In reverse order , here are the Best oF 2021 :
15 . V Villas , Phuket
With views across Ao Yon Bay at almost every turn , Accor ’ s swanky new MGallery addition features a jungle-canopy spa , creative European and Thai-seafood cuisine and a lounger-lined rooftop bar . It ’ s the 19 glassy , private-pool villas which most impress , though – flowing easily between straight-lined indoor and outdoor spaces , these prove ultra-relaxing , and have butlers on speed dial .
14 . six senses shaharut , israel
The untrodden Negev Desert is not an obvious place to open a luxury hotel , which makes it particularly memorable . Set between rocks and dunes , this indulgent wellness retreat combines typical Six Senses amenities – such as highcalibre visiting spa practitioners and a yoga studio – with an outdoor cinema and beguiling local touches : rich Israeli food , cacti-lined living quarters , and even a camel farm .
13 . kalesma , mykonos
Tastefully modelling itself on a typical , whitewashed Greek village that tumbles down to the sea , Kalesma ’ s exemplary design also extends to lattice work referencing local dovecotes and the same marble used to build Athens ’ Parthenon . Traditional , honey-filled Mykonian loukoumade cakes add to the Greekisland authenticity , while a private , heated pool in every wood-beamed villa ensures a totally relaxing getaway .
12 . one & only PortonoVi , montenegro
One & Only ’ s opulent arrival in Europe is a truly spectacular debut . Set beachside by a new marina-resort on glittering Kotor Bay , its perks range from barrel-aged cocktails and food by Giorgio Locatelli to a Chenot Espace spa – as well as the marbly , modern-Venetian entrance lobby . Good luck finding a more aromatic infinity pool , too , than the lavender-infused one here .
11 . raffles udaiPur , india
Raffles ’ first Indian outpost ( a second , due in Jaipur , now appears to be on the back burner ) is typically exquisite . It occupies a 21-acre private island on Udai Sagar Lake , and comes framed by ornamental gardens . This helps to create a wonderfully restful air , along with every suite having its own pool , an impressive spa , flexible all-day dining and dreamy temple views .
10 . Villa nai 3.3 , Croatia
On the unsung , wisp-thin island of Dugi Otok , this adults-only retreat is commendably conscious . Its eight bright rooms have been carefully carved into hillsides to minimise disrupting the surrounding olive-oil estate ’ s landscape . Guests can join the harvest or watch extraordinary sunsets from Veli Rat ’ s lighthouse ; balancing out these rustic offerings are a gourmet restaurant and bar , a spa and two pools .
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