The most extravagant hotels in Spain yet to be discovered

This is one for the design fans out there. Roaming along the flat plains of Rioja, where the arguably finest Spanish wine is conjured, the stunning chateau of Marqués de Riscal is not what you expect to stumble across. A burst of architectural genius to behold, it was designed by internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry and boasts a five-star luxury experience. Since its unveiling in 2006, the contemporary retreat has become synonymous with unique design as tiled walls, zigzag windows, cathedral-height ceilings and a host of bespoke details are adorned in its 43 rooms and suites. The City of Wine releases its charms of gastronomy, fabulous tipples and lush landscape to any who visit, and when you manage to tear yourself away from the wondrous lines of the hotel you’ll be spoilt with activities. Situated in the medieval town of Elciego, the hotel is also the oldest winery in the region, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in the art of wine-making no further than the backyard… literally. The in-house spa with its floor to ceiling glass windows give you a unique experience, making you feel like you could almost touch the ripening grapes from the hot jacuzzi bubbles around you. Everything is set against a backdrop of magnificent sixteenth century churches in the foreground layered with rolling hills in the distance. 

Lovers of extravagant exclusivity listen up. Could you think of anything more spectacular than having your very own private island complete with a sprawling five-bedroom villa to watch the days go by in utter tranquillity? Tagomago is a 148-acre private island, where the turquoise waters lap the rocky edges that are yours only to jump off. Once owned by German royalty this is the place to get your crown on, with a private boat and captain at your disposal so the twinkling lights of Ibiza’s best beach clubs and restaurants are just a speedy transfer away. With five en-suite double bedrooms, a full-time staff of eight including a private chef, housekeeping and maintenance staff, the highest standards of luxury are a given. The chic white furnishings throughout the spacious villa contrast against the burning glow of the setting sun behind the west coast of Ibiza, and with an inviting pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, relaxation is firmly on the menu. Panoramic views of the Mediterranean are the cherry on top, and we’re sure from the moment you land on this otherworldly gem by either helicopter or speedboat, you'll agree that you've just arrived on paradise on earth. 

Perched on the edge of the astounding El Tajo gorge in Ronda, drama is the name of the game in this unique hotel. Parador de Ronda gives you unbeatable views of the emblematic Puente Nuevo (new bridge) and the Tagus River, a ravine 120 metres deep. Look up and you’ll be taken aback by the charm of this naturally beautiful town, where the old Arab medina quarter makes for a serene stroll to the views from the Alameda out over the Serrania de Ronda mountains. Retaining its fairly hidden status, this is one part of Spain untouched by large amounts of tourists, where you can escape without competing for walking space along the cobbled pavements. All of the guest rooms possess spectacular views which are the true pull of this hotel, and with the surroundings of Ronda’s natural environment, protected spaces and lush vegetation, the scene that awaits is one for the ‘gram. 

Les Cols Pavellons is the kind of property which completely questions the notion of what a guest’s room should be. Enter a world of shards striking up from the earthy ground where a rainwater shower bounces off the mirrored glass all day long. The natural beauty merges together with architectural innovation in every room, and natural light floods through the transparent panes and reflects off the steel pavilion. These crystal cubes hold just a bed – no phone, no TV, no minibar. But that’s what makes this hotel one of the most unique across the country. This stripped back design is crafted to make you appreciate the delectable things in life, especially after a trip to the two-star Michelin restaurant next door. Les Cols serves only the finest food to awaken your taste buds after they’ve taken a backseat to your other senses once entering this mystical place. If we had to describe Les Cols Pavellons with one word it would have to be… simplicity.  

Aire Bardenas’ slogan may be “meet me in the middle of nowhere” but you’ll find yourself meeting true opulence in the middle of a deserted landscape. Located in the middle of a wheat field, near the Natural Park of the Bardenas of Navarra, where could be more suited to experiencing the natural forces of the Spanish desert than inside an illuminated bubble? The architectural design of the main house is impressive enough, but now that a giant bubble is in the mix we know where we would choose to spend the night and behold the stars. Awaken in your life-size droplet to ultimate privacy and try your very best to find any kind of disruption… because you won’t in this haven of peace and calming scenery. It’s also only a three hour drive away from the bustle of Barcelona, so escaping the fast life for some indulgent zen can be done with ease. 

Say “hola” to your next getaway to make even the well-travelled green with envy – these hotels are still under the radar, so you’ll have to act fast. Get in touch with one of our personal travel managers on 0203 816 0985 or enquire here to start planning your bespoke itinerary to one of these exclusive resorts. Grab your camera, they’re going to be a magnet for likes.