While we might be stuck at home under BoJo’s latest lockdown restrictions, nothing’s stopping us from travelling the world virtually – and for hotels this amazing, it might be the only way we’ll actually ever get to see them. From unbeatable sights of the beautiful Northern Lights to the luxury underwater boltholes surrounded by sea life, here are some of the most breathtaking places to stay across the globe.
1. The Aurora Borealis Observatory, Norway
You might need your coat for this one, but boy would it be worth it. Set far up North in beautiful Norway, The Aurora Borealis Observatory is a ‘once in a lifetime’ kind of place, with a number of beautiful accommodation options to choose from. The suites and apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows, where guests frequently spot reindeer popping by to say hello. Not only that, but it’s the perfect destination for seeing the Northern Lights – with outdoor hot tubs supplied for prime viewing. Find out more.
2. Soneva Jani, Maldives
Unleashing the inner kid in all of us, Soneva Jani has created the ultimate way to jump into the sea: slides. Connecting each luxury villa to the clear blue sea, the slides provide that extra bit of fun for guests to enjoy, on top of their own private pools and decks. Could you possibly get anymore luxury than that? Check it out here.
3. The Udaya, Bali
The epitome of luxury in gorgeous Ubud, Bali – The Udaya is so good, you’ll probably not even want to leave the resort to explore the tropical country. From freestanding tubs decorated with colourful petals, to those fancy trays full of healthy grub that Instagrammers regularly boast about – The Udaya has it all. And to top it off, you’ll get your own private villa with your very own pool. The dream. Find out more.
4. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
You’ll have probably seen this one before, since it’s been an absolute dreamboat of a holiday for quite some years already. Ideally located in Finland, Kakslauttanen is home to a set of iconic glass igloos – each of which provides luxury viewing of the Northern Lights. Not only that, but the hotel offers up some fantastic winter activities – including their Reindeer safari, sledding with huskies, ice fishing and more. Check it out here.
5. Blanket Bay, New Zealand
Blanket Bay offers a fantastic alpine escape by the stunning Lake Wakatipu, offering pure luxury and one-of-a-kind views that you won’t find anywhere else. Snow-topped mountains surround the beautiful lodge-style bolthole, which provide the ultimate backdrop for enjoying their luxury bar, restaurant and spa. It’s pretty much bliss wrapped up in a big, red bow. Find out more.
6. Anantara, Thailand
A rare opportunity to not only sleep in a literal bubble, but also be surrounded by friendly elephants – Anantara in Chiang Rai is a truly luxury resort, offering gorgeous surroundings, a slice of tranquility, and the chance to bond with some of the most majestic animals on this planet. Each bubble comes complete with cosy beds, with air-con, en-suite bathrooms and all the finishing touches, as well as an infinity pool, yoga retreat and spa on site to enjoy, too. Find out more here.
7. Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Giraffe Manor has gained quite the name for itself as one of the world’s most unique hotels – and it’s all thanks to their leisurely approach to wildlife, which allows the local giraffes to roam free and visit the manor as they please. From traditional sun terraces to stately-style gardens, the hotel is a wonderful base for exploring all that Kenya has to offer. And it doesn’t hurt that the giraffes regularly poke their heads through the open windows to say hello, either. Check it out.
8. Villa Honegg, Switzerland
A 5* retreat overlooking Lake Lucerne, Villa Honegg sits on the slope of a mountain, surrounded by a vast landscape of other snowy mountains that can be seen from both the rooms and the stunning infinity pool. If you fancy leaving the world behind for a little while, there really is no better place than the middle of the mountains. Find out more.
9. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Italy
Probably as quintessentially Italian as you could possibly get, Grand Hotel Tremezzo provides the very best of beautiful Lake Como – from mountain views to the stunning sights of the peaceful water. The hotel is surrounded by iron terraces, many of which are decked out with loungers so guests can soak up the sun – cocktail in hand – with rooms featuring a rather regal charm that makes the stay extra special. Find out more.
10. Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland
Ever fancied sleeping underwater? The absolutely massive Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland has just the room. The duplex suite sits below water level, with a huge window showcasing the wonderful creatures that call the water home. The suite provides a sense of tranquility for those lucky enough to stay – with a restaurant on the same level for all guests to enjoy. Check it out here.
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