St Regis Mauritius

Nestled beneath the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Le Morne Mountain and overlooking the Indian Ocean, the five star St Regis resort is the perfect location for a luxurious holiday for couples, multi-generational groups, wedding parties and honeymooners.

With 172 rooms in total, including seven suites, the hotel is ideal for a relaxing holiday but also for those who love water sports and activities. Just a short stroll along the beach, guests will find the world’s best kite surfing and surfing hotspot- One Eye (reportedly named for the view of a hole or ‘eye’ surfers will see in the jagged rock face of the Le Morne Mountain, should they reach the sweet spot). The island also boasts an unrivalled lagoon landscape and incredible flora and fauna for divers and snorkelling enthusiasts, as well as a range of kayaking, stand-up paddling, windsurfing experiences and sailing excursions.

Land-based adventure can also be arranged from the comfort of the hotel with a range of excursions including safari tours, hiking, zip lining, horse riding and skydiving. Boasting a vast array of rare wildlife and breath-taking landscapes including a range of rare birdlife and natural sights including stunning natural waterfalls, the famous pilgrimage site and sacred lake of Le Grand Bassin and the well renowned Black River Gorges National Park.
Those looking for a bit of pampering can take advantage of the Iridium SPA which offers an array of treatments and also has a fitness centre.
The hotel is well known for its restaurants of which there are five plus the option of having a private dining experience prepared by the executive chef. Prices start at around 500 Euros per person per night. Click here for more information.

Marigot Bay Marina and Resort by Capella, St Lucia

Located on the lush west of coast of St Lucia, Marigot Bay Marina and Resort by Capella is a stone’s throw away from the famous Pitons and the town of Soufrière. This stunning resort is surrounded by lush natural beauty and emerald seas and boasts 67 suites, 57 guest rooms with breathtaking views across the bay and hot tubs. It has a spa using natural products grown on site, two pools, gym, bars, several dining options including The Grill at 14⁰61⁰, The Rum Cave, The Bayside Cafe’, Brut Bar and Pool Bar for lighter snacks and private and in room dining.

Yacht owners will love its secluded and sheltered marina that can accommodate 20-25 large boats and superyachts.

There are plenty of activities to be taken advantage of, from sailing to windsurfing, boat trips and snorkelling. Service is exceptional: attentive, discreet but never stuffy. Prices start at $303 per person per night. For more information click here.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Situated above the beaches of Phu Quoc, on Vietnam’s south east coast, this luxurious hotel boasts 244 rooms and suites, many overlooking the bay, and villas with private pools. The rooms are all decorated to high standards, with a luxurious but light and airy feel to them. There are five restaurants offering scrumptious local and international cuisine, a spa, three outdoor pools and an indoor one, a gym and fitness classes. Water lovers will be spoilt for choice with activities such as boating, kayaking and snorkelling.
Bike tours are also on offer for those wanting to explore the stunning surroundings on two wheels.
Prices start at around VND 9,500,000 per person per night. Click here for more information.

Amilla Fushi, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Sheer luxury right in the middle of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Amilla Fushi is the perfect location to leave it all behind and holiday like a star. The secluded island is reachable by seaplane and offers plenty of complimentary services such as a kids’ club and babysitting facilities, daily laundry, WiFi and even non motorised water sports. The resort offers several dining options, from gourmet experiences to barbecues on the beach at the Emperor’s Beach Club.

A water sports centre caters for a vast array of activities, and those who prefer to stay on dry land can take advantage of the tennis courts or football pitch. If you are after a bit of high end shopping there are plenty of boutiques where you can indulge in a little spree before relaxing in the hotel’s spa and getting pampered at the hair and nail salons. There is even a photography studio if you want your holidays immortalised by a professional. Accommodation is in the form of 59 modern houses that sit in crystal clear water and are shaded by lush greenery. Many have multi bedrooms and are fitted with all mod cons. Yachts, superyachts and motor boats are also available to guests to explore nearby islands. Prices start at around $1000 per night for two adults. For more information visit the Amilla Fushi website.

