Should you be overwhelmed by travel options this season, there’s no going wrong with these seven timeless and impossibly luxurious favorites. Scattered around all corners of the globe, these decadent destinations have proven time and again to be the perfect places to escape real life for a bit — and, after all, isn’t that what summer’s all about?
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Location: Antibes, France
Best For: The traveler who yearns for the glamour of a pre-internet world.
This iconic French Riviera estate has over 150 years of history encompassing a clientele of cultural legends like F. Scott Fitzgerald, Pablo Picasso, and Greta Garbo. But even without its sparkling lineage, the Oetker property exudes an air of relaxed grandeur. Think shimmery Mediterranean views, airy suites, and a Dior-exclusive spa. Spend your days lounging by its famous seawater pool under a cabana, or enjoy premium dining in one of the hotel’s many eateries. These include a live music lounge (Zelda’s), or Italian joint Giovanni’s (overseen by award-winning pizza chef Jeremy Viale).
Estelle Manor
Location: Oxfordshire, England
Best For: The traveller who needs a quiet and beautiful place to finally finish that novel (preferably over a cup of Earl Grey tea).
This bucolic British hideaway is an extension of the private members’ club Estelle. But anyone is welcome to book one of its dreamy rooms, suites, or cottages, which come complete with cozy mid-century decor and sweeping British countryside views. (There are, however, areas of the manor that are exclusive to members.) Just make sure you’ve accounted time in your schedule to unwind at the property’s sprawling Roman-inspired bathhouse, a 3,000-square-meter spa with a bathing hall, five pools, a lounge, and ten treatment areas.
Amanzoe
Location: Kranidi, Greece
Best For: The wellness junkie who appreciate vacations with a slower pace.
As part of the Aman portfolio, this Greek sanctuary has everything you’d expect from the highly personalized and peaceful chain of resorts: spa-like solitude, quietly luxurious settings, and one heck of a spa. What makes it unique, however, is its close proximity to UNESCO-protected ancient ruins near Porto Heli (aka the “Greek Riviera”). But there’s so much more beyond its beautiful accommodations with Aegean Sea views. Expect to find a private beach club, farm-to-table dining, and a robust on-site wellness program.
Passalacqua
Location: Lake Como, Italy
Best For: The social butterfly who refers to the time between June and September as “Aperol Spritz Season.”
One never really needs an excuse to visit Lake Como, but this historic escape is excellent motivation. An opulent, fresco-filled property that has passed through the hands of aristocrats and scholars alike, the estate is packed with plushly appointed rooms and dreamy lake views. But perhaps some of your best memories will come from sitting down to a meal of updated Italian classics, all conceptualized by head chef Viviana Varese, one of the country’s most celebrated culinary figures.
La Réserve
Location: Paris, France
Best For: The Francophile who appreciates everything about the country (aside from its dearth of air conditioning).
There’s admittedly no shortage of incredible hotels to choose from in the city of lights. What sets this one apart, though, is its proximity to a who’s who of national landmarks — such as the Eiffel Tower, the Pantheon, the Grand Palais, and the Concorde Obelisk. Additionally, there’s three-Michelin-star dining, and a 16-meter pool. And, if you’re in the city during one of its famously punishing heat waves, consider staying in to enjoy the property’s central AC (a rarity in Paris), along with its spa, fitness studio, and hammam.
Singita Grumeti
Location: Singita Grumeti, Tanzania
Best For: The outdoor adventurer who appreciates creature comforts over roughing it in the wilderness.
This remote and wildly beautiful reserve borders Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, making it perfectly positioned for visitors to take in the area’s stunning wildlife. The area includes a number of luxurious properties in which to stay, including Sasakwa Lodge (an Edwardian-style manor with private pools and an on-site equestrian center), the Serengeti House (a private villa with its own stage and gym), and Sabora Tented Camp (inspired by old-school safaris from the 1920s).
Belmond Splendido
Location: Portofino, Italy
Best For: The couple who wants to have their family vacation and romantic alone time, too.
You’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the Portofino coastline at this treasure of a hotel — and a history steeped in a historic list of celebrity guests, like Grace Kelly and Walt Disney. There’s also a spa by Dior, a heated pool, and a children’s club. Dining options include two restaurants with cinematic views, as well as a dreamy new bar that looks like it was lifted from the set of a romantic old movie — think patterned cushions, long drapery, and chandeliers galore.
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FAQs
Q: Can anyone stay at Estelle Manor?
A: Yes. Although Estelle Manor is home to the exclusive Estelle Members’ Club, the hotel welcomes non-members who book accommodations. Some areas of the estate remain reserved for members, while the hotel’s restaurants, rooms, and many amenities are open to overnight guests.
Q: Does Amanzoe have a private beach?
A: Yes. Amanzoe offers guests access to the Amanzoe Beach Club, a private stretch of coastline on the Argolic Gulf complete with pools, dining, and watersports, accessible via a complimentary shuttle from the resort.
Q: Is Belmond Splendido good for families?
A: Yes. While it’s long been one of Italy’s most romantic hotels, Belmond Splendido also caters to families with a dedicated children’s club, family-friendly experiences, and spacious accommodations that make multi-generational travel easy.
