Two winter getaways
Maia Luxury Retreat and Spa, Seychelles
This idyllic retreat in the Seychelles is only three years old, but it has already earned itself a worldwide reputation. It has 30 private villas, each set in secluded tropical surroundings.
How they rate it
The resort is "seamlessly blending bespoke luxury with absolute relaxation", says Harper's Bazaar. The magazine has named Maia one of the best 'Chic Retreats' in the world. "Without pushing the daily 8am yoga classes, or insisting on the healthy menu, Maia gently works its magic."
The spa in particular is excellent. "The pavilions have no walls beyond the natural granite boulders that surround them, so massages are accompanied by strange rustlings in the undergrowth." And the therapists are "insanely good" – each one has to complete six months training in Bali before joining Maia.
The menu
This hotel may describe itself as a retreat, but don't let that put you off. The menu is designed to ease the body and mind, not starve them. The food is healthy yet delicious, with options including lobster sago salad with green asparagus, or slow-cooked, pan-seared pigeon with artichokes.
The cost
Seven nights in an ocean front villa from £5,660 per person B&B, incl. flights (Elegantresorts.co.uk; 01244-897517).
La Mamounia, Marrakesh, Morocco
In its past La Mamounia was the centre of the Marrakesh social scene. Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill both stayed there, David Hockney painted there and Alfred Hitchcock used the hotel as a film set. But in the 1980s it began to lose its sheen and in 2006 it closed down completely. It has now reopened, having been restored to the luxurious jewel of a hotel it was during its glory years.
How they rate it
Tatler has declared La Mamounia its 'hotel of the year'. It's "a siren – evocative, lush, the best of the old days turned into something marvellously new". The £100m refurbishment was worth every penny. This "oasis with presence" is ideally located beside Djemaa el Fna, one of Marrakech's most famous market squares.
While the rest of the city's hotels are small boutique affairs, La Mamounia proudly goes the other way. "An army works here" – there are 70 different types of uniforms to cover the range of jobs. When choosing a room, for the best views go for the Park or Agdal rooms, which overlook the Atlas mountains. But if you want to take a private dip, opt for one of the three individual riads, each with its own pool.
The menu
The restaurants "are heaven". La Marocain serves traditional Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist.
The cost
Doubles from £350 (Mamounia.com, 00 212 524 388 600).