Travel
10 stunning winter retreats to add to your wish list
Longing for a stylish getaway tout suite? Whether it’s sunshine by the pool, a roaring fireplace or a mountainside spa keeping you snug, these are the escapes turning our heads this season
By Cheryl Caira. Lead image: Jade Mountain Resort, St Lucia
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Achieving a Green Globe Certification this year for their commitment to sustainability and responsible luxury, this sanctuary nestled in the heart of Ubud is all about promoting Balinese traditions through its wellness and dining programmes. There are 35 suites and 25 private pool villas situated where the jungle meets the Ayung River. The spa at Mandapa is an all-encompassing wellness destination, offering holistic treatments, a meditation temple, yoga pavilion, vitality pool, and saunas and relaxation areas.
Chalet Cervinia
Arriving just in time for the 2025/2026 ski reason, this brand-new three-storey residence is brilliantly located in Le Joseray area of world-renowned Val d’Isère – a stone’s throw from the Joseray piste and a short stroll from the village centre. Opening in December, the six-bedroom chalet is a mix of classic alpine design and state of the art additions, featuring a fireplace for atmospheric dinners, a spa with an indoor pool, and even a cinema room. Guests also have access to a full team of staff, an in-chalet ski and boot fitting service and a private chauffeured minibus.
Uga Prāva
Newly opened in July this year and perched along the stunning shores of Tangalle on the south Sri Lankan coast, this boutique hotel from the Uga group comprises seven exclusive suites. Set into several acres of tropical gardens that lead to a private beach, the property has all the essentials for an oceanfront oasis – a dramatic infinity pool, modern minimalist design that reflects the beauty of the nearby coral reefs, world-class dining, and healing wellness treatments. Surf the pristine waters if you’re in the mood, or come dusk, kayak through a lotus-dotted lake and enjoy the sunset.
The Leela Palace Jaipur
A stay at this five-star hotel with royal heritage feels like stepping into another time. Set across eight acres – with an opulent main palace and 88 villas – the venue’s location in the foothills of the verdant Aravalli Range gives it a sense of privacy. Restaurant Mohan Mahal is a regal experience, giving you the opportunity to eat traditional Rajasthani cuisine illuminated by candlelight. To relax, either lie by the pool surrounded by silver-domed pavilions, head to the spa, or take a walk past the fountains in the peaceful and expansive gardens.
Rodel House
Set into its own harbour, this serene residence at the gateway to the Sound of Harris is a true Scottish escape. Integral to the island’s history, it was built around 1780, and has played host to chieftains, poets and many a traveller in its time. Recently restored to its original Georgian form, the interiors feel boutique yet woven with traditional Hebridean craftsmanship. The vista across the Little Minch to Skye is stunning – and guests can expect chef-prepared dinners, guided boat trips and whisky tastings.
Designhotel Wiesergut
Credit: Patrick Dunst
A contemporary retreat in the village of Hinterglemm with the perfect credentials for snow-gazing, the 24-suite Wiesergut is surrounded by mountains, meadows and a distinct ambience of tranquility. Warm up with a mulled wine in front of the fire, or head into Austria’s largest ski area for some head-clearing Alpine air. You can also explore the local area via snowshoe hike or toboggan, before taking some time out at BadHaus spa. Take your pick from indoor and outdoor infinity pools, plus a range of treatments using the Susanne Kaufmann method to rebalance the body.
Casa Brera
This Luxury Collection Hotel is so impeccably designed that you’ll want to hunker down for at least a few days and soak up the interweaving of minimalist and maximalist, devised by internationally renowned architect Patricia Urquiola. Showcasing Milan’s innovative style, the 101 guest rooms and 15 suites feel sleek yet homely. All-day rooftop restaurant Etereo serves up aperitivo, sharing plates and fresh seafood with city views, or head to intimate Japanese restaurant Odachi for a cosy atmosphere and an exclusive omakase experience.
The Hotel Maria
At the heart of Helsinki’s Kruununhaka district, this urban hideaway is a collection of four architecturally and historically prominent buildings dating back to 1885. There’s an elegantly luxe look to the interiors across the hotel’s 117 rooms and 38 spacious suites – The Maria Imperial Suite has two in-suite soaking tubs, a steam room, library and a grand dining room. Naturally, the hotel’s spa features a zen Finnish sauna, along with cold and warm water plunge pools, a jacuzzi, and a greenery-filled atrium sanctuary with a Spa Bar.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Gorgeously situated and one of Costa Rica’s original eco resorts, Tabacón is home to the largest thermal experience in the country. A haven set into more than 900 acres of pristine rainforest and a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the 105-room resort features 18 natural mineral pools complemented by cascading thermal waterfalls, as well as an award-winning spa. Guests can enjoy their treatments in the open-air, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the jungle. You can also immerse yourself in the local cuisine with a hands-on cooking class.
Jade Mountain Resort
The lush Caribbean island of St Lucia is on many a winter travellers’ wish list – even better if you’re in your own secluded paradise. Sitting atop a 600-acre beachfront estate, this impeccably crafted resort has dreamy views across the Petit and Gros Piton Mountains, with 29 guest rooms – mostly with private infinity pools. Guests can dine at the Jade Mountain Club for Caribbean fusion cuisine, often with a side of live jazz as entertainment or classical guitar. Clue’s in the name, but make a beeline for the Celestial Terrace for sunset cocktails and stargazing.
