From the Western Cape to the South Pacific, we’d like to offer you a divine dozen of the world’s most relaxing resort hotels
Amangiri, Utah, USA (above)
Blending into the desert and overlooking the stark beauty of flat-topped rocks, Amangiri (“peaceful mountain”) opened in Utah’s Grand Circle in 2009. It’s flanked by five national parks and the largest Native American reservation in the US, but Aman’s 600-acre site is a remarkable attraction itself, with just 34 suites – most with pools – and a 2,322 sq m spa specialising in Navajo healing techniques.
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Nayarit, Mexico
This slice of Mexican indulgence, 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta and overlooked by the peaks of the Sierra Madre, ticks all the Four Seasons boxes: two golf courses, a yacht, a tranquil spa, golden beaches and lavish casita-style villas. There’s a cool shack bar on Las Cuevas beach and the one-of-a-kind tequila tour involves a trip in a private helicopter – well, when in Mexico…
Ponta dos Ganchos, Santa Catarina, Brazil
On a secluded peninsula near Florianopolis, southern Brazil, offering views of the Emerald Coast and a ridge of Atlantic rainforest, you’ll find a clutch of oyster farms and this hidden resort with 25 cabanas and 24-hour breakfasts. Paddle out to a tiny island bar for an ice-cold Caipirinha, sail around the bay to sample fresh shellfish, or simply kick back and enjoy some jungle opulence.
