Walk into the vast, marble-floored lobby at the Boston InterContinental, and you know pretty quickly that you're going to be well looked after. A fire roars in the fireplace, modern monochrome artwork adorns the walls, and travellers sink into plush, low-slung sofas everywhere you look.

While a lot of Boston's hotels sit in the very heart of the city and right in the centre of the hustle and bustle, the InterContinental - a five-star property from IHG Hotels & Resorts - is tucked away in a quieter part and on the harbour front. The hotel occupies a prime position between the Financial District and the Seaport. All of Boston's must-try attractions are walkable, and everything is within your reach.

The location in and of itself is beautiful. On the warmer days of our trip, we spent our mornings strolling along the harbour walk, and our evenings enjoying a drink on the terrace overlooking the famous Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, a series of replica ships that commemorate the city's history and one of its most significant sites.

But this InterContinental has far more on offer than just its location and views. Despite pretty sizeable conference facilities and a reputation for being a business base, it strikes a rare balance: polished enough for business travellers, yet characterful enough to appeal to leisure guests.

For more on the Boston InterContinental's facilities - a unique waterfront location, spa facilities, and modern interiors despite a historical setting - plus why I'd recommend it for your next Stateside stay, keep scrolling.

Boston InterContinental: "Tranquil, modern charm on the historic waterfront"

The vibes

Despite my preconceptions of the chain as a hotel exclusively designed for those on business trips or conferences, the InterContinental is friendly, welcoming and unpretentious - a far cry from the corporate vibes of other chain hotels.

Attentive, welcoming staff and a warm, relaxed ambience set the tone - you feel instantly at ease and at home in the light-dappled lobby. With floor-to-ceiling windows, marble, and polished stone covering the floors and ceilings, the interiors are contemporary without feeling cold. Centred on calming, neutral tones, the colour palette centres on soft creams, warm woods and brushed metallic accents, making the space feel considered and modern.

At certain angles, you can see right through to the rippling water which runs alongside you, reminding you that you're in Boston. Top tip, too: do make sure to try the river taxis, which drop you right outside the hotel and offer a more adventurous way to explore the city.

The rooms

The hotel has 424 rooms in total, with many offering floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views, especially as the sun sets in the evening.

Our room is notably spacious - ours had two double beds, a lounge area, a desk, and a bathroom with a bathtub, two sinks, and a shower. Plush bathrobes, marble interiors, and BYREDO bath amenities in my favourite “Bal d’Afrique” scent add to the luxe, elevated feel.

If you're a member of Club InterContinental, there's a spacious lounge on the twelfth floor which has private dining, workspaces and drinks options - we enjoyed light bites, coffees and a few glasses of wine here over the course of our stay.

The food

There are three different restaurants on site, meaning you're really spoilt for choice and have plenty to choose from every day. We mainly eat at Matria, a Northern Italian-inspired restaurant which has a waterfront terrace and fresh, seasonal menus. As we were in Boston during the Boston Marathon weekend, they put on a specific "Runners Menu" on the Sunday evening, which included plenty of fresh salads, tomato pasta iterations, protein sources, and garlic breads.

The food ticks all of the right boxes - dinners are fresh and flavourful, and the breakfast buffet is extensive but expertly cooked. I enjoy porridge with Greek yoghurt and fresh berries one day, and scrambled eggs and sourdough the next. You can also order from the à la carte menu and enjoy American staples, the waffles being a standout highlight (when in the US, right?).

Perhaps surprisingly, the bar, Bar Fellini, is buzzing every night, which I'm sure was aided by the fact that we stayed over the marathon weekend. An Italian aperitivo-style cocktail bar that sits in the heart of the hotel radiates a more intimate, evening-vibe - we enjoyed a glass of champagne here after the race.

There's also a speakeasy-style cocktail bar, the Loyall Counting Room, inspired by Boston’s colonial history. My top tip? I'd highly recommend getting breakfast room service, if you can - it was one of the highlights of our trip. Think eggs over easy, crispy-as-anything Turkey bacon and thick, fluffy pancakes.

The amenities

There are ample amenities on site - a spa, sauna, swimming pool, and spacious, well-equipped gym with all the equipment you could need for a good workout. There's also a full-service spa and treatment options, if you'd like to book in some dedicated downtime. Wellness isn't an afterthought here; it's baked into your trip.

Of course, there are also the conference and event facilities throughout the hotel, should you be travelling for business, not pleasure - but the staff do an excellent job of maintaining the hotel feels elevated and friendly, rather than overly corporate.

As with most high-end hotels, a concierge is on hand with recommendations for during your stay, so do check in if you're unsure on an itinerary for your trip.

One of my favourite amenities was the simplest, though; the direct access to the Boston Harborwalk for morning runs and waterfront strolls.

The need to knows

Stay at the Boston Intercontinental from around £250 a night, depending on the season. 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210, United States, ihg.com.

Why Go

When you're in need of a weekend reset, the easier it is to reach the better. And for those looking to unwind here in the UK rather than booking a trip overseas, the De Vere Cotswold Water Park is a serene and peaceful bolthole in the heart of the Cotswolds. It may be located in south-west England, but the lush landscape feels as expansive as the Lake District. While conveniently located just 20 minutes off the M4 and M5, you'll feel as though you've been transported miles away; as a large, tranquil nature park surrounded by 180 lakes in the region, it's incredibly peaceful.

There’s also lots to do, whether you want to wander around the hotel’s sprawling grounds or leisurely explore the nearby country parks and inland beaches. For thrill seekers, there's plenty of opportunity for adventure with a variety of water sports, horse-riding and even archery. A highlight is, undeniably, the nearby Cotswold Country Park and Beach. It’s the UK’s largest inland beach with plenty to keep the whole family happy, from boat hire to little karts for kids. And, importantly, lots of space to relax.

The Hotel

The hotel comprises 328 rooms and apartments in total, and is modern, spacious and great for families. An intimate nature retreat encased by lakes, wetlands and grassy areas, the hotel is by Lake Six and has stunning views of the water and wildlife: think natural materials like wood, stone and glass, all designed to make the most of natural surroundings. On arrival, you'll receive a handy map of the site and lake, as well as a guide to all the activities around the area. You have the option to stay in rooms, or to select self-catering pet-friendly studios. If you're travelling with little ones, the one or two-bed, apartments come with a kitchenette and lounge area, private balcony or garden, making it a spacious and well-equipped home away from home.

Food and Drink

There are two main restaurants on site - The Brasserie, where you'll find a delicious breakfast, quaint afternoon tea and a laid-back, family-friendly dinner. On the menu, there are charcuterie boards to share, juicy steaks, towering burgers and an excellently rich banoffee cheesecake. Make sure you leave time to visit The Old Boathouse, too. Set by the lake with breathtaking views of the surroundings, it’s an Italian-inspired restaurant with an elevated dining atmosphere (especially if you go around sunset). Here, you'll find crispy calamari, oozing burrata, creamy wild mushroom and truffle ravioli, and a silky Panna cotta.

Things to Do

Spa6 is the hotel’s large wellness facility, and a great spot for afternoon relaxation by the pool. Boasting massage jets, a hydrotherapy pool and a relaxing sensory shower, there's also a large gym and various treatment rooms offering massages and beauty therapies. Try the Japanese Head Spa treatment - it's totally invigorating, and you'll feel utterly renewed. For those with children, the little ones will love the on-site playground, with plenty of space to run around freely.

Beyond the hotel, the Cotswolds is famous for its ornate towns and villages which are dotted with cosy cafes and fine dining restaurants. It's also close to Cirencester, an historic town thriving with markets, museums, cafes and an open-air swimming pool. Spend time at the Cotswold Sculpture Park and Cotswold Country Park and Beach, with its large inland beach, SUPs, boat and kayak-hire.

Relaxed, well-located, and enough to keep even the most active in your group occupied, this is an easy win for chilled breaks and activity-filled weekends alike.

Booking information

Rooms from £119 a night. Visit devere.co.uk, or call 0333 344 9200

It's rare in life that you find a hotel that's really, truly hard to fault. So many miss a crucial element - the foods isn't the best quality, the rooms a touch on the small side, or the wellness offering a small, box room with no air conditioning and minimal equipment. But not the newly opened The Newman hotel in Fitzrovia, which I was lucky enough to stay at last month and have been raving about ever since.

It's hard to know where to begin - from a full-floor wellness centre, to independent and thoughtful mini bar options, to the effortlessly welcoming and sophisticated Scandi design, every touch has been thought through and does exactly what it says on the tin: making you feel instantly at home. If your home had been curated by award-winning interior designers, of course.

Situated in the very heart of London, between Marylebone, Mayfair and Soho, the art-deco hotel from Kinsfolk & Co has been highly anticipated - and for good reason. The British hospitality newcomers don't do things by halves: with design from Lind + Almond and nods throughout to Fitzrovia's literary past, it's boutique but design-led; friendly, while always offering five-star service.

With CEO and founder Paul Brackley at the helm, you can see why. His CV spans the Shangri-La Group to The Shard, and he's clearly brought his magic to this new opening, too.

For my full review of the hotel, plus tips for if you do decide to stay, keep scrolling.

Honestly? I can't recommend The Newman in Fitzrovia highly enough

The vibes

The interiors have been carefully curated, combining calming, wooden tones with modern stainless steel.

Artwork from Christopher Brown, Marcel Garbi and Sandhills Studios runs throughout the hotel, with black and white photos of the local area from Rory Langdon-Down.

The staff are instantly welcoming without being overbearing - attentive while letting you enjoy your stay.

The rooms

The Newman offers 81 rooms and suites, with a cohesive design throughout. Warm, natural hues and curved furniture edges sit alongside stone bathroom walls and textured artwork.

The view of the BT Tower from our room instantly reminds you that you're nestled in the very heart of London. Pillows are plush, and the mini bar offering is extensive, with a variety of independently owned snack brands, drinks, and even wellness amenities on offer (I'm talking CBD drops, mood-boosting supplements, and more).

The bathrooms are particularly beautiful - they feel nostalgic yet perfectly modern, and are kitted out with Anatome amenities, a brand I've long loved for their essential oil-rich products and sustainable business credentials.

If you're feeling really boujie, do check out The Penthouse, a spacious, decadent room with a private terrace, sauna, and cold plunge.

The food

Head to the ground floor and you'll find Brasserie Angelica, a light, bright space offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. On the menu, a variety of modern European food - think steak tartare, grilled prawns, and a Swedish west coast salad packed with prawns, mussels, crab and mushrooms. I enjoyed the pickled gravadlax (the mustard sauce is particularly special) and the buttermilk fried Haddock with celeriac remoulade, and couldn't fault it.

Just behind the restaurant, you'll find Gambit, an atmospheric bar with regular live music. Every single cocktail on the menu can include alcohol or no alcohol, a detail I found particularly impressive and inclusive.

Come breakfast, you can enjoy an à la carte menu downstairs or opt for room service instead. They offer all your usual favourites - smoked salmon, eggs Florentine, and a hearty porridge. But don't sleep on the artichoke on sourdough - a stroke of culinary genius.

The facilities

Now this is where, in my opinion, The Newman truly comes into its own. There are plenty of UK hotels doing boutique stylishly and well, with pretty unparalleled attention to detail and customer service. But if you're on the fence about staying at TN, know this: the amenities on offer are truly unrivalled.

As a Health Editor, you best believe I headed almost instantly to their floor-wide Wellness Centre, a catch-all term that many other hotels use to refer to a boxy, unairconditioned room with a few kettlebells. At The Newman, the gym is spacious, light, and bright, decked to the nines with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, Peloton bikes and Hyperice recovery tools. There's room temperature and chilled tap water, towels, and even a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, where some of my favourite teachers, including Ashlea McKee and Eva Syti, offer complimentary classes.

Just around the corner, you have the wet room, which includes a sauna, steam room, experience shower, hydrotherapy pool, and ice and salt room, marking a first for any London hotel. I've tested a fair few wellness-focused hotels in my time, and this is up there with the best: wellness, winding down, and taking time to centre yourself woven into the very fabric of your stay, a simple inclusion rather than an add-on or an afterthought.

The space is calming, grounded, and welcoming - it's hard not to feel instantly at ease. If you'd like to book a treatment, they offer facials and massages on offer in the spa.

To book your stay at 50 Newman Street, W1T 3EB, head to The Newman website or call 020 3989 8100. Double rooms with breakfast included start from £695 in low season and from £765 in high.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, may be less than an hour away from the vibrant energy of Miami, but feels like you're worlds away thanks to the enormous network of winding canals. With a beach that stretches for an impressive 24 miles, and no less than 300 miles of navigable waterways, it’s a city that's bursting with waterside bars and restaurants, boutique shopping, luxury hotels and a thriving arts and culture scene. But, best of all, getting around in Fort Lauderdale means hopping onto a water taxi - which, no matter your age, never fails to be fun.

The Vibe

Known for its huge coastline boasting beaches, art, culture and canals, Fort Lauderdale draws in a real mix of tourists - whether it's yacht enthusiasts, activity-seeking families or couples looking for a luxury beach break. The city is famous for its beachfront promenade, with many soaking up the sun at the laid-back cafés lining the Riverwalk, and the white wave wall and paved path are dotted with five star hotels and endless boutiques on the 'style mile', Las Olas Boulevard. It's an undeniable pocket of opulence, with residents living in mega mansions and lounging on super yachts.

Where to Stay

You won't be short of options when it comes to accommodation in Fort Lauderdale, with a huge selection of five star hotels as well as smaller, but equally luxurious, boutique stays. I checked in to Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, which is a 374-bed resort on North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard.

The oceanfront penthouse, a three-bed suite with 360-degree sea views, is perfect for those who want elevated comfort. With a fully functioning kitchen and three and a half bathrooms, it's your very own ultra-luxe home away from home. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests an unparalleled view of the ocean, with the endless sea and sky making mornings - and sunsets - feel extra magical.

As for the facilities, the resort has a spa, fitness centre and oceanfront pool terrace for guests to enjoy during their stay. The pool, with its panoramic views and beach club vibe, quickly becomes my favourite spot, the perfect sun spot for lounging between dips. The location, sitting directly on North Beach, makes it easy to walk to the ocean and nearby beach bars. And as for the food? There are multiple eateries around the hotel, with options for every palate. But my favourite spot for a bite to eat quickly becomes Ilios, a rooftop restaurant with a wide selection of drinks and plenty of fresh, flavourful Mediterranean-style dishes.

Dining

From seafood restaurants to ramen bars, French bakeries to ice-cream parlours, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. Personal highlights include the uber-fun Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show, a South Seas experience which has been entertaining visitors since 1956, with tiki décor, waterfalls, and mouth-watering food. The cocktails were divine and the show was unforgettable.

Don't miss the beachfront dining at S3 during your trip; set right on the beach with stunning views of the ocean, the sushi is utterly delicious. The menu is packed with fresh seafood and juicy steaks, and the atmosphere is relaxed - the perfect place to unwind after a day by the pool.

Activities

Catching a water taxi is now my all-time favourite thing to do. Cruising along the waterways offers a front-row seat to the city’s glamorous super yachts and enormous waterfront mansions. Palm trees line the canals, and the water taxis are hop-on, hop-off - so you can explore at your own pace.

Fort Lauderdale is also the gateway to the Everglades National Park, but if you want more city-based activities my top picks include the 1920 Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, which is a little slice of calm in the busy city. The Museum of Discovery & Science, which is full of STEM activities, simulators, immersive eco-discovery zones and animal encounters, is great for families; my toddler daughter loved playing there.

How to Book

You can find out what's on in Fort Lauderdale by visiting visitlauderdale.com. For more information about Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, visit hiltonbeachhouse.com.

Memorable holidays are the ones that exceed your expectations, and during a recent trip to Miami I was left very surprised - in the best possible way. While I arrived looking forward to Miami's traditional draws - an endless helping of sunshine, with 5* resorts cushioned on a glittering sea - what I actually discovered was a global art capital within the culturally-rich and vibrant city.

The sun-soaked nook in Florida has been quietly transforming into a world-class centre of contemporary art, and you can feel it everywhere - from the unmissable and colourful street art, to the throngs of galleries and museums lining the streets, and there's also the beautifully-designed public spaces. It’s far from just another beach escape: it's a city packed with luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and, of course, the renowned and buzzy bars, but it also feeds your curiosity for culture and creativity.

The Vibe

Miami is known for being a vibrant city with world-famous nightlife. Along the main beach strip, as expected, you'll find endless bars, restaurants and art deco blocks, punctuated by high-rise hotels. But what you might not expect is the undercurrent of cool that pulses through the city. Take Wynwood Walls street art museum, for instance. An outdoor gallery, it offers the chance to see the most bright and breathtaking art on the the city streets. Whether it's wandering through these creative neighbourhoods, stumbling into small galleries, or observing the subtle design details in the various hotels and restaurants, the constant nod to expression and creativity makes Miami a culturally thrilling place to be.

Where to stay

There’s no shortage of places to stay here here but I checked in to The Palms Hotel & Spa in Mid-Beach, an ocean-front hotel which remains one of the only family-owned and operated luxury resorts in Miami Beach. With a leafy garden entrance, it feels more like a tropical sanctuary than a Miami mega-hotel and everything about this serene space is intentionally connected to nature - the soft, earthy colour palette, natural textures and lush landscaping.

Tanja Morariu, Head of Sustainability, explains how The Palms’ philosophy is built around its “Inspired by Nature” program, which includes eliminating single-use plastics and installing energy-efficient systems, composting, recycling and sourcing local, sustainable products. Hearing her speak passionately about community beach clean-ups and long-term conservation efforts is encouraging – staying here doesn’t feel like a compromise between sustainability and comfort.

The hotel has a large pool in its tropical gardens as well as its very own Zen Garden. For those who want to focus on wellness and relaxation, you can take yoga classes or enjoy the full spa and fitness rooms. Or, simply grab your holiday book and head down to the cabanas on the private beach.

When it comes to the dining options, the restaurant is also aligned with the hotel’s strong focus on sustainability. Essensia Restaurant, which overlooks the verdant gardens, uses mindfully-sourced ingredients to blend Mediterranean and Asian culinary influences. The dishes are beautifully presented, and you can feast on this fusion of flavours while listening to the palms rustling in the breeze. Even the cocktail menu reflects the hotel’s philosophy, featuring wines and cocktails made with organic or artisanal spirits.

Dining

And, when you're ready to venture further afield for dinner, one of the most exciting things Miami has to offer is a unique culinary scene. From Cuban to sushi, pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, there are options for all travellers and budgets. One neighbourhood Italian gem is Otto & Pepe in Wynwood, a warm, relaxed and cosy dining room with a lively pasta bar, leafy garden patio and its very own wine shop right inside the restaurant. Visit for dinner, settle in with a Negroni, or simply stop in to grab a bottle. Either way, watching fresh pasta being made at the bar is an experience in itself and the award-winning wine-pairing is a treat.

Activities

I like a holiday that combines both culture and cocktails, and that’s where Miami really comes into its own. The Miami Design District is an unmissable upmarket area north of Wynwood, packed with high-end stores, galleries, public art and bustling restaurants.

Miami Art Week takes place in December, and includes its famous Art Basel. There’s the incredible Superblue Miami immersive art experience, with 50,000 square feet of boundary-pushing creativity which makes for a great family day out. For something a little more contemporary, check out Perez Art Museum or The Bass.

Before you leave, make sure you visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a 1916 waterfront estate-turned-museum, where you can wander the grounds exploring the art, gardens and mangroves. It’s a local favourite with changing installations. Just as popular is the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, an enormous museum, planetarium and aquarium, full of science, technology, engineering and maths with interactive exhibitions and unique shows. A terrific day out for families.

How to Book

For more information about Miami and how to curate your perfect art-inspired getaway, visit visitmiami.com. For reservations at The Palms Hotel, visit thepalmshotel.com.

As any new parent knows, travelling changes considerably once your family expands. Gone are the days of zipping around airports seamlessly; now, there are car seats, buggies and a surplus of emergency snacks. But, as proved when I visited The Palm Beaches on Florida's south-east coast, family trips can still include touches of luxury - even with a two year old. From the clear waters of Jupiter to the sandy beaches at Boca Raton, you'll find luxe accommodation that will keep the whole family happy.

The Vibe

The Palm Beaches sit on Florida’s south coast, situated one hour north of Miami and two hours south of Orlando. This beautiful beachy stretch comprises of a number of thriving towns, including the infamous Palm Beach, as well as Boca Raton, Juno and Jupiter Beach. Holidaymakers come for the white sand and sparkling ocean, but there's a lot more to it than sun-dwelling; it's a great spot for sporting activities, nature, shopping and mouth-watering cuisine. While many families head straight to the theme parks in Orlando, The Palm Beaches are a more laid-back choice for those seeking a reset.

Where To Stay

For families looking to base themselves in this sun-soaked playground, Boca Raton offers five star resorts and easy access to the wider region. I stayed at one of the five decadent hotels within the enormous The Boca Raton resort - one of Florida’s most iconic destinations. Unfolding over an astounding 200 acres, you'll find seven swimming pools, a private beach, a full spa, an 18-hole golf course and a picturesque marina, as well as an impressive 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts.

I checked into The Beach Club Hotel, the resort's beachfront offering designed around the stretches of crystal clear water. With over 200 rooms and suites available, many of them feature floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean and boast a calming colour palette - think corals, neutral tones and touches of velvet.

Here, it's about unequivocal luxury. This year, the Boca Raton was awarded a quadruple five-star status from the Forbes Travel Guide, making history as the only resort in The Americas to hold the prestigious honour. Personally, I loved the special details that really cater for families – the inclusion of beach toys, a balcony tepee, supplies of baby toiletries and snacks, and a carefully stocked mini-bar made travelling with a toddler as stress-free as it could possibly be. The spa also offered sanctuary for some much-needed mummy-time, and the family pool at the Harbourside Pool Club included themed 'Kiddie Cabanas' - a collection of poolside play spots for children, individually decorated for little princesses, pirates and mermaids. My daughter adored the mini-chef themed cabana.

Dining

The Boca Raton resort boasts eighteen restaurants, from classic Italian to contemporary Japanese, but dining ocean-side at their Mediterranean restaurant Marisol is not to be missed. Make sure you book a table at the resort's classic chophouse, The Flamingo Grill, too.

Beyond the resort, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to The Palm Beaches as the region is brimming with restaurants and bars that blend gourmet plates with child-friendly dining. That’s what makes it so accessible to those with little ones – the easy-going outdoor dining vibe is a hit with the whole family, and there are so many cuisines on offer - from burgers, tacos and pizza, to fine-dining, rooftop bars, speakeasies and live-music lounges. We visited Sixty Vines in Boca Raton, a winemaker restaurant with an impressive 60 wines on tap. I loved pairing glasses from around the world alongside sharing plates of albondigas, burrata and mussels.

Before you leave, book a table at Max’s Grille. This restaurant has a lively outdoor patio and serves a selection of steaks, chops, meatloaf and burgers. It’s a Boca Raton institution, and the atmosphere is perfectly balanced between relaxed and vibrant.

Activities

There’s no shortage of things to do around The Palm Beaches, from stand-up paddle-boarding to airboat tours and scuba-diving. And as for families, you can easily combine activities to keep the little ones happy and the adults entertained. From animal encounters to outdoor adventures, beach days to museums, everything is well-located so that you can create meaningful memories, not just tick off attractions.

Top of our list was a visit to Lion Country Safari, which became one of my daughter's favourite experiences. She was mesmerised as we took a four-mile self-drive through the safari park, spotting lions, zebras, giraffes and antelopes. In the Adventure Park, you can enjoy animal encounters - feeding giraffes was a highlight, and seeing my daughter's amazement is a moment I’ll never forget. She also loved the rides, splash park and water slides - so prepare to end up staying here a little longer than planned. This thoughtful family day out is a great example of why The Palm Beaches works so well for families.

Other great days out include Manatee Lagoon, Palm Beach Zoo, the Gumbo Limbo coastal nature reserve, Rapids Water Park and impressive shopping at Town Center, Boca Raton, which is one for the parents; it includes boutiques such as Cartier, Gucci, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Tiffany’s and Louis Vuitton.

If you're looking for a family holiday that doesn't compromise on luxury, this region certainly delivers.

How To Book

For more information about booking a trip to The Palm Beaches, visit thepalmbeaches.com. For general enquiries reservations at The Boca Raton, you can contact the team via email (experience@thebocaraton.com).

A trip to Florida isn't complete without a visit to one of the region's most iconic destinations – The Boca Raton. The world-famous resort, located on The Palm Beaches coastline, celebrates its 100th birthday this year. It began as The Cloister Inn in 1926, with architect Addison Mizner envisioning creating a 'dream city' that would bring Mediterranean glamour to Florida. Now, 100 years later, the original 100-room Ritz Carlton hotel has been transformed into a sprawling 200-acre resort, with more than 1,000 beds between five individual hotels: the Cloister, Tower, Yacht Club, Bungalows and, finally, the Beach Club, where I check in.

This ultra-luxe world of hospitality is divided into two main areas, the Harbourside and Beachside, with amenities including a picturesque private beach, serene spa, seven swimming pools, and a scenic marina. For the sports-minded, there's also an 18-hole golf course, 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts. You also move between the areas via a water taxi, which only adds to the glamorous A-list experience.

The Vibe

The Boca Raton’s newly relaunched Beach Club Hotel has been designed with the coastal proximity in mind, making the sea an unmissable focal point for all guests - which is especially evident in the rooms that feature sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful ocean views. In the rooms, you can expect natural textiles and neutral tones, and it truly feels like stepping into another world; as I open the door to my room, I'm greeted by a soaring, light-filled living room that immediately draws my eye to the ocean. Everything feels calm, elegant and effortless.

As for the resort itself, the vibe is both luxurious and laid-back. Families, couples, locals and guests all come together and there’s a real sense of community here. This is five-star resort-living at its best, and it's easy to see why The Boca Raton recently became the only resort in The Americas (and just one of seven resorts worldwide) to hold quadruple Five-Star status from the Forbes Travel Guide. All guests have access to the amenities, no matter which hotel you’re in, and I particularly liked that the Beach Club felt separate on the Beachside, offering privacy without feeling isolated.

The Rooms

The Beach Club has 210 guest rooms and suites, many of which include large outdoor terraces. My balcony quickly becomes my favourite spot as each morning starts here, coffee in hand, watching the sun rise over the ocean. The bathroom deserves a special mention, too, with its deep tub, separate shower, generous counter space and full-sized Acqua di Parma toiletries. Small details, but they really elevate the stay.

