Far-flung corners of the world have long held appeal, bound by a sense of seclusion and an immersion in nature that leaves you feeling restored and reconnected. Our latest arrivals in the Himalayas and a private island in the Maldives promise just that, where escapism can be enjoyed at its most elemental. In addition, there are coastal hideaways in Tulum, Turkey, and Cape Cod to discover, and restful retreats which hold the keys to like-a-local city breaks in Japan, Spain, and Mexico.
1. Amaya, India
Hovering between land and sky in India’s western Himalayas, Amaya invites guests on a deeply restorative journey—anchored in the rhythms of nature and the rich spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand. Each of the thoughtfully designed chalets, cottages, suites and private villas offers views of the forested hills from its terraced perch—simply open the wooden shutters to let in the song of birds as they flit through the conifers. Days at Amaya unfold gently, from sunrise meditation and bespoke Ayurvedic therapies to foraging walks along ancient trails and nourishing cuisine inspired by Himalayan ingredients. Rooted in the philosophy of intentional living, Amaya is an immersive experience of stillness, connection, and renewal in one of India’s most soul-stirring landscapes.
2. Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka by Onko Chishin, Japan
A refined blend of contemporary elegance and time-honoured Japanese tradition, Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka by Onko Chishin is a serene urban sanctuary in the heart of Japan’s dynamic city of Osaka. This concept-led hideaway celebrates the art of omotenashi—Japanese hospitality from the heart—with minimalist design, artisanal touches, and an unwavering attention to the world’s finest fizz. Each sleek, Champagne-inspired suite is a study in quiet sophistication, offering a tranquil contrast to Osaka’s vibrant rhythm just beyond its doors. End the day at the 10-seat chef’s counter for an exquisitely presented menu that pairs sushi and Champagne.
3. Lula Seaside Boutique Hotel, Mexico
Sandwiched between Tulum’s powdery shores and verdant jungle canopy, Lula Seaside Boutique Hotel embodies barefoot luxury with an effortlessly bohemian soul. This intimate sanctuary invites sun seekers to unwind in breezy, design-forward suites that flow seamlessly from indoor calm to the glittering sea beyond. With spa-like experiences at its core and curated activities rooted in local culture, Lula offers more than just a stay—it offers a soulful retreat. Whether you’re lounging under the palms, indulging in Baja California-influenced fare, or rebalancing your chakras, Lula is every inch the restorative coastal escape.
4. Hotel Palau Fugit, Spain
A sensitively restored 18th-century palace in Girona’s lively Old Quarter, Hotel Palau Fugit has been meticulously restored to reveal its original stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and hand-laid tiles, thoughtfully paired with sleek, minimalist design. Each bedroom is individually designed; some come with private terraces overlooking the sun-dappled garden, others let you gaze through large windows across Girona’s terracotta rooftops and historic landmarks. After a day spent meandering the winding cobblestone streets and medieval walls, return to the hotel’s Romanesque courtyard for a cooling dip in the jade-water swimming pool, or an aromatherapy treatment in the spa that’s carved deep inside a rocky limestone enclave.
5. KestelINN Alaçatı, Turkey
Tucked down a cobbled street blossoming with bougainvillea in the heart of Alaçatı, KestelINN Alaçatı is an intimate retreat that captures the charm of Turkey’s Aegean coast. This adults-only boutique hotel reimagines a traditional stone house with a contemporary breath of fresh air—where whitewashed walls, soft natural woods, and locally crafted textiles set the tone for laid-back elegance. Each of the seven rooms is uniquely styled, blending minimalist lines with handpicked vintage details, private terraces, and views over Alaçatı’s iconic rooftops or the peaceful inner garden. The centrepiece is a serene courtyard framed by olive trees and citrus blooms, where a saltwater pool glistens under the Turkish sun and slow mornings begin with artisanal breakfasts using produce grown in the boutique’s own farm, Ovacik Tarla.
6. Cavalta Boutique Hotel, Spain
A history-steeped hideaway in a beautifully restored townhouse in Seville’s artistic Triana district, Cavalta Boutique Hotel’s original architectural details—such as arched doorways, handcrafted tiles, and wrought-iron balconies—blend seamlessly with modern design elements. Each of the 12 rooms and suites nod to the city’s Moorish heritage, featuring warm oak floors, patterned headboards, and rich natural fabrics that reflect the golden hues of the Andalusian sun. Up on the rooftop terrace, a sleek plunge pool and solarium offer panoramic views over the Giralda and Seville’s rooftops, with tiny tapas bars and local potteries to discover down below.
7. Roso Guest House, Mexico
Hidden away in the hip Roma district of Mexico City, Roso Guest House offers a restful night’s sleep in a heritage-steeped setting. Wrought iron railings, colourful tiles and high ceilings are artfully paired with eye-catching furnishings and modernist murals. The verdant rooftop garden is the hub of the hotel, where authentic Mexican dishes and drinks are served high above the sparkling city lights. When it’s time to explore Roma’s photogenic tree-lined streets, hop on one of the hotel’s free-to-borrow bicycles and bring your camera to capture urban artworks and contemporary galleries, before swapping quirky bookshops for salsa clubs as day turns into night.
8. The Mansion at Ocean Edge, USA
Classic New England style notes meet Cape Cod’s coastal charms at The Mansion at Ocean Edge, a beachfront retreat that’s within breezy cycling distance of the Brewster Flats’ 12,000 sandy acres. The original mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its stately architecture is matched by the interiors—high ceilings, classic crown mouldings, and expansive rooms outfitted with plush furnishings, private balconies or patios, and views of manicured gardens or the glittering bay. Hotel guests are granted a VIP pass to the private beach, with chairs, umbrellas, towels and on-the-button service to enjoy. From Memorial Day weekend, join one of the summer oyster bed tours and learn what it takes to harvest the bounty of the Cape’s waters.
9. Villa Haven Resort, Maldives
Arrayed along sugar-white shores, Villa Haven Resort Maldives forms part of the South Ari Atoll. Apart from the resort’s private villas, there’s little here beyond jetty, jungle, and pristine beaches. This intimate, all-villa retreat is designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the Maldives, blending calming neutral palettes, open-plan living, private pools, and panoramic ocean views. Thoughtfully curated design elements, including hand-carved wood, locally sourced stone, and soft organic textures, reflect a commitment to sustainability and island craftsmanship. Hop on a catamaran for a tour of the atoll, with pit stops for manta ray spotting and whale shark snorkelling, or explore coral cays and shimmering shoals under the waves on a scuba-diving course.
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