Pursuitist Preferred: The 10 Best Luxury Hotel Brands of 2025. Curated by Christopher Parr, renowned luxury travel journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, with contributions from elite travel editors and insiders.
Pursuitist presents the definitive honor roll of hospitality—the Pursuitist Preferred 10, a curated celebration of the most iconic and elite luxury hotel brands shaping the travel landscape in 2025. These are the names that resonate with connoisseurs of taste, the architects of unforgettable escapes, and the designers of immersive, world-class experiences.
In the rarified world of five-star hospitality, a select handful of hotel and resort brands stand as the ultimate arbiters of refined travel taste. These ten Pursuitist Preferred luxury hotel brands for 2025 embody an enduring excellence in design, service, heritage, and culinary achievement. Each brand carries a timeless legacy and a fresh relevance—seamlessly blending storied tradition with forward-thinking innovation.
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From cliffside palaces in the Mediterranean to ultra-private island retreats and haute city hideaways, these brands deliver more than accommodation—they define destination. Below, Pursuitist profiles each brand’s most iconic properties across continents, their award-winning restaurants and acclaimed chefs, their distinct approach to design and hospitality, and the reasons they continue to set the gold standard in global travel.
Each brand featured here has earned the Pursuitist 5-Star Gold Award—a mark of distinction bestowed only on the most exceptional destinations, fashion, design, and luxury experiences that exceed expectations and delight the discerning in both form and function. These are the best of the best. These are the brands that define the pursuit of luxury in 2025.
1. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Embarking on its journey in 1961, Four Seasons has evolved into a paragon of ultra-luxury hospitality. Founded by Isadore Sharp in Toronto, the brand grew from a single motor hotel into a constellation of over 100 world-renowned properties, each united by a service philosophy rooted in intuitive care and quiet excellence. Signature gestures—like remembering a guest’s name or anticipating their preferences before they’re voiced—are not simply standards, but a way of life across the portfolio. Four Seasons’ commitment to hospitality that feels personal yet globally consistent remains one of its defining traits.
From the Art Deco splendor of Four Seasons George V in Paris, to the lush, overwater serenity of Four Seasons Bora Bora, and the immersive safari experience of Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, each property is a masterclass in regional storytelling. These aren’t cookie-cutter resorts; they are meticulously crafted environments that reflect the soul of their surroundings. At Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, guests can enjoy tea ceremonies overlooking an 800-year-old ikeniwa garden, while Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet places them at the crossroads of empires, wrapped in Ottoman elegance. The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan seems to float above the jungle, offering travelers a spiritual escape amidst rice terraces and ancient temples.
The brand offers an astonishing range of experiences—from the grandeur of Le Cinq at the George V, where Chef Christian Le Squer’s haute cuisine dazzles under chandeliers, to a seamless family stay just steps from Cinderella’s Castle at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World. There, fine dining at Capa Steakhouse and private fireworks viewing coexist with kid-friendly amenities and one of the best lazy rivers in Florida. Meanwhile, at Four Seasons Resort Nevis, life slows to the rhythm of the Caribbean, with sea turtles nesting nearby, golf on a Robert Trent Jones II-designed course, and rum tastings curated by a resident historian.
Culinary innovation remains a pillar of the brand, with world-class chefs helming destination restaurants that celebrate local ingredients and traditions. Whether it’s Wolfgang Puck’s modern flair at CUT in Beverly Hills or the sophisticated omakase at SÉZANNE in Tokyo, Four Seasons is as much a dining destination as it is a hotel brand.
Design-wise, Four Seasons properties strike an effortless balance between opulence and restraint. Each space is curated with an eye toward authenticity and architectural harmony—from the sleek lines of its Manhattan tower to the palm-fringed villas of its new outpost in Tamarindo, Mexico. Rooms often serve as sanctuaries, wrapped in plush textures and bathed in natural light, while public spaces invite connection through art, scent, and sound.
Four Seasons continues to redefine what modern luxury travel can look like. The Four Seasons Private Jet Experienceoffers curated, globe-spanning itineraries aboard a customized aircraft—complete with a personal concierge and a private chef. And new properties, such as Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley, set amidst organic vineyards with its own winemaking program, further illustrate the brand’s commitment to immersive luxury rooted in place.
Why it’s Pursuitist Preferred: Four Seasons doesn’t simply offer a room—it curates a lifestyle, seamlessly blending adventure, indulgence, and cultural connection. With destinations spanning from snow-capped mountains to remote islands, from Michelin-starred tables to magical Disney memories, the brand defines excellence for every kind of elite traveler. Its dedication to place, people, and service—timeless yet always evolving—cements its place as a Pursuitist Preferred icon for 2025.