What truly makes this experience unforgettable, though, is how thoughtfully the hotel caters to my two-year-old daughter. Travelling with a toddler is not easy, but here, it is made to feel as stress-free as possible. From beach toys to a tepee on the balcony, baby toiletries and snacks, every detail is anticipated and nothing is overlooked.

Food and Drink

Taking breakfast at Marisol, just steps away from the ocean, quickly becomes a ritual. From perfectly-cooked eggs to fluffy pancakes, portions are generous and the Greek omelette and challah French toast are definite standouts. Dinner here also offers the same elevated dining, with a Mediterranean menu that has a strong focus on seafood. The paella, grilled zucchini and mouth-watering mezze are not to be missed. It also feels special to spend the evenings dining outdoors with a perfectly-made cocktail in the balmy air.

The Living Room is my go-to spot in the evenings. By day, it’s more of a café but at night it transforms into a lively, intimate lounge serving tapas. You'll still be thinking about the fish tacos, lobster and hamachi crispy roll long after you've returned home. There’s also a poolside market for those in-between moments, offering soft-serve ice-cream and nachos.

One of the things that makes staying at The Boca Raton truly special is the choice of dining options across the resort. There are a staggering 18 restaurants and eateries which offer everything you could want - whether you prefer low-fuss burgers or elevated fine-dining. I tried the lakeside Harbour House, with coastal cuisine highlights including a spicy ‘Angry Tuna’, artichoke hearts, and wood-fired pizza. The Flamingo Grill, with its old Hollywood vibes, also offers excellent service and a classic steakhouse menu.

The Spa

One of the centrepieces of the resort is its wellness offering, Spa Palmera – a 50,000 square-foot spa inspired by Spain’s famous Alhambra. It has 44 (count them!) treatment rooms and is a heady medley of mosaics, arches and waterfall whirlpools. It’s stunning and, without question, one of the highlights.

But it’s not just the facilities that make it exceptional, it’s the people. I'm guided through the signature bathing ritual by Angela, who has worked at the resort for more than 20 years, with warmth and intuition. It’s easy to see why this spa has won so many awards; the staff are the soul of the experience. Immersed in an oversized tub infused with coconut milk, honey, and pink Himalayan salt, surrounded by petals and soft lighting, the experience is pure bliss. Afterwards, I enjoy a gentle honey scrub and The Artisan Massage, a customised treatment which leaves me feeling lighter, calmer, and completely reset. I make sure to spend time at the spa’s private pool and café, too. It feels like a hidden sanctuary within the resort, and one where I could happily stay all day.

Activities

You are never short of things to do here: the Beach Club has three pools and a private beach, but you also have full use of the amenities across The Boca Raton resort. The Harbourside Pool Club has an additional three pools as well as a a lazy river, several water slides, a thriving kids’ club and luxury cabanas with butler service. There are also special 'Kiddie Cabanas' which are specially themed for little ones who want to imagine themselves as pirates, mermaids and princesses. My daughter, however, was most impressed by the mini-chef cabana, which is decorated like a tiny bistro complete with play food, macaron pillows, and tiny table.

Despite its scale, The Boca Raton doesn’t feel overwhelming. Instead, it's an immersive hub of lively restaurants and buzzy bars, elegant lounges and boutiques, and between the museum, theatre, games room, tennis courts and golf course, you will always find something to do. Plus, there's even an Assouline bookshop - Mizner’s 'dream city' brought to life.

How To Book

For more information about booking a stay at The Boca Raton, visit thebocaraton.com. For general enquiries, prices and reservations, you can contact the team via email (experience@thebocaraton.com).

You'd be forgiven for thinking you'd clicked on a review of any old guesthouse on Brighton's seafront, given GuestHouse's name. But no - the independent, design-led chain is far from your average guesthouse.

No. 124 by GuestHouse, Brighton, is one of their four UK locations and sits on the King's Road, facing the pebbled beach and vast coast. By morning, a seafront walk, run, or dip, if you dare, calls your name; come evening, you're spoiled with gorgeous sunsets.

But back to the hotel. Many a hotel describes itself as boutique, but far fewer get it genuinely spot on. GuestHouse is one of those. I'm lucky enough to have stayed at both the York and Brighton outposts now, and both do what so many hotels before them couldn't: cosy charm, elevated style, and effortless customer service that makes every second of your stay truly tranquil.

I'd read rave reviews and had many a friend recommend the hotels personally, but it wasn't until last November that I managed to find the time to visit the Brighton location myself. My honest review? The hotel is hard to fault, really, and one of those stays that'll have you researching their other locations with your next staycation in mind.

For more on No. 124's warm, elevated, and charismatic charm, keep scrolling.

No. 124 by GuestHouse, Brighton review: Charismatic, charming and quintessentially British

The vibes

There are several hotel chains doing what GuestHouse do - renovating townhouses in prime UK locations and pairing elevated design elements with memorable food and attentive staff. But none do it quite as well as GuestHouse.

Step inside their Brighton location from the seafront, and you're immediately greeted with a chic interior that pairs heritage with a heartfelt touch. To your left lies a bar; down a flight of stairs, their mood-lit, basement restaurant, The Pearly Cow.

Modern tapestries and concrete coffee tables are juxtaposed with traditional, cosy-looking armchairs and bookcases. You know what to expect, but there are also surprising touches everywhere you look: the bookcase jammed full of 80's vinyls, disco balls and modern artwork.

The brainchild of brothers Tristan, James and Tom Guest and the sibling of their Bath, York and Margate locations, the Brighton iteration lives up to expectation. It's instantly welcoming, warm, and inviting, with the staff creating a perfectly balanced, relaxed yet attentive atmosphere.

The rooms

Each room at GuestHouse is unique, but most at the Brighton location offer breathtaking sea views. Ours luckily does, and we while away the mornings taking in the view with peppermint tea, soaking in the morning light and people and bird watching with the kitsch yet remarkably fun-to-use vintage binoculars.

Expect plush, cushioned bedding, comfy reading nooks, and books to flick through; paintings from local artists, the most stylish blackout curtains I've ever seen, and a Crosley record player with vinyls, to boot. The room is stocked with organic teas and coffee, the bathroom with B-Corp certified Wildsmith toiletries and butter-soft towels.

I particularly enjoyed the GuestHouse newspaper and handy guides to the local area - every element of the hotel has been produced or placed with flair and originality, each element thought through.

Rumour has it they have a special "Hideout Suite" for extra special occasions, which boasts its own hot tub and secret entrance.

The food

No hotel is complete without good food and drink, and GuestHouse really excels in this regard. Pearly Cow Brighton, their food offering, specialises in local, seasonal and organic produce, and it's all fresh as you like.

Naturally, the menu at their Brighton arm focuses on seafood - we kick off our evening with Whitstable oysters and a glass of sparkling English wine. Choose between small plates to share or your own mains. Must tries include the 45-day salt-aged ribeye and the salt cod tacos.

The cocktails are also noteworthy, and an excellent way to round off your evening. If you're still hungry post-dinner, or at any time during your stay, they have a well-stocked pantry on the first floor, with an excellent range of treats and more nutritious snacks. When we visited, we enjoyed pick and mix, fresh fruit, crisps and daily freshly baked cakes, alongside my favourite electrolyte-enhanced sparkling waters.

Come the morning, breakfast is simple but satiating - you can choose from a wide range of breakfast staples, including a full English, avocado on toast, pastries and chia seed puddings.

The facilities

It's a testament to the hotel's desire for you to fully switch off that every GuestHouse location has a spa on site - a decadent, relaxing cove of a space designed to help you unwind. At the Field Trip Spa Brighton, you can choose from facials, massages, or a soak in the jacuzzi - there's something for everyone.

Staff couldn't be friendlier and truly go above and beyond without being invasive - their hospitality feels effortless, which is no mean feat. They have a number of amenities in place to ensure you have a comfortable stay. A porter will meet you at the station to cycle your bags to the hotel for you; beach bags can be provided, at your request. You're also in a prime position to cheer any runners along the seafront, as we discovered when a 10km race took over the seafront on the grey Sunday morning we stayed.

Plus, fun fact: dogs are welcome at a charge of £25 per dog, per night. Staff have dog-friendly pantry treats, blankets and beds on hand to ensure your pets are well catered for.

Stay at No.124 GuestHouse, Brighton, from £190 a night. 124 Kings Road Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FY. guesthousehotels.co.uk

I’ll admit it: Ireland has never sat particularly high on my wanderlust list. Rightfully or not, it’s always been the far-flung locales that captured my imagination — Alaska’s towering forests, Balinese jungle boltholes, the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. That changed during a Zoom call in which my birth chart was dissected and an astrocartography reading followed.

For the uninitiated, astrocartography is, as my astrologer (sadly, I will orchestrate any excuse to write/say/sing from the rooftops my astrologer) puts it, “Tinder for places, a way of mapping where in the world you might thrive, and where you might not”. I’ve written before about how astrocartography has changed how I travel, but for context: southern Ireland, I was told, had a sun line coursing straight through it.

This, my astrologer (sorry, last time) told me, meant I’d find Ireland charming; a place of peace and serenity. She was Irish herself and so I was wary of biases, but when a press invite to Cork’s The Montenotte Hotel appeared in my inbox mere moments after our call, it felt remiss—unwise, even—to ignore the universe.

The Vibe

Adding to the metaphysical serendipity, I was also celebrating my 35th birthday in Ireland — an apparently auspicious day this year. Unfortunately, it also meant catching the first flight out of London Stansted just hours after my birthday dinner party. Good planning, it seemed, would not be among the skills I’d be acquiring.

I slept the entire flight and soon found myself weaving past Ireland’s emerald fields on the short drive from the airport to the Montenotte Hotel, perched atop Lee View Hill with sweeping views of the city below. I arrived at 9am to much fanfare: a black-and-white–striped caddy, as if borrowed from My Fair Lady, whisked away our luggage before we were guided to the main Panorama restaurant, where I promptly ordered an Irish coffee, hangover obliging.

The restaurant hummed with breakfast chatter and the scrape of cutlery as guests and locals fuelled up for the day ahead. I, less robust, sank into a plush velvet sofa as my drink grew cold in my hand.

Relief came at The Clubhouse, where I was staying in one of the expertly designed Woodland Suites scattered along the forest floor surrounding the main estate. This meant that — should we choose — breakfast could be taken away from the hoi polloi of the main hotel, in a glass-walled retreat overlooking the River Lee.

The suite itself was even better. A plump white bed sprawled before me, its pristine bedding immediately persuasive. The call of champagne cooling in a bucket on the mantel proved stronger, and I passed the rolltop bath and out onto the semi wrap-around balcony where, save for distant glimpses of other treehouse suites, I might have been entirely alone.

The Rooms

My area of the estate, as it’ll henceforth be known, comprises five Woodland Suites nestled among the trees and four River Suites cantilevered into the landscape. Each is outfitted with a king or super-king bed with a solid American oak timber frame and elegantly hidden Smart TV, private terrace or balcony, Dyson hairdryer and clothes steamer, and an in-suite honesty bar stocked with options you actually want. Designed to blur the boundary between architecture and the surrounding Irish woodland, they feel more like modern treehouses than conventional hotel rooms — albeit with all the comforts of a five-star stay.

Raised among the trees on stilts, the suites take on a distinctive octagonal form that wouldn’t look out of place on Grand Designs, their elevation maximising immersive views of nature. Inside, Scandinavian minimalism meets Japanese influences in spaces that are clean, calm, and functional. Natural light and warm material, such as Italian travertine, oak timber, bronze mirrored panels create a cosy, uplifting atmosphere that a hangover is no match for.

The Food & Drink

Seated for dinner in front of the Panorama restaurant’s sprawling glass windows framing the twinkling city below, the hangover that had stalked me all day — prompting me to question not only my decision to host a raucous dinner for 25 the night before, but my very existence — finally came into sharp relief. It also bestowed a champion’s appetite, and I made full use of the three-course comped meal: Pan-seared West Cork scallops, Roast chicken breast with crispy potato terrine and wild mushrooms, rounded off with a Pumpkin-spiced (this was October) crème brûlée with orange cinnamon shortbread

Afterwards, we waddled back to our room (we could’ve requested a buggy, but my partner was keen to prove we weren’t complete heathens) to flop in front of the giant TV that rises from a hidden compartment between the king-size bed and the sofa, and watch Titanic.

Breakfast, I would like to say, leaned towards the virtuous offerings at The Clubhouse, but I was still operating under the same “when in Rome” mentality that had seen me order an Irish coffee at 9am. My eyes fell instead on a plate heaving with juicy pork sausages, white bread slathered in Kerrygold, crispy bacon, and all the other trappings of a full Irish.

Steaming cups of every style of coffee imaginable arrived at our table with the same frequency and zeal as the wine the night before. Guests staying in either suite can also enjoy a complimentary sundowner from 5–6pm — cocktails change nightly, but I can enthusiastically vouch for the two I quaffed — served alongside a pleasingly generous spread of appetisers.

The Facilities

Relaxation is really the name of the game here—or at least it would be if I were capable of rest. In hindsight, I should have fully embraced the reasons I rarely saw anyone else leave their suite: the deep bath with views over the city and surrounding woods, and, if you swivel the screen, the TV. I imagine other couples, cloaked in white robes, padding over to the crystal-cut decanter for a tumbler of complimentary local whiskey.

But to my boyfriend’s chagrin, we were not that couple. Instead, we alternated between the pool, sauna, and steam room until I hit my activity goals on my Coros watch. The pool and gym are open to all guests, and over the weekend, they were well enjoyed. The spa, located in a separate wing of the main hotel, was blissfully quiet during my full-body massage, and regretfully I never made it to the Cameo’s cinema’s nightly screening as I was too busy necking Beamish (Don’t make the mistake of ordering Dublin’s Guinness in Cork, which locals of every ilk enthusiastically told me is the real capital of Ireland) at the Sin é’s infamous trad night.

How to Book

Starting room rates for The Woodland Suite Experience are from €610 per night, including breakfast, Nights-for-Nature tree planting, and access to all The Montenotte’s facilities and amenities including Panorama restaurant, Glasshouse rooftop bar, Cameo Cinema (over 18s only), Bellevue Spa, Salt Room, and The Motion Health Club. For more information visit The Montenotte Hotel website.

What to Pack

Some places soften your shoulders the moment you arrive, and South Lodge Hotel is one of them. Set across acres of Sussex countryside, it’s a property built around deep rest, connection and genuine joy. I explored the hotel, its celebrated spa, its dining offering and its newest addition, The Reeds: a collection of waterside lodges designed for total tranquillity. I left feeling clearer, calmer and genuinely reset. I'm already planning my return.

Why Go?

If your idea of the perfect escape blends nature, great food, fantastic wine and a genuine sense of calm, South Lodge should sit high on your list. The drive into the grounds sets the tone: open fields, sweeping views and a main house that feels inviting. It’s the ideal backdrop for quality time, whether that’s a romantic weekend, a long-overdue catch-up with friends or a solo retreat designed to help you switch off properly.

Food is a central part of the experience, from divine dinners to bright, plant-based plates in the spa, and evenings naturally stretch late when paired with a glass of with glasses of Sussex sparkling wine made from the hotel’s own vines in partnership with Ridgeview. Combine that with a world-class spa and the privacy of The Reeds, and you have an escape that feels considered in every way.

The Vibe

The vibe across the estate is immaculate. Warm lighting, beautiful interiors and a team who seem genuinely invested in your stay. Everyone I met had been part of the South Lodge family for years, and that consistency brings a rare ease to the experience.

Guests staying in The Reeds have the added touch of a dedicated WhatsApp concierge, who makes check-in a breeze and responds to requests instantly. It’s thoughtful without ever feeling intrusive, and it makes the stay feel truly tailored to you.

There’s a quiet integrity to the place, too, recognised with our Marie Claire Sustainability Award. The hotel’s gentle approach to luxury extends to the environment—from the way the grounds are cared for to the considered, low-impact choices woven throughout your stay.

The Rooms

The Reeds are one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever stayed in. Suspended over still water, each lodge feels like its own contemporary sanctuary. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the view, and the interiors lean towards soft, calming neutrals. It’s the kind of space you immediately exhale into.

It's the subtle signs of luxury that really sold it for me. A chilled bottle of sparkling wine greeted me on arrival, alongside a fridge stocked with snacks that were replenished almost magically. Bath salts were placed beside a deep tub, and the Pelegrims x South Lodge shampoo and conditioner were a standout—beautifully scented and so effective (my hair hasn’t been this soft all year) that I stopped by the spa on my way out to take some home. A Dyson hairdryer, plush robes and curtains that glide open at the touch of a button added to the feeling of effortless comfort.

The balcony quickly became my favourite spot. Overlooking peaceful, glassy water, it features an outdoor bathtub that makes sunrise feel cinematic. It’s a space designed for slowing down and one that’s surprisingly difficult to leave—the only things that could lure me away were the pull of the spa and, of course, dinner.

Food & Drink

Dining at South Lodge elevates the stay even further. At The Pass, Head Chef Ben Wilkinson delivers a beautifully balanced tasting menu rooted in local and seasonal flavours.

Standout dishes included fried sourdough with beef tartare, a scallop-and-squash pairing that was delicate, and a silky celeriac and mushroom broth poured tableside by Ben himself. The day-boat turbot from Newhaven, cooked at 50 degrees until impossibly tender and served with an English sparkling wine sauce, was a highlight.

Over at Camellia, the menu is classic and crowd-pleasing, with beautifully executed meat and fish dishes, excellent service and generous portions. In the spa, the plant-based restaurant offers bright, fresh plates that feel exactly right between swims and saunas.

Wherever you dine, the hotel’s own wine from its Sussex vineyard is the standout—light, crisp and the perfect companion to a slow evening.

The Spa

South Lodge’s spa balances luxury with an authentic, grounding sense of calm. Outside, a heated vitality pool overlooks the countryside, while a wild-water plunge offers a refreshing jolt. The panoramic sauna has sweeping views, and the aromatic steam room wraps you in warmth and scent.

I spent hours here doing slow laps between the sauna, aromatic steam room and cold plunge. But the unexpected highlight was wild water swimming in the natural lake beside The Reeds. I’d heard of the benefits of cold-water immersion, and when asked on arrival if I wanted to book a supervised swim, I hesitated; then I noticed a copy of How to Wild Swim by Ella Foote left in my room. After reading a few pages, something shifted—I decided to take the plunge.

At 2 pm, I headed down to the water, joined by a husband and wife who swim there every day, which instantly made the whole thing feel more approachable. With the help of our lifeguard, I eased in, taking a float with me, and swam around the lake, seeing The Reeds from an entirely new angle. The shock of cold was exhilarating; the afterglow was even better. A hot chocolate afterwards, followed by a warm-up in the sauna, cemented it as one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

The spa also offers a smaller natural cold-water pool for plunging between sauna sessions—less intense than the lake, but just as refreshing, and it became a popular rotation for guests jumping between cold plunge and sauna throughout the day.

What I loved most was the spaciousness. Even during busier moments, the spa never felt crowded. Time stretches naturally here—it’s surprisingly easy to lose an entire afternoon without thinking twice.

The Treatment

The treatment I booked—the Fresh Leaf Fusion Face & Body Treatment—is inspired by the hotel’s vineyard and created in partnership with Pelegrims, a British skincare brand known for using grapevine extracts in its formulas. It already felt special before it began.

After a calming consultation and scent selection—I chose ginger, one of four essential-oil blends—I lay back on a heated bed that shifted through soft, therapeutic colours. I almost never fall asleep during treatments, but this one transported me. The techniques were soothing yet incredibly restorative, and the back facial left my skin clearer and smoother for days. It's genuinely the clearest my back has ever looked.

What elevates the experience is the way South Lodge and Pelegrims bring the vineyard quite literally into the treatment. The mask used across my back was made with hand-harvested vine leaves, and the therapist handed me a sachet of those same leaves to take home, to infuse in my bath over the next three days. It felt like carrying a small piece of the spa home with me—a continuation of the ritual rather than an ending.

When I got home, everyone commented on how glowy and relaxed I looked—the kind of visible softness that only comes from a treatment that truly works.

How to Book

A stay at The Reeds starts from £1000 per night, with two-bedroom lodges available for couples, families or small groups. Spa access — including supervised wild water swimming — is included in your stay. For the full experience, reserve a table for the tasting menu at The Pass. More details and seasonal packages are available on the South Lodge Hotel website, or by calling 01403 891711.

Destino Five Ibiza is the benchmark for high-end hedonism on the island, offering partygoers a glossy sanctuary that falls into a summer rhythm of relaxed days and high-energy nights, where world-class DJs take over the hotel's open-air stage.

Ibiza has always been a chameleon. Looking for wellness retreats, nature or world-class dining? The island delivers. Want to party? Ibiza will keep you up all night.

Destino Five Ibiza offers the full Ibiza experience — as well as being an integral part of The Pacha Group's ever-evolving legacy, it's a place to unwind (particularly on the Cabana-style beds by the pool offering relaxing massages) and dine with stand-out restaurants like Elia; a destination in its own right.

Seasoned partygoers will remember the hotel as Destino Pacha Ibiza, before its 2023 acquisition by FIVE Holdings. Following a major renovation, it returned in 2025 more luxurious than ever, with a new Five-Star rating to match.

The refurb has introduced some added perks for guests staying at the hotel, including a luxurious outdoor gym, a communal fire pit for stargazing, and an atmospheric outdoor stage that further cements its reputation as one of the most exciting party hotels in Ibiza.

Perched on the cliffs of Cap Martinet overlooking Talamanca Bay with views of the historic Dalt Villa, Destino Five Ibiza has one of the most sought-after locations on the island, with the iconic Pacha Ibiza nightclub on its doorstep (well, around ten minute's drive; pretty much everything in Ibiza is a cab ride away) and Ibiza Town, with arguably the prettiest streets on the White Isle, within easy reach.

The hotel also boasts impressive sustainability credentials: like the Pacha Ibiza club — which has been dubbed 'the world's most sustainable nightclub' — it is powered by 100% Green Energy, has cut water waste by 24% since 2024 and sources nearly 40% of its produce from local island suppliers.

The hotel remains home to Pacha ICONS, the flagship party at Destino Five Ibiza every Thursday. Guests can also take advantage of having the hotel's daytime pool party playground, Playa Pacha, on their doorstep, where you'll find glamorous types reclining on plush loungers around the cherry-shaped pool with cocktails and Mediterranean bites with a soundtrack of laid-back Balearic beats. Sound tempting? This is everything you need to know about Destino Five Ibiza.

THE ROOMS

Destino Five Ibiza's 159 rooms were transformed in the renovation to align with the FIVE portfolio (FIVE Palm Jumeirah, FIVE Jumeirah Village and FIVE LUXE). Interiors nod to Pacha Ibiza's cultural legacy, with light-filled spaces, bohemian details and archive club photography — cherries included.

The Cherry Suites are, well, the cherry on top, at Destino Five Ibiza, boasting private terraces for that champagne pop moment and large private pools, as well as spacious interiors. There are four suites, which vary slightly in size, but all have long tables and the option to book a private chef for an evening of full decadence. The largest is the Cherry Vista Suite, complete with an extra-large pool, which features an impressive 126 m² of private garden space.

THE FOOD & DRINK

If you're a fan of dining with an incredible view, Elia restaurant offers a breezy terrace with views of Dalt Villa, Talamanca Bay, and even the neighbouring island of Formentera on a clear evening - an atmospheric setting for enjoying one of those famous Ibizan sunsets.

The menu is inspired by Greek cuisine, featuring fresh and simple ingredients. Enjoy the catch of the day alongside a flavour-packed Greek salad and roasted vegetables and meats cooked on the grill, with a roster of DJs providing the backing music.

Guests can also dine at Cielo restaurant, which exudes rustic charm with its finca-style setting, featuring menu highlights such as the restaurant's signature red lobster paella, sharing boards, freshly baked flatbreads and braised Angus short ribs, all washed down with delicious cocktails and fine wines.

THE ACTIVITIES

One of the highlights of Destino Five Ibiza is its proximity to Talamanca Beach, which is just a 20-minute walk along the coastline. This beach is one of Ibiza's prettiest spots, situated away from the crowds and high-rise hotels, and lined with bars and restaurants for a relaxed lunch or dip in the turquoise waters of the Balearic.

Cliffside pool club Playa Pacha is naturally a big draw for the hotel, bringing in a stylish crowd from across the island (non-hotel guests can buy a 'pool day pass' or book a lounger or hammock). By day, the atmosphere is more relaxed, with DJs rotating through laid-back sets that complement the understated poolside ambience.

At night, things ramp up, and guests can make their way to the open-air stage for live performances and events, such as Pacha ICONS and Marco Carola's Music On residency, which begins around 5pm on Thursdays. The Grand Closing Party is taking place on Thursday, 25 September, headlined by Solomun.

If you fancy a change of scene and to sample another iconic pool party, the famous Dolce & Gabbana beach club and wellness spot, Clap House, is just nearby — an indicator of just how luxurious this corner of Ibiza is.

NEED TO KNOWS

Booking a stay at Destino Five Ibiza grants complimentary access to Pacha Ibiza, subject to availability and venue capacity. Since 1973, Pacha Ibiza Nightclub has been a cultural and electronic music icon in Ibiza and remains one of the most sought-after clubs on the island.

Reservations at Destino Five Ibiza now offer exclusive flexibility with ‘Book Now, Pay Later’ options, complemented by personalised enhancements including private airport transfers, champagne on arrival, and bespoke wellness experiences.

Rooms at Destino Five Ibiza start at £320 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 07819 Cap Martinet, Balearic Islands, Spain

Phone: +34 971 31 74 11

A new chic hotel to add to your Paris wish list is the elegant Le Grand Hôtel Cayré in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Le Grand Hôtel Cayré is the debut hotel from the new lifestyle brand Miiro, which is midway through a master plan to open characterful, individually-designed hotels in Europe's most vibrant cities. Their portfolio also includes Borneta, a sociable hotel with a buzzy rooftop in Barcelona's El Born, and recently opened London hotel, Templeton Garden in Earl's Court.

Design-led Le Grand Hôtel Cayré has already carved itself a niche in the City of Lights as a smart yet affordable bolthole with plenty of cosy nooks for cocktail hour. Paris is notoriously expensive for hotels (and just about everything else), but with entry-level small (yet very stylish) rooms from £239, it's refreshingly reasonable.

