If nothing but the best will do when it comes to accommodation for your next holiday – and you're prepared to push that budget out for a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience – look no further than the top 100 hotels ranking from Elite Traveler. From a tropical island paradise to expansive continental villas, the listing of the most luxurious hotels and resorts to lay your head around the globe has something to suit even the most discerning of travellers.

Located in America’s historic western frontier, this modern-rustic hotel offers an idyllic retreat for fans of the Great Outdoors. Located just a short drive away from the mountain resort of Jackson Hole, guests can marvel at the stunning surrounding scenery from the comfort of their individual balconies. Nature buffs will love participating in activities such as horseback riding and fly fishing, while those keen to relax can make the most of the heated outdoor infinity pool or on-site spa.

Bringing Parisian chic to the heart of the Big Apple, the hotel's name pays homage to the famed Baccarat crystal, manufactured in France since the 18th century. Each guest is gifted with a Baccarat crystal decanter as a memento of their stay, which is made all the more memorable thanks to opulent rooms blending contemporary and classic styles and hotel facilities including a cabana-lined heated indoor pool, on-site spa and a curated art collection sourced directly from France's capital. Read more in our New York City guide.

Located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this small but perfectly formed resort has an impressive offering. As well as 68 guest rooms there's a on-site creamery, bakery, charcuterie and even a beekeeper. With 4,200 acres of rolling hills surrounding the property to explore by horseback or carriage ride, and an extensive whisky collection to sample, it's no wonder this hotel continues to be a firm favourite with visitors both young and old.

Perfectly positioned on this beachfront along the Kona Coast of Hawaii Island, this island resort, while modern, continues to incorporate aspects of Hawaiian culture and tradition. Guests can make the island's traditional flower garland, the lei, in dedicated classes or even try a spot of hula dancing. For a special treat why not stay in three-bedroom Hawaii Loa Presidential Villa – inspired by the Hawaiian royal family home in the 19th century – which comes complete with a private concierge?

With three on-site bars, two on-site restaurants in the form of One Forty (Hawaiian seafood and American steak) and Nobu Lanai (fine Japanese cuisine), and two plush pools surrounded by tropical greenery, guests may struggle to find reasons to venture away from this stunning resort. But those who do, can try everything from trekking through the island's ironwood forests to spending the day on the hotel’s 50-foot catamaran for a spot of swimming or snorkelling.

You'll find a nod to this hotel's East Asia origins in everything from the Chinese artwork to interiors decor. But still, there's no mistaking the fact that this opulent building is located in the beating heart of NYC, being just a few steps from Central Park, and offering sweeping views of Midtown Manhattan and the Hudson River. The three-bedroom suite 5000 is the hotel's most exclusive accommodation offering, boasting a coveted art collection, a Swarovski crystal wall and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Set within 250-acres in California's famed Napa Valley wine region, those who love pairing their favourite bottle of plonk with picturesque views will feel right at home here. With a selection of 1,000 wines to choose from, an on-site three-Michelin-starred restaurant and a newly renovated swimming pool and fitness centre, guests will feel truly spoiled.

The charming New England town of Watch Hill served as the Hamptons of its day, and this Grand Victorian house hotel was brought thoroughly up-to-date in 2014 following a change of ownership, while retaining original features such as the stone fireplace and reception desk. Choose from different dining options ranging from fine-dining Coast to the more casual The Bistro, before taking a spin in one of the four Mercedes-Benz cars at guests' disposal to explore the local area.

Spread over 25 floors the hotel exudes contemporary glamour, and offers generously oversized rooms. Located opposite Carnegie Hall, a curated soundtrack from the iconic concert venue plays from the property's top floor saltwater pool, while the hotel also provides hard-to-access special tickets and backstage previews of shows. Further relaxation comes in the form of an on-site spa, while Central Park is located just a block away.

Located in the heart of the Midwest and right off the Magnificent Mile – the city's thriving commercial and entertainment district home to upscale shops and trendy restaurants – the hotel's 330 suites underwent a $37 million (£28.3m) restoration in 2016. Centring on East Asian hospitality – in honour of the hotel's heritage – the hotel's neutral colour palette is accented with Asian motifs and the 1930s-inspired Shanghai Terrace restaurant (serving up fresh-steamed dim sum) is a must-visit.

Standing since 1905 this landmark building is a blend of both the past and present with a Beaux-Arts and Italian Renaissance-style facade and modern furnishings. Highlights include the rooftop bar, Salon de Ning, the Forbes five-star rated Peninsula Spa, and its prime location on one of New York's most famed shopping streets, Fifth Avenue – home to iconic departments stores such as Saks and Bergdorf Goodman.

Located high up on a mountain overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the resort features tree houses perched on stilts 12 feet above the ground among its varied accommodation types, and some rooms also feature suspended decks facing the sea – perfect for a spot of whale watching. Wellness is a big focus at Post Ranch and accommodation seamlessly blends in with the surrounding natural environment, while spirits can be nourished by a shaman session drawing on ancient wisdom to restore emotional balance.