Chiva-Som, Thailand

Those looking for a wellness spa holiday will love Chiva-Som in Thailand, a stunning resort in Hua Hin, south Thailand, which used to be a fishing village.
Chiva-Som boasts 54 stylish rooms, split between Thai pavilions, in traditional Thai style, Ocean rooms and suites with views over the Gulf of Thailand. Fitness and wellbeing are taken seriously here and the resort offers 70 treatment rooms, a kinesis studio, gym, Watsu pool, flotation pool, large outdoor swimming pool, bathing pavilion with kneipp bath, sauna, steam, jacuzzi, and indoor swimming pool. The food is all grown locally and focuses on being healthy with plenty of gluten, sugar and wheat free options. There are also international dishes and snacks on the menu.

Guests are offered a health and wellness consultation on arrival based on the person’s needs and fitness goals. A programme is then put together and an advisor will measure progress throughout the stay. One spa treatment per day is complimentary.
The beautiful Gulf of Thailand caters for a huge selection of water sports and if you want to explore Thai life, Hua Hin has plenty to do: from bars to food shacks and markets, boutiques and stunning nature, there will never be a dull moment.
Wellbeing Escapes offers a 7 night ‘Destination Spa’ programme at Chiva-Som from £3,688 pp double occupancy, £4,545 pp single occupancy. Prices are based on a June departure and include full board spa cuisine, daily massage, £470 spa credit per person, daily group fitness classes & leisure activities and water therapy suites, steam, sauna and Jacuzzi access. For more information, contact Wellbeing Escapes on
020 3735 7555 or info@wellbeingescapes.com  www.wellbeingescapes.com, and http://www.chivasom.com/.

Essque Zalu Zanzibar, Tanzania

.

Essque Zalu is nestled in a natural cove on the north east of the coast of Zanzibar, surrounded by the forest and overlooking the Indian Ocean with its turquoise sea and huge stretches of white sandy beaches. The area is still untouched by mass tourism, so it’s a pretty special place to visit if you are after sun, sea and tranquillity. The hotel boasts 40 suites with master bedroom, lounge and outside terrace or balcony under a traditional pitched Makuti roof, whilst the eight villas have their own private pool, in-room dining, large living room, kitchen, outdoor space and even a private massage area.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy: from snorkelling and scuba diving to visiting nearby turtle sanctuaries and the fragrant spice plantations, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

After a day of fun, kick back and relax with a delicious cocktail in one of the three bars. If you are after something cosy, the Baobab bar, under the shade of a huge baobab tree is ideal. If you prefer having an aperitif by the water, the Jetty has stunning views over the shoreline and also does food, and if you like taking a dip in between sips, head over to the Pool bar where the experienced mixologists will prepare you a delicious drink.
Post aperitif the Market Kitchen offers delicious food made with fresh local produce with plenty of dishes featuring seafood, meat, vegetables and a selection of cheeses.
Whatever you may need during your stay will be carefully attended to by a ‘navigator’, a member of staff on hand to help with anything: from booking excursions to making sure that piece of local art you’ve fallen in love with is sent straight to your home once you leave. Prices start at around £300 per person per night. For more information visit http://www.essquehotels.com/.

Bannisters by the Sea, New South Wales, Australia

A stone’s throw away from Mollymook and Narawalle beaches, this spectacular hotel in New South Wales is only a 3.5 hour drive from Sydney and offers stunning views of the coastline. Its 34 luxurious rooms, including Ocean Deluxe, Spa Retreat, Luxury Suite, Terrace Suites, the new Collette Dinnigan penthouse suites and the Pinnacle, are modern yet luxurious with plenty of space, light and stunning sea views.  The hotel offers all mod cons, including complimentary breakfast and WiFi, plus free standup paddle boards and free bicycle hire. The hotel boasts a modern spa that offers many treatments to cater for different needs and a heated infinity pool.

