5 Ultra Luxurious Stays in Unexpected Locations 

Ready to venture off the beaten track? Take luxury to new heights in some of the world’s most underrated locations. 

From the Maldives to Monaco: some destinations are simply synonymous with luxury. But beyond the obvious lies a whole world of unbeatable exclusivity, just waiting to be discovered. A mountaintop spa high in the Swiss Alps awaits to pamper guests among the clouds. A converted palace warmly welcomes intrepid explorers to discover the Indian state of Rajasthan in elevated style. And Montenegro charms with its very own answer to Lake Como. From One&Only to Mandarin Oriental: these are the most luxurious stays in the world’s most unexpected locations. 

Discover more: Our Ultra Lux collection awaits. 

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan, India: palatial luxury amid ancient history  

Live like a maharaja at Six Senses Fort Barwara, a beautiful 14^th-century fort, sensitively converted to a five-star sanctuary of wellbeing. Take in stunning lake and temple views as you explore the resort grounds, incorporating two palaces and temples, a 30,000-sq ft spa offering Ayurvedic treatments, and a high-end selection of bars and restaurants. Get to know Rajasthan, India’s largest state, home to majestic forts and palaces, tigers that roam sprawling reserves and magnetic cities like Jaipur and Udaipur. Aptly named the Land of Kings, Rajasthan is the perfect spot to live like royalty.  

COMO Uma Paro, Bhutan: sweeping valley views and spirituality  

At COMO Uma Paro, feel the power of the people and nature that make Bhutan what it is: a vast land of sweeping Himalaya views, Buddhist traditions and colourful festivals. The ultra-luxe resort offers a collection of rooms, suites and villas boasting the work of local artisans, a lush green valley backdrop and seasonally driven dining that utilises produce from the organic kitchen garden and local farmers. The historic town of Paro encapsulates the unique spirit of Bhutan in its ancient temples and monasteries, terraced paddy fields and quaint farmhouses.  

One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro: riviera-style waterfront luxe  

Known as Europe’s most fashionable new riviera, Portonovi’s Boka Bay is the ideal location for a renowned One&Only luxury resort. Take in glittering views of the Adriatic Sea from a collection of ultra-luxe rooms, suites and villas, and enjoy waterfront relaxation in this hidden gem, reminiscent of Lake Como (without the crowds). Onsite restaurants serve everything from Japanese fusion to Italian classics, while the Chenot Espace spa is a palace of pampering, with a range of pioneering treatments on offer. Local attractions include forest hikes, pristine beaches and cobbled streets lined with fresco-filled churches. 

Mandarin Oriental, Prague, Czech Republic: fairytale palaces meet Asian opulence 

Discover the palaces and gardens of the Czech Republic’s resplendent capital while staying in utmost comfort at Mandarin Oriental, Prague. Located in the historic Mala Strana district, the stunning hotel is your gateway to architectural marvels like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and the buildings of Old Town Square. After days spent treading the city streets, return to an opulent sanctuary of exquisite Asian-inspired onsite dining and signature treatments at the spa. The backdrop of fairytale spires and blooming gardens are the cherry on top.  

7132 Hotel Vals, Switzerland: a discreet spa retreat in an authentic mountain village 

Discover a discreet hideaway high in the Swiss mountains at 7132 Hotel Vals. Suites offer unobstructed views of the surrounding Alps and are finished with a high-end architectural edge. 7132 Dining is the onsite destination for epicureans, delighting refined palates with locally foraged produce at Silver, timeless classics at Red, a 10-course tasting menu complemented by Cristal champagne at Cristal and the best pizza in town at daPapà. The mountain village of Vals is a hotspot for skiing and hiking – after a day of activities, return to the hotel for a soak in the highly mineralised waters of its thermal baths and an extensive spa menu of treatments.   

Looking for more inspiration? Discover the 10 Hidden Cruise Ports You Need to Visit in 2024.