Hotels that cater to chocolate aficionados
Chocoholics can indulge in cacao massages and see the birthplace of Hersheys
Perhaps you’ll never be able to visit Willy Wonka’s fantastical chocolate room in his candy factory. But if you have a sweet tooth, you need not despair for lack of a candy-filled adventure. You can find your own little slice of paradise not in your imagination, but in the hotels around the world that cater to chocolate fanatics, whether they offer chocolatethemed menus, tours of a cocoa plantation or spa treatments infused with cacao. Here, we take a look at several such properties that have the perfect chocolate decadence for you.
Boucan by Hotel Chocolat, Soufriere, St. Lucia
Set on the rainforest-filled grounds of St. Lucia’s 18th-century Rabot Estate is the Boucan by Hotel Chocolat. The property was acquired by the company’s co-founders, as the volcanic soil, high elevation and rainforest water of St. Lucia are perfect for cocoa production. Every aspect of your stay revolves around chocolate, from the “cacao cuisine” of its on-site restaurant and cacao massages at the spa, to the freshly-made chocolate treats in your room.
Hotel Sacher Wien, Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s famous chocolate cake, the Original Sacher-Torte, was created in the cafe of the Hotel Sacher Wien in 1832, and the recipe is closely guarded by the property today.
The Hotel Hershey, Hershey, Pennsylvania
One of the world’s foremost chocolate destinations is located right in the middle of Pennsylvania, in Hershey, the home of the eponymous candy company founded by philanthropist Milton S. Hershey. Chocolatetown, U.S.A., as the town is lovingly nicknamed, was literally founded around the sweet. The upscale Hotel Hershey is a great place to stay — guests can indulge in chocolate spa treatments like the Chocolate Fondue Wrap and the Chocolate Sugar Scrub.
Three Ways House Hotel, Mickleton, U.K.
Two hours northwest of London is the quaint village of Mickleton, home to the historic Three Ways House Hotel. The hotel caters to chocoholics, who will want to stay in the Chocolate Suite. The hotel also offers chocolate-themed packages, which are filled with delicious activities.
Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Lankanfushi, Maldives
While chocolate might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi has a chilled underground wine and chocolate cave where guests can enjoy tastings.
The Chocolate Boutique Hotel, Bournemouth, U.K.
It’s not hard to surmise that the Chocolate Boutique Hotel is a chocolate lover’s paradise. From rooms decorated in a palette of cocoa, cream and caramel hues to chocolate portrait painting courses, there’s no end to the delectable surprises. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway to England’s charming southern coast.
The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago
On Friday and Saturday evenings, executive pastry chef Dimitri Fayard puts on “Chocolate at the Pen,” a smorgasbord of chocolate treats, in one of the hotel’s restaurants. It’s open to non-guests, and those who are dining at either of the on-site restaurants are able to visit the chocolate bar for their dessert course.