The hotel leans into its old-school Parisian charm as much as the city's bohemian and creative side, with a thoughtful design blending old and new throughout its spaces. There's also a chic French brasserie and an impressive wraparound bar with an old-world charm that further cements the popularity of this elegant new hotel.

The historic Hotel Cayré was originally a meeting point for artists and creatives in the 1920s before being brought back to life in 2024 by the Miiro brand. The interiors reflect its Art Deco beginnings with a 20s-inspired design courtesy of renowned architectural designer Michaelis Boyd. Throughout the property, you'll find artwork showing the history of the building and its former inhabitants. With such sleek, design-led interiors, it certainly deserves a place in a fashion insider's guide to Paris.

ROOMS

Le Grand Hôtel Cayré has tasteful 123 bedrooms and two suites, with many premium rooms offering charming Juliet balconies and views across Paris' glittering skyline.

Rooms range from La Chambre Classic and La Chambre City (which offer views of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood and a cosy reading nook) to La Chambre Superior and La Chambre Deluxe rooms; La Suite du Collectionneur and Le Grand Hôtel Cayré Suite, which has its own terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower for a magical scene once the sun sets.

La Suite du Collectionneur is the pinnacle for art fans, designed in collaboration with renowned curator Gilbert Kann. The suite is full of original artwork, eclectic furniture and fashion-forward accessories, some of which are available to buy if you want to take a piece of Paris home with you.

FOOD & DRINKS

The star of the show when it comes to this delightful hotel's culinary offerings is Annette, an inviting French-style brasserie named after Annette Kolb, an inspirational French-German writer and pacifist who lived at the original property in the '40s. The restaurant offers scenic views of Boulevard Raspail alongside bistro classics. Try tartare du boeuf and crème brûlée washed down with fine French wine.

For drinks, head to Officine Bac, a hidden bar in a former pharmaceutical dispensary around the corner from Annette.

ACTIVITIES

Head to The Gallery, located next to the hotel lobby, for some downtime where you can relax with a coffee and enjoy some people-watching. It's an ideal place for reading or catching up on emails, with the walls adorned with photographs that tell the hotel's backstory.

There's no pool here, which is typical for a city centre hotel in Paris, but there is a small gym just as stylish as the hotel itself. Here, you'll find gym machines, free weights, and a stretching area.

One of the many positives of this chic Paris hotel is its central location—the Eiffel Tower is roughly a 30-minute stroll away, with the option to walk alongside the River Seine. La Grande Épicerie de Paris is also well worth a visit for foodies, who can browse local delicacies in the bustling food hall.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Le Grand Hôtel Cayré review start at £239 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 4 Bd Raspail, 75007 Paris, France

Phone: +33 1 4544 3888

The Hilton Milan hotel stands out from the crowd thanks to its convenient location. It's just a short stroll away from Milan Central railway station and has easy transport links from the airport. This classic Hilton hotel is ideally placed for exploring the city and offers guests a relaxing bolthole to return to after a day of sightseeing.

Shopping should be high on your agenda in Italy's fashion capital, with endless boutiques, luxury designer department stores, and more affordable markets selling local crafts on your doorstep. Being in Porta Nuova means you're close to famous shopping districts like the Quadrilatero della Moda, which is known for luxury fashion houses.

Thanks to its close proximity to Milan's central station, the Hilton Milan is also a great starting point for day trips. Lake Como is just under an hour away by train—ideal for a stylish day trip between aperitivos.

ROOMS

With 320 contemporary guest rooms—ranging from smart singles to spacious family suites—Hilton Milan caters to every kind of traveller, including solo explorers and those with pets in tow.

The interiors favour a sleek, understated design with a muted palette and finish. Plus plush, comfy beds for a restful night's sleep after exploring the city.

FOOD & DRINKS

There are two restaurants to choose from at Hilton Milan—the most casual Pacific Milano Restaurant and the hotel's star restaurant, CotoliAMO, which serves Milanese cuisine.

The menu features dishes like carpaccio, breaded veal, and, of course, risotto. In addition to using local ingredients and championing seasonal produce, CotoliAMO shows its commitment to sustainability in the finer details.

When it comes to the bar, Hilton Milan takes its spritz offering seriously, with an impressive list of options and some fresh takes on the classic Italian drink using a variety of Italian spirits and seasonal fruits. There are also happy hour offers to take advantage of during your stay.

ACTIVITIES

One of the main plus points of this city centre hotel is its central location. As well as being easy to reach once you arrive in Milan, there are plenty of attractions to explore on foot.

La Scala, a historic opera house that's seen some of the world's greatest opera singers grace its stage, is a half an hour walk away (or 15-minute taxi—traffic tends to be heavy in the city) and a must-visit for classical music fans or culture buffs. As well as housing some incredible talent, the building is a spectacle designed by famous neoclassical architect Giuseppe Piermarini and can accommodate up to 2309 spectators.

You're well-placed for sightseeing at the Hilton Milan. Duomo Cathedral and the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home of Da Vinci's The Last Supper, are also within easy reach, while Milan Cathedral is just under two miles away. The hotel's staff welcomes queries and offers sightseeing tours around the city to help you plan your stay.

While there's no pool, guests can enjoy round-the-clock access to the well-equipped fitness centre—ideal for staying energised during your city break.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at the Hilton Milan start at £192 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: Via Luigi Galvani, 12, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Phone: +39 02 69831

With rugged coastlines softened by golden sand and rolling mountains resting beneath a blanket of lush greenery, Corfu is a sight to behold. The Greek island is instantly captivating thanks to its dramatic welcome - a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, followed by a thrilling descent onto the infamous water-locked runway. On the northern coast you’ll find Grecotel LUXME Costa Botanica, a 5* resort offering a potent medley of fine-dining, first-class hospitality and authentic Corfiot charm. An enclave of natural beauty, relaxation and unparalleled culinary experiences, it’s where luxury travel meets all-inclusive.

Why Go

Corfu is a popular destination for sun seekers and culture cravers, and you’ll find Costa Botanica less than an hour away from Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport. Resting on the northern tip of the island, it’s uniquely positioned between towering mountains, peaceful countryside and a majestic, sandy shoreline. Corfiot customs permeate the resort; the sun-dappled piazza acts as its beating heart, offering a quiet iced coffee spot by day and embodying a thriving town square spirit by night. The biggest draw, though, is that it's a family-friendly all-inclusive with an ultra-luxury lilt. There aren’t just pools - there’s a water park with it's own lazy river. There aren’t just à la carte restaurants - there’s a Lobsteria and sommelier-guided wine tasting experiences on site. There isn’t just a kids club - there’s a fully-functioning art studio for little ones to get creative. And it’s these premium touches, seamlessly and affectionately fused with Greek traditions, that make Costa Botanica truly unique.

The Vibe

From the moment you enter the lobby you’ll notice nods to the natural world - tigers and peacocks are embroidered into sofa cushions in the welcome area, ornate duck lamps line the walls and there’s an unmissable elephant mount in the lobby bar. Potted plants and expanding palm trees live both indoors and out, and beyond the piazza lies the Botanica Fields which are open for walks or scenic bike rides. You’re free to explore the surrounding olive groves and canals - you may even spot turtles and otters at the nearby Lake of Lilies. Along the coast, thatched parasols line the sandy beach and floating sunbeds look out onto the expansive Albanian mountain range just beyond the rippling blue sea. If there’s one thing you’re being encouraged to do here, it’s relax.

Given the importance of rest, a trip to the spa is a must. Head to the beautifully designed hammam, sauna and steam rooms before booking a treatment; with everything from lymphatic massage to hyaluronic acid facials on the menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For those who prefer to stay active, the indoor gym is fully equipped (it even houses an impressively large boxing ring) and there’s a small reformer Pilates studio, too. Outdoors, you’ll find tennis and padel courts. Don’t miss the sunrise yoga sessions on the beach deck; there’s nothing more zen-inducing than a morning stretch to the sound of the lapping waves.

The fun isn’t reserved for adults, either. The aqua park includes a number of winding water slides and a gentle lazy river, and you’ll find craft classes at the nearby kids club. There are also children’s cooking classes, horse riding lessons and a small farm to keep the little ones busy.

The Rooms

The resort offers two distinct options when it comes to accommodation. The first is within The Country House; just moments from the piazza and comprising seven small neighbourhoods, it offers studios, family apartments and suites for those who want to be a stone’s throw away from the main hub. Guests here are also privy to small vegetable patches and flower gardens on their doorstep, but the landscape changes as you move towards the second offering, The Summer Houses. Set just before the kilometre-long stretch of private beach, the paths here are lined with feathery palm trees, and the villas - boldly embracing the island’s earthy terracotta and ochre palette - are dotted around the grand pool.

For a truly restorative stay, opt for the Family Summer Home. The two-bedroom suite sleeps up to five, with a private terrace overlooking the sprawling gardens - a great spot for a peaceful morning coffee as the birds chirp and the coral sunrise paints the sky. Light, airy and contemporary in style, these suites feel like modern beach houses with traditional touches; think wooden shutters on arched windows, cascading bed canopies, and wicker furniture alongside a Nespresso machine, mini bar, and bathrooms with both a rainfall shower and a deep-set bath. Charming and contemporary? Tick.

The Food and Drink

Exceptional fine-dining, local organic produce and cooking experiences like no other, you’ll be taken on a real culinary journey during your stay. In the day, the Beach Club is your go-to for iced coffees, crêpes and ice creams, while the main buffet restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But the four à la carte eateries are worlds away from what you might expect at an all-inclusive resort. Sumptuous fresh sushi can be found at Asiana, while the bustling Tavernaki serves mouth-watering meze. However, it’s a table at The Botanika that will seriously impress you. Here, you’ll find the Lobsteria with a decadent menu - choose a delicate sea bass ceviche, rich lobster linguine or remarkable lobster Wellington. For a laidback dining experience, head to Nonna’s. The Italian Trattoria is the perfect sea-facing spot to watch the sunset as you sink your teeth into juicy burrata with prosciutto and a slow-cooked beef pappardelle.

For the foodies who also love to cook, grab an apron and head to the purpose-built outdoor kitchen to enjoy a traditional Greek cooking class. Not only can you take a new recipe home, you can also pick up ingredients from the resort’s very own Agreco farm (if you pick one thing, make it the extra virgin olive oil). The Cava Bottega wine tasting experience is a perfect evening activity, too, and non-drinkers need not miss out - there’s a great selection of alcohol free wines to sample.

What To Do In Corfu

Take a taxi to Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s bursting with colour and character. At its heart you’ll find a maze of cobbled streets lined with shops, stalls, and ample opportunities to enjoy a refreshing drink al fresco. It’s a lively hub, but there are pockets of peace hidden just behind the buzzing and lively lanes - book a walking tour and explore just beyond the footfall to get a real look at the beautiful Venetian-inspired architecture.

Between your beach days and city shopping, marvel at the idyllic coastlines and dramatic landscapes with a private jeep safari tour which offers a robust taste of the island. You’ll soak up the breathtaking blue waters of Cape Drastic, wind through the narrow streets of Makrades village, and sip traditional Greek coffee encased by panoramic views of Paleokastritsa. There’s also fun (and flavour) to be found during the tasting experiences at a local brewery and olive oil estate, before tucking into a cliffside lunch overlooking Arillas Bay.

And don’t miss Danilia Village, Grecotel’s very own replica of a traditional Corfiot town. You’ll be transported back in time as you savour traditional Greek cuisine (created with local organic farm produce, no less) under the stars and string lights, serenaded by a small live band. Absolutely unmissable.

Additional Information

Fly to Corfu International Airport and take a one hour taxi to Acharavi. Private transfers are bookable through the reservations team. The hotel offers guests free Wi-Fi, as well as 24/7 Whatsapp concierge service, room service, laundry service and parking. Staff can also help to facilitate car rental services, taxis, bikes and private transfers, and guests can book restaurant reservations, activities and find additional information through the Grecotel app. Rates from £306 for a Botanica Room with a Private Balcony.

How to book

For more information about booking a stay at Grecotel LUXME Costa Botanica, visit their website here. You can also contact the reservations team by phone (+30 26630 64000-5) or via email (reservations.bo@grecotel.com).

For an upmarket stay in Paris, head to Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower in the affluent 16th arrondissement in southwest Paris. This modern hotel still feels suitably Parisian, nestled among classic 19th-century Haussman buildings, with some of Paris' prettiest green spaces within easy reach.

When it launched in 2021, this was the first location from the Canopy property portfolio to open in the country, characterised by its fresh, minimal spaces and enviable location. Thanks to its recent refurbishment, the interiors feel modern and well thought out, and the amenities are state-of-the-art.

The roof terrace has one of the most coveted views in Paris—the Eiffel Tower standing tall above the city's rooftops. It's a spectacle best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand, and the chic Eylau Paris Rooftop Bar offers craft beers, inventive cocktails, and a discerning menu devised by Chef Rémy Ribeaucourt. Watching the sun set with this view is non-negotiable, and the menu offers enough variety to see you through to late-night chats with Paris' most famous landmark twinkling in the background.

Incredible rooftop aside, there's plenty more space to relax at Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower. The open-plan lobby operates as a multifunctional area, with comfortable seating for lounging, working, or enjoying a coffee while people-watching. The whole aesthetic is relaxed and never stuffy; it's a contemporary take on a classic Paris hotel.

ROOMS

Rooms are modern and comfortable, echoing the warm colour palette seen throughout the hotel. The suites are impressive, some with views of the Eiffel Tower and its glittering nightly light show. There are 123 rooms and feature suites in total, split across seven floors.

Paris is known for its small bedrooms, but the rooms at Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower have a surprising amount of space, particularly in the suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows also ensure there's plenty of light. All rooms feature a signature Canopy bed with Serta Cool Balance Technology and blackout curtains, allowing you to get a restful night's sleep before exploring the sights.

FOOD & DRINKS

Eylau Paris rooftop bar is the standout space here. It has a well-thought-out area for lengthy lunches and sunset drinks. The wooden decking area features deck chairs, high chairs arranged around long tables, and a shaded sofa area, perfect for relaxing while admiring the view.

This area comes alive once the sun sets, with guests and locals mingling among the Parisian rooftops. It's worth noting that Eylau Paris is only open to guests and the public during the summer months.

Don't miss L'Esprit Nouveau, the stunning ground-floor restaurant. Rémy Ribeaucourt is at the helm, and the restaurant serves classic French dinner dishes, as well as breakfast and lunch. Dinner is an à la carte affair, but there's also a lighter snack menu for those seeking something less formal. Family crowd-pleasers, such as pizza, are also available. Breakfast is plentiful, with hot and cold options and a chef on hand to whip up some eggs however you like them. Breakfast specials are on rotation throughout the week.

ACTIVITIES

The rooftop bar is the main event here; there's no pool or spa. However, the hotel has a fitness centre for anyone wanting to fit a workout into their getaway routine. Another sweet touch is that the hotel offers complimentary Canopy bikes to tour the neighbourhood, which is a much more fun way to ramp up your cardio.

For parents, babysitters are available for hire if you're craving a night of exploring the City of Lights child-free. Paris is, after all, known as the most romantic city in the world; there are few places better for a special date night.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower start at £368 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 16 Av. d'Eylau, 75116 Paris, France

Phone: +33 1 4550 5070

When it comes to Mediterranean getaways that promise good food, good weather, good people, and great scenery, Greece is hard to rival. But with seemingly endless island options that cater to all tastes, it’s hard to know where to start.

Sometimes overlooked in favour of the smaller islands, Crete, Greece’s largest island, has a huge amount to offer for a wide range of travellers: from remnants of legendary civilisations to beautiful beaches, partnered with a rich gastronomic culture. The island is an authentic taste of the best of the Med. Tucked into the North-Eastern coast sits Phaea Blue, a true Cretan treasure—here’s why it should be on your 2025 travel list.

The Location

Three miles from Elounda, a lazy, low-key seaside resort with a tiny fishing port and cobbled streets of local shops, nestled into a sheltered bay overlooking the island of Spinalonga—the leper colony that was made famous by Victoria Hislop’s award-winning novel, The Island—you’ll find Phaea Blue. The property has recently transformed from a sprawling resort, once belonging to The Rosewood, to a smaller boutique hotel. The large wooden doors of which are thrown open just for you, as if you were entering your very own Cretan estate. An incredibly chic one, mind. This sets the tone of authenticity that awaits, and is embedded in every aspect of Phaea Blue.

The Accomodation

Stepping into the world of Phaea Blue, you’re greeted with huge vaulted ceilings in a lobby that, despite its grandeur in design, has such a relaxed feel to it—you’ll find yourself plopping onto the soft linen sofas before you know it.

It’s that ethos that has been applied to the 47 suites and bungalows that have all been overhauled, too. Each room and suite comprises spacious and sleek living spaces in cream-toned colour schemes, and blond parquet flooring—the ideal calming palette to best enjoy the bright blues of the surrounding landscape. I don’t know about you, but bathrooms and how they look are top of the priority list when it comes to a luxe getaway. Thankfully, the bathrooms here have been afforded the same attention as the bedrooms: these glorious spaces are covered in marble floors, have ginormous free-standing bath tubs, separate rain shower cubicles and are filled with deliciously fragrant organic toiletries.

The accommodation ranges from deluxe rooms to suites, many of which host private heated pools on terraces overlooking the nearby bay and Spinalonga—these are the ones you’ll want to plump for—as well as a large private residence, Phaea blue Villa. The three-bedroom villa is expansive (both indoors and outdoors) with lofty open-plan living that is echoed across all of the hotel’s suites, and a large heated pool with unobstructed views over the bay. The villa comes with a dedicated butler ensuring all of your holiday wishes are possible while you sit back and enjoy your surroundings. The option for those wanting to push the boat out that little bit further.

While much of the accommodation benefits from neighbouring sea views, several suites have garden or distant sea views, but there is still plenty to enjoy, including split-level living, heated pools, and spacious stone terraces.

The Facilities

Immediately off from the impressive lobby (which also hosts an inviting long bar and cosy corners to bed into), is a terrace that leads to an heated pool surrounded by day chic beds with a beautiful view overlooking the bay. This area is the hub for the hotel, and with various seating options around it, from sprawling sofas to day beds. It’s where you will want to spend alot of your time.

When it comes to dining options, every offering is certified delicious and not only uses predominantly local products and also local techniques, but is a real celebration of Cretan gastronomy.

Start your day with breakfast at Anthos where you can grab a plate of watermelon, feta and honey (as well as local Cretan cheese, pastries and plenty of healthy options) and enjoy it on the restaurant’s terrace overlooking views of the sea and a glimpse of the pool below. In the evening, Anthos—recently awarded the Global Winner for ‘Greek Cuisine’ at the prestigious World Luxury Restaurant Awards—becomes the main restaurant of the hotel. There is an emphasis on Greek cuisine throughout Phaea Blue and Anthos provides an elevated offering of mezzo-style sharing plates from traditional "Antikristo,"melt-in-your-muth lamb roasted on an open fire to moreish crispy potatoes (we immediately ordered another bowl after we devoured the first in minutes) and creamy rice so flavourful it will have you thinking of it long after you have retreated back to your room.

Down by the beach lies The Blue Door, which was once a fisherman’s house and is now Phaea Blue’s local taverna. Like something out of a Greek romance, the checkered blue and white tablecloths overlook the sparkling bay and grant patrons a great view of Spinalonga (before she disappears into the dark as the sun goes down). The food is as traditional as the setting, with dips and breads galore to share family style, but the real star of the show is the salt-baked sea bass that is feathery light, buttery and a total delight.

As well as the two main restaurants, there is a dessert lounge above the lobby which provides an array of Cretan sweets (dutifully paired with aperitifs should you indulge in that of course), and the Phaea Farmers Feast Pop-Up. Celebrating the farm-to-table ethos as well as Cretan cooking methods passed down through generations, the pop-up experience takes place in the hotel’s neighbouring organic garden. As pretty as you could possibly imagine (your Instagram page certainly thinks so), expect fresh product direct from the ground in front of you, and tender meat cooked directly in the soil to honour age-old traditions.

Don't Miss

The library lobby is stacked full of design-led coffee table books documenting not only Greek culture and arts but fashion and the wider zeitgeist. And while you’re there, pop into the hotel shop that flows effortlessly from the lobby and invites you in with soft linens and washed out cottons from Zeus and Dione as well as jewellery and homeware pieces.

I’ve always wanted to go to Ibiza before my 30th birthday. The Spanish island is revered as a hedonistic, picturesque paradise, complete with unbeatable sunsets, Med-fresh seafood, and more party locations than you can count. I’ve heard many a story of world-famous DJS playing once-in-a-lifetime sets at iconic destinations spanning Pacha to Pikes, and long heard friends and colleagues rave about the location as a must-visit.

One of the Balearic islands and an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza Old Town and Sant Antoni are well-known as hotspots, but what you don’t read much about before you visit are the quiet coastal villages, hilltop destinations and sandy, cove-speckled beaches.

That’s why, when an invite to stay in Talamanca - arguably a quieter part of the island, but a beautiful one nonetheless - landed in my inbox just a few months shy of my 30th birthday, I was all ears. It wasn’t quite for a party weekender; rather, to stay at the recently renovated Ocean Drive Talamanca hotel, which had signed on as the official hotel partner for the annual Ibiza Marathon that weekend, of which I took part.

While many may not picture Ibiza as a wellness destination, our trip proved quite the opposite. We enjoyed four blissful days of running, swimming, massages and sound baths, all from the comfort of a hotel that really puts the five-star in five stars. The visit was once in a lifetime, and the hotel itself near faultless. So, if you’re looking for an effortlessly stylish, comfortable and chill hotel for your next European trip, keep scrolling to read my full review. I’ll certainly be visiting again soon…

Ocean Drive Talamanca is, hands down, one of the nicest hotels I’ve had the pleasure of staying at - your guide

The vibes

A short 15 or so minute drive from Ibiza Airport, you’re made to feel immediately at home at Ocean Drive the second you step in the door. We were met with a welcome glass of bubbles and checked in with ease, and the staff also had the good grace of letting us head up to our room around five hours early - a treat after an early morning of travelling.

With 117 rooms on offer, there’s plenty to choose from, but all promise to be modern, sleek and refined with a contemporary Mediterranean touch. And ours was certainly that - spacious, well-designed and stylish, it had a ridiculously comfortable king-sized bed, sea-view balcony, and lounge area, too. Housekeepers left thoughtful touches each day - sweet treats upon arrival, dried lavender on our pillows, and notes with poems on.

Ambient music seems to flow through the hotel at all hours, and there’s a calm, relaxed feel about the place. One of our favourite spots to unwind was next to the pool with an Aperol Spritz in hand.

The facilities

Effortlessly stylish, modern and accommodating, the hotel itself is kitted out with contemporary pine furniture, slick light fittings and artwork from local talent.

There are three pools, two pool bars and a rooftop sun deck, not to mention a small but sufficiently stocked gym and both a ground-level and rooftop restaurant, too. Don’t miss out on their massage offering, either - I had an absolutely dreamy experience during mine, where my masseuse combined sound therapy with traditional sports massage techniques to ease muscle tension and melt away stress. They also offer on-site hair, make up and manicure treatments - pampering yourself never looked so easy.

Do make use of the concierge team, if you visit - Maria was friendly, accommodating and on hand for our trip to make sure we had everything we needed. If you’re considering booking the destination for the Ibiza Marathon next year, they also offer private transfers to and from the race, which made race day itself far less stressful.

Location-wise, I can’t fault it - you’re a 10-minute drive or 40-minute walk from the historical Old Town and minutes from the marina, where there are a whole host of restaurants, bars, and world-renowned nighttime venues to explore. That said, they do have private chauffeur services, Fiat 500 cars, a helicopter charter, a boat charter, and motorcycle hire available, too, not to mention an 80-car garage, too. TLDR: There’s plenty of ways to get around if you’d rather not walk.

Keen to go out out? Simply ask at the front desk or concierge about their VIP Access to clubs, including the world-renowned Lío, Pacha and Ushuaïa.

The food

We were quite blown away by the food at Ocean Drive, and testament to the level of effort and care we experienced for our whole trip, they had a dedicated specials menu the weekend we stayed, designed to fuel runners ahead of the race (think pesto pasta, pan con tomate, and more).

Breakfast can be enjoyed downstairs or on their roof terrace, and has a wide selection of fresh fruits, pastries, breads, vegetables, meats and eggs - there’s even an entire gluten-free section and nuts, seeds and spreads wall (ideal for curating the perfect granola bowl). If you don’t fancy a buffet-style breakfast, you can also order off the menu - we opted for the Spanish omelette and pancakes most mornings, and neither disappointed.

Come dinner time, the stars of the show at their Up and Down restaurant were the Buratta salad, served with fresh, juicy tomatoes and local olive oil, and all of the fish dishes - almost decadently flavourful.

The highlight of our trip, bar how blissfully relaxing the hotel was, was our Sunday night dinner at nearby Hostal La Torre. It’s a bit of a drive from the hotel - around 30 minutes or so, nestled in the hills on the west coast of the island - but well worth it for the breathtaking sea views and uninterrupted sunsets you can enjoy. Promising to encapsulate the authentic Ibicenco spirit, its quiet yet buzzy atmosphere was really magical and made our final evening memorable. Picture spicy margaritas made with their own in-house liqueur, the best Padron peppers of the trip and a tuna tonata that I’m still thinking about (a must-try, if you go), and you’re on the right track.

Post race, we also enjoyed a moreish and delicious meal at La Cava, a tapas and cocktail bar that also has a delicatessen next door. The staff were unbelievably friendly and the food fresh as anything, making it a sure-fire “add to list” for next time you’re in the Ibiza Old Town.

The need to know

Standard rooms at Ocean Drive Talamanca start from £300 per night, which includes breakfast, service charges and VAT. It's worth noting, too, that direct bookings get a best price guarantee, complimentary early check-in and late check-out if available, a welcome drink and a flexible cancellation policy.

Since its opening in 2017, The Ned has quickly ascended the ranks to be regarded as one of London's best hotels. Along with the stylish Nomad Hotel in Covent Garden, The Ned represents a new wave of hotels in the capital with a contemporary take on hospitality that merges classical styles with modern flair and hot-ticket dining that attracts as many Londoners as hotel guests.

