Best Hotels & Lodges

Pale stone arcades, collonaded courtyards and a long terrace hanging over the Vieux Port: this vast 18th-century hospital is now the grandest hotel in Marseille. Designer Jean-Philippe Nuel has dressed the interiors in mineral greys and pale wood. Rooms face the water or Le Panier behind, and the best open onto private terraces with the gilded Madonna glinting on the hill opposite. Les Fenêtres runs from breakfast until late, Le Capian pours pastis above the boats, the Clarins spa hides in the old vaults, and after dark the façade lights up like a stage set. Nobody here is being subtle.

The newly founded Leeu Collection is taking the Winelands by storm, and we can see why. Inside the walls of Leeu Estates, just outside Franschhoek, you'll find decadent accommodation in a selection of pretty cottages and elegant houses, top-notch fine-dining and an impressive art collection, all surrounded by stunning gardens and overlooked by the towering Dassenberg Mountains. And that's not all - there's an award-winning spa, heated infinity pool and contemporary wine tasting studio and, if you can drag yourself away, complimentary transfers into nearby Franschhoek village. We can't think of much else that would make it better...

A jewel overlooking the lagoon: Ca' di Dio is a five-star hotel in the heart of Venice, where elegance, history, and design blend in perfect harmony. Built in 1272, today it is an exclusive residence, rediscovered thanks to Patricia Urquiola's project.

From the canal-view rooms to the internal gardens, every detail reflects the authentic soul of the Serenissima. Here you can explore the city, be inspired by the contemporary art of the Arsenale, or simply enjoy the timeless magic of Venice.

With views of the Okavango Delta's lush palm islands, Atzaro is an idyllic trifecta of stunning interiors, sustainability, and fabulous game viewing. At the lodge, the picture-perfect suites are designed to mirror the beauty of the landscape with their soft shades of cream, sand and pale green. The ancestral boma is especially loved by guests and has beautiful collection of local and historical pieces to take you on a journey through the Delta's heritage. Sustainability, conservation and a commitment to the surrounding communities are also a core feature of a stay here, with plenty of experiences to engage with. And then there's the wildlife. Perched next to a shimmering lagoon, you'll spot elephant wading from your private deck - and that's before you've even left camp...

An earthly paradise waiting to be discovered

Inspired by the remote Himalayan sanctuary, or beyul, of the same name, Pemako is an earthly paradise waiting to be discovered.

A perfect convergence of person, place and time; where peace restores perspective, spaces inspire wonder and the pace is entirely your own

Perched elegantly on one of the most exquisite squares in the Tuscan capital, this refined establishment occupies an ancient building steeped in history and art. Step inside and you'll discover a world where traditional Florentine aesthetics meet luxurious comfort – think lacquered boiseries, French furnishings and distinguished antiques that transport you to a bygone era. Yet there's nothing outdated about the experience; the discreet but flawless service captures the essence of Tuscan hospitality, making it the preferred choice for those seeking an authentic slice of Florentine style. The allure extends beyond just location, with each corner thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of understated opulence.

Leopards here, there and everywhere are a magnetic attraction to this aptly named lodge set in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, bordering South Africa's beloved Kruger National Park. Expect rewarding game drives (the rest of the Big Five are also regularly sighted), excellent guiding, five-star accommodation, great cuisine and panoramic views across the bush and the active waterhole on the plains below.

Created from the restoration of an ancient 13th-century building, renovated in the 16th century by Florentine architect Camillo Camilliani, the Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna features a central building with an adjoining medieval watchtower.

The interior spaces are furnished in a classic style, bringing a centuries-old tradition to life through refined period furniture, precious decorative objects, and paintings on the walls, contributing to an atmosphere of timeless charm.

Nairobi Tented Camp is an authentic tented camp in boasting an uneatable location. Set beneath an indigenous canopy in one of Nairobi's most peaceful, forested neighborhoods, and just minutes away from the airport, Nairobi's biggest attractions are never far. The camp is on the doorstep of Nairobi National Park, a wildlife haven with guaranteed rhino sightings. Offering guests the opportunity to really get to know this unique destination and its wildlife, you'll enjoy the luxury of en-suite living ‘safari style’ in their comfortable tents.

Pause and let time find its own rhythm. The distinct scent of damp soil and the fragrance of blooming flowers transport you to a place where you feel reconnected to the earth. The Vembanad Lake bristles with life as fishermen cast their Chinese nets into it.

In the midst of this stunning scene is CGH Earth Saha Hibiscus Villa.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one of the best known private reserves in South Africa’s malaria-free Eastern Cape, and tucked away in a secluded part of the rolling landscape is Riverdene Family Lodge. The elegantly-restored homestead is surrounded by manicured gardens, and views of the scenic Bushman’s River Valley are beautiful. As the name suggests, Riverdene is geared toward families and there's plenty of space for kids to play out on the (fully-fenced) lawns, and an epic "Kids on Safari" program. Game viewing is excellent, in particular cheetah and black and white rhino, and there’s the opportunity to visit the wildlife rehabilitation centre for something a bit different.

Keeping things simple, professional and classy, DaVinci Hotel & Suites offer travellers a consistent go-to in the greater Johannesburg metro area. Located in Nelson Mandela Square, a half-hour train ride from O.R. Tambo International, it's the perfect option for businessmen, travellers en route to region's more remote areas, or anyone in need of a good night's rest and reliable service. With excellent restaurants and exclusive shopping just an easy stroll from its front doors, there are several urban attractions nearby. Touted as four-star, the hotel's amiable staff and meticulous attention to detail push it all the way to the top.