Not all Adriatic escapes are created equal. One&Only Portonovi doesn’t just flirt with grandeur—it owns it, unapologetically. Set against the still, cinematic waters of Boka Bay, this is Montenegro at its most magnetic: dramatic limestone mountains, a pinch of Riviera glamour, and that lovely low hum of somewhere quietly confident in its own cool.
Perched on the turquoise shores of Fethiye, Hillside Beach Club is the kind of place that makes you rethink what “relaxing holiday” means. Set in a stunning bay, with a blend of effortlessly cool design and a laid-back vibe that never feels forced, this is where you come to kick back, unwind, and feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.
Tucked away on a private peninsula along Bodrum’s unspoilt northern coast, Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort is one of those rare finds that manages to feel both wildly indulgent and wonderfully easy. Wrapped in Aegean blues and framed by sleek, contemporary design, it’s a resort that doesn’t try too hard—but still gets everything right.
Perched above the Med, a short drive from the scene-y swirl of Place des Lices, Lily of the Valley feels like a serene secret – part wellness retreat, part Riviera dream. Designed by Philippe Starck and inspired by Provençal abbeys, Babylonian gardens and California cool, the hotel blends beautifully into the hillside, a cluster of terracotta-toned villas scattered among pines and palms.
Some hotels feel like a destination in themselves—and then there’s Passalacqua. Perched above Lake Como in the charming village of Moltrasio, this exquisite 18th-century villa has been meticulously reimagined by the family behind the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. With just 24 suites, it feels more like stepping into an aristocratic lakeside retreat than a hotel—where grand interiors, warm hospitality, and a deep sense of place come together effortlessly.
Perched high above Ravello, Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is a dazzling escape that feels like stepping into a living postcard of the Amalfi Coast. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience that blends centuries-old history with the effortless, understated luxury that defines Belmond. Originally a 11th-century palace, the property oozes old-world charm, but it’s the sharp modern touches and impeccable service that really bring it into the 21st century.
On the Formentor Peninsula in the heart of Mallorca, Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor offers the perfect blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty. Once a beloved retreat for the island’s elite, this resort was first established as a grand hotel in the 1920s, frequented by artists, writers, and the world’s most discerning travellers.
Sani Dunes is all about relaxed luxury. Set within the expansive Sani Resort, this place manages to be effortlessly cool while offering a level of sophistication that doesn’t feel stuffy. Think spacious, sleek rooms with stunning views, a private beach to call your own, and world-class dining options that don’t need to shout about it.
Sani Club is the definition of a hidden gem within the exclusive Sani Resort, tucked away on the lush Kassandra Peninsula in Halkidiki. It’s a place that knows how to balance its quiet, understated luxury with the kind of laid-back atmosphere that makes it so easy to settle in.
Sani Beach Hotel, the largest property within the renowned Sani Resort, brings together the best of both worlds: lively, family-friendly vibes with the laid-back luxury of a beachfront retreat. Set upon the pristine white sands of Cape Sani, this six-storey hotel enjoys an unbeatable location, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea, Mount Olympus, and the lush pine forests surrounding it.
Tucked away in the heart of Sani Resort in Halkidiki, Sani Asterias is the most exclusive of its five hotels—a sanctuary of privacy, sophistication, and seamless service. Following a full refurbishment in 2024, it reopened as a refined retreat, where guests are treated to Michelin-level dining, direct access to a quiet, golden-sand beach, and a genuinely warm, intuitive service.
If you’re looking for a true Cypriot escape with a touch of luxury, Parklane Cyprus, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is your spot. Sitting pretty on the Mediterranean coast in Limassol, this resort has recently undergone a major refresh, making it one of the most exciting places to stay in Cyprus right now.
Swords Travel are bonded by the Travel Trust Association for further financial protection and are ATOL bonded. Swords Travel Limited a UK Company, registered in the UK under companies’ house 10075557. For more information, you can review Terms & Conditions on the following link: Swords Travel T&Cs
