PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS EXPANDS PRESTIGIOUS LEGEND COLLECTION AS DEMAND GROWS FOR DESTINATION-LED LUXURY TRAVEL
Eleven unforgettable hotels in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations reflect growing demand for cultural immersion, nature-forward escapes, personalised city stays, and next-generation resort experiences
Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest independent hotel brand, announces the continued expansion of its prestigious Legend Collection with the addition of 11 distinguished properties in 2026. The growth has brought new representation across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, further strengthening a collection that now encompasses over 125 legendary properties worldwide.
From an exclusive retreat on its own island in Venice and a landmark luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok, to a new forest sanctuary in India and a highly anticipated resort destination in the United Arab Emirates, the 2026 additions exemplify the unique character, exceptional service, and sense of place that define the Legend Collection. Representing the highest echelon of luxury within Preferred Hotels & Resorts' global portfolio, the Legend Collection is home to unforgettable hotels and resorts worldwide that stand apart through their personalised and intuitive service, renowned dining, exquisite accommodations, and spectacular scenery.
“Today’s luxury traveller is not looking for one prescribed idea of the perfect hotel. They are seeking experiences that speak to their individual interests, whether that means reconnecting with nature, engaging with a destination’s cultural heritage, discovering a new culinary perspective, or experiencing an iconic city from a more personal point of view,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “The latest additions to our Legend Collection reflect this shift while sharing the distinctive character that make each of them a legendary hotel.”
Cultural Destinations with Heritage at the Centre of the Stay
Travellers are increasingly drawn to hotels that preserve the stories, traditions, and architectural identity of their destinations, a shift supported by findings from Preferred Hotels & Resort’s Luxury Travel Report. At Dusit Thani Bangkok, contemporary luxury is expressed through Thai-inspired design, cultural rituals, and the gracious hospitality that has defined this celebrated landmark for more than seven decades. In Morocco, the new Palais Jamaï Fès opening in October 2026 occupies a restored late 19th-century palace overlooking the historic city, offering an evocative gateway to the enduring heritage of Fes. Another new launch, Serras Sevilla, which made its debut in September 2026 in the heart of one of Spain’s most culturally rich cities, provides an elegant base from which to experience its architecture, gastronomy, and Andalusian spirit.
Regenerative and Nature-Based Travel Continue Gaining Momentum
As travellers continue seeking opportunities to slow down and make more conscious choices with their travels, experiencing nature is becoming an increasingly important part of the luxury hotel experience. Set amidst 76 acres of ancient forests of the Western Ghats mountain range in India, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, which made its debut in July 2026, offers a secluded retreat where guests can immerse in the extraordinary biodiversity, culture, and slower rhythms that define the Coorg region. Along the shores of Nevada’s Lake Tahoe, the LEED Silver-certified Edgewood Tahoe Resort pairs refined lakeside hospitality with sweeping mountain scenery, outdoor experiences, and a strong connection to its alpine setting.
Personalized Urban Stays Offer a More Intimate Way to Experience Iconic Cities
Luxury city travel is becoming more personal, with travellers seeking distinctive hotels that reveal a different side of familiar destinations. Set on its own island in the Venetian Lagoon, San Clemente Palace Venice combines the heritage of Venice with the privacy and opulence of a secluded resort. In Lisbon’s historic Baixa Pombalina district, MYTHIC SANA Downtown Suites offers an intimate and highly personalized base in the heart of the Portuguese capital, with a unique Golden Sleeves butler service that tailors every detail – from in-room cocktails to bath rituals – to each guest's preferences.
Located on Barcelona’s prestigious Passeig de Gràcia, BLESS Hotel Barcelona brings together bold design, gastronomy, fashion, and culture in one of the city’s most vibrant districts, while BLESS Ibiza The Site reimagines the iconic island through a sophisticated lens that blends contemporary luxury with Ibiza’s celebrated lifestyle and creative energy. In Charleston, The Cooper offers a distinctly Southern interpretation of luxury, pairing waterfront views and elegant design with an authentic connection to one of America's most historic cities. Collectively, all of these newly opened in 2026 properties demonstrate how today's most sought-after urban hotels are moving beyond accommodation to become gateways to the culture, lifestyle, and unique rhythm of their destinations.
