Reality Check ➔ HOTEL THE GIBBON BRIDGE, LANCASHIRE
THE HOTEL: The Gibbon Bridge hotel is in a rural location ten miles from the M6 (junction 31a), 12 miles from Preston and 30 miles from Manchester. The privately-run property's 30 rooms are comprised of five VIP suites, 17 luxury suites, six double/twin rooms and two single rooms. THE CHECK-IN: After parking immediately outside the reception area, we were checked- in, handed our keys and directed to our room. An offer of help with our bags was declined. THE ROOM: Situated on the first floor, our split-level suite comprised a king-size four- poster bed, desk, coffee table and, on the upper level, a couple of armchairs and TV provided a nice area in which to relax. There were delightful views across the valley to the surrounding countryside. The bathroom was spacious and included a large whirlpool bath. THE BUSINESS: VIP security, closed circuit TV and a helipad mean the hotel offers a discreet environment for high-level meetings, while even the occasional loss of a phone signal could prove to be an added benefit. The hotel had complimentary wifi in most areas, including rooms. The two meeting rooms can be laid out in theatre or boardroom style, while the gardens and thatched pergolas also make great break-out areas.
THE FACILITIES: The hotel's main restaurant makes use of fresh local produce including some grown in their own gardens. Dinner orders were taken in the bar and once starters were ready we were shown to our table. The Orangery offers an alternative dining venue with a separate bar area. Al fresco dining is available on the outdoor terrace in the surroundings of the beautiful gardens. There's an all-weather tennis court and gym, while activities such as fishing, golf, pony trekking and shooting can all be arranged locally. THE VERDICT: A real gem of a property which was easy to find off the M6 and presented a
➔ HOTEL DAS TRIEST, VIENNA
THE HOTEL: A member of Design Hotels, Das Triest is best described as a business- boutique hotel. Tucked off a main road behind huge wooden doors, the 72-room property is a short distance from the city centre and links to the CAT (City Airport Train). Sir Terence Conran made his mark here in 1995 when he gave the former coach house a complete makeover in nautical style, introducing port holes, chrome and bright colours. The overall effect is modern and inviting. In celebration of the hotel’s tenth birthday, stunning black and white photos were taken of every member of staff from every angle, including in bed! The quirky touch adds a bit of personality. THE CHECK-IN: On a quiet Sunday evening check-in was low key and professional. The lobby overlooks a private courtyard garden and first impressions are of a modern, light and funky property with plenty of pinks, wood and chrome. A huge arrangement of birds of paradise adorn a glass table in the reception. THE ROOM: Understated in beige with wooden headboard and floor-to-ceiling curtained windows. The room is dominated by a huge Apple monitor doubling as a TV with free high-speed broadband. There is a safe and minibar but annoyingly no coffee or tea facilities. The large white and chrome
welcome break from branded, chain hotels. The proprietor is very much hands-on and the staff were friendly. Food was wonderful, but the winner by a long way was the spectacular location and immaculately kept gardens. THE DETAILS: The Gibbon Bridge Hotel, Nr Chipping, Forest of Bowland, Lancashire. Rates start from £130 a night for a twin/double bedroom, suites from £175 per night and single occupancy is from £90. All rates are per room per night and include full English breakfast, newspaper and VAT. Tel: 01995 61456; see:
www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk DAVID CLARE
bathroom had plenty of white fluffy towels and a dressing gown but seemed a bit dated with an overhead shower in the bath. On a hotel inspection I was shown the 70m2 Suite 114 which is apparently a favourite with stars including Robbie Williams. Red leather, wooden headboard, chrome lights and carpet on the walls gave the suite a retro look. THE BUSINESS: The former stables at the rear of the building have been converted into conference rooms with seating for up to 90 people theatre-style. THE RESTAURANT: Claiming to be the eighth
best restaurant in Vienna, Collio has been run by Chef Josef Neuherz since day one. Seating for up to 60 covers. The Silver Bar is a stylish cocktail bar serving snacks on request. THE VERDICT: A quiet oasis where guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in modern surrounds. Not suited to those who require all the trappings of an international hotel. THE DETAILS: Wiedner Haupstrasse 12, 1040 Vienna. Single rooms start from 226 euros including breakfast, wifi and sauna access. Tel: +43 1 589 18-84; see:
www.dastriest.at JO AUSTIN
98 I FIND MORE REALITY CHECKS AT
WWW.THEBUSINESSTRAVELMAG.COM
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104