Our list turned became the go-to guide sheet for those who expect nothing less than the finest when it comes to travel.We repeated the process in 2025, with intriguing outcomes.The hotels we chose, as usual, range greatly in age:
some may be centuries old, while others may have opened within the last year. Some are rural estates, while others are hideaways in the heart of the city.
They are both comfortingly nostalgic and models of cutting-edge, modern design. But they have one thing in common: a dedication to providing the finest in opulent hospitality.
The same approach was used this year: We asked each of them to attest to a maximum of ten homes that they often suggest to customers. We asked them to elaborate on what makes that particular hotel, resort, or ranch so exceptional. This guarantees that each hotel, safari camp, or resort on our list has been repeatedly tried, evaluated, and approved by the most discriminating tourists in the world.
It should come as no surprise that there were several overlaps, with some facilities obtaining recommendations from various operators; here are the hotels that made the top 10. For convenience, we have arranged the remaining ones by region.
However, there are also a lot of upsets. Hawaii and New York, two of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, were left off of our list last year. We are proud to say that it has been a call to action for hotels, as we had intended. Two brand-new, exceptional hotels in each of those locations are on this year’s list.
1. Claridge’s | London, U.K.
Judi Dench would be Claridge’s if she were a hotel. Despite being a revered and resolutely British institution that has been a part of English life for decades, this grande dame of the London hotel scene nevertheless has a young vitality. Even the almost 90-year-old acting legend is outshone by the 1812-opened hotel, which just built an underground health facility furnished by designer André Fu in characteristic zen wood and limestone. What other hotel can boast Mick Jagger as a fan and the late Queen Elizabeth II as a frequent, protocol-stretching lunch guest? Book in at the Mews Terrace for a beautiful, only-in-London experience on a quiet back lane. The Maybourne-run hotel is sister to locations in Beverly Hills, the French Riviera, and another London location, including the Connaught, but it surpasses them all. Cédric Reversade, co-owner of Unique Properties and Events, describes the whole establishment as “perfection.” He suggests the truffle French fries in the foyer, which are washed down with a dry martini, and the assistance of the “divine concierges, Nigel or Martin,” anytime you leave the establishment. “It’s my home away from home in London,” says Ashley Isaacs Ganz of Artisans of Leisure.
2. La Mamounia | Marrakesh, Morocco
Consider La Mamounia to be a Moroccan vision come true, a fever dream of maximalism that was just given a new lease of life during the epidemic. Make sure you reserve a room that has a view of the gardens and the pool, have a glass of champagne on the balcony, and relax in the grounds while munching on a Pierre Hermé macaron or sashay around the picturesque pool in a couture kaftan. Whether it as Winston Churchill’s de facto winter residence or serving as a shorthand for elegant luxury for famous people like Kim Kardashian and, more notoriously, Anna Delvey, it has been a daring bolthole for decades. According to Isaacs Ganz, “it’s iconic and legendary, but it still stays current.” “I adore the traditional hammam, the hidden courtyards, the vibrant tiles, the Moroccan design throughout, and the gardens where Churchill painted.” Its location, only a short stroll from the souk, is an added bonus.
3. Flockhill Lodge | South Island, New Zealand
One of the most celebrated openings of 2022, this authentic working sheep farm is set on 36,000 acres of stunning South Island wilderness. Although the homestead property was first occupied in September of last year, it was originally occupied in 1857. It can only hold one group of one to eight individuals at a time these days. Glass-wall vistas of the Southern Alps, a private chef who can completely personalize your meals, and an action-packed schedule of activities like hiking, bicycling, fishing, kayaking, caving, and stargazing are all included. It is likely that you will also wish to board a helicopter. And they mean it when they claim that this is a functioning farm: 11,600 sheep and 450 cattle. If you want to, you can even play farmer for yourself. Sandy Cunningham adds, “The clincher: It’s right next door to Castle Hill—Kura Tawhiti in Maori—also known as the birthplace of the gods to the pioneer of the Rapa Nui, the early explorers from Easter Island.” “The Dalai Lama referred to it as the universe’s spiritual center.”
