For decades, people have come to southern Utah to experience the towering sandstone walls of Zion National Park. They arrived, hiked, admired the scenery, and continued on their way. Today, the region is evolving into a place you anchor your trip, not just pass through. The region stretches across one of the most geologically fascinating corners of the American Southwest, where the Colorado Plateau, the Mojave Desert, and the Great Basin converge, each layering onto the character of Zion.

The result is cinematic—a landscape so dramatically varied that every turn reveals something unexpected. That sense of discovery and possibility has become one of Greater Zion’s defining characteristics, with the region evolving to welcome those who no longer want their trips defined by adventure at the expense of comfort.

Zion’s emerging appeal lies in experiences that allow travelers to move, explore, recover, and reconnect—all within the same destination.

Instead, Zion’s emerging appeal lies in experiences that allow travelers to move, explore, recover, and reconnect—all within the same destination. Perhaps this evolution explains why Greater Zion has begun attracting a different kind of traveler, aided by the addition of Black Desert Resort. Golf lovers stay for bucket-list rounds unlike anywhere else in the world, with the option to add in top-tier wellness experiences and access to some of the country’s most exciting national park adventures.

The New Face of the American West

For those seeking dramatic natural beauty, meaningful outdoor adventure, and a destination that still feels refreshingly undiscovered, Greater Zion has become one of the American West’s most compelling destinations. With Black Desert Resort as your base, every day begins with the promise of discovery—and ends immersed in one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the country.

With 447 rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, and a 15,000-square-foot spa, it’s a world in and of itself.

The resort opened in 2024 in the town of Ivins, just outside St. George—less than 120 miles from Las Vegas and considered a top hub for exploring the American Southwest. Built across more than 600 acres of preserved volcanic terrain, Black Desert Resort rises from this corner of the desert. Every pathway, terrace, and panoramic window has been deliberately positioned to frame the ways in which Black Desert Resort has expertly married geology and design. This philosophy extends throughout the property—the largest resort in the state of Utah. With 447 rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, and a 15,000-square-foot spa, it’s a world in and of itself.

Interiors lean into warm desert tones, natural stone, and striking onyx accents. Spacious guest rooms, suites, and multi-bedroom residences open onto uninterrupted views of the championship golf course, the volcanic terrain, and sandstone cliffs in the distance. Broad windows dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors. The resort describes its philosophy simply: a place where laid-back comfort and limitless adventure coexist.

A Golf Experience Unlike Anywhere Else on Earth

For many, golf is the leading reason to book Black Desert Resort. Designed by legendary architect Tom Weiskopf as the seventy-third and final course of his celebrated career before his death in 2022, the championship layout represents the culmination of decades spent crafting some of the world’s most respected golf courses. Long anticipated by the golf community, the course is unlike anything else in Weiskopf’s portfolio. Rather than reshaping the landscape, Weiskopf embraced it, routing fairways directly through 600 acres of ancient basalt lava flows at the edge of Snow Canyon.

Every hole reveals a different expression of Southern Utah’s remarkable geology. Jet-black volcanic rock frames ribbons of emerald fairways, while towering vermilion cliffs and distant sandstone mesas create a backdrop that changes with the shifting light throughout the day. The opening holes ease players into the terrain before the routing climbs and falls across hardened lava fields, where natural rock outcroppings become strategic hazards as much as visual landmarks. Sweeping 360-degree views accompany nearly every shot across the 7,500-yard, par-seventy-two layout.

Like Weiskopf’s most celebrated designs, the course rewards thoughtful decision-making over brute force. Strategic drivable par fours tempt longer hitters to be aggressive, while generous landing areas and multiple tee boxes keep the layout approachable for golfers of varying abilities. Risk-and-reward opportunities appear throughout the round, with wide fairways often narrowing around native lava formations and well-positioned bunkers demanding careful club selection. The immaculate bent grass greens provide a striking contrast against the surrounding desert. The experience extends well beyond the scorecard. State-of-the-art GPS-equipped carts provide detailed course information while expansive practice facilities—including a driving range, short-game area, and putting greens—allow players to settle into the unique conditions before teeing off. Non-golfers often choose to ride along simply to experience the landscape from within the course itself.

The professional golf world has taken notice. Black Desert Resort now hosts both PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour events, returning top-level professional golf to Utah for the first time in six decades. Watching the game’s best navigate fairways carved through ancient lava fields only reinforces what players discover the moment they step onto the first tee: there is simply nowhere else in golf that looks—or plays—quite like Black Desert.

Getting Active Off the Green

Although golf may introduce many to Black Desert Resort, the property has more to offer after an excellent day on the green. The championship pickleball complex has positioned Black Desert Resort among the country’s premier destinations for one of America’s fastest-growing sports, welcoming everyone from first-time players to seasoned competitors. Golfers with families will soon have even more to look forward to with the debut of Black Desert Rapids, a five-acre water park designed for all ages. Water slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and resort pools will complement the property’s growing collection of outdoor experiences.

Wellness Rooted in Movement

Just as golf anchors the resort’s active pursuits, wellness shapes the experience for those seeking to rest. Those looking to deepen their longevity practice are invited to sink into its expansive offerings rather than confine “wellness” to a single spa appointment. Black Desert Resort has crafted an environment where recovery naturally follows exploration.

At the heart of the property sits Plume Spa & Wellness, the 15,000-square-foot sanctuary dedicated to restoration, recovery, and longevity. The spa was conceived for those returning from hikes, rounds of golf, cycling excursions, or days spent exploring southern Utah’s remarkable terrain. Signature treatments combine restorative touch with advanced biohacking technologies, including infrared therapy, hyperbaric oxygen sessions, sensory-deprivation float experiences, and bespoke recovery rituals inspired by the desert. We love the Desert Bloom Revitalizing Ritual, a two-hour facial, massage, and leg treatment designed to restore circulation and reduce fatigue.

Black Desert Resort has crafted an environment where recovery naturally follows exploration.

The spa experience extends beyond the treatment rooms, with the facility extending into an expansive fitness center and heated pools. Outdoors, there are more than six miles of on-property trails, creating an easy rhythm between movement and recovery woven through your days. For an even deeper experience, you can stay in one of the resort’s eight Plume Wellness Collection rooms on the property. Each is stocked with a full collection of extras: CBD-infused pillows, infrared therapy blankets, and aromatherapy sourced from locally harvested botanicals.

Beyond the Resort

One of Black Desert Resort’s greatest strengths is all that lies just beyond the property. Positioned in the heart of Greater Zion, the resort sits at the doorstep of one of the largest concentrations of protected lands in the United States.

• Snow Canyon State Park: Just a five-minute drive from the resort, Snow Canyon State Park is one of Southern Utah’s under-the-radar gems. With dramatic desert scenery, accessible hiking and cycling trails, and far fewer crowds than the nearby national parks, it’s an easy half-day adventure for families, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Zion National Park: Less than an hour drive from the resort, Zion National Park remains one of America’s defining natural wonders. Whether securing a permit for Angels Landing, wading through The Narrows, or simply taking in the soaring sandstone cliffs along the scenic drive, every visit offers a different perspective. Arrive early during peak season to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Kanarra Falls: A roughly fifty-minute drive from the resort, Kanarra Falls is one of Southern Utah’s most rewarding hikes—and it presents a real challenge. The four-mile round-trip trail winds through a narrow slot canyon, following a creek past cascading waterfalls and iconic wooden ladders, which you’ll need to scale in order to complete the journey. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can secure the required reservations; just come prepared to get your feet wet.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: A two-and-a-half-hour drive from the resort, Bryce Canyon National Park makes for one of the American West’s most spectacular day trips. Its iconic hoodoos and vast amphitheaters are especially striking at sunrise and sunset, when the landscape glows in brilliant shades of crimson, orange, and rose.

Notably, both Zion and Snow Canyon are certified Dark Sky destinations—a designation from the nonprofit DarkSky, which works to conserve natural environments by limiting light pollution. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can book a private guided tour of one of these Dark Sky experiences under some of the least light-polluted skies in the United States with an astronomer.

Refined Taste Against Rugged Beauty.

Back on property, the culinary program at Black Desert Resort reflects the same sense of place that defines the surrounding landscape. Each restaurant and café feels intentionally tied to the rhythm of the destination, whether you’re fueling up before a sunrise tee time, lingering over lunch between adventures, or settling in for a memorable dinner after a day spent exploring Greater Zion.

Early risers will gravitate towards Lava Love ready with expertly brewed coffee, house-made pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and grab-and-go treats, making it an effortless stop before heading out for golf, hiking, or a day exploring Southern Utah. Latitude, an open-air rooftop venue overlooking Snow Canyon, is a favorite from morning to evening. Begin the day with breakfast and fresh mountain air, then return for casual bites and cocktails as the sun dips behind the surrounding red rock cliffs. Nearby, Oasis brings vibrant Southwestern flavors to the table with a Mexican taqueria-inspired menu featuring tacos, fresh chips and salsa, and refreshing cocktails, all served in another open-air setting. For guests craving classic comfort food, Club 73 delivers a welcoming backyard barbecue atmosphere complete with smoked brisket, live music, and laid-back outdoor seating.

Each restaurant and café feels intentionally tied to the rhythm of the destination, whether you’re fueling up before a sunrise tee time or settling in for a memorable dinner after a day spent exploring Greater Zion.

For a casual atmosphere, 20th Hole captures the energy of a lively sports lounge across 14,000 square feet. Oversized televisions, immersive VR golf simulators, handcrafted cocktails, local beers, nitro lemonade, and indulgent milkshakes accompany an elevated menu of all-American pub favorites—from hot wings to burgers—making it the ideal place to celebrate a memorable round, gather with family, or catch the day’s biggest game. At the heart of the resort is Basalt, the signature steakhouse, where regionally sourced prime-aged beef, sustainably sourced seafood, and Utah-made cheeses headline a menu rooted in quality ingredients. Seasonal produce, craft cocktails, and a thoughtfully curated wine list elevate the experience, while warm stone finishes, contemporary interiors, and sweeping desert views create an elegant backdrop.

Collectively, the collection of on-property restaurants creates a dining program that feels as thoughtfully curated as the resort itself—celebrating regional ingredients, spectacular scenery, and the easygoing spirit that defines Black Desert Resort.

When to Visit Greater Zion

Southern Utah benefits from incredibly varied seasons, which offers a different perspective on the region. Spring and autumn remain the most sought-after months, when mild daytime temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, cycling, climbing, and golf. Wildflowers add unexpected color to the desert, while cool mornings give way to warm, comfortable afternoons, perfect for exploring the nearby parks.

Summer moves at a slower pace, a necessity during warmer days. Early mornings belong to the trails before the desert heat settles in, while afternoons naturally shift toward shaded terraces, the pools, or the spa. As temperatures cool each evening, outdoor dining becomes one of the day’s highlights, accompanied by fiery sunsets that illuminate the surrounding sandstone cliffs.

Winter offers cooler temperatures that make hiking exceptionally comfortable; trails become noticeably quieter, and occasional snowfall dusting the red cliffs creates one of the Southwest’s most striking seasonal settings. Golf remains playable throughout much of the season, making southern Utah an appealing escape when many other destinations are blanketed in snow.

Getting There

Despite its dramatic setting, Greater Zion is remarkably easy to reach. St. George Regional Airport is just twenty minutes from Black Desert Resort, with convenient daily connections to Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Denver, and Dallas. You can also choose to fly into Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, then enjoy one of the Southwest’s most scenic two-hour drives through the Mojave Desert before arriving in southern Utah.

Ready to discover southern Utah’s wonder? Contact your SmartFlyer Travel Advisor today.

For East Coasters, options abound when it comes to a road trip. But for ultimate Americana nostalgia, few routes compare to winding from coastal Rhode Island to Maine. From Ocean House‘s expansive private, white-sand beach to a freshly caught seafood feast at Chatham Bars Inn, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite New England getaways, each easily combinable on a road trip.

Ocean House

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

With sweeping ocean views and a timeless elegance that evokes the ambiance of idyllic summers, the Ocean House in Rhode Island makes for a dreamy start to your New England road trip getaway. This boutique, luxury hotel with resort-like amenities is situated right on the beach and offers the highest level of service throughout the property and its forty-nine newly remodeled rooms and 18 suites. These spacious accommodations are each richly appointed to reflect the feel of a sprawling seaside estate, offering an unrivaled residential experience.

In the summertime, make sure you arrive early on Fridays so as not to miss the good, old-fashioned New England lobster boil on the beach, complete with a live band. We also love starting the evening with a glass of Veuve at the property’s Secret Garden champagne bar endorsed by Town & Country, Perks & Corks as well as Malted Barley. Other spots not to miss for a bite include Olympia Tea Room—recognized by Vanity Fair as being “famous not fancy“—as well as Ellas and Cooked Goose.

Vanderbilt, Auberge Collection

Newport, Rhode Island

Originally built by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, a scion of the wealthy Vanderbilt family, this property dates back to 1909 as a vintage Newport mansion that has been restored to its former glory. In fact, it’s one of the few private homes of the era to open its doors to welcome guests. Located right on the waterfront, The Vanderbilt is easily one of Newport’s best-kept secrets. Plus, with only thirty-three rooms and luxury suites, it’s perfectly private.

