Sitting beside the Mossman River, hidden amongst the thick rainforests of Far North Queensland, I’ve always loved the simple grace and spectacular surroundings of <a href="https://silkyoakslodge.com.au/?gclid=CjwKCAjwu5yYBhAjEiwAKXk_eADo7sLhgguTevQMl7Ft2Tsxo7R6aPkyQdcMf8hXh85CCEvXweZZqxoCHxwQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Silky Oaks Lodge</a>. But when hoteliers James and Hayley Baillie took over the reins and announced a $20 million revamp of this beloved lodge in the heart of Australia’s stunning Daintree Rainforest, I knew we were in for something special.&nbsp;This power-couple of Australian tourism has a seemingly innate ability to draw the most out of a region, crafting luxury lodges that combine a respectful sense of place, with understated luxury and innovative design. Silky Oaks is the latest gem in their curated collection of Australian lodges. With its open-air concept and unparalleled location between the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest and the Mossman River, Silky Oaks is a tropical haven for travellers looking to slow down and truly feel one with mother earth.&nbsp;I sat down with Hayley Baillie, my friend and co-owner of&nbsp;Baillie Lodges, to find out how their touch has transformed this already-legendary rainforest sanctuary.

My husband James and I both had personal connections to the lodge from our time there in the 1990s: I was on holiday with my parents and James was formerly the Lodge General Manager when the property was owned by P&amp;O Resorts.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the chance arose to bring the property under Baillie Lodges, we saw an opportunity to offer guests a new experience of the world’s oldest rainforest through modern design, local artworks and food and beverages. It’s been our mission to partner with premium local tour operators, especially for First Nations Kuku Yalanji cultural tours.&nbsp;

The Daintree Rainforest and gently flowing Mossman River are the natural attractions that play centre stage. Our aim in commissioning a local, Cairns-based architect to revitalize the lodge was to preserve as much of the property’s heritage as possible, while also making the most of the landscape and enabling seamless interaction with the environment for our guests. This meant raising the roof to reach toward the rainforest treetops and adopting an open-air design to welcome the sights and sounds of the rainforest and river.&nbsp;

Yes, and this approach to working sustainably with the local community, its artists and producers is key to the way Baillie Lodges operates; and in turn, contributes to the guest experience and a real ‘sense of place.'We worked with the local First Nations Kuku Yalanji artists at the Yalanji Art Centre on commissions of ceramic tiles that represent the flora and fauna of the Daintree and align with the names of each suite. Guests see these tiles in the reception area on arrival and this installation sets the scene for an experience immersed in nature. The artworks by Australian artist Catherine Nelson seen around the lounging areas and in suites embrace the immersive and almost magnetic draw of the landscape which is so much a part of a stay at Silky Oaks Lodge.We also work with the region’s small-scale food and drink producers from the reef and the rainforest to the Atherton Tablelands food bowl to source local ingredients while supporting local farmers and producers.&nbsp;

It’s entirely possible for our guests to experience the Great Barrier Reef on half or full-day tours, plus take a First Nations Kuku Yalanji guided walk through the Daintree or Mossman Gorge and then float down the river on a magical tour with Back Country Bliss.&nbsp;&nbsp;My recommended must-do experience is both addictive and free: take the path to the Mossman River in front of the main lodge at Silky and dive in, head under! It’s refreshing, pure water—known as ‘healing waters’ by the region’s Indigenous community—and gives a wonderful welcome to the country. You can swim early in the morning, at lunch and before dinner. I recommend all three!

The Beach Billabong is a private swimming hole in the Mossman River, just up from the main lodge fringed with white sands just like a freshwater beach! If I’m feeling more adventurous and really want to go off-grid, I’ll hike to the Fig Tree Rapids where I can swim under a freshwater waterfall and have the waterhole all to myself!

On the lunch menu, my go-to is always the kingfish tataki which uses local ingredients from the new Kitchen Garden we’ve developed on-site.Sunset is a wonderful time to enjoy cocktails on the Jungle Perch overlooking the river. My pick is a local Gin and Tonic made on local Cairns distillery Wolf Lane Tropical Gin or the Atherton Tablelands Mount Uncle’s Botanic Australis Northern Gem Gin.

We’ve grown the Baillie Lodges portfolio from humble beginnings at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island and have sought to grow our Australia-based collection of luxury lodges to enable enriching Baillie itineraries for our guests. So from the initial Lord Howe subtropical island destination, we added wildlife at Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island and then the outback experience with Longitude 131 at Uluru Kata Tjuta.Silky Oaks Lodge was the next Australian property with the Tropical North Queensland experience and reef and rainforest connection. We usually look for properties that are located in an extraordinary destination—often World Heritage listed—that are supported by an engaged local community around which we can offer our guests a real sense of place: a meaningful experience of the destination and connection with its people.&nbsp;

Don't just dream about it, see and stay for yourself! Get in touch with Annalise Andrews to reserve a spot at this incredible stay.

Inside Silky Oaks Lodge: An Eco-Conscious Sanctuary in Australia's Oldest Rainforest

Home of the country's largest international airport, almost every journey you take to Italy will include a stop in Rome, and if it doesn't—it should. The Eternal City is the type of place where you could use a few extra sets of eyes, with head-turning marvels around every corner.No matter your taste or budget, the city is brimming with accommodation options for everyone, from super-luxe 5-star hotels to charming boutique properties. Here are the top ones I've visited during my recent research trip to Italy.

<h3><a href="https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/hotel-de-la-ville/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hotel de la Ville</a></h3>This hotel sits on a quiet yet centrally located road. Rooms are spacious with a classy design, and the lobby and common spaces are tastefully appointed. Hotel de la Ville is part of the Rocco Forte portfolio, a luxury brand that I work with throughout Italy. They often take over historical buildings and transform them into elegant, luxurious and comfortable hotels with top-notch service.<h3><a href="https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/hotel-de-russie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hotel de Russie</a></h3>Found between the Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this historical gem is immediately inviting. Generously sized and well-designed suites set the stage for a welcoming experience. Explore the secret tiered garden and lounge any way you'd like from the al fresco bar to the restaurant to the incredible spa. Hotel de Russie was dubbed “paradise on earth” by French poet Jean Cocteau in 1917, and the accolade still stands today.

<h3><a href="https://www.jkroma.com/en/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">JK Place Roma</a></h3>Pure modern class, the JK Place Roma offers just the right mix of antique furniture with bold colours in their spacious&nbsp;suites, which feature both a sitting area and bedroom. Expect carpeted rooms with marble edgings, wooden walls and frames and poster beds. Classic and deluxe rooms offer small balconies. You'll find this hotel just south of Villa Borghese and east of the river.

<h3><a href="https://www.hotelvilon.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hotel Vilon</a></h3>Hotel Vilon is the restoration of a house annexed to Palazzo Borghese, the former homestead of one of Italy's noble families. It's hidden away from the city bustle on a quiet road but still in a great location. Sophisticated Art Deco interior design and timeless architecture lend to the property's unique character and charm.

<h3><a href="https://www.sanlorenzolodges.com/en/lodges/holy-deer/san-lorenzo-city-lodge/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Holy Deer San Lorenzo City Lodge</a></h3>Located right next to the Church of Sant’Agnese and overlooking the romantic Via dell’Anima and Piazza Navona, Holy Deer San Lorenzo is as luxurious as it gets right in the heart of Rome. With its Baroque frescoes, glitzy gold accents and an ornate spiral staircase, the master bedroom was designed for Pope Innocent X and has been refurbished as one of the most elaborate stays in the entire city. The hotel's music room, library and study adds a distinct 17th c. charm that's intertwined with 21st c. modern luxury—pure extravagance.

<h3><a href="https://www.palazzoripetta.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Palazzo Ripetta</a></h3>Palazzo Ripetta is an independently owned 5-star hotel situated in the heart of Rome between Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna, recently affiliated to the prestigious Relais &amp; Châteaux collection.The Hotel combines architecture, aesthetic research, art, expertise and passion for hospitality in a 17century former convent.&nbsp;This exclusive location satisfies every sensory perception, from the lavish velvet furnishings to the morning aromas created by the pastry chefs, from the culinary offerings of San Baylon and Etere Rooftop to the atmosphere of Piazzetta Ripetta, which welcomes guests with its signature cocktails and finger food in an intimate cloister in the Eternal City. 78 rooms and suites embody the authentic soul of the hotel: custom-made furniture, crafted by Italian artisans, harmoniously coexist with eco-friendly choices, modern amenities, and precious classical and contemporary artworks.

<h3><a href="https://www.romeluxurysuites.com/margutta-19" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Margutta 19</a></h3>Sitting on a charming road in the heart of Rome, opt for this small, luxury boutique hotel if you're looking for spacious suites and an abundant breakfast buffet without breaking the bank. Margutta 19 is a steal for the amount of space and elegant style. The Garden suites offer more privacy while still having the convenience of being in the main building. Although their Margutta 54 and courtyard studios often have a lower price tag, take note that they are not situated in the main building (they are just up the road) and don't have 24/7 reception like the other rooms do.<h3><a href="https://www.pavilionshotels.com/rome/thefirstarte/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The First Roma Arte</a></h3>A small, boutique hotel near palazzo del Popolo showcasing contemporary artwork. Find simple and causal décor peppered with modern art throughout the rooms and common spaces.

The Best Hotels in Rome for Every Taste

After years of enduring some of the world's strictest border measurements, <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/asia/japan" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Japan</a> is finally open to international travellers, visa-free and as close to pre-pandemic travel as ever before.My recent research trip marked the first time I stepped foot in the country in three years, and some things in Japan will never change. Like the serene beauty of perfectly-manicured gardens and the elegance of time-honoured tea ceremonies.But one thing that took me by surprise was all of the incredible new hotels that have opened their doors to travellers for the very first time. From sophisticated Kyoto ryokans to glitzy skyscrapers with perfect views of Tokyo, Japan's latest hotels come in all shapes and styles. Below are my top picks for the best new hotels you shouldn't miss when exploring Japan in 2023.

On the top of my list is the design-forward Azumi Setoda, the first property launched by Aman founder Adrian Zecha. Clean lines, simple furniture and materials really allow you to focus on this stunning ryokan, set in a 19th c. former home of a notable merchant family on Ikuchijima island. The hotel’s location on the island is unparalleled - you could spend all day sampling from many fine eateries and admiring the art the island is famous for, along with incredible panoramas of citrus groves, blue waters and mountains.

The Best New Hotels in Japan

The property itself is a mix of minimalist chic and traditional, and the rooms are spacious and minimal - much like the Aman. Gorgeous wooden beams open up the high ceilings, and the extra large hinoki tub in my room was very welcoming after a long day of touring on e-bikes. One of my most memorable moments was sampling a course dinner at the restaurant, which was an homage to everything local in season. The proud chef even came out to describe each beautiful dish.

Zenagi offers a concept that’s never really been explored in Japan but is very popular worldwide: an all-inclusive bespoke private experience. The large Kominka space is housed in a beautiful traditional farmhouse overlooking terraced rice fields in the Kiso Valley. They have an Olympic athlete who has curated all of their experiences, from boating to hiking to paragliding. It’s a spectacular option for active travellers looking to get immersed in unspoilt nature. Bonus: it’s close to the famous Nakasendo hiking trail.

A stunning retreat away from the bustle of the city, Aman Kyoto will put you in touch with the natural beauty of <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/things-to-do-in-kyoto" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kyoto</a> from the second you step foot on the property. Follow whimsical stone pathways and tree-lined gardens to the ryokan, seemingly hidden within fairytale woodlands. Inside you’ll find ancient Japanese design mingling with warm tones and a modern aesthetic. It’s a stone’s throw away from the golden temple, Kinkakuji, and the surrounding nature comes to life in autumn when the area is blanketed in beautiful fall foliage.

Creative, maximalist, bold and bright. Ace Kyoto is far from your traditional Japanese ryokan, which is precisely why I love it so much. Retro-inspired art and bold furnishing make each room pop with splashes of bright yellow, blue and red. And its location on Karasuma Street means you have a bounty of museums, modern cafes and restaurants to choose from, filled with young and creative locals. In 2023 the hotel will open its doors for a 10-week Noma residency, bringing cutting-edge New Nordic cuisine to Japan.

A great edition located opposite the Nijo Castle, The Mitsui highlights old-school Kyoto with a twist with its traditional Japanese tea rooms sprinkled with modern touches. After exploring Kyoto on foot, my favourite way to rejuvenate is with a visit to the hotel’s thermal spa and hot spring onsen pools for a healing bath. And if you’re feeling a bit peckish, the hotel is home to an incredible French-Japanese fusion fine dining joint and a laidback Italian eatery.

I love the Park Hyatt Kyoto for its enviable location in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. This is the place to stay to be fully immersed in the city’s distinctive culture, as the Kodaiji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Ninen-zaka are&nbsp;only steps away. Don't miss visits to the Signature Restaurant and Bar for breathtaking views of the Yasaka Pagoda and family-run Kyoyamato for traditional Japanese Kaiseki cuisine.

This sky-high sanctuary marks the second Four Seasons in Japan’s buzzing capital, nestled in Otemachi, one of Tokyo's most intriguing neighbourhoods. A curious blend of ultramodern skyscrapers, tucked-away local eateries, legacy architecture and lush natural beauty are all at your doorstep, creating the perfect setting to bike, hike and feast like a local. The property soars high above the sky, offering incredible views of the Imperial Palace and the city skyline. Don't miss a visit to est, the hotel's newly-crowned Michelin-starred restaurant, serving French cuisine shaped by Japanese terroir.

This marks the first EDITION property in Japan, the latest venture by American hotelier Ian Schrager, co-founder of the legendary nightclub Studio 54 and pioneer of the concept of the "boutique hotel." The property is set high in the sky in the ultra-modern Kamiyacho district, peppered with glitzy skyscrapers and just minutes from Tokyo's best art and cultural landmarks, fashion and nightlife. I love the EDITION for its lush greenery; there are over 500 plants in the lobby alone, ivy-covered walls and playful palm trees that perfectly frame the panoramas of Tokyo's scene-stealing skyline.

Don't just dream about it, see and stay for yourself! Get in touch with Orsolya Kako to see how she can start planning the trip of a lifetime to Japan.

The Best New Hotels in Japan 

No journey to <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/laos-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Laos</a> is complete without a visit to <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/deep-luang-prabang" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luang Prabang</a>, the country's ancient capital. This UNESCO-protected city sits at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Khan River, surrounded by fertile forests and gilded with shimmering temples and secluded waterfalls.&nbsp;With flat, wide roads and stunning French-inspired architecture around every turn, there are endless opportunities for incredible biking and hiking - which are only matched by the city's bounty of stunning hotels to rejuvenate after long days of exploring.&nbsp;No matter your style, taste or budget, Luang Prabang is brimming with incredible hotels that will awaken your senses to the tranquil pace of Laotian life. Below are my favourite hotels in the city, from five-star converted French villas to charming boutique properties.&nbsp;

Amantaka is an Aman hotel; what more can I say? Just about everything is perfect. Resting on the foot of sacred Mount Phousi, Amantaka is utterly in tune with Luang Prabang's tranquil pace. The property is nestled on a historic garden estate with a shimmering pool and serene Aman Spa. And it's in a really great location, walkable to town but far away from the noise.If I were to change one thing: It's in a converted school, so the interior courtyard will have you walking across the property all the time. In 20 years when the trees grow, the walks will be more scenic.

