There aren’t many hotels that have pulled me away from exploring a town, but the four-star La Villa K Hotel and Spa managed that with aplomb. The night before I flew home from my city break in Basel, I spent an evening in the Alsace town of Saint Louis, 2 meals into my 3 country/3 meal sojourn.
Disclaimer: My trip was supported by the Alsace tourism board (thank you!) but all relaxation enjoyment is very much all my own!
Slipping straight off the tram that darts between Basel, Switzerland and Saint-Louis, France (the number 3) I strolled through the Saint-Louis street fair, one my way to La Villa K Hotel & Spa.
Checking-in was an absolute breeze – and the air conditioning in my two bathroom suite couldn’t have been more refreshing on a hot summer afternoon.
I was thrilled to open my door to my modern suite. With a generous living area, shower room, separate bathroom and light filled bedroom with an enormous bed, I knew that I had a comfortable evening ahead of me.
Welcomed with a delicious fruit platter (complete with freshly baked buttery Madeleines and fruit sorbet), I unpacked all my essentials and planned the limited time I had in Saint-Louis. Beginning with a visit to the art gallery Fernet-Branca Foundation, involving a certain football game (I had to call down to reception who helped me find a game with English commentary on their TV channels, enjoying a 3-course meal in their restaurant ‘La Cave’ and ending beautifully with a relaxing whirlpool bath. What could be better?
My suite had everything that the modern traveller needs; space to spread out, a surfeit of charging spots, beautiful L’Occitaine goodies, two big screen TVs (for said football games), a whirlpool bath just begging for a glass of wine later in the evening and divinely soft fluffy robes.
The spa looked gorgeous – an amalgamation of modernity and tradition behind a signature cherry red door.
Dinner was at La Cave, their restaurant based in the centre terrace – especially perfect on a hot, sunny afternoon.
My meal was nothing short of incredible. From fabulous fois gras cut through with apricot compote and served with locally baked fruit bread…
…this pork knuckle which I knew would be impossible to finish despite the perfectly cooked meat…
…and a serving of vanilla ice cream with a rich cherry compote taking advantage of the local cherry harvest. With my charming waitress suggesting delicious matching wines and an eye on that whirlpool bath in my room upstairs, I skedaddled at the end of my meal, clutching a glass of Gewürztraminer.
How much did I enjoy my stay?
The next morning I packed my suitcase with sadness, and awaited my private airport shuttle from La Villa K to start my journey home.
Do you ever book hotels near the airport when flying?