The Rise of Destination-Defining Resorts
Across the Middle East, significant investment in tourism is giving rise to a new generation of world-class destinations and Wynn Al Marjan Island stands as one of the most anticipated examples of this evolution. Set to debut in Ras Al Khaimah in spring 2027, the landmark development will bring a fully integrated resort experience to the United Arab Emirates for the first time, featuring a dazzling 70-story tower that houses more than 1,500 luxury accommodations, over 20 dining venues, a beach club, and other luxury amenities that include a private marina, lush gardens, and pools.
The Legend Collection members that have joined the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio in 2026 include:
- BLESS Hotel Barcelona (Barcelona, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in August 2026
- BLESS Ibiza The Site (Ibiza, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in June 2026
- Dusit Thani Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)
- Edgewood Tahoe Resort (Stateline, Nevada, United States)
- MYTHIC SANA Downtown Suites (Lisbon, Portugal) – New Opening – Launched in December 2025
- Palais Jamai Fes (Fès Médina, Morocco) - New Opening – Launching in October 2026
- San Clemente Palace Venice (Venice, Italy)
- Serras Sevilla (Seville, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in September 2026
- The Cooper (Charleston, South Carolina, United States) – New Opening – Launched in March 2026
- The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary (Madikeri, India) – New Opening – Launched in July 2026
- Wynn Al Marjan Island (United Arab Emirates) – New Opening – Launching in spring 2027
WORLD'S 50 BEST: BADRUTT'S PALACE NAMED THE ONLY SKI & MOUNTAIN RESORT ON THE 2026 LIST
2026 Winter Season Highlights:
Perched majestically above the crystalline waters of Lake St. Moritz, Badrutt's Palace Hotel has been synonymous with alpine luxury since opening its doors in 1896. This legendary five-star resort, remains family owned and run, sits amid the breathtaking Engadin Alps and is famed for offering the best service in the world.
The hotel's position as the sole ski and mountain resort in the World's 50 Best Hotels main list acts as a significant point of differentiation as the winter season approaches.
**NEWS:
- World's 50 Best Hotels 2026: Badrutt's Palace ranks No. 36, the only ski and mountain resort on the main list (1–50)
- SeiBellissimi Art of Hospitality Award 2026: awarded in recognition of the Palace's service and hospitality standards
- Grand Reopening: December 2026, following a series of landmark renovations completed across the hotel
SKIING & APRÈS:
- Slopes: Direct access to one of the world's most exciting ski resorts, set at over 1,800m in the heart of St. Moritz
- Ski Room & Shuttles: A dedicated ski room for guest equipment, alongside private shuttles running directly to the lifts
- Après-Ski: Paradiso, St. Moritz's landmark mountainside après spot, for guests extending the day on the slopes into the evening
RENOVATIONS:
- Le Grand Hall Bar: A new bar within Le Grand Hall - fondly known as the "living room of St Moritz" - designed by rising Milanese designer Giuseppe Porcelli, becoming one of the hotel's most iconic and historically sensitive spaces
- Suites & Rooms: A six-floor renovation creating larger rooms and suites, with key numbers reduced in line with guest demand; designed by globally renowned Champalimaud Design Studio, known for its work with historic grand hotels
- Matsuhisa: The hotel's much-loved restaurant will be renovated by Martin Brudnizki Design, who designed the original concept a decade ago and has now been invited back for its next chapter
Rates from: £1,400 per night
INIALA BEACH HOUSE CELEBRATES TWO MICHELIN KEYS FOR 2026
Iniala Beach House has been awarded two-MICHELIN Keys, elevating its recognition within the MICHELIN Guide’s hotel selection and marking a significant step up from its previous one-Key distinction. The two-Key award recognises Iniala’s exceptional character, personalised service and deeply immersive approach to luxury hospitality, set against the pristine shores of Natai Beach in Phang Nga, just north of Phuket.
Set along the Andaman coast, Iniala Beach House is an intimate private beachfront retreat where distinctive architecture, seclusion and intuitive care come together. Each villa and residence offers its own expression of craftsmanship and design, framed by lush tropical gardens and the sea. The Iniala Penthouse combines expansive open-plan living with a private rooftop pool and uninterrupted Andaman views, while the three-bedroom Collector’s Villa offers a more expansive retreat with three individually designed suites, a private cinema, spa sanctuary and 122 sqm beachfront infinity pool.
The property’s culinary offering further contributes to its distinctive hospitality experience. At Iniala, private dining is highly personalised, with private chefs creating bespoke menus shaped around each guest’s tastes and preferences. Fresh local ingredients are transformed into individual culinary experiences, whether enjoyed in the privacy of a villa or beside the sea, while Aulis Phuket, the intimate Michelin-starred chef’s table, offers a more innovative perspective on contemporary gastronomy.