Cream of the Crop

3-Nagas isn't famous in any regard, but it's my favourite hotel in Luang Prabang. This stunning boutique hotel has an unparalleled location in the city centre, so you're steps away from colourful street markets, ancient temples, cultural sites and the historic district. If you don't stay here, I recommend you come for dinner. The bar mixes incredible cocktails in an elegant Victorian-era mansion, and the restaurant serves succulent Lao cuisine in a cozy indoor bistro and al fresco courtyard.&nbsp;If I were to change one thing:&nbsp;Unfortunately because of the prime city location, there's no pool and there can be some noise!

I find this hotel to be the ideal balance of great location, price and pool. Sofitel was originally built as a French Governor's residence in the 1900s and is located in a quiet neighbourhood just outside the city centre. All suites feature a private garden with a gazebo, outdoor bathtub, or a private pool. Nearby attractions include Wat Mano Temple, Royal Museum, Mount Phousi, Wat Xiengtong and UXO bomb museum.If I were to change one thing: I think this hotel vibe is best suited for families and as such I wish the pool were larger.

This hotel is crazy fun and features a funky design with lots of upside-down elephants and nets hanging over waterfalls to lounge in. A total paradise for design geeks or honeymooners looking for isolation and no good reason to leave the room.If I were to change one thing:&nbsp;The location is far out of town. Really far.&nbsp;

Surrounded by dozens of heritage temples and overlooking Mount Phousi, Avani isn't on par with the service of the other top hotels in town, but its location is unparalleled (and it has a pool!). This heritage hideaway is a 5-minute walk from the Mekong River, dozens of cafés and restaurants and a bustling night market.&nbsp;If I were to change one thing: The rooms are a bit bland.

A wonderful hotel with a French vibe and a long history in town. The property is gemmed with teak, silk and fresh cotton accents, and their restaurant serves wonderful French-influenced local cuisine. The open-air spa and water lily pool are dreamy.If I were to change one thing:&nbsp;The location is far out of town, so one ends up just 'staying at the hotel.'

This boutique hotel is hip and trendy, with modern rooms and suites sitting among lush courtyards. It also boasts a great spa and an infinity pool that looks out to the hills.&nbsp;

Other Great Hotels

The late Prince Souvanna Phouma lived here! This hotel is great for travellers who are looking for a smaller space. The interiors are decorated with elegant French and Native Laotian designs. It's located in the heart of Luang Prabang's historical centre and has really cool cars for airport pick-ups.

A very cute boutique property. Accommodations include a restaurant serving Western &amp; Asian specialties, a garden bar, library, outdoor swimming pool and spa house.

Another great heritage hotel in the centre of town place. Very cool cars for airport pick-ups. Here you can indulge in gorgeous views from the Busari's riverside lounge or stroll to the nearby temples and French sidewalk cafés.

Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? Get in touch with Nathan Lane to start planning your next getaway to Laos. B&amp;R Experience Designer Nathan Lane has been named a Top Travel Specialist for 2022 by Condé Nast Traveler.

The Best Hotels in Luang Prabang

Here at the Slow Road, we love sharing tv shows and movies that visually transport us to the world's most beguiling places, stirring inspiration for a region when we’re deciding where to go next. In this post, we’re rounding up all locations you can visit from HBO’s The White Lotus, a series following a group of characterful guests as their week of drama unravels in <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/europe/italy/sicily" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sicily</a>.&nbsp;Season 2 saw The White Lotus trade their address in Maui for the chic coastal town Taormina, nestled on Sicily’s eastern coast. Jennifer Coolidge returns as Tanya McQuoid Hunt, who heads to Sicily to live out her Monica Vitti dreams while attempting to re-kindle the romance with her husband. Meanwhile, Sopranos star Michael Imperioli makes his White Lotus debut as Dominic Di Grasso, a Hollywood producer embarking on a heritage trip with his father and son to explore their Sicilian roots. Among them are couple Harper and Ethan, a lawyer and a tech entrepreneur who join their old college friends on a trip, Daphne and Cameron.

The group is first seen cruising to their pastel-pink White Lotus hotel perched overlooking the Ionian Sea. Guests are mainly seen basking poolside or on the property’s terrace, but you’ll also find them taking to the streets of Taormina, embarking on cultural trips to Noto and Palermo and even visiting a few of The Godfather locations.

The real-life White Lotus is <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/taormina/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">San Domenico Palace</a>, a stunning Four Seasons property clinging to a rocky cliff with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. The resort was first constructed in the 14th c. as a convent for wealthy Taormina resident, Damiano Rosso. 400 years later it was taken over by Prince Cerami, who transformed the place into one of Europe’s first grand hotels with the addition of a large wing. With Taormina’s reputation for over-the-top parties and beautiful scenery, San Domenico was the place to see and be seen, attracting the likes of Edward VII of England, Oscar Wilde and DH Lawrence.

San Domenico Palace, A Four Seasons Hotel

The hotel was bombed by the Allies during WWII, then re-opened in 1946, attracting more illustrious guests like Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Greta Garbo. Four Seasons officially took over in 2021, enhancing its reputation as Italy's most beautiful hotel, and one of the world's most famous.It’s hard not to watch with envy as Daphne sips her Aperol Spritz by the infinity pool, gazing at Mount Etna in the distance. Or when Harper is deciding between the arugula salad or the whitefish on San Domenico’s panoramic terrace overlooking the Bay of Taormina. Or when the entire group is seen sharing awkward dining moments at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/taormina/dining/restaurants/principe-cerami/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Principe Cerami</a>, helmed by Etna-born chef Massimo Mantarro.

The interiors at San Domenico are best defined as a treasure trove of art history. The hotel’s <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/sicilys-arab-influence" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">long and tangled past</a> is a perfect representation of the Sicilian culture you see today: a mix of civilizations that have left their mark through the centuries, from the Greeks and Romans to the French, Spanish and Arabs.Architect Valentina Pisani oversaw the hotel’s design, weaving in neutral tones peppered with vivid colours. Rosaria Catania Cucchiara spearheaded the historical restoration project, spending significant time restoring works of art, paintings, frescos and statues. These opulent works of art are impossible to miss throughout the series, from the ominous Testa Di Moro statues that seem to gaze back at you no matter where you are in the room, to the Medusa-inspired heads splattered throughout Tanya’s suite.

On day three, Daphne and Harper are seen embarking on a day trip to Noto, one of Sicily’s most gorgeous seaside towns with its baroque palazzos and mesmerizing cathedrals. While the town looks like a movie set come to life, it still retains a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for exploring off-the-beaten-path. Daphne and Harper follow cobbled streets past the Piazza del Duomo and the Noto Cathedral, soon finding themselves at a three-story villa decorated in frescoes from floor to ceiling. The real-life property is actually privately-owned Villa Tasca in Palermo, about a four-hour drive from Noto.

Noto, Palermo & Fiumefreddo

While the girls head to Noto, three generations of the Di Grasso family spend the day touring filming locations from The Godfather, including Castello degli Schiavi in the coastal town of Fiumefreddo, and the 18th c. Villa Corleone. The Di Grasso’s are also seen touring the ancient Greek theatre called Teatro Antico di Taormina, built in the 3rd century BC.

Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? Get in touch with Dana Quinn to see how she can start planning your next Sicilian getaway.

The White Lotus: On Location in Sicily

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<h2>A Family Affair </h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-49711 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-480x300.png" alt="Son Brull Hotel Mallorca" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />Son Brull’s striking gold exterior and sophisticated detailing make for a regal façade at first glance. But the personalized greetings that each guest receives from the Suau siblings upon arrival create a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the laidback island lifestyle of Mallorca.
“Being the only family-run boutique hotel on the island makes a huge difference because we’re on the property every day, and most of our team has been with us for years,” she said. “We have a lot of regular guests who return year after year and see the same faces greeting them. Our staff remembers them and knows how they like their coffee in the morning and what kind of cocktail they drink. All of our staff are local from the surrounding villages, we train them ourselves, and they’ve been with us for many years.”
<h2>Continuing the Legacy of Son Brull</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-49731 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-480x300.png" alt="Son Brull exterior" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />For Mar, the business of hotels has always pulsed through her veins. And while being the daughter of a hotelier prompted her childhood to look a little different, she’s had the advantage of gaining experience in every aspect of the business. 
“When I was a kid, I didn’t play with dolls. I played hotels. I played the role of receptionist, cook, waiter. We were always at the hotel to be closer to our father because he was working all the time. He never planned for us to continue his legacy, but it just happened,” she said. 
Continuing her father’s legacy at Son Brull also meant continuing the legacy of the 17th c. monks who lived off the land and welcomed tired travellers in search of food and shelter. Three centuries later, the Suau family has restored the property into one of Mallorca’s top boutique hotels while maintaining its unique heritage and natural resources.
<figure id="attachment_49732" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-49732" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-49732 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2.png" alt="Son Brull Pool" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-copy-2-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-49732" class="wp-caption-text">One of Son Brull&#8217;s four newly renovated Villa Suites</figcaption></figure>
All in all, a stay at Son Brull encompasses award-winning cuisine, a wealth of adrenalin-pumping activities, cozy interiors and <a href="https://sonbrull.com/en/spa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">organic spa treatments</a>—all tied together with family-friendly service and an atmosphere brimming with environmental sustainability and Mediterranean magic.
If you’re feeling inspired to experience the rich heritage of Son Brull for yourself, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">get in touch with Christine Tucker</a> to see how she can craft your ideal Mallorcan escape.

Son Brull Hotel & Spa: Embracing Sustainability in Mallorca 

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<h2>A Villa That Gives Back</h2>
Although Korta Katarina&#8217;s roots run deep in offering guests unparalleled luxury, the first of its kind in Orebić, its philosophy still remains ingrained in engaging with its local community.
&#8220;All of our employees are from Orebić—the villa is a real source of pride for the people of the village, many of them are employed there—even during COVID, we never made layoffs, and we paid them the whole time,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said. “The greatest reward is the people we work with. We’re very proud of what we’ve done.
<figure id="attachment_48789" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48789" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48789 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic.png" alt="Villa Korta Katarina And Winery" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Korta-Katarina-Orebic-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48789" class="wp-caption-text">Views of the Adriatic from Korta Katarina&#8217;s patio</figcaption></figure>
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<h2>The Future of Korta Katarina </h2>
<figure id="attachment_48730" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48730" style="width: 480px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48730 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-480x300.png" alt="Orebic" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Adriatic-1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48730" class="wp-caption-text">Cruising the Adriatic Sea</figcaption></figure>
So, just how bright is the future of tourism for Orebić? With lots of talk about the Pelješac Bridge finally connecting southeast Croatia to the rest of the country, there’s sure to be a rise in visitors wishing to cast anchor and unearth the secrets of this dreamlike town. According to Mr. Anderson, this is marvellous news for Korta Katarina, as completion of the bridge will cut down the amount of travel time to get to Orebić by a third. It would appear as if venturing off-the-beaten-path in Orebić—and savouring the exuberance of Korta Katarina—is a voyage that’s slowly creeping out of the shadows to compete with its glitzy neighbour Dubrovnik.
If enjoying fine wine and gourmet cuisine over panoramas of the sparkling Adriatic sound enticing, a stay at Korta Katarina is a must. <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/">Get in touch with Tom</a> to see how he can craft your idyllic getaway to Croatia.

<h2>A Labour of Love</h2>
Six months later, the Anderson’s were offered a jaw-dropping property that was taken back by the government.
&#8220;A four-story hotel—and it&#8217;s empty, and they&#8217;re willing to sell it to you—if you promise you&#8217;ll rebuild it,'&#8221; he was told.
<figure id="attachment_48777" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-48777" style="width: 480px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-48777 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina &amp; Winery Villa" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Croatia-Korta-Katarina-Winery-Villa.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-48777" class="wp-caption-text">Villa Korta Katarina &amp; Winery in Orebić, Croatia</figcaption></figure>
Mr. Anderson said yes.
And with that, the Anderson&#8217;s purchased the well-known Rivijera hotel, a sumptuous seaside villa nestled on the shores of the shimmering Adriatic.
&#8220;We suddenly had this little piece of heaven—a building we have sitting on top of a hill overlooking the Adriatic—with the promise to put it back into service,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said.
After an intense labour of love and almost a decades-worth of planning, one of Croatia&#8217;s most exclusive properties was on the horizon. <a href="https://www.kortakatarina.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Korta Katarina</a>, member of Relais &amp; Châteaux, finally opened its doors in 2018.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-48751 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-750x600.png" alt="Villa Korta Katarina And Winery Gallery" width="750" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-750x600.png 750w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-375x300.png 375w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery-768x614.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Villa-Korta-Katarina-And-Winery-Gallery.png 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" />
&nbsp;

<h2>The Space</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48718 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-480x300.png" alt="" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Banner-2-Korta-Katarina-bathroom.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />This secluded property is so much more than your average hotel. Consisting of a winery, vineyard, the villa and even a 201 ft luxury yacht, every room has a story to tell at Korta Katarina. These stories are illustrated through the refined antiques and elegant attention to detail found around every corner. Through its serene splashes <img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48719 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina Winery" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/KK-Villa.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />of pastel blues, milky whites and sandy ivory coating every inch of its interior. And best of all, through its <a href="https://www.kortakatarinawinery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sustainably farmed vineyards</a> and lavish collection of KK award-winning vintages—a favourite among the locals.
&#8220;Years went on; we started our winery—we made wine in the building. Eventually, we decided to <img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48720 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-480x300.png" alt="Korta Katarina Wine" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/winery-KK.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />move it adjacent to the building, but co-join it with the villa,&#8221; Mr. Anderson said. &#8220;We make a limited production of 60,000 bottles per year—most of it sold in Croatia, though we do export to some areas in the US.&#8221;
Today, Korta Katarina hosts gastronomy wine tastings paired with an upscale introduction to Croatian cuisine. Guests also have the option to sample some of Orebić&#8217;s most palatable delicacies with trips to local oyster farms—the perfect combination of salty seawater and freshwater makes this an idyllic experience. And after exuberant days of soaking up the sunshine, guests can revel in the little touches of luxury and personalization that the Anderson&#8217;s put into every aspect of the villa, including the bedtime stories found on each room’s pillow come day&#8217;s end.
Korta Katarina’s prime location ensures there’s no shortage of activity for all levels. Cruise to Korčula by speedboat to embark on a bike ride through Pošip vineyard, the region’s finest white variety. Walk the longest walls in Europe in the 14thC town of Ston. Kayak, kitesurf and scuba dive along the coast of the turquoise Adriatic. No matter what the day calls for, the area is ripe with adventure for even the most intrepid of travellers.

Spectacular Stays: Villa Korta Katarina & Winery

Experts + Insiders

Must Sees

England

Ireland

Scotland

History Meets Modern Luxury: Top Hotels of England, Scotland and Ireland

Canada

Pacific Yellowfin

North America

Overall
With large swaths of British Columbia’s gorgeous coast devoid of roads, travelling by boat to explore the magical, remote inlets offers a refreshing sea-side perspective and a dose of natural seclusion as you witness majestic marine wildlife up close. Well worth it.
Time to go?
The Yellowfin skims the waters of Desolation Sound through the months of July, August and early September.
<hr />
Interested in a Pacific Yellowfin journey with your multi-generational group? <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch</a> with a member of our team to consider options for your private crew.

