The definition of a holiday differs from person to person. For some it might be a city break and making the most of a long weekend staying in a boutique hotel, finding the hotspots for a cocktail or two and sampling Michelin star level dining. For others it might be about a new experience, learning whilst travelling or going on an immersive journey. For some people it can also be about a much needed break and relaxing in tranquil surroundings. 

There are many hotels that are wonderful for those looking to escape, who are in search of solace and tranquility. Below I have listed some of my favourite choices which are perfect for when you just want to get away from it all. I have selected some short-haul and some long-haul destinations which I hope will inspire your holiday planning.

Cheval Blanc Randheli, Noonu Atoll, Maldives:

In the north-west of the Maldives is the exclusive Cheval Blanc Randheli. Set on the Noonu Atoll this private island is home to 45 exclusive villas. This is the epitome of paradise and the perfect place to retreat to when you are looking for privacy and your own space. Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives combines chic styling with attentive service to make sure that you can concentrate on relaxing. What makes this resort particularly well suited for those looking to escape is the size of the villas, each is spacious with generous amounts of indoor-outdoor living space, a private plunge pool and beautifully finished. For the ultimate privacy seeker there is the Cheval Blanc Randheli private island villa with its own dedicated team of staff.

Crillon Le Brave, Provence, France:

Set in the foothills of Provence, France, is the calm and quiet Hôtel Crillon Le Brave. Positioned in an elevated location the views are amazing and the surroundings are wonderful. The hotel is made up of many ancient stone houses which the owners describe as ‘a private refuge’. The hotel is outside of the hustle and bustle that descends on Provence in the summer months and guests find it a calming place of solace. Fragrant olive trees, lavender fields and cherry orchards surround the hotel, ideal for afternoon wandering. Recuperation can be achieved with the help of spa professionals who will create bespoke treatments that are adapted to each individual at the Spa des Ecuries.

Feline Fields, Kalahari, Botswana:

In Botswana’s Kalahari region is the distinguished Feline Fields Lodge. Whilst some might think of escaping to far flung beaches or country houses to unwind, the Feline Fields shows that Africa can be the perfect escape. There are just six suites at this 5* camp and guests can choose to lie by the pool, have a picnic in the bush after a morning game drive, or stargaze in the evenings. The Feline Fields is an oasis in the African wilderness. There’s plenty of free time to switch off as well as massage treatments on offer and sunset drinks to enjoy.

Photo credit: Stevie Mann

Four Seasons Voavah Private Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives:

For those who dream of not only escaping day to day life but also other holiday-makers, the Four Seasons Voavah Private Island is the perfect choice. Exclusivity is guaranteed on this tropical island retreat in the Indian Ocean. With seven bedrooms, the island can accommodate private groups looking for all out luxury paired with peace and quiet and to enjoy one another’s company. The island is located within a UNESCO Biosphere and has a private yacht, exploring the Baa Atoll is one of the many choices you might decide on during a stay here.

Le Guanahani, St. Barts:

Across 18 secluded acres in one of St. Barts most picturesque locations is the Hotel Le Guanahani. On a private peninsula with a choice of two beaches this modern hotel affords ample space for each and every guest to escape and hit the snooze button on life and check-in to holiday mode. This elegant property spreads its rooms and suites across the tropical landscape and each has plenty of living space and a private terrace. Le Guanahani embraces wellness with the Spa My Blend by Clarins as well as offering multi-day wellness packages.

Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa, Flic en Flac, Mauritius: 

Positioned within a private 27 acre estate, the Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa is Mauritius’ only all-villa resort. This exclusive natural setting and the private villas help to ensure that guests have plenty of their own space in which to relax. The resort is close to the beautiful and serene beach on the west coast of Mauritius in the Flic en Flac area. All villas have a private pool which is something of a rarity, with outside space and spectacular views. Maradiva Villas is known as a haven of tranquility, a romantic escape for couples and it has a relaxed daily pace. The spa ensures rejuvenation and fuses eastern and western therapies. There are couples and single treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a beauty parlour, a yoga and meditation pavilion and manicures and pedicures.

One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda:

Rwanda is home to majestic wildlife, gorilla trekking and rainforests. The One&Only Nyungwe House is for those that want to experience the best of Rwanda. Immersing guests in five star luxury in the tea plantations of Africa, far away from tourists and city life.

Stay in the untouched wilderness and discover the natural beauty of Rwanda. Guests at the One&Only Nyungwe House can take a dip in the swimming pool, book a treatment in the forest spa or enjoy a tea ritual in the tea lounge.

Petit St. Vincent, St. Vincent and The Grenadines:

In the southern pocket of the Caribbean Sea are the cluster of islands which make up St. Vincent and The Grenadines. The island of Petit St. Vincent is the most southerly of these islands. A beautiful serene and private island which combines natural beauty with five star luxury. 

There are just 24 cottages and villas across the entire island. For those wanting to relax there are two yoga pavilions and a spa. There are no TVs, no phones and no WiFi in the cottages or villas. A stay at Petit St. Vincent is about unplugging from daily life and switching off. It is ideal for those searching for an escape and guests can put out a red flag to mark that they need some privacy, or a yellow flag when they want a lift or room service.

Chromata, Santorini, Greece:

It is for good reason that many couples choose Santorini for their honeymoon or mini-moon. This picturesque Greek island combines romantic privacy with sunsets to die for. At the boutique Chromata Hotel the views are exceptional and those who stay here very quickly switch off from day to day life. This in part is so easily achieved through the staff who are incredibly attentive from the moment you arrive to when you have to leave and there is a charming relaxed ambience to the hotel. Whilst many choose to explore the island of Santorini and its hidden treasures, with a swimming pool, cocktail bar and restaurant you can just sit back, relax and enjoy this beautiful hotel.

The Omnia, Zermatt, Switzerland:

Whilst skiing might not be what some would choose to escape to, a stay in the mountains can be a perfect option for de-stressing. The natural surroundings, clean mountain air, the clear star-filled night sky and the picturesque Matterhorn views of Zermatt are wonderful. At The Omnia Hotel the service is 5* through and through, where the best in hospitality is showcased with ease. Many guests return time and time again knowing that they will immediately breathe a sigh of relief and unwind once Christian and his team take care of their every need. The wellness centre which is exclusive to guests further adds to the relaxation on offer.

If you are looking to escape the daily grind and need to have a few days or a few weeks off then do get in touch. Whether you wish to visit the Alps, the Mediterranean coast or to go further afield, our specialists will be happy to make sure that you can put your out of office on and unwind completely in your chosen destination.