Mountain lodges, ice palaces and underwater abodes: The 10 most magical hotels on earth

FROM steamy mountain-top infinity pools to cosy eco lodges, here are 10 of the most breathtaking hotels in the world

St Lucia PH

This stunning hotel in St Lucia gives guests remarkable views of both the Piti and Gros Piton mount

As the evenings getter darker and the days get greyer you might start daydreaming about an exotic winter break.

And whether you're looking for a cosy, snowy getaway or a sunny escape, we've come up with 10 idyllic resorts to help inspire your next trip.

From sun-soaked Indian palaces to lefty treetop abodes, here are 10 of the most beautiful places to stay on earth...

1. THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, INDIA 

Best India hotel PH

With stunning views of the Lake Pichola this hotel is great for a luxury break

On the banks of the Lake Pichola, this mystical hotel is surrounded by the grand palaces of Rajasthan and perfectly encapsulates the splendour of the royal area with gently rippling fountains, reflection pools and lush gardens. For more information go to oberoihotels.com

2. KATIKIES HOETL, SANTORINI

BEST HOTEL IN GREECEPH

This beautiful hotel offers views of the ocean

Perched on the cliffs 300 ft above the perfectly clear waters of the Aegean Sea, the Katikies Hotel was the first luxury hotel on the island with infinity pools and unbeatable views. To book go to katikieshotelsantorini.com

3. UBUD HANGING GARDENS, BALI 

BALI ECO LODGE PH

Set amongst steaming volcanoes this eco lodge is the perfect place for rest and tranquility

Set amongst the mystic volcanoes and rice terraces in the heart of Bali, this luxury resort features 38 pool villas, an exceptional restaurant and bar, and a relaxing spa which embraces a holistic approach to wellbeing. Go to ubudhanginggardens.com for more information. 

4. POSEIDON UNDERSEA RESORT, FUJI 

Underwater hotelPH

You can sleep with the fish at this barmy underwater hotel

This blue haven allows its guest to sleep under the sea. Located on the seabed and stretching almost a mile long, the barmy submerged hotel gives you the opportunity to fall asleep to the rhythmic swishes of the fish. To stay under the sea go to poseidonresorts.com

5. JADE MOUNTAIN, ST. LUCIA

St Lucia PH

This luxurious hotel is the perfect place for a romantic break this winter

Located above the 600-acre beach front resort of Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain in St. Lucia gives guests remarkable views of both the Piti and Gros Piton mountains. For more information go to jademountain.com

6. AMANGIRI RESORT, UTAH, USA 

Desert hotel PH

In the heart of the desert, this hotel blends beautifully with its surroundings

In the heart of 600 acres of desert, the resort blends beautifully with the natural landscape. Built using natural materials with hues that are camouflaged against the sand, the luxury hotel includes a huge swimming pool, library, dining room, and cellar. To book go to amanresorts.com

7. CABANES ALS ARBRES, SPAIN

Tree house PH

These tree top huts are perfect for nature lovers

This tranquil spot is perfect for nature lovers! The tree top hotel offers visitors the pleasure of being directly in touch with the foliage and ecosystem at all times. Plus sleeping out in the sticks gives you are breathtaking view of the stars. See cabanesalsarbres.com for more information. 

8. HOTEL VILLA HONEGG, SWITZERLAND 

Mountain lodge PH

Relax in this heated mountain-top infinity pool

Located high on Mount Bürgenstock, this early 1900s villa has awe-inspiring views of Lake Lucerne, which can be thoroughly appreciated from the heated infinity pool.

The stunning hotel also includes 23 luxurious rooms, a private cinema and a wellness centre.

Go to villa-honegg.ch for more information. 

9. ONE & ONLY REETHI RAH, MALDIVES

MaldviesPH

This is one of the most luxurious destinations in the world

This dream destination offers 130 private resort villas, each with a private beach view. The resort also includes luxury restaurants and a stunning infinity pool.

See oneandonlyresorts.com for details. 

10. ICE HOTEL, SWEDEN 

ice hotel PH

Is this the coolest hotel in the world?

Located in the stunning surroundings of Jukkasjärvi, 200km north of the Arctic Circle, Icehotel is a hotel of inspired Art Suites, thrilling winter activities and mouth-watering Swedish cuisine.

And with the walls, beds and ceiling made completely of ice it could could be the coolest hotel in the world.

The unusual ice is also set for a revamp which will include a huge frozen theatre.

See discover-the-world.co.uk/icehotel for information. 

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