The must-book edit: Travel news for March 2026

Words by Laura Taylor-Gibbons

The latest updates in travel, fresh for March 2026. From new hotel openings across the globe to the best of Greece and the Maldives. Where will your next escape take you?

Stories for... The Head

Spring arrives with a sense of renewal, ushering in fresh openings, restored icons, coveted culinary corners, and inspiring island escapes.

In this edition we spotlight the season’s most exciting debuts – from Mallorca’s newest Mediterranean address and Corfu’s reimagined private estates to the return of the Fari Islands Festival and the revival of Spain’s first-ever luxury hotel, once a creative haven for Agatha Christie. And if a festive booking is still on your to-do-list, consider this the spark of inspiration for the season ahead.

New openings

A roundup of fresh faces on the hotel scene this spring.

Crete, Greece

Rosewood Blue Palace

Overlooking the famous Spinalonga Island, this Elounda icon has had a Rosewood makeover.
Japan

Capella Kyoto

The city’s rich heritage will be the guiding light at this boutique address in the Miyagawa-chō district.
Portofino, Italy

Belmond Villa Bertrice

This 100-year-old clifftop palazzo in Portofino
has been sensitively restored into a luxurious private villa – the first of its kind for Belmond.
Mallorca, Spain

Sa Brisa Private Boat at La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel

From sunset cruises to full-day hire, the hotel’s new boat – Sa Brisa – is a stylish way to enjoy the waters that surround Mallorca.
Barbuda

Nobu Beach Inn

From sunset cruises to full-day hire, the hotel’s new boat – Sa Brisa – is a stylish way to enjoy the waters that surround Mallorca.
Mallorca, Spain

Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra

Set against the enviable backdrop of Puerto Portals, this resort blends the island’s natural beauty – framed by Aleppo pines and a dramatic coastline – with the brand’s signature impeccable service and attention to detail.
Tenerife, Spain

Gran Hotel Taoro

Inaugurated in 1890 as Spain’s first large luxury hotel and host to royal guests and illustrious visits, the Gran Hotel Taoro is now reborn after a meticulous three-year restoration.
Discover...

Standout new opening

A Mediterranean summer: Mandarin Oriental unveils its first Mallorca address for 2026

With 131 effortlessly chic rooms and suites set against the enviable backdrop of Puerto Portals, Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca blends the island’s natural beauty – framed by Aleppo pines and a dramatic coastline – with the brand’s signature impeccable service and attention to detail.

Flaunting exclusive access to two secluded coves and uninterrupted sea views, Mallorca’s vibrant rhythm shines through in thoughtfully curated experiences, spirited culinary moments, and restorative wellness rituals – each inviting guests to be at one with nature and savour the island in a way that feels both authentic and deeply engaging.

Greek waves: Corfu’s most desirable private residences reborn

Nestled on its own private peninsula, with lush olive groves and cypress trees on one side and sweeping, glistening views of the Ionian Sea on the other, Corfu Imperial a Grecotel Resort to Live offers not only an unforgettable panorama of natural beauty, but an exceptional island setting defined by privacy, elegance and world-class hospitality.

Whether it’s a private grand Corfiot country estate retreat or your own elegant beachfront palace, all bases are covered for that extra-special personalised getaway, whatever the occasion. The newly introduced Medusa Estate and Palazzo Libro d’Oro, each complete with private heated pools and breathtaking sea views, blend traditional Corfiot charm with modern sophistication – creating truly personalised stays for the most discerning guests.

Where to stay

Our hand-picked villas

Medusa Estate

For: Families, multi-generational, friendship groups, abundant space, classic character, privacy-focused, a villa-estate feel, up to twelve guests

Located on the most privileged spot of Kommeno Peninsula, Medusa plays homage to its heritage as a century-old olive oil factory, with the traditional stone olive mill now beautifully restored and thoughtfully reimagined as a centrepiece of the estate.

Vast outdoor spaces, lined with lush vegetation and perennial olive groves, envelop this one-of-a-kind hilltop mansion. An alfresco lifestyle unfolds around the private swimming pool, numerous patios and inviting outdoor lounges – all beautifully positioned against a breathtaking backdrop of the Ionian Sea.

Palazzo Libro d’Oro

For: Couples, smaller groups, beach-focused travellers, contemporary luxury, romantic getaway, intimate retreat, up to eight guests

An elegant and ornate Corfiot Palazzo with direct access to an exclusive sandy cove, Palazzo Libro d’Oro occupies a coveted yet secluded position within the resort. Set over two intimate levels with an opulent ambience, it features verandas and balconies that maximise its enviable beachfront location – offering uninterrupted sea views and a refined sense of privacy.

Tastefully reimagined

Uncover the resort’s latest gastronomic offerings.

Tastefully reimagined

Uncover the resort’s latest gastronomic offerings.

Already firmly on the radar of the culinarily curious, Corfu Imperial A Grecotel Resort to Live never stands still when it comes to fine dining. With refreshed menus, a newly opened à la carte restaurant and a historical café reborn, Corfu’s rich culinary heritage shines in abundance here.

A new course of

haute cuisine

Flavour pairings across two continents

Merlin’s Bar Restaurant is the latest addition to the resort’s well-established culinary experiences, dazzling the palates of fine diners with a fusion of Chinese cuisine and a Latin-Mexican-American twist. Creative, mixology-led cocktails complement the menu, offering a multisensory dining experience. Inspired by the history of Lord Merlin who introduced the koum quat (kumquat) fruit to Corfu, the venue celebrates his contributions to the island’s culture.