2. Aman Resorts
Aman Resorts – exemplified by the serene Amangiri in the Utah desert – is synonymous with ultra-exclusive retreats in awe-inspiring locations. Since its founding in 1988 by visionary hotelier Adrian Zecha, Aman (meaning “peace” in Sanskrit) has been widely acclaimed as the world’s most exclusive luxury resort brand, known for ultra-premium service, high-profile clientele, and exotic settings. Each Aman resort feels like a secret sanctuary with a minimalist design aesthetic that integrates seamlessly into its environment, be it a tropical pavilion in Phuket or a palace-inspired oasis in Jaipur. Privacy, tranquility and a profound sense of place define the Aman experience – the brand is famously “faultlessly discreet” about its celebrity guests, cultivating a mystique that discerning travelers cherish.
Aman’s iconic properties span the globe. In Asia-Pacific, Amanpuri in Thailand (the very first Aman) introduced the world to the concept of the intimate luxury villa resort, while Aman Tokyo pioneered the brand’s entry into cities with its soaring zen-like lobby and views of the Imperial Gardens. Amangani in Wyoming and Amangiri in Utah bring Aman’s serene design to America’s wide-open landscapes. Culinary excellence at Aman is focused on authenticity and local sourcing – yet Aman is no stranger to star chefs. Aman’s Rosa Alpina in Italy features the cuisine of Norbert Niederkofler, a multi-Michelin-starred chef known for sustainable Alpine gastronomy, and Aman’s newest urban hotels offer refined dining like Nama, a Japanese omakase concept. Heritage & evolution: Under CEO Vlad Doronin’s stewardship, Aman has carefully expanded to 34 resorts across 20 countries, preserving Zecha’s ethos of low-key luxury while adding modern touches (such as Aman’s own skincare line and upcoming sister brand Janu).
Design & hospitality: Each Aman is a masterclass in minimalist architecture – natural materials, local art, and expansive spaces that frame nature’s beauty – paired with an almost spiritual, holistic service philosophy. In 2025, with new destinations like Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and Amanvari in Mexico on the horizon, Aman remains the apex of escapist luxury, earning its Pursuitist Preferred status for delivering peace, seclusion and bespoke experiences at the highest level.
3. The Ritz-Carlton
An emblem of timeless luxury, The Ritz-Carlton has a heritage entwined with the very origin of grand hotels. The brand’s inspiration comes from legendary hotelier César Ritz – “the king of hoteliers and hotelier to kings” – whose name became synonymous with glamour and impeccable service. The modern Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, established in 1983, upholds Ritz’s exacting standards with its famous credo: “We are Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen.” This motto encapsulates a service culture where every employee, from doorman to general manager, performs with polished courtesy and anticipatory attention to guests’ unexpressed needs. Today’s Ritz-Carlton portfolio spans from iconic urban hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo and The Ritz-Carlton, New York NoMad, to lavish resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton, Bali and Grand Cayman. Each property, while infused with local character, reflects a timeless elegance—marble lobbies, chandeliers, and refined furnishings—that harken back to the golden age of hospitality.
Culinary achievements are a distinguishing facet of Ritz-Carlton’s excellence. The brand boasts a constellation of award-winning restaurants led by famed chefs. In Germany, The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg’s Aqua restaurant under chef Sven Elverfeld has earned global renown for its modern European cuisine. In Asia, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong elevates Cantonese dining at Tin Lung Heen on the 102nd floor, pairing exquisite dim sum with panoramic views above the clouds. And in New York, the newly opened Ritz-Carlton NoMad made waves with two venues by chef José Andrés, bringing both Mediterranean flair and a sky-high cocktail lounge to Manhattan.
Heritage & design: Ritz-Carlton properties often blend local cultural elements with the brand’s classic style – for instance, the Ritz-Carlton in Kyoto incorporates zen gardens and kimono-inspired textiles, while the Ritz-Carlton in Istanbul sits along the Bosphorus with Ottoman motifs. Yet all share common threads of “timeless elegance” and luxurious comfort. In recent years, Ritz-Carlton has innovated with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, translating its hotel service to the sea, and refreshed historic hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas after major renovations.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: With its storied name, legendary service credo, and ability to enliven the senses while fulfilling even unexpressed wishes of guests, The Ritz-Carlton continues to embody the pinnacle of fine living and remains a beacon of luxury hospitality in 2025.
4. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Melding contemporary style with oriental charm, Mandarin Oriental has built a reputation for refined luxury deeply rooted in Asian hospitality. The group’s origins trace back to two grand hotels: The Mandarin in Hong Kong (1963) and The Oriental in Bangkok (1876). Merged under one brand in 1985, these flagships gave Mandarin Oriental its dual heritage – one of British colonial elegance and Thai graciousness. Today, the fan-logo of Mandarin Oriental is recognized globally, representing stylish hotels that celebrate the essence of their destinations. From its Hong Kong and Bangkok legends, MO (as fans affectionately abbreviate it) has expanded to London, Paris, New York, and beyond, often converting historic buildings into palaces of modern luxury. Each property is a “rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the essence of each destination,” staying true to the brand’s guiding principle “to delight our guests each and every day.”
Iconic properties of Mandarin Oriental span continents. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok – the “Grand Dame of the East” – still serves afternoon tea in its colonial Authors’ Lounge and sets the standard for riverside luxury in Asia. In Europe, the Mandarin Oriental, Paris brings Asian service to a chic rue Saint-Honoré address, and the Mandarin Oriental, London Hyde Park famously hosts Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, blending Michelin-starred dining with views of Knightsbridge. In the Americas, the Mandarin Oriental, New York towers above Columbus Circle with panoramic Central Park vistas. Across this portfolio, culinary excellence is a hallmark: many Mandarin Oriental hotels house destination restaurants. In Tokyo, the Mandarin Oriental’s Tapas Molecular Bar offers an avant-garde multi-course journey, while in Bangkok the two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie has for decades defined fine French dining in Asia. The brand also partners with legendary chefs (Joël Robuchon, Heston Blumenthal, Thierry Marx among them) to helm its kitchens, ensuring that hotel dining is as much a draw as the rooms.
Design and wellness: Mandarin Oriental’s design language marries contemporary luxury with subtle oriental touches – silk textiles, lacquerware, art installations of fans – creating an atmosphere of understated glamour and comfort. The group is also renowned for its world-class spas, which blend traditional Asian therapies with modern wellness, and for pioneering holistic well-being offerings (yoga, meditation, and mindfulness programs) long before wellness became a hospitality buzzword. As of 2025, Mandarin Oriental continues to innovate (for instance, introducing sustainable initiatives and new resorts in the Middle East) while staying true to its heritage. Its ability to combine Asian warmth with cosmopolitan sophistication – “a distinct blend of heritage and modernity” – secures Mandarin Oriental’s place as a Pursuitist Preferred icon of luxury.
5. Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
With a guiding philosophy of “A Sense of Place,” Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has emerged as one of the most admired luxury brands, defined by its immersive approach to hospitality. Founded in 1979 by Caroline Rose Hunt in Dallas, Rosewood’s origins were humble yet aspirational – its first property, The Mansion on Turtle Creek, was a historic mansion-turned-hotel epitomizing residential-style luxury. This ethos of refined, residential living still permeates Rosewood’s collection, which has grown under the leadership of CEO Sonia Cheng into a global portfolio of ultra-luxury hotels that feel more like elegant private estates. Each Rosewood property is uniquely tailored to its location’s culture, history, and geography, delivering an experience that “embodies a sense of place in every nuance.”
Brand heritage & evolution: Over four decades, Rosewood has expanded from the Americas to Europe, Asia and the Middle East, largely through carefully chosen conversions of heritage buildings. Iconic hotels in the Rosewood family include The Carlyle in New York, a bastion of Manhattan society famed for Bemelmans Bar’s nightly jazz; Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, a restored 18th-century palace on Place de la Concorde; Rosewood Hong Kong, a striking new waterfront tower that serves as the brand’s Asian flagship; and Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Los Cabos, an acclaimed beach resort. Each property radiates the spirit of its location: Rosewood’s designers incorporate regional art, architecture, and materials – from the antiques and British style of Rosewood London (set in an Edwardian Belle Époque building) to the latticework and courtyards of Rosewood Abu Dhabi reflecting Emirati traditions. Yet all Rosewood hotels maintain a consistent atmosphere of residential elegance, often featuring library-like lounges, curated artwork, and the intimate ambiance of a private manor.
Culinary and service excellence: Rosewood’s commitment to local authenticity shines in its dining experiences. The brand has attracted top culinary talent to helm its restaurants: in Paris, Hôtel de Crillon’s L’Ecrin is led by Chef Boris Campanella, offering one of the city’s most refined gastronomic journeys; in London, the Holborn Dining Room at Rosewood London has become a city hotspot for its creative British cuisine. Many Rosewood resorts highlight local flavors – for example, Las Ventanas al Paraíso’s Sea Grill serves fresh Baja seafood by the Sea of Cortez, and Rosewood Beijing’s Michelin-starred Country Kitchen showcases northern Chinese specialties. Rosewood also nurtures iconic bars and traditions: The Carlyle’s Bemelmans Bar remains an institution for classic cocktails, and many Rosewood hotels have introduced their own Tea Sommelier-led afternoon teas or bespoke local culinary events. Alongside its food and beverage, Rosewood is distinguished by highly personalized service – staff are intuitively trained to treat guests like family friends. This nurturing approach extends to community involvement: Rosewood’s philosophy emphasizes building strong relationships not just with guests but with local communities and artisans.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: Rosewood seamlessly blends timeless heritage with contemporary luxury, remaining relentlessly relevant through new openings (such as Rosewood’s first Japanese property in 2024) and initiatives like Rosewood Explorers kids clubs and sustainability programs. By delivering bespoke, place-sensitive experiences with residential warmth and luxury, Rosewood has earned its status as a 2025 Pursuitist Preferred brand.
