When life becomes mundane and ordinary, sometimes we crave a touch of whimsy and extravagance. For those seeking a unique and luxurious experience, small hotels offer the perfect haven. These intimate and enchanting establishments conjure a sense of place, offering cozy opulence and an anti-corporate approach to hospitality. Here, we present a curated list of the most exquisite small hotels around the world, where every moment feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Nimb: Copenhagen's Extraordinary Retreat
Courtesy of Small Luxury Hotels
If you're looking for an extraordinary hotel experience, Nimb in Copenhagen is the place to be. Nestled in a Moorish-style castle hotel, Nimb captivates with its restored Taj Mahal-like turrets and Venetian marble exteriors. From the balcony of a suite that hovers above Tivoli Gardens, the renowned amusement park, you can feel both connected to the action and delightfully removed from it. This member of small luxury hotels of the world transports you into a fairytale-like world, awakening a sense of liberation and fantasy within.
Nimb: A Journey into Otherworldly Wonder
Courtesy of Small Luxury Hotels
The magic of Nimb continues within its meticulously restored and reimagined interiors. Each nook and cranny is an adventure in awe, with lavish design elements, stunning art, and captivating curiosities. From restaurants to a rooftop pool and a subterranean spa, Nimb offers all the allure and amenities of a large hotel, coupled with impeccable attention to detail that only smaller hotels can provide. Don't be surprised to find delightful surprises like spa face masks as standard bathroom amenities. Nimb truly epitomizes the essence of a small luxury hotel.
Severin*s - The Alpine Retreat: Lech Am Arlberg, Austria
Courtesy of Small Luxury Hotels
Lech, nestled in Austria's picturesque Arlberg region, has long been a winter sports haven for royals and jet setters. In this glamorous setting, Severins, a member of Small Luxury Hotels, stands out with its impeccable chalet chic. The wood-clad rooms exude classic Austrian design, adorned with gray felt wool fabric and storied Wittmann beds. Contemporary touches, such as stone sheared soaking tubs and Minotti furniture, create a harmonious blend of old and new. With heated ski lockers, a restaurant serving classic Austrian delicacies, and a restorative wellness center, Severins offers a luxurious retreat in unpretentious surroundings.
La Residence: Franschhoek, South Africa
Courtesy of La Residence
Nestled in a 30-acre wine estate, La Residence transports guests into a world of lavish abundance. Located just a bike ride away from the charming town of Franschhoek, this idyllic retreat offers a truly enchanting experience. Surrounded by emerald vineyards, guests are greeted with posies of garden-picked flowers and glasses of house-made rose wine. The interiors are a masterpiece, with elements such as Chinese screens, ruby red crushed velvet, and chandeliers from India. Each stay at La Residence feels like stepping into a vibrant painting by Matisse, combining aesthetics with luxurious comfort.
Washington School House: Park City, Utah
Courtesy of Washington Schoolhouse
Park City, known for its stunning nature and historic silver mining past, sets the stage for an extraordinary small hotel experience. Washington School House, housed in a former schoolhouse built in 1889, blends the town's history with glamour and artistry. The 12 unique rooms exude mountain charm, featuring design touches like an antler chandelier adorned with Swarovski crystals. Impeccable service and a range of amenities, including a ski concierge, a heated pool, and a gourmet restaurant, make Washington School House an all-season retreat that captures the spirit of Park City.
SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites: Mendoza, Argentina
Courtesy of Winemaker's House & Spa
In the heart of Mendoza's verdant terroir, SB Winemaker's House & Spa invites guests to indulge in the ultimate wine-inspired getaway. Created by renowned Argentine winemaker Susana Balbo and her daughter, this design-centric hotel is an ode to the region's wine culture. The seven spa suites offer luxurious amenities, including steam rooms, sensory showers, and heated soaking tubs. The in-house wellness butlers facilitate wellness rituals infused with local herbs and traditions. The hotel also features captivating artwork by prominent Argentine and Brazilian artists, enhancing the contemporary ambiance. SB Winemaker's House & Spa promises a privileged experience, complemented by Argentine cuisine and breathtaking infinity pool.
Inkaterra La Casona: Cusco, Peru
Courtesy of Inkaterra La Casona
In the historic city of Cusco, Inkaterra La Casona stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage and captivating history. This 16th-century manor home, a member of Relais & Chateaux, is one of the first Spanish structures in Cusco. With 11 beautifully appointed suites, the hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of stories and colonial elegance. The retreat's cuisine and libations take center stage, with a complimentary Tea Time showcasing the finest offerings. The Yuca Therapy Room offers rejuvenating spa treatments centered around traditional Incan botanical ingredients. Inkaterra La Casona is a gateway to the wonders of Cusco, where every moment is infused with enchantment.
Wheatleigh: Lenox, Massachusetts
Courtesy of Wheatleigh
Located in Lenox, Berkshire County, Wheatleigh has been a beloved sanctuary for literary and intellectual giants throughout history. This fin-de-siècle mansion, surrounded by a park designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking inspiration or pampering. The architectural elegance of a Florentine palazzo shines through every detail, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Each of the 19 rooms exudes the charm of a country house, with original motifs and features. The hotel's restaurant, The Portico, helmed by Chef Jeffery Thompson, promises a culinary journey of the senses. At Wheatleigh, you can embrace the legacy of intellectual titans and indulge in the ultimate luxury experience.
These small hotels exemplify the art of hospitality, providing intimate and exquisite experiences that transport guests into another world. Whether you seek whimsy, natural beauty, or cultural immersion, these destinations offer a unique escape from the ordinary. So, why not indulge yourself in the extraordinary and create memories that will last a lifetime?
Note: The content and images in this article are sourced from the original article by Small Luxury Hotels.