This tends to be the best region for family trips as the weather is more consistent and the water is warmer (owing to remarkable sea currents) than voyages that head  up to the Great Bear Rainforest.
(Trips in GBR are best suited for folks purely interested in wildlife watching—think salmon migration/bear spotting — the kids usually find it less entertaining since the water is quite frigid and not ideal for play.)
Daily activities
When sightings for Orca and Humpback whales quiet—or when the kids start to find breaching whale pods entirely routine—there are numerous “toys,” as Martha referred to them, onboard. The most famous of which is the giant slide pictured below, which takes the classic playground concept to a new level. Kayaks, paddle-boards, tubes and more punctuate your water activity, while electric bikes provide a welcomed push (should you need it) when venturing within the interior.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46000 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/slide_900x600-900x600.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/slide_900x600.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/slide_900x600-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/slide_900x600-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Meals
Meals onboard essentially become another way to immerse yourself in the region. Chef Ben creates a wildly imaginative and delicious menu accentuated by the best he can find in the region. You get to be a part of it too. Pick oysters off the beach, find wild greens and berries to supplement dinner and hear stories about growing up on a small island off the BC coast. This is the zero-kilometre diet in all its briny, nutrient-rich glory.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46005 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/mother_600x500.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="499" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/mother_600x500.jpg 600w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/mother_600x500-361x300.jpg 361w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46007 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/chef_540x600-450x600.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/chef_540x600.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/chef_540x600-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />

Onboard the Pacific Yellowfin 

Safari

Madagascar Travel Expert (and born-and-raised South African)

<h2>Continue your travels in Africa</h2>
A retreat at Miavana works well as an add-on to either an East Africa or Southern Africa safari experience. Take a look at <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/experts/michele-harvey/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">my trip portfolio</a> for inspiration: I&#8217;d be delighted to speak with you about any of these destinations, too!<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44974 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/poolside-miavana.jpg" alt="Madagascar Miavana Luxury Resort" width="380" height="253" />
Miavana also works wonderfully as a stand-alone destination lodge. My suggestion is a 5 to a 7-night stay.
With its ample activities and serene setting, you can create your own adventure here that&#8217;s at once exhilarating and effortless.

<h2>Madagascar&#8217;s Unparalleled Biodiversity</h2>
From the world’s tiniest chameleon to the Crowned Lemur conservation efforts and the many turtles in between, Miavana’s raison d’etre is clear, making this more than your average beach destination. During my visit, I gained a real appreciation of how special the environment and wildlife here is. 
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44978 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/madagascar-lemur.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />
Of course, Madagascar&#8217;s unofficial mascot, the lemur, is a crucial part of any visit. Nosy Ankao is known for the endangered Crowned Lemur, which you can spot on a stroll through the island&#8217;s forests. For more lemur adventure, they offer treks on the mainland via a helicopter excursion.
I also had a brief swim with dolphins. They were hunting, but we got to be with them for a short while before they charged off. During whale season, whales can be seen breaching in front of the lodge, and you can catch whale sharks at various times throughout the year, too.
<h2>The Activities at Miavana</h2>
Kite-surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling and scuba – the well-rounded activities at Miavana cover water, underwater, land and air.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44983 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/snorkelling-miavana.jpg" alt="Madagascar Miavana Luxury Resort" width="380" height="253" />You can set sail on fabulous boat excursions to other islands in the archipelago and snorkel at different sites, and anglers can cast their reels for some ocean fishing.
No matter what you choose, the lodge&#8217;s guides are passionate and engaging. The calibre of the staff here is truly beyond compare: they would probably go to the ends of the archipelago to please every guest. Plus, the naturalist guides are like walking encyclopedias!

<h2>The Accommodations</h2>
Villas with one, two or three bedrooms come with a lounge area, butler service, a stocked kitchenette and a private, sea-side pool. These guest sanctuaries are spacious, with the smallest coming in at a generous 450 square metres (4,843 square feet).<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44989 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Room-miavana.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="242" />
The decor is reflective of the beachy vibes that permeate the throughout the island: bright and fresh, with crisp whites, pops of blue and ocean views at nearly every turn.
For families and large groups, each villa has an additional bathroom along with a study which can be flipped into a kids room. Guests can navigate the resort and explore the island using the property&#8217;s complimentary bicycles or electric buggies.
<h2>Getting to Madagascar&#8217;s Miavana Luxury Resort</h2>
There are two &#8216;launching&#8217; points from the mainland to Nosy Ankao. I flew from Johannesburg to Nosy Be, but the other option is to head to Diego Suarez from Antananarivo, Madagascar&#8217;s capital.
From Diego Suarez or Nosy Be, the Miavana&#8217;s helicopters whisk you away. The helicopter ride was an unexpected highlight for me; I saw more of Madagascar’s diversity during the 1-hour flight from Nosy Be to Nosy Ankao than I did during my entire 15-day research trip last year!<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44987 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/helicopter-miavana-1.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />
The pilots give brilliant commentary as you swoop past points of interest. You gain a tremendous understanding of the country&#8217;s biodiversity as you fly over so many different landscapes – from sea to tsingy (karst mountain formations) to agriculture to seaweed farms, forest and mangroves.
The helicopter flights give you great insight to the northern region and the complexities of the island’s biodiversity, history and social-economic challenges.

Miavana: Madagascar's Luxury Island Escape

South Africa

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
The multitude of natural habitats within Kruger National Park’s 19,485 square kilometres (7,523 square miles) give way to the various wildlife who call the land home: elephants, white and black rhinos, cheetahs and herds of buffalo, to name a few. 
The star performer, however, is none other than the king of the jungle: lions reign supreme in this corner of South Africa, and spotting one of the ‘Mountain Prides’ tops the list of heart-racing moments at the Lebombo Lodge.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43159 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="532" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/High-Res-bush-stop_800x532-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Twice daily game drives in open Land Rovers are included in your stay. To keep the experiences intimate and safe, a maximum of six guests are allowed per vehicle. Thrill-seekers may choose to embark on a walking safari, and traverse the pan by foot for a closer look at the plant life and to track down smaller game. 
You’ll want to catch these incredible moments on film, but if your heavy-duty camera didn’t make it into your suitcase, the lodge carries specialized kits catered to wildlife photography that are available for rent. 
If you’re visiting with your young ones in tow, the Mini Rangers’ Course is a kids’ club where they can learn the ins and outs of tracking, bush survival techniques and bird-watching, and earn a certificate at the end of their ‘studies.’ Note that child participation on the game drives will be at your guide’s discretion.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43162 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-2-1800x1200_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Like the rest of the Singita collection, conservation and community efforts are vital here. One of these endeavours comes in the form of a culinary school, offered by the Lebombo Lodge to students from the local communities. 
Guests can learn alongside these budding chefs by participating in a hands-on cooking lesson, where you’ll whip up some of the lodge’s specialty dishes.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43160 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-School-of-Cooking-40_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
And as for the cuisine, it too is just as innovative as the property. Headed under chef Liam Tomlin, who also runs a popular Cape Town eatery called Chefs Warehouse, flavourful meals are prepared using fresh ingredients and local produce. 
Cooking techniques like sous-vide and smoking reflect the lodge’s contemporary edge, while meats cooked on a spit and over an open fire assert its African heritage. 
Items like homemade muesli and Norwegian salmon grace the table at breakfast, lunch sees artfully plated tapas and tasting dishes, and dinner is a three-course affair paired with delightful South African wines. 
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43157 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lebombo-4_378x252.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="378" height="252" />Light spills into each of the glass-walled suites, decked out in safari-chic decor: think muted tones, netted beds, unstained wood and sisal carpets. 
A sliding door opens to a private game-viewing deck, seemingly suspended over the river, complete with a daybed and bistro set. 
Other in-room perks include Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine, air conditioning, fireplaces and solar-powered plugs. 
The suite’s luxurious en-suite bathrooms feature deep, window-side bathtubs and separate indoor/outdoor showers.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43158 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singita-Lebombo-Lodge-Suite-1800x1200_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
If your group outnumbers what one unit can offer, there are two suites found lower on the hill that connect to become a villa, married by a private pool. 
The villa comes with a full staff, a kitchen and it’s own boma area for dining al fresco. 
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
If you’re looking to check off more bucket list items on your visit to Africa, wedge the Lebombo Lodge between two other spectacular stays. You can begin your trip with a visit to the <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/stays/singita-ebony-lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Singita Ebony Lodge</a>, the brand’s flagship property in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. 
With its old-world vibe and distinct game watching, it offers a different experience where you can catch sight of the elusive leopard and dine among monkeys.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43166 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533.jpg" alt="Singita Lebombo Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Sundowner-Singita-Kruger-National-Park-1200px-at-72dpi-6_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Another Singita option in the Sabi Sand is their Boulders Lodge. Here, nature is infused into every element—from the stone walls to the tree trunk support beams to the encompassing sprawl of tangled trees and free-flowing rivers. 
After a few nights at the Lebombo Lodge, catch a flight to the Livingstone International Airport for a sojourn at the Royal Chundu to revel in the rush of Victoria Falls. 
This vibrant camp on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia is just 30 km (18 mi.) upstream from the mighty cascades. It offers riverside suites with private balconies and activities include helicopter tours, canoeing, fishing and nature walks.

Spectacular Stays: Singita Lebombo Lodge

Latin America

Chile

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Patagonia inspires movement—this is the epitome of the great outdoors, and there are no limits as to what you can discover. 
The Singular Patagonia makes it a cinch to explore with a wide range of activities: You can embark on a rewarding hike through the Torres del Paine National Park, take a horseback riding lesson at the Puerto Consuelo ranch, kayak along the Señoret Channel, or fly fish for salmon and trout—all while in the company of an English-speaking guide.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43117 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Banner-4_cropped_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
If you find yourself craving some civilization, you can hop on one of the property’s bikes (which are free for rent) and pedal to the nearby town of Puerto Natales, only a 15-minute ride away. Resting on the shores of Seno Última Esperanza (Last Hope Sound), the beaches here are a bird-lovers delight, brimming with swooping condors, cormorants and Chilean skuas. 
While in town, check out the Museo Histórico for artifacts ranging from the Indigenous populations to colonization, pop into one of the galleries along the waterfront, sip a coffee in the main square or observe the daily local life at the Fisherman’s Wharf.  
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43118 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-8_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Come day’s end, relax your worked muscles with a dip in the heated indoor/outdoor pool, best experienced when the sun’s last rays dance across the water, eventually dropping behind the Patagonian fjords. 
For added indulgence, book a spa treatment at the eco-wellness centre, SPA (short for Salut Per Aqua or ‘health through water’), which uses plant and fruit oil extracts for your pampering.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Dining</h3>
All this activity requires refuelling with a nourishing meal. Even the cuisine is evocative of The Singular’s vibe, focusing on substance over excess and using ingredients from the regional terroir. The food is fresh, healthy and always just the right amount, plated like a work of art.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43112 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-2_378x252.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="378" height="252" />When booking, guests can choose from a bed and breakfast plan or a full-board option that includes all three daily meals. 
It begins with breakfast—a sumptuous spread of every imaginable fruit, viennoiseries, made-to-order omelettes, yogurt, cereal, just-squeezed orange juice—you get the idea. 
If you’re out on an excursion during lunch, the hotel will craft a picnic for you to enjoy amid the breathtaking scenery. 
Plan on sticking around for the day? Then head to The Singular Restaurant, where award-winning Executive Chef Hernán Basso prepares Chilean staples—like guanaco (a local type of llama), Patagonian lamb and king crab—with a French twist.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43111 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Singular-Gallery-1_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Before dinner, sink into a perfectly-worn leather couch with an author-inspired cocktail in the sleek bar, with its exposed-brick walls and wooden stairways that maintain the pared-back atmosphere. 
Once you and your appetite are recharged, make your way to the dining room to sink your teeth into yet another exquisite meal or check out the barbecue grill, El Asador, that offers an intimate experience and delicacies like rabbit, beef and more cooked over an open flame.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
There are three categories to choose from: the Singular Twin with two double beds, the Singular King with one king-sized bed and the Singular Suite with a king-sized bed in addition to a couch and sitting area.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43114 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="462" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462-480x277.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Room_800x462-768x444.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Each generously sized room (the smallest coming in at 45 square metres, equal to around 500 square feet) boasts an entire wall’s worth of floor-to-ceiling windows that look out at the fjords while the Last Hope channel wades in between. 
The decor is kept minimal with elegant touches like custom-made, Victorian-style furnishings and black and white photographs so that Mother Nature can remain the real showstopper. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43115 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462.jpg" alt="The Singular Patagonia" width="800" height="462" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462-480x277.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-Singular-Suite_800x462-768x444.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
All beds are outfitted with hypoallergenic pillows and 500 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, and every category has an ensuite marble bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower area. 
Despite being in the depths of the natural world, each guestroom comes with complimentary WiFi (and the common areas do, too).
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">How to get here</h3>
International flights will arrive in Santiago, Chile. During your stay in Santiago, consider booking a room at The Singular Patagonia’s sister property, <a href="https://thesingular.com/en/hotel/santiago">The Singular Santiago</a>. 
From Santiago, it’s a 3.5-hour flight to Punta Arenas, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to the hotel. It may not be the easiest place to get to, but I assure you, it’s worth the journey.

Spectacular Stays: The Singular Patagonia

Zimbabwe

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Hwange National Park offers one of the highest concentrations of animals in Southern Africa; it’s home to no less than 107 mammal species and 450 bird species. 
With such a diverse habitat, the variety of wildlife within your range of vision is immense, and the Somalisa Camp places you in the heart of the action.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42980 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="531" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531-452x300.jpg 452w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa3_800x531-768x510.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Rise and shine early for breakfast on the desk, watching the sun rise while the morning mist lifts from the plain. After fuelling up on slow-cooked oatmeal, fresh fruit and made-to-order eggs, it’s time to set out on the first game drive of the day.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42979 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="532" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/somalisa_460small_800x532-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Game drives are aboard open 4x4s with the camp’s expert guides and trackers. Elephant, sable antelope, zebra, giraffe, lion, leopard, hyena, wildebeest and the rare and endangered roan antelope are but a few of the creatures you’re likely to encounter.
You could choose to shake up your routine with the Somalisa’s other offerings, such as bird watching (Hwange boasts some of the best birding in these parts of Africa, with opportunities to catch rare creatures like the magnificent Martial eagle) or cultural visits to gain further insight into the local communities.  
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42982 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="534" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sbm_5616_800x534-768x513.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
After your morning exploration, retire to the camp for brunch—a heartier meal consisting of warming dishes in the cooler months and light, fresh fare in the summer. 
Afterwards, you can either venture on another afternoon game drive or balance out the adventure with some pool time and an afternoon nap before sundowners on the deck. 
As for dinner, a three-course meal consisting of African and international cuisine and paired with South African wine is served outdoors, allowing the game-watching action to continue while you dine. 
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42976 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-2-1800x1200_378x252.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="378" height="252" />Seven wood-framed, stretch sail canvas tents are scattered throughout a grove Acacia trees, loosely forming a horseshoe around the communal lodge. 
Each suite is finished with hardwood floors and brimming with old-world charms like antique furnishings, Colonial-era artifacts and locally made handicrafts.
Vintage-style bathrooms bask in natural light and feature deep copper tubs, a separate shower area and flushable toilets. 
A glass-wood fireplace and the option to roll down the canvas sides keeps the tent cozy and warm during Hwange’s chilly nights.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42974 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440.jpg" alt="Somalisa Camp" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Somalisa-1800x1200_800x440-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Wood-framed beds draped in plush bedding neighbour a seating area with a sofa and chairs that are dressed in vibrant Kudhinda textiles. 
Large glass walls showcase the cluster of trees and bush outdoors, and slide open to a private deck with an outdoor shower, a hammock and a seating area.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
Before settling in at the Somalisa Camp, why not spend a few nights at the Camp Amalinda, Located in the mysterious Matapo Hills—approximately 400 km ( 250 mi.) southeast of Somalisa—this area is best known for its granite wilderness and native black and white rhinos. 
Stay in one of nine hillside retreats carved out of natural stone with thatched roofs and panoramic views.  
With the Victoria Falls nearby, it seems only logical to follow up your visit to the Somalisa Camp with a stay at the Victoria Falls River Lodge. Seated along the edge of the Zambezi river, this tented luxury lodge is so close to the grand cascade that it even catches a view its spray off in the distance. 
Kick back on your private deck with views over the river, while hippos wallowing in the water keep you entertained.

