By Hermoine Macura-Noble
Special to The Times Kuwait
There is no better way to relax and unwind than in nature, a retreat to escape and experience its beauty and tranquility in its full magnificence. When it comes to luxury travel, the best hotels in nature provide the perfect retreat, allowing guests to disconnect from daily life and immerse themselves in stunning natural surroundings. Here are some of the world’s best hotels in nature and incredible things to do while staying there.
JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, India: Just a few hours away from the Gulf, picturesque mountain views of India’s northern Garhwal Himalayan ranges await when you stay at the Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa. Just under 300 kms from the capital New Delhi, the resort is the perfect getaway for guests who want to experience and enjoy the serenity of nature, in the lap of luxury. Offering the epitome of sophistication with a heightened sense of comfort, the indulgent rooms offer panoramic views of the valley, expansive dining options, tastefully appointed meeting spaces and the acclaimed Cedar Spa by L’Occitane. Guests can choose to indulge in ancient healing treatments at the spa before heading out on a rafting adventure on the Rishikesh River, or just relax and take in views of the towering Himalayas from the comfort of your room or suite.
Amangiri, Utah, US: Located in the heart of Utah’s Canyon Country, Amangiri is a luxurious retreat that offers guests breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons. With its modern design and stunning infinity pool, Amangiri seamlessly blends in with the natural landscape of mesas, ridges, and gorges. The hotel’s modern suites, villas, and tented pavilions are just a stone’s throw away from the stunning wilderness of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. From canyoneering to excursions by bike, boat, or on horseback, guests are encouraged to discover the region in their unique way including a hot air balloon ride over the desert landscape. Other unique experiences include learning more about the ecology, geology, and human history of the area as well as the rich traditions of neighboring Native American tribes such as Navajo storytelling.
Soneva Kiri, Thailand: Nestled in the lush tropical rainforests of Koh Kood island, Soneva Kiri offers guests a chance to truly get away from it all. The resort features luxurious villas that are spread throughout the jungle canopy, providing stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, take a sunset cruise around the island, or even learn how to cook Thai cuisine from the resort’s world-class chefs.
Le Méridien Paro, Bhutan: Known for promoting its national philosophy of Gross National Happiness, it is no surprise that when you stay at the 59-room Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront, a feeling of beauty-induced bliss is practically built into the equation. Views of the Eastern Himalayas and the soothing sounds of the Paro River are the setting and soundtrack for a truly transporting stay. Just ten minutes from Paro International Airport, the modern hotel is influenced by traditional Bhutanese architecture and offers a relaxed base for exploring Bhutan. The guest rooms and suites at the hotel are sophisticated and elegant with polished wooden paneling and crisp white bedding. Guests staying at the hotel can explore nearby Paro with its monasteries, temples, and markets, hike to the Taktsang Tiger’s Nest monastery, or try the traditional sports of darts and archery.
Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado, Peru: Experience the lure of Peru’s Sacred Valley with a stay at Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa, in Valle Sagrado. Sip your morning coffee from your room’s private balcony with views of the towering Andes Mountains and Urubamba River before heading out to explore the local area to follow the Incan path. Guests can also choose to venture farther afield to Machu Picchu from the property’s private train station, where guests can start an unforgettable journey between Urubamba and Machu Picchu. Luxurious 1920s style carriages, including a dining car, a panoramic observation bar car and gourmet cuisine all combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Banyan Tree, Al Ula, Saudi Arabia: This stunning property is situated in the magical surroundings of AlUla in Saudi Arabia and features an all-villa resort concept located in one of the world’s most mysterious travel destinations. Guests have the chance to embark on a multi-sensory experience at Banyan Tree AlUla and be stunned by the stillness and peacefulness of the stunning rock formations. The one-bedroom villas are decorated with authentic, handcrafted Arabian-inspired antiques and feature bathroom patios and an external fire pit. Located in what many call the world’s largest living museum, the resort is just a short flight from either Riyadh or Jeddah.
Whether you are looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the American Southwest or immerse yourself in the lush tropical rainforests of Thailand, these luxury hotels provide the perfect escape. With their world-class amenities and incredible surroundings, these hotels offer guests the chance to truly disconnect and indulge in the beauty of nature.
By Hermoine Macura-Noble
The first Australian English speaking News Anchor in the Middle East. She is also the Author of Faces of the Middle East and Founder of US-based 501c3 charity – The House of Rest which helps to ease the suffering of victims of war. For more from our Contributing Editor, you can follow her on Instagram, here.
