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17 Best New Hotels in Europe: 2021 and Beyond

At long last, Europe is reopening to American travelers! While the Indagare team is already busy planning grand returns for our members to our favorite locales and resorts, there are several exciting new addresses to have on your radar, whether you are considering a last-minute summer or fall escape, or you’re thinking ahead to next year—or the year after that (Indagare Tip: Due to pent-up demand, availability is booking out much further in advance at top hotels). From a revitalized Rocco Forte villa in Sicily and a design-minded castle on the border of Tuscany to glamorous escapes along the French Riviera and the Adriatic—and très chic abodes in Paris, Madrid and London—these are the top new hotels in Europe to add to your list that have recently opened or are coming soon.

Consult this article for the latest on European border policies and travel safety. Contact Indagare or your Trip Designer to start planning safe, responsible and meaningful travels—this year and beyond. Our team can match you with the destinations, hotels and experiences that are right for you and provide information on coronavirus travel safety and policies and more.

Castello di Reschio, Umbria, Italy

On the border of Umbria and Tuscany, within a restored castle dating back to 1050, Castello di Reschio appears poised to join the ranks of other alluring estate hotels like Heckfield Place and Villa Feltrinelli—where history and luxury intertwine. Set upon 1,500 hectares of magnificent Italian landscape (think rolling meadows, cypress trees, bushes of wild rosemary), the castle’s 40 reimagined rooms—including a two-bedroom suite fit for a fairytale, located in the top of the castle’s highest tower, with its own private sun terrace—feature sleek four-poster beds, velvet textiles and brass accents. Amenities include romantic courtyard gardens, roaring hearths, an organic cooking school, stables of purebred Spanish horses (the passion project of the hotel’s founder, Count Antonio Bolza), a subterranean Roman bathhouse located within the ancient wine cellars and a small mirrorlike outdoor pool for whiling away the golden hour, dreaming of the centuries of characters who have lived and passed through the space.Related: Traveling to Europe in Summer 2021: What to Know

Casa di Langa, Piedmont, Italy

To the delight of design lovers and oenophiles, Casa di Langa is bringing contemporary style to the ancient hills of northern Italy’s Piedmont region, which produces some of Italy’s most coveted wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. Casa di Langa has 39 current yet earthy rooms, a spa and wellness center, a wine academy and 42 hectares of land, where guests can immerse themselves in Piedmont’s culinary traditions, through such experiences as hunting for white truffles, exploring the vegetable garden and greenhouse and strolling through the property’s hazelnut groves and orchards. Those wishing to venture off-property can reserve a guided Vespa tour to access historic castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites and nearby vineyards. Plus: The hotel places a unique focus on sustainability, both in its winemaking and culinary practices as well as in the building itself. Opening June 2021

Villa Igiea, Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Just outside of Palermo, Rocco Forte has transformed a crumbling turn-of-the-century palazzo into one of the island’s top new addresses. Tucked between the foothills of Mount Pellegrino and the soft waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Villa Igiea will offer 100 Art Nouveau rooms and suites, enlivened by Olga Polizzi’s signature contemporary flair; Carrara marble bathrooms with handmade Sicilian floor tiles; and terraces that overlook blooming tiered gardens. From this refined home base, travelers will be able to explore the area’s luscious markets, ancient and medieval ruins, mountainous forests and, certo, azure coastlines.

Maslina Resort, Stari Grad, Hvar, Croatia

Croatia’s picture-perfect Hvar is typically known for its crystalline waters and lively beach clubs—but now, a thoughtful new property tucked away on Maslinica Bay offers a quieter retreat for families to soak in the unparalleled natural beauty of the island. The 53 rooms, suites and private villas evoke classic Mediterranean charm (terracotta, white stone, light wood) with modern, French-influenced touches—and all accommodations have sea views, as well as private terraces or loggias; certain suites are also equipped with a private garden or plunge pool. When guests aren’t hiking through wild lavender fields and pine forests or dipping and boating in the sparkling waters of the Adriatic, they can enjoy the “garden-to-skin” wellness spa that utilizes local herbs and essential oils, an aqua thermal area, two pools, a private sandy beach and the kids’ club; alternatively, seek culture and history at the many UNESCO-protected sites nearby (such as Stari Grad Plain, the best-preserved system of ancient Greek field architecture in the Mediterranean) or charter a private speedboat transfer to Split (just 45 minutes away).Related: The Indagare Index: The World’s Top Hotels, Resorts Lodges and Retreats - 2021

