Wanderlust: 21 Luxury & Boutique Hotels to Visit in 2021

January 10, 2021
Jeremy Wells

With travel suspended in 2020, travel enthusiasts have been itching to go out and explore the world out there. With things returning slowly to normal, travel opportunities have started to open up again. Hotels and resorts have started to reopen their doors, welcoming guests from all over the world, promising to provide a safe and sumptuous experience. If you are looking for luxury hotels to unwind yourself from the stress of 2020, you have certainly come to the right place.

Here is a list of 21 luxury and boutique hotels across every continent; all readying themselves to begin serving guests beginning 2021.

1. Aman, New York

Opening: 1st Quarter of 2021
Website: www.aman.com/resorts/aman-new-york

Expected to open its doors in early 2021, is the new urban sanctuary- Aman New York. Housed in the Crown Building, this modern architectural marvel is situated at the heart of Manhattan, around the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street. Among its many luxurious amenities, the 2300 square feet spa spanning across three stories, has certainly become a talking point among people. The Jazz Bar, the Garden Terrace facing Central Park, and a jovial Italian restaurant named Arva promise to bring the serenity of Aman to the busy city life.

2. Castello di Reschio, Italy

Opening: April 2021
Website: www.reschio.com/the-castle

This 10th-century castle reimagined as a luxurious hotel by the owner and architect Benedikt Bolza located in Umbria, Italy is all in readiness to be introduced to the world in April 2021. The hotel offers various kinds of suites, but the most eye-catching among them is the Tower Suite, a five-floor suite with an open-air tub and a roof garden. The old wine cellars of the castle have been transformed into a therapeutic bath-house. The outdoor swimming pool is sandwiched between mature trees and gardens, imparting an experience of swimming in the wild. The hotel follows the farm-to-table policy as far as meals are considered. This would certainly grow to become a much sought after retreat in Italy.

3. The Farmyard at Newt, Somerset

Opening: Spring, 2021
Website: https://thenewtinsomerset.com/

Conceptualized by the South African baron, Koos Bekker, and his interior designer wife Karen Roos, the Newt offers the pleasure of countryside living in a transformed Georgian house in Somerset, England. The Cyder bar overlooking the cyder orchards and picturesque Somerset hills is one of the finest in the world using modern technology to preserve the subtle cyder flavors. With its breathtaking view, the gardens here at Newt offer an exquisite view of the hills as you live your slow and peaceful hill life.

4. Kalesma Mykonsos, Greece

Opening: April 2021
Website: https://www.kalesmamykonos.com/

If you are looking for a sanctuary amidst nature, the Kalesma Mykonsos answers your call. With just 27 rooms to offer, this hotel redefines luxury. Each room offers an awe-inspiring view with the hotel itself being located on a hilltop. You can spend time contemplating while you lie in your personal heated pool inside the room itself. Inspired by Mykonsos glamour, this aesthetically designed stay overlooks the Aegean Sea. with amenities like in-room spas and private yoga and training sessions, the hotel provides a complete wellness solution to its guests.

5. Matild Palace, Hungary

With a blend of luxury and authenticity, the Matild Palace serves as a perfect getaway to explore Budapest. The twin building of Matild and Klotild was built during the Belle Epoque era and the Matild was later transformed into luxury hotels and is now a part of the Marriot chain of hotels. The palace is also listed as a world heritage site. With amenities like a dedicated fitness area and spa, the hotel is all set to become one of the go-to stays for people visiting Budapest.

6. Montage Big Sky, Montana

Opening: Winter, 2021
Website: www.montagehotels.com/destinations/big-sky/

This all-year-round mountain heaven is just a half-hour drive away from the Yellowstone National Park. Along with a ski-in and ski-out access to the area, activities like mountain biking, wildlife spotting, fly-fishing, and Nordic skiing are worth indulging in. With 150 guestrooms and 39 residential suites, the hotel provided amenities like wellness spas with special treatment rooms. With a lounge, a bar, a pub, and a bowling alley, this can be a flawless escape into the mountains.

