Best Hotels & Lodges

Hidden away in lush montane forest with sensational views to Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, the colour-filled gardens of this lush property are a true refuge. And yet, it's only 40 minutes away from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Accommodation is in cottages of varying sizes, their interiors furnished with homelike comfort and elegance. There's plenty to do at Rivertrees and lots to explore in the area, although you have to book early so as not to miss out.

Sirmione is a curious thing: a long, narrow peninsula jutting into the southern end of Lake Garda, topped with a 13th-century moated castle, the ruins of a grand Roman villa and natural sulphur springs that have drawn visitors since antiquity. The Villa Cortine Palace Hotel sits at its highest point, neoclassical palazzo set behind wrought-iron gates in five hectares of private parkland. Built in 1898 by a lovestruck German count for his ailing wife, today it's a Relais & Châteaux outpost with stunning, frescoed salons and Murano chandeliers. The gardens, however, full of centuries-old conifers, marble statues and ornamental pools, remain the biggest triumph.

The Conrad occupies the topmost floors of one of the glossiest hotels on Nakanoshima, a bustling river island in the heart of Osaka. As soon as the lift doors open onto the 40th-floor lobby, you might think you've entered an art gallery by mistake. White orbs cascade from the ceiling like bubbles — the first of over 380 original works that fill the hotel — and set the tone for the Conrad's signature style. Further evidence can be found at the 40 Sky Bar, which serves the unique Takoyaki in the Sky, a mix of gin and blue curacao crowned with an octopus ball.

Enfolded by fields as green as Spring itself, this eco-friendly lodge is the picture of country living the Mai Chau way - being as close to nature as possible. Wake up to mind-clearing views of paddy fields, get lost in conversation with the staff (who all grew up in local hill villages) and simply let tranquility wash over you on a walk through the gardens. The aura of the valley draws visitors back again and again, and with its amazing caves and wild spaces, it's easy to see why. In quaint thatched cottages overlooking soaked rice paddies, it'll feel like you're stepping into an ancient scene where the world seems to go a little slower.

Along miles of silvery beach, The Sarojin is a soothing and breezy resort where birds flit over lotus ponds and ocean air blows through the curtains of poolside daybeds. Across a bubbling stream, the stylish suites and villas bring nature inside with ample windows and dandelion murals on the wall. Leave the pristine grounds for a jaunt across the seascape Thailand is so famous for as you ride a hobie cat down the coast or dive along the reefs just meters from the beach. Delightfully, breakfast doesn't follow a timetable at The Sarojin so you'll never have to wake up with the sun!

Your home away from home in Nepal comes in the guise of Nepali Ghar, a characterful boutique hotel. Tucked into bustling Thamel, it's blissfully quiet once you step inside and has become a beloved sanctuary for trekkers seeking comfort before and after Himalayan adventures. But what makes it truly special is the journey through Nepal's architectural history, the original building showcasing exquisite Newari woodwork, while the newer Seto Ghar wing occupies a restored 200-year-old neoclassical mansion that once housed Rana-era royalty. Throw in an exceptional team, free daily yoga and the Garden of Dreams just two minutes away, and you've got yourself a proper Kathmandu base.

With just eight chalets, guests at Okonjima Bush Camp are assured of a personalised experience. The decor and design, clay and thatch open-fronted chalets and main areas, is atmospheric and warm with an abundance of rich African colours, textures and artwork. Days will be spent exploring the Okonjima reserve either in 4x4 vehicles or on foot. We would recommend a 2 night stay here to ensure you are able to tick off all the educational and excellent activities on offer. Children over the age of 12 years are welcome.