From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Villa d’Este | Lake Como, Italy
As soon as a Sixteenth-century noble home on the shores of Lake Como, Villa d’Este was reimagined as one of many world’s most opulent lodges in 1873. This Renaissance gem spans 25 hectares of manicured gardens, dotted with cascading fountains, ornate sculptures and hidden terraces. Throughout two historic buildings, 152 rooms and suites reveal frescoed ceilings, vintage furnishings and floor-to-ceiling home windows framing the lake or lush gardens. If you’d like somewhat extra privateness, select one among simply 4 villas, every with views of the lake proper out of your terrace. To finish your keep, sip classic Champagne by the floating pool, unwind within the Jacuzzi overlooking the water or sit down for a lakeside meal at Veranda.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab | Dubai, UAE
Newly opened in March 2025, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab completes Jumeirah’s iconic waterfront trilogy of opulent lodges with its putting superyacht design. Its rooms and suites channel nautical glamour via glossy strains and comfortable coloration palettes, matching the non-public marina simply past. Regardless of the place you’re located, you’ll get breathtaking views of the ocean, harbor or metropolis skyline out of your non-public balcony. There are many locations to loosen up, together with 4 swimming pools, a non-public seaside and a three-floor spa containing an indoor pool, a devoted female-only ground and superior therapies like cryotherapy. Fulfill any craving at one of many 11 eating places, serving every little thing from Greek and Italian to Japanese and Indian delicacies.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental | Abu Dhabi, UAE
Though by no means a royal residence, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental exudes the grandeur of a real palace with its iconic domes, gilded particulars and expansive grounds, so it’s no shock it received Wow Decide of the Yr within the 2025 Kiwi Awards. Park your yacht on the unique marina, then get an aerial view of the non-public seaside and manicured gardens proper out of your terrace or balcony. Select between two swimming pools: the serene East Wing Pool the place Jacuzzis and a swim-up bar invite leisurely luxurious, or the adventure-filled West Wing Pool, with a cascade of waterfalls, twisting slides and a lazy river. Eating right here is equally spectacular, with 12 eating places providing Cantonese, Mediterranean, Lebanese and Japanese cuisines. In the event you’re visiting from October to June, have dinner on the seaside as a substitute at Sand & Koal.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Resort Excelsior Venice Lido Resort | Venice, Italy
Step onto the unique Lido Island and uncover Resort Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, the one beachfront resort in all of Venice. Each September, the resort transforms into the glittering coronary heart of the Venice Worldwide Movie Competition, welcoming stars and filmmakers to mark the premieres of their movies. Spend your days lounging by the pool overlooking the Adriatic Sea, sinking your toes into the non-public seaside or difficult your mates on the tennis courts. If you’re able to see extra of Venice, skip the water taxi and take a complimentary experience on the non-public shuttle boat straight to St. Mark’s Sq. in underneath 20 minutes. In the event you’d relatively keep on-site, sit down for a seafood-focused Italian meal on the candlelit Adriatico Terrace overlooking the water.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
La Mamounia | Marrakech, Morocco
Constructed on the grounds of a Twelfth-century sultan’s palace, La Mamounia reworked centuries of royal heritage into one among Morocco’s most opulent lodges when it opened in 1923. Dwell like royalty in one among three riads—a standard Moroccan hideaway with a non-public terrace, heated swimming pool and a devoted butler out there 24/7. Culinary wishes are effortlessly fulfilled, with gifted cooks presenting Moroccan, Italian, Mediterranean and Asian creations in all 4 eating places and the non-public eating expertise, Dîner Éphémère. If exclusivity is what you’re in search of, guide a therapy within the non-public spa space with its personal hammam, double therapy room and Jacuzzi, then take a dip within the outside pool lined with Murano glass.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
The Plaza Resort | New York Metropolis, United States
