For the uninitiated, Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni is the result of the drying up of a prehistoric lake more than 10,000 years ago, leaving behind a thick crust of salt in a striking hexagonal pattern.
At over 10,000 sq km, the salt flats are the largest in the world. They're also reflective during the rainy season (November to April), making it especially popular amongst tourists and photographers in search of the perfect capture. This is because shallow pools of water accumulate on the surface, creating a vast "mirror" that makes for optical illusions aplenty.
It's this otherworldly landscape that luxury tour operator Scott Dunn has managed to make even more appealing thanks to its new "Airstream Uyuni" glamping concept. The offering – as its name suggests – allows guests to spend a night or two in a deluxe Airstream camper. Not only does the trailer sleep two (with the option of a third traveller on a sofa-bed), but the experience also includes a private guide, a driver and a chef.
As for creature comforts? A hot shower, heater and air conditioning are complemented by a fully stocked minibar.The camper is towed behind a 4x4 and followed by the "teardrop", a small supporting wagon that carries a kitchen and other necessities, vanishing after dinner along with the guide, driver and chef – all of whom stay nearby at the edge of the salt pan.
What guests are left with is a radio and satellite phone (in case of an emergency) and a bucket list-worthy sleeping arrangement. Other unique accommodation options in the area include Palacio de Sal and Luna Salada Hotel & Spa, both of which are made entirely of salt and therefore have a lifespan of only ten to 15 years, after which they have to be rebuilt.
But because seclusion ranks high in today’s socially distanced world, the flexibility of exploring the more remote (read: far from the crowds) parts of the salt pan on foot or by bike is an added bonus.
Meals served as part of the Aistream Uyuni package are simple and locally sourced, but certainly unforgettable. For starters, dinner might consist of a llama steak, washed down with red wine from the southern region of Tarija. When it comes to activities, visiting local communities or climbing the volcanoes at its edges are just a few of the extras that can be arranged. Guests can also browse colonial-era churches and quinoa plantations, trek to 800-year-old Aymara fortresses, visit pre-Incan tombs, watch the low-flying flamingos as they come into the pan to breed, and spot llamas and alpacas.
Even vicuñas, now believed to be the wild ancestors of domesticated alpacas, may make an appearance. Come nighttime, a telescope allows one to shift focus, taking in the blanket of stars overhead.
If you're a photography enthusiast, the experts at Scott Dunn suggest bringing a tripod along – the possibilities with interval shooting alone are endless.
Isolation Vacations are getting an ultra-premium twist at Scott Dunn Private, with the launch of its Limitless Villa Collection at the end of March 2020, comprising some 50 of Europe's most luxurious exclusive-use properties – with an international selection in the pipeline.
A kind of travel club for the elite, Scott Dunn Private provides a service "similar to what you would expect from a private bank", building relationships with clients over time so that the company can understand exactly what makes them tick. Memberships are limited and on application.
When it comes to booking, a global team of personal travel advisors then match villas with members, and tailors escapes based on individual guest requirements: from private chefs, concierges and childcare, to bespoke activities and trips by private yacht or helicopter. Read on for a taste of what to expect from the Limitless Villa Collection…
The Scott Dunn Private team is introducing guests to the epitome of Mykonos style and luxury at Villa Sophia (pictured above). Brand-new on the island and just moments away from the most beautiful beaches, Villa Sophia sleeps up to 18, with an open plan kitchen and outdoor barbecue area, plus a private pool and spa bath.
Scott Dunn Private offers seven nights at Villa Sophia, Mykonos, from £116,800 based on 18 people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.
Clean lines and contemporary furnishings meet cutting-edge technology at Villa Osprey, an exclusive six-bedroom villa in Cap Martinet on the island of Ibiza. Set within 15,000 sqm of gardens, a vast open plan living space leads to an outdoor pool and stylish Japanese outdoor dining area, surrounded by lush greens all beautifully lit up come nightfall.
Car rental, private drivers, a private chef, villa security, spa treatments and boat charters can all be easily arranged, along with Ibiza restaurant, beach club and nightclub bookings.
Scott Dunn Private offers seven nights at Villa Osprey, Ibiza from £77,800 based on 12 people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.
The ultimate château in which to toast the end of lockdown, La Chartreuse de Cos d’Estournel is the family home of Michel Reybier (of La Reserve fame), set within the grounds of one of the finest French vineyards a little more than an hour away from Bordeaux airport.
Comprising six bedrooms and two suites for a party of up to 16, guests can tour the vineyards and enjoy bespoke dinners prepared by a private chef, paired with wines from the cellar.
Scott Dunn offers seven nights at La Chartreuse de Cos d'Estournel from £144,800 based on 12 people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.
Meanwhile, in the picturesque Loire Valley sits the exclusive-use Château Anemone, an historic property that has welcomed many a discerning guest since it was first built in 1775.
An 18-hole golf course has recently been added to estate, winding its way through the woodland and offering enthusiasts unlimited golfing – as well as the opportunity to play with an ex Ryder Cup professional.
Should they wish, guests can be whisked by helicopter to Paris for an unforgettable day of shopping on the Champs-Élysées. Each of the Château’s eight bedrooms pays homage to the building’s heritage with luxurious, modern touches throughout. Lounge areas include a games room and library, as well as a gym and an indoor swimming pool.
Seven nights at Chateau Anemone costs from £190,000 based on 16 people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.
Villa Gabriella is an ancient stone-walled castle brought back to life through a meticulous restoration by local artisans and craftsmen. The result is a majestic exclusive-use property that comprises spacious living areas with high ceilings and views of the valley and sea.
Each of the eight suites is unique, showcasing traditional features including large stone and brick fireplaces, private balconies and roof terraces. The infinity pool is a highlight – built into and stretching across the Tuscan countryside, so guests can soak while taking in the magnificent views at sunset.
As well as relaxing in the intimate spa, guests can take in the magical atmosphere of the estate as they wind their way through the castle’s secret passageways to reach the vaulted wine cellars, where special tastings and dinners are hosted, using produce sourced from the estate’s vegetable gardens, olive groves, orchards and vineyards.
Scott Dunn offers seven nights Villa Gabriella, Italy from £130,100 based on 16 people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.
On a tiny island just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik lies Lopud 1483, a former Franciscan monastery now available for exclusive hire after a 20-year restoration.
The 13 original cells of the 15th-century monastery have been transformed into five suites, and the property is home to various contemplative spaces, reminiscent of its original use; a sacred garden offers a space for guests to meditate and align their senses with their natural surroundings, while the Sunset Terrace which sits atop the fortress affords incredible views of Lopud and The Elaphiti Islands.
Scott Dunn offers seven nights at Lopud 1483, Dubrovnik from £73,200 based on ten people staying on an exclusive-use basis, including flights from London and transfers.