Vacation is a chance to escape our daily lives, if only for several days. Some places take this idea even further and mean ‘getting away’ from civilization. Think a remote desert oasis with outdoor tubs for stargazing or a whale-watching respite off Panama’s coast. If you’re searching for a spot where no one will find you, these remote hotels are a good place to start.
Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, Torres del Paine, Chile
The 40-room Tierra Patagonia hotel is perched atop a bluff where the South American pampa (fertile plain) meets Lake Sarmiento. Clad in lenga beechwood and banked with earth, the walls of this low-slung hotel barely register the gales blowing over from Argentina’s Southern Ice Field. Interiors at the hotel are spare but cozy, with wide, light wood-framed windows and white finishes throughout, and even a well-stocked library.
Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Castle Hot Springs is a historic desert oasis known for its 115-degree natural springs once used by Native American tribes for their healing properties. The resort dates back to 1896, and was previously a military rehabilitation site for World War II servicemen including then-future-president John F. Kennedy himself. Farm-to-table food programs are included in all stays.
Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado
The upscale resort is located in an old mining town up in the Rockies. Guests have six options for enjoying the actual hot springs, like under the stars or inside the restored, 19th-century bathhouse. The place also has its own vineyard, library, and saloon, while the surrounding wilderness is ideal for hiking and horseback riding in summer.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands
Most of its 81 guest rooms lack televisions, every lodging option has an ocean view, and the four on-site dining facilities are open-air. The property is as secluded as it is all-inclusive and was recently renovated with unplugged relaxation in mind. Activities like kayaking and deep-sea fishing will have you ready to disconnect from the world back home from the moment you arrive.
Virunga Lodge, Rwanda
Virunga Lodge’s 10 suites have their own fireplaces and each terrace has a private terrace overlooking the volcanoes or twin lakes. The lodge’s best-known activity is silverback gorilla tracking, and visitors can also sign up for a hike to Mount Karisimbi or the Visoke volcanoes.
Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Pacuare Lodge in Siquirres, Costa Rica is a jungle respite lit only by candlelight at night, and accessible only by helicopter or river raft. Wi-Fi is limited but available in the central lodge, where inclusive meals are served. Activities like waterfall hikes, canopy zip-line tours, and on-site spa treatments will make you forget all about the lack of electricity and internet..
Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos
The remote island of Ambergris Cay melds wildlife and azure waters with private plunge pools and butler service. The underdeveloped island has long partnered with the San Diego Zoo for animal-research programs. It is home to 10 oceanfront resort suites and 20 villas, and offers bikes and golf carts for milling between the private pool and beach activities.
Isla Palenque, Panama
Isla Palenque is known for its coral reefs, calm beaches, and summertime humpback-whale migrations. The resort’s nine standalone villas and seven surrounding beaches channel a luxurious castaway experience. Activities like jungle hikes, snorkeling, whale watching, and paddle boarding will keep you disconnected despite the resort’s readily available Wi-Fi.
andBeyond Benguerra Lodge, Mozambique
Benguerra Lodge on Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago should be firmly on the “must visit” list. As well as perfect beaches, there’s horseback riding, sunset cruising on a traditional dhow followed by dolphin, big game fishing, snorkeling, and diving to be experienced. Don’t miss a visit to see the flock of flamingo that inhabit a nearby freshwater lake, especially with a “castaway picnic”.
Hatta Dome Park, Dubai
Hatta Dome Park is a luxury glamping park in the Hatta Mountains bordering Oman. Outpost offers thrilling activities like hiking, paragliding, and kayaking on the nearby lakes. 15 permanent dome-tent suites equipped with bathrooms, mini bars, air conditioning, and fire pits. While there are TVs and Wi-Fi available, connection can be spotty.
