic produce for the better part of the year. The menu decouverte's 10 courses are a lavish celebration of virtually every ingredient available in season; they should leave even the most discerning foodie lost for words, though a lighter menu of French classics is also offered. The nearby university town of Oxford and awe-inspiring Blenheim Palace are just the ticket to walk off over-indulgence. Hot Tip: There is a variety of one-day cooking courses offered throughout September and October; check the website for details.