6. The Peninsula Hotels
Few hotel groups can match the storied heritage and legendary reputation of The Peninsula Hotels. Founded in 1928 with the opening of The Peninsula Hong Kong, this brand has been walking the line between heritage and innovation for nearly a century. The Peninsula Hong Kong – the flagship often called the “Grand Dame of the Far East” – set the tone with its colonial grandeur, fleets of Rolls-Royce Phantoms in signature green, and service that made every guest feel like royalty. Now with ten ultra-luxury hotels (and growing), Peninsula remains timeless, effortless, and always welcoming, proving that true classics never go out of style. Every Peninsula property embodies an interplay of past and present: honoring a long heritage (the brand turned 95 last year) while continually evolving in design, technology, and experience to stay ahead of the curve.
Design & sense of place: Peninsula hotels are known for merging classic elegance with avant-garde design. For example, The Peninsula Paris resides in a meticulously restored 1908 Beaux-Arts building near the Arc de Triomphe, its French historic details enhanced by modern art installations and a rooftop restaurant with Eiffel Tower views. In Tokyo, The Peninsula’s contemporary tower incorporates subtle Japanese design cues and one of the most technologically advanced guest room systems in the world. The brand’s newest properties – The Peninsula London (opened late 2023 overlooking Hyde Park Corner) and The Peninsula Istanbul (2023 on the Bosphorus) – bring Peninsula’s design ethos to new locales, blending local architectural motifs with the chain’s trademark of understated luxury. Despite their glamour, Peninsula hotels feel welcoming and unpretentious – a testament to the company’s Asian hospitality roots and its philosophy that luxury should be comfortable and unostentatious.
Iconic properties & experiences: The Peninsula Hong Kong remains an icon, with its neo-classical façade and the Peninsula Tower offering helicopter transfers from its rooftop helipad. The Peninsula New York on Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, The Peninsula Shanghai – all are leaders in their markets, consistently winning awards for being the best of the best. A hallmark across all Peninsula hotels is the afternoon tea in the Lobby, a cherished ritual from Hong Kong to Chicago, where string quartets or jazz trios serenade guests nibbling on scones under lofty ceilings.
Culinary prowess is another Peninsula strong suit: each hotel boasts multiple dining venues, often among the city’s finest. The Peninsula Hong Kong’s Gaddi’s has been a fine French dining institution for decades, and its Felix bar (designed by Philippe Starck) reinvented the idea of a skyline bar. At The Peninsula Tokyo, Peter offers premium grill with panoramic vistas, and at the new Peninsula London, a rooftop restaurant called Brooklands by acclaimed Chef Claude Bosi brings two-star Michelin pedigree to the property. Notably, Peninsula hotel restaurants frequently garner Michelin stars (Peninsula Shanghai once held a record for the most stars under one roof) – though the brand focuses more on creating timeless dining experiences than chasing accolades .
Service & innovation: The service at Peninsula is often described as flawless and gracious, with a notable percentage of staff boasting decades-long tenures. They’ve innovated with touches like proprietary in-room tablet controls in 11 languages, and a Peninsula Academy offering guests curated local experiences (e.g. learning to drive a classic Rolls-Royce or private art tours). In 2025, Peninsula’s relevance is as strong as ever: it actively embraces sustainability, and its “Art in Resonance” global art program brings cutting-edge art installations to each hotel’s public spaces. By honoring its long heritage while feeling perpetually current, The Peninsula Hotels exemplify the apex of luxury hospitality – truly Pursuitist Preferred.
7. Belmond (formerly Orient-Express Hotels)
Belmond is the standard-bearer of timeless glamour in travel, a brand that celebrates the art of journeying as much as the destination. Founded in 1976 with the purchase of the Hotel Cipriani in Venice, the company (originally Orient-Express Hotels) built a portfolio of legendary hotels, trains, and river cruises that evoke a bygone era of romance and adventure. Now part of the LVMH family, Belmond in 2025 is rolling out offerings with old-school opulence straight out of an Agatha Christie novel – think vintage rail carriages with Champagne bars, grand hotel salons dripping with chandeliers, and white-glove service at every turn. Indