Simply Abu Dhabi XXXV

2 8 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I Backto theroots Simply Abu Dhabi went in search of travel establishments, curating their own philosophies whilst holding on the deep-rooted history of the property and its location – each with a prior existence transformed in a wholly unique creative expression. And as such, these upscale farms and off-the-beaten-track design lodgings are all drenched in history, culturally rooted hospitality and divine culinary wisdom. All hotels connected due to the contrast of their narrative and their current function and blessed with a designer’s seal of approval. www.designhotels.com B y L a u r a B r o w n Domain des Andeols, France A midst a Provence postcard landscape of lavender bushes and cypress trees, the bold geometric shapes of local stone stand out. A long elegant lane along coiffured orchards takes guests to the inner heart of the domain. Here, private terraces and terraces are layered along the turquoise waters of the pool and calming water features in the Domain grounds. The tallest tree double functioning as a natural shade for the restaurant terrace as well as a tree house for the youngsters. The mirrored garden landscaping makes for a discreet background to the striking collection of statues and stark shapes. Each of the 19 contemporary villas – sharpened by concrete interiors as a blanc canvas – are created around a piece of art, colour or explicitly chosen theme. Showing their individual character from soft pastels to striking yellows, the villas are all warm and welcoming and offer the finest views.