The Relais Henley, in partnership with boating experts, Hobbs of Henley introduce a two night ‘Slowcation’ package – including an overnight luxury cruise along the picturesque Thames Riviera, combined with a night at the stylish waterside retreat.
With plenty of time to enjoy the pleasures of the river, from laid-back afternoons lazing over sun-speckled picnics, refreshing wild swims and a taste of Henley’s finest sport, rowing; it is the ultimate way to embrace the joys of slow travel. The package is available to book from now until the end of October 2022 and at the start of the new season, April – October 2023.
Hobbs of Henley is situated on the banks of the River Thames in Henley and is steeped in history and tradition. Boasting five generations of experience and two Royal Waterman amongst their staff, nobody is better placed to help you discover the beauty of the River Thames and a well deserved Slowcation.
Slowcation – day one
The journey begins in historic Runnymede, Surrey, where guests are welcomed onboard a luxury hybrid river cruiser, greeted by captain and crew with a celebratory glass of Champagne or Mr Hobbs Gin. Cruising along the river, as views of the rolling Chiltern Hills unfold, there is time to settle into the spacious en-suite double cabin where crisp white bed linen, bathrobes and amenities by The Relais Henley provide luxurious accommodation.
One of the greatest English traditions awaits at the historic town of Royal Windsor, as a beautiful picnic is laid out on a quiet shaded spot on the banks of the river; the perfect way to unwind and watch life on the river go by. As the sun goes down, you are invited to enjoy a seasonal dinner under the stars on their private deck, as the river cruiser makes its way to its overnight destination of Marlow.
Slowcation – day two
The next day, the journey continues along the river to one of the Chiltern’s prettiest villages, Hurley, the ideal place to jump off for a wild swim or try stand-up paddle boarding. Before disembarking at Henley-on-Thames, an exclusive opportunity awaits to take part in a private rowing lesson with a professional oarsman from the world-famous Leander Club.
At The Relais Henley, the sanctuary of a riverside room awaits. The stylishly renovated 16th-century coaching inn offers a charming base from which to explore the bustling market town of Henley itself, the nearby Chiltern Hills and the surrounding villages of Hambleden and Sonning.
Dinner is served in the elegant and nautically-inspired, The Clipper Restaurant, and a night cap can be enjoyed in a cosy corner of the Quarterdeck Bar, where stories of the river and the ultimate Slow-Cation can be retold. Be sure to visit the courtyard, a hidden gem and a lovely sunny spot at the hotel where you can enjoy all day dining from The Clipper as well as breakfast when you stay overnight.
Relais Retreats
Relais Retreats is a new brand of English waterside escapes launching in 2021 by international hotelier, Grace Leo and her co-investor Tim Hartnoll. The English escapes are infused with a worldly sensibility and intimacy. Redefining a lifestyle for discerning travellers, Relais Retreats are places to disconnect and relax as much as to cultivate connection and co-creation. The Relais Henley is the first property to open in Summer 2021, followed by The Cooden Beach Hotel which will undergo a winter renovation and refurbishment programme, becoming The Relais Cooden Beach at the end of 2022, a full-service beach resort on the East Sussex coast.
The Details
The Slowcation package starts from £3,995 per couple and includes two nights’ accommodation. One night private river cruise onboard one of Hobbs of Henley’s luxurious hybrid cruisers, fully inclusive of skipper, arrival drinks and canapes, afternoon tea and soft drinks. One night at The Relais Henley staying in a riverside room, including dinner, bed and breakfast, plus a private rowing lesson for two with Leander Club.
Reservations available from July – October 2022 and April – October 2023, subject to availability and river conditions.
To discover more, visit: therelaishenley.com
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Imagery courtesy of The Relais Henley / Hobbs of Henley.