Gimme some room

From spas in the sand to forest retreats, check out the new hotels coming in 2021. By Jane Memmler

DESERT DREAMING

Deserts have always been mysterious and mesmerising and Israel’s Negev Desert is the epitome of that. It’s probably why Six Senses has chosen this biblical location to open its latest resort, Shaharut (which means the moment just before dawn).

Its 60 suites have literally been carved out of the rocks and have sensational views across to Jordan.

Architects wanted to preserve the natural terrain as much as possible and villas are constructed from regional rocks and pigments.

Much of the furniture comes from local artisans, food from a nearby kibbutz and, of course, there will be a wondrous Six Senses Spa. Rooms from £551 per night, B&B. Due June 1. sixsenses.com

TREE HUGGING

Great Plains, the eco-tourism company with 16 safari camps in Botswana, Kenya and Zimbabwe is expanding its portfolio this year.

It aims to preserve and protect landscapes, wildlife and culture, and perhaps its most eye-catching new location is Bayei Camp in Botswana in the Okavango Delta. Guests will have the chance to sleep up in the treeline in fabulous structures, shaped like giant fishing baskets, dedicated to the fishing clans who reside there.

Rates are still to be announced. Due mid-2021. greatplainsconservation.com

VIVA ITALIA

Northern Sicily will welcome a smart, contemporary hotel on April 30.

Dotted across 10 hectares on the beach just outside Campofelice di Roccella in northern Sicily, the Garden Beach Resort and Spa features four pools, six bars and live entertainment. Rattan furniture, white walls and potted plants evoke a relaxing Caribbean feel.

The rooms are modern in white and pale creams, with beautiful spacious bathrooms and walk-in showers, and hanging glass bedside hanging bedside lamps creating a lovely ambience. Rooms from £165, all inclusive. palladiumhotelgroup.com

MALTESE-R

Surely Malta’s most spectacular views are from the Iniala Harbour House and Residences. Sitting on the St Barbara Bastion in Valletta the hotel is spread across four Maltese townhouses, which include ancient vaults dating back to the 1600s.

Each of the 23 rooms is unique with many of the historical features retained. Photographic murals, fantastical wallpapers and sage-green leather headboards give an edgy urban feel, yet at the same time, they are sublimely sophisticated. Some suites have private balconies and plunge pools.

There’s a spa in the vaults and endless activities to book, from underwater photography courses to cooking classes and days out sailing. The signature restaurant on the roof, ION, serves up an extraordinary menu overseen by Andrew Borg alongside unparalleled views across the Grand Harbour. Rooms from £310, room only. Due in

April. inialamalta.com