The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The iconic Belmond Hotel Cipriano is located on Guidecca Island, across the water from St Mark’s Square, a most enviable location that has long helped make the hotel one of Venice’s most exclusive.

96 rooms and suites, split between the mid 20th century building and historic palazzo, are decorated in an opulent and impeccably Venetian style, with views out across the lagoon and cityscape or the lush Casanova gardens.

Fine dining options, such as the Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant and Cip’s Bar, take full advantage of the location’s wonderful vistas, while the Gabbiano Bar, Wine Cellar and Piano Bar are each draws in the evening.

The famous Olympic-sized swimming is at the centre of the property, the only one of its size in central Venice. There is a personal trainer on site, red-clay tennis courts, and a fitness centre, as well the Casanova Wellness Centre for something a bit more relaxing.

It is just five minutes from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani’s own pier to St Mark’s in the heart of Venice. Here the city’s highlights await.

Less than an hour from Bordeaux, the 19th-century Château Grand Barrail Hôtel is surrounded by seven acres of parklands.

You can expect a warm welcome with friendly staff on hand to attend to your every need. The 46 rooms are split across the château and its outbuildings. Colours are rich and rooms boast lush textures and fabric.

Dine at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant which boasts a menu of innovative dishes created by Chef Romain Gondras and his team. And, of course, savour some of Bordeaux’s finest wines which have been carefully selected to complement the flavours.

Take time to unwind at the spa, which offers a variety of treatments. Or relax in an armchair in the stylish smoking room and enjoy a cigar from the hotel’s extensive selection.

The Conservatorium Hotel takes residence in a magnificent Neo-Gothic building in the heart of the Museum Quarter, a former home of Amsterdam’s Sweelinck Conservatory of Music, with its rich historical narrative carefully woven throughout its glorious regeneration.

129 guestrooms and suites are spread over eight floors and range from a spacious superior room up to a penthouse suite. All rooms and suites include state of the art in room technology, luxurious linens and a private bar.

Brushed-oak flooring and beige furniture define the cool autumnal colour scheme that is simultaneously modern and classic. The large bathrooms feature large rainfall showers, marble tubs and LCD mirror TVs.

Central to the hotel’s design and lifestyle vision are its restaurants and bars. All dining here is under the direction of celebrated Dutch chef Schilo van Coevorden. Taiko restaurant sits in the spacious historic part of the hotel serving up contemporary Asian cuisine made from local, seasonal produce. The chic Tunes Bar is an elegant yet casual haven in which to enjoy classic drinks, cocktails, sushi and Asian tapas day and night, while the Conservatorium Brasserie and Lounge are located in the atrium, offering contemporary local dishes for all-day dining.

Guests here have complimentary access to the divine Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, a personal host assigned to them and there is also a shopping gallery with a hair salon and high-end luxury stores. Outside, the best shops, restaurants, museums and galleries are waiting to be explored within easy walking distance.