While where you go is often the first decision you make when planning your travels, where you stay can really make (or break) your experience. Hand-picking properties for my clients is one of my favorite parts of being a travel advisor, and I love to check into some extra special places when I travel myself, as well.

That’s why I’ve rounded up four outstanding properties that are ideal home bases for your next family vacation—these properties have certainly earned their five stars. Plus, I snuck in one final choice that’s the ultimate “just-us-two” escape for parents; because we all need a little more romance in our lives!

Dive in to discover where to check into next:

1. Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Tucked up in the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy, this hotel offers a touch of vintage alpine glamor amidst a stunning snowy backdrop. My family stayed here on our adventure through the Dolomites , and I thought the mountain views simply could not be beat. I wouldn’t say this property is dripping in luxury—rather, it has a cozier feel with chalet-inspired room decor, plenty of roaring fires, and a perfect location. It’s the ultimate gateway to alpine adventuring as a family.

2. Hotel Hassler, Rome

Another one of my favorite Italian properties, Hotel Hassler is the spot to be in the Eternal City. Located at the top of the iconic Spanish Steps, this hotel boasts a chic rooftop bar featuring an unbeatable city view. There was just nothing better than ending our days with a nightcap while we admired the domes and cathedral spires lit up in the evening across Rome. I also think this is an excellent choice for families since it’s so centrally located. No need to get in a car or hop on a bus—you can simply stroll out of Hotel Hassler and discover one of the very best Roman neighborhoods laid out before you.

3. The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Colorado

If you’re thinking about a nature-focused family travel experience, head to this refined Ritz that’s perfectly located in Vail Valley’s Beaver Creek. I love staying here with my family in either the summer or the winter. When a chill has set in, we gather around an outdoor firepit after an afternoon of skiing to roast marshmallows with the s’mores kit the hotel gifts us. And in the summer, there’s no end to hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor adventures to enjoy nearby. Nestled among the Rockies, this year-round resort represents mountain luxury at its finest while remaining family friendly.

4. The Springs Resort & Spa, Costa Rica

If you’re dreaming of a wildlife-filled family escape, head down south to this gorgeous resort. Located on a 165-acre property, The Springs offers a to-die-for view of what is perhaps Costa Rica’s most iconic sight: The Arenal Volcano. While undeniably luxurious, the property especially caters to families with its onsite waterslide, putt-putt course, and adventure center offering river tubing, kayaking, horseback riding, and more. While I haven’t stayed here yet, I’ll be checking in come March 2024, and I’ll be sure to report back. By the way, if you’re a fan of The Bachelor, you may recognize this resort as the setting for the “Golden Bachelor” season! 

BONUS 5. The Four Seasons Bora Bora

This property is very high on my personal wish list—and when I finally visit, I think I’ll leave the kids back home. Featuring quintessential overwater bungalows unique to French Polynesia, the resort is just awash in island romance. You can dive right from your private deck into the glass-clear waters of the lagoon, spend your day lounging on a nearly deserted white-sand beach, and end the evening by enjoying an epic sunset and view of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu. Since this is a Four Seasons property, you know the service, cuisine, and amenities will all be top notch. And if you really want to amp up the romance, book a private island dinner experience: you’ll be whisked by canoe to a nearby “motu,” a tiny sliver of golden sand, where a gourmet meal served by the light of tiki torches awaits.

Ready to check in some place spectacular? I’d love to design your itinerary, full of five-star stays—and get you exclusive VIP upgrades and amenities whenever possible. You can connect with me on a complimentary consultation call to get started!