Take a look at these five-star hotels that are setting the new industry gold standard
Royal Hotel San Remo
Visiting the Royal Hotel San Remo will take you back in time. First opened in 1872 – it was originally launched by Russian aristocracy as a winter resort for San Remo. Befitting its esteemed heritage, the decor and atmosphere is undeniably imperial, with Herculean crystal chandeliers dominating the public rooms. The intimate bar still has a tuxedoed pianist performing live each night. The elegant outdoor pool was designed by the Milanese architect Gio Ponti, a god in his day. As for dining, there is a myriad of on-site options – from casual poolside Corallina to gilded Fiori di Murano, as well as fresh salads at Bar delle Roseor candle-lit evenings at Capriccio Gourmet.
The Langham, London
With over 150 years of rich history, this award-winning property is perhaps one of the city’s best located hotels. Just off Oxford Street, The Langham is a shopper’s paradise and is only a short walk or taxi ride from the thrum of theatre land while being surrounded by the city’s best places to eat. Inside, the Artesian barhas been named the world’s best for countless years in a row. Guests staying in executive rooms and above gain access to the club where it is possible to enjoy complimentary Perrier-Joët all day, alongside food from the award-winning hotel kitchen, including evening dishes from Roux at the Landau. The 380 rooms follow the neutral decor of the overall property – cream fabrics and dark-wood furniture. As the cherry on top, the service is rife with old-world British charms.
Borgo Pignano
A picturesque Italian property, this 750-acre organic estate in the heart of Tuscany offers stables with resident horses, a beekeeper, a soap-maker, an art gallery, a gym, spa and yoga room. The 18th-century villa is home to twenty-three rooms, including nine suites, while the separate maisonettes and cottages are akin to self-contained residences, with mini fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, kitchenettes and working fireplaces. The pool was carved from ancient limestone and proves an ideal place to lounge while sipping on an icy drink from the adjacent outdoor bar. The location is similarly enviable, it’s an easy drive to the historic hill towns of Volterra and San Gimignano, as well as the vineyards of Chianti.