Spectacular Stays: Somalisa Camp

<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Experience</h3>
Skilled trackers and drivers from the local Shangaan community lead you on game drives to scope out the area’s residents: a list that includes elephants, buffalo, rhinoceros and lions. Leopards are especially known to strut around unperturbed in these corners, and you may even spot one catnapping on the lodge’s deck.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43133 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_bush_dinner_02_VL_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
The Dulini’s open-roof Land Rovers—equipped with binoculars and fleece-lined ponchos—can carry a maximum of six guests at a time and offer the perfect vehicle to navigate the terrain and get up-close to the animals. 
Game drives happen twice daily: once in the early morning and the second later in the afternoon. These later ones stretch into the evening after the sun has set for a look at the nocturnal creatures, like the white-tailed mongoose and spotted hyena.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43128 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="529" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529-454x300.jpg 454w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dulini_vehicle_800x529-768x508.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
An absence of fences between this corner of the Sabi Sand and the Kruger National Park means the wildlife are free to roam at their will. The nearby Sand River is a favourite haunt for hippos and crocodiles that come to bask in its water, while the dense reed beds host multiple bird species (over 300, to be precise). 
Lovers of birding should take advantage of the Dulini’s interpretive safari walks that venture into the bush by foot.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43146 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_boma_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Mealtime comes in many guises, from candlelit dinners to outdoor festivities. A leafy Jackalberry tree canopies the outdoor eating area, where guests dine on Pan-African creations by Dulini’s talented chefs. 
If you’re looking for some alone time with your loved one, you can inquire about booking a private dinner in the wine cellar—well-stocked with the finest South African wines.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43130 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_dining_deck_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Torches and lanterns, a fire pit and linen-draped tables come together beneath a circle of trees to make a boma. Every few nights, guests gather here with members of the community to sing, dance and celebrate during a traditional African cookout beneath the night sky.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Rooms</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43136 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Suite-1800x1200_378x252.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="378" height="252" />All of the spacious suites (though, given their size, are more comparable to cottages) are located just a stone’s throw from the river’s edge. 
Hardwood flooring, a four-post netted bed and Colonial-era furnishings come together beneath an exposed thatched roof, giving way to an effortless blend of rustic and romantic. 
Keep warm on chilly nights with the fireplace, while air-conditioning offers relief during the height of summer.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43137 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533.jpg" alt="dulini lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_21_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Large windows fill the rooms in natural light and keep you in constant connection with the surrounding environment. Admire the views from the four-clawed bathtub of your ensuite bathroom, or while soaking in the heated plunge pool of your private deck. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43138 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/river_lodge_suite_sundowners1_800x533-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
Add to this the option to have a masseuse pay you a visit and in-room dining, and you could find yourself luxuriating in your suite all day long.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Before and After Your Visit</h3>
Get the most out of your journey to South Africa and round-out your travels with other must-see places. Your point of arrival into the country will likely be Cape Town, a stunning city that merges sea to sky landscapes and a buzzing metropolis. 
Hunker down here for a few nights and rest up at More Quarters, a boutique property comprised of apartments and located within walking distance of shops, restaurants and bars. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43148 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1.jpg" alt="Dulini Lodge" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1.jpg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Dulini-Lodge-9-1800x1200_800x533-1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />
En route to the Dulini Lodge, you can make a stop in South Africa’s wine country and stay at Le Quartier Français, a five-star property found in the heart of Franschhoek.
If the wild continues to call following your visit to Dulini, you can carry on to the Thorntree River Lodge in Zambia, an eco-conscious retreat in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, seated just up the river from the remarkable Victoria Falls.

Spectacular Stays: Dulini Lodge

<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.comohotels.com/en/metropolitanlondon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Como Metropolitan</a></h2>
The simple stylings of the Como Metropolitan offer a Scandi-chic option in the heart of Park Lane. Minimalist rooms see clean lines and fresh white walls, with pops of colour for added warmth. Large windows drench the guest rooms in sunlight and give way to views over London’s famous Hyde Park. 
The Como’s Nobu restaurant is a local favourite, serving Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a zen dining room. For a break from the shopping and museum hopping, book an appointment at the Shambhala wellness centre, featuring a tranquil spa and 24-hour gym. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43007 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-como-metropolitan_007_720x460-1-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/ham-yard-hotel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ham Yard</a></h2>
The young-at-heart will be smitten with the whimsy of the Ham Yard. This quirky boutique hotel is bursting with colour and character, spread across its common areas and guest rooms. 
Topping it all off is a delightful rooftop terrace with wicker furnishings, hanging lanterns and greenery galore. Add to the playful atmosphere an onsite bowling alley and kid-friendly menus, and you have a hotel that’s perfect for the whole family. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42631 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ham-yard_005_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.stjameshotelandclub.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. James Hotel Mayfair</a></h2>
This crimson-coloured Victorian mansion exudes old-world English charm with contemporary touches. Common areas see sparkling Murano chandeliers and walls lined with wood panelling and wallpaper, while guest rooms are fresh in pastel shades, taupes and greys.
Michelin-starred chef William Drabble is at the helm of the hotel’s two celebrated restaurants. You can tuck into French fare at one of only nine tables at the renowned Seven Park Place, or savour a seasonal British meal in the cozy William’s Bar &amp; Bistro. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42633 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/St.-James_001_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/browns-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown’s Hotel</a></h2>
The Brown’s Hotel has welcomed guests through its doors since 1837. Effortlessly elegant, this five-star hotel delivers a proper British experience. Guest rooms appointed by world-famous interior designer, Olga Polizzi, see an eclectic—yet tasteful—mix of patterns and hues. The Brown’s includes a spa and three dining options: Italian at the Beck at Brown’s restaurant; caviar and cocktails at Donovan’s Bar; and an award-winning afternoon tea in The English Tea Room. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43008 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Brown_002_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.editionhotels.com/london/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The London Edition</a></h2>
Find The London Edition in the city’s hip West End Fitzrovia neighbourhood. The feel is akin to a getaway in a luxury cabin, thanks to oak floors, wood-lined walls, soft lighting and furry throw blankets. Be sure to check out the Edition’s Berners Tavern, wherein an eclectic room covered in artwork, you can dine on innovative British cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton. 
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-42638 size-full aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/london-edition_004_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Lanesborough</a></h2>
Occupying a Neoclassical mansion in a corner of Hyde Park, inside The Lanesborough is just as regal as its exterior would suggest. Gold-leaf embellishments and ornate chandeliers are commonplace here, as are oil paintings and fresh flower arrangements. 
Guest rooms are awash in soft and sweet hues of pink, green and blue, in addition to floral fabrics and wool carpets. For added theatrics, each room also comes with a personal butler available on demand. The Lanesborough is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Céleste and the exclusive Lanesborough Club &amp; Spa. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42639 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lanesborough_003_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/number-sixteen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Number Sixteen</a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42640 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460-470x300.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="470" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/number-sixteen_002_720x460.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px" />Number Sixteen enjoys a quiet location, set within a crisply white Victorian townhouse. A private English garden, darling outdoor terrace and lilypad-covered pond—combined with subtle glamour—make this markedly 5-star accommodation manage to feel like home. 
Put your days to rest after exploring nearby attractions—like the Victoria &amp; Albert Museum and Harrod’s—in vibrant guest rooms, with brilliant colours and bold patterns. Rooms overlook the leafy courtyard or face the white-stucco terraces of Sumner Place. 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thehari.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Hari Hotel</a></h2>
Find this sleek boutique hotel in Belgravia: the quintessentially British neighbourhood lined with white townhouses and lovely stone churches. Joining the area’s refined ambiance is the stylish decor of The Hari, where rooms draped in velvet fabrics are complemented by sparkling glass fixtures and chrome finishes. 
Mornings begin with a sumptuous spread that includes omelettes and fresh-pressed juices at its il Pampero restaurant. Come dinnertime, feast on southern Italian cuisine and homemade pasta in the restaurant&#8217;s glitzy vintage-inspired setting. You can burn off the extra carbs at the 24-hour fitness centre or continue to indulge with an in-room spa treatment. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42642 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460.jpg" alt="top luxury hotels in london" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hari-hotel_001_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park/luxury-hotel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park</a></h2>
Situated between the famed Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, one glance out your room&#8217;s window and you&#8217;ll know you&#8217;re at one of the most exclusive, fashionable and convenient addresses in London. Like its palatial location, all rooms are one-of-a-kind and distinguished by the hotel&#8217;s art collection, antiques, and luxurious fabrics.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49214" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-480x300.png" alt="mandarin oriental" width="720" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mandarin.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" />
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Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch with Dane Tredway,</a> our Experience Designer for the United Kingdom, to see how he can reserve you a spot.

The Top 11 Luxury Hotels in London

<h2>The Food</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41400 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="338" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/food-450-small-plate-399x300.jpg 399w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />The morning and afternoon meals are reminiscent of home-cooked fare; unfussy, yet delicious and satisfying. Each day begins with à la carte breakfast options such as granola and fresh fruit and eggs benedict, along with a selection of smoothies and fresh-pressed juices. 
While there is an indoor dining room for iffy weather, meals are best enjoyed on the large outdoor deck that faces the river. (Though keep an eye out for cheeky monkeys that want to steal your bagel—I speak from experience!) You could also order room service and enjoy your meal seated at the marble and iron table of your private deck. 
Lunch and dinner are dishes typical of the area: lamb is the meat of choice, and you’ll likely find in the form of a flavourful curry—a nod to South Africa’s Indian population. Plating is contemporary and elegant. Meals are paired with a selection of vintage wines, which are included in your stay. The dining staff shared with me that serving farm-to-table fare is paramount for them, and specified that they use only local farmers to supply their meats and produce, translating to you always getting a meal that is fresh and in season.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41401 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="489" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/table-732-449x300.jpg 449w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
About every third night, the lodge hosts a traditional boma dinner. During this camp-style cookout, guests and staff gather around a fire pit beneath the night sky and feast on a spread of barbecued meats and veggies, while members of the Shangaan community serenade with song and dance. 
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-41402" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="641" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Boma-table-night-960-899x600.jpg 899w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2>The Rooms</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41408 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singita-small-room-450.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" />There are a total of twelve (totally dreamy) stand-alone suites built in a safari-tent style, elevated with modern flourishes like glass walls and an ensuite bathroom with a four-claw bathtub and separate shower area. A large four-post bed anchors the room, while a spattering of vintage lacquered furnishings from the family&#8217;s private collection, glamorous animal prints, artwork from the local tribes and sepia-toned photographs fill the surrounding space. 
My favourite part of my suite was the private game-viewing deck that watched over the river, complete with a heated plunge pool. From here I’d look on in wonder as—each day at the same time—a giant herd of elephants would cruise past, pausing along their route for the babies to frolic in the water or to snack on some trees. 
Individual suites are best-suited for couples and solo travellers. There are two family suites, which offer an en-suite master bedroom and en-suite twin bedroom, plus a dining area, a lounge area, and a private deck with a plunge pool. Larger groups can opt for the villa, which is comprised of two family suites in addition to a lounge, a swimming pool, a personal guide and vehicle, a chef, wait staff and a private entrance. For families with teenage children, your best option is to book the Lewis suites, which are located next to each other and close to the main lodge.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41409 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Singitaroom-960-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2>How to Get Here</h2>
A multi-season destination, you can come home to the Singita Ebony Lodge year-round. There are daily direct flights to and from the Singita Private Game Reserve from Johannesburg, South Africa, and scheduled commercial flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit, which is about an hour from the lodge. There’s also a private airstrip on the lodge grounds so that private planes can be flown in.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41411 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/singita-sunset-960-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

A South African Original: Singita Ebony Lodge

The Experience
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41429 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="375" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/brwn-bear-250-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />To separate the property from the experience would be a false binary, for the very ideals of the property are the ideals that motivate the activities: that of preservation, conservation and education.
The most pressing question each day should be: how best shall I split my time between sea and land? That is the crux of the experience: a gentle divvying up of your time between the two worlds, which of course inform each other.
The water-based realm is the province of fly-fishing, heli-fishing, kayaking, SUPing, whale-watching, crabbing, boating, or kayaking—which often includes crossing paths with orcas or sea lions.
As you head inland, it means such coveted activities such as scenic helicopter rides, bear viewing (black bears are around all season, while grizzlies are only present in the fall) and hiking (look up to see bald eagles and other impressive bird varieties). The Murrays have also partnered with First Nations communities to highlight connect lodge visitors with authentic cultural experiences.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41430 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="423" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/coast-indigenous-400-213x300.jpg 213w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Or, simply stay at the lodge and relax in nature, with an added dose of pampering. I’m thinking specifically of the Spa’s new full-day program called “Wild Within Wellness,” five glorious hours of holistic, nature-based spa immersion.
Sometimes though, wellness is the simple care and pleasure you make for yourself. One of my standout moments here was a rather simple one: on the day I decided to hike the old-growth forest, the kitchen sent me along with a to-go lunch. It was, quite frankly, exquisite.
Everything was delightfully fresh and prepared that very morning—the goodies were delicious, the charcuterie board succulent; it was the realization of a perfect sojourn in the woods complimented with a nourishing and elaborate meal in a truly unexpected spot.
That seems to be a re-occurring theme in the tale of Nimmo Bay Resort: finding yourself at the heart of pristine wilderness with a host of thoughtfully-conceived amenities—working in concert with the natural—to bring your stay to new heights.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-41432 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/helicopter-732-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Serenity on the Pacific: B.C.'s Nimmo Bay Resort

Wellness

United States

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40129 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/bathhouse-outside-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="232" />If the kids (or grandkids) are joining you, there’s plenty available to keep young ones amused, and the safe and tranquil environment allows them to run free. Excursions can be tailored to suit all age levels and preferences and while on the grounds, lawn games during the summer and board games in winter ensure ongoing entertainment.
No matter how you decide to spend your day, it wouldn’t be complete with a dip in the resort&#8217;s eponymous hot springs. All guests are welcome to sink into the indoor and outdoor pools of the restored bathhouse, soak beneath the stars in the mountains at the springs’ source or plunge into the river at Christoph&#8217;s Spring.
<h3>Accommodation Styles</h3>
The Dunton Store cabin boasts a pool in its own backyard. Well-suited for families, this lodge can sleep up to four people and sees fun Western film memorabilia line its walls. Larger and multigenerational families may prefer the Tipping House, with two floors, two bathrooms and three bedrooms. For couples, my top choice is the Well House cabin. This country-chic room features a king-size bed, a private indoor hot spring and cold plunge tub, a wood fireplace, and views of the mountain range for romance to boot.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40128 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="639" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-768x511.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Major-Ross-Cabin-interior-960px-901x600.jpg 901w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
It’s back to the Saloon for dinner for where an antique communal table, a nod to Dunton’s outlaw past, awaits for a feast on Chef’s daily seasonal menu paired with wine from Sutcliffe or a selection of labels from around the world. For a more personalized experience for special occasions, a private dining area is also available.
<h3>Getting there</h3>
Nearby Cortez and Durango airports receive flights from Denver and Phoenix. Private charters can arrive in Telluride Airport, located an hour’s drive from the resort.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40130 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/telluride-960px-1-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

