The 79 A List, 2025 is here! Our carefully curated selection of exceptional hotels and travel experiences from around the world presents properties hand-picked by our travel experts based on consistently high standards of service, design, location and overall guest experience. From remote lodges and floating hotels to iconic city addresses and nature-driven resorts, this A list reflects what we believe truly stands out in global luxury travel in 2025..
Europe
Cheval Blanc Paris
Situated alongside the Seine in the iconic La Samaritaine building, Cheval Blanc Paris offers one of the best luxury hotel experiences in the City of Light. This exclusive 5-star property features about 72 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many with views over the river or Eiffel Tower, blending Parisian elegance with contemporary design. Guests can indulge in world-class dining across multiple restaurants, unwind in the Dior-inspired spa, or take a dip in the long mosaic-lined infinity pool, one of the longest in any Paris hotel. With its stellar service, central location near the Louvre and the Seine, and a seamless balance of culture and comfort, Cheval Blanc Paris is one of the top luxury hotels in Paris for travellers in 2026.
Six Senses Ibiza, Ibiza, Spain
On the sun-drenched northern tip of Ibiza, Six Senses Ibiza blends island laid-back with wellness-centric luxury in one of the Mediterranean’s most dynamic destinations. With 137 accommodations ranging from stylish sea-view rooms to mansions, Six Senses Ibiza is shaping up to be an essential stay for 2026. Think organic farm-to-table dining, morning yoga overlooking turquoise waters, a world-class spa and a sustainability-driven ethos that can be seen in every experience. Guests can paddle-board straight from the resort, unwind in the infinity pool, or dive into Ibiza’s celebrated culture and beaches.
In the heart of Belgravia, The Emory debuts as London’s first all-suite luxury hotel, redefining boutique hotel experiences in the British capital. A modern masterpiece by Maybourne, it pairs architectural sophistication with a relaxed residential feel, each suite uniquely designed by world-renowned creatives. Expect spacious layouts, artful interiors, and elevated amenities curated for comfort and style. Culinary offerings lean on Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s acclaimed influence, while the Surrenne Spa and wellness club create a holistic retreat from city buzz.
Ett hem, Stockholm, Sweden
A refined escape in the vibrant heart of Stockholm, Ett Hem brings Swedish elegance and intimate, home-away-from-home experience together. Meaning “a home”, this design-forward boutique hotel channels understated luxury with warm interiors, serene guest rooms and a deeply personal service ethos. Guests find a calm, residential ambience alongside exceptional dining and curated local experiences at Ett Hem, perfect for travelers seeking calm in urban exploration. Ett Hem’s blend of minimalist luxury and genuine comfort makes it one of the top European boutique hotels to bookmark for your 2026 travels.
Castiglion Del Bosco, A Rosewood Hotel, Montalcino, Italy
Nestled within a 5,000-acre private estate in Tuscany’s UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia, Castiglion del Bosco, A Rosewood Hotel is a quintessential Italian luxury resort that marries history, culture and refined hospitality. Set around a restored medieval borgo, the property features elegantly created rooms, suites and standalone villas with terraces and garden views, as well as one of Italy’s only private golf clubs on site. Guests can tour the estate’s famed Brunello di Montalcino vineyards, enjoy Tuscan-inspired cuisine at multiple restaurants including Michelin-level dining, or relax by the outdoor pools and in the spa.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, Athens, Greece
Set along the azure Athenian Riviera, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens brings Mediterranean grandeur and resort excellence together. Just a short drive from the historic heart of Athens, this oceanfront property invites travelers to relax at the private beaches, rewind in spa offerings, and enjoy multiple gourmet restaurants with sea views. Whether watching sunset from the terrace, lounging poolside with the sound of waves, or exploring nearby cultural sites, guests can expect polished service and a refined yet relaxed vibe.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Venice, Italy
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by Belmond, isn’t a hotel in the traditional sense but one of the world’s most iconic luxury travel experiences. This restored 1920s train captures the opulence of the Golden Age of travel, with richly appointed cabins that convert from elegant daytime seating into sleeping berths, and a small number of larger Suites and Grand Suites with private bathrooms for the ultimate in comfort. Guests dine on gourmet multi-course meals in beautifully styled restaurant cars, listen to live music, and savour the picturesque European landscape as the train winds between storied cities such as London, Paris, Venice, Vienna, and Prague. It’s a legendary luxury rail journey that feels as much like a mobile palace as a hotel, perfect for travellers seeking something unforgettable in 2026.
