This Feels Like Summer: 9 Luxury Escapes to Chase the Sun
- Apr 14
- 11 min read
Updated: Apr 16
This Season Was Never Meant to Be Ordinary
Summer is a season of movement. It stirs something instinctual in us—a desire to chase the light, dip into warmer waters, and wake in places where time stretches and days unfold like cinema. It is, without question, the most vibrant chapter in the traveler’s year. Global cities come alive with festivals. Coastal towns hum with yachts and sun-seekers. Mountain resorts shed their snow for wildflower-strewn trails and crisp, open skies.
What makes summer travel remarkable is its range: from long weekends to cross-continental sabbaticals, quiet wellness retreats to high-octane escapes. Temperatures rise—but so does access. To cultural energy. To seaside serenity. To a social season that calls on the discerning to embrace destinations in their most radiant form.
Consider this your invitation to experience summer as it was always meant to be: expansive, elevated, unforgettable.
1. Ibiza, Spain
Why Go Now:
Ibiza thrives in summer with its world-famous beach clubs, electronic music festivals, and bohemian wellness escapes. The southern shores pulse with energy while the north remains a haven of quiet luxury, making it ideal for both celebration and restoration under the Mediterranean sun.—turquoise bays, legendary beach clubs, and open-air music festivals pulse alongside quiet escapes in the north. From sunrise yoga to sunset sets, it’s a seamless mix of culture, wellness, and hedonistic calm.
Where to Stay:
Six Senses Ibiza
Blending rustic minimalism with upscale island living, Six Senses Ibiza is a design-forward retreat that embraces the island’s creative and holistic spirit. Rooms feature raw materials and organic textures, while communal spaces host live music, spiritual workshops, and fresh-from-the-farm cuisine. This serene retreat in Xarraca Bay was designed to mirror Ibiza’s natural rhythm. Local stone, sun-bleached wood, and woven textures shape the rooms, while wellness rituals, creative studios, and farm-to-table dining animate long summer days.
Summer Highlights:
Art installations and music performances in the Cave
Sunset rituals and cliffside yoga
Access to secret beaches and curated cultural tours
Hotel Amenities:
Ocean-facing suites and private residences
Farm-to-table dining from on-site gardens
Holistic spa and wellness center
Outdoor cinema and DJ-led events
Sustainability-led design and programming
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
2. Marrakech, Morocco
Why Go Now:
Marrakech in summer reveals a softer, slower version of itself—where mornings are made for quiet souk strolls, afternoons are spent tucked into cool courtyards or shaded riads, and evenings unfold over lantern-lit rooftops with mint tea and panoramic views. The medina hums at a gentler rhythm, inviting deeper sensory exploration through scent, texture, and color. With fewer crowds and longer pauses between moments, the city becomes not just a destination, but an experience in stillness, beauty, and warmth.
Where to Stay:
Royal Mansour Marrakech
Commissioned by royalty, this palatial oasis invites you into a medina within a medina—each private riad intricately adorned with Moroccan craftsmanship. It's a serene refuge where spa rituals, lush gardens, and rooftop terraces redefine luxury in the desert heat. A royal vision come to life, this retreat of 53 private riads showcases Moroccan design at its most intricate. Zellige tile, carved cedar, and silk textiles make each space a living work of art, with gardens and hammams offering a cool summer refuge.
Summer Highlights:
Hammam rituals and spa days beneath lantern-lit domes
Quiet medina strolls before sunset
Private rooftop dining with city views
Hotel Amenities:
Individually designed three-story riads
Full-service spa with subterranean pool
Michelin-starred Moroccan and French restaurants
Private airport transfers and personal butlers
Art gallery, library, and cigar lounge
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
3. Martha’s Vineyard, USA
Why Go Now:
Martha’s Vineyard is synonymous with classic American summer. From July through August, the island becomes a living postcard: sailboats bobbing in quiet harbors, pastel cottages framed by hydrangeas, and shorelines alive with laughter and bonfires. The island hosts art fairs, regattas, food festivals, and historic walking tours, drawing both long-time summer families and first-time explorers. Each town—from the charm of Edgartown to the artsy spirit of Oak Bluffs—offers something distinct, while the beaches, with their gentle surf and soft sands, are a serene constant.
Where to Stay:
Harbor View Hotel
Located steps from Edgartown Lighthouse and the harbor, Harbor View Hotel is an icon of coastal New England charm. Originally opened in 1891, this grand white clapboard hotel combines classic Americana with modern luxury. Wide wraparound porches, navy-striped chaise lounges, and freshly painted Adirondack chairs set the scene for breezy mornings and golden-hour cocktails.
Inside, you’ll find nautical accents, curated coastal art, and sea-inspired color palettes that reflect the island's light. The hotel has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation that elevated its historic elegance with contemporary polish. Summer brings its rhythm to life—guests sip rosé by the pool, dine al fresco at Bettini, and enjoy prime access to beaches and boats.
