Top 10 Urban Oases
At Hg2 they pick no bones about writing guides to hedonism in the city, but they are well aware that the city buzz can become a bit relentless. So when you have reached saturation point in soaking up crowded clubs, busy roads and packed-out shops, here are ten urban oases to help you unwind. Without even having to leave the city, you can find yourself skiing a black run, playing golf or strolling through the great outdoors.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Urban Retreat, Harrods, London
If you're feeling stressed and oppressed by those claustrophobic Oxford Street crowds then fear not, help is at hand. This 22,000 square-foot salon has everything you could ever need to de-stress and re-group after a harrowing shopping trip.
Offering every conceivable pampering experience, from facials and makeovers to 'Energy Healing', the only real problem with Urban Retreat is that you'll never want to leave.
Café am Engelbecken, Berlin
Walking into Café am Engelbecken is like entering a secret garden right in the heart of Berlin's busy Kreuzberg neighbourhood.
Hidden away at the edge of a serene pond and surrounded by reeds, there's something almost magical about the place. With an outside terrace overlooking the water and a stylishly furnished interior (complete with relaxing fountains), Engelbecken offers calming sanctuary whatever the weather.
After a couple of cocktails at chilled-out prices, you'll be feeling positively Zen-like.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Nu Teras Bar, Instanbul
Whether through a happy accident or meticulous architectural forethought, Nu Teras, like some kind of pagan monument, is perfectly aligned with the setting sun and therefore the most spectacular place to enjoy a sunset over the Bosphorous.
Located on the top floor of an elegant townhouse in Pera, an eventide drink at this sleek bar is the perfect way to chill out after a hectic day's sightseeing.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Parque tres de Febrero, Buenos Aires
With over 25 acres of beautifully manicured lawns, botanical gardens and outdoor works of art, the Parque tres de Febrero is the epitome of urban oasis.
Located in the Palermo neighbourhood, visitors here can soak up some rays, explore the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan or rent a boat and spend a tranquil afternoon on the water. The perfect antidote to frenetic Buenos Aires life.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Ski Dubai
Only in a city so full of contradictions and surprises could you find snow in a desert. The third largest ski-park in the world, Ski Dubai allows you to zone-out on the slopes when it's 120 degrees outside.
With five runs of varying difficulty and a snow park for non-skiers, anyone can leave the sweltering summer heat and enjoy a wintry wonderland.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Le Jules Verne, Paris
Sometimes the best way to get away from it all is to head upwards.
Located 410 feet off the ground on the second floor of the Eiffel tower, Le Jules Verne is an aerial asylum where guests can enjoy outstanding French cuisine, fine wine and exceptional service, whilst the whole time gazing out at a Parisian panorama that will take your breath away.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona
The pace of life in Barcelona may not be particularly frenzied, but a sandy beach with warm Mediterranean waves just five minutes walk from the city centre? It doesn't get much better than that.
Locals and tourists alike flock to this little slice of chilled-out seaside fun, which is located just a stone's throw away from fantastic harbour-front restaurants and the cobbled streets of the old town.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Areia Chill Out Bar, Madrid
With its sumptuous Moroccan décor, copious couches to lounge on and scattering of scented candles, the atmosphere in this inner-city haven is so relaxed that you can't help but leave your stress at the door.
During the day it's the perfect place to while away a few hours over a snack and a beer, but after nightfall it turns into one of the hippest bars in town, with DJs playing a selection of dub, house and, of course, chill-out.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Sandunovsky Baths, Moscow
Despite being one of Moscow's most elegant and exclusive banyas, the Sanduny has a remarkably convivial and chilled-out atmosphere.
With its opulent décor and eclectic charm, it would be easy to spend several hours (and several thousand Rubles) relaxing here, with attentive staff constantly on hand to bring you vodka, towels and vennik (branches to beat yourself with - if that's your kind of thing). Pure bliss.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city
Urban Fairways, Singapore
Asia's first indoor golf lounge is a cool, peaceful refuge right in the heart of one of the world's most populous cities.
With award-winning food, attentive caddies to bring you drinks and the added bonus of never having to search for a stray ball, Urban Fairways offers the opportunity to play on over 52 world-class courses, all in air-conditioned comfort. It's golf, but not as we know it.
Hg2 is our slick abbreviation for A Hedonist's Guide... - a luxury city guide series coveted by travellers who value both style and substance when it comes to soaking up a city

































