It’s that time of year again when the sweet scent of fizz and strawberries lingers in the outdoors. Welcome to tennis season. These are the best hotels for tennis.
With the most iconic tournaments in tennis swiftly approaching – the French Open (28 May – 11 June 2023), Wimbledon (3 – 16 July 2023), and the US Open (28 August – 10 September 2023) – we’ve curated a list of the top global hotels and resorts for avid tennis fans to pick up a racket and perfect their serve. What a way to kick-start summer.
Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives
One of the more luxurious resorts in the Maldives, Cheval Blanc Randheli, is a classic; even the Duchess of Cambridge (who is known to be a tennis enthusiast) has stayed here. Take the boat to jungle island Maakurandhoo, home to two US Open and Paris Masters standard courts, to play against a resident pro or a family member in a casual match. On this spectacular jungle island, tennis aside, you’ll find plenty of other places to relax including a terrace lounge and clubhouse. Scenic and sun-drenched, this resort will go beyond your summer holiday expectations.
Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Tanzania
Based in the 350,000-acre Singita Grumeti Reserve, Singita Sasakwa Lodge takes its architectural inspiration from Edwardian manor houses. Prepare yourself for the ultimate African safari experience before spending the afternoon playing a light tennis game or two, watched over by peering elephants and giraffes in the distance.
Curtain Bluff, Antigua
Although tennis isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when planning a Caribbean getaway, Curtain Bluff unapologetically prides itself on its tennis courts – and rightly so. This family resort is worth visiting for its many restaurant options, spa, private beaches and ocean-facing villas, in addition to its wonderful courts. Overlooking the gorgeous Antiguan waters, escape to the court to make unforgettable memories, rallying with one of the resident pros on one of the four courts.
F Zeen Retreat, Kefalonia, Greece
Treat yourself to a friendly game of tennis at this visually striking Greek retreat where you can fully embrace your adventurous side while absorbing ocean views. Translating to ‘the good life’, F Zeen Retreat emphasises taking care of the soul, mind and body as a dynamic connected to the natural world, as well as the importance of remaining at peace with oneself. While there are plenty of wholesome, outdoor activities to make the most of here, tennis fans will love the court – it’s set partway between the mountains and the sea.
Gstaad Palace, Gstaad, Switzerland
Delve into the world of tennis this summer at the characterful Gstaad Palace. The palatial grounds feature four clay tennis courts (as well as an indoor squash court, ideal for rare occasions where the weather is uncharacteristically bad). Each is perfect for flexing your backhand skills. Surrounding these courts are fairytale-like alpine meadows and lakes where you can enjoy a classic summer picnic while soaking up the sun’s glorious rays. With tennis legend Roy Emerson on-site, you can also receive invaluable coaching from an experienced professional – and even take the opportunity to beat this grand slam champion.
Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy
Rediscover your love for tennis at Villa d’Este which describes itself as ‘more than a hotel, a destination’. With state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of exclusive tennis packages available to guests – including masterclasses – you’ll feel truly inspired to pick up a racket and begin to mould yourself into a pro. Among 25 acres of pure outdoor beauty on the shores of Lake Como, make the most of the extended tennis season at this slice of Italian heaven.
Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech, Morocco
Resting among the grand Atlas Mountains is Morocco’s Fairmont Royal Palm. Improve your game by opting for private tennis lessons at the fully air-conditioned Fitness Centre. To top this off, the courts can be illuminated for night-time sessions – a wonderful addition if you would rather spend the light hours poolside, exploring the spa or at one of the seven authentic, open-air restaurants and bars serving Moroccan cuisine.
Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
With tennis season on the horizon, find yourself experimenting on the court at this Indonesian summer escape. Situated on a private paradise only accessible via seaplane, guests travel to the island not only to indulge in pristine white-sand beaches, dips in the lagoon and spot the local marine life, but also to participate in Bawah’s array of outdoor activities. These include watersports, stargazing, a starlight cinema and chilled-out games of lawn tennis and croquet, with all equipment provided by the hotel.
Coral Reef Club, Barbados
This home away from home exudes all the summer luxury you could ask for. Perfect for anyone seeking a balance between relaxation and activity, Coral Reef Club is also one of the best hotels for tennis. With complimentary tennis coaching suitable for both adults and children, why not make it a family affair? After a heated game of doubles, reward yourself with fresh seafood accompanied by a glass of refreshing wine at the resort’s elegant ocean-view restaurant, or head to its world-class spa for some downtime.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes, France
Hidden away on the southernmost tip of Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, has been the setting for deeply glamorous tête-à-têtes and soirées over the past 153 years, playing host to the great and the good of those in the world of art, cinema, literature, politics and, of course, royalty. Past guests include the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, Cary Grant, and Elizabeth Taylor, among others. Nowadays, when one is not lounging at the iconic saltwater swimming pool, those inclined can enjoy a spot of tennis in either of the hotel’s five clay courts of professional standard. Located within the hotel’s famed, expansive gardens, the elegant setting is surrounded by striking Aleppo pines, palms, and verdant olive trees. Upon request, a team of top-level coaches is readily available to provide guests with a private session either to assist with fine-tuning one’s skills and techniques or to challenge with a fast-paced competitive game. Situated next to the flourishing rose garden – planted with roses dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II – the tennis courts are open until early evening for guests to enjoy at their leisure.
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