Leading the sale is Slash’s photo-matched, stage-used and autographed Gibson Les Paul ‘59 Custom Shop guitar, played during their Not In This Lifetime tour. That’s the first reunion tour since 1993 featuring Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKagan. Stage-played guitars from Slash rarely appear at auction, particularly examples used on tour, so this is one to watch.

Also featured is George Michael’s photo-matched jacket, then worn in the music video for his 1987 hit Faith and also during live performances on the accompanying tour. Distinctive details align with well-known photographs taken during the era. Then there’s also an image captured backstage during the Japanese and Australasian leg of his 1988 tour.

Among the most significant is an autographed large-format promotional poster for John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Double Fantasy. This was signed on the morning of 8 December 1980, only hours before Lennon’s death. Thought to be the last item he ever autographed, this is the first time the poster has been offered at auction. An accompanying audio recording also captures Lennon discussing the signing and retracing his signature in black felt-tip pen after the ballpoint ink failed to set.

The auction also includes a Shure 565 SD award gold microphone presented to Queen and used by Freddie Mercury. The microphone comes directly from the collection of Peter Hince, Queen’s head roadie and Mercury’s personal assistant on tour, to whom it was gifted by Mercury. This is the first example with direct provenance from Hince to be offered at auction.

So, do you want to know more? Here’s what you can bid on – and also how much the auction house expects the lots to go for:

Guns N’ Roses

Slash’s Guns N’ Roses photo-matched tour stage-used and autographed Gibson Les Paul ‘59 Custom Shop Guitar
Estimated at £150,000 – £300,00

George Michael

George Michael’s photo-matched Faith music video and tour custom La Rocka leather jacket
Estimated at £60,000 – £120,000

John Lennon and Yoko Ono

John Lennon autographed and annotated Double Fantasy promotional poster
Estimated at £60,000 – £120,000

Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney’s handwritten Goodbye first draft lyrics, 1969 
Estimated at £55,000 – £110,000

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell autographed 51st anniversary handwritten lyrics, 1967 
Estimated at £35,000 – £70,000

Queen

Freddie Mercury’s gold Shure 565 SD Microphone Award used for Top of the Pops performance, 1982
Estimated at £30,000 – £60,000

David Bowie

Aladdin Sane concept cover vintage proof print
Estimated at £25,000 – £50,000

Motley Crue

Nikki Sixx’s photo-matched autographed and inscribed stage-used Schecter J-4 Bass Guitar
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Live Aid

Queen, Paul McCartney, George Michael, David Bowie, Elton John and others autographed Live Aid concert programme and assorted production paperwork, 1985
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Oasis

Noel Gallagher’s Les Paul Custom 20th anniversary guitar played during the recording of Standing on the Shoulder of Giants and Heathen Chemistry 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Eurovision Song Contest

Eurovision Song Contest composer’s award trophy presented to Benjamin Alasu for The Code by Nemo 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Notorious B.I.G

The Notorious B.I.G.’s custom leather jacket worn in the Rhyme & Reason documentary 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Guns N’ Roses

Matt Sorum’s played and autographed Guns N’ Roses Partial Mapex Orion Series Drum Kit 
Estimated at £8,000 – £16,000

Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse’s photo-matched Fred Perry cropped trench coat 
Estimated at £4,000 – £8,000

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s screen-matched and autographed jacket and worn ensemble pieces from the Shape of You music video `
Estimated at £3,500 – £7,000

How To Bid

The auction will take place live on 30 April, with bidding available online, by telephone, and via absentee bids for collectors worldwide. Auction registration is now open, and the full catalogue is available here.

Prop Store will also be hosting a special public free exhibition at London’s The Cumberland Hotel from 22-25 April, where fans and collectors will have the chance to see the highlight lots up close, before they go under the hammer. Find out more about The Cumberland Hotel event here.

The post For a Piece of History Check Out This £1.5m Music Live Auction appeared first on Best of Living.

