Hot New Hotel Openings

It may seem slightly strange to be discussing new additions to the land of luxury hotels but, regardless of COVID, we feel it’s important to keep abreast of the hot new hotel openings and get us looking forward to the time when we can travel again.

First up is Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa in Menaggio, Lake Como. Officially re-opening on February 12^th 2021 after a 2-year renovation, this modern 81-room retreat wears its heritage on its sleeve; ornate chandeliers and classical columns contrast beautifully with contemporary furniture and lighting. Gourmets are spoilt for choice with the hotel boasting several different dining options. The main restaurant 1827 makes the most of its location with wraparound lakeside views and Locanda Don Abbondio is set on the veranda. They also have Bar Manzoni and their pool bar, Griso. There’s a fabulously stylish spa with two pools (indoor and outdoor – both heated), a sauna and treatments available. Take a day trip out to tiny Isola Comacina and discover its rich olive oil history. Menaggio is perfect for evening strolls and is right on the hotel’s doorstep. Further afield, Como is a 40-minute drive.

HOW TO GET THERE: Fly to Milan Malpensa, a mere 1 hour 15 minutes from the Grand Hotel Victoria

With a nod to the amount of staycations that we are currently organising, we thought it would be remiss to not mention the delectably pretty Newt in Somerset. From the husband-and-wife team behind one of South Africa’s most glamorous hotels, Babylonstoren, they’ve turned their stylish eye to this working country estate, a stone’s throw from super trendy Bruton. With 23 individually designed bedrooms, produce-led restaurant, spa and acres of formal gardens, they have everything you could wish for from a weekend away. The spa (housed in the former cow barns) boasts an indoor swimming pool, indoor/outdoor hydro pool, sauna, steam room and halotherapy room. Signature treatments include a mud experience in a private couples’ chamber and an authentic full-scale hammam. Take high tea in the library, play croquet on the lawn or book into a tour of their cyder press and cellar.

HOW TO GET THERE: The Newt in Somerset is less than 2 hours’ drive from London Heathrow

Then there’s the new Angama Safari Camp, sited deep in the wilderness area of the south-western Mara Triangle. A mobile camp with only four tents, here you’re tucked away in a remote corner, surrounded by the mega hers of the migration and abundant resident wildlife. A few pioneering guests have enjoyed the exclusivity of this year’s migration in the Masai Mara and Angama offers a new approach to wilderness camping, offering a sole-use mobile camp that accommodates just eight guests in four lovely en-suite tents. Each day’s programme is entirely up to you with a dedicated safari vehicle, guide and Safari Camp team. With easy access to the crossing points, safaris can start at sunrise with the action right on your doorstep and end after sunset arriving back at your private safari camp where the team are waiting to take care of you with gentle and warm Kenyan service. There’s a minimum 3-night stay and children of all ages are welcome.

HOW TO GET THERE: Catch one of the daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson airport to Serena airfield, a 45-minute flight depending on routing and 60-minute safari from the airfield to camp, depending on game viewing en-route

San Canzian Village & Hotel opened its doors to the public late in 2019 and offers a complete breath of fresh air to the luxury travel market, offering 5* luxurious accommodation within an authentic Istrian village with only three inhabitants. This type of hotel (rustic 14th century farmhouse meets sleek, cool interiors) has never really been an option before in Croatia and makes for an exciting addition. Perched up on the Croatian peninsula near Buje in the medieval village of Mužolini Donji, spend your days lazing by the sparkling infinity pool, touring local vineyards and biking or hiking through the local hilltop villages. Perfectly combined with Meneghetti Wine Hotel for a few days so you can combine your holiday with a little beach time!

HOW TO GET THERE: San Canzian is less than one hours’ drive from Pula

And lastly, but by no means least, the eponymous AMAN Resorts are set to open their first New York hotel before the end of 2020, bringing the serenity that the brand is known for to the centre of Manhattan. Housed in the Crown Building on the corner of 5th Avenue and 57th Street, they are set to pay homage to the history of the buildling whilst creating a sanctuary over 26 floors that overlook Central Park. One can look forward to a 2,300sqm spa with indoor swimming pool, treatments rooms and terrace with daybeds and fireplace, wine library, Jazz Club and faultless service. Do get in touch with us to be kept up to date with the progress of the opening date.

HOW TO GET THERE: Fly to New York and you’re all set