Like sparkling jewels scattered across the globe, the world’s best hotels offer a dazzling display of luxury, opulence, and sophistication. From the iconic landmarks of Europe to the exotic retreats of Asia and beyond, these hotels are a testament to the finest in hospitality, offering guests an unforgettable experience.
This year for the first time the ‘World’s 50 Best Hotels’ were announced by the 50 best organisation which is well known for its expert-curated lists of restaurants and bars. industry.
We have carefully selected a few of these most stunning hotels, beacons of indulgence, to showcase to you. Behold their splendour, and marvel at the exquisite experiences that await within their walls.
Passalacqua, Moltrasio, Italy
Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, in the picturesque village of Moltrasio, lies Passalacqua, a magical oasis of luxury and serenity. It has the distinction of being named ‘The Best Hotel in the World’. This historic estate, dating back to the 18th century and was built on land once owned by Pope Innocent XI, has been transformed into a boutique hotel with just 24 suites that embody the essence of Italian elegance and hospitality.
The centrepiece of the estate is the twelve-suite villa in pale amber, carved ceilings, rare and precious floors, exquisite stucco, and priceless art and Italian craftsmanship. But guests are drawn to the swimming terrace, with its elegant two-hundred-year-old sage green greenhouse and JJ Martin-designed flouncy Rajasthani-esque floral parasols, which offer a playful contrast to the villa interiors. Seven acres of manicured terraced perfection, filled with olive groves, mimosa trees, David Austin roses, and magnolias, cascade from the villa to the shimmering cyan lake.
The opulence of the decoration and artisanship is breathtaking. Precious antiques, carpets, and paintings, amassed over years of scouring markets, auction houses, and private homes, adorn every surface. Hand-blown Murano chandeliers and Il Bronzetto light fittings, including a magnificent candelabra of brass oak leaves in the dining room, illuminate the space. Ubiquitous marble, sourced from quarries from Carrara to Sicily, adds a touch of luxury.
The hotel’s exquisite beauty stuns even the most discerning traveller. Time spent here is much about just soaking in the beauty and splendour.
Soneva Fushi, Maldives
Number Seven on the list is the Soneva Fushi and the added accolade of ‘Lost Explorer Best Beach Hotel Award’.
A verdant oasis nestled in the turquoise heart of the Maldives, Soneva Fushi is a symphony of natural beauty and luxurious indulgence. From the moment you arrive, your senses are captivated by the lush greenery, the pristine beaches, and the crystal-clear waters. Your villa, a private sanctuary perched among the palm trees, beckons you with its spacious interiors, exotic furnishings, and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
On check-in, guests are given a bicycle for the duration of their stay, which is the singular mode of transport to access the facilities. Cycle between a Balinese-inspired spa, pool complex, tennis courts, library and a gym which is a cut above general five-star hotel standard.
Exquisite restaurants are dotted around the island, So Hands On by Akira is a nine-cover omakase sushi spot that rivals the best in the world. It also operates a regularly rotating guest chef series featuring 50 Best luminaries such as Tim Raue from Restaurant Tim among others.
Soneva is widely considered a trailblazer in luxury resort sustainability. It is a pioneer in marine conservation and coral rehabilitation.
Soneva Fushi is a place where time stands still and the soul finds its solace. It is a place where you can reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with your loved ones. It is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
One&Only Mandarina, Mexico
Hidden away in the lush jungles of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit lies a paradise on Earth: One&Only Mandarina ranked 8th on the list.
This luxurious beachfront resort nestled in the lush tropical rainforests of Sierra de Vallejo reserve. Set across 88 acres, the resort features 105 private villas, each with its own plunge pool and intimate open-air living space. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, indoor and al fresco seating and dining areas, and outdoor bathing facilities, the villas offer stunning views of the jungle or the ocean. Dedicated butlers provide around-the-clock service, making this one of the most luxurious resorts in Mexico.
Guests can choose from a variety of villas, including Treetop Villas perched among the branches of the jungle canopy, Cliffside Villas with breathtaking ocean views, and Beachfront Villas with direct access to the sand and sea.
There are also six treatment rooms built within a volcanic rock garden, creating a truly unique and immersive spa experience. For those looking for a more active experience, the resort offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and golf. There is also an open-to-guests polo field, where guests can enjoy a game of polo or simply watch from the sidelines.
One&Only Mandarina Mexico is also known for its exceptional dining scene. The resort’s signature restaurant, Carao, is helmed by renowned chef Enrique Olvera, whose Pujol restaurant in Mexico City is ranked No. 9 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. There is also the zero-waste Treetop Bar, where guests can enjoy cocktails and snacks while surrounded by the beauty of the jungle canopy.
This breathtaking resort is a celebration of nature, with its stunning architecture that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
Singita Lodges – Kruger National Park
Guided by a philosophy of sustainability and responsibility, Singita’s two lodges in Kruger National Park, Lebombo and Sweni, offer guests a luxurious ecotourism experience and have accordingly been awarded the ‘Best Eco Hotel’.
Fifteenth on the list, Singita Lodges are the perfect choice for travelers looking for a luxurious and sustainable ecotourism experience. With their stunning accommodations, world-class dining, and exceptional game viewing opportunities, Singita Lodges offer guests an unforgettable safari adventure.
Cantilevered over rocks high above the Sweni River, Singita Lebombo seamlessly blends into the rugged topography of its 15,000-hectare private concession. This modern, design-forward lodge features 15 suites and one exclusive-hire villa.
After a day of game viewing, guests can relax and rejuvenate at the lodge’s gym, spa, wine cellar, swimming pool, or traditional boma. The boma dinner is a culinary tradition started by tribesmen in the 18th century, and features fresh, African menus served al fresco under the branches of a candelabra tree.
While Kruger National Park is a year-round destination, the best time for game viewing is during the dry winter months, from April to October. Singita is renowned for providing game viewing experiences that guests won’t find anywhere else.
If you don’t mind getting wet, the summer season offers lush bushveld, the arrival of migrating birds, and baby animals galore.
