Les Étangs de Corot, Ville-d’Avray, France
In the land cherished by the painter Corot – who inspired the Impressionists –, Les Étangs de Corot provides a serene sanctuary far from the bustle of nearby Paris. These peaceful houses and lush inner courtyards bring a rustic, artistic ambiance to the former tavern, slated to reopen in September after several months of renovation. Antique furniture, travel trunks and club chairs bring the 43 rooms a warm, romantic feel. The Phytomer and Kos spas, opening onto the outdoors, capture the intimacy of the setting. Here, just a stone’s throw from Versailles, Chef Rémi Chambard picks his vegetables in the King’s Garden to serve up fresh, light, Michelin-starred cuisine.  

Restaurant Schote, Essen, Germany
“What people need is food that touches the soul: a throwback to the tastes of our childhood.” This article of faith is that of Nelson Müller, Chef at the Restaurant Schote in Essen, Germany. A familiar face in German media and boasting a Michelin star, this culinary artist does indeed succeed in taking his guests on a gustatory journey through his contemporary cuisine, staying true to top-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is a reflection of its chef – dynamic, welcoming, and decidedly modern.

Xitan Beijing, Beijing, China
The Xitan Hotel has settled into a 500-year-old site on the ruins of a village dating from the Great Ming, west of Beijing in China. In an exuberant setting of lush, green mountains, the property echoes the country’s traditional architecture, topped with some spectacular modern touches nonetheless. Chef Guozhu Liu – the first chef in Beijing to earn three Michelin stars at the Xin Rong Ji Restaurant – reinterprets Chinese standards with contemporary flair. Opening scheduled for September 2021.