How are you dreaming of spending your Christmas? Skiing and sipping mulled wine in the Swiss Alps or enjoying a festive banquet in a castle in the Canadian Rockies? Meeting Santa in snowy Norway or exploring the Christmas markets in London? How about spending your holidays at the beach in Sydney or in a tropical rainforest in Brazil? Whether you’re dreaming of a Christmas in the snow or the sunshine, here are eight of the best luxury hotels to spend the holidays this year.

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Ashford Castle, Ireland

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle

For a memorable and classic Christmas, Ashford Castle in Ireland is the perfect choice. The castle’s medieval charm and festive activities make it an enchanting place to spend the holiday. There’s festive banquets and pudding parades, a 20-foot-high Christmas tree grown on the estate, a scenic Christmas cruise, live Irish music, crackling fires, a range of outdoor activities like falconry and archery, plus a world-class spa. From the decadent breakfasts and traditional afternoon tea, to the black-tie gala dinner on Christmas Eve and the sumptuous five-course Christmas Day lunch, the food alone will be unforgettable. 

Stay at Ashford Castle on: Castles & Kingdoms

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Fairmont Château Lake Louise, Canada

Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Set among the snowy Canadian Rockies on the shores of the iconic frozen Lake Louise, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise is the quintessential Christmas destination. The holiday season is a magical affair here, with towering Christmas trees, twinkling light tunnels, ice sculptures, ice skating, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and chances to spot the Northern Lights. There are special holiday menus and gourmet delights, plus lots of entertainment for children including visits from Santa Claus himself. On Christmas Eve, the hotel hosts a magnificent torchlight procession around the frozen lake, creating an enchanting atmosphere. After indulging in a Christmas Day feast, retreat to the hotel’s spa to unwind in the warm pools. 

Stay at Fairmont Château Lake Louise on: Majesty of the Rockies 

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The Langham, Sydney

Photo credit: @langhamsydney

Photo credit: @langhamsydney

Dreaming of a beach Christmas? Head Down Under to sunny Sydney, Australia! Christmas here means warm weather, beach dips, outdoor barbecues, with all the festive traditions of the Northern Hemisphere, like Christmas trees, carols, and feasts. When you stay at The Langham, you’ll get the best of both worlds with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts and buffets, festive afternoon teas, Christmas carols and concerts, festive cocktails in the Observatory Bar, and special spa packages so you can treat yourself this Christmas. Whether you want to see the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour from the hotel, or experience a summer Christmas, the luxurious Langham is a special festive stay. 

Stay at The Langham on: Inspiring Australia 

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Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, Switzerland

Photo credit: @kempinskistmoritz

Photo credit: @kempinskistmoritz

If you imagine charming alpine villages, snowy mountains, and twinkling lights for your Christmas holiday, you’ve got to head to the Swiss Alps. A stay at the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski allows you to fully embrace the festivities, with resplendent decorations and gourmet traditional feasts on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The nearby Engadin Valley also comes alive with Christmas markets, local crafts and traditions, world-class skiing, and horse-drawn carriage rides through the breathtaking snowy landscapes. At the end of the day, unwind in the hotel’s spa, with rejuvenating treatments and soothing saunas and pools. 

Stay at Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski on: Majestic Switzerland

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The Peabody Memphis, United States

Photo credit: @peabodymemphis

Photo credit: @peabodymemphis

For a Christmas experience steeped in history and Southern charm, The Peabody Memphis is an iconic choice. Located in the heart of downtown Memphis, the hotel lights up with special holiday concerts and events during December. The famous daily tradition of the “Peabody Ducks March” continues but with a special twist – the ducks don festive attire, including adorable Santa hats. You can catch the hotel’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, with a 30-foot tall tree adorned in 20,000 twinkling lights. The Peabody also has special holiday extras like gingerbread cookies, festive cocktails, and hot cocoa, and there’s plenty to explore across the city including a unique Elvis-themed Christmas experience at Graceland. 

