With spring on the way in Europe, the continent is beginning to awaken from its long and cold winter hibernation and getting ready to welcome tourists from all over the world again. When compared to the States, Europe is a much smaller area. Instead of having to drive or fly for days to get from one side of it to the other, you’ll find yourself at the advantage of boarding a quick flight or a train ride through lovely locations to get to your exciting getaway. Maximize your Euro trip by knowing where all the most beautiful destinations are and what luxury escapes are waiting for you at each place.
Some Things To Remember
Luxury travel begins with the travel itself. Whether it is private jet hire for a flight over the coast or a train trip through the mountains that tickles your fancy, include a little luxury in this part of your travel budget. Shorter trips on private jets may actually be more cost-effective than commercial flights, in some cases, and may get you much closer to remote destinations than commercial flights. Luxury train travel allows you to see the landscapes of Europe like never before, and renting your own luxury vehicle keeps you safe and comfortable while giving you a lot of autonomy and freedom in where and when you travel. Take your pick.
1. The Azores, Portugal
More or less 900 miles off the coast of exciting and well-traveled Lisbon lies this gorgeous archipelago. Just laying eyes on this destination is enough to make you ready for a permanent move — and the kindness of the locals is an added bonus. This is a natural paradise in every way: deep green valleys, dramatic ocean-side cliffs, flora as bright as precious stones, and plenty of sunshine. Who could ask for more?
Best Luxury Getaways
Herdade do Ananás on São Miguel Island.
This eco-friendly farm resort is something unique and really very special. You’ll stay inside the boundaries of the well-known pineapple farm in a rural area of the island, so if you’re looking for a calm and peaceful break, this is where you’ll find it. The rooms and suites themselves are spectacular and offer lovely views of the surrounding plantation. The island’s natural tranquility seeps into the building and is augmented by the calm neutrals in each room and all over the hotel itself. Sustainability is king, which means focusing on local and seasonal ingredients and farm-to-table ideology; some of the furniture is vintage, and the firewood in the firepit is reclaimed.
Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort on São Miguel Island.
Treat yourself to a villa nestled in a gorgeous setting with direct beach access, pools, a wellness center, and, very importantly, a beach bar. Having your own villa offers you privacy and a chance to maximize the rest you get out of your downtime, but you’re still close enough to the other guests to feel a sense of excitement from the resort’s busy atmosphere. Expect modern bohemian decor and all the mod-cons you could want, as well as a delicious on-site restaurant.
2. The Dolomites, Italy
If the glitz and glam of the Alps is a little much for you, but you still want to see the best possible views, visit the Dolomites instead. Stretched across the Northeast of Italy, this mountain range offers you an experience worthy of the Sound of Music. You’ll find rolling green valleys full of flowers (in the spring), safe and pristine ski trails (in the winter), and a host of gorgeous mountain towns to explore.
Best Luxury Getaways
Hotel La Perla in Corvara in Badia, South Tyrol.
This is a truly classic “Alpine” experience of a hotel, from the charming exterior to the views and cuisine. Wooden cladding and window boxes bright with blooms welcome you to a place where you won’t even need to leave your room for an epic mountain view. In winter, you can ski straight out of the hotel, while summer invites you to enjoy outdoor dining, hiking, flora, and fauna exploding with life and the Costa family’s (the ownership) values – ‘warmth, respect, and etiquette.’
Castel Fragsburg in Merano, South Tyrol.
Though not entirely maximalist in its design, you can feel the comfort and opulence in each room of Castle Fragsburg — a 17th-century hunting retreat once frequented by the nobility. Known as the smallest 5-star hotel in the region, this location manages to remain grand despite its diminutive size and cozy despite technically being a castle. The heated pool and hot tub offer some of the most incredible views you’ve ever seen.
3. Kirkjufell, Iceland
Though it’s unlikely that this will be a warm getaway, even in the spring or summer, it’s one of the most majestic places you could ever hope to see. The translation of its Icelandic name is something to the effect of Church Mountain, and it really can be an almost spiritual experience seeing the raw beauty of Kirkjufell and the nearby town of Grundarfjörður (one of Iceland’s most photographed destinations) in person. This area is also one of the best places in the world to see clear and vibrant aurora borealis.
Best Luxury Getaways
Entire home in Arnarstapi.
As a result of the location’s remoteness, you’ll find more homes and villas than full hotel and resort complexes. This isolated home, fully renovated, may be a different experience than living in a hotel, but it adds to the mysterious and rugged beauty of the destination. Classically calm and minimal Scandinavian decor can be found in the home, with enough space to sleep four people comfortably. Lounge by the fireplace or warm up in the jacuzzi with a backdrop that looks like it came straight out of a Norse myth.
Entire cottage in Snæfellsbær.
Walking into this luxury rental is a breath of fresh air and the design equivalent of a warm hug. Blonde wood is all around, brightening up what could be a dreary stay depending on the time of year. This four-person home right on the edge of Snæfellsnesjökull National Park is a mere hour’s drive (incredibly beautiful scenery) from your Church Mountain destination and has a rustic charm that you don’t find in many places. Embrace the isolation and drink in the mountain and water views as well as the Northern Lights while you can.
Europe Is Calling
Europe’s widely varied destinations and experiences will suit every kind of traveler, from the athletic to the aesthetically inclined. Your European luxury getaway can be whatever you need it to be this year.
