![The Plantation](https://www.thehotelguru.com/_images/28/6b/286b7fbb703da56cc1911519b5fc95e1/600x422.jpg)
Dorset has long been known as a popular family-holiday destination. Less well-known is Dorset’s range of luxury hotels. Usually privately owned, the best luxury hotels in Dorset range from grand country houses to cool boutique affairs; many are making a mark for their food, too. And while many take advantage of being close to Dorset’s stunning coastline and beaches, others are deep in the countryside. Several of Dorset’s luxury hotels are family-friendly, while others are more geared to romantic weekends away.
For a luxury town stay
![Christchurch Harbour Hotel](https://www.thehotelguru.com/_images/35/95/3595cc1bcc65e8ea329bf5923f470f81/600x422.jpg)
- In the smart town of Poole, The Plantation is a stylish inn with a semi-colonial feel: bold-coloured bedrooms, charming garden with gazebos and conservatory restaurant with striking floor tiles and a breezy feel.
- On the east side of Bournemouth, in Christchurch and in the grounds of the former Highcliffe Castle, The Lord Bute offers elegantly traditional rooms, a pretty terrace and family suites.
- Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa is another good luxury option if you want to be town-based. The property offers style and exceptional service; smart rooms, excellent food, a pampering spa and stunning views.
For a luxury B&B
![No 98 Boutique Hotel](https://www.thehotelguru.com/_images/f7/67/f767382f567a43f220bd885ba0263d71/600x422.jpg)
- For airy, chic styling, take a look at No 98 Boutique Hotel, in the centre of popular Weymouth. Rooms are all cool shades of white with nautical accents; the best overlook Weymouth beach.
For Foodies
![The Green House](https://www.thehotelguru.com/_images/a4/e5/a4e5641c7fe04a51e73a10472d31afe1/600x422.jpg)
- Close to Bournemouth beach, The Green House is a lofty whitewashed Victorian villa that has been sustainably modernised without losing its original features: Farrow & Ball eco-paint, solid oak doors, reclaimed wood furniture or wood furniture made from sustainable sources, powerful eco showers and organic bedlinen. The food at Arbor restaurant is fabulous and has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes.
Luxury hotels near the sea
- Choose the Limestone Hotel if you prefer somewhere small (just 10 rooms) with chic but understated styling and close but not too close to the popular coastline. It sits in the postcard-pretty West Lulworth village, a 10-minute stroll from the coast.
- The Alexandra Hotel enjoys a clifftop location in Lyme Regis, which means that there are stunning views across the harbour and out to sea. Here you'll find not only 24 luxurious bedroooms, but also a gourmet restaurant, sea-facing terrace and spoiling spa.
For traditional luxury
![Priory Hotel](https://www.thehotelguru.com/_images/af/28/af2884d6d4d59db7b899b2c947a2ff11/600x422.jpg)
- With dreamy gardens sloping down to the River Frome, and discreetly tucked away in the centre of Wareham, the 16th-century Priory Hotel has classic old-world charm; flagstone floors, beams, antiques and all wrapped in a mellow brick exterior. Some bedrooms have French windows; most have marble bathrooms.
- Surrounded by beautiful gardens and bucolic countryside, Summer Lodge, in the Hardy-esque village of Evershot, exudes quintessential country-house charm. Vast rooms are traditionally and comfortably furnished, while there’s a tennis court plus luxurious Elemis spa.
Still not sure which to book?