20 Amazing Hotels You Need To Visit Before You Die

Let’s face it, there are thousands of beautiful destinations on this big beautiful planet we call home. There is so much to see, so much to experience and so much to enjoy and indulge in that thinking about all of the amazing possibilities is almost mind-numbingly overwhelming.

Where do you even begin to start planning your dream vacation? The crazy beautiful tropical islands or the rich and ancient locations with awe-inducing architecture such as Rome or Greece? Fear not, for in this list we not only discuss the most beautiful locations to visit but also the most amazing hotels to stay at while you’re there.

So sit back and let’s get into our list of the top 20 most amazing hotels in striking locations you absolutely must visit:

1. Nihiwatu – Sumba, Indonesia

Located on a very small yet exclusive island resort in eastern Indonesia, the Nihiwatu hotel/resort will blow your mind away as it transports you to the true unfiltered meaning of tropical paradise.

Not only will your senses be overwhelmed by the striking beauty of the surrounding landscapes and ocean views but guests will also be treated to absolute luxury incarnate inside the 175 hectares property that features tropical villas and bungalows as well as offering any and all amenities such as bars/pubs, outdoor pools, a spa, many different types of water sports, 24-hour room service and so much more.

The stunning décor and structure of this hotel/resorts draw inspiration from true Indonesian culture as it is featured in the little details of the furnishings and woodwork throughout the entire structure as two worlds collide making it the perfect blend of modern yet island-vibe.

2. Le Méridien – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Known for its absolutely stunning aquatic wildlife, this resort offers the best of both worlds – unfiltered natural beauty as well as modern yet luxurious accommodation to blow the mind of any and all travelers.

With real authentic Polynesian inspired décor, the overwater bungalows not only provide any and all amenities needed to have the full experience but also has the added feature of uniquely placed glass bottom floors so that visitors can view the stunning underwater lagoon scenery from the comfort of their own homes while they relax after a long day of fun in the sun with all of their pre-planned water activities upon request.

After this, guests can take the short walk on the pier that connects all of the bungalows to the beach where they are royally treated to real and authentic Polynesian cuisine and refreshments which all and all serve as one magical experience.

3. Southern Ocean Lodge – Kingscote, South Australia

The Southern Ocean Lodge is an all-inclusive hotel/resort that offers a combination of complete and utter solitude and privacy as it is surrounded by the pure untainted natural beauty that plainly said – only the great country Australia is known for. Featuring beautiful views of the oceanside with endless horizons as well as natural green landscapes, this is truly a striking location that will enthrall the mind of any traveler.

Guests can expect to see both ocean life bubbling at the surface as well as there is the very big possibility of seeing kangaroos casually going about their adorable lives as they indulge in the pure luxury that the hotel has to offer with its many different options of rooms, suites and private living areas.

All decorated with classily elegant finishing’s and décor, this hotel really did go the extra mile to bring both comfort and excellence to life.

4. Twin Farms, Barnard, Vermont

Stepping away from the tropical experiences, this whimsical and fairy-tale-inspired hotel is set in the stunning landscape and scenery of Vermont – that only true artists dream of capturing with their paintbrushes.

Not only does this location inspire so much awe with its incredible views of mountain ranges and its surroundings of colorful forestation stretching out to about 300 acres of property it also offers an experience of comfort meeting luxury that rightfully qualifies this entry as a five-star experience.

This is an adult-only hotel that inspires the true meaning of romance for potential couples to enjoy some much needed alone time as it captivates guests with its mystery and folklore history and culture but also features the private art collection of the owner throughout the entire interior of the property so guests are welcome to explore the halls and marvel pieces as they go about their day in this amazing hotel.

5. London Marriott Hotel County Hall – London, England

Fun fact: this structure was formerly used for the Greater London Council Headquarters and therefore has a very large historical significance to the community which is why it was redesigned and conserved by John Sisk and Son team as part of the Whitbread’s conversion project to transform it into the unique 200 bedroom structure it is known as today and as part as the Marriott name.

Not only is this hotel in an exceptional location in London, with the London Eye standing just like the back of it, but it also provides guests with some amazing one-of-a-kind views of not just the Houses of Parliament but also the River Thames.

