In with the new: 7 boutique hotels to have on your radar

Boutique hotel lovers, you’ll be happy to hear that we’ve done the far-flung searching for you when it comes to honing in on your next luxury escape. Take inspiration from our latest arrivals, which have been handpicked from the world’s hottest new hotel openings – including a trio of tranquil retreats on Japan’s Miyako Islands, and a pair of perfectly placed hotels in Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains.

1. Maribel, Sierra Nevada – Spain

Fresh off the slopes from its first ski season, Maribel is one for the ski-in crowd. Set within the Sierra Nevada National Park, a setting zig-zagged with ski runs, this contemporary chalet is made for snowsports. Blending Alpine warmth with cool Nordic influences, most of the wood-panelled rooms and suites come with piste-facing balconies for front row seats to the snowy action – not to mention direct access to the Maribel ski run itself.

Modern day mountaineers will appreciate the little details designed with skiers in mind, from tall wardrobes to fit all your kit, to heated floors for kicking off your boots and thoroughly thawing out. This sophisticated ski hotel is one to add to your winter wish-list…

2. Seda Club Hotel, Granada – Spain

Set within Granada’s baroque Plaza de la Trinidad – where birdsong and fragrant notes of jasmine and orange blossom define the summer months – Seda Club Hotel’s historical and cultural roots run deep. From the moment you enter, you’re surrounded by rich woods, marble and bronze, offset with opulent textiles inspired by the 15^th-century silk trade in Granada. Take freshly prepared tapas (sourced from local markets) on the terrace, or head up to the stylish Sky Lounge – an exclusive rooftop bar where you can enjoy cocktails and champagne with a side of city views. After a day of exploring the vibrant spice markets and fiery flamenco caves, unwind in the hotel’s hammam-style spa which draws inspiration from Roman bathhouses.

3. Minois, Paros – Greece

Opening May 2023

A vision in cubism, Minois is a contemporary take on traditional Cycladic architecture. The island backdrop and soft-sand beaches make the boutique a triumph of contrasts – combining the angular geometry of Paros with the undulating beauty of the sea. From the vibrant energy of the poolside bar to the laze-and-gaze Lounge Deck overlooking the Aegean Sea, you’ll find everything you need for a truly relaxing Greek retreat. Located just 200 metres from the water’s edge, ocean swims are a short golden-sand saunter from your light-filled room. Skilled therapists are on hand in the Thalassa Spa for utterly luxurious wellness sessions, lavished with caviar, chocolate and gold.

4. The Shigira, Okinawa – Japan

If it’s seclusion you’re after, you’ll find it in abundance at The Shigira as you hide out in your ocean-view villa. Overlooking translucent, coral-filled waters, its pink-painted villas and suites have soul-stirring views across the sun-soaked Miyako Islands, which is a haven for snorkelling and golfing. Minimalist bedrooms and airy living spaces open onto terraces made for daytime lounging and evening stargazing, all set to a soundtrack of lapping waves. Take a trip around the world for dinner, when you can venture out to one of The Shigira’s seven onsite restaurants. Dine on authentic Japanese flavours such as homemade soba noodles and sizzling teppanyaki, or savour fresh seafood and authentic Italian pasta – then request a butler-delivered breakfast for the next morning.

5. Hotel Shigira Mirage, Okinawa – Japan

Channelling Miyako’s cool palette of turquoise, greens and blues, Hotel Shigira Mirage is island chic at its finest. Resting on the shores of Shigira beach, luxury is served three ways: Bay Side, for spacious minimalism; Mirage penthouse suites with striking ocean views; and hilltop villas, each with their own private pool. Entwined with the island’s natural beauty, the large-windowed guest rooms are a canvas for balmy days and moody sunsets.

Three hotel restaurants promise a culinary trip of the islands, featuring locally grown produce and seasonal specialties, while relaxation awaits in the gentle waters of the beachside pools. Beyond the hotel’s beach, there’s seven miles of shoreline to dip your toes into, geothermic jungle pools, and a whole ocean to explore, with locals to guide you.

6. Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda, Okinawa – Japan

At Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda tropical flowers and trees frame the balconies, terraces, pools, and cabanas dotted around the hotel. Suites are simply but elegantly furnished, and feature private pools, daybeds, whirlpools, terraces, and gazebos for a taste of tropical island luxury. See if you can spot sea turtles as you unwind on your terrace and look across the glistening ocean – famed for its bright blue colour – with cocktail in hand. Or spend time relaxing in the warm waters of the hotel’s onsen – breath-taking, amber coloured natural hot springs. The resort’s seven restaurants can satisfy any appetite, serving inventive Japanese cuisine, Italian classics, and relaxed ocean view brunches. While the Allamanda lounge is the perfect place to spend an evening stargazing in this designated ‘dark sky’ area.

7. The Dawn of Yihe Luxury Hotel, Weishan – China

A centuries-old building nestled between landmarks in the heart of ancient Weishan, the sleek suites at The Dawn of Yihe Luxury Hotel are centred around four serene courtyards that reflect the changing seasons. Floor-to-ceiling honey-coloured wood, pillowy white beds and windows that open to foliage-filled courtyards are hallmarks of The Dawn of Yihe’s bedrooms and suites. Fortified by a traditional Weishan breakfast, take a stroll through the seasonal courtyards, shaded by cherry and plum blossoms, tropical rainforest, and a giant persimmon tree. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea under parasols in the unique succulent park, greeting the alpaca, sika deer and peacocks that roam the grounds.

Get under the skin of mystical Weishan city during your stay with the help of the hotel’s butler, who’ll whisk you off on a night-time tour of the sights, take you to traditional snack shops, or guide you through the mist-shrouded peaks of Weibao Mountain.