Foodies will love the Rick Stein at Bannisters Restaurant, which offers seafood fresh off the boat. If you are feeling a little less informal, the Pool and Pizza Bar has a selection of tapas, light meals and stone-baked pizzas. Activities are aplenty with windsurfing lessons and fishing charters on offer. There are also two golf courses: Mollymook Beach being a 9 hole with great ocean views and Hilltop being 18 holes. If you fancy taking a stroll, the area offers a great selection of local cafes and boutiques or you can simply make the most of the beach, get yourself a sun lounger and cocktail and relax. Prices start at AUD 340 per night.  Click here for more information.

Tierra Chiloé, Chile

Located in southern Chile, on the edge of the blue waters of Chiloé island, the largest island of the Chiloé archipelago on the Pacific Ocean, eco hotel Tierra Chiloé was designed by architects Mobil Arquitectos using local materials, and it was inspired by traditional local houses built on stilts over the water.
Set in more than 25 acres of countryside and beach, with stunning views over the mountains and the ocean, the hotel is close to the Pullao wetland, home to dozens of endemic birds and marine species, making it a perfect luxury destination for those who love nature and wildlife.
It offers 12 (soon to be expanded to 24 due to the hotel’s success) beautiful rooms, all with jacuzzi bathtubs and stunning views of the ocean.

A  spa onsite that offers a selection of treatments and a pool will be open in October 2017, but the hotel already offers a small treatment room, hot tub and steam room.
There are also plenty of activities to take part in, including boating, horse riding, hiking, biking and day excursions.
The culinary experience is unmissable with plenty of fresh seafood on offer, with ceviche being a popular dish and a version of the local curanto, a medley of shellfish, smoked pork, and potato, is also on the menu.
The hotel is open from September through to May and offers 2 nights from £1112 per person, based on two people sharing. For more information click here.

The Ritz-Carlton, Manama, Bahrain

Situated on the north coast of Bahrain, this hotel has been created with sheer opulence in mind.
It offers several rooms, suites and villas, all decked with marble, dark woods, precious carpets and luxurious decor. All accommodation has spectacular sea views and living rooms with the suites also boasting a large dining room and a Jacuzzi tub.

Guests can enjoy the hotel spa, which offers a variety of treatments, a gym and a stunning pool.
When it comes to food, you’ll be spoilt for choice as the hotel houses 10 restaurants offering different types of cuisine, including Italian, Thai, Mexican, Indian, mediterranean, seafood and even afternoon tea.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including sailing, water sports, excursions, hikes and a kids’ club. Prices start at around £280 per person. Visit their website for more information.

Article continues below…

Canary Islands: Gran Canaria – Puerto de Mogán and Puerto Rico

With its mild microclimate, beautiful scenery, excellent sailing conditions and marinas, Gran Canaria is an ideal destination for summer and…

10 weird and wonderful places to stay in the UK

From lighthouses to submarines, we look at the most unusual places to stay in this summer.

10 weird and wonderful places to stay in Europe

From cranes and lighthouses to underwater bedrooms, YBW brings you the most unusual places to stay in Europe this autumn.

Loews Coronado Bay, San Diego, USA

Located on top of its on 15-acre peninsula overlooking the San Diego’s bay waters and skyline, this hotel feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Loews Coronado Bay offers 439 luxury rooms, which include 37 suites, all decorated in colours that mirror their surroundings: think blue, light green, grey and white. They all have spectacular sea views and all mod cons, including WiFi and private balconies, whilst the suites and larger rooms also having a lounge and dining area.
The hotel offers plenty of services and amenities, including three heated pools, a pool cabana to enjoy a drink by the water whilst relaxing, a pool concierge, so you can make sure you won’t have to lift a finger, the Sea Spa for all your pampering needs, including indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon and an outdoor Watsu pool. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the gym and take advantage of personal trainers.

Boat lovers and owners will enjoy the hotel marina which has 80 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 140 feet in length. The marina is well equipped and offers WiFi, water, electricity, permanent and guest berths, telephone, Venetian-style gondola cruises to the adjacent Coronado Cays and complimentary shuttle to Coronado.