The elevation to two-MICHELIN Keys reflects Iniala Beach House’s continued commitment to creating highly personalised, immersive stays that extend beyond traditional luxury. From its distinctive design and private beachfront setting to bespoke culinary experiences and considered wellbeing, Iniala Beach House offers guests a unique way to experience the Andaman coast, with a profound sense of place, privacy and intuitive service shaping every aspect of the stay.
HOW: Room rates at Iniala Beach House Thailand start from USD 800 per night for the Pool Residences, while the Villas start from USD 1,800 per night. For more information, please visit https://www.inialathailand.com
FAIRMONT MONTE CARLO AWARDED BRONZE FOR ‘BEST OVERSEAS HOTEL’ AT THE M&IT AWARDS 2026
Fairmont Monte Carlo has been awarded the Bronze Award for Best Overseas Hotel at the 38th annual M&IT (Meetings & Incentive Travel) Awards, held at Grosvenor House London.
Voted on directly by UK-based event organisers and industry professionals, the distinction recognises the hotel’s position as a premier luxury destination for international events, conferences, and incentives on the French Riviera.
The recognition comes during a milestone year for the Principality, with Visit Monaco taking Gold for Best Overseas Convention Bureau and the Grimaldi Forum securing Gold for Best Overseas Conference Centre.
Nestled between historic Monte Carlo and the new Mareterra district, Fairmont Monte Carlo continues to lead the region’s MICE sector. Featuring 596 rooms and suites, over 5,000 m² of venue space, four distinct dining destinations, and one of the French Riviera's largest catering operations, the hotel hosts high-profile corporate summits, private celebrations, and global gatherings year-round.
ROSEWOOD HONG KONG NAMED NO.1 IN THE 50 BEST HOTELS 2026 FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
The fourth annual edition of The 50 Best Hotels has been unveiled at a prestigious awards ceremony, recognising exceptional and pioneering hospitality experiences from across the globe.
For the first time since its inception, the awards ceremony was held outside London, bringing travel industry leaders and enthusiasts together at Les Salles du Carrousel in Paris to celebrate exceptional hotel experiences from around the world. The event showcased new benchmarks in hospitality excellence while inspiring travellers and industry professionals alike.
Rosewood Hong Kong (No.1) has once again been recognised as The World’s Best Hotel, following its ranking as No.1 in 2025 and No.3 in 2024. The hotel also therefore clinched The Best Hotel in Asia title. Rising 65 storeys above Victoria Harbour, this contemporary landmark has become a distinctive presence on Hong Kong’s skyline since opening its doors in 2019. The hotel was conceived by acclaimed Taiwanese designer Tony Chi, whose refined approach is reflected throughout its 413 rooms and suites, as well as its impressive collection of eleven restaurants and bars.
Wellness is central to the experience, with the renowned Asaya occupying multiple levels of the property. Its nine treatment rooms offer an extensive programme spanning therapeutic, aesthetic and holistic treatments, complemented by a spectacular infinity pool overlooking the harbour. For those seeking a more private retreat, two Asaya Lodges sit apart from the main building on a sun terrace, each offering its own spa chamber and sleep-enhancing technology for an immersive approach to rest and wellbeing.
Faye Huggett, Director of Community for The 50 Best Hotels, comments:
The 50 Best Hotels 2026 captures a defining moment for global hospitality, and we are delighted to celebrate the world’s most exceptional hotels that continue to shape how people travel, connect and experience culture. Rosewood Hong Kong retaining its No.1 position for a second consecutive year underlines Asia’s continued influence at the very highest level, while Europe’s strong representation and this year’s ten new entries point to a dynamic, diverse and competitive global hotel landscape. As The 50 evolves, our ambition is to continue to champion the people, places and ideas setting the agenda for the future of hospitality.
The No.2 spot goes to Capella Bangkok, a refined riverside retreat set along the east bank of the Chao Phraya River. The hotel, which ranked No.1 in 2024, has risen from its No.3 ranking in 2025. Elsewhere in the Thai capital, Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River takes the No.3 spot.
