14 European Hotels on my Wishlist this Summer
An Interior Designer’s armchair excursions around the Mediterranean…
It’s Summer in London. The time of year we (entirely foolishly) brave tshirts, no socks and chance leaving the house without an umbrella. Alas, despite the recent good fortune, the majority of summer has been typically underwhelming on the weather front.
Unsurprisingly then that I find myself spending lunch breaks and office commutes browsing for new hotel openings and flight offers to fulfil my Mediterranean cravings. Leisurely holiday planning is a genuine hobby; the complete unfeasibility and delusions of grandeur aside.
There really is something about summer in Europe. Slow days by the sea that casually blend into informal evenings always over good food. There are a few different types of people when it comes to holidays; the “let’s meet at 5am in the lobby for a hike”, the all-inclusive kids club (you know the ones). And also, of which I passionately excel in, the lazy and hazy.
Although predominately aesthetically driven, I look for hotels that offer a complete sense of transportation. The somewhat cliché “lifestyle hotel” may be a current trend but hotels are offering something very different in today’s market. The interior design world is seamlessly blending residential and hospitality, work and play all whilst prioritising comfort. Curated experiences and wellbeing are at the forefront of many hotel concepts, where local produce is celebrated on menus, meditation and yoga classes feature daily and sensory design is considered throughout.
With one eye on Skyscanner and the other on Instagram, I’ve collated an edit of the destinations topping my 2024 travel list.
Please note you may need to open this one on a web browser. I got carried away and reached the email limit very quickly.
1. Passalacqua, Lake Como
A taste of La Dolce Vita. Sensitively restored, this 18th century villa is truly exquisite. Tucked away from the tourist hustle of Lake Como, Passalacqua presents itself as a restorative retreat. Each of the 3 buildings, and the 24 suites within them, offer an immersive Italian experience boasting the country’s finest material and craftsmanship in it’s architecture, décor and art, balancing simplicity with grandeur whilst not in the least ostentatious. Classic Italian cookery features on the menu in a setting guests describe as “like eating amongst close friends”. Most spectacularly however, is the enchanting view over Lake Como which glistens magically in the background. Nestled within seven acres of gardens, the scent of olive groves, roses, magnolia and jasmine carry through the grounds with the breeze. Unsurprisingly, this hotel regularly tops lists of the world’s greatest hotels and it’s quite easy to see why.
Book your stay here
Amenities : Terraced gardens, outdoor 65 foot pool (with those views), subterranean spa and tennis courts
Insider tip : Whilst a private boat trip on the lake is a given, the hotel also offers film screenings and flower arranging workshops as well as cheese and wine tasting. When in Rome… (ish)
Nearest international airport : Milan Malpensa Airport
2. São Lourenço do Barrocal, Alentejo, Portugal
Set within the remote Alentejo landscape, this farmhouse retreat aspires to make their guests leaving with a renewed sense of purpose in life. Quality produce is grown on site, authentically reconnecting visitors with our intimate surroundings. Interior design prioritises our relationship with the landscape, maximising views, using earthy palettes and natural materials. Activities on offer span the breadths of the farms lifestyle from nest making for the sites 75 different bird species to sheep yarn workshops and beekeeping to grape harvesting. Understated luxury is the message here, with a focus on community and nature as opposed of the opulent frills we often associate with the highest rated hotels.
Amenities : A spa using only natural, organic products, an olive mill private event space, garden restaurant and a farm shop selling the site’s produce
Insider tip : Enjoy the farm to table experience in the garden restaurant after a day of horse riding, harvesting or even a hot air balloon ride!
Nearest international airport : Lisbon Portela Airport
3. Mythic Hotel, Paros
Nestled into the Paros hillside, the Mythic hotel offers panoramic views over the island itself and the Aegean Sea. Boutique hospitality meets Cycladic charm and tradition. From arrival, the Mythic offers an immersive experience, with a philosophy centred on discovery and reconnection. Eco-conscious decision making has been made throughout from produce to material selection to management. The magic arrives when the island starts to glow as the sun lowers and both locals and visitors flock to the hotel terrace lounge bars.
Amenities : Tranquil landscaping, tiered cave suites, cascading pool, luxury spa, gym and fitness studios
Insider tip : Take the 30 minute ferry from Paros harbour over to Antiparos to eat at renowned ‘The Rooster’
Nearest international airport : Mykonos International Airport
4. Mamula Island, Montenegro
Causing a somewhat controversial reaction, this 1850’s fortress has been entirely reimagined by Lisbon design studio, MCM and Berlin practise, weStudio. Originally constructed as a guard to the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site nonetheless, Mamula Island has a varied history. Most notably, as an Italian prison camp used by Mussolini during the Second World War. Although the site had remained empty since the 1970s, many survivors opposed the restoration when plans were revealed. However, the refurbishment was treated sensitively and respectfully, drawing inspiration from local culture, crafts and techniques.
Each of the 32 rooms maximise the views over the incredible coastline. Rooms vary in grandeur with the most executive suites containing private two seat cinema rooms. Private terraces even feature telescopes for star gazing at the end of the night. Material palettes are formed of natural, earthy tones and finishes, rugs from North Africa and vintage furniture sourced across the continent. Artwork was commissioned from students at the local University of Montenegro Faculty of Fine Arts, championing local talent.
