Though there are numerous luxury independent hotels who promise extraordinary things, few offer a truly unique experience. However, there are some places around the world that do offer something completely different - ranging from gourmet villages in France to Alpine eco-camps. Here is a selection of some of the world's most unique boutique hotel experiences...
Whitepod, Switzerland
There is nothing like the Whitepod experience - you could call Whitepod a boutique hotel only by the loosest of descriptions! This collection of eleven "ecopods", located in the Swiss Alps, offers an experience for those who truly want to get away from it all. With no crowds to worry about, you are free to enjoy the Alpine wilderness without distractions - even the pods, carved out of ice, are designed to blend perfectly with their surroundings. Whitepod also offers a number of luxury comforts, from spa and massage treatments to luxury cuisine from the resident chef. If you want to experience the secluded natural beauty of the Alps but don't want to forsake the style of a luxury hotel, Whitepod is the place.
Les Sources de Caudalie, France
France has long been renowned as the wine-making capital of the world but at this unique boutique hotel they have found a particularly original use for their wine grapes. Having discovered the health and anti-aging benefits of grape seeds and also found a natural hot spring beneath their hotel, Mathilde and Bertrand Cathiard-Thomas combined the two to create the first vinotherapy spa centre in the world. This luxury spa hotel offers a range of health and beauty treatments (including red wine baths and honey and wine wraps) as well as superb accommodation and, of course, fine wine.
Georges Blanc Gourmet Village and Spa, France
This purpose built "gourmet village" is dedicated to serving those who seek a feast for all the senses. Georges Blanc, with three Michelin stars, is one of the finest chefs in France and personally oversees the superb cooking here. But the village has much more to offer than just good food. Luxury hotel accommodation and a comprehensive spa are part of the experience and, from the design of the buildings to the carefully crafted gardens, clients will enjoy the most beautiful experience possible.
The Capri Palace Hotel and Beauty Farm, Capri
There are plenty of luxury spa hotels around the world but there are few that can beat the Capri Palace for location, reputation or the quality of service. On the coast of the beautiful island of Capri, the Capri Palace offers spectacular views out towards the Tyrrhenian Sea and Naples. The white washed hotel is a haven of rest and relaxation, offering palatial accommodation and outstanding dining. Plus, there is the award-winning Capri Beauty Farm: overseen by Professor Francesco Canonaco, it offers a selection of the very best beauty treatments, ranging from "Sun Peel" skin treatments to balsamic steam baths, and it is regarded as one of the finest spas in the world.
Stephanie Clarke is the Managing Director of Concierge Collection, providers of some of the finest luxury independent hotels in Europe. Stephanie and her team use their wealth of experience, expertise and contacts to achieve "Beyond Special". For Concierge Collection, luxury does not have to have a large price tag but the hotels do have to be unique.
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