Our in-house hotel expert, Yasmin Fahr, shares her bi-monthly picks for newsworthy hotels to keep on your radar. This edition brings us to the most beautiful film-inspired hotels in the world.
In honour of the upcoming Cannes film festival, this week we are sharing some of the hotels that have been inspired or influenced by key players in the movie industry, both past and present.
Hotel Torre di Cala Piccola For a taste of old-world romance
Located on the Monte Argentario peninsula in southern Tuscany, this romantic hotel was a favorite of Liz Taylor and Richard Burton during their love affair in the 1960s. It’s hard not to imagine them sunning themselves on the blue-cushioned lounge chairs nestled into the rocky cliff, while sipping on a cocktail (something that you can easily replicate). The infinity pool and the deluxe sea view rooms offer 360-degree panoramic views (definitely worth the splurge). Spend the day taking cruises to one of the seven archipelago islands nearby or exploring the nearby island Porto Santo Stefano. Stay here.
The Brando For the nature lover
While the name gives away that this is the child of Marlon Brando, the images of the property conjure up a completely different association. Clear, turquoise-tinted waters, stretches of white sand and rocky islands, it looks more like a postcard than reality. Brando first came to the island in 1967 when filming Mutiny on the Bounty and was captivated by the Polynesian way of life, the beauty of the nature and the island’s dedication to its preservation. After making it his home, he decided to turn it into a eco-friendly hotel that embodied what he loves so much about it in 1999. The villa-only property offers one to three-bedroom options (35 villas available), all designed with the intention of creating a seamless flow between inside and outside. You’ll find wooden floors, thatched roofs and just about every luxurious amenity that you can think of. The resort also offers activities like snorkelling through coral reefs, SUP, scuba lessons, tennis, bird watching tours and a variety of other options. A high point is the Varua Spa, which is hidden away in the coconut palms and offers sensual Polynesian treatments. Whether you want to just lay or be active, there’s something for everyone here. Stay here.
Abracadabra Pousada For the Brazilian wanderluster
Buzios is often referred to as The Hamptons of Brazil as it’s typically the wealthy elite who travel to this stunning location coloured by magenta bougainvilleas and over 20 beaches. In this case, it was Brigitte Bardot who made the peninsula famous during her 1964 visit to the property. The rooms contrast the glamour of the guests and align more with the simple beauty of the island. You’ll find that rooms are decorated in a minimalist styling using a white colour palette and some local art. Bathrooms are stocked with L’Occitane amenities and showers include wood-boarded floors for an indoor-outdoor shower feeling. Most come with balconies overlooking the water that’s dotted with anchored boats—a perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee. Stay here.
Hotel Byblos For the luxe traveller
Brigitte Bardot might not have made this property famous by visiting it, but she was the owner’s inspiration in creating a property worthy of her beauty (a pretty fab compliment, right?)
Hotel Byblos is situated on a hill with charming rooms that reflect a simple French style. The duplex suite offers plenty of space, though the entry level rooms offer more than enough for two people. Enjoy the hotel’s pool, buffet breakfast and easy location to town. After a day in the sun, shopping or visiting nearby Ramatuelle, pamper yourself at the spa that offers a private garden surrounded by lush plants and decorated with colourful tiles. Stay here.
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria For the celeb spotter
We know you don’t need another reason to visit the Amalfi coast, but the potential celeb-spotting might make a case for this hotel in particular. The guest list includes Queen Victoria of Sweden, Sofia Loren and more recently Pierce Brosnan. Once you see the inside of the 83 rooms and suites, it’s clear to see why as they provide a palatial feel with high ceilings, intricate crown moldings and thick drapery—something worthy of Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle. Splurge for a room with a sea view as there is honestly no better way to wake up than seeing the sparkling waters of Sorrento and feeling the ocean breeze on your skin. The wellness program is based around the concept of Feng Shui and offers a tranquil garden to help you relax even more. Stay here.
Find more travel recommendations from Yasmin, take a look at LokaPack.
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