Elite Traveler July-August 2018

Outdoors They don’t call it the great outdoors for nothing, and these suites certainly make the most of their epic surroundings —from the snowcapped peaks of Switzerland to the South African bush by Samantha Coles

THE GRATITUDE MIRAVAL ARIZONA, USA Set at the base of Arizona’s Santa Catalina Mountains, Miraval is so much more than a resort with wellness facilities. The four key pillars, “indulge, challenge, renew and improve,” cater to every requirement, be it a näga massage (using suspended silks to stretch muscles) or attempting a 35-ft-high desert tightrope. There are over 120 complimentary classes available, many of which make the most of the resort’s 400 secluded acres with nature trails and equine experiences. The Gratitude villa is the one to book — this three- bedroom space has exceptional panoramic views of the mountains, complete with a large patio, fire pit and infinity pool. Villa ownership is available if you get hooked on the Miraval lifestyle. From$2,695 per night. Contact Carl Pratt, vice president and general manager, cpratt@ miravalresorts.com, +1 855 234 1672, miravalresorts.com

PANORAMA SUITE ALPINA GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND The ultimate room with a view, the Panorama Suite offers incredible vistas of the Swiss Alps from the second floor of this two-story suite, where you’ll also find a treatment room, sauna, steam room, mini gym and — our favorite feature — the outdoor Jacuzzi. The suite’s three bedrooms are spread across two floors; the master bedroom has a private balcony and its own fireplace. The decor is classic chalet style with wooden walls and beamed ceilings, cozy furnishings and marble accents. The lower floor is perfect for socializing and relaxing after a day heli-skiing — thanks to the gigantic living room complete with a floor-to-ceiling chimneypiece and fireplace. From $21,000 per night. Contact Valentina

Sgaglione, reservations manager, reservations@thealpinagstaad.ch, +41 338 889 888, thealpinagstaad.ch

BEACH HOUSE QUALIA HAMILTON ISLAND, AUSTRALIA

Enveloped by Australian bushland and landscaped gardens, the Beach House is laid-back living at its best. Take a dip in the private infinity pool or catch a few rays on the furnished sundeck. The one-bedroom suite’s secluded seafront location ensures peace and quiet. But if you’d prefer to socialize, there’s a 10-person dining room and a private, separate guesthouse with en-suite bathroom and private deck, in case your guests want to stay the night after making the most of the fully stocked bar. The views over theWhitsunday Passage and Coral Sea will have you itching to explore, and the House has golf buggies available and a VIP chauffeur service. Or take to the skies to see the awesome scenery from above with the helicopter reef-discovery tour. From$4,550 per night. Contact Kyle LaMonica, general manager, guestservices@qualia.com.au, +61 749 489 222, qualia.com.au