Where luxury meets the open seas in nautical fashion, are the best marina resorts and hotels. From the sun-soaked Mediterranean to the rugged Atlantic shores, these hotels offer a blend of world-class maritime amenities, breath-taking views and boating opportunities. Whether you’re a yachtie, a lover of marine adventures, or simply in search of a tranquil alternative to a beach getaway, immerse yourself in European maritime culture. Hear the sound of the gentle breeze whistle through the masts and watch the sunset over the harbour, as you “set sail” to one of these locations.
Karpaz Gate Marina Hotel, North Cyprus
A quiet spot on the remote north-eastern coast of Cyprus is the setting for the Karpaz Gate Marina, an award-winning and sought-after destination for the sailing and superyacht communities. Guests at the in-situ hotel (and marina residents) will feel far from the throng, yet surrounded by wonderful amenities, with the option to hop on a cruiser or take a sailing course and explore the historic and rural neighbouring areas. The 52-bedroom resort has a Beach Club (with real sand, water sports, an infinity pool and an eatery), The Gallery Spa with a traditional hammam, bespoke wellness/activity packages and Hemingway’s Restaurant.
Read our guide to the best hotels in North Cyprus
Hotel Hermitage, Monaco
Stay close to Monaco’s Port Hercule Marina, one of the French Riviera’s only deep-waterports, formed at the foot of an ancestral rock. The Hôtel Hermitage is a belle-époque grande dame, with antique furnishings and a stunning stained-glass atrium. It’s home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Yannick Alléno à l’Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, the Crystal Bar and terrace, le Limùn lobby bar, a stretch of private beach on the natural bay at Monte-Carlo Beach Club, as well as a destination spa, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo. Book a refined room with city, courtyard, or water views.
Read our guide to the best hotels in Monaco
Cervo Hotel, Sardinia
The sheltered long-time fishing harbour of Marina di Porto Cervo, on the north coast of Sardinia, is the setting for the Cervo Hotel. This Costa Smeralda resort is one of several five-star hotels in the vicinity and overlooks the Piazzetta. Warm colours, terracotta tiles and a traditional-rustic architectural style ensures the property both blends in and creates a welcoming aesthetic. Cervo has eight drinking and dining establishments, including Quattro Passi al Pescatore (whose menu was created in partnership with the Michelin Restaurant Quattropassi) and the Asian-themed Novikov Porto Cervo for close-up views on the marina’s comings and goings.
Read our guide to the best hotels in Sardinia
Sir Joan, Ibiza
Sir Joan’s 38 bedrooms are filled with nautical motifs and superyacht-style finishes, while its Penthouse bar and restaurant provide enviable views of Ibiza’s port and Old Town. The hotel is found next to Marina Ibiza and has its own fully crewed, 19-metre day boat, upon which, you and up to 11 other guests can take a cruise around Cala Benirrás. Or, join Alba, the resident seafaring pro, who will take you for a jaunt on her traditional Ibizan llaüt — you can take over the controls and be captain for a day if you’d rather get hands-on.
Read our guide to the best hotels in Ibiza
The Bodrum Edition, Bodrum
Just under two miles from Yalikavak Marina on the Bodrum peninsula, this EDITION property accommodates guests across 108 bedrooms, suites and villas; some private pools and gardens and all have custom-designed furnishings. Onsite facilities here include an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, an exclusive beach club with live DJs, a jetty and cabanas, and a spa with a hammam. Dine beneath festoon lighting and overlooking the bay on a menu of Japanese delicacies at Morena, or on Latin American food accompanied by live music at the alfresco Brava, and on Turkish fare at Kitchen.
