They say there is a novel in all of us. So whether you are writing a novel, or reading one, our Gurus have done the research for you and unearthed some of the best places to do both. The criteria they used are simple. First, you need access to decent sustenance. Second, you are going to need peace and quiet. It’s not going to work to wind up at a place where screaming kids or rocking nightlife trample on your creativity. Third, you need to be inspired — which means a location of outstanding natural beauty: in a tropical paradise, up a mountain, by a lake, in a rainforest.
We have included hotels and hideaways in all budgets. True, most writers don’t have much ready cash to splash, nor are they necessarily looking for a place to check in for two months to get their novel written. However, every writer craves a bolt hole for a week or two to finish their book or give it that final polish — and if you’re reading a novel rather than writing one, our selection of great places to stay will work for you too.
Below, we have split our discoveries into Fantasy, Thriller, Literary, Murder Mystery, and Romance. We have excluded those themed hotels that market themselves as literary hotels, with book-filled rooms named after famous writers. Yes, you can write a novel without leaving your hotel room (after all, it was Oscar Wilde who famously remarked in L'hotel in Paris "This wallpaper and I are fighting a duel to the death. Either it goes or I do.”) but here we are looking for something more inspiring.
All of our suggestions for writing fantasy adventures are in the New World. Coincidence? We doubt it.
For some reason we felt drawn to luxury hideaways in pampering locations when we thought of the kind of environment a thriller writer thrives on.
In contrast to the hotels above, as befits the impoverished literary novelist, our selections below are all great value!
The vibe needed to craft clever plot twists and mystery murder scenarios is well matched with castles, country houses and grand manors around the world. To be honest, you could pick any number of them. Here are four to set your creative juices flowing.
Finally, for romance, we’ve chosen dreamy - places of sunshine, yearning and lazy days, where, as a writer, you’re bound to want to return with your lover. But for now it has to be all imagined. Whether steamy or closed door, you’re sure to find your romantic muse lurking in one of these in these wonderful places.
Ubud (Bali)
A truly remarkable eco-resort nestled amongst lush hills, over looking the Ayung River. The beautifully restored old tribal houses, ranging from rustic to chic, mix traditional Javanese furnishings with eclectic pieces from around the world. An enchanting paradise, that's almost impossible to leave!
Courmayeur
A lovely four star collection of chalets, petit chalets, and a few rooms. Cosy interiors - all wood, with fireplaces and fur throws. Excellent spa, restaurant, and chefs on request. A great option for a very comfortable skiing holiday.
Jamaica (Westmoreland Parish)
Laid back hotel on cliffside. Rooms have muslin-draped four poster beds, terracotta floors, big bathrooms - some with outdoor showers. Outdoor pool, yoga space and spa treatments. Very cool reggae can be heard throughout the property. Superb modern Jamaican cuisine. Secluded, relaxed and friendly.
St Kitts and Nevis (Charlestown)
An iconic collection of rooms, cottages, and a manor house on a stunning plantation. Very boutique, very chic throughout. Each room has all the mod cons and verandahs. Beautiful grounds, swimming pool, and a renowned restaurant. Not far from the beach, luxurious, family friendly.
Nainital (Matial Village, Dhari Tehsil)
A unique retreat to experience secluded mountain living. Room design inspired by the flora of the mountains, with harmoniously coordinated furnishings and whitewashed stone walls. Peaceful and homely shared and private spaces create a sense of community and tranquillity.
California (48688 Victoria Lane)
European chateau set in manicured gardens with an outdoor pool and Yosemite views. 19th century windows flood light into the classically decorated rooms with hard wood floors and fireplaces. Fine dining complemented by a good wine selection. Relax at the spa, in the library or great outdoors.
Waynesville (North Carolina)
This Smoky Mountain retreat 5,000 feet above the clouds, is the true meaning of a romantic hideaway. A private hot tub on your balcony adds to the experience here. Hunger doesn't feature with seasonally-inspired picnics, gourmet dining and al fresco setting. Location and views are spectacular!
Bhimtal (Bhimtal, Uttarakhand)
Retreat to this charming 19th century colonial bungalow, which has been in the Smetacek family for decades. Owner Paddy knows the way to any guest's heart: through their stomach. The food is sublime. Rooms have barely changed since the 1950s and are filled with antiques. Leave the city life behind.