The building, which Sir Edwin 'Ned' Lutyens designed, is spectacular and was initially constructed as the Midland Bank HQ in the 1920s. The redesign is sympathetic to the building's original features, with its grand columns and old bank counters remaining focal points of the lobby space. The hotel, also a private member's club, honours its history by leaning into '20s, Art Deco-inspired interiors, keeping textures and schemes sumptuous and luxurious.

There's a lot to like about The Ned, from its seven unique restaurants and all-day Sunday feasting events to its elegant spa, reminiscent of an old Hollywood retreat. It's easy to see why the popularity of this atmospheric London hotel shows no signs of waning any time soon.

ROOMS

Rooms at The Ned vary in size, but they all have a design inspired by the '20s and '30s, with vintage-style pieces and intricate details. The room sizes begin with 'Cosy', which are small but still feature a Queen-sized bed, and go up to the magnificent Lutyens Suite, named after the building's architect. The Lutyens Suite features two en suite bedrooms, a large lounge, a bar for cocktail hour, and a dining space; essentially, you won't ever need to leave your hotel room.

At the midway point, the Heritage rooms are spacious and lean into '20s styling. These rooms boast original features designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, including glass palm chandeliers, vintage car cabinets, and marble fireplaces for a suitably decadent feeling. Many rooms also have roll-top baths next to the bed as another fun touch.

FOOD & DRINKS

When it comes to dining options, The Ned really excels. The hotel is famous for its decadent Sunday feast at Cecconi's—perhaps the biggest and most luxurious Sunday spread in London and a rival for Dubai's Insta-worthy brunches.

Lobster, Champagne, a full Sunday roast with all the trimmings — the list goes on and on with this high-end all-you-can-eat affair. It's not cheap at £110 per person (or £175 with free-flowing champagne), but it's a real experience; not only for the luxurious food offering but also the atmospheric surroundings.

The lobby, a vast former banking hall, is the hub of the Ned's dining scene, with access to its impressive seven restaurants and three bars. You can enjoy drinks here, too, often with a live band playing soothing jazz on Sunday or up-tempo tunes on Saturday night on the lobby's central stage.

Each restaurant is sectioned off by grand verdite columns and banking counters—original features of this historic building. Restaurant highlights include the Italian-style Cecconi’s City of London, which offers all-day pizza and pasta dining; Kaia, an Asian-inspired restaurant with chefs busily working behind counter-style seating where you can sample some excellent sushi; and The Vault Bar, a hidden drinking den with a genuine wow factor.

On the higher end of the scale, Lutyens Grill feels like an old-school New York steak house with carving trolleys and waiters dressed in smart suits. If you're looking for white tablecloth fine dining with impeccable service, this is a good (but expensive) option for dining at The Ned.

Of course, with the City of London on your doorstep, there are countless incredible dining opportunities nearby. But there's something comforting about enjoying dinner and drinks, knowing all you need to do is summon the lift to get to your cosy bedroom. And with seven options, there's something for everybody.

ACTIVITIES

Ned’s Club Spa is another example of the hotel's sleek interiors—as London spas go, it really amplifies the glamour. Like many high-end central London hotels, The Ned has a basement spa. But this only adds to its intoxicating environment, with its partially lit, serene 20-metre pool framed by plush loungers crying out to be napped on.

You can turn a visit to Ned's wellness space into a spa circuit, too, with access to a sauna and steam room, as well as treatment rooms where guests can indulge in a massage, facial or body scrub, and manis and pedis. There's also a resident aesthetic doctor on-site, Dr Benji Dhillon, who specialises in non-surgical procedures.

The changing rooms are a highlight, oozing glamour and in keeping with the building's history with original antique wood panelling, marble flooring, and Art Deco mirrors that nod towards old Hollywood.

Located in the City of London, guests only need to step outside to be within easy reach of some of central London's best attractions. St Paul's Cathedral, the Bank of England Museum, and the Tower of London are all within walking distance.

For those who want to venture further afield, the tube makes it easy to access different neighbourhoods dotted around London, each with their own character. Try arsty Clerkenwell, with its pared-back restaurants, inviting wine bars and many galleries, or bustling Shoreditch, where you'll find street art and late-night bars. Bank Underground station is just a few feet away, while Cannon Street is around seven minutes on foot.

NEED TO KNOW

Rooms at The Ned start at £281 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 27 Poultry, City of London, London EC2R 8AJ

Phone: 020 3828 2000

Looking at the grand interiors of the Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin, you'd likely think it would have a heftier price tag. But this Latin Quarter hotel is refreshingly affordable for a four-star property in central Paris.

Architect Vincent Bastie and interior designer Marie-Paule Clout have taken great care to honour the building's heritage and uncover its ancient history, with the hotel's remains dating back to Roman Paris. Inside, the hotel is a melting pot of cultural influences, from the Roman-inspired wellness area to its charming Medieval patio. Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin celebrates Parisian history, with nods to its eras throughout history in its playful and eclectic décor.

Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin is on a peaceful side street between The Panthéon and the Luxembourg Gardens. Although it is a quiet haven to retreat after a busy day's exploring, the vibrant Latin Quarter is just moments away. Explore lively bars and late-night restaurants in one of the oldest districts in Paris.

With a destination as popular with tourists as Paris, new hotels are constantly launching. But Hôtel Grand Cœur Latin is cutting through the noise with its bold interiors, idyllic wellness space and quintessential Parisian charm. This is everything you need to know about this charming hotel in the 5th arrondissement.

ROOMS

The light and airy rooms at Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin create a relaxing mood, decorated in a minimal style with warm and muted tones. There are plush extras that elevate the experience, like plush robes and slippers and French, organic welcome products. There are 82 rooms and eight different types, ranging from a standard double to a spacious, lavish suite. This hotel is also a brilliant option for solo travellers, with a cosy single room for €200—that's €50 less than a standard double room.

FOOD & DRINK

Like many smaller hotels in Paris, Hôtel Grand Cœur Latin doesn't have a dedicated restaurant, but the hotel bar is a destination in its own right. Set in the heart of the hotel with a view over the hotel's Medieval patio, this inviting bar serves cocktails, snacks, sweet treats and grazing boards. The patio and bar area is an open-air oasis and the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee before exploring the city.

Breakfast is a glorious buffet affair, with pastries, fresh bread, yoghurt, fruit and juices served in the main restaurant until 11 am—time for a healthy lie-in if the bars of Pigalle or Le Marais were calling your name the night before.

ACTIVITIES

One of the clear winning features of this historic hotel is its Roman-inspired wellness centre, offering a bright and colourful spa area with a real wow factor. The 15-meter pool is long enough for a decent swim, and guests can relax in the steamy hammam when it launches soon. Decadent YONKA products are used during treatments, which can be performed solo or as a couple.

Famous sights such as Notre Dame and The Panthéon are easily accessible on foot. If you want to travel further afield, the Luxembourg Metro station is just three minutes from Hôtel Grand Cœur Latin.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at the Hôtel Grand Cœur Latin start at €200 (approximately £166) for a single room, and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at +33 1 89 40 57 40.

Address: 20 Rue Cujas, 75005 Paris, France

Hilton Bankside is a perfect example of the new age of Hilton, with slick industrial-chic interiors and a more lifestyle-focused approach.

But while this Southwark hotel will please adults with its contemporary artwork and sleek pool, it's also one of the best London hotels for families in the area and has some impressive sustainability credentials. Beyond the glossy exterior, there's much more to this forward-thinking hotel than meets the eye.

This design-led hotel, launched by Hilton in 2015, has subtle touches such as classic films playing in the lobby and chic design details that put it a cut above a city centre chain hotel.

Hilton London Bankside is one of the few hotels in the UK to earn the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification, recognising its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, noting Bankside's zero-to-landfill policy and outreach work with the local community.

It's also an excellent option for a family break. There are thoughtful touches for children, including a sweet cart at reception that will delight little ones and interconnecting rooms with 'grown-up' and 'children's' rooms that come complete with fox bedspreads and in-room gifts (including adorable mini-me dressing gowns).

ROOMS

We've already mentioned the option of interconnecting rooms; 58 pairs are perfect for families. In addition to family rooms, there are 25 bespoke suites with luxurious finishing touches and two in-room Peloton fitness experiences for those who are serious about working out while away.

Rooms are available in Standard, Deluxe, and Executive sizes. The rooms' decor is tasteful and understated, with a calming olive and forest green pallet. With king-sized beds and desks for digital nomads with concealed plug/USB panels, everything feels ultra modern here.

FOOD & DRINKS

OXBO is the hotel's main restaurant—and it doesn't actually feel like a hotel restaurant at all. It has its own entrance and plenty of non-guests dining during breakfast and dinner. Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the hotel's bottomless brunch, a four-course affair with two hours of unlimited alcohol.

Brunch aside, Bankside has a lively evening atmosphere, with The Distillery Bar serving up inventive cocktails and old favourites. The hotel's communal spaces have the buzz you expect from a city centre hotel in the capital.

Breakfast is hearty and plentiful, served as a huge buffet where guests can help themselves to a generous spread of pastries, fruit, yoghurt, cereal, toast, and other baked goods. Cooked options are available, with dishes like eggs, bacon sandwiches or pancakes available to order.

ACITIVITIES

The hotel has the usual amenities you'd expect from a five-star hotel, including a wellness space with a 17-meter heated indoor pool, sauna, high-tech gym and 'Renew at Hilton London Bankside' treatment rooms. Guests who prefer to exercise in the open air are also near the River Thames and its iconic walking and running route.

Bankside is also a hotel near Tate Modern (just a few minutes on foot), making it ideal for a cultural break in London. Foodies will also want to head to nearby Borough Market, with its vibrant food scene and many beautiful restaurants. Dining options here are extensive and arguably some of the best in the city.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Hilton London Bankside start at £182 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Stepping into the ultra-modern Hôtel Pilgrim, it's easy to feel at home. Set on Paris' Left Bank, the layout is welcoming and relaxed—you'll likely find guests mingling with locals and tourists in the open-plan brunch/co-working space, where digital nomads are welcome.

The décor may be industrial-led, with architects at Cyril Durand Behar leaning into a contemporary feel with exposed brick and ceiling pipes. But, the hotel's communal spaces still have a cosy feel, and its design takes notes from the '70s with earthy tones and graphic prints that add character and warmth. Adding to the gallery-like quality of the hotel is a collection of artwork curated by Studio Saint-Lazare. These unique pieces, nestled among historic photographs, prevent the pared-back public spaces from feeling sterile.

One of the joys of visiting Paris is that it's an excellent destination for solo travellers. A buzzing capital city much smaller than London, it's easy to navigate via the efficient Metro. The city's cafe culture allows for many quiet moments alone, enjoying a café noisette and croissant while reading, catching up on emails, or people-watching. Hôtel Pilgrim makes the perfect base for solo travellers with its laptop-friendly spaces, communal dining, and a compact spa for an indulgent afternoon of R&R. Paris is a city built for lovers, and couples will also love this luxurious hotel. Meanwhile, the rooftop cocktail bar is perfect for a drink with friends and has panoramic views of the city. It's worth noting that Hôtel Pilgrim is aimed at young professionals and groups of friends rather than families.

Hôtel Pilgrim sits in the centre of the 5th arrondissement. It's the perfect base to explore the peaceful island of Île Saint-Louis and take in its impressive 17th and 18th-century architecture. You're in Paris, so expect a strong wine and cheese offering, wherever you are. L'Etiquette, a cosy wine shop selling natural and biodynamic wines, and La Ferme Saint-Aubin, a charming cheese shop known for its generosity with samples, are within easy reach on foot from the hotel.

THE ROOMS

The 53 rooms at Hôtel Pilgrim are modern and compact, with wide bay-style windows that make them feel more spacious and airy. The decor is pared-back but still nods to the hotel's '70s aesthetic, with a muted colour palette of greys, deep red, orange, and yellow and period-style furniture in the suites, whilst bathrooms are stocked with LA Bruket products, a natural and organic beauty brand.

FOOD & DRINKS

The F&B offering reflects the laid-back vibe you'd expect from a home-away-from-home establishment. The ground-floor dining space evolves throughout the day: transforming from a breakfast spot to an all-day brunch hangout where guests and locals can chat, work and relax.

On the seventh-floor rooftop, there's a small but very thoughtful collection of cocktails to enjoy as the sun dips behind Paris' rooftops. Think of your favourite martini with a new twist, rather than a pina colada. Current tipples include a smokey concoction of mezcal, bergamot and grapefruit or a blend of passionfruit and blackcurrant bitters topped off with kombucha. The bar also serves French Bloom, a premium alcohol-free fizz.

THE ACTIVITIES

One of the hotel's most attractive features is its compact and modern spa. This underground oasis is a great place to recharge, with a 37sq.m. pool, plush loungers, and steam bath available to guests free of charge. The hotel's policy of 45-minute booked slots means that there are never more than eight people in the area at a time.

Highlights from the extensive treatment menu include a jet lag massage to soothe the travel-weary, a Californian massage for rejuvenation, and a Kobido facial massage inspired by ancient Japanese techniques. Prices aren't cheap, with massages costing around £125 for an hour—but this is central Paris, after all.

THE NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at the Hôtel Pilgrim start at €250 (approximately £208), and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at +33 1 80 27 33 11.

Address: 11 Rue de Poissy, 75005 Paris, France

Corinthia London is unashamedly lavish. Take the Crystal Moon Lounge, famous for its decadent afternoon tea service, illuminated by a 1,001 Baccarat crystal chandelier that's nothing short of magnificent. It's precisely what you would imagine when thinking of a classic London landmark hotel: vintage pianos, elegant cocktails, dapper doormen, and waiters in impeccable suits. The well-dressed clientele clearly favours luxury, of the not-so-quiet kind.

Corinthia London was initially opened as the Metropole Hotel in 1885 and relaunched by Corinthia Hotels International in 2011. Since then, it has cemented its place as one of the best London hotels for a luxury stay (or UK staycation). The hotel is located inside a grand city-centre building that formerly housed the Ministry of Defense, moments away from the River Thames. Popular central London attractions, Trafalgar Square, Somerset House and the Houses of Parliament, are within easy reach.

The Corinthia doesn't do things by halves, and Espa’s flagship spa is both high-tech when it comes to treatments and elegantly classic in style. This plush spa spans four floors with a refreshingly big pool (compared to many other London hotels) and a classy thermal suite that includes an ice fountain, sauna, steam room, and marble loungers (heated for extra comfort). There are also treatment rooms where guests can indulge in beauty treatments and appointments with nutritionists, acupuncturists and physiotherapists. Plus, there's currently an Augustinus Bader residency where guests can experience the ultimate in high-end skincare and treatments.

For those looking to book a suite for a London getaway, the Corinthia has some of the best in the city, with terraces overlooking the River Thames. The famous Whitehall Penthouse has its own giant chessboard with a backdrop of the city's skyline — you can't get more quintessentially British than that.

ROOMS

Corinthia London has 279 rooms, divided into four categories: Executive, Deluxe, Superior, and Family rooms, plus the hotel's famous lavish suites. Rooms are spacious, even at entry level, and reflect the hotel's opulent decor, with thoughtful finishing touches (think coffee table magazines like lifestyle bible Kinfolk or the Corinthia's own coffee table magazine, The Column) to make the rooms feel more homely.

The colour palette is muted with varying tones of beige, khaki, ecru and light wood taking centre stage. Bathrooms are suitably decked out in marble and have double sinks—a personal favourite when it comes to luxury hotels.

FOOD & DRINKS

Afternoon tea is a big thing here—it's one of the best afternoon teas in London. If you're into old-world glamour, few places in London fulfil the fantasy quite like Corinthia London's grand Crystal Moon lounge. Parisian designer Chafik Gasmi created the stunning crystal Baccarat chandelier, and guests can marvel at dramatic floral displays from in-house florist FLOWERBX and an original Steinway piano. Cakes and pastries are served from a heritage trolly, in keeping with the old-school hospitality.

There are three restaurants, the semi-outdoor and plant-themed Garden, André Garrett’s Northall and Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, which offers a more casual dining experience with welcome canapes themed around British classics *chefs kiss*. Later on, head to Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese, an atmospheric champagne and cocktail bar.

ACTIVITIES

Step outside the hotel, and you'll be in easy reach of the rest of London. The hotel is next to the Hungerford Bridge and a short stroll from Embankment Tube station for the District, Circle, Bakerloo, and Northern Lines. Go south to experience the cultural hub around South Bank, like the Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery, National Theatre and the BFI. North, you'll find the shopping haven Covent Garden.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Corinthia London start at £765 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: Whitehall Pl, London SW1A 2BD

Phone: 020 7930 8181

The clue is in the name of art’otel Hoxton: this vibrant hotel is not only a stylish place to stay but also a community hub for the local arts scene. With the vibrant creative scenes of Shoreditch and Hoxton on its doorstep, it's ideally placed for a cultural UK staycation.

art’otel Hoxton may be new to the capital's hotel scene, but it's already cementing its place as one of London's best hotels, especially for art fans. D*Face, a world-famous urban graffiti artist, sets the tone of the hotel, infusing his creative vision into the spaces with bold, pop art-inspired pieces.

London-based D*Face (real name Dean Stockton) is known for his daring and conceptual style. His unique brand of storytelling transforms the hotel's communal areas into thought-provoking exhibitions—all before you've even stepped into the hotel's dedicated art gallery.

Before entering the hotel, guests will note two original Banksy artworks adorning the building. Inside, guests will find a dedicated art gallery with a roster of thought-provoking exhibitions from up-and-coming artists. Currently on show is the immersive art exhibition Aurorae, which is led by the women-led curatorial initiative capitArtX and explores themes around womanhood and feminity.

Beyond art, there's stylish dining and cocktails at Brush café and a sleek wellness area. It's somewhat rare for a hotel with such a city centre location to have a pool, but guests at art’otel Hoxton can enjoy its serene pool and spa, complete with a sauna, steam room and a high-tech gym.

Another stand-out feature that sets art’otel Hoxton apart is that it's dog-friendly, meaning you can bring your pooch along on a minibreak for a flat fee of £50 per pet.

ROOMS

The contemporary feel carries through to its 357 impeccably furnished rooms, with bold monochrome interiors featuring playful pops of colour. Yes, 357 sounds like a large number, but once you step inside, there's a boutique feel about the place. Expect spectacular views enhanced by the floor-to-ceiling windows in each room no less.

London often gets a bad rep for small rooms, but you're not in W1 here, so room sizes are generous (unlike other city centre hotels in New York or Paris). Plus, bathrooms come with a walk-in shower as standard.

Full marks for amenities too, with comfy robes and slippers available for guests, Illy coffee machines, and luxurious (and eco-conscious) Kevin Murphy toiletries. All guests can also access the hotel's wellness area, gym and art gallery free of charge.

The suites must be some of the most spectacular in the area, with the One Bed Suite Skyline View option boasting panoramic views of London (one, two, and three-bedroom suites are available). art’otel Hoxton suites have separate lounge areas with comfy leather sofas and exciting extras, such as a mixologist kit and a record player with a selection of LPs.

FOOD AND DRINKS

The Brush Grand Café is the hotel's social hub, spanning the ground and first floors. It offers all-day dining, from European-inspired brunch dishes to evening cocktails, with DJs on rotation providing the backing track. For the warmer months, the terrace offers a scenic place for casual dining and alfresco drinking.

A new restaurant will launch later in 2025 on the hotel's 25th floor, promising show-stopping views of London's skyline to rival those of the Shard and the Gherkin. Watch this space!

ACTIVITIES

If you're in need of a bit of respite (you are in the vibrant Hoxton after all) the hotel's wellness area offers a calm and secluded space—perfect for getting away from it all. Floodlit with serene blue lights, guests can dip in the small (but perfectly formed) heated indoor pool or book a relaxing treatment.

The treatments are centred around four pillars of wellness: Focus, Sleep, Movement and Environment, and these themes influence the products and techniques used. Take, for example, the Dreamscape treatment designed to aid sleep, which consists of a soothing one-hour Decompress Massage followed by a 30-minute Collagen Boost Facial.

Guests can also book a yoga class to enhance their wellness break further, enjoy one of the events and workshops on the hotel's cultural programme, or unwind with live music and DJ nights. Bikes are also available for guests to explore the surrounding areas—ask at reception about the best routes around the city.

You're in Hoxton, so get out and about—bars, restaurants and galleries line the streets of nearby Shoreditch. The Barbican and the bustling Spitalfields Market are both within walking distance. Venture further afield towards Hackney to experience the famous Columbia Road Flower Market and the cafe culture of Broadway Market.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at art’otel Hoxton start at £182 per night.

Address: 1-3 Rivington St, London EC2A 3DT

Phone number: 0333 400 6156

Drive six or so hours up the A1 from London and, tucked away unassumingly among the traditional Victorian buildings, old sweet stores and delicatessens of Alnmouth sits The Whittling House.

A ten-bed lodge and restaurant offering cosy but elevated board for anyone keen to explore the rich history, coastal trails and lush wildlife of England’s East coast, expect traditional cottage-core interiors with modern touches. Farrow & Ball painted walls pair with plush corner chairs, rustic wooden furnishings and fun vintage coastal prints.

Founded by chef and restaurant owner Richard Sim, who also runs Michelin Guide-featured Potted Lobster in nearby Bamburgh and entrepreneur Tom Leslie, The Whittling House opened in November 2020, just weeks before the first lockdown. Yet despite the unfortunate timing of the opening, they've become a firm favourite with locals and travellers alike.

I’ve been lucky enough to explore a lot of the surrounding area and can honestly say Northumberland is by far the most beautiful UK destination I've ever visited. The wildlife is thriving and largely untouched, beaches span as far as the eye can see and, come evening, you're spoilt with bubblegum sunsets and, on occasion, twinkling and breathtaking Northern Light displays. And Alnmouth is one of the most charming villages - a sleepy yet sophisticated archetypal English spot that makes it almost impossible not to relax. Planning your next UK staycation and considering booking The Whittling House? Read my review, below.

The Whittling House review: A food-focused, cosy bolthole

The vibes

Picture a quintessential yet elevated British lodge - all roaring fireplaces, knitted throws and nautical framed prints - and you're on the right track to getting a feel for The Whittling House. Coastal without being kitsch and playful without being cluttered, you know you’re by the sea as soon as you step foot inside. Decorative fishing rods, coral prints and shell bowls complement sea-blue and slate-grey walls, and candles and cushions make the dining area cosy and inviting.

There's a restaurant on the ground floor open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with walk-ins welcome. There's also a separate bar, with an extensive drinks list and lots of excellent local options, Ad Gefrin whiskey being our go-to for the trip as it's distilled only 25 miles away.

The rooms

There are ten rooms available, accessed via two separate staircases - one by the reception and one which cuts through the restaurant. And the rooms are exactly as you'd expect - stylishly (and, of course, nautically) furnished, with comfortable chairs and an even comfier bed. Striped headboards and retro advertising posters remind me of some of the boutique hotels in London and add a modern touch to the otherwise coastal-focused decor.

As to be expected of a lodge, the rooms aren't the biggest but make up for what they lack in space in charm. They're also well-equipped, and the bathrooms are modern, well-sized, and stocked with soothing bamboo and jasmine Bath House soaps and shower products (a small and sustainable family-run business based in Cumbria).

Relax and unwind in their fluffy robes and, at your leisure, enjoy complimentary homemade shortbread and the facilities to make both tea and coffee. Worth noting: the rooms at the back of the lodge are larger and some have separate lounge areas. The rooms at the front, however, have stunning sea views which means you can wake to views of Alnmouth Beach at sunrise from your bed.

The food

As you'd expect of a local boutique hotel in one of the thriving food capitals of the UK, all dishes at The Whittling House are designed to showcase the very best of local produce and businesses. Naturally, I went for fish - creamy scallops to start and a fresh-as-anything seabass fillet served with salsa verde with a side of greens and chips, for main - and found the portions surprisingly generous (you certainly won't go to bed hungry). Wines start from £25 and they have a good range on offer.

Breakfast was a continental buffet affair - think jams, toast, pastries and cereal - or the option to order off the menu with the likes of bacon sandwiches and scrambled eggs. The local Craster kippers are particularly good if you're keen to sample the crème de la crème of the local offering.

Also worth visiting if you're in the area is Gary McDermott and Claudia Mazareanu's wonderful Sonnet restaurant in nearby Alnwick - a fine dining experience unrivalled in cost and of a quality you'd be surprised at even in top London hotspots.

The facilities

You’re in safe hands with the friendly and attentive staff at The Whittling House, who also maintain a relaxed, cosy and laid-back atmosphere. Cosy up by the fire with a whisky or relax in your room - there aren't extensive facilities on offer, but you hardly need them when you've got one of the most stunning coastal walks in the UK and the quaint village of historical Alnmouth mere minutes away. If you're after a hotel with lounge areas, gym or spa facilities, however, it's worth looking elsewhere.

Dogs are welcome in rooms, too, and for £15, they'll get a bed, ball and treats provided, too.

Stay at the Whittling House from £200 for bed and breakfast, year-round. 24 Northumberland Street, Alnmouth, Alnwick NE66 2RA, England. thewhittlinghouse.co.uk

The Savoy, widely regarded as London's original luxury hotel, is celebrating its 135th anniversary. Established in 1889, it pioneered its field as Britain's first purpose-built deluxe hotel and the first with unlimited electricity and hot running water—and it maintains its prestigious reputation to this day. Some of the world's most iconic celebrities have graced its doors, including Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and legendary singer and actor Marlene Dietrich, who has a suite named after her in the hotel.

Offering understated elegance and impeccable service, it exudes old-fashioned charm, from the attention to detail from the staff to the striking instantly recognisable ornate interiors. The hotel was opened by former theatre impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte, who also built the Savoy Theatre close to the hotel. D’Oyly Carte was inspired by New York hotels' grandeur and thriving bar scene. With its close proximity to the West End and views over the River Thames, it's undoubtably one of the best properties for a luxury UK staycation in London.

Art Nouveau designer A.H. Mackackmurdo originally designed the hotel, but various acclaimed London designers and architects have added flair to the hotel over the years. In the 1920s, a young architect called Howard Robertson brought the Art Deco movement to the hotel and still to this day, it's a fusion of Art Deco and Edwardian styles, with lavish designs, decorative moulding and gilding in the public areas and floral wallpaper in the guest rooms. It's the ultimate place for a nightcap in London, with the American Bar and Beaufort Bar serving up some of the best cocktails in London, if not the world.

