Sopwell House. Credit: Sopwell House
While the amenities and service at bigger luxury hotels hold a definite type of appeal, when you’re looking for a more intimate experience, boutique stays are the way to go.
From properties with unique décor and one-of-a-kind amenities to cozy hidden gems that leave a lasting impression, here are seven small yet sumptuous hotels to consider when planning your next voyage.
Sopwell House
If a spa getaway in the English countryside is more your speed, this gorgeous Georgian country estate set upon 12 beautiful acres just south of St. Albans is the ticket. After spending a day in the thermal baths, a blissful doze awaits within one of the property’s 128 uniquely furnished rooms.
Take full advantage of the historic hotel and its sumptuous amenities by booking the Spa Break package, inclusive of a 50-minute spa treatment, a three-course dinner at The Brasserie, and a full English breakfast and three-course buffet lunch before your departure.
Restaurant Vinkeles. Credit: The Dylan Amsterdam
The Dylan Amsterdam
You’ll fall a little bit more in love with Amsterdam when you book a stay at this Forbes Travel Guide Recommended boutique property.
Occupying two sets of Keizersgracht-facing canal buildings that date back to the 18th century, The Dylan’s 40 rooms are all individually decorated so that no two are alike.
Beyond its stylish digs, though, this canal-side hotel offers you a taste of the city with a Fine Dining Experience package filled with a five-course tasting menu for two (complete with wine pairings) at the property’s renowned Restaurant Vinkeles.
In addition to your fabulous feast, you’ll enjoy a stay in a Luxury Double Room, a buffet breakfast and a parting gift.
Chatham Inn. Credit: Chatham Inn
Chatham Inn
Come here if you seek a romantic getaway. Built in the 1800s but completely renovated and refurbished over the past few years, the 18-room Chatham Inn, just a short walk from Lighthouse Beach and the town’s delightful Main Street, was designed to make your stay unforgettable.
From the plush robes and airy accommodations to the made-to-order breakfast (included with your stay) and the warm, friendly service, every detail dazzles.
And what could be better than an exquisitely prepared meal to go with your Cape Cod escape? Traveling gourmands will want to book the cozy hotel’s Stay and Dine special to receive a three- or four-course chef’s tasting dinner for two (depending on your dates of stay) at the elegant Chatham Wine Bar and Restaurant.
Inn by the Sea. Credit: Inn by the Sea
Inn by the Sea
Savor a taste of Portland, Maine, when you visit this sprawling beachfront property on the idyllic edge of Crescent Beach State Park. With 61 residential-style accommodations, including newly constructed Cove Suites, this eco-conscious boutique address boasts a timeless quality that welcomes you with open arms.
A long weekend at this Cape Elizabeth retreat beckons with its Taste of Maine Package. Sample housemade whoopie pies upon arrival before embarking on a flavor-fueled, 2.5-hour jaunt around town with Maine Foodie Tours.
But however your tasty trek goes, be sure to save room for a three-course dinner — also a part of the promotion — at the inn’s Sea Glass restaurant, where chef Chadwick has prepared a seasonally inspired menu to pair with your gratis bottle of local wine.
The Stafford London. Credit: The Stafford London
The Stafford London
Elegant and chic in a quintessentially English sort of way, this Four-Star London stay is simply charming. Fawn over the Victorian furnishings, linger over a masterfully crafted martini at the hotel’s iconic American Bar or spend some time poring over the 8,000-label vino list, presided over by Master Sommelier Gino Nardella, who guards the keys to the property’s 380-year-old wine cellar.
With so much going on, you’ll want to buy yourself some extra time to partake in the British capital’s many diversions by reserving the hotel’s Stay 4, Pay 3 package, which extends your three-night Deluxe King stay by a gratis additional day.
Magna Pars, l’ Hotel à Parfum’s LabSolue Perfume Laboratory. Credit: Magna Pars, l’ Hotel à Parfum
Magna Pars, l’ Hotel à Parfum
Get swept away by the essence of scent at the world’s first “hotel à parfum.” Built on the foundations of a former perfume factory, this airy 39-room Milan retreat weaves fragrance into every aspect of your stay.
Each of the modern units has its own aroma. In the center courtyard, the smells of flowering magnolias, roses and other greenery blend together, diffusing a pleasant bouquet. And on the ground floor, LabSolue Perfume Laboratory sells olfactory gifts and even has blending stations where you can create custom scents.
The Clement Hotel. Credit: The Clement Hotel
The Clement Hotel
When you need to get away from the commotion of Silicon Valley, a stay in this Forbes Travel Guide Recommended all-suite, all-inclusive hotel is just what you need. Here, the staff takes care of your needs even before you’ve even set foot on property thanks to a detailed pre-arrival survey.
Upon check-in, you’ll find a fully stocked mini-fridge waiting to feed you, in addition to the services of private chef, room service and personal assistants. If you want to take a swim in the middle of the night, 24-hour access to a heated pool is provided for some late laps.
