Holiday Type / Luxury water sports holidays

Not just a pretty face, this eco-conscious and socially committed property encourages its guests to get to grips with the area’s rich treasures, both natural and cultural. Stretching out along the Ionian Sea and close to the iconic, white-crescent of Voidokilia beach – this glossier of two upmarket hotels on an expansive resort is a place to revel in the great outdoors. With everything from cycling in the nature reserve, to farm-to-table experiences picking ingredients for al fresco lunches from the kitchen garden. It’s also perfect for those...

Reclining on 570 acres of beachfront miles away from the overpopulated suntraps, Rocco Forte’s first venture into building its own hotels is a crowd-pleasing, private affair. As Italian tradition dictates, food is taken seriously here – gourmet events range from monthly village fairs featuring guest celebrity chefs to olive oil and wine tastings from local suppliers. Meanwhile, in the cookery school, Sicilian pizza and pasta making is washed down with a mixology masterclass at the bar. When you don’t feel like cooking for yourself, the several...

There’s a distinct Cypriot feel to life in Pissouri Bay, the setting for this expansive resort on the bay’s two kilometre long Blue Flag beach. The property has recently reopened after a gleaming top-to-toe refurbishment. Delve into the comfort of spacious suites featuring large bathrooms with bathtub and separate shower, sleek wooden furniture and welcome touches such as a Nespresso machine and Molton Brown toiletries. Selected suites have a fireplace and private plunge pool, with an air-conditioned elevator to deliver guests to Executive Sui...

Understated luxury and genuine hospitality distinguish Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort as an excellent family destination which lies within a protected natural park on the unspoilt Western Algarve. Rooms in this stylish beachfront hotel – all with ocean views - are complemented by a selection of spacious, two-floor family houses with floor-to-ceiling windows and front or back lawns, some with their own private swimming pool. Traditional Portuguese recipes have been re-invented with flair and imagination at O Terraço, a contemporary venue...

Perfectly situated by a secluded azure bay with white sands and views to Mount Olympus and the Aegean Sea, Sani Club is discreetly luxurious. Contemporary low-rise bungalows feature huge picture windows and large terraces to maximise vistas make the resort ideal for families. Some rooms have their own garden, selected Junior Suites benefit from a private pool whilst Family Suites are exceptionally spacious. Guests are free to explore the full range of culinary options throughout the Sani Resort and Marina, where over thirty bars and restaurant...

Relaxation and rejuvenation are the order of the day at recently refurbished BodyHoliday, St Lucia – a leading all-inclusive wellness resort perched directly on Cariblue Beach. Voted one of the Caribbean’s top luxury resorts for couples and individuals in Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, BodyHoliday is continually at the cutting edge of health and wellness, offering everything from Tai Chi and Pilates to waterskiing and abseiling plus daily spa treatments are included in the price. However, there are no hard and fast rules at this ...

An A-listers’ favourite, this private island paradise includes celebrity-owned private estates with a select few available for rent. Although the spa is the real star here. An escapist’s wonderland with an emphasis on rejuvenation, COMO is renowned the world over for its wellness offerings; and Parrot Cay is the place to come if you want to fully focus on your physical and mental health. A daily hour’s yoga, Pilates, fitness or meditation session or signature treatment is included as standard. The COMO Shambhala Retreat spa itself is mind-blow...

Located on privately owned Olhuveli Island in the Laamu Atoll, this impressive resort deftly blends out-and-out luxury with impeccable eco-friendly credentials. A large stretch of beachfront has been left untouched enabling guests to feel close to nature. With the emphasis on natural materials, Beach Villas have a garden and direct beach access, whilst the Water Villas are replete with a sunken bath and roof terrace. Both have a refreshing outdoor rain shower and raised dining deck for romantic meals under the stars. Chill to the relaxed soun...

Set on a colourful garden island just a short speedboat ride from Malé, Four Seasons Resort at Kuda Huraa is an international resort that reflects all the charm and intimacy of a traditional Maldivian village. Dolphin-rich waters and countless nearby surf spots fringe the sugar white sands of this petite private island, meaning that lazy days and exhilarating experiences are never far away. Beach Bungalows and Water Villas sit along the edge of this secluded island, with restaurants and recreational facilities arranged around a central promen...

One destination spread languidly across two islands, Niyama gives the luxury Maldives holiday an exciting twist. Recent stellar upgrades have given the resort more of everything that makes a getaway so special, from new culinary attractions to a poolside ice cream bar, photo studio and children’s club. Relax as never before in ultra-chic accommodation encompassing sleek suites, water studios and beach pavilions, the Crescent comprising five villas with private Thakuru butlers. No fewer than eight restaurants now tempt the taste buds; new BLU f...

Lapped by an iridescent coral sea, premium all-inclusive Constance Moofushi, Maldives opened to much acclaim. Alabaster white beaches are perfect for barefoot relaxation, a theme that extends into the villas with their rustic chic appeal and extensive in-villa entertainment. Drift off in your Beach Villa hammock, or slip effortlessly into the clear waters from your Water Villa or extra spacious Senior Water Villa – all decorated with a light, individualistic touch. In the sand-floored Manta Restaurant, buffet meals are accompanied by fine win...

Towering archways, arabesque domes and ornate spires create the dream-like vision that is Atlantis. The resort’s rooms and suites, which are housed within the soaring Royal Towers, offer views over the Gulf or The Palm, whilst for exclusivity, the Royal Bridge Suite has its own private elevator and butler service. Guests who desire further VIP treatment can select the Imperial Club, which comes complete with private check-in at the Royal Majilis lounge, exclusive private Imperial Beach Club access, and all-day access to the Imperial Club Loung...

