Best Hotels & Lodges

Located on the banks of the river from which it takes its name, Sand River Masai Mara lies within Kenya's flagship reserve, close to the Tanzanian border. This is where the wildebeest cross the river in search of better grazing later in the year, so you couldn't be closer to the heart of the action. There's profuse resident game too, so there's lots to see year round. The camp itself is charming. Decorated in authentic 1920s colonial safari style, with plush leather seating, travel chests and a well-stocked library, the camp makes you feel like an extra in Out of Africa.

This is London's most talked-about hotel opening in years, set in its most unexpected building: the former American Embassy on Grosvenor Square, a 1960s modernist landmark given a sweeping second life by the Rosewood. The Chancery's architecture is all bold geometry and tall windows but inside, the design is clean and warm, softened with plenty of curves, spectacular chandeliers and glimmering brass. It's an all-suite hotel, and there are no less than eight restaurants and bars (including the rooftop Eagle Bar with skyline views and a Japanese sushi spot by renowned Tobi Masa) and a highly sophisticated subterranean wellness space with a glitzy pool, dermatology clinic and an ice bath. Spectacular, in every way.

In a city that combines gleaming sky scrapers with gold-spired palaces, The Siam is regal to its core. A butler takes care of every detail, the design is sumptuous and sleek, and with a home next to the River of Kings, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're royalty. Set in Dusit, the historic heart of Bangkok, the quiet lanes make for an interesting walkabout. That is, if you can pull yourself from the comfort of your plush suite or the pool with a view of longboats idling by. Venture into Bangkok's Old Town to see its honored and eye-catching temples or visit one of the city's famous night markets.

Named after Honoré de Balzac, a legendary 19th-century French novelist who died on this very street in 1850, this is a hotel steeped in history. Reopened in 2024 after a spectacular renovation, it's now a modern blend of cognac and camel tones, oak floors and marble mosaics laid from salvaged stone. Inside, you'll find a speakeasy bar with a lengthy list of cocktails named after Balzac's novels, a Japanese spa in the basement, and a discreet door through to the Pierre Gagnaire restaurant. Contemporary and cool, it's a refreshing respite from the opulence of the city.

In the pedestrianised heart of one of Italy's most photogenic coastal towns sits this hidden gem, lovingly maintained by generations of the same family. The ancient splendour of this once-private villa has been meticulously preserved through careful renovations, resulting in a residence that feels both authentic and luxurious. The property's two distinct buildings house an array of rooms – some nestled in the historic original structure, others in the more contemporary addition.

A sanctuary that captures the city's essence. Its design deeply respects Kyoto's rich heritage, offering a warm, intimate atmosphere. Each detail, from the patterns to the weavings, tells a story of the local culture. The hotel is conveniently located, allowing easy exploration of historical sites and local life. The rooms, a blend of cosy modernity and traditional aesthetics, promise comfort and a touch of Kyoto's charm.

Tlouwana Camp lies in northern Botswana, at its intersection with three other nations – Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Set just outside Chobe National Park, famous for its life-giving waters and its impressive numbers of elephants (said to be the greatest on Earth), this is an ideal base for exploring the park's varied habitats. Chobe's vast green floodplains lead to dry savannas, woodlands to riverine forests – all forming a complex ecosystem that supports a wealth of species. With modern tented accommodation, excellent guides and a range of activities at a very fair price, Tlouwana is definitely an option to consider.

Situated on the outskirts of Zimbabwe's largest game reserve (Hwange National Park), Khulu Bush Camp is an exclusive safari camp that forms part of the prestigious Amalinda Collection. Its built alongside an ancient river bed and overlooks an active watering hole, where herds of buffalo and elephant frequently gather. Hwange National Park is known for its high concentration of wildlife, which makes the game drives and bush walks offered by Khulu, particularly special. Post-dinner evening entertainment usually comes in the form of large herds of elephant and buffalo dazzling guests around the watering hole.

Experience the elegance of Navila Liveaboard, a phinisi boat sailing through Komodo National Park. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern comforts, Navila offers luxury and adventure as you explore stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and Komodo dragons. Whether you're a diver, nature lover, or seeking relaxation, Navila Liveaboard promises an exceptional journey, harmonizing humans and the sea.

As this hotel offers a view of islands floating among the waves, the art in the hotel also focuses on the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. The hotel features art pieces designed for the area, including a carpet in the lobby featuring a sunset view of the Seto Inland Sea, and artwork in the guest rooms featuring oysters and lemons, two of the hotel's specialties.

Opening beneath the leaves of Kenya's quintessential fever trees in June 2022, Tambarare Camp, an A&K Sanctuary is a bright and eye-catching new camp. Under the impressive gaze of Mount Kenya, the camp sits in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, an untamed realm where you'll follow in the footprints of the Big Five and lay beneath the star-spangled African sky. Laikipia is known for its collection of private camps with big hearts for conservation and Sanctuary Tambarare fits right in. Each day brings the chance to get to know the land and creatures that call it home, your expert guide sharing the secrets of their plains with you.

There is a corner of the Lower Zambezi National Park where the rushing waters of the Zambezi meet the tranquil Chongwe channel, where curved ox-bow lagoons shimmer in the heat and where spiky winterthorn woodlands stretch endlessly to the horizon. And in the heart of it all is Chongwe Camp, a 9-roomed tented haven offering a variety of water and land based activities amid scenery that truly takes your breath away.

Behind gates on the southern edge of Aix, this old bastide is wrapped in a garden of rose arcades, chestnut shade, fountains and chess tables, with a heated pool tucked under the branches. Cézanne came here to paint Mont Sainte-Victoire, and from the right spot you can still see what caught his eye. Serge Gainsbourg and Clint Eastwood have both signed the guest book, and the spa offers singing lessons alongside the massages (yes, really!). Central Aix, with its fountains, plane trees and unhurried lunches, is only a stroll away. The garden makes a strong case for staying put.