Elite Traveler Winter 2024/25

MOUNT NELSON, A BELMOND HOTEL, HONEYSUCKLE COTTAGE CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Currently celebrating its 125th birthday, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is an eye-catching pink wonder, nestled between the slopes of Table Mountain and the vibrant city of Cape Town. Since opening in 1899, the hotel has formed a key part of the city’s history, hosting many notable guests, from John Lennon to the Dalai Lama. Mount Nelson’s premier accommodation, Honeysuckle Cottage, sits in a row of historic houses dating back to the hotel’s opening. Decorated with an original trellised veranda, the two-bedroom suite is formed of two neighboring cottages and features a fully functioning kitchen, antique furnishings and working fi replaces, ensuring a comfortable stay in any season. Overlooking the property’s peaceful fl ower gardens, the cottage also has direct access to the hotel’s heated swimming pool. Best for History From $2,000 per night. Contact reservations.mnh@ belmond.com, +1 0800 058 1237, belmond.com

MONTAGE DEER VALLEY, FLAGSTAFF SUITE UTAH, USA With an average of 300 inches of snowfall a year, Deer Valley Resort is one of America’s premier ski resorts, with endless opportunities for both beginner and advanced skiers and snowboarders. The Flagsta ff Suite at Montage Deer Valley sets the scene for a memorable ski trip, with beamed ceilings, cozy leather furnishings and an outdoor terrace with views of Empire Mountain. After a day on the slopes, guests can rejuvenate in the suite’s deep soaking tub and warm up by the crackling fi re. The hotel itself is equipped with everything you require for exploring the slopes, including Compass Sports, an on-site ski out fi tter and a dedicated ski concierge. Best for Mountains From $3,800 per night. Contact mdvreservations@ montage.com, +1 435 604 1300, montage.com

NIHI SUMBA, MANDAKA OWNER’S ESTATE INDONESIA Beyond the horizon, on a beach where horses gallop across a perfect crescent of sand to swim with guests each morning, and wellness seekers can trek at dawn through a palm- fl ecked forest to earn their bush-cooked breakfast all before the rest of the resort has left their beds, Nihi Sumba is the quintessence of ‘far- fl ung.’ The nine-bedroom Mandaka Owner’s Estate extends across a hill’s crest with riveting views of the Indian Ocean. Characteristically Indonesian with grass-and-palm thatched roofs and airy rooms, it comprises fi ve villas that surround a main house. Amenities are plentiful, and include various lap pools, plunge pools, indoor-outdoor dining, outdoor bathtubs, notable art, a fully equipped kitchen and a library — among other attractions. Best for Beaches From $14,000 per night. Contact: Dewi Yudarini, director of reservations, yuda@nihi.com, +62 811 3978 550, nihi.com

NORTH ISLAND, VILLA NORTH ISLAND SEYCHELLES

Beachcombing castaway types, post-safari travelers looking to lounge and Robinson Crusoe wannabes will fi nd their mecca at North Island. A magnet for jet-setters with a penchant for time alone, North Island supplies the exclusive means with just 11 villas hidden among the jungle, fronted by the turquoise sea. Gain access to its premier stay, Villa North Island, by crossing a palm tree-edged bridge; its body is constructed from two immense casuarina trunks. Amid an otherworldly takamaka tree landscape like no other, the sustainably constructed one-bedroom home tempts lovers to canoodle unabated with its slew of cosseting amenities — including a private spa, sunken deck with private shower, dining room, pool and soaking tub. Best for Romance From $11,000 per night. Contact Anna Luttsau, sales and marketing director, +248 429 3100, anna.luttsau@north-island.com, north-island.com