Asia is home to 18 ranked hotels in total, including two additional properties in Bangkok, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a global travel hub: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (No.10) and new entry, Aman Nai Lert (No.48). Mandarin Oriental Qianmen in Beijing takes the No.7 spot. In Hong Kong, Upper House Hong Kong ranks at No.8 and The Peninsula Hong Kong features at No.46. Japan is home to four ranked hotels: Aman Tokyo (No.11), Bulgari Tokyo (No.24), Patina Osaka (No.33) – recipient of the Nikka Best New Hotel Award - and Park Hyatt Kyoto (No.37). Further enhancing Asia’s presence, Raffles Singapore places at No.17 and The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai (No.30) climbs eight places. Two hotels in Indonesia feature on the list: Desa Potato Head (No.21) and Nihi Sumba, which has re-entered the list at No.35.
In Dubai, Atlantis The Royal (No.4) is winner of both The Best Hotel in the Middle East and the Best Beach Hotel Award, and Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab (No.15) has climbed five places.
Europe leads the 2026 rankings, with 21 hotels featured among The 50 Best Hotels, making it the continent with the strongest representation on this year’s list. Italy and France both have six properties featured, whereas the UK is home to four. Austria, Greece, Monaco, Switzerland and Türkiye each have one hotel included. The highest-ranking European entry is Passalacqua (No.5) in Lake Como, which additionally wins the Best Boutique Hotel Award for the third consecutive year. This award recognises the highest-ranked hotel that meets the criteria of a boutique property. According to The 50, a boutique hotel is defined as having fewer than 50 rooms, operating independently of a major hotel chain or group, and offering personalised service alongside distinctive characteristics that reflect its destination.
The following Italian hotels also featured: Four Seasons Firenze (No.12), Bulgari Roma (No.32), and new entries Casa Maria Luigia (No.18) in Modena, which has also won the Lavazza Highest New Entry Award, Portrait Milano (No.39) and San Domenico Palace in Taormina (No.50). In Paris, Hôtel de Crillon (No.14) has climbed nine places, with three other hotels in the capital included: Le Bristol (No.19), Cheval Blanc Paris (No.20) and new entry, Plaza Athénée (No.41). Elsewhere in France, Hôtel du Couvent in Nice ranks at No.38 and wins the Johnnie Walker Art of Design Award, while Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc re-enters the list at No.44.
The UK is home to four winning properties, with the capital city claiming three: Claridge’s (No.13), Raffles London at The OWO (No.28) and The Connaught (No.49). Outside of London, Estelle Manor in Witney (No.43) has risen four places. Elsewhere in Europe, Four Seasons Astir Palace (No.27) in Greece, SeiBellissimi Art of Hospitality Award winner Badrutt's Palace (No.36) in Switzerland, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo (No.40) in Monaco and Hotel Sacher Vienna (No.42) secure places in the list. In Türkiye, The Peninsula Istanbul (No.31) has also entered the list for the first time.
North America is home to six winning properties. Chablé Yucatán (No.9) in Chocholá is one of four hotels in Mexico to make the ranking, including One&Only Mandarina (No.23) in Riviera Nayarit, Las Ventanas al Paraíso (No.25) in Los Cabos, winner of the WhistlePig Highest Climber Award, and Maroma (No.47) in Riviera Maya. The United States has two new entries on the list: San Ysidro Ranch (No.22) in Santa Barbara and Amangiri (No.45) in Canyon Point.
Elsewhere, in South America, Rosewood São Paulo (No.6) has risen 18 places and, also in Brazil, Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro ranks at No.29. Africa is home to two hotels on the list: Royal Mansour (No.26) in Marrakech and Mount Nelson in Cape Town, which re-entered the list at No.34. Oceania has one hotel included: Capella Sydney (No.16) in Australia.
The Johnnie Walker Art of Design Award has been presented to Hôtel du Couvent in France. The award reflects how design in hotels goes beyond architecture to create a multi-sensorial experience for visitors, shaping the guest experience and often elevating the expected into the extraordinary.
Rosewood wins the Ferrari Trento Most Admired Hotel Group Award. Voted for independently as part of the overall awards process, this special accolade recognises an exceptional hotel group that has introduced outstanding initiatives, innovations or improvements over the past three years. The award celebrates those whose efforts have had a demonstrable and meaningful impact on the wider hospitality industry.
Chablé Yucatán in Mexico is the winner of the Bombay Sapphire Eco Hotel Award. Chablé Yucatán places sustainability at the heart of its operations, with solar panels generating around 60% of the resort’s energy and a commitment to eliminating plastic water bottles. Its kitchens draw on produce grown in traditional Mayan ka’anche gardens, while the resort supports biodiversity through initiatives such as the protection of the endangered Melipona bee. As with its other global awards, The 50 partnered with the Sustainable Restaurant Association on the Bombay Sapphire Eco Hotel Award, inviting every hotel on the list to submit details of its sustainability initiatives and credentials for a rigorous assessment.
