The standard of luxury when it comes to hotels these days is almost immeasurable compared to previous generations. Not only is discovering properties and booking rooms easier than it ever has been, but due to the demand luxury hotels sell themselves on the sheer uniqueness of the experience.
Here’s a look at a series of supremely luxurious hotels that are all off the beaten track and unique in their own way, begging a visit from any curious traveller.
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Ponta Dos Ganchos, Governador Celso Ramos, Brazil
Located on a private peninsula, and surrounded by the stunning waters of southern Brazil’s Emerald Coast, Ponta Dos Ganchos is set against a dramatic, secluded backdrop of verdant rainforest edged by a beautiful sandy bay, enveloping guests in unpretentious luxury and ease. Located but a short hop from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, it is close enough to the centres of activity, yet far enough to provide serene relaxation. Did we mention that you can also arrange to have a romantic dinner on a private island belonging to the hotel?
The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam
Composed exclusively of villas designed in keeping with ancient traditions of Vietnam merging harmoniously with contemporary aesthetic, The Nam Hai has re-invigorated Vietnam’s luxury hotel scene. Facing an infinite stretch of white sand, the hotel is famous, apart from it’s verdant surroundings, for it’s proximity to 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites and for it’s spa villas offering a wide-range of treatments based on Asian healing practices, which make it a Vietnam-must in it’s own right.
La Bastide de Gordes, Gordes, France
France is a popular destination of choice for luxury travellers from the Middle East, however Gordes is hardly registers on the radar compared to the usual haunts of Paris and Cannes – but that is the secret. Set atop a rocky outcrop and carved into the very rock face itself, the stately and elegant chateau has an uninterrupted view of the Luberon mountain range across the valley and the promise of discovering colourful lavender fields, making for a quintessential French holiday.
Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland
Built in 1228, Ashford (main picture) is the oldest castle in Ireland – which is saying something! The property is truly special for any traveler who wants to escape from the manic city and connect with nature. Ensconced in a 350-acre estate with rooms looking out over either the river or the lake, they have a multitude of outdoor activities such as horse riding, hawk flying, falconry, golfing and more that would be of an interest for many of the Middle Eastern travellers, providing many of the recreations they are used to back home, albeit in a completely different environment and format, proving to be a completely new experience.
Shambala Private Game Reserve, South Africa
An idyllic bush retreat, but not as you know it. Built in the traditional Zulu style with streams running through the camp, this game reserve in South Africa is a very impressive and an uncommon place to go for a holiday. Yes, it may be built in the middle of the jungle, but it is still extremely luxurious, and with its spectacular surroundings, it creates a rather special backdrop for a romantic getaway. As you’d expect, the owner of the property is a billionaire, so he runs the property as a passion project. He loves taking care of people and cooking and pampering them, and established the hotel out of sheer passion for interacting with people.
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Each of these hotels are part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection
