Easter as Edible Art: Luxury Hotels Present Their 2026 Chocolate Creations
Every spring, some of Europe’s most prestigious grand hotels transform Easter into a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. In 2026, renowned pastry chefs once again unveil limited-edition chocolate creations that blur the line between fine pâtisserie and edible sculpture. From Paris to Zurich and Brussels, these exclusive Easter pieces combine tradition, artistry, and exceptional ingredients.
At Le Bristol Paris, pastry chef Maxence Barbot and chocolate chef Johan Giacchetti reinterpret the classic French Saint-Honoré dessert as a sculptural chocolate egg. The elegant design features flowing Chantilly-like waves crafted in dark Venezuelan chocolate. Inside, layers of caramel infused with tonka bean, Piedmont hazelnuts, and cocoa praline create a rich flavor profile, balanced with a touch of fleur de sel. The limited creation is available from March 18 to April 5.
In Zurich, the legendary Baur au Lacpresents a delicate chocolate egg created by head pâtissier David Potier. Limited to just 25 pieces, the piece stands out with its intricate lattice shell made of dark chocolate. Inside sits a white chocolate egg filled with pistachio ganache, while pecan ganache at the base adds an unexpected final layer of flavor. Crafted with fine Ecuadorian Arriba chocolate and Madagascar vanilla, the creation reflects the hotel’s long-standing chocolate tradition under the «1844 Chocolat Baur au Lac» label.
Back in Paris, La Réserve Parisintroduces an elegant Easter creation inspired by the classic Paris-Brest pastry. Chef pâtissier Jordan Talbot crafts a sculptural egg made from dark Peruvian chocolate, filled with vanilla marshmallows, almond praline, caramelized cocoa nibs, and salted caramel. Available exclusively by pre-order in March, the creation reflects the hotel’s refined and understated approach to gastronomy.
Meanwhile in Brussels, Hotel Amigo hosts the fourth edition of Bel’Œuf, an exhibition celebrating the creativity of Belgian chocolatiers. From April 2 to 8, around 40 chocolatiers present imaginative chocolate eggs inspired by this year’s theme, Pleasure in Motion. The exhibition, organized with chocolatier Marc Ducobu, showcases elaborate chocolate artworks, some of which are available for purchase, while proceeds from the event support cancer research.
Together, these limited Easter creations show how luxury hospitality continues to elevate seasonal traditions, turning chocolate into a form of culinary art.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of the respective hotels DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.
Members Only: The Bristol Society Fitness Club Opens Its Private World
For all my Parisian readers among you, I have some great news for you. This month, a new chapter begins at Le Bristol Paris. For the first time in its history, the legendary palace hotel on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré opens the doors of its once entirely private fitness sanctuary to a select circle of external members.
Conceived as far more than a gym, the Bristol Society Fitness Club is an intimate universe where physical discipline meets aesthetic refinement. Spread across 117 square meters of light-filled space, the club blends precision, balance, and mindful well-being into an experience that feels both exclusive and deeply personal.
The main studio, lined with warm oak parquet and softly shimmering walls, features state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment. Large windows frame the elegant rhythm of the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, turning every workout into a quietly cinematic moment.
A second, fully privatizable studio is dedicated to yoga, reformer Pilates, and stretching. Designed for tailored sessions, it offers cutting-edge equipment and absolute tranquility, a true refuge for body and mind.
Between invigorating training and restorative calm, members move seamlessly from focused effort to the soothing warmth of the hammam. Two exclusive memberships shape this rarefied world:
• The Prestige Membership – €8,000 per year
• The Signature Membership – €20,000 per year
At the Bristol Society Fitness Club, luxury is never loud. It is felt in discretion, in the freedom to retreat inward, and in an atmosphere where every detail is curated with quiet elegance, allowing the body to be strengthened and the mind gently restored.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Le Bristol DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.
On Valentine’s Day, hearts beat a little faster in the City of Love, and especially at Le Bristol Paris. Behind the stately façades of the palace on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, couples are invited on a sensory journey through haute cuisine and exquisite pâtisserie, creating a magical evening you’ll wish could last forever.
Two Restaurants. Two Menus. One Memorable Night.