A haunt of the rich and famous for more than a century, the landmark hotel has played host to the likes of Fred Astaire, Katharine Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel's 210 rooms and private bungalows have been given modern makeovers, but still retain much of their old Hollywood charm. Features that continue to be enduringly popular include the hotel's pool with its striped and pale pink loungers and private cabanas and its famed diner, the Fountain Coffee Room.

Sitting on a five-mile-long island off the coast of Georgia, the hotel is where Southern hospitality and Mediterranean-style design meet. Guests can enjoy a fine-dining experience in the Georgian Room restaurant, feasting on delicacies such as grilled octopus and truffle soup, before relaxing in the Georgian Room lounge in front of a roaring fire with a glass of vintage port in hand – the hotel has an extensive list to choose from. Keen golfers will also be in their element as there are three world-class courses on the island to practise their swing.

The sister property of the Wynn – winner of the most Forbes five-star awards in the world – the upscale Encore features a stunning 829-square-foot three-bedroom Duplex Suite as one of its many highlights boasting a 16-person dining table, billiard room, fitness room and massage room. The hotel currently plays host to shows including LE RÊVE The Dream – an acrobatic fantasy show performed in an incredible aqua theatre in-the-round – and guests can enjoy it from an underwater deck as well as getting a scuba training session from the show's diving team.

The only five-star ski-in, ski-out resort in town with direct access to Aspen Mountain, The Little Nell continues to make its mark with seasoned skiers. Hotel concierges help map out the perfect ski trails so guests can make the most of their time on the slopes, and summer activities include biking, fly fishing and stargazing. Dogs are welcome, and the hotel even offers a puppy jet lag kit and a special pet menu to make sure your four-legged friends feel right at home. No visit to The Little Nell would be complete without sampling the famous Wagyu double cheeseburger and truffle fries at the on-site Ajax Tavern.

It's no wonder that this luxury hotel is the only one in New York that’s a National Historic Landmark, having played host to many famous faces since its inception in 1907 including Miles Davis and Billie Holiday. Each room has been sympathetically restored over the years, and the most decadent of which is the Royal Suite featuring detailed crown moulding and gold chandeliers in almost every room. It's also large enough to accommodate six people.

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains in northeastern New York, the hotel is the perfectly place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The 75-acre plot features 11 individually-decorated rooms spread throughout the property, and there are plenty of activities on offer to make guests' stays memorable, ranging from curling and fishing on the frozen lake in the winter to an evening cocktail cruise in the summer.

Built in 1904 the hotel is bound to impress guests with its opulent interiors, which featuring marble, lavish crystal chandeliers and pretty decorative murals.The extravagant Presidential Suite has large windows looking out onto both Central Park and Fifth Avenue and a butler is on hand to arrange a spin in the hotel’s Bentley Mulsanne for if you want to soak up the city's sights.

This suite-only hotel is home to the world-renowned Canyon Ranch Spa featuring a salt grotto, wave room, Finnish sauna and hydro spa. The 8,000-square-foot, four-bedroom Chairman Suite boasts its own gym, sauna and a private pool on your balcony – with careful planting to ensure guest's privacy – making for the ultimate Vegas experience.

City dwellers can recharge their batteries at this Southern Vermont hotel, which is surrounded by 300 acres of pine trees, lavender fields and small freshwater lakes. Foodies flock from around the globe to sample chef Nathan Rich's almost daily changing menu and can choose from dining in the candlelit restaurant, or fireside in their suite. Year-round resort activities include fly fishing, canoeing and hiking.

The ultimate in West Coast glamour, the hotel's modern Art Deco decor fits in seamlessly with the bright lights, big city feel of Beverly Hills. The 3,215-square-foot Presidential Penthouse Suite, lined with Noir Saint Laurent marble, is a Hollywood icon in and of itself. Hotel guests simply need to drop their personal concierge a text to arrange to have a Rolls-Royce Phantom take them on a designer shopping spree along the famed Rodeo Drive. Explore more of this US state with our guide to the 50 must-visit California attractions.

Made up of six 16th- to 18th-century mansions, the property underwent a recent $3.5 million (£2.7m) renovation to its 37 rooms, suites, restaurants, courtyards and gardens. Colonial-style rustic decor is matched with modern amenities, and on-site facilities include two restaurants – Restaurante del Parque (contemporary Mexican cuisine) and Andanza (fine-dining) – as well as The Blue Bar, which specialises in tequila. Away from the hotel, guests can take an art class or gallery tour of the city with local artist Jose Luis Arias. Explore more of this amazing country with our guide to 30 unmissable things to do in Mexico.

Guests are pampered at this luxurious hotel from start to finish, arriving at the hotel to a welcome margarita, while a butler is on hand to take care of their every whim, from organising golf excursions with PGA pros to private yacht charters for a spot of snorkelling in Chileno Bay. Fine-dining options include the traditionally Mexican El Restaurante, the seafood-driven Sea Grill and the Asian-inspired Arbol. The wine cellar La Cava and the Tequila & Ceviche Bar are also ideal spots for an end-of-day tipple.