Each bedroom is famously unique as the original windows and chimney stacks were kept as part of their layouts during the grand reconstruction. This stunning hotel also brags with the fact that most of the walls, oak floors, and ceilings are still part of the original structure as the redesigning team had made great efforts to not only preserve them fully but also working with the intent to integrate them with a modern twist.

This, in turn, made the grand reveal of the new hotel a true mixture of “old” and “new” styles and inspiration of architecture that continues to have guests straining their necks up in every direction to take it all in.

6. Singita Sabi Sand, Sabi Sand Game Reserve – South Africa

Created and inspired by using a mixture of true South African culture and the idea of bush life this stunning lodge is set in the majestic landscapes of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve and is known as one of South Africa’s best safari experiences. The aim of this location is to incorporate the feeling of being surrounded by the African bushlands and wildlife but in absolute luxury.

Most if not all suites are fitted with glass-fronted windows that provide the most stunning views of the Sand River so guests can relax indoors or on their private wooden balconies or even in their private pools and still be able to see everything happening in real life 4K HD.

With all that, this lodge also boasts its massive collection of over 12,000 different types of wines, both international names, as well as proudly South African brands, which can be found in any preferred style or vintage. The Lodge also offers big-game viewing experiences that give guests the opportunity to see the world-famous “Big Five” South African wildlife so guests can marvel at seeing Lions, Elephants, Leopards, Rhino’s and Buffalos live and in person in their natural habitat.

7. The Peninsula Shanghai – Shanghai, China

First presented in 2009, The Peninsula Shanghai hotel is known as the only structure in the last 60 years that was made on the historic The Bund waterfront of Shanghai. So to think that this hotel offers extraordinary views of the surrounding city is not only a major understatement but also a complete disservice to all the time and attention that was put into making this hotel – by itself – an experience of a lifetime.

Particularly when guests head up to the rooftop and they can not only see but also admire some of the most breathtaking sights of Shanghai. The hotel is also famously known for its incredible spa experience, where guests are treated like royalty as they relax and rejuvenate with signature treatments such as the toxin-eliminating Oriental Thermal Infusion or the Bamboo Harmonsier which is said to be an “energy-stimulating” treatment.

8. Alpina Gstaad – Gstaad, Switzerland

Switzerland by itself is already famously known for its extraordinarily beautiful landscapes and picturesque landscapes so its no wonder that the Alpina Gstaad in Gstaad Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations for travelers who want to not only experience absolute luxury and leisure but also enjoy the captivating views of the Swiss mountains.

Made for both leisure and adventure-seeking tourists, this is the ideal location to experience the best of both worlds. Famous for its excellent swiss cuisine at all times of the day, it also gives guests the opportunity to enjoy the mountain trail hikes and ski slopes that is part of a network of footpaths surrounded by the most breathtaking views and landscapes that gives a whole new meaning to the saying “let’s breathe in some fresh air.”

9. Montage Kapalua Bay, Lahaina – Maui, Hawaii

This exclusive resort which is inspired wholly by the traditional Hawaiian canoe houses completely embodies and breathes life to the saying of paradiso nohoia – which translates to a tropical paradise in the Hawaiian language. The resort is 1,250 square feet of pure island landscapes mixed with the stunning addition of residential suites available to any and all guests.

Not only does the resort offer direct access to the famous beach at Kapalua Bay but it also has a three-tiered Sunset pool where guests can relax and watch some of nature’s most beautiful sunset/sunrise showcases known to man as they sip on signature drinks. Guests can also book a secluded dining experience at the Cliff house as they enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean in a more intimate venue setting.

10. The Lodge at Glendorn – Bradford, Pennsylvania

Marketed for both families and couples this stunning lodge serves as a bright shining beckon for travelers who want to escape the stressful day-to-day city life and gives them the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the stunning and quiet woodland setting of Bradford in Pennsylvania.

They offer rooms at the main lodge as well as private guest houses so potential guests have the option of deciding exactly how secluded they want to be at this already secluded location.

Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast as they decide how they want to spend their day by enjoying their multiple offered pre-organized day activities such as fly fishing, bike rentals, hiking, lawn games, tennis as well as cross country skiing for those interested. At night, guests can relax by the bonfire and roast up some delicious S’mores either at the main lodge or at their private cabins.

11. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle – Chiang Rai, Thailand

Set on a postcard-worthy hillside at the northernmost edge of Thailand guests can be captivated by a landscape of thick bamboo-covered forestation with a one-of-a-kind view of Myanmar and Laos. Inspired by a true 19th-century safari design, the interior is elegantly decorated with handcrafted furniture to capture the true essence of a romantic adventure get-away.

Guests can spend their days traveling in a real vintage jeep that is used to take them anywhere on the property as they part-take in several activities such as hiking and even viewing the rehabilitee elephants that wander around the surrounding areas. Day trips are also available for those who want to do city tours of Chiang Rai or even travel over the border to Myanmar.

12. Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve – South Africa

Found inside South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park the Lion Sands Game Reserve offers a different experience than just the traditional hotel suites as found on my of the locations on this list as they offer accommodation in treehouses that overlook the entire property.

These treehouse suites are located about 5km away from the main lodge – where traditional accommodation is also offered – and offers a mixture of luxury while at the same time acts as a very secluded “roughing it or back to nature” experience as there is no electricity and no neighbors close by so guests will have complete privacy.

What is so alluring about this experience is the fact that guests can stargaze at night and see the sky with no interferences that showcases a stunning areal display of the universe in all of its natural beauty. The lodge also offers daily game drives where guests are able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and all of the rich African wildlife that not only includes the Big Five but also offers sightings of other native African animals such as giraffes, wildebeests, impala, and zebras.

13. Hotel Castello di Casole, A Timbers Resort – Casole d’Elsa, Italy

Set near the famous cities of Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano and nestled in the heart of the beautiful Tuscan landscapes is where Hotel Castello di Casole can be found.

It is one of the largest privates estates in all of Italy with 4,200 acres of Tuscan vineyards and olive grows that are surrounded by scenic valleys, rolling hills, and beautiful landscapes it was also known as a Castel at some point in history but was carefully redesigned and constructed into a beautiful traditional European style hotel.

Not only will guests be overwhelmed by the stunning surroundings, but they also have the opportunity to relax and be pampered by its 5-star rated services and amenities.

Everything inside the interior of the hotel is completely authentic to its time era, however, they have been reported to bringing out the true Tuscan-inspired design and architecture, from the furniture to the floors and ceilings as well the woodwork. This, in turn, gives guests an experience of ancient Tuscan excellence with a modern twist that will bring joy to the hearts of anyone staying there.

14. Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa – Gateway, Colorado, USA

This stunning and picturesque resort is nestled deep in the folds of Colorado’s most southwest edge, which is only about an hour’s drive from the Grand Junction. Due to the interesting location, the landscape looks starkly different from the imagined Aspens Rocky Mountain that it is commonly known for but it resembles to guest more of a picture of – for example – Moab’s red rock country. This ultimate get-away truly takes guests as far away as possible from their usual lifestyle as the entire town where the resort is found has nothing more than a small gas station, an original structure of an old schoolhouse structure and that’s about it.

The resort itself, however, as everything any guest could possibly need, and more upon request. Along with the main resort is a 16-room lodge, that the owner redesigned and conserved in his efforts to: “share a small part of the “uniqueness of life” that he had discovered”.

The resort is in total 6,000 acres which most of which is still to this day under construction however guests can choose between the 58 suites or 14 private casitas. There are also two pools, restaurants, conference rooms for meetings and functions, a spa with a steam room and saunas as well as multiple unique locations around the resort where guests can take a yoga class with an exceptional view.

15. Katikies Hotel – Santorini, Greece

This hotel is not only the best when it comes to service but it also is located on one of the prettiest positions on the famous cliffs on the Caldera basin, just a mere 100m above the chill-inducing sights of the assortments of blue hues of the surrounding ocean and crystal clear reefs as their waves crash against the shore.

Not only does this hotel enjoy its 5-star rating as one of the best but it also makes a point of proving it to their guest tenfold. The classic white and blue exterior of the hotel fits in beautifully with its classic Greek-style themed interior designs.

