Luxury Birdwatching Safaris made for you

Set out on an expedition cruise into the planet’s northernmost reaches to experience the otherworldly landscapes of Svalbard, the Norwegian Fjords and Scotland’s farthest isles.

This lovingly restored and refurbished hotel within the Cairngorms National Park in Braemar has been designed to feel like a welcoming country house, while retaining the property’s sense of grandeur and history. Each of the 46 rooms and suites has been individually decorated and furnished. There are six room types to choose from, with each fitting a meticulously researched theme or dedicated to a local person, place or event. The Royal Suites, with views out over the surrounding landscape, have been inspired by some of the noble visitors who visited Braemar in the past. Furnishings are rich, with carefully-chosen antiques, artworks and even some items that once belonged to some of the historic figures themselves. Reflecting the hotel’s history as a 19th-century coaching inn, the Victoriana Suites boast period wallpaper and have views over Braemar. In turn, the Scottish Culture Rooms have been inspired by some of Scotland’s leading figures in literature, astronomy, engineering and exploration. In the Nature and Poetry Rooms, natural materials like heather, wood and tweed feature in the decor along with beautiful headboards engraved with the words of poet Alec Finlay. When it comes to dining, expect menus which make full use of the finest Scottish seasonal produce. From fresh seafood and game to local whiskies and spirits, many of the ingredients used in the kitchens and bars will be sourced from local suppliers, gamekeepers and farmers. Enjoy a selection of ales and whiskies at The Flying Stag, take a table in The Clunie Dining Room and allow executive chef Robert Cameron to impress with Scottish cuisine, and enjoy a nightcap at the beautiful art deco cocktail bar Elsa’s.

One of the most famous camps in all of Africa, Wilderness Mombo rightly deserves its reputation due to its remarkable game viewing experiences coupled with the service and luxury of the camp.

Found in the perfect spot of Southern Iceland for outdoor lovers, the log-cabin Ranga Hotel is a cocoon of warmth, ideal for relaxing after Northern Lights viewing and glacier touring. This cosy hideaway boasts uninterrupted panoramas from all parts of the property. Guestrooms look out to the East Ranga River or Mount Helka which are best enjoyed with a soak in your private jacuzzi – drink in hand. If you fancy something a little quirkier, opt for one of the lavish suites. Themed on the seven continents, they are filled with weird and wonderful touches such as Aztec wall-hangings, a didgeridoo, bearskin and bison head. Facing the salmon-filled river, the reputable restaurant features a farmer’s market concept. Local produce and freshly-caught seafood is prepared here to create delicious Nordic dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Venturing outside to the barely polluted rural skies, the luxury amenities continue. Three outdoor hot tubs heated with geothermal water provide an unforgettable place to watch the aurora borealis dance across the sky, while the astronomical observatory with its roll-off roof and telescopes offers superb stargazing.

Anavilhanas Lodge sits on the banks of the Rio Negro on the edge of the magnificent Anavilhanas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the world’s largest river archipelago.

Sitting 1,500 metres above sea level between dense rainforest and coffee fields and with views across the Caribbean, this is the perfect place to switch off and reconnect with nature. The lodge has been built in harmony with its natural surroundings and there is a strong focus on protecting the environment and preserving the local culture. The decor is inspired by its location with timber-clad walls, natural colours and wicker furniture. There are just three rooms which are simple but comfortable, all featuring a hammock positioned by the window so you can make the most of the extraordinary views. There is a large living room with a fireplace leading out onto the decking where you can gaze out across the forest and over the ocean. The dining area features floor-to-ceiling windows and here you will enjoy delicious Colombian cuisine made using local organic produce such as coffee, cacoa and honey as well as herbs, fruits and vegetables picked from the garden. Guests staying at Casa Oropéndola will receive three meals a day as well as snacks, local fruit, fresh juices, coffee and tea and picnic lunches for when you are out on excursions. The surrounding cloud forest results in an incredible variety of flora and fauna and there are countless walking trails right on your doorstep. There is plenty to do at the lodge including cooking classes and yoga, but there is also a lot to be said for simply sitting back and taking in this very special environment.