At Epicure, three-Michelin-star chefArnaud Faye celebrates Valentine’s Day with a seven-course menu defined by precision, poetry, and exceptional ingredients. The evening begins with scallops paired with Menton lemons, followed by lobster from the Côte d’Opale infused with a delicate Madras curry note. Wild sea bass with citrus and caviar leads into a tender veal fillet with winter vegetables and black truffle. The finale is a dreamy dessert of grapefruit, rosé Champagne, quince, rose, and hibiscus — elegant, floral, and unforgettable. Epicure Valentine’s Menu • €880
For a refined yet relaxed celebration, 114, Faubourg opens its doors with a menu created by chefs Arnaud Faye and Vincent Schmit. Designed for sharing, it features crab tartlet with curry, scallops gently confit in walnut butter, roasted sea bass, melt-in-your-mouth lamb enhanced with black truffle, and a saffron baba with exotic fruits to finish. 114, Faubourg Valentine’s Menu • €290
A Sweet Declaration of Love
Pastry chefMaxence Barbot adds the final romantic touch with two exclusive creations: the Saint-Honoré d’Amour, reimagined in heart shape for the occasion, and the Vanilla & Pecan Flan d’Amour, crowned with a bespoke golden heart in place of the signature «B.»
Available on February 14, 2026 at L’Épicerie des Ateliers du Bristol. Saint-Honoré d’Amour (serves 6) • €39 Vanilla & Pecan Flan d’Amour (serves 2) • €22
Stay a Little Longer
Why let the romance end too soon? For Valentine’s Day, Le Bristol Paris invites guests to extend the magic with a special overnight experience that includes a guaranteed room upgrade (up to a Junior Suite), a bottle of Champagne, signature sweet treats on arrival, rose petals on the bed, American breakfast for two, and late check-out until 2 pm.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Le Bristol DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.
The Oetker Collection, the hospitality group behind Masterpiece Hotels including Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, The Lanesborough and Eden Rock – St Barths, amongst others, is teaming up with DREST, the world’s first luxury fashion gaming app. DREST players take on the role of a stylist, putting high-fashion looks together for daily challenges using an unparalleled catalogue of current collections from over 250 of the world’s top brands. Crucial to a player’s success in each photoshoot is their choice of location, as they select a backdrop most likely to help their photo stand out and win votes from the community.
«I am thrilled to collaborate with Oetker Collection and together usher in a new era for travel experiences in the Metaverse. Oetker Collection’s beautiful properties, in some of the world’s most desirable locations, are truly iconic and synonymous with style and elegance, making them the perfect partner for this, DREST’s latest gaming adventure,» said Lucy Yeomans, Founder of DREST.
Following on from partnerships with luxury brands such as Gucci, Cartier, Prada, Valentino and NARS who collaborate with DREST to unlock the highly engaged gaming audience, this is the first time a luxury hospitality brand will enable meaningful brand storytelling and discovery via mobile gaming.
«We are delighted to partner with DREST on this exciting collaboration, marking our entry into the virtual world. It allows people to discover Oetker Collection hotels in a fun and immersive way and the interactive challenges truly bring the escapism and glamour of travel to life,» shared Simon Neggers, SVP Sales, Marketing & Communications, Oetker Collection.
The exclusive partnership will be available for DREST’s players to style with across all photoshoot challenges, commencing with a dedicated programme of content in July 2022. To begin their virtual journey, players will be transported to Le Bristol Paris, the first hotel in France to receive Palace distinction, for a series of special photoshoots to coincide with Haute Couture Fashion Week. They will also have the opportunity to create a moodboard for their ‘stay’ at Le Bristol Paris, featuring scenes from inside the Parisian icon and special stickers such as Socrate, the beloved cat in residence.
Next stop on DREST’s French Oetker Collection styling odyssey is the South of France and the legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where players can get creative by pairing the latest vacation fashion featuring the property’s emblematic swimming pool as one of the backdrops.
A visit to nearby Vence is next as Château Saint-Martin & Spa, the exquisite summer hideaway offering dreamy panoramic view of the Riviera hinterland, is the third French destination of this first instalment of this roving luxury travel partnership.
The Lanesborough, the location of an intimate event to celebrate the partnership, will also feature in a challenge in the launch phase. Players will be invited to dress as if attending a lunch at the magnificent London landmark hotel’s chic new restaurant, The Lanesborough Grill.
Exclusive challenges featuring Oetker Collection’s remaining Masterpiece Hotels including, L’Apogée Courchevel, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Eden Rock – St Barths, Jumby Bay Island in Antigua, Palácio Tangará in São Paulo, The Woodward in Geneva and Hotel La Palma in Capri, will follow throughout the year.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Via Oetker Collection x Drest DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.
«Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.» – Dalai Lama
The quote by Dalai Lama is something I have been doing all my life. Every year, I have to see at least one new place on this planet. In 2019, it was São Paulo. So many destinations are still on my bucket list.
Need some inspiration planning your next luxurious adventure? I recommend a stay at one of The Oetker Collection hotels, where you can experience award-winning service and everything you can dream of. The most iconic hotels belong to the collection, from the famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc to Le Bristol Paris. I’ve rounded up all of their amazing holiday or city destinations – from tropical Caribbean islands to vibrant London. Some places will take your breath away.
It may be a stunning natural setting, remarkable architecture and landscaping, or a sense that somehow you feel at home. In each destination, the teams dedicate themselves to ensuring your stay is an experience you will treasure forever, because endearing experiences start with the people who make the place. Let the journey begin, discover the Masterpiece Hotels #endearingplaces below and don’t miss the video at the end of the post…
LoL, Sandra
L’Apogée Courchevel / SWITZERLAND Your stylish alpine home
Relax in effortless style at our alpine retreat on Courchevel 1850’s prettiest peak. L’Apogée Courchevel was created for lovers of snowy mountain beauty in Jardin Alpin, and is acclaimed with Palace Distinction. High above an historic Olympic ski jump, the views are spectacular, while ski in-ski out facilities open onto the world’s finest slopes, heaven for both families and super schussers.
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa & Villa Stéphanie / GERMANY A fairytale in the Black Forest and your House of Wellbeing
Centrally located in the renowned German spa town of Baden-Baden, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa is an urban oasis set in a private park facing the famous Lichtentaler Allee. A harmonic combination of elegance, tradition, and innovative future concepts are the hallmarks of this city resort.
At their House of Wellbeing Villa Stéphanie expert hands are ready to tune up your body’s health and beauty, while the kitchens at our renegade restaurant, Fritz & Felix, is brimming with seasoned dishes made for sharing, with plenty from the charcoal grill.
FOR A DETAILED TRAVEL REPORT, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Le Bristol Paris / FRANCE Historic grandeur and gastronomic excellence
Since 1925, Le Bristol Paris has been celebrated for its unique definition of luxury, and for offering service of the highest order. The world’s most discerning travellers choose Le Bristol for a first-class Parisian experience, and this illustrious palace has become a benchmark for luxury hotels all over the world. Le Bristol Paris, honoured to receive the «Happy Guest Award 2019» discerned by the Leading Hotels of the World.
READ MORE ABOUT MY STAY AT LE BRISTOL HERE.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa / FRANCE Hilltop retreat amidst nature and art
Immerse yourself in blue skies and olive groves, fabulous views of the Côte d’Azur and a legacy of art. Our style entwines contemporary elegance with historic charm, and we have been awarded both «Palace Distinction» and «World Luxury Romantic Hotel». Come for culture too, with sculptures by Manolo Valdés, Nuits du Château concert series, and Les Canthares wine tastings. The new Riviera season begins 1st May 2020.
Eden Rock – St Barths /FRENCH WEST INDIES Home away from Home
With its spectacular location in St Jean Bay, Eden Rock – St Barths has been the byword for one-of-a-kind hospitality ever since mercurial French Caribbean aviator adventurer and occasional treasure-seeker Rémy de Haenen first welcomed guests to his Eden Rock home on the ocean, during the 1950s. The place quickly established itself as the preferred private and discreet bolt-hole of many glamourous Hollywood characters who quickly became friends of St Barths. Howard Hughes, Greta Garbo, Robert Mitchum, Baron Rothschild David & Peggy Rockfeller, Princess Lee Radziwill… amongst numbers of other fine beautiful and talented men and women… A sense of safety and freedom was established… and of style… and of casual elegance… and of spirit… and of ambition… and all of which continues to this day and is strengthened now with the regular welcoming of very many current and similarly interesting and brilliant celebrity guests and friends of modern times.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE HOTEL, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc /FRANCE A thoroughly modern Grand Dame
Secluded behind statuesque pines is the most stylish playground of the Riviera, exuding Gatsby glamour. Generations of families and friends reunite for the season at this legendary Palace, voted Best European Hotel by Condé Nast Travelers and Best Grande Dame Hotel by Tatler. Revealing her seasonal revamp, our Grand Dame opens on 17th April 2020, join it for stylish celebrations, fresh new designs and an exhibition by the great expressionist Manolo Valdés.
