The Luxury Escapes That Feel Like Stepping Into Another World
Getting to travel anywhere, whether it’s just down the road to a cute weekend getaway or halfway across the world to climb a mountain or make your way across an ocean you’ve never seen, is something to celebrate and appreciate. Getting away, breathing new air, seeing surroundings that aren’t your usual day-to-day… It’s special no matter how near or far. That said, some getaways in the world exist in the pink cloud of wonder and majesty and are extremely luxe and exclusive experiences. These locations and destinations are unlike anything and anywhere else in the world. Not only to the breathtaking nature of their locations but also the way these enclaves have been built, decorated, and curated. Let’s check out some of the world’s most spectacular destinations that welcome you into another world.
The Hideaway by Perivolas- Thirasia, Greece
Imagine a movie set that features a billionaire’s secret Mediterranean escape, and you’ll be close to what The Hideaway looks like. Amid the never-ceasing tourist buzz of the Cyclades, Thriasia’s Hideaway offers an escape built for surrender. Perched directly opposite Oia, the location’s rooftop terrace is said to hold the bragging rights of the best possible view of Santorini, especially during sunset.
This is an incredibly unique property, set in calm and idyllic surroundings that provide a truly, genuinely relaxing experience. Sumptuous, rounded archways, minimalist furnishings, and an occasional dash of colour create a space made for aesthetic living. This getaway is housed on the site of an old pumice mine that dates back to 1850: the exterior remains traditional. It’s an enchanting home all around, with four guest bedrooms and one king en suite separated from the main house (you’ll enjoy privacy and exclusivity all stay long) where you can enjoy al fresco dining and stargazing overlooking the caldera.
Did we mention privacy? Perivola’s Hideaway is only accessible by boat or helicopter (your private jet charter flight will need to land at Santorini and then proceed), so you really, really won’t be disturbed while you’re enjoying a boutique experience at the level of the best hotels in the world.
Shakti Prana- Kumaon, India
The Indian Himalayas are where the ground reaches up and kisses the clouds, and Shakti Prana is the undisputed jewel of that region. This is no ordinary mountain retreat: guests at Shakti are blessed with incredibly unique moments and experiences over the course of their stays; from seeing white Himalayan monkeys in their natural habitat to sipping on rhododendron juice, this off-the-beaten-path escape proves that access really is the truest luxury.
The essence of Shakti really lies with the exceptional team that the destinations have assembled. From guides to chefs and porters, every member of the team has a real passion for the work that they do, and it shows. While the views of the Indian Himalayas are reason enough on their own to make the long trek to the location, there’s so much more to experience there: there are guided hikes and walks, Kuamon and Sikkim beckon explorers by car and foot, the river calls to anyone willing to take on rafting, and there are village and camping odysseys in Ladakh among other things. The word experience is key here, because Shakti is, at its heart, an experiential escape. The expeditions that guests can take from this location are transcendent: more than just another trek or a cute stay in the mountains. The destination also embraces a community focus, bringing the locals in the area into the prosperity that it enjoys. Unused village homes are leased in pursuit of income and sustainability, whole families hold lasting positions at the hotel, and local homeowners and farmers supply the Shakti kitchens with produce.
Families, solo travellers, groups: all are welcome here. The experiences are tailored to suit guests to a T, and each journey offers privacy and flexibility as well as an all-inclusive experience. Whether it’s a home in the clouds you crave or a chance to get into mountain landscapes and explore, Shakti will answer the call.
Brenners Park Hotel and Spa- Baden-Baden, Germany
Fresh from a years-long, expensive facelift, Brenners Park has undergone an evolution and is ready to wow guests again in 2026. The town of Baden-Baden (as the name indicates) has been a spa town since ancient times, when it lured Roman-era nobles into its borders to take the waters at the natural springs that flow from the Black Forest. From the 19th century, things became a little more formalized when locations like Brenners Park began to appear, and this particular hotel has been noted as a five-star experience for more than 150 years now.
This joyful haven provides a traditional Grand Hotel experience, with its exquisite surroundings only adding to its already strong allure. Every single guest room in the building is decorated with unique character and a warm, welcoming style. All rooms offer a window (literally) into the grandeur of the River Oos, and every restaurant on the property offers a chance to live the Brenners lifestyle: in sync with nature and invested in luxury. The cuisine is elevated by local, seasonal ingredients and a skilled, creative team that brings incredible polish to the table.
The spa aspect of the location is its main draw, and the returning guest testimonials online speak to its variety and quality. Recuperate, rejuvenate, prevent, and treat in the Spa and Wellness spaces: find space and clarity on the pool that borders the park; place yourself in the hands of spa experts who operate and manage the Finnish sauna, bio sauna, steam bath, open-air space, cold plunge, relaxing room, and beautifully designed treatment rooms. Embrace medical wellness, fitness spaces, and the chance to breathe the mountain air in this unique city escape.
So…When Are You Off?
These tranquil, unique, opulent escapes are some of the best in the world. The timelessness of their locations, the commitment to excellence and exclusivity, and the potential for both inner and outward discovery bring each one to a new level…get ready to experience it.
