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The most magical hotels to book early for Christmas
'Tis the season to start planning a festive escape
Summer might only have just arrived, but now is the perfect time to plan ahead for a trip to one of the world's best Christmas hotels. Often booked up months in advance, these luxurious Christmas hotels welcome travellers in search of unparalleled elegance and bespoke celebrations with an ambience that perfectly captures the festive spirit. Whether you're partial to Christmas in the sun or snow, you'll want to know our top picks for Christmas getaways to book now. From a Caribbean Christmas in St Barths to a side of skiing with your turkey in Megève, here's where to celebrate with loved ones this year.
Airelles Val d'Isère, French Alps
Perfectly encapsulating the essence of an Alpine Christmas, Airelles Val d'Isère is set among snow-dusted peaks and provides a sophisticated atmosphere to celebrate. The luxurious retreat has direct ski-in/ski-out access and special activities throughout the festive season, including fun experiences for children in the kids' club. Christmas dinner is an indulgent affair, showcasing Savoyard specialities, and the hotel's private cinema screens festive films for added cosiness during your stay.
Amanpuri, Phuket
If winter sun is more your style, Amanpuri in Phuket promises a truly serene backdrop. Set amid glorious coconut palms overlooking the Andaman Sea, a festive getaway here combines Thai traditions with the legendary Aman experience. Imagine celebratory gala dinners served on the beach, the air filled with the quiet murmur of the Andaman rather than sleigh bells, and perhaps even a visit from Father Christmas arriving by longtail boat.
Gstaad Palace, Swiss Alps
A winter wonderland at Christmas, Gstaad Palace is the perfect place for a fairytale Christmas. The town of Gstaad is usually sprinkled with snow, and the scent of gingerbread and pine fills the crisp air. Expect crackling fires, fine (and hearty) dining, and the warmest hospitality as you snuggle up in this magical castle retreat. Skiers will love going on or off-piste, while tobogganing and winter hiking also keep you active and entertained outdoors before you return to the bubble loungers and warm waters of Gstaad Palace's spa.
Four Seasons Hotel Megève, French Alps
Christmas in the French Alps is an enchanting experience when you check into the Four Seasons Hotel Megève. Its glorious Alpine setting, glittering parties, and culinary works of art by celebrated pastry chefs are only a few of the reasons to visit for a Christmas break. Of course, Megève itself is worth exploring. Top-notch skiing aside, the open-air ice rink and Christmas tree in the centre of the medieval village make for a magical atmosphere. And when all the fun is over, gourmet dinners with a festive twist are served in the Four Seasons' Michelin-starred Le 1920.
Cheval Blanc St-Barth, St. Barths
For a distinctly different Christmas, Cheval Blanc St-Barth is where festive hues of red and green are replaced with shades of turquoise and white. Here, the holiday rhythm is dictated by the gentle lapping of waves, and celebrations unfold against a backdrop of the pristine Flamands Beach. Expect an exquisite Christmas Eve dinner with a touch of French culinary flair, and an effortlessly tropical vibe at the only hotel in the Caribbean with France's coveted Palace distinction for its exceptional service.
Villa d'Este, Lake Como
Experience an alternative Christmas in one of Italy's most glamorous destinations, where Villa d'Este awaits in all its twinkling glory. The grande dame, on the shores of Lake Como, is renowned for its elegant charm, and during the festive period, it transforms into a winter wonderland, with sparkling decorations and an array of captivating events. From special performances to its famous one-kilogram panettone, the celebrated Lake Como idyll is the perfect place to celebrate.
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla
For a Christmas sanctuary in the sun where time seems to slow, head for Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, and relax in tranquillity on the beautiful island of Anguilla. Set along the crescent-shaped Maundays Bay, the hotel's serene beauty and understated opulence offer barefoot luxury at its very best. Christmas Eve carols sung alongside the sound of steel pans and Father Christmas' grand arrival by boat, as well as eggnog on the beach and a dazzling Maundays Bay firework display on New Year's Eve, make this a tropical Christmas we're fully on board with.
Badrutt’s Palace, Swiss Alps
Embrace the magic of the festive season in St Moritz, where Badrutt's Palace embodies a fairytale Christmas, with luxury guaranteed. The historic hotel sparkles with magnificent decorations, including its famous and often celebrity-designed Christmas tree that dominates the Grand Hall. Candlelit dinners, festive cocktails by the roaring fireplace, and stargazing under clear Engadin skies with astronomers create an unforgettable Swiss Christmas.