The Annual Definitive Guide to Luxury Havens in America and Around the Globe
As you specially curate your forthcoming spectacular ultra luxury excursions, select exclusive getaways that are unparalleled in extravagance, elegance, and class. When only the finest will suffice, select these splendid hotels, resorts, inns, and lodges. The picturesque scenery is heavenly, the accommodations are incomparable, the culinary scene is unsurpassed, and the adventures offered are beyond extraordinary.
Chabil Mar Villas Luxury Resort, Placencia, Belize
This stunning boutique resort features magnificent villas in beautifully picturesque surroundings. Commune with nature amongst the Belizean lush tropical gardens while enjoying the white sandy beach with turquoise waters. The all villa, guest exclusive Caribbean front property is sited along the Placencia Peninsula. Arrive with a personal escort accompanying you to one of 21 uniquely designed villas with a beachfront view. Luxury accommodations include Sea Front Villas, Sea Front Vista Villas, the Honeymoon Suite, and the Two-Story Sea Front Premier Villa. Behold the original Belizean artwork, amazing décor, and a private veranda with a hammock overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Guests can select their Belizean-inspired dining experience with the roaming butlers greeting you on the beach, on your villa’s veranda, next to one of two infinity beachside swimming pools, at the Kaleidoscope Bar and Lounge, and on Placencia’s only private over-the-water Caribbean pier. Relax on the beach as you enjoy a seafront hot stone massage.
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, Saint-Barthélemy, St. Barthélemy
This ultra-luxury hotel is on a picturesque volcanic island in the secluded area of Grand Cul de Sac Bay. Guests can escape from their world into a haven of serenity with majestic views of the turquoise blue sea and surrounding the amazing six-mile-long lagoon. Choose from one of the premier suites or more than 200 Le Barth Villas. In a subterranean setting, you’ll experience Nordic baths, Hammam Turkish baths, a sauna, Atma Janzu, and the hotel’s calm bay and science-backed longevity retreats at the Caribbean’s only La Mer Spa. You will adore the signature dining offerings, including a beautiful breakfast buffet, a barefoot beachside lunch at Amis St. Barth, refreshing cocktails at Seven Stars Bar, and French-Mediterranean dining at its finest at Abyss.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, Champillon, France
Prepare for an extraordinary retreat to remember at this magnificent place overlooking the spectacular vineyards in the Champagne region. Select from stunningly designed guestrooms and suites such as the Marie-Louise Suite and Josephine Suite. The splendid Villa Les Tros Clochers is a private villa accommodating up to 10 guests with five private suites, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, a lounge, a garden, and a swimming pool. Delight in a culinary fine dining experience at Le Royal Restaurant featuring Wild Turbot from Vendée, Belaun Lamb, and Brittany Lobster. Become replenished by indulging in spa experiences in the nine treatment cabins, yoga studio, beauty bar, steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi. Schedule exclusive experiences include hot air balloon rides, champagne tastings, and visits to private champagne houses.
Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, Westlake Village, California, USA
Luxury and comfort meet style and elegance at this breathtaking retreat at the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. Incredible accommodations include the Waterfall Suite, Malibu Two-Bedroom Suite, and Presidential Suite. The high ceilings and floor‑to‑ceiling windows spotlight panoramic views of the beautiful waterfall, grassy gardens, and magnificent mountains. If you are planning a wellness-focused vacation, the exceptional Wellness Retreat at the Center for Health & Wellbeing is ideal. Offering transformative therapies curated to nurture the mind, body, and spirit, the program has internationally renowned experts who design a path to true well-being. Take part in the Wellness Kitchen Classes, Sound Bath Meditations, yoga, and other special offerings. Restore your inner balance with healing therapies from the award-winning spa, such as the Organic Body Polish, Ginger-Lime Sugar Glow, and Herbal Sleep Cocoon. Dine and delight in seasonal flavors at eateries such as Coin & Candor, Onyx, Prosperous Penny, and The Cove.