To celebrate the hotel's rich history, The Savoy has unveiled a series of celebratory initiatives, including a limited-edition cocktail book. Inspired by key figures from The Savoy's past, it contains recipes for 100 signature cocktails, capturing the essence of The Savoy’s bar culture over the years. In honour of the hotel's 135th birthday, here's everthing you need to know about this landmark London hotel.

THE ROOMS

The rooms at The Savoy are classic yet contemporary, with a focus on high-end luxury. The smallest rooms are classed as 'Superior Queens' and are still spacious with a writing desk and armchair. The rooms at the Savoy come in two styles: traditional Edwardian or Art Deco; a theme that runs through the rest of the hotel. Luxurious Penhaligons products are available in the bathrooms.

Suites are available for a hefty fee, but come with perks such as a personal butler service and private car. Next year will see the hotel reveal a series of refurbished rooms and suites as part of the ongoing development within the hotel.

FOOD & DRINKS

The food and drink offering at The Savoy is extensive, with three revered restaurants: Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay, Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay, and The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay.

The Thames Foyer is one of the most iconic places in London to have afternoon tea, amidst its stunning art deco surroundings, but guests should be advised that the area is currently under renovation. Next year will see iconic London venue Simpson’s in the Strand reopen after a refurbishment.

The hotel's two bars, the American Bar and Beaufort Bar, are famous across the globe for their delicious cocktails. The Beaufort Bar is great for late night drinks with its sumptuous surroundings, while the American Bar is perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail, often with some live music to complement it.

THE ACTIVITIES

With The Savoy Theatre just moments away, this is an ideal location for a cultural trip to take in some of London's impressive shows.

Beauty & Fitness at The Savoy is the hotel's wellness spa and every bit as stylish as you would expect. The 33 feet swimming pool is situated in its own light and airy atrium for a relaxing dip. There's also a sauna and steam room, as well as a tempting treatment menu for those who want to indulge in some first-class R&R.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at The Savoy £760 and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at 020 7836 4343.

Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ

If you've been used to staying in luxury hotels pre baby and don't want to compromise on that now that you've welcome your little one(s), the The Grove in Hertfordshire is what you are looking for. Not all family-friendly hotels are created equal, and this is evident the moment you enter the gates of the luxury hotel and spa.

The vibe

This is definitely the most sophisticated country properties I've ever stayed in. It perfectly combines the rural aesthetic thanks to its sprawling lawns and gardens, and its 18th-century main mansion, with an urban sleekness that is the perfect nod to the city of London, just 18 miles away. The West Wing offers a more contemporary vibe, whilst the main lounge areas are modern yet cosy, offering the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What truly blew me away was how luxurious the property was and how well it caters to both families and couples. It is both playful and sophisticated, chic without being stuffy, and very welcoming of all age groups.

One of the biggest draws has to be the Grove's 300-acre estate, divide between a golf course, manicured and wild gardens, water features, sculptures and woodlands.

The rooms

You have two options when it comes to staying at The Grove. In the main building, the 18th century mansion, which was renovated by Martin Hulbert Design and reopened in April 2023, there are 12 suites and 13 bedrooms that put a modern spin on the charming antique, all in a soothing colour palette of cream and light green. Think original parquet flooring, white roll top baths, a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture and tasteful art. We stayed in one of the mansion rooms overlooking the golf course, and it really felt like an escape from it all - especially after a good soak in the bath.

There are also 189 rooms in the newer West Wing, which offers a more contemporary feel. Crucially, the hotel is highly accommodating to all guests, adapting rooms to welcome babies and children, and dogs are welcome too.

The food

I lied when I said the main draw were the sprawling grounds. The main draw is actually the food. There is quite simply something for everyone, no matter their tastes.

There are five dining destinations and three bars across the estate. The Glasshouse Restaurant and Bar is the beating heart of The Grove, and that's where we had most of our meals. It completely turns the concept of the traditional hotel buffet on its head. I've honestly never seen such a chic buffet in my life. There are live-action cooking stations offering global cuisines such as Italian, Japanese and Indian, alongside a statement dessert bar. It offers an elegant take on the buffet, in a laid-back setting that is perfect for families.

The Stables Restaurant and Bar offers a revisited take on British classics, mostly using produce grown on the property's Jemima’s Kitchen Garden. At the Lounges within the mansion, you can taste traditional Japanese sushi, whilst within the grounds, at Madhu’s you can dine on elevated and authentic Indian cuisine.

Within the spa, you'll find the brand-new Sequoia Kitchen, for healthy options such as Asian-inspired broths, poke bowls and wraps.

The facilities

Where do I start? Let's go with Sequoia Spa, since I enjoyed a very enjoyable few hours there, including the best massage I've ever had. The spa has recently partnered with Bamford to create a range of bespoke treatments, which comes after the final stage of refurbishments last year. Guests can now relax in the tranquility room, the calming terrace with outdoor seating, or poolside. There are also extended heat experience areas, as well as a wellness pool for women, accompanying the sauna and steam room.

The new treatment menu offers signature rituals, massages and facials, all tailored with a selection of Bamford skincare products are used to nourish and invigorate guests. I experienced the Bamford De-stress Massage, which focused on the back of the body to ease tense muscles and reduce stress levels, while restoring and realigning energy. It started with an Epsom salt foot bathing ritual to draw toxins from the body and allow it to absorb magnesium to help reduce inflammation. Then, Shiatsu pressure points along the body released tension and balanced energy flow, followed by a Swedish back and leg massage to help improve circulation. Utter bliss.

When you are not relaxing in the spa, there are many, many other facilities to choose from. For kids, there is a playroom in the main building, as well a kids club, Anouska’s, a Musical Trail in the woods, a Football Escapes course, and an outdoor swimming pool in summer, as well as the Everyman Secret Garden Cinema.

For adults, there are the tennis courts and the 18-hole golf course, pigeon shooting, horse riding, tree climbing, archery lessons and shooting experiences. You can also get involved in a series of masterclasses covering everything from flower arranging, cheese and wine pairings and cocktail making.

You could easily stay a week and not get bored.

The need-to-know

A one-night stay in a West Wing Classic Room starts from £420, including breakfast and inclusive of spa access. A one-night stay in a newly launched Mansion room will start from £580 with suites starting from £890. Book online at The Grove or by calling 01923 807807.

If you’re looking for a characterful yet sustainably-minded hotel in the heart of London for your next staycation, it’s worth having Treehouse Hotel on your radar.

With elevated yet distinct design touches masterminded by Barry Sternlicht, the hotel joins the award-winning 1 Hotels and Baccarat Hotels in the SH Hotels & Resort collection.

First opening in 2019, it’s situated in Langham Place, Marylebone, overlooking the iconic BBC Broadcasting House and surrounding rooftops. You’re ideally positioned to make the most of central London’s vibrant galleries, restaurants, and bars, and a mere stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street or the peaceful tranquillity of Green Park.

It’s pretty whimsical - expect plenty of plants, a pick and mix station at the front desk, and retro-inspired rooms with lanterns, cuckoo clocks, and sustainable beauty products, to boot. But my favourite part was the thoughtful eco-friendly design. Sustainability really is at the hotel's core, with much of the interior design using reclaimed wood, a ban on all single-use plastics, and water stations complete with complimentary glass bottles on every floor.

Keen to read more about the rooftop haven? Keep scrolling.

Treehouse Hotel review: A playful, sustainably-focused central London haven

The vibe

One of the most fun yet sophisticated hotels I’ve stayed in, Treehouse is playful, rustic and nostalgic, with large bay windows offering stunning views of central London. Every detail has been considered, and the nature-inspired interiors create a calming oasis above the hubbub of the city below.

Plenty of plants in every corner bring the outside in and cosy nooks complete with fruit for snacking make you feel instantly at home. Fancy something sweeter? Don’t miss the pick and mix station situated under the front desk where you check in and out.

The rooms

With 95 rooms in total, there’s a range of options available to suit your needs. While the rooms are on the cosy side, you can't go wrong booking a King or Queen room thanks to their stunning skyline views. If you fancy more space, opt for one of their twelve suites. Bringing the little ones? There are family rooms available, too.

The spaces are full of natural light, and feel modern and sophisticated without losing any of the homely feel. They’re distinctive from other central London hotels, too, thanks to their sleek birch furniture, tree trunk wallpaper, mushroom scatter cushions and Paddington Bear decorations, not to mention letterbox red cuckoo clocks.

I loved that most of the interior items were sourced from local flea markets, giving pre-loved items a new lease of life, plus that many of the rooms have a cushioned window seat - the perfect reading spot or nook to enjoy a cup of tea.

The food

There’s a wealth of food on offer, from chef Nancy Silverton’s ground-floor Pizzeria Mozza to Madera, their Mexican-inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner offering (don’t miss the octopus, salmon and prawn ceviche trio).

By far the spot not to miss, though, is The Nest, a stunning rooftop offering unparalleled views of the city. It’s kitsch, but in a classy way, complete with blankets and heaters to cosy up under. While they have a pretty extensive offering of seasonal special cocktails on offer, we enjoyed classic dirty martinis while enjoying an Ibiza-inspired DJ set as the sun went down.

The facilities

While you won’t find an extensive gym, pool, spa or sauna offering at Treehouse, the staff are all on hand at any time to point you in the direction of the many London amenities right on your doorstep. They also have plenty of events on offer, from yoga, to Barre, to painting masterclasses, and have been known to offer local garden tours from resident horticulturalists.

Their sustainability credentials really are impressive - to complement the upcycled furniture, refillable water stations and complete ban on single-use plastics front of house, the staff behind the scenes follow a thorough composting and recycling programme, have resource-efficient fixtures throughout the hotel, and work with a team to reuse all linen. Not to mention, they measure their energy, water and gas consumption monthly and are constantly looking for ways to lower their carbon footprint.

The need-to-know

Treehouse has the essentials down - cosy yet chic rooms, brilliant food, and breathtaking views.

To book your stay at 14-15 Langham Place, Marylebone, London W1B 2QS, head to the Treehouse website now. Rooms start from £450.

Once you check into InterContinental Malta, you may not want to leave; the hotel boasts breathtaking suites, a multitude of restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa, and not one but three beautiful pools. Whether you’re holidaying with family or enjoying a romantic getaway, Intercontinental Malta – part of IHG Hotels & Resorts – has it all.

If you do choose to venture out, the hotel is handily located within walking distance of the restaurants and bars of St. George’s Bay, and only a 15-minute drive from Valletta and 20-minute drive from Mdina – two cities that are a dream for both gastronomes and history lovers.

I have a confession; this isn’t my first time at InterContinental Malta. My husband and I chose to stay here on our last Maltese getaway, some ten years ago. We loved it then, but it has even more to offer now; the hotel has expanded massively, in size, offering and glamour. Want to know more? From the hotel’s skyline suites and buzzy bars, to what to do while you’re in town, read my honest review below.

THE ROOMS

In addition to the hotel’s elegant rooms and suites, guests can also book one of the impressive highline suites, each with its unique personality and sweeping, panoramic views. Choose your suite based on your preferences. Like a relaxing soak? You’ll want to opt for a suite with a deep, jacuzzi tub. Can’t function without your morning workout? Some have running machines and weights. We were lucky enough to stay in one of the suites with a daybed on the (very large) balcony, so we spent a good few evenings reclining with glasses of champagne in hand.

Depending on what kind of room you book, you may get access to the Club Lounge – with some, you have the option of paying an additional fee for access. This turned out to be one of the highlights of our whole trip. Club access means you have a private check-in and check-out, a complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and sundowners (which we absolutely took advantage of), and a relaxing place just to chill out. Amit and his team really made our experience a memorable one.

We love: The Byredo toiletries – chic!

THE FOOD

Gastronomes are spoiled for choice, thanks to Intercontinental Malta’s many restaurants and bars. We had a particularly memorable lunch at Paranga – a buzzy fish restaurant set on the hotel’s private beach. I will be dreaming about those mussels for many years to come.

Waterbiscuit is also a great shout for an extra-special meal, while the poolside restaurant offers a laidback setting for snacky lunches - the various iterations of poutine made my heart sing.

As mentioned, if you have Club Lounge access, you’ll be treated to breakfast, and various food and beverages throughout the day. My partner, not generally an afternoon tea fan, was converted by the savoury morsels on offer – we’re not sure what they put in those teeny tiny chicken sandwiches or those umami dips, but on at least one occasion we ate so many we didn’t even feel like lunch.

Top tip: Fancy a nightcap? Head straight to The Brass Bar – bartender Sujay makes a mean whisky sour.

THE POOLS

Yes, I’ve dedicated an entire section to the hotel’s three pools, mainly because a large portion of our holiday was spent bathing, paddling in or relaxing by them. The main pool, outside on level 10 is the perfect place for sunbathing and swimming – and though it is kid-friendly, there is enough space that you can avoid the animal-shaped inflatables and splashy jumps if you want to. And, crucially, we always found a bed in a decent spot.

If you want to do some serious (or indeed not so serious) swimming or merely shelter from the rays, the indoor pool – part of the spa, on level 16 – will be your oasis. There is a sauna, a steam room, and a gym - which, despite packing all the gear, I didn’t frequent even once. (No regrets.) Plus there are all the usual spa treatments for a spot of pampering.

For those who want a more glamorous poolside experience, SKYBEACH – on level 19 – is the place to be. Take a dip in the infinity pool, enjoy a cocktail (or three), or grab lunch in the rooftop restaurant. Suite guests get complimentary access, otherwise you can pay for a sun lounger, day bed, or gazebo.

VENTURING OUT

Valletta

Take a 15-minute Uber to Valletta, Malta's capital city that's enclosed with fortified walls dating back to the 16th century. The best place to view them – and the amazing view across the Grand Harbour – is from Upper Barrakka, where you can also grab a drink.

While you're in the city, visit Saint John's Co-Cathedral, built by the order of St. John in 1570. It houses some of the finest examples of baroque art, including The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravagio.

Enjoy a glass of wine at OneTwenty before strolling to Spazju Kreattiv, to see some Maltese contemporary art.

Finish your day with dinner on the terrace at Rampila, a restaurant is set in the city walls, or at Gambit, a small bistro serving up Mediterranean-meets-Balkan cuisine – I opted to go off-menu, for the recommended fillet of salmon that had been caught a few hours earlier, and it was one of the best meals I've ever had.

Mdina

Mdina, which is sometimes known as the silent city as much of it is inaccessible by car, is just a 20-minute car ride away from the hotel. It has served as a film set for productions including Gladiator and Game Thrones and when you're there, you can see why – it really is a special place.

Enter through the grand Mdina Gate and stroll through the narrow, winding streets taking in the baroque architecture – and looking out for all of the interesting door knockers and icons.

Mdina's rich history can be enjoyed via the exhibits at the Mdina Cathedral Museum. Afterwards, be sure to head into the cathedral itself – it's breathtakingly beautiful.

Lunch at Lumiere at the picturesque Palazzo Bifora Boutique Hotel – for a light bite, opt for the traditional pastizzi.

If you're in the mood for more history, I'd recommend the Knights of Malta, a small and somewhat eccentric but totally brilliant museum, with a 3D film and 34 tableaux. If you have time, you may like to head into Rabat, which is walkable from Mdina, to see the Roman catacombs.

Treat yourself and your travel companion to a romantic dinner at SCALA. We both went for the scallops followed by the veal and it was utterly, utterly perfect.

THE NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at the InterContinental Malta start at £194 (for a classic room in peak season) and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at 0800 083 3808.

The Cumberland Hotel celebrates London's eclectic music scene, honouring the capital's rich heritage with its themed spaces and buzzing late-night music bar, SOUND Café where you can catch live acts every night of the week. A far cry from stuffy or formal London hotels, the focus is firmly on enjoyment, with a welcoming attitude, sharing-style American food, and a busy events schedule including cocktail making.

Just off Oxford Street, within a five-minute stroll of Hyde Park's expansive green spaces, sits The Cumberland Hotel. It's the perfect spot for a UK-based staycation in the city, whether you're planning a cultural weekend, shopping trip or foodie getaway with Michelin hotspot Mayfair just nearby. And, if you're looking to explore more of London, Marble Arch London Underground is just around the corner. 

In a previous life, it was known as Hard Rock London, with music legends such as Diana Ross, Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross, Lady Gaga and Madonna gracing its doors. It's a property steeped in musical history—and they've incorporated it throughout. Here's why you should add The Cumberland Hotel to your must-visit London hotels list.

The rooms

The hotel is huge. There are 900 rooms, but thanks to the tasteful modern decor, it manages to offer an element of calm. There are several room categories to choose from; Classic Single, Double and Twin, Gold Single, Double and Twin and Executive, as well as 18 spacious suites—many of which have views over the iconic Hyde Park. Suites and Executive Rooms include a VIP check-in experience, plus access to the ‘Backstage’ Executive Lounge, with complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day. 

The rooms boast a designated workspace and speedy Wi-Fi—perfect for those who need to balance business and leisure. Other amenities include luxurious Hypnos beds and mattresses for a comfy night's sleep away from home, a flat-screen TV and complimentary toiletries. Electric guitars with personal amplifiers can be ordered to the rooms and suites for those who really want to honour the hotel's musical heritage.

The food

The food at SOUND Café is worth shouting about, with an Americana-inspired menu serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed setting as well as an American twist on afternoon tea (think macaroni cheese bites and mini Oreo milkshakes) and bottomless brunch sessions with tempting cocktails. 

Dishes include the London Double-Decker Cheeseburger, deep south-inspired Fried Chicken Burger and the Suft&Turf Burger, as well as classic dishes like Baby Back Ribs, Chicken Mac ‘n’ Cheese and a range of starters, sharers and salads. As well as American-inspired dishes, guests can also enjoy Barrel and Stone stone-baked pizzas.

There's also Momentus Restaurant in the main section of the hotel, which is more of a relaxed setting serving European classics with a British twist. The pre-theatre dinner menu includes three courses for £24.95 between 5-7 pm.

SOUND has earned a reputation as the place to go for unusual cocktails, with options like the Green Goddess, a mix of Absolut Vanilla vodka, Tia Maria matcha and home-made matcha cream, as well as classics such as the Espresso Martini, Long Island Iced Tea and Piña Colada.

The experiences

There's a busy events calendar at SOUND Café with a vast range of live musical talents seven days a week, from emerging new artists to upcoming DJs and funk, soul and Motown nights. Staying open until 2 am Thursday until Saturday, it's modelled as a late-night music hangout with a speakeasy feel. You can see the full schedule here.

While SOUND is first and foremost a music bar, it also houses the SOUND Sports Bar where guests can enjoy live sports with nine 4K flat screens and cosy seating areas. The SOUND Cocktail Masterclass, priced at £45 per person, allows guests to learn how to make cocktails at home, with the help of the venue's expert bartenders. As well as a lesson in mixology, the price includes a welcome drink, two cocktails and a two-course meal. If you're more into sampling cocktails than making them, the venue's happy hour offers 2-4-1 cocktails every day, 5-7 pm. 

As well as the hotel's destination restaurant, sports bar and live music venue, facilities include a modern gym on-site, open between 7 am and 10 pm. The property is also dog-friendly, with pet-friendly rooms which include a doggie bowl, toys and treats.

Need to know

Address: Great Cumberland Place, London, W1H 7DL

Rooms at The Cumberland Hotel start at £190 for a Double Room (B&B) and you can book through the hotel's website or phone at: 020 7523 5053.

For more information on SOUND visit the venue's website. 

The first hint that the M Social Hotel Paris is the perfect choice for a classic Parisian getaway is the old-school revolving door. Once through, standing in the grand Art Deco foyer, it's clear that the place pays homage to a Paris of years gone by. Here's why you need to add M Social Hotel Paris to your must-visit list.

The hotel was built in 1927, during Paris' roaring twenties and has carefully preserved the architecture of that time with an abundance of original features and nods to the period throughout. Over time, new additions have been made, including a refurb of its 109 guest rooms with deep-pocket spring Hypnos beds, high-speed wifi and some seriously powerful showers—a non-negotiable feature in our books.

In Paris, location is everything—and the M Social Hotel Paris is right in the middle of the action. Located in the 9th arrondissement, close to Richelieu-Drouot Métro station, the hotel is in the heart of Paris' opera district on the north side of Boulevard Haussmann between Rues Lafitte and Le Peletier. There's plenty to see too: the legendary Opéra Garnier is a mere 500 metres away, or within a 10-minute walking radius, you'll find yourself at Jardin du Palais Royal or Musée du Louvre. And, if shopping is on your agenda, then the iconic Galeries Lafayette department store is just around the corner too.

Here's everything you need to know about M Social Hotel Paris, including its stunning Parisian-style bedrooms, decadent dining and cocktail spots and the luxurious finishing touches that make this hotel the ideal base for exploring the City of Lights.

The Rooms

One thing is for certain, comfort is key and everything has been considered to ensure that relaxation is at the top of the agenda. Some hotels get a bad rep in Paris for tiny rooms, but that's not the case here: even the smallest room type (the Alcove Room) is a decent size. There are four further types, the most spacious (La Grand Sweetie) has a separate living room area (and plenty of wardrobe space).

We love: The abstract artwork and the L'Occitane en Provence toiletries.

The Food

For us, the shopping and food are some of the main reasons we love this beautiful city—it has one of the most Michelin-star restaurants worldwide. With so much to choose from, sometimes the in-house restaurants get overlooked—don't make that mistake here. The in-house restaurant Papillons & Co offers traditional French brasserie in dining, with a street-facing view that's typical of Paris. Cue plenty of people watching with a morning coffee or afternoon glass of Chablis (when in Paris) and a menu bursting with classic French flavours.

There's a buffet breakfast available to guests at Papillons & Co, with a typical array of French delicacies including pastries, cheeses, cold meats and hot food cooked to order. Breakfast and evening meals can also be taken on the terrace that lines Boulevard Haussmann if the weather is suitable for some al fresco dining.

Top tip: Snuggle up in Bar Le Douze after dinner, a small (but perfectly formed) bar serving classic cocktails, champagne and bar snacks. The bar is positioned underneath an original stained-glass sky dome from the 1920s for evening tipple in a dramatic location. Guests can also enjoy a drink by the open fire in the La Bibliothéque lounge bar.

The Activities

While this is a great hotel for digital nomads, with a large communal table in the lounge for working, it's perhaps not the best choice for those seeking a wellness retreat, as there's no gym or spa. There is also a friendly concierge desk available for advice about navigating the busy city or making restaurant reservations.

A trip to Paris is usually about what guests are up to outside the hotel, rather than within it. With some of the city's most-loved sights and attractions on its doorstep, the M Social Hotel Paris makes a great base for exploring the City of Lights.

Head south towards the Seine for a picturesque walk along the river, or stroll over to the Champs-Élysées for a shopping moment, ala Carrie Bradshaw (minus the falling down in Dior) and to explore the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais.

The Need To Knows

Rooms at the M Social Hotel Paris start at £282 and you can book through the hotel's website or phone at: +33 (1) 49 49 16 00.

Stepping into the Hilton Paris Opera, it's clear that this is a hotel that honours its rich history. Back in 1889 when the hotel was built, the concept of a hotel was built around transforming a grand mansion into a place open to the public, with one central room where guests could gather and unwind. In Hilton Paris Opera, traditionally this room was 'Le Grand Salon', a vast lounge area boasting original Baccarat chandeliers and Belle Epoque décor. And it's still the focal point for the hotel today, where guests and locals can gather to enjoy sophisticated drinks and all-day dining. 

While the familiarity of the Hilton brand may be comforting for some, this unique and historic hotel is a far cry from an impersonal chain property. Staying true to its 19th-century roots, the Hilton Paris Opera oozes classic Parisian style, with modern amenities and luxury finishes that are the product of a recent $50 million renovation overseen by the Hilton group. 

Originally The Grand Hotel Terminus, the Paris property was designed by architect Juste Lisch, also architect of the Gare Saint-Lazare located opposite the hotel, and was originally built to accommodate transatlantic travellers arriving from Normandy via Saint-Lazare. There's still a cosmopolitan feel to the hotel, with guests from across the globe mingling with Parisians in the hotel's Grand Salon on a Saturday night. 

Paris is a city with many faces. From wandering around the quaint cafes and independent stores of Canal Saint-Martin to experiencing Michelin-starred dining, there's a Paris for every mood. But you'd be hard-pressed to find a more exciting cultural destination than the City of Lights, with the most revered galleries in the world, stunning architecture and a thriving arts scene. 

Hilton Paris Opera is an ideal spot for a cultural break, located in the heart of the fashionable 8th arrondissement in the city's Opera District, a short stroll away from some of the most beautiful cultural attractions in the capital. The Louvre Museum, Sacré-Cœur, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysées are all within walking distance from the hotel, while department stores Le Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are within easy reach. In the evening, guests only need to journey 20 minutes to Pigalle’s lively bars and restaurants.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to stay for this year's Olympics, which are coming to France's capital in July 2024, or need a relaxing bolthole to retreat to during Paris Fashion Week, the Hilton Paris Opera ticks all the boxes. Even without a specific reason to go, Paris with its art galleries, restaurants and picturesque parks will always be one of our favourite European city breaks. 

The rooms

The 268 rooms at the Hilton Paris Opera are light and stylish, with a neutral colour palette and delicate brass details that evoke an air of sophistication befitting the central Paris location. Soft and sumptuous bedding and crisp linen are typical of the Hilton brand, making for an extremely comfortable place for guests to lay their heads after a day's sightseeing. 

Of course, in Paris, standard rooms can be a little on the small size. But the Superior rooms are still light and—and well equipped with the usual facilities you'd expect from the brand; tea and coffee, an iron and ironing board, HDTV, air con and USB charge points. Heated floors in the bathroom are a great touch for the colder months, while rainfall showers and Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries elevate these bathrooms way above the average Parisian hotel offering. 

If you want a little more space, we'd recommend upgrading to a Delux room. Executive and Suite rooms are more spacious and come equipped with Nespresso coffee machines, bathrobes and slippers, as well as complimentary access to the hotel's Executive Lounge.

The food

If there's one thing that Parisians take seriously, it's food. Well, fashion too, and wine, and art. But the point is, you can expect a superior culinary experience in the French capital—and the Hilton Paris Opera is a fine example of this. 

