There are great views, and then there are sights that will stay with you for the rest of your life. And while you could hop a helicopter, hike for miles, or pick up rock climbing, the right hotel can offer stunning panoramic “pinch me” vistas, letting you take in the terrain while you relax in five-star comfort. Here are six of our favorite cliffside retreats, guaranteed to defy gravity and perfectly situated for soaking in the scenery.
Cloud Camp - Colorado Springs, Colorado
The stately Broadmoor Hotel has been known for luxury and great views for more than 100 years, but in 2014 it took its hospitality to new heights, opening Cloud Camp at the summit of Cheyenne Mountain, 3,000 feet above the hotel and 9,000 feet above sea level. Guests at the all-inclusive mountaintop retreat can arrive via the resort’s shuttle — but adventurers can also ascend by mule or complete a roughly three-hour hike. And while the main lodge and 11 cabins offer cinematic scenery, physically fit guests may opt to climb 145 steps up to the Fire Tower Suite. With 360-degree views and a private cedar hot tub, it may be the most romantic room in the Rockies.
Kayakapi Premium Caves - Cappadocia, Turkey
Step back into the 6th century in the moonscape mountains of Cappadocia. People once carved out homes in the caves of this high plateau, amongst the unique tufa formations called fairy chimneys, and the region has ancient churches and even entire cities located underground. In the rock face overlooking the quiet town of Ürgüp, the cave homes and other structures of the Kayakapi neighborhood — part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site — are being restored and transformed into unique lodgings with magical views, including the region’s legendary hot air balloons. Use of the relaxing hamam (steam bath) and sauna are included with your stay.
Post Ranch Inn - Big Sur, California
One hundred redwood-filled acres along central California’s magnificent Big Sur coastline is the setting for the Post Ranch Inn, a five-star fantasy where rustic romance meets understated but undeniable luxury. Perched over the Pacific, the adults-only suites don’t have TVs (the better to enjoy the scenery) but do feature wood-burning fireplaces, heated floors, and skies filled with stars, soaring condors, and mountain and ocean views. Breakfast, yoga, nature walks and meditation sessions are complimentary.
Cliff House - Cape Neddick, Maine
On the other side of the country, New England’s Cape Neddick sits on the edge of the wild Atlantic. Located on 70 acres atop Bald Head Cliff, Cliff House has been an iconic Maine retreat since 1872. Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows give commanding views of the crashing waves and Nubble Lighthouse. Spacious private terraces offer refreshing breezes accompanied by the sounds of surf and seagulls. There’s a complimentary shuttle to the nearby town of Ogunquit, which has cute shops and 3.5 miles of sandy beaches.
Cliff House Hotel - Ardmore, Ireland
Another Cliff House, this intimate, 39-room boutique hotel in the historic fishing village of Ardmore overlooks the storm-tossed Celtic Sea. Each room faces Ardmore Bay, with a balcony or terrace to take in more of the scenery. Hardy souls can brave the cold water while sea kayaking, surfing or snorkeling, or take the three-mile Ardmore Cliff Walk, which passes ruins and a shipwreck. Afterwards, savor a meal of sparkling fresh seafood at the hotel’s Michelin-recognized restaurant.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort - Nizwa, Oman
Princess Diana admired the dramatic Hajar Mountains on a royal visit in 1986, and guests of the stunning Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar can enjoy the same scenery. All of the resort’s 82 rooms boast canyon-facing balconies, while the resort’s private pool villas come with their own dedicated host. This rugged five-star property is located about two hours from the capital of Muscat, and is only accessible by 4WD.