In the heart of Zurich on Paradeplatz, one of the city’s most prestigious squares, Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich blends history with contemporary luxury. Originally opened in 1838 and fully relaunched under the Mandarin Oriental banner, this boutique hotel offers about 80 elegantly redesigned rooms and suites with panoramic city views and refined details by noted designers. Culinary highlights include two outstanding restaurants and an atmospheric rooftop bar, while guests can explore lakefront promenades, boutique shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, and cultural attractions just steps away.
Fouquet's, Courchevel, France
Perched on the edge of the Bellecôte ski run in the legendary Courchevel 1850, Hôtel Barrière Les Neiges is the quintessential luxury alpine hotel for winter lovers. Chic yet cozy, its elegant mountain-chalet aesthetic and sweeping views over the French Alps make it a standout among best hotels in Europe for 2026. Guests here enjoy direct access to the vast Trois Vallées ski area, a Michelin-inspired dining scene at Loulou, an inviting spa with heated pool, and bespoke experiences from dog-sledding to hot-air ballooning, all with impeccable service rooted in Barrière’s decades of hospitality tradition.
Naturhotel Forsthofgut, Leogang, Austria
Set amid the alpine slopes of Leogang in the Salzburg region, Naturhotel Forsthofgut offers a distinctive blend of nature-centric luxury and four-century-old tradition. This five-star retreat is surrounded by forest, meadows, and mountain peaks, with direct ski-in/ski-out access in winter and extensive hiking and biking terrain in summer. The hotel features Europe’s pioneering waldSPA, a 5,700 m² wellness sanctuary designed around natural elements, and more than 100 rooms and suites crafted from wood and natural materials, many with private saunas and panoramic alpine views. Culinary experiences center on locally sourced cuisine and a commitment to sustainability, while on-site experiences range from sunrise hikes to e-bike tours and family-friendly activities. Naturhotel Forsthofgut stands out as one of Austria’s premier alpine luxury hotels for 2026, perfect for wellness, outdoor adventure, and immersive nature holidays.
Airelles Gordes, La Bastide, Gordes, France
Set atop a medieval hilltop village in Provence, Airelles Gordes, La Bastide is a true French Palace hotel where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. With panoramic views of the Luberon valley, historic stone architecture and terraces framed by cypress trees and lavender fields, it captures the romance of the region. Inside, antique interiors, refined Mediterranean gastronomy across multiple restaurants, and a serene Guerlain spa create an immersive experience for the guests. This iconic Provençal property sets the standard for luxury hotels in France in 2026.
Asia
Rosewood, Hong Kong
Rosewood Hong Kong occupies a prime waterfront location in the West Kowloon Cultural District, overlooking Victoria Harbour. The hotel offers large rooms and suites with harbour or city views, along with a wide range of restaurants, and wellness facilities. Guests have easy access to shopping, museums, performance venues, and the harbourfront promenade. Rosewood Hong Kong is one of the best luxury hotels in Hong Kong for travellers looking for modern luxury in a central and well-connected part of the city.
Amanoi, Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam
Amanoi is a luxury resort located on the cliffs above Vinh Hy Bay on Vietnam’s south-central coast, set within the protected landscape of Nui Chua National Park. The resort features spacious pavilions and private villas, many with plunge pools and wide views over the sea or surrounding hills. Guests can enjoy a private beach, an infinity pool, and a full spa focused on wellness and relaxation, along with dining that highlights local ingredients. Amanoi in Vinh Hy Bay is designed for travellers seeking privacy, nature, and a quiet coastal retreat away from busy cities.
Mandarin Oriental Qianmen is located in Beijing’s historic hutong neighbourhood, within walking distance of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Instead of a single building, the hotel is spread across restored courtyard houses, offering a calm and residential feel in the heart of the city. Guests stay in spacious suites with private courtyards and enjoy dining venues set within traditional architecture. The hotel is well suited to travellers who want a luxury stay with a strong sense of local history and culture.
