5 of the world’s most inspirational resorts

I’ve selected the following five resorts for special praise based on a number of metrics. We all love to discover somewhere unique, somewhere exciting or unusual when looking for the ideal place to stay- so I just wanted to share with you five of my personal recommendations that have inspired me on my own travels. Capella Pedregal, Mexico This Mexican gem is located just steps from downtown Cabo San Lucas yet is perfectly private. Prepare yourself for a dramatic arrival. Find a 24 acre resort carved into the side of a cliff face at the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. You’ll access this glamorous beach resort via a 300 metre long tunnel carved dramatically through the heart of a mountain. Hartford House, South Africa Located on the world class Summerhill Stud Farm famous for the breeding of racehorses and stallions for the rulers of Dubai, Hartford House amidst the Drakensberg Mountains is quite a choice. Complete with a trout and bass fishing lake, wellness centre, pool and tennis courts, the hotel is ideal for exploring the Battlefields of South Africa and features 14 luxury suites all with under floor heating and mini bar. Montpelier Plantation & Beach, St Kitts & Nevis Situated on the site of Lord Nelson’s marriage in 1787, this converted sugar plantation pays homage with a portion of the land still used for sugar farming. A charming Caribbean home now houses smart guest rooms with private sea view verandas, black out blinds and luxury Elemis toiletries. Close by is the Nevis Peak dormant volcano, mountain biking trails and a Robert Trent II designed golf course at the nearby Four Seasons resort. Desert Palm, United Arab Emirates A far cry from the shops, souks and beaches of Dubai lies this avant garde polo property featuring Lime branded spa. Enjoy rare bird watching and horse riding as well as enclosed squash and tennis courts along with wine tasting and cooking tutorials. Palm Suites here boast views over the polo fields and feature an entertainment centre, private bar and espresso machines. Maison MK, Marrakech Exclusivity is the theme of the day at this six guest room palatial hotel used for filming of the TV cookery series ‘Jamie Does Marrakech‘. The resort is split between an upper and lower roof with views over the medina and Atlas Mountains. The vibe is one of waterfalls, cocktails, dim lighting, firepits and scatter cushions. Factor in full hammam and spa treatments, circular plunge pools and a sunken lounge with shisha pipes for the ultimate Moroccan experience. Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.