5 private estates across the British Isles for unforgettable group getaways

When you're planning a gathering that matters, the right setting makes all the difference. A milestone birthday, a multi-generational reunion, or a festive escape deserves more than a hotel suite and a shared corridor. It deserves a place of your own.

The most iconic 'set-jetting' hotels where the fantasy comes to life

Some hotels do more than appear on screen - they define the fantasy. From Sicily's White Lotus glamour to Bond's floating palace in Udaipur, these are the places where film, television, and real-world luxury meet, and where the experience lives up to the reputation.

Spotlight on: Son Bunyola

Located on the island’s quieter north-west coast, this 810-acre estate belongs to Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition collection and sits within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tramuntana mountains, around 45 minutes from Palma. What makes it stand out is the combination of space, privacy, and substance: this is a place with real landscape, real heritage, and a strong sense of calm. 

Discover Castelfalfi, a medieval Tuscan village reimagined

Tuscany has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, but few bring together history, landscape, and modern comfort quite like Castelfalfi. Set among rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, this resort is built around a restored medieval village and its castle. 

These are Japan’s most inspiring stays

Japan has never been more popular, and with good reason. These impressive properties represent four distinct registers of the country at its finest: imperial Kyoto, ryokan tradition beneath Mount Fuji, contemporary Osaka, and remote island luxury in the Ryukyus.

The art of the departure

The hours before a flight - queues, crowds, and the usual airport rituals - tend to chip away at the pleasure of travelling well. Two UK lounges set out to change that -aether at Manchester Airport and The Windsor at Heathrow. Both reimagine the airport experience as something calm, private, and entirely yours.

4 unmissable Four Seasons Resorts in the US

A Four Seasons stay always delivers, yet the brand's American resorts each have a very distinct personality, and that's exactly what makes them so special. To help narrow your search, we've picked four that cover all bases and speak to different guests. 

Spotlight on: Cheval Blanc Randheli

The Maldives offers no shortage of beautiful islands, yet Cheval Blanc Randheli stands apart for the way it treats art, design, and privacy as one quiet whole. Set within the Noonu Atoll and surrounded by turquoise water, this Maison feels considered in every detail, from its architecture to its tables. 

The world's most rewarding rail journeys

There's a particular pleasure in travelling slowly when you could easily fly. The world's great luxury trains turn the journey itself into the destination, pairing impeccable service with dining that rivals fine restaurants, beautifully crafted interiors, and scenery that shifts hour by hour outside your window.

The ultimate private island escape at Jumby Bay

There are very few Caribbean resorts that manage to feel genuinely removed from the world while still offering a high level of service, dining, and flexibility. Jumby Bay, a 300-acre private island just off the coast of Antigua, is one of them. 

The best new hotels on Conde Nast Traveller's Hot List

Whether you fancy a restorative wellness retreat, cultural immersion in a historic city, or a secluded coastal sanctuary, this year's selection offers something exceptional. We’ve reviewed the latest additions to bring you five standout properties.

A refined retreat on the edge of Mykonos Town

Myconian Korali brings together the best of Mykonos, balancing the infectious energy of the island with luxurious exclusivity. A member of Relais & Châteaux, it sits just above Mykonos Town, close to the island’s restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife, while still feeling calm and private. 

Spotlight on: Castel Badia

Set within a carefully restored manor house in the Italian Dolomites, dating back to the year 1000, this retreat offers an exclusive experience that balances historical weight with contemporary refinement.

The world's finest One&Only resorts

Not all luxury resorts feel genuinely distinctive. One&Only does. Think private reserves, dramatic coastlines, mountain retreats, and classic beach hideaways, all delivered with a level of care that feels considered rather than showy. 

Extras that turn a holiday into an ultra-luxury experience

True ultra-luxury lies in the details - the bespoke touches and behind-the-scenes arrangements that elevate a trip from exceptional to utterly unforgettable. Here’s how Travel Counsellors can transform your next escape with these extraordinary extras.

Australia’s cities & private island experience

If you’re looking for a trip to Australia that combines the best of city life and private island indulgence, this is a good place to start. It explores two of the world’s most dynamic cities – Sydney and Melbourne - before transporting you to an exclusive island retreat in the Whitsundays.

Japan's Golden Route, reimagined

This journey is your personal path through the heart of Japan, a route where centuries of tradition meet the energy of the future. From the electric cityscapes of Tokyo to the reflective calm of Hiroshima, this itinerary has been crafted by your Travel Counsellor to reveal the country’s authentic soul.

Côte d'Azur and Provence, France

From the Riviera’s shimmering coastlines to the earthy richness of Provence, this road trip is designed to connect you to the soul of southern France. Drive from Nice along the riviera before heading inland to explore the areas around two of Provence’s big hitters, Aix-en-Provence and Avignon.

Safari special: Big cats

From the 'land of the lions' in Kruger National Park to the elusive black leopard in Kenya's Laikipia region, read on and see where a big cat adventure can take you and how we can make it special.

Safari special: Primates

Imagine seeing a silverback in the mountains of Rwanda or chimpanzees swinging through the canopy in Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park. We can tailor-make a world-class safari experience just for you.

Safari special: Gentle giants

Big, cumbersome and totally awe-inspiring, our planet’s gentle giants are a phenomena best seen in their natural habitat. If you want to spot elephants or whales, we know where to find them.

Safari special: Bears

Powerful, predatory and playful – seeing bears in the wild is spectacular. Tell us if you have a fascination for grizzly, black, or polar bears, and we can pair you with a wildlife expert to ensure you have the best chance of spotting one.

A luxury escape to Puglia

Puglia is known for its striking variety and beauty. You’ll find rolling hills dotted with farms, olive groves, and dry-stone walls, and villages rich in history. This itinerary features three diverse locations and you’ll be driven between them all.

The essence of Marrakech

From the intricate architecture of ancient palaces to the earthy aroma of bustling markets, this is Marrakech through the eyes of Travel Counsellors who know its rhythms and secrets. This seven night suggested itinerary gives you a real taste of the city.