Aman Nai Lert, Bangkok, Thailand
Aman Nai Lert Bangkok is set within the green grounds of Nai Lert Park, offering a quiet setting in the centre of Bangkok. The hotel features spacious suites, several dining venues, a large spa and wellness centre, and an outdoor pool overlooking the park. Despite its peaceful atmosphere, the hotel is also close to major shopping areas and business districts. It suits travellers who want a high-end city hotel in Bangkok with a strong focus on space, calm, and privacy.
SUJÁN Jawai, Rajasthan, India
SUJÁN Jawai is a luxury safari camp located in a dramatic landscape of granite hills, scrubland, and rural villages in Rajasthan. The property features spacious tented suites positioned to blend into the natural terrain, with open decks and views across the wilderness. The design combines safari-style comfort with local materials and understated interiors. Guests at SUJÁN Jawai enjoy guided leopard safaris, village visits, and outdoor dining experiences set in the open landscape, making it a strong choice for travellers interested in wildlife and remote settings.
Capella Hanoi, Hanoi, Vietnam
Capella Hanoi is a boutique hotel located near Hoàn Kiếm Lake and the Hanoi Opera House, in a quieter part of the city centre of Hanoi. Designed by Bill Bensley, the hotel’s interiors are inspired by opera and theatre, with bold colours, art-filled spaces, and individually themed rooms and suites. Facilities include a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and several dining venues. Its central location makes it easy to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter while staying in a smaller, character-driven hotel.
Gangtey Lodge is a small luxury lodge set on a hillside overlooking the wide, open Phobjikha Valley in central Bhutan. The design is inspired by traditional Bhutanese farmhouses, with thick stone walls, wood interiors, and large windows that frame views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The lodge has a limited number of suites, creating a quiet and personal atmosphere, with shared living and dining spaces centred around a fireplace. Guests stay here for nature walks, cultural visits to nearby monasteries, and seasonal wildlife viewing, particularly the black-necked cranes that migrate to the valley each winter.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, Hokkaido, Japan
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a luxury mountain resort set at the base of the Niseko Hanazono ski area, surrounded by forested slopes and views of Mount Yotei. The design blends modern alpine style with Japanese details, using natural wood, stone, and clean lines throughout the rooms and public spaces. Guests enjoy ski-in, ski-out access, multiple restaurants, a spa, fitness centre, and traditional onsen baths. Recognized as one of the best ski resorts in Japan, it attracts visitors for winter skiing and snowboarding, while also offering hiking and outdoor activities in the summer, making it a year-round luxury mountain destination.
Africa
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, Morocco
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay is a luxurious Mediterranean beach resort set on Morocco’s northern Riviera between Tangier and Tetouan, where the Rif Mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea. The resort features beautifully designed suites and villas, many with private terraces, sea views and direct access to a 700‑metre private beach, framed by gardens and palm groves. Guests can relax in the Medi‑Spa with hammams and wellness treatments, enjoy world‑class dining led by Michelin‑starred chefs, and take part in water sports, yacht charters, golf, and bespoke excursions to local cultural sites. The architecture blends contemporary style with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, including intricate tiles and artisanal details that echo the region’s heritage.
Dar Ahlam, Skoura
Dar Ahlam is an intimate desert retreat in the heart of the Skoura palm grove in southern Morocco, housed in a historic kasbah surrounded by olive trees, date palms and the High Atlas foothills. With just 14 suites rather than a traditional hotel layout, the property is designed as a personal sanctuary of space and calm. The rooms and communal spaces feature traditional Moroccan materials such as adobe and wood, and there’s a strong focus on local culture and creative experiences. Guests can enjoy hammam and pool time, garden walks, cooking classes and guided explorations of Skoura’s oases, valleys and kasbahs, all tailored to individual interests.
Lumière is a special luxury accommodation in the form of a floating hotel, offering an intimate Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan. Designed as a boutique vessel, it features just eight elegant cabins and suites with large windows or private balconies overlooking the river. The design is modern and understated, with a comfortable lounge, sun deck, swimming pool, and refined dining spaces onboard. Guests experience Egypt from the water, combining guided visits to iconic temples and historical sites with relaxed cruising, personalised service, and ever-changing views of the Nile, making Lumière a distinctive alternative to a traditional hotel stay.
