Best Hotels & Lodges

The riads of Marrakesh all have a history behind them, but the Riad Kniza may be the most fascinating. Owned by the same family for nearly 200 years, it has hosted some recognisable names, from past US presidents to Hollywood royalty. Let's just say, the staff are masters in discreet service and making you feel like a celebrity. The owner, Haj Mohamed, is one of the city's most respected antiquarians, the spoils of which you'll enjoy in the lavish suites and alcoved bhous (sitting areas). Mohamed is an expert in the secrets and sights of Marrakesh, and he'll gladly introduce you to it all.

As the name hints, One&Only Gorilla's Nest has a major drawcard - its back yard just happens to be the leafy world of Rwanda's charcoal-furred mountain gorillas. Surrounded by five of the Virunga Mountains' eight volcanoes, this pristine lodge is laid out in a valley of green and surrounded by the fragrance of eucalyptus. Part of the One&Only family, there's no shortage of top-of-the-range facilities that raise the hospitality bar including pop-up restaurants across the grounds so you never gaze at the same vista twice - and the rooms are simply gorgeous! If gorilla trekking with the promise of ultimate luxury is what you seek, Gorilla's Nest does it all in spades.

There's a secret Singapore hideaway on Sentosa Island, and the Capella has well and truly discovered it! Spread across 30 acres of tropical gardens, the uber-polished hideaway fuses 1880s colonial bungalows (think British officers' quarters) with Foster + Partners' swooping contemporary curves. Despite being the venue for that infamous Trump-Kim summit, it's refreshingly unpretentious – just brilliantly executed luxury, a mere ten minutes from Marina Bay. When in situ, sip Navegante rum at Bob's Bar whilst roaming peacocks patrol the grounds, or discover your lunar-alignment at the sumptuous Forbes Five-Star Auriga Spa. Or head further afield and discover the island with its enormous luges, ziplines and Singapore's Universal Studios.

Tucked away on Shinmachi-dori, the very street that hosts the Gion Festival each July, Hotel Vista Premio is a rare blend of contemporary convenience and traditional Japanese hospitality. With 84 rooms designed around warm wooden accents and thoughtful bathroom layouts (yes, your bath, loo and washbasin each get their own space), it's a practical base with a fantastic location - Nijo Castle and Nishiki Market are within strolling distance and for anything further afield, you're a seven-minute walk from the subway. And when you return, the the lobby's beautiful tsuboniwa garden is the perfect spot for some R&R.

The gateway to the driest sand desert on Earth, San Pedro de Atacama is a town with such deep-rooted history and scenery, you’ll be reaching for your camera as soon as you arrive. One of the latest additions to this corner of Chile is Our Habitas, a beacon of sustainability that gives a donation to cultural and environmental initiatives for every guest that stays. It is also a wonderful base for exploring the Atacama Desert on hikes across the Valley of the Moon, paragliding adventures above the burnt-orange dunes, and visits to sites of significant pre-Columbian history.

Tucked beside Buenos Aires' most fashionable cemetery (yes, really), this urban hideaway puts you at the heart of the action while keeping things delightfully serene. The winter garden's soaring glass atrium provides a rather spectacular spot for your morning medialunas, while the surrounding neighbourhood reads like a who's who of Argentine culture.

Tucked into a cluster of old teak trees and overlooking a busy waterhole, Verney's Camp is the newest addition to the Machaba Safaris collection. Set in a 10,000-hectare private reserve in an extremely remote region of Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, the camp offers access to one of the area's most productive game regions. Verney's is intimate and smartly designed, classic in its simplicity, with modern touches that give it a fresh feel. Here you have every benefit of an expansive national park, with the added bonuses of a private concession – guided walks, night drives and exclusive access.

This idyllic escape sits on the banks of the Zambezi River, just 20 minutes from Victoria Falls, offering front-row seats to nature's ever-enthralling display. With only six suites crafted from all-natural materials, each featuring private plunge pools and outdoor showers, guests can watch elephants drink at the water's edge while soaking in their own piece of paradise. Throughout the lodge, you'll be treated to a showcase of African elegance, combined with stellar service and award-winning cuisine. Family-owned and passion-driven, Mukwa brings together luxury with authentic local experiences, making every aspect of your stay feel crafted just for you.

Backed by the towering Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge overlooks the ephemeral Tsauchab River, with open gravel plains stretching into the distance as far as the eye can see. This comfortable oasis has just 11 thatch and canvas chalets, all decorated in a rustic and easy-going yet luxurious style. The design makes the most of the sense of space in this secluded part of the Namib Desert, and the lodge is a perfect base camp for exploring Sossusvlei's magnificent sand dunes. Expect a warm welcome, genuine hospitality and delicious food at this family-owned and -run establishment.

Kisiwa on the Beach is a secluded luxury resort in an idyllic setting. It is surrounded by tall palm trees, endless white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, offering guests the opportunity to experience barefoot luxury at its very best. The area is well known for its amazing watersports. Guests at Kisiwa on the Beach are greeted with welcoming Swahili smiles, and they can happily relax throughout their holiday in Zanzibar. Kisiwa on the Beach offers its guests well-appointed private villas offering amazing views of the sea. The hotel also has spa and wellness center facilities .