Kalesma, Mykonos, Greece

Just two miles from town, overlooking the peaceful Ornos Bay, this new boutique resort from a local trio behind some of Athens’ most popular restaurants feels utterly cool and fresh—thanks to architecture by K-Studio and interiors by Greek designer Vangelis Bonios—with a dose of the Mykonos scene, without being in the center of it. With only 25 suites (each with their own personal pool) and two 2,600-square-foot villas, Kalesma will work for the romantic, family or hip traveler. The name Kalesma means “invite” or “calling,” and the resort experience promises to radiate the full warmth of Greek hospitality across its five acres of hillside grounds, through such traditions as family-style dinners and sunset dance parties (post-Covid) at the panoramic restaurant Pere Ubu. Plus: here, you’ll get to wake up every morning to the smell of lavender, honeysuckle and freshly baked horiatiko bread (there’s a brick oven on-property, manned by a local breadmaker).

One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro

Occasionally overlooked for its cousins Croatia, Greece and Italy, Montenegro is a tiny jewel of a destination with crystal-cerulean waters, ancient history and wild mountains (for which it is named) that beckon hikers and picnickers alike. This spring, One&Only will open a new resort—its very first European outpost—in the town of Portonovi, a charming coastal village situated at the entrance to the famous Boka Bay (often referred to as “the fjord of the Mediterranean”). Throughout the complex, the bay is omnipresent—visible through floor-to-ceiling windows and from private balconies and terraces, and mirrored in the many wading and reflecting pools scattered around the grounds. In addition to 113 rooms, suites and villas, there is also a private beach and jetty, where guests can schedule sunset boating tours before dining at one of the four restaurants or detoxifying at the wellness center.Related: The Indagare Guide to Travel During Covid

Six Senses Ibiza, Spain

The Balearic party island of Ibiza is getting a fresh infusion of bohemian authenticity in the form of a new Six Senses wellness spa on the northern Xarraca Bay. The first sustainable BREEAM-certified resort in the Balearic Islands, the Six Senses Ibiza will offer 116 rooms, suites and beachfront accommodations, the most covetable of which have their own pools, terraces and even rooftop gardens, ideal for morning yoga or sundowner cocktails. In addition to a signature, state-of-the-art spa (where programs include everything from crystal healing to biohacking), there will also be four organic restaurants (including the first European outpost for celebri-chef Eyal Shani), access to private boats for watersports and one-of-a-kind beach caves that will host live music events and art shows. Opening July 1

Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s most iconic hotel—originally built by César Ritz in 1910, at the request of King Alfonso XIII to bring luxury hospitality to the capital—has recently reopened in the upscale Retiro neighborhood, after a three-year, 121-million-dollar renovation (the most extensive in the hotel’s history). Envisioned by Spanish architect Rafael de La-Hoz and French design firm Gilles & Boissier, the update preserves the building’s Belle Époque grandeur, while elevating the property to modern standards. Expect 153 rooms and 53 suites with lots of luxe accents, five restaurants and bars conceived by celebrated Spanish chef Quique Dacosta, and a heavenly spa, where you can look up at crystal chandeliers gently dangling overhead from within the heated swimming pool. Throughout the hotel, the artwork will take center stage, with rotating collaborations with local creatives and artisans—fittingly, as the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid is the third point of the Retiro’s Golden Triangle, opposite the Prado and Thyssen museums.Related: Our All-Time Favorite European Hotels

Four Seasons Madrid, Spain

Not too far from the Mandarin Oriental, within steps of the Spanish capital’s top sites—including the Puerta del Sol and Retiro Park, as well as the new Galería Canalejas, a complex for luxury shopping and dining—the recently unveiled Four Seasons Madrid delivers on the brand’s signature polish within a landmark historic building, with several buzzy details: a panoramic rooftop bar and restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Dani Garcia and a multi-level, 15,000-square-foot spa, which is set to be the city’s largest. The 200 rooms and suites are decorated with restored pieces as well as contemporary Spanish artwork and feature creamy linens, with lots of natural light.