An Escape in the Mountains: Colorado's Dunton Hot Springs Resort

<h3><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38051 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/The-Painswick-Nook-350px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="262" /><a href="http://www.thepainswick.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Painswick</a></h3>
Originally built in the late 18thC at the height of the wool trade, it became the village’s vicarage at the start of the 1900s, adding some Victorian refinement to its Palladian architecture. It is located in the heart of the village of Painswick, famous for its wool heritage and amongst other treasures, St. Mary’s Church from the 1300s, and its ninety-nine famous yew trees, some dating back 300 years.
The hotel’s contemporary restaurant is steered by chef Michael Bedford. For further pampering, try their Calcot Spa treatment rooms or a drink at sunset on the terrace overlooking dulcet hills.
<h3><a href="https://thewildrabbit.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Wild Rabbit Inn</a></h3>
A modern British inn that’s set on the Daylesford estate, one of the UK’s most sustainable organic farms, this stone-walled inn features airy, bright and modern lodgings, whether individual rooms or small cottages set upon the estate (which also houses a spa and yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes).
Set in a quiet area that’s perfect for a cozy hideaway, you can also enjoy a pint or grab a meal of refined, yet hearty British pub fare, which showcases the fresh seasonal produce from the farm.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38053 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-480x300.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wild-Rabbit-FirePlace-corrected-960px-comrpessed-768x480.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
With wild coastlines, beautiful coves, golden beaches, and fresh seafood, Devon and Cornwall are the perfect places to experience coastal England. Located on a peninsula in the southwest, this is where the Brits go to holiday; its chic resorts and picture-perfect postcard villages reminiscent of the Hamptons and Nantucket.
Immerse yourself in all the region has to offer as you traverse country roads and seaside paths, dining on delicious lunches and visiting a lost garden, a famous gallery, and historic spots along the way.
<h3><a href="https://tresanton.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Tresanton</a></h3>
Owned by Olga Polizzi, the younger sister of Sir Rocco Forte, Tresanton is a jewel in South Cornwall’s crown. Located in one of the most charming fishing villages in Cornwall, St Mawes, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views of the sea and Sir Anthony’s Lighthouse.
Their fabulous onsite restaurant with a large terrace overlooking the ocean participates in the Slow Food movement, offering regional produce and traditional foods, often grown organically or foraged.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38074 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tresanton-Beach-Club-960px-compressed-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.gidleigh.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gidleigh Park, Dartmoor</a></h3>
Gidleigh Park is the premier hotel in Devon, nestled right in the heart of Dartmoor. With a 2-starred Michelin restaurant on site, the culinary experience is unrivalled and complemented by beautifully appointed rooms. The property is surrounded by over a hundred acres of stunning grounds and boasts facilities such as croquet grounds, tennis courts, and a putting course.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42820 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Gidleigh-Park-960x640-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
&nbsp;

The Top 7 Countryside Hotels in England

<h4><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37786 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Game-Drive-Sun-350px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="262" />The Experience </h4>
A typical morning at Jamala Madikwe usually begins at the crack of dawn, but you may hear the animals long before then. Rodney mentions that just the other night, guests heard the roar of lions at 3 a.m. This being the middle of a game reserve, you may encounter the myriad calls of zebras, monkeys, or birds, depending on the day and the time of year. With no other sounds of motors or ‘city sounds’ around you, urban folk may find it serene and quiet, although, you will soon find your ear attuned to the sounds of nature.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37805 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/wild-dogs-350.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />Hop into a 4&#215;4 for a sunrise game drive with the lodge’s exceptional rangers and guides. There’s nothing quite like the heightened excitement and anticipation as you head out into the bush: activating all your senses, the smells, sounds, and sights are like no other.
What will you see? It really depends on the day. It’s a bit of a reverse hunt, as rangers review reports from the previous day’s sightings and will use their knowledge of the bush, tracking prints and going on the prowl, as it were: but even if the animals elude you, you will still have a fantastic time being out, roaming the reserve and taking in the landscape and terrain. And, as I like to say, you are not in a zoo; this is untamed nature, and these are wild animals, so absolutely anything can happen. From the largest animals to even the small and ‘insignificant’ (let’s say, a dung beetle sighting, or tracking glow-in-the-dark scorpions at night), everything will inspire a sense of awe in you, especially if you are travelling with kids or teenagers.
Even when you return to the lodge, you never lose that connection to the land and to the animals, since the property is situated right in front of a major waterhole. “The animals will come up right to the edge of the lodge. There are no barriers. It’s an amazing feeling to see our guests’ reactions, especially when they realize how close they get to the animals and the range of emotions they go through. It’s such a rush [for them] when an animal approaches.”
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37793 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Wide-Angle-Pool-w-Elephants-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="665" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Wide-Angle-Pool-w-Elephants-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Wide-Angle-Pool-w-Elephants-960px-compressed-433x300.jpg 433w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Wide-Angle-Pool-w-Elephants-960px-compressed-768x532.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Wide-Angle-Pool-w-Elephants-960px-compressed-866x600.jpg 866w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
And so, at any given moment, whether you’re taking in a leisurely ‘sofa safari’ at the deck, drink in hand; reading a book in the lounge, working out at the gym, or enjoying a ‘pool safari’ while doing laps in the new pool, keep your eyes peeled: anything can happen as you look out at the nature and wildlife that surrounds (and approaches!) you. Don’t miss sundowners on the deck (or perhaps a private wine tasting at sunset in the middle of the bush?) with an opportunity to soak in the vivid colours of the sunset, as a cloak of brilliant stars appear once nighttime approaches.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37798 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sofa-Elephant-Safari-732px-cmopressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sofa-Elephant-Safari-732px-cmopressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sofa-Elephant-Safari-732px-cmopressed-480x295.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37783 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/yellow-weaver-bird-stock-350px-cmpressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" />As we speak on the phone, I hear a brilliant profusion of birdsong burst through the line, and Rodney casually mentions that about forty or fifty weaver birds—three species in all—are beginning to build their nests right alongside the deck. And that’s precisely the charm of Jamala Madikwe: you’re truly in the middle of it all. (That could mean seeing sixteen giraffes and a herd of sixty playful elephants, as I saw on a recent visit).
<h4>After Your Visit</h4>
Your visit to Jamala Madikwe is easily combinable with other spots on the continent for the ultimate Africa trip. With its proximity to the closest airport in Johannesburg, travellers will be able to make flight connections to continue their journey home or further afield, such as to nearby Botswana and the Okavango Delta, or even Sabi Sands.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37812 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Lodge-Aerial-w-Elephants-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="539" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Lodge-Aerial-w-Elephants-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Lodge-Aerial-w-Elephants-960px-compressed-480x270.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Jamala-Madikwe-Lodge-Aerial-w-Elephants-960px-compressed-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
&nbsp;

The Epitome of South African Luxury: Jamala Madikwe

Essentials &amp; Advice

Peru

<h3><a href="https://titilaka.pe/en/lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Titilaka Lodge, Puno</a></h3>
Walk into each room and pull the curtains aside: voilà—you’ve got a live nature documentary all to yourself, looking out with undisturbed views of Lake Titicaca. The hotel itself, a Relais &amp; Chateaux property, is very well-styled, with a great menu including local produce and even trout caught right in the lake. Sit out on the hotel patio and watch the sunset over Titicaca. With a pisco sour in hand, you can’t go wrong; the colours are stunning. High up at this elevation, the stars are also super bright and in abundance, so don’t forget to look up for a star-gaze session before you call it a night.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37687 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg" alt="titilaka lodge" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.explora.com/hotels-and-travesias/sacred-valley-peru/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Explora Lodge Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
Gorgeous views over the cornfields and the mountain vistas of the Sacred Valley, the property has its very own farmlands and grows crops nearby for the absolute freshest meals. Four-hundred-year-old Inca terraces were discovered on-site, and you are surrounded by them here. Located in one of the most remote haciendas in the Valley, the excellent hotel spa is located in a 17th c. colonial mansion that once belonged to a Peruvian independence hero. The lodge has a roaring fire to cozy up to with an alpaca blanket, and there&#8217;s also a pool, should you wish to have a dip.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38168 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg" alt="Peru" width="960" height="387" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-480x194.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-768x310.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.hotelsolyluna.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sol y Luna, Urubamba, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
A gorgeous little place, the Sol y Luna has just upgraded their grounds to include a bigger pool. With all-private casitas (there are no rooms here), it feels like your own hideaway in the Sacred Valley. The location is excellent as well, as you can easily make your way to and from activities all throughout the valley. There’s also a school on-site for local children that guests can support with donations during their stay towards this educational endeavour for the local community.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37688 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="Sol y Luna" width="960" height="641" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-899x600.jpg 899w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cuztl-tambo-del-inka-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-valle-sagrado/?scid=cba116a5-7a93-4271-8658-c1cef149bc63&amp;ppc=ppc&amp;pId=ustbppc&amp;nst=paid&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwhaaKBhBcEiwA8acsHLWH9x26WuY0Fr7I9KDfn8-0JUM_p6ObsP8m2mQFJNfwhz2ehGIxpBoCTzAQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
With Inca-inspired architecture, get into the Andean spirit in the Sacred Valley. I like this property for families or groups; the hotel’s many room styles and sizes mean you can find a configuration that works for you. With a dramatic stone fireplace in the lobby and large panoramic windows, you can gaze at the mountaintops on the horizon. The biggest spa in the Sacred Valley is located here, along with a much-coveted pool, should you want to take a dip.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37689 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="400" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed-480x262.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3></h3>
<h3><a href="https://naturavive.com/web/skylodge-adventure-suites/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bonus: Skylodge, Sacred Valley</a></h3>
This one-of-a-kind lodge is for the adventurous type only: perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Sacred Valley, all guests must climb up a 400-metre via ferrata to access it, and zipline down on their way back! Not for the faint of heart or any sleepwalkers, each small capsule suite gives you a 300-degree view of the valley. The luxury here is being totally disconnected. A stay you’ll never forget!
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37708 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="538" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed-408x300.jpg 408w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/south-america/peru/lima/belmond-miraflores-park/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miraflores Park, Lima</a></h3>
A true urban sanctuary set in Lima&#8217;s bustling metropolis, Miraflores Park is only steps away from the city&#8217;s hottest restaurants, galleries and a breezy six-mile boardwalk. Although set in Peru&#8217;s cosmopolitan capital, the hotel itself is surrounded by historical hotspots, blooming gardens and nestled right next to the Pacific, so you truly get the best of both worlds. The perfect mix of glamour and tranquillity for an unforgettable stay.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49895 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png" alt="Miraflores Park Peru" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself?<a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Get in touch with Veronika Macas</a> to see how she can craft your perfect trip to Peru.

Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Peru

<h2>Andalucia</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.hotel-alfonsoxiii-seville.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville</a></h3>
Constructed by command of King Alfonso XIII of Spain in 1928, Hotel Alfonso XIII remains the place to stay for royalty, heads of state and those keen to share in its aura of history and glamour. Today its distinctive Mudéjar-style architecture of sweeping arches, decorative brickwork, wrought-iron, ornamental towers and ceramic finials continues to charm guests and locals alike.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37516 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="449" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/AlfonsoXIII-Andalucia-732px-compressed-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.fincacortesin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Finca Cortesin, Marbella</a></h3>
A stunner of a resort, this whitewashed hotel sits upon 215 hectares of land, showcasing aspects of Castilian and Moorish architecture. On the sprawling grounds, jump into three pools, make the most of the 2,200 square-foot spa (including a unique &#8216;snow cave&#8217; feature), head to the beach club just a short walk away, or partake in a bit of sport with tennis courts, a golf academy or one of Spain&#8217;s best golf courses.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37563 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="439" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Finca-Cortesin-732px-compressed-480x288.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.hotellafuente.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fuente de la Higuera, Ronda</a></h3>
In a renovated rural olive mill, with beautiful Ronda within sight, where traditional Spanish architecture meets post-modern design and eclectic furnishing. A ten-minute drive from cosmopolitan Ronda but with all the country house comforts to tempt you to just siesta by the pool or on the lawn.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37519 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="423" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Fuente-Higuera-Andalucia-732px-compressed-480x277.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.palaciodesantapaula.com/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AC Palacio de Santa Paula, Granada</a></h3>
The Santa Paula is ranked among Granada’s top hotels, providing topnotch service and amenities within the walls of a renovated convent—a perfect mix of modernity and history. Its 75 rooms are spacious and comfortable, while facilities include a fitness centre and sauna for exercise and relaxation. The hotel is ideally situated in the heart of the city, allowing easy foot access to the Alhambra and other areas of interest.
<h2>Camino de Santiago</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-santiago-de-compostela" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37549 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="344" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed.jpg 350w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Parador-De-Santiago-Camino-732px-compressed-305x300.jpg 305w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Parador Dos Reis, Santiago de Compostela</a></h3>
Situated at the centre of the universe for millions of pilgrims, this spectacular hotel, initially built in the 15thC as a royal hospice, is right next door to the cathedral-shrine of St. James, and sits right on the main plaza of Santiago de Compostela. Dripping with gargoyles and four stunning courtyards in the Gothic/Renaissance style, you’ll also find religious art, rich tapestries and gorgeous sitting rooms and quiet corridors to wander within. 
<h2>Catalonia</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.masfalgarona.com/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mas Falgarona, Avinyonet de Puigventós</a></h3>
This quiet and serene hotel is located just outside of charming Figueres. Built in the 15thC, it is now a stylish, contemporary hotel with all modern amenities, yet it still retains its country charm thanks to the surrounding farmland. Mas Falgarona has been a labour of love for centuries with walls dating from the 15th, 17th and 21st century, the latter which transformed it to the hotel it is today. It is owned currently by a local family from Dali’s hometown of Figueres.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37521 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-Falgarona-Catalonia-732px-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.andilanahotels.com/en/hotels/hotel-malcontenta" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Malcontenta, Palamos</a></h3>
Translated to ‘The Unsatisfied One,’ this beautiful property was named after the mother of the owner whose perfectionism was a relentless force during the creation of the hotel. Its spacious environment extends outdoors to a great garden and pool, complementing a classic Mediterranean décor. The sea is a mere 15-minute walk away ending up at one of the most tranquil beaches along the Costa Brava.
<h3><a href="https://www.hotelmastorrent.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mas de Torrent, Baix Empordà</a></h3>
A former 18thC Catalan farmhouse, this Relaix &amp; Chateaux property is set amongst the medieval villages of the Lower Emporda, as well as the wine-growing region of the area. An outdoor pool, spa, tennis court, lush gardens and gorgeous farmland surroundings invite you to while away the time. The beaches of the Costa Brava and several golf courses are just a short drive away.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37535 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="476" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mas-de-Torrent-Catalonia-Costa-Brava-732px-compressed-461x300.jpg 461w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h2>Mallorca</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.belmond.com/la-residencia-mallorca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca</a></h3>
La Residencia, a 17thC manor house turned divine hotel, has everybody talking, including the folks at Condé Nast Traveler. Rumour has it the King of Spain has been known to drop in, as well as British royalty and several pop stars. Do they come for the spa treatments, the secluded gardens, the restaurant renowned as one of the best in all of Spain or to hear the 1887 Steinway piano? We suspect all of the above.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37158 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="642" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-768x514.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-897x600.jpg 897w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.fontsantahotel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Font Santa, Mallorca</a></h3>
This minimal, modern hotel highlights the tranquility and beauty of Mallorca&#8217;s natural elements: sea and sky. The biggest draw here is its on-site thermal spa, the only place in the Balearic Islands with natural hot springs, first discovered by the Romans. Soak in peace in the therapeutic waters, take to nearby beaches, or swim in the outdoor pool for the ultimate hydrotherapy circuit.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37565 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="356" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Font-Santa-Mallorca-732px-compressed-480x233.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.hotelcort.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Cort, Palma de Mallorca</a></h3>
Located in the city’s famed square, Placa de Cort, and heart of Palma de Mallorca, Hotel Cort offers guests 14 suites and 2 guest rooms, each designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violan. Once a 19thC bank, the hotel has been redesigned with Moorish tiled floors, maritime-chic designs, island-inspired details and features a stunning rooftop swimming pool and bar.
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37154 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/hotel-cort-living-room-plaza-suite-blue-960px-compressed-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></h3>
<h2>Rioja</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.granhotellaperla.com/en/hotel.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gran Hotel La Perla, Pamplona</a></h3>
Family-run for over 130 years, this 4-star property is set in the pedestrian heart of Pamplona. Its exceedingly warm Spanish welcome and large, comfortable rooms make for a relaxing stay, while the adventuresome are steps away from the cider and tapas bars that make this city lively year-round.
<h3><a href="http://www.ledomaine.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Domaine, Valladolid</a></h3>
There&#8217;s room to roam at Le Domaine, a former 12thC abbey, which sits pretty amongst a whopping 1,730 acres of land (including 500 acres of vineyards and an on-site winery). From its magnificent vaulted ceilings, sandstone exterior and reverent atmosphere, this luxe retreat also features a 10,000-square-foot spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37547 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="458" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Le-Domaine-Valladolid-732px-compressed-480x300.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37525 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Rioja-Hotel-Viura-Alava-350px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="224" /><a href="http://www.hotelviura.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Viura, Alava</a></h3>
Nestled in the magical Rioja wine region, the Hotel Viura offers avant-garde architecture and impressive luxury, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the 33 guest rooms, a superb restaurant that doubles as an art installation and the most modern of technological amenities throughout. It also rests in the shadow of the magnificent San Andres Church.
<h3><a href="http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?language=en_US&amp;propertyID=1539" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marques de Riscal, Elciego</a></h3>
Designed by Frank Gehry—responsible for the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum—the Marques de Riscal Hotel is a masterpiece of modernity. Inside, you’ll find 43 spacious, minimal rooms fitted with full amenities, marble baths, and high-speed Internet access. A Vinothérapie spa and amazing, unforgettable gastronomy round out this top-shelf property.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37526 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Marques-de-Riscal-Elciego-732px-Rioja-compressed-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

