Elite Traveler Winter 2024/25

ANDBEYOND PHINDA HOMESTEAD PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA Chic, even quirky, the four suites and common areas that comprise the Phinda Homestead stand out for their contemporary design fl ourishes and au courant luxury. A bush home that playfully references 1980s elements in its furnishings, the villa looks out over some of South Africa’s most wildlife- fi lled, grassy woodlands. Situated on some 70,000 acres of diverse reserve in KwaZulu Natal near the Mkuze Game Reserve, the home easily accommodates families or groups. Unlike many safari properties, Phinda Homestead accepts children of all ages, and features a nanny’s room for ease. Adorned with Zulu art and basketwork, the residence brandishes clever design motifs throughout, such as marble basins shaped like Zulu pots. Various common areas, a gym and massage room, library, kitchen, herb garden and pool provide diversion between game drives led by the on-site dedicated guide and tracker. Best for Safari From $10,422. Contact dmc@andbeyond.com, +27 118 094 300, andbeyond.com

AIRELLES CHÂTEAU DE VERSAILLES, LE GRAND APPARTEMENT VERSAILLES, FRANCE Describing Airelles Château de Versailles as regal would be an understatement. Located just steps away from the iconic Palace of Versailles — once the preferred home of French kings and queens — today this grand estate, just 11 miles west of Paris, is one of France’s biggest attractions. It is on the grounds of the palace and designed by Louis XIV’s preferred architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart; visitors to Airelles Château De Versailles stay in the heart of the action. Those looking to live like a king should look no further than Le Grand Appartement, this hotel’s fi nest suite. Luxuriously appointed in an authentic 18th-century fashion and spread out over an impressive 3,200 sq ft, this abode consists of several exemplary suites and can comfortably sleep six. Extra detailing like porcelain ornaments, elevated upholstery and Versailles parquet fl ooring complete a suite that would surely be fi t for the Sun King. Best for Romance From $28,950 per night. Contact Julien Révah, general manager, j.revah@airelles.com, +33 614 379 820, airelles.com

ALPINA GSTAAD, PENTHOUSE RESIDENCE GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND Discreetly tucked away in the fabled Swiss mountain town of Gstaad, Alpina Gstaad is a true hideaway where privacy and discretion are held in high regard. First opened in 2012, this is a new hotel by Alpine standards, and it certainly leans into its contemporary nature, with modern design features that uphold meticulous attention to detail. It is small in size with only 56 rooms and suites. Those fortunate enough to stay will be greeted by on-site Michelin-star dining and the fi rst Six Senses Spa in Switzerland. While every room and suite has its own private terrace, it’s the fi ve-bedroom Penthouse Residence that truly excels. Here, up to 12 guests can enjoy over 5,600 sq ft of space. The living room is a true showstopper with its ultra-high ceilings, dining area, fi replace and a mezzanine that is home to the residence’s library. Best for Mountains From $46,000 per night. Contact Andreas Fienbork, director of sales, a fi enbork@thealpinagstaad.ch, +41 338 889 878, thealpinagstaad.ch

AMANYARA, ARTISTS VILLA WHEELAND SETTLEMENT, TURKS AND CAICOS

Positioned at the sandy edge of an 18,000-acre nature reserve, Amanyara delivers a level of re fi ned beachside luxury that only this corner of the Caribbean can. Here, tropical pavilions and villas sit adjacent to over half a mile of white sand beaches, giving this property the upper hand when it comes to wellness o ff erings. Designed as a true playground for all ages, there’s enough happening both above and below the waves to keep everyone entertained, while many may enjoy the simplicity of doing nothing. At Amanyara, it’s the Artists Villa that excels. This fi ve-bedroom abode generously spreads itself out over 15,700 sq ft, while its positioning along a private stretch of beach ensures privacy for all who stay. This villa also possesses three acres of private gardens and its own 108-ft in fi nity pool that directly overlooks the sea. Best for Beaches From $26,000 per night. Contact Sophie Elisa Arista, director of sales & marketing, sarista@aman.com, +1 917 703 0536, aman.com

Photos Riechsteiner Fotogra fi e, Dook Photo, Steve Passmore, Alex Moling