For a small continent, Europe certainly packs a punch. Think history and mouth-watering cuisine, or spiriting off to the balmy climes of the Mediterranean; there’s always an adventure to be had.
Europe is timeless. Home to must-see grand palaces, museums, and UNESCO ruins just waiting to be explored, it’s the history of Europe’s countries that fascinate and draw in. But what really gets under the skin of a destination and uncovers what it’s all about? The answer: food. From sweet treats on the Portuguese coast in the form of the famous pastéis de nata, to black risotto – made with both the squid and its ink – in the medieval coastal villages of Croatia, there’s some true gems in the fare department.
But there’s more to Europe that bustling cities and delightful delicacies. Blissful pockets of nature can be found tucked away in France’s colourful countryside (and in winter, its snowy slopes), among Turkey’s turquoise waters, or amidst the hillsides of the Douro Valley. One lifetime is barely enough to scratch the surface of this diverse land; a continent of culture in the truest sense.
A unique stay where history, art and botanical exploration ignite the senses. Situated just off the coast of Dubrovnik lies the car-free Croatian island of Lopud, perhaps the prettiest settlement of all the Elaphiti islands. It’s here that you will discover a 15th century monastery that has been lovingly transformed into a breathtaking boutique hotel. Comprised of five exquisite and uniquely designed suites for your exclusive use, it offers you the unique opportunity to ‘live like a collector.
Step into a wintry wilderness for a magical Christmas getaway to Finnish Lapland for the whole family at OCTOLA. Located within 300 hectares of private wilderness reserve, surrounded by wild reindeer and with spellbinding nature as far as the eye can see, this lodge will be exclusively yours to enjoy the most authentic stay in the Arctic Circle. Time here takes you away from the crowds for an experience as enchanting as any child, or parent for that matter, would wish for; a chance to meet Father Christmas in his native home.
The Algarve in its purest form is found at this full-on destination-resort, that has everything from golf programmes to fantastic family facilities, oh and impeccable Michelin-starred dining.
ViewSet on its own private peninsula above Funchal harbour, this distinguished property is where Winston Churchill retreated to write his war memoirs is an island institution.
ViewWith a three-starred Michelin chef and an acclaimed sommelier at the helm of its award-winning restaurant, it’s easy to see why foodies flock to this Quinta do Lago enclave.
ViewTucked away in Portugal’s celebrated wine region, this boutique property pays homage to wellness, from the relaxing surroundings and organic food, to housing one of the best spas in the region.
ViewAlthough it has an exclusive address between Cote d’Azur’s most celebrated resorts, it’s the hotel’s signature southern France grandeur that sees high-flyers coming back for more.
ViewIt’s a clever feat to have a grand hotel with a family-home feel. Here, the maître de maison takes time to acquaint herself with every visitor hosting hikes and mountain-top picnics.
ViewNestled in an undiscovered corner of Provence, this all-suite and villa resort offers the best of coast and countryside, delighting with spectacular views over fairytale-esque villages and the hills beyond.
ViewA pine-clad hillside within the protected Datça Peninsula makes the stage for this elevated retreat, with peripheral-filling views over an azure bay and five porcelain beaches filling the stalls.
ViewHere, rooms are some of the largest in the area, the spa is particularly standout and practised staff are geared up to throw exclusive parties in four to seven-bedroom villas.
ViewGo off-the-radar at this glorious bolthole amid acres of UNESCO-protected ruins on a tranquil stretch of scalloped coastline. Don’t miss the Tower Library with spectacular views over Mandalya Bay.
ViewA Leading Hotel of the World just 15-minutes from old town Croatia, this ultra-luxurious boutique retreat is a pocket of calm on the threshold of raw, wild nature.
ViewFronting a marina that’s a magnet for super yachts, it’s from this sleek waterside hotel that you can sail toward Dobrec Beach – a secluded lesser-known shoreline accessible solely via boat.
ViewA lack of any maps or signposts underpins the designer's intention for guests to feel refreshingly lost at this fortified fishing village and islet where accommodation is in a former royal residence.
ViewOn the edge of bustling ski-central, there’s an Alpine enclave with an air of heavenly mountain-top isolation. Choose from one of four high-end chalets offering luxurious seclusion away from the crowds of Val d'Isere.
While our customers will be the first to know that our commitment to excellent service during these uncertain times remains undimmed, the independent consumer body Which? has also recognised Carrier as one of the specialist and smaller holiday firms who is leading the way during COVID-19 and looking after their customers’ interests.
Recent times have exposed the value of human connection. What tomorrow’s travellers need more than ever is trusted guidance from experts, that’s relevant to their individual situation. Each booking at Carrier has always been owned by one highly skilled person, who has the autonomy to allow dynamic supplier negotiations on your behalf.
There’s nothing like the excitement and anticipation of when you have a trip to look forward to. We hope this curation of luxury holiday ideas inspires you to travel in the coming months. However, if you don’t see what you’re dreaming of here, or you’re still unsure about your travel options, please do get in touch or head back to explore more.