Should you want to get your legs moving, Vanderbilt is ideally situated to get out and explore – the 3.5-mile walk along the Newport Cliffs allows for the opportunity to see the town’s famous mansions. For some shopping, we recommend checking out Shore Soap Company and Thames Glass. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, a bite at The Mooring is hit the spot. Or, there’s the hotel’s signature restaurant, The Vanderbilt Grill, a sumptuous restaurant where the best local ingredients are on offer in imaginative menus which change throughout the year. For cocktails, check out Fluke and finish up at Dockside for some nightlife.

Chatham Bars Inn

Chatham, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has long been one of New England’s most honored and historic getaways, encompassing 17th-century towns and the spectacular Cape Cod National Seashore. Chatham Bars Inn is our favorite property in the region as it occupies twenty-five acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and sandy ocean beaches, giving you the ultimate peace of mind. Decades back, guests splashed in the surf, played golf in the tangy sea air, took afternoon tea on the wide veranda overlooking panoramic ocean vistas, and dined on the best New England cuisine, featuring fresh-from-the-ocean seafood. Today, you can enjoy the resort lifestyle as so many did, so long ago, at Chatham Bars Inn, lovingly restored to its original grandeur, yet completely updated with the latest amenities.

When you’re ready for an adventure, there are options abound. The property has a fleet of boats for sportfishing, sailing, and day trips to Nantucket Island. No matter if you choose to relax or take up one of the activities, you’ll be sure to feel the quintessential New England vibe. If you’d like to get off property, we adore Chatham Wine Bar and The Squire for cocktails before heading to dinner at Bluefin Sushi & Sake Bar.

Cliff House Maine

Cape Neddick, Maine

Conveniently located in Southern Maine between Ogunquit and York, your New England road trip will take you an hour’s drive north of Boston and a forty-minute drive from Portland. Cliff House is one of the most captivating oceanfront destinations of its kind after a landmark transformation. The property is set on the edge of the Atlantic on the rocky coast of Southern Maine with year-round activities. Cliff House offers panoramic ocean and coastal views from over 130 stylish rooms and suites. The hotel is also just a short distance from Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, one of the country’s largest.

Guests will have no trouble staying entertained and active at Cliff House Maine. In addition to having countless wonderful spots to simply relax and enjoy the remarkable ocean views, they also have many options for those who crave a more engaging experience. Amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a beautiful luxury spa, and access to the challenging course at the adjacent Cape Neddick Golf Club. Be sure to stop at Walkers, the ultimate stop for a bite, or The Front Porch for cocktails.

White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection

Kennebunkport, Maine

Located in the beautiful coastal town of Kennebunkport, your New England road trip culminates in a stay at White Barn Inn. This staple has been a beloved local landmark for over 150 years, synonymous with warm New England hospitality, rustic charm, and uncompromising attention to detail. Just a ninety-minute drive north of Boston, this inviting property is renowned as one of the country’s most distinctive getaways. The twenty-six-room inn is super cozy, offering guests supreme levels of quality, luxury, and service. Beyond our favorite waterfront cottages, there is a swimming pool and convenient access to fine shopping and art galleries in the charming coastal town of Kennebunkport.

Ocean and Earth at Hidden Pond are your go-tos for a bite off of the property, while we love Old Vines Wine Bar or 50 Local for a drink. But, for the best-kept secret, be sure to check out Little Barn for farm-to-table delights. For a fine dining experience, The White Barn Restaurant has both a AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star endorsement to satisfy the ultimate foodie. Try the 9-course chef’s tasting menu for a true culinary experience!

The archipelago, scattered across the Indian Ocean more than 1,000 miles off Kenya’s coast, has long attracted honeymooners. But today, its demographics are evolving, increasingly drawing safari-goers and those seeking a destination that awaits discovery rather than feeling overly advertised. For years, the Maldives was the go-to for overwater villas and its signature turquoise water. Meanwhile, the Seychelles stayed under the radar—less talked about, less developed, and for many, a bit of a mystery. Now, the allure of the Seychelles continues to quietly grow.

The allure of the Seychelles continues to quietly grow.

Part of the Seychelles’ increasing appeal is how naturally it pairs with an African safari, and few travel experiences rival the contrast. One week might be spent tracking lions across Kenya’s Maasai Mara, watching elephants traverse Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti. The next is spent swimming in warm Indian Ocean waters and waking to the rush of waves outside a beachfront villa.

The pairing works particularly well because the seasons complement one another. Travelers visiting East Africa during peak wildlife-viewing months can easily continue on to the Seychelles, where the weather is best during the spring and fall. After early mornings, game drives, and the pace of safari, the islands provide a different rhythm. Days slow down, meals go longer, schedules fall away. It is this contrast—adventure followed by restoration—that has made the Seychelles one of the most coveted beach extensions for seasoned safari travelers. As always, your SmartFlyer travel advisor can craft the ideal itinerary to combine bush and beach.

Today, this multicultural history can be felt as the islanders’ Creole culture blends African, European, and Asian traditions, expressed through music, architecture, and the destination’s cuisine.

Granite peaks rise from turquoise water. Tropical forests that tumble down to beaches which still appear untouched. Across its 115 islands that make up the archipelago, curiosity is rewarded. The inner islands of the Seychelles are among the oldest granite islands on earth, creating dramatic mountain landscapes that seem to emerge directly from the sea. Notably, the islands’ history adds even more nuance and intrigue. Officially uninhabited until the 18th century, the Seychelles were under French and British flags before gaining independence in 1976. Today, this multicultural history is evident in the islanders’ Creole culture, which blends African, European, and Asian traditions and is expressed through music, architecture, and the destination’s cuisine. Visitors will feel this sensibility in grilled seafood, coconut curries, breadfruit, and locally grown vanilla, which reflect the archipelago’s multicultural roots and close relationship with the sea.

For many visitors, the surprise isn’t how beautiful the Seychelles is—it’s how much there is to do once they arrive, and, increasingly, the sophisticated jet set are taking notice. The island blends classic experiences like sailing between islands, diving among coral reefs, with destination-only opportunities like kayaking through marine parks, fishing in some of the Indian Ocean’s richest waters and visiting UNESCO-protected Vallée de Mai on Praslin—home to the rare coco de mer palm. Giant Aldabra tortoises roam several islands, while birdwatchers and conservation enthusiasts are drawn to the country’s biodiversity. Spend the morning trekking through the verdant hills of Morne Seychellois National Park, the afternoon snorkeling among vibrant reefs, and the evening dining barefoot on the sand, the landscape serving as an incredible restoration.

The Sixth Maison 

The arrival of Cheval Blanc Seychelles is the clearest sign yet that the destination has entered a new era. When Cheval Blanc opens a hotel, the industry pays attention. Under the legendary LVMH umbrella, since opening its first property in 2006, this boutique hospitality brand has never pursued growth for growth’s sake. The portfolio remains intentionally small, with maisons in Courchevel, St. Tropez, Paris, St. Barth, and the Maldives, with Cheval Blanc Seychelles joining the collection in December 2024. 

A singular focus on quality is central to every Cheval Blanc stay. Each property is intended to reflect the character of its destination while drawing upon the extended LVMH ecosystem—from commissioned art to culinary partnerships, craftsmanship, and service standards that mirror the group’s approach across its fashion, jewelry, wine, and beauty houses. The Seychelles property brings many of these hallmark elements to its guests in the first Maison in Africa. For instance, a dedicated Guerlain Spa offers treatments developed specifically for the destination, in addition to a curated collection of commissioned contemporary art, and dining concepts that place gastronomy at the center of your stay. 

Seychelles opens the door to a destination rather than a self-contained resort setting.

For LVMH, the decision to open Seychelles was not about adding another beach resort to its portfolio—it did not need another. Instead, expansion into the Seychelles embodies a strategic evolution for the brand. While Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives perfected the private-island fantasy, Seychelles opens the door to a destination rather than a self-contained resort setting. It is part of a broader transition toward prioritizing meaningful experiences and a strong sense of place alongside privacy, comfort, and world-class taste. 

Where in the Seychelles is Cheval Blanc? 

Set on Mahé’s southern coast overlooking Anse Intendance—one of the island’s most spectacular beaches—Cheval Blanc Seychelles is defined by its dramatic vistas. The resort’s fifty-two villas are spread across the landscape, some along the beach and others perched on the lush hillsides. Every villa features a private pool, generous indoor-outdoor living spaces, and uninterrupted views. The villas range from one-bedroom retreats to grand multi-bedroom residences for extended-family stays, while amenities including tennis, padel courts, dedicated children’s spaces, five restaurants, and three bars create a sense of a fully realized resort destination.  

Designed by acclaimed architect Jean-Michel Gathy, the property draws inspiration from the island itself, incorporating natural materials, open-air architecture, and sweeping sightlines that frame the ocean and surrounding tropical landscape. Original works by artists including Joël Andrianomearisoa, Maximilien Pellet, and Prune Nourry were commissioned specifically for the maison. Le 1947, Cheval Blanc’s signature restaurant concept ties the property back to the heritage of Château Cheval Blanc in Bordeaux. These layers of art, wellness, gastronomy, and craftsmanship define a stay rooted in something feels signature to the Seychelles. 

Art and Design at Cheval Blanc Seychelles 

For over two decades, Cheval Blanc’s properties have woven the local culture into their approach to hospitality, and Seychelles is no exception. The property’s design draws on Seychellois nature and Creole traditions, with open spaces that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Architect Jean-Michel Gathy created a place that is both thoughtful and relaxed, melding with the island’s landscape. Gathy, principal designer at Denniston since 1983 and a Platinum Circle inductee, has brought destinations to life through striking details and is sought after at top properties.  

Having previously worked on the stand-out award-winning Cheval Blanc Randheli and a selection of other “who’s who” in the design world, bringing Cheval Blanc Seychelles to life proved a natural evolution of design storytelling for Gathy. Beyond his work with Cheval Blanc, Gathy has also worked on the iconic Aman New York and One&Only Reethi Rah. Committing to building on the concept of what an elevated hotel stay should feel like, Gathy has long leaned on a design philosophy grounded in precision and simplicity. “Elegance doesn’t come from wearing high heels; on vacation, it’s about being sophisticated yet relaxed,” Gathy told Luxury Guide. “It is this type of casual-chic atmosphere that I have tried to translate at Cheval Blanc Seychelles.” 

The casual-chic style defines the villas and property: natural light, airy spaces with sculpted lines, unobstructed views, and modernist design. Fiberglass, raw stone, and wood balance purity with sophistication. Villas dot the property, some along the sand, others on the hillside. Each is a private sanctuary offering open-air living, infinity pools, and terraces made for lingering. Whether you come as a couple or with family, the result is a calm connection to the landscape that’s hard to replicate.  

Set against Gathy’s award-winning designs, Malagasy artist Joël Andrianomearisoa created a single piece of bespoke textile work that runs throughout the resort’s villas, drawing inspiration from the colors and rhythms of the islands. Shades of wild green, soft ochre, and ocean blue appear throughout the collection. The pieces “describe the start and unfolding of an adventure, of different textures,” according to Andrianomearisoa. His work stretches into Le White, where the primary restaurant doubles as a gallery space and deepens the connection between art, design, and destination. 

…shades of wild green celebrate the destination’s vitality, creativity, and biodiversity.

Throughout the property, Parisian artist Maximilien Pellet’s large-scale frescoes bring energy and movement to Vivamento, the resort’s Italian restaurant. Pellet’s work references Etruscan banquets, and his fresco hangs above the bar, functioning as a visual anchor in the room, which also features a stunning spiral staircase. Pellet’s ceramic piece, The Grand Banquet, features simplified animal and human forms in only three colors: green, blue, and white. The result is a dynamic celebration as a backdrop to artful food, honoring la dolce vita. 

French sculptor Prune Nourry’s Le Centauresse welcomes guests at the entrance, creating a dramatic first impression that appears both contemporary and deeply connected to the natural environment. Throughout the property, shades of wild green celebrate the destination’s vitality, creativity, and biodiversity. In classic Cheval Blanc fashion, the role of scent also plays a powerful part in the guest experience. The fragrance “Jungle Chic” from Master perfumer Thierry Wasser brings another layer to the stay—woody, musky, and distinctly tied to the landscape. The cumulative impact of this careful curation threads together to imprint itself in the memory of your stay. 

For Couples and Families Alike 

A natural setting and built environment that is intuitive to intimacy…

Activities abound for everyone, with the chance to organize private boat excursions along untouched coastlines, take guided nature walks through Mahé’s rainforest trails, tennis and padel with private coaches, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking in sheltered bays where conditions are calm and supervised, and even spending evening stargazing on the beach or villa terrace, with dessert service, or private movie screenings under the open sky.  

Cheval Blanc Seychelles is undeniably romantic. Private villas open onto secluded terraces. Sunset cocktails overlook Anse Intendance. The Guerlain Spa offers treatments inspired by the island’s natural elements, while evenings often unfold over long dinners at Le 1947. For honeymooners, anniversary celebrants, or travelers seeking privacy, the resort is a natural fit. 