Sterrekopje Farm, Franschhoek, South Africa
Sterrekopje Farm is a soulful wellness and retreat destination set on a farmland at the foot of the Franschhoek mountains in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. The property brings guests close to nature with biodiverse gardens, olive groves, and scenic views, while its 11 sanctuaries and suites reflect a warm, rustic and art‑filled design. On‑site holistic experiences include daily rituals, yoga, pottery sessions, gardening and farm‑to‑table meals that feature produce from the farm’s biodynamic gardens. Sterrekopje’s relaxed pace and connection to nature draw travellers seeking a restorative visit that blends wellness, culture and South African countryside charm.
Kisawa Sanctuary, Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Kisawa Sanctuary is a luxury beachfront resort on Benguerra Island, part of Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, set within 300 hectares of forests, dunes and pristine beaches. Designed to blend with its natural surroundings, the resort’s thatched‑style accommodations, residences and open terraces reflect local craftsmanship. Guests enjoy private beach, five‑star service, and access to a Natural Wellness Centre with yoga, pilates and Ayurvedic‑inspired treatments. Activities range from paddleboarding and snorkeling in the clear Indian Ocean waters to nature walks and birdwatching.
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Six Senses Southern Dunes is a one of the best luxury desert and Red Sea resorts, located near Umluj on Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast, offering a peaceful escape around sand dunes and rugged coastline. The property features spacious rooms, suites and villas with views over the dunes or sea, along with multiple dining options that showcase regional and international flavours. Guests can relax by outdoor pools, enjoy spa treatments including hot stone massages, and take part in fitness classes or local excursions to explore the natural desert landscape and nearby Red Sea beaches.
Americas
One&Only Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
One&Only Mandarina is a luxury beach and rainforest resort perched on a quiet stretch of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit coastline, where lush jungle meets the Pacific Ocean. Spread over approximately 80 acres, the resort features a collection of private villas and treehouse-style accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, private plunge pools and views of ocean, rainforest or mountains. Guests can relax at multiple infinity pools, enjoy spa treatments using locally inspired wellness rituals, dine in elevated restaurants, or explore nearby beaches, nature trails and outdoor activities like paddleboarding and horseback riding. With its focus on natural beauty, personalised service and immersive design, One&Only Mandarina is regarded as one of the standout luxury resort choices on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.
Twin Farms, Barnard, Vermout, USA
Twin Farms is an all-inclusive luxury countryside retreat set on a secluded forest, meadows and trails near Barnard in Vermont’s Green Mountains. The property’s 28 individually designed cottages, suites and recently added treehouses feature unique interiors, fireplaces, and contemporary art, creating a sense of personal space and artistic flair. Twin Farms’ offers gourmet meals, daily activities like biking, hiking, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, and bespoke experiences such as picnics in nature or private dining. Guests can relax at the spa and fitness centre, explore the natural surroundings, or enjoy tailored outdoor adventures, all with the feeling of a private estate. Twin Farms is regarded as one of the most distinctive luxury resorts in the northeastern United States for travellers seeking personalised service, excellent dining and a peaceful countryside setting.
Fogo Island Inn is a distinctive all-inclusive high-design luxury hotel located on the rugged northern shore of Fogo Island in Newfoundland, Canada, overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean and the wild landscape known as Iceberg Alley. The striking modern architecture frames dramatic ocean views from each of its 29 individually designed rooms and suites, many with floor-to-ceiling windows and handcrafted local textiles. Profits from the inn support the island’s economy, making it unique among luxury hotels that blend design, culture and regenerative travel.
Awasi Patagonia,Torres del Paine, Chile
Awasi Patagonia is an exclusive lodge set deep within a private reserve near Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chile, offering a boutique wilderness experience with personalised service. Each of the intimate private villas includes its own guide and 4×4 vehicle, allowing guests to tailor daily excursions through towering granite peaks, shimmering lakes and Patagonian steppe. The lodge itself blends rustic luxury with refined comfort, featuring local wood and stone in its design and a cosy dining area for shared meals inspired by regional ingredients. With its focus on adventure, nature and thoughtful design, Awasi Patagonia is a top choice for travellers near one of South America’s most iconic national parks.
