From the flawless natural beauty of Montenegro to the unbridled luxury of Abu Dhabi and the buzzing culture of Barcelona: These are the best destinations for your summer holiday, whatever vibe you are after
Ad Feature by Hyatt Hotels Corporation
With summer on the horizon, now is the time to book that getaway you’ve been daydreaming about.
What that daydream looks like will vary from person to person – it might be a sun-drenched family beach break, a culture-filled city tour for two, a holiday with friends by the poolside or an adventurous solo getaway.
Making planning that trip easier, Hyatt has magnificent hotels and resorts suited to every kind of traveller, offering everything from rejuvenating spa experiences and eco-friendly perks to family-friendly activities and picture-perfect private beaches.
If you are travelling in a larger group with family or friends, Hyatt also offers connecting rooms at several hotels.
Incredible value is a welcome bonus. You can enjoy up to 15% off on stays from 25 May to 10 September. Become a World of Hyatt member (it’s free!) and you can save even more and get free breakfast. Choose from over 100+ participating Hyatt Hotels in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. To secure the deal, act fast and book by 23 May.
Hyatt has magnificent hotels and resorts suited to every kind of traveller. While in Abu Dhabi, enjoy laid-back days on the beach with a stay at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas
Here we present five amazing – and distinctly unique – summer destinations to inspire your next trip, along with tips on where to stay while you’re there…
MARVELLOUS MUNICH
One of Europe’s most charming cities, Munich is an alluring blend of old and new.
Wander the streets of this Bavarian gem and you’ll discover grand architecture, groundbreaking contemporary artwork and a beer scene that’s world-renowned.
Centred around design, the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor hotel is arguably the most stylish place to lay your head in the city.
It’s nestled in Schwabing, a neighbourhood that historically gained a reputation as a haunt for bohemians and artists.
Centred around design, the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor hotel is arguably the most stylish place to lay your head in Munich
Simply stepping foot inside the boutique hotel will make you feel inspired – rooms are decorated with designer sofas, expertly curated artwork and chic wooden flooring.
The jewel in the hotel’s crown is the rooftop pool and spa. Swim laps and marvel over the vista of Munich’s pretty rooftops.
The 2,000-sq-m spa is one of Munich’s largest wellness hotspots – unwind with a rejuvenating massage or try a regionally-inspired spa treatment.
Toast your trip with a glass of Riesling at Munich’s highest rooftop bar and feast on charcoal-grilled meat dishes at open-plan The Lonely Broccoli restaurant.
You can sleep easy knowing the hotel is committed to sustainability – for instance, no plastic bottles are used, wind and solar energy are implemented and there are beehives on the rooftop.
Rent bicycles from Bicicletta, the hotel’s quirky cafe for bike lovers, where bar stools are made using repurposed bicycle seats.
Expect to see designer sofas and expertly curated artwork at the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor hotel
The Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor hotel is crowned by a stunning rooftop pool
It’s just a stone’s throw from the city’s famous English Garden, a breathtaking and vast 18th-century park filled with sculptures, calming water features and flower-laced picnic spots.
After exploring the park, pick up souvenirs in Munich’s old town, take in magical views from the top of St Peter’s Church, go museum-hopping in the Kunstareal art quarter or wander the stalls at Viktualienmarkt, the city’s biggest market.
By night, feast on dumplings in Bavarian taverns or watch a heart-soaring operatic performance at the opulent National Theater.
It’s no wonder Munich is Germany’s capital of chic.
SUNKISSED CANNES
Cannes has a reputation for being one of the most glamorous cities in the world – and with good reason.
This sun-drenched resort on the French Riviera is a hotbed for celebrity sightings, its annual film festival drawing in the biggest names of the silver screen.
You’ll spy swish designer boutiques, luxury cars and gleaming yachts at every turn.
Immerse yourself in the city’s elegant history with a stay at the legendary Hôtel Martinez, set on the famous La Croisette Boulevard.
Dating back to the 1920s, this iconic five-star retreat has long been the ultimate place to be seen in Cannes, welcoming a roster of glittering names through its doors.
Immerse yourself in the elegant history of Cannes with a stay at the legendary 1920s Hotel Martinez (above)
Fusing Art Deco glamour with contemporary design, bedrooms are painted, tiled and upholstered in a colour palette inspired by the natural beauty of the Cote d’Azur.
The hotel’s breathtaking penthouse suites are among some of the largest in Europe, with vast windows offering heavenly views of the Bay of Cannes.
You’ll feel every inch a star as you lounge at the hotel’s private beach club, cooling down with dips in the Mediterranean Sea and chilled glasses of French rosé.