A natural setting and built environment that is intuitive to intimacy, couples can take private sunset walks along Anse Intendance, indulge in sunrise breakfast picnics, a Wonders of Earth treatment at the Spa by Guerlain, an in-villa wine-tasting from the LVMH collection, and private yacht charters to the nearby Île Cocos for moments shared on uninhabited beaches.  

But the property doesn’t cater to couples alone. Multi-bedroom villas allow families and multigenerational groups to spend quality time together while having plenty of room to spread out. Dedicated Ambassadeurs and Majordomes tailor experiences, making family travel effortless. And for those with littles, you can still enjoy days spent lounging at the pool thanks to the resort’s expansive kids’ club for children between the ages of three and twelve, which goes far beyond the traditional offering.  

Set within a landscaped, light-filled pavilion of more than 1,500 square meters, Le Carrousel is divided into zones that mirror the island itself.

Set within a landscaped, light-filled pavilion of more than 1,500 square meters, Le Carrousel is divided into zones that mirror the island itself—creative ateliers, nature-inspired discovery areas, and outdoor spaces that encourage movement and exploration. Programming is shaped around Seychellois culture and ecology, with activities ranging from coconut painting and Creole storytelling to guided nature walks, beach games, and marine-themed workshops, designed for different age groups, including toddlers and pre-teens. Ambassadeurs adapt daily schedules to each child’s interests.  

The Best Time to Visit Seychelles 

Unlike many tropical destinations, Seychelles does not have a single “best” season. Its location near the equator means warm temperatures year-round, making it one of the most versatile destinations in the Indian Ocean. April through May and October through November are often considered the sweet spots. During these months, calmer seas create ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and boating, while temperatures remain comfortably warm. June through September brings slightly cooler weather and trade winds that appeal to sailors and surfers. December through March can be warmer and more humid, though still highly appealing for beach-focused travelers. For safari combinations, the flexibility of seasonality makes Seychelles especially enticing. Whether planning around migration season in East Africa or wildlife viewing in Botswana, Seychelles fits comfortably into almost any itinerary. 

Getting There  

For years, the Seychelles was one of travel’s best-kept secrets. Cheval Blanc’s arrival suggests that the secret may not remain one for much longer. 

One of the biggest misconceptions about Seychelles is that it is difficult to reach. While the destination is remote, your SmartFlyer travel advisor is armed with the best routes to ensure your journey is smooth. Many travelers connect through Dubai (DXB), Doha (DIA), or Abu Dhabi (AUH), with regular flights from all three Gulf hubs into Mahé International Airport. For those combining the trip with an African safari, there are direct flights from Johannesburg (JNB), Nairobi (NBO), Addis Ababa (ADD), and Mauritius (MRU), with travel times averaging three to five hours. From the United States, the journey proves no more complicated than reaching many destinations in Southeast Asia. Cheval Blanc Seychelles sits approximately thirty minutes from the airport on Mahé’s southern coast. The drive winds through thriving tropical landscapes before arriving at Anse Intendance, where the resort emerges between jungle and sea. 

For those seeking something special, Seychelles is striking a chord right now. It has all the beauty and privacy you would hope for in an Indian Ocean getaway, with a strong sense of place coupled with an endless well of possibility. For years, the Seychelles was one of travel’s best-kept secrets. Cheval Blanc’s arrival suggests that the secret may not remain one for much longer. 

Today, with 400 vineyards, 250 days of sunshine a year, 150 restaurants—including fifteen Michelin stars—and ninety tasting rooms, the destination is ripe with choice. Rich history and breathtaking landscapes round Napa Valley’s offerings, making it an unparalleled destination defined by its signature laid-back sophistication.

It’s the kind of place where you settle in without trying, surrounded by the valley’s quiet magic.

Just thirty-five miles long and five miles wide, Napa Valley is compact, but wineries wind into the mountain ranges up each side of the valley. Here, you’ll find highly coveted wine tastings, hot air balloon rides over vine-covered hills, and a respite from a more hurried pace in nearby cities like San Francisco. In St. Helena, one of the region’s five distinct towns, sits Meadowood Napa Valley.

Days at this iconic property move with the seasons, with the estate managing to feel both untamed and polished. Accommodations are generous in size, and the culinary offering is thoughtful. For active travelers, there’s always something to do—whether that’s a match on the tennis courts or an afternoon spent delving into one of the robust tasting courses with the team of on-site wine experts. Tucked among the Vaca mountain range, Meadowood sits as a private valley unto itself—rolling from mountain ridges down through meadows and vineyards, all the way to the nearby river. Mornings here start with birdsong, while evenings are best anchored by winding down with a glass of something local as the sun slips behind the hills. It’s the kind of place where you settle in without trying, surrounded by the valley’s quiet magic.

About Meadowood Napa Valley

Founded in 1961 and acquired by H. William Harlan in 1979, Meadowood Napa Valley has dedicated itself to delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for its guests for more than half a century. This commitment to exemplary hospitality has made Meadowood a touchstone for travelers seeking a stay in California wine country, as well as a gathering place for the local community’s social, cultural, and viticultural life.

But the region is no stranger to environmental strife. Much like the broader Napa Valley, the estate—rooted in a unique heritage—has grown and evolved. What started as a modest country club expanded under Harlan’s vision into a sprawling resort that would eventually encompass freestanding cottage accommodations, three swimming pools, an award-winning spa, and an acclaimed three-Michelin-Star culinary fixture, The Restaurant at Meadowood. Lost in the Glass Fire of 2020, The Restaurant at Meadowood, along with the northern section of the property, remains closed while ownership commits itself to a redevelopment project currently underway. In the meantime, Meadowood is operating at a more intimate scale, with thirty-six lodge-style retreats and the central, daily Forum restaurant. 

What continues to set it apart is Meadowood’s exceptional service. Their hyper-personalized approach remains a throughline in their work with all guests, offering a welcoming immersion into Napa Valley’s joyful, imaginative approach to both recreation and relaxation.  A longtime recipient of the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards for both hotel and spa, Meadowood earned Three Keys from the Michelin Guide in 2024, when the first-ever global Key selection debuted—an honor it holds to today. A gathering place, private club, and intimate country hotel for generations, the 250-acre wine-country estate invites guests into the family and community life of Napa.

One day, you might be learning the story of wine through a handful of glasses; another day, you’re blind tasting like a sommelier…

The Wine Center at Meadowood lets you fully immerse yourself in the culture of wine. When booking a class here, the center’s renowned educators offer tailored courses and experiences. One day, you might be learning the story of wine through a handful of glasses; another day, you’re blind tasting like a sommelier, with The Wine Center’s wide range of programming that explores wine fundamentals, history, and culture through curated, approachable tastings over the course of an hour to an hour-and-a-half. Classes include “The History of Wine in Five Glasses,” “Secrets of the Sommelier: Blind Tasting,” and “Wine Tasting 101.” “Borders, Bottles and Battlefields” examines wine in international history, while “Extreme Winemaking” delves into vineyard farming. Some classes feature bottles from producers without tasting rooms, granting rare industry access.

Guided winery tours are tailored to your interests—meaning those with a deeper knowledge can go granular, while those just entering the world of wine can learn the basics.  Kelli A. White, Director of Education for The Wine Center at Meadowood, brings a decade of experience as a sommelier in New York City and Napa Valley, and is the author of the acclaimed books Napa Valley, Then & Now and Wine Confident. We sat down with Kelli to dig deep into wine education, get tips on traveling with the curiosity of a sommelier, and to learn how to transform your next Napa Valley trip into a truly spectacular experience—whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth.

Check out our interview with Meadowood Napa Valley’s Wine Center Director, Kelli A. White, below. 

SmartFlyer: Can you define wine education and tell us a bit about the wine education available at Meadowood?

“We have an extensive note-taking system where we record every wine served in each class, who attended, and sometimes even any strong preferences noted, so we can track someone’s development.”

Kelli A. White: That very ubiquitous wine education of: “What do you smell in this glass?”—we can do that. We do some of that, but for me it’s less universally interesting, and we often find that it’s just the way of things: when you have a group, or even when you have one couple, one person can be more wine-engaged than the other. If you get too kind of granular and gritty in the “What do you smell?” in a class, you might be leaving somebody behind. It’s not that you can’t talk about that, but by broadening the subject of wine to include things like history, fine art, politics, and the sciences, we have found that it’s a really great way to get everybody involved, because even if they aren’t the biggest wine geek, they probably care about these larger, more human subjects. It makes it less niche, and I think it’s also what makes it more enriching, so it’s a double positive for how we approach the curriculum we create at Meadowood.

I have basically two fundamental principles: we want to create things that could only happen at Meadowood, and we always operate under the assumption that we’ll see that person again. We have an extensive note-taking system where we record every wine served in each class, who attended, and sometimes even any strong preferences noted, so we can track someone’s development. Next time they come back, we can look at what they’ve done. The wine selections change all the time, and anything is customizable. It’s really about meeting people where they’re at and just helping turn up the volume on their passion and interest in creating experiences you can only have at Meadowood.

SF: What are some of the wine education experiences unique to Meadowood?

KAW: We leverage Meadowood’s special position at the center of the wine-growing community here. It’s a private operation, owned by prominent vintners, and has a long history in the valley as a gathering place. We lean on that by gaining access to people who don’t speak to the public often. We just had Heidi Barrett [A California winemaker known as the “Queen of Cult Cabernet”] give a vintner chat, and she doesn’t do much public speaking. Meadowood’s reputation attracts people and makes them feel it’s a place where they’ll be honored and appreciated.

“There’s no substitute for meeting the proprietor or the winemaker or the vineyard manager or the cellar master, somebody that’s hands-on in the creation of that wine.”

Another unique facet of our programming is that I like to pair people up. This is something we’ve done both in our vintner chats and in our wine dinners. If a winemaker travels to do winemaker dinners and speaking engagements, they end up telling the same stories over and over again. We found that when two people who know each other have a moderated conversation, there is more intimacy, a much more interesting, usually entertaining, and informative understanding of them as a person and as a representative of the wine industry.

SF: What are your tips for having an exceptional visit to Napa Valley?

KAW: If it’s your first time in Napa Valley, you have a selection of favorite wines, and you want to visit those wineries to deepen that connection, I think that’s great. That’s probably what most people do, but I would say that a more successful and exciting trip would balance that against the unknown, because especially in a place like Napa—and this is true in a lot of wine regions—some of the more exciting operations tend to be smaller in scale, and so therefore might not be distributed to your market, and you may not be aware of them.

“Mix up the known with the unknown, mix up the classics with the more far-flung places.”

Being here is a good place to try new things and form relationships. That’s where local experts come in handy. I suggest people really mix it up and get off the main drag. There are some big-name wineries that are fun, buzzy, and great to experience, but I also like to send people off into the far-flung corners of Napa Valley. There’s this whole other life up in the mountains in these places where it’s a little bit of a drive, but you are rewarded with these spectacular views. It gives you a better appreciation for the richness and variety of the valley’s wine landscape. Mix up the known with the unknown, mix up the classics with the more far-flung places. Oftentimes, with the smaller places, you have a greater likelihood of meeting a principal of the winery. There’s no substitute for meeting the proprietor or the winemaker or the vineyard manager or the cellar master—somebody who’s hands-on in the creation of that wine—and I think that makes for a more enriching experience.

SF: Can you share a bit more about the programming offered by The Wine Center at Meadowood?

KAW: We put a lot of thought and effort into the list of classes, and we update it on a regular basis, so there’s always something different when guests return. I think that keeps us on our toes, keeps us engaged, and makes it good for repeat guests. I would say one of my favorite programs that we do is our Vintner Chat series. We try to do three or four per year. We invite a local member of the wine community. It doesn’t need to be a winemaker or proprietor. We’ve had vineyard managers, writers, and prominent sommeliers, and we invite them to nominate someone for a conversation. And then we have a moderated conversation. You get to try their wines and listen to a charming conversation—they’re just fabulous. It gives this very cool behind-the-scenes look at the industry here in Napa Valley.

The other thing that is fun and rewarding is a program we call Guided Excursions. It’s a package The Wine Center offers: you get a car and driver, and you can choose a full or half-day. We then have a conversation with you beforehand to understand your palate and the type of winery experience you’re looking for. Some people want something with a lot of energy and lots of people around. Some people want something completely private. Some people want magisterial architecture. People have all sorts of guiding principles for creating an ideal day of wine tasting, so we’ll take that information, synthesize it into a list, put together a handcrafted itinerary, and then join them for the day.

SF: What is a great question to ask on a wine tour?

KAW: The longer I’ve been in the wine industry, the less I’m interested in the “How?” type of questions. I’m way more interested in the “Why?” Especially if you’re talking to a principal, the why of it is interesting. What is the motivation? What are your goals? What’s your intention with this? What drives you? Why are you doing this? Why are you in wine and not software? I think those are some of the more interesting questions, the ones people don’t usually get, and they can often be a fast track to some interesting and intimate exchanges. I think it’s good to ask how something is made if you’re really, truly technically invested, but if not, then ask something that is meaningful to you. Wine, if you make it bigger, tells many human stories; it tells stories that are bigger than just notes of cassis and cinnamon.

The Spa

Meadowood Spa is a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spa, all about retreating to quiet and calm. Two garden lounges, for men and women, offer a private sanctuary to pause and breathe, with separate steam rooms, saunas, and plunge pools. The treatment menu draws inspiration from the valley itself, with products that incorporate native ingredients. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can arrange an aromatherapy steam bath ahead of your treatment—an add-on worth opting for. We recommend the From the Fields treatment, which includes exfoliation, a wrap, a massage, relaxation time, and a culinary treat. 

Dining at Meadowood

Meadowood’s central dining venue, Forum, is local in its appeal and approach. Open to the public, this seasonally inspired restaurant and bar offers dining in a spacious indoor-outdoor setting and serves three meals a day, along with handcrafted cocktails and coveted wines. Another option on the property, the al-fresco Terrace Café, is reserved for members and overnight guests and offers lunch, shareable dishes, cocktails, and wine until 5:30 p.m. daily. 

Getting active at Meadowood

With Meadowood’s private valley setting, there are a multitude of activities to choose from—even if your only aim is to find solitude in nature. Five outdoor tennis courts framed by forested hillsides offer an idyllic setting for guests of all ages and levels, with dedicated pros on call for private and group instruction, friendly competition, or simply a spirited volley.

Approximately three miles of mulched hiking pathways wind through the estate’s hillsides, offering unmatched views of the vineyards blanketing the valley floor and the mountain ranges that envelop Napa Valley. Nestled away on the southern portion of the property is a Meadowood Labyrinth, designed by acclaimed Master Labyrinth designer Lars Howlett. The three-pool complex—including the Fitness Pool for lap swimming and aquatic classes, the Family Activities Pool, and the adults-only Cabana Pool—encompasses distinct, inviting environments that welcome everyone to while away an hour or an entire afternoon.

Getting to Meadowood Napa Valley

The location of Meadowood is one of the greatest draws of the property—it is ideally and centrally positioned to all you’d want to experience in the Napa Valley. Meadowood Napa Valley is situated in its own private valley off the Silverado Trail, in the town of St. Helena, placing it ten miles from Calistoga, ten miles from Yountville, and sixteen miles from downtown Napa. The shops, galleries, and restaurants of St. Helena are just a five-minute drive away.

You can reach Meadowood from several airports: San Francisco International (SFO) is approximately seventy miles to the southwest, Oakland International (OAK) is roughly sixty-five miles to the southeast, Sacramento International (SMF) is about sixty miles to the east, and Napa County Airport (APC) is just twenty-four miles to the south. Sonoma County Airport (STS) is approximately thirty-five miles to the west. As always, the SmartFlyer Air Team can help you find the most efficient route based on your departure city.

Since 1993, Kerzner has proudly embraced its identity as a hospitality industry disruptor, forging unique brand identities that spark the imagination.

New properties have a way of breathing new life into a destination, and with Kerzner International’s established legacy as the brand behind some of our favorite resorts, hotels, and private homes, each opening within its portfolio signals thoughtful growth. Since 1993, Kerzner has proudly embraced its identity as a hospitality industry disruptor, forging unique brand identities that spark the imagination. With twenty-three exceptional properties spanning Atlantis, One&Only, SIRO, and rare finds, Kerzner is entering an expansion phase—one that prioritizes meaningful, extraordinary experiences over an increased footprint for sheer numbers’ sake. 

As much as Kerzner leans into industry innovation, its properties are also regularly the recipients of leading industry distinctions. Two properties, One&Only Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, and Atlantis, The Royal in Dubai, have been recognized by the World’s 50 Best Hotels list. Atlantis, The Royal was awarded three Michelin Keys in 2026, following fifteen Kerzner properties that were awarded the Michelin Key distinction in 2024 and 2025. SIRO and rare finds are the newest brand additions to the Kerzner, launched in 2022 and 2023, respectively. rare finds opened its first property in February 2023 when Bab Al Shams Desert Resort debuted in Dubai. SIRO followed shortly thereafter with SIRO One Za’abeel in Dubai in February 2024. 

To dig deeper into the growth and uniqueness of these brands, we sat down with Mattheos Georgiou, Head of Global Operations for One&Only, SIRO, and rare finds. Georgiou brings three decades of hospitality experience to the table, previously holding leadership positions at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong and Park Hyatt Tokyo. He shared insights into why the expansion of these newer brands matters, what sets each apart, and what travelers and advisors can expect next from Kerzner International. 

Read on for highlights from our discussion with Mattheos Georgiou, exploring the future of Rare Find and SIRO, each brand’s direction, and the defining characteristics of these Kerzner properties. 

SmartFlyer (SF): Each Kerzner brand is distinct. Can you share what defines SIRO as a brand and how the concept came about?

It is not a hotel with nice wellness features; it is a hotel concept built around five pillars: sleep, fitness, recovery, nutrition, and mindfulness.

Mattheos Georgiou (MG): At Kerzner, we have always been in the business of creating amazing experiences and everlasting memories. This is something represented across all our brands. With SIRO, we saw an opportunity to respond to a shift in how people travel and live. Guests increasingly want to invest in themselves and look after themselves more. They want to move, perform, and better themselves.

When you travel for business, you need to be sharp for meetings, switched on for your interactions with people, and be the best version of yourself. However, this is also when you need to compromise most on your performance. This is a time when you haven’t slept well, have been traveling by aircraft in a different time zone, haven’t followed your diet, and haven’t slept in your own bed, yet the expectation is for you to perform and be the best version of yourself. This led to the creation of SIRO. It is not a hotel with nice wellness features; it is a hotel concept built around five pillars: sleep, fitness, recovery, nutrition, and mindfulness.

It is the first time a hospitality company has created a brand that brings all five pillars together under one roof. The difference between Kerzner and others offering similar concepts is that our DNA is hospitality. We did not come from the fitness and recovery world and then start building hotels; it was the other way around. We understand hospitality first, and combining that expertise with fitness, recovery, performance, and wellbeing was a natural evolution for us.

SIRO Boka Place suite

SF: Looking ahead, what is your vision for SIRO over the next three years, the next ten years?

MG: Our focus is on establishing SIRO in key global gateway cities where performance-driven travelers spend their time–Tokyo, Miami, and then London, Paris, and New York City. These are destinations where people, especially C-suite, are constantly balancing demanding schedules, travel, and personal well-being.

Long-term, we want SIRO to become the world’s leading lifestyle and hospitality brand for people who aspire to be the best versions of themselves. You do not need to be an elite athlete to stay at SIRO. The brand is for anyone looking to improve how they sleep, move, eat, recover, and live. Ultimately, we want SIRO to be the place you go to be the best version of yourself.

SF: Beyond CEOs, who else have you been surprised to see as SIRO guests?

…sense of community has become one of the brand’s greatest strengths.

MG:  What surprised us most was how strongly the brand aligned and resonated with senior business leaders and entrepreneurs. To begin with, we expected SIRO to appeal to a younger audience, but we have also seen major demand from high-performing professionals who value health, performance, and recovery.

We have also seen SIRO evolve into much more than a hotel. Through our fitness and recovery labs, memberships, events and partnerships, we have built a genuine local community. In destinations such as Dubai and Montenegro, members spend time at SIRO not only to train and recover, but to connect, work, and socialize through co-working spaces, events, run clubs, paddle, and so much more. That sense of community has become one of the brand’s greatest strengths.

SF: What is SIRO’s overarching strategy moving forward?

MG:  Our goal is to establish SIRO as the leading hospitality brand for performance and well-being. While fitness and recovery remain at the core of the proposition, the brand is ultimately about helping people live better. As we expand into destinations such as Miami, Tokyo and beyond, SIRO will continue to evolve alongside its community. The performance foundation will always remain, but the lifestyle aspects of the brand will naturally grow as new guests, new markets, and new partnerships shape its future, which is very exciting for all of us involved in the brand.

SF: Switching gears to rare finds, how does a property become a Kerzner Rare Find?

Many of these assets are deeply loved by their owners but have not yet reached their full global potential.

MG:  rare finds is a collection of amazing properties that possess something genuinely unique; whether that is their location, history, culture or the experiences they can offer. Many of these assets are deeply loved by their owners but have not yet reached their full global potential. Through rare finds, we provide the brand, distribution, marketing expertise, and operational support to help unlock that potential. Most importantly, every rare finds property must offer an experience to guests that cannot be easily replicated elsewhere. That could be a remarkable setting, a cultural connection, or an unforgettable experience. Our focus is on creating meaningful moments that stay with guests long after they leave.

SF: How do you envision rare finds growing, and if there are any exciting benchmarks you have for the brand?

Growth must be intentional, and scarcity is part of what makes the brand special.

MG: One&Only will always remain our flagship ultra-luxury brand, and maintaining its exclusivity is essential. Growth must be intentional, and scarcity is part of what makes the brand special. rare finds and SIRO give us a different growth vehicle. rare finds allows us to expand our footprint by bringing distinctive independent properties into the Kerzner ecosystem while preserving their individuality. For SIRO, there is no limit. Big cities can absorb three, four, or five SIROs, depending on the neighborhoods. These two brands will play an important role in the next chapter of Kerzner’s growth, enabling us to enter new destinations and connect with new audiences around the world.

SF: What was the process of identifying Shamwari as one of the properties that would be a rare finds?

MG: Every rare finds property starts with a unique story. Sometimes that story is rooted in the destination, sometimes in the culture, and sometimes in the property itself. Shamwari is a perfect example. Its location within a private game reserve offers an experience that is both immersive and transformational. Guests have the opportunity to disconnect from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. When we evaluate potential rare finds properties, we look for that sense of authenticity and uniqueness. It is difficult to define on paper, but when you experience it, you know it immediately.

SF: What is the brand strategy for rare finds?

MG: Our ambition is to build a collection of exceptional properties that appeal to modern experience collectors. We want guests who have stayed at one rare finds property to immediately ask, “Where is the next one?” Every destination should feel completely different, but all should share the same commitment to authenticity, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. The goal is to create a portfolio of places that earn a permanent place on travelers’ bucket lists.

With a spate of openings lined up across the world, every year will mark growth for Kerzner’s rare finds and SIRO. For SIRO, there are two properties currently welcoming guests—SIRO One Za’abeel in Dubai and SIRO Boka Place in Montenegro. In the next few years, the opportunities for a SIRO stay will expand even further around the globe. SIRO Palmilla, in Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, will open in 2027. It will be part of the Palmilla Reserve, less than a mile away from One&Only Palmilla. In 2028, SIRO Olaya Riyadh will open in the heart of the city’s diplomatic quarter in Saudi Arabia. The following year, SIRO Roppongi will open in Tokyo. Then, in 2030, SIRO Brickell is slated to open in Miami, marking the brand’s first US property.

Currently, there are three rare finds properties that you can book: The Meydan Hotel and Bab Al Shams Resort in Dubai, and Shamwari Private Game Reserve in South Africa. While the next gems to be transformed into rare finds properties are under wraps, there’s no doubt they will live up to the ethos of something exceptional.

…quieter corners of the country where lingering lunches, sun-drenched landscapes, and a softer pace of life still prevail.

Increasingly, clients are looking to their SmartFlyer travel advisor to ask not just where to go in Italy, but how to engage with the country in a way that feels more intentional, immersive, and away from the crowds. While we’ll forever be fans of Italy’s perennial favorites, the reality is that peak summer season in the country’s most popular destinations equates to visitor numbers surging into the hundreds of thousands. And it’s in these moments where we look to lesser-considered spots—toward alpine wellness sanctuaries in the Dolomites, volcanic islands off the coast of Sicily, slower rail journeys through the Tuscan countryside—where lingering lunches, sun-drenched landscapes, and a softer pace of life still prevail.

Coastal Bliss, Minus the Crowds 

The Tyrrhenian Coast is Calling

Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” some would argue that Maratea feels like Amalfi before the crowds arrived. At Santavenere, classic Italian glamour unfolds across lush gardens, private beaches, and sprawling sea-view terraces filled with antique charm. Days are spent boating past hidden caves and rocky inlets along Basilicata’s rugged coastline before returning for sunset aperitivo overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s all the romance of an Italian seaside escape—without the frenzy that now defines much of peak-summer Amalfi.

The Aeolian Island for Slow Summer Days

Scattered off the northern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago where black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sleepy fishing villages replace the polished energy of Italy’s more scene-driven summer destinations. Among them, the island of Salina remains blissfully low-key. At Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia, mornings begin with swims in volcanic coves while evenings revolve around aperitivo overlooking the island’s rolling Malvasia vineyards. It’s the kind of place where travelers come to disappear for a few days and inevitably leave plotting their return. 

