Unforgettable Luxury Hotels I Visited: My Vacation Guide

When this time of the year rolls around, who isn’t thinking about booking a break away?! There’s perhaps nothing I love quite as much as checking into a hotel and getting lost in a different corner of the world. And as a very well-seasoned traveller, I’ve gotten my passport stamped plenty while journeying to some of my favourite hotels. So in the spirit of never gatekeeping, I’ve put together a roundup of my top picks for the best hotels in Italy and France (with one Swiss spot thrown in for good measure). The sooner we get started, the sooner you can start planning your travels – so let’s go! 

No place can ever quite compare to the dream-like setting of the French Riviera and when I think of this so-called heaven on Earth, my mind goes straight to Hôtel du Cap Eden Roc. But perhaps one of this hotel’s best and lesser-known qualities is its practicality. Let me explain. Its location on the Cap d’Antibes makes it the ideal base for exploring several cities, including Cannes, Monaco and Nice. So the price of a stay can actually count towards multiple trips … that’s girl math working at its finest! Aside from my welcomed (if somewhat questionable) justification, there’s no question that this hotel is world-renowned for good reason. I’ve been to events held here with brands like Dior and the memories made at Hôtel Du Cap throughout my career make it all the more special to me. 

Lou Pinet Hotel in St. Tropez is one of those places that slow summer evenings were made for. It’s peaceful and relaxing, there’s a very wholesome feel about the space which I love, and the decor is modern and eclectic, making it feel like a home away from home. The best luxury shopping spots are super close, including what Fillipo thinks is the most beautiful Chanel store in the world (it’s literally like a museum). FYI a little top tip, I’ve learnt to always pay close attention to the shoes selection in particular when in St. Tropez. The hotel offers a great shuttle service to get you to and from the shops as well which is a huge plus. Also, I can’t not mention the FOOD. The kale salad here alone makes it worth returning. 

They say Monaco is a billionaire’s playground and this is no understatement. When it comes to the much-needed rest required after playtime is over, Monaco’s Hotel de Paris is one of my absolute favourites. Its reputation is iconic and it has a very old glamour vibe. Hotel de Paris is great for short breaks – I’ve literally stayed here when visiting Monaco for 24 hours only. The views of the casino are not to be missed, plus, they make the perfect backdrop for pics of me with my Hermès bags. 

This gem is just two hours away from my home in Milan but it still manages to feel like a quintessential Italian seaside escape every time I go. You’ve no doubt seen the view of the sea scattered with boats on TikTok but nothing compares to seeing it in real life. The terrace where you eat breakfast is definitely a standout part of the experience (and the buffet too, of course). There are plenty of extremely Instagrammable spots (most of which you’ll find on my IG), but, above all else, Belmond Hotel Splendido is the perfect spot for a romantic couple’s getaway. You know the song that goes “I found my love in Portofino” … well, let’s just say it’s likely these lyrics are about this place.

The view from the Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello on the Amalfi coast truly does make this spot feel as if it’s in its own little corner of the world. And, it acted as the backdrop for my dream-like proposal so, of course, this place will always occupy a corner of my heart, too. Every time I return here, I feel as if I’m falling in love all over again so this place will always be mine and Fillipo’s paradise. You can see Italian houses and the iconic cliffside gardens which Ravello is known for, plus the expanse of the sea that makes this view an unforgettable one. For me, Ravello is one of the most underrated places in Italy and you know I don’t gatekeep, hence I have to share this hotel with you guys. It’s specifically a great summer holiday spot (complete with an infinity pool and everything).

I’m aware that this roundup is pretty warm-weather specific so I thought I should include a mountain hotel to mix things up a bit. Badrutt’s Palace in St. Moritz certainly feels very regal. It sits in the mountains of St. Moritz and is super close to the town centre which makes for convenient trips to shop and explore the local culture. I’m pretty sure that fashion’s obsession with ultra-glamorous après ski style began here – this spot definitely feels like the blueprint. 

What do you think of my roundup? Which spots are you eager to visit? 

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