LifeClass Terme Sveti Martin ★★★★

Croatia! Who knew that after all this time of exploring Europe's many hidden gems and magical corners, this paradise was waiting for us right here? We have come at last, inspired by this wonderful looking hotel that offers an authentic getaway in the middle of nature whilst giving you a true taste of the good life, a way of living that in many parts of the world has long been forgotten. One where time is almost irrelevant, where we are guided by the sunrise, sunset and the rhythms of our own bodies. Hungry? Feast on a selection of delectable cuisine prepared with love from natural ingredients bursting with goodness, and do not miss the healthy fine dining option at Le Batat. Tired? Close your eyes in the shade of a tree as you let the river hush you to sleep or retreat to the cool confines of your bedroom for a siesta. Itchy feet? Choose from a myriad of activities available from tennis, golf and football to horse riding, cycling, boating, swimming and strolling through ancient forests or exploring nearby castles and churches. It all seems so simple and yet for those of us used to the city rush, it can be surprisingly complicated to let go and relax.

This is our mission and LifeClass Terme hotel in Sveti Martin, on the borders of Slovenia, Hungary and Austria, seems just the place to help us unwind and rejuvenate. Indeed we reach here already on a cloud of light-hearted wonder at the picturesque villages with their pointed roofs that seem straight out of a fairytale and the vast expanse of stunning countryside, glimmering lakes and shimmering rivers that make up this verdant, rich and ancient land. It is no wonder to me that this very region should have given the world such great artists and thinkers such as Rudolf Steiner, whose work echoes across the globe to this day in the form of his anthroposophical approach to schooling and socially conscious living. I have barely arrived and I feel like I am falling in love with life and the world all over again!

Once we see the hotel itself we are completely won over. Our room is ideal with a chic glass-walled shower, sleek TV, safe, mini bar, fluffy bathrobes and slippers and magnificent views of the lush green beyond. This blend of modern comfort and down­to­earth nature is found throughout the hotel. Sophisticated and warm with a plethora of pleasures awaiting us from the glittering outdoor pools and cascades to the spa with its sauna, salt chamber and array of massages and treatments, it is a friendly, bucolic haven of healthy living and unpretentious well­being. The smiling staff, the choice of exquisite restaurants, all equal in their carefully prepared cuisine using only the best, local, fresh ingredients, the convivial atmosphere, the many quiet corners to peacefully read a book or share a romantic moment, all weave a spell about us. The aptly named LifeClass Terme hotel has taught us in but a few days how to see la vie en rose and return home with a fresh, healthier and happier perspective!