4. Le Bristol | Paris, France
According to Edward Granville of Red Savannah, the Oetker-operated Bristol is located at one of the nicest locations in the City of Light. He describes the house on the Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré as “the ultimate location in the city boasting amazing views across the skyline, including Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower.” The hotel is also appealing in its own right: Don’t miss the sixth-floor swimming pool, which is adorned with trompe l’oeil.The most important permanent resident of Le Bristol is the house cat, Socrate, so don’t forget to take a moment to pet him. The gourmet restaurant Epicure, run by chef Arnaud Faye, is well worth booking for supper. Try the macaroni packed with foie gras, artichokes, and black truffle, or visit the on-site chocolate factory, which specializes in grand cru cocoas from across the globe.
5. Southern Ocean Lodge | Kangaroo Island, Australia
In Australia, it was well known that one of the greatest resorts in the world was located on Kangaroo Island. For the rest of the world to notice, it has just undergone a catastrophic fire and a stunning rebirth. The Southern Ocean Lodge was also destroyed by the flames that burned almost half the island in 2020. It reopened in December of five years later. A close-up of the original design was made by the property’s original architect, Max Pritchard. The atmosphere is calmly domestic, with 25 rooms extending from a central lodge, save for a brand-new four-bedroom apartment that overlooks the whole property and the breathtaking beachfront. The center bar, like the whole wine cellar, is self-serve; simply take what you want. The restaurant is ultra-refined and serves hyper-local food. The majority go here for island trips that highlight the area’s breathtaking landforms, untamed landscapes, and unusual fauna, such as koalas and penguins. Stuart Rigg of Southern Crossings claims that “it’s the peak of Australian contemporary coastal flair and a magnificent entryway to distinctly Australian environment and wildlife adventures.” “Each stay includes exclusive signature experiences, such as guided cliff top walks, stargazing, sundowners, and canapes served with the local kangaroos, in addition to the breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean from every room.”
6. Shinta Mani Mustang | Jomsom, Nepal
The first luxury hotel outside of Kathmandu, Nepal, Shinta Mani Mustang, the newest remote resort by flamboyant designer Bill Bensley and Cambodia’s Shinta Mani brand, opened little over a year ago. At 9,186 feet, its 29 apartments are situated in the isolated area of Jomsom, which serves as the entryway to the fabled Forbidden Kingdom. “The luxury end of the market has always been put off by Mustang’s short season and erratic weather,” says Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell of Cazenove & Loyd. “Bill Bensley’s striking hotel design acknowledges the cultural sensitivities of this ancient kingdom while providing the amenities and finish required for a harsh, high-altitude location.” In addition to individualized private trips to Himalayan monasteries and mountains, expect floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Nilgiri range, as well as horseback riding, rock climbing, cycling, archery, and helicopter tours. The all-inclusive resort has a wellness center with two treatment rooms, a restaurant with 60 seats, and a bar.
7. NIHI Sumba | Sumba, Indonesia
Sumba is now receiving the attention (and investment) it deserves, overtaking Bali as Indonesia’s most popular tropical island. However, it all began with NIHI Sumba. It spans 667 acres of underdeveloped island grandeur and comprises of only 27 thatched villas with individual pools and authentic Indonesian architecture. Once renowned for its world-class surfing, the resort now provides a wide range of activities, including chocolate production, beach rides on Sumba stallions, and therapy. According to John Clifford of International Travel Management, the resort, which is owned by investor Chris Burch (the ex-wife of renowned fashion designer Tory Burch), “connects guests with purposeful experiences through the Sumba Foundation.” It is the pioneer of environmentally responsible luxury. It exemplifies the act of giving back.
