It’s not just the scale, though 850 acres of rolling countryside, lochs, and woodlands do make an impression, it’s the feeling of stepping into something timeless. Mornings are slow, whether spent on the golf course, riding through the fields, or not doing much at all. The spa is as restorative as you’d hope, and if you’re up for something more active, there’s falconry, fishing, clay shooting, and more. As evening sets in, the mood shifts. Cocktails by the fire, live piano in The Strathearn, and long dinners that move between the hotel’s many restaurants, including one with a Michelin star. Everything feels considered, but never too polished, just enough tradition, just enough ease, and all the space you need to take it in.

Tucked into the folds of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, surrounded by fynbos and silence, it offers a quiet rhythm you’ll feel more than hear. The cabins are thoughtful and low to the ground, built for rest, reflection, and mornings that stretch out without urgency. Inside, it’s all raw textures and soft light: stone, linen, timber, a fire to settle into when the sun drops. Outside, it’s open sky, wild fields, and a pace that shifts something in you without trying too hard. Nothing here shouts. Thuúla simply makes room, and gives you the time to take it in.

The original 19th-century buildings have been reimagined into a contemporary countryside home, where whitewashed walls, stone floors, and soft minimalism set the tone. Spread across two levels, the house opens onto private patios, an inner courtyard, and a pool with panoramic views toward the sea. Interiors are warm and restrained, with a focus on space, light, and quiet gestures. While Tavira is only a short drive away, time here is measured in sunrises, hammock hours, and the stillness of the landscape.

Designed by Manuel Aires Mateus and surrounded by nothing but cork trees, wild grass, and sky, the architecture reads more like a sculptural pause than a place to sleep. Inside, everything is spare but soft: stone floors, linen sofas, custom pieces that feel more placed than styled. It’s quiet here, but never still. Shadows move, light shifts, and the outdoors is always part of the room. There’s no reception, no formal check-in, just space – thoughtfully held and left wide open.

On the captivating Greek island of Antiparos lies The Rooster, a secluded retreat that invites you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with your true self. Spanning 30 acres of rolling hills, ancient ruins, and sand dunes above the untouched Livadia beach, The Rooster seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, honoring the island’s timeless beauty and heritage.

Here, simplicity is elevated, offering a haven where personal growth is nurtured through travel, art, and culture. Immerse yourself in an atmosphere where the scent of evergreens mingles with the salty breeze, and the majestic views of the Aegean Sea and vibrant sunsets envelop you in a constant state of tranquility and refinement.

Surrounded by cacti, sand, and the occasional drifting cloud, this design-forward hideaway in Todos Santos swaps formality for flow. Architecture is sculptural, but barefoot. Interiors whisper desert minimalism, with clean lines, earthy palettes, and just enough texture to keep things interesting.

Days slip by between hammock siestas and poolside pauses under sail-shaped parasols. The swim-up bar serves mezcal martinis with a wink and champagne without ceremony. It is equal parts art piece and playground, where the Baja sun does most of the talking and the vibe is always just right.

Located within the expansive terrain of Iceland’s highlands, Highland Base Hotel is a retreat where the rugged environment of Kerlingarfjöll meets modern simplicity.

The hotel is designed with an emphasis on practicality and comfort, reflecting the surrounding landscape’s minimalist allure. Its structure blends seamlessly into the environment, providing a place of rest and reflection after days spent traversing the mountains. Each room is thoughtfully arranged to offer unobstructed views of the peaks, creating a quiet space where guests can connect with the vast wilderness outside their windows.

Villa Mandra in Mykonos is a masterpiece of modern Cycladic architecture, blending traditional charm with contemporary elegance. This exclusive retreat offers a unique escape where time slows, and life takes on a tranquil rhythm, guided by the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Designed to harmonise with the landscape, the villa is a testament to thoughtful architecture, where stone-walled gardens and sleek, whitewashed volumes create a seamless connection between the indoors and the outdoors.

Every element of Villa Mandra is crafted to enhance relaxation and connection – whether lounging beneath the expansive chestnut pergola, gathering in the central courtyard, or enjoying uninterrupted views of the Aegean from private terraces.

VIPP Cold Hawaii is a stunning example of modern architecture seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings. Set on 9,900 m² of secluded land, this 185 m² guesthouse was crafted by renowned local architect studio Hahn Lavsen. The design captures the essence of Scandinavian minimalism with geometric forms and sleek lines that reflect the rugged beauty of the surrounding dunes.

Inside, the Vipp V3 kitchen serves as the heart of the home, a design focal point where luxury and functionality meet. The living space is designed for comfort, featuring custom oak cabinetry and rich, sandy-toned upholstery that brings the coastal environment indoors.