A prenup acts as an “insurance policy”, reducing uncertainty and potential conflict if you break up. Nobody wants to spend their wedding planning thinking about divorce, but prenups give clarity and communication. Here are my five top tips.

Discuss your intentions openly and honestly
Have an honest discussion with your partner to discuss intentions and expectations. You may wish to consider which assets to put in to protect as yours. Agree which assets to share, and provisions made in the event of a relationship breakdown. Think about how future changes in circumstances might affect the agreement. For example, if career paths change, or if you have or adopt children. These factors can influence your prenup because they impact your finances.

Seek independent legal advice in good time
This can take three to six months and depends on the complexity of the agreement. Will you openly disclose everything you have with each other and your solicitor? Or will you seek advice from other professionals such as financial advisors? It is often not a quick process, so seek legal advice as early as possible. This will enable plenty of time to finalise matters before your wedding.

Ensure that the document records your agreement 
Typically, one of you instructs a solicitor to prepare a draft prenup, and the other instruct a solicitor to review it. It is common for the document to go through several revisions. This is to ensure the terms are balanced, and reflect what both have agreed. Try not to be alarmed if it takes longer than you expect. The purpose is to create a fair arrangement that both parties feel comfortable with.

Implement any necessary provisions
Many prenups include provisions that require you to take practical steps once you sign the document. For example, the agreement may stipulate how you should own property. It may direct you to put insurance policies in place to protect income or assets, or require you to prepare or update your Wills. Your solicitor will advise you on the practical steps to consider once you sign your prenup; it is important that you deal with these as soon as possible.

Remember to review the agreement
Do not view a prenup as a document you cannot change. Review the agreement periodically — usually every five years — to ensure it still reflects your financial circumstances and family situation. This keeps the agreement relevant and fair, helping it carry more decisive weight if you dispute matters in court upon separation. Strictly speaking, the current law in England and Wales does not make prenups legally binding. However, if you meet certain criteria — such as ensuring the agreement is fair, and entering it freely without undue influence — the court will give it decisive weight if your relationship breaks down.

Planning a wedding shouldn’t mean planning for a divorce, but your financial security is hugely important. The earlier you think about it, the better.

The post Considering a prenup? Here’s all you need to know appeared first on Best of Living.

Scarcity alone doesn’t make a stone desirable. But when a limited geographic origin combines with saturated colour, extraordinary light performance, and a compelling history, the result is something that can outshine a diamond in every sense. “People assume diamonds are the pinnacle of rarity,” says Blake Asaad, Founder and Creative Director of Goodstone, a leading provider of exquisitely crafted diamond jewellery. “But some of the most extraordinary stones on earth are ones most buyers have never considered. Here are six gemstones that go beyond diamonds in rarity and visual luxury, As well as what gives each one its high-end appeal.” www.goodstoneinc.com

Tanzanite

Found in a stretch of land near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is estimated to be around 1,000 times rarer than diamond. Its deep violet-blue colour gives it a visual weight that rivals even the finest sapphire. The stone also shifts between blue, violet, and greenish tones depending on the angle of light. “What makes tanzanite so compelling is its geographic exclusivity,” says Blake. “There is literally one place on earth where it exists. That kind of scarcity feels real, and buyers are increasingly attuned to that.”

Alexandrite

Discovered in Russia in 1830, alexandrite appears emerald green in daylight and changes to ruby red under incandescent light. It’s a phenomenon so dramatic it earned the nickname “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Natural specimens of high quality are among the rarest gemstones in the world. “The colour change isn’t subtle,” says Blake. “It’s an extraordinary optical event, and the fact that fine natural specimens are exceptionally scarce only adds to the appeal.”

Paraíba Tourmaline

When Paraíba tourmaline was discovered in Brazil, it caused a stir for one simple reason: nobody had seen a blue quite like it. Powered by trace amounts of copper, its neon blue-green hue appears to glow from within. Despite additional deposits being found in Mozambique and Nigeria, global production remains extremely limited. “The saturation is unlike anything else in the gem world. It reads as extraordinarily luxurious because it simply doesn’t look like anything else.”

