From an American desert retreat to a remote beach bolthole in Australia: The world's best wilderness hotels revealed

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Whether the dusty romance of the desert or the thrill of a rugged game reserve appeals more, there is nothing quite like reconnecting with nature on your vacation.

From an Australian beach bolthole so remote it can only be reached by air to a Peruvian resort overlooking a lake, Conde Nast Traveller has chosen the world’s best wilderness hotels for 2017.

For a spell-binding sneak peek of the selection, which features in the January issue’s prestigious Gold List, read on. 

 Amangiri, Utah, USA

Aman’s desert sanctuary is set in an otherworldly Utah location with its swimming pool built from a 164million-year-old rock

If it’s disconnection you seek, this luxury desert retreat is ideal for couples, who can take advantage of the terrace fires, starry skies and roof-top beds

Aman’s desert sanctuary is set in an otherworldly Utah location with its swimming pool built from a 164million year old rock.

Conde Nast Traveller describes the contemporary aesthetic as ‘a love letter to light, written in concrete'. 

If it’s disconnection you seek, this luxury desert retreat is ideal. Couples can take advantage of the terrace fires, starry skies and roof-top beds. Meanwhile, adventure-seekers can discover canyons and Lake Powell nearby. 

Berkeley River Lodge, Western Australia 

Travel experts at Conde Nast rate this far-flung Australian resort because it offers absolute isolation and guests can only reach it by air

It doesn’t get much more wild than Berkeley River Lodge in Australia’s far-flung The Kimberley.

The string of 20 villas are so isolated that guests can only reach them by helicopter or air taxi.

Guests are advised to swim in a nearby creek as the river and Timor Sea, which bedrooms overlook, are infested with sharks and crocodiles. 

Titilaka, Lake Titicaca, Peru 

After 14 action-packed activities offered by the hotel, including a catamaran trip and a visit to a historic site, guests can replenish their energy at one of the 18 bedrooms, which each have heated floors and large bath tubs

Heavenly views: Making the most of its breath-taking Lake Titicaca location, guests are rewarded with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout

Endless serenity awaits visitors to this colourful Peruvian gem.

Making the most of its breath-taking Lake Titicaca location, guests are rewarded with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout.

After 14 action-packed activities offered by the hotel, including a catamaran trip and a visit to a historic site, guests can replenish their energy at one of the 18 bedrooms, which each have heated floors and large bath tubs. 

Jawai, Rajasthan, India 

Call of the wild: Located between forests and hills, tigers regularly stalk around these nine lavish suites, dining tent and swimming pool in Rajasthan

Big cats and humans live harmoniously in this stretch of Rajasthan.

Located between forests and hills, tigers regularly stalk around these nine lavish suites, dining tent and swimming pool, according to the magazine.

The experts recommend the unique location to holidaymakers as it promises ‘magic of the bewitching tail-twitching variety’. 

Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Grumeti, Tanzania 

Where the wild things are: Just nine tents lie in the Great Migration path of a 350,000-acre private game reserve. Each tent is decorated with Persian rugs, antique mahogany and other luxury touches

If you’re craving a stay immersed in nature with the opportunity for thrilling animal encounters then Singita ticks all the boxes.

Just nine tents lie in the Great Migration path of a 350,000-acre private game reserve.

The publication highlights that guests will not only marvel at the surrounds but will also be impressed by luxury touches at the camp, including tents decorated with Persian rugs and antique mahogany. 

See more of the Gold List 2017 in the January/February issue of Condé Nast Traveller and online