Sun, serenity and adventure: Summer stays to add to your travel list

Summer is an invitation to slow down, seek new horizons, and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Whether you're dreaming of the glamour of the French Riviera, the turquoise lagoons of the Indian Ocean, or the dramatic limestone cliffs of Thailand, these extraordinary destinations promise the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and indulgence. From sun-soaked beaches to immersive cultural experiences, here's where to plan your next summer escape.

(Also Read: Jemimah Rodrigues’ summer holiday diary)

1. Experience Riviera elegance at Carlton Cannes

There are few destinations that embody summer glamour quite like Cannes. Standing proudly on the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette, Carlton Cannes offers a front-row seat to the timeless allure of the French Riviera. Recently restored to its legendary splendour, the historic hotel seamlessly combines Belle Époque charm with contemporary luxury. Days here are best spent soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine on the private beach, wandering through Cannes' charming old town, or indulging in leisurely lunches overlooking the sparkling sea. The hotel's elegant suites, refined dining experiences, and beautifully landscaped gardens create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. Whether you're sipping a sunset cocktail by the water or exploring the nearby coastal villages, Carlton Cannes captures the effortless sophistication that defines a European summer.

2. Soak in the contemporary luxury of The Evren, Goa

Newly opened in North Goa and already part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, this lifestyle-led property blends European-inspired elegance with Goa’s relaxed coastal energy. Designed as a destination where hospitality, dining, culture and design converge, it encourages guests to move seamlessly between moments of relaxation and celebration. Its location in vibrant Vagator makes it ideal for travellers looking to combine beachside leisure with Goa’s thriving social scene.

3. Indulge in a city escape at The St. Regis Bangkok

Perfectly positioned in Bangkok’s vibrant Siam district, this luxury hotel offers the best of both worlds: access to the city’s cultural and shopping attractions alongside moments of indulgent relaxation. Guests can spend the day exploring Bangkok before retreating to spa treatments, biohacking and longevity experiences, poolside cocktails and the hotel’s signature butler service. It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking a sophisticated city break with a wellness edge.

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4. Discover island bliss at The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius

For travellers seeking a tropical retreat, Mauritius offers a beautiful tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Nestled along the pristine white sands of Turtle Bay, a protected marine park on the island's northwest coast, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius presents an idyllic setting for families and groups looking to reconnect. Spread across 80,000 square metres of lush subtropical gardens, the resort's thatched-roof villas and pavilions provide privacy and serenity amid nature's beauty. While younger guests can enjoy thoughtfully curated activities at The Hub kids' club, adults can retreat to the award-winning spa or savour intimate dining experiences by the beach. Beyond relaxation, the resort encourages meaningful shared experiences. Spend your days kayaking through crystal-clear waters, learning local culinary traditions together, or simply gathering under a starlit sky by the shore. The resort's Touching Senses programme offers enriching cultural immersions, while a variety of water sports ensure every day brings a new adventure. It's the kind of destination where summer memories are made effortlessly.

5. Take in the royal splendour of The Leela Palace Udaipur

Summer is an excellent time to slow down and immerse yourself in culture, and few places do that better than The Leela Palace Udaipur. Set against the backdrop of Lake Pichola, the palace is hosting a series of curated culinary experiences celebrating Thai, Rajasthani and French cuisines. Combined with the property’s regal setting and timeless hospitality, it offers a stay that feels both indulgent and deeply rooted in destination.

6. Experience dining beneath the ocean at Meyyafushi Maldives

This Maldivian retreat elevates the traditional island holiday with one of the destination’s most extraordinary dining experiences. Bubble, its underwater restaurant, allows guests to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner surrounded by vibrant marine life, coral reefs and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it offers a magical reason to choose the Maldives for a summer getaway.

7. Unwind by the Andaman Sea at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, Thailand

Set along a pristine stretch of beach in Thailand’s Phang Nga region, this resort is tailor-made for travellers seeking a restorative tropical getaway. Surrounded by white-sand beaches, the Andaman Sea, tropical greenery and nearby waterfalls, the property balances luxury with a strong connection to nature. From relaxing by its expansive lagoon pool to indulging in spa treatments and enjoying farm-to-table experiences inspired by the JW Garden, it offers the kind of slow-paced summer holiday that feels worlds away from everyday life.

8. Embrace adventure at Della Resorts & Adventure, Lonavala

For travellers who like their holidays packed with action, Della Resorts & Adventure delivers a thrilling escape just a short drive from Mumbai. Home to India’s largest extreme adventure park, the property offers everything from bungee jumping and ATV rides to soaring zip-line experiences, balanced by spa therapies and unique dining venues. It’s an ideal summer retreat for families, groups and adrenaline seekers looking for more than a traditional resort stay.