Kashmir Sapphire

Mined high in the Himalayas during a brief window in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kashmir sapphire deposits ran dry in the 1930s. Every specimen in existence today is irreplaceable.  Their colour, a soft, velvety cornflower blue with a luminous inner glow, is the benchmark against which all other sapphires are measured. “Their scarcity is absolute. The mines are gone – what exists is what exists, and auction prices reflect that very clearly.”

Burma Ruby

Myanmar’s unique geological conditions produce rubies with a vivid, almost fluorescent red that gemologists describe as “pigeon blood”, pure, saturated, and internally luminous. At major auction houses, exceptional Burma rubies have consistently achieved record per-carat prices. “The red has an intensity that photographs struggle to capture. It’s a stone that genuinely competes with anything the gem world has to offer.”

Jadeite

Imperial-grade jadeite, with its intense green and high translucency, has been among the world’s most prized stones for thousands of years. There’s a Chinese saying that captures its status perfectly: gold has value, but jade is invaluable. “Top-quality imperial jade has a depth and presence that is genuinely hard to describe. The way the best material seems to hold light inside it is unlike anything else.”

The post Expert Reveals Gems That Outshine Diamonds in Rarity and Looks appeared first on Best of Living.

Upon featuring the Ultion Nuki 2025 Smart Lock in a previous smart technology feature I was intrigued, and wanted to see if it held up to its claims – and that I was including a next-gen gadget that was worthy of inclusion. And I believe it is, for the following reasons.

It’s Got Industry Leading Security

The Ultion Nuki 2025 incorporates the Ultion 3 Star PLUS core, which defends against picking, bumping, and drilling to thwart break-in attempts. Its independent central cylinder shield utilises a molybdenum core — a metal 25% denser than iron. This material resists corrosion and boasts one of the highest melting points of all pure elements. Ultion cuts its keys with precision, making them 60% thicker than competitors to prevent snapping and bending. The lock carries approval from the Master Locksmith Association and meets recommended police safety standards. Ultion backs their confidence with a £5,000 burglary guarantee — a promise they have never paid out.

It’s Got Modern Aesthetics

As a stickler for aesthetics, I admired the new ultra-sleek, streamlined design as soon as it arrived. You can customise your external handle with seven colours and various fixing sizes; Ultion even backs these handles with a 20-year anti-corrosion guarantee. For the interior, you select from black, white, or a new chrome — I chose the chrome — to ensure the Ultion Nuki 2025 enhances your home’s appeal. The lock fits existing doors with handle fixings of 215mm, 211mm, and 122mm, and it even works with escutcheon locks. My husband installed the unit in just over four minutes — nearly matching Ultion’s own speed claim. There’s also no drilling or wiring required: it takes only a few minutes to replace your existing handle with an Ultion Nuki 2025 and have it up and running with your smart platform of choice. 

It’s Got Cutting Edge Smart Technology

Built-in Wi-Fi means direct connection to your home network, with remote control and firmware updates directly through the Nuki app. Easily lock or unlock your door from anywhere, anytime, with just a tap on your smartphone. Busy carrying shopping bags/holding your children’s hands or anything else that means it’s not simple to open your front door? You don’t have to pick up your keys – even though, of course you can. Why? It can unlock the door when it senses you’re close and lock again after a few seconds. You can also turn the feature on and off and customise everything. There’s also a wireless keypad option if you want to impress friends or family – my teenage boys, for one, as well as their friends.

It’s Got Other Positives

The lock uses Matter over Thread — an energy-efficient communication standard — to connect seamlessly with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. A built-in rechargeable battery powers the lock for up to nine months, and the app alerts you when the power runs low. Charging is fast: you can recharge the Ultion Nuki 2025 via USB-C in just two hours, either on or off the door. And, although I spent a few days getting used to it — I’m not as tech-savvy than the rest of my family — I now value its place in my smart tech round-up.

