Six great winter escapes at Impala partner hotels that will make your trip unforgettable
From wintry retreats to sizzling beachfront hotels, we look at the top spots for a winter getaway - all available on Impala.
Winter breaks mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a chance to escape the cold for tropical heat. For others, it’s all about the snow and dialling up the winter magic. Whatever takes your fancy, you can’t beat an amazing hotel stay to warm the soul at this time of year.
1. Iberostar Berkley, Miami, United States
Originally built in 1940, the Iberostar Berkeley is an Art Deco devotee’s dream come true. From the cool-luxe façade to the elegantly modern interiors, this hotel is the perfect retreat after a day on South Beach. And as for Miami itself, think sun-soaked glamour, incredible restaurants and a punchy arts scene. There’s simply no better antidote to the cold and damp.
2. Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Translucent Caribbean waters, lush tropical jungle and a mysterious Mayan cenote meet five-star indulgence at this showstopping hotel. Forget winter ever happened as you take a pre-breakfast dip in the magnificent outdoor pool. You might want to stroll down to the white sandy beaches – the calling cards of this neck of the woods – or maybe explore the ruins at nearby Chichén Itzá. And did we mention the fully equipped spa?
3. ME Dubai by Meliá, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As temperatures drop, do your thoughts automatically turn to…Dubai? Synonymous with all-year-round sun, this vibrant metropolis is the setting for our partner ME Dubai, which is, as Dubai hotels go, a monument to forward-thinking design. Conceived by Zaha Hadid Architects, the ME Dubai is a short hop from the major shopping and entertainment hubs, while the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest tower) is visible in all its glory from the hotel.
4. Bettoja Hotel Massimo d'Azeglio, Rome, Italy
Rome in winter is simply magical. Maybe it’s the way the crisp winter sunlight frames the beautiful architecture or the lack of crowds at this time of year. Either way, tap into the romance of this ancient place by exploring the iconic Colosseum and Piazza Navona, before sipping a hot caffè at an Italian espresso bar. For somewhere to rest your head, the elegant Bettoja Hotel Massimo d'Azeglio – dating back to 1875 – hits all the right notes.
5. Parador of Las Cañadas del Teide, Canary Islands
Looking to escape those long, dark nights? Make the Canary Islands your port of call. The only hotel set inside Tenerife’s National Park, our partner Parador of Las Cañadas del Teide offers the warmest of welcomes. Designed in the style of a cozy mountain lodge, Paramore plays up to its setting, with spectacular mountain vistas all around.
6. Ett Hem Stockholm, Sweden
The boat trips, weekend Christmas markets and ice skating on frozen lakes make the Swedish capital a go-to destination for winter fans. If you get the timing right, the northern lights have been known to make an appearance above the city too. When it comes to your hotel, Ett Hemm embodies the Scandinavian vibe – beautiful yet functional interiors set in a handsomely restored townhouse.