Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
The brutal desert summer may be slowly cooling off, with temperatures dipping to a more manageable 30 degrees centigrade, but for those residents in Bahrain who are still wilting and lusting after an elusive cool breeze and some greenery, a little gem in the mountains might do the trick, writes -RdS-.
Hidden Dragon, a new, privately-owned, alpine lodge is nestled in a forest in the heart of Switzerland's Four Valleys ski region.
This idyllic hideaway set in extensive grounds and accessed only by private road, offers uninterrupted views over the Rhone Valley, far away from the chaos of urban life.
The owners' aim is to return guests to their normal lives feeling happier, healthier, re-energised and refreshed, soothing away the effects of corporate burn-out. However, seclusion does not in any way mean sacrifice.
Gastronomy, fine beverages, exceptional skiing and holistic therapies are all on the menu at the spa, where staff pledge to exceed guests' expectations.
The Four Valleys region is undeniably one of the most dynamic ski regions in Europe. A well-kept secret consisting of 412 kilometers of pistes interlinked by 92 lifts, connecting the resorts of Verbier, La Tzoumaz, Siviez, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Mayens de L'Ours, Thyon, Les Collons and Les Masses.
Perched 1,500 meters above Veysonnaz village, Hidden Dragon offers skiers the luxury of ski in/ski out access. With empty pistes on the doorstep, Veysonnaz is a gem and makes a welcome change to its glitzier and more congested neighbour, Verbier, famed for its $5,000 cocktails.
The region is suitable for people of all ages, abilities and inclinations but it is the heli-skiers, off-piste riders and touring crowd who really delight in the world-famous unmarked trails behind the Mont Fort summit. However, this spa is more than just a winter destination.
Summer and autumn offer an assortment of activities - yoga, meditation, golf, hiking, rafting, paragliding, and wine-tasting, to name a few.
The traditional architecture and wooden interiors have a rustic Swiss 'Cabane' charm, but Hidden Dragon is anything but conventional.
Ancient Feng Shui principles create a harmonious and positive atmosphere for guests, and Asian accents fuse with contemporary and antique pieces. With more than 700 square metres of space, there's plenty of room to unwind in laidback luxury - perhaps in the professional sound-proofed cinema.
The Hidden Dragon Spa includes a hammam, sauna, hot tub, meditation room and yoga deck, and offers extensive treatments. In winter, the focus is on healing skiers' aching limbs with deep tissue massages, hot steam, air and water therapies.
In summer, the Hidden Dragon Spa celebrates nature and clients are encouraged to practice yoga, pilates and meditation to enhance their physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Hidden Dragon believes 'you are what you eat' and, therefore, the sumptuous meals created by the private chef are nutritious, energising, healthy and delicious. A well-stocked cellar is also on offer to complement the cuisine.
Despite Hidden Dragon's secluded location, this alpine lodge is a mere 15-minute drive from Sion (serviced by airport, heliport and train station) and only 1.5 hours from Geneva. With such convenient transport links, international travellers in search of both fun and balance need look no further than Hidden Dragon.
A visit to this spa is nothing short of a perfect way to celebrate the mind, body and the good life!
Prices from:40,000CHF/ (BD 14,800) week for exclusive hire (sleeps 12).
T: +44 (0)84 5505 0251 E: frontdesk@hidden-dragon.com W: www.hidden-dragon.com
