Luxury Getaways For Winter Sun Bliss
Top Picks
As the night’s draw in closer and the temperatures dip further, we’re already counting the months until summer comes around again! We miss the light evenings, the warmth on our skin and that general sense of life being, well, better. We know we’re not the only ones craving some much-needed Vitamin D, so let’s toss aside our thick duvets and woolly PJ’s and head for some winter sun! We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite hotels from around the world that promise everything you’ve been dreaming of. From Australia to South Africa, the Maldives to Mexico, we’ve selected eight stunning destinations that will have you packed up and headed to the sun faster than you can say ‘pass me the sunscreen’.
Please note: As travel regulations are constantly evolving, please check the requirements for your destination before you go.
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa - Zanzibar, Tanzania
Average Winter Temperatures: 27 - 33°C
Sunshine destinations don’t get much better than this. Set within the heart of a stunning ecosystem, along the eastern coast of the archipelago of Zanzibar, you’ll find the outstanding and aptly named Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa. Tanzania is a dream destination for those seeking pristine beaches with inviting clear turquoise waters.
This breathtaking retreat is five-star luxury all the way. Each villa has a living area of 500 sq. meters and is set within its own 1500 sq. meter private garden of gorgeous tropical vegetation. Guests are quite literally immersed in nature, and it couldn’t be more magnificent. There’s much to distract you during your stay from expert-led kitesurfing lessons to exploring the region’s famous spice farms. The hotel’s pool almost appears to be an extension of the beach itself with a sandy floor and palm tree surroundings but the beautiful waters of the ocean are just a few bare footsteps away. With winter temperatures reaching 33 degrees, allow yourself to feel the warm embrace of the Tanzanian sun and all your winter woes will fade away. If that isn’t enough to relax you, let the healing hands of the spa therapists melt away any lingering tension, followed by a glass of bubbles on the rooftop Champagne bar. This impressive retreat is also proudly sustainable, working with respect and harmony of the beautiful nature it calls home. They are actively plastic-conscious, beach cleanups are offered whilst wind and solar energy are harnessed to power the resort - every effort is taken to ensure a smooth operation with minimum impact to the environment.
Las Casas B+B Hotel - Cuernavaca, Mexico
Average Winter Temperatures: 20 - 27°C
Where better to escape to during the cold winter months than the City of Eternal Spring? With temperatures reaching a gorgeous 27 degrees, it actually feels more like summer. Cuernavaca is nestled in the mystical Tepozteco Mountains, just 50 miles south of Mexico City. Known for its year-round warmth and high society glamour, this region of Morelos has been attracting a discerning crowd from Aztec emperors to artists for centuries. Echoing its stunning surroundings with rustic style and sleek design, the charming Las Casas B+B Hotel, provides the perfect palace of laidback luxury. And with only eleven contemporary chic rooms to choose from, against a backdrop of colonial architecture, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Lie back and think of England as you recline on one of the chic lounge chairs around the pool, surrounded by lush tropical flora and fauna. If that’s not relaxing enough, take a stroll across to the hotel’s spa (rumoured to be Cuernavaca’s best) and drift away with one of their blissfully indulgent massages. The on-site California-inspired restaurant, House, is reported to be one the finest in the city and as dusk falls this stylish hotspot quickly becomes the place to be. Located right in the heart of Cuernavaca, you won’t find a more centrally located accommodation than Las Casas B+B Hotel. Situated across the street from the Palace of Cortes, and just two blocks away from Cuernavaca Cathedral, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Head further afield and discover the magical landscapes brimming with magnificent mountain ranges, volcanoes and pre-Hispanic temples, for a truly enchanting escape this winter.
Kandima Maldives - Dhaalu Atoll, Republic of Maldives
Average Winter Temperatures: 26 - 31°C
Close your eyes and picture the most perfect secluded island, surrounded by clear aqua waters – are you imagining it? Set amid lush vegetation on the largest island in the Dhaalu Atoll, Kandima Maldives is a dream pick for those headed to the Indian Ocean. The Maldives have long been one of the top destinations for those in search of paradise, and the luxurious Kandima won’t fail to deliver. The pristine white beaches are perfect for families, couples, or even wannabe Robinson Crusoe-types looking for a solo adventure.