Looking out onto the azure Sea of Cortez in the Baja Peninsula, the hotel offers direct access to one of the only swimmable beaches in the area. The recently renovated 14,950-square-foot, four-bedroom Villa One offers complete seclusion from the rest of the resort, and boasts a living room opening out onto an infinity pool, fireplace and the sea. A team of chefs, a butler and other staff members cater to guests' every need.

Set amid lush jungle and white beaches, this hotel epitomises Mexican paradise. On-site guests can sample traditional Mayan fare at the La Ceiba Garden & Kitchen or take part in an immersive three-day taco-making course including the history of this traditional dish and advice on proper cooking techniques. Off-site they can explore nearby Mayan ruins (including Cenote Park and EK Balam) or go scuba diving in the surrounding crystal-clear waters.

This impressive resort is surrounded by one of the last untouched rainforests on Earth, and can only be accessed by seaplane or a 30-minute boat ride from the closest town, Tofino. Luxury safari-like tent accommodation and lake activities such as boating, kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming mean that guests can truly immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. For an unforgettable experience, the hotel can organise a bespoke helicopter adventure with a private guide to kayak, hike or explore untouched beaches. Enjoy more of this country with our guide to 27 of Canada's most adorable towns.

The rigid design of the Inn – which is located on an island, off an island surrounded by the North Atlantic sea – belies its cosy interior, where guests will find colourful fabrics, roaring fireplaces and 29 suites with stunning vistas. Hotel highlights include a library, cinema, art gallery and rooftop deck complete with saunas and hot tubs.

This sophisticated beachside resort enjoys a secluded location surrounded by the Northwest Point National Park. 58 timber-shingled villas and pavilions are spread across the 100-acre property, and all boast expansive outdoor areas and patios. Guests can do anything from topping up their tans beside the gazebo-lined central reflecting pool to spending the day with naturalist Jackie and expert fishermen in Caicos Bay to catch, flipper-tag and release turtles into the wild.

The Shore Club is the first and only hotel built on Long Bay Beach – just minutes from downtown Grace Bay, ranked the number one beach in the world by TripAdvisor users in 2016 – and its three-mile stretch of beach that is almost completely private. The 8,800-square-foot, two-storey six-bedroom Private Villa features calming whitewashed interiors, offers direct beach access and comes complete with a private chef and butler. The Shore Club’s private yacht, Privé, is also available to guests for a day, or even an overnight excursion.

Delighting guests since 1961, the hotel's signature pink hue and bright-pink pool umbrellas and towels, make it instantly noticeable from the beach. Guests will love whiling away the day at the on-site 7,500-square-foot pool complete with waterfall and tropical gardens, while keen golfers can improve their handicap at one of Sandy Lane’s Tom Fazio-designed championship courses.

Located in its own five-acre peninsula on the Cote d’Azur, behind an imposing wrought-iron gate, this private hideaway boasts pretty, fragrant gardens and is enclosed by clear blue sea waters on all three sides. As well as the main white-stone mansion the hotel also offers a spa and an indoor pool, cinema, billiard room, Michelin-starred restaurant and elegant sitting rooms. The hotel's private stony beach is also an added bonus.

First opened in 1908, this hotel is grand by name and grand by design, attracting the rich and famous for over a century. Its high vantage point means guests enjoy spectacular views from Nice to Monaco, and will also love getting lost in the property's 17-acre manicured Mediterranean garden. As well as two on-site restaurants, Le Cap and La Véranda, serving Mediterranean dishes and boasting a wine list of 600 bottles, the hotel is also famed for Club Dauphin, where the sky disappears into the enormous heated seawater infinity pool.

This terracotta–coloured hotel was built by a billionaire hotelier more than 50 years ago in an attempt to impress legendary screen siren Brigitte Bardot. The hotel underwent an extensive renovation in 2017, and standout features include a spa by Sisley, a gym, a gourmet delicatessen and world renowned French chef Alain Ducasse’s Rivea restaurant.

An Art Deco landmark in Paris’ Golden Triangle – located between three of the city's most famous boulevards: the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Avenue Montaigne, and the Avenue George V – guests are greeted by plush interiors accented with jewel-coloured fabrics, huge artwork and stunning floral arrangements. The hotel’s three restaurants, La Galerie, L’Orangerie and Le Cinq, boast five Michelin stars between them, and after an indulgent meal guests can unwind in the hotel's newly opened spa. Explore more of the city, with our complete Paris guide.

The Hôtel Plaza Athénée has received the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage) label – awarded to French firms for 'the excellence of their traditional and industrial know-how' by the French state. The hotel's famed courtyard featuring ‘Plaza-red’ parasols exudes Parisian style, while the best of the French capital's gastronomy can be sampled at one of the five on-site restaurants. Wine buffs will also love the hotel's wine cellar tour hosted by master sommelier Gérard Margeon, where guests can sample some of the 35,000 bottles on offer including Grandes Marques champagne.

