As a seasoned traveler, I’m always on the lookout for top luxury travel experiences. Recently, I found the best places for luxury and adventure, all thanks to Travel + Leisure’s recommendations. These places range from exclusive beach bungalows and luxurious mountain resorts to hidden inns in unspoiled nature and charming lodges deep in the wild.1
What sets these destinations apart is their unique offerings. Just picture spending your days on a private beach on a Polynesian island that captivated a Hollywood star, like The Brando,1 or exploring Chile’s beautiful Torres del Paine National Park while staying at a spa retreat in the park itself, like Tierra Patagonia.1 These places are so tempting, you might find it hard to step out of your villa. Imagine leaving romantic messages in a bottle on the beach at Las Ventanas al Paraiso,1 or having your very own submarine for underwater adventures at Laucala Island, Fiji.1
Key Takeaways
- Discover the world’s top luxury vacation destinations, curated by travel experts
- Experience one-of-a-kind adventures, from private beaches to national park retreats
- Indulge in luxurious amenities and personalized services at these high-end resorts
- Explore a variety of family-friendly destinations, from coastal havens to mountain escapes
- Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones at these extraordinary properties
The Brando, French Polynesia
The Brando is located on the private Tetiaroa island in French Polynesia. It used to belong to the iconic actor Marlon Brando. This stunning resort, opened in 2014, stands out as one of the top private island spots globally.
Hollywood Legend’s Private Island Paradise
Tetiaroa is an atoll with many small islands encircling a beautiful lagoon, just a 30-mile trip from Tahiti.2 Marlon Brando bought this amazing place in 1967 to protect its nature. Now, guests at The Brando can enjoy this untouched paradise and connect with his legacy.
Sustainable Luxury Villas with Private Beaches
The Brando boasts 35 lavish villas, each with its own private beach and pool. They also have outdoor dining spots and high-tech media rooms.2 The design honors Polynesian culture and leads in green living, with a LEED platinum certification. Thanks to things like solar power, the resort is very eco-friendly.
World-Class Dining, Activities, and Amenities
At The Brando, everything is included in your stay, from meals to spa sessions.2 The food is a mix of Polynesian flavors, international fusion, and fine French cuisine, served at several spots around the resort. For activities, guests have many options, from exploring on bikes or underwater to relaxing on the beach.
This resort is perfect for travelers who value luxury and eco-consciousness. With its natural beauty and commitment to green practices, The Brando offers a memorable vacation. An all-inclusive stay, including flights and luxurious features, starts from $12,895 for five nights.
Pikaia Lodge, Galapagos Islands
Eco-Adventure Tours and Island Exploration
At Pikaia Lodge on the Galapagos Islands, you can choose tours from 3 to 7 nights. These trips let you discover lava tunnels and see organic coffee farms. You can also relax on beautiful beaches.3 Each trip has a yacht adventure. You can hike, kayak, and snorkel around the more hidden islands of the Galapagos.3
Luxury Accommodations with Stunning Views
This lodge is set on top of an old volcano. It offers amazing views of the savannah, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.3 The place has an infinity pool and a Sumaq spa. There are also 3.5 kilometers of trails for you to explore.3 Plus, the lodge has its very own tortoise reserve. Here, you might see the famous giant tortoises.3
Pikaia Lodge helps the local area by giving back. For five years, it has provided an extra teacher to El Cascajo school3. The lodge also supports another school with needed materials.
Additionally, the lodge helps organize events in the village and hosts science talks for local students3.