They also offer two amazing infinity pools that give guests a breathtaking lookout of the stunning surrounding blue waters but also offer extra amenities upon request as well as have bars, public pools, restaurants and are only 16km away from the Santorini airport which they also provided shuffle services for.

16. Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens – Arenal Volcano Park, Costa Rica

Eight kilometers from the town of La Fortuna in the Arenal Volcano National Park the Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens sits tranquility on the very outskirts of the park.

Their guests will be treated to not only a 5-star experience of absolute luxury and pampering but they’ll also get the opportunity to see the utter natural beauty that surrounds the resort with nothing but an array of lush greenery and dense forestation.

Guests can visit and relax at multiple natural hot springs or take full advantage to recharge and rejuvenate at their award-winning spa. With its own unique aesthetic, the interior of the resort is designed to be a mixture of bright and sleek furniture designs & décor featuring tropical bird prints.

The views from the windows open the world to a stunning tropical haven featuring views of an actual real-life volcano that is sure to blow the mind of anyone lucky enough to stay there.

17. The Nam Hai – Hoi An, Vietnam

The Nam Hai Hotel breathes a deep sigh of excellence as it is quickly growing to become one of Vietnam’s most popular locations. With a private beach that stretches over a kilometer and stunning yet elegantly designed villas, this hotel brings a new meaning to the word “exclusivity” as they make it their top priority that guests can enjoy themselves in utter privacy as they go about their dream vacation.

Chill at the private pools and sip on some signature drinks, or take the time to go to their private beach it’s your choice. The hotel also offers an array of exciting extras such as complimentary limo rides, personal butlers, and 24-hour services upon request.

Besides the hotel, guests will also find themselves in stunning Thailand, rich in history, culture, and ancient folklore to pique the interest of any traveler.

18. 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Compared to some of the other locations on this list, this hotel/resort is a little less known but don’t let that fool you as this stunning Colonial-inspired structure is founded at the 19th-century historic property and is as amazing as the pictures would suggest.

The interior is sleek and polished each featuring stunning wooden balconies with unique outdoor style shower cabins as well as having Victorian-style bathtubs in the main en suite bathrooms.

It is a mere 15 min walk away from the Night Bazaar as well as 2km away from Paradise Chiang Mai Museum where guests can view some of the most amazing art. The surrounding area is stunning and brings out the real feeling of Vietnam but with the comfort of being secluded at the location.

19. Serengeti House – Singita Grumeti, Tanzania

Found inside the Grumeti Reserves, this resort allows us to fully take in everything mother nature has to offer and then some. Since the Serengeti is found in Africa, guests have the opportunity to see the world-famous Big Five – mentioned in previous posts – as they partake in game drives and safaris organized by the staff for their convenience and enjoyment.

The hotel overlooks the grasslands and watering holes for the local wildlife that turns this location into a must-visit destination for any tourist who wants the opportunity to see the beauty of Africa in style. The hotel also offers unending entertainment as they prearrange activities for guests based on their own personal preferences and even have private and personal vehicles for guests to use as they please to travel around the property.

20. The St. Regis Bali Resort – Nasu Dua, Indonesia

First off, this is Bali. No matter where guests end up, this is sure to be one stunning and mind-blowingly beautiful destination that everyone should see at least once in their lives. However, when you add the absolute luxury of the St. Regis Bali Resort to the utter beauty that is Bali, this vacation could potentially be the best one by far.

Guests will be captivated by the amazing location right on the beach as they take in the amazing crystal clear waters and get a real-life glimpse of a landscape made for a postcard.

Guests have the option of staying in the main villa or they can pick and choose between more exclusive suites or villas that are a little more secluded. The elegant and modern rooms/suites are finely decorated with furniture, paintings, and décor that take inspiration from the true Balinese culture and styles.

20 Amazing Hotels

At the end of the day, no matter the accommodation, these locations are some of the best in the world and every potential traveler reading this should add them to your must-see bucket -list as they are highly recommended and will without a doubt open your eyes and blow your mind to the sheer raw beauty this stunning planet we call home.