On the crossroads of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South sits The Plaza Resort, one among America’s most opulent lodges. Stroll via the bronze-framed doorways and admire the grand marble hallways, crystal chandeliers and gilded accents at each flip. Take pleasure in afternoon tea at The Palm Court docket, caviar on the Champagne Bar or the decadent sundae featured in Dwelling Alone 2, delivered proper to your plush mattress. And, relying in your room or suite, you may take pleasure in views of Central Park or Fifth Avenue as you eat your manner via 16 scoops of ice cream. Desire pampering to dessert? Go to the newly opened 111SKIN Spa/Clinic or on-site salon for an expensive therapy.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Grantley Corridor | Ripon, United Kingdom
Initially constructed within the seventeenth century as a noble property, Grantley Corridor now blends historic grandeur with modern consolation. Every of the 47 rooms and suites is adorned with vintage furnishings, wealthy materials and sweeping views of the landscaped gardens or rolling countryside. Dwell out your regal fantasies within the Royal Suite with its emperor-sized mattress, marble-clad rest room and complimentary non-public bar. Dine like the Aristocracy at Shaun Rankin’s Michelin-starred restaurant, the place native, seasonal components meet dishes impressed by the chef’s upbringing within the area. When it’s time to unwind, go to the spa to benefit from the indoor-to-outdoor hydrotherapy pool, Nordic spa backyard, snow room, sizzling tub, sauna, indoor swimming pool or a holistic therapy.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya | Cancun, Mexico
Framed by the turquoise Caribbean Sea and plush tropical jungle, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya affords a secluded escape simply half-hour exterior bustling Cancun. All 173 rooms and suites characteristic non-public balconies and plunge swimming pools, so that you’ll by no means have to depart the ocean behind. For the final word view, guide the Oceanfront Presidential Suite, with a number of home windows and balconies overlooking the water. Step away out of your plunge pool to take pleasure in one of many two oceanfront infinity swimming pools or your personal non-public stretch of white sand. Or immerse your self in native tradition with a spa therapy impressed by Mayan traditions, utilizing regionally sourced oils and contemporary herbs from the backyard.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul | Istanbul, Türkiye
Initially a Nineteenth-century Ottoman imperial palace, Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul has been meticulously restored to showcase its regal heritage. Perched on the European facet of the Bosphorus, the palace transports you to a bygone period of opulence, with marble staircases, intricate woodwork and ornate chandeliers at each flip. Rooms and suites characteristic non-public balconies, hand-painted ceilings and period-inspired furnishings, together with a shocking view of the strait, Yildiz Park or the plush gardens. Take a dip within the infinity pool that appears to spill into the Bosphorus or unwind on the spa with remedies impressed by conventional Turkish hammams. Dine on the Michelin-recommended Tugra restaurant or sip cocktails on the waterside lounge whereas watching the sundown.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Raffles Resort | Singapore
Raffles Resort rapidly turned one of the vital opulent lodges on the earth when it opened its doorways in Singapore in 1887. Its suites are a mixture of colonial heritage and modern design, boasting excessive ceilings, polished wooden floors and views of the plush tropical gardens or bustling metropolis streets. Go to the historic Lengthy Bar, the place the world-famous Singapore Sling was born, or savor worldwide delicacies at one among 5 eating places. Unwind on the spa, a tranquil backyard hideaway with a vitality pool, natural sauna, aromatherapy steam room and ice fountain. Don’t miss the on-site Raffles Arcade, the place you could find elegant jewellery, high-end trend and gourmand eating.
From Palaces to Penthouses: Opulent Resorts Across the World
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles | Paris, France
Having opened in 1928 and restored to glory in 2010, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris has established itself as one of many Metropolis of Gentle’s most opulent lodges. Designed by French architect and designer Philippe Starck, this Parisian retreat is simply steps away from the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Keep in one among three presidential suites, every with devoted butler service, a non-public health room and entry to a Vary Rover if desired. Savor world-class gastronomy on the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio for Italian fare or Matsuhisa Paris, based by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, for Japanese. The centerpiece is the infinity pool, one of many largest in any Parisian lodge, complemented by a state-of-the-art spa that includes a hammam, laconium and sauna.