With 10 bars and restaurants to choose from, indulgence is there for the taking. This island retreat serves up a myriad of activities for lazy days to lively nights. Sample the delicacies of the ocean at the oriental Sea Dragon & Forbidden Bar, where Asian cuisine is on the menu. If you’re on the hunt for something more active, water sports enthusiasts will love the Aquaholics programme, offering a full range of diving courses to explore the stunning life beneath the atoll. Take a dip with turtles, discover dolphins with the Dolphin Quest or take in the most spectacular sunset as you float above the calming waters and experience traditional Maldivian fishing at its finest. This game-changing resort provides everything you could ask for on-site, from pottery classes to kitesurfing and even a marine biology centre. More than 90% of shallow coral reefs died in the Maldives following the climatic phenomenon, El Niño. In 2017, Kandima Maldives launched its Coral Adoptation Programme to slowly transplant broken pieces of reef onto artificial coral frames in the hope of slowly restoring the reef.
Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas - Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Average Winter Temperatures: 27 - 34°C
Costa Rica often tops the list of one of the most popular places to visit in Central America. Blessed with remarkable natural heritage, 25% of which is protected by national parks making up nearly 5% of the world’s biodiversity, you know this is a special place. Situated in the secluded northwest region of the country, in the decade old town of Las Catalinas, Casa Chameleon is an adult’s only playground. If Tarzan wanted to woo Jane this is where he’d bring her. Jungle-style villas outfitted with four poster beds, encased with white billowy drapes, brings this unique romantic experience to life.
Perched on a stunning peninsula overlooking its own magnificent zero-edge infinity pool which blends seamlessly into the view of the golden beaches below, Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas is the stuff fairy tales are made of. Giant statues of Buddha, Ganesh “Lord of the People” and Moroccan light fittings adorning the property add to the eclectic magic. As if the views alone won’t relax you, visiting and budding yogis can enjoy a de-stressing Padmasana on the designated yoga deck whilst taking in the incredible 360 degree views.
Book your own private pool villa and forget about the world… there are enough breathtaking views here to calm the mind, restore wellness and perhaps your faith in the world too. Casa Chameleon is a dream destination, and you won’t even need a loin cloth to enjoy it!
Bask & Stow - Byron Bay, Australia
Average Winter Temperatures: 24 - 28°C
If your heart beats to a different drum, with a free spirited soul, then Byron Bay has your name on it. Renowned for being one of the most laid back areas of Australia (and that comes against stiff competition), this little slice of heaven has attracted the bohemian crowds for decades. Bask & Stow perfectly encapsulates all that Byron stands for – relaxed and off-the-grid with some award-winning restaurants now added for good measure. Coastal living doesn’t get much better than this and with a year-round temperate climate, it’s always summertime and the living here is real easy.
Chic white breeze block and palm trees bring a minimalist Palm-Springs style to this side of the world. There are four charming suites to choose from and each one is guaranteed to leave you feeling more refreshed and relaxed than when you arrived. With a full chef’s kitchen, covered veranda and an inviting pool, Bask & Stow really is a home away from home, so why not call this one your perfect address Down Under.
The renowned Top Shop Café is literally just 3 doors up, but aside from the best place to sip your morning coffee (or Matcha latte) this charming boutique property is the perfect launchpad to explore some of Australia’s most spectacular beaches. Surf lovers will be spoilt for choice but you don’t need to take to the waves to make the most of this region – known for Slow Travel and sustainability, there are an abundance of farmer’s markets to explore, mountains to climb, and even hot air balloons to take in the breathtaking views.
WATERLINE - Cape Town, South Africa
Average Winter Temperatures: 22 - 27°C
South Africa always promises year-round sunshine with an abundance of natural beauty and attractions. Situated along the Atlantic coast on the Western Cape, you’ll find the Noordhoek region, offering some of the country’s most dramatic and spectacular landscapes. WATERLINE is a luxury private villa offering 4 elegantly appointed bedrooms and 360-degree views of both the sea and mountains of this stunning region.
