It is a truth, universally acknowledged, that any traveler in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a vacation in the rolling hills and turquoise beach towns of Europe.
And this year, with a range of hotels opening their doors to visitors from across the world, the holiday spots to choose from are many. We round up a few that made our list.
1. Six Senses Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Located amid the idyllic Swiss Alps in Crans-Montana, this property is reminiscent of fairy tales. The champagne skiing, mountain biking trails, paragliding, watersports, horseback or on-foot trekking, plus a range of other adventure activities, make it a must-visit spot for thrill-seekers. But that’s not all.
The culture devotees should take note that Crans-Montana is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the old towns nearby, you can enjoy traditional Swiss architecture and a plethora of museums, art galleries, historic churches and monuments.
Besides this, the hotel is sun-soaked 300 days a year, houses a heated rooftop pool and offers slope-side mountain living.
2. Bvlgari Roma
Rome, Italy
Italy is a melting pot of style and culture — and the Bvlgari establishment in Rome captures the spirit of both.
The highly anticipated luxury hotel boasts a sleek and modern design, staying true to the aesthetics of the brand. Its prime location in the heart of the Campo Marzio neighborhood – in close proximity to the Spanish Steps, the Bvlgari flagship store and Via Del Corso – add to its appeal.
It goes without saying that the property also boasts luxurious amenities, including more than 100 suites, a private spa, an indoor pool, a library dedicated to the history of jewelry as well as the prestigious Il Ristorante curated by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito and The Bulgari Bar. Additionally, the rooftop offers sweeping views of the city.
3. COMO Le Montrachet
Burgundy, France
COMO Le Montrachet offers an upscale experience in Burgundy – a French region known for its green landscapes, historical architecture and world-renowned red wines.
Surrounded by vineyards and wineries, the estate is an ideal holiday destination for food and wine aficionados, while also being a great escape from the city life. A case in point is the Shambhala retreat, a first-of-its-kind in the country, offering Tibetan Buddhist wellness treatments.
Set within four heritage buildings spread around a historical village square, COMO Le Montrachet offers a huge gastronomic scene and a range of cultural experiences.
To top it all off, allow the hotel’s sommelier to guide you through the best wine selections from the region.
4. 100 Princes Street
Edinburgh, Scotland
With a design that honors the adventures of great Scottish explorers, this hotel offers a truly immersive experience to guests in the heart of a heritage city.
You can select delicious offerings from a curated menu that boasts rare libations, time-honored classics, delectable cocktails, exclusively hand-crafted spirits and Scotland’s “liquid gold”, before calling it a day at the fireside with a splendid view of Edinburgh Castle.
Inspired by Alexander McQueen, the design team at 100 Princes Street worked with local artisans to create bespoke pieces for the interiors. At the same time, the facade of the building adds to the charm of the striking architecture you’re privileged to witness in the locale.
5. One&Only Aesthesis
Athens, Greece
Housed in a beautifully restored neoclassical building, which dates back to the early 20th century, One&Only Aesthesis is set to find favor among travelers who seek culture, quiet and seashores.
The hotel’s exclusive beachfront makes it a summer paradise, while its strategic location makes it a peaceful home just a few minutes away from the buzzing city.
Apart from several other luxury offerings, another winning feature is the Chenot Spa that combines science-based health and beauty expertise with alternative therapies.
6. The OWO Raffles
London, England
A trip to Buckingham Palace, the British Museum and the like is the norm when visiting the English capital. The OWO Raffles is a stone’s throw away from many such significant sites, halving your hectic tube journeys on a relaxing vacation. However, that’s not why it’s one of the most sought-after hotels opening their doors this year.
The property’s elegant interior design, with luxurious furnishings and a refined decor, has a timeless appeal – something that is further enhanced by the cutting-edge amenities guests have access to.
These range from a Guerlain Spa with nine treatment rooms offering traditional beauty therapies to several restaurants and bars overseen by world-class chefs.
Apart from being an ideal holiday abode for tourists, it’s also suitable for business travelers and those attending events and weddings set to be hosted on the premises.
7. Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park
Amsterdam, Netherlands
If you’re visiting the Dutch capital, chances are that its range of museums, vintage stores, picturesque canals and lush parks will demand most of the space in your itinerary. But the soon-to-open Pillows Maurits is nestled snugly inside Oosterpark – a site you would spend a sunny afternoon at, in any case.
With the entire city just a few short walks or tram rides away and a calming yet lively ambience right at the doorstep, the property’s location offers the best of both worlds.
As for the indoors, the boutique hotel features a contemporary design with pops of artwork and color, luxurious rooms and suites with windows framing the green outdoors, an urban spa, authentic French and Italian cuisine and much more.
8. La Fantaisie
Paris, France
If you visited Paris and didn’t observe either a stunning skyline or a bustling neighborhood from your French balconette, did you even visit Paris at all?
La Fantaisie, situated in the ninth arrondissement, has many such spaces that open onto beautiful Parisian streets, cityscapes and courtyards.
The property’s serene garden and spacious rooftop bar will make it stand out among sociable travelers, while the garden inspired spa offerings will make it a favored spot among those who look for a slower, calmer experience.
9. Son Bunyola Hotel
Mallorca, Spain
British billionaire Richard Branson is all set to open his first luxury hotel in Spain. The establishment is restoring a historic finca – dating back to the 15th century.
With two restaurants, lounges, three private villas and outdoor dining terraces that overlook rolling hills and valleys, Son Bunyola promises to be a sight to behold and a luxury experience to revere.
Largely sustainable, it is utilizing traditional and local materials for the design and architecture; something that gives it an old-world charm, yet allows for guests’ modern-day requirements.
10. Hotel Vermelho
Melides, Portugal
Culture and creativity come together at the newest offering in Portugal’s under-discovered beach town.
For those looking to travel slow and experience collected art, antique Portuguese furniture and treasured seasonal recipes, Hotel Vermelho will be the place to consider. Stationed on the Alentejo Coast, the village of Melides offers a view of the Atlantic Ocean, quiet cobbled streets waiting to be explored, vineyards and rice fields to chance upon and a lot more.
Offsetting the tranquil charm of its location are the hotel’s high-end amenities that cater to visitors’ ever-evolving lifestyle needs.
