This post was posted by The Hipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on 27th December 2015.
You’ve booked your stay in a beautiful locale and are excited to immerse yourself in gorgeous scenery for the duration of your trip. Then you arrive and discover that the hotel is actually miles from the pretty parts of town and your room overlooks the hotel’s parking lot (and the garbage trucks that arrive to empty the dumpsters every morning). Beat this disappointment—and ensure a stay that’s as visually striking as it is relaxing—by booking a vacation at any of these hotels with amazing views.
1. Barcelo Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Come for the family-friendly activities, stay for the gorgeous ocean views. Situated on 400 yards of powdery Bávaro Beach, Barcelo Punta Cana is well regarded for its beautiful grounds. Soak in the views from your hotel room or on one of the restaurant terraces, or take advantage of the many sightseeing excursions on offer. Guests can take a bus tour of Santo Domingo, a Jeep safari tour of less developed parts of the island, a horseback ride through the jungle, or an exploratory tour of one of the largest caves in the world. Or dive into the surf and enjoy up-close views of life under the sea.
2. The Grand Hotel La Favorita, Sorrento, Italy
Five-star luxury awaits guests at the Grand Hotel La Favorita, which is located right in the heart of gorgeous Sorrento. Guests can soak in views of the Bay of Naples from the hotel, stroll through the lush Mediterranean gardens that frame the property, enjoy lunch on the Bellavista Terrace, or walk to any of several beautiful terraces that overlook the Sea of Sorrento. If gorgeous architecture is what you crave, simply go exploring in the city, which features historical attractions like the Sorrento Cathedral, Chiostro di San Francesco, Basilica di Saint’Antonio, and Museobottega della Tarsialignea.
3. Hotel Arts Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
This artsy hotel is owned by Ritz-Carlton, which should give you a hint at the luxury it affords. The 44-story skyscraper offers fine dining options, a cocktail lounge, exceptional staff, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a full-service spa, among other upscale amenities. But what’s even more striking than the luxury accommodations is the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. In fact, if you want to stay any closer the beach, you’ll need to be willing to sleep in the sand. The hotel is also very accessible to some of Barcelona’s most stunning attractions, including the Sagrada Familia, a variety of Gothic churches and Roman ruins, and Michelin-star restaurants.
4. Hyatt French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
At the Hyatt French Quarter, the beauty is in the building. The historic building retains its gravitas while upgrading with modern touches such as elegant furniture. But the great views don’t stop there. Ask for a room with a private balcony, and your eyes will have their fill of famous Bourbon Street. Step onto the sidewalks, and you’ll find yourself just minutes away from a variety of art galleries, jazz bars, boutiques, stellar restaurants, and the popular French Market and Jackson Square. Bet you won’t be able to stop snapping pictures. “Hyatt Hotels have put great attention to detail as evidenced by the remarkable view. The spectacularly designed Hyatt French Quarter has top-notch amenities while being a pet-friendly sanctuary. “
5. Little America Flagstaff, Flagstaff, AZ
The American Southwest is on display in all its glory at Little America Flagstaff, a friendly and affordable hotel tucked into the countryside of northern Arizona. The hotel is situated on 500 acres of pine forest, meaning you’ll be greeted with lovely views in every direction. Head outside to enjoy the scenery by taking advantage of any of the hotel’s many outdoor activities, which include horseshoes, badminton, volleyball, and a heated outdoor pool. If you’re craving an even more rustic experience, head to the beautiful Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve, which is less than 30 minutes away by car. Or buckle up for a slightly longer drive and head to any of the seven nearby state parks, all of which are less than 80 miles from Little America.
5. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Opulent Marina Bay Sands offers five-star luxury in addition to striking views of Marina Bay and downtown Singapore. The massive casino resort overlooks Marina Bay; enjoy the views from your hotel room or the hotel’s famous Skypark, which includes a rooftop observation deck. Get up close and personal with downtown Singapore by wandering the city streets, which are packed with eateries, nightlife, temples, museums, and shopping opportunities. More beauty abounds on the hotel grounds—guests can soak up symphonies, concerts, and plays, stroll through the gorgeous Gardens of the Bay, or dine at any of the hotel’s multiple celebrity chef restaurants (including Justin Quek’s Sky of 57, which offers diners panoramic views of Singapore).