The best hotels in Europe for any occasion

Summer has hit its peak; the sun is out, the temperatures are balmy and travel-hungry Brits are looking abroad for a slice of luxury after two years of being stuck in a rain-lashed UK. It is, for all intents and purposes, a time for celebration!

If you want to join them – no matter whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary or simply the end of lockdown – here is a selection of the best hotels in Europe for a special occasion.

Almanac Barcelona Hotel, Spain

Now is the time to revisit an old favourite or book a trip to one of Europe’s most popular cities, Barcelona. Just steps from the iconic Passeig de Gracia, Almanac Barcelona Hotel has one of the most sophisticated addresses in the city and will appeal to lovers of Modernist design and architecture, and Michelin-star quality dining. The 91 spectacular guest rooms feature muted and gold tones with oak and walnut accents, state-of-the-art technology and floor to ceiling windows with breath-taking views across the city.

The jewel in Almanac’s crown, the multi-tiered rooftop is home to a rooftop bar and pool where guests can relax and unwind above the hustle and bustle of the city below. Not to be outshone, plant-based restaurant Virens is led by Michelin-starred chef Rodrigo de la Calle and serves local, authentic vegetable-based dishes as well as organic meat and fish. The trendy hotel is also equipped with a gym and wellness centre that incudes treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room.

Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina, Switzerland

Recently reopened for the summer season with a contemporary new look, subtle but luxurious changes have been made to this majestic hotel in order to bring the neo-Baroque Grande Dame (built in 1848) into the 21st-century.

Set in the picturesque Alpine village of Pontresina, away from the crowds in nearby glitzy St. Moritz, the award-winning Grand Hotel Kronenhof offers guests an unforgettable experience. The 112 luxuriously appointed guestrooms are spacious and the hotel’s common areas exude elegance.

Hailed as one of the world’s top luxury and wellness resorts, the state-of-the-art Kronenhof Spa, wellness centre and indoor pool look out onto the mesmerising mountain side and picturesque Alpine village, making this a truly regal and serene setting to unwind in.  Activities on offer include a wide array of Pilates, Yoga & Meditation classes, traditional bowling in the cosy alley and rounds of golf on the neighbouring Kulm Golf course.

Vale d’Oliveiras, Carvoeiro, Portugal

A popular destination for British travellers, now is the time to book a stay in the heart of the Algarve at Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Hotel & Spa – a family-friendly oasis surrounded by pine trees, olive groves and landscaped gardens.

The five-star resort is characterised by its soothing Morrish architecture offering a myriad of quiet interior courtyards and water fountains, with a mix of self-catered villas, hotel rooms and suites on offer.

The Kids Club will keep children entertained all day while the luxurious Spa and nearby golf courses, will keep grown-ups busy. Family fun is all around – be it by the indoor or outdoor pool, the jogging and bike trails or the dreamy pristine beaches of Carvoeiro just a 10-minute drive away.

Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf & Wellness, Portugal

Majestically set in the heart of fashionable Estoril and just minutes from the coastline, Hotel Palacio Estoril is the epitome of old-world glamour and charm.

Known for its fascinating history, Hotel Palacio Estoril was once home to exiled European Royals during WWII and was also the haunt of British and German spies, who could often be found in the bar. 

These stories of intrigue and espionage inspired many famous novelists and filmmakers, with the hotel famously serving as the set for the James Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’. Today, Palacio Estoril offers the very finest in contemporary hospitality and modern amenities. The 161 guestrooms are classically and warmly decorated and feature luxurious marble bathrooms and balconies with views across the grounds and outdoor swimming pool.

Vilnuis Grand Resort, Vilnuis Distr, Lithuania

A peaceful countryside sanctuary offering unparalleled opportunities for rest, adventure and outdoor opportunities, Vilnius Grand Resort is set on a lake within 280 acres of sprawling grounds. The guestrooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with tranquil views of the surrounding countryside. With two restaurants and two bars, guests can enjoy a variety of culinary experiences, from an Italian style eatery to a unique floating restaurant in the middle of the lake.

Outdoors, guests will be spoilt for choice with two picturesque lakes, an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, a boating station and a private sandy beach. For those keen to explore the city, Vilnius Grand Resort is just a twenty-minute drive from Lithuania’s capital and its inviting restaurants, local boutique shopping and many historical monuments.

Chedi Lustica Bay, Tivat, Montenegro

As beautiful as Croatia but without the crowds, the Chedi Lustica Bay is the perfect all-in-one hotel in Montenegro, a jewel of a destination. Just a 15-minute drive from Tivat International Airport, with direct access onto the stunningly azure Lustica coastline, the newly built hotel offers 111 spacious and light-filled guestrooms that feature floor to ceiling windows and balconies, perfectly framing the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.

With a focus on seasonal Montenegrin ingredients, The Restaurant features modern takes on regional favourites and brasserie-style.  The Spot offers Asian inspired creative cuisine. Guests can indulge in an elegant afternoon tea at the Lobby Bar, while The Rok beach bar serves up light bites and cocktails on the sand.

Guests will also enjoy the heated outdoor pool that cascades over three levels and offers a spectacular infinity view across the ocean, the fitness centre, indoor pool and spa, offering Eastern inspired rituals and exclusive access to an area of Lustica Bay’s private beach.