80th Birthday Holiday Ideas

Milestone birthdays deserve to be unforgettable. Celebrate yours, or surprise someone special, with a tailored holiday created by cazenove+loyd. We have handpicked our top 10 destinations to kick off your 80^th in style – complete with where to stay and the standout moments not to miss.

Egypt

What better way to ring in your 80^th than with a trip to Egypt? Our Destination Experts are consistently developing new experiences with the world’s best guides, so that your trip is as special as possible.

Hotel Al Moudira in Luxor is a luxury boutique retreat with a private pool and lush garden area, close to historical treasures, including the Valley of the Kings. The on-site restaurant serves a carefully curated menu of Mediterranean and Egyptian dishes, and each room is designed with exquisite Arabian architecture.

Oberoi Philae is one of our favourite boats for a luxury Nile River cruise. Relax in spacious, elegantly furnished cabins and suites while enjoying gourmet dining, a spa and wellness centre and a personalised service from the team who make every day feel like your birthday. The Oberoi Philae helps you make the most of your milestone, taking guests to Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sites, such as the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Abu Simbel.

Here, at cazenove+loyd, we help you see destinations like never before. Escape the crowds and discover Egypt’s quieter wonders with our sample itinerary: Egypt Revisited: From the Sea to the Sands excursion. On this journey, you might explore the Grand Egyptian Museum with a private guide, see the treasures of Tutankhamun and countless ancient wonders, and mark your 80^th with a truly special private visit to the Giza Plateau at sunrise. Our tailor-made journeys give you an under-the-radar experience with 24/7 support while travelling.

Morocco

Morocco’s exotic charm makes it the ideal destination for an 80^th birthday celebration.

Ezzahra is an estate with five luxury villas, situated in the exclusive Palmeraie, just 15 minutes from the centre of Marrakech. The villas have dedicated staff, including chefs, housekeepers and butlers, to make sure your birthday is extra special. Enjoy a private pool, wellness centre and spa, stunning landscape gardens and rooms that are perfect for families. We will help you choose the villa that is right for you or, if a bigger party appeals, you could even book out the whole estate. Relax with your nearest and dearest and celebrate your 80^th in style.

Riad Fes in Fez was originally a 14th-century palace owned by a notable Fassi family. It has been meticulously restored with Moroccan craftsmanship and is a wonderful way to ring in a new decade of your life. The beautiful rooms blend luxury with traditional design, including intricate zellige tilework. Here, you will be able to enjoy a world-class spa and panoramic roof top terrace, with multiple patios so you can make a toast in the evening sun.

For more inspiration, read our sample 10-day Sights, Sounds and Souks itinerary, which takes in Fez, Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakech. Explore the city of Fez like a local with one of our expert guides who will ensure you have access to ancient palaces and Islamic gardens, observe weavers at their loom and wander through colourful streets and souks.

With cazenove+loyd, you can completely immerse yourself in Moroccan culture. On one of our excursions, you can spend the day with a lovely local family, shop for seasonal ingredients, bake bread, preserve lemons and prepare traditional Moroccan salads. You will even discover the art of making the perfect mint tea. You can then all eat together as a family, Moroccan style.

Argentina

Argentina is as beautiful as it is varied, which makes it the perfect destination for an 80^th birthday. If you celebrate towards the beginning of the year, you can escape the cold of England and enjoy glorious sunshine without overheating.

If you are looking for the comforts of a luxury hotel, look no further than Legado Mítico
in Salta. Set in the heart of the city, you will be in walking distance of Plaza 9 de Julio, museums and top restaurants. Enjoy warm hospitality and thoughtful touches to help you enter your new decade in style.

Looking for something unique? Awasi Iguazú is a luxury eco-lodge where you can experience the Iguazú Falls away from the hustle and bustle. Set in a private 25-acre plot of dense rainforest, you can enjoy delicious food in a beautifully furnished space, all while enjoying the nature around you. Straddling the borders of Argentina and Brazil, you will have the most unbelievable view of the waterfall, all while staying close to your hotel.

It wouldn’t be Argentina without a tango show. The live orchestra at Café de Los Angelitos features five musicians (double bass, violin, guitar, large accordion and piano) and two singers. Five dancing couples graciously perform as they run through the history with a theatrical interpretation of the genre that embraces athletic leaps, high kicks and dramatic pirouettes.

South India

South India’s vibrant culture and tranquil natural beauty are the perfect way to celebrate your 80^th birthday in style.

Set in a beautifully restored 300-year-old colonial building with lush courtyards and gardens, Old Harbour Hotel in Cochin is the perfect setting for a special celebration. Iconic attractions, such as the Cheena Vala fishing nets, are in easy reach. Sit back, relax and enjoy a personalised service and a memorable visit.

If you are looking for an authentic farm stay, look no further than Philipkutty’s Farm on the Backwaters of Kerala. Guests can stay in eco-friendly cottages surrounded by lush coconut groves and backwater canals. This working farm offers a unique experience with farm-to-table dining and full cultural immersion. Engage with local culture through cooking demonstrations, farm tours and interactions with the family that runs the farm.

With our sample Discover the Best of South India itinerary, you can experience everything from ancient heritage to the astounding natural beauty of this land. One of our highlights is the day spent on a traditional rice barge, where you can relax and take it easy while watching the local life along the banks, seeing traditional fishing, gardening and children playing. Enjoy a gorgeous lunch onboard as you sail through the local culture.

Our dedicated Destination Expert will curate your itinerary from scratch to make sure it is perfect for you, whether you would like to experience the historic lanes of Fort Kochi, the bazaars of Mattancherry or the iconic Cheena Vala, or enjoy the best of local artisans’ work.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is characterised by natural beauty, rich heritage and warm hospitality – a special place to welcome your 80^th birthday.

If you are looking for a unique place to stay for your celebrations, Ceylon Tea Trails in Hill Country is ideal. These luxury tea plantation bungalows offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Enjoy exquisite cuisine with daily changing menus and learn the art of Ceylon tea with private guided tours of the working tea plantations. See the journey from leaf to cup!

Amangalla in Galle is a beautiful boutique hotel set in a stunningly restored 17^th-century Dutch colonial building, offering old charm with modern luxury. Here, you will have easy access to pleasant streets and historic landmarks. Enjoy complete relaxation with a personal butler service and a wellness sanctuary to welcome your 80s in style.

Our sample Discover the Peace of Sri Lanka itinerary makes for a truly relaxing holiday. One of our highlights of this week-long escape is a visit to Pidurangala Temple; you will be able to experience a monk’s blessing and an out-of-this-world cooking experience on this beautiful landmark.

South Africa

South Africa’s gorgeous landscapes and coastal splendour are the perfect backdrop for your 80^th birthday.

Last Word is in the heart of Franschhoek, offering elegant rooms and suites with easy access to world-class wineries, gourmet restaurants and charming boutiques. The fantastic team caters to each guest’s individual needs, helping you make your 80^th extra special. Here, you can see South Africa at your leisure from the outdoor pool, lush gardens and private terraces of Last Word.

Cape Town is a breathtaking city, and we will help you kick your 80^th off with some incredible experiences. Our personal highlight is a bespoke Table Mountain experience, relax in a privately guided cable car, and enjoy unparalleled views of what the region has to offer.

Toast your birthday with a private wine tasting in the Cape Winelands. Here, you will have exclusive access to cellar tours and intimate tastings, with expert sommeliers who can reveal secrets about South Africa’s finest vintages.

Kenya

Kenya is home to incredible wildlife and diverse landscapes where every day is different. What better way to celebrate a special occasion than this breathtaking country?

Here, you can have exclusive use of Wild Hill, a gorgeous villa in the heart of the Masai Mara, giving you the privacy and luxury to make your birthday extra special. You will be able to see unmatched views of the savannah landscape, all while enjoying spacious rooms with high-end comforts.

If the sea calls, you may prefer Nderit House in Kilifi, a stunning five-bedroom villa with traditional architecture and spacious, airy rooms. Located right on the coast with a beautiful private swimming pool, you will be close to popular attractions including Kilifi Creek, Mnarani Ruins and local markets, making it perfect for celebratory excursions.

Our sample itinerary, Wilderness Wonders + City Charms: A Family Expedition through the Captivating Cape, is perfect if you want to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. Highlights include an exhilarating game drive with your own guide. Witness the wilderness at twilight and spot some of Africa’s most incredible wildlife, then end the night with a magical dinner under the star-studded sky.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean’s most diverse nations, which makes it the perfect backdrop for your 80^th celebration. You are guaranteed to be swept away by the country’s heritage.

ÀNI Private Villa in Rio San Juan is an exclusive-use luxury retreat offering views of the Atlantic Ocean and tropical gardens. This is the ideal location to get all your family and friends together to celebrate. Guests can enjoy the private spa, gym, tennis court and waterslide as well as the gorgeous beach. Get everyone together around the bar or firepit to toast to your 80^th.

The Dominican Republic: Paradise Found  sample itinerary is a wonderful way to ring in a new decade. Highlights include a jewellery masterclass with Joarla Caridad, a second-generation local artist working with precious stones. After a tour of the museum, you will visit her store and see the creative process as well as some stunning pieces.

Laos

Laos is one of Asia’s most culturally diverse countries, making for an unforgettable experience.

Rosewood in Luang Prabang is designed by architect and designer Bill Bensley and set in a lush forest estate with a natural waterfall, river and terraced landscaping. Choose from 23 distinct lodging options, all styled using unique materials. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, wellness and spa facilities, and exclusive activities from traditional bamboo fishing, cultural workshops and elephant sanctuary visits.

Highlights of your trip may include the Early Morning Alms Giving, one of the most magical things you can experience in Laos. See hundreds of monks processing through the streets of Luang Prabang, accepting offerings of food from the local residents and businesses.

Sit back, relax and enjoy a beautiful private cruise along the river to the Pak Ou Caves. Your Destination Expert will make sure your drink of choice is on board and you can celebrate your 80^th in style while enjoying a scrumptious picnic lunch.

Colombia 

Colombia’s natural beauty and diverse delights make it the perfect country to clink a glass on your 80^th.

El Cielo Hotel in Medellín is a luxury hotel that is perfect for foodies. It offers a unique culinary experience with tasting menus that combine traditional flavours with modern techniques. Relax in the rooftop pool and wellness area or head out on the town – El Cielo Hotel is close to some of the best restaurants and cultural attractions the city has to offer.

Casa San Agustin is tucked inside Cartagena’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, meaning you are just minutes away from some of its plazas and churches, perfect for an afternoon stroll. This is the ideal spot for history buffs. A fragment of the city’s 300-year-old aqueduct arches over the courtyard pool – an unforgettable centrepiece to your stay.

One of our favourite experiences in Colombia is flower arranging in Santa Elena. You will join a local instructor for a hands-on workshop using hundreds of fresh blooms. Try creating your own miniature version before immersing yourself in a nearby nursery where you will feel like a local.

If you are a foodie, read our sample two-week Coffee, Coast, and Culture itinerary for inspiration. On this journey, you will eat like a local and enjoy empanadas, arepas and bandeja paisa, as well as exotic fruits found only in Colombia. You will also explore beautiful markets that show this country’s diverse cultural evolution.