This means that even more low-key bites like french fries avec cheese or beef tartar in the Grand Salon are crafted with Parisian flair. Designed to cater for guests who want to graze over small plates or a few cocktails rather than have a fine dining experience, the menu is more relaxed. It's a prime spot in central Paris for an apéritif, or a lengthy afternoon tea experience complete with macaroons and dainty pastries.

Quai 108 is the newest restaurant and offers a pretty terrace where guests can enjoy lunch or a drink al fresco in the summer months. The street-food style menu is inspired by flavours from across the world, crafted by Chef Mathieu Afonso.

A continental buffet offering fine cheeses and charcuterie, as well as pastries, granola and hot dishes like eggs and pancakes is served on the mezzanine level for guests who don't have access to the Executive Suite. There's also a coffee machine with takeaway cups to fuel a day's exploring.

The activities

The Grand Salon is the spot for socialising and unwinding, whether that means a coffee in the afternoon, pre-dinner drinks or late-night cocktails. Live music on Saturday nights creates more of a buzz in the dining room, while every first Thursday of the month there's a cocktail-making class where guests can craft their own classic drinks. 

As you'd expect from a Hilton property, there's a top-notch gym with high-cardio equipment and weights, as well as an Executive Suite where select members can enjoy drinks and snacks throughout the day.

Any trip to Paris is dictated more by what you get up to outside of the hotel and the location central here is a huge draw, particularly for opera buffs. As well as its proximity to cultural and shopping spots, Gare Saint-Lazare Metro station is just moments away, with easy access from central Train Station Gard du Nord.

Need to know

Rooms at Hilton Opera Paris start at £399 for a Double Room (B&B) and you can book through the hotel's website or phone at: +33 1 40 08 44 44

The W Edinburgh has to be one of the most anticipated new launches in the capital in recent years. This futuristic gold structure was unveiled in 2021—meaning it enjoyed plenty of publicity before the official opening in St James Quarter last year. But there's plenty more to discover behind the hotel's impressive facade. 

The W Edinburgh, part of the Marriott hotel group, has a lot going for it—an enviable city-centre location, luxe suites with features worth shouting about, as well as being home to the first SUSHISAMBA in Scotland. The expansive rooftop bar, offering panoramic views of the city's historic skyline, is a definite draw, bringing in Edinburgh's most stylish crowd alongside guests from across the globe. With many hotels across the city having a more traditional feel, the W brings something more contemporary to Edinburgh's hospitality scene.

Edinburgh has long been established as one of the leading destinations for a UK-based staycation. Located in St James Quarter, the W Edinburgh is just a short walk from sights like Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery restaurant and The Edinburgh Playhouse. It's just two minutes from Waverley Station on foot and also within walking distance to the majestic Arthur's Seat, the highest in a group of peaks in Holyrood Park (One Day fans will recognise it from the first episode of the Netflix series). 

There's no doubt the W Edinburgh is an incredible structure that's shaking up the city's skyline. Which begs the question, what's Edinburgh's most talked-about new hotel like inside?

The rooms

The bedrooms at the W Hotel Edinburgh take the concept of modern decor to new heights, with high-tech features and a firm focus on ergonomics. It's all smooth curves and helpful tech amenities in these almost-futurist-looking rooms and suites. Take, for example, the Wow and Extreme Wow Suites boasting revolving circular beds that guests can swivel to either face the TV or the city skyline. There are 199 rooms and 45 suites in total, ranging from the 'Wonderful Kings' rooms to the 'Extreme Wow' suites. 

The W brand is no stranger to innovation, offering unique and quirky touches to its hotel rooms across the globe. But it would appear the W Edinburgh is taking a next-gen approach to luxury hotel rooms, not just with their revolving beds, but also fire pits on the vast balconies of the suites and floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of Edinburgh's epic views. 

Even the more modest accommodation options, the 'Wonderful Kings' rooms, feel luxurious, with a slick design and the fancy amenities you come to expect from the W brand (think a lighted makeup mirror, superior tea and coffee making facilities, plush robes and slippers, and a handy alarm clock to name a few). 

The food

Exceptional dining is at the forefront at W Hotel Edinburgh, with three restaurant-comes-bars to choose from. The W Lounge is the hotel's all-day dining spot, offering light bites, sharing platters and bigger evening meals, along with a thoughtfully crafted drinks menu. 

The cosy setting here makes it the perfect place to while away an afternoon, or a scenic spot for pre-dinner drinks with floor-to-ceiling windows that show off the city's glittering skyline—Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle are all in view from the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. 

You may have visited SUSHISAMBA in London, but the Edinburgh experience offers a Scottish twist on the Japanese-South American fusion exclusive to the restaurant. Think dishes like Highland wagyu gyoza, Scrabster-landed tuna ceviche and the Samba Edinburgh roll with lobster. 

The restaurant is on the tenth floor, situated beneath a showstopping copper-blossom tree, dreamed up by Harry Potter set designers. Head to Joao’s Place on the 11th floor for a late-night cocktail, an intimate speakeasy serving Brazilian-themed drinks and light bites. Inspired by the São Paulo neighbourhood of Liberdade, the space feels more like somebody's chic apartment than a hotel bar, with a patio where guests can soak up the city's views. There's also the option to try the chef’s table dining experience at Joao's, which seats 16. 

The activites

The hotel's spa offers holistic treatments using local Scottish brand Ishga, with four treatment rooms; Fire, Earth, Water and Air, as well as a couple's treatment room for dual massages. There's also a penthouse with its own sauna and outdoor shower—if you're after the super-luxe spa experience in an intimate setting.  

The W Edinburgh also boasts the brand’s signature Sound Suite recording studio, which is a first for the UK and the second in Europe. The Sound Suite is a hub of creativity, empowering musicians, podcasters, DJs, and artists to create and record inspired by Edinburgh’s diverse influences. 

Need to know

Rooms at W Edinburgh start at £399 for a Double Room (B&B) and you can book through the hotel's website or phone at: 0131 388 8000.

LNER trains offer a fast, reliable—and really stylish—service from London Kings Cross (journey time is just over four hours) with spacious seats and surprisingly good seasonal menus featuring great vegetarian options and reliable Wifi.

Details of their Let’s Eat at Your Seat service in Standard can be found here.

The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is a boutique haven in one of the French Riviera's most glamorous spots. Describing the Hotel Metropole as luxurious feels like a downplay, with its Givenchy spa, Michelin-starred dining and a luxurious pool area designed by Karl Lagerfeld himself. This Belle Époque hotel oozes style, providing a peaceful retreat in bustling Monte-Carlo. 

Monte-Carlo has long been a tourist hotspot for those seeking the finer things in life. The most famous district in Monaco, it's a destination that's synonymous with glamour, style and hedonism, famed for its glitzy casinos, thriving yacht scene and chic hotels—not to mention being the place that captured the heart of Hollywood starlet Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco. While we need to acknowledge it's an expensive location, this much-hyped area is one to save for. 

The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is as lavish as you might expect for a five-star hotel located just off central hotspot Place du Casino, the beating heart of Monaco. At Hotel Metropole Ferraris and Porsches typically line its sweeping Herringbone-brick driveway, nestled among jasmine and orchid trees. Grand chandeliers hang in the floodlit reception area, which has a backing track curated by the hotel's sound designer, with music befitting different times of the day. 

But while Hotel Metropole may be exceptionally luxurious, it also has an understated elegance. Serenity is reflected in every detail, from the tasteful artwork in its spaces to its quietly attentive staff. 

The rooms

Hotel Metropole boasts 125 rooms that are sure to ignite your main character energy. Think period-style furniture, immaculately made-up beds with crisp white sheets, sumptuous fabrics and postcard-perfect Juliette balconies. The plush robes supplied by Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo are the perfect finishing touch. Bathrooms are a highlight, crafted from marble and stocked with expensive-smelling toiletries (also from Salvatore Ferragamo).

Rooms vary in size from the smaller (but still perfectly formed) Delux and Superior rooms to a variety of suites, the most impressive being the  240m² Carré d’Or Suite, which comes complete with a private roof terrace overlooking the sights of Monte Carlo and out towards the Mediterranean Sea.

The food

Nowhere does food quite like the French, with the country boasting the most Michelin stars in the world year after year. And Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is no exception. The hotel is home to a choice of stunning restaurants—Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac (Hotel Metropole's latest fine-dining spot), Yoshi (Michelin-starred Japanese dining), Odyssey (Karl Lagerfeld's poolside restaurant) and the Lobby Bar (a more relaxed, but still very gourmet dining option).

Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac is an exciting new launch within the hotel, its menu shaped by Head Chef Christophe's culinary heritage and passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Each dish will only have three flavours, focusing on seasonality and simplicity. 

Dishes include fresh sardines with a preserved lemon and tangy foam, sea bream tartare, caviar cannelloni, veal chop with asparagus and the Grand Marnier souffle. The restaurant's interiors also reflect the warm embrace of Mediterranean culture, redesigned by French architect and interior designer, Jacques Garcia.

Yoshi offers elegant dining, with Japanese delicacies and intricate dishes served in a secluded garden dining room. The restaurant opens out into a botanical-themed garden area designed by landscape architect Jacques Messin—a perfect spot for al fresco cocktails.

Launched by legendary French chef, the late Joël Robuchon, with Head Chef Takeo Yamazaki currently at the helm, Yoshi is the only Japanese restaurant on the Côte d'Azur to have been awarded a Michelin star since 2010 and a destination in its own right. The interiors, designed by French interior designer Didier Gomez, are incredibly chic, with elegant finishing touches to elevate diners' experiences. 

The next day, opt for a continental breakfast—which typically consists of fresh pastries, bread, fruit, eggs, juice and coffee—in your room for a quintessentially French balcony moment.

The experiences

To add an extra layer of luxury and authenticity to your stay, the hotel offers tailor-made 'Just For You' packages to elevate your experience. These range from a private evening at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco to the opportunity for children to create French pastries guided by the hotel's specialist chef. And if you really want to up the ante, the hotel can arrange a James Bond-style experience that includes a private helicopter ride with views over the French Riviera. 

The hotel’s newest 'Just For You' experience, 'Drive Through Time', centres around a one-of-a-kind visit to the car collection of H.S.H. The Prince of Monaco. The tours are led by a dedicated guide, sharing stories about the remarkable collection of more than 100 vehicles curated by Prince Albert II and his father, Prince Rainier III.

A hotel space imagined by Karl Lagerfeld was always going to exceed expectations. In the pool area, a unique fresco-styled glass installation inspired by Greek mythology surrounds the heated swimming pool, while outside you'll find plush white sunloungers and manicured gardens alongside a relaxing outdoor lounge area and Lagerfeld's stylish Odyessy restaurant. Venture inside Spa Metropole by Givenchy to experience its sauna, hammam, caldarium, ice fountain and aromatherapy showers. 

The hotel is close to plenty of attractions, with The Métropole shopping centre just next door, if retail therapy is on your Monte Carlo to-do list. High-end designer stores and upmarket restaurants surround the area—and you'll never be too far away from an impeccably dressed woman sipping champagne on the patio of a chic wine bar here. Port Hercules, a picturesque port that's been used since ancient times and is usually full of expensive yachts, is a 10-minute walk away. 

Need to know

Rooms at the Hotel Metropole start at £398 for a Double Room (B&B) and you can book through the hotel's websiteor phone at: +377 93 15 15 15

You can find out more about the hotel's Just For You packages here.

Why go

Although Cowork Park, located in Ascot, was opened over a decade ago and is beloved by many for its beautiful grounds and grand building, it has most definitely not rested on its laurels. In fact, there is so much newness that here are five reasons to visit ASAP.

The food

I will get to the stunning building and rooms later, but I have to start with the food, because both of the restaurants have had a makeover and been taken over by exciting chefs. First off, you have Woven by Adam Smith. I'm not lying when I say I still think about the tasting menu months after my visit. 

It was awarded a one Michelin star just six months after opening, and offers a tapestry of familiar flavours reimagined in unexpected ways. The tasting menu, or culinary journey, begins with a selection of snacks served from the pantry including Truffle potato tart, Coronation chicken and Jellied Devon eel. Other mindblowing dishes focusing around British produce, include Cornish turbot, lobster, truffle, salted grapes and cauliflower; as well as Fallow deer, rhubarb, leeks, timut pepper, tartare tart. Desserts include Yorkshire rhubarb, vanilla, ginger, rhubarb sorbet and Adam’s Signature chocolate, sea salt, crème fraîche, cocoa nibs alongside a wide selection of British cheeses served from the pantry.

Then there are the stunning interiors, designed by Martin Hulbert Design, giving a contemporary and theatrical twist to the Georgian manor.

For a slightly more relaxed experience, head straight to The Barn. Housed in the original barn frame, the new open kitchen and grill champions seasonal ingredients, that Adam Smith uses to give his own twist on comforting British classics.  Think
Smithy’s chicken pie, alongside simple meat, fish and vegetable focused dishes, including Hereford côte de boeuf (to share); Spatchcock quail with rosemary and lemon; and a selection of day boat fish from Cornwall that can all be served either grilled or beer battered. 

The rooms

After the food, the rooms are one of the main reasons to stay here, and you will want to check out at the very last possible second. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to a place to lay your head, with grand bedrooms and suites occupying the mansion house, which epitomise Georgian grandeur without being stuffy.

All rooms can be described as luxe classics fused with modern fixtures; think Bang and Olufsen TV's, signature copper roll-top baths, the fluffiest of towels and pillow sprays to ensure the heartiest of sleeps.

If you'd like to push the boat out, invest in a suite. I stayed in the Mansion House Premium Suite, which offered sweeping views of the 240-acre grounds, which include a sunken garden and wildflower meadow. It is a true sanctuary which perfectly marries rural charm with a contemporary twist, and features a walk-in wardrobe, huge marble bathroom, bedroom and separate living space. I especially love the equestrian art, a nod to Coworth's rich history with horses: you can horse ride, croquet and polo on the professional polo grounds.

The spa

If you can bear to leave your room, then the spa is well worth the visit, even if you're only doing a day trip. It has recently welcomed sound therapy treatments by organic luxury seaweed skincare ishga. The experiences aim to harness the power of sound, translating this into a range of therapeutic sound treatments to accompany ishga’s award-winning products. The new menu is in partnership with Swell, whose unique approach to therapeutic sound was founded by international DJ and music psychology specialist Brian d’Souza, using a combination of Sound Therapy, Music Composition and Biophillia to ensure ishga Sound Treatments capture the essence of the ocean and its home in the Hebrides. 

The 90-minute treatment is designed to work in harmony with the music as it takes the guest on a journey to the Hebrides. It begins with a seaweed foot bath, followed by the chimes of the Singing Bowl that will lead into a Balinese inspired massage, finishing with a warm oil pouring onto the scalp and a relaxing head massage, and concludes with a calming awakening at the end from the music of the Singing Bowl. 

Elsewhere in the spa, you can enjoy massages, facials and body treatments as well as manicures and pedicures, but the real highlight is the indoor pool that's lined with 15 Amethyst crystals that lend an air of tranquillity to the space. It's flanked by a steam room and sauna, in case you need that extra little bit of R&R.

The grounds

Did I mention that the Ascot property is nestled within 240 acres of beautiful nature? This includes a sunken garden, wildflower meadow, a lake, a professional polo ground, tennis courts and much, much more. You can even head to the stables to hire a horse to explore the grounds on.

How to book

Rooms start at £455 in low season and £675 in high season. Book here.

When it comes to luxurious countryside escapes, few properties can rival the iconic Chewton Glen, in the heart of the New Forest. And here’s why…

The vibe

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the property was on the other side of the earth, so secluded is it, but it’s just under two hours away from London by train. Situated on the edge of the ancient New Forest and a short walk from the sea in Hampshire, Chewton Glen is surrounded by 130 acres of gorgeously maintained woodlands, parkland and gardens. The property was first built in the early eighteenth century as a residential property. Over the decades it has housed several families and enjoyed ties with the literary world (Captain Marryat’s most famous novel, The Children of the New Forest, is said to have been written there before its publication in 1847). It was turned into a hotel by the Duval family in the 60s, and propelled to an internationally recognised hotel when it was bought by the Skan family in 1966. Not one to rest on its laurels, it has been constantly evolving ever since, thanks to extensive renovations, award-winning cuisine and spa treatments and more.

The rooms

There are two ways to experience Chewton Glen, both of which are very different but equally luxurious. In the main house, you’ll find 58 rooms, each uniquely decorated to embody the house’s history and grounds (think antique furniture mixed with more contemporary pieces, unique art, a cosy atmosphere), with all the mod cons you’d come to expect from a property of this standard: fluffy robes and slippers, king size or twin bed, flat screen TV, Bang & Olufsen sound system etc. 

The treehouses offer a more secluded experience. A short walk from the main property, you’ll find the 14 treehouses, nestled high above the canopy of trees in a secluded valley, offering unprecedented views of the forest. Designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, these private residences are all about natural materials and minimalism: think hardwood decks, nature-inspired art, light wood and muted tones throughout. Think of them as an elevated version of the treehouse you wanted to live in as a kid: log burner, secret bunk rooms, hot tub, hot drink station filled with locally made treats, a hidden hatch where food hampers get delivered. Eco-credentials include rainwater harvesting, air source heat pumps, solar panels, and low-energy lighting.

The food

Chewton Glen grows most of its produce on site, so you know you’re in for a fresh and tasty treat, and what it doesn’t grow on site, it sources as locally as possible. Here again, you have different options depending on your mood. The Dining Room is perfect for a more formal and decadent experience. Spread across five rooms and helmed by Head Chef Simon Addison and Executive Head Chef Luke Matthews, it serves classics with a twist, such as Grilled Dover Sole, Thai lobster curry with coconut rice and the legendary twice-baked Emmental soufflé and Iced honeycomb parfait.

For a more casual - but no less tasty - experience, try the Kitchen Restaurant and Cookery School, headed by James Martin. The traditional Cornish mussels, chicken essence risotto, salt & pepper squid and triple cooked chips we had were beyond. You can also sign up for some cookery classes if you wish.

The spa

The newly refurbished Chewton Glen Spa is where you go to truly unwind, and you could easily while away several hours trying out the 17-metre indoor and outdoor swimming pools, the hydrotherapy spa pool, the outdoor whirlpool, communal steam room or cold drench showers. And that’s without counting the gym, dance studio or treatment rooms. The spa often hosts special treatments throughout the year, most recently with Monpure London, the world’s first dedicated scalp and hair health brand, designed to help minimise scalp irritation, prevent hair thinning and promote stronger, healthier hair. Therapists will be on hand for a Signature follicle treatment (75 minutes) or a Bespoke Nourish, Detox or Follicle boost treatment (45 & 60 minutes).

The need-to-know

Main House room prices start from £445 - £1,435 per room, per night. Treehouse Suites range from £965 to £3,015 per Treehouse Suite, per night.

When it comes to London's most prestigious hotels, few can rival the iconic landmark that is The Langham Hotel. Opened in 1865 as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, this luxurious oasis is just a mere five-minute walk from Oxford Circus station and offers the perfect escape for those looking for a UK-based staycation, or a grand experience for those seeking some luxury in the city. All whilst conveniently being a few miles away from London's most popular shopping epicentre and cultural landmarks. 

The hotel itself holds 237 rooms and 43 luxurious suites and residences fully equipped with a variety of activities for everyone from families to solo travellers. Additionally, it caters a handful of award-winning bars and restaurants to suit every occasion and taste. 

And lest we forget, its smell. Yes, its smell. Every corner of the hotel has been diffused with one of the most invigorating smells I have ever come across – a custom blend of ginger flower, honeyed pineapple and fresh lilac with violet, exclusive to the hotel. It's a very powerful, yet calming scent that adds an extra layer of luxury to every corner of this regal hotel.

The Rooms

The Langham Hotel is equipped with a variety of luxury rooms and over 40 suites. On this occasion, I stayed in The Executive Room which held incredible views of central London and had a cosy lounge area. Its furnishing was quintessentially British while remaining modern, with light, cream-toned furniture and subtle hints of the hotel's classic pink hues. Additionally, all bathrooms are equipped with bathroom essentials, bathrobes, and my favourite touch: Diptyque body care. 

Other popular room options are The Infinity Suite with a private dressing room, a lavish infinity bath and unbeatable views of London's All Saint Church. A commonly believed celeb-approved favourite, the Terrace Suite is also one of the hotel's most popular rooms with its own kitchenette, two lounges, and a private terrace overlooking the West End – quite possible the epitome of luxury.

For health and wellness enthusiasts, like me, the in-room TV holds a variety of quick workouts that can be done in the comfort of your room. The hotel's stellar service also offers workout equipment on call, including your own Peloton bike.

The Food

Quite possibly my favourite thing about the hotel is its restaurants and bars. From The Wigmore to the Palm Court, you are sure to leave each location feeling satisfied and eager to return. 

The Langham Hotel is also home to Artesian. This bar once held the title of World's Best Bar from 2011-2015, so it is definitely a must visit in London. This luxury cocktail bar is now partnering with chef Angelo Sato of Humble Chicken in Soho. Together, they have created a menu with cocktail pairings inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine.

During my stay, I was able to (finally) go to The Wigmore and cross it off my must-go list. This hearty pub experience has an elevated touch to classic pub food by Chef Michel Roux Jr. In the morning, the restaurant is open for a delicious breakfast buffet and à-la-carte menu with a fun make-your-own Mimosa or Bloody Mary station included. Come night time, the restaurant is bustling with energy, laughter and mouth-watering food. 

Amongst Bloody-Mary salted chips, slow-cooked pork collar,and a decadent winter tomato salad, I was most taken aback by the restaurant's traditional cheese toastie. I wouldn't say I'm a toastie connoisseur, but this one was by far one of the best cheese toasties I've tried in London. 

The food is truly spectacular, but what made me overjoyed was the incredible service received throughout my meal. The staff is incredibly thoughtful and thoroughly contribute to a memorable dining experience. 

The Activities

When it comes to activities, you can expect them to be luxe at The Langham Hotel. Whether you're after a bank vault turned swimming pool or a full gym with cold towels and water infusions included, the choice is yours. 

The 16m-long pool (which also has lime-infused water upon entry and exit) is just next door to the hotel's spa, sauna and steam room for a post-swim unwind session. 

The hotel's famous Chuan Body and Soul Spa is definitely one to look into. This spa offers signature massage and facial treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine whilst incorporating cutting-edge skin care technology. With an array of treatments from hydrafacials and a body ginger wrap to alleviate tension and release stress. 

The Need to Knows

Rooms at The Langham Hotel start at around £712 and you can book through the hotel's website or phone at: +44 (0) 20 7636 1000.

 If you’re looking for a break in the capital and want to bring the kids along with you, then you’ve come to the right place. The iconic Brown’s Hotel in London has collaborated with Swedish luxury family brand DockATot to deck out the rooms with that extra little bit of comfort for little ones.

The location: You won’t find a more central hotel if you try. Brown’s is a stone’s throw away from most of London’s major attractions, including Buckingham Palace, Green Park, Burlington Arcade and Oxford Street. Practically speaking, it’s a five minute walk from Green Park tube, and a five minute tube ride from Victoria Station.

The rooms

Now that I have a baby, it’s important for me that any hotels we stay in are family-friendly - any parent will know that travelling with a baby is not the most relaxing of experiences, but Brown’s really took the stress away. From its Rocco Forte Kids’ services to its children’s Afternoon Tea to their Little Ones treatment menu at The Spa at Brown’s, children are really catered for. My one-year-old was a little young for all that, however she did appreciate the nappies, baby toiletries, books and complimentary Alby the monkey soft toy.

As previously mentioned, Brown’s has teamed up with DockATot to provide treats for the whole family. This translates into a beautiful Moses basket, A La Maman Wedge nursing pillow, as well as the brand’s famous Deluxe+ and Grand Docks. In the signature suites, you’ll also find its award-winning tent, which creates a fun space for play and bedtime stories.

For the grown-ups, the facilities are just as decadent. The quintessentially British hotel, London’s first, boasts 115 authentically designed rooms and suites designed by Olga Polizzi, each paying tribute to the hotel’s world-renowned heritage and charm. For example, the Kipling Suite honours Rudyard Kipling who famously wrote ‘The Jungle Book’ at the hotel. We stayed in the incredible Paul Smith suite, the fruit of a collaboration between the designer himself and Olga Polizzi. The eclectic suite features a range of custom and vintage furniture, hand-picked artworks, interior collaborations and soft furnishings from the debut Paul Smith home collection, all injected with the fun colours we’ve come to expect from Paul Smith.

We didn’t manage to make it down to the spa (I hear great things though), but we did make the most of the lavish bathtub and rainwater shower in the marble-decked bathroom.

The food

There are three dining options at Brown’s. Charlie’s, the restaurant, serves contemporary British fare with European influences, and a delicious traditional breakfast for adults and kids - they kindly recreated our daughter’s favourite yoghurt and banana breakfast. We also tried room service (don’t judge us, we’re new parents) and loved the dishes we were served, which were a more relaxed take on Charlie’s dishes.

Then you have The Drawing Room, where Queen Victoria took tea, which of course serves a rather delicious traditional afternoon tea and The Donovan Bar, which serves impressive cocktails. 

The need to know

Rooms at Brown's Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel in London, start from £795 (room only).

Book online at Brown’s Hotel or phone +44 20 7493 6020. + 

Whether you're visiting the capital for the first time or are embarking on a fabulous staycation, why not treat yourself to a little bit of luxury—that's where the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences really comes into its own. 

Situated in the heart of Westminster, the suites and residences are in a prime location to access all the very best London has to offer. From some of the world's most famous shopping destinations (we're looking at you Harrods), Insta-worthy restaurants to the many sights—you're a stone's throw away from the Monarch's residence—you really have the best of everything right your doorstep.

The Vibe

Opulence, refinement and attention to detail run through every aspect of the hotel. And, for such a vast property, it's key to highlight just how intimate and boutique it feels. 

The property is in great company and is sandwiched between the bustling neighbourhoods of Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Mayfair and Soho. And, if getting into nature is high on your priority list, you'll be pleased to know that some of the city's most famous green spaces such as Hyde Park, St. James's Park, Kensington Gardens and Battersea Park are all within a 15-minute radius. 

The Rooms

The rooms at the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences are the epitome of grandeur and luxury, whether you book a one-bedroom suite, a Cinema suite (more of that below), or the ultimate Presidential Suite. 

The suites range from one to six bedrooms, all of which are decked out in truly exceptional decor, design and fabrications and styles vary from modern to regal old Hollywood. The Cinema suite honours the history of film and Hollywood glamour with the opulent red and gold colour scheme running throughout. 

