CERVO Mountain Boutique Resort, Zermatt

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In this small alpine town made famous by the iconic peak of the Matterhorn, Cervo is making its own name. A boutique hotel spread across six chalets, the aesthetic here is traditional alpine meets contemporary flair. With a spa for each of the chalets and an expansive sun terrace that is the place to be seen in Zermatt during the winter season, Cervo is equal parts detox and retox. Combined with ‘down to earth’ cuisine and copious outdoor trails to explore and you have a love letter to the Swiss Alps in Cervo.

Location

As storybook a town as they come, you’ll find no cars on the roads of Zermatt. Instead, drive as far as Tasch, fly into the heliport or wind your way through the Visp valley to the train station before being whisked the final metres by the Cervo shuttle. Further afield, the nearest international airport is Sion, just an hour and a half’s drive away. Shake off the journey with a drink in the Lounge before exploring the 38, 4,000m plus, peaks that wreath the hotel.

Your Room

Natural materials in muted colours form the backdrop to your time at Cervo with moody checks and warm tartans giving a cosy lift. The real star of the 36 rooms here, however, is the view. No matter which way you turn, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring views of the Matterhorn’s perfect pinnacle. Complemented by a balcony or terrace to enjoy that vista from and, in the case of the suites, a fireplace to warm your cockles by, the rooms at Cervo offer the most comforting embrace.

Why we like it

Zermatt may be one of Europe’s most iconic mountain resorts, however, Cervo brings with it a relaxed sense of luxury. It is a place built on a philosophy of come as you are, where you can shake off the inhibitions of daily life and simply relax amid the restorative power of nature. Tradition goes to the heart of Cervo, but that doesn’t mean they won’t move with the times. The result is a boutique hotel which though every inch thoroughly Swiss, feels like home to anyone who should walk through its doors.

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz

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St Moritz. For over a century, this lakeside Swiss town has been synonymous with timeless elegance and unabashed luxury. Beneath a famously ever-present sun, Kulm Hotel is where it all began over 160 years ago. Fast forward into the 21st-century and they remain a bastion of style on Lake St. Moritz’s banks. Home to 164 classically designed rooms and suites, seven restaurants and the historic St Moritz Tobogganing and Cresta Club, there’s never a dull moment at Kulm Hotel.

Location

In a commanding position in the upper village of St Moritz Dorf with views stretching out across the lake, Kulm Hotel leaves you perfectly poised to explore the Engadine Valley. Come summer, hiking trails reach out in every direction, whilst in winter – it’s a skier’s paradise. To reach St Moritz, it’s a leisurely three-hour drive from both Zurich or Milan – but there’s also a train station and private airport on hand too if you’d rather get straight down to it.

Your Room

Each of the 164 rooms and suites retains that certain elegance that St Moritz is so known for, yet with modern interpretations to leave you entirely at ease. The suites are all unique by design with the most meticulous attention to detail – take the Rosatsch Suite for instance with its delicate pastels as the perfect complement to the lake views. Elsewhere, Swiss pine is offset by soft, luxurious furnishings and sun-drenched vistas. Be sure to opt for a room or suite with a balcony to all the better make the most of the year-round sun.

Why we like it

No matter which direction you look in at Kulm Hotel, you’ll find a nod to history. Whether that’s in the historic Grand Restaurant where the first electric light in Switzerland was switched on or in Bob-Restaurant that sits on the start line to St Moritz’s legendary ice run, you’re never short of inspiration here. Topped off with a spa so all-encompassing as to feature everything from a saltwater grotto to an aqua gym and you’ll struggle to find a reason to leave.

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, Sacred Valley

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Adventure and dramatic vistas of the Sacred Valley are calling at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. Spanning across 100-acres of private land, this luxury hotel is surrounded by the evergreen mountainous landscapes that lie between Cusco and Machu Picchu. The 12 alluring guest rooms and 24 private casitas present comfortable, rustic interiors with picturesque settings. Horse ride, cycle, trek and raft your way through the Sacred Valley, and return to unwind in this charming getaway.

LOCATION

No first-time trip to Peru would be complete without visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Nestled high up in the Peruvian Andes, the valley is known for charming villages, good weather and unbeatable scenery. Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is set a 90-minute drive from Cusco, in the town of Huayoccari, Urubamba, the perfect spot for discovering the renowned archaeological Inca sites.

YOUR ROOM

Locally-inspired room designs blend colonial furniture with handcrafted Andean woodwork and fabrics. Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba remains true to its indigenous roots through traditional craftsmanship without compromising on modern luxuries. Stay within the charming main hacienda, or for exclusivity and uninterrupted views of the valley, choose one of the luxurious casitas. The wide-stretching windows, large open fireplaces and private verandas are perfect for relaxed days and evenings spent doing as little as possible.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Witness the magic of a sunset trail as the evening light slices through the mountain peaks and discover the Andean ancestors’ use of astronomy. Learn about Chica de Jora, where you can harvest, grind, ferment, and of course, taste your very own Inca corn beer. Visit the healing garden to discover medicinal uses for the native herbs which you can pick and infuse into your tailored treatment at the Andean-style Mayu spa.

