What separates any run-of-the-mill hotel stay from a truly memorable one is the unique experience you can have there. From historic estates offering countryside excursions to hot new urban locales boasting acclaimed dining venues, hotels around the world are focusing in on distinctive amenities and activities while presenting guests with offers they can’t refuse. These properties might not be right for every budget, but we believe that the room rates are worth every penny. Check out the top value hotels from our 2014 Fodor’s 100 list, and book a stay at a property where you get the most bang for your buck.
By Megan Suckut
The Cove Eleuthera
Bahamas
With world-class amenities and luxurious seclusion, The Cove Eleuthera promises a beautiful and relaxing escape from everyday life. Spend your days here snorkeling, kayaking, and biking around the island—equipment is complimentary for all guests.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Bahamas Travel Guide
Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa
Germany
Beloved by royal visitors like Queen Victoria and Czar Alexander II, Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa is known for its historic elegance. The hotel rents classic cars to guests who want to cruise the Black Forest, and there are a number of spa breaks and seasonal packages compiled for guests to make the most of their stay here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s The Black Forest Travel Guide
Auberge du Jeu de Paume
France
Located in the Domaine de Chantilly, a French country estate, Auberge du Jeu de Paume radiates classic French sophistication. The hotel offers guests access to the surrounding château, gardens, and stables, and guests can choose from several packages that include meals and tailored experiences.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Ile-de-France Travel Guide
The Langham Chicago
Chicago
Opened in 2013, The Langham Chicago boasts luxurious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathrooms with rain showers, not to mention the impressive on-site Chuan Spa. Stay longer to enjoy the hotel and nearby shopping, and you will also enjoy up to 20% off the rate plus perks like dining credits and late check-out.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Chicago Travel Guide
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Offering packages for everyone, from the spa-lover to the golfer, even to someone staying for four nights instead of three, Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica is as big on the offers as it is on the luxury. Guests can enjoy surf trips and beach activities galore, accented by faultless service throughout their stay.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Travel Guide
Hotel Marques de Riscal
Spain
Stay inside a literal work of art when you check in at the Frank Gehry-designed Hotel Marqués de Riscal. The rooms are spacious and dazzling, offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards as well as luxurious Caudalie bath products that contribute to a spa-like atmosphere.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Bilbao and the Basque Country Travel Guide
Topnotch Resort
Vermont
A posh mountainside escape, Topnotch Resort is known for its country charm as well as the plethora of outdoor activities and special packages it offers. For example, guests who come during ski season get two free lift tickets to nearby Stowe Mountain for every night they stay.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Northern Vermont Travel Guide
Taj Mahal Palace
Mumbai
It's possible to stay in the iconic Taj Mahal Palace and not pay top dollar. Book a room in the modern wing (“the tower”) for better prices and reap the full benefits of luxurious accommodations with some of the best views in the city.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Mumbai Travel Guide
Le Petit Hotel
St. Martin
A family-run boutique hotel soaked in charm, Le Petit Hotel is laid-back yet rich in fine details. Every guest room has a private balcony overlooking the turquoise ocean where you can enjoy your continental breakfast to go every morning.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's St. Martin and St. Maarten Travel Guide
Esperas Santorini
Greece
The spacious rooms, cliffside terraces, and abundant Aegean Sea views at Esperas Santorini come at a surprisingly low price that puts the picturesque retreat at the top of both the city of Santorini and its hotel scene.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's The Cyclades Travel Guide
Avli
Crete
The historic charm and beautiful weather of Crete beg visitors to stay longer, and if you're staying at Avli, you're in luck. Guests who pay for 5 nights in the hotel's colorful, commodious stone suites get the sixth night for free.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Crete Travel Guide
The Royal Palms
Bermuda
At The Royal Palms, guests enjoy complimentary continental breakfast buffets, in a sunny breakfast room with antique furniture, as well as complimentary wine hour every evening. Take time to explore the gardens and relax on the front swing here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Bermuda Travel Guide
Nizuc Resort and Spa
Cancún
When you book a stay at Nizuc Resort & Spa, you get ample amenities and access to the only private beach in Cancún. The resort offers several specials on its website, like discounted suites and daily champagne buffet breakfasts.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Cancún Travel Guide
Rock House
Bahamas
Priced impressively for a Bahamas hotel, Rock House offers guests complimentary breakfast, private beach service, and some of the most comfortable beds on the island in addition to stellar sunset views from many rooms and the restaurant.
PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor's Bahamas Travel Guide