Italy’s Softer Alternative to Capri

Long beloved by Italians themselves, Ischia offers a softer, slower alternative to Capri. At Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa, volcanic thermal waters, pine forests, and dramatic cliffside views replace buzzy beach clubs and packed marinas. The rhythm here feels wonderfully old-school Italian summer. For something slightly more relaxed and quietly romantic, San Montano offers sweeping views across the Bay of Naples alongside natural thermal pools carved into the hillside. Here, days unfold between boat rides, leisurely spa afternoons, and long lunches overlooking the sea—proof that some of Italy’s best coastal escapes are still the ones operating at their own pace.

For the Design Enthusiast 

Intimate Retreats Worth Obsessing Over

Some of Italy’s most memorable stays aren’t the largest or most lavish, but the ones that feel deeply personal from the moment you arrive. Deep in the countryside outside Bologna, Elizabeth Country House offers just eleven rooms blending contemporary interiors with the slower rhythms of rural Italy. Days here are spent exploring nearby villages, indulging in Emilia-Romagna’s legendary culinary scene, and retreating back to a property that feels equal parts chic retreat and beautifully lived-in home. Meanwhile, on the shores of Lake Garda, Villa Feltrinelli has just twenty rooms, set amid cypress trees and richly layered old-world interiors. Though entirely different in aesthetic, both satisfy the boutique hotel lovers’ appetite for a sense of place.

The Umbrian Estate Everyone Wishes They Knew About Sooner

Often overshadowed by Tuscany, Umbria is quietly emerging as a design-forward destination where restored castles, centuries-old palazzos, and deeply considered interiors feel woven into the landscape. The intimate Palazzo Petrvs brings a contemporary perspective to the region through its moody, artfully restored interiors amidst the medieval streets of Orvieto. A stay at Reschio Estate—a restored 1,500-year-old estate—feels like stepping into an impossibly chic Italian fantasy. With candlelit wine cellars, horseback rides through the Umbrian countryside, saltwater pools, and lingering dinners that stretch late into the evening, here, it’s all about sinking into an Umbrian State of Mind.

To Get in Touch with Nature 

A Classic Alpine Escape in the Dolomites

For travelers craving a more traditional mountain retreat, Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa offers old-school Dolomites charm in the storybook village of Ortisei. Summer days are spent hiking dramatic alpine trails while winter revolves around the famed Dolomiti Superski circuit. Back at the hotel, Michelin-starred dining, cozy wood-paneled interiors, and an expansive spa create the environment that encourages travelers to fully settle into mountain living.

Tuscany Without the Tour Buses

Tucked within the Tuscan countryside, Castello di Vicarello offers a version of the region far removed from crowded wine tours and tourist-packed hill towns. A stay at this family-owned gem means days anchored by horseback riding, cooking classes, truffle hunting, and poolside afternoons overlooking vineyards and olive groves that glow golden by sunset. For a truly memorable experience, work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to arrange a day exploring the stunning Argentario coastline of Tuscany with a boat tour and lunch on Giglio Island.

For the One seeking Wellness (Reimagined)

Italy’s Most Transformative Wellness Retreat

Set just outside Rome, Palazzo Fiuggi has quickly become one of Europe’s most sought-after wellness destinations thanks to its combination of cutting-edge medical programming and grand-hotel elegance. Guests come for longevity treatments, therapeutic mineral waters, and highly personalized wellness journeys—but leave equally enamored by the property’s sweeping countryside views, frescoed interiors, and a deeply restorative pace of life. 

Wellness Above the Clouds

Italy’s next wave of luxury wellness isn’t unfolding on crowded coastlines, but high in the mountains. Perched above the clouds in South Tyrol, FORESTIS was designed entirely around its surrounding landscape: fresh mountain air, sunshine, spring water, and uninterrupted views of the Dolomites. Guests come here to fully slow down, whether through forest walks, spa rituals, or simply watching the light shift across the peaks. Don’t miss the Tree Circle Ceremony for ultimate rejuvenation, followed by an afternoon cycling through the ample saunas and cold plunges—our favorite is the one outside.

For the Slow Traveler: Italy by Rail and Sea

The Return of Golden-Age Rail Travel

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is reviving the glamour of train travel through its immersive regional routes, vintage-inspired interiors, and itineraries designed to encourage travelers to linger a little longer. Rather than rushing between cities, the experience reimagines Italy as it was meant to be enjoyed: slowly, beautifully, and preferably with a spritz in hand. In tandem with Belmond’s celebrated rail journeys through the Italian countryside, these itineraries invite travelers to embrace a slower rhythm of travel—one where long lunches, cinematic landscapes, and aperitivo hour are just as important as the destinations themselves.

Mediterranean Cruising, Reimagined

Set to debut in June 2026 as the world’s largest sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian promises a far more intimate take on Mediterranean cruising. Guests will move between quieter Italian ports, hidden coves, and seaside villages while life onboard revolves around long lunches, sunset aperitivo, and nowhere to be in a hurry. In place of the scale and pace associated with larger ships, being aboard the Corinthian is about stopping in quieter ports, hidden coves, and seaside villages. Work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor for enhanced amenities onboard sailings through the Italian Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia.

The Yacht for The Curious

For travelers drawn to the romance of the Mediterranean but not the traditional cruise experience, House of Nine offers a more private, design-forward way to experience Italy by sea. Its carefully curated yacht itineraries prioritize understated luxury and immersive coastal exploration, allowing guests to hop between volcanic islands, sleepy harbors, and hidden beaches at a wonderfully unhurried pace. 

Aman’s Most Anticipated Arrival Yet

Looking ahead, few openings are generating more anticipation than Amangati, Aman’s forthcoming yacht set to sail through the Italian Riviera beginning in 2027. Known for redefining quiet luxury on land, Aman’s expansion into yachting signals a continued shift toward highly personalized, experience-driven travel—this time unfolding entirely at sea along one of Europe’s most cinematic coastlines.

Long-Term Stays, Italian Style

Source A Villa and Sink In

Rather than racing through multi-stop itineraries, many travelers are increasingly opting to settle into Italy for weeks—or even months—at a time. The appeal is obvious: slower mornings, neighborhood espresso bars, local markets, and the chance to experience Italy more like a resident than a visitor. In our opinion, the best way to do this is with a villa rental. The secret? Some of the best will never be listed online. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor is armed with partners across Italy who have relationships spanning the most desirable villas.

Living Like a Florentine

Set along the Arno River in the heart of Florence, Lungarno Apartments offer all the ease of a private residence paired with the polish of a luxury hotel stay. Travelers can settle into daily routines—morning cappuccinos, afternoons wandering artisan workshops, evenings spent cooking with market finds—while still feeling immersed in one of Italy’s most culturally rich cities.

Roman and Milanese Holidays, But Make Them Residential

For travelers splitting their time between Italy’s cultural and fashion capitals, Rocco Forte Houses in Rome and Milan deliver an elevated residential experience that feels worlds away from a traditional hotel stay. Stylish, spacious, and deeply connected to their surrounding neighborhoods, these apartment-style accommodations are ideal for travelers looking to fully settle into city life rather than simply scratch the surface. Similarly, the recently opened Casa J.K. Place, Roma acts as your exclusive Roman home with just twelve apartments offering complete privacy.

For the Traveler Who Still Believes in Shoulder Season

Italy’s Most Glamorous Ski Town Beckons for Summer

Long synonymous with alpine glamour, Cortina d’Ampezzo continues to evolve well beyond ski season alone. The forthcoming Le Graal Cortina, alongside the arrival of Ancora Cortina, signals a new era for the Dolomites as travelers increasingly embrace the region year-round—for summer hiking, wellness escapes, crisp mountain air, and slower moments far removed from the intensity of Italy’s coastal hotspots.

Justice for Venice in Off-Season

As Italy’s popularity continues to surge, seasoned travelers are increasingly rethinking not only where they travel—but when. Rather than centering trips exclusively around July and August, many are discovering the beauty of Italy during quieter moments throughout the year. In Venice, winter brings cinematic fog rolling through empty canals. Across southern Italy, spring and early autumn offer warm temperatures without the intensity of peak-season crowds. We love a stay at Il Palazzo Experimental, or the newly opened Airelles Palladio, Venice is sure to make for a soft landing, no matter the time of year.

Ready to plan your next trip to Italy? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor.

The Ritz-Carlton was one of the first major hotel brands to successfully translate its experience from land to water…

Long considered a benchmark for refined service and timeless hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton was one of the first major hotel brands to successfully translate its experience from land to water—without compromising what made it iconic in the first place. Rather than adapting classic cruise conventions or chasing scale, the brand approached yachting as an extension of its hotel philosophy: intimate, design-forward, and deeply attuned to how modern luxury travelers want to move through the world.

The result is The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, a fleet of three superyachts—Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara—that collectively helped redefine what travel at sea can look like for a new generation of travelers. Not cruises in the traditional sense, but floating boutique hotels designed for guests who value space, service, and a slower, more intentional way of seeing the world.

A Disruptor That Changed the Conversation

When The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection launched in October 2022, the idea of a hotel brand operating at sea was still novel. Cruising, for many well-traveled clients, still carried outdated perceptions: crowds, rigid schedules, and experiences designed for mass appeal. The Ritz-Carlton didn’t attempt to modernize that model—it bypassed it entirely.

…it proved the concept could work for travelers who never thought cruising was for them.

Instead, the brand exported what it knew best, designing suites that feel more like hotel rooms rather than cabins, matched by service that is intuitive rather than performative. Plus, dining that stands on its own merit, paired with itineraries designed to linger, not rush. That early clarity of vision matters. As more luxury hotel brands now enter the maritime space, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands apart not just because it was one of the first to bring a hotel brand to sea—but because it proved the concept could work for travelers who never thought cruising was for them.

One Philosophy, Three Distinct Yachts

There are no casinos. No water slides. No crowded decks competing for attention.

While each yacht in the collection has its own personality, all three share a common DNA. Across the fleet, the experience is unmistakably Ritz-Carlton: polished without being too formal, elevated without excess, and designed around the idea that true luxury is felt, not announced. There are no casinos. No water slides. No crowded decks competing for attention. Instead, the focus is on proportion, flow, and ease—spaces that invite guests to settle in, rather than move from port to port at a rushed pace.

Evrima: The Proof of Concept

As the inaugural yacht in the collection, Evrima laid the foundation for everything that followed for The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection. With the smallest guest count in the fleet at 149 suites and a passenger capacity of up to 298 guests, she delivers the most intimate onboard experience—one that feels closer to private yachting than cruising.

Evrima appeals particularly to travelers who value subtlety over spectacle.

The atmosphere aboard Evrima is calm and residential. Public spaces are designed for lingering, whether that means working quietly between ports, reading on deck, or enjoying a drink without distraction. The scale allows for a deeper connection between guests and crew, and service quickly becomes intuitive rather than transactional. Evrima appeals particularly to travelers who value subtlety over spectacle. For villa loyalists and boutique hotel devotees, the experience feels familiar in the best way: refined, personal, and unhurried.

Where Evrima Sails

Evrima’s itineraries are built around access and atmosphere—destinations where her size is an advantage rather than a limitation. In the Mediterranean, Evrima visits both iconic coastal stops and smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach, often anchoring offshore and tendering guests ashore in a way that feels more like arriving by private boat than disembarking from a ship.

In the Caribbean, itineraries emphasize rhythm over rigidity, with marina days that allow guests to swim, paddleboard, and relax directly off the yacht, alongside easy island-hopping. Evrima also sails French Polynesia, where her scale allows for anchoring in crystalline lagoons and lingering in destinations that reward slowness. Here, the line between yacht and destination blurs entirely—days are dictated by light, water, and inclination rather than a rigid schedule.

Ilma: Refined Scale and Elevated Wellness

If Evrima was the proof of concept, Ilma represents the refinement phase. Larger and more expansive at 226 suites and up to 448 guest capacity, Ilma offers increased deck space, enhanced wellness facilities, and a brighter, more contemporary design sensibility than her predecessor. Interiors lean European in feel and airy, with an emphasis on openness and flow throughout the yacht.

The onboard spa, fitness spaces, and dedicated wellness programming feel integrated into daily life…

Wellness plays a more prominent role aboard Ilma, making her particularly appealing to travelers who prioritize movement, balance, and restoration while traveling. The onboard spa, fitness spaces, and dedicated wellness programming feel integrated into daily life rather than positioned as optional extras. Despite her increased size, Ilma retains the uncrowded, residential feel that defines the collection. The experience remains relaxed and personal—just with more room to breathe.

Where Ilma Sails

Ilma focuses on destinations that benefit from longer stays and scenic arrivals. Her Mediterranean itineraries span Italy, France, Spain, and the Adriatic, with schedules designed to keep guests in port well into the evening. Late departures allow for lingering lunches, spontaneous exploration, and early dinners ashore—luxuries often unavailable on larger ships.

In the Caribbean, Ilma’s sailings prioritize ease and flow, appealing to travelers looking for warmth, water, and effortless days at sea without sacrificing comfort or service. Ilma is particularly well-suited to repeat guests—those who loved their first experience with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and are ready to expand it will find themselves right at home.