SUSTAINABILITY

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is committed to sustainable farming practices, hosting a thriving ecological farm, organic orchard and pepper-tree forest. The hotel gives opportunities for guests to learn about the carbon-free crops and what local harvesting practices take place here. Menus are centred around the seasonal produce grown in the area. Wholesome dishes served at Comedor restaurant are sourced directly from the organic farm, creating a truly memorable earth-to-table experience as you collect the ingredients for your meal of choice. Inspiring and utterly delicious.

Ottolire Resort, Puglia

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Escape to Puglia’s remote countryside for romance and relaxation at Ottolire Resort. Set in peaceful silence among the olive trees and rugged hillsides, this intimate boutique getaway is quite simply irresistible. The historic Italian farmhouse has passed through the family for generations. Reimagined and restored, it has been superbly extended using traditional materials and skilled Italian craftsmanship. Ottolire now presents 15 luxury rooms and suites, boasting impressive understated designs whilst staying true to its heritage. Hearty Puglian dining, picturesque vistas and a charming atmosphere – now that’s amore.

LOCATION

Nestled among vast stretches of olive groves that have grown over hundreds of years, and with only a quaint village nearby, Ottolire is a uniquely hidden gem. Perfect for those who want to get off-grid and leave the grind of the city behind, Ottolire Resort still remains only a 45-minute drive from Bari International Airport. In this haven of olive groves and tumbling limestone walls, you can spend a couple of nights unwinding before moving on to the pretty cliff-side town of Polignano a Mare or to the labyrinthine medieval streets of Ostuni and Matera.

YOUR ROOM

With undressed stone walls and elegant, minimalist-designs, Ottolire’s rooms have been carefully curated with comfort in mind. Many of the rooms and suites face west, so you can enjoy sunsets across the grounds and surrounding hills throughout your stay. Original ‘trulli’, or traditional grain stores, have been beautifully transformed into charming conical houses with private heated plunge pools. Meanwhile, the Mezzanine suites spread across two floors with the added exclusivity of a private balcony on top.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Take time to slow down and reset; finding refreshment by the outdoor pool and realignment with a calming hot stone massage at Ottolire Resorts’ spa. Sample chef Vincenzo Digiuseppe’s sensitively prepared Apulian cuisine. The menus heavily draw on local, sustainable ingredients – many of which are grown in Ottolire’s kitchen garden and grounds. Get in touch with your creative side with a pottery workshop or stretch out your warrior pose with a yoga class looking across the manicured landscapes and tree tops. Or simply sit back and unwind with a bold glass of Primitivo from Ottolire’s wine cellar. Bellissimo.

Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest

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Journey to an era long past as you enter into Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest. This once grand Art Noveau shopping arcade has been beautifully reimagined into 110 luxury bedrooms and suites in the heart of the city. Combining heritage with contemporary chic, ornate architecture and oriental domes boast old-world sophistication. The sprawling lobby has become a popular destination for afternoon tea, cocktails by the grand piano each evening and delicious breakfasts washed down with a glass of sparkling wine.

LOCATION

Párisi Udvar’s location is perfect for those enjoying a city break in Budapest. Central and close to all the transport links, the hotel is easily reached within a 30-minute transfer from the airport. A short stroll to Elisabeth Bridge gives your first glimpse of the iconic Danube River. From restaurants to landmarks, many of the main sights of the Budapest are right at your fingertips.

YOUR ROOM

Experience the luxury comfort of Párisi Udvar’s elegant rooms and suites. These light and airy spaces present a stylish use of white interiors, embellished with a subtle gold finish. Comfort is at the forefront, from the plush pillows to the ultra-soft linen. Skilled Hungarian craftsmanship is showcased throughout, from the statement headboards that shimmer with a silvery gloss, to the rose-gold mosaic tiling that surrounds the grand bathroom mirror.

WHY WE LIKE IT

The hotel seamlessly contrasts the old with the new. Downstairs – history and heritage come alive. Staying true to its original grandeur, you’ll find timeless pieces, from fifties telephone boxes to the oldest elevator in Budapest. Upstairs – the designs shift to that of the original bank, with pale green mosaic tiling and intricate carvings. Then fast-forward into modern day as you wander into the crisp luxury of the contemporary bedrooms.

