Unveiling the World's Most Luxurious Hideaways! Small Luxury Hotels Secrets Revealed!
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is an international brand that represents a collection of independent luxury hotels and resorts.
What are these properties known for? Their distinctive character, personalized service and unique experiences is what sets them apart from conventional accommodations.
Each SLH member hotel is selected based on specific criteria to ensure a high level of quality and individuality. You would imagine yourself being Bruce Wayne staying over at these hotels. The brand aims to offer travelers the opportunity to stay in smaller, independently-owned luxury hotels that provide a more intimate and exclusive experience compared to larger chain hotels.?
Over 550 hotels in SLH’s portfolio around the world vied for top honors across 10 categories in the bi-annual awards, which recognise the best independent luxury boutique hotels, spotlighting quality, innovation, service excellence and dedication to sustainability. That said, let’s walk through these categories:
1. Hotel of the Year: Grove of Narberth, Wales
The Grove of Narberth is a boutique country escape with a warm Welsh heart. Expect nice and big comfy sofas, roaring fires, acres of pretty gardens and views of the rolling hills - as well as one of the most celebrated restaurants in Wales.?
Once a historic house, it’s now the perfect haven from which to explore the charms of Pembrokeshire. The guest rooms which are spread amongst the original country house, and the traditional Welsh cottages in the grounds, all beautifully preserve the Grove’s heritage.
2. Resort Hotel of the Year: Sailrock South Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Upon arriving at Sailrock Resort in South Caicos, the breathtaking sight of turquoise waters and white sands will captivate you. The second enchanting experience is the exceptionally warm greeting you’ll receive, accompanied by a refreshing cocktail. Regard this as your exclusive slice of Caribbean paradise, where you can indulge at your leisure.?
Whether you choose to take a revitalizing swim in the infinity pool, luxuriate at the spa, or discover your ideal spot amidst the dunes on the secluded beach, Sailrock is your destination in the Caribbean.?
3. Country House Hotel of the Year: Hotel Rangá, Iceland
From the outdoor geothermal hot tubs offering panoramic volcano views to the gourmet restaurant adorned with wraparound glass windows your Icelandic stay is guaranteed to be a success. The observatory is equipped with resident astronomers for stargazing and Northern Lights hunting, ensuring that every corner of Hotel Rangá pays homage to its awe-inspiring surroundings.?
Whether you arrive during heavy snowfall or witness the emergence of wildflowers, a truly warm welcome awaits you at this unique boutique retreat.
4. City Hotel of the Year: Bank Hotel, Sweden
Grand yet intimate, historic yet contemporary, Bank Hotel in Stockholm is a study in harmonious contrasts along the city’s expansive waterfront. Housed in an early 20th-century building with a rich history as a bank, this luxurious hotel transforms its majestic environment into a space to commemorate moments rather than merely tallying coins.?
5. Destination Hotel of the Year: FORESTIS, Italy
Cool, serene and seamlessly integrated into its breathtaking surroundings, FORESTIS stands as a summit-level sanctuary amidst the South Tyrolean mountains. With forests and snow-kissed peaks extending in all directions, this spa hotel is impeccably attuned to the natural elements. The play of light through expansive windows, resembling walls, directs attention to the spectacular views, casting a gentle glow on the tranquil, minimalist interiors.
领英推荐
6. INVITED Hotel of the Year: Cap Rocat, Spain
An exceptional transformation of a remarkable 19th-century fortress has given rise to a captivating and distinctive adults-only boutique hotel with commanding views over the Bay of Palma. Spanning 88 acres and tracing the coastline for two kilometers, Cap Rocat Mallorca stands as a spectacular hotel offering an array of breathtaking rooms and suites. It boasts enchanting dining venues, a private rock cliff beach with direct sea access, a jetty and a saltwater pool.?
7. Mystery Inspectors’ Excellence Award: Chalets at Blackheath, Australia
Nestled within a vast expanse of one million hectares of national parkland, Chalets at Blackheath emerges as a hidden haven of tranquility in Australia’s Blue Mountains. Comprising freestanding chalets scattered across expansive retreat grounds, this retreat offers the epitome of alpine bliss.?
Start your day with the harmonious sounds of nature awakening in the morning forest, utilize your days for exploration, and experience serene stargazing from the comfort of your private deck as the evening unfolds.
8. Most “Liked” Hotel: Grand Hotel Parker’s, Italy
Perched atop a hill with commanding view of the Bay of Naples, Grand Hotel Parker’s stands as the city’s premier and most historic luxury hotel. Meticulously restored to its late 19th-century grandeur, the elegant public spaces are embellished with original antiques, while bronze sculptures gleam beneath chandeliers. This setting invites you to indulge in a uniquely lavish experience. Amidst the opulent splendor, the seamless blend of boutique style and impeccable service creates a welcoming and homely ambiance.
9. Considerate Hotel of the Year: Villa Petriolo, Italy
True bliss takes the earthly shape of Villa Petriolo, radiating in honey-colored allure. Nestled amidst the rolling Tuscan hills, this lavish retreat immerses itself in luxury while maintaining sustainability, from its refreshing swimming pool to its Michelin Green Star restaurant – leaving a delicate footprint on its Italian landscape. The opulent suites at Villa Petriolo steal the spotlight in the estate's thoughtful restoration. Achieving a harmonious blend of rustic charm and romantic allure, these suites elevate Italian 'eleganza' with terracotta floors, four-poster beds, exposed beams, and windows crafted to welcome the warm embrace of sunshine.
10. Hotel Hero Award: Aida Melido - Stein Eriksen Residences, United States
The Hotel Hero Award holds significance in its acknowledgment and celebration of individuals showcasing excellence in their respective roles. With over 100 submissions considered, a special mention goes to Chungo, the adopted house dog at Hotel Nantipa, who tirelessly contributes to assisting the staff and bringing joy to guests.
The ultimate Hotel Hero Award was bestowed upon Aida Melido, an individual with an outstanding 45-year commitment to luxury hospitality as the Executive Housekeeper at Stein Eriksen Residences. Hailing from the Philippines, this mother of four is affectionately referred to as "Tita Aida" or Auntie Aida in the community. In addition to her dedicated service, she has been a community leader for the local Filipino community for more than two decades, exemplifying a commitment to giving back.
In Conclusion
Small Luxury Hotels of the World exemplifies a commitment to excellence in hospitality, as showcased by its bi-annual awards recognizing outstanding independent luxury hotels and resorts.
From the warm Welsh charm of Grove of Narberth to the exclusive Caribbean haven of Sailrock Resort, each winner personifies SLH’s dedication to quality, individuality and personalized service.
Hotel Rangá in Iceland offers a unique stay with geothermal hot tubs, while Bank Hotel in Sweden harmoniously blends grandeur and intimacy.
All of these exceptional establishments and individuals, listed above, collectively represent SLH’s mission to redefine the hotel experience, offering travelers an immersive, distinctive and unforgettable journey across the globe.
About WENS Travel
WENS is about taking the least beaten path. To travel beyond the normal traveling principles. We propose?the best destinations, tailored to your specific needs to the highest quality standards. Since 27 years ago we strive to change the stock perspective of potential travelers and show the magic travel?generates, all created by our team of professionals.
Find out more at www.wenstravel.ro
Business Loyalty Architect | Bespoke Gifting & Design Consultant Wellness Coterie Retreats | Let's Collaborate!
9 个月Gorgeous properties...