Stay at The Peabody Memphis on: Southern Grace

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Hotel Union Geiranger, Norway

Photo credit: @hoteluniongeiranger

Photo credit: @hoteluniongeiranger

Perched on the edge of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, with snow-capped peaks and Northern Lights, this hotel transports you to a winter wonderland straight out of a fairy tale. After a day of fjord cruising, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, return to the cozy Hotel Union Geiranger, with traditional Norwegian treats, candlelit dinners, bubbling spas, saunas, and roaring fireplaces. Sip on hot mulled wine while watching for the dancing Northern Lights, or experience local markets, music and crafts. You may even have a chance to meet Santa Claus, who is known to make special appearances in the Geiranger area.

Stay at Hotel Union Geiranger on: Timeless Scandinavia

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Belmond das Cataratas, Brazil

Photo credit: @belmondhoteldascataratas

Photo credit: @belmondhoteldascataratas

For those seeking a warm-weather Christmas, the Belmond das Cataratas in Brazil is a beautiful place to be in December. Located within the Iguazu Falls National Park, you’ll be immersed in a tropical paradise, with the thundering Iguassu falls, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife. And just because it isn’t snowing, doesn’t mean you miss out on the classic Christmas cheer. The festivities are turned all the way up here, with live music, Christmas feasts, outdoor picnics, and activities for kids. If you stay until the New Year, you’ll get to see lively parties, parades and fireworks. 

Stay at Belmond das Cataratas on: Classic South America

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The Rubens at the Palace, England

Photo credit: @rubenshotel

Photo credit: @rubenshotel

London is a magical place during the Christmas season, and The Rubens at the Palace has a front-row seat to all the festivities. Located opposite Buckingham Palace, guests can explore the city’s Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and dazzling light displays. The hotel itself puts on a grand festive show, including traditional Christmas afternoon teas and a sumptuous Christmas Day lunch, along with enchanting decor and twinkling fir trees throughout the hotel. From the glamorous bedrooms to the red tail-coated doormen, get the full royal treatment this Christmas.

Stay at Rubens at the Palace on: British Royale 

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Banner image credit: @ashfordcastle

Set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise has charmed travelers from all over the world for over a century. The iconic hotel is a timeless testament to luxury and natural beauty, with a rich history, awe-inspiring location, world-class facilities, and unforgettable activities. To celebrate International Mountain Day, we’re taking a closer look at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise, one of the world’s most remarkable mountain resorts. 

Stay at the on: Majesty of the Rockies 

Photo credit: @fairmontcll

A century of history

The Fairmont Château Lake Louise had humble beginnings, opening in 1890 as a one-story log cabin with just two bedrooms. Over the years, it evolved into a grand five-star hotel, with a charming European alpine architectural style. It has welcomed royalty, celebrities and distinguished guests from around the globe and has been a favored luxury destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and romantics for generations. 

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Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Unparalleled location

Set on the shores of the dazzling Lake Louise and surrounded by towering mountain peaks, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise boasts one of the most picturesque settings in the world. The turquoise waters of the lake, framed by glaciers and evergreen forests, provide an awe-inspiring backdrop. The hotel’s location also offers year-round activities, from hiking and kayaking in the summer to ice skating and skiing in the winter.

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World-class facilities

The hotel features over 500 glamorous rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the lake and mountains. Unwind at the serene spa, take a dip in the heated indoor pool, and enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s exquisite bars and restaurants, which offer a range of seasonal culinary delights. There’s also a fitness center, a kids’ club, and boutique shops to explore.

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Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Award-winning excellence

Over the years, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise has received dozens of accolades and awards, solidifying its status as a world-class resort. It has been consistently recognized as one of the best resorts and for its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism. It’s also received many awards for its restaurants.

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Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Remarkable experiences

While the hotel is spectacular enough, there are endless things to do around the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. In the summer, there’s hiking, horseback riding, golfing, or canoeing the pristine Lake Louise. In the winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, with skiing, snowboarding and ice-skating opportunities. No matter the season, you can relax in the pools or enjoy the iconic afternoon tea with a stunning backdrop.

Beyond the hotel, the Banff area offers some incredible outdoor adventures. Explore Banff National Park, home to diverse wildlife, emerald lakes, and stunning mountain landscapes. Take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway or visit the charming town of Banff for shopping and dining. 