The hotel is located just minutes away from the Silver Strand State Beach, where a multitude of water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, water skiing and kayaking can be enjoyed.
Those preferring land pursuits can make the most of the three golf courses or enjoy bike rides and hikes.
After a day of activities, enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine at the Crown Landing bar, or even better, order a craft beer made locally in San Diego. Two of the onsite bars also offer light meals and small plates but you can also visit La Cantina restaurant for an idyllic poolside dining experience. Prices start at around $269 per person per night. For more information click here.

The post 10 Most beautiful hotels in the world by the water appeared first on YBW.

From May 2018, Le Boat will be offering holidays along Ontario’s historic Rideau Canal in Canada.

The company has announced it is initially bringing 16 state-of-the-art Horizon cruisers to the canal, with plans to double the luxury fleet to 32 over the next five years.

The £9.5 million investment will open up the Rideau Canal World Heritage Site to holidaymakers keen to explore the scenic waterway on the 10th anniversary of its UNESCO designation.

Opened in 1832 and stretching from the Canadian capital of Ottawa to Kingston, on Lake Ontario, the Rideau is the oldest continuously operating canal in North America.

The 125-mile engineering marvel connects lakes and rivers, with 47 locks and 24 lock stations taking holidaymakers through the heart of some of Ontario’s most picturesque scenery.

The Rideau Canal was chosen in response to a recent Le Boat survey which found that 88% of those based in Europe and 91% of US customers would be happy to travel to Ontario for a boating holiday.

A section of the Rideau Canal. Credit: Kristoferb

Le Boat, which is one of Europe’s biggest self-drive boating companies, will be based in the town of Smiths Falls, in eastern Ontario.

With a history dating back to the American Revolutionary War, the company hopes the town’s combination of rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and wealth of outdoor activities will provide the ideal backdrop for visitors.

Commenting on the announcement, Le Boat’s managing director, Cheryl Brown, said: “We are delighted to have chosen the historic Rideau Canal for Le Boat’s first operations outside of Europe.”

“Already popular with locals lucky enough to have this idyllic waterway on their doorstep, we hope that our new base will open up its scenic potential to holidaymakers of all ages from Europe as well as North America,” she continued.

“Our customers love nothing better than making the most of the great outdoors. So, with the Rideau Canal offering up a magical combination of watersports, hiking, cycling, fishing, swimming and bird-watching, we’re confident that it won’t be long before more travellers will have fallen under its spell,” said Brown.

“We expect our new Le Boat base on the Rideau Canal to bring important economic benefits to Ontario,” continued the managing director.

“We are also expecting extended stays in Ontario from visitors ‘book-ending’ their Rideau Canal excursion to enjoy the wonderfully diverse offerings of Ontario,” concluded Brown.

The announcement of the expansion into Canada comes after Le Boat unveiled its new wave of Horizon models for 2017.

This follows the success of the 2016 model, which was designed and built exclusively for Le Boat.

Comprising the largest top-deck of any boat of its size, a sunbathing area, outside seating area and a bright and spacious saloon with excellent all around vision, the Horizon’s focus is on comfort, luxury and easy handling.

Now Le Boat will expand its current fleet and launch a series of new high-end self-drive Horizon models to suit larger groups in 2017.

All of the new larger Horizon models will be built to the same high-spec as the original innovative cruiser (which catered towards couples and small families with one master cabin and a second smaller cabin), but each will either sleep up to five, seven or nine people.

They will feature the same ‘fun deck’ area for barbecues and sunbathing, providing spacious areas for socialising inside and out and deliver a five star experience to more holidaymakers.

Lake Constance: the perfect Christmas break

What could be more enchanting than a doing a spot of Christmas shopping on a sailing ship on Lake Constance?…

10 weird and wonderful places to stay in Europe

From cranes and lighthouses to underwater bedrooms, YBW brings you the most unusual places to stay in Europe this autumn.

