5 luxury beach destinations to bookmark for your next holiday

There’s a reason holiday bookings escalate at this time of year; after all, what better way to get through the dark days of winter than with the lure of balmy temperatures, private pools and spicy margaritas?

As ever, Greece is beckoning, thanks to its picturesque towns (think white-stone buildings and cobblestone streets), mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine (lamb souvlaki and baklava, anyone?) and plethora of stunning five-star hotels (Casa Cook, we’re looking at you).

If you want to go further afield, consider Egypt. Also steeped in history, it boasts beautiful Mediterranean and Red Sea resorts, such as El Gouna, known for its lagoons.

Ready to daydream? Here are five luxury beach destinations to bookmark for your next holiday.

Samos, Greece

Locals describe Samos as “blessed”, and it’s easy to see why. This peaceful island, with its turquoise water, lush greenery, quaint fishing villages, and sweet wines, is Greece at its best. History buffs will love the culturally rich surroundings, which include a UNESCO-protected temple dedicated to Greek goddess Hera, who it’s said was born here.

Nestled in the island’s forest-like landscapes, overlooking the Aegean Sea, Casa Cook Samos is our destination of choice to refresh the mind, body and soul. The adults-only hotel is inspired by the Greek idea of “paréa” (celebrating good times). Designed with a blend of private and shared spaces, choose what suits a moment’s mood, whether lengthening your limbs in a Pilates class, indulging in truffle fries and veal-cheek orzo by the ocean, or enjoying some alone time in your private swim-up pool. The resort even has a weekly visit from a friendly local fisherman, whose daily catch can be cooked on site.

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is synonymous with luxury partying, and the style set descend on this Aegean paradise every summer. Start your day with a wander around the Old Town, with its distinctive white-washed buildings and cobbled streets, and be sure to pop into the cute boutiques on Matoyianni Street to pick up unique boho-inspired pieces. Next, head to Spilia for a seafood lunch—the fresh sea urchin is caught and prepared in front of you. Should you find yourself on the loungers at Scorpios, the hottest beach bar in town, stay to watch the sunset.

A place to exhale, Casa Cook Mykonos is our favourite resort on the island thanks to its intimate 26-room setting and relaxed atmosphere—an antidote to the island’s party scene. Perched on the pristine coastline, the hotel looks out over the island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Relax in the stunning pool and bar area with a mezze platter while soaking up the hotel's laid-back curated playlist.

Rhodes, Greece

While Rhodes is best known for its family-friendly beaches and all-inclusive hotels, there are plenty of grown-up areas of this beautiful island. The accepted tourist route includes a trip to the medieval Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a spot of scuba-diving, and a boat trip to the island of Symi. 

 

With its contemporary design and boho-chic decor, we wouldn’t judge you for spending your time between a shade lounger and the pool, and not much else. Once sufficiently rejuvenated, embrace morning sun salutations at the hotel's yoga shala on the terrace, hike Tsambika Hill, or take a cab into the Old Town, where you’ll find handmade ceramics, lace and embroidery, plus lively tavernas.

El Gouna, Egypt

When you picture a holiday to Egypt, chances are you’re imagining the ancient sites of the Valley of the Kings or the tourist hot spot of Sharm El Sheikh. But there is another tantalising option: the glamorous city of El Gouna. Five and a half hours by car from Cairo, remote beaches, coral reefs, dolphins and a buzzy restaurant scene await at this modern resort on the Red Sea. For those looking for a little more adventure, head to the mountains of the Eastern Sahara, where you can horse-ride across the sand dunes.

 

It’s something the stunning beachfront hotel Casa Cook El Gouna can organise, along with a range of water sports. Book a Premium Roof Terrace room (we love the rustic decor, styled beautifully with rattan furniture and burnished ceramics) to maximise on sunset views, and spend some time in the spa, which specialises in traditional treatments and has a hammam. We also love the communal-style dining experience at the Kitchen Club, where you can enjoy Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine.

North Coast of Egypt

On the north coast of Egypt is the ancient port city of Alexandria—Cleopatra’s stomping ground and home to the Catacombs, one of the seven wonders of the Middle Ages.

For the ultimate luxe stay, head east along the coast to Casa Cook North Coast, a desert oasis with pared-back interiors and a comprehensive wellness offering, from sound healing to Tai Chi. Unwind further with a North Coast Martini and delicious Mediterranean-style dinner at the hotel’s all-day, all-night hangout, the Kitchen Club, which overlooks a salt-water lagoon. Bliss.

Feature Image: CASA COOK

This article first appeared in harpersbazaar.com/uk in February 2024

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