Suggested:
The most popular hotels of 2023. According to the authors, these hotels are more than just comfortable accommodations; they are emotional anchors, starting points for dreams, and examples of sophisticated design.
As the dust settles on 2023, I find myself reflecting on the incredible hotels I've traveled to this year. These hotels are more than just delightful places to spend the night; they are passion projects, intimate havens, and testaments to sustainable practices and innovative design. In these hotels, history whispers, dreams take flight, and every detail, from the furnishings to the food, has been carefully crafted.
Here are my favorite hotels of the year, in alphabetical order:
Borgo Santo Pietro, Tuscany: Designer Jeanette Thottrup and her husband, Claus, have transformed this former ruin into a symphony of nature and luxury. each of the 22 guest rooms, cottages, and suites is a masterpiece, and the 13 acres of gardens exude serenity. thottrup's passion for plants thottrup's passion for Thottrup's passion for plants is reflected in its sustainable caviar service and botanical skincare line.
Imperial Terrace, Langkawi, Malaysia: Nestled in an ancient rainforest, this resort is more than just a beach. Its 121 individual villas are nestled amongst towering trees, making it an immersive, nature-inspired experience. Decades after opening, it remains a champion of sustainability, with resident scientists ensuring ecological responsibility.
Hotel Delen, Danpezzo, Cortina, Italy: This boutique hotel in the Dolomites embodies Alpine heritage with modern simplicity. 22 rooms are perfumed with the scent of pines and forests, and offer jaw-dropping views of the mountains, so one can truly feel embraced by nature. It's a definite no-brainer compared to the larger developments in the area.
Kimpton Maa-Lai, Bangkok, Thailand: This city resort conquered me with its effortless charm. From the floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the city to the various restaurants and rooftop Tiki Lounge, it captures the vibrancy of Bangkok while providing a haven for relaxation.
Mandarin Oriental, Bosphorus, Istanbul: This newly opened hotel eschews the typical luxury palatial hotel in favor of a more nuanced Ottoman luxury style inspired by Istanbul's Yaliya. With stunning views of the Bosphorus, a private marina and Michelin-starred restaurant Hakkasan, the hotel is an oasis of refined luxury.
Slovenia, Julian Alps, Mirka: This hidden gem on the shores of Lake Jasna is a testament to slow travel and local culture. With weathered floors and terraces facing the sea, the six suites exude rustic charm. The Michelin-starred restaurant prepares Slovenian cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Nordandlet, Bornholm, Denmark: Wild coastline and minimalist Scandinavian interiors? Count me in! This restaurant with rooms on the Baltic island of Bornholm ticks all the boxes. Weathered wooden floors, clean lines and a sea-view terrace provide a delightful culinary experience, including local, seasonal dishes like steamed cod and Danish squid gnocchi.
Paidast Manor, Muhu, Estonia: Restored by hotelier Martin Breuer, this 16th-century manor house is a testament to the fact that slow travel hasn't yet become fashionable, offering a peaceful haven on the island of Muhu. 24 historic rooms feature faded wallpaper, leather armchairs, and claw-foot bathtubs. The saltwater hot tub by the Baltic Sea is the perfect place to unwind.
Pa.te.os, Melides, Portugal: These four villas, designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus, are serene and peaceful. The deliberate use of the word "period" in the name suggests a slow pace. Influenced by the region's Arab culture, the villas focus on courtyard design, creating a sense of intimacy with nature.
Portrait of Milan From centuries-old seminaries to modern luxury hotels, Portrait of Milan adds to the city's splendor. This flagship hotel of the Lungarno Collection blends history with contemporary design in 73 rooms and suites overlooking the central piazza, which is open to the public. An outdoor living room on an open-air terrace adds a touch of elegance to the hotel.
Puente Romano Marbella Beachfront Resort: This resort is more than just the legendary Marbella Fashion Club. Villa-style accommodation, lush gardens and impeccable service create a timeless atmosphere. Tennis courts, the Six Senses Spa and renowned restaurants such as Nobu and Leña make it a destination in itself.
These hotels are more than just bricks and mortar. They are stories, inspirations and sanctuaries that will stay with you long after you check out. As I plan my travels for the coming year, I know I'll be looking for more places like this - places where passion meets purpose and a good night's sleep is just the beginning of the experience.