Amenities : Three restaurants including a poolside bar, fine dining restaurant and the Sun Deck, three swimming pools, Pinea Bar, holistic spa, gym and fitness studio
Insider tip : Arrive in style and get a speedboat to the hotel straight from the airport! Nearest international airport : Tivat Airport
5. Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca
Perfectly manicured grounds, a charming 16th century site and the most incredible views overlooking Deia village below sets this delightful hotel apart from its competition. Once owned by Richard Branson, I can’t take any discovery credit for this one, as I’m sure it’s already on your radar. Art inspires much of the hotel, with a vast collection on display, workshops for visitors and an artist in residence studio. The experience of each individual guest is very much considered with a huge variety of classes on offer from wine tasting to walking tours. The creativity and artistry extends beyond the galleries into the kitchen where Mediterranean cuisine spans the menu in each of the restaurants and is best enjoyed on the outdoor terrace immersed in the landscaping.
Amenities : Two pools, four restaurants, bar, tennis courts, gym, spa and wellness centre
Insider tip : Take advantage of the daily boat tour offered by the hotel to explore the islands coastline and the swim in the turquoise seas Mallorca is famous for
Nearest international airport : Palma Mallorca Airport
6. Borgo Pignano, Tuscany
Rooted in local heritage, Borgo Pignano offers the best of Tuscany. Situated on a 750-hectare estate of farmlands, vineyards and gardens, the hotel celebrates its surroundings with menus built around local produce, employees hired from nearby towns and every aspect built around the incredible views. From the cocktail bar to the restaurant, the amenities of the hotel feel comfortably immersed in the landscape with all of its flavours and fragrances. Borgo Pignano make a conscious effort to discourage technology to allow guests to fully detach from the chaos of daily life. Every detail considers user experience and different preferences on how people like to interact when on holiday. Rooms and suites vary to suite large groups or those seeking a quiet break. One restaurant runs like a family kitchen where guests gather together, whilst the other offers a more formal, traditional approach. Rustic charm is the vibe here with a familiarity allowing guests to feel at home.
Amenities : Cocktail bar, restaurants, billiard room, gym, spa, infinity pool and stables with horses to explore the estate
Insider tip : Hire or a car or arrange a driver to take you into San Gimignano, a Natural Heritage of UNESCO Tuscan hillside town enclosed within 13th century walls
Nearest international airport : Florence Airport
7. Palacio Ramalhete, Lisbon
Lisbon is without a doubt one of my favourite European cities. Small enough to explore but with new bars, restaurants, galleries and art centres opening, there is more than enough to make you want to return. Situated in one of Lisbon’s prettiest neighbourhoods, Palacio Ramalhete captures the beauty and charm of Portugal’s distinct architecture with it’s hand painted patterned azuela tiles, perfectly preserved intricate ceilings, grand doorways and flagstone flooring. Each suite has been created with a unique identity reflecting the individual character of the room. Courtyards and patios are lined with greenery and informal furniture, where guests often enjoy a buffet breakfast or food throughout the day. Apparently Madonna had a temporary residency here, so if it’s good enough for Madge....
Amenities : Internal courtyard, bar and restaurant, small heated pool and roof terrace
Insider tip : Escape the city for a few hours and get the train out to the coastal town of Cascais for a day on the beach and a late lunch by the sea
Nearest international airport : Lisbon Portela Airport
8. Lily of the Valley , Cote d’Azur
Lily of the Valley markets itself as a restorative retreat with programmes centred on health and wellbeing, whilst still featuring cocktails on the menu. Lifestyle cleanse routines are very much at the forefront of the hotel’s concept with a programme constructed around their “four pillars” ; health, diet, sports and wellness treatments. A short distance from St Tropez, the hotel offers all the indulgence and glam you would associate with the coastal town, but balanced with a quiet, refined luxury. Each suite and building blends into the landscape and the hotel service hones in on local people and culture creating a relaxed experience for all guests.
Amenities : Two swimming pools, a private beach club, the Wellness Village hosting a multitude of treatment rooms for body and skin, studios, fitness classes and ‘Vista’ restaurant inspired by the views over the coast below
Insider tip : Embrace the experience and opt in for body analysis and diet plans for long lasting wellness that goes further than a mini break
Nearest international airport : Toulon-Hyères Airport
9. Domes Zeen Chania, Crete
Bohemian and laid back in style, this hotel was originally designed and built by luxury chain Casa Cook (whilst they are not on this shortlist, I also want to visit each of their remaining sites!) and since taken over by Mariott. The name itself derives from a classic Greek term for wellbeing, el zeen. Materials are a considered balance of brutalist concrete and stone contrasted against timbers, biophilia and rattan. Taking inspiration from the surrounding Greek villages, the resorts layout configures bungalows up the terraced hillside creating private terraces between them, all leading down to the beachside pool and restaurant. Nothing is over designed but instead exudes simple luxury.