The 16 Best Luxury Hotels in Spain

<h4>Belmond La Residencia: Art and Beauty</h4>
Live in a sun-drenched artist’s dream at this exceptional hotel set amongst private olive groves. <a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/europe/mallorca/deia/belmond-la-residencia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Belmond La Residencia</a> was formerly a set of manor houses built with local stone, the hotel dates to the 16th and 17th centuries. Terracotta tiles, whitewashed walls, and exposed wooden ceiling beams are complemented by local art and Mallorcan antiques, lending an earthy, grounded vibe to it all. Set amongst the hills and mountains, you’ll fall in love with its stunning surroundings. If this could be home, why ever leave?
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37158 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="642" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-768x514.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/La-Residencia-EXT-SCE-08-960px-compressed-897x600.jpg 897w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Cap Rocat: Glamour Abounds</h4>
Mallorcan history reigns in many of our favourite properties: the heritage site where<a href="http://www.caprocat.com/en/index/another-world-luxury-hotel-mallorca.html" target="_blank"> Cap Rocat </a>stands today was once a (decidedly unglamorous) military fort. What a difference a few centuries make: this grand hotel sits in a prime position cliffside, complete with an Instagram-worthy infinity pool overlooking the sea. It’s shamelessly luxurious; depending on the suite you opt for, you can even enjoy your own private cliffside pool overlooking all that endless blue.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37160 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="633" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-455x300.jpg 455w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-768x506.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Cap-Rocat-Cliffside-960px-compressed-910x600.jpg 910w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Son Jaumell: Resplendent &amp; Rustic</h4>
Feel like royalty when you retreat to <a href="http://www.hotelsonjaumell.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Son Jaumell</a>, a rural 17thC estate, overlooking the medieval castle of Capdepera. A tranquil and timeless quality permeates the air here; gold-and-green rolling hills and forested areas give you a panoramic view of the land as you unwind poolside. The cuisine here is equally esteemed: Mallorcan-born chef Andreu Genestra (a Mugaritz and el Bulli alum), is the mind behind the eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant on site, as well as Senzill, a casual bistro also located on the hotel grounds.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37161 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="515" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed-480x258.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Son-Jaumell-Patio-2-960px-compressed-768x412.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

Asia-Pacific

Vietnam

<h4>Metropole Hanoi: Colonial Flair</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36831 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-room-350px-cmopressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="262" />With an unmistakable neoclassical vibe, this old-world hotel, built in 1901 and designed by the French, graces Vietnam’s capital city with colonial elegance. From its twinkling lanterns, original wrought iron exterior and green wooden shutters to the crisp interiors, rich in mahogany and teak contrasted against crisp white linens and rich furnishings, there’s no question that your stay will be impeccable. (Ambassadors and foreign dignitaries, actors, authors, and royals are among those who have stayed here).
Located in the French Quarter of Hanoi, steps from the Opera House and from the banks of the Red River, you’re free to explore the best of the city from this ideal home base. A curious side note: the Metropole recently rediscovered and re-opened its subterranean air raid shelter, its tightly packed tunnels (Joan Baez spent time here during the Christmas air raids of 1972) are now open for tours, to hotel guests only.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36825 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="696" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-414x300.png 414w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-768x557.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Metropole-Hanoi-Big-960px-compressed-828x600.png 828w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>Emeralda Ninh Binh: A Hidden Gem</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36846 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Emeralda-Pavilion-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="234" />Truly one of Vietnam’s hidden jewels, the jaw-dropping rural beauty of Ninh Binh is amongst the finest in Southeast Asia.
It’s the scenery that you’re here for: set amidst the soaring green limestone mountains, you’ll find temples and pagodas, amidst a wild profusion of nature: underground cave systems, emerald rivers snaking through valleys, steep stone steps winding through mountain paths, and temples carved out of mountainsides. (Its cinematic wonders aren’t lost on Hollywood: the region served as a backdrop for the recent Kong: Skull Island movie). The richness of this area with its unexpected beauty and drama makes the hotel an ideal upscale hideaway with a casual and family-friendly feel.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36847 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/trang-an-2767455_1920-ninhbinh-960px-compressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h4>We Also Love: Pilgrimage Village</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36828 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Pilgrimage-Village3-Pool-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="235" />A resort located just outside of the city of Hue, this family-run resort is one of our favourites for its welcoming atmosphere and charming staff, even if it isn’t the fanciest. Just a short drive away from town, this welcoming and family-friendly resort features a variety of lodging styles, from multi-bedroom villas to individual rooms.
Relax at the mirrored pool amidst thatched umbrellas, or head into the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hue, the old imperial capital, resplendent with its ‘forbidden city’ of old, and rich in royal traditions (from some of Vietnam’s most delicious regional foods, to the invention of the Vietnamese national dress for women, the ao dai).
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36851 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="436" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed-480x218.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/vietnam-1235938_1920-HUE-960px-compressed-768x349.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

Upon arriving at the hotel, you&#8217;ll find that no two suites at the Vina Vik are the same, so it’s a delightful surprise to see which room awaits you.
The Viks are serious art collectors and their aesthetic extends into the hand-picked room decor, complete with unique pieces and artist collaborations. From an Hermès-themed suite to another celebrating the vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro, you and your fellow travellers will delight in the differences.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36181 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed.png" alt="Vina Vik" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Chile-Suite-0492-732px-compressed-450x300.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-36185 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed-200x300.png" alt="Vina Vik" width="200" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed-200x300.png 200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pool-0302-250px-compressed.png 250w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" />Similarly well-appointed, the kitchens prepare locally sourced products from nearby farms, under the watch of executive chef Rodrigo Acuña Bravo, a Santiago native.
When it comes to unwinding after a long day of biking, the on-site Wine Spa uses byproducts like grapeseed oil, grape skins, and, of course, wine to help relax and rejuvenate.
Combine the spectacular setting of the valley and mountains with an outdoor infinity pool, Zen garden, sauna and relaxation lounge, and you have a recipe for calm.
It’s no wonder why this is the last stop on our trip.
Feeling inspired to experience the Viña Vik for yourself? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch</a> with Steph Gulledge to see how she can craft your next trip to Chile.

The Viña Vik: Finding Heaven in Chilean Wine Country

France

Burgundy

Named a Trusted Travel Advisor for France by Travel + Leisure Magazine

Should you have a chance to ride along on our Burgundy Biking trip, you’ll arrive via a driveway tracing a path along a tranquil lake, dotted with large-scale bronze sculptures by the British artist Paul Day (who lives down the road and is known to pop in for a chat or two). You may even be greeted by Clive, equally at home in his suit, or waving at you from atop a tractor, clad in overalls as he mows the lawn&#8230;or perhaps you’ll be greeted at reception by any one of his three children, who are known to occasionally lend a hand over the summer.

“We just love what we do; it’s a way of life. I’m a hotelier and restaurateur by trade. There’s the fun of the day-to-day hotel business; working in the kitchen, getting to know our guests, and just making sure people enjoy their stay,&#8221; he says. &#8220;It’s more than a hotel to me, you know. I could have made it into a box-standard, boring, run-of-the-mill place, but I am trying to bring a bit of ‘theatre’ here as well.&#8221;
We couldn’t agree more that life needs a little bit of excitement and imagination. (We like to think you can get it on a B&amp;R trip). And what of the day’s excitement, centred around that marriage proposal? She said ‘yes’!
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-35574 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/clive-tanith-lake-732c-1.png" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/clive-tanith-lake-732c-1.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/clive-tanith-lake-732c-1-450x300.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Abbaye de la Bussière: English Hospitality in the Heart of France

Provence

The conversion of the 17thC manor house into Hotel de Tourrel saw the building’s twenty-four original rooms transformed into seven spacious suites. Many of the building’s original elements were meticulously preserved to help maintain the elegance and personality of the palace. Most notably, during the renovations, they preserved the stucco they discovered under many layers of paint (it took Stängle and her team of professionals 13 weeks to uncover it!).
In Suite Numéro Un, they’ve preserved the French ceiling which was part of the original 17thC house. Discovered during the renovations, they couldn’t bear the idea of covering or removing it. Another hotel suite was converted from a beautiful salon, which was also the place where Charles Gounod’s opera Mireille was first performed in 1864.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-34760" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hotel-de-tourrel_suite-un-754x500-1.png" alt="" width="754" height="500" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hotel-de-tourrel_suite-un-754x500-1.png 754w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hotel-de-tourrel_suite-un-754x500-1-452x300.png 452w" sizes="(max-width: 754px) 100vw, 754px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-34775 size-medium" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/restaurant-tourrel-400x500-2-240x300.png" alt="" width="240" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/restaurant-tourrel-400x500-2-240x300.png 240w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/restaurant-tourrel-400x500-2.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" />Carefully bridging the historic heart of Saint-Remy to modern times, Margot Stängle’s new building extension sits elegantly between its ancient neighbours and presents the city centre’s first modern façade. The extension, with its striking brass doorways and windows, houses the elegant one-Michelin-starred restaurant where you can order light Mediterranean fare courtesy of Chef Jeremy Scalia, who brings his experience working in New York and Dubai to classic French cuisine. Next to the restaurant, there’s a unique wine cellar with more than 450 wine options, carefully selected by Ralph Hüsgen himself, available for you to discover.
Check out our <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/2016/11/04/insiders-guide-favourite-places-see-eat-stay-st-remy-de-provence/">Insider&#8217;s Guide to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence</a> for our favourite things to see and do and where to eat while exploring this charming town.

Insider's Guides

Cities

Insider's Guide to Tokyo

Tokyo

Where to Stay

Japan

<h3><a href="http://www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo/" target="_blank">THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL</a></h3>
Located in the heart of the city the Mandarin Oriental offers guests a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking Tokyo skyline. Surrounded by the chic shops and offices of Nihonbashi, the hotel has a crisp, cutting-edge style befitting its setting in the core of this modern metropolis.

<h3><a href="https://tokyo.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html" target="_blank">GRAND HYATT</a></h3>
With 387 rooms and suites, the Grand Hyatt sports a modern design and is located in Roppongi, a lively district known as a centre of business, culture, fashion and leisure, providing easy access to the Ginza shopping district and Kasumigaseki government district.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33126" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/grand-hyatt-tokyo-752.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="500" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/grand-hyatt-tokyo-752.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/grand-hyatt-tokyo-752-451x300.jpg 451w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h3><a href="http://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/" target="_blank">PALACE HOTEL</a></h3>
Across from the Imperial Palace gardens and Ginza shopping district, the Palace Hotel in Tokyo boasts an incredible perspective on the city. Voted as one of Tokyo&#8217;s best in 2016 by readers of Travel + Leisure, the Palace Hotel is a sophisticated celebration of Japanese hospitality.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-33128" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Palace-Hotel-Tokyo-Lobby2-960x474.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="474" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Palace-Hotel-Tokyo-Lobby2-960x474.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Palace-Hotel-Tokyo-Lobby2-480x237.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Palace-Hotel-Tokyo-Lobby2-768x379.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Palace-Hotel-Tokyo-Lobby2.jpg 1580w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />

Insider's Guide: Tokyo's Top Hotels

Best Hotels in Ireland

<h4><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31900 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-banner4-960x600.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-banner4-960x600.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-banner4-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-banner4-480x300.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-banner4-768x480.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></h4>
<h3><a href="http://www.ardnasidhe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ard na Sidhe, Co. Kerry</a></h3>
<h4>Best for Escapists</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31864 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Ardnasidhe-480x255.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="255" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Ardnasidhe-480x255.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Ardnasidhe.jpg 752w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />Built in 1913 by Lady Gordon, a noted gardener, traveller and writer, this under-the-radar 18-room Victorian country manor house is Kerry’s best-kept secret.
Idyllically situated on 32 lakefront acres at the foot of Ireland’s highest mountains, the McGillicuddy Reeks, Ard na Sidhe has the epic beauty and seclusion that dreamers crave, with a central location that makes it ideal for excursions to the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.
After a day out on the bike or trails, you can look forward to relaxing with a pint by the crackling fire, or high tea in the tranquil gardens overlooking Lough Caragh.
<h3><a href="http://www.lismorecastle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lismore Castle, Co. Waterford</a></h3>
<h4>Best for Private Hire</h4>
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31866 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Lismore.jpg" alt="best-hotels-ireland-lismore" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Lismore.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Best-Hotels-Ireland-Lismore-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Grand facade? Elegant fire-lit drawing-room? Medieval dining hall? Personal butler? Check! Check! Check! Check!
Lismore Castle ticks all of the boxes when it comes to private castle experiences in Ireland. The 800-year old property has been owned by the Duke of Devonshire since 1773 and has a history and surroundings that will transport you.
Ideal for families or private groups, Lismore can accommodate up to 30 people yet feels intimate with a group of 10 or 12.
For more details about the itineraries we can offer using Lismore (or another fine castle for hire) as a home base, just ask your trip designer!

