Turkey / D Maris Bay

A pine-clad hillside within the protected Datça Peninsula makes the stage for this elevated retreat, with peripheral-filling views over an azure bay and five porcelain beaches filling the stalls.

Lying where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, when renovations took place, instructions were given not to harm the surrounding nature reserve; leading the vibe here to be of unspoilt island isolation, but with more pine trees than palms. East and west rendezvous within the rooms, where exotic accents melt into the arms of the sophisticated and minimalist interiors. Balconies and terraces surprise with rolling scenes of either mountains and ocean, while suites bestow access to Maris beach.

Cross-cultural dining options fight for attention from roving foodies; think contemporary Japanese in Zuma, a Mediterranean experience at La Guérite, authentic Turkish at Maris Kitchen, dry-aged steaks in Nusr-Et and Greek delicacies by the water’s edge at Manos. Aspiring Wimbledon stars make the most of the tennis school, and a plethora of water sports call to the active. While the glamorous crowd are found relaxing on one of the hotel’s multiple yachts or beaches, or simply lolling by one of three pools.

Travel notes:

• 159 rooms; 36 suites; plus a chic villa
• A Mytha Spa with Bodyism wellness programmes and gym with personal trainer
• A line-up of 6 restaurant options with world-wide culinary expertise
• 5 sand beaches a funicular ride away, and 3 pools at the hotel
• A choice of yachts for an overnight cruise or day outings