FOR SOME MORE PHOTOS FROM MY STAY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Jumby Bay Island & Jumby Bay Private Residences / ANTIGUA – WEST INDIES A private island paradise
Touch down in Antigua, jump on board of the private yacht and breeze across turquoise seas. In two miles and less than ten minutes you are on your island home, one of the most desirable, all-inclusive retreats in the Caribbean. Jumby Bay Island is a haven of carefree pleasures, stroll barefoot along three stunning white sand beaches, fringed with swaying palms, inhale and revive in the lush landscapes that enrich our 300 acres.
The private residences at Jumby Bay Island offer access to a secluded Caribbean paradise in discreet, modern luxury. Each family home possesses a unique character and vantage point for experiencing the private island’s exquisite nature and elegant amenities.
The Lanesborough The quintessence of graceful London living
Awarded No. 1 Hotel in London in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, on the doorstep of Hyde Park, just a short walk from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and London’s most exclusive shopping district; Sloane Street and Knightsbridge, this grand luxury mansion has undergone an inspired renovation by the famed interior designer Alberto Pinto. The hotel is home to 93 luxurious suites and bedrooms, Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant, the vibrant Library Bar and Garden Room and the magnificent Lanesborough Club & Spa.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MY VISIT TO THE HOTEL, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
Palácio Tangará An extraordinary urban oasis in the heart of São Paulo
Palácio Tangará is exceptionally located in the heart of São Paulo, surrounded by the lush greenery of Burle Marx Park, with easy access to the main business, leisure and culture districts of the city. Palácio Tangará brings the refined European hospitality combined with Brazilian art de vivre to the biggest city of Latin America. Guests are welcomed with a refined contemporary décor, bathed in natural daylight throughout its spacious rooms and suites, variety of culinary venues signed by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten as well as the state of the art recreational and well-being facilities. A peaceful retreat in a vibrant city.
FOR A TRAVEL REPORT ABOUT SAO PAULO, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
«I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.» – Susan Sontag
Two young renegades from Louis Vuitton have revived the tradition of furniture trunks with contemporary accessories, Sonos speakers for one. These trunks are the sort that a porter carries into your first class cabin on the Titanic or velvet clad Pullman couchette. T.T.TRUNKS opened in a new Paris boutique on Faubourg St. Honoré where the world’s most elegant travellers come to stay at Le Bristol Paris. EDEN BEINGhave curated a collection of these revivalist trunks inspired by five of the Oetker Collection hotels: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Le Bristol Paris, Eden Roc – St Barths, Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa, and The Lanesborough London. Each trunk model below comes in 5 different color combinations which are designed for one of the designated hotels.
Farewell to the drinks cabinet, introducing the drinks trunk. Closed it exudes an air of mystery, opened it is an invitation to party. A masterful example of intelligent design by French malletiers, the T.T.Trunk’s Millesime stores everything the wine and cocktail connoisseur might think of. There is an easily portable case incorporated with space for a bottle and two glasses, to disappear together at a moments notice. An Eden Beinglimited edition designed for Eden Rock – St Barths lined in Goya Red with a discreet logo.
A trunk for today’s dandy, for the man about the world, with a zest for life’s many amusements. These cases will keep you uber organised on your travels with excellent compartmentalisation for cufflinks and sunglasses, ensuring you have the right watch at the right time. There is an inbuilt charging unit for phones and ipads, and Sonos speaker. Nickel clasps, smooth cowhide and craftsmanship exude first class luggage. This Eden Being limited edition is designed, in marine cowhide with vibrant sky blue interior and a discreet logo, for Eden Rock – St Barths, where the Dandy owner would be completely at home in the splashy surroundings, from yacht to pool party.
T.T.Trunks Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc Havana trunk € 9,400
Designed for the cosmopolitan traveller and cigar smoker who appreciates all the craftsmanship synonymous with this mellifluous pleasure. Paying homage to the finest Havanas, this trunk ceremoniously transforms a languid smoke with a stylish assemblage of accessories, while intelligent design makes capacity. An Eden Being limited edition for Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in blue with discreet logo.
T.T.Trunks The Lanesborough Mademoiselle trunk
€ 7,500
Glamorous world travelers can carry a selection of their treasures with them across cities and continents in refined style. This case is a work of artisanal perfection conceived by the two Parisian malletier behind T.T.Trunks. It opens up to display your jewels and watches in colourful order, making the choice all the more enticing. An Eden Being limited edition for The Lanesborough in shades of lilac, and with discreet logo.