When the fairy lights go up and the idea of cooking for a crowd starts to lose its appeal, some of the world’s most exceptional hotels invite guests to swap the stress for sparkle. These are the places where Christmas comes fully formed, complete with glittering trees, generous feasts and a glass of something celebratory never far from reach.
Bab Al Shams, Dubai Desert
Set among Dubai’s golden dunes, Bab Al Shams transforms the desert into a festive playground. The season begins with a grand tree lighting ceremony and family market, followed by evenings filled with live music, lavish dinners and Boxing Day brunches. The celebrations culminate in the Golden Dunes Gala on New Year’s Eve with fireworks and a sense of easy glamour under the stars.
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
The resort takes a creative approach to the season with its Atlantis: The Lost Kingdom celebrations. Michelin starred chef Tom Aikens oversees the dining, while children dive into adventures hosted by Sharky & George. There are art sessions, wellness classes and ocean inspired experiences for all ages. Evenings bring gala dinners and fireworks reflected across the lagoon, creating a Christmas that feels relaxed, radiant and entirely unique.
ICEHOTEL, Swedish Lapland
Christmas at ICEHOTEL is pure magic – a world of ice, snow and Northern Lights where every stay feels like a fairy tale. Rebuilt each year from the frozen River Torne, its glittering suites are sculpted by artists and glow with candlelight. Days are filled with husky sled rides, Arctic feasts and cocktails served in glasses made of ice. Wrap up in reindeer hides, watch the sky dance green and discover a Christmas that feels straight out of a snow globe.
The Lanesborough, London
The Lanesborough turns the capital into a festive fairy-tale, wrapping Regency glamour in seasonal magic. Christmas in Residence means a twinkling tree in your suite, festive tipples from your personal butler and chauffeur rides to Harrods for last-minute sparkle. Little ones wake to personalised stockings and a visit from Father Christmas, while grown-ups indulge in feasts at The Lanesborough Grill or bliss at the spa. December brings live jazz, glittering soirées and a champagne-fuelled New Year’s Eve that dances into 2026.
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Staying closer to home, Cliveden combines classic English flair with the consummate House Party experience. This Grade I stately home, once owned by the Astors, hosts traditional lunches, festive afternoon teas and New Year’s celebrations surrounded by history, glamour and first-class service. Fires crackle, champagne flows and every detail is handled with effortless grace.