James McBride is voted by the Academy as the winner of the SevenRooms Icon Award. McBride is a South African-born hotelier and Co-Founder and CEO of Nihi Hotels, the hospitality group behind the acclaimed Nihi Sumba in Indonesia. With more than 35 years of experience, he has held leadership roles at some of the world’s leading luxury hotels, beginning his career with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. In 2012, he partnered with entrepreneur Christopher Burch to acquire Nihiwatu, a remote surf resort on Sumba Island, transforming it into the globally recognised luxury retreat we know today, centred on an “Edge of Wildness” philosophy. In 2026, Nihi Rote, sister property to Nihi Sumba, opened in south eastern Indonesia.
The evening also celebrated the recipients of the special awards announced in the lead-up to the ceremony. Among them was The Fifth Avenue Hotel (No.78) in New York City, which received the American Express Travel One to Watch Award. In addition, Switzerland’s Badrutt’s Palace (No.36) was honoured with the SeiBellissimi Art of Hospitality Award, recognising its exceptional service, meticulous attention to detail and outstanding guest experience.
The highest-ranked hotel in each continent is, by default, named The Best Hotel in that respective territory:
- Rosewood Hong Kong (No.1) wins The Best Hotel in Asia
- Passalacqua (No.5) in Italy wins The Best Hotel in Europe
- Atlantis The Royal (No.4) in Dubai wins The Best Hotel in the Middle East
- Chablé Yucatán (No.9) in Mexico wins The Best Hotel in North America
- Rosewood São Paulo (No.6) in Brazil wins The Best Hotel in South America, sponsored by Bocktailed
- Capella Sydney (No.16) in Australia wins The Best Hotel in Oceania
- Royal Mansour (No.26) in Marrakech wins The Best Hotel in Africa, sponsored by Monte Vibiano
The 50 Best Hotels 2026 marks the fourth edition of the prestigious global ranking, further cementing The 50’s position as a leading authority on exceptional hospitality. As the organisation continues to expand its global reach, its rankings celebrate the finest experiences across the world of restaurants, bars and hotels.
How the voting works
The Academy is the mechanism used to create The 50 Best Hotels list. None of the employees of The 50 nor any sponsors associated with the awards has any influence over the results. To ensure the more than 800-voter-strong Academy provides a fair representation of the global hotel scene, the Academy Chairs are split across 13 geographical regions. Each Chair is selected as an expert on the travel scene in their region, with outstanding hotel sector contacts. These Chairs each select a voting panel, ensuring a balanced selection of hoteliers, travel journalists, hotel educators, business travellers and consumer travel aficionados. A minimum of 25% of the panel will be renewed each year. All voters, aside from the Academy Chairs, will remain anonymous to eliminate the possibility of lobbying.
Each Academy member can vote for any hotel they have stayed in around the world, irrespective of their home region. Each voter casts seven votes for hotels in order of preference based on stays experienced in the three-year voting period. Voting is carried out individually and strictly confidentially on a secure site and remains confidential before the list announcement. Academy Chairs are not privy to, nor have any knowledge of, the votes cast by the voters in their respective regions; furthermore, they are not official spokespeople for The 50 brand.
Professional services consultancy Deloitte is the official independent adjudicator of The 50 Best Hotels. Deloitte has been granted full and independent access to The 50 Best Hotels voting process and data and has performed certain procedures to confirm the integrity and authenticity of the voting process and the resulting list.
HOTEL MOTTO CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF JOIE DE VIVRE IN VIENNA
On 1 October 2026, Hotel MOTTO, the boutique art and design hotel in the heart of Vienna, will celebrate five years of world-class hospitality in the Austrian capital. Since opening in the 6th district on the famous Mariahilfer Straße, the hotel, owned by renowned Austrian entrepreneur and restaurateur Bernd Schlacher, as well as its restaurant CHEZ BERNARD, and bakery MOTTO Brot, have become staples in the city for locals and visitors alike, thanks to their distinct artistic style and exceptional service.
