The Makers Behind the Magic
The cherished rituals of the festive season are what transform moments into lasting memories. At Rosewood, these rituals come to life through our associates, creators, artisans and traditions that shape every guest’s experience, infusing the holiday spirit into each magical world at Rosewood. We asked our Rosewood community: What inspires your holiday rituals?
Illustrations by Klaus Kremmerz
Gliding with Purpose at Rosewood Villa Magna
For Laura del Pozo, Director of Communications, the holiday season at Villa Magna is a deeply creative and thoughtful period, centered on the spirit of giving. It is a time to consider the thoughtful details that imbue the season with meaning for both teams and guests. “All festivities are deeply rooted in the local comunity,” says del Pozo.
For the third year, the property’s gardens transform into an enchanting Winter Wonderland with the return of its ice-skating rink. The hotel comes alive with activity, from Imperial Feasts on ice to Olympic skating performances, festive brunches and afternoon teas. In tandem with these celebrations, the hotel spotlights the important work of Spanish charities. This year features collaborations with The Prodis Foundation, which supports people with disabilities in the workforce, and a donation of a percentage of the season’s revenue to the Spanish Association Against Cancer.
The Art of the Gingerbread House
In Germany, gingerbread is a serious affair, a tradition that evokes the spirit of childhood memories, especially during the holidays. As iconic as twinkling lights, these sugar-adorned houses often take center stage on dining tables across the country.
This year, Executive Pastry Chef Shinas Shahida at Rosewood Munich takes a journey back to his favorite fairy tale, Hänsel and Gretel. “We want to bring a sense of childlike delight to all. A gingerbread house is a symbol of nostalgia and fairy tale traditions,” Shahida says.
He will host baking classes for little chefs, guiding them in constructing their very own Witch’s Gingerbread House, complete with an array of edible decorations. The workshop is designed to inspire young minds and let imaginations flow, creating a memorable, hands-on activity for the cozy months ahead—and a holiday treat to proudly take home.
Classes will be available on December 7 and 14.
A ‘Silent Night’ Torch-Lit Walk
If one festive carol is known the world over, it is likely “Silent Night.” The beloved hymn was composed near Salzburg by Joseph Mohr, an Austrian priest, just a stone’s throw from where Rosewood Schloss Fuschl now sits. The song captures the spirit of a land rich in music and timeless melodies, weaving an annual message of peace and warmth for all who hear it.
This year, the concierge team at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl invites guests on a snowy, torch-lit walk through the surrounding villages of Hintersee, leading directly to the chapel where Joseph Mohr once served. “During this time, Schloss Fushl is filled with joy, connection and loving festive spirit,” says Norbert Strambach, head concierge at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl. While recounting tales from the village, the walk concludes with a moving rendition of “Silent Night,” performed on the French horn by Sebastian, a talented member of the concierge team.
For years, it has been noted that The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel receives a special visitor on Christmas Eve. It is said that someone tiptoes through the halls, rosy-cheeked and laden with a brimming sack slung across one shoulder. The visit is one of many things that make this holiday on the Upper East Side so special—“From Christmas tea to the excitement of waking up to something completely unexpected,” says Katie Middleton, Director of Guest Services at The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel.
On Christmas morning, guests awaken to a delightful surprise: a stocking mysteriously hung on their doorknob, filled with gifts that reflect the distinct spirit of the Upper East Side and, always, a golden mandarin for good fortune. The origins of these gifts remain a secret, though we have our suspicions.
Sabrina Rinaldi, Housekeeping Team Leader, was born in a village neighboring Castiglion del Bosco, where she spent her childhood playing in the local forests before opening her own floristry. When Rinaldi joined the team at the estate, her talents with plants and foliage flourished. In 2023, this passion culminated in the opening of Bottega DEI Fiori, an on-site workshop dedicated to foraging, designing and creating the magical decorations that adorn the borgo, transforming it into a land of lights and floral sculptures and “offering our guests something we’ve created ourselves from the place closest to our hearts,” Rinaldi says.
Throughout December, Rinaldi will host workshops for guests, introducing them to the plants and techniques that celebrate the profound beauty of the surrounding nature. Together, they will create adornments that are both elegant and enchanting.
Classes will be available on December 11, 18 and 25.
For more information on property events and experiences this holiday season, please visit rosewoodhotels.com.