Beyond The Ordinary

Mykonos, Greece

Casa Del Mar, Mykonos Seaside Resort

Tucked into sheltered Glyfadi Bay between Ornos and Agios Ioannis, Casa Del Mar Mykonos Seaside Resort is an intimate collection of villas and suites where private pools, broad sea terraces and a semi private beach create a wonderfully secluded side to Mykonos. There is an appealing simplicity to the way Casa Del Mar meets the sea. White Cycladic residences descend towards a small sandy cove, with the Aegean, sunrise and distant outline of Naxos filling the view ahead. The bay is naturally protected from the island’s famous winds, giving the waterfront a sheltered quality that makes outdoor living a genuine part of the day. With just 11 residences at the heart of the resort, the atmosphere is closer to a private seaside enclave than a conventional Mykonos hotel. Terraces, pools and outdoor dining spaces belong naturally to each villa, while the beach sits immediately below, so days can unfold between your own space and the water without ever feeling the need to go much further. para-2 Accommodation ranges from romantic sea view suites with private jacuzzis to substantial multi bedroom villas designed for families and groups of friends. Cool stone floors, white interiors and understated furnishings keep the rooms unmistakably Cycladic, but it is the generous outdoor space and uninterrupted Aegean outlook that give them their real character. The Junior Seaview Jacuzzi Suite and Honeymoon Seaview Jacuzzi Suite are the natural choices for two, each creating a private setting around its terrace and sea view. The Signature Seaview Jacuzzi Two Bedroom Villa adds another bedroom and considerably more living space while retaining the same close connection to the water. For a private pool stay, the two bedroom Su Casa Beachfront Infinity Pool and Royal Beachfront Infinity Pool villas place their pools and terraces directly into the seafront experience, while the three bedroom Family and Friends Seaside Villa is particularly well suited to guests travelling together. Larger groups can move into an entirely different scale with the six bedroom Genesis Villa or nine bedroom Magnificent Villa Sunset, turning Casa Del Mar into the base for a full Mykonos house party with the privacy of a standalone residence. para-3 Del Mar Restaurant keeps dining closely connected to the waterfront, with Mediterranean cooking, seasonal ingredients and fresh flavours suited to long lunches and warm evenings beside the Aegean. The intimate scale means meals retain an easy, personal quality, with the restaurant and bar providing a natural alternative to dining out elsewhere on the island. The villas also make private dining particularly appealing. Generous terraces, kitchens and outdoor dining areas provide the setting, while a private chef can be arranged when dinner at home feels preferable to heading into Mykonos Town. It is a lovely option for the larger villas, where gathering around your own table becomes part of the pleasure of travelling together. para-4 Glyfadi Beach is the real luxury here. The sandy cove sits directly in front of the residences with sun loungers and umbrellas beside the water, creating the rare pleasure on Mykonos of being able to walk from your villa terrace to the beach in moments. Its sheltered position also makes the bay particularly inviting for swimming and snorkelling. Days can be as simple as breakfast on the terrace, a morning swim and an afternoon moving between the beach and private pool, but the concierge can open up the rest of Mykonos whenever the mood changes. Yacht charters, island excursions and car hire can all be arranged, with Ornos, Agios Ioannis and Mykonos Town close enough for lunches, dinners and evenings out. That balance is one of Casa Del Mar’s strongest qualities. You have the restaurants, beaches and energy of Mykonos within easy reach, yet returning to Glyfadi Bay brings you straight back to the sea, your own terrace and the privacy of the villa. para-5 The spa brings surprising depth to such an intimate resort, with an indoor pool, hammam, steam room and relaxation areas complemented by massage, body treatments, facials and beauty therapies. Yoga, fitness sessions and personal training are also available, giving longer stays plenty of scope for incorporating wellness into the day. para-6 Casa Del Mar Mykonos Seaside Resort is located on Glyfadi Bay in Aleomandra, approximately 1.5 kilometres from Ornos and 4 kilometres from both Mykonos Town and Mykonos Airport.