Rosewood São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
Rosewood São Paulo is a refined urban luxury hotel located in the historic Cidade Matarazzo district of São Paulo, Brazil, blending contemporary design with cultural heritage. Housed in a restored landmark building with architecture by Jean Nouvel and interiors curated by Philippe Starck, the hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, including the signature Matarazzo Suite, and a suite of modern amenities like two outdoor pools, a full-service Asaya spa by Guerlain, and a fitness centre. Dining at the hotel includes several restaurants serving international and Brazilian cuisine, as well as private dining options and lively social spaces. Guests also benefit from concierge services, garden spaces and cultural connections to São Paulo’s art, music and culinary scenes. Recognised with multiple design and hospitality awards, Rosewood São Paulo is considered one of the São Paulo’s top luxury hotels choices for guests seeking sophisticated accommodation in the heart of Brazil’s largest metropolis.
Titiliaka is an all-inclusive remote luxury lodge and expedition cruise base overlooking Lake Titicaca on the border of Peru and Bolivia, set on a private peninsula with expansive views of the lake and surrounding Andes peaks. The property’s intimate suites feature large windows and terraces ideal for sunrise views over the water, while the lodge’s design draws on local materials and Andean aesthetics. Guided excursions include visits to ancient islands, remote villages and cultural experiences with local communities, plus kayaking, birdwatching and hikes. With its emphasis on immersive cultural travel and natural beauty, Titilaka is regarded as one of the most memorable luxury remote hotel options around Lake Titicaca.
Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA
Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole sits in Teton Village at the base of the Grand Teton mountain range, offering direct access to world-class skiing and outdoor adventure in both winter and summer. The resort’s rooms, suites and private residences combine sophisticated alpine design with fireplaces, private balconies and sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, forests and valleys. Guests can ski-in/ski-out in winter, explore Grand Teton National Park trails, or relax in the spa and indoor/outdoor pools. On-site dining ranges from casual lounges to refined restaurants with valley views, while personalised concierge service helps plan wildlife tours, heli-adventures or scenic river floats. As one of the premier luxury mountain resorts in Jackson Hole, it’s ideal for active travellers, families and nature lovers.
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection, Utah, USA
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection is a luxury countryside hideaway located in the Wasatch Back region near Park City, Utah, blending ranch-style design with contemporary comforts amid 3,500 acres of open space and mountain terrain. Accommodations include timber and stone cabins or estate homes with thoughtful interiors, fireplaces, and views over rolling hills and forest. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain biking and wellness experiences at the full-service spa, as well as chef-driven dining that highlights local produce. With its curated mix of outdoor adventure and refined hospitality, The Lodge at Blue Sky is often chosen by travellers seeking a luxury ranch retreat within reach of world-class ski resorts.
Amanera, Playa Grande, Dominican Republic
Amanera is a luxury clifftop resort on the pristine north coast of the Dominican Republic, overlooking Playa Grande Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. The resort’s 25 freestanding Casitas and a two-bedroom Bay View Casa are designed to maximise ocean views with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, private terraces and many private swimming pools, set against lush tropical jungle and dramatic mountains. Guests can enjoy world-class golf at the adjacent Playa Grande Golf & Ocean Club, spa treatments at the Wellness Casa or Beach Spa Pavilions, water sports, tennis and guided yoga or meditation, plus seasonal outdoor activities like horse riding, deep-sea fishing and nature hikes. A range of dining options includes indoor-outdoor meals with sweeping ocean panoramas and relaxed beach club dining directly on the sand. With its unique features, Amanera is one of the Caribbean’s standout luxury beach resorts.
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The 79 A list is a collection of experiences chosen for their quality, character and sense of place, showcasing the best hotels around the world in 2025. These hotels and retreats offer something distinctive, whether through thoughtful design, meaningful connections to their surroundings or an exceptional level of service. Feeling excited? Let us bring your travel dreams to life with a thoughtfully designed itinerary built around your wishes. Your next remarkable journey begins here.
