DINING AT THE TOP
So where are the top places that complement luscious victuals with breathtaking views?
We have picked out our top six destinations that does just that.
Photograph by Ice Q
Ice Q - Sölden, Austria
Made famous by the James Bond movie Spectre, Ice Q is a place where sophisticated gourmet delights combine with fine wines and dreamy vistas to create one outstanding symbiosis. Built in December 2013, the glass cube perches 3048 metres above sea level atop the Gaislachkogl mountain in the Soelden Valley ski area. It being a glass cube, the restaurant appears to be transparent and blends perfectly with the natural surroundings. Diners get to gaze at one the most spectacular alpine views looking to as far as the Dolomites in Italy and the Alps in Switzerland.
Address: Gaislachkogl Mountain Station, Dorfstraße 115 6450 Sölden, Austria
Phone: +43 664 96 09 368
Photograph by Post Ranch Inn
Sierra Mar - California, United States
Perched high atop a secluded cliff, 1,200 feet above Big Sur is Sierra Mar, winner of Wine Spectator’s prestigious Grand Award. The restaurant’s angled glass walls and tables on varying levels entitles diners amazing views of the expansive Pacific Ocean and rocky cliffs.
Address: 47900 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA
Phone: +1 831 667 2800
Photograph by Château de la Chèvre d'Or
Les Remparts - Eze, France
There is no better place to lunch or have a drink than Les Remparts. Situated within the premises of the five-star Chateau de la Chèvre d'or above the Mediterranean, Les Remparts is a terrace restaurant overlooking Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat where luxury villas and yachts can be seen bobbing on the pristine blue waters. Lunching at the restaurant is a florid affair as you will be surrounded by arcades of jasmine, ivy and bougainvillea, immersing you into the tranquillity of its astonishing view. The menu at Les Remparts emphasises the beautiful traditions of the Mediterranean that are cooked with the region’s finest ingredients. Be sure to reserve a table before getting there as you wouldn’t want to be disappointed!
Address: Rue du Barri, 06360 Eze, France
Phone: +33 4 92 10 66 61
Ambrosia - Santorini, Greece
The most romantic restaurant in Oia, and maybe all of Santorini, Ambrosia is set upon a promontory, offering diners one of the island's most tranquil and surreal terrace views of the steel blue Aegan Sea and Santorini volcanic sea caldera. While the popular outdoor dining area offers one of the best views of sunset, the less popular interior dining area exudes a charming and cosy vibe that is more readily available for last minute basis.
Address: Cliffside Terrace at Village Center, Oia Santorini 847 02, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 071413
Photograph by Ban Mon Muan
Baan Mon Muan - Chiang Mai, Thailand
Baan Mon Muan is a small mountaintop resort perched 1250m above sea level with a restaurant located in Mae Rim, just north of Chiang Mai. The restaurant provides a panoramic mountain view. The food here is inexpensive but extensive. The restaurant highly recommends ordering the vegetable dishes as the vegetables are either grown within the premises or sourced from local farmers and the nearby Royal Project. Fret not! Carnivores can also satisfy their palates with tasty meat dishes by the chef. Visit in the late afternoon to witness the beautiful sunset over the mountains or dinner to gaze at the stars after your meal. Ban Mon Muam is definitely an excellent restaurant to experience the sounds and refreshing scent of nature in a private setting.
Address: 175 M.2 Tambon Pong Yang, Amphoe Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Phone: +66 94 6262239
Photograph by Leopard Rock Coffee Shop
Leopard Rock Coffee Shop - Izingolweni, South Africa
A trip to the stunning world renowned Oribi Gorge valley in KwaZulu-Natal would not be complete without a visit to Leopard Rock Coffee Shop. The restaurant is set on a rocky slope that offers panoramic views over the magnificent Umzimkulu River Gorge. Diners have the pleasure of relishing home cooked meals on the wooden deck while listening to the calming sound of the Umzimkulu River Gorge snaking its path down at the bottom. Re-enact a reel Simba moment by visiting the famous Overhanging Rock, which is located within the property.
Address: Oribi Flats East, Izingolweni, 4260 South Africa
Phone: +27 74 124 0902