From £180 per night

Syros, Greece

Aristide Hotel Syros

Occupying a beautifully restored nineteenth-century mansion in Ermoupoli's elegant Vaporia district, Aristide Hotel is an intimate retreat where neoclassical architecture, contemporary art and thoughtful hospitality come together to create one of Syros' most distinctive stays. From the moment you step through its doors, Aristide feels closer to a remarkable private residence than a conventional boutique hotel. The original marble staircase rises through the heart of the house, framed by lofty ceilings, period detailing and beautifully restored interiors that respect the building's heritage while introducing carefully curated contemporary design. Every room, corridor and shared space reflects a restoration driven by craftsmanship rather than fashion. That same philosophy defines the atmosphere throughout. The peaceful garden offers a secluded retreat beneath mature trees, while the rooftop opens towards the sea and the rooftops of Ermoupoli, creating a striking contrast between the intimacy of the mansion and the openness of its surroundings. Art is not simply displayed here but woven into the identity of the hotel, with a gallery, artist residency and private collection giving the property a genuine cultural depth. para-2 With only nine suites, every room has its own character, shaped by the proportions and architecture of the original mansion rather than a standardised hotel design. High ceilings, oversized windows and original features create an immediate sense of space, while bespoke furnishings, carefully chosen materials and contemporary artworks bring warmth without distracting from the building itself. Several suites extend the experience with private plunge pools, terraces or freestanding stone baths, while others draw their appeal from elegant proportions and views across Ermoupoli or the Aegean. Throughout, comfort feels quietly assured, allowing the craftsmanship of the restoration and the individuality of each suite to take centre stage. The result is accommodation with genuine personality. Rather than repeating the same design from room to room, each suite celebrates the unique qualities of the house, making every stay feel slightly different while remaining unmistakably Aristide. para-3 Breakfast is served in the tranquil garden, where fresh local ingredients, homemade pastries, seasonal fruit and regional specialities provide a relaxed and thoughtful start to the day. It is an experience that feels personal, reflecting the pace and scale of the hotel rather than a formal buffet. As evening approaches, the rooftop restaurant becomes one of Ermoupoli's most memorable dining settings. Mediterranean dishes are prepared with a contemporary touch, while uninterrupted sea views provide an ever-changing backdrop as the light fades across the harbour and Vaporia's elegant waterfront. The hotel's two bars offer distinctly different moods. The garden bar is intimate and shaded, ideal for a quiet afternoon drink, while the rooftop bar becomes a natural gathering place at sunset, where expertly prepared cocktails are accompanied by panoramic views across the Aegean. Dining at Aristide never feels separate from the building itself. Every space retains the atmosphere of the original mansion, allowing food, wine, architecture and art to come together with an effortless sense of place. para-4 Aristide invites guests to experience Syros through its culture as much as its coastline. The hotel's own gallery and artist residency provide an ever-changing creative element, while the elegant streets of Ermoupoli unfold immediately beyond the front door, revealing grand squares, independent boutiques, museums and waterfront cafés at an easy walking pace. Asteria Beach, Saint Nicholas Church and Miaouli Square are all close by, making it possible to explore the town without ever needing transport. Rather than creating a resort-style environment, Aristide encourages guests to become part of the life and rhythm of one of Greece's most elegant island capitals. Whether browsing galleries, discovering local restaurants or simply wandering Vaporia's handsome streets, the experience feels immersive, rewarding those who enjoy architecture, history and culture as much as beautiful accommodation. para-5 There is no traditional spa at Aristide, yet the hotel possesses its own quiet sense of wellbeing. Peaceful corners in the garden, unhurried breakfasts, beautifully proportioned interiors and the rooftop overlooking the sea create an atmosphere where relaxation comes naturally rather than through structured wellness programmes. It is a hotel that encourages guests to slow down, appreciate thoughtful design and enjoy the simple pleasure of spending time in an extraordinary historic house that has been restored with exceptional care. para-6 Aristide Hotel is located in Ermoupoli's historic Vaporia district, within easy walking distance of Asteria Beach, Saint Nicholas Church and Miaouli Square, while Syros Island National Airport is approximately 4 kilometres away.