The Ultion Nuki 2025 was independently selected and reviewed by the Best of Living editorial team, and did not pay for inclusion. Product details and availability correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.

The post Review: The Ultion Nuki 2025 Smart Lock appeared first on Best of Living.

Romantic ski holidays are soaring in popularity as couples seek snowy landscapes, luxury hotels and unforgettable settings when it comes to proposing. Not sure which destination works best? The following research may help.

Experience Glowing Dolomite Sunsets in Cortina d’Ampezzo

This makes the list thanks to its mountain scenery, chic atmosphere and luxurious accommodation. With cobbled streets, cosy piazzas and peaks that glow pink at sunrise and sunset, it’s a picture-perfect location. Couples staying at Hotel Ambra can enjoy stylish suites and mountain-view rooms ideal for a private engagement moment.

French Five-Star Indulgence in Megève

With its horse-drawn carriages, boutique-lined streets and traditional Alpine charm, Megève offers a truly romantic escape. The five-star L’Alpaga Hotel provides an intimate atmosphere, complete with spa featuring dark stone pool, hammam and hot tub. It’s ideal for those planning a proposal after a day in the snow.

Fairytale Castle Luxury in Banff

Banff National Park’s glacial lakes and frozen landscapes make it one of the most awe-inspiring proposal destinations in the world. Overlooking the forest like a winter palace, the Fairmont Banff Springs sets the scene for an unforgettable engagement, complete with world-class spa and romantic dining venues.

See the Northern Lights Together in Enchanting Geilo

For couples seeking something unique, Geilo offers snow-covered tranquillity and Arctic magic. The luxurious Vestlia Resort, with its award-winning spa, creates a serene atmosphere, while horse-drawn sleigh rides and the chance of witnessing the Northern Lights provide extraordinary proposal moments.

Secluded Mountain Romance in Champoluc

For privacy lovers, Hotellerie de Mascognaz sits tucked in the mountains and is only accessible by smowmobile. With wooden beams, log fires and a beautiful underground spa, it’s one of the most intimate and secluded places in the Alps to propose — perfect for an end of season winter escape.

The post What Ski Resort Will You Choose To Get Down on One Knee? appeared first on Best of Living.

“At Regent’s, our students work directly with luxury brands through live projects, industry speaker events and our Luxury Lab programme, so we’ve seen for ourselves how the perception of ‘luxury’ is changing — from fashion and design to hospitality and wine. This, in part, has been driven by social media influencers, which has prompted a rise in mid-level ‘luxury’ brands and products being perceived as more attainable and less exclusive. I refer to these products as ‘mass luxury’. This type of luxury is more widely accessible to the average shopper — it is cheaper, readily available and often visibly branded. Those who might not have historically shopped for high-end items choose them because they signpost to others that they are actively participating in the concept of ‘luxury’.

“This contrasts significantly with ‘true luxury’, which remains exclusive and refined. Unlike mass luxury, these products often don’t feature overt branding. Instead, they are quieter and more discreet and rely on craftsmanship and heritage to signal their importance to those ‘in the know’.”

Five questions to ask before buying a luxury product

How many seasons will this last for?

True luxury is built on real quality, instead of trends. This results in pieces that are made with durable materials that can be worn again and again. They are also timeless, meaning they can be used the next season (and the one after that) without looking out of place.

·      Look for items that feel substantial, instead of mass-produced

·      Choose pieces you could wear again the following year

·      Prioritise a few luxury pieces instead of multiple cheaper items

What about how the item has been finished?

Hand-stitching, precise pattern matching and quality hardware are all good indications of the real workmanship that goes into luxury pieces. These details, however small, are what differentiate genuine luxury from cheaper, mass-produced items.

