Best Hotels & Lodges

Right on the main boulevard, in an enviable position opposite the cathedral, the Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni occupies an 18th-century palazzo commissioned by a cardinal who'd later become Pope. Beneath the lobby, a stretch of Roman road from 187 BC is still visible, proof that this city has layers, quite literally! It opened as a hotel in 1912 and has been the undisputed address in town ever since, with its exquisite Renaissance frescoes, Murano chandeliers and sumptuous suites. Even the restaurant has stunning Carracci school frescoes adorning the walls - and it's recently become a foodie destination in its own right, no mean feat in a city known for its memorable cuisine.

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.

On the banks of the Rapti River, Barahi has transformed what was once barren grassland into a thriving jungle haven right opposite Chitwan National Park. No run-of-the-mill safari lodge, it's a carefully crafted retreat where thatched cottages blend seamlessly into 12 hectares of forest, all planted by the lodge. With their own quartet of resident elephants (Ranikali, Sundarkali, Madhumala and Rangmala), hand-picked naturalists who've spent their lives in these jungles, and a rare combination of genuine eco-credentials and luxury, the wildlife experience at Barahi is enthralling and really quite hard to match.

This great collection of 14 stylish suites – at what is possibly the first hotel with an ounce of character in Harar – is perfect for well-heeled travellers who are after some sophistication. Spacious rooms with pristine bathroom and balcony are awash with calming tones, boldly accented by carpet or laminate floors and lavish furniture.

Perched high on a ridge overlooking the Buffalo River Gorge and the historic Rorke’s Drift, with Isandlwana glinting in the distance, Fugitives’ Drift is nothing short of spectacular. It was on these lands that the Zulu war was fought in 1879 and the property is dedicated to sharing the fascinating history of both the battles and the people of the area. Established by David and Nicky Rattray who pioneered Heritage Tourism in South Africa and have extensive experience in the hospitality industry, the lodge itself is tranquil and intimate, and after an emotionally-charged day on the battlefields, you’ll feel like you’ve come home.

From the moment a personal lifestyle manager whisks you to your room, it's clear this isn't your typical luxury hotel. Housed in a 1930s architectural gem, this seventh-floor urban eyrie offers sweeping views across the city's terracotta rooftops through walls of glass. The aesthetic is pure minimalist chic – think illuminated white onyx, leather-clad walls, and an almost obsessive attention to detail that extends from the perfectly pressed linens to the precise angle of each cushion.

A city at the very bottom of South America, Punta Arenas has a fascinating history, represented throughout its plazas and museums. Breathing new life into a 1920s English-style home, La Yegua Loca (translated as the crazy mare!) has combined decades of influence into one elegant package, sunshine yellow walls and all. The hotel honours its heritage with the serving of recipes handed down by their grandmothers and naming each room after old-fashioned Chilean trades and traditions. When you're not sampling a tangy porto sour or admiring the views of the Magellan Strait, do a little exploring of Punta Arenas and delve into its historic highlights.

Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, in the remote reaches of northern Kenya, is a conservation success story. Here, in this 75,000-hectare wilderness at the foothills of the Mathews mountain range, the wildlife and Samburu cattle farmers co-exist harmoniously. And it's here you'll find the only camp for hundreds of kilometres. Location? Tick. Great accommodation and good food? Absolutely! Sarara Tented Camp is a completely private, super-luxury tented camp in a fairytale setting. It's worth every cent and every minute you spend on the long journey there.

Designed by Isay Weinfeld and Márcio Kogan, Fasano São Paulo Jardins embodies the century-old dream of the Fasano family, who arrived from Milan in 1902 and built Brazil's most respected culinary empire. In fact, the hotel occupies the historic site of Gero Fasano’s flagship restaurant, its English-brick facade and 1930s flair setting a timeless tone. Inside, the 60 rooms feature intricate Venetian mirrors, Persian rugs, linen curtains, and stunning Murano glass vases, while downstairs, two acclaimed restaurants, Fasano and Nonno Ruggero, channel Italian culinary excellence - and it's all set in the leafy surroundings of the elegant Jardins neighbourhood of the city.

A world away from the chaotic hustle of urban life, this intimate lodge sits in the heart of tiger country where extraordinary beauty and abundant wildlife create the perfect setting for off-the-beaten-track adventures. Bardiya provides the best tiger habitat anywhere in the country, offering your greatest opportunity to encounter this elusive big cat in its natural domain. The lodge operates with ultra-personal service and expert wildlife guiding, creating a calming escape that focuses entirely on natural surroundings. Local architecture influences room design, whilst the on-site farm produces fresh organic produce and environmental practices guide every operational decision.