From £285 per night

Santorini, Greece

Domes Novos Santorini, Autograph Collection

On the open landscape just outside Oia, Domes Novos Santorini, Autograph Collection brings an unusually spacious resort experience to the island, with 50 bungalows and two villas, each with its own private pool and views shaped by Santorini’s extraordinary volcanic surroundings. Space is one of the great luxuries here. Rather than following the familiar architecture of the caldera cliffs, Domes Novos spreads gently across the land, with low buildings, gardens and pathways creating a feeling of openness that is immediately apparent. Cycladic forms and earthy materials reference the island’s volcanic character, while terraces and pools draw life outdoors. The result is a different way to experience Santorini. Oia remains close enough for its lanes, restaurants and celebrated sunsets to become part of the stay, but back at the hotel there is room to slow the pace completely. Families are particularly well catered for, making Domes Novos an appealing choice for experiencing this part of the island with children without giving up the style and privacy of a more intimate retreat. para-2 Every bungalow and villa has its own pool, giving the accommodation a level of private outdoor space that defines the experience. Interiors take their cues from Cycladic craft and the colours and textures of the volcanic landscape, with natural materials and a restrained palette allowing the terraces, pools and views to take centre stage. Echoes, Euphoria and Anesis Bungalows provide different positions within the resort while retaining the same emphasis on private pool living. The Senses collection turns towards the sea, with Senses Bungalows and the larger Senses Retreat pairing their pools with views across the Aegean. Families can choose the Senses Family Bungalow, while the Novos Villa provides the most generous expression of the concept, combining greater space with a private Blissful Pool and sea views. Whichever category you choose, having your own pool changes the rhythm of the stay, particularly during the quiet hours of the morning and towards sunset. para-3 Food at Domes Novos draws heavily on Santorini itself, with local produce, island flavours and the surrounding landscape informing the dining experience. The elevated restaurant setting makes the most of the views, giving dinner a natural sense of occasion as the light begins to soften across the island. The pool and lobby bars provide the more informal side of the day, moving easily from coffee and something light to eat through to drinks in the evening. With the main social spaces gathered around the pool and terraces, there is an easy intimacy to dining and drinking here despite the generous scale of the grounds. para-4 The main pool provides a beautiful alternative to the privacy of your own, with loungers and cabanas creating a natural meeting point at the centre of the resort. Gardens and open terraces surround it, preserving the sense of space that distinguishes Domes Novos from much of Oia. Santorini’s character is also brought into the experience through wine and local activities, giving guests the opportunity to engage with an island whose vineyards, volcanic landscape and food traditions deserve as much attention as its famous views. Younger guests have their own kids club and play areas, allowing family days to find an easy rhythm between shared time and activities designed especially for them. para-5 Domes Soma Spa is a substantial part of the resort, drawing on Santorini’s volcanic heritage for treatments and rituals designed around restoration and wellbeing. An indoor pool, sauna and dedicated treatment spaces are joined by a well equipped gym and areas for yoga and meditation. There is something particularly appealing about having this level of wellness alongside the privacy of your own pool, making it possible to build an entire day around the resort before heading into Oia as evening approaches. para-6 Domes Novos Santorini sits just outside Oia, approximately 2 kilometres from Katharos Beach, 16 kilometres from Santorini International Airport and 22 kilometres from Athinios Port, with the village and the landscapes of northern Santorini within easy reach.

