Hidden gem in Lower Austria, is a calm and peaceful village (or small town?) called Geras. The…read morecenterpiece of the place is a large and once powerful Geras Abbey (Stift Geras). There is no doubt that the current hotel premises were also part of the monastic property, namely it served as a granary. The building is beautifuly restored with heavy wooden ceilings, small windows (good in summer heat) and modern touches like a in-build en-suite bathrooms. Hotel makes himself proud to be a part of Geras Academy hence serving like a reatreat for many artistic courses and "pow-wows". As a result all the rooms and corridors are decorated with original art pieces (also for sale if you have a fat wallet :-)). The hotel sports a nice restaurant, lobby bar and outside garden. All that and spa facilities (yes, they also do Ayurveda here) makes it ideal for romantic getaways or relax stays, We must come back!

The somm's at Benu have opened my eyes to the vast world of German and Austrian wines. I knew a few…read moreRieslings here and there but now I can add another Gruner Veltliner to the list. Nigl makes a very versatile, easily drinkable one. Apparently they have a hotel and restaurant on their property too. Would be pretty cool to stay, eat and drink yourself into a stupor at this locale. However for now,Ill enjoy the wine with Corey Lee's excellent cuisine...