This deluxe hotel and spa started life as the home for the half-brother of Napoleon III, the Duke of Morny. The property's plush interiors featuring oak parquet floors, marbles, silk brocade, antiques and contemporary art remain fit for royalty. The hotel's stunning library and large indoor pool are perfect spots to unwind, while there are few better ways to spend the evening than by indulging in a wine tasting session from the hotel’s selection of vintage bottles.

Art lovers will be in their element at this charming Art Deco-style hotel, which shows a rotating exhibition of artwork from contemporary artists and has an art concierge on hand to organise private viewings and impart insider knowledge on Paris’ art scene. Other luxe hotel offerings include a 99-seat private Katara Cinema playing cinematic classics as well as 3D movies, and an on-site Clarins spa (pictured).

This one-of-a-kind palace hotel has a fairy tale like quality, with pastel pink exterior boasting wooden carvings of woodland creatures and an interior featuring beamed ceilings, roaring fireplaces and sumptuous velvet fabrics. Guests can spend a day in the snow with the hotel offering easy access to the slopes of Courchevel, before finishing up in the elegant cigar lounge.

Famed fashion designer Coco Chanel set up home here for more than three decades, and the hotel boasts the world’s first and only Chanel spa, utilising products from the eponymous brand. Many of the hotel's spaces are named after famous guests – including Bar Hemingway (a tribute to novelist Ernest Hemingway) – and guests can also make the most of the hotel's well-tended gardens and terraces, a fitness centre and two-Michelin-starred restaurants.

This 16th century palace in Venice honours its past with Rococo-style decor and Old Masters frescoes, and is admired the world over. The hotel – which is still home to the Count and Countess Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga, who live on the fifth floor – offers excellent views of the Grand Canal and these can be enjoyed from the dizzying heights of the rooftop terrace or from the private garden. Guests can also take advantage of the Aman’s private box at Teatro La Fenice opera house to watch favourites such as Verdi’s La Traviata.

Standing on the highest point of the Italian resort town of Ravello – 1,000 feet above sea level – the restored 11th-century palace-hotel offers picture postcard views over the lemon and olive groves of the Amalfi Coast. Again, frescoes, antiques and paintings by Old Masters offer a window into the property's centuries-old history, while a day spent in nearby Capri and Positano will thrust guests thoroughly into the present.

This 18th-century style palazzo hotel stands on a cliff-side in the charming little village of Anacapri. Amenities that continue to amaze guests include two Michelin-starred restaurants, private beach club, a medical spa, swimming pool featuring a surrealist mosaic on its floor and an extensive art collection featuring pop art, gold sculptures and more from owner Tonino Cacace.

Set among 11 acres of luxury private gardens, the hotel is divided between the 15th-century Palazzo Della Gherardesca (home to the main hotel with 79 rooms and suites) and a former 16th-century convent (boasting 37 rooms and suites). Guests can enjoy the finest Italian cuisine at the Michelin-starred Il Palagio and Al Fresco restaurants, or brush up on their culinary knowledge by spending a day at Fattoria San Michele – an organic farm in nearby Tuscany with 135 acres of vineyards and 98 acres of olive groves – to learn how the best Italian produce is grown.

Housed in a former noble residence, this 15th-century palazzo stands on the Grand Canal and offers sweeping views over this watery city. The hotel's interiors offer a glimpse of classic Venetian style at its best with antiques, objets d’art, restored paintings and frescoes adorning the walls. Dining options include the romantic Club del Doge and the more informal Gritti Terrace – an ideal spot for a long lunch followed by moreish Negroni cocktails. The palace's beautiful Riva Aquariva boat offers a fantastic way to explore Venice's extensive waterways.

Located on the Via del Babuino in the historic centre of Rome, overlooking the Piazza del Popolo (or People's Square) the hotel has acted as a haven for artists and writers for decades who feel right at home among its bohemian interiors blending Ancient Rome with Art Deco. The Secret Garden courtyard is the perfect place to spend an evening under the stars and guests can even book a private dining experience there with a bespoke menu by chef Fulvio Pierangelini.

Despite being located just moments away from iconic Rome landmarks including the Villa Medici and the Spanish Steps, this recently renovated hotel still offers a private sanctuary in the middle of the city. Gold, marble, Murano glass, antiques and frescoes create an opulent feel, which is carried through to the hotel's 98 rooms and two on-site restaurants. The spa is also an ideal place to rest weary bones after a day of sightseeing at nearby attractions including the Pantheon, Colosseum and St Peter’s Basilica.

This boutique hotel has been owned and operated by the Sersale family since 1951, and guests can expect a warm welcome. Interiors are both homey and quirky with stark-white walls, creeping indoor foliage and mermaid motifs. Guests return to the hotel time and time again for second-to-none views over the Amalfi Coast and amenities including the Michelin-starred La Sponda restaurant and on-site pool and spa.

Designed by Pellegrino Pellegrini – a famed Italian mannerist architect, sculptor, and mural painter – in the 16th century, Villa d’Este has played host to the crème de la crème of Italian society including royalty, aristocrats and celebrities ever since. Luxurious suites and private villas are complemented by impressive on-site facilities including a spa, sports and golf club, five restaurants and bars and a famed swimming pool that quite literally floats within Lake Como.