·      Ask whether any part of the item is hand-stitched or hand-finished

·      Inspect seams, stitching, zips and overall structure. Imperfection usually signals mass production

·      Look for brands that explain how the product is made — transparency is a tell-tale sign of real craft

Does the price reflect the substance?

It should never be cheap, but the price tag should always be justified through quality and craftsmanship rather than marketing hype or trend chasing.

·      Ask why the piece costs what it costs — it should reference materials and workmanship

·      Be wary of brands with high prices but factory-level production practices

·      Remember that true luxury often feels expensive but not unduly inflated

Do the brand’s ethics and values align with yours?

For many of us, a brand’s values matter more than ever. We want to support brands that are ethical, sustainable and genuinely making a positive impact.

·      Check whether the brand shares where, how and by whom the products are made — silence may indicate poor labour practices or conditions  

·      Look for quantifiable sustainable commitments and real evidence, rather than meaningless slogans

·      Pay attention to the brand’s stance on social issues, diversity and inclusion

·      Take a look at who the brand partners with — ambassadors, creators and communities likely reflect its own values

What is your experience as a customer?

Consider as much about how you are treated as what you buy. Boutique appointments, personalised advice, champagne service and upscale environments are all indications that the brand you’re buying from is truly exclusive.

·      Note the in-store experience: do staff make you feel welcomed, respected and valued?

·      Look for personalised services like private appointments, styling guidance or concierge support

·      Be cautious of brands whose stores feel intimidating or inconsistent, as true luxury should never make you feel judged

·      Exclusivity should feel curated, not exclusionary: bespoke service should still feel human, rather than performative and fake

A final word of advice

Building a luxury collection of any kind, whether it’s a wardrobe, watches and jewellery or even a wine cellar, is about curating, not simply accumulating. When you choose pieces deliberately rather than impulsively, prioritising quality, craftsmanship and timelessness, you can never go far wrong.

The post How to Tell if a Brand is Really Luxury Before Investing appeared first on Best of Living.

Vintage watches are having a moment in 2026. While oversized statement pieces have dominated previous years, this year’s collectors are drawn to smaller, more delicate vintage timepieces that offer understated elegance. However, these beautiful timepieces require special attention due to their age and delicate construction. “There’s something special about wearing a piece that has its own history and character,” begins Blake. “Modern watches, whilst technically superior, often lack the personality and craftsmanship found in vintage pieces. Each scratch and patina tells a story, making every vintage watch truly one-of-a-kind, allowing wearers to express individuality whilst investing in something with lasting value. And, with the right care, these timepieces can last for generations. Here are my top tips for keeping these delicate pieces in pristine condition.”

Use Gentle Cleaning Methods

Never submerge a vintage watch in water unless you’re certain it’s water-resistant. Instead, use a soft, lint-free, slightly damp cloth to wipe the case and crystal. For metal bracelets, a soft-bristled brush can remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas. “The gentler you are, the better,” Blake advises. “Harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can damage delicate finishes and components that simply can’t be replaced.”

Service Regularly

Vintage watches need professional servicing every three to five years. A qualified watchmaker can clean the movement, replace worn parts, and ensure everything functions properly. “Think of it like servicing a classic car,” Blake explains. “Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming expensive problems.”

Store Properly When Not Wearing

Keep your vintage watch in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and magnetic fields. A watch box with soft lining provides ideal protection. “Magnetic fields from electronics can affect the movement’s accuracy,” Blake notes. “Proper storage protects against both physical damage and environmental factors that can cause deterioration.”

Wind Manually with Care

If you have a manual-wind vintage watch, wind it gently and consistently. Stop when you feel resistance to avoid overwinding. “Vintage mechanisms are more delicate than modern ones,” says Blake. “Forcing the crown can damage the mainspring, leading to costly repairs.”

Avoid Extreme Conditions

Keep vintage watches away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and water exposure. Even watches that were once water-resistant may have deteriorated seals. “These watches weren’t designed for the rigours of modern active lifestyles,” Blake warns. “Treat them as the delicate treasures they are, and they’ll reward you with years of reliable service.”

