9 Upscale Small Hotels Where You Can Enjoy the Ultimate in Luxury and Privacy
II Belvedere, Matera, Italy
II Belvedere is located in one of Italy’s most unique cities, set atop a ridge with deep canyons on either side, with people here living and dining in caves. Early settlers who arrived here some 9,000 years ago lived in the natural caves of the canyon walls, extending them until eventually there were thousands of caves throughout Matera.
Today many of the caves have been transformed into upscale eateries and stylish hotels like this one, where you can enjoy breakfast, a glass of wine or appetizers while overlooking the city. It offers several types of rooms, including some that are built right into the cave.
Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya
Giraffe Manor offers the ultimate African stay in its Nairobi manor — it features an impressive property with lush green gardens and a sunny terrace that may make you think you’ve stepped into the film Out of Africa.
Part of its appeal is the herd of resident Rothschild giraffes who make frequent visits in the morning and evening, occasionally even poking their long necks into the windows to say hello. The 10-room boutique hotel is surrounded by 12 acres of lawn that’s filled with giraffes, who make their way over from the neighboring forest sanctuary.
Relax on the veranda and you may even get the chance to hand-feed these friendly creatures. The hotel offers a variety of activities too, like forest walks to see a wide variety of rare animals and bird species, as well as visits to the Shedrick Elephant Orphanage where you can get up close to baby elephants.
These Kauai helicopter tours will fly you over (and sometimes land you next to) the most remote and beautiful sights the island has to offer.
Hotel Patio Andaluz, Quito, Ecuador
Hotel Patio is located in a 300-year-old architectural jewel in the heart of Quito’s historic district, the building’s walls having witnessed the Spanish founding of the city. It’s perfectly situated just steps from Independence Square and multiple historic sites such as San Francisco Plaza, the Sucre Theater and the Church de la Compania.
The 16th-century colonial-style mansion is filled with ornate-style furnishings and also hosts a highly acclaimed restaurant in a beautiful courtyard that serves an extensive breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner. In a cozy nook just off the courtyard, you’ll also discover a fantastic tapas bar.
