Once upon a time life was simple. Simple to the point where I would spend winters under palm trees and chase sunsets around the world. That was all the years before but today is different.
As you might already know from my previous post I am back home in Lithuania since March (or just before the marathons of lockdown began). First time in 12 years I would spend three seasons in a row here.
Travel bans didn’t stop nor discourage my wandering soul to explore. I couldn’t go far so I took the opportunity and immersed deeper into the beauty of my homeland.
I invite you to virtually escape to Lithuanias seaside town Palanga. Where sunsets are equally beautiful and sound of the sea is as calming as it is in any tropic destination.
In August I went on a short solo getaway to Palanga. I was in a need of alone time and to feel the sand under my toes and all the other seaside perks that I can’t simply explain; like a craving, an inner ocean child calling to reconnect with nature.
It was still super warm yet busier than I remember some ten years ago and it made me feel a bit bias whether it is a good idea to visit now. Will it be too crowded and too loud for me? As I appreciate the space and tranquility after all. Let me tell you how I got all the above and way more than I craved.
Choosing a right Place to Stay
Villa Komoda is a newly restored historic boutique hotel with amazing restaurant and a roof terrace right in the heart of Palanga. You might think choosing to stay at the centre means giving away the feeling of tranquility but let me assure you – waking up in peace and if you’re lucky the sound of the sea is what you will get, not the crowds.
It is said that this building was ordered by the most famous count Feliksas Tiškevičius who lived in Palanga. Historians believe that this villa Komoda (former Vila Jūrapilis) was designed by Italian architect Leonardo Marconi. The man is also said to have designed an identical looking villa that currently adorns the Monaco neighbourhood in France.
I was also greeted by a friendly staff and some in room treats. My room was bigger then I expected and had the all time treat – bath tub. Bubble and wine party is it!
The fact that hotel owners encourage customers to use green products made such a difference choosing a place to stay – I always support businesses that care about environment.
‘You are a consumer that contributes to a more sustainable environment, be among the millions of people who daily make more climate friendly choices.’
Modern, chic rooms, flower garden and roof terrace goes hand in hand to make this solo retreat just perfect. I would start the day with a homemade banana bread and marvel the sun going down while sipping wine on a roof deck.
Food Tasting
Food tasting is another weakness of mine… and good news is Vila Komoda has a seasonal restaurant all year round. Led by world-renowned and Lithuanian-renowned teams, the restaurant welcomes guests for breakfast, lunch and changing tastings. Sustainable living again plays an important role as all food is strictly fresh and most of it locally sourced.
I had a chance to try chefs seasonal eight course tasting menu and first time in my life I ATE ANTS…. Snakes, tarantulas, frogs and air fried insects was previously on my tastings around the world and not the list of unusual delicatessens has expanded.
Tasting notes started with a seasonal dry aged, marinated brook trout, boletus oil, banana shallots and potato textures. It tasted like summer – sweet, crispy and fresh at same time. It was one of many perfect little dishes, and they just kept coming.
Later followed a home made soft bread with chicken liver pate, fresh truffles & balsamic vinegar. Lumpfish roe and cauliflower puree was an art and a dance of flavours in my mouth!
Chef Martyn (who’s also a co-owner) told a story of each dish but I can’t remember it all. To my defence I hardly listened as was in awe of how beautiful it all looked.
Whole food tasting process was a delightful experience; the combinations of taste, aroma, and food textures mastered a harmonious result!
Things to do around
Enjoy the beach and sand dunes
Beach is only few minutes away and can be reached by little path through pine tree forest. This already sounds zen right? Keep reading.
I dropped my luggage and went for a walk straight away. The feeling of dipping your toes in hot sand, then salty water and hot sand again must be the best feeling in the world…
There’s around 91km of stretching sands by the sea in Lithuania. No matter how crowded it gets, there will always be space for everyone.
Visit Amber museum
Amber Museum was founded in 1963 in a former estate of Count Feliksas Tiškevičius (member from same family as former vila owners). The museum is situated in the magnificent palace in the centre of Birute Park and is one of the most visited museums in the country.
The museum’s collection of amber comprises about 28,000 pieces, of which about 15,000 contain inclusions of insects, spiders, or plants. About 4,500 pieces of amber are exhibited; many of these are items of artwork and jewelry.
Unlimited CO2 & biking
Pine tree forests, fresh air and biking is one of the best combinations that exist around. Plenty of routes to choose from and all of them family friendly. No matter where you go, you will always end up at the beach.
I know for sure – a little restoration goes a long way! I dont carry even a twinge of guilt for giving myself that time. I am refilling my tank so when the next phase comes I will be fired up and ready for whatever it is to come, fully restored. And this is everyday mantra I live by.
Few days in peace at a right place mean so much! And I would like to thank Vila Komoda for contributing to my inner restoration in this busy world at such hectic time.
Disclaimer: all opinions as always are my own.
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