The Hot List

1. Geographical opulence

Coined by James McBride, the brains behind NIHI Sumba, the term “geographical opulence” refers to the abundance of nature at its wildest, and these new remote outposts deliver a meaningful connection to just that.

Octola Private Wilderness is a good case in point. Set in the untouched snowscapes of Finnish Lapland, its new sibling – Octola II – has a similar ethos: ultra-private, unimaginable comfort and utterly mesmerising. Contact us to join the invite-only wait list. Similarly off-radar is adventure specialist Eleven’s opening of Eleven Winterlake Lodge, a gateway to wild experiences in backcountry Alaska. For big skies, wide open spaces and the joy of cowboy country, look to One&Only Moonlight Basin, surrounded by endless plains and Montana’s brooding mountains. Over in the Indian Himalayas, we’re excited about Shakti Prana, reachable only by foot. We can arrange deeply immersive, cultural experiences: yoga, meditation and gentle hikes along the ancient pathways of Asia’s spiritual heartlands. Finally, Botswana’s Okavango Delta has long been known for its rewarding wildlife experiences in a unique, ever-shifting ecosystem. The opening of Singita Elela marks an opportunity for deeper access in one of the largest concessions in the region – 170,000 hectares of pristine wilderness.

Top:The northern lights shimmer over Octola II; Above: Himalayan views from Shakti Prana

2. Cheers to that

Deep in Burgundy country, a historic 900-year-old wine estate has had a grand revival, with a focus on celebrating the roots of its wine-making traditions. Once a fortified manor and now reimagined as a five-star hotel, Château La Commaraine is located in the village of Pommard, the epicentre of Premier-Cru vineyards and bold Burgundy reds. The château’s seven acres of vineyards, state-of-the-art winery and tasting room, cuverie and daily viticulture pursuits make it a dream escape for oenophiles – and then there’s the beautiful design, landscaped gardens and world-class spa to sweeten the deal. Superb dining under atmospheric vaults, helmed by Chef Christophe Raoux, crowns each evening.

Above: Vineyard views encircle Château La Commaraine 

3. A Maltese moment

Reasons to put Malta on your go-to list for 2026 should include staying at 18th-century Casa Bonavita, opening in May and owned by the founders of The Rug Company, Christopher Sharp and his wife Suzanne, who grew up on the island. Discover a noble, creamy-white baroque mansion, with lively pops of colour and tastefully-revived interiors, encircled by an overflowing Mediterranean garden and citrus orchards, all with a strong connection to craftsmanship and pottery – the family also runs Villa Bologna, a 100-year-old ceramic business. Don’t miss dining in Villa Bologna's flower-filled garden, feasting on Italian specialities served on cheerful, handcrafted ceramics.

Above: Colourful ceramics at Villa Bologna in Malta

4. Setting sail

The coming year sees an embarrassment of riches in the world of small-shipcruising and private yachts, promising journeys that go further and deeper.Speak to us about our recommendations on which cruise to choose and how to get ahead of the wait lists. With just 15 cabins, we love the sound of superyacht Aqua Lares which can be chartered exclusively or by suite for a jaunt exploring the Seychelles’ more remote islands, encountering giant tortoises and boulder-strewn beaches. For an intrepid expedition, cruise the Peruvian Amazon in sleek style aboard the &Beyond Amazon Explorer; its floor-to-ceiling windows frame wild riverine views.

Billed as the next generation of superyachts, Ritz-Carlton has a new fleet of ultra-luxury cruise vessels which promise a guest-staff ratio of one-to-one. Featuring all-terrace suites, both the Ritz-Carlton Ilma and Ritz-Carlton Luminara will set sail in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Orient Express is also dipping its toe into the world of luxury sailing with innovative yacht Orient Express Corinthian showcasing new solid-sail technology on its voyages around the Mediterranean. Inside, rich interiors feature swirled marble, lacquered woods and burnt orange furnishings.

Above: Orient Express Corinthian’s elegant interiors

5. Sun, sea and seclusion

The latest clutch of beach retreats are all about offering calming connections with nature in far-flung locations. South American brand Awasi’s first beach hotel is set on a secluded peninsula in southern Brazil. Looking out over the Três Ilhas archipelago, Awasi Santa Catarina’s tranquil, nature-enveloped surroundings make the perfect finale to a Brazilian itinerary. Heading north to Mexico, Aman is unveiling a new minimalist wonder on the shores of Los Cabos. Low-slung and shrouded in nature, Amanvari promises a serene escape on the glittering Sea of Cortés.

Off the coast of Tanzania, exclusive-use Thanda Island has been revamped by Jumeirah. Drift by dhow, walk on icing-sugar-soft sand or simply relish the bliss of disconnected island life. For something wilder, NIHI Rote, sister property to NIHI Sumba, brings new meaning to off-radar. Found on a deserted beach on Rote Island in East Timor, the-off-the-map resort offers cultural connection in untamed nature.

Above: Beachy bliss at Awasi’s Santa Catarina in southern Brazil