Sitting on the banks of the River Maigue in Limerick, Adare Manor is the former seat of the Earl of Dunraven and there are references to this noble's family throughout this Neo-Gothic property including wood carvings featuring the family crest. The hotel is set within 840 acres of lush parkland and, after a hearty walk, guests can treat themselves to a champagne afternoon tea at The Gallery, before rounding off their day at the Tack Room – which boasts a whiskey collection of over 100 rare bottles originating from Ireland to Canada.

First opened in 1913, the fairy tale-like Gstaad Palace is often dusted in a casing of snow come winter, giving it an even more magical quality. Guests will receive a warm welcome from the third generation of the Scherz family – who manage the hotel – and be captivated by amazing views over the Swiss Alps. On-site facilities include pools, a spa and a choice of eight bars and eateries including La Fromagerie where taste buds will be tingled by a heady combination of truffle and champagne cheese fondue.

Geneva’s very first hotel threw opens its doors to the public in 1834, and has been offering the height of Swiss luxury accommodation ever since. Situated right on Lake Geneva guests can enjoy uninterrupted views off the Alps, while views on the interior are equally impressive with high ceilings and classic French furnishings. The hotel also boasts a rooftop spa, Michelin-starred dining and a personal assistant on every floor.

Nestled in the Alps, The Chedi Andermatt is the ultimate mountain retreat and mixes typical Alpine cabin chic with surprising touches of Asian flair. As well as four on-site restaurants (The Japanese Restaurant by Hide Yamamoto has a Michelin star) there's also a wine and cigar library, spa, salon, state-of-the-art health club and ice rink.

Disney meets modernity in this striking woodland hotel. Grand suites with exceptional views over Lake Zürich, an extensive art collection including Andy Warhol’s largest work, Big Retrospective Painting, an award-winning spa and Michelin-starred dining make this hotel a must-visit.

Housed in a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus strait linking Europe and Asia, this hotel sits right on the waterfront – guests can even arrive by the hotel’s luxury boat transfer – and boasts amenities including a cabana-lined pool, four separate dining options, spa and private rooftop terrace in the exclusive Palace Roof Suite. For more marvels in the city, read our guide to the 6 things Istanbul does better than elsewhere.

Everyone from iconic German actress Marlene Dietrich to singing legend Michael Jackson has enjoyed a stay at this hotel, which features a three-floor spa, four restaurants (famed for its signature currywurst), boutique shopping arcade and wine store. Luxury limousine and concierge services make guests' stays in the German capital even more memorable. Make the most of your visit with our guide to Berlin.

Comprised of two 16th-century stone manor houses, this charming hotel has an idyllic location in the artists’ village of Deià, right in the foothills of the Serra Tramuntana Mountains. The hotel's on-site art curator has selected a speculator range of fine artworks for guests to pour over, and ceramic, sculpture and painting classes are also offered. Olive oil is produced in the resort's groves, and taking a bottle home makes for the perfect holiday memento.

Located right next to the Landwehr Canal and just a short walk away from the 16th-century Tiergarten – Berlin’s most popular inner-city park – the hotel's unique glass pyramid entrance and original facade, designed by American architect William Pereira, ensures it stands out from the crowd. Spacious suites, a stained-glass, dome-ceiling cafe, beauty salon and casino also get the thumbs up from guests.

Towering above the Mediterranean Sea at 44 stories high, the hotel's blue glass and exposed steel facade make it clearly visible against the Barcelona skyline. Contemporary suites offer incredible views over the city and guests can take advantage of the hotel's five restaurants, including the two-Michelin-starred Enoteca. Explore more of the city with our guide to Barcelona.

Interiors designed by progressive Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola give this former bank-turned-hotel an ultra-modern feel focused on a monochrome palette, dotted with pops of colour and green foliage. Guests can dine in the Michelin-starred Moments restaurant and enjoy an evening nightcap in the Banker’s Bar, featuring a ceiling made from original security boxes. The hotel is also within walking distance of the Gothic Quarter and bustling Las Ramblas.

Set in the whitewashed village of Oia – a firm favourite with visitors to the island – the hotel's network of cottages are built high into the cliff and overlooking the Caldera and Aegean Sea. On-site the Mikrasia Restaurant's rooftop location means it offers the perfect place to perch and take in the breathtaking views as the sun goes down, while sampling the best in Greek fare. Continue your island hopping adventure with our guide to 7 Greek islands you've probably never heard of.

Sitting high on a hill in the Unesco World Heritage Douro Valley, this award-winning 19th-century manor hotel overlooks the area's rolling vineyards and the Douro River. Guests will fall in love with on-site facilities including a spa, organic garden, protected 10-acre woodland, wine library and restaurants, including The Vale de Abraão Restaurant serving up seasonal, regional dishes.

Claridge's has welcomed kings and queens, heads of state and Hollywood’s elite since it opened its doors in 1856 and guests continue to be charmed by this quintessentially British institution. Each suite in this Art Deco hotel has its own individual design flavour with Viscount Linley, Guy Oliver and Diane von Furstenberg among the many who have helped to shaped them. Facilities include a reading room, Michelin-starred dining and on-site health club. And of course no visit to Claridge's would be complete without indulging in a spot of its famed afternoon tea. Explore more of the city with our guide to London.

