Hot hotels for 2008

Holm House
Marine Parade
Penarth
Vale of Glamorgan
CF64 3BG

This small but perfectly formed hotel boasts just 12 uniquely designed bedrooms including three loft suites with spectacular views across the Bristol Channel. Converted from a ship owner's residence, Holm House is an intimate, five-star luxury hotel, situated in the seaside town of Penarth, near Cardiff. The hotel also has a champagne bar, restaurant, private dining room and spa with hydrotherapy pool.

Double rooms start from £185 and include a three-course dinner and full Welsh breakfast.

For more information go to www.holmhouse.com or call 029 2070 1572

Hotel Omm
Rossello 265
08008 Barcelona

If you're looking for sleek, hip design with a Zen-like feel, try the Hotel Omm in Barcelona. The hotel's 59 bedrooms are light and airy, while the rooftop pool and deck offer spectacular views of Gaudi's famous La Pedrera building. The restaurant, Moo, is considered one of the top dining spots in the city.

Doubles start from €320.

For more details visit www.hotelomm.es or call +34 934 454 000

(Photo provided by Frommers Guide Books)

The Vigilius Mountain Resort
Vigiljoch Mountain
I-39011 Lana

If you really want to get away from it all, try the Vigilius Mountain Resort, in South Tyrol. Accessible only by cable car, this resort promises peace, tranquillity and harmony. Designed by Matteo Thun, the 35 rooms and 6 suites use natural materials and warm colours. You can lie in bed and take in the fantastic views of the South Tyrolean Mountains, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment.

Prices start from €225 per room per night including breakfast and cable car.

For more information go to www.vigilius.it or call +39.0473.556 600

The Avalon Hotel
Kungstorget 9
411 17 Gothenburg
Sweden

Right in the heart of Gothenburg's shopping district and a stone's throw from the vibrant bars and restaurants on the Avenyn boulevard lies the Avalon Hotel. With input from a selection of Nordic architects, designers and artists, it's no wonder the hotel oozes Scandinavian chic. Of the 101 rooms, 24 have their own mini spas, and three have a mini gym if you like to work out in private. For the ultimate in luxury, book the penthouse suite, with its roof-top swimming pool.

Rooms start at 1290 SEK (about £94) on a bed and breakfast basis.

For more information visit www.avalonhotel.se/en/ or call +46 31 - 751 02 01

Hotel Ta' Cenc

Sannat
Island of Gozo
Malta

Blending contemporary design with rustic charm, Ta Cenc promises complete tranquillity and relaxation. Named after Gozo's dramatic cliffs, Ta Cenc boasts views of the islands of Malta and Comino and is set in 160 acres of land. Active travellers can test their skill on the tennis courts, or workout in the gym, while sun worshippers can wallow in the two pools or lounge on the rocky terrace. All the 83 rooms have either a terrace or private garden.

For more information visit www/vjborg.com/tacenc/ or call Simply Travel on 0870 166 4988