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The journey to the discovery

of this area must necessarily

begin in Southampton, the

historical and elite core of

the Hamptons. Founded in

1640, it is the most ancient

British community in New

York State.

Lana Del Rey desired it in Born to Die, one of the most with its colonial buildings, refined boutiques, and upscale
appreciated singles in her record, National Anthem: “God, you’re beach clubs.
so handsome/Take me to the Hamptons/Bugatti Veyron”. She, Don’t forget to take a walk at Coopers Beach, considered
too, was bewitched by the timeless magic of the most elite coast one of the most beautiful beaches in the US, and visit the Parrish
of the United States of America. Art Museum, a treasure chest of contemporary art in green
Drive two hours away from New York – less than 125 miles surroundings.
– and leave behind the frenzy and stress of the city that never East Hampton is the quintessence of laid-back luxury. Tree-
sleeps. Loosen your tie and enter a completely different setting, lined streets, perfect houses surrounded by refined hedges,
where luxury becomes freedom. art galleries, and chic restaurants. You easily lose track of time
Going to the Hamptons means taking in all the salty ocean and forget the outside world as you walk downtown or spend an
air, enjoying the sound of the waves, or walking barefoot on a afternoon at Main Beach. And for nature lovers, there is Cedar
spine-tingling beach, without disdaining a touch of worldliness, Point County Park, with its wooded trails and spectacular views
among luxury boutiques, art galleries, gourmet restaurants, of the bay.
and trendy clubs. Not only is it the home – or, rather, the royal Moving even further east, you reach Montauk, the last stop
mansion, immense estate, galactic abode… – to the most ancient before the open sea. Once a fishermen’s village, it is now a hub for
American dynasties but even the most decorated musicians, free spirits, surfers, and lovers of the authentic sea experience.
actors, and members of the jet-set: Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Madonna, Everything there smells like salt and freedom, from the iconic
Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Sarah Jessica Parker and Montauk Point lighthouse to the wind-caressed beaches.
Matthew Broderick, Brooke Shields, Alec Baldwin, Scarlett Between Southampton and East Hampton, there are little
Johansson, Julianne Moore, Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton, Jon worlds ready for exploration. Bridgehampton is the kingdom
Bon Jovi, Ralph Lauren, and many more. of horse enthusiasts. Every year it hosts the famous Hampton
Located at the westernmost end of Long Island, the Classic Horse Show, one of the fanciest equestrian events in
Hamptons are a mosaic of small locations – villages, towns, and the US. Sag Harbor is an ancient whaling harbor that, today,
hamlets – that form one of the most coveted havens on the East combines maritime appeal and culture. Its cobblestone streets
Coast. Here, celebrities mingle with the locals, and the high host independent bookshops, cafés, and theaters. Then there are
society strolls in white-and-blue linen and leather sandals among the Wölffer Estate and Channing Daughters vineyards, which
golden sunsets, ocean-view brunches, or picnics by the dunes. are perfect for afternoons of tastings and sunsets.
The journey to the discovery of this area must necessarily Now take off your wristwatch, wear your sunglasses, and
begin in Southampton, the historical and elite core of the delve into the posh and calm atmosphere of the Hamptons. Let it
Hamptons. Founded in 1640, it is the most ancient British seduce you. And if you spot a Bugatti Veyron on the horizon line,
community in New York State and still preserves a vivid elegance look harder: perhaps, it really is Lana Del Rey at the wheel.

Protagonist Lifestyle 105