From an Omani resort with a Guerlain spa to a hotel in Hampshire with kids’ teepees, our weekly lineup is once again brimming with extraordinary properties.
It may be back to school for families across the UK, but that doesn’t mean the holidays have to end.
We’re back with another roundup of stunning properties (most of which are new openings), in the hope of helping luxury agents make that special booking for their clients, or maybe even themselves.
This week, we head to Morocco and Oman to check out the launch of two major hotel brands in the respective Middle Eastern countries, before jetting back to Europe to highlight the W Prague’s debut in the Czech Republic.
We’re also thinking longer term, as we drool over a Christmas package in a Maldives resort, but if it’s still too early for festive holiday planning, we’ve included an iconic Hampshire hotel that’s making kids’ camping luxurious.
Ritz-Carlton has announced the opening of its first hotel in Morocco, also marking the luxury brand’s second property in Africa.
Situated on the shores of the Atlantic, The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam offers an oasis away from the hustle of the capital without compromising on Morocco’s rich culture. The opulent property, which spans more than 440 hectares of lush landscape, comprises 100 guest rooms and 17 suites, all with private terraces that face the pool and gardens. The highest-level option is The Ritz-Carlton Suite, which has two bedrooms and a separate living room.
For leisure, an indoor heated pool and fitness centre is already in operation, while a spa thermal circuit with signature treatments is soon to be completed. Culinary options include two restaurants: Mediterranean Brasserie, which specialises in gourmet salads and seafood; and Palapa, where guests can enjoy Pan-American dishes inside a thatched tiki hut. Afternoon tea – both Moroccan and English style – is also served in the elegant Lobby Lounge, along with club sandwiches and cocktails.
St. Regis has made its Oman debut, marking the 11th addition to the luxury brand’s Middle Eastern portfolio.
Located in the heart of upmarket Al Mouj, this new beachfront resort features 250 guest rooms and suites with private balconies, walk-in closets and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are also one, two or three-bedroomed duplexes with kitchens and dining rooms, which are perfect for families or groups. There are also multiple pools, a private beach, and a Guerlain spa with 11 treatment rooms and a wellness menu inspired by ancient Omani traditions.
Dining options are plentiful, with Karibu offering cuisine from across the Middle East; Zorba serving up Greek gastronomy; and Roberto’s, which specialises in Italian favourites. If that’s not enough to satisfy your hunger, there’s also Coyo, a Peruvian restaurant with signature Pisco drinks, and Novikov Cafe, a fusion brasserie which uses Asian and French culinary methods.
W Prague is set to open its doors in the heart of the Czech capital, taking over the Grand Hotel Europa that had been famous for its Art Nouveau architecture since 1906.
The restored property will feature 161 guest rooms and suites, all of which have been designed in line with the luxury-lifestyle brand’s classic-contemporary style. The highest room category is the Extreme Wow suite on the eighth floor, which lives up to its name with a centrepiece bar and stunning views, while the Wow Bohemia Duplex offers a loft bedroom with its own freestanding bathtub.
For dining, Le Petit Beefbar at Grand Cafe along with Bisou offer international cuisine in an elegant setting, while Minus One serves up cocktails and late-night bites. Other highlights include the Away spa with an indoor swimming pool, steam room and sauna, and gym.
Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire has teamed up with luxury family brand DockATot to launch a special kids’ offering, as part of the renowned brand’s commitment to enhance experiences for younger visitors.
Guests staying in one of the Georgian manor’s 22 suites will now be able to book the Tent of Dreams package, which invites little ones to play or even sleep in a teepee while their parents or guardians relax too. The plush tents include a window, a door and an interior pocket for storing toys, as well as special touches like tassel drapes and quirky prints. They have been designed to be spacious and comfortable, with room to accommodate multiple little guests along with one adult.
When they’re tired of tents, take them to Sharkie’s Reef – the hotel’s mini waterpark complete with a 4-metre slide and umbrella fountain – or the on-site climbing playground.
It’s been just two months since Raaya by Atmosphere opened its doors to summer guests, but the Maldives property is already gearing up for the highly-anticipated festive season.
The all-inclusive island resort has unveiled its Christmas package, and let’s just say, we know what we’re asking Santa for this year... Running from 23 December to 8 January, the special programme includes a jam-packed itinerary for all ages to cater to the entire family during the winter break.
Younger guests will be entertained by fun activities like treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and karaoke, while adults can look forward to workshops on everything from mocktail mixing to floating meditation. There are also eight different categories across the 167 villas, including suites with private pools and terraces, while six restaurants offer a variety of cuisines from around the world.