Luminara: The Fully Realized Expression

The newest and most expansive yacht in the fleet, Luminara is the culmination of everything The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has learned so far at sea. Size-wise, she measures almost exactly in line with Ilma at 228 suites and a capacity of up to 452 guests. With expanded dining venues, a significantly enhanced wellness footprint, and thoughtfully designed social spaces, Luminara feels confident and fully realized. Interiors lean richer and more atmospheric, while still maintaining the clean lines and quiet luxury the brand is known for.

Despite her larger size, Luminara retains the hallmark uncrowded feel of the fleet. Guest flow is intentional, service remains attentive without being intrusive, and spaces are designed to accommodate both social moments and solitude. Luminara is the yacht for travelers ready to think globally—to use the sea not just as a setting, but as a seamless way to connect multiple destinations.

Where Luminara Sails

Luminara’s itineraries are the most globally ambitious in the collection. She sails the Mediterranean, covering classics like Italy, Spain, and the French Riviera, while maintaining the brand’s signature pacing—think: long days ashore and unhurried evenings back on board.

For travelers who want to explore complex regions without the friction of constant packing, transfers, and hotel changes, this approach offers a compelling alternative.

Beginning in mid-2026, Luminara’s itineraries expand into Asia, with sailings that include ports of call in Japan, Southeast Asia, and beyond. For travelers who want to explore complex regions without the friction of constant packing, transfers, and hotel changes, this approach offers a compelling alternative. Asia by yacht allows guests to move fluidly between cultures while returning each night to a familiar, beautifully designed environment—an especially appealing proposition for well-traveled clients seeking depth without the challenges that come with constant packing and unpacking.

Cruising Designed for the Anti-Cruiser

Perhaps the most telling success of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is the audience it attracts. Many guests step aboard having never cruised before—and never planning to prior to booking their maiden voyage. They are design-conscious, service-oriented travelers accustomed to luxury hotels, private villas, and thoughtfully curated itineraries. What draws them in is not the idea of cruising, but the promise of waking up somewhere new each day without sacrificing comfort, autonomy, or style.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is one of the few luxury cruise experiences that meaningfully integrates with a major hotel loyalty program, allowing guests to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on their sailing.

The experience rewards those who value time as much as destination. There is no pressure to follow a rigid schedule, no rush to secure space, and no spectacle competing for attention. Instead, days unfold at a human pace—dictated by curiosity, appetite, and mood rather than announcements or programming. For Marriott loyalists, there is also a rare layer of familiarity at sea. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is one of the few luxury cruise experiences that meaningfully integrates with a major hotel loyalty program, allowing guests to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on their sailing. For points-savvy travelers, this quietly enhances the value proposition, turning a journey at sea into future stays across the Marriott portfolio—without ever feeling like a loyalty play.

It’s this combination—hotel-caliber service, design-forward spaces, intentional pacing, and the subtle reassurance of a trusted brand—that continues to convert even the most self-proclaimed non-cruisers. For many guests, the decision isn’t about trying cruising at all. It’s about choosing a new way to travel that still feels unmistakably like home.

Your Next Sailing Awaits

The fleet is not a novelty, but a long-term extension of the brand—one that continues to evolve with each new vessel and itinerary.

As luxury hospitality continues to expand offshore, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection remains the reference point. Not because it was loud or disruptive—but because it was intentional. By leading with service, design, and a deep understanding of its audience, The Ritz-Carlton didn’t just enter the space; it legitimized it. The fleet is not a novelty, but a long-term extension of the brand—one that continues to evolve with each new vessel and itinerary.

With three yachts now sailing across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, French Polynesia, and Asia, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands as both a pioneer and a benchmark. A reminder that when hospitality is done right, even the open ocean can feel like home.

Ready to set sail? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to chat  itineraries.

“You can feel the family across the hotels and this creates a certain warmth and atmosphere; it creates a sense of belonging,” says Sir Rocco Forte.

Rocco Forte Hotels is the Forte family. From development to design and everything in between, Sir Rocco Forte, his sister Olga Polizzi, and his children, Lydia, Irene, and Charles, have each left their mark on the forward-thinking brand. “You can feel the family across the hotels and this creates a certain warmth and atmosphere; it creates a sense of belonging,” says Sir Rocco Forte. Join us as we pull back the curtain behind the check-in desk to meet the Forte family and in turn, discover the magic they’ve created across their collection of exquisite European properties.

First Things First: The Design

Since acquiring his first hotel project, The Balmoral in Edinburgh, Sir Rocco Forte has always had the family legacy in mind. His sister, Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman and Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels carefully considers the history and culture of each hotel’s location as the brand expands in service of that legacy. “My father was incredibly hard-working; I learned that from him,” she says. “But I got the attention to detail from my mother. Today, that attention to detail has resulted in creating a sense of home in every property Rocco Forte puts its name behind.” The collection has innovatively ‘un-done’ conventional hotel design as it has evolved, in turn creating an irreplaceable ambiance for its guests.

Sir Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi grew up learning the hospitality ropes from their father, Lord Forte at Trust House Forte, which later became Forte Hotels. Over the last twenty-five years and counting, the two have collaborated to translate what they learned first-hand from their parents, beginning with design. “In fact, my grandfather had incredible taste, considering that he grew up in a tiny village of 300 inhabitants up in the hills in between Rome and Naples. My aunt worked in the design department [at Trust House Forte] too, and she and my mother were always redoing their houses. So the design thing was always there,” Polizzi shares.

As a family-run brand, Rocco Forte Hotels has the ability to make each of its properties as unique as the team members behind them. Polizzi’s design ethos is rooted in her belief that design must reflect not just sophistication and discerning taste, but the genuine warmth of the welcome offered to guests. “A hotel room must always be welcoming,” she shares emphatically. “Soft lighting, good bathrooms with space to put down wash bags, and concessions to space. Comfort comes first.” But this doesn’t always mean brand-new furniture and fixtures. Polizzi buys goods at auctions and antique fairs to blend in more mature items with those that are fresher and modern. She elaborates, “I find it quite harsh in a space to have everything new, even in a new build the odd antique can fit in well. It’s the same with fashion in a way; a mix of old and new often looks good.” Her recent collaboration with Belgian-American designer Diane von Furstenberg at the Hotel Amigo in Brussels embodies the perfect mix of colors and textures with a bold zebra rug and a collection of DVF’s striking artwork.

But it’s not only antiques that Polizzi is sourcing. She aims to weave in the flair of a destination by seeking out its artisans and local craftspeople. In London at Brown’s Hotel, the recently launched Sir Paul Smith Suite combines hand-selected artworks with classic British heritage in his signature quirky style. Whether it’s Laudomia Pucci’s bold textiles at Hotel Savoy (the younger, more gadabout sister of the collection) in Florence or handmade tiles from Bagheria for Villa Igeia in Palermo (the elegant, but cooler cousin who always has the perfect vintage dress to wear to a black tie soirée), local designs “are what give the hotels their sense of being rooted int he place they’re in,” she says. No matter which property you’re speaking with Polizzi about, it’s as if they are people with their distinct personalities because that’s very much the ethos with which she designs them.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

“For us [siblings], having on both sides these Italian grandparents who really cared not just about the food but the hospitality, was a lifelong learning experience.”

The Forte family has shared a love for food around their dinner table for generations, so the chance to extend a culinary passion to their properties in London, Rome, Florence, Sicily, Brussels, Munich, Berlin, Edinburgh, and beyond has been a natural evolution for the family-owned brand. “For us [siblings], having on both sides these Italian grandparents who really cared not just about the food but the hospitality, was a lifelong learning experience,” Lydia Forte says. “Sunday lunch with them was always at least twenty or twenty-five people, with a kids’ table on the side. It was always delicious, always fully laid up, and my grandmother always in the kitchen, overseeing the food.”

The art of eating and drinking well is one that Lydia Forte, Group Director of Food and Beverage, focuses on with fervor. After training across some of London’s top restaurants, she’s made exploring the ways eating and drinking can define, enhance, and evolve the Rocco Forte experience her singular pursuit. Lydia operates from the belief that there are few elements of a hotel that connect you to a setting and the people in it so immediately as a delectable meal being prepared with precision. “In general, it’s clear that people want to be healthier,” she says; all Rocco Forte Hotels menus have vegetarian and gluten-free options and a myriad of choices.” 

Today, her role encompasses everything from operations to nutrition across the hotels. She works in partnership with Fulvio Pierangelini, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Creative Director of Food. The award-winning Roman chef and onetime restaurateur also oversees the vast gardens at Verdura Resort as a part of the brand’s commitment to local produce. “He has taught me so much about food,” Lydia shares. “Some say he’s like a food whisperer…When you go to his apartment in Rome, he might have just a few vegetables and somehow with what seems like nothing, he’ll conjure up a meal of dreams.”

This same spirit of innovation is applied to menus across every Rocco Forte hotel restaurant or bar, including its forthcoming hotel in Milan’s golden triangle, The Carlton, set to open in 2025. Lydia is collaborating with Pierangelini and the brand’s luminary bar consultant, Salvatore Calabrese, on several venues. “The whole of the ground floor is for dining and drinking,” she says. “We want it to feel like it’s a bar and restaurant with rooms, a place for locals as much as out-of-town guests. While the restaurant will lean towards more of an evolved menu, there will be Italian crudo and fish with a bit of Asian inflection,” she says. The bar will lean classically Milanese, with Pierangelini shaping a menu of regional, easy classics.

“And of course, it’s different in every hotel—the authentic DNA of the place will be in each one,” Lydia affirms. The restaurants appeal to locals, and guests alike. Whether it’s locally made marmalades, produce from the family’s organic farms at Verdura in Sicily, or salmon smoked in-house in Edinburgh, guests immediately know where they are if only relying on their plates to tell them the story.

Wellness Abound: Irene Forte Style

An intrinsic component of a Rocco Forte hotel stay is a visit to its spa. But wellness isn’t a concept contained to the walls of a treatment room. It starts with cutting-edge spas and fitness centers, but wellness extends into organic in-room amenities. Under the helm of Irene Forte, Wellness Consultant and Founder of Irene Forte Skincare, Rocco Forte Hotels have revolutionized their treatment menus, therapist training, facilities, and the overall guest experience as it relates to wellbeing.

In 2009, Irene spent a year working at Verdura Resort, the then-newly opened Rocco Forte hotel on Sicily’s southwest coast. She was immersed in the Sicilian culture, the healing properties of its products, and the palpable energy of the island. The transformative experience – in which she deepened her understanding of the power of nature on mind, body, soul, and skin – led her to develop what is now known as the Rocco Forte Spa concept, as well as her own line of esteemed products.

What is today known as Irene Forte Skincare was born from the fruits (literally) of Verdura Resort’s extensive gardens. Irene studied the properties of citrus, pomegranate, pistachio, and olive oils to create a skincare line based on the natural bounty. This “Mediterranean Diet for the face” isn’t just beautiful and sustainable packaging – it’s clinically approved for sensitive skin. Every product in the Irene Forte line undergoes extensive clinical trialing. “The hibiscus night cream performed the best of any natural product Doctor Ferri had seen tested,” at EffigiLab, Irene says.

…the design of the spas is under the helm of Irene’s vision, too with a lean towards airy and modern, splashed with subtle references to local artisanship.

You might be wondering, how does the skincare line impact Rocco Forte guests? Well, its shampoo, conditioner, and body soap will be sprinkled all over your room or suite’s shower, to begin with. But you can also take advantage of the line’s facial products in the spa – which will inevitably lead to you purchasing some of the full-sized bottles on your way out of the spa (does it sound like we’re speaking from first-hand experience?). Speaking of spas, the design of the spas is under the helm of Irene’s vision, too with a lean towards airy and modern, splashed with subtle references to local artisanship as a nod to her aunt’s signature touch.

Irene debuted the first Irene Forte Spa at Villa Igiea perched above the sea and featuring two stories of indoor-outdoor relaxation zones, treatment suites, a beauty salon, and a Technogym-equipped fitness center overlooking the harbor. Four more Rocco Forte spas have since rebranded Irene Forte with the full offering of treatments and products including Rome’s Hotel de Russie and Hotel de la Ville, Masseria Torre Maizza in Puglia, and Verdura Resort in Sicily.

The Future of Rocco Forte

Hotels in development that are to join the Rocco Forte family remain a key part of the path forward. Aiming to honor the family’s illustrious legacy, Charles Forte took on the role of Director of Development at just thirty years old. But if you look back at his first experience working for the family business as a fourteen-year-old waiter at Brown’s Hotel in London. From there, at age eighteen, he toggled between the reception desk and prep-chef stations in the kitchens of Dorchester Collection’s Principe di Savoia in Milan. Ultimately, after university and a couple of years in commercial real estate, he shifted to working alongside his sisters, father, and aunt at Rocco Forte Hotels.

Alongside Sir Rocco Forte, Charles Forte is responsible for mapping out new destinations and exploring both geographic and operational expansion for Rocco Forte Hotels. Due to the success of Rocco Forte House in Rome, there are upcoming iterations of the same residential concept in Milan, due to open in 2024, and Florence. The forward momentum is driven not just by profession for Charles, but ultimately, legacy.

