Asia Gardens & Thai Spa, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, Alicante, Spain
This sprawling slice of paradise may be just 10 minutes from Benidorm, but having all the serenity of South-East Asia, you’ll feel like you’re more than a world away.
On the slopes of the Sierra Cortina Mountains, amidst 90 acres of pine forest, with bragging rights to fantastic Mediterranean views, and an exclusive micro-climate that almost guarantees mild temperatures year-round, you’re instantly transported to The Orient from the moment you arrive, from the exemplary service, tea ceremonies and fabulous Thai spa; to the masterly fusion of dining options; and seriously stunning tropical gardens dotted with over 60 varieties of plants, ancient bonsai and series of infinity pools, some of which are heated.
Thai-luxe guest rooms are filled with the dazzling light of the Mediterranean, dressed with modernist Balinese-style furnishings, and come with high-tech accessories like WiFi and iPod docks, and sleek, glamorous bathrooms. You're spoilt for choice with something for everyone found across the nine globe-trotting restaurants that cross from Thailand, India, and Japan, to the Mediterranean and back again.
As well as the unique Thai Spa's expert Thai massages, a wonderful programme of activities has been designed to offer a full Asian experience. Classes in Chi Kung, Tai Chi, yoga, Acroyoga and more are available, plus cocktail workshops, Asian cookery displays, botanical tours and a wishing fountain ceremony. It's paradise for kids too, with the supervised age-appropriate clubs from 4-16 years; and family excursions, a nanny service and mini-dinners can also be arranged, with four famous family parks close by too.