There’s something magical about stumbling upon a hotel that exceeds all your expectations—a place so special that it lingers in your mind long after you’ve left. Over the years, I’ve stayed in my fair share of luxury resorts and five-star accommodations, but it’s the hidden gems, the ones tucked away in quiet corners of the world, that have truly captured my heart. These are the hotels I’d go back to in a heartbeat, not just for the comfort, but for the unforgettable experiences they created.
1. Riad Yasmine – Marrakech, Morocco
When I stepped through the doors of Riad Yasmine, I felt like I had entered another world. The chaos of Marrakech’s medina disappeared behind intricately carved wooden doors, replaced by the soft sound of a trickling fountain and the scent of fresh mint tea. This boutique riad, with its emerald-green tiled courtyard and lush palms, was the definition of tranquility.
What made it unforgettable:
- Waking up to a rooftop breakfast of fresh orange juice, Moroccan pancakes, and honey-drizzled pastries while overlooking the city.
- The intimate eight-room setting, which made it feel like a private sanctuary rather than a hotel.
••The warm hospitality of the staff, who treated me like family and even guided me to the best hidden souks in the medina.
2. Eremito – Umbria, Italy
If there’s one place that truly forced me to slow down and appreciate the moment, it was Eremito—a former monastery turned eco-luxury retreat in the rolling hills of Umbria. With no WiFi, no TVs, and no distractions, it was the most peaceful place I have ever stayed.
What made it unforgettable:
- Candlelit dinners of locally sourced, plant-based Italian cuisine eaten in complete silence.
- Rooms designed like ancient monastic cells, creating a meditative and reflective atmosphere.
••The opportunity to wake up at dawn, wrap myself in a wool blanket, and watch the mist roll over the valley in absolute silence.
3. Tainaron Blue Retreat – Mani Peninsula, Greece
A converted stone watchtower on the cliffs of Greece’s Mani Peninsula, Tainaron Blue Retreat is the definition of rugged elegance. With just three suites carved into the ancient stone, it felt like I had discovered a secret hideaway that only a few lucky travelers knew about.
What made it unforgettable:
- The infinity pool that seemed to drop straight into the Aegean Sea.
- The rich history of the tower itself, originally built to guard against pirate attacks in the 18th century.
••Falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs below, wrapped in the freshest linen sheets I’ve ever felt.
4. Hotel AWA – Puerto Varas, Chile
Sitting on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with an unobstructed view of Osorno Volcano, Hotel AWA feels like it was designed to make nature the main attraction. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a Scandinavian-meets-Patagonia design, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability made this stay one of my most memorable.
What made it unforgettable:
- Watching the sunrise over the volcano from my private outdoor hot tub.
- The personalized excursions—kayaking through fjords, hiking hidden trails, and meeting local Mapuche artisans.
- The seamless blend of modern luxury with raw, untouched nature.
5. Bambu Indah – Ubud, Bali
Bali is filled with luxury resorts, but Bambu Indah is something else entirely. This eco-boutique retreat, nestled in the jungle of Ubud, is made up of restored Javanese teak houses that feel like they belong in a dream.
What made it unforgettable:
- Swimming in a natural spring-fed pool with a view of rice terraces stretching into the horizon.
- Staying in the open-air Moon House, where I fell asleep to the sounds of the jungle and woke up with the sunrise.
- The farm-to-table dining experience, where every meal was crafted with ingredients grown on-site.
Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Hidden Gem Hotels
These hotels aren’t just places to stay—they’re destinations in themselves. Each one offered something beyond luxury: a story, a connection to nature, a sense of belonging. They reminded me that travel isn’t just about where you go, but how a place makes you feel.
If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, consider skipping the big-name resorts and seeking out those special, tucked-away retreats. Because sometimes, the most unforgettable places are the ones you never expected to find.
