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by Alexandra Mansilla

Escape To the Mountains: Our Picks For the Most Scenic Resorts

27 Jun 2024

Alessandro Sacchi

Picture this: you are roasting in the summer heat and desperately looking for a cool escape. Sure, you could head to another hot spot, maybe where the heat is more bearable. We have got you covered with a list of gorgeous beaches for that.

But why not switch things up and head to the mountains? They are the perfect place to chill out (especially if you are glued to a laptop screen all day) and refresh. We have found some hotels with views so incredible that they leave you speechless.

Arua Private Spa Villas

Where: Italy

Tucked away in a secluded spot above the charming spa town of Merano, Arua Private Spa Villas offer a perfect escape with just six exclusive accommodations. Surrounded by vineyards, forests, and olive trees, these villas boast stunning views of mountain peaks and cultural treasures right in the heart of the Gruppo Tessa mountain range.

Casa de São Lourenço

Where: Portugal

Casa de São Lourenço, originally known as Pousada de São Lourenço, is a charming historic retreat nestled in the Serra da Estrela mountains. It first opened its doors in 1948 as one of the pioneering Portuguese Inns, introducing a new concept of hospitality with small, cozy hotels that felt more like homes. Now, more than 70 years later, this iconic inn has become the only 5-star hotel in the area, perfectly blending its rich heritage with contemporary luxury.

Perched above the Village of Manteigas and overlooking the Glacial Valley, Casa de São Lourenço boasts one of the most breathtaking views in Portugal. 

By the way, interiors, originally designed by renowned 20th-century Portuguese designer Maria Keil, have been meticulously preserved while incorporating modern elements from contemporary designers. 

The Rooms Kazbegi

Where: Georgia

Back in Soviet times, this spot was home to a sanatorium. Today, it has transformed into the stunning ROOMS, a modernist gem tastefully wood-clad for the 21st century. Nestled in the breathtaking Georgian Caucasus Mountains, ROOMS seamlessly blends the untamed grandeur of the mountains with urban finesse and meticulous attention to detail. And the views? They are a story in themselves — simply unbelievable.

Chetzeron

Where: Switzerland

Perched at an impressive 2,112 meters above sea level, Chetzeron is your perfect escape from the everyday grind. This spot, originally a gondola lift station, was transformed into a restaurant in 2009 and later into a hotel in 2014. Nestled on the slopes of the Crans-Montana ski area in winter and surrounded by alpine meadows in summer, Chetzeron offers a serene and secluded retreat.

Fairmont Banff Springs

Where: Canada
Tucked in the heart of Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a legendary landmark in Banff, Alberta. Dubbed Canada's "Castle in the Rockies," this iconic hotel has been wowing guests since 1888.

Vigilius Mountain Resort

Where: Italy

Vigilius Mountain Resort in South Tyrol operates on the principle of “Eco, not ego,” blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings. No road leads to Mount Vigiljoch; this mountain retreat, perched 1500 meters above sea level in the Italian Alps, is accessible only by cable car.

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Where: Oman

Just two hours from Muscat, perched on the legendary Green Mountain, is Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort. Known as one of the world's highest resorts, it offers breathtaking canyon views. There is even a viewing platform where Princess Diana once stood, adding a touch of historical charm.

Hotel Everest View

Where: Nepal

Hotel Everest View, perched at an altitude of 13,000 feet within Nepal's Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the world's tallest peaks. Each room provides a mesmerising view of Mountain Everest.

Since its opening in 1971, Hotel Everest View has achieved global recognition, including a listing in the Guinness Book of World Records (2004) as the Highest Placed Hotel in the world.

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