“We are excited to open the two Milan properties and Costa Smeralda in Sardinia in the next couple of years…”

When asked about what he’s working on these days, Charles enthusiastically dives into a series of projects that are sure to surprise even those fully immersed in the hospitality space. “We are excited to open the two Milan properties and Costa Smeralda in Sardinia in the next couple of years. Looking ahead, opportunities in European cities and areas of beauty, as well as Italy, the USA, and the Middle East are progressing nicely, too.” No matter which direction you look, the future of this family-owned brand is filled with promise.

Ready to plan your next stay looked after by the Rocco Forte family? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to get started.

As One&Only’s first-ever U.S. property and its debut alpine resort, to say there’s a great deal of anticipation surrounding this opening would be selling it short. This year-round sanctuary will invite guests to soak in a private hot tub with panoramic mountain views, stargaze from a secluded observatory, dine at a celebrity chef-helmed Japanese-style steakhouse, and have direct access to Big Sky Resort’s Madison Base. And all of that without losing sight of the untamed beauty that makes Montana magic.

Getting to Big Sky

Getting to Big Sky is refreshingly straightforward: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) offers nearly thirty nonstop connections from major U.S. cities, and it’s an easy one-hour drive to the resort. Private jet travelers can opt for FBO access at Bozeman or Yellowstone Airport, with SmartFlyer travel advisor-arranged flights and transfers ensuring a seamless arrival. For those incorporating Big Sky into a larger Western road trip, it’s five hours from Jackson, six from Salt Lake City, and just over three from Missoula.

Where the Mountains Meet the Moonlight

One&Only Moonlight Basin sits in the heart of Big Sky, Montana—a year-round playground for skiers, hikers, anglers, and anyone with an appetite for adventure.

The beauty here lies in the juxtaposition—you’re close enough to world-class skiing and Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, yet so tucked away in the forest that the only lights at night are the ones above you. One&Only Moonlight Basin sits in the heart of Big Sky, Montana—a year-round playground for skiers, hikers, anglers, and anyone with an appetite for adventure. Perched at 7,000 feet in the private Moonlight Basin community, the resort is encircled by Lone Peak, Fan Mountain, and the Spanish Peaks, with two private alpine lakes anchoring the property. And for those seeking a National Park adventure, Moonlight Basin sits just an hour drive to Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance and ninety minutes to the North Entrance.

The One&Only Difference

Globally recognized for one-of-a-kind properties in some of the world’s most inspiring locations, One&Only Resorts has mastered the art of hospitality without losing an ounce of authenticity. Moonlight Basin is no exception—in fact, it’s a milestone. Not only is it the brand’s first alpine retreat, it’s also its first foray in the U.S., landing it on our very own 25 Hottest New Hotels Open in 2025 list in addition to Robb Report, Vogue, Travel + Leisure, AFAR, and Condé Nast Traveler’s “most anticipated openings” lists.

Spread across 240 acres of protected wilderness (and surrounded by over 17,000 acres of permanently conserved land), the resort comprises four unique lodges, nineteen freestanding cabins, seventy-three guestrooms and suites, and a collection of four- to six-bedroom Private Homes. All accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows, soaking tubs with cinematic mountain views, and outdoor hot tubs—because in Montana, the scenery is as much an amenity as the spa treatment itself. 

Speaking of which: the One&Only Spa is a modern sanctuary that will uplevel any check-in. With eight treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, a cutting-edge fitness center, and an indoor pool that opens to the outdoors in warmer months, you could carve out an entire wellness day to enjoy the spa.

Architecture That Disappears Into the Pines

Internationally acclaimed firm Olson Kundig designed One&Only Moonlight Basin with a light touch—one that lets the landscape lead. Low-slung structures combined with a palette of timber, steel, glass, and rough stone will have guests feeling at one with nature. And perhaps most notably, the intentional decision to keep rooflines below the treeline ensures that in just a few years, the entire resort will be visually absorbed into the forest. 

The gondola is its own architectural statement: designed by the mind behind Porsche, this heated, glass-walled ride connects the Sky Lodge directly to Big Sky’s Madison Base in just five minutes. It’s also your gateway to the Madison 8, the world’s longest eight-seat heated chairlift, and a dedicated kids’ ski school—meaning family ski days are as seamless as they are scenic.

All Seasons of Adventure

One&Only Moonlight Basin is built for year-round discovery. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are obvious draws, but the resort’s private Nordic trails, snowshoe routes, and cozy après-ski experiences make it just as appealing for non-skiers. Imagine finishing the day with a hot toddy at Dear Josephine Lounge or slipping into your private hot tub as snow drapes the peaks.

Summer is equally magnetic in Montana. Guests can hike or mountain bike through wildflower-carpeted trails, paddleboard or swim in the resort’s alpine lakes, or, try their hand at fly-fishing on nearby rivers. For a quintessential Montana evening, head to Moonshack, the resort’s speakeasy-style whiskey bar hidden in the woods, for rare pours and poker under the stars. And speaking of stars, the remoteness of this locale makes for some of the clearest, most vibrant stargazing on Earth. The resort’s private Observatory offers expert-led sessions year-round, turning the night sky into your evening entertainment.

Culinary Storytelling in the High Country

When it comes to dining, guests can dip into Big Sky’s restaurant scene, or, on days when hanging back on property is more appealing, options abound. The resort boasts six dining concepts, including Wildwood, The Landing for alpine-inspired American fare, Dear Josephine for cocktails, a hidden whiskey shack in the woods, Akira Back–helmed Japanese-style steakhouse, and poolside or in-room dining for ultimate convenience.

Montana might not be the first place you’d expect to find a world-class Japanese steakhouse, but One&Only Moonlight Basin is rewriting that script. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back, the signature restaurant fuses alpine ingredients with Japanese precision—think local Wagyu alongside miso-infused Montana trout. 

Wildwood, an all-day dining destination, celebrates Montana’s farmers and foragers, while The Landing pairs elevated alpine cuisine with panoramic slope views. Meanwhile, Dear Josephine Lounge is the place for artful cocktails and small plates, while Moonshack delivers a dose of rustic irreverence—the kind of place where the whiskey list is as impressive as the stories you’ll hear around the table. 

Who It’s For

…One&Only Moonlight Basin is for travelers who crave exclusivity without isolation, luxury without pretense, and nature without compromise.

Big Sky suits those from many walks of life—One&Only Moonlight Basin is for travelers who crave exclusivity without isolation, luxury without pretense, and nature without compromise. It will draw well-heeled couples from New York, San Francisco, London, and Dubai looking for a fresh, stateside alpine escape; multigenerational families seeking an active yet indulgent holiday; and executives who prefer board meetings by the fire to boardrooms. It’s also poised to attract adventure-seekers who value guided excursions in wilderness, as well as friends groups planning nature-immersed celebrations.

Private Homes offer up to six bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living spaces for groups…

While couples will find no shortage of romance here, One&Only Moonlight Basin is equally adept at hosting multigenerational escapes, executive retreats, and milestone celebrations. Private Homes offer up to six bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living spaces for groups who want the comforts of home with the perks of a luxury resort. Fire pits, hot tubs, and seamless ski access make them a natural choice for family gatherings. For your youngest travelers, the KidsOnly Club runs year-round, giving younger guests their own adventures—from wildlife tracking to ski lessons—while adults indulge in spa treatments, long lunches, or a few extra runs on the mountain.

Go Big and Try Big Sky

Montana has always been about wide-open spaces, big skies, and a sense of freedom you can’t quite bottle. Whether you’re headed to Big Sky to ski the slopes, hike to hidden lakes, or simply watch the stars from your hot tub, One&Only Moonlight Basin offers something increasingly rare: the chance to be fully present in a place where nature takes the lead. 

At One&Only Moonlight Basin, mornings might start with an espresso in your private cabin as the alpenglow hits Lone Peak, and end with a Japanese whisky under a canopy of stars. In between, the hours are yours—whether you spend them skiing, spa-ing, fishing, or simply breathing in the alpine air. This is the American West, reimagined for those who’ve seen it all.

…but it still feels like a secret that discerning travelers are desperate doesn’t get spoiled when too many others find out about it, and unavoidably, flock.

There’s a bit of alchemy required for a destination to be developed enough to cater to the luxury market while avoiding becoming too commercial, and in turn, losing its authenticity. Mallorca currently sits in a sweet spot; with each passing summer season, it’s being built up just a touch more, but it still feels like a secret that discerning travelers are desperate doesn’t get spoiled when too many others find out about it, and unavoidably, flock. We’ve delayed crafting this Mallorca guide for just that reason – but ultimately, at SmartFlyer, we don’t gatekeep. So, after three consecutive summers returning to this beloved island, it’s finally time to round up some of its most longstanding hotels, brand-new properties, beaches worth trekking to, and meals you won’t want to miss.

How to Get to Mallorca

It’s never been easier to get to Mallorca from New York City. In 2022, United Airlines launched the first nonstop from the U.S. to the Spanish island; from May to September, the flight operates three times per week directly from Newark to Palma. Curious about which days the flight operates? By working with SmartFlyer Air Team, you’ll have all the details sorted for you. And with thirty highly sought-after United Polaris® business class seats, you can wake up well-rested and start your vacation in style. And while we’re of the camp that believes Mallorca isn’t to be rushed and could constitute an entire trip on its own, Madrid, Barcelona, or its brother Balearic islands of Ibiza, Menorca, or Formentera are all easily accessible if you are combining this Mallorca guide with the Spanish capital.

Best Hotels in Mallorca

With Mallorca being the largest of the Balearic islands, many clients opt to do a split stay between two – or even three – properties.

Answering the question, “Where should I stay in Mallorca?” could warrant a five-part spin-off to our Mallorca guide. But in an attempt for brevity (never easy for me, but particularly when it comes to hotels), I’ll do my best to sum up the differences between a handful of frontrunners. With Mallorca being the largest of the Balearic islands, many clients opt to do a split stay between two – or even three – properties. By opting for a combination stay, you can get the best of the capital of Palma, the western, and southeastern sides of the island. And while this list represents a selection of some of our clients’ favorites, there are a couple notable builds happening in the years ahead, including Mandarin Oriental coming in 2026.

But first, a bit of geography! One of the main myths we like to dispel when evaluating hotel options for Mallorca is that while a handful of properties boast water views, very few luxury hotels on the island are located directly on the water. Active travelers relish the lush terrain Mallorca offers, and in turn, this means that many of the best hotels in Mallorca are nestled into mountainous backdrops versus the beaches you may be picturing. Luckily, it’s not all about being seafront, per se. Let us break down the basics, and as always, we recommend consulting with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to decide which of these spots best suits your specific style.

Hotels Within Thirty Minutes of Palma

Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden

If you’re the type of traveler who seeks a mix of city and beach, we recommend dedicating a couple of nights to staying in downtown Palma. With only twenty-four suites each masterfully renovated within a 16th-century building, Can Bordoy is teeming with character and undeniably a frontrunner in Palma. We love how it feels like an oasis right within the walls of the city thanks to its roof terrace, charming garden, outdoor pool, and its restaurant (the first upscale plant-forward spot in Palma). As a bonus, the overgrown Jumanji-esque greens that crawl the walls of its dining room will make you feel like you’re lost in a movie scene.

Book it for: We love Can Bordoy for those who want to get acclimated to Mallorca through time spent in an oasis in the heart of Palma with easy access to ample shopping and restaurants.

Cap Rocat

The sense of arrival at this fortress is distinctly regal. Cap Rocat exudes exclusivity and prides itself on being one of the Mediterranean’s most private and secluded resorts. As a National Monument and Heritage Asset sanctioned by the government, the restoration of this fortress building was a rigorous project spearheaded by its owner in collaboration with Mallorcan design studio, Antonio Obrador. Aside from the fact that you can hear a pin drop in this tranquil oasis, one of the most notable selling points of a stay at Cap Rocat is its positioning directly on the sea. Each room category is distinct, so be sure to work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to ensure that you’re set up with the view you’ve been dreaming of; for example, the highly-sought after Sentinel category offers complete seclusion, a private pool, and sweeping sea views.

Book it for: We love Cap Rocat for honeymooners who want the ultimate splurge, from direct sea views to endless spa treatments and long, lingering lunches at The Sea Club.

Kimpton Aysla Mallorca

Located just about twenty minutes from downtown Palma, IHG Hotel & Resorts’ first foray into this Balearic island is a sanctuary of modern calm. This progressive take on a wellness resort makes for an ideal launching point on the western side of the island to explore. Rooms were designed by Guillermo Reynés, a local who infused traditional Mallorcan flair with contemporary living; upgraded room categories also feature private gardens for the ultimate relaxation. Or, if you prefer a more active stay, it’s a short drive to strike up a tennis match at Mallorca Country Club or a round of golf at Golf Santa Ponsa. Your easy access to Palma means you can have dinner with a short drive to town, or keep it chill on the terrace at Kimpton’s pan Asian restaurant, SABA.

Book it for: We love Kimpton Aysla Mallorca for someone looking for something fresh with an approachable price point.