From £190 per night

Serengeti, Tanzania

Nyasi Tented Camp

Nyasi places you at the heart of the Northern Serengeti's Great Migration country, where intimate tented accommodation, exceptional guiding and remarkable wildlife encounters create an unforgettable East African safari. Hidden amongst towering acacia trees in the secluded Lamai Wedge, the camp enjoys privileged access to one of the Serengeti's quieter regions, just a short drive from the Mara River. During migration season, vast herds of wildebeest and zebra gather before attempting the dramatic river crossings, while the surrounding plains remain rich in resident wildlife throughout the camp's season. Accommodation Accommodation comprises six spacious tented suites together with two generous Family Tents, each featuring two interconnected bedrooms linked by a shared lounge. Designed with classic safari simplicity, the camp balances comfort with a genuine sense of immersion in the surrounding wilderness. Canvas interiors, handcrafted furnishings, en-suite bathrooms and wide verandas create relaxed spaces where the sounds of the Serengeti become part of everyday life. One section of the camp can also be reserved for exclusive use, making Nyasi an excellent choice for families and small groups travelling together. Dining Dining follows the rhythm of the safari, with generous breakfasts, relaxed family-style lunches and atmospheric dinners served in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. Fresh seasonal ingredients and warm hospitality ensure every meal feels both personal and unhurried. Picnic breakfasts and lunches allow guests to remain out on safari for longer, while sundowners overlooking the plains provide the perfect conclusion to another memorable day in the Serengeti. Safari Experience Every stay includes a private guide and dedicated safari vehicle, allowing complete flexibility to explore according to your own interests. Whether following the Great Migration, searching for the region's renowned big cats or spending time with elephant, giraffe and abundant plains game, every safari unfolds at your own pace. Nyasi's proximity to the Mara River makes it one of the finest locations for witnessing the Great Migration's legendary river crossings. Watching thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-filled waters before climbing the opposite bank is one of Africa's defining wildlife experiences and an unforgettable highlight for many guests. Beyond the migration, guided walking safaris accompanied by experienced guides and TANAPA rangers reveal the Serengeti from an entirely different perspective, while full-day game drives venture further into this vast ecosystem in search of exceptional wildlife throughout the day. For an unforgettable aerial perspective, sunrise hot air balloon safaris drift silently above the plains as wildlife gathers below, offering one of Tanzania's most memorable safari experiences. Wildlife & Seasons Open between June and January, Nyasi is perfectly positioned for the Great Migration as enormous herds move into the Northern Serengeti and towards the Mara River crossings. Even outside the peak migration period, the Lamai Wedge supports outstanding resident wildlife, ensuring rewarding game viewing throughout the camp's operating season. Location Nyasi occupies the Lamai Wedge in the Northern Serengeti, just a short distance from the Mara River. Its secluded setting combines exceptional wildlife, remarkably few neighbouring camps and unrivalled access to one of Africa's greatest natural spectacles.

From £2220 per night

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Jock Safari Lodge

Jock Safari Lodge, a colonial-style retreat in Kruger National Park, sits at the confluence of the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers. This award-winning lodge offers an unrivalled Big 5 safari experience across 6,000 hectares. The 12 individual thatched suites at the Main Lodge, adorned with elegant colonial-era antiques and Zulu and Shangaan artworks, feature private plunge pools, luxurious bathrooms, and serene views, blending heritage with modern comfort. The nearby Fitzpatrick's Lodge, with three exclusive suites overlooking the river, provides a private bush escape with dedicated chef, waitress, and ranger services, ensuring a bespoke and intimate stay. Twice-daily game drives and wilderness walks, led by expert rangers, traverse exclusive riverbed routes, revealing elephants, lion prides, buffalo herds, endangered wild dogs, and abundant birdlife. Guests can explore ancient Bushmen rock artworks, dating back 3,000 years, just a short walk away, while the lodge's rich history, inspired by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick's *Jock of the Bushveld*, evokes the courage and loyalty of South Africa's gold rush era. The fine-dining restaurant serves exquisite cuisine, complemented by a sauna and hydrotherapy spa for ultimate relaxation. Located 35 km from Skukuza airstrip and 150 km from Kruger Airport in Nelspruit, with complimentary parking, Jock Safari Lodge delivers a seamless fusion of conservation, tranquillity, and sophisticated indulgence in South Africa's iconic wilderness.