Summer Highlights:
Vineyard boat charters and private beach picnics
Art walks, antiques markets, and oyster tastings
Horseback riding and nature trails through preserved farmland
Hotel Amenities:
Elegant guest rooms with period antiques
Fine dining and award-winning wine cellar
Secluded garden courtyards
In-room massage and private chef services
On-site art gallery
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Bettini Restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
4. Bali, Indonesia
Why Go Now:
Bali’s dry season (May–September) unveils the island at its most radiant. With low humidity and consistent sunshine, it’s the prime time for outdoor adventure and spiritual immersion. Mornings begin with temple chants echoing through the misty hills of Ubud, while the coastline beckons with surf-ready swells and golden beaches. Cultural festivals, sunset dance performances at Uluwatu Temple, and traditional village ceremonies offer a glimpse into the island’s living traditions. Whether you're seeking healing in a jungle spa, exploring rice terraces by bicycle, or dining cliffside in Seminyak, Bali during the summer is a harmonious blend of indulgence and authenticity.
Where to Stay:
Capella Ubud
Tucked into the jungle canopy of the Keliki Valley, Capella Ubud is a luxury camp that channels 19th-century explorer nostalgia with theatrical flair. Designed by Bill Bensley, each tented retreat features handcrafted teak, copper soaking tubs, vintage collectibles, and private decks with forest views. Immersive and imaginative, it captures the wild romance of Bali’s interior while offering impeccable service and curated cultural experiences.
Summer Highlights:
Outdoor cinema under the stars
Private temple ceremonies and waterfall treks
Morning yoga and guided forest meditations
Hotel Amenities:
Saltwater pools and copper soaking tubs
Personal butler and wellness concierge
Locally sourced dining in jungle canopy setting
Ayurvedic spa treatments
Bespoke cultural excursions
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why Go Now:
Winter in Rio (June to August) offers a fresh, golden perspective on one of the world’s most visually dramatic cities. While technically off-season, it’s a sweet spot: the weather is sunny and mild, humidity is low, and skies are often crystal clear. With fewer tourists, you'll find easier access to everything—from Sugarloaf cable cars to prime spots on Ipanema Beach. It’s a time when locals reclaim the rhythm of the city: outdoor samba performances, food festivals, boutique shopping in Ipanema, and arts exhibitions across the Santa Teresa district. Expect long beach days followed by cool, stylish nights fueled by bossa nova and caipirinhas.
Where to Stay:
Janeiro Hotel
A sleek beachfront retreat in Rio’s chic Leblon district, Janeiro Hotel was envisioned by Brazilian designer Oskar Metsavaht as a minimalist ode to the natural beauty of the city. Housed in a reimagined mid-century tower, the property blends modernist architecture with warm, sustainable materials—think native woods, linen textiles, organic stone, and artisanal ceramics. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood each space with golden coastal light, framing uninterrupted views of Ipanema and the Atlantic. The interiors are thoughtfully curated, with soft neutral palettes and locally inspired art that capture the essence of laid-back Carioca elegance. The result is an atmosphere that feels effortless, intimate, and distinctly Rio—perfect for travelers who value design, nature, and cultural authenticity.
Summer Highlights:
Hang gliding over the Tijuca Forest
Beachside dining and live music along the promenade
Day trips to Ilha Grande for turquoise snorkeling
Hotel Amenities:
Rooftop infinity pool and beach butler service
In-room wellness treatments
Sea-facing balconies in all rooms
Seasonal Brazilian cuisine and organic bar program
Curated surf and sailing experiences
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
A complimentary 50 minute massage for up to 2 guests per room, once during stay
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
6. Antibes, France
Why Go Now:
Antibes is the Riviera’s best-kept secret—a sun-drenched blend of Provençal charm and coastal sophistication. In summer, its cobbled streets brim with lavender stands, artists sketching by the marina, and jazz spilling from café patios. The old town offers a quieter elegance than nearby Cannes, while the Port Vauban harbor showcases some of the most magnificent yachts in Europe. Festivals like Jazz à Juan and evening pétanque matches give the town a festive rhythm, while nearby beaches and hiking trails along the Cap d’Antibes provide scenic escapes.
Where to Stay:
Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Perched on the rocky tip of Cap d’Antibes, this Belle Époque palace has welcomed royalty, writers, and film stars for over 150 years. Grand and immaculately preserved, the hotel’s white facades open to gardens lined with Aleppo pines, while inside, marble corridors, floral arrangements, and curated antiques echo its storied past. The saltwater infinity pool carved into the cliff is a Riviera legend, while private cabanas, Dior Spa rituals, and refined dining by the sea create a sense of effortless, cinematic luxury. It’s the kind of place where summer feels eternal.