9. Journey through tea, sea and safari with Resplendent Ceylon, Sri Lanka

For those who prefer their holidays packed with variety, this trio of Sri Lankan properties offers three distinct experiences in one unforgettable journey. Guests can wake up amid tea plantations at Ceylon Tea Trails, unwind by the ocean at Cape Weligama and embark on wildlife adventures at Wild Coast Tented Lodge near Yala National Park. Together, they create the ultimate summer itinerary for travellers seeking culture, nature and adventure in equal measure.

(Also Read: India’s best wellness sanctuaries blending ancient healing and modern luxury to visit now)

10. Escape to Thailand's hidden paradise at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Tucked away on Thailand's captivating Andaman coast, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers a secluded sanctuary surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters. Far removed from the bustle of everyday life, this exclusive retreat invites travellers to embrace a slower, more mindful pace. The resort's spacious villas and pavilions blend traditional Thai design with contemporary comforts, creating a sense of tranquillity from the moment you arrive. Days unfold with private yacht excursions, island-hopping adventures, rejuvenating spa rituals, and leisurely afternoons by the infinity pool overlooking the sea. What truly sets Phulay Bay apart is its deeply personalised approach to hospitality. Every experience feels thoughtfully curated, whether it's a private dinner beneath the stars, a sunrise yoga session, or an exploration of Krabi's hidden beaches and islands. For those seeking equal parts adventure and serenity, it delivers a summer escape that feels wonderfully untouched.

11. Reconnect with wellness at JOALI BEING, Maldives

As the Maldives’ first dedicated well-living island resort, this property offers a different approach to summer travel, one focused on wellness, mindfulness and meaningful connection. Rooted in the pillars of mind, skin, microbiome and energy, the resort combines immersive wellness experiences with breathtaking natural surroundings. From guided meditation and movement sessions to marine conservation activities and nourishing culinary experiences, it is designed for travellers seeking both relaxation and personal renewal.

12. Rest and reset at Six Senses Bhutan

Discover a world of mindful indulgence with Six Senses, where every destination offers its own unique path to serenity. Embrace the stillness of the Himalayas at Six Senses Bhutan, where meditative forest walks and traditional hot-stone baths awaken inner peace with views of endless clouds touching the mountain range. Enjoy local cuisine and indulge in treatments to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. 

13. Contemporary luxury meets Arabic summer in Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Dubai 

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab offers an indulgent summer retreat where contemporary luxury meets exceptional hospitality. Alongside its expansive Talise Spa, private beach and exclusive pool club, the hotel stands out as a compelling culinary destination, home to 11 restaurants and four lounges. Guests can explore a diverse range of dining experiences, from Japanese flavours at Umi Kei and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Mirabelle to Indian specialities at The Bombay Club, Asian fusion creations at Madame Li, and classic Italian fare at Rialto. Complemented by elegant waterfront settings, rooftop lounges and scenic dining along the Marsa Al Arab Walk, the property offers a vibrant gastronomic journey alongside moments of relaxation and leisure by the Arabian Gulf.

14. A restorative escape for the summer season at Aahana Resort & Spa 

Aahana Resort & Spa in Jim Corbett makes for a refreshing summer escape for travellers looking to step away from the city and spend a few days closer to nature. Spread across 13.5 acres of restored forest landscape, the resort brings together open green spaces, privacy, comfort and thoughtful hospitality in a setting that feels calm, personal and easy to settle into.

15. A nature-led summer escape at the Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram

For those looking to step away from the pace of the city, Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram offers a refreshing summer getaway surrounded by open skies, lush landscapes and the quiet charm of the Aravalli Hills. Located close to Damdama Lake, the resort is designed for travellers who want a holiday that feels restorative, outdoorsy and full of shared experiences, without travelling too far from Delhi NCR.

16. Beat the heat at Jaypee Residency Manor, Mussoorie

Set atop the Queen of Hills, Jaypee Residency Manor lets you experience what the mountains do best, bringing together space, stillness, and beautiful views, and of course, a refreshing drop in temperature in comparison to the scorching city heat. The experience here is intentionally layered. The stay unfolds at your own pace, and the spacious rooms with large windows framing the stunning landscape. 

17. Summer by the sea at The Blue Kite's La Branca Estate Villa, Goa 

With temperatures rising across the country, many travellers are already planning quick escapes to unwind and recharge. Private villas have increasingly become the preferred choice for those seeking spacious, relaxed holidays with the comfort of home. In Goa, The Blue Kite offers a thoughtfully curated collection of luxury private villas designed for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy a laid-back summer getaway with family or friends, or even settle in for a longer workation that blends work and leisure. La Branca Estate Villa in Siolim balances stylish interiors with relaxed, sociable living spaces. With multiple bedrooms, open lounges, and a private pool, it is perfect for groups that want to spend days lounging by the pool and evenings sharing meals, music, and conversations that stretch into the night.

(Also Read: The Cannes hotel that is the reel home of White Lotus)