Elegant design flows through from the hotel's exterior to the interior, with the huge Baccarat chandelier floating from the domed ceiling in the Crystal Moon Lounge acting as a memorable design centrepiece. The property boasts on-site restaurants The Northall and Kerridge’s, an ESPA Life spa including an amphitheatre sauna, Bassoon Bar, floral boutique and Daniel Galvin hair salon.

Overlooking Hyde Park, this Regency-style mansion hotel has striking Baroque interiors by famed photographer and interior designer Alberto Pinto. The hotel's new Club & Spa, featuring a well-equipped gym, and Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant are ideal spots for those days when guests don't want venture from the hotel. And when a day out does call, it's good to know that the shopping meccas of Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Sloane Street are just around the corner.

Dating back to 1906, and housed in a Grade II-listed building, the Ritz forms an integral part of the capital's history, and is the only hotel in the world to receive a Royal Warrant by HRH The Prince of Wales. The Ritz played host to Second World War meetings between Winston Churchill, Charles de Gaulle and President Eisenhower, who no-doubt discussed strategies among the hotel's ornate interiors featuring decorative chandeliers, antiques and plush fabrics. On-site guests can dine at the Michelin star Ritz Restaurant, drink in the Rivoli Bar or try their luck at the neighbouring The Ritz Club Casino.

Opening its doors to guests since 1889, the world-famed Savoy has welcomed kings, queens and host of A-list guests. The hotel's interior blends Edwardian and Art Deco styling to great effect – think marble flooring and Murano glass chandeliers – while suites are individually designed. A visit to the award-winning American Bar – where a live pianist plays American jazz and famous White Lady signature cocktail's are shaken up – is a must.

Set in 375 acres, this imposing National Trust property is most recently known as the place where Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, stayed the night before her royal wedding. Dangling chandeliers, works of art and original furniture, certainly make this country house hotel fit for royalty. Standout features include deluxe suites and a separate three-bedroom riverside cottage, a recently refurbished spa and a number of dining options including the award-winning Cliveden dining room.

Located on a secluded stretch on Bali’s east coast, a stay in one of the resort's stilted thatched pool villas is bound to be restorative. Head along the network of walkways joining the villas and do anything from spending the day on the resort's own volcanic black-sand beach to taking a dip in the three-tiered, ocean-facing infinity pool or relaxing with Balinese spa treatments in the massage pavilion. And as if that wasn't enough, the resort also offers yoga sessions, mangosteen cocktails and a number of traditional jukung-style outriggers for guests to charter.

Set amid the temples and gardens of the city’s historic West Lake district, it's hard to imagine this luxury pagoda-style hotel is a modern creation. Guests can take a stroll in the hotel’s manicured gardens – complete with willow trees, bamboo forest and greenery – before choosing from a menu that includes Cantonese and Shanghainese cuisine at the lantern-lined Jin Sha restaurant. Find out more about this amazing country by reading 8 things you probably didn't know about China.

When it opened its doors in 2009, Peninsula Shanghai took the honour of being the only structure built on Shanghai’s historic waterfront, The Bund, in more than 60 years. Guests can choose from dining options including the two-Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yi Long Court and the one-Michelin-starred Sir Elly’s Restaurant, or simply enjoy a drink and take in the surrounding views from the rooftop bar, Sir Elly’s Terrace. And when it's time to relax, a visit to the Peninsula Spa is ideal.

Stylish Western and Asian-inspired suites look out to glorious views of the cityscape at this legendary hotel. Guests can dine at the two-Michelin-starred French fine-dining restaurant of Pierre Gagnaire, sample sophisticated Cantonese fare at Man Wah, or treat themselves to a tasting menu with champagne pairing in the intimate Krug Room. The three-storey, 1930s Shanghai-style Mandarin Spa is also not to be missed.

After a short yacht ride from the Maldives' vibrant capital of Malé visitors will land in the calming surrounds of Kuda Hithi Island. Located over three acres and owned and run by a Maldivian family, the resort has an intimate feel. There are five stylish guest villas and a master residence to choose from and custom meals are prepared by a private chef, while a personal therapist delivers spa treatments in any location that suits guests.

Set amid white sand beaches, sparkling lagoons and palm tree groves, the private resort offers a true island paradise and its exclusive setting is emphasised by the fact that guests will need to take a seaplane or luxury yacht to reach it. Thatched villas come with private pools, shaded cabanas, hammocks and stunning views. Guests can choose from four on-site dining options serving up everything from fusion to Middle Eastern cuisine as well as taking advantage of a garden-enclosed spa, tennis courts, 12 beaches and an artists' studio.