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Villa d’Este | Lake Como, Italy
As soon as a Sixteenth-century noble home on the shores of Lake Como, Villa d’Este was reimagined as one of many world’s most opulent lodges in 1873. This Renaissance gem spans 25 hectares of manicured gardens, dotted with cascading fountains, ornate sculptures and hidden terraces. Throughout two historic buildings, 152 rooms and suites reveal frescoed ceilings, vintage furnishings and floor-to-ceiling home windows framing the lake or lush gardens. If you’d like somewhat extra privateness, select one among simply 4 villas, every with views of the lake proper out of your terrace. To finish your keep, sip classic Champagne by the floating pool, unwind within the Jacuzzi overlooking the water or sit down for a lakeside meal at Veranda.
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Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab | Dubai, UAE
Newly opened in March 2025, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab completes Jumeirah’s iconic waterfront trilogy of opulent lodges with its putting superyacht design. Its rooms and suites channel nautical glamour via glossy strains and comfortable coloration palettes, matching the non-public marina simply past. Regardless of the place you’re located, you’ll get breathtaking views of the ocean, harbor or metropolis skyline out of your non-public balcony. There are many locations to loosen up, together with 4 swimming pools, a non-public seaside and a three-floor spa containing an indoor pool, a devoted female-only ground and superior therapies like cryotherapy. Fulfill any craving at one of many 11 eating places, serving every little thing from Greek and Italian to Japanese and Indian delicacies.
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Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental | Abu Dhabi, UAE
Though by no means a royal residence, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental exudes the grandeur of a real palace with its iconic domes, gilded particulars and expansive grounds, so it’s no shock it received Wow Decide of the Yr within the 2025 Kiwi Awards. Park your yacht on the unique marina, then get an aerial view of the non-public seaside and manicured gardens proper out of your terrace or balcony. Select between two swimming pools: the serene East Wing Pool the place Jacuzzis and a swim-up bar invite leisurely luxurious, or the adventure-filled West Wing Pool, with a cascade of waterfalls, twisting slides and a lazy river. Eating right here is equally spectacular, with 12 eating places providing Cantonese, Mediterranean, Lebanese and Japanese cuisines. In the event you’re visiting from October to June, have dinner on the seaside as a substitute at Sand & Koal.
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Resort Excelsior Venice Lido Resort | Venice, Italy
Step onto the unique Lido Island and uncover Resort Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, the one beachfront resort in all of Venice. Each September, the resort transforms into the glittering coronary heart of the Venice Worldwide Movie Competition, welcoming stars and filmmakers to mark the premieres of their movies. Spend your days lounging by the pool overlooking the Adriatic Sea, sinking your toes into the non-public seaside or difficult your mates on the tennis courts. If you’re able to see extra of Venice, skip the water taxi and take a complimentary experience on the non-public shuttle boat straight to St. Mark’s Sq. in underneath 20 minutes. In the event you’d relatively keep on-site, sit down for a seafood-focused Italian meal on the candlelit Adriatico Terrace overlooking the water.
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La Mamounia | Marrakech, Morocco
Constructed on the grounds of a Twelfth-century sultan’s palace, La Mamounia reworked centuries of royal heritage into one among Morocco’s most opulent lodges when it opened in 1923. Dwell like royalty in one among three riads—a standard Moroccan hideaway with a non-public terrace, heated swimming pool and a devoted butler out there 24/7. Culinary wishes are effortlessly fulfilled, with gifted cooks presenting Moroccan, Italian, Mediterranean and Asian creations in all 4 eating places and the non-public eating expertise, Dîner Éphémère. If exclusivity is what you’re in search of, guide a therapy within the non-public spa space with its personal hammam, double therapy room and Jacuzzi, then take a dip within the outside pool lined with Murano glass.