Here, you can experience the amazing nature of the Galapagos. The lodge focuses on the local wildlife, like giant tortoises and penguins. The food here is also exceptional, making your stay unforgettable.3
Your experience at the lodge can be top-notch. They offer packages with three meals a day, boat and land tours, and even spa treatments4. Even the shortest stay includes three meals and two full days of adventures.4
The lodge’s main ship, the Pikaia 1, is a 100-foot yacht for cruising to other islands4. It’s located on Santa Cruz Island, just a quick boat ride from Baltra. So, getting here is easy.4
A highlight of the trips is seeing the giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island4. Rooms at the lodge ensure privacy with their layout. They are great for families and groups.4
The lodge is also child-friendly. You’ll find everything from a pool to a special tree planting activity. This makes it a great place for families.4
Finally, when you pack for the Galapagos Islands, bring a few key items. You’ll want a waterproof backpack and a case for your phone. An underwater camera and hiking pants are also a good idea.4
Laucala Island, Fiji
In the stunning Fijian archipelago sits Laucala Island. It’s a 3,500-acre paradise known for luxury and privacy.5 The villas there are like traditional Fijian houses, with thatched roofs and natural elements. They also have modern features like infinity pools and hot tubs. This place has everything you need for a perfect getaway.5
Exclusive Private Island Resort
Laucala is not just any resort; it’s a private island escape. It ensures its guests enjoy peace and top-notch service.5 You can savor dishes from the island’s farm at one of the 5 restaurants. And to relax, there’s a spa on the hill that offers many treatments.5
Overwater Bungalows and Villas
The island also has overwater bungalows and villas, a unique experience.6 Staying here means being above the beautiful Fijian waters. There are rooms for everyone, from families to big groups.6
Personal Submarine Excursions
What’s even more impressive is the DeepFlight Super Falcon submarine.5 It’s a special way to see Fijian marine life and coral. This experience is truly unforgettable.5
If you want a private, luxurious vacation, Laucala Island is the place. It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty, great service, and special experiences. Your time there will be extraordinary.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Canada
In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you’ll find the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. It’s a perfect mix of wild nature and elegant luxury, offering a luxury glamping experience. This special place is only open for five months a year, from mid-May to September’s end. It gives guests the chance to completely dive into the wild beauty of the region.7
Luxury Glamping in the Canadian Rockies
This resort has 20 luxury guest tents, each designed carefully. They have antique items, like dressers and china. You’ll find oil lamps, soft carpets, and stoves under your control. Fifteen tents have ensuite bathrooms that boast heated floors and showers, ensuring a super comfortable stay.7 There are also five Deluxe Outpost Tents perfect for families or groups.7
Outdoor Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
Guests at the resort can create their adventure. Choices include river kayaking, wildlife-watching, and horseriding. There are also equestrian activities, ziplining, and relaxing in hot springs or the spa nearby. The resort has over 30 horses for exploring the area on horseback, making your outdoor adventures unforgettable.8
The Clayoquot Wilderness Resort is an amazing place in the Canadian Rockies. It allows you to experience the pure wild while enjoying luxury. With praises from top magazines like Afar, Robb Report, and Condé Nast Traveler, it’s a top spot for a luxury glamping trip.8
Velaa Private Island, Maldives
Situated in the beautiful Maldives, Velaa Private Island is a top pick for those seeking beyond luxury. It’s an exclusive escape with modern design, stunning views, and top-notch services for the pickiest of guests.9
Beyond Luxury Hideaway
On Velaa Private Island, guests can live it up in beach villas or villas that float on the sea. They all come with private pools and big terraces. This resort also has many things to do, like a great spa, exciting water sports, a fun climbing wall, quiet meditation areas, and a library with lots of books.9 Plus, there’s a special spot for wine lovers to enjoy some rare wines.9
Floating Villas and Overwater Experiences
Velaa Private Island stands out as a leading Maldives luxury resort with 45 gorgeous overwater villas.10 Notable among these are the vast Velaa Private Residence, offering 14,250 square feet, and the Romantic Pool Residence, the biggest one-bedroom overwater villa at 6,436 square feet.10
For more private island luxury, there’s the Ocean Pool House, a two-bedroom overwater villa, and the Beach Pool House for beach lovers.10 The resort also has the Sunrise and Sunset Water Pool Villas for those who prefer stepping from their villa directly into the ocean.10
If you want to be right next to the beach, check out the Beach Pool Villa or the Deluxe Beach Pool Villa. They offer plenty of space and easy beach access.10
Velaa Private Island is all about top-class rooms, superb services, and careful attention to every detail.9 It truly stands for the best in Maldives luxury resort living.9
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, Mexico
Romantic Beachfront Escape
Las Ventanas al Paraiso is perfect for couples seeking romance. It has a broad selection of romantic offerings on its menu.11 This resort sees 350 days of sunshine a year, giving guests lots of fun things to do.11 You can watch a movie on the beach or enjoy a relaxing bath in your suite. It’s the ideal place for a romantic trip.
Curated Romantic Experiences
At Las Ventanas al Paraiso, love is in the air. They offer special experiences like a desert carriage ride in Los Cabos. You can also chill in private cabanas with pools and Jacuzzis.
