Sentosa

Capella Singapore

★★★★★

Capella Singapore is the resort for travellers who want Singapore's sights within reach but would rather wake up in a rainforest. It sits on a hill on Sentosa island, about fifteen minutes by car from the city centre, and its setting is unique: two restored colonial buildings from the 1880s, once part of the Tanah Merah barracks for British officers, are linked to curving contemporary wings designed by Norman Foster's practice, all surrounded by mature trees, peacocks and lawns that roll down toward the sea. The hotel became world famous when it hosted the 2018 summit between the United States and North Korea, but its reputation rests on its consistency: it has held a Forbes Travel Guide five-star rating for many years running, and service is calm, personal and thoughtful. Rooms, suites, villas and the larger Manor are spacious and quietly luxurious, in natural tones with large bathrooms; villas have private plunge pools and gardens. Three cascading outdoor pools face the South China Sea, the Auriga spa is one of the most highly regarded in the region, and dining includes Cassia, a celebrated Cantonese restaurant, and Bob's Bar, a colonial-style terrace bar known for its rum and sunset views. The island's beaches, Universal Studios, the Oceanarium and the golf club are close by, and the hotel runs transfers into the city.

The contrast between the old and new buildings is the architectural pleasure of a stay here. The colonial blocks, with their verandas and high ceilings, house the lobby, the restaurants and the bar, while the modern wings curve around the hill like contour lines, hiding most rooms in greenery. Walking paths wind through the grounds to the pools and the spa, and it feels much further from the city than it is. Wildlife is part of the charm: peacocks wander the lawns, and monkeys and birds are frequent visitors.

Choosing a room: the premier garden and sea-view rooms are generous and good value relative to the rest of the hotel; the constellation suites add space; and the one- to three-bedroom villas, each with a plunge pool, are the honeymoon and family choice. The Manor, a colonial-era house for larger groups, is the most exclusive option. The Living Room and the lobby bar make a pleasant evening base, and the hotel offers activities such as heritage walks and cultural programmes. Ask about transfers and the in-house car service when planning sightseeing in the city.

Who it suits: honeymooners and couples, families who want space and pools, and anyone ending a long trip through Asia who wants a few days of genuine rest. The trade-offs: prices are among the highest in Singapore, and you depend on taxis or the hotel's transport to reach the city, which makes it less practical for a first trip packed with sightseeing. The best plan is to split a stay: a few nights in the city centre, then two or three at Capella.