LATE IN THE RAY

As the peak holiday season begins to wind down, there's a sweet spot of destinations across Europe that are perfect for late-summer travellers looking for sunshine without the high-season crowds.

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From boutique design-led hotels in Puglia to alpine serenity in Switzerland, glamorous Sardinian escapes and restorative wellness retreats in Austria, we've pulled together a curated edit of standout options.

Vista Ostuni - Apulian Charm in the 'White City'

For an escape that combines history, design, and sun-drenched southern Italian charm, Vista Ostuni is a standout recently opened hotel in Puglia's iconic 'White City'.

Housed in a meticulously restored 14th-century palazzo, the 28-suite boutique hotel blends centuries-old architectural features with contemporary interiors by Milan-based designer Robert Murgia and elegant gardens by landscape architect Erik Dhont.

Guests can linger over long lunches on the terrace, cool off in the panoramic pool, and wander Ostuni's whitewashed streets under the golden glow of the late summer sun, all while enjoying warm Apulian hospitality and timeless Mediterranean appeal.

The Capra - Alpine Serenity in the Late-Summer Sun

Set in the car-free Swiss village of Saas-Fee, The Capra offers a peaceful alpine retreat where late-summer days are filled with crisp mountain air, panoramic sunshine, and restorative experiences.

This boutique five-star hotel combines understated luxury with access to some of Switzerland's most scenic hiking trails, glacier excursions, and nature walks.

Guests can unwind in the Peak Health Spa, complete with salt therapy rooms, saunas, and an indoor-outdoor relaxation area, before savouring seasonal mountain cuisine.

With the golden glow of the late summer warming the Alps, The Capra is the perfect blend of wellness, nature, and high-altitude tranquillity.

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