Karpaz Gate Marina to showcase at London Boat Show 2017

One of the three main marinas in Northern Cyprus, Karpaz Gate Marina, will be hoping to attract UK sailors when…

Canary Islands: Gran Canaria – Puerto de Mogán and Puerto Rico

With its mild microclimate, beautiful scenery, excellent sailing conditions and marinas, Gran Canaria is an ideal destination for summer and…

The post Le Boat to expand to Canada’s Rideau Canal appeared first on YBW.

A grand British Christmas: Fawsley Hall, Northamptonshire

Located near Daventry, Fawsley Hall is a grand and breathtaking estate built in the 16th century by the Knightley family. It’s now a beautiful hotel in the middle of the Northamptonshire countryside and offers first rate accommodation in their grandiose bedrooms and suites, fine dining, afternoon teas, a spa, a gym and an array of activities.

This Christmas the hotel is pulling all the stops with one of the biggest Christmas trees in Northamptonshire on display in the Tudor Hall, plus wreaths, candles, garlands and poinsettias. Handpicked Hotel are offering a truly festive  package from £395 per couple at Fawsley Hall Hotel from 24^th – 25^th December. The price includes accommodation in a Classic double room, champagne and canapés reception with Christmas carols on Christmas eve followed by a splendid three course meal and champagne breakfast on Christmas morning. Or welcome 2016 with the New Year’s Eve Black Tie Gala. Hand Picked Hotels have Christmas packages in splendid hotels all over the country. For more information contact https://www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/fawsleyhall.

Stay in an exclusive Scottish marina: Portavadie, Loch Fyne, Scotland

This Five Gold Anchor marina in western Scotland offers luxury glass fronted apartments with breathtaking views across the loch to the Isle of Arran, a newly opened state-of-the-art spa which features swimming pools, saunas and the largest outdoor heated infinity pool in Scotland right on the shores of the Loch. The marina also offers plenty of activities including kayaking, sailing, trekking and ‘water adventure’ – an adrenaline-filled ride around the loch on a high speed boat. The Christmas three night package starts from £69.00 bed and breakfast per person per night for a lodge room or studio apartment, and from £84.33 bed and breakfast for a five star luxury apartment. The offer includes mulled wine and mince pies on arrival, three course dinner in The Lodge Kitchen and Bar on Christmas Eve and a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. New Year packages are also available, with prices starting at £86.50 bed and breakfast (per person per night). This offer includes welcome drink on arrival, Hogmanay Gala Dinner, the Taste of Argyll dinner and midnight fireworks, plus free access to the leisure experience including the infinity pool. For more information visit http://www.portavadie.com/

Meet Santa’s reindeers – Festive Lodge Break, Cornwall

Children and adults alike will love feeding Santa’s reindeers at the luxury lodge park Gwel an Mor in north Cornwall. Nadelik and Lowen (‘Merry’ and ‘Christmas’ in Cornish) will be bringing the festive season to life for guests throughout December and Santa himself will make a special grotto appearance on Christmas Eve. The area is ideal for lovely, leisurely country walks where you can observe the wildlife and the children can meet an array of furry friends including foxes, badgers and barn owls. A four night short break for four people in a Scandinavian-style lodge decorated with a Christmas tree starting December 23, costs from £588, a week costs from £840 www.hoseasons.co.uk or 0345 498 6130.

Spend Christmas in a mountain lodge or in a treehouse!

If you are looking for a white Christmas or a quirky one, then look no further than Canopy and Stars, a travel site that offers anything, from ski lodges to treehouses!
If you are after snow and winter sports, Canopy and Stars offer the beautiful La Ferme Du Soleil mountain lodge. Situated near Grand Bornand, Haute-Savoie, the lodge sleeps 12 and the winter package includes breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner with wine. For more information visit http://www.canopyandstars.co.uk/

 For a quirky and romantic Christmas or New Year break, why not stay in the beautiful luxury
Treehouse at Deer Park in Devon, overlooking the River Otter Valley? The area offers plenty of activities, including fly-fishing and archery. There’s a SPA available to guests to enjoy some therapeutic treatments, ideal after a long walk in the surrounding countryside. The package for two at the Treehouse costs £295 per night and includes a champagne breakfast. For more information visit http://www.canopyandstars.co.uk/britain/england/devon/deer-park-country-house-hotel/treehouse-at-deer-park.