From £1195 per night

Eastern Cape Safari, South Africa

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge, perched on a hill in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an enchanting luxury safari across 75,000 hectares. Renowned for Big Five and rare wild dog sightings, it borders Botswana with captivating wilderness. The ten secluded glass-fronted suites, each spanning 150 square metres, feature private decks with plunge pools, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, fully stocked minibars, and romantic en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, offering uninterrupted savannah views. Little Madikwe, a family-friendly camp, includes a 390-square-metre two-bedroom suite, with two additional luxury suites available to form a private retreat for up to eight guests, complete with a private pool, verandah, dining room, kitchen, personal chef, butler, and dedicated game drive vehicle. All-inclusive dining features full English and continental breakfasts and lunches on the main deck, with dinners served under starlit skies in the traditional boma or with fine silver service in the elegant dining room, paired with local wines. The lodge's wellness spa, inspired by African healing traditions, offers signature treatments using indigenous botanical ingredients, complemented by a fully equipped gym with treadmills, weights, and aerobic mats. A library, curio shop stocked with local crafts, and a terraced viewing deck overlooking a vibrant waterhole enhance the experience. Twice-daily three-hour game drives in state-of-the-art vehicles, guided by expert rangers and trackers, deliver thrilling encounters with 86 mammal species, including cheetah, lion, and 420 bird varieties, alongside bush walks and wildlife photography. Located 265 km from Lanseria International Airport, Madikwe Hills blends unparalleled luxury with the majestic beauty of South Africa's diverse wilderness.

From £2430 per night

Santorini, Greece

Apollo Villa

Apollo is a breathtaking Santorini villa, nestled in one of the island’s most coveted locations and perched 280 metres above the Aegean Sea in Firostefani This beautifully renovated traditional canava is carved into the cliffside, delivering truly mesmerising views. Framed by volcanic rocks along the terrace and the dramatic drop to the caldera below, the villa creates a distinctive, immersive experience — perfect for two couples seeking an unforgettable summer filled with privacy, luxury, and endless panoramic beauty. Outdoors Entering through a private gate from the winding footpaths of Firostefani, a few steps lead down to an awe-inspiring welcome: the hand-crafted infinity pool with the iconic volcano rising dramatically in the background. Terraced patios edged only with natural volcanic lava rock ensure the caldera view remains completely unobstructed. Guests can relax on sleek, modern loungers beside the pool, soaking in the sweeping vistas, or enjoy alfresco dining in the dedicated outdoor area — an enchanting spot for candlelit dinners as the sky glows with one of the world’s most famous sunsets. Indoors Apollo blends minimalist chic with the authentic charm of a traditional canava, featuring crisp white walls, graceful curved arches, and thoughtfully integrated volcanic boulders that become striking design elements. Original artwork adorns the walls, artisan furniture adds character, and a bespoke fitted kitchen completes the sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Both spacious bedrooms offer king-size beds and uninterrupted caldera views, with one featuring a romantic oversized bathtub perfectly positioned to frame the volcano through large picture windows — simply stunning in every detail. Good to know This exceptional property forms part of Travelcube’s Signature Portfolio, a curated selection of luxury villas offering premium amenities and impeccable standards. With its unparalleled volcano vistas, Apollo invites guests to unwind, breathe deeply, and embrace the effortless luxury of Santorini living. A gentle stroll along the scenic footpath leads into lively Fira town, where charming shops, inviting bars, exceptional restaurants, and the vibrant pulse of local life await.

