Royal Retreats: Luxe Destinations Where Elegance Reigns Supreme

By Hermoine Macura-Noble
Special to The Times Kuwait

In a time when high-end travel is more accessible than ever, a handful of extraordinary hotels still manage to rise above the rest—offering luxury and a taste of royal living. These majestic getaways are more than accommodations; they are immersive escapes into the worlds of heritage, craftsmanship, and impeccable hospitality.

At the top of the list is Morocco’s national treasure, the Royal Mansour in Marrakech. Commissioned by King Mohammed VI, the hotel features 53 private riads—multi-level residences with their own courtyards, plunge pools, and rooftop terraces. Every detail, from the intricate zellige tilework to hand-carved cedar wood panels, is the product of traditional craftsmanship, showcasing the unmatched skill of local artisans.

Beyond its stunning architecture, the Royal Mansour offers an experience steeped in luxury and discretion. A unique system of underground tunnels allows staff to move unseen, preserving the privacy of each guest and adding an air of mystique to every stay. The hotel’s world-class spa, set around a serene atrium, offers traditional hammam rituals and treatments using native Moroccan ingredients like argan oil and rose water.

In the glittering oasis of Dubai, where architectural marvels touch the sky, and luxury is a lifestyle, there exists a sanctuary that whispers of old-world Arabian elegance, the One&Only Royal Mirage. Nestled along a private stretch of Jumeirah Beach, this iconic resort is more than a place to stay; it is a destination in its own right, where grandeur, grace, and tranquility blend into an unforgettable escape.

As Heiko Schreiner, General Manager at the One&Only Royal Mirage explains, the property features exquisite gardens, palm-lined pathways, and tranquil courtyards, evoking the spirit of a sultan’s palace.

“What truly sets the One&Only Royal Mirage apart is its sense of place, a resort deeply rooted in Arabian culture yet cosmopolitan in its refinement. Unlike many modern properties, we are spread over 65 acres of gardens, fountains, and beachfront, creating a rare sense of space and seclusion in the heart of Dubai… This balance of grandeur and grace, of design and discretion, defines us.”

Dining at the Royal Mirage is a culinary voyage that spans continents while staying rooted in the essence of Arabia. From beachfront elegance at Drift, where Mediterranean flavors meet sea breezes and skyline views, to Asian delights at Eauzone, every meal celebrates taste and ambiance. “Dining at the One&Only Royal Mirage is integral to the guest journey. It’s where culture, creativity, and connection come together. We focus on storytelling through food, blending regional authenticity with global sophistication. Beyond the cuisine, every detail, the architecture, lighting, music, and service, is curated to enhance the sensory experience and transport our guests,” adds Schreiner.

The hotel also presents an exquisite selection of facial treatments tailored to rejuvenate the skin and elevate the senses at its luxurious spa. Renowned for its results-driven approach to skincare, the Carita Facial is just one treatment that is perfectly aligned with each guest’s unique needs. The luxurious products seal in the benefits, leaving the skin visibly radiant, firm, and nourished.

No list of royal getaways would be complete without The Ritz Paris. Overlooking the Place Vendôme, the hotel has long been a playground for royalty, celebrities, and literary giants. Since opening its doors in 1898, the Ritz has undergone a significant renovation and reopened in 2016 after a four-year, €200 million restoration. The property remains faithful to its historic grandeur while seamlessly incorporating the comforts of contemporary luxury. Its 142 rooms and suites, many named after illustrious former guests like Coco Chanel and F. Scott Fitzgerald, are adorned with antique furnishings, silken fabrics, and gilded accents that transport guests to a more refined era.

Dining at the Ritz is a theatrical affair. The Michelin-starred L’Espadon serves haute cuisine under the creative direction of visionary chefs, while Bar Hemingway—a nod to the author who made it his Parisian haunt—offers a more intimate experience. Beyond the velvet drapes and crystal chandeliers, the true magic of the Ritz Paris lies in its atmosphere. It is where time slows down; service is an art, and each guest, be they royalty or traveler, is treated with the same reverence.

Last but not least is the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, India. Floating like a dream in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace is a restored 18th-century marble palace originally built by Maharana Jagat Singh II. Accessible only by boat, this ethereal hotel offers uninterrupted views of the Aravalli Mountains, luxury suites with royal décor, and staff trained to deliver traditional Mewari hospitality.

Inside, the palace whispers tales of royalty through intricate carvings, hand-painted murals, and gleaming crystal chandeliers. Each of the 83 rooms and suites is a story unto itself— some with stained glass windows, others with balconies that open directly onto the lake, offering unobstructed views of Udaipur’s other iconic landmarks, such as the City Palace and Jag Mandir.

Dining here is as regal as the surroundings. At Neel Kamal, guests are treated to royal Rajasthani cuisine in a setting that mimics a 200-year-old palace dining room, while at Bhairo, the rooftop restaurant offers European fine-dining under the stars. But the essence of the Taj Lake Palace is not just in its marble or menus, it lies in the way time slows within its walls. Whether a leisurely spa treatment using ancient Indian wellness techniques or a private boat ride at sunset, every moment here feels sacred. It is no surprise that this palace has been a favorite among honeymooners, dignitaries, and dreamers worldwide.

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.