Summer Highlights:
Cap d’Antibes coastal trails and beach club lounging
Summer jazz concerts and gallery exhibitions
Day trips to Cannes and hilltop villages
Hotel Amenities:
Saltwater infinity pool carved into the rock
Dior Spa and tennis courts
Three gourmet restaurants and seaside champagne bar
Private cabanas and boat charters
Exclusive access to Eden-Roc beach club
Perks:
Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom
Access to best room in the category
Priority access to courtesy car, where applicable
Value-added amenity during stay: 100 € ($100) food & beverage credit or 100 € ($100) spa credit. Credit increased to 200 € ($200) for stays of 2-nights and up*
7. Cartagena, Colombia
Why Go Now:
Cartagena in summer is vibrant, tropical, and completely alive. The air is thick with rhythm—drums, laughter, and the scent of salt and citrus—and the city’s walled colonial core overflows with color and culture. Though the days are warm and humid, early mornings and golden evenings are perfect for exploring plazas, popping into shaded galleries, or cruising to the Rosario Islands. Rooftop cocktails, salsa dancing under the stars, and candlelit dinners in bougainvillea-draped courtyards define the pace of Cartagena’s steamy, spirited summer.
Where to Stay:
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara
A 17th-century convent turned refined sanctuary, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is a masterpiece of colonial restoration and Caribbean charm. Arched stone corridors and colonnaded courtyards frame lush gardens and koi ponds, while rooms blend historical character with sleek, modern comforts—vaulted ceilings, cool marble floors, and warm wood tones. Original crypts house a world-class spa, and the lagoon-style pool offers an oasis from the midday heat. Service is polished yet personal, making every stay feel like stepping into the soul of the city itself.
Summer Highlights:
Salsa nights and Caribbean culinary pop-ups
Island-hopping to Rosario Islands
Private carriage tours and spa days in hidden patios
Hotel Amenities:
Lagoon-style pool and full-service spa
Gourmet dining in cloistered courtyard
Butler service and historic suite upgrades
Terrace lounges with ocean views
Exclusive experiences within the old city
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
8. Cape Town, South Africa
Why Go Now:
Winter in Cape Town—June through August—brings crisp air, clear skies, and a sense of calm that contrasts beautifully with its energetic high season. With fewer tourists, the city’s iconic experiences feel more personal: vineyard tastings in Stellenbosch are unhurried, Table Mountain’s summit is less crowded, and coastal drives along Chapman’s Peak become private cinematic moments. Whale watching season begins in nearby Hermanus, and the local food scene turns cozy, with roaring fireplaces and seasonal menus showcasing Cape cuisine at its finest.
Where to Stay:
Ellerman House
Overlooking the Atlantic from its perch in Bantry Bay, Ellerman House is an Edwardian mansion turned luxury residence that feels more like a private estate than a hotel. The interiors balance historic elegance—arched windows, wood-paneled libraries, and antique armchairs—with a world-class collection of contemporary South African art. Suites are light-filled and serene, each with private terraces and sea views, while the wine gallery and sculpture-draped gardens create a distinctly Cape Town blend of culture, nature, and calm refinement.
Summer Highlights:
Winelands day trips to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
Gallery-hopping and First Thursdays art walks
Scenic drives along Chapman’s Peak and visits to Boulders Beach penguin colony
Hotel Amenities:
Ocean-view suites and private villas
Art gallery featuring prominent South African artists
Wine gallery and curated cellar tastings
Gourmet dining with seasonal menus
Wellness spa and ocean-facing pool
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
*Complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)
*A paired chocolate and South African Brandy tasting with our sommelier
10% discount on first spa treatment at EH Spa
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
9. St. Barthélemy (St. Barts)
Why Go Now:
Summer in St. Barts is a season of quiet indulgence. With the winter crowds gone, the island slows into a more intimate rhythm—think unhurried lunches at beachfront cafés, spontaneous yacht charters, and first-pick service at the island’s top boutiques and restaurants. The weather remains warm and breezy, with calm turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and secluded beach hopping. It’s the perfect time to experience the island’s signature blend of barefoot elegance and French-Caribbean charm, uninterrupted.
Where to Stay:
Eden Rock – St Barths
Perched on a rocky promontory above St. Jean Bay, Eden Rock is an icon of Caribbean glamour. Once the private home of aviator and island pioneer Rémy de Haenen, the hotel now combines art-filled interiors, cliffside suites, and beachfront villas with imaginative touches—from curated collections and pop colors to breezy terraces and private pools. Jean-Georges cuisine, personalized beach club service, and panoramic views wrap the experience in a distinctly St. Barts sense of playful elegance.
Summer Highlights:
Yacht days and snorkeling off Colombier Beach
Designer shopping and rosé-soaked lunches
Wellness events and gallery pop-ups
Hotel Amenities:
Cliff and beachside suites with private terraces
Jean-Georges dining and raw bar
In-room spa treatments and yoga on demand
Exclusive villa collection with private pools
Personalized beach club service
Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
Complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)
Complimentary Eden Rock Beach Set, per room, including a branded Beach Bag and flip flops
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Final Thoughts
From Ibiza’s barefoot elegance to Cape Town’s wintery-summer contrast, each destination shared here was chosen not just for where it is—but for who you get to be when you’re there. These are places that stretch time, engage the senses, and offer the kind of richness that only comes from well-curated travel.
Whether your summer calls for high-altitude stillness, beach club sophistication, or cliffside storytelling through architecture and cuisine, this season invites you to live expansively.
Curious about more places that make travel unforgettable?
Explore our full blog page for more guides, hidden gems, and luxury travel inspiration built around moments that matter.
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