The guest rooms at Hotel Martinez fuse Art Deco glamour with contemporary design
A dream destination for gourmands, the retreat is home to the only two Michelin-starred restaurant in Cannes, La Palme d’Or. The Michelin Guide promises that you will ‘fall in love’ with the eatery.
Or sit amongst the fragrant lemon trees at the Le Jardin du Martinez restaurant, a stunning al fresco haven designed by the landscape architect Philippe Niez.
Sustainability is at the core of this Mediterranean paradise – the hotel has reached elite status as a Green Globe Platinum Member, marking its dedication to being a sustainable hotel.
Children will love taking part in the themed activities at the hotel’s kids club and watching films in the swish velvet seats of the hotel’s private cinema.
Hotel Martinez is home to the only two Michelin-starred restaurant in Cannes, La Palme d’Or
The hotel’s wellness area, L’Oasis du Martinez – Spa by Carita, is a gem to be discovered. Try a couples massage or detox in the hammam, before ambling to the heated outdoor swimming pool – lined with glossy cerulean tiles, it’s the definition of elegance.
If you can tear yourself away from the hotel, hop on a boat and explore the magical islands dotted along the coast, such as postcard-perfect Île Sainte-Marguerite. Known as ‘the forest on the water’ to locals, it’s home to breathtaking hiking trails, a fascinating historic fort and secluded bathing spots.
Back on the mainland, amble around the winding cobblestoned streets of Le Suquet, Cannes’ old town, where houses are painted in pastel shades and charming cafes offer the perfect excuse to stop for an espresso or an Aperol Spritz.
It’s a trip straight out of a postcard.
BEAUTIFUL BARCELONA
You can have it all in Barcelona. A city break and a beach break combined, the Mediterranean metropolis offers sunshine, contemporary culture and incredible gastronomy in spades.
An open-air gallery, its streets are filled with vibrant murals and whimsical architecture by Antonio Gaudi. Tour Gaudi’s famously unfinished – yet ever so beautiful – Sagrada Familia cathedral or the fantastical Casa Batlló building.
Take in the panorama from the UNESCO-listed Park Guell, where colourful mosaics will bring a smile to your face. Later, muse over the paintings at the Picasso Museum, pick up local produce at Mercado de La Boqueria or catch a football match at Camp Nou stadium.
When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, retreat to the luxury of your room at the Hotel SOFIA Barcelona.
Sit under the glamorous gold ceiling of Hotel SOFIA Barcelona’s Sofia Bar
This regal five-star haven is set on Avenida Diagonal in the east of the city.
It’s hosted many heads of state and dignitaries in its history, and that glamorous legacy shines through as soon as you enter the lobby.
Choose from one of more than 400 elegant rooms or treat yourself to a stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious suites, which offer glorious views across Barcelona. The sumptuous ‘As You Wish’ services – available to suite guests – include 24-hour butler service, a host of glitzy gifts and access to an exclusive lounge.
Take your holiday paperback and curl up in a chair at Hotel SOFIA Barcelona’s Philosofia cafe
Interior design by the acclaimed designer Jaime Beriestain envelops you in a sense of luxury at Hotel SOFIA Barcelona
Take your holiday paperback and curl up in a chair at Philosofia, the hotel’s cosy book-lined cafe. Later, embark on an odyssey of Mediterranean fusion cuisine at the sensational IMPAR restaurant, sharing plates with friends and family as you chat into the night.
Sit under the glamorous gold ceiling of Sofia Bar with a nightcap, or head out into Barcelona to explore the city’s bustling nightlife.
Devote a morning to self-care with a treatment at the Mediterranean-inspired SOFIA Oasis Wellness & Spa, finding your zen in the ice cave or in the steam bath.
Or hit the state-of-the-art fitness centre for a workout, before lounging by the hotel’s tropical garden pool. Lined with hammocks and Balinese beds, the showstopper lagoon is built for peaceful swims and lazy days spent soaking up the rays.
DREAMY ABU DHABI
Crowned by glittering skyscrapers and teeming with cultural attractions, it’s easy to see why Abu Dhabi is called the Manhattan of the Middle East.
Take your pick of excellent museums, such as the silver-domed Louvre Abu Dhabi with its permanent collection of some 700 artworks.
Admire the architectural marvel that is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or potter through the colourful boutiques at the Marina Mall.
There are theme parks galore for kids and adults alike, from the epic waterslides of Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa.
To stay in the beating heart of Abu Dhabi, check into the luxurious, five-star Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Head into the desert for an adventure in the great outdoors, riding a dune buggy or sandboarding through the terracotta-coloured sand dunes.
To stay in the beating heart of the city, check into the luxurious, five-star Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi.
