Best Hotels & Lodges

Two hours’ drive north of Mombassa on Kenya's central coast, the newly renovated Hemingways Watamu is a boutique beach hotel that combines the old-time charm of a fisherman's paradise, with a fresh injection of luxury. Its hunting- and fishing-loving patron saint, the eponymous Ernest Hemingway, is said to have visited in search of some big game fishing, but allegedly never left the bar! Take this anecdote as an allegory - feel free to be as busy or static as you like. From sailing, deep-sea fishing and diving, to golfing and sunset cruising, there is plenty to keep you entertained, but the sandy beaches and open-plan grounds with two swimming pools are there for lazing and lingering. Whatever your aim, Hemingways Watamu is a gem.

Right in the heart of Patan Durbar Square, this UNESCO World Heritage Site address doesn't get much more prestigious. Conservation architect Rohit Ranjitkar has worked architectural magic on an old traditional brick and timber Newari house, transforming it into a heritage hotel that respects its past whilst embracing contemporary comfort. The historic configuration remains intact, complete with a private courtyard that serves as the property's beating heart, whilst 10 individually designed rooms ensure no two stays are quite the same. This is heritage hospitality done properly - where living history doesn't require sacrificing modern conveniences, and where the incredible architecture outside your door provides daily reminders that you're staying somewhere genuinely special.

Life flourishes on Nosy Ankao, an exotic private island 3.5km off Madagascar’s northeastern tip. The island, with its aquamarine bays, pearl-white sandy beaches and winding waterways, forms part of a private five-island archipelago - a 15 000-hectare marine reserve. Fourteen palatial villas are strung along the pristine tropical shoreline. Not only do you get the best of an ultra-luxurious beach lodge experience, with warm waters teeming with colourful marine life, but also a bit of a bush experience with the likes of lemur trekking and turtles nesting on the island’s beaches.

The Peech was formerly an up-market private residence in the leafy suburb of Melrose, and is now one of Johannesburg’s more distinctive boutique hotels. This owner-run establishment has a contemporary, edgy African style throughout its 32 rooms and suites scattered within serene landscaped grounds. It’s the ideal hangout for those keen to experience Melrose’s dynamic vibe, with shopping, fabulous restaurants and bars nearby, and well positioned for exploring the bustling African city. A gem of a retreat with plenty of luxury, all the mod cons, and particularly notable for its award-winning Bistro restaurant and champagne bar.

On the southeast coast, where the scent of pine mingles with salty sea breezes, lies a delightful retreat that's equal parts secluded haven and sun-drenched paradise. Pink-washed walls hint at the warmth that awaits inside, while expansive gardens dotted with swaying pines and rolling lawns lead the eye toward a private sandy cove that could have been plucked straight from a picture postcard. Just a short jaunt from Cagliari's airport (how convenient!), yet worlds away from any hustle and bustle, this lovely spot manages that rare travel trick – feeling utterly remote while being rather accessible. Stroll to nearby beaches, explore the local marina, or simply stay put and soak up the Mediterranean magic from a lounger strategically placed beneath the Sardinian sun.

Tucked into the medieval lanes of Bhaktapur, just two minutes from Durbar Square, this charming boutique hotel bills itself as a 'museum of life' – and it's not wrong! Named after the Newari word for courtyard, the property is built around traditional communal living, with no perimeter wall separating guests from the ancient city outside. The design blends minimalist, mod style with age-old craftsmanship, and the cultural programme runs deep: think storytelling evenings in an on-site amphitheatre, rooftop dinners where every dish is full of history, and artisan visits to potters' workshops. A real and thoughtful immersion into what makes Kathmandu tick.

In a clandestine cove (it's only accessible by boat!) on the north-eastern coast of Madagascar, Masoala Forest Lodge is the beach escape you've been dreaming of. Smack-bang in between a private rainforest reserve and the sparkling Indian Ocean, Masoala is as suitable for doing absolutely nothing as it is for days filled with snorkelling, hikes, and whale watching pirogue trips. The former takes place in the waiting hammock on your private deck or a sunny spot on the sand - and always with something chilled in hand. In the evenings, be sure to keep an eye out for the aye-ayes who often wander into camp.

One of Sorrento's most elegant hotels (and it's only Relais & Châteaux property), the Hotel Bellevue Syrene inhabits a timeless, 2nd-century Roman villa, its ancient nymphaea still visible beneath the building. Opened in 1820, every corner is as stylish as the owner (who genuinely adores the property). Think Neapolitan antiques sharing wall space with contemporary Italian art, calming sherbet-coloured interiors, freshly-cut flowers in beautiful vases and pretty balconies overlooking the Gulf of Naples. The staff have been here for decades and treat every guest like family. Oh and, it also happens to boast one of the most spectacular breakfast settings on the coast...

Found in the spot where the Kannan Devan Hills meet Bison Valley, Spice Tree is a polished and well-equipped mountain resort. Looking out over ancient forests hiding fields of cardamom, days at Spice Tree are spent exploring the neighbouring hillsides then returning for a soak in your private pool or jacuzzi. Despite being larger than many Munnar hotels, Spice Tree doesn't lose the personal touch. Your waiters know what you get up to each day and they ask all about your excursions at dinner! The resort has 14 suites and two villas including the Sugati Garden Villa, which is 7km from the main hotel and comes with 8 rooms, a pool and spa room.