Sympathetic to its natural surroundings, the resort fashions its thatched villas out of natural materials, but doesn't skimp on luxury. Living areas opening up onto terraces, freeform pools, wine cellars and even water slides make for expansive accommodation to remember. And when it comes to the range of activities on offer, guests are spoiled for choice with the hotel home to the Maldives’ only glass-blowing studio, a state-of-the-art observatory and tree house dining at Fresh in the Garden by Sobah.

Exquisite architectural detail is the name of the game at this high-end resort, from the whale-shark-shaped exterior of the Whale Bar to the inspiration behind the Iridium Spa (which is intended to mimic the shape of a lobster). Beachfront villas are complemented by amenities including six restaurants and bars, an extensive wine cellar, pool and beachfront library.

Home to crystal waters, white sands and lush vegetation, the Noonu Atoll is the perfect setting for this private resort. The teak-furnished villas feature the design trademark of the award-winning Czech architect Petr Kolar, whose deft touch can also be seen in the restaurant Tavaru and cocoon-like wine cellar. Guests can spend an active day exploring the surrounding waters in Velaa’s state-of-the-art semi-submarine, or aiming for a hole-in-one at a golf course designed by José María Olazábal, or simply kick back and relax with a variety of treatments at Spa My Blend by Clarins.

Opened in 1971, the first of the Shangri-La chain is set in 15 acres of its own tropical gardens, featuring a wide variety of tree and flower species cultivated over many decades. Made up of three towers – Tower Wing, Garden Wing and Valley Wing – housing 792 rooms, the hotel also boasts a pool, spa, huge lobby lounge featuring towering white columns and a striking Tree Canopy installation and amenities including 11 restaurants and bars.

Sitting 2,000 feet above the city and made entirely of Italian marble, no expense was spared to create this exclusive palace-hotel. Spread over 34 acres of land, five-star luxury comes in the form of canopied beds, marble bathrooms with Jacuzzis and private pools, a Jiva Spa, and restaurants Adaa and Celeste. Take in more breathtaking Indian landmarks by reading our guide to 40 of India's most beautiful places.

The former residence of the Indian royal family, this breathtaking white marble palace-hotel floats in the middle of Lake Pichola – the oldest and one of the biggest lakes in Udaipur. Guests will be greeted by lavish suites filled with Indian textiles and can enjoy spa treatments on the water courtesy of a spell on the Jiva Spa Boat before sampling the authentic cuisine of Mughal Emperors at Neel Kamal. Other amenities for guests to enjoy include an outdoor pool and concierge service.

Also overlooking Lake Pichola are the domed pavilions of The Oberoi, designed to look like a palace from the kingdom of former land owner the Maharana of Mewar with design features including ornate arches and hand-carved marble. On-site facilities include landscaped gardens, a spa offering Ayurveda treatments, outdoor pools and indoor-outdoor restaurants serving up authentic Indian cuisine.

Conservation lies at the heart of this beautiful resort in the easternmost of the Seychelles Inner Islands. Guests will stay in huge villas – all with stunning infinity pools – surrounded by untouched beaches, endemic plants and the island's Aldabra giant tortoises. For a truly memorable experience take a forest hike with Fregate’s resident ecologist or set off to explore the surrounding waters from the harbour of the resort’s Yacht Club.

This pristine private island resort is surrounded by white sand shores, turquoise waters and stunningly persevered tropical forests, and much of this is thanks to decades-long conservation project, Noah’s Ark. Guests will stay in one of 11 villas nestled into East Beach’s tropical vegetation, and the list of impressive amenities includes an oceanfront spa, two on-site eateries while a packed programme of activities includes anything from kayaking to yoga.

Nestled beneath the foothills of the Franschhoek Mountains, and surrounded with a 30-acre estate teaming flowers, herbs, fruit trees and more, nature lovers will be truly in their element at this resort-hotel. Individually designed guestrooms take inspiration from grand residences including everything from the Maharaja’s palace to the Palace of Versailles. Must try on-site activities include a tasting in La Residence’s private cellar, or a tour of the surrounding area at the wheel of the hotel's complimentary vehicle.

This award-winning camp has 12 luxe suites complete with private pools, open fireplaces and a deck suspended above the riverbank and is also noted by Elite Traveler as a great choice for a family safari holiday. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is said to be one of the best places to spot the elusive leopard, and guests can keep their fingers crossed that this big cat will make an outing during one of the lodge's night game drives.

Located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, guests will enjoy the ultimate luxury safari experience. Tents featuring thatched roofs, natural materials and brass fixtures all come complete with modern amenities and after a game drive in search of elephants, big cats, buffalo, zebras and more, guests can enjoy brunch right out in the bush all washed down with the finest South African wines.

This family owned 60,000-acre private conservancy is available for exclusive use only, and guests arrive in style thanks to a 45-minute private flight from Kenya's capital Nairobi. All seven residences at the Conservancy feature the highest quality furnishings and fittings and offer exceptional views over the surrounding area. Beyond the on-site accommodation, guests will also be dazzled by waterfalls, sculpted gardens, open-air dining, swimming pools and a spa and steam room. For an experience to remember guests can spend the day tracking endangered rhinos on foot, led by expert guides.