The Food

The hotel excels when it comes to food and boasts five restaurants. From Kona, TH@51to House of Ming, Bombay Brasserie to Michelin-star restaurant Quilon, there is a huge variety of cuisine on offer—and, it's seriously good. Book into House of Ming, Taj 51's onsite Chinese restaurant to sample Sichuan and Cantonese-inspired cuisine, Bombay Brasserie or Bombay bar for Indian-inspired cuisine, or go all out with a meal at Quilon which has garnered Michelin star status with cuisine-inspired by the southwest coast of India. 

Of course, you can't visit London without sampling a famous afternoon tea, and Kona's award-winning afternoon tea is a must which is best enjoyed in the Victorian-inspired library. 

A trip to TH@51 should absolutely be on your must-do list. From the Chermoula Prawns to the Baked Aubergine, everything is equally delicious. Make sure you visit the courtyard too, which has been transformed into Secret Garden Laurent Perrier Champagne Terrace for this summer only

The Amenities

When you are not enjoying a deep slumber in your room, or tucking into a lavish meal, you can explore the many other amenities available.

Guests will also have unlimited access to The Taj 51's 24-hour fitness centre, which features everything from free weights to assisted fitness equipment, such as treadmills, exercise bikes and much more. Don't worry, there's an on-site fitness expert to help. 

If you are looking for something a little more zen to help you unwind, look no further than the Jive Spa, which is Europe's first-ever, and quite frankly, the pièce de résistance of this accommodation. Using Temple Spa, the luxe British beauty brand, treatments are centred around healing the mind, body and soul, for a 360 holistic spa experience.

Guests can book a solo treatment, or a couples experience in the couple suite, before slipping into the vitality bathing area, steam and sauna to while away the hours.

Enjoy a regal experience in the form of a champagne and truffles deluxe facial, or the My Kinda Skin Prescription Facial to target any skin concerns you may have.

Indulge even further with a Bespoke British Massage, one of the exfoliating treatments, or both. Plus, expectant parents can also book pregnancy-safe treatments too, so no guest misses out on a self-care session.

When you have completed your workout or relaxation session, finish off your day of pampering with a visit to the Hair By Dar salon for a glamorous makeover. For those truly important moments, head to the salon which has teamed up with celebrity make-up artist, Armand Beasley, so guests can book in to get their hair and make-up done by professionals who boast an impressive celebrity clientele.

One thing is for sure, you don't have to lift a finger during your stay at the Taj 51.

How To Book

For prices and more information, or to book Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences.

Marie Claire Easy Escapes, curated by editors and travel experts, features all the best hotels for whatever occasion, breaking down everything you need to know and why you should go. When it comes to visiting Paris, it's always a good idea in our books, and this latest hotel from the Marriott group is one to add to your visit list.

Situated in the fashionable 1er arrondissement, just minutes away from the enchanting Jardin des Tuileries, the Renaissance Paris Vendôme Hotel fuses the world of fashion and design. 

This is a hotel that pays homage to its heritage, from the 'Evenings at Renaissance' events where local craftspeople come together to showcase their works from jewellery designers to chocolate makers, to its quietly luxurious interiors, where minimal and chic colour pallets are enhanced with flashes of contemporary fashion prints and artworks. 

The hotel was reimagined by designer Didier Gomez back in 2018. Gomez wanted to breathe new life into a hotel that had, in his words, 'grown up' along with its surroundings. Gomez's vision took into consideration the vibrant and ever-evolving neighbourhood of the hotel to carve out its new identity. The result is a cosy and intimate boutique hotel that promises you will 'experience Paris like a true Parisian'.

And this does somewhat ring true, considering one of the unique touches of the hotel is that each guest is given a 'Navigator' - an exclusive pocketbook with the hottest places to explore, with the hidden gems that you'll need a little local knowledge to discover. There's no concierge either - in its place a team of 'Navigators' are on hand to tell guests about where to get the best French Martini or most delicious croissants.

The Vibe

The character of the property is of a grand French country house, rather than a formal hotel, with a focus on comfort and plenty of spaces for lounging. Eighteenth-century classicism is echoed throughout the architecture and interiors, with a design that fuses elements of French art and culture throughout the ages. 

The lobby itself - known as Le Studio - is essentially a huge living room, with books, magazines and games dotted around the comfy sofas, and snacks on tap all day. The reception area is modelled on a dining room table with a sign reading, 'To enjoy Paris come here'. Photographs by Ylka Popkova, Egorr and Kladyk mounted on the wall add a contemporary twist to the communal spaces, taking the design far away from the mainstream. 

The decor is charmingly mismatched, never trying too hard with a more relaxed air that makes up the hotel's DNA. Staff are trained to go the extra mile with a focus on revealing the secrets of their own little black books of restaurants, bars, bakeries and hidden attractions. In other words, chatter is most definitely encouraged - which makes a welcome change from the (sometimes) aloof reputation of Parisians. Oh, and you can also sip a complimentary cocktail (Monday to Thursday at 6pm) in Le Studio - a definite sweetener. 

The rooms

There are 97 variously sized guest rooms on the six floors of Renaissance Paris Vendôme Hotel, ranging in size from the light-drenched Corner Suite or the Patio Rooms with their private terraces. Each room has its own unique character, with a focus on comfort, rather than grand - and sometimes intimidating - designs. 

Again, there's a nod to the craftsmanship that takes place in the local neighbourhood, with leather headboards with double saddle-stitching and sleek, blown-glass hanging lamps. The rooms are trimmed in light-toned oak, the classic French wood. A lovely touch is that the mini-bar also offers local produce (also free if you're in one of the suites - and soft drinks only). Other useful amenities include Nespresso machines as standard and a Marshall Bluetooth speaker.

The amenities

As well as access to Le Salon, where guests can enjoy a game of chess by the fire or lounge with a glossy coffee table book, visitors can also take advantage of various activities like fashion exhibitions, wine tasting and crafts sessions.

Those staying at the hotel also have free access to the basement spa with sauna, steam room, small gym and a charming indoor pool with comfy cushioned chaise longues. 

There's also free WiFi, naturally, a laundry service for guests and 24-hour room service, should you have a hankering for breakfast in bed or a midnight feast after exploring the City of Lights. 

The need to know

• Address:  4 Rue du Mont Thabor, 75001 Paris, France
• Price: £££
• Gym: Yes
• Pool: Yes
• How to book: For prices and more information, or to book the Renaissance Paris Vendôme Hotel, visit the brand's website here: marriott.com/en-us/hotels/parvd-renaissance-paris-vendome-hotel.
• Are pets allowed: No pets allowed.

Rural tourism – where experiences are related to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle, culture, and sightseeing - is fast gaining popularity in the travel sphere. Our Beauty and Style Director, Lisa Oxenham, went to check out one such wellness destination located within the 500 hectare La Badiola Estate, in the coastal Tuscan region of Maremma.

STAND OUTS: 

This historic villa's ESPA spa and hammam and black-slate hot bath and indoor pool are unforgettable. The outdoor pool and jacuzzi overlook the gardens and there is also a tennis court (Novak Djokovic was staying there when we were there), a small golf course, mountain bikes, and acres of countryside hills to explore. It’s a 10 minute drive to the nearest beach, Castiglione della Pescaia, which is a pretty mediaeval seaside town and harbour with great local shops, bars, and restaurants.

LOCATION: 

Set behind what seems like a mile-long driveway of alternating pine and cypress trees typical of a Tuscan entrance, we arrived after a one hour and forty-minute drive from Pisa airport. Florence, Perugia, Rome, and Bologna are all between two-and-a-half to three hours drive from the hotel. The closest major town and train station is Grosseto, which is 18 km away. On the way back, we left slightly earlier so we could pop into Pisa to see the city and to take the obligatory Leaning Tower Shot. 

SPLENDID DESIGN: 

As well as having been home to a Medici, the villa is the former summer residence of Duke Leopold II. In keeping with the traditional Tuscan grandeur, the hotel reception is elegant, bright, with a captivating scent of pine and lavender, complete with traditional terracotta tiled floor.

THE ROOMS: 

Interiors are beautifully decorated with sumptuous fabrics, vintage furniture, and large windows that invite the light in as well as the sounds of sweeping swallows and the balmy, lavender-infused air. 

All of the 33 rooms and suites have a stone fireplace and huge bathrooms - ours came complete with an enormous Roman style bath, too. Every last detail has been considered, from the king-sized beds to the filtered water and healthy snacks in the mini bar, black out shutters that ensure a great night’s sleep. We had a prestige suite which includes a mezzanine bedroom - perfect for my mum and ideal for family stays. 

WELLNESS SPA: 

It would be hard not to feel well and rested at L’Andana thanks to the setting - but the spa adds to it, with holistic-inspired ESPA treatments. I’ve often found spas to feel like an afterthought in terms of design, but this sanctuary of relaxation is a masterpiece with lots of options including the hammam, mineral-rich heated pool, indoor pool, fitness centre, outdoor pool, and jacuzzi. The outdoor pool area with bar service is stunning with views over the beautifully manicured grounds and surrounding countryside. 

The spa treatment menu covers facials, massages, day-long holistic spa programmes, and alternative therapies like full body massages and exfoliation to smooth dry skin and kickstart a sluggish system (I had this when I landed at the resort and it was the perfect antidote to the effects of the flight).

FOR FAMILIES: 

A key pillar of parenting, which most of us struggle with (I certainly do), is switching off, but the hotel offers opportunities to get some downtime thanks to the Kids club of dreams, with myriad activities like table football and arts and crafts, and a kiddie pool with slide outside. I felt really happy to leave my daughter, Eliza, there with staff who were so warm and thoughtful. The larger main pool at L'Andana allows kids but is unsupervised, so parents will have to keep an eye on them and dining time is perfect for families too. 

THINGS TO DO: 

The surrounding area is beautiful and quiet and great for running or hiking, and several beautiful protected beaches are a short drive away. We visited Castiglione della Pescaia where the water can be wavy, so not ideal for kids wanting to swim, but great for a paddle and play on the shore. In the evening, a walk up through the old town and up to the fort offers spectacular views, and then you can head back down to La Terrazza on the harbour for a bottle of the local wine, grab a table on the balcony and watch the fishing boats returning to port. For cheaper options, there are many great pizza restaurants - make sure you try one featuring burrata cheese, a Tuscan speciality.

If you don’t want to leave the cosy embrace of the hotel, you can arrange a tour of the 500-hectare estate’s wine production set-up and guided wine tasting. The cookery classes are also a must, given by the hotel's chef. 

FOOD AND DRINK: 

Eating healthily is easy here thanks to the abundance of Tuscan fruit and vegetables. La Villa is set on an outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens, and there you’ll find excellent breakfasts and light lunches. In the evening, traditional Mediterranean dishes are served up using the freshest, seasonal local produce, including aromatic herbs, vegetables, wine, and olive oil from the gardens - and there is also a barbecue once a week. Mum sampled the estate’s wine with dinner to sip during the spectacular sunsets. 

La Villa's elegant Italian meals can be simplified for kids, and dishes from the menu can be tweaked on request - I am a fussy pescatarian who is also gluten and dairy free and they were unfazed. 

ACCESSIBILITY: 

The hotel has step-free access, and there is a lift for wheelchair accessibility with ramps put in place of steps where applicable.

How to book your trip? 

L'Andana is available through F&P Travel from £380 per night in a Superior Room. Price includes breakfast and F&P Travel complimentary concierge service. To book, contact F&P Travel www.fandpatravel.com / 01306 264 005

L’Andana, Tenuta La Badiola, Località Badiola, 58043 Castiglione della Pescaia, Grosseto; 

andana.it

You know that feeling when you desperately want to get away and stay in the middle of nowhere, for some peace and quiet? Well we found the answer - Rest + Wild luxury cabins in Exmoor do literally just that. Their mantra is, “a little room to breathe, small spaces to switch off”. Beautiful wooden cabins with wood burners and outdoor copper baths, each one is located in its own field. You can sleep, eat, swim and repeat. Just bliss.

The cabin

Launched in 2020 when everyone in lockdown so desperately wanted to flee to the countryside, Rest + Wild host super-luxurious cabins in spectacular locations. Their first cabins were in the Shropshire Hills and they recently opened a new destination in Exmoor, North Devon. The perfect hideaway, the cabins, which sleep two, have wood burners for cold nights, king-size beds, luxe bedding, outside copper baths and fire pits. What they don’t have – on purpose – is WiFi, so you have to switch off, which we really appreciated. 

Our cabin had incredible views across the countryside, while still giving us complete privacy, which was a relief with the outside bath, which was quite exhilarating. The sheep didn’t seem to mind us being at one with them and nature.

In fact, one of the things I loved most about our stay was waking up to the view of the field and the sound of nature… seeing and hearing our sheep neighbours and their lambs, was very peaceful.

This is beyond glamping – the cabin was spacious, clean and super-comfortable and had just the right amount of amenities, with solar power and natural toiletries. It was cosy, too, we loved sitting by the fire reading books and the fire pit outside was wonderful. You can star-gaze in the clear night sky, as the area is a Dark Sky Reserve, meaning there’s no light pollution.

Food and drink

As the cabins are remote, you can bring your own food or pre-book a bespoke hamper, stocked with local food and drink. We tried the pizza hamper, which was delicious and fun and we also had a breakfast hamper, which meant we didn’t have to even think about food. I highly-recommend doing so.

In the wider area, there are plenty of great dining options, from the 16th century The London Inn at Molland, just around the corner, to a whole host of gastro pubs in the region, such as Tarr Farm Inn in Dulverton. 

The area

It’s all about slowing down and enjoying nature and the countryside, here. Rest + Wild helpfully suggest local walks you can take, which we did, such as a hike up Dunkery Beacon to take in the spectacular views from Exmoor’s highest peak and the riverside walk across the footbridge, Tarr Steps.

There are lots of nearby sites for some of the best wild swimming in the country, like the plunge pools and waterfall of Long Pool, Watersmeet and Wimbleball Lake. And for those wanting some more energetic pursuits, you can go horse-riding through some of the 400 miles of bridleways, or mountain-biking. 

It’s also worth driving to the coast, as Exmoor has some gorgeous little towns and beaches, such as Porlock and Lynton.

And after that, you can take a long warm soak in the bath and curl up with a book by the fire… Regeneration complete.

How to book: Rest + Wild Exmoor cabins, from £175 per night, visit restandwild.co.

Forget soggy fish and chips or ‘break a tooth’ stick o’ rock, this Cornish beach resort is attracting an altogether more discerning, cosmopolitan crowd. Time to pack up your preconceptions of a UK beach holiday and book yourself into Watergate Bay. 

The Vibe

When CEO Will Ashworth took over from his parents in 2004 he had grand ambitions for this old school beach hotel, hoping to emulate the Apres Ski feeling he was so fond of, and share that with a wider homegrown crowd. If you’re up for it, days are for working up an appetite in the surf, taking long hikes and getting a healthy dose of that fresh sea air, but as the sun lowers it’s time for Apres Surf …. Dive into the pool, grab a cocktail on the sun deck or massage those aching muscles away at the beach club spa. 

Sounds like an altogether adult affair right? It is, but somehow Watergate manages to combine a refined upmarket ambiance with a kids, dogs, and sandy flip flop welcome mentality. No airs and graces here, just a great time guaranteed for all. 

Rooms

The hotel is expansive and offers something for everyone, in-house doubles, family suites, village apartments or the impressive new beach lofts. They’ve really thought of everything here with accessible rooms, interconnecting family rooms, dog friendly options and baby monitoring and babysitting services. It's a place that everyone can enjoy. 

We checked in to one of the 7 swanky new “surf in - surf out” beach lofts with panoramic views across Cornwall’s rugged Watergate Bay.  Designed by Cornwall-based Dynargh Design, each loft offers something slightly different - ours came with a wood burner and freestanding bath overlooking the beach, cosy seating area, huge bed and a generous bathroom. The power shower is pure heaven after a day on the beach and leaves no grain of sand behind. Luxury Land & Water bath products make the experience even more enjoyable and being British made, vegan and using 100% recycled packaging, they’re just one of the many things the hotel are doing to create a more sustainable footprint. Carpets made from recycled bottles, 100% renewable electricity supplies, electric charging points and reclaimed and upcycled furniture are just some of the ways this beach retreat sits in harmony with its surroundings, and helps preserve rather than impact its star attraction. 

Feeling peckish? All beach lofts have access to a communal pantry which serves breakfast alongside round the clock, help yourself, tea and cake. For something a little more celebratory, pop your note in the honesty box and toast your day’s activities with a cocktail or bottle of champagne. 

Activities

Hit up the Swim Club and take a dip in the 25m heated indoor pool with impressive views out across the bay, hop in the sauna or plunge into the outdoor hot tub. Kids can frolic all day but 6-9 morning and evening are reserved for adults only - take a book, order a drink and just sit back and soak up your surroundings. 

The spa amenities are small but perfectly formed and the range of treatments doesn't disappoint. A massage was just what the doctor ordered and nothing is too much for the experienced staff who go above and beyond to tailor the treatment to suit your needs. 

Partnering with the local Wavehunter academy guests can book private or group surf and stand-up paddleboard lessons as well as outdoor fitness or beach yoga sessions. We tried our hand at surfing as part of a mixed group catering to all ages and abilities - not sure we’ll be entering any competitions just yet but the knowledgeable, fun and attentive instructors ensured everyone had a great time and most took to their feet. 

Wining & Dining

There are four restaurants at the hotel, each bringing a unique take on locally sourced, quality ingredients. The Beach Hut, set as you’d imagine, just off the beach offers a contemporary and relaxed setting. Watch the sunset over the waves with international cuisine, fish and chips or a burger. 

For something more formal, pop the baby to sleep with the baby sitting service and pull up a chair at Zacry’s. We opted for the charred octopus with smoked paprika and crispy potatoes as well as the cauliflower pakora with lime yoghurt and pomegranate - both were a huge success. Charcoaled meats and fish are the stars of the show but vegans and vegetarians will be impressed with the additional fully plant based menu. 

The Living Space invites you to lounge at your leisure. On a good day head out to the sun deck and enjoy the view with a bowl of olives, a couple of croquettes or a sharing platter. Kids will be happy here with space to run around and a menu of fish fingers, cheeseburgers and pasta. 

New this season Emily Scott sets up permanent residence following a hugely successful pop-up in 2020. “Expect a stripped back and simple seafood and plant-based menu,built from meticulously-sourced local ingredients”. Gourmet hot dogs, pizzas, cracking coffee and local ice creams are also all available from the local vendors set up in the beachside car park.  

Normally I’m one to over indulge on holiday, but with all the activities on your doorstep a week at Watergate Bay hits the perfect balance of action meets excess - good for the mind, body and soul.

What are you waiting for?

Price start from £190 for a standard double including breakfast, to book head to https://www.watergatebay.co.uk/

A Lake District escape with a difference. From the team at Watergate Bay Hotel, expect the usual active sense of adventure in the day followed by ultimate relaxation and pure indulgence as the sun goes down. 

The Vibe

Set back from the banks of Ullswater this former Georgian country house has been restored into a contemporary 47 bed hotel with sympathetic modern additions and tasteful decor. The vibe is laid back but with an air of bouji: A combination of Bentleys and Audis are joined by well used campervans and 4x4s in front of the impressive old stone building, you’re invited to borrow a pair of Joules wellies and grab one of the Another Place branded maps lining the porch to head out and explore. Friends, families and couples of all ages gather on the front lawns to enjoy the breathtaking views and partake in a sundowner or too. All together it’s very civilised “contemporary lake living”.  

The Rooms

40 of the 47 rooms sit within the main house whilst newer additions to the complex include 6 Shepherd’s Huts and 1 magnificent Tree House. Inside the main house rooms range from standard to better and best, as well as more expansive suites including a bespoke Joules Suite: inspired by nature and designed in collaboration with British lifestyle brand Joules. 

If you’re travelling with family or friends you might be taken by one of the cottages in the hotel grounds, offering complete access to the hotel and all its facilities but with an added air of privacy. Both cottages offer 2 bedrooms and allow a furry companion too. 

We had the pleasure of staying in one of the new Shepherd’s Huts which offered the perfect connection to the wild outside whilst catering to our love of creature comfort! Inside we enjoyed a fully prepped log burner, comfy beds below a skylight for stargazing, and a deep solid copper bath ideal for soaking those weary limbs. Each of the huts has its own private outdoor terrace complete with fire pit and bean bags, and simple touches like a jar of marshmallows ready for toasting are just another example of how this hotel really has thought of everything. Ask for one of the front huts for uninterrupted views across the marina!

As is true of Watergate Bay, CEO Will Ashcroft is keen to ensure that Another Place adds to rather than impacts its stunning location and therefore sustainability continues to be a central focus. Much of the hotel’s interiors use reclaimed materials, all electricity is 100% renewable and heating comes from the hotel’s biomass boiler.

Activities

Surrounded by over sixteen thousand acres of National Trust scenery and with Ullswater lapping at the hotel’s private shore there really is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. If you’re keen to get wet then the hotel offers sailing, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and open water swimming. My partner indulged in a late night lunar swim with the hotel’s expert; Colin Hill and couldn’t have spoken more highly. Whilst you might be thinking “sounds a bit chilly for me” the newly rebuilt “Sheep Shed” cabin has underfloor heating, hot showers and wetsuit drying rooms meaning that even the most feeble or guests shouldn’t be put off. 

If you’d rather stick to terra firma then there are hills and fells to be discovered as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re on two feet, two wheels or on horseback the wild surrounding countryside is calling you and come the winter months guests can even take to skis at local Raise ski club.

The Food

After a long day of activities the last thing you want to be doing is hunting around for somewhere to eat and luckily you don’t have to! 3 onsite restaurants cater to all tastes: The Living Space offers casual dining, sofas and a bar with favourites like bang bang cauliflower, fish and chips or caesar salad whetting your appetite. For those wanting something more formal the Rampsbeck Restaurant offers a locally sourced and inspired menu like roasted radishes with whipped feta or pan roasted asparagus with wild garlic. We particularly enjoyed the chorizo crusted cod and the sirloin with smoked potato and horseradish emulsion. Just make sure you leave room for one of their heavenly desserts! For lighter meals or post-swim lunches the Victorian style Glasshouse serves woodfired pizzas (the Diavola was a crowd-pleaser) alongside uninterrupted views of the lake and plenty of outside space for the kids to entertain themselves whilst parents watch on with a well earned glass of wine. 

What Else? 

Be sure to check out the website for ever changing active breaks. 2023 will see a wild swim camp, pilates break and 2 night yoga breaks. Local artist Sarah Taylor will be hosting an outdoor art exhibition across the hotel’s grounds until the end of October including a giant outdoor colouring wall for kids. 

For something further afield be sure to follow the goings on at Another Place’s first pop up event at The Machrie - a Scottish Island adventure on Islay. We have no doubt that it will be a huge success with more pop ups likely added to the calendar so stay tuned. 

What are you waiting for?

Prices: From £190 for a standard double including breakfast Visit https://another.place/hotel/ to book. 

Why Go?

If you’re after a luxury self-catering mini-break on your own or with friends and family in tow, then this high-end—but comfortable—destination is perfect for you. 

With their sleek angular lines, bevelled edges and expanses of concrete, the enclave of properties looks as if it was almost plucked straight out of Malibu—or an episode of Grand Designs, even. And, if it wasn’t for the grey and brooding Constable-esque English skies, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you had somehow been transported to California. But you’re not. You’re actually in Dorset on the South coast of England. Sometimes a UK staycation is the only holiday you'll need. 

The Location:

On a recent trip with R&R high on the priority list, we hopped into a car with best friends in tow and made the drive from London to Dorset. In just under an hour from Bournemouth you’ll hit Weymouth where you’ll cross the scenic Portland Beach road. Just 20 minutes later you will find yourself in the charming Isle of Portland, home to the impressive Penn Estate and Clifftops luxury villas.

The properties line one edge of land overlooking the English Channel and make the perfect base for relaxation or exploring the area (handily surrounded by quaint pubs). There are five self-catering lodges that make up the Clifftops site, all of similar size, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite) and of course, all appointed to the exact same impeccable standard throughout. They’re available to rent individually but could also make a great trip away with a group of friends (or family) if you were to book them all out at once. 

You’re in a prime location for some really great walks, where taking in the unspoiled views, sunrises and sunsets becomes the norm and to generally take it easy—all in a luxurious home away from home setting. It’s really best to explore the area for yourself, but if you’re short on time and can only do one walk why not retrace our steps. One sunny afternoon, we headed down to the Chiswell Beach / Portland Marina via the Tout Quarry and we found some lovely pubs handily spread out at 10-minute intervals: The Brittania Inn for its old-school charm, dog-friendly The Little Ship and The Cove House Inn for great fish and chips and rosé.  

The Facilities:

Speaking of luxurious settings: attention to detail is key with considered choices running throughout the properties. Throws are heavy, carpets are plush and sheets have a high thread count. The furniture is the right side of design-led (no one wants to spend hours deliberating the best way to sit correctly on an obscure sofa) and from the kitchen to the bathrooms the appliances are high spec. 

What they've done exceptionally well here is blend the old with the new. The villas don’t look out of place next to the grand castle building. You’ll find several postcard moments—thanks to those floor-to-ceiling windows and doors—that invite you to curl up with a good book or a glass of wine and really take in the view. 

Outside hasn’t been forgotten either. Part of the lodges' appeal is about inside/outside living. The picture frame windows really invite you in and once outside, the glass bannister allows for uninterrupted and seriously impressive views. The patio was also made for entertaining: this isn’t some stonecold and uncomfortable outdoor furniture, it wants you to spend every possible moment out here, and the super barbeque is the perfect touch—a full english just tastes better cooked this way. Fact. 

Don't Miss:

The lodges offer a super handy service via the Estate eShop to take care of your welcome meal. All you have to do is preorder so that when you’ll arrive you find a delicious supper in the fridge that you simply need to pop in the oven whilst you unpack and get used to your surroundings (aka. pop the bottle of bubbly). They also offer food, drink and activities throughout your stay.

Whether you spent the day hiking, ambling idly from pub to pub or simply doing nothing, life is hard, so make sure you carve out some time for a leisurely—and well-deserved—soak in the hot tub. Set the jets to go and as you gaze out into the Dorset Coast, listening to the water breaking on the rugged coastline, relax and feel life’s stressors bubble away—eased on ever so gently by the bubbles in your cup, obviously. 

