Make sure you’re in the room where it happens with these perfectly placed addresses 

By Cheryl Caira

Lead image: Gran Hotel Claridge, Granada

Front-row seat

These boutique locations are steps away from iconic landmarks and cultural hotspots

The BoTree, London

With a view across to Oxford Street and the beautiful boutiques of Marylebone a short walk away, The BoTree is perfect for guests of a retail therapy persuasion. As with all Curio Collection by Hilton properties, there are thoughtful design details and quirky character. Rooms feature bold floral prints and Jo Loves products in the spacious bathrooms. There’s a sultry ambience at restaurant, LAVO, which originated in LA – with sophisticated Italian dining, signature cocktails and a DJ at weekends.

Andaz Lisbon

A recent opening nestled on Rua de Comércio in the Baixa district, the hotel is a hop and a skip from Lisbon’s striking Rua Augusta Arch and Praça do Comércio. There are also views of São Jorge Castle and the Tagus River. The chic rooftop restaurant serves up a modern twist on traditional Portuguese cuisine, with live music on the terrace, while Andaz Lounge on the ground floor – inspired by the capital’s historic refreshment kiosks – offers Portuguese street food, artisan coffee and local beers. 

L7 Chicago by Lotte

The South Korean brand’s first US location has guest rooms that make you feel like you’re floating on top of the city – you can take in views of the shimmering Chicago River and historic Jewelers’ Building, with cosy window seats for prime people-watching. Centrally located in the Loop area with the Magnificent Mile shopping district nearby, there are nice room touches, like a wellness basket with yoga mats and weights. Perilla, the hotel’s Korean steakhouse, is award-winning, flavourful and very worth a visit.

The Edinburgh Grand

Scotland’s first Luxury Collection hotel, The Edinburgh Grand has many of the capital’s big-hitters within walking distance, including the Scott Monument, Edinburgh Castle and easy access to both Old Town and New Town. The five-star venue has 50 spacious rooms and suites with kitchens, living and dining areas, with a new spa in the former Bank of Scotland vaults. The calm retreat offers precision-led facials and advanced body therapies, with a spa menu created in partnership with Spanish skincare brand, Skeyndor.

New on the scene

Gran Hotel Claridge, Granada

Launching in April and part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, this 70-room luxury boutique hotel is housed in the historical Plaza de Villamena, with Granada Cathedral and the Alhambra at your fingertips. 

Patmos Aktis

Located on Grikos Bay, the island’s only five-star beachfront resort will reopen in May after a significant renovation, with 33 newly designed beachfront and private pool suites and a new Athenian dining spot.

Villa Sahrai, Casablanca

A member of Design Hotels, this recent art-deco opening is moments from the beach, with views over the Atlantic Ocean. Rooms have an earthy palette punctuated by ochres, and food comes courtesy of Italian trattoria Rubillini’s and L’Aragosta on the rooftop.

Capella, Kyoto

Just opened in the Miyagawa-cho geisha district, Capella Hotels have reimagined the city’s traditional townhouse as a sleek 89-room venue – with six of the Onsen Suites featuring private hot spring baths.