Plus, you might find a love note hidden in a bottle on the beach, thanks to the butlers.11 The resort goes the extra mile to ensure a truly romantic getaway.
Culinary and Tequila Adventures
Foodies and drink lovers will enjoy Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Here, couples can learn how to cook or enjoy tasty barbacoa dinners. They can even have a tequila tasting with an expert.12 The resort has many dining spots and unique food adventures. They aim to keep guests happy and well-fed during their visit.
Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas
Travel experts recommend many family-friendly trips. These include fun, luxury, and memories that last a lifetime.13
All-Inclusive Family Resorts
All-inclusive resorts offer everything you and your family need. This means you can relax and have fun together without any worries.13 Most have water parks, kids’ clubs, fancy restaurants, and spa services.
Educational and Cultural Immersion
Looking for an educational adventure? Choose places where your family can learn about local cultures.13 You can visit museums, join in local traditions, and understand more about the place’s history. It creates memories and a love for that culture.
Outdoor Adventures and Adrenaline Activities
Want something more exciting? Try safaris, water sports, or climbing. These activities are fun and help you bond with your family.13 Adventures like hiking, zip-lining, kayaking, and rock climbing are both thrilling and luxurious.
The Ranch at Paws Up, Montana
The Ranch at Paws Up is set on a huge 37,000-acre ranch in western Montana.14 It blends the beauty of nature with high-class comfort. Guests can pick from big ranch estates or luxury tents with modern features.14 These include heated floors and private bathrooms. There are also adventures like fly fishing and horseback riding.14
Luxury Ranch Experience
The Ranch at Paws Up has top-notch accommodations and lots of fun things to do.14 On their Instagram, you can see guests doing everything from archery to hot air ballooning.14 It’s perfect for thrill-seekers or those wanting to relax in style. You can truly have a one-of-a-kind vacation here.
Glamping and Estate Accommodations
The Ranch has 28 luxury homes and six glamping camps, designed for various group sizes.14 For example, the North Bank Camp has luxury tents with up to three bedrooms.14 Glamping Butlers are there to make your stay perfect. They provide great service. The North Bank Camp also has a dining lodge where groups can eat together comfortably.14
Endless Outdoor Pursuits
Paws Up offers over 70 activities for families, making it great for nature lovers.15 You’ll find accommodations suitable for any group, from two to eight people.15 Families can enjoy special dinners like the Montana Long Table event, set in beautiful outdoor spaces.15 There are also themed venues for meals across the ranch.15
If you’re looking for luxury, glamping, or outdoor fun, The Ranch at Paws Up in Montana is perfect. Its mix of comfort and adventure makes for an unforgettable vacation.
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland
The Chedi Andermatt is in the Swiss Alps. It turned Andermatt from a quiet spot into a top luxury ski spot in Switzerland.16 This 105-room hotel has rooms and suites with leather chairs, wood floors, fireplaces, and art like Rubens’s.16
Alpine Ski Destination
At The Chedi Andermatt, you get a 9,000-square-foot spa. It has Finnish saunas and baths. There’s also a room you can ski into, an ice rink, a gym, and ideal spots for skiing, hiking, and fine wining and dining.16 They make sure kids have fun with a playground and daycare services.16
Luxurious Amenities and Accommodations
The hotel has 59 Deluxe Suites. A family of four can stay from 650 CHF a night.16 It’s filled with 196 fireplaces and an area only for adults, including pools and saunas.16 The impressive spa and club area is 2,400 square meters. They serve Swiss, European, and Asian foods at The Restaurant.17
The Japanese Restaurant there offers sushi and sashimi. But it’s open only in winter.16 Andermatt is different from well-known Swiss resorts. It doesn’t have as much for tourists.16
Little Kulala, Namibia
Little Kulala in Namibia is a top-notch luxury desert resort. It lets guests dive into the country’s amazing landscapes and varied wildlife. It’s easy for visitors here to see animals that have adapted to the desert.18
This place has 11 comfy villas in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve. Each villa is perfect for a relaxing stay in the middle of the Namibian desert.18 You’ll get your own private plunge pool with views of the desert plains. These lodgings are designed with Deadvlei in mind.18