Chase the winter sun and sail in Thailand

If you want to escape the winter chill and head to sunny climates with friends and family, the Stay and Sail holiday at Kata Rocks in Thailand is the perfect a luxurious villa and yacht holiday.
The package offers guests a three night stay in a three bedroom Sky Villa followed by three nights on board a 200 ft superyacht. This exclusive break allows the opportunity to discover the stunning Andaman Islands cruising on board one of the world’s most extraordinary sailing vessels. The Lamima yacht is brand new and just beginning to fill its impressive sails in and around Phuket meaning that guests of Kata Rocks have the opportunity to be amongst the first to experience this incredible voyage. The package begins with a stay at Kata Rocks, dining in the stunning restaurant and enjoying pampering treatments at the Infinite Luxury Spa before stepping from Kata Rock’s private jetty onto the yacht for three days of all inclusive sailing and exploring of theAndaman Islands. This yacht can accommodate up to 14 guests in seven luxury suites, with rates inclusive of all water sports activities, spa, gourmet meals and drinks.
Kata Rocks – The Stay & Sail Package includes a luxury three night stay in a 3 bedroom Sky Pool Villa followed by three nights on board 200 foot Lamima, from 6,997 Euros per night. Ocean Front Villas start from £380 per night, including B&B. For more information visit www.katarocks.com.

New Year’s Eve Italian style

A New Year break of sheer relaxation and celebrations the Italian way!
Restored to its former splendour, the historic Bagni di Pisa villa and SPA is located near the famous city of the leaning tower, it’s based on natural thermal springs and was once the 18th century summer residence of the Grand Duke Francesco Stefano of Lorena. Immersed in the greenery of the Parco degli Ulivi – Bagni di Pisa has been brought back to its former splendour and is popular with art and spa lovers everywhere. The frescoed hallways, Tuscan terracotta and marbled floors evoke a time when VIPs of yesteryear stayed here, including Gustav of Sweden, George IV of England, Mary Shelley and the Cardinal of York. Centuries later, the splendid villa and the thermal baths are still a huge attraction for those wanting to enjoying a wellness break whilst experiencing some of Italy’s best food, the spectacular Tuscan surroundings and the region’s culture.

Italian Hospitality Collection’s Bagni di Pisa is offering five-night New Year’s packages from €975 per person: including buffet breakfast with home-made cakes and locally sourced organic products, New Year’s Eve Party with buffet aperitif, gala dinner, midnight toast and live music and four SPA treatments (Aroma Relaxing Massage; Thermal steam bath in the Grand Duke’s natural grotto; Thalaquam Pool with sea salt water, Salidarium). Based on two adults sharing a room. Visit http://www.bagnidipisa.com for more information.

Christmas gift guide 2015 for him and her

Stuck for gift ideas? Take a look at our Christmas gift guide and see our suggestions for family, friends and…

London Boat Show 2016: A Guide

The London Boat Show returns to the capital's ExCeL from this Friday and promises much awaited new launches and innovations,…

Hotels: where to stay during the London Boat Show 2018

From luxurious hotels to affordable rooms, look no further if you are booking accommodation in the capital this January.

Eco-friendly sailing: enjoy your favourite sport and respect nature

As sailors and boaters, we have a responsibility to treat the environment with respect. Following these guidelines is good environmental…

Autumn beach holidays: Marmaris, Antalya and Fethiye, Turkey

Fancy a bit of autumn sunshine? Us too. Head over to South West Turkey where it's still possible to charter…

Sunsail launches new adult only flotilla sailing holidays

Yacht charter and sailing holiday company Sunsail has launched a new choice of flotilla sailing holidays for adults only.

Boat booking website Zizoo launches in UK

Zizoo, the boat booking website, has launched in the UK, as it reveals its long haul sailing destinations including Caribbean,…

The post Last minute Christmas and New Year getaways appeared first on YBW.