Capella Shanghai

Eschew the frenzied pace of Shanghai’s city centre for a more serene atmosphere at this beautifully preserved historic hideaway in the Xuhui District. Traditional shikumen-style townhouses, which were built in the 1930s by French settlers, now encompass 55 elegantly presented villas.

The interior of each one, two or three-bedroom villa is reflective of the city’s former French influence, and further enhanced with marble bathrooms, modern comforts and traditional Chinese touches. Positioned across several levels, the accommodation, some of which features living rooms and rooftop terraces, still retains its original red-wood framed windows that open up to reveal charming garden courtyards.

In-room dining is available, or you can feast on refined French innovations at the Michelin-starred Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire. You can also enjoy a taste of baked French goodness from Le Boulangerie, and sip your way through the cocktail menu on the expansive leafy terrace, or in the polished low-lit bar, serving up the ultimate post-dinner tipples.

An award-winning spa will have you breathing easy again, with its selection of holistic treatments, relaxation lounge, vitality pool and floatation tank. If you want to get more active, there is a 24-hour state-of-the-art gym, which also hosts private yoga sessions. Otherwise, the dedicated Capella team can arrange guided tours of the estate and the local area, cooking and painting classes, as well as rum-tasting.