How To Choose the Right Timepiece for You

“The beauty of vintage watches is their imperfections and character, but that doesn’t mean you can neglect their maintenance. Regular care maximises their odds of remaining functional and beautiful for years to come. I always advise collectors to build a relationship with a trusted watchmaker who specialises in vintage pieces. They can provide invaluable guidance specific to your watch’s make and model. With proper attention and care, a vintage watch can become a cherished heirloom, passed down through generations whilst retaining both its charm and value.”

Want to know how the master watchmakers became world-famous horologists? Read our exclusive interview with Roger W Smith.

The post Why Vintage Watches Are Capturing Collectors’ Hearts This Year  appeared first on Best of Living.

From Michelin-starred dining on the slopes to ultra-private chalets guarded from paparazzi, these resorts have become global hubs of luxury, privacy, and top-tier snow experiences. “Luxury ski resorts have become more than winter destinations – they’re global social hubs,” says Saily CEO Vykintas Maknickas. “People come for the slopes, but they then return for the privacy, the atmosphere, and the sense of community among other high-achieving travellers. These resorts also offer a rare mix of world-class skiing and an ultra-curated lifestyle experience.” Here’s where you can rub shoulders with the fellow rich and famous.

St Moritz, Switzerland

Synonymous with old-money glamour, St Moritz blends tradition with extravagance. Think Champagne bars on ice lakes, luxury boutiques, and polo matches in the snow. Frequented by aristocracy, film stars, and business magnates, it also delivers exceptional privacy with impeccable Swiss service.

Aspen, Colorado, USA

A magnet for Hollywood and Silicon Valley power players, Aspen blends world-class slopes with high fashion, gourmet après-ski, and exclusive social events. Jeff Bezos and the Obamas have all been spotted here, which comes as no surprise seeing that the ‘Beverly Hills of the Rockies’ has many designer boutiques, members-only clubs, and private jet access.

Verbier, Switzerland

Younger, stylish, and slightly more laid back than St Moritz, Verbier attracts entrepreneurs, athletes, and celebrities like David and Victoria Beckham. Its off-piste skiing is renowned among many for being legendary, and its nightlife rivals Ibiza — but in a much more exclusive, chalet-only setting.

Courchevel 1850, France

Gstaad’s iconic wooden chalets and strict building codes keep the town looking authentically alpine, but behind the facades are some of Europe’s most luxurious homes. Madonna, Julie Andrews, and countless industry titans have long favoured this peaceful, ultra-discreet enclave.

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

North America’s largest ski area draws celebrities seeking a ‘low-key, high-end’ winter escape. Private chalets, heliskiing, and award-winning spas make Whistler a rising competitor to traditional European luxury spots. And if you’re looking to spot those with equal — and dare we say more? — wealth, Bill Gates and Daniel Radcliffe are known to frequent the slopes.

Zermatt, Switzerland

With unbeatable Matterhorn views, car-free streets, and top-tier dining, Zermatt remains a favourite for travellers who want luxury without losing the charm of a real mountain town. You could also see yourself skiing alongside the likes of Prince William and Princess Katherine, Robbie Williams and more.

So why do these resorts attract the ultra-rich?

Unmatched privacy and discretion
Many luxury resorts offer secluded chalets, private butlers, and secure VIP zones. This allows high-profile guests to avoid paparazzi and crowds.

High-end infrastructure
From perfect grooming to premium ski schools and quick-access helicopter transfers, these resorts deliver seamless, elite-level service.

Michelin-starred après-ski culture
Fine dining, designer boutiques, and exclusive nightlife are as important as the slopes — and these destinations offer it all.

Unique experiences found nowhere else
Ice polo in St Moritz, New Year’s Eve galas in Aspen, luxury spa retreats in Courchevel — these resorts offer signature experiences that attract global trendsetters.