Amenities : Restaurants, beach, pool, outdoor gym and spa and even golf buggies to take you around the site
Insider tip : My boyfriend’s family are Greek Cypriot and his mum’s favourite dessert is Koumpania, essentially a small honey covered donut. Be sure to try these on the menu!
Nearest international airport : Chania Airport
10. Nobis Hotel Palma
Designed by Stockholm based studio, Wingårdhs, the Nobis Hotel in Palma boasts it’s Spanish culture but with a Scandinavian flair of simplicity, consideration and craft respecting the Gothic and Baroque architectural history. Stone walls and mosaic details have been retained with warmth adding in furnishings, planting and soft lighting. Restoration is at the heart of the building as well as the visitor experience. The design exudes calmness. The subterranean spa utilises redundant escape tunnels running underneath the building and has been transformed into saunas, hydrotherapy jet pools and treatment rooms. Positioned in the heart of Palma’s old town, the roof terrace takes advantage of views over the port making it the perfect spot to catch sunset to the soundtrack of the in house DJ.
Amenities : Lounges, terraces, restaurant, bar, spa, rooftop bar and courtyard plunge pool
Insider tip : Set your alarm and join the sunrise yoga in the hotel’s courtyard
Nearest international airport : Palma Mallorca Airport
11. San Domenico Palace, Sicily
OK so this one may require a significantly more substantial budget. But I did say this was a wishlist right? Despite starting in life in the late 1800’s, the hotel’s recent appearance in White Lotus, has brought a new generation of people lusting over the infinity pool, palm trees, piano bar and perfectly pristine parasols. The terraced grounds set into the Taormina hillside presents views over the towns, the sea and Mount Etna in the distance. The view itself is celebrated throughout the hotel, most notably from private terraces where the sea and hillside towns are framed in an arched opening. Rich in colour and bold in texture, the interior exudes opulence. Historic artwork and vintage furniture are paired with modern comfort and exceptional service. So whilst the price tag may be debatable, it definitely has a place on this list!
Amenities : Swimming pool, gym, spa, jewellery store, piano bar
Insider tip : Don’t watch White Lotus before you visit! There are many aspects of the series which are purely fictional including private beaches.
Nearest international airport : Catania International Airport
12. Naxian on the Beach, Naxos
Authentic island living is balanced with luxury at the Naxian on the Beach. In true Greek style, food is at the heart of the hotel’s concept offering guests a culinary experience celebrating international cuisine with inspiration coming from Japan to Mexico by a Michelin-starred chef. The bohemian aesthetic of natural materials, rattan, bamboo is mirrored in the relaxed and low-key approach. Whilst there is no pool, golden sands and a shimmering bright blue as well as the terrace hot tubs ensure it’s not missed.
Amenities : Beach, bar, restaurant, spa services, fitness studios
Insider tip : Stock up on beach reads as once you settle into a hammock, you’ll unlikely want to move!
Nearest international airport : Mykonos International Airport
13. César Hotel, Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s newly opened Cesar hotel boasts a different style of boutique hotel. Less laid back than those on Naxos or Sicily, but not quite as formal and styled as Saint Tropez, the Cesar instead brings a modern elegance to the island’s hotel market. Vibrant colours within the interior design contrast against the volcanic landscaping. The configuration of the hotel is playful and encourages interaction with guests as they weave their way around the building and its grounds. Naturally seafood is celebrated in the kitchen and the wine list extensively features local wines.
Amenities : Restaurant, swimming pool, open-air gym
Insider tip : Use one of the hotel’s free electric bikes to explore Timanfaya National Park.
Nearest international airport : Lanzarote Airport
14. Maslina Resort, Hvar
Hvar is a celebrity hot spot with Beyonce and Jay Z even naming daughter, Blue Ivy, after a tree on one of the island’s resorts. And it’s easy to see why with its crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches and cultural heritage. The founders of the Maslina aspire to recreate the magic they felt when they first arrived on the island, providing an authentic experience that stays with each of their guests. Local materials are celebrated here with a palette of Crotian Oak, terracotta, marble and limestone sourced from Brac. The island’s landscaping feels just as integral to the design with the resort blending in with its surroundings and a seafront organic garden providing produce for both the restaurant and the spas. Even the uniforms are designed and made by local fashion designers. Guests are given extensive wellness inductions where their lifestyle routines are reviewed and treatments and new practises are explored.
Amenities : Wellness classes, gym, pools, restaurant, bars, library, wine tasting and children’s workshops
Insider tip : I cannot recommend island hopping around Croatia more, but make sure to borrow one of the resorts bikes to explore the island’s less touristy spots away from the main ports and harbours.
Nearest international airport : Split International Airport (note the hotel can also arrange private speedboat transfers from the airport)
Do let me know what’s on your wishlist for the next few months. Not that I need any encouragement to grow this highly ambitious list.
I’m now off to enjoy a chilled glass of Sauvignon and sign off for the weekend. I promise to get a little more regular at posting. I have at least 15 drafts sat in my iphone notes with ideas that I just never seem to get around to finishing off. But I’ll get there one day! Sx
Photo credit on cover image : Lucy Laucht