RAISING A GLASS TO FIVE YEARS
Over five years, the hotel has been the backdrop to thousands of stories, memorable moments, and milestone occasions - nearly 1,400 birthdays have been celebrated at the hotel and at least seven marriage proposals have unfolded under the MOTTO roof. Since opening its doors in 2021, Hotel MOTTO has welcomed more than 213,000 guests. At CHEZ BERNARD, nearly 400,000 lunch and dinner covers have been served, alongside 86,000 glasses of Crémant, 33,800 plates of Coq au Vin and 29,000 oysters. Downstairs at MOTTO Brot, over 190,000 croissants have made their way fresh from the oven into the hands of hungry guests.
CHEZ BERNARD is marking five years of service in Vienna with a new Birthday Signature Cocktail, ‘Joie de Vivre’ created exclusively for Hotel MOTTO’s fifth anniversary. The limited-edition birthday serve is a twist on the hotel’s signature cocktail of the same name and captures the spirit that has been at the heart of Hotel MOTTO from the beginning - the joy of living. Fresh, floral and effortlessly light, Joie de Vivre combines Hendrick’s Gin, Beefeater Gin, cucumber syrup and lychee liqueur. Available for a limited time, the cocktail invites guests to raise a glass, share special moments and celebrate unforgettable evenings.
DESIGN & ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY
Hotel MOTTO’s distinctive design remains central to its identity. Created by renowned Viennese practice Arkan Zeytinoglu Architects, the interiors bring together the elegance of Vienna and the romance of Paris, with an eclectic edge inspired by the avant-garde and punk rock. Fabric-covered walls, richly patterned rugs and distinctive furniture, tiles and lighting have been reimagined from vintage designs, including original pieces from the Hôtel Ritz Paris.
For the past five years, guests have been welcomed through its lobby which recalls the opulence of the 1920 - golden lamps and traditional serving carts sit alongside floral wall coverings, artistic mirrors and playful chandeliers, immediately introducing the hotel’s theatrical character.
The building’s own story stretches back much further, having welcomed hotel guests for more than three centuries. It was also the birthplace of Austrian composer Josef Strauss, son of Johann Strauss I, in 1827. Its architecture combines Renaissance and Baroque influences with Gothic and Byzantine details. The original towers, domes and distinctive façade—crafted by leading artisans of Vienna’s historic decorative-arts movement—have been carefully preserved and remain central to the character and layout of the hotel today.
RESTAURANTS & PUBLIC SPACES
At the heart of Hotel MOTTO’s culinary offering is CHEZ BERNARD, its seventh-floor restaurant and bar. Above it, an eighth-floor rooftop terrace provides an additional setting for drinking and dining during the warmer months, while the hotel’s organic bakery, MOTTO BROT, welcomes guests and locals on the ground floor.
Set beneath a striking glass dome, CHEZ BERNARD is flooded with natural light and filled with lush greenery. Its menu celebrates modern Austrian cuisine with French and Mediterranean influences, placing fresh preparation, organic ingredients and warm, attentive service at its heart.
The bar serves as a lively meeting place throughout the day, with sweeping views from its terrace and a bespoke coffee blend created especially for the hotel. Owner Bernd Schlacher, who has received multiple accolades for his approach to sustainability, also produces Brewdi, the hotel’s signature beer made using surplus bread from the bakery. By night, prominent Viennese DJs provide a soundtrack inspired by the energy of the city.
On the ground floor, the aromas of freshly baked bread and pastries draw guests into MOTTO BROT. Wood panelling, gold accents and high ceilings create the atmosphere of a chic Parisian bakery, where croissants, sourdough loaves and delicate pâtisseries are made using locally sourced organic ingredients and served alongside expertly brewed coffee.
FITNESS & WELLNESS AREA
Wellbeing has also been part of the Hotel MOTTO experience since its opening. The hotel’s 65-square-metre fitness and wellness area offers guests a peaceful place to recharge, with a rain shower, relaxation room with fresh spring water, unisex sauna and intimate steam bath.
The adjoining fitness suite is equipped with a stationary bicycle, treadmill, weight bench, free weights and yoga mats. Boxing lessons can be arranged in advance nearby, while the hotel partners with a neighbouring Pilates and yoga studio to offer additional classes.
ART AT HOTEL MOTTO
Art has remained a prominent feature at Hotel MOTTO, reflecting the property’s distinctive character, history, and creative spirit. Paintings, photography and illustrations invite guests to encounter different perspectives and discover new ways of looking at the hotel and the city around it. The distinctive silhouettes of renowned fashion illustrator Andrea Ferolla appear across the hotel’s walls, while powerful works by Mexican photographer Victoria Barmak celebrate and create visibility for the LGBTQI+ community.