At Little Kulala, you can do more than just safari. It offers cool stuff like stargazing and dune explorations. These activities help guests really get to know the Namibian desert.18 Plus, the lodge is near Sossusvlei. This makes it easy to visit famous spots like Big Daddy dune and Deadvlei.18
There’s a range of food to enjoy at Little Kulala, from cereal to vegetarian options. You can eat inside or outside and enjoy the view as you eat.18
The resort is in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve, which is huge at 67,000 acres.19 It has 11 villas with private pools and ‘sky beds’. Safari packages range in length and cost.19
Little Kulala is big on protecting the wilderness. It helps with wildlife research and caring for the reserve.19 Guests love staying here because of the beautiful rooms, the nice staff, and the amazing desert views.19
The desert in Namibia is perfect for hot air balloon rides. They give you a special view of the area.18 Near Little Kulala is the Sesriem Canyon. It’s nearly 2 miles long and has breathtaking stunning views.18
Staying at Little Kulala means you can do a lot. Like exploring on an ATV and seeing wildlife such as oryx.18 There are also common areas like a library, wine cellar, and a pool with views of the desert.18
To get to Little Kulala, you can fly in or drive with a 4×4. It’s part of the Kulala Wilderness Reserve, known for many activities and its comforts. This makes it special for an awesome time in Namibia.1819
Conclusion
This article has highlighted luxury vacation ideas for families. It shows how these choices can make adventures truly unforgettable.20 You can choose from private islands, mountain retreats, or eco-lodges in wilderness places. These places mix luxury with unique adventures for people of all ages.20
If you’re into learning about different cultures or love high-energy outdoor activities, there’s something for you. Even if you just want to relax in beautiful nature, these ideas have it all. They offer a mix of fine living and thrilling experiences for travelers who look for the best.20 Families can also get expert help to plan vacations that suit their likes.20
Imagine being at the beautiful Maldives beaches or the majestic Swiss Alps. This article’s travel ideas aim to make your family trip extraordinary. You’ll gather joys and memories that will stay with you forever.20 No matter what type of adventure you like, these options are bound to be exciting for every family.
FAQ
What types of luxury family vacation ideas are featured in this article?
What makes the Brando in French Polynesia a unique luxury resort?
What kind of experiences can guests enjoy at Pikaia Lodge in the Galapagos Islands?
What unique features does Laucala Island in Fiji offer?
What type of accommodation and activities can guests experience at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in Canada?
What makes Velaa Private Island in the Maldives a “beyond luxury” destination?
What are some of the romantic experiences available at Las Ventanas al Paraiso in Mexico?
What types of family-friendly vacation ideas are recommended in the article?
What unique offerings can guests expect at The Ranch at Paws Up in Montana?
What makes The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland a top ski destination?
What unique experiences can guests have at Little Kulala in Namibia?
Source Links
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-summer-vacation-destinations-for-families-in-the-us/
- https://jyoshankar.com/2022/12/staying-at-the-worlds-most-luxurious-eco-resort-the-brando-in-tetiaroa-french-polynesia/
- https://goanddogood.com/2022/10/pikaia-lodge-galapagos-islands-ecuador/
- https://www.sandrastravel.com/post/pikaia-lodge-the-no-cruise-way-to-experience-the-galapagos-islands
- https://arbitertravel.com/blog/arbiter-approved-laucala-island/
- https://www.fijivacations.com/resorts/laucala-private-island-resort/
- https://travelmamas.com/clayoquot-wilderness-resort-with-kids/
- https://clayoquotwildernesslodge.com/
- https://theluxtraveller.com/velaa-private-island-luxury-resort-in-maldives-for-the-affluent/
- https://www.linaratravel.com/resorts/velaa-private-island/
- https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/las-ventanas-los-cabos/experiences
- https://www.wingedboots.co.uk/magazine/things-to-do-at-las-ventanas-al-paraiso-a-rosewood-resort/
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/summer-vacations/affordable-family-vacations
- https://welltraveledkids.com/montana-ranch-vacation-paws-up/
- https://www.pawsup.com/storage/pdf/families/families-at-the-resort.pdf
- https://ciaobambino.com/the-chedi-andermatt-review
- https://www.thechediandermatt.com/
- https://www.theblondeabroad.com/staying-at-little-kulala-in-namibia/
- https://isafari.nathab.com/camps/Little-Kulala
- https://www.wendyperrin.com/ideas-for-your-familys-spring-break-trip/