1. MASLINA RESORT, Stari Grad, Croatia
Maslina doesn't suffer from the overcrowding you find elsewhere on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Its position outside the UNESCO town of Stari Grad, which is itself set on a protected bay on the island of Hvar, gives it a lovely secluded feel. The lush landscaping and modernist simplicity of the architecture take care of the rest.
2. THE GREEN ROOM, Oceanside, California, USA
Oceanside has been less affected by gentrification and redevelopment than many other more famous SoCal beach destinations. It’s a good thing, because it leaves space for gems like South Oceanside’s little downtown strip, and the masterfully reimagined 1950s motel that’s now The Green Room.
3. SUSANA BALBO WINEMAKER'S HOUSE, Luján de Cuyo, Argentina
As Argentina’s first female winemaker, Susana Balbo has a name that carries some weight. For her entry into the hotel world she lends her initials to SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, a stunning seven-suite luxury boutique hotel in the wine country village of Chacras de Coria, just outside the city of Mendoza.
4. SEVEN, Paris, France
One of Paris’ original high-style boutique hotels, Seven is still going strong – and rather than rest on its original inspiration, it has continued to evolve. The updated rooms maximise visual impact by doing away with clutter, but despite the focused and simple approach, they're still well clear of anything you’d call minimalism.
5. EL REY COURT, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
A 1936 vintage motel on a stretch of Route 66 is now El Rey Court, a beautifully reimagined boutique hotel. Its original architecture remains intact, and its sun-dried brick and timber construction is memorable to say the least. Inside, it’s a hip mix of local Southwestern colour with modern art and design.
Hero image: © Susana Balbo Winemaker's House & Spa Suites