Have your cake

and eat it

A sweet addition to the famed promenade

A fusion of charming traditional details and lively modern accents, Gelateria is a delight for every sweet tooth. Positioned along the resort’s most vibrant promenade, it tempts guests with signature fresh ice creams, daily desserts, crêpes, waffles and a playful candy bar. Day or night, it’s the irresistible cherry on top.

The beat of island life: Discover the spirt of the Maldives

Let the rhythm of the archipelago set the pace in a world where creativity, culture, and coastal beauty await. From vibrant celebrations at this year’s Fari Island Festival to serene stays at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, the Maldives offers an invitation to experience its soulful charm in every moment.

Must-see

A festival for the senses

Fari Island Festival 2026 | 13-15 August 2026

Following the success of its inaugural edition last September, the Fari Islands Festival returns to the Maldives this summer. Showcasing artistic performances, culinary experiences, wellness journeys, sustainability initiatives, and community and connection, the festival is a unique opportunity to engage with Maldivian heritage and experience a luxurious cultural journey at its finest.

Must-stay

The rhythm of island living

Where modern design meets the beauty of nature’s surroundings: The Signature Villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.

Boasting private pools, ocean views, expansive indoor–outdoor living, and a dedicated Aris Meeha island butler, each Signature Villa space is crafted for privacy, comfort, and a truly elevated Maldivian experience. Almost everything is taken care of, leaving just one question: which villa will you choose?

Explore this hotel

Beach life
The Ritz-Carlton Estate

A private beach residence

Tucked into its own secluded cove, The Ritz‑Carlton Estate is home to three four-bedroom villas – sleek, modern, and accented with curated pieces. A reluctance to leave comes all too easily – though bicycles and a dedicated buggy tempt effortless exploring, well worth stepping out for.

Expansive lounges spill onto sun‑drenched terraces, where infinity pools frame the slow descent of the Maldivian sun. Evenings unfold with dining under the stars on the private stretch of beach or entertaining beneath outdoor pavilions.
Villa views
Spacious two bedroom villas

Overwater or at the beach

Whether suspended above crystalline waters with a private deck or nestled along quiet swathes of exclusive shoreline, the contemporary-styled Two‑Bedroom Villas reveal generous living spaces and two master bedrooms.

Each villa opens to uninterrupted ocean views, a private infinity pool, and sun‑lit decks made for long, unhurried days of sunbathing and stargazing with loved ones.

Spain’s Crown Jewel

A new chapter unfolds on Tenerife’s northern coast, where history, landscape and haute cuisine converge. Spain’s iconic Gran Hotel Taoro rises once more, reimagined for a luxurious new era while honouring the grandeur of its past.

The rebirth of

an icon

Luxury awaits at Tenerife’s North

Inaugurated in 1890 as Spain’s first large luxury hotel and host to royal guests and illustrious visits such as Alfonso XIII, the Duke of Kent and Agatha Christie, the Gran Hotel Taoro is now reborn after a meticulous three-year restoration.

Perched on an exclusive hilltop enclave above Puerto de la Cruz, the hotel commands breathtaking views of Mount Teide and the Atlantic Ocean. Yet even these vistas are rivalled by the experience within, where heritage, neoclassical architecture, and haute cuisine blend seamlessly to create something truly extraordinary.

Explore this hotel

Where foodies

flock

Michelin-star gastronomy at high altitude

Celebrated for its world-class quality and innovative approach, the culinary scene at Gran Hotel Taoro features two Michelin-starred restaurants, OKA and LAVA, led by award-winning chefs Ricardo Sanz and Erlantz Gorostiza, respectively. Together they present a unique blend of Japanese-Mediterranean fine dining and local Canarian produce – a philosophy that reflects the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and regional identity.

Known for pushing boundaries with pioneering haute cuisine, both restaurants craft seasonally reimagined menus inspired by refined techniques, local ingredients, and the daily catch. The result is a fresh, diverse, and ever‑evolving gastronomic journey that excites even the most discerning culinary enthusiasts.

Christmas styled by Carrier

How will you celebrate this festive season? Whether it’s the hush of snow settling over a Swiss peak or the shimmer of the Indian Ocean beneath a December sun, the festive season invites a certain kind of magic. Now, it's over to us to provide all the inspiration you'll need...

Our step-by-step guide to

booking Christmas

Just like the Christmas period itself, it doesn't need to be stressful; our expert team will handle all of the elements, meaning you can just sit back, relax and look forward to an unforgettable escape.

Read this guide

Where to spend

the festive season

How will you celebrate this festive season? On sun-kissed sands, beneath snow-dusted pines, or amidst the sparkle of a city skyline?

Read this article

From the Reading Room

Our latest stories

Costa Navarino: Luxury with a conscience

Cradled within the unspoilt landscape of Messenia, sustainability shapes every decision at Costa Navarino – from how the land is protected to how experiences are created. A true driving force in delivering world-class hospitality while safeguarding its natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Top 5 luxury wellness hotels for families

From the wilderness lining Canada’s nurturing coast to the healing powers of Maldivian isles, these resorts are breaking the mould and proving wellness is for every branch of the family tree.
The final family holiday before they fly the nest

It’s time for one last trip together while the family home is still full.
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On a holiday usually ruled by squeals of speed-induced joy, let the moments of calm and connection do the talking.

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