The magic of the season has taken over luxury hotels around the world. Where lobbies and lounges once were, you’ll now find Swiss chalets, custom-made gondolas, heated igloos and unceasing smiles on guests’ faces.
To celebrate this magical time of year, we’ve curated a list of our top 10 temporary transformations that are sure to bring holiday cheer.
Grantley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, England
The LOUIS XIII pop-up at Grantley Hall is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Running until January 7, the legendary cognac producer has set up residence at the 17th-century estate in Yorkshire, where you’ll find the spirit expertly paired with a selection of caviar, which can be enjoyed in an intimate outdoor lounge. Additionally, a limited-edition version of the brand’s signature bottle, inspired by Christmas ornaments, adds a touch of seasonal sparkle.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, Hokkaido, Japan
Step out of the cold and into the warmth of the Krug Igloo Privé, this Niseko hotel’s chandelier-adorned igloo (December 15 to March 31). Enjoy an unforgettable meal prepared by the slope-side property’s culinary team that’s accompanied by generous pours of bubbles from partner Krug Champagne. Before guests choose from French, Japanese or Chinese cuisine, their evening starts outdoors, in the snow and under the stars, beside a roaring fire, with a toast and canapés.
The Peninsula New York
This Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Manhattan hotel will transport visitors to the Swiss Alps without leaving the city. The rooftop holiday pop-up, inspired by the Five-Star Peninsula Hong Kong’s Swiss restaurant, Chesa, includes four heated chalets, surrounded by Adirondack chairs and a glowing fire pit, along with charming decor such as skis propped by the door. The menu offers favorites like raclette and fondue, creating an ambiance that will feel more like a day on the St. Moritz slopes than a fine Fifth Avenue address.
One&Only Aesthesis, Greece
One&Only Aesthesis has brought the magic of the season to the Athens Riviera. Along the shore of the Aegean Sea, you’ll find a row of wooden chalets filled with artisanal items from Greek designers such as Kalopsia and Kooreloo, that’s guaranteed to impress anyone on your Christmas shopping list. While shopping on weekends, you can also enjoy winter treats like roasted chestnuts and mulled wine while taking in the festive atmosphere.
For a memorable seasonal celebration, the chalets are available for private dinners for up to six guests and they feature a special holiday menu crafted by the hotel’s talented culinary team.
The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
Aspen meets Arizona at this Four-Star resort‘s desert chalet on the slopes of Camelback Mountain. These holiday yurts are sure to be the toast of the season, thanks to a partnership with Veuve Clicquot. Between elegant sips every Friday and Saturday in December as well as December 23, 24, 29 and 30, you can partake in gourmet bites, live music and fun games like giant Jenga and cornhole.
Kempinski Palace Engelberg, Switzerland
A shower of champagne corks heralded the arrival of Chalet Ruinart, a winter wonderland that can be experienced at this renowned Swiss hotel through March 29. Keep warm in the traditional timber cabin, furnished with cozy furs, while enjoying pours from the prestigious champagne producer and a menu highlighted by the region’s specialty, fondue.
The Berkeley, London
Champagne bells ring — are you listening? At this stunning Five-Star Sloane Street address, you can’t help but hear them inside custom-made gondolas, where an après-ski-inspired menu of seasonal drinks (burnt marshmallow mezcalita) and dishes (a traditional Swiss raclette, tartiflette with freshly shaved truffle and gingerbread s’mores) can be found. When you ring the aforementioned bell, one of The Berkeley’s elves will pour you a glass of Laurent-Perrier to toast with while you take in the views of Hyde Park and Knightsbridge.
Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre
Even Santa needs a little help this time of year, which is why the timing of two impressive brands teaming up with this Five-Star Dubai escape could not have been better. At Peacock Alley, afternoon tea has never been more stylish, thanks to the collaboration with the French department store Galeries Lafayette. Here, handcrafted pastries have been elevated to haute couture, perfectly complementing the selection of teas. Guests will also receive a present to take home — a curated goodie bag. Additionally, Swiss chocolatier Läderach has opened a boutique at the upscale Burj Daman tower housing the Waldorf Astoria that offers a selection of its signature sweet creations.
Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz
Occupying a building that dates back to the 1860s, this iconic St. Moritz property has made more than its share of Christmas memories. With Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski’s reintroduction of the outdoor Beluga Igloo, an après-ski hot spot, the goal is to spark many more this year. With a live DJ setting the soundtrack, premium vodka flowing freely and, as the sun sets, candlelight casting a warm glow on the ice of the igloo, the recollections will be remarkable.
Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London
Transforming a Knightsbridge hotel into an Alpine village is as challenging as it sounds. But when you include a chic pop-up skiwear shop created in collaboration with Perfect Moment as well as the City Lights, Alpine Nights restaurant serving traditional cheese fondue served with cured meats and artisanal sourdough bread, it all magically comes together. With so much holiday excitement, you could forget you’re in London — though the panoramic views of the exclusive shops and Hyde Park are there to remind you.
