Whilst we love to wander the path less travelled here at Emma Wallace, we also know our women love a touch of luxury! This week we’re indulging you with a round up of some of the most decadent destinations to discover. The ultimate fusion of pampering and adventure for those who favour the finer things in life…
Soneva Jani, Maldives
Part of an uninhabited five-island cluster in the Noonu Atoll and cited as one of the hotels that put the Maldives on the luxury map, Soneva Jani is part villa, part playground with 17 of the stunning villas featuring a water slide that transports you directly from your room to the azure blue sea below! Fringed by pristine beaches, blanketed with lush tropical greenery, and surrounded by a 5.6 km lagoon of crystal-clear waters with uninterrupted 360° views of the Indian Ocean, this incredible resort offers the ultimate backdrop for you to escape and unwind. Other decadent touches include a professional telescope for star gazing and an outdoor cinema. Book a seat at the Chef’s Table at the resort’s incredible restaurant for some of the finest Maldivian and Peruvian fusion dishes.
Alang Alang Chateau, Cannes, France
This chateau recently went on the market for a whopping £56 million and when you check it out, you can see that it warrants the price tag! With a view across the Bay of Cannes, this contemporary Balinese-style home has become a regular destination for Saudi royals, Russian billionaires, and tech tycoons, including Elon Musk. With dozens of stairs and a triple-height hallway, the entrance to this chateau will take your breath away, especially when you are greeted by the huge back-lit head of a T-Rex. A pool full of Japanese koi carp links the two sections of the home, whilst a baking patisserie, bar, library and lounge, all brimming with Bang & Olufsen tech awaits. For those who want to take in the atmosphere of the Cannes Film Festival, the Alang Alang is the ultimate home away from home for those with the most discerning taste.
Twin Farms, Vermont, USA
One of New England’s most iconic destinations, this incredible resort is located on 300 hilly acres just outside the town of Barnard. Comprising of just 20 rooms and cottages, the hotel features a museum-worthy art collection for those who love a cultural indulgence during their stay. For those who want to up the ante, a stay in Aviary Cottage with its own stone hot tub and fireplace is the ultimate experience, complimented by farm-to-table dining, customized picnic lunches and unpacking services so you never have to lift a finger. Pay a visit in the Autumn which is certainly the most picturesque time to visit and watch the leaves turn from your private in-room hot tub. Absolute bliss.
The Retreat At The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
For the truly discerning traveller who wants to capitalize on the rejuvenating benefits of the Blue Lagoon, it doesn’t get much better than the Lagoon Suite at The Retreat Hotel in Iceland. The hotel itself pays homage to its surroundings with an instantly calming landscape of greens, greys and slate. This Nordic escape takes decadence to a new level with guests treated to a soak in their own private lagoon! With a secluded spa built into an 800-year-old lava flow, the outdoor steam room and relaxation pods offers the ultimate respite for those who like to lounge in luxury. Not to mention, the lagoon backdrop makes for the ultimate Instagram setting. We can see those ‘likes’ coming in already!
Maharajah Pavilion, Raj Palace, India
Spanning 16,000 square feet, this apartment is fit for royalty – in fact it was originally built as a palace! With 4 floors connected by a private elevator, you can spend your time reading in the library or sunning yourself on the "pleasure pavilion" where you can take a dip in the jacuzzi located on a private roof top terrace with a panoramic view of the city. There is also a swimming pool and a private spa adjoining it. Brimming with gold and silver furniture, the regal feel will ensure you feel like the Queen you are!
Private lagoons, slides, spas, art collections and palaces – for those who like luxury, these five destinations are sure to inspire wanderlust! Happy adventures…