Ireland's Best Castle & Manor Hotels

Arkaba Homestead

Australia

<h3>A Wildlife Safari – Australian Style</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31727 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-Kangaroos-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-Kangaroos-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-Kangaroos-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-Kangaroos.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />And why wouldn’t he? Located on the edge of the Flinders Ranges, identified as one of the oldest geological sites on earth, Arkaba is a farm so big it’s known by that most-Australian turn of phrase as a “station.”
Once home to many thousands of sheep, it’s now dedicated as a Wildlife Conservancy under the very caring and watchful eye of Brendon and his team, who have seen the abundant resurgence of many native species.
A drive through the property with the fabulous naturalist guides is a wildlife safari Australian-style, with emus, kangaroos, echidnas, quolls, enormous birds of prey and countless species of birds amongst the ever-changing parade.
<h3>Peace, Vastness &amp; Solitude</h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31729 size-medium alignleft" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-vastness-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-vastness-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-vastness-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Arkaba-Homestead-vastness.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />If you’re keen to try the walk, a day of hiking is an instant lesson on what The Outback is all about, with vast horizons, quintessential Bush landscapes, thousand-year-old river gums lining the creeks, abundant wildlife and… peace, vastness, solitude.
At night, eco-bushcamps provide a surprising element of luxury, fine food and hospitality, under a blanket of stars that defy the imagination.
And then, it’s back to that beautiful Homestead, lovingly restored to give you all the comforts of a boutique hotel, but oh-so expertly conceived as the relaxed, inviting home of some friends you haven’t seen for ages, and are thrilled to catch up with again.
Which all brings us back to that cheeky little red – and a fabulous night spent relaxing ‘at home’ with your new mates.
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<h3>Learn More About Arkaba</h3>
Check out the stunning video below to learn more about this incredible property. <iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-l4E-rKmrRU" width="752" height="423" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

Safari Lodges

<h3><a href="http://www.grootbos.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grootbos Garden Lodge</a></h3>
<h5>Grootbos Nature Reserve</h5>
Situated on the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in the Gansbaai area, this award-winning reserve is home to the largest Milkwood Forests in the world. The lodge is set within the fynbos and forest-clad hills which overlook the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. A perfect place for a family safari, where you can take in the ocean&#8217;s Big 5.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31327 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Grootbos-900x600.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Grootbos-900x600.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Grootbos-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Grootbos-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Grootbos.jpg 950w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
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<h3><a href="http://www.kwandwe.com/ecca-lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kwandwe Ecca Lodge</a></h3>
<h5>Kwandwe Private Game Reserve</h5>
The Lodge is set into the gently sloping aloe-studded hillside banks of the Great Fish River and is an unusual construction of stone-and-mesh gabion walls, sliding glass doors and corrugated iron roofing. Fresh farm cuisine is prepared in the interactive, open-plan kitchen, while the spacious lounge, dining and bar areas are airy and open, with almost invisible separations between indoors and the intriguing African bushveld.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31329 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Kwandwe-900x600.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Kwandwe-900x600.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Kwandwe-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Kwandwe-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Kwandwe.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
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<h3><a href="http://www.dulini.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dulini Lodge</a></h3>
<h5>Sabi Sand Reserve</h5>
An intimate luxury safari lodge, Dulini is located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Reserve, which borders the Kruger National Park. A quiet retreat, Dulini rests under a leafy canopy of ebony trees on the banks of the dry Mabrak River and boasts views across the riverbed and bushveld.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31331 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Dulini-900x600.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Dulini-900x600.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Dulini-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Dulini-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Dulini.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
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<h3><a href="http://jamalamadikwe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge </a></h3>
<h5>Madikwe Game Reserve</h5>
Set amidst 75,000 hectares of the pristine Madikwe Game Reserve, Jamala Madikwe provides a quintessential safari experience. The lodge successfully brings opposites together, complementing its colonial style with African eccentricity. At Jamal they&#8217;ve perfected the &#8220;sofa safari,&#8221; with an amazing waterhole right in front of the lodge so you can watch all the animals come to drink while Rodney serves you gin and tonics.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31333 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Jamala-900x600.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Jamala-900x600.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Jamala-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Jamala-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Jamala.jpg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
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<h3><a href="http://www.marataba.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marataba Mountain Lodge</a></h3>
<h5>Marataba Private Reserve</h5>
This 23,000-hectare private concession within the Marakele National Park (Limpopo, South Africa) offers a sanctuary where people can connect with South Africa&#8217;s stunning natural habitat. It offers breathtaking views of the dramatic Waterberg mountains, vast plains, rich animal diversity and winding rivers that cut through the landscape. It&#8217;s also one of the few lodges that truly allows you to get out and be active.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-31362 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2-899x600.jpg" alt="Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2" width="899" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2-899x600.jpg 899w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Best-Luxury-Safari-Lodges-Marataba2.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 899px) 100vw, 899px" />

The 7 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Sri Lanka

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<h2><a href="http://www.thekandyhouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kandy House</a></h2>
This ancestral manor house was built in 1804 and boasts a rich history and exquisite restoration.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31199" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Kandy-House.jpg" alt="The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Kandy-House" width="752" height="400" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Kandy-House.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Kandy-House-480x255.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
With a 200-year-old palazzo and eight uniquely designed rooms – each named after indigenous butterflies – it seamlessly mixes modern and classic. Choose between the sumptuous food served to you as you lounge on the veranda or the hammocks that await you at the infinity pool.
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<h2><a href="https://www.aman.com/resorts/amangalla" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amangalla</a></h2>
In the historic port of Galle, Amangalla sits within the ramparts of the 17th c. Galle Fort, also a <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/451" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a>.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31200" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Amangalla.jpg" alt="The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Amangalla" width="752" height="500" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Amangalla.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/The-Best-Hotels-in-Sri-Lanka-Amangalla-451x300.jpg 451w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Offering views of the resort’s 200-year-old gardens and of the Fort and harbour beyond, Amangalla provides for the leisurely exploration of this historic trading port and the surrounding countryside.
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<h2><a href="http://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingviluyana/?gclid=CjwKEAjw5pKtBRCqpfPK5qXatWYSJABi5kTx1IZusL2LOmfpUObrgS9JEFMhwHvnE_kym2ISTvP2WhoC1Mnw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ulagalla</a></h2>
This sumptuous eco-resort was once the grand home of a chieftain, built in a Dutch Colonial style in 1916. Today, set amongst 58 acres of island greenery, its villas and chalets give you unrestricted views of the lush landscape.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37625 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Ulawalla-Resort-752px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="558" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Ulawalla-Resort-752px-compressed.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Ulawalla-Resort-752px-compressed-404x300.jpg 404w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Relax in an atmosphere of rural simplicity combined with the lavish comforts of the present day to experience a stay hard to forget.

Insider's Guide: The Best Hotels in Sri Lanka

Bali

<h5><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-30857" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi.jpg" alt="Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Oberoi-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-bali/">The Oberoi</a></h5>
Located on the sophisticated, fashionable Seminyak beach, The Oberoi, Bali is spread across fifteen acres of breathtaking tropical gardens. The hotel grounds are dotted with ancient Balinese temples, where we still present daily offerings, and boast a natural stone amphitheatre, a private dining space and the only local venue for regular Balinese dance performances.
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-30854" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy.jpg" alt="Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-bali-viceroy-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://www.viceroybali.com/en/introduction.php">The Viceroy</a></h5>
Located atop the Petanu River gorge, Viceroy Bali offers spectacular privacy from our Deluxe Terrace Villas. Overlooking the lush Valley of the Kings, each villa’s private terrace and pool affords stunning sunrise and sunset views.
<h5></h5>
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-30859" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud.jpg" alt="Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Uma-Ubud-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://www.comohotels.com/umaubud/">Uma Como</a></h5>
Uma Ubud becomes the company’s second inland retreat dedicated to Uma’s understated philosophy of quiet comfort in inspiring, culture-rich locations. Enjoy the adventure. At Uma Ubud, you won&#8217;t fail to fall in love. Simply listen to the life &#8211; animals, birds and people &#8211; that exudes from Ubud&#8217;s enchanted forests and mist-wrapped paddies.
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-30860" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal.jpg" alt="Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Best-hotels-in-Bali-Jamahal-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://jamahal.net/">Jamahal</a></h5>
Jamahal Private Resort &amp; Spa is located on the southern tip of Bali near Jimbaran Beach. The Balinese style villas are fitted with wooden furnishings and Asian décor, include a private entrance, outdoor pool and garden.
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37619 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mandapa-Ritz-Carlton-1200px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="525" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mandapa-Ritz-Carlton-1200px-compressed.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mandapa-Ritz-Carlton-1200px-compressed-480x210.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mandapa-Ritz-Carlton-1200px-compressed-768x336.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mandapa-Ritz-Carlton-1200px-compressed-960x420.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://jamahal.net/">Mandapa Ritz Carlton</a></h5>
Located in Ubud, this is a stunner of a hotel, completely secluded amongst lush forests overlooking rice paddies. With nothing around you other than vegetation and temples, this is the ideal retreat to escape the everyday. Surrounded by the Ayung River, you&#8217;ll be captivated by the grounds. With a wide range of villas in addition to rooms and suites, this is also a great choice for groups. With a spa located right by the river, the soothing sounds of natural water, plus traditional Balinese healers and treatments add to the experience.
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37620 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Four-Seasons-Jimbaran-Bay-Bali-1200px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="642" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Four-Seasons-Jimbaran-Bay-Bali-1200px-compressed.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Four-Seasons-Jimbaran-Bay-Bali-1200px-compressed-480x257.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Four-Seasons-Jimbaran-Bay-Bali-1200px-compressed-768x411.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Four-Seasons-Jimbaran-Bay-Bali-1200px-compressed-960x514.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="http://jamahal.net/">Four Seasons Jimbaran</a></h5>
With an eye to the ocean, this seaside resort is set upon 35 acres of land, and features an all-villa format with elements inspired by Balinese architecture. Thatched roofs, stone-walled courtyards and lush gardens abound. Infinity pools and direct access to the beach make it easy to take a dip. Engage in Balinese culture by visiting the on-site shrine, or watching a Balinese dance and gamelan performance (or, perhaps, learning traditional Balinese dance).
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<h5><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37621 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Amanusa-Bali-Nusa-Dua-1200px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="810" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Amanusa-Bali-Nusa-Dua-1200px-compressed.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Amanusa-Bali-Nusa-Dua-1200px-compressed-444x300.jpg 444w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Amanusa-Bali-Nusa-Dua-1200px-compressed-768x518.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Amanusa-Bali-Nusa-Dua-1200px-compressed-889x600.jpg 889w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></h5>
<h5><a href="https://www.aman.com/resorts/amanusa">Aman Nusa Dua</a></h5>
Along the Nusa Dua peninsula, you&#8217;ll find the island&#8217;s best golf courses here, including the Bali National Golf Club. Explore the shoreline and its white sand beaches, or take a pilgrimage to nearby Uluwatu, an 11thC sea temple at the edge of a limestone cliff.  You can also indulge in Balinese spa and massage with open-air treatment areas. Suites are surrounded by stone courtyards and feature outdoor pavilions for afternoon lounging, and the traditional thatched roofs and wooden beam architectural style of the island.
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Cambodia

<h3><a href="https://www.aman.com/resorts/amansara" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Amansara</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-29359 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Amansara-Siem-Reap-resized-382x300.jpg" alt="Amansara, Siem Reap" width="382" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Amansara-Siem-Reap-resized-382x300.jpg 382w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Amansara-Siem-Reap-resized.jpg 763w" sizes="(max-width: 382px) 100vw, 382px" />Think: Zen mellow meets luxury. Horizontal lines. A khaki &amp; black colour scheme.
Basically, this is an oasis of calm in bustling Siem Reap. This place is ideal for a relaxed visit or a honeymoon stay. My favourite element is the preserved original structure that now houses the restaurant, which, if you’ve got the same cultural reference points as me, makes you feel as if you’ve descended into a James Bond movie from the 60’s—directly into the secret layer of Dr. No.
Vodka martini, anyone?
If I were to change one thing: It’s not ideal for groups or families as the vibe leans toward hush hush rather than ha ha (read: you’re not encouraged to have loud fun).
Room category I prefer: <a href="https://www.aman.com/resorts/amansara/suites/pool-suite" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pool Suite</a>
<h3><a href="https://angkor.shintamani.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shinta Mani Angkor &amp; the Bensley Collection Pool Villas</a></h3>
Meet a hotel with a social purpose. Shinta Mani is doing just about everything right in terms of training and support for the community in which it resides. On top of the social aspect, the food is excellent and the entire hotel is designed in authentic Khmer style by renowned architect <a href="http://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/bill-bensley-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bill Bensley</a> who found inspiration in the nearby temples of Angkor Wat.
If I were to change one thing: I would make the rooms just a touch bigger.
Room category I prefer: <a href="https://angkor.shintamani.com/rooms/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pool Room</a>
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-29342 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Shinta-Mani-Siem-Reap-960x540.jpg" alt="Shinta Mani, Siem Reap" width="960" height="540" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Shinta-Mani-Siem-Reap-960x540.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Shinta-Mani-Siem-Reap-480x270.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Shinta-Mani-Siem-Reap-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.treelinehotels.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Treeline Urban Resort</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-45118 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/treeline-urban-resort.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" />As the name suggests, this hotel aims to raise you to another perspective, with its pool, bar and terrace sitting literally at the treeline! The Cambodian property owner lent a hand in the design, which shows in the attention to detail, like the installations and works of local artists in the shaded courtyard and rooms, which change four times a year.
Natural materials, a zero-plastic policy and all-organic hygiene products add to the holistic feel. You&#8217;ll find restaurants and the exciting Siem Reap nightlife mere steps away.
If I were to change one thing: A higher-end restaurant on-site or adjacent would be a great addition!
<h3><a href="https://www.jayahouseriverparksiemreap.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jaya House River Park</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-45117 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/jaya.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="214" />An irresistible package of sustainability, luxury and style, this boutique hotel engages fully in the natural and cultural life of Siem Reap: they have planted 849 trees around their location on the Siem Reap River and have eliminated 95% of their plastic waste.
Intriguing art and garden displays in the beautiful grounds add to the fresh, dynamic feel. The high number of return visitors at this hotel shows that their commitment to sustainability, environmental and otherwise, has been a wise choice. If you’d rather spend a day at the hotel, the stunning pools and spa (one free hour of treatment per day!) invite you to relax and refresh in an oasis of tranquillity.
If I were to change one thing: The hotel is a bit of a walk from dining options or the bustling city center, but that’s also part of its tranquil natural charm. Plus, with the free tuk-tuk service and loaner mobile phone provided, this doesn’t pose much of a problem!
<h3><a href="http://www.maisonpolanka.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Maison Polanka</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-29349 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/maison-polanka-siem-reap-resizedx2-449x300.jpg" alt="Maison Polanka, Siem Reap" width="449" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/maison-polanka-siem-reap-resizedx2-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/maison-polanka-siem-reap-resizedx2.jpg 705w" sizes="(max-width: 449px) 100vw, 449px" />This little Eden is my secret favorite (I really tried to be impartial). The layout features two private villas with a couple of rooms branched around tropical gardens and a classic pool. As you could say of the original Eden, this property is virtuous and tranquil with a twist of French style and service (the latter, my projection). I’m just waiting for the perfect group to do a complete takeover of this property, really let their hair loose and love it.
If I were to change one thing: Actually I wouldn’t, but I would prefer to use it exclusively for full takeovers. Not to exhaust the metaphor, but in such an intimate space it’s nice to know you’ve got it all to yourself: True Eden styles.
Room category I prefer: <a href="http://www.maisonpolanka.com/suites/khmer-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Khmer House</a>
<h3><a href="https://www.salalodges.com/house/house-bram-bei/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sala Lodge </a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-51624 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Sala-Lodges-300x300.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Sala-Lodges-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Sala-Lodges-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Sala-Lodges.jpeg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />These authentic Cambodia houses have been lovingly rebuilt into a stunning hotel in the tranquil countryside. Each room boasts unique histories and architecture. The oldest date from the late 1950s. A 4-star stay full of love, attention and the occasional bug:
If I were to change one thing:  Somehow a bit higher end services so it could be this but 5 star.
Villa I prefer: <a href="https://www.salalodges.com/house/house-bram/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bram Bei</a>
&nbsp;