Shinta Mani Wild, Cardamom National Park

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Blend luxury travel with eco-conscious action, and what do you get? A game-changing tented camp in the heart of the jungle. Shinta Mani Wild nestles amongst 865-acres of protected thick forests and waterfalls of south-western Cambodia. Its unrivalled beauty and sustainable design is kept in tune with the natural surroundings, integrating into the environment with the lowest possible impact. Fill your days with activities or experience nature from the comfort of the camp’s pool and spa, before tucking into sumptuous Cambodian dining. Reaching far beyond imagination, Shinta Mani Wild is undoubtedly a tough act to follow.

LOCATION

Delve into the heart of the rainforest. At the edge of the southern Cardamom National Park, Shinta Mani Wild nestles within the 865-acre nature reserve and protected river valley. What was once a prime logging and mining location has now been dedicated as a project to fully restore the ecosystem. The camp is set within a three-hour drive of Phnom Penh and two and a half hours from Sihanoukville, followed by a 20-minute off-roading experience. It pays to get off-the-grid.

YOUR ROOM

Eccentric and bold, the 15 tents, including a larger family tent, each present their own unique theme, ranging from the relics of the war to botany. A pathway stretching throughout the camp leads you to the complete privacy of your tented suite, surrounded by lush vegetation and sounds of the river and jungle creating your very own soundtrack. Gaze out onto the jungle from your al fresco bathtub with a drink in hand. For something extra special, opt for the Waterfall Tent that overlooks the waterfall and rapids.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Start your adventure with a thrilling zipline experience over the jungle canopy, directly into the camp’s Landing Zone Bar. Nerves aside, a celebratory refreshment awaits. There’s plenty to discover, from river safaris to exclusive forest patrols with Wildlife Alliance rangers. However, the reigning title goes to Shinta Mani Wild’s conservation efforts, proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand-in-hand in modern day travel.

SUSTAINABILITY

From their fight against logging and poaching to the embargo on single-use plastic at the property, Shinta Mani Wild’s stance on sustainability is truly admirable. Partnering with Wildlife Alliance, the reserve acts as a wildlife corridor, protected from poaching, mining and logging. 70% of the staff are employed from the local village, some of which were previously poachers and illegally cutting trees to support their families. And it doesn’t end there. Shinta Mani Foundation also actively supports rural communities around the country through education, micro-finance, direct assistance and healthcare.

Switzerland & Italy: A Luxury Holiday in the Alps, Lakes and Coast

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Starting way back in the Golden Age of Travel, a luxury holiday in Europe has, over the years, become synonymous with luxury. Whilst everywhere has it’s own take on that trademark timeless elegance, for us, few do it as well as Switzerland and Italy. Packed full of romance and jaw-dropping vistas, on this twelve-night getaway through Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast you’ll go from helicoptering over the Matterhorn one minute to finding serendipity along the ethereal Path of the Gods the next. Home to chocolate-box villages, grand villas crawled in wisteria and precipitous roads and rails, luxury unfolds at every turn in this expertly-crafted getaway.

Peak Perfection

Your trip starts high up in the Swiss Alps in the picturesque town of Zermatt. Lying in the shadow of Europe’s iconic Matterhorn peak and strictly car-free, take a breath of fresh mountain air as you settle in at the intimate Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort. Rest up that evening with a relaxed dinner at Ferdinand before heading out to explore in the morning. Catching the cablecar up to the summit of Klein Matterhorn, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of the 38 alpine peaks and 14 glaciers that speckle the Swiss, Italian and French Alps. For an altogether more intimate look though, we can arrange for you to take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter ride over the peaks before touching back down to the comfort of Cervo. With everything from hiking to paragliding on offer, we’ll ensure you see Zermatt from every angle.

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InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, Raa Atoll

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Set in a pocket of paradise, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is where silky white sand merges into the luminous turquoise lagoon. Inspired by classic Maldivian luxury, 81 impeccable villas and hundreds more palms scatter across the island. The resort perfectly caters for families and there’s a world of entertainment to enjoy at the nautical-themed ‘Planet Trekkers’ kids club. But it’s not just the little ones who get to have all the fun; The Retreat is an exclusive adults-only area, featuring a pop up floating champagne bar in the lagoon. With barefoot luxury as the central focus, it’s time to ditch the tie, grab a mojito and lose yourself in the moment.

LOCATION

Reefs teeming with diverse marine life are moments away from your doorstep thanks to InterContinental Maldives’ unbeatable setting on Maamunagau island in the spectacular Raa Atoll. Once reaching Male Airport, refresh at the exclusive InterContinental Lounge before a quick 35-minute seaplane journey to the resort, giving you a breathtaking scenic experience of the remarkable colours surrounding this collection of islands.

