Elbow Beach Resort, Bermuda

One fact about Elbow Beach is perhaps more illuminating than anything else we can say about it: it's a Mandarin Oriental. And like Mandarin hotels all over the world, it's a first-class resort with exemplary service and all the amenities the discerning leisure traveller could ask for.

Rooms are luxurious and spacious, with marble bathrooms and private terraces. Inside, comfort is stressed above avant-garde design, with soft and enveloping furniture, pale woods, light and open spaces, iHome docking stations and HD TV.

Most Elbow Beach rooms and suites are spread among cottages in the tropical gardens, though three one- or two-bedroom stand-alone cottages are also available. All look out towards a sweeping stretch of pink-sand beach, on which guests can take advantage of a cool towel service, loungers, umbrellas and a 'flag' waiter service.

Away from the sand there's a pool, a fitness room, five tennis courts and six Spa Suites, though treatments can also be had by the ocean should you wish, in the new Spa Beach Pavilion.

Dining ranges from cocktails, sushi and tapas at Sea Breeze Terrace to the casual Mickey's and the Mediterranean flavours and panoramic ocean views on offer at the elegant Lido. And if that weren't enough, you can also take advantage of a wonderful 'Dine Around' package that adds four of the island's other award-winning restaurants to the choice of dining venues.

We like: The 'Dine Around' package that opens up a world of culinary opportunities.

Best for: Pleasure seekers of all kinds.