Status and social scene
For many wealthy travellers, these ski towns double as networking hubs, places to meet other founders, celebrities, and influential figures in a relaxed, glamorous setting.

The post Luxurious Ski Resorts to Network with the Super-Rich appeared first on Best of Living.

Glen Coe

Located in the Highlands, this claims the top spot as the most Instagrammable place to visit on a road trip, with 555,800 posts under the Glen Coe hashtag. Several Harry Potter films, as well as James Bond’s Skyfall, have been filmed at Glen Coe, and with its sweeping bends and cinematic views, bikers will enjoy getting there as much as being there.

Loch Lomond

Second place comes courtesy of Loch Lomond, part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park — the first ever Scottish National Park. With 550,000 posts under the hashtag #LochLomond, and with it being only about an hour from Glasgow, bikers won’t have to journey long before trading city street for Lochside cruising.

The Cairngorms

Based in the Eastern Highlands of Scotland, the Cairngorms are the third most Instagrammable beauty spot in Scotland. The mountain range has amassed 443,700 posts under the Cairngorms hashtag to date — and from looking at these views it’s not hard to see why.

Ben Nevis

Other biker favourites on the list include Ben Nevis at number four — the highest point in the UK, and a location on many bikers’ bucket list. The approach via the scenic A82 is a joy in itself, and with a total of 247,000 posts on Instagram to date, why not add your own images to social media for a whole host of likes?

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The Glenfinnan Viaduct ranks as the fifth most Instagrammable beauty spot in Scotland. Arguably most famous for featuring as the train track to Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, it has 154,900 posts under the Glenfinnan Viaduct hashtag. If twisting highland roads are your thing, this is a must for bikers making Scotland their choice for a road trip.

Where else can you enjoy some of the very best views while on a bikers’ holiday? Also on the hitlist are Loch Fyne (60,100 hashtags), Dunnottar Castle (59,600 hashtags), Loch Ness (47,900 hashtags), Loch Tay 44,200 hashtags), and Loch Leven (43,900 hashtags). We say with number eight — Loch Ness — you should ensure your helmet cam is turned on. Because you never know.

The post Motorcycle Around Scotland and Enjoy Breathtaking Scenery appeared first on Best of Living.

Scotland

Cruising round-trip from Oban you’ll head to Salen on Loch Sunart, Armadale, Kyle of Lochalsh, Eigg, Muck, Hynish, Iona, Jura, and Tayvallich and cruise Ardnamurchan and the Sound of Islay. Visit an award-winning art gallery on the edge of Loch Sunart; the Museum of the Isles set in the grounds of a ruined castle; walks on Eigg and Muck; discover the hidden gem of Lip na Cloiche Garden on Mull; unwind in the spiritual calm of Iona Abbey with the opportunity to join the Easter Sunday service; enjoy walks at Craighouse on Jura where red deer outnumber people; and visit the picturesque village of Tayvallich. The cruise takes place on the 48-guest Hebridean Princess, an iconic vessel twice chartered by Queen Elizabeth II for private family holidays. The epitome of understated elegance, it combines the atmosphere of a fine country house hotel with a renowned level of service and attention to detail, top class dining, and knowledgeable onboard guides. 
Departs 31 March 2026 with prices from £4,167 per person based on two sharing an Inside Super King, rising to £9,576 per person for a Balcony Super King. www.hebridean.co.uk

Italy

Leave the crowds behind and experience Italy and the Adriatic from a different perspective on this unique off-season voyage from Venice to Rome, with calls in Zadar, Dubrovnik, Messina, and Naples. Along the way, visit popular attractions like the Sistine Chapel, St Mark’s Square and Pompeii without the crowds, giving you time to absorb the talent of Michaelangelo, the beauty of Venice and the tragedy of Pompeii. Walk the legendary walls of Dubrovnik’s old town, hike tranquil Dalmatian parks, dine in family homes in small villages, and learn to cook authentic pizza in a Sicilian kitchen. The eight-night cruise takes place onboard the 312-guest all-suite yacht Star Legend which features spacious ocean-view accommodation, fully equipped fitness centre, spa with complimentary sauna, infinity pool and hot tubs, water sports marina and choice of bars and restaurants.
Departing 23 March 2026 with prices from £2,043 per person based on two sharing a Star Porthole Suite, rising to £4,603 per person for the Owner’s Suite. www.windstarcruises.com