8. The Fifth Avenue Hotel | New York, New York
A Fifth Avenue location is more than just an address; it’s a heritage to uphold, and that goes double for a hotel and treble for a brand-new, independent establishment with a reputation to establish. You had better provide even more if you go so far as to name your hotel something as bland and offensive as the Fifth Avenue Hotel. The McKim, Mead & White building has been revitalized and is now linked to a new 24-story glass tower on 28th St., thanks to the efforts of owner Alex Ohebshalom and designer Martin Brudnizki. With 43 apartments, including a Flaneur penthouse equipped with an outdoor soaking tub and a Japanese garden that overlooks the city skyline, the varied, sometimes psychedelic décor pays homage to all that history. “The Fifth Avenue has an independent spirit that sets it apart from the pack in one of the greatest cities in the world, in addition to its extraordinary design,” says Sunil Metcalfe of Black Tomato. As you go about the hotel, you can sense how the founder’s trips around Europe and Asia served as inspiration, yet in a manner that is unique to the establishment. And you can join in on the chaos without having to be a visitor. Simply stop by the Portrait Bar for a hot dog au poivre and Osetra caviar, or visit Café Carmellini for supper and a drink from the mobile martini cart.
9. Janu Tokyo | Tokyo, Japan
In the center of Tokyo, in the new city-within-a-city complex known as Azabudai Hills, is Janu, Aman’s sister property. Aman-lovers will recognize the minimalist Asian-inspired furnishings with modern European details in this Jean-Michel Gathy-designed hotel, which has 122 rooms and suites on floors six through thirteen of its host tower. The Janu Suite, which is 3,056 square feet and has a homey feel, is the greatest room. According to Isaacs Ganz, “it appeals to both first-time and returning tourists to Tokyo who do not want to be based in a business district.” Salary-man central is the Aman Tokyo, which is located near to Tokyo Station. She continues, “It offers a great dining, shopping, wellness, and art scene in addition to modern Japanese style.” Built at a cost of $4 billion, Azabudai Hills is a small collection of three vertically linked high-rise and low-rise structures close to Tokyo Tower. Luxurious dining options, art, and shopping occupy the lower levels. According to Catherine Heald of Remote Lands, “it doesn’t hurt that the price point is around 30 percent less than Aman Tokyo, and naturally that attracts a younger, hipper guest.” She believes it’s for those looking for a more lively area with more restaurants and nightlife within walking distance, as well as a livelier and more sociable environment.
10. Amanbagh | Rajasthan, India
When the firm was still under the founder Adrian Zecha’s aesthetic control, one of the first locations for this luxury chain opened in the Aravalli Hills outside of Jaipur; it is now one of the most notable. The nicest accommodations, the Pool Pavilions, have their own private swimming area and are inspired by the Mughal era. You can imagine intricate latticework and domed roofs on individual villas. However, don’t be shocked to find inquisitive monkeys scuttling about it. Sienna Jaclyn The country of Sienna While Alex Wix of Wix Squared gushed about its location—where you can easily explore often-overlooked old Rajasthani sites with few other tourists nearby—Charles is a huge fan of the health programs provided here, which include personalized programming and excellent Ayurvedic food. According to Wix, Amanbagh’s private dining choices are one real highlight. She said that “they will serve dinner for clients in and among nearby ruins, in addition to the hotel grounds.”
11. The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Europe
The white-glove treatment we’ve come to expect was essentially developed by Europe’s venerable hotels, whether you’re lounging in Italy or putting on the Ritz. Even though the names and proprietors may have changed throughout time, almost all of our guides’ top picks are opulent hotels befitting a king or queen.