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Photo credit: @fairmontcll

Stay at Fairmont Château Lake Louise with Luxury Gold

When you travel on our Majesty of the Rockies luxury tour, you’ll enjoy a lavish stay at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. Stroll along the beautiful lakeshore admiring the waterfall. Feast on local specialties on a Dine-Around evening. Or simply soak it all in from the comfort of your gorgeous lakeview room. If you want to get outdoors, you can explore Moraine Lake beneath the 10 towering peaks. Or travel the Icefields Parkway and Athabasca Glacier aboard an Ice Explorer. You’ll also meet First Nations Warrior Women and learn about their Indigenous culture over a homecooked barbecue dinner with storytelling, drumming and songs.

As we step into 2024, it promises to be an extraordinary year for those seeking luxury travel experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic train journey or an overwater bungalow, seeking the thrill of a safari adventure or a yacht charter, or planning to turn it up a notch with a private island experience, these are the luxury travel experiences you need to book in 2024. 

Luxury train journeys

Photo credit: @rockymountaineer

Experience the romance of a bygone era with a luxury train journey in 2024. You could board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a nostalgic voyage across Europe, see the South African bushveld aboard the iconic Rovos Rail, or traverse the majestic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer. From regal bedrooms and gourmet dining, to breathtaking scenery and private viewing decks, these journeys are an unforgettable way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. 

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After hours VIP experiences

For a true luxury experience, you’ve got to go behind the scenes, where few have gone before. Luxury Gold takes you there with our one-of-a-kind VIP experiences, where you get exclusive, after hours access to some of the world’s most iconic sites. You don’t need to wait in line or battle with the crowds. Simply step beyond the velvet ropes and have the space and time to explore places like the Tower of London, Castle Howard, Schönbrunn Palace, Luxor Temple and Doge’s Palace. You’ll also meet Local Experts in many of these places for a private tour as they share fascinating insights. 

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Yacht charters

Sailing through the world’s most stunning coastlines aboard a private yacht is a luxury travel trend that’s here to stay. Charter a superyacht in the Mediterranean, explore the Caribbean’s hidden coves, or cruise the Galapagos Islands in style. You’ll have the freedom to tailor your itinerary, enjoy water sports, and savor gourmet cuisine prepared by your onboard chef.

Exclusive culinary experiences

Photo credit: @lanticmoli

Gastronomy plays a significant role in luxury travel, and 2024 is no exception. With Luxury Gold, you could go from dining at Michelin-starred restaurants like L’Antic Molí in Spain to wine-tasting tours in the world’s most renowned vineyards like South Africa’s Cape Winelands, or opt for exclusive cooking classes with renowned chefs. Whether it’s a private sushi-making class in Tokyo or a cooking class and lunch in Tuscany, you’ll indulge your palate in the most exquisite flavors of the world. 

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Overwater bungalows

Overwater bungalows have long been synonymous with luxury travel. Picture yourself staying in a lavish overwater villa in Bora Bora, the Maldives, or Fiji, where you can step directly from your room into the warm, turquoise ocean. From glass floors and private pools, to direct access to vibrant coral reefs, overwater bungalows are a very special experience.

Safari adventures

Photo credit: @lionsandsgamereserve

If you’ve always wanted to go on a safari, 2024 is your year to experience it. You’ll find exclusive safari lodges and camps in destinations like Botswana, Tanzania, and Kenya, where you can witness the Big Five and other remarkable wildlife in their natural habitat. From private game drives and bush picnics, to infinity pools and dining under the stars, you can safari in style.

With Luxury Gold, you’ll visit some of the most extraordinary luxury safari lodges in the world, from Lion Sands Game Reserve or the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in South Africa to Nahargarh Ranthambhore in India. 

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Wellness retreats

In 2024, prioritize self-care and rejuvenation at the top wellness retreats in destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Costa Rica. Indulge in luxurious spa treatments, yoga sessions, meditation classes, and delicious dining to help you unwind and recharge.

Private island retreats

For ultimate seclusion and exclusivity, private island resorts are the epitome of luxury travel. Properties like Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands, North Island in the Seychelles, and Velaa Private Island in the Maldives offer an unparalleled level of privacy and personalized service. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opulent villas with your own butler, chef, and private infinity pool, you don’t get more luxurious than this.