For our first-ever annual list celebrating the world’s most authentic, distinctive and responsible stays, our team scoured the great hotels, resorts and lodges and asked themselves one question: what makes a WanderSleeps property?
Reviewed by
Jacqui Agate, Oliver Berry, Nicola Brady, Gareth Clark, Laura Field, Lyn Hughes, George Kipouros, James March, Chris Moss, Tebogo Pin-Pin and Qin Xie
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We want to stay somewhere that reflects our surroundings, offering a meaningful connection to the places and cultures around us. We want stories we can tell, architecture we can savour and experiences that immerse us in our destination. And we want to stay in a property that is committed to preserving the natural world, whether through conservation efforts, ecoinitiatives or contributions to the surrounding community. Across five categories, ranging from green escapes to urban hideaways, our editorial team have carefully curated a list of 50 exceptional stays from around the globe that redefine the art of hospitality. In other words: WanderSleeps.
Explore the five WanderSleep categories
UrbanSleeps
Looking for your oasis amongst the beating heart of the cityscape? From Renaissance opulence to timeless glamour, we’ve selected the world’s most inspired urban sleeps.
Opposite: Four Seasons, Hotel Firenze
Historic & HeritageSleeps
Instead of allowing centuries-old sites to fall into disrepair, cities are choosing to transform landmark buildings like castles and palaces (or even prisons) into spectacular hotels you can book now.
Opposite: Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Sense of PlaceSleeps
Going well beyond a place to simply rest your head, these properties offer the chance to immerse yourself in a destination before stepping outside through their art, architecture, food offering and more.
Opposite: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Nature & WildlifeSleeps
Bringing the outside in is no mean feat, but our pick of nature & wildlife properties let the sounds, sights and smells of the natural world shine. Better still, you’re just steps away from further exploration.
Opposite: One & Only house, Nyungwe
Eco-consciousSleeps
Long before sustainability and eco-friendly became buzzwords, these properties have been making sure their impact on the world – and local community – is a positive one.
Opposite: Six Senses, Bhutan