Lustworthy Resorts you Need on Your Hit List
BY GEORGIA ROSE
Gone down a TikTok travel hole? Explore our favourite luxury resort finds!
16 JAN - 2023
Are you ready to live your Pinterest life?
These are the resorts and hotels you’ve dreamed about. You're probably seen them through the lens of your favourite influencer or celebrity, taking yet another luxurious holiday.
While I’ve tried to convince my partner (a finance worker who lives for a tight budget) to splurge on a few nights of complete luxury. He’ll be nodding as I walk him through the image gallery on their website. His eyes will light up as I list off the amazing add ons and actives. But his eyes will glaze over as I slowly read off the nightly cost. “But it’s only $2,500, all non-alcoholics are included, we just have to drink 800 bottles of coke“ I’d plead. Let’s be honest, we didn’t have the money in the first plan.
Surely pipe dreams are shared. I’m hoping at least one of you have these resorts pinned, saved, shared or screenshotted somewhere, dreaming of the little lotto tune to read out ‘major prize winner’.
We can always dream, but for now I recommend bookmarking this page for future travel, or send directly to your significant other in hopes they take the hint.
Qualia, Hamilton Island
The crown jewel in Hamilton Islands crown. The six-star resort of the island is ultimate luxury in Northern Queensland’s Whitsundays. Each villa is strategically placed for privacy, with individual plunge pools, golf buggy’s to tour the island and access to a members only beach and restaurant. P.S this resort was featured in ‘Ticket to Paradise’ with George Clooney!
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island
Another hidden gem of Australia is Lord Howe. While it’s more of an adventure to get to from New Zealand, the pay off is incredible. Right on the waterfront, the private infinity pool is where I’d spend most of my time, overlooking the incredible Mount Gower. With only nine suites, Capella Lodge is all about exclusivity. The small restaurant, private views and once-in-a-lifetime experiences around the island are all on offer.
Intercontinental, Hayman Island
Last, but not least of the Australian bunch is Hayman’s only hotel - as one of the guests of the Intercontinental, you’ll have exclusive access to the whole island (no commoners in sight!). I don’t know what’s to love more - the incredible beachfront pool or list of amazing experiences on offer. If I had the extra cash I’d for sure be splashing out on a private sunset yacht tour. Better yet, stay here for a few nights than catch a ferry (or helicopter) into Qualia!
Aman - all
I couldn’t pick just one Aman hotel, they are all incredible in their own rights. My top picks? You’ll know Amangiri (pictured), the Utah resort that draws Justin Bieber and the Kardashians. Amanzoe the Grecian spot for everything luxury, with private beach access. Aman Kyoto an authentic (as a luxury resort can be) Japanese experience amongst the hustle and bustle of Kyoto city.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland
Imagine behind able to step out the door of your suite and into the iconic Iceland Blue Lagoon. The Retreat is a complete spa experience with daily healing experiences across the property. It’s definitely boutique, with only 62 rooms across the hotel, you’ll essentially have a private oasis in the water.
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Tuscany
Annandale, Banks Peninsula
A little slice of New Zealand Heaven. Seascape is the property’s one bedroom beachfront oasis, perfect for a romantic escape with an outdoor fireplace and spa. Close enough to Akaroa if you want to take a drive, or completely cut yourself off from the world. I’m setting my sights on this as a pre-honeymoon destination.
Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka
I’ve heard a lot of incredible things about Sri Lanka. The food, people and coastlines are all highlights. The resort on my list? Cape Weligama. Owned by the tea dynasty Dilmah, as part of their ever evolving Ceylon Tea Trails, sets you right in the heart of Sri Lankan tradition. This is definitely a stop I’d make before jetting out to the Maldives.
Soneva Jani, Maldives
It wouldn’t be a luxury list without the Maldives making an appearance. Although there are many overwater resorts popping up through the islands, Soneva Jani has to be the most well known. I’m holding out for the day I can make a trip down their famous villa slides into crystal clear water, or take a tour of the grounds, where everything is grown and recycled on the property!
San Domenico Palace
It seems topical to include the hotel surrounding every bit of drama in the latest season of The White Lotus. While the White Lotus Hotel chain may not exist - the San Domenico Palace in Taromina, Sicily does. Sweeping views, multiple pools, incredible architecture - it's everything the show promises!
The Lindis, Canterbury
I’m finishing off with one of my favourite luxury hideouts, The Lindis. Driving along the scenic route between Christchurch and Queenstown will land you right here. The image of their mirrored pod accommodation is etched in my mind. Pour a glass of champagne, jump in the wooden hot tub and enjoy the vast scenery of southern Canterbury - something you can’t beat.
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