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TOP 10: Our favourite relaxing hotels in Europe

With half of the year under our belt, we deserve a moment to recharge. Why not indulge in some peaceful luxury and exquisite interior design?

Aman Sveti Stefan Hotel in Montenegro
TOP 10: Our favourite relaxing hotels in Europe
Clara Carlino de Paz
July 26, 2022

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This article was originally posted on Making Space, a Substack penned by our Cofounder, Matteo Grand. Subscribe below to receive more content just like this.

It's that time of the year again... Picture it: salty hair, sandy feet, a light breeze and an Aperol Spritz in hand. Some call it heaven, we call it relaxation. To help you organise your next relaxing holiday in the European continent, we've scoured the land and brought together a list of the top 10 most relaxing hotels in Europe.

01. Splendido in Portofino, Italy

Premium Sea View in Junior Suite with terrace in Splendido

Splendido is one of the most enchanting hotels in Portofino. Once enjoyed by the likes of Winston Churchill, Walt Disney and Grace Kelly, the hotel stands across the rugged coastline, enjoying a prime position above the bay and in the midst of historic architecture. To relax, you can attend their wellness centre, restaurant, tired gardens or infinity pool: all while experiencing the best of the Ligurian beaches.

02. OKU Hotel in Kos, Greece

Private pool in OKU Hotel

Inspired by Greek definitions of wellness and relaxation, OKU has developed a space closer to a sanctuary than a hotel. The rooms visual style uses mid-century elements, naturally tactile textures and traditionally handmade pieces, creating a sense of timelessness, simplicity and sophistication. Recharge your energy with daily pilates and yoga classes and their elegant wellness and spa areas.

03. Borgo in Santo Pietro, Italy

La Casa dell’Unicorno Garden Suite at Borgo

Borgo embarces the luxury of choice in its interior design. From a classic suite in the main 12th century villa, a more exclusive suite with garden, or a seclusive villa with pool, you’re guaranteed luxury in every corner. The touches that tie it all together into an immersive experience? Exquisite furnishings and chandeliers, antique art, bespoke beds and a one-on-one connection with the nature surrounding the estate. If you want to relax and stimulate your five senses, their spa and specific skin treatments guarantee a unique experience you’ll crave to re-experience.

04. Tenuta di Murlo in Umbria, Italy

Castiglione Ugolino at Tenuta di Murlo

Tenuta di Murlo is breathtaking in every way. Whether it’s the estate – formed by olive groves, gardens, lakes, rivers, vineyards and a farm – or the accommodations – made up of villas, cottages and small castles – we know you’ll find the ethereal dreamscape you’ve always imagined. The rooms balance the strong heritage of the estate with modern comforts and furnishings, bringing attention to the surrounding nature and bliss. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel’s restaurant offers Umbrian cuisine accompanied by leather chairs, centuries-old oak and ancient stone.

05. Six Senses in Ibiza, Spain

Room with panoramic views in Six Senses Ibiza

If your idea of relaxation involves vibrant, social people and plenty of activities to throw yourself into, Six Senses Ibiza is the place for you. Subverting the idea that relaxation has to be done in solitude, this hotel will keep you healthy and thriving with their kayak rentals, yoga studios, gastronomic experiences and many other perks. Their interiors are contemporary and modern, with touches of Mediterranean décor and natural textures: a perfect backdrop to an energising stay.

06. The Rooster in Antiparos, Greece

The Bush and Hill villa in The Rooster

The Rooster is a camouflaged paradise. 16 houses have been built on the side of an unspoiled beach, designed to be in total harmony with the natural elements, aesthetics and colours of the island. Away from the main island, guests can expect privacy, relaxation and to “expand beyond their ruins”, as their slogan says.

07. Passalacqua in Lake Como, Italy

Outdoor Terrace in Passalacqua

Passalacqua is the visual and experiential equivalent of "la dolce vita". During your stay, you will experience the "dolce far niente": the sweet art of doing nothing. Through their epicurean treats, yoga sessions under magnolias and fresh swims in the cool waters of the Como, this third generation of hospitality savants will guide you through the Italian summer you've always dreamed of. The rooms are jewel-toned and soaked in Venetian silk, offering a feast to the senses and the artistic mind.

08. Herdade da Malhadinha in Albernoa, Portugal

Monte da Peceguina in Malhadinha

Herdade da Malhadinha is rustic chic to the T. Sometimes referred to as Portugal’s best-kept secret, this area is known for its “unique, immaculate and endless landscapes of inestimable beauty”. The family-run estate is focused on nature, privacy and the joy of Portuguese wine. If you’re looking for your stay to have some extra meaning, you can count on your it being sustainable; the agriculture on the estate is extensive, yet confined to the indigenous plants of the area, and every action in the hotel is considered to reduce the carbon footprint as much as possible. Guilt-free pleasure? Yes, please!

09. Aman Sveti Stefan in Budva, Montenegro

Sveti Stefan Suite in Aman Sveti Stefan

Picture this: cobbled lanes, beautiful courtyards and out-of-this-world sea views. That’s exactly what you’ll find in the small fortified village of Sveti Stefan island. In the 51 rooms, cottages and suites on the island you’ll contemporary and rustic excellence. Outside, you can enjoy hydrotherapy, strength classes, and international or Italian cuisine. Truly an unmatched experience.

10. Nos Hotel in Sifnos, Greece

Private terrace in Nos

Walking around the Nos hotel is a seamless experience of traditional Greek architecture and the rugged nature of the area. Natural materials, earthy textures and hand-crafted details create a sophisticated simplicity across the villas, never compromising on a calm atmosphere and the luxury of true comfort. You can find outdoor restaurants, a wine cellar, gyms, spas and a pool bar there too, assuring that your relaxation can be shared socially with your co-guests.