Designed to promote relaxation and a sense of total wellbeing, this sleek modern villa unites all the convenience of a hotel with the comforts of home. Sustainability and self-sufficiency were at the forefront of the owners’ mind when they developed this property. Boasting its own borehole with reverse osmosis filtration plant, water conservation is taken very seriously. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy five miles of pristine shoreline, arguably the best in the area. With Table Mountain National Park on your doorstep, WATERLINE is the perfect starting point to visit some of Africa’s most amazing wonders - take your pick from the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Boulder Beach penguin colonies or head to the streets of Cape Town itself, for a cosmopolitan mix of culture and entertainment.
A stay at WATERLINE is whatever you want to make it – book your own private chef, spa treatments or yoga lessons or simply head off and explore one of the most beautiful parts of the world. The choice is yours.
Dairy Flat Lodge and Farm - Daylesford, Australia
Average Winter Temperatures: 24 - 30°C
Australia – often referred to as “God’s own country” always conjures up images of epic landscapes and endless sunshine, well, at least for most of the country. Dairy Flat Lodge and Farm certainly sets the benchmark. Focused on sustainable luxury, this property boasts 38 acres of regenerative farmland, amidst the beautiful rolling hills of Musk, just 7km from Daylesford. Also home to a stunning country lodge, comprising of six unique suites, guests are encouraged to switch off, unwind and perhaps learn a little about sustainable farming along the way.
The smaller sister of the iconic Lake House and established by the same brilliant husband and wife duo, there’s no surprise that Dairy Flat Farm is equally as impressive. Blending unique vintage pieces into a modern aesthetic core, each of the beautifully enchanting rooms have been meticulously designed and curated by Larissa Wolf-Tasker. The smell of freshly baked pastries will lure you in every morning, whilst warm hospitality served on a platter of stunning nature will leave you wanting to stay forever! Guests have the opportunity to really immerse themselves in the day-to-day running of a farm, albeit luxe-style. Sourdough baking classes are available at the heavenly Bake House, or perhaps learn how to establish and maintain a hive of honeybees. But if rolling up your sleeves and mucking in isn’t what you had in mind, we have it on good authority that the two on-site concierge’s are known to mix up an excellent cocktail, or three. The restaurant at Lake House is not to be missed, serving fine farm-to-table meals, ‘with the top button undone’ as they like to put it. Then work off dessert as you stroll through the private vineyard, established olive grove and the lovingly cultivated orchard planted with 350 heritage fruit trees. However you choose to spend your stay, Dairy Flat Lodge and Farm is an experience you’ll never forget.
Hacienda Peña Pobre - Mexico City, Mexico
Average Winter Temperatures: 20 - 25°C
With year-round sunshine, Mexico is always a hot favourite and Mexico City certainly serves up some of the finest Latin America has to offer. Set close to the sizable Tlalpan National Urban Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces, Hacienda Peña Pobre is a 19th-century villa turned boutique hotel. You could be mistaken for thinking you’d arrived at a country retreat, but with the hustle and bustle of the colourful city just a hop, skip and a jump away, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
There are 18 individually furnished rooms at this property and each one promises stylish comfort and the sweetest of dreams. From the hydro massage showerheads to the Egyptian cotton sheets, your every need is carefully tended to. The original property dates back to the 16th century but after being designated a historical cultural space by the National Institute of Anthropology and History, it was eventually converted into a luxury hotel in 2010. The hacienda retains much of its original façade, whilst the interiors have been decorated in a more modern style, creating the beautiful symbiosis between historical details and new world comfort.
Enjoy the stately appeal of this luxury hacienda, with its unique architecture, as you sip a lush cocktail within the high walls of the garden. Step outside the realm of this kingdom and you will find many of the city's attractions on your doorstep – from the famous Museum of Frida Kahlo, to the Bosque de Chapultepec. Come for the sun, but stay for the culture. You won’t be disappointed.
