Now, love comes in different shapes and sizes, and people celebrate it in various ways. Often when we think of love, it’s the romantic ideals that come to mind. However, self-love is equally, if not more important than these other notions. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we wanted to take a moment to highlight small hotels to stay in or visit. Suppose you are single and seeking a well-deserved treat, a family wanting to take it in turns to connect and enjoy yourselves, a couple seeking to divulge in an experience or friends gathering in the name of love. In that case, we have a selection of places to consider. Let us all remember that this goes beyond Valentine’s Day.
Hotel Le Coucou Meribel
Love thy family
Le Coucou Meribel is a 5-star boutique hotel situated on the slopes of Meribel and is an excellent option for family love. First, there are the glorious mountainous views and those of the valley. Secondly, the traditional chalet has a stunning private pool, Tata Harper Spa and two restaurants. We mustn’t forget the kid clubs also available, giving young ones the opportunity to meet others and parents to have some time alone on the slopes, dining or at the spa. In fact, the hotel offers family-focused spa packages with children learning how to benefit from deep relaxation.
Elivi Skiathos
Love thyself and family
Elivi Skiathos on the scenic island of Sporades, Greece, offers guests wanting a secluded space to unwind, a marvellous haven surrounded by nature’s beauty. Understated luxury is what guests can expect at the 5-star hotel nestled on a hilltop on the Pounta Peninsula overlooking the Aegean Sea. Elvi is an eco-friendly resort that respects the natural elements of its surroundings and is conscious of energy use. Guests can go hiking or cycling around the 25 marked natural terrains or horseriding via a local provider. That’s not all; family members can participate in daily yoga sessions at the open-air gym with sea views. Then, of course, there is the beach and the sea to enjoy. The hotel opens in May 2022.
Villa Cora
Love thyself and thy family
If romance is at the top of your list, Villa Cora is a majestic centuries-old hotel in Florence, Italy. Thanks to the regal artwork, elaborate colour, Baroque references, and bespoke detailing, every inch of the palatial establishment is brimming with elegance. The aristocratic residence is suitable for families; however, we believe this hotel goes above and beyond for couples wanting to spoil themselves in a magical setting. Even the common rooms are vibrant and attractive. Villa Cora houses a spa, hammam, several pools, and a menu of massages and special treatments. There is a pool bar, Le Bistrot restaurant and the Bellevue rooftop Terrace, which has a glorious view of Florence, a romantic setting indeed.
OMMA Santorini
Love thyself and thy partner
If discreet luxury is on the top of this list, OMMA Santorini is a must. The fairly new hotel is a spa haven surrounded by magnificent natural beauty, which truly epitomises the Cycladic islands. This boutique hotel is ideal for those wanting a sanctuary with exceptional services. With just 25 intimate rooms and suites, guests have privacy. It serves as a romantic retreat, where visitors can enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the Aegean Sea and romantic sunsets.
RAKxa
Love thyself
Your doctor will thank you for this visit, as RAKxa is one of Bangkok’s finest fully integrative wellness & medical retreats. Certified medical doctors from VitalLife, a subsidiary of Bumrungrad International Hospital, tailor wellness programmes and pair cutting-edge practices with holistic therapies reflective of Thailand. Transformative experiences range from personalised three to fourteen-day programmes. These focus on various health goals such as Gut Health, Immunity Boosting, Body Solution, Facial Solution and De-Stress.
Gainsborough Spa
Love thy partner
Couples can shower each other in love and appreciation at The Townhouse, part of The Gainsborough Bath Spa. The Georgian property exudes elegance, offering luxurious mod cons and five-star hotel service. Several bedrooms span across 4 floors of the private accommodation, providing a peaceful stay. One of the most outstanding aspects of the hotel is the exclusive access guests have to Cross Bath, a private, historic open-air thermal bath, lovingly restored in 1999. Three thermal pools are available for guests to unwind, wade and rest, with one of them impressively set under a glass roof. Saunas, massages, and Asian-influenced therapies are on the menu for those who want to indulge in the city entirely.
www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk
Soneva Kiri
Love thyself and thy family
Luxury meets eco-friendly at the pristine and ever conscious Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood Thailand. An hour away from Bangkok by plane, the impeccable resort considers all the family. Those with children can take advantage of the Den and Eco Den, designed to create something memorable and magical during their stay. Think bamboo playground, with instruments, visual arts and the opportunity to embark on various learning experiences. The Eco Den is tailored towards smaller ones from 1 to 5 years old and is managed by qualified children experts. Other unique activities include snorkelling, a mushroom cave lunch, a private cinema paradise and their Soneva Kiri idyllic spa.
Octant Vila Monte
Love thyself and thy family
We enjoyed staying at Octant Vila Monte, a remote boho-chic farmhouse in Portugal, Algarve. What is quite fascinating is their attention to detail. From the initial point of contact to the personal recommendations at check-in and throughout your stay, guests receive highly attentive service. The property has two outdoor swimming pools, luscious green gardens, a gym and a farm where you can pick your produce. They also host various events dependent on the season, such as wine tasting and an open-air cinema. This is an excellent hotel if you want to relax and integrate with locals at your own pace, hang out with friends or enjoy time with the family. They also serve delicious Portuguese cuisine at their Á Terra restaurant, which is beautiful at night under the blanket of stars.
Monkey Island Estate
Love thyself and thy partner
There are lots of pockets to Monkey Island by Berkshire’s river Thames. Last year, the team renovated one of the estate’s handcrafted Shepherd’s Huts into a cosy retreat, ideal for couples looking to spend quality time together. Guests can book huts on the heritage estate for an array of celebrations. The huts act as a nook to cosy in by the fire on cooler days and a place to relax and unwind with a drink or two in the summer. The Floating Spa is also available for guests that want to indulge during their stay. Treatments range from signature Monks Elixir –Booze, Botany and Beauty, a full body massage with house-cured herbal oil and essential oils to relieve stiffness and improve mobility.