YOUR ROOM

InterContinental Maldives boasts 81 light and spacious villas with tasteful Maldivian designs. Each range from one to four bedrooms, presenting sensational views of the landscapes. Whether you’re relaxing in the bathtub or soaking up the vitamin D from the deck, the views are quite simply irresistible. Reconnect with nature as you step out each day onto the soft sand or splash straight into the water depending upon your choice of Beach, Lagoon or Over-water villa. For families and groups, a selection of larger villas can allow you to experience both.

WHY WE LIKE IT

A  unique feature of the resort is the Lighthouse. Towering boldly, it hosts memorable dining experiences, sunrise yoga classes and presents great views of the island from above. Unwind with a sunset cruise, watch movies under the stars and savour the fresh catch of the day at Fish Market, in what adds up to an irresistible getaway.

SUSTAINABILITY

InterContinental Maldives has partnered with The Manta Trust to support the research and protection of the manta ray population through creating safe habitats and educating tourists on how they can help our oceans. As part of the collaboration, spend a morning visiting Hanifaru Bay where you can swim alongside the manta rays at the open sanctuary. With the help of a passionate marine expert, you’ll learn more about these gentle creatures and what part they play in our oceans. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or a whale shark too. Please speak to our Travel Experts to find out more.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town

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Lose yourself to the enchantment of Cape Town at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Overlooking the vast Atlantic and backed by the rugged peaks for which the hotel was named, panoramic vistas can be enjoyed at every turn. Here, you can have the best of both worlds: the exclusivity of uninterrupted vistas and still within close reach of Cape Town’s city highlights. With 70 luxury rooms and suites, exquisite dining experiences and remarkable sunsets, this chic coastal getaway will certainly be one to remember.

LOCATION

Conveniently set within a 30-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport, Twelve Apostles sits poised above the coast between iconic Camps Bay and laid-back Llandudno beach. Close to the start of the Garden Route and within a stone’s throw of Table Mountain National Park, the setting is unbeatable for adventure. For ease of access, a complimentary shuttle service runs frequently between the hotel and city centre, stopping at both Camps Bay and V&A Waterfront.

YOUR ROOM

Each of the rooms and suites at Twelve Apostles has been individually curated to create a unique boutique charm. Classic meets contemporary with European-African designs and cooling palettes. Whichever room you choose, you can be assured that the views will be sensational. Relish the sea breeze and echo of waves crashing against the coastline from your balcony or wake up each morning to the sun shining through the trees and over the mountaintops.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Watch the sun melting into the ocean with a glass of wine on the terrace and sample the fresh seafood dishes served at Azure, one of South Africa’s most famed restaurants. Unwind within a floatation tank at the holistic spa or spot dolphins and whales crossing the marine park from the outdoor pool. Hike through Table Mountain National Park and let us arrange a beautiful picnic close to the trails, or crank your experience up another gear with a helicopter flight to Stellenbosch, taking off from Twelve Apostles’ very own helipad.

SUSTAINABILITY

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa has made a commitment to environmental initiatives to save water and supports community projects including Pack for a Purpose and Amy Biehl Foundation. To find out how you can get involved during your stay, speak to our Travel Experts to find out more.

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Game Reserve

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Step into the South African wilderness and watch your very own Attenborough documentary unfold at the otherworldly Saseka Tented Camp. Perched high above the banks of the tranquil Monwana River, this luxury camp – set among the vistas of white rhinos, pale hills and sprawling umbrella trees – will crack the window wide onto intimate sightings of the Big Five. Saseka’s eight eco-friendly tented suites have been meticulously designed to fully immerse you within the landscape itself. And without fences, the viewing begins right on your doorstep.

LOCATION

Set within the Mpumalanga region of South Africa, Saseka Tented Camp is an easy 35-minute drive from Hoedspruit Airport. Alternatively, a private charter flight from Johannesburg can drop you directly onto the camp’s own airstrip. Surrounded by 14,000-hectares of diverse nature to the west of greater Kruger National Park, Thornybush Game Reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, where guests can enjoy the exclusivity of superb sightings away from the crowds.

YOUR ROOM

Drift off to the sounds of the animals rustling through the trees by your tented suite. These gorgeous, open-planned spaces embody that ‘safari’ feeling with contemporary African bush décor and botanical artwork sprawling across the canvas ceilings. Wide sliding glass doors open onto your own private terrace where plunge pools are surrounded by fauna and, for some, boast sprawling views of the riverbed. For family travel, the central lounge and dining area of the Leadwood Villa is idyllic for socialising and dining in privacy in between exhilarating game drives with your dedicated private safari vehicle and ranger.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Saseka Tented Camp boasts borderless wildlife experiences that draw you into each moment. With wildlife flowing freely between the Kruger and Thornybush creating a dynamic game viewing set-up, you’ll witness animals both wandering by your tent as well as out on open Land Cruiser game drives. Sit back and watch wild elephants basking in the water as you enjoy a candlelit dinner by the riverbed and swap amazing stories in the camp’s social area as the night draws in.