Sanctuary Mandela, Johannesburg, South Africa
Formerly the home of South African president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, this hotel is designed to celebrate the life of the international leader who was a human rights activist, freedom fighter, statesman, peacemaker, and father of a nation. At his home, he entertained celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jackson, and Magic Johnson at this home. The legacy of President Mandela comes to life as experienced storytellers on staff give guests a guided tour of the property. Reserve the King Suite or Presidential Suite. Each guestroom and suite is dedicated to an aspect of President Mandela’s life, including his time as a child, activist, prisoner, and president.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Keep up with The Kardashians and other celebrities when you visit this ultra extravagant resort on the southwest end of Motu To’opua. The family stayed in the Presidential Overwater Villas. Select that villa, a Tropical Villa with the Beach View, or Tropical Pool Villa with a Beach View. In the am, enjoy an Iriatai Breakfast and in the evening, delight in Chinese cuisine at the Banyan Restaurant. Take part in excursions such as Bora Bora Aqua Safari, Bora Bora Underwater Scooter, and Bora Bora ATV Adventure. Retreat to the Hina Spa at the peak of the hillside. Soak in the panoramic views of the Polynesian spa overlooking the crystal clear turquoise blue waters of the Bora Bora lagoon. Become rejuvenated with the Puna Vai Ora Massage, Hiro Mana Massage, and Face Sculpting Massage.
Château la Commaraine, Pommard, France
Founded in 1112, it is one of the most legendary properties in the Burgundy wine region. Reserve the Monopole Suite, Rotonde Suite, Mathilde Suite, Commaraine Suite, or Villas des Vignes. The latter is a 2,200 square feet elegant, two-level property accommodating up to eight guests. There are four king bedrooms, a spacious living room, and a fully furnished kitchen. Defined by its nine acres of vineyard that wholly surrounds the 12th-century chateau, a remarkable winery is integrated within the property, allowing guests to behold the winemaking process. While there, enjoy the onsite restaurant and local tours, including Wine Safaris, hot air balloon rides, and canal sailings.
Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya, Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Relax on the private balcony with a soaking tub in every suite of this secluded haven. A beautifully hidden resort in the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll relish the mere thought of enjoying a part of Mayan village life. Reserve the Deluxe Oceanfront Suite, Oceanfront Swim Up Master Suite, or Presidential Suite. Dine on delicious fare from restaurants such as Malpeque, Chaya, Ja’o, and Peacock Alley, as well as poolside. At the Waldorf Astoria Spa, embark on The Yaxche Journey or Hydrotherapy Journey and partake in The Melopona Honey Ritual or The Copalli Ritual.
Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Thailand
If you seek a truly authentic and enlightening retreat experience, this is the ideal locale. Select one of the Ayurah Signature Retreats, which includes Spa Rest & Recovery, Yoga & Mindfulness, Nature’s Cleanse, and Mind & Body Renewal. You can also attend one of the Beyond the Ordinary Wellness Retreats, which include the Ancient Wellness Pathways, Vipassana Deep Meditation, and Vipassana Awaken the Mind. Reserve a One Bedroom Pool Residence, Two Bedroom Pool Residence, or the Golden Teak Villa with four bedrooms. Additional distinctive aspects of this majestic resort include its resident master healer, bespoke nutritionist, spiritual blessing garden, Qi Gong practice, meditation, and mindfulness classes.
Leopard Sands, Kruger Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Commune with nature at this exquisite, ultra-luxury safari lodge situated on the banks of the Sabie River in Kruger National Park. The preserve is celebrating its centenary in 2026, and this will be a wonderful opportunity for a visit to this destination. View wildlife and birdlife in its natural habitat. Behold the wonders of the African Bush. Watch elephants move along the river banks from the private deck of your Elevated Suite, Premium Suite, or Luxury Suite. Resort amenities include private plunge pools, a riverside infinity pool, indoor/outdoor showers, and gourmet culinary experiences, including Boma dinners. You’re off to your next great adventure with customized excursions that include Safari Drives, Elephant Interaction, Helicopter Flights, Skukuza Golf Club, Panorama Route Tour featuring God’s Window, Graskop Gorge Tours, and views of splendid waterfalls.
Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort, Rapallo, Genoa, Italy
Built in 1908, this grand resort, nestled in a magnificent Mediterranean forest of lush greenery, has a spectacularly breathtaking view of the Promontory of Portofino. Luxury suites such as the Executive Suite Seaside View, Panoramic Two-Bedroom Suite, and Portofino Panoramic Two-Bedroom Suite offer splendid views of Portofino. Eateries offering tantalizing cuisine include an award-winning rooftop restaurant called Le Cupole, the panorama terrace called La Veranda, The Flamingo, and The Silk Lounge Bar. Revel in an unparalleled experience at the 22,000 square foot Erre Spa featuring Kobido Ritual Face Massage, Five Balinese Flower Ritual, Ayurvedic Massage, and Papaya Puree Scrub. Additional highlights include multisensory areas, themed relaxation spaces, an emotional shower, panoramic outdoor pool, and a Turkish bath.
Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Buccament, St. Vincent & Grenadines
This extraordinary, all-inclusive luxury resort is stunningly beautiful. The 50-acre private resort is nestled within the natural beauty of the majestic island, among the sandy beaches and active volcano La Soufrière. Reserve a Butler’s Suite or Villa and get a personal butler to serve you at all times. For dining, visit 12 distinctly unique restaurants, including seafood, Caribbean, and Italian fare. Reserve ultra luxury accommodations such as the Beachfront One Bedroom Butler Villa Suite with the Media Room and Private Pool, or the Vincy Overwater Two Story Villa. Relax and rejuvenate at The Red Lane Spa.
Hotel Arts Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
This stunning beachfront hotel has spectacular panoramic views that guests can enjoy as they retreat to their Skyline Suite, Horizon Suite, Mediterranean Suite, Arts Suite, or other accommodations. In the heart of the Port Olimpic neighbourhood, it is considered one of the premier culinary destinations in Barcelona. Dine at the famed Michelin 2-starred Enoteca Paco Perez Restaurant, as well as Marina Coastal, Bites & Sips, and Gehry. Delight in special spa services such as the Citrus Fruit Joy Ritual, Luminous Bloom Therapy, and Queen of Egypt Treatment.
The St. Regis Venice, Venice, Italy
Located along the Grand Canal and in full view of some of Venice’s iconic landmarks, you will find this stunning collection of five Venetian palaces. Delight in the luxury of the Grand Canal View Suite, Monet Suite, Masquerade Suite, Santa Maria Suite, Penthouse Suite, and Presidential Suite. Glamorous gatherings include the St. Regis Venice Team Sabrage Ceremony, The Monet Room intimate celebrations, The Ginori Terrace Mix and Mingles, and Gio’s Table for Two. Taste tantalizing cocktails at The Arts Bar, where these refreshing libations are transformed into mesmerizing masterpieces of art. Enjoy the Berengo Experience of glass art craftsmanship and the Riva Experience of a yacht excursion, transporting you to secret places along the Venetian Lagoon.
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Nassau, Bahamas
Reserve Luxury Oceanfront Suites, a Two Bedroom Plunge Pool Bungalows, and 4-Bedroom Beachfront Villas, among other suites having private terraces at this resort, shrouded in tropical gardens and lush greenery. Their Versailles Garden contains lily ponds, fountains, and sculptures. Get lost in the secluded sanctuary of the spa with a Bahamas Rhythm Massage, Coconut Poultice Massage, and Nectar Nourishing Polish and Wrap. Enjoy seafood at Dune by Jean-Georges, western Caribbean at Ocean Blue, Italian at Trattoria Versailles, cocktails and casual cuisine at Dune Bar, and martini flights at Martini Bar & Lounge.