Commissioned by King Mohammed VI with an unlimited budget, this is surely the most regal of ways to stay in Marrakech’s ancient medina. It's hyper-luxury all the way at this palace-hotel with a 3.7-acre private fragrant garden, Michelin-starred dining, a rose-gold Range Rover or Bentley available to chauffeur guests around the estate and staff on hand to cater to guests' every whim.

At 9,800 feet high, this beautiful resort offers breathtaking views of the canyons below. Villas boast classic Omani design from domed archways to intricate Omani patterns, as well as their own infinity pools. The resort also impresses with an on-site spa, three restaurants and canyon-based activities including rock climbing and zip-lining.

Open since 2017, the white coral-esque structure of this island hotel – designed by Milan-based practice Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel – continues to make a lasting impression. As well as stunning guest accommodation the hotel also offers up an impressive list of amenities including six gourmet restaurants, private beach, manicured gardens, mosaic-design outdoor swimming pool, an 18,300-square-foot spa, beauty salon with hairdressers and barbers, and Bulgari’s first-ever Marina and Yacht Club. See more with our guide to Dubai.

This grand hotel regularly features in Elite Traveler’s Top Hotels and Top Suites lists, and with a whole host of top-notch amenities it's not hard to see why. Guests can take advantage of a private beach, five swimming pools, nine restaurants and bars, 200 gorgeous duplex suites and the highest staff-to-suite ratio in the world (8:1). One experience not to miss is the floor-to-ceiling aquarium at the acclaimed restaurant, Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara.

Built on stilts to minimise their environmental impact, each private villa at Awasi Iguazú comes complete with a private patio affording views to the surrounding Atlantic Forest – one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world. Amazing guest experiences off-site include a visit to the world’s largest waterfalls – located just outside the resort – as well as a visit to see artisans from the Guarani tribe at work.

The Mendoza Province is Argentina's equivalent to California's Napa Valley, and as such is the perfect location for Cavas Wine Lodge. Set within a 55-acre vineyard it produces some of the region's most lauded wines, which guests can enjoy against a backdrop of the Andes Mountains or even infused into treatments at the lodge's on-site spa. The sun shines in the region almost 330 days a year, and guests can watch it rise and set in all its glory from the comfort of their west-facing rooms.

This remote resort is set on an island off northeast Bora Bora’s cerulean lagoon, offering sun, sea and sand at its most idyllic. Teak-fitted overwater bungalows feature glass floor panels for an up-close view of the marine life below and a network of walkways leads to landscaped gardens, a freeform infinity pool, restaurants and a waterside spa. And as if that wasn't impressive enough, guests can join the resort’s marine biologist to take part in a series of new conservation initiatives, including a coral-grafting programme.

This 91-room hotel was renowned French designer Philippe Starck’s first project in the country, and schemes are inspired by the Bossa Nova – a music style that blended samba and jazz – era of the 1950s and 1960s. One of the property's standout pieces of accommodation is the one-bedroom Deluxe Oceanfront Suite which comes complete with a loft-style living room, marble bathroom and private balcony overlooking the sparkling ocean. Elsewhere in the hotel guests can enjoy views of Ipanema Beach from the Pool Bar deck or feast on a pasta tasting menu that celebrates dishes from a range of regions.

So named because British explorer Captain James Cook seen yellow-spotted monitors during his 1770 expedition, the island is teaming with a vast array of wildlife and this is the only resort built within the 2,500-acre area of Lizard Island National Park. As well as the 40 suites and glass-fronted villas on offer, guests can also enjoy 24 private beaches, an ocean view restaurant serving fresh seafood and an Essentia Day Spa.

The resort’s isolated setting on the northernmost tip of Hamilton Island, is perfect for guests who truly want to unplug and immerse themselves in the island's stunning natural surrounds. The use of local timber, sandstone and glass help rooms blend seamlessly into their environment and added luxury comes in the form of individual sundecks complete with infinity pools. Also on offer is an elevated spa and Long Pavilion restaurant serving up modern Australian cuisine.

Originally home to the Forestry Office of the Imperial Household, before being transformed into a hotel in the 1940s, this moat-side hotel now owes its cutting-edge Japanese design to a three-year rebuild ending in 2012. Guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to on-site amenities which include 10 restaurants and bars, an Evian Spa (the first in Japan) blending the best of Alpine and Asian wellness traditions and a collection of 1,000 artworks to marvel at. Explore more of the city with our complete Tokyo guide.

The Reverie Saigon is located on the top floors of the iconic Times Square Building, and centres on Italian design at its most opulent. Each suite has been created by a different Italian design house from the Designer Suite by Giorgetti which reflects the timeless quality of the 120-year-old design institution, to a cosy pied-à-terre by Visionnaire. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as the two-storey The Spa at The Reverie Saigon and the Italian cuisine of chef Enrico De Martino at mosaic-clad R&J (Romeo & Juliet).

Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains, this colonial-era hotel impresses guests with its colourful Victorian-inspired decor, three-Michelin-star dining experience and standout accommodation including the 3,600-square-foot cottage, featuring a wood fireplace, chef’s kitchen, media room and private garden.

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