Artist Sasha Knezevic, also known as SASA, has brought his playful energy to eight of the guestrooms. Bold quotations appear across mirrored walls in his signature graffiti-inspired style, creating spaces that feel edgy, witty and unexpected—an enduring expression of the individuality Hotel MOTTO continues to celebrate five years after opening.
CAMBRIDGE HOUSE, AUBERGE COLLECTION OPENS BOOKINGS AHEAD OF FEBRUARY LAUNCH
Auberge Resorts Collection is set to make its London debut with the opening of Cambridge House, Auberge Collection in Mayfair, with reservations now open for stays from February.
The new property will mark Auberge Resorts Collection’s first London hotel, bringing a new hospitality destination to 94 Piccadilly, the former home of the Naval and Military Club, better known as the ‘In & Out’ Club.
Dating back to 1756, Cambridge House has a long history as a meeting place for prominent figures and social circles. The building has now been reimagined as a hotel, private club and residences, designed to combine its heritage with a contemporary Mayfair identity.
Interiors have been created by French designers Jean-Louis Deniot and Laura Gonzalez, with the property set to feature Auberge’s signature Wellbeing offering alongside a collection of restaurants and bars.
Among its dining venues will be Major’s, a new restaurant and social space intended to form part of the hotel’s wider role as a destination for both visitors and the local community.
Cambridge House will offer guests a new base in Mayfair while becoming the latest addition to Auberge Resorts Collection’s growing international portfolio. The group has also appointed Etienne Haro as Managing Director of Cambridge House.
Reservations are now open for stays from February.
FINAL CASE STUDY: ZANNIER ÎLE DE BENDOR
Located just 300 metres off the coast of Bandol, Provence, Zannier Île de Bendor marks the revival of one of the Côte d’Azur’s most distinctive private islands. Originally brought to life by entrepreneur Paul Ricard in the 1950s as a destination centred around art, hospitality and Mediterranean living, the seven-hectare island has now entered a new chapter under the stewardship of Zannier Hotels, reopening following a meticulous five-year transformation.
Reimagined as a refined island retreat rooted in Provençal character and understated luxury, the destination brings together 93 guestrooms and suites, wellness experiences, restaurants, artisan spaces and landscaped gardens, all carefully integrated into the natural surroundings. Throughout the island, there is a strong emphasis on slowing down, reconnecting with nature and creating a more considered guest experience.
Wellbeing sits at the centre of the Zannier Hotels philosophy, from restorative spa treatments and movement programmes to sea swims, sailing excursions and open-air dining overlooking the Mediterranean. Sleep naturally plays an important role within this experience, leading Zannier Hotels to once again partner with British bedmaker Hypnos Contract Beds, following the successful collaboration at Zannier Omaanda in Namibia, to provide handcrafted mattresses throughout the property.
Known for comfort with integrity, Hypnos beds were selected to complement the island’s calm and restorative atmosphere, combining exceptional comfort with long-lasting craftsmanship. Handmade using traditional techniques and responsibly sourced materials, the mattresses reflect the wider ethos of the project, where authenticity, quality and longevity are valued over excess.
Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels:
“Our vision is to reframe Paul Ricard’s dream and uphold the very special legacy that Île de Bendor is built upon. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a sense of balance, comfort and connection to the island, and sleep is an important part of that experience.”
Whether staying within the relaxed 60’s elegance of the Delos, the wellness-led atmosphere of Soukana, or the more intimate Provençal style of the Madrague Houses, guests are immersed in an experience shaped by natural materials, sea air and a slower pace of life. Hypnos beds help extend this feeling by delivering deeply restorative rest within one of the Mediterranean’s most distinctive new hospitality destinations.
As Zannier Île de Bendor begins this new chapter, the collaboration between Zannier Hotels and Hypnos reflects a shared appreciation for heritage, craftsmanship and thoughtful hospitality, where comfort is shaped by quality, simplicity and attention to detail.
THE HYTHE, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, VAIL WELCOMES NEW GENERAL MANAGER KEVIN SHIELDS AND EXECUTIVE CHEF DOUGLAS FARNSWORTH
The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, Vail, proudly announces the appointment of Kevin Shields as General Manager and Douglas Farnsworth as Executive Chef, welcoming two seasoned hospitality leaders to guide the resort’s next chapter of luxury, culinary excellence and elevated guest experiences.