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The Plaza Resort | New York Metropolis, United States
On the crossroads of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South sits The Plaza Resort, one among America’s most opulent lodges. Stroll via the bronze-framed doorways and admire the grand marble hallways, crystal chandeliers and gilded accents at each flip. Take pleasure in afternoon tea at The Palm Court docket, caviar on the Champagne Bar or the decadent sundae featured in Dwelling Alone 2, delivered proper to your plush mattress. And, relying in your room or suite, you may take pleasure in views of Central Park or Fifth Avenue as you eat your manner via 16 scoops of ice cream. Desire pampering to dessert? Go to the newly opened 111SKIN Spa/Clinic or on-site salon for an expensive therapy.
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Grantley Corridor | Ripon, United Kingdom
Initially constructed within the seventeenth century as a noble property, Grantley Corridor now blends historic grandeur with modern consolation. Every of the 47 rooms and suites is adorned with vintage furnishings, wealthy materials and sweeping views of the landscaped gardens or rolling countryside. Dwell out your regal fantasies within the Royal Suite with its emperor-sized mattress, marble-clad rest room and complimentary non-public bar. Dine like the Aristocracy at Shaun Rankin’s Michelin-starred restaurant, the place native, seasonal components meet dishes impressed by the chef’s upbringing within the area. When it’s time to unwind, go to the spa to benefit from the indoor-to-outdoor hydrotherapy pool, Nordic spa backyard, snow room, sizzling tub, sauna, indoor swimming pool or a holistic therapy.
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Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya | Cancun, Mexico
Framed by the turquoise Caribbean Sea and plush tropical jungle, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya affords a secluded escape simply half-hour exterior bustling Cancun. All 173 rooms and suites characteristic non-public balconies and plunge swimming pools, so that you’ll by no means have to depart the ocean behind. For the final word view, guide the Oceanfront Presidential Suite, with a number of home windows and balconies overlooking the water. Step away out of your plunge pool to take pleasure in one of many two oceanfront infinity swimming pools or your personal non-public stretch of white sand. Or immerse your self in native tradition with a spa therapy impressed by Mayan traditions, utilizing regionally sourced oils and contemporary herbs from the backyard.
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Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul | Istanbul, Türkiye
Initially a Nineteenth-century Ottoman imperial palace, Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul has been meticulously restored to showcase its regal heritage. Perched on the European facet of the Bosphorus, the palace transports you to a bygone period of opulence, with marble staircases, intricate woodwork and ornate chandeliers at each flip. Rooms and suites characteristic non-public balconies, hand-painted ceilings and period-inspired furnishings, together with a shocking view of the strait, Yildiz Park or the plush gardens. Take a dip within the infinity pool that appears to spill into the Bosphorus or unwind on the spa with remedies impressed by conventional Turkish hammams. Dine on the Michelin-recommended Tugra restaurant or sip cocktails on the waterside lounge whereas watching the sundown.
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Raffles Resort | Singapore
Raffles Resort rapidly turned one of the vital opulent lodges on the earth when it opened its doorways in Singapore in 1887. Its suites are a mixture of colonial heritage and modern design, boasting excessive ceilings, polished wooden floors and views of the plush tropical gardens or bustling metropolis streets. Go to the historic Lengthy Bar, the place the world-famous Singapore Sling was born, or savor worldwide delicacies at one among 5 eating places. Unwind on the spa, a tranquil backyard hideaway with a vitality pool, natural sauna, aromatherapy steam room and ice fountain. Don’t miss the on-site Raffles Arcade, the place you could find elegant jewellery, high-end trend and gourmand eating.
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Le Royal Monceau – Raffles | Paris, France
Having opened in 1928 and restored to glory in 2010, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris has established itself as one of many Metropolis of Gentle’s most opulent lodges. Designed by French architect and designer Philippe Starck, this Parisian retreat is simply steps away from the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Keep in one among three presidential suites, every with devoted butler service, a non-public health room and entry to a Vary Rover if desired. Savor world-class gastronomy on the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio for Italian fare or Matsuhisa Paris, based by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, for Japanese. The centerpiece is the infinity pool, one of many largest in any Parisian lodge, complemented by a state-of-the-art spa that includes a hammam, laconium and sauna.