Insider's Guide: The Top 9 Hotels in Siem Reap

Chateau Rivau

Loire Valley

Rivau owes its exceptional condition to an 18-year restoration campaign that took place in the late 1990s. Can you give us a sense of what work was done to restore the property?
<figure id="attachment_9968" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9968" style="width: 164px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-9968" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Joan-of-Arc-164x320.jpg" alt="Joan of Arc, Le Rivau's most famous visitor." width="164" height="320" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Joan-of-Arc-164x320.jpg 164w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Joan-of-Arc.jpg 205w" sizes="(max-width: 164px) 100vw, 164px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9968" class="wp-caption-text">Joan of Arc, Le Rivau&#8217;s most famous visitor.</figcaption></figure>
Well, before we could restore the interior, the outside needed a tremendous amount of work. We started our journey with the restoration of the outside walls as water infiltration caused the mortar to disintegrate and damage the stone. This was all the more important as the stone used for the castle is tuffeau from Touraine, a very fine-grained limestone which is particularly soft and porous.
Then we undertook restoration of the façades: many questions had to be resolved and to be perfectly honest we didn&#8217;t expect the work to be this important. Don’t forget that the castle is more than 500 years old and that no maintenance of the stone has been undertaken since its construction. So, it took two years of constant work to accomplish this rescue mission!
Last but not least, all the dormer windows of the castle had to be redone. In fact, the dormer windows are characteristic of the region as they are the main decorative element of the façades, which are relatively free of other embellishment. These dormers (lucarnes), because they are inserted into the roofs, are technically demanding: the slates must be shaped to conform to the roof and to allow the water to run off.
The perfect harmony of the building depends on the perfection of the sculpted part of the dormer. It was therefore essential to restore these windows in order for the castle to get back to its former self.
Mission accomplished. Your team has done an amazing job—there&#8217;s so much to love about Rivau! Its charms are undeniable, but the Loire Valley is a region famous for its castles. What makes Rivau unique among them?
Its soul and harmony. While we obviously did a lot to restore the castle, it was not altered by modernization, whereas most of of the other Loire castles were remodelled in the 19th century. I am in love with the authentic yet incredibly harmonious feel of it all! The site tells a story: that of a fairy tale that comes true.
<iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dsHuQqnXTpA" width="752" height="423" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
This is of course a reflection of my husband and mine own personal story: falling in love with the place and living a dream &#8211; although sometimes a difficult one! But this also materializes within the 14 gardens of Le Rivau, which conjure up 14 different fairy tales, where art and nature fall into one.
What impression would you like your guests to have?
To feel at home and pampered in a historical chateau, without having to sacrifice any modern comforts.

At Chateau du Rivau, History Meets Harmony

Den Haag

History

Hotel Des Indes

The Hague

Holland

<h3>Flamboyant History, Legendary Hospitality</h3>
Wirtz’s replacement, Christian Haller of London’s Savoye, was lucky: the 1899 International Peace Conference brought all sorts of important people to the hotel, as did the second International Peace Conference in 1907, and the establishment of the Vredespaleis (Peace Palace). In 1900-01, Paul Krüger stayed at the hotel while drumming up European support for the Boer War in South Africa.
<figure id="attachment_20155" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-20155" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-20155 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Trap-1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Hotel des Indes" width="960" height="540" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Trap-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Trap-1-320x180.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Trap-1.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-20155" class="wp-caption-text">The opulent staircase was added by architect Foek Kuipers.</figcaption></figure>
A year later, architect Foek Kuipers transformed the inner court into a hall with a formal staircase, a large glass dome and a rotunda. Shortly after, the state and the city bought Des Indes, installing Mrs. Haller-Rey and her brother Henry as its directors. Henry, who was also consul of Monaco, became sole director in 1922, adding (much needed!) extra bathrooms.
In August of 1930, a fire gutted rooms on the third floor and damaged the roof. Reconstruction made it possible to add a fourth floor in accordance with earlier plans, giving the hotel its definitive appearance.
The following year, famed Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova stayed at the hotel. Suffering from double pneumonia, she cancelled her January 22 performance, dying just after midnight in her room (where the reception area stands today).
With its rich and flamboyant history and legendary hospitality, every inhabitant of The Hague has a soft spot for the Hotel Des Indes.

A History of Hospitality: Hotel Des Indes

<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36578 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Exterior-Cape-Grace-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="320" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Exterior-Cape-Grace-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Exterior-Cape-Grace-960px-compressed-480x160.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Exterior-Cape-Grace-960px-compressed-768x256.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a title="Cape Grace" href="http://www.capegrace.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cape Grace</a> &#8211; Waterfront</h3>
Located on a private pier with a private yacht basin on one side and the working harbour of the Victoria &amp; Alfred basin on the other, this may be the best Cape Town hotel for those who like to explore their surrounds on foot. The property lives up to her name, offering a gracious hospitality in an elegant environment and has long been a favourite with us. Aside from the luxurious stay, the location offers something of a colourful window into the everyday activity of local life and interplay between the commercial Waterfront space and the working harbour. From the pedestrian commuters traversing the Bascule Bridge and the work teams on a boat in dry-dock, to the resident seals, squawking gulls, dragon-boat racers and morning joggers, the activities play out daily against the backdrop of Table Mountain.
If you aren&#8217;t staying here: Visit the Bascule Whisky bar, overlooking the yacht marina. Locals top up on wanderlust at this bar by gazing at the rigging and marvelling at the workmanship of super yachts.
<h3><a title="Twelve Apostles " href="http://www.12apostleshotel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Twelve Apostles</a> &#8211; Atlantic Ocean</h3>
We&#8217;re enamoured with sunsets in Africa. It usually involves a glass in hand and has become something of an institution called &#8216;sundowners,&#8217; synonymous with an afternoon game-drive. Location is key to any sundowner for maximum effect. What has this all to do with the Twelve Apostles you&#8217;re asking yourself? Well, sundowners from the terrace of the Leopard Bar (or your room&#8217;s private balcony) at this property rates as one of the top sundowner experiences in Cape Town—not to mention one of the best Cape Town hotels overall. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic and a mere 15-minute drive from the main city, this property is an excellent choice if you want accessibility to the action, but like to retreat away from the crowds. With the sea out front and an entire mountain to explore out back, rejuvenation through nature is inevitable.
If you aren&#8217;t staying here: Sundowners are still available to you – as is the fine dining of the aptly named Azure Restaurant.
<figure id="attachment_20102" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-20102" style="width: 980px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-20102 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Dining-leopardBar01.jpeg" alt="Cape Town Hotels " width="980" height="578" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Dining-leopardBar01.jpeg 980w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Dining-leopardBar01-320x188.jpeg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 980px) 100vw, 980px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-20102" class="wp-caption-text">The Leopard Room at the Twelve Apostles provides the perfect atmosphere for a sundowner.</figcaption></figure>

Ready to experience Cape Town? Get in touch with Christine to start planning your adventure.

Bastion Ste Anne

<h3>Late 1700s</h3>
The city ramparts are transformed into wine cellars – but not the walls of Bastion Ste. Anne, which were made from solid stone to better support cannons.
<figure id="attachment_19364" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-19364" style="width: 320px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-19364 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Bastion_sketch-320x186.jpg" alt="Bastion Ste. Anne " width="320" height="186" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Bastion_sketch-320x186.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Bastion_sketch.jpg 780w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-19364" class="wp-caption-text">Formerly an arms cache and guards&#8217; office, today the house is the property&#8217;s gem.</figcaption></figure>
<h3>1890s</h3>
The house becomes home to the gardener who tends the grounds, and an adjacent greenhouse is erected.
<h3>Early 20th Century</h3>
The gardens flourish, the orchard grows, and livestock roam within the walls as the city and the world outside evolve.
<h3>2008</h3>
The Bastion Ste. Anne is transformed into a private hideaway, as the building is restored and reinvented by famed architect Jack Diamond.

A Timeline of Bastion Ste. Anne, Beaune's Most Charming Hidden Hideaway

Hotel Splendido

Italy

<h2>From Monks to Movie Stars</h2>
Much to the surprise of no one, Hotel Splendido immediately became the preferred playground of the rich and famous. Its early guest list reads like a veritable who&#8217;s who of Hollywood glamour, including names like Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor and more.
Today the property is perhaps more glamorous than ever. Its stylish rooms epitomize Mediterranean cool and comfort, while its pool provides the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun, all of it ensconced within the lush hills of Portofino and the scenic harbour below.
Staying at Hotel Splendido is like stepping into a postcard—ransacking no longer required.

From Pirates to Postcards: a Brief History of Hotel Splendido<?span>

Featured Post

Insider's Guide to Florence

Tuscany

<h3><a title="Four Seasons Firenze" href="http://www.fourseasons.com/florence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Four Seasons Firenze</a></h3>
One of the most magnificent Four Seasons in the world! This hotel is perfectly located and set among tranquil gardens that take up an entire city block. Its relaxing atmosphere is an oasis amid the bustling Florence city centre, with all the main sights at your doorstep. If you are an art lover, the original frescoed rooms and sculptures will definitely impress.
<figure id="attachment_51286" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51286" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51286 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Four-Seasons-Florence.png" alt="Four Seasons Florence" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Four-Seasons-Florence.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Four-Seasons-Florence-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Four-Seasons-Florence-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Four-Seasons-Florence-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51286" class="wp-caption-text">Four Seasons Firenze</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a title="Hotel Regency" href="http://regency-hotel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Regency Firenze</a></h3>
The Regency is an intimate, tastefully renovated hotel on a quiet square just outside the heart of the old city. Attached to the hotel is the highly recommended Le Jardin restaurant, and there is a wide range of restaurants to choose from within easy walking distance.
<figure id="attachment_51285" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51285" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51285 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Regency-Florence.png" alt="Hotel Regency Firenze" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Regency-Florence.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Regency-Florence-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Regency-Florence-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Regency-Florence-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51285" class="wp-caption-text">Hotel Regency Firenze</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a title="Hotel Savoy" href="https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/hotel-savoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Savoy</a></h3>
This Rocco Forte is as central as it gets. Located in Piazza della Repubblica, all the major Florentine landmarks are within five minutes on foot. It recently underwent a major renovation and is now one of the most elegant and sought-after lodgings in the city, with style and careful attention to detail in both décor and service.
<figure id="attachment_51290" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51290" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51290 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/savoy.png" alt="Hotel Savoy" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/savoy.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/savoy-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/savoy-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/savoy-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51290" class="wp-caption-text">Hotel Savoy</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a href="https://www.lungarnocollection.com/lungarno-apartments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lungarno Apartments</a></h3>
Great for families, you&#8217;ll enjoy the solitude of your own private residence paired with the exclusive services provided by Hotel Lungarno, located in the same building. Four elegant apartments sit next to the Ponte Vecchio, and their rooftop bar offers unparalleled views of the Arno river, Brunelleschi&#8217;s Dome and Palazzo Vecchio.
<figure id="attachment_51294" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51294" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51294 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02-960x540.jpeg" alt="Lungarno Apartments" width="960" height="540" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02-960x540.jpeg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02-480x270.jpeg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/LAFI_Pellegrini_02.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51294" class="wp-caption-text">Lungarno Apartments</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Slightly less expensive options:</h2>
<h3><a href="https://www.brunelleschihotelflorence.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Brunelleschi</a></h3>
History rings through the Brunelleschi. Surrounded by 1,500-year-old Byzantine walls, The building was once owned by Renaissance artist and author of the Dome of Santa Maria del Fiore, Filippo Brunelleschi. You&#8217;ll also find a museum on-site that displays Roman artifacts found nearby. Charming rooms are dressed in traditional decor, with four-poster beds and marble bathrooms, some offering views of the Piazzetta del Giglio or the Duomo. Their Michelin-starred restaurant is stellar and offers an interesting take on Asian and Tuscan cuisine.
<figure id="attachment_51287" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51287" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51287 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Brunelleschi-Florence.png" alt="Hotel Brunelleschi Florence" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Brunelleschi-Florence.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Brunelleschi-Florence-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Brunelleschi-Florence-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hotel-Brunelleschi-Florence-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51287" class="wp-caption-text">Hotel Brunelleschi</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a href="https://www.grandhotelminerva.com/en/default.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grand Hotel Minerva</a></h3>
Renovated in 2017, everything at the Grand Hotel Minerva is polished and sophisticated—frescoed ceilings and oil paintings get a modern touch with bold fabrics and quirky chandeliers. Its biggest draw is the rooftop pool that delivers postcard-perfect scenes of the Renaissance City, though its sumptuous cuisine is a close contender.
<figure id="attachment_51288" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51288" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51288 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Grand-Hotel-Minerva-Florence.png" alt="Grand Hotel Minerva" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Grand-Hotel-Minerva-Florence.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Grand-Hotel-Minerva-Florence-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Grand-Hotel-Minerva-Florence-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Grand-Hotel-Minerva-Florence-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51288" class="wp-caption-text">Grand Hotel Minerva</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a href="https://www.adastraflorence.it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ad Astra Florence</a></h3>
This funky B&amp;B option is really about the locations, a quiet detour from Florence&#8217;s busy streets in a stretch of grounds that watch over the largest garden in Europe. Each guest room is unique and showcases a glimpse of its past decor in the form of original mouldings and wood floors, with framed artwork handpicked by the owners and custom light fixtures. Perfect for those seeking a quiet location with charm and a distinctive flair.
<figure id="attachment_51289" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-51289" style="width: 960px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-51289 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ad-Astra-Florence.png" alt="Ad Astra" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ad-Astra-Florence.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ad-Astra-Florence-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ad-Astra-Florence-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ad-Astra-Florence-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-51289" class="wp-caption-text">Ad Astra</figcaption></figure>
Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself? <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch with Courtney</a> to start planning your next escape to Florence.

Hotels

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