Travel trends are forever evolving and throwing up new experiences which is why your Travel Counsellor is here to keep you ahead of the curve, helping you pick out the hot new places to visit. These are our most recent highlights that should be on your radar for your next foray into luxury travel.
Open from August 2021, this truly spectacular resort nestles into a dramatic cliff in the seemingly boundless Negev Desert with its fascinating Biblical heritage. And from sand dunes glowing red at sunset to zero-pollution night skies spangled with stars, your stay here will be dominated by the wonders of the great outdoors. Hiking, mountain-biking, rappeling and desert picnics are just a few of the things you can do in the local landscapes, and there’s even an on-site Earth Lab showcasing Six Senses’ sustainability initiatives to reduce consumption, produce locally, and support communities and ecosystems.
It comes as no surprise, then, that the resort’s 60 suites and pool villas have been designed to integrate into the desert topography and preserve the natural terrain. All have private swimming pools for the ultimate in luxurious seclusion and many of the furnishings were sourced through a partnership with local community artisans. Six Senses are also famous for their spas; expect this one to go beyond your wildest dreams, with locally inspired signature experiences and a yoga studio with desert views.
Once travel restrictions ease, Napa Valley, California looks set to become the place to be seen once more. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection reflects the small town spirit of the area with its clean lines, natural materials and wine country style. Its exclusive suites offer seclusion with a private outdoor patio and hot tub for two, while over at the award-winning spa the renowned Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies have been soothing visitors since the 19th century.
This year Solage's sister property Stanly Ranch will be opening its doors for laidback travellers with a penchant for luxury. Set within a blanket of pristine vineyards, the convivial ranch will feature its own working on-site winery so you can really get a taste of Northern California to complement the locally sourced menu.
Another glorious new addition to the food and wine capital of North America from spring 2021 will be Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley (pictured) – a wine country resort in a world-class organic vineyard, offering a grape-to-glass experience whereby guests can explore the wine-making process first-hand. By night, sip your chosen vintage around a cosy fire-pit; by day there are two pools to enjoy (one adult-only) and a spa including outdoor steam and relaxation pads and a mudding bay. This being Four Seasons, the culinary experiences are out of this world, including seasonal Cal-Mexican by the poolside and modern fine dining in Truss, all based on the bounty of Napa Valley produce. Accommodation ranges from chic, spacious rooms with fireplaces to luxury farmhouse villas with resident chefs ideal for get-togethers with family and friends.
Your Travel Counsellor would be delighted to tailor-make you experiences built around your stay here, such as a break in San Francisco or neighbouring Sonoma County to take just two examples.
These tailor-made Scottish itineraries, featuring experiences hand-picked by author and whisky expert Charles MacLean, are the ideal indulgence for travel closer to home, with staff welcoming guests as friends and using their personal contacts to provide insider introductions and explore hidden gems far from the tourist trails for a totally authentic perspective. You’ll discover the best whisky distilleries that Scotland has to offer, travelling between them by private transfers and enjoying lunches with whisky experts, cosseting nights at five-star hotels and a private tour of Edinburgh Castle.
Everything is created to guests’ exact requirements: added extras can include golf, fishing and shooting, castle and garden visits, art and theatre, shopping and spa treatments. But common to all is the whiskey experience – you will visit not only those world-famous distilleries but also the water sources and fields of barley that are the essential ingredients, meet the makers, and enjoy memorable samplings of Scotland’s most famous export. And unforgettable added treats en route include the likes of Scottish storytelling by the fire with a dram, live music by pipers and fiddlers, and of course food ranging from full Scottish breakfasts to indulgent buffets of the freshest Scottish seafood.
Spend nine nights in the Seychelles on a relaxed island escape that balances beach time, gentle exploration and the comfort of a well located resort. Staying at Constance Ephelia on Mahé, this trip suits couples who want space, calm surroundings and the freedom to enjoy each day at their own pace, with one full day out included to see more of the islands beyond the resort.
This eighteen night journey through Malaysia and Thailand combines city sights, cultural highlights and a relaxed villa stay in one well paced route. Begin in Kuala Lumpur with guided sightseeing and time to explore the city’s landmarks, continue to Penang for beach days and local flavour, then finish in Phuket with space, privacy and time to properly unwind. It is a balanced long haul escape that moves naturally from exploring to slowing things down.
This ten night family holiday on Spain’s Costa Brava is all about space, freedom and easy summer days. Flying direct from Cork to Girona, you’ll settle into a premium two bedroom mobile home at Camping Castell Montgrí, a lively resort that works brilliantly for families who like having plenty to do on site, with beaches and coastal towns close by. It’s a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy a classic summer break without needing to plan every day.
