November Hot List: 3 new hotels to have on your radar

Crème Chantilly in a countryside château hand-made by a resident pastry chef, or an apple tasting platter in a quaint 17th-century manoir in Normandy. Swinging from a hammock overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, or getting to know the exotic wildlife along the Ecuador coastline – meet this month’s newest SLH members, including our first water-based boutique venture with Kontiki Expeditions.

VALA Hua Hin, Petchburi – Thailand

Located between Hua Hin and Cha-Am, known to locals as Thailand’s royal town, VALA Hua Hin provides grounds filled with space to discover what it means to be disconnected but engaged, relaxed while active and at home among the unfamiliar. The hotel has been created to be a conscious, luxury escape for urbanites with Pool Villas, Mini Suites and an Olympic-sized oceanfront swimming pool blending into the pristine landscape. Nature abounds with green spaces offering shade under 100-year-old trees carefully preserved throughout the development of the resort. While offering an idyllic private retreat for couples, the hotel also caters for families with a tree-house inspired playground allowing children to explore creative pursuits and rooms with bunk beds. An organic fruit, vegetable and herb garden, chicken coop and rice field ensure WOODS Kitchen and Bar restaurant minimises all food miles and waste, while WOODS Upper Deck is a rooftop bar with panoramic sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.

SLH Insider Tip: Book a Pool Villa for maximum privacy and enjoy a private saltwater swimming pool, garden area and a spacious terrace that can be customised for outdoor activities and dinners.

Kontiki Wayra – Toquilla Expedition, Ecuador

First voyage commences on 30th May 2021

As the first ever water-based member of SLH, Kontiki Wayra offers a luxurious and sustainably-minded way to explore captivating destinations along the coast of Ecuador. Departing weekly and travelling between Manta and Guayaquil, this eight-day sea expedition provides an authentic immersion into the local cultures, traditions and cuisine of each stop, all from the comfort of a state-of-the-art yacht. Nine state rooms are designed to provide a contemporary space to relax complete with spacious walk-in showers, while communal areas include an on-deck jacuzzi and Chill Parlour with soft loungers to soak up the sunshine or a glass of chilled champagne. The boutique expedition visits five provinces and reveals seldom-visited spots including deserted beaches, ecological reserves and natural treasures. A crew of ten is on hand to arrange activities such as kayaking, SUP and snorkelling straight from the deck – alternatively retreat to the on-board spa or enjoy a dinner of local delicacies.

SLH Insider Tip: Save your energy for the final stop on Kontiki Wayra’s voyage to explore the bohemian streets of Guayaquil, and the 444-step climb to the top of a lighthouse for sweeping views of the colourful city.

Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville, Canapville – France

An historic manor house that dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville is just 10 minutes from the bustle of Deauville, a seaside resort in Normandy known as the ‘queen of the Norman beaches’ and renowned for horseracing. Set in the calm of a six acre garden, the 27 rooms and suites are spread across the manor house, which is a listed Historical Monument, and nine cottages decorated in crisp white and pastel tones complementing the buildings’ rustic exteriors. While there is no restaurant on property, room service is provided by nearby restaurant L’Auberge du Vieux Tour. In winter, gather round the open fireplace to sample local poiré (pear cider) or Canapville’s famous calvados (apple brandy) from the honesty bar. In summer, relax by the outdoor pool in the sublime gardens.

SLH Insider Tip: Read up on your Pierre Corneille before visiting – widely considered to be the founding father of French tragedy, this prolific 17th century playwright, a contemporary of Moliere and best known for his tragicomedy ‘Le Cid’, was a frequent visitor here.