Arctic

Set sail to Svalbard, said to be one of the best places on the planet to see polar bears in their native habitat. In addition to the bears, there’s a chance to see walrus, reindeer, Arctic foxes, fur seals and numerous species of birds. The archipelago offers unique hikes, with artful arrangements of whale bones on pebbled beaches, and the ghostly remains of trapper’s huts. On this 10-day cruise you can also explore under the midnight sun and take advantage of spectacular photo opportunities with tips from a National Geographic expert; sail up to rock-wall rookeries teeming with thousands of birds; actively explore by kayak and Zodiac cruise; and hike the spongy tundra. The cruise takes place onboard the National Geographic Resolution, a fully-stabilised vessel with ice class PC5, category A, which features an observation lounge, library, main lounge with bar, an expedition based with lockers for expedition gear, restaurant with 270-degree wrap-around view, and two other dining options.
Departing 18 May 2026 with prices from £10,565 per person based on two sharing a category 2 stateroom, rising to £18,891 per person for a category 7 Bridge Deck cabin. www.uk.expeditions.com

France

Enjoy a journey into the past of the Impressionist masters on a week-long cruise that begins and ends in Paris and visits Conflans, Rouen, Le Havre, Caudebec-en-Caux, Les Andelys, Vernon, and Mantes-la-Jolie. As the ship winds along the Seine into the Normandy countryside to Le Havre on the rugged Atlantic coast, guests can follow the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cezanne and Gauguin and visit idyllic villages; the museum town of Rouen with its many monuments and architectural treasures; the white cliffs of Étretat which is full of history and legends; and the picturesque harbour town of Honfleur. You’ll cruise on board the 146-guest AMADEUS Diamond, which combines smart technology and modern design with the utmost in comfort. From the lower decks to the open-air River Terrace, there’s countless ways to spend the day, such as indulging and unwinding with a massage, keeping active in the fitness studio, or challenging your shipmates to a putting contest on the Sun Deck.
Departing 22 April 2026 with prices from £2,081 per person based on two sharing a C4 category cabin with panoramic window, rising to £3,679 per person for an AMADEUS Suite with French balcony. www.amadeus-rivercruises.co.uk

Asia

Sail from Japan to Taiwan and back during cherry blossom season on this two-week voyage. Setting off from Tokyo, the ships sails to Shimizu, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports because of its outlook on Mount Fuji, then continues west to Kobe, renowned as a culinary hotspot and a good base for visits to Kyoto. A day at sea is followed by the coral-fringed Okinawa archipelago before reaching Taiwan, stopping at Keelung, a gateway to Taipei. Sailing back to Japan, there are calls in at Kagoshima and Kochi before returning to Tokyo. The cruise takes place on the 606-guest Crystal Symphony which offers discerning travellers enriching experiences onshore and at sea, with almost one member of crew per guest. The ship is home to the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea, part of an exclusive partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM). Wellness can be enjoyed at the Aurōra Spa, and spectacular entertainment comes courtesy of Broadway-standard shows. Then there’s the world-class dining, including Umi Uma – the only dining experience at sea by chef Nobu (Nobuyuki Matsuhisa) – and a specially curated Osteria d’Ovidio menu by three-time Michelin-starred Italian chef Massimiliano and celebrated restaurateur Raffaele Alajmo.
Departing 5 April 2026 with prices from £8,600 per person based on two sharing a Sapphire Ocean View Suite, rising to £19,100 per person for a Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite. www.crystalcruises.com

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