With a distinguished career spanning luxury hotels and destination resorts, Kevin Shields brings extensive operational expertise, strategic leadership and a deep commitment to service excellence to his role as General Manager of The Hythe where he oversees all aspects of resort operations, including guest services, food and beverage, sales and marketing, revenue strategy and associate engagement. He works closely with ownership, DiamondRock Hospitality, Vail Resorts and Marriott International to continue strengthening The Hythe’s position as one of Vail’s leading luxury mountain resorts.
Shields returns to a community he has known and valued for more than 15 years, bringing a personal appreciation for Vail’s distinctive combination of world-class recreation, luxury hospitality and vibrant year-round lifestyle. An avid skier, biker, and hiker, Shields is perfectly positioned to merge his hospitality expertise with the bountiful landscape surrounding the property.
It is an incredible honor to join The Hythe and become part of such an exceptional team. The Hythe has established itself as one of the most distinctive luxury resorts in the Rocky Mountains, and I look forward to working alongside our talented associates to continue delivering extraordinary experiences for our guests while strengthening our connection to the Vail community.
As Executive Chef, Douglas Farnsworth brings decades of culinary leadership and experience across fine dining, luxury hospitality, high-volume resort operations and acclaimed restaurant concepts. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for The Hythe’s culinary program, where he will oversee the resort’s four dining concepts and banquet operations: Revel Lounge, Margie’s Haas, Mountain Ration and 10th Mountain.
Farnsworth’s career has taken him through a diverse portfolio of celebrated hospitality and culinary operations, including the Historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in California, as well as leadership positions with Marriott, Hilton Hotels and Troon Golf.
Farnsworth’s culinary background also includes serving as Executive Chef at 555 East American Steakhouse and Regional Culinary Manager for King’s Seafood Company. He played a key role in conceptualizing Meat On Ocean in Santa Monica, where he developed a dry-aged beef program that was subsequently adopted by other flagship restaurants. Most recently, Farnsworth served as Culinary Director at Xperience Restaurant Group, where he oversaw multiple heritage-driven brands, combining a deep respect for traditional culinary techniques with a passion for modernizing and elevating the guest experience.
The Hythe is an incredible opportunity to bring together my passion for hospitality, culinary storytelling and the Colorado mountain lifestyle. I’m excited to work alongside the talented team here to create memorable dining experiences that feel both elevated and authentic to Vail,
said Douglas Farnsworth, Executive Chef, The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, Vail.
Together, Shields and Farnsworth bring complementary expertise and a shared commitment to thoughtful hospitality, strengthening The Hythe’s focus on exceptional service, destination-driven experiences and a distinctive sense of place.
SUNLIFE UNVEILS THE ANAHITA PRIVATE VILLA COLLECTION, ELEVATING LUXURY VILLA HOLIDAYS IN MAURITIUS
Sunlife is delighted to announce the launch of the Anahita Private Villa Collection, an exclusive portfolio of luxury private villas located within the prestigious Anahita estate on the east coast of Mauritius.
The Anahita Private Villa Collection offers discerning travellers the opportunity to experience exceptional privacy, space and personalised comfort in a selection of elegant multi-bedroom villas, making them ideal for families, groups of friends and bespoke luxury escapes. Each property has been carefully designed to offer generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, private swimming pools, landscaped tropical gardens and contemporary architecture, creating the ideal setting for families, groups of friends and extended stays.
Guests can now reserve these exclusive villas directly through the dedicated online booking platform, making it the only official website in Mauritius offering seamless online reservations for this premium collection.
To ensure a seamless stay, guests can pre-book breakfast, lunch and dinner before arrival and enjoy tailored concierge services. They also benefit from privileged access to the facilities of The Bay Club at Anahita, including the Ernie Els Championship Golf Course, Bernhard Langer-designed Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, the Private Beach on Île aux Cerfs, a selection of restaurants and bars, GLOW Spa & Wellness by Sunlife, and a range of sports and leisure activities.
The launch of the Anahita Private Villa Collection marks another milestone in Sunlife 's ambition to offer exceptional hospitality experiences that combine luxury, authenticity and flexibility. Whether travelling for a family celebration, a golf escape or an exclusive tropical retreat, guests can now enjoy the comfort of a private villa while benefiting from the premium services and amenities of one of Mauritius' most prestigious resorts.
"We are delighted to introduce the Anahita Private Villa Collection, offering guests a new way to experience luxury in Mauritius," said Ramesh Jeenarain "This collection combines the exclusivity of a private home with the exceptional facilities, personalised service and unique experiences that define Sunlife."
For more information and to book your stay, visit: anahitaprivatevillacollection.com