Breton stripes, fresh linen, a spritz on hand, with the infinite view of the mediterranean. Eurosummer. It’s the dreamy aesthetic we’ve all seen in countless Tiktok reels and plastered all over the gram. We lap it up like creamy gelato. So what exactly is ‘Eurosummer’? And what does it mean for how we choose our holiday destination of choice and more importantly, the coordinating looks we will curate for said destination. It all sounds as romantic as that floaty, floral frock you’ve bought from Reformation, but to be honest, there is a dark side to Eurosummer. Overtourism means locals being pushed out of their towns, not to mention the environmental impact of densely packed tourist destinations putting pressure on local infrastructure, reducing biodiversity and damaging natural landscapes.
But it’s not all doom and gloom, in fact more and more people are seeking out ways to travel more sustainably. Slow travel is not a new term, but our desire to explore Europe more sustainably is on the rise¹.
So how do we live out our Eurosummer dreams without causing more harm than good? Well luckily, there are a wave of new boutique hotels that are putting sustainability and are putting local cuisine and craftsmanship on the map.
At The Artisan Lab, we are inspired by boutique hotels that not only embody our values (art, transparency and empowerment). So here is a curated list of ‘artisan’ style hotels that will have you living out your Eurosummer dreams but in a quieter, more understated way.
Nomad Living Javea
This is the only one I’ve stayed at on this list - and to be honest, I think it’ll always have a special place in my heart. Everything from the french press in your room, the mix of artisanal pieces in each room, the delicious local cuisine and of course, that view from the window. Javea is beautiful and in peak summer it will be busy - but it’s still a little quieter than Alicante/- it’s not entirely off the beaten track but tourists here are respectful. Also- the curated boutique/ reception will keep you there for longer than you’d intend to! Stocking everything from Berber baskets to candles to mirrors, the selection is from far and wide- but also never random, it’s as on point as the hotel owners’ personal taste!
Hotel Corazón Soller, Mallorca
Definitely on the top of every artisan connoisseur’s list (it’s on Condé Nast Traveler’s hot list for a reason) This hotel screams analogue elegance- yep, this is a T.V free zone. It may be in tourist hotspot Mallorca, Hotel Corazón is up in the mountains - , but you’ll still have awe-inspiring views of the med that would make Dali drool. A dreamy palette of linen, terracotta and sage will leave you feeling rested. The wellness offering here is all about connecting to nature- (guided hikes on offer). Each uniquely designed room is designed by local artisans with many of the materials being locally sourced. Their approach to sustainability is all about giving back to the community- it’s a place for both local artists/ artisans and guests alike. Hotel Corazón is an artistic resident come spiritual restreat- and whoever is in need of spiritual or artistic rest will no doubt feel revived by the beating heart of this temple of craftsmanship.
Hotel Schwarzschmied
Wellness but make it alpine chic- and where the honey is as local as the artwork. With the lush backdrop of the Dolomites, this solar-powered estate is a holistic haven. This is a more minimal aesthetic than the other designs, their recent renovation was handcrafted by local Tryoleans. This hotel makes use of regional materials such as larch, spruce and marble with some local sheep rugs to bring that touch of artisanal softness.. The hotel is a family affair- and they vocally express their commitment to keeping their hotel true to their mission, to educate you in the art of living.
Hotel du Couvent
Roman baths, a farmer’s market, and a bakery- no, this isn’t an ancient town hidden away in the hills of Provence. This is Hotel du Couvent, where wellness is given a monastic touch. With a real focus on sourcing local food, this is for the artisan curator that is seeking a curated experience which marries history, sustainability and tranquility. There is a real focus on using what is already available- and staff uniforms are made from old bed sheets- which I don’t doubt are as chic as their apothecary style tubes of body lotion. This is a sustainable Eurosummer with substance, a quieter, more thoughtful approach to Côte d'Azur but that still lets you show off your Jacquemus panier bag.
Quinta de Comporta
Quinta da Comporta is artisanal-boho perfection—like stepping into a dream woven from Portuguese wood, sun-bleached tones, and yes… baskets that look just like our Intango (spot the resemblance [here]!). This wellness resort knows the power of natural materials and local hands, letting craftsmanship take center stage through thoughtful design and heritage pieces that tell a story, exactly what we are all about at The Artisan Lab.
From yoga shalas to hammams and glowing skin rituals made from local rice, everything here connects back to the land, the people, and the quiet beauty of slow living. By spotlighting regional artisans and traditional techniques, Quinta da Comporta isn’t just a gorgeous place to unwin, it’s a living example of how design, wellness, and sustainability can work together beautifully.
These boutique hotels offer a trifecta of artisanal design, wellness, and sustainability, something beyond the typical "hotel" experience. Less extreme than a retreat but more nourishing than a busy resort, they're part of a new wave of luxury that gives back to local communities rather than just becoming another 'it' destination. Eurosummer trends may come and go, but artisanal craftsmanship is forever.
