Starting your day by looking out of a bedroom window at a beautiful vista is an uplifting experience; historic architecture and exciting cityscapes can be as enthralling as mountains, lakes and sea views. Below are listed the top ten most beautiful places in the world to wake up in.
- Andalusia, Spain
Granada’s Alhambra and Generalife is a magnificent 14th century complex of palaces and fortresses encompassing fine Moorish architecture, set against the majestic Sierra Nevada. Local accommodation includes apartments and cave houses, and the Parador de Granada is inside the walls, offering a superbly elegant experience in a splendid setting.
2. Bali, Indonesia
With an unrivalled artistic and historical heritage, the island of Bali features steep mountains at its centre and fascinating coral reefs around its shores. Sumptuous Bali villas offer the opportunity to wake up in a natural paradise, in lush beautiful surroundings that are never far from an idyllic white sandy beach.
3. Crete, Greece
Always delightful, the Greek islands guarantee deep blue seas and unspoiled beaches. A special place to greet the day, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, the Pilot Beach Resort is in the bay of Almyros, close to Georgioupoulis and is the ultimate choice for a joyous, luxury holiday experience.
4. Cumbria, UK
In somewhat cooler climes, England’s Lake District is characterised by tranquil countryside and its impressive lakes and fells. Here the Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa provides spectacular views across Lake Derwentwater in the Borrowdale valley, and also boasts a waterfall in the grounds. If peace and quiet is the required remedy, this gentle spot certainly delivers.
5. Donegal, Ireland
Featuring Blue Flag beaches and majestic cliffs, the north-western Irish county of Donegal is peppered with ancient archaeological sites. Arnold’s Hotel in the friendly village of Dunfanaghy is a favourite place to stay – it has inspiring views across Sheephaven Bay and its own stables provide horses for riding on the sands.
6. Lake Placid, New York State
Lake Placid is set amidst rolling green hills with peaceful wooded slopes. Perched high above the town and neighbouring Mirror Lake, the Crowne Plaza Resort & Golf Club offers fabulous views, particularly in the early morning when the carpet of mist lying on the lakes rolls slowly back towards the hills. Magical!
7. Mauritius, Africa
An oasis of tranquillity and peace, the enchanting island of Mauritius is great for fishing, eating out, golf and shopping. Charming hotels, villas and bungalows are available in all parts of the island and a highlight is The River House in the village of Tamarin, which is like a magnet to surfers and offers superb hospitality.
8. Moscow, Russia
Iconic sights such as Lenin’s Mausoleum, the Kremlin, and the kaleidoscopic domes of St Basil’s Cathedral seem to be within touching distance for visitors greeting the day in the Red Square Hostel. The grandeur and the scale of Red Square are impressive, and holidaymakers on a budget are particularly well served here.
9. Paris, France
Waking up in the sparkling, romantic city of Paris is all about the smell of freshly-made coffee and buttery croissants. With its boundless attractions – museums, historic buildings and fabulous food, arts enthusiasts will adore staying in the stylish boutique Hôtel des Académies et des Arts on the Left Bank of the Seine.
10. Thousand Islands, New York State
The St. Lawrence River straddles the border between Canada and the US, and the views of the spectacular Thousand Islands are breathtaking. Keen anglers will welcome the fishing opportunities here, and there are a host of charming waterfront hotels – Rockport is a personal favourite, with its array of country inns and riverside resorts.