In Arles, art and literature quite literally go hand in hand. The Provençal city is primed for artistic creation – so much so that Vincent Van Gogh moved here from Paris in 1888. While his studio, The Yellow House, unfortunately no longer exists, a plaque remains at the site in his memory, and the nearby Van Gogh Foundation organises regular displays of the late artist’s work. For those with a passion for photography and literature, the Rencontres d'Arles is hosting regular exhibitions and events until October, while the LUMA Foundation offers a comprehensive menu of creative courses and experiences. On the city’s outskirts is Baumanière les Baux-de-Provence, a picturesque property housing a three Michelin-starred restaurant, regal guestrooms, and an elegant pool area overlooked by the Alpilles mountains.

 For something breezier, head to the Atlantic coast and Île de Ré. Only accessible by bridge, this chic island is dominated by powdered beaches, salt marshes and quaint homes with weathered shutters. Cycle from village to village and stop off to indulge in oysters harbourside before lazing in the port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. For a truly magical experience, we also recommend staying at Hôtel de Toiras, set in the restored home of a 17th-century shipbuilder.

Tucked away in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, Lugano feels a world away from Switzerland’s better-known alpine resorts. Sip delicate espresso on sun-drenched café terraces, explore the medieval San Lorenzo cathedral, hike Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore or, for the chocolate lovers, enjoy decadent tasting experiences at the Alprose Chocolate Museum. We suggest booking a stay at Villa Principe Leopoldo, where natural light fills the space and accents lacquered wood, marble finishes and romantic details within.

Often overlooked in favour of its larger neighbours, Como and Maggiore, Lake Orta is a hidden gem in northern Italy. The perfect romantic getaway or place to enjoy lakeside adventures, it’s famed for its serene, glistening waters, snow-dusted Alps and charming medieval town of Orta San Giulio. Here, cobblestone streets taper out to reveal scenic cafés and the lake’s centrepiece: a hauntingly beautiful island monastery. We suggest flying into Milan to enjoy a stylish stay at Bulgari Hotel Milano before embarking on a nature-filled road trip towards the lake.

While London typically dominates British city breaks, the beautiful city of Bath offers something calmer but no less memorable. Steeped in Georgian elegance and ancient Roman history, this city is a haven for lovers of architecture, culture and period drama. Stay at Lucknam Park Hotel, an 18th-century building that will truly make you feel as though you’ve been transported to a different time. The hotel consists of thirteen suites and three cottages, as well as the Michelin-starred Hywel Jones – a distinguished establishment that attracts visitors in its own right. 

Known for its cuckoo clocks and cherry cake, as well as spa towns, evergreen woodlands and fairytale villages, Germany’s Black Forest will leave you truly besotted. Visit Baden-Baden, a region known for its natural hot springs and exceptional wellness establishments. For the ultimate retreat, stay at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, one of the region’s renowned and seasoned establishments. The property’s spa, Villa Stéphanie, is set against a backdrop of gothic-tinged buildings and, of course, the evocative Black Forest itself, offering a tranquil sanctuary for those seeking the ultimate reset.

Of course, all of these unforgettable stays are available on ASMALLWORLD Collection.