4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

From £955 per night

Zakynthos, Greece

Ionian Queen Villa

Searching for the perfect luxury Zakynthos villa where privacy, comfort, and seaside serenity come together? Ionian Queen is that special retreat. Welcoming up to 8 guests, this exceptional property offers superb facilities, breathtaking sea views, and true seclusion in the charming Keri Lake village on the southwest coast of Zakynthos. Just 200 metres from Keri Beach and about 10 minutes from town, the gated estate is wrapped in lush greenery for complete privacy, with a heated pool inviting all-day relaxation. Ready to slip into effortless summer mode in Zante? Outdoors The outdoor spaces at Ionian Queen are thoughtfully created for cherished family time. A soft lawn provides room for play, while the heated pool — complete with a gentle water feature — pairs beautifully with a shallow children’s pool for safe splashing. Mornings begin with coffee on the shaded verandas overlooking the Ionian Sea, or perhaps a playful moment at the playground. Evenings glow with the warmth of the BBQ and pool bar, all framed by the quiet, green surroundings. Ample space allows everyone to spread out while still feeling delightfully connected. Indoors Inside, Ionian Queen feels spacious, modern, and wonderfully welcoming. Three generous bedrooms offer sea or garden views, each equipped with 32-inch satellite TV, air-conditioning, and premium comfort. A fully equipped kitchen stands ready for easy meal preparation, flowing naturally into a spacious dining area. The clean, contemporary design includes thoughtful touches throughout, making lazy afternoons in the living room or family cooking sessions feel effortless and enjoyable. High-speed Wi-Fi keeps everyone connected when needed. Good to Know The southwest coast location opens the door to some of Zakynthos’ most magical experiences. Hire a boat and glide toward Marathonissi (home to its famous turtle-nesting sandy beach), the ethereal Blue Caves (a paradise for swimmers and snorkellers), and the striking Mizithres — twin white rocks rising dramatically beneath the Keri lighthouse. These natural wonders are best captured with a camera from the unforgettable viewpoints. Travelcube’s concierge is delighted to arrange boat trips, guided excursions, or any special touches to make your Ionian Queen stay even more enchanting.

6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

From £700 per night

Crete, Greece

Mirabello II Villa

Mirabello II is a family-friendly luxury villa in Crete, offering panoramic views of sunrises and sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea and the Cretan landscape. It accommodates up to 16 guests who wish to relax in natural surroundings, spend quality time together, and enjoy the scenery. Set within nature, it provides privacy and a peaceful atmosphere for all. The villa is about 8 km from Elounda town, around 10 km from Agios Nikolaos, and less than 1 km from the beach. Outdoors The villa is thoughtfully arranged for both children and adults. Younger guests can spend the day at the shared playground that Mirabello II and its sister villa enjoy together. Others can relax on loungers beside the private infinity pool while taking in the sea view. The outdoor spaces include both sunny areas and carefully placed shaded pergolas for unwinding. For a lively evening, light the barbecue, play some music, and gather on the pool terrace — the villa’s secluded position ensures complete privacy without disturbing anyone nearby. Indoors Mirabello II features 8 en-suite bedrooms that provide privacy and high-end comfort. A standout feature in the bedrooms is the beautiful view of the Gulf of Elounda. Large windows in the living areas and kitchen bring in the surrounding greenery and gentle sunlight. This is a wonderful place to relax in the warmth of the day or feel the cool night breeze under the stars. The villa was designed by Cretan architect Marina Birdimiri, who drew inspiration from her childhood in Elounda to create spaces that balance comfort and pleasure. Good to Know Mirabello II has a twin property, Mirabello I, located nearby, so larger groups can book both while maintaining total privacy thanks to their orientation. Both share access to a state-of-the-art playground. A short drive from Elounda and Agios Nikolaos opens up many beaches, traditional spots, charming villages, and boutiques. The villa offers a peaceful yet well-positioned base for discovering the best of Crete.

16 Guests 8 Bedrooms 9 Bathrooms

From £1545 per night