Set in the city’s West Corniche district, this family-friendly retreat is just a half-hour drive from the airport and within walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions.
There are more than 400 spacious rooms – graced with private balconies and decadent furnishings – to choose from.
Little ones can make a splash in the kids’ pool, while adults can enjoy the tranquillity of the stunning, temperature-controlled infinity pool, which overlooks the sparkling Arabian Gulf.
There are more than 400 decadent rooms to choose from at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
For a sweet treat, stop by the Pearl Lounge and grab a crepe and a coffee at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
More serenity awaits in the Lum’a Spa – relax in the Hammam or try out the Sensory Experience Showers. Or simply hit the outdoor fitness area for an open-air workout with a view. For a sweet treat, stop by the Pearl Lounge and grab a crepe and a coffee under the cafe’s elegant hanging chandeliers.
Bond over Italian dishes the whole family will love at Verso, or enjoy expertly chosen wines and a charcuterie board at the high-end Lexx bar.
If it’s a laid-back beach break you’re after, make your way to the unspoilt coast of Saadiyat Island, where you’ll find the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas.
This luxurious beach resort is home to one of the biggest pools in Abu Dhabi, a show-stopping infinity pool lined by swaying palm trees and manicured gardens.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is home to one of the biggest pools in Abu Dhabi
Watch the sunset as you dine al fresco at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi’s beautiful Beach House Restaurant
When the sun rises, check out the view from your private balcony before making your way down to the beach or pool for a day of blissful lounging.
Kids can make friends and try outdoor activities at Camp Hyatt kids’ club. Parents, meanwhile, can let their hair down at the Atarmia Spa, enjoying a massage on a private outdoor terrace or swimming laps in the 25m pool.
Golf lovers can play a round at Saadiyat Beach Golf Course, a beachfront 18-hole championship course designed by golfing dynamo Gary Player. Facing the Arabian Sea, it’s a spectacular spot to land a hole-in-one.
Back at the hotel, watch the sun setting over the water as you dine al fresco at the beautiful Beach House Restaurant, or try Argentinian cuisine with a Lebanese twist at the sleek and stylish Maté restaurant.
Post dinner, head to the Shala Beach Lounge to pick up a citrusy cocktail and listen to live music as the stars fill the night sky.
MAGICAL MONTENEGRO
Montenegro is fast becoming one of the best off-the-radar destinations in Europe for a summer break.
Rugged mountains carpet the country, while the Adriatic Sea coast is peppered with secluded beaches that make for perfect days by the sea.
Among these, the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor – known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world – is a must-visit.
The Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort is ideally located along this pristine stretch of coast, offering spellbinding vistas of the Orjen and Lovcen mountains that soar over the butterfly-shaped bay.
Wellness is at the heart of this idyll. Enjoy spa treatments or a hammam experience at SPA SOUL, swim lengths in the heated indoor swimming pool, or sign up for a serene tai chi session at the VRMAC health centre.
Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort offers spellbinding vistas of the Bay of Kotor and the magnificent Orjen and Lovcen mountains
The VRMAC Health and Wellbeing Retreat de ’MAR also offers personalised treatments for specific health issues, ensuring you leave feeling truly rested and rejuvenated.
Relax into the zen atmosphere of the Bliss Pool Bar as you sip on a signature cocktail and read a page-turner by the poolside.
Hungry? The hotel’s chefs prepare meals using fresh, local produce, so you can taste Montenegro’s bounty on your plate.
Try contemporary Balkan cuisine at Hedonist Rooftop or feast on Latin dishes at the stylish Olé! Beach restaurant and bar, set on Kotor Bay’s longest natural beach.
Swim lengths in Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort’s heated indoor swimming pool or enjoy a tai chi session at the VRMAC health centre
It’s a treat to return to your room each night, with soft white bedding and expansive windows making for a blissful night’s sleep. For an extra dash of luxury, choose a King Bed Sea View room with a hot tub and pool access, so you can go for a dip the moment you wake.
The hotel can arrange for you to go hiking in forested trails, to go kayaking or to take a jeep safari tour through the mountains. On a private boat tour, check out the famous Blue Cave or Our Lady of the Rocks, a picturesque islet that’s home to a centuries-old church.
Stroll around the chocolate box town of Perast, a seaside port that’s filled with Baroque palaces, churches, and charmingly quiet streets.
For more of a crowd, roam the Medieval lanes of the old town of Kotor, stopping to explore Venetian palaces, cafes filled with locals and eye-opening museums. Stay until nightfall and you’ll watch the city’s grand walls light up, as its bars and restaurants come to life.
Source: Read Full Article