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla
This exclusive 380-acre island sanctuary possesses 178 luxurious suites and villas. Immersive experiences include cooking classes, golf clinics, wine tastings, Flora & Fauna Tours, and Hydroponic Farm Tours. Accommodations include the Rendezvous Beach Garden Villa, Ocean View Estates Private Residences, and Merrywing Beach Oceanfront Deluxe Suite. The award-winning Sorana Spa features unique services such as the Aurora Golden Moment Facial, Beach Stone Massage, Traditional Balinese Massage, Earth & Sea Scrub, and Sand Band Therapy.
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach, Laguna Beach, California, USA
This resort received the AAA’s Four-Diamond Award for great reason. Select accommodations, such as the Oceanview King Catalina Suite, Oceanfront California Suite, and the Two-Bedroom Oceanview Presidential Suite with private balconies, have amazing views of the shoreline of the Pacific and pristine sand. Relish the coastal dining experience of Splashes Restaurant, Bella Vista Terrace, Pacific Perk, Lobby Lounge, and poolside as well as beachside. Wellness experiences abound at Aquaterra Spa. Get rejuvenated with the Neroli Blossom Sensory Experience, Gua Sha Vitality Massage, and Ageless Glow Facial. Partake in the Coastal Wellness Series, Laguna Midday Escape, Surf & Sand Unplugged, and Sips of Summer.
The Preserve Sporting Club & Resort, Richmond, Rhode Island, USA
It’s your breathtaking escape to a world of sporting luxury and adventure. A range of choices in accommodations and residences range from hilltop lodges, tiny homes, and townhomes on the green to equestrian center homes and the newly created overnight Hobbit House. Exciting adventures and experiences, state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor ranges, equestrian trails, and zip-lining escapades. Gourmet feasting will be quite memorable at Double Barrel Steak, Safari Tent Experience, Preserve Picnics, H20 Café, and Hobbit House Dining. Become revitalized and relaxed at The Hilltop Spa. Try the Cryo Sculpt Gua Sha Massage, Soul & Body Escape, or Phytomer Hydra-Moisturizing Facial.
Little Palm Island Resort, Little Torch Key, Florida, USA
Arrive by seaplane at America’s only private island resort. If you are in search of the ultimate secluded and intimate vacation, visit this four-acre private island. Favored by celebrities and Fortune 500 executives, these 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites offer the privacy you yearn for. Features include extraordinary vistas, sunsets, secluded beaches, sand pathways, private outdoor showers and verandas, tropical foliage, crushed seashell paths, and romantic alcoves. Culinary offerings include select cuisine by Flavors Worth the Journey, meals in the West Indies-inspiring dining room, light bites and cool cocktails at the Pool & Palapa Bar, and a chef-curated private fine dining experience on demand. Escape to the sanctuary of SpaTerre. Renewal experiences include the Abhyanga Massage with Shirodhara, Madrugada Sunrise Water Massage, Royal Treatment of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Rituals, Organic Nourishing Seaweed Leaf Wrap, Sundarya Love Bath, L’Elixir des Glaciers Majestic Facial, and Sundarya Love Bath.
The Sylvan Lodge at Snake River Sporting Club, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA
Enjoy wilderness living with these remarkable accommodations. You can find a One-Bedroom Penthouse at The Sylvan Lodge, Fairway Cabins at The Cabins at the Sporting Club, the Martin Creek Cottage in the Private Residence Collection, and The Shooting Cabin at The Ranch. The Spa at Sylvan Lodge offers the Teton Tranquility Massage, Diamond Luminous Facial, and Wildflower Ceremony Ritual. Dine at the River Room, Canyon Bar, Dark Sky Bar, and Engelmann’s Bistro.
