From Tuesday until Thursday, my sister and I took a mini retreat away in the Austrian Riviera in Portschach am Wortersee, around 4-5 hours away by train from Vienna. Lake’s – My Lake Hotel graciously hosted us for the two nights, and it was definitely a much-needed relaxing getaway.

The view from our balcony was spectacular. In the background you see mountains with low flying mist and clouds – almost like an overly photoshopped series of layers, and in front, an endless mass of clear blue lake. After spending time away in Beijing, Shanghai for over a month, it’s made me appreciate scenery like this. Something natural and completely unaffected by trouble.

We stayed in room 116 – the Lake Suite facing the whole lake. The room was spacious with dark wooden floorboards and retro meets clear white furnishings. I had a lot of work to do for KNEON so the balcony was pretty much my staple location for most of the time; with some red wine and my sister as pet, it was a pretty great way to get work done.

We ate at the Lake Bar and Restaurant – I recommend sitting outside facing the lakefront. The hotel also have a state of the art gym, spa services upon request and two pools – outdoors and indoors.

Personally, I get excited by skylines, the busy drive of big hustling cities, and people on the verge of rudeness. It’s the environ that keeps me going. However, this retreat for me was not only cathartic but deeply educational – I learned that peace and quiet should be a gift to oneself, a reward for accomplishment and achievements, and to really reflect on what you’ve done. Lake’s combines elements of casual luxury, space, the beautiful environment and great staff service to really make you feel like you’re taking a break away – at home. So if you’re based in Austria or closeby, definitely have a look.