This month, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) adds five new properties, including four newly opened hotels, to its portfolio of independently minded hotels around the world. Bask in the sun in Santorini, stay in the heart of Bangkok’s tourist district, take in sweeping views of stylish Shanghai, enjoy a piece of history at a Château in Chambord or indulge at one of the world’s most famous fashion houses.
Canaves Oia Epitome – Santorini, Greece 24 villas from USD 596 per night including breakfast www.slh.com/epitome Opening May 15, 2018
This boutique hotel has carved out a peaceful spot just outside the main town, giving it the feel of a secret piece of paradise. Each private villa offers Classic Cycladic design and is perfectly positioned for soaking up the best sunset views on the island. Spend the day relaxing by your private terrace and pool, then savor an evening by the private fire pit. Muted natural tones and a minimalist design add to the sense of peace, which is complemented by activities including daily yoga classes. Yet with a hotel shuttle, the buzz of Oia is never far away – and popular Katharos Beach is within walking distance.
SLH Insider Tip: Book an Aqua Retreat Villa for its unique see-through glass wall pool view from the lower level bedroom.
Relais de Chambord – France 55 rooms from USD 197 per night including breakfast www.slh.com/chambord Opened March 16, 2018
Offering breathtaking views of the awe-inspiring Château de Chambord, the newly opened Relais de Chambord combines heritage and wellbeing within a notable historic setting. Surrounded by private gardens designed by Christian Fournet, the country hotel brings together natural elements and warm atmosphere less than two hours from Paris. The house offers six categories of rooms overlooking the Château, Le Cosson River, Place Saint Louis or the forest of Domaine National and are adorned with lush velvet, wood and ceramics. Enjoy the grounds with a walk to the château, take a boat ride on the river or relax in the private spa.
SLH Insider Tip: Take a seat in Le Grand Saint Michel restaurant (or on the terrace in warmer weather) to savor classic French cuisine. Then retire to the library, with a snooker table and classic board games to enjoy.
The Sukhothai Shanghai – China 201 rooms from USD 330 including daily breakfast, in-room refreshments a credit of USD 47 on food & beverage consumption and WIFI access www.slh.com/sukhothai Opened April 28, 2018
Situated in the heart of vibrant Shanghai, this contemporary luxury hotel was designed by internationally-acclaimed Neri & Hu Design and Research Office. With some of the largest rooms and suites in the city, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of the bustling landscape while natural furnishings create a sense of calm and warmth. La Scala restaurant, led by Michelin-starred guest chef Theodor Falser, serves fresh-to-order contemporary Italian cuisine from an open theatre kitchen. For a moment of relaxation, The Spa Retreat provides Southeast Asian healing therapies and signature wellness programs, along with a Fitness Studio, 25-metre heated indoor pool, sauna and steam room. Seamlessly connected to the HKRI retail mall, the neighborhood is also easy to explore on foot or by bamboo bicycles provided on property with People’s Square, Grand Theatre and Shanghai Natural Museum all nearby.
SLH Insider Tip: Head up to the URBAN Café & Lounge for a tipple where guests can create personalized gin cocktails. Call over the trolley to select herbs and locally sourced spices to blend with any one of the 300 types of gin available.
akyra Sukhumvit Bangkok – Thailand 46 rooms from USD 132 per night including breakfast www.slh.com/akyrasukhumvit Opening May 12, 2018
An innovative new hotel with serious style credentials, the hotel offers guests re-imagined urban accommodation in the heart of Bangkok. The hotel is ideally located on Sukhumvit Soi 20, an area of Bangkok known for its buzzing atmosphere, high-end retail, green spaces and fine dining. With understated interiors and personalized service, this boutique retreat beckons visitors to discover a cosmopolitan city lifestyle. With natural wooden floors, crisp white linens and neutral color schemes, the 46 rooms and suites are refreshing and relaxing in equal measure. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto spacious balconies in most rooms, seamlessly merging indoors with outdoors. Unwind with a long soak in the bath before a night out. Or plan an evening in, and have dinner served in your room.
SLH Insider Tip: This property is set to become the first new hotel in Asia to launch without single-use plastic in its rooms or food and beverage outlets. The hotel will extend the eco-friendly initiative for guests on the go with stylish akyra stainless steel water bottles and reusable shopping bags presented on arrival.
Fendi Private Suites – Rome, Italy 7 rooms from USD 596 per night including breakfast www.slh.com/fendi
Dominating the buzzing Via dei Condotti, this sumptuous palazzo originally belonged to a noble family and has been the prestigious headquarters of Fendi since 2005 - and the world’s very first Fendi hotel. Comprised of just seven impeccably designed suites, the hotel epitomizes the ultimate in elegance. With exclusive access and immersion into the Fendi world, it redefines luxury for sophisticated travelers who are looking for privacy as well as a unique experience in the heart of Rome. The bedrooms at Fendi are exclusive galleries to luxury style, with every element carefully chosen to create a sleek, peaceful space in which to unwind. Relax on furniture sourced from classic designers such as Hans J Wegner and FENDI Casa. Take in the views of city life outside or of local landmarks in photographs taken by Karl Lagerfeld. With so many beautiful things to enjoy, these rooms were made to inspire.
SLH Insider Tip: After a day of shopping, return to Fendi Private Suites and join fellow fashionistas for cocktails at Zuma Lounge, followed by contemporary Japanese cuisine at Zuma restaurant located on the rooftop.