Grand Hotel Son Net

Approaching the terracotta-pink façade of Grand Hotel Son Net through its palm-tree-lined drive, you get a sense you’re about to arrive somewhere special. This freshly opened property is a sister hotel to the Andalucian favorite, Finca Cortesin, and promises the same discreet approach to Spanish hospitality. With only thirty-one rooms, including six poolside cottages located away from the main house, the design of each accommodation is distinct. Interior designer Lorenzo Castillo meticulously restored Son Net to include bespoke Gastón y Daniela fabrics that match the ornate wallpaper, antique Castilian furniture, ornate mirrors, and fireplaces. And if you can pull yourself away from the rich interiors, a gorgeous pool lined with cabanas overlooking the mountains awaits.

Book it for: We love Son Net for the traveler seeking an ultra-private boutique property that just so happens to be the newest kid on the block. Additionally, this hotel plans to remain open all winter for a cozier off-season stay.

Hotels in Western Mallorca

La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel

Certain hotels leave an indelible mark on your heart; La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel is sure to be one of them. Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains with a sightline to the sea, here, guests have the chance to dig into the creative soul of Deià from the moment they set foot on property. With a connection to the artistic history of the property and “Artists in Residencia” program, guests have the opportunity not only to walk through the gallery or meet with its legendary curator Cecile Sheridan, but also get to know some of the brilliant young minds in residence over cocktails on the lawn. As far as accommodations, we swoon over the colorful Designer Suite by Matthew Williamson, complete with a private pool. Before dinner at El Olivio, be sure to snag a spot on La Residencia’s gorgeous sailboat for sunset on the sea.

Book it for: We love a stay at La Residencia for multi-gen families, friend groups, or couples seeking easy access to a quaint town where they can walk about or hike down to Cala Deià.

Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel

Visible from the water, Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel is perched on a soaring cliff just beyond a hub that’s home to many of the island’s fishing and leisure boats. The sprawling hotel grounds house one hundred and twenty-one rooms, each with a private balcony or terrace, prime for admiring the view. For wellness lovers, the Talise Spa offers treatments with products sourced from citrus, almond, and olive oil trees. Guests can spend their days relaxing in one of two pools on property, or easily get down to Port Sóller to charter a private yacht, which will allow you to access nearby coves.

Book it for: We love Jumeirah for those looking for access to multiple pools, a spa, and a location directly on the water for a more moderate nightly rate than some others on the island.

Son Bunyola

Tucked into the twists and turns of the Tramuntana Mountains, Son Bunyola sits on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its protected positioning was the culprit of immense restrictions around how the land could be modified, so, after years of being unable to secure building permits, Sir Richard Branson sold the land. Branson repurchased the property in 2015 to reinvest in his dream of adapting it into a hotel, and in the summer of 2023, the twenty-six-room hotel made its debut to great anticipation. Amenities include a ninety-two-foot infinity pool, tennis courts, and access to a pebble-strewn beach within walking distance. While the growth of the almond, olive, and grape trees is very much still in progress, this passion project by one of the world’s hospitality icons is sure to impress.

Book it for: We love Son Bunyola for its landscape and ocean views across many of its room categories, combined with its villas for larger families.

Hotels in Southeastern Mallorca

Can Ferrereta

Just about a 45-minute drive east of Palma, Can Ferrereta is located in the town of Santanyí. Its location is the perfect launching point to some of the island’s best beaches…but more on that later in our Mallorca guide. This thirty-two-room and suite property is the sister hotel to Sant Francesc in town (another client favorite) and was conceptualized with the same laid-back approach to luxury. Tucked along a sleepy street behind an unassuming door, the untrained eye would never know what they are missing by walking past this meticulously remodeled 17th-century mansion. But once you step inside to find its peaceful interiors, you know you’re in for a treat. After a morning spent exploring the nearby beaches, come back to Can Ferrereta’s cypress and olive tree-lined pool to laze about before a candlelit dinner on the property’s dreamy courtyard.

Book it for: We love Can Ferrereta for a group of friends who are looking to beach hop, or couples seeking a bit of a boutique option where they can luxuriate in slow afternoons at the sun-soaked pool.

Hotels in North and Eastern Mallorca

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor

Freshly opened, this brand-new property is tailor-made for those craving a blend of heritage and high-end polish. Set on the storied Formentor peninsula, Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor pairs a pristine private beach with interiors that honor the property’s 1929 origins while feeling fresh and modern. Expect Mediterranean elegance at every turn: airy rooms with sea views, a spa rooted in wellness traditions, and a dining program that spotlights local ingredients in truly elevated ways. The setting—surrounded by pine forests and lapped by turquoise waters—feels like a slice of untouched paradise, perfect for those who prize privacy without sacrificing world-class service.

Book it for: Guests seeking an iconic yet contemporary Mallorca experience, complete with Four Seasons’ signature hospitality, a private stretch of sand, and access to the island’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

Es Racó d’Artà

This boutique property has managed to stay relatively under the radar, and its loyal clients would like for it to stay that way. But we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t share a bit about the oh-so-special Es Racó d’Artà. The brainchild of one of Mallorca’s most noteworthy architects, Antoni Esteva, and his designer friend Jaume Danus, this farm estate is where soothing minimalism meets well-being. Today, the property acts as a haven for those wanting to hike, do morning meditation, take part in medicinal workshops, enjoy homegrown-wine tastings, or peruse the on-property art gallery. Accommodations are outfitted in a pleasing palette of creams, grays, and husks, ensuring your surroundings imbue island calm. With only thirty-four rooms, including twenty-one casitas offering two and three-bedroom accommodations, you’re ensured to be tucked into an ultra-private oasis. 

Book it for: We love Es Racó d’Artà for wellness junkies and against-the-grain travelers who seek out independent hotels with a true focus on the mind-body connection.

Mallorca Guide to Getting Around

For most, a car rental is essential to reaching the multitude of beaches, charming towns, and even boutique wineries and olive farms.

For avid cyclists, the challenge of mounting Mallorca’s mountainous terrain is appealing, so don’t overlook a more active itinerary or bike rental for a portion of your stay if that’s your cup of tea. For most, a car rental is essential to reaching the multitude of beaches, charming towns, and even boutique wineries and olive farms. We recommend booking your car rental as soon as you lock in flights and your hotels with your SmartFlyer travel advisor; particularly during peak season, availability can be limited. When deciding if you will book a manual or automatic vehicle, keep in mind that roads are extremely windy, narrow, and often hilly. Most beaches won’t have a sanctioned parking lot, but will require you to squeeze into tight street parking; so base your decision on your comfort level driving stick and plan accordingly. As always, we recommend insuring that rental!

Mallorca Guide to Beach Hopping

And here’s where it gets extra fun! Mallorca is made for exploration, and getting into its seemingly endless array of beaches, called calas, is a key part of any trip to the island. Depending on where you’re staying, you’ll want to devise a beach plan accordingly. Consider departing from your hotel just after breakfast to beat the crowds both for parking and setting yourself up with a spot at the beach. 

The key to a truly remarkable beach day in Mallorca is knowing that the most remote beaches are the most difficult to reach; oftentimes, there isn’t parking nearby, so you’ll have to plan for comfortable attire. But if it’s serenity you’re after, the trek is always worth it! And on the note of privacy, keep in mind that doing a boat day will grant you access to the most elusive beaches on the island. Sa Calobra and Cala Tuent are two examples of tucked-away gems that are best reached by boat. But, we’re getting ahead of ourselves…

Northern Beaches in Mallorca

• Ca’n Picafort: Stretched out before a handful of hotels, the beach is the longest and sandiest in the north. Expect to find all beach services, including sunbeds for rent, umbrellas, watersports, shops, bars, and restaurants.

Northeastern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Mesquida: With few buildings in sight, Cala Mesquida is beloved by locals, including what some would refer to as “naturists.” Anchored by dunes, the long stretch of white sand beach will leave you plenty of space to rent one of their double loungers.
• Cala Torta: Getting here on an unmarked road is half the adventure. With nearby hiking and an open-air shack primed for snacking on the fresh catch of the day, a visit here is likely to be one of your island highlights.

Eastern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Mondragó connects to Cala s’Amarador: Located within an extensive nature reserve, Cala Mondrago is ideal for jumping off rocky outcrops into the azure waters. If it’s too busy at Mondragó, keep walking along the coast to s’Amarador where you can rent loungers if you need to get out of the sun.
• Cala Varques: One of the beaches to target if you are looking for ultimate solace, plan to walk about fifteen minutes to Cala Varques, knowing it’s worth the effort. Also, plan to bring your snacks and drinks because there are no services here, just unspoiled white sand split between two coves.

Western Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Deià: A switchback single-lane road carves its way from Deià town to Cala Deià. Whether you’re hiking down from La Residencia or have secured street parking, this pebbled-lined beach is an island favorite. There are two chiringuitos serving up simple dishes here, including Instagram-famous Ca’s Patró March, the more elevated of the two.
• Magaluf: Every island has to have its wild side, and on Mallorca, it’s Magaluf. This mecca for Brits is infamous for drawing a more party-loving crew, and this white sand beach is dotted with resorts and beach clubs.
• Portals Vells: If you’re looking for a three-in-one special, the bay at Portal Vells is home to three small beaches, each boasting a unique character. This is the spot where many yachts choose to anchor, an indication that it’s one of the prime spots in our Mallorca guide.

Southern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Llombards: A sandy beach located in the southeast of Mallorca, Cala Llombards has sweeping cliffs that just beg adventure-seekers to jump. This one gets busy as the day wears on, so the earlier, the better.
• Cala s’Almunia connects to Calo des Moro: After you park on the street, be prepared to walk a fair bit to get to Cala s’Almunia. You can set yourself up here or keep walking to reach Calo des Moro, which is most certainly worth the trek.
• Cala Pi: Located just a few kilometers from the prehistoric village of Capocorb, this wide sandy beach is waiting for you beneath a steep set of stairs. You can expect fine sand and a cute beach bar below!
• Es Trenc: One of the largest and most famous beaches in Mallorca, Es Trenc is marked by miles of turquoise waters met by white sand. If you’re looking for a more traditional beach, this long stretch provides you with ample space to set up a chair while being surrounded by dunes and salt flats.

Best Restaurants in Mallorca

Mallorca is a place that begs for you to leave your Resy armor stateside and lean into spontaneity.

If you’re anything like us, most trips start and end with one question: “Where are we eating?” But the desire to experience the best restaurants in Mallorca must be met with an open mind; the island is deceivingly large, so if you’re building an itinerary around beach hopping, make that your priority and let the restaurants come second. Also, keep in mind that many restaurants on Mallorca require a credit card on file to make a reservation. So, while it’s not necessarily in our nature to recommend going to a destination without dining reservations, Mallorca is a place that begs for you to leave your Resy armor stateside and lean into spontaneity.

Mallorca Guide: Lunch Hotspots

• Assaona (near Palma): If you’re looking for a true beach club in Mallorca, your options are going to be more limited than those in neighboring Ibiza. But Assaona is a solid choice just outside Palma for lunch with your feet in the sand and a cold bottle of rosé at your side. 
• Ca’s Patró March (in Cala Deià): Yes, this is the one you always see on Instagram. And yes, it is worth the hype. Unfortunately, reser­vations are nearly impossible to snag; but, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get a table. For a few summers running, we’ve been able to get a table by showing up before the crowds that assemble for the first seating at one o’clock. 
• Sa Foradada (in Deià): Known for its location built into a cliff, Sa Fordada is ideal for a seaside lunch with epic views. Don’t be shy to ask for the first-row seating right by the water and order some of the delicious wood-fired paella! Note, it’s closed for the 2025 season but plans to reopen in 2026.
• Sea Club at Cap Rocat: Diners arrive both by land and by sea; a typical afternoon here is epitomized by several boats anchored while their passengers enjoy a salt-encrusted fish washed down by a bottle of wine (or two).

Mallorca Guide: Must-Do Dinners

• Barretes Restaurant at Ca’s Xorc: Located in a boutique hotel with magnificent views, this is your spot for a more upscale dining experience. In addition to local produce, we especially love that most of the meat and dairy are sourced from the hotel farm.
• Canela (Palma): This small restaurant offers traditional Mediterranean dishes and some creative Mediterranean and Asian fusion options. There’s an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients here.
• El Camino (Palma): For traditional Spanish tapas, this stylish eatery by Majorcan chef Cristian Riviera makes for an ideal lunch. The tomatoes here taste like literal candy, and don’t leave without dessert.
• El Olivio at La Residencia: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, a dinner under the olive trees at El Olivio is one of the most coveted reservations on the island. A number of tables are kept for hotel guests only, but outside guests are encouraged to inquire at least two months in advance of their desired reservation.
• Es Roquissar (Valldemossa): A solid spot in this cute town set between Palma and Deià, here, you’ll have ample vegetarian options amongst the many small plates. There are just a handful of tables (we love the ones on the terrace) where you can await creative dishes being churned out by the young Argentinian chef.
• Nama (in Deià): If you’re craving cuisine that’s a bit more multi-cultural, Nama is your go-to with a Southeast Asian-influenced menu. Its location overlooking the town of Deià is nothing short of charming.

Ready to begin planning your Mallorcan escape? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to get started.