7. One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro

Opening: March 2021
Website: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/portonovi

Tapping into recent health and wellness trends in the hotel industry, this wellness-focused hotel offers a complete wellness treatment which is a blend of Chinese medicine and Western techniques. With a holistic approach to well-being, the hotel offers experiences such as al-fresco yoga and movement and exercise classes. With emerald valleys and terracotta rooftops, the hotel resonates with the mesmerizing view of the Boka Bay. you can behold the beauty of nature as you luxuriate effortlessly by your warmly lit fireplace in your room.

Palacio de Canavezes Portugal

8. Palacio de Canavezes, Portugal

Opening: May 2021
Website: https://www.campbellgrayhotels.com/

A part of the Campbell Grey Hotels, Palacio de Canavezes is stationed at the edge of Douro Valley, on the banks of River Tamega. With 52 river-view rooms, apartments, and suites, this hotel provides a retreat to guests relishing the hot thermal springs situated below the hotel. With amenities such as thermal spas, saunas, relaxation rooms, indoor pools, and treatment rooms, the hotel is keen on serving its guests with a complete wellness solution that enhances their well-being.

9. Patina, Maldives

Opening: During the second quarter of 2021
Website: https://patinahotels.com/

This phenomenal ocean resort designed by Brazilian architect, Marcio Kogan is located within the Fari Islands, which would take 50 minutes of speedboat riding from Maldives airport. With 90 private villas, the hotel offers a secluded and romantic getaway from your mundane life. You could relax in your own private sanctuary or if you are one of those social bees, you could also indulge in the island life with the beach club and boutiques. The hotel provides a peaceful and transcendent experience that helps you rejuvenate.

10. Rocco Forte Villa Igiea, Sicily

Originally built in the Belle Epoque era by Ernesto Basile as a private mansion, this hotel was reimagined by an Anglo Italian hotelier alongside his interior designer sister Olga Polizzi. Situated at the foot of Mount Pellegrino, the hotel offers a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Palermo. This 72 room and 28 suite hotel is a coastal delight and a blend of contemporary design with periodical characteristics. The menu here also reflects a perfect integration of traditional recipes and modern flair.

11. Rosewood Sao Paulo, Brazil

Opening: June 2021
Website: www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/sao-paulo

The Rosewood is a 20th-century building turned into a luxury urban oasis by architect Jean Nouvel. The most appealing feature of this hotel is the state of the art and futuristic vertical garden. With six restaurants and bars, eight unique event spaces, and an outdoor swimming pool, the Rosewood is an awaited luxury hotel. The Asaya Signature Wellness concept is incorporated into the wellness program which seeks to provide its guests with a supreme wellness experience.

12. Zannir Hotels Bai San Ho, Vietnam

Opening: Early 2021
Website: www.zannierhotels.com/en/bai-san-ho/

This 71 suite hotel offers three different types of villas – Hill Pool Villa, Beach Pool Villa, and Paddy Field Villa each with a different landscape view. With the mesmerizing view of the untouched coral bay, this resort offers a culinary experience. It offers a wide range of water and beach experiences ranging from fishing, surfing, water skiing, snorkeling, and canoeing. With recreational activities like tennis courts and yoga studios, it also provides its guests with a supreme wellness experience through its spa area, sauna, relaxation zone, and hammam.

13. Chatwal Lodge, New York

Opening: April 2021
Website: www.thechatwallodge.com/

Running along the wooded shores of Toronto Reservoir, The Chatwal Lodge in Bethel, NY is nestled between the Chaplin Estate gates. This hideaway is a perfect integration of nature with modern life. With thick trunked 40 feet, pine trees rising from the floor to ceiling reminds one of the harmonies needed between nature and human presence, and the fireplaces built with huge stones and hand-hewn timber, imparts the lodge a rustic vibe. Amenities like ayurvedic services, spas, and “farm to table policy” focus on enhancing the wellness of its guests.

14. Kisawa Sanctuary, Mozambique

Opening: Early 2021
Website: https://kisawasanctuary.com/

This perfect blend of wilderness and well-being runs along the eastern coast of Africa on the southern tip of Benguerra island. Housing an untouched ecosystem, this is a 300-hectare hideout amidst forests, beaches, and sand dunes. With its immersive and inclusive approach, the hotel looks to integrate nature rather than invade it. You can choose to unwind in your own 4000 square feet bungalow with a private beach.