The Maybourne Riviera, Côte d’Azur, France

Later this summer, the Maybourne Hotel Group (behind Indagare Index properties Claridge’s, The Connaught and The Berkeley in London, and The Maybourne Beverly Hills) will launch an exciting expansion into France, with a gorgeous new property in the town of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin on the Côte d’Azur. Built into a rocky hillside, directly over the sea, the property will play with the stark forms of the surrounding landscape with a sleek, modernist design aesthetic (featuring 69 rooms and suites, all with private terraces and sea views stretching towards Italy and Monte Carlo). The interiors will reflect collaborations with such designers as Andre Fu, Bryan O’Sullivan Studio and Pierre Yovanovitch, as well as the art and craftsmanship of local artisans. Aside from the location—and the beach club—the hotel’s greatest attraction is sure to be the culinary program, which has been developed across several restaurants by three giants: Mauro Colagreco (of the three-Michelin star Mirazur, which currently holds the Number One spot on the list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants), Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Hiro Sato (who will bring world-class sushi to the property).

Les Sources De Cheverny, Loire Valley, France

Courtesy Les Sources De Cheverny, Loire Valley, ©MPMorel

Courtesy Les Sources De Cheverny, Loire Valley, ©MPMorel
Surrounded by the lush forests and vineyards of the Loire Valley, Les Sources De Cheverny is a pastoral estate, with 49 elegant yet homey rooms and suites tucked within a historic château envisioned by Alice and Jerome Tourbier. Here, days are focused on relaxation in nature and, of course, savoring the Loire Valley’s delicious vintages. When you’re not drinking your wine, you can imbibe it through one of the grape-sourced treatments at the Spa des Sources by Caudalie, which promote anti-aging and antioxidant benefits; there is also an oak jacuzzi (evoking the oak barrels used in wine production) and thermal baths for detoxing. A variety of room sizes can easily accommodate couples as well as families—while treehouse seekers (and fans of Italo Calvino) should try to book the Le Baron Perché suite. Named for The Baron in the Trees, this contemporary wooden enclave is stilted and has unparalleled views overlooking the nearby lake.Related: Best New Hotels of 2021: Our Top Picks from Around the World

 Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, France

Courtesy Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle

Courtesy Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, Paris, France, photo by Renée Kemps
Perhaps just as eagerly anticipated as the opening of France itself, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is a long-awaited treasure—the first hotel to open within the grounds of Louis XIV’s famous estate. With views over the Orangerie, the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses and the château itself, guests can imagine themselves transported back in time as they enjoy exclusive access to Versailles 2,000-acre gardens and halls. The hotel is located within a 1681 building originally designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and restored by Christophe Tollemer. Now, there are just 14 18th-century-style rooms and suites—fit for royalty, and filled with details from the original palace—as well as a Valmont spa, a restaurant by Alain Ducasse and a host of special guest experiences, including private tours of the Trianon Palace, The Queen’s Hamlet, the King and Queen’s State Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors and the Orangery Gardens—all before or after they have closed to the public.

