The summer heat has arrived, and we’re thinking ahead to cooler stays for autumn and winter. This month’s edit of new boutique hotels features extraordinary locations around the world, centred on experiences within the walls and beyond – from a 14th-century convent in the hills of Unesco protected Cilento national park and a Himilayan retreat made my local builders and artisans in India’s Ladakh region to a hotel built into the caves of Cappadocia.
Hotel Bowmann, Paris, France
On the elegant sweep of Boulevard Haussmann, Hotel Bowmann channels a distinctly Parisian sense of chic. Behind its grand 19th-century Haussmannian façade, interior accents appear in marble and brass, like the royal crystal chandeliers and brass fixtures from La Maison Charles, creating a composed yet layered atmosphere. A scrumptious breakfast is served in the glass-roofed restaurant fueling days visiting grands magasins and galleries, between walks along the tree-lined avenues of the 8th arrondissement. At 99 Haussmann, chef Charly Salierno’s menu of French fare celebrates market-fresh produce in a restrained, expressive style, served in a setting that feels more private salon than hotel dining room.
Avantgarde Refined Caves of Cappadocia, Ürgüp, Turkey
Set within the sculpted valleys of Cappadocia, this striking hotel reimagines ancient cave dwellings as a contemporary retreat rooted in place. Brought to life by Avantgarde Collection, the hotel pairs centuries-old stone chambers with warm, modern interiors that echo the textures and tones of the surrounding landscape. Wake to hot air balloons drifting across the horizon, spend the day exploring underground cities and rock-carved churches, or unwind in the spa carved directly into the rock itself. At Lilith Restaurant, Anatolian recipes are reinterpreted with finesse, offering a dining experience as layered as the terrain outside.
Convento Francescano, Cilento, Italy
Hidden among the olive-covered hills of Cilento National Park, Convento Francescano transforms a 14th-century monastery into an intimate retreat steeped in history. Brought back to life by Alberto and Daniela, whose personal connection to the region inspired its careful restoration, the hotel pairs centuries-old frescoes and vaulted cloisters with understated contemporary design. Spend your days exploring medieval villages and the Cilento coastline, before returning to Osteria del Convento, where seasonal Campanian dishes celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions.
Dolkhar Ladakh, Leh, India
In the heart of Leh, Dolkhar Ladakh is a quietly contemporary stay rooted in the landscape and traditions of the high Himalayas. Brought to life by founder Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, the seven-villa retreat was shaped through close collaboration with local builders and artisans, drawing on Ladakhi construction methods and materials to create something deeply authentic. Earth, willow and stone form the backbone of the design, softened by apricot orchards and piercing mountain light. At Tsas by Dolkhar, the hotel’s vegetarian restaurant, produce from the surrounding land informs a menu that reflects the values and flavours of the region, while days are enriched by monastery visits, slow village walks and the stillness of the Indus Valley.
La Casa del Presidente, Ávila, Spain
Hidden behind Ávila’s iconic medieval walls, La Casa del Presidente is proof that the most memorable hotels have a story to tell. Once home to Adolfo Suárez, the architect of Spain’s modern democracy, this beautifully restored residence pairs understated elegance with a remarkable sense of place. Wake to views of centuries-old stone fortifications, linger over breakfasts of local produce, and spend evenings discovering the reinvented Castilian cuisine of the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, Caleña. Equal parts historic sanctuary and contemporary retreat, it’s the perfect base for exploring one of Spain’s most captivating heritage cities.
Europa Palace, Sanremo, Italy
Along Sanremo’s palm-lined boulevard, Europa Palace is a riviera landmark reimagined for stylish coastal living. Once a grand 19th-century hotel, the property has been thoughtfully restored, blending its historic façade with clean-lined interiors in soft natural tones. Light-filled rooms open onto balconies or terraces, framing glimpses of the Ligurian Sea or the city’s elegant casino. Days are spent drifting between the promenade, nearby boutiques and the hotel’s Anemoi Wellness & Spa, a serene space with saunas, pools and quiet relaxation areas. At The RUFtop, evenings unfold over cocktails and fresh Ligurian dishes such as cacio e pepe risotto with Sanremo purple shrimp and summer black truffle, and Puttanesca glazed octopus with avocado cream, potato foam, and green chili oil.
Rhino & River Wildlife Retreat and Spa, Assam, India
On the edge of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Rhino & River Wildlife Retreat and Spa is a low-key escape overlooking the Brahmaputra floodplains and surrounding farmland. The retreat’s log-hut style rooms open onto private balconies, offering a close connection to the rural landscape that surrounds. Guided jeep safaris into Pobitora and scenic boat rides along the river bring you closer to wildlife including the one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, deer, wild boar and hundreds of bird species. Back at the retreat, you can linger by the pool or in the spa, where Ayurvedic and Khasi-inspired therapies are offered. At Baan Kahi restaurant, Assamese and North-Eastern cuisine draws on local culinary traditions, alongside a selection of international dishes.
The Spire Hotel, Queenstown, New Zealand
Tucked just off Queenstown’s lively town centre, The Spire Hotel is a small, design-led stay offering a quiet contrast to the energy of Lake Wakatipu’s waterfront. With just ten spacious suites, each featuring a private balcony, fireplace and contemporary designer furnishings, the hotel focuses on privacy, comfort and understated urban sophistication. Guests are moments from the lakefront, local galleries and restaurants, as well as the surrounding rugged mountainous landscape that defines the region. It’s the ultimate base from which to explore New Zealand’s so called adventure capital.
La Coralina Island House, Bocas del Toro, Panama
On the island of Bastimentos, La Coralina Island House is a sanctuary for wellbeing and slower living. Thoughtfully designed with handcrafted details, natural materials and sweeping sea views, the adults-only retreat encourages guests to unwind from the moment they arrive. Spend your days exploring coral reefs, embracing sound healing or cacao ceremonies, before settling in at The Coralina Restaurant, where locally sourced seafood and punchy Panamanian flavours make up the menu. As the sun dips below the Caribbean horizon, you can settle into your new normal: doing less and feeling more.
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