12. Åmot | Bygstad, Norway
Cari Gray of Gray & Co. describes this Fjord-region exclusive-use property, which sleeps up to 14, as “a completely restored farmhouse done in impeccable taste, but with a soul that redefines luxury.” Whether you want to boat the fjords to visit historic farms that are inaccessible by road, walk beyond the treeline, or go stand-up paddleboarding to see breathtaking waterfalls, this is the perfect outdoor retreat. Built by Sørli’s great-grandfather in 1885, this farmhouse has been meticulously rebuilt by Steinar Sørli and Yngve Brakstad, who have received recognition for their efforts in regenerative luxury tourism, including a Norwegian Heritage Award. For instance, ground-source heat pumps provide the water and underfloor heating, while head chef Tomas forages every day for the ingredients needed to prepare all of the meals on-site. “You can drink the water right from the streams,” Gray continues, adding that the untouched beauty of Åmot is almost unsettling.
13. Bulgari Hotel Rome | Rome, Italy
It was a true homecoming for the jeweler Bulgari, which was founded on Via Condotti in the Golden Triangle, when one of its five-star hotels opened this summer. Bulgari is one of the many new luxury establishments that are swarming into the Eternal City. However, it’s a quite different offering from the typical palazzo-style hotels in this area; instead, it appropriated a structure from the Fascist Era near the Ara Pacis in the Realist style.Thanks to the efforts of architect Antonio Citterio and his team from Milan, the flamboyant building has been transformed into a magnificent hotel. Customers are recommended to it by Scott Dunn Private’s Jules Maury because “after a few hours of being on the property, everyone seems to log your preferences and idiosyncrasies.” She also advises not to overlook the enormous roof patio. You can always find a seat there, making it the perfect spot for a sunset aperitivo.
14. Gleneagles | Perthshire, Scotland
Yes, this five-star resort with 232 rooms in Perthshire, about an hour west of Edinburgh, may be regarded as the spiritual birthplace of golf: There are three iconic, 18-hole courses, and a rich history of hosting the Ryder Cup, the first playoff between the United States and Britain. Isaacs Ganz, however, describes it as a “destination in and of itself for anyone who wants a luxurious getaway in the beautiful Scottish countryside,” so you don’t have to be a putt-prone golf enthusiast to stay here. Come for a hike (the 11-mile Blackford route is a brisk way to explore the surrounding rolling landscape) and a few snifters of whisky; while Perthshire may not have many well-known distilleries, some of Scotland’s oldest distillers, such as Glenturret, which dates back to 1775 and is said to be the oldest still-operating site, are only a short drive away.
15. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc | Antibes, France
A Second Empire villa transformed into a five-star hotel, this place is more like a myth made real. It served as the inspiration for the Hôtel des Etrangers in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Cote d’Azur-set novel Tender is the Night, and it was the location of one of Taylor and Burton’s honeymoons. In the 1920s, thanks to trailblazers like Coco Chanel, the French Riviera became a summertime playground for the fast set, and this hotel served as one of its de facto clubhouses. It still plays similar role now, albeit for a more international clientele. Because of its strong ties to Elizabeth Taylor, the organization continues to have a lot of celebrity power, particularly when it presents the annual AmFAR gala every spring. Demi Moore chaired the fundraising this year. On the first day following check-in, it’s OK to wonder as you sidle up to a lounger. Don’t miss a martini prepared with the hotel’s house gin, a unique concoction produced with botanicals from its grounds by the local Distillerie de Monaco. According to Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal of Fischer Travel, “it has the most iconic pool, one that continues to shine year after year.”
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute a paid promotion, sponsorship, or endorsement of any hotel, brand, or organization mentioned. All opinions, descriptions, and recommendations are subjective and based on publicly available information and insights from travel experts. We do not receive any compensation or benefits from the hotels featured in this content.
While we aim to present accurate and up-to-date details, readers are strongly encouraged to verify any information (including availability, pricing, and services) directly with the respective hotels or official sources. The inclusion of any hotel does not imply superiority over others, nor does it guarantee any particular experience.
This content complies with Google AdSense policies and avoids any misleading, promotional, or exploitative material. Use of this content is at your own discretion.