Cheval Blanc Paris, France

The view from Cheval Blanc Paris, photo by V. Mati

The view from Cheval Blanc Paris, photo by V. Mati
Cheval Blanc Paris is one of the year’s most eagerly awaited hotels, and the latest creation from the ultra-chic brand with existing properties in the Maldives, St. Tropez, Courchevel and St. Barth’s. Positioned on the Seine, steps from the Louvre and the Marais, this historic 1928 hotel has been reinvigorated by Peter Marino, with gold-speckled Art Deco-style interiors, Parisian craftsmanship and artwork by Vik Muniz and Sonia Delaunay in the 72 rooms and suites. On-property highlights will include the Dior Spa, cuisine from Arnaud Donckele and pastries from Maxime Frédéric—while just outside your door, the magic of the City of Light awaits. Opening later this yearRelated: Insider Journeys

Six Senses Kitzbuehel Alps, Austria

The mountains that surround Salzburg protect a haven of shimmering glacial lakes, dense alpine forests of deep green, dappled in sunlight, and chiseled white cliff faces—and now, travelers will be able to immerse themselves in this legendary beauty while staying at a new Six Senses resort. The property will feature 80 rooms and suites, along with 60 private residences (including 15 freestanding chalets), and center around the Six Senses’ celebrated wellness philosophy and seasonal, simple cuisine. There will be excellent hiking and skiing—as well as plenty of opportunities for The Sound of Music nostalgia. Opening later this year

Villa Copenhagen, Denmark

Opened last summer, Villa Copenhagen is a bright, stylish addition (with a dash of grande-dame glamour) to the Copenhagen hotel scene, within walking distance of the Tivoli Gardens. With nearly 400 rooms, the property is located in the former Danish Post and Telegraph office, which dates back to the 20th century. Inside, Villa Copenhagen is a celebration of everything we love about Denmark: sophisticated yet welcoming design (hello, hygge!), excellent café fare, sustainable living and a playful social scene (the hotel is a hot spot for locals to come for a drink at the rooftop pool bar or to take in an art exhibition or live DJ set in the courtyard designed by Shamballa Jewels).

The Pig at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall, England

The latest addition to the farm-to-table hospitality brand PIG’s portfolio, The Pig at Harlyn Bay is a fantastic outpost inviting travelers to explore the classic British seaside destination of Cornwall. Comprised of a 15th-century Main House with water views (it’s within walking distance of the beach, and a short drive to the port of Padstow), as well as an additional stone courtyard building with guest rooms and four private, freestanding “Garden Wagons,” The Pig at Harlyn Bay is a lovely place for travelers looking to get off the beaten path, in a home-away-from home filled with personality, quirks and, of course, robust opportunities for eating and drinking locally.  Related: 16 Best New Boutique Hotels in the U.S.

Mayfair Townhouse, London, England

Across 15 Georgian townhouses lining the fashionable Mayfair neighborhood’s Half Moon Street—best known for providing the setting for Oscar Wilde’s novel The Importance of Being Earnest—The Mayfair Townhouse presents a modern interpretation of the era’s bohemian allure and decadent pomp, from the elusive fox the hotel takes as its symbol to the theatrical Dandy Bar. Transformed by the firm Goddard Littlefair, with an impressive curation of art and sculpture works by Minda Dowling (be sure to snap a photo of the Clarita Brinkerhoff peacock, comprised of 25,000 Swarovski crystals), the property has 172 rooms and suites decorated in bright colors and accents that nod to the area’s history (the finest of these are the Garden Suites, which have access to private patios). Plus: Don’t miss the chance to swap stories with concierge Dianna Beran, who is one of the only 3 percent of women in the Commonwealth who have earned the famed Les Clefs d’Or (The Golden Keys).Also On Our Radar: The NoMad London, England; Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences, London; The Londoner, London, England; The Woodward, Geneva, Switzerland; Il Tornabuoni, Florence, Italy; Borgo Santandrea, Amalfi Coast, Italy; Iniala Harbour House, Malta; The Cashel Palace Hotel, Ireland; Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul; Bethlen Estates, TransylvaniaConsult this article for the latest on European border policies and travel safety. Contact Indagare or your Trip Designer to start planning safe, responsible and meaningful travels—this year and beyond. Our team can match you with the destinations, hotels and experiences that are right for you and provide information on coronavirus travel safety and policies and more.

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