Netjets EU Volume 20 2022

ON LOCATION HOT AND COLD

ON LOCATION HOT AND COLD REYKJAVÍK JAY KYREN There are few destinations on Earth more idiosyncratic than Iceland. “The Land of Fire and Ice” is an array of imposing volcanoes, glistening glaciers and black sand beaches offering an otherworldly experience. It also has one of Europe’s chicest capitals, most conveniently accessible by the intimate Reykjavik Airport, which caters for private jets and is closer to the city than the larger Keflavík International Airport. As vibrant as Reykjavík is, though, it is nature’s bounty that is Iceland’s greatest draw, not least the geothermal spa Blue Lagoon (bluelagoon.com), which has embellished its healing waters in recent years with a highly rated fine-dining restaurant and sophisticated accommodation. It has a new rival, however, with the recently opened Hvammsvík Hot Springs (hvammsvik.com), just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík – perfect for a day visit to sample its eight natural springs of varying temperatures, but also for longer stays in one of the four modern, private houses at the resort. 56 NetJets

SPANISH IDYLL LA MANCHA © LA NAVA DEL BARRANCO As far as exclusivity goes La Nava del Barranco (lanavadelbarranco.com) has few rivals. This private hunting lodge in the fertile La Mancha plateau benefits from having its own airstrip at La Perdiz, which can handle aircraft holding up to 24 passengers. Once safely arrived, visitors are escorted to the lavishly decorated mansion, built in traditional La Manchan style, with red bricks and roof tiles, and replete with boar tusk and deer antler decorations. La Nava is still the home of owner Javier Medem and his family, and every effort is made to produce a home-from-home for guests in the 14 suites. Discretion is the watchword for the staff of this private estate-cum-five-star retreat, which includes a spa, pool, wine cellar, armoury and stables. Between October and March, the main attraction is hunting, with La Nava particularly known for its partridge shooting. Over the spring and summer months, the house is available to rent in its entirety and the surrounding area becomes a private nature reserve that promises another rare experience – a sighting of the Iberian lynx, a critically endangered species. NetJets 57