North Hatley (North Hatley)
A charming turn of the century inn sitting in 35 acres of manicured grounds, on the shores of Lac Massawippi. The elegant and crisp suites have been lovingly decorated with individual features. A stunning and sophisticated hideaway.
Asheville (North Carolina)
Historic and extraordinary landmark hotel in the hills of North Carolina, with fabulous views.
Bahia (Praia de Saquaíra)
Brilliant, off-the-beaten track resort. Chic shacks with modern decor a stone’s throw away from the beach. Great for a weekend nature retreat.
Misiones ( Comandante Andresito)
An eco lodge set in the Argentine rain forest. Secluded cabins have an organic feel with earthy hues, uneven lines and natural materials. The resident chef makes imaginative dishes with the local organic produce. A Robinson Crusoe like experience just with a reassuring amount of luxury. Fabulous.
Santa Cruz Province
A traditional sheep farm turned cosy hotel. Find sash windows, parquet flooring, fireplaces and warm hues throughout. Regional dishes are served in the restaurant. The outstanding location makes this the ideal starting point for exploring the hidden glaciers by horse. An adventurers paradise.
Isletas de Granada
Set on the remote Jicaro Island overlooking Lake Nicaragua, this lodge is a tranquil island paradise. Made up of nine delightful casitas, everything is tailored towards relaxation with an excellent spa and a floating yoga deck. Made for honeymoons and romantic getaways.
Puntarenas
A secluded eco lodge surrounded by rainforest and just a short walk from beautiful white sand beaches. Romantic thatched cabins have three open walls bringing you close to nature, large terraces and luxurious bathrooms. Exemplary cuisine makes use of produce from the surrounds. A glorious escape.
Melrose
This rural 5* B&B is a bastion of Arts and Crafts architecture with sweeping views across the Eildon Hills, country-chic interiors and eclectic art to boot. Fauhope enjoys a serene setting offering, a drawing room with an open fire and first-class service from the live-in owners.
Alonnisos (Alonissos island )
Light and tranquil private rooms with breathtaking views of the island and the sea, beautifully furnished with nuanced minimalist design. Communal pool while some rooms have private mini-pools. A place to lose yourself.
Cape Town (Bantry Bay,)
A 13-bedroom Edwardian mansion house overlooking the dramatic Bantry Bay. Fine dining, wine tasting, an impressive art collection, and a team of impeccable staff ready to help you with your every need. Bedrooms are decorated with plush fabrics and lots of extras! A gorgeous stay in a great location.
Sucumbios Province
This unique eco-lodge is located on the shores of the Garzacocha Lagoon in Ecuador. The design of the guestrooms is inspired by local building techniques and native materials - expect tree-trunk door frames. Book a family suite for a hot tub. Visit the spa after a day excursion; a stylish eco-lodge.
Nicaragua
Wake up to the sound of the sea at this 5* luxury private island resort. Guest suites have traditional thatched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows; step out through sliding doors directly onto your own beach terrace. Cool off in the seafront pool before island exploring; paradise found.
Panama
This unique hotel is located on the tropical island archipelago of Islas Secas in Panama. Stylish guest villas have a focus on natural materials, with wooden louvred slats and sliding panels which open onto the beautiful natural setting. The resort is great for families with a love for marine life.
South Island
A modern lodge boasting a spectacular and remote location overlooking the Southern Alps. With just four rooms this is an intimate stay. Bedrooms are bright and spacious with floor to ceiling windows allowing for guests to enjoy the views from the bed and bath. A luxury choice for a rural escape.
Thasos (Thassos)
Family-run property walking distance from Chrysi Ammoudia Beach. Comfortable rooms with balconies have stunning sea views and look over the villa's lush gardens. Breakfast can be enjoyed outdoors, along with snacks and drinks. A wonderful option for couples looking to escape it all.
Fiji
A 103-acre resort on a private island in the South Pacific, VOMO offers cool, contemporary design & top-notch facilities for families including a kids club, water sports, tennis & golf. Adults-only beach club, spa & gourmet dining are perfect for romantic couples. The stuff of beach villa dreams.
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