It’s early morning and I’m taking a stroll through the rambling gardens of Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel, following an exceptionally relaxing massage. Birds sing in the trees, the air is fragrant with jasmine and lavender, and as I walk back to my splendidly appointed room, passing ancient olive groves, swaying palms and rows of orange trees, the contented murmurs of guests enjoying their breakfast provides a distant soundtrack.
I may be luxuriating in a quiet, personal moment, but I’m also feeling intimately connected to my glorious surroundings. In the appropriate travel-industry parlance, this is what’s called slow luxury and – in case you haven’t heard – it’s very much the current currency of high-end hospitality, driven by the understanding that excellent food, impeccable service and first-class amenities are no longer enough for the most discerning of patrons. They also require emotional connection and authentic experiences of their hotel stays.
