No doubt a response to the extreme digital connectivity of the world, but small and secret hotels have never felt more appealing than right now. The ultimate antidote to the ‘see and be seen’ scene. Extreme exclusivity is the name of the game here – where there’s no waiting times for check-in, no scrounging around for a sun lounger, and staff greet you like family. And it’s not all pricey private islands – some of our favourite secret stays include a three bedroom house in Brighton, and a colourful riad in Marrakech. The appeal is in the local touch, getting to know the owners and gaining a glimpse of life in the destination beyond the typical Instagram-experience.
From a shoe designer’s passion project in Portugal to a breezy beach house bolthole in Sri Lanka, here are just some of our favourite small and secret hotels that offer the ultimate in privacy and getting off the beaten track.