One of Australia’s most desirable island resorts, accommodation is split between three areas – the Pool Wing, Beach Wing and Lagoon Wing – all with beautifully appointed rooms, suites and penthouses featuring balconies or terraces with unrivalled island views. Should you want to make the island feel more like home, the three bedroom Hayman Beach House offers three private pools and direct access to the beach. Indulge in world class cuisine from one of the resort’s four restaurants; signature restaurant, Pacific, serves modern Australian, savo...

Surrounded by tropical gardens and set right beside the Indian Ocean on Seminyak Beach, the Legian remains one of Bali’s most sought after resorts. Wind down on your balcony daybed to the sound of the waves, or read a book over a cup of jamu - a refreshing herbal drink. Here you can completely enjoy spacious living in your individually furnished suite with its rich woods, cool marbles and state-of-the-art amenities. Across the road, The Club at The Legian boasts a selection of private villas, each with its own pool and the added services of a...

A secluded cluster of luxury Villas and Lanais set in fifteen acres of resplendent tropical gardens dotted with ancient Balinese temples on the popular Seminyak Beach. Relax in the cool comfort of your Villa or Lanai with its carved teakwood bed or luxuriate in the deep sunken marble bath. The Lanais are compact, yet supremely comfortable, each with its own outdoor terrace. Fine dining is an integral part of the Oberoi experience – enjoy international cuisine at the Kura Kura restaurant or alfresco breakfasts at the beachside Frangipani Café. ...

Cradled between forested hills and inviting Pantai Dalit beach, Borneo’s leading hotel is supremely placed to explore the island’s incredibly rich natural environment, and lush gardens surround the attractive accommodation. Guests staying in the Ocean Wing will be cosseted by opulently furnished sea-facing rooms and a rich array of facilities, including an exclusive free-form swimming pool. There’s a distinctly Malaysian flavour to the décor with its soft earthy tones and intricately carved panels, and if the flavours of authentic Indian and I...

A bewitching welcome awaits you at The Datai – one of the premier resorts on this magical isle, which is swathed in legends of romance and mystery. Get close to nature as you tread footpaths through centuries-old rainforest or head for a white sand beach by the shimmering Andaman Sea. Perfection is all around and begins in your chosen accommodation – a Suite with an expansive private balcony, elegant villas within the lush tropical rainforest, or the contemporary Beach Villas with generously sized private pools and dedicated butlers. Here, th...

Cradled within the exclusive enclave of Laguna Phuket, bordered by Bang Tao Bay and the Andaman Sea lies the legendary Banyan Tree Resorts, Phuket. Set in over six hundred acres of lush tropical gardens, coconut groves, tranquil lakes and lagoons is a magnificent collection of luxurious appointed one to three bedroom private pool villas within three distinct resorts. Freestanding villas are designed to reflect the spirit of Thai architecture complemented by every modern amenity and an unrivalled service. Dining options encompass eight restaur...

Meaning 'Garden in the third heaven', Trisara is one of Phuket's leading properties tucked away in a sublime private bay on the Andaman Sea. Intimate and exclusive, it comprises a luxurious collection of one to eight bedroom pool villas, suites and residences. All with generously sized infinity pools, sumptuous bathrooms and panoramic ocean views - the larger residences come complete with kitchens, cooks and dedicated day time staff. Beneath the shade of coconut and palm trees, the expansive beachfront restaurant offers delights of Thai and w...

Nine hundred metres of beachfront, one hundred acres of paradise. Tucked away in tropical rainforest this award-winning Small Luxury Hotels of the World property lies on unspoilt Koh Lanta, on a rugged hillside above the shore. Here, the one-to-three bedroom Pool Villas form an exclusive complex around their own central hub and breathtaking infinity pool. There is also an infinity pool and day bed on the terrace of each villa, while interiors house a fully-equipped kitchen, lounge/ dining room and bedrooms with four-poster beds. Pool Villa gu...

Reminiscent of staying at a friend's private estate, intimacy and understated luxury come together in a madly romantic setting at the award-winning property The Sarojin. Beautifully located on a secluded eleven kilometre white sand beach by the Andaman Sea, it borders spectacular primary rainforests and national parks including the fabled dive sanctuaries of the Similan and Surin Islands, and the dramatic limestone outcrops of Phang Nga Bay. Residences are spacious, contemporary Asian in style; some with exquisite outdoor salas, some with priv...

We won’t exaggerate, but when the boat slips between the gateway of jungle-topped cliffs and slows upon reaching Rayavadee, well, let’s just say a gentle pinch may be in order. Obscured beneath what seems to be their own bit of rainforest, kindred spirits to Robinson Crusoe feel right at home in their solitude. So intimate is the relationship between hotel and jungle, the domed villas snuggled between the greenery – not to mention the monkeys that swing overhead –  make life here feel blended with the endless flora and fauna. At the tip of th...

Cascading serenely down a forested hillside on the north west tip of Koh Samui lies a ravishing resort within a hidden cove. From here, the views across the Gulf of Siam and surrounding islands are simply breathtaking. Settle into your freestanding villa or private residence - raised on stilts in the traditional local style - to bask on your spacious deck with its private infinity-edge pool, perhaps working up the energy to slip down to the Coco Rum Bar or to the porcelain-white beach complete with a 50 metre pool. Five individual spa salas (c...