15. Kruger Shalati, South Africa

Opening: Early 2021
Website: www.krugershalati.com

Permanently stationed on the Salati Bridge over the Sabie River, this hotel has reimagined a vintage train into a luxurious experience for its guests. Along with 24 carriage rooms and 7 Bridge House Rooms, the hotel also offers a swimming pool right above the River. This provides an unparalleled experience of swimming in the wild. This unique hotel concept re-establishes the African culture and heritage while providing a lavish experience.

16. Pelorus, Australia

Opening: Mid 2021
Website: www.northernescape.com.au/

Located on a private island, this eight-room luxurious lodge is accessible only by a private plane. A perfect means to indulge in the rich landscapes and wilderness of Queensland, you could spend time exploring the island or snorkeling the reefs. With beachside villas nestled between fresh banyan trees provide a close-to-nature experience to the guests. You could also rent one of the magnificent yachts and go on to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

17. Ritz Carlton Reserve Niseko, Japan

With floor to ceiling windows overlooking the serene mountains, this Ritz Carlton property provides opportunities for backcountry mountain experiences like skiing and snowboarding. With hiking, horse-riding, and cycling, guests could soak in the beauty of Mount Yotei or Niseko Annupuri. An indoor spa and access to hot springs around the region combined with the hotel’s warmth and hospitality make it a much sought after escape in the beautiful landscapes of Niseko.

18. Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, French West Indies

Opening: Summer 2021
Website: www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/le-guanahani

This luxurious haven is all set to reopen this summer after being hit by hurricane Maria and Irma. This 18-acre peninsula offers 66 rooms and villas, many with a private pool. Opening with new amenities like beachfront dining, tennis courts, kids play area, fitness areas, and wellness dedicated spas, this sumptuous hotel is surrounded by two breathtaking beaches. Guests could go on discovering St. Barth through town excursions, water sports, and hiking.

19. Waldorf Astoria Cancun, Mexico

This 100-acre high-end beachfront resort celebrates the rich Mexican heritage. With five restaurants and bars including sumptuous seafood fine dining, you could indulge in some traditional Mexican delicacies. With two pools and a spa practicing age-old Mexican healing techniques, the hotel also focuses on the well-being and wellness of its guests. This 178-room palatial resort offers amenities such as outdoor pools, fitness centers, business centers, and meeting rooms.

20. Zulal Wellness Resort, Qatar

Opening: First Quarter of 2021
Website: www.zulal.com

Focusing on the age-old Islamic Medicine integrated with a holistic approach, the Zulal Wellness Resort is a wellness escape located along the northern coastline of Qatar in the Middle East. The resort helps you reset your busy lifestyle and find calm within the chaos of urban life. Designed by Thai Spa specialist- Chiva Som, Zulal offers a wide range of wellness treatments from weight loss, fitness to calm and serenity.

21. Xigera, Botswana

Opening: First Quarter of 2021
Website: https://xigera.com/

Etched in the wildlife setting of Moremi Game Reserve, are 12 magnificent suites celebrating African art and culture. With generous hospitality, one could absorb the vibrant wildlife amidst luxury and relaxation. Carefully handcrafted and designed, the resort’s setting in the wild is a serene experience for all wildlife lovers. With an unparalleled Safari experience, the Xigera is a perfect spot for you to find calm amidst the rushing wildlife experience.

We are pretty sure that the traveler in you has been awoken by these mouth-watering offerings from some of the best luxury and boutique resorts and hotels in the world. Grab your bags, and enjoy all that these hotels promise to offer.

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Jeremy Wells

Partner at Longitude°

Jeremy is the author of Future Hospitality and Brand Strategist at Longitude°. As a member of the Education Committee for The Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA) and a content contributor to Cornell University’s Hospitality Vision and Concept Design graduate program, he is a committed thought leader in hotel branding, concepting, and experience strategy.