On your way back, you’ve got to explore Poundbury, ‘an urban extension to the Dorset country town of Dorchester, built on the principles of architecture and urban planning as advocated by HM King Charles III, in A Vision of Britain, according to the Duchy Of Cornwall official site. This urban experiment (around a 30-minute drive from Clifftops) has been built around four pillars: architecture, integrated affordable housing, community and giving priority to people and not cars. Yes, it sounds strange. It's certainly worth a visit, so plan accordingly. We booked into The Duchess of Cornwall Inn Poundbury, for a satisfying roast and after a 30-minute stroll admiring the buildings that fused the charm of New Orleans with the decadence of Chelsea, we were on our way home.  

The Need To Know:

• Address: Clifftops, Pennsylvania Castle Estate, Pennsylvania Road, Portland, Dorset DT5 1HZ
• Price: ££££
• How to book: Visit The Penn Estate for availability and price information. 
• Are pets allowed? No pets allowed

What to pack:

If you fancy a beach break, you can’t get closer to the sea than The Beach House on Hayling Island. Like its name suggests, this pretty holiday home is right on the beach – an upside-down house designed to make the most of the glorious sea views across to the Isle of Wight.

With a huge terrace, you can forget cramming on to the beach on this south coast island hotspot, with towels, tents and tons of other people. The Beach House is all about lounging around in comfort, with a cold-drink in hand. What more could we want.

The house

The Beach House is part of the Cabins and Castles collection of chic getaways. The boutique lettings agency was founded by Zoe Bassett and is a curated selection of high-end holiday homes in and around Sussex. The beautiful Beach House is all coastal cool – marine blues and greys, whitewashed floorboards and timber cladding.

It’s enormous – with five bedrooms, sleeping 11, it is perfect for a couple of families or friends. Downstairs you find the bedrooms, including the lovely master bedroom, with its modern four-poster bed and open-plan roll-top bath, so you can literally soak in the vista.

Upstairs, there’s a large open-plan area with kitchen, with all mod-cons, including wi-fi, dining and lounge, with a huge terrace and outdoor eating area.

After what felt like an endless winter, we were desperate to relax with a bit of warmth and The Beach House fulfilled all our hopes. Newly-renovated, super-stylish, we couldn’t ask for more. With a private garden, we could see the Isle of Wight from the balcony. Luckily, we had the most beautiful sunny weekend, which was exactly what we needed.

Food and drink

It’s unsurprisingly all about great seafood and seaside eateries on Hayling Island. There are lots of waterfront pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes.

The Inn on the Beach, Sea Front, is a fun, relaxed place with a large terrace over the sea and Drift, in Sparkes Marina, is a nice location for a cocktail and spot of boat-watching.

Nearby, on the mainland, there are endless country pubs and fine-dining like the Michelin-recommended 36 On The Quay in Emsworth Quay harbour.

The area

One of Britain’s most popular island destinations, Hayling Island sit between Portsmouth and Chichester Harbour and West Wittering beach. It’s linked to the mainland by bridge or ferry and has three miles of pebbly and sandy beaches.

It’s all about outdoor pursuits here – as the birthplace of windsurfing, it’s full of windsurfers making the most of the conditions. You can try the sport at one of the many schools around the island, as well as kite-surfing or stand-up paddle-boarding. You can sail or take a more leisurely boat trip on board the charming boat, Rosie K.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there’s a lovely walk or cycle route along the five-mile Hayling Billy Coastal Path, or round West Hayling Local Nature Reserve.

But who are we kidding, you’d also be forgiven for doing what we did and just relaxing for the weekend, with some well-earned R&R.

 How to book: The Beach House, from £300 per night. Visit cabinsandcastles.co.uk or call 01730 239 852.

Whilst I love the refinement of a 5* hotel, the enormity of the breakfast buffet and the touch of a button room service, there’s also a lot to be said for booking your own pied a terre for the weekend. No restrictions on what to pack, the ability to sprawl out across an entire property and the fact that it’s all yours! No late night corridor disturbances from party revellers, no need to dress for breakfast and a fridge that can accommodate full size items - mini bars never suffice let’s be honest. There’s something altogether more relaxing about a holiday cottage break. 

For our most recent sojourn we headed north of the border to the pretty Scottish village of Ancrum and the picture perfect Campsie Cottage. With not much more than the village store and local pub, it’s the perfect setting for a weekend of pure relaxation and a time to reconnect with nature.  

The Cottage

Positioned in the centre of the village, a stones throw from the village green, pub and shop, Campsie Cottage is an idyllic two bedroom whitewashed stone cottage. If visiting during the colder months the caring owners will stoke the wood burner pre arrival ensuring a warm and cosy welcome. We also lucked out with an enormous, and delicious, homemade chocolate loaf cake and a welcome hamper which we made good progress on across the course of our stay.

If you’re an interiors fan then you’ll gain lots of inspiration here as the owners have tastefully decorated using locally sourced materials alongside designer finds - think Farrow and Ball paints, St Judes wallpapers and Oka fabrics. The result is a contemporary take on timeless country stylings.

The cottage has two comfortable bedrooms. One ensuite king size master bedroom with a French inspired carved wooden bed that’s so comfy you could easily be tempted to snooze all day. A second bedroom can either be set up as a king size or twin so it’s perfect for couples or families alike.

Downstairs the warm and homely living room is an ideal place to snuggle up in front of the fire after a long day exploring or taking in one of the many local walks. Turn on the smart TV or pick from the cottage’s extensive DVD selection, for the competitive amongst you there’s a healthy selection of board games to while away the hours or alternatively hook up to the wireless speaker, put your feet up and enjoy some downtime.

The fully equipped kitchen has everything you’d need to whisk up a hearty breakfast and for the more adventurous cooks there’s a selection of good cookbooks to inspire you. As you’re on holiday however I reckon it’s time to down tools and thankfully the Ancrum Cross Keys offers excellent homemade pub food, we can vouch for the mac n cheese, haggis bon bon and hearty burger. Go with an empty stomach because the portions are generous.

In the warmer months dine alfresco in the cottage’s courtyard garden and take in the golden sound of nothing except local birds and the breeze dashing through the trees - bliss.

Out and About

Exploring the village of Ancrum will take you all of 5 minutes, although a very pleasant and pretty 5 minutes. Take the footpath alongside the village school and you can join a pretty walk along Ale Water. Less than 10 minutes in a car will see you in Jedburgh with its impressive abbey ruins, colourful market place and Ferniehirst Castle. Slightly further, but still within a half hour drive, is the bustling town of Kelso bursting with independent shops and galleries, restaurants, cafes and bars.

Whether you fancy adrenaline fuelled adventure sports or more leisurely historic wanderings, animal encounters or spa based pampering the cottage owners have curated the best of the local attractions for you to peruse and plan during your stay.

For eating out we had it on good recommendation that the Caddy Man (5 minutes by car) was worth a visit. On first appearance it may not strike you as one of the Borders’ premier establishments - the hotchpotch furniture, paper napkins and impressive collection of table mats doesn’t scream 2023 haute cuisine. However, interiors aside, the service is warm, friendly and experienced and the menu impressive. The Good Food Guide, The Scottish Field and The Scotsman all conclude it’s one of Scotland’s best restaurants and the ever growing list of awards would suggest they might be onto something. Specialising in game it’s not the venue for vegetarians or vegans but if you enjoy fresh, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients paired with local game, beef, lamb and fish then you’re in for a treat. Between us we sampled most of the menu and nothing disappointed. An absolute must if you’re in the area.

Alternatively Schloss Roxburghe Hotel and Golf course offers both fine dining and afternoon teas.

What are you waiting for? 3 nights at Campsie Cottage is available through Crabtree & Crabtree from £506.25 (7 nights from £675). To book visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com or call 01573 226711. If you’re travelling with furry friends up to 2 well behaved dogs are welcome to stay too (£25 per dog).

Nestled in the alpine mountains of southern Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, you’ll find keen skiers - and beginners, too - taking on the powdery pistes at Niseko Village. Often touted as the ‘Aspen of Asia’, it’s a resort famed for its breathtaking views, quality snow and luxury hotels. 

But tucked away from the lively slopes lies an understated haven of tranquillity and elegance for those who want to split their time between the runs and relaxation - the Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Whether you’re looking for an opulent base during a winter sports holiday or hoping to soak up the lush landscapes post-ski season, here’s why those in the know head straight to this Shiribeshi sanctuary. 

Why go

While Val d’isere and St Moritz are popular European hotspots for skiers and snowboarders, Niseko Village is famed for its unparalleled snow quality (and quantity) during winter months - so if you’re willing to travel a little further, it’s certainly worth it. 

This Ritz-Carlton reserve - the fifth in the world and the first in Japan - is perfectly located for travellers who want to enjoy the stunning scenery the area has to offer. How you do that is totally up to you; take it all in whilst whipping down the red runs, or marvel at the views from the Ume Lounge with a warming Shiraz.

A two hour drive from New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, it is located within Niseko United - four resorts housed on one mountain with over 2,000 acres of terrain to explore as you please. During the cooler months, the draw is obvious - fresh snow, and lots of it. But when that starts to melt away and the temperature rises, the surrounding area becomes a lush green landscape with forests and mountains perfect for all kinds of alfresco adventures. Whether you’re a keen hiker, cyclist or golfer, you’lll be well looked after.

But it isn’t just the roster of outdoor activities that makes Higashiyama Niseko Village a first-class destination. The hotel itself is such a delicious bubble of calm that you’ll enjoy staying indoors just as much. The service is impeccable, the mood is relaxed and your stay will be unforgettable.

The vibe

The aim here is simple: inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ‘kachou fuugetsu’, the hotel ensures that the natural beauty of the world outdoors is just as prevalent in the design. Think intricate antler chandeliers, cherry blossom murals and forest-inspired carpets, as well as neatly stacked logs by an open fire and exposed rock pillars joining dark wood panelling.

From the moment you walk into the lobby you are faced with epic views of Mount Yotei courtesy of the endless floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and one thing will become abundantly clear: it’s a place of undeniable elegance and luxury, but it also embodies a certain warmth and intimacy. From the soft textiles to the cosy open library, it's a delicately crafted balance of sophistication and comfort. 

On slower days, make the most of Spa Chasi La Sothys and book yourself in for a 90 minute massage that combines aromatherapy and shiatsu techniques. Just make sure you haven't got any plans immediately afterwards - you will feel like a fuzzy ball of bliss, so enjoy it for as long as you possibly can. There's also an on-site fitness centre which is open to guests 24 hours a day, so you can work up a sweat whenever suits you. 

But if there's one thing not to be missed it's the onsen. The ancient Japanese tradition of bathing in mineral-rich hot springs embraces the importance of rest and relaxation. It's an impressive place to do just that - the steaming hot outdoor bath, totally surrounded by metres of snow and sky-high trees, will transport you to state of tranquillity within minutes. Perfect before bed, or first thing in the morning. And any time in between. 

The rooms

The hotel boasts 50 rooms and suites at the property, with king or twin options available. But it's the Yotei Suite that really packs a luxury punch with outstanding views of the mountain from every window. 

At 958 sq ft, it is an incredibly spacious offering which includes an open plan dining, living and kitchen area overlooking the endless pristine snow. You'll find the usual modcons - a mini bar, Nespresso machine and flat screen TV - as well as seating for up to eight people. Through the hall you'll find a large walk-in closet with its own vanity station and a bedroom with ample office space.  

However, it's the bathroom that will really get you excited. Not just because of the multi-function toilet with a range of buttons you never knew you needed, or the products which are locally produced in Hokkaido. 

But because you'll also get your very own onsen-style bathtub with direct views of Mount Yotei, and taking multiple baths a day will become irresistible.

The food and drink

Located just beyond the lobby, you’ll find Yukibana - the hotel’s main restaurant. As the day begins, the light pours in and gives the impression of being seated in a life-sized snow globe. By evening, the rich navy skies turn the dining area into a luxuriously comfortable spot for delicious Japanese bites. 

This is where you’ll find an ample continental breakfast buffet, too. Freshly baked pastries, as well as cereals and seasonal fruits, will keep you sufficiently full until lunchtime. There’s also an extensive cheese and charcuterie section using high-quality and locally sourced produce. But make sure you take a look at the à la carte menu at least once - and try the Niseko Eggs Benedict. It’s definitely one for the brunch-lovers; juicy Hokkaido King crab with poached eggs and a sprinkle of chili on toasted cranberry bread with generous lashings of hollandaise. Delicious.  

For dinner, Sushi Nagi offers an intimate authentic Japanese dining experience. Take a seat on one side of the counter as you watch multiple small, tasty and beautifully designed dishes come to life. The journey embodies the style of eating known as ‘omakase’ (or ‘up to you’ dining) whereby restaurant-goers are presented with plates that are carefully selected by the chef. Reservations are required given the limited seating, and it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is the stomach.

What to do

The combination of stunning views, steaming outdoor onsen and luxury treatments will be enough to keep you comfortably inside the hotel - but there is plenty to do outside for adventurers. 

Of course, with the slopes on your doorstep skiing and snowboarding are the obvious options. But for a slower-paced snowy activity, you’re perfectly located for a spot of snowshoeing. Grab a pair of the flat-bottom shoes and embark on a hike in the picturesque forest - you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to Narnia. For those after a more intense adrenaline rush, try snow rafting and snowmobiling.

Either way, make sure that you carve out some time to really soak up the outdoors (even if it’s just in between spa appointments). 

Après-ski elegance - get the look

How to book

Rates at Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz Carlton Reserve start from JPY96,000+++ (approx. £596, dependent on exchange rate at time of booking) per night during the winter season, on a room only basis. 

For more information and to book, visit Ritz-Carlton Higashiyama or email reservation.higashiyama@ritzcarlton.com.

Information can also be found via YTL's website.

If you’re looking for a city break that’s not a million miles from the capital, combines culture, cute coffee shops and quaint cobbled streets, and has enough to keep you busy for a long weekend away, look no further than Bath. While you’re there, check in to The Roseate Villa - a charming boutique hotel that’s enveloped by lush greenery, but also within walking distance to the heart of the city. Bridgerton fans, this one’s for you. 

Why Go

Less than a fifteen minute walk from Bath Spa train station and just a five minute stroll from Pulteney Bridge, the 5* Roseate Villa is tucked behind the city’s winding streets, overlooking Henrietta Park - a gorgeous leafy haven which was originally opened to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Comprised of two converted Victorian houses, the hotel itself oozes quiet opulence from the outside, and inside, it strikes the balance between luxury and comfort. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, so guests are well looked after with top quality service - sans stuffiness. 

The Vibe

Stepping through the doors, you’ll be welcomed by a delicate mix of classic and contemporary touches. Crisp white walls are the backdrop to warmer accents, like the bookcase wallpaper which lines one side of the reception area and the unmissable spindle staircase. The breakfast room - which also serves afternoon tea - is bright, airy and overlooks the park through large bay windows, making it a picturesque spot for cakes and bubbly. While the feel is luxurious, it’s also understated - think elegance over extravagance.

The Rooms

When you book with Virgin Experiences, you’ll enjoy a stay in one of the Deluxe rooms on the property. Complete with a separate vanity area, king sized bed, plush chaise longue and bay windows boasting traditional Victorian shutters, it once again blends subtle luxury with modern comfort. You’ll find a robe, slippers and toiletries neatly placed upon arrival, and a bathroom stocked with Penhaligon’s miniatures. Delightful.

The Food and Drink

The breakfast offering at Roseate Villa is, in a word, excellent. From the continental menu, choose from a range of juices, fruits, cereals and freshly-baked croissants. For a cooked breakfast, guests can opt for eggs benedict, royale or florentine, blueberry pancakes or smashed avocado toast. However, it’s the full English that shouldn’t be missed - a hearty plate of smoked Wiltshire bacon, free range eggs, old English sausage, a potato scone and black pudding, flanked by mushrooms and on-the-vine tomatoes. Delicious. 

If you have time to stay for afternoon tea, don’t think twice. Expect a fully stocked tiered serving tray of sandwiches - from goats cheese and caramelised onion, to Bloody Mary prawns - and sweet treats that include fresh scones and petit fours that look so cute and colourful you’ll be reluctant to dig in. Don’t be - they’re superb. Wash it all down with a tea-infused cocktail (the Hibiscus Spritz is not to be missed). 

So, what’s included?

As part of the Virgin Experience Days package, guests can enjoy a one night stay at Roseate Villa, plus Prosecco on arrival and a cooked or continental breakfast. For those wishing to make the most of the Thermae Bath Spa, you can also book an experience that includes a two-hour visit to the popular facility. 

How to book 

For prices and more information about a Virgin Experience Days package at Roseate Villa, visit www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk.

By now you'd have to have been living under a rock or been lost in the Bermuda Triangle to have not heard of The Pig Hotels famous for their laidback luxury and field to fork ethos. 8 hotels have popped up across the UK, restoring idyllic country houses and centring their offering firmly around the kitchen garden and 25 mile mantra. As long term fans of the group we jumped at the chance to try out one of the newer additions to the litter: The Pig At Bridge Place. 

The Vibe

(A lounge at The Pig)

Each pig offers a unique experience; as the group trawl the country in search of one of a kind property becoming available (a job I think must surely be one of the best?) The offering at Bridge Place, just outside Canterbury, is no different. As you turn on to the grounds, the 17th century manor house or "red bricked musical honeypot" as it’s affectionately termed, stands proud at the end of a long gravel drive, set in several acres of rolling Kent countryside. With historic connections to high society, banquets and balls; Bridge House has always been a place to see and be seen. After years of disrepair and neglect the house was restored in the 1960s to Kent’s premier Rock N Roll venue: Bridge Place Country Club. With artists from The Kinks to Led Zeppelin gracing the grounds, the now owners describe the venue as somewhere between The Eagles' Hotel California and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The building is steeped in history and as one pootles around the corridors every nook and cranny seems to tell a story. As is true of all Pigs we’ve visited, the vibe is warm, welcoming and cosy; bury yourself away in one of the secluded snugs, recline by open fires and maybe sample some of the homemade cakes and sweet treats (the cookies are well worth the calories).

The Rooms

(Big Comfy Luxe Room)

The boutique hideaway is made up of just 29 rooms split across the main house, lodges and coach house as well the barn and 7 hop pickers huts. We struck gold with one of the Big Comfy Luxe Rooms, set in the main house with views out across the grounds and local countryside. Wood panelled walls, rich and heavy velvet finishes, a super king size bed and freestanding bath in the main bedroom created a deeply indulgent and romantic setting. All we needed was a hot air balloon to float by the window and we would’ve been in heaven. Oh wait - it did! Tick.

Attention to detail is paramount here from the Bramley toiletries especially created for the Pig, to the bespoke in room entertainment (a combination of the best streaming services and handpicked films) right down to the vintage inspired treats in your personal larder, we particularly enjoyed the Tunnock's caramel wafers. There’s very little, maybe even nothing at all, that you’d be left wanting for.

The Food

As somewhere that describes itself as a restaurant with rooms it’s no surprise that eating is high on the agenda. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the main restaurant (or out in the courtyard on warmer days) with nearly all produce coming from either their ample kitchen garden or from local suppliers within a 25 mile radius.

(The Courtyard)

For dinner, surround yourself with copious jars of pickled veg, preserved fruits, oils and other homegrown delicacies and dine under the warm hues from quirky “live eels” and “pie, mash & liquor” lights. We enjoyed a hearty meal of ‘La Latteria’ burrata and a smoother than smooth chicken liver parfait to start followed by a delicious game pie and wilted greens as well as the Brogdale Crispy Pork Loin and new potatoes. We have to admit that the pudding offering was slightly underwhelming - if you ask us they could do with a much more generous dose of chocolate, caramel and other cardiac arrest inducing ingredients to choose from, however that’s subjective and we’ve got a very sweet tooth. Either way we’ll forgive them as maybe the ingredients don’t align with the 25 mile promise and we were so satisfied with the previous two courses that we only had space for a few “piggy fours” and the final slugs of a juicy bottle of Gamay anyway. Overall a big thumbs up.

(The Main Restaurant)

In our humble opinion, breakfast is where the Pig truly comes into its own. Whatever you fancy, it’s here. No less than 6 different types of milk, multiple yoghurts, nuts, dried fruits, cereals, homemade granolas and a beyond tempting array of pastries start the show. Boil your own eggs from the Pig’s resident chickens, slice some freshly baked bread and wash it all down with fresh juice or a cheeky shot of Willy’s apple cider vinegar. And that’s just the continental table! If you can demonstrate some self restraint make sure you leave room for the a la carte hot menu with everything from Paul’s kippers, smashed peas on sourdough (a refreshing take on the usual smashed avo) or go big with the full “pig out”. It’s probably the best hotel breakfast we’ve had in the UK - and we’ve had a few.

What Else?

Down at the bottom of the garden lies the Pig’s potting sheds offering the chance for a moment of R&R. Products are from VOYA and their responsibly sourced seaweed and treatments include a variety of massages and facials.

Take a wander through the kitchen garden, sample a pizza from the outdoor oven and meet the friendly pigs and chickens in the fields.

Out and About

Conveniently located under an hour by train from central London and 3 miles south of Canterbury The Pig is perfectly positioned to explore the Garden of England and the Kent coast. Check out their website for a helpfully curated selection of local eateries and attractions - we can vouch for the fish and chips at Flotsam and Jetsam in Broadstairs, a great day out can be had at Howletts Wildlife Park and you’ll be supporting their sterling conservation work, and if you’re a fan of a tipple then you’re surrounded by some of England’s finest vineyards.

How To Book

Rooms start from £185 per night, visit their website to book.

If there’s one thing that’s utterly time consuming when it comes to planning a city break, it’s deciding on your accommodation. Do you opt for the fuss-free feeling of a perfectly located hotel, or trawl the internet for a trendy, self-contained apartment that gives you flexibility during your getaway? 

Well, there’s a perfect solution. Enter The Other House - a chic hotel-apartment hybrid that blends a cosy home comfort feeling with 5* service. 

Nestled in the heart of South Kensington you can expect to stay in a fully equipped flat and have access to all the facilities you’d expect from a luxury hotel. 

Indecisive travellers - this one is for you. 

Why Go

Tucked away from the bustling streets of west London, The Other House is made up of eleven traditional Victorian townhouses and oozes charm, fun and opulence from the moment you step into the lobby. But what makes it a stand-out stay is its ability to create a home away from home while also providing all of the luxury touches. 

Of course, there’s a spa to make the most of and a menu of wellbeing treatments on offer (think reiki, tarot readings and breathwork sessions to name a few), but there are also several quiet cosy nooks to settle down with a book or a glass of wine. The Owl & Monkey bar on the ground floor will provide you with mouth-watering small plates in the evening, but each Club Flat has its own a built-in kitchen if you’d prefer to whip up something yourself. Private memberships are available, but forget stuffy and intimidating etiquette - the staff are relaxed, approachable and genuinely friendly.

You've got the option to enjoy a self-sufficient stay or make the most of the stellar service - and it creates an experience you won’t forget any time soon. Whether you’re booking for a night, a week, or a month, it can be whatever you need it to be - and that’s what truly makes it unique.  

The Vibe

From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice that there’s a very clear theme combining elements of the natural world with the glamour of the Gilded age. There are life sized gold flamingos to be found, a velvet chair backed with enormous peacock feathers and bathrooms with shimmering gold basins and swan taps. The different wallpapers feature zebras, leopards and monkeys, and the lobby boasts a gorgeous overhead gold leaf garland. 

There’s a small peaceful library for anyone who wants to bury their nose in a book, and on the club floor you’ll find the Keeping Room - lashings of velvet, a baby grand piano and a general vibe of Gatsby glamour, it’s only accessible to guests and private members. 

The spa - which boasts a pool, sauna and steam room - can be found on the same floor, as can the gym, and the bright adjoining atrium is the perfect spot for a chilled out post-swim green tea. 

The rooms

The hotel houses 200 Club Flats, rooms which include a lounge area and kitchenette to create that open-plan studio apartment feeling. The Club Originals sleep two people, with either a King or Queen sized bed, and an ornate screen separates the bedroom and sitting area. With wood panels, a velvet sofa and gold light fixtures, it’s classic and cosy. 

For families or large groups, the Club Vaults offer space for 4 to 6 people and are located on the Club Floor - conveniently close to the spa… 

The Food 

If you’re feeling peckish but don’t feel inspired to use your Club Flat kitchenette, you can grab some light bites at The Other Kitchen, the hotel’s main onsite eatery which is open from 7am to 6pm and offers casual all day dining, or The Owl & Monkey, the chic and dramatically designed hotel bar which serves small plates from 6pm.  

Enjoy a tasty breakfast at The Other Kitchen, with flat whites, green smoothies and fruit juices sure to wake you up. If you prefer a light breakfast, the continental style buffet features a range of freshly baked goods, cereals and yoghurts for your choosing. But if you want something a little more, take advantage of the full breakfast which includes all of the above, plus Clarence Court poached eggs on sourdough with either crushed avocado, crispy bacon or smoked salmon. And if you’re really feeling hungry, tuck in to the The Humongous sandwich - a toasted ciabatta packed with a Cumberland sausage, eggs, mushrooms, bacon and whiskey chilli jam, cheddar cheese and tomato. It’s not an overstatement - it’s enormous. And delicious. 

Throughout the day, you can also pop in to sink your teeth into a number of delicious sandwiches, soups and salads, but leave room to try something from their selection of homemade cakes, too. 

Evenings are well spent at The Owl & Monkey, where you can take your pick from a list of carefully crafted cocktails. Those who love a classic tipple are catered for - think Palomas, Cosmos and Negronis - but the real jewels are found in the signature cocktails list. The French Kiss is a perfect pre-dinner tipple, while The Other Memory cocktail is one for the bold, starring cacao and chilli infused Avallen Calvados.

But there’s more. The sharing plates will keep you there for a while. There’s a small but tempting selection to choose from, with lamb and cumin kebabs, slow cooked short rib sliders and roasted aubergine with red miso that will make your tastebuds happy. But if there’s one thing not to miss, it’s the whipped feta and Padrón peppers. Trust me, you’ll be dreaming about it for weeks afterwards. 

How to book 

For more information about The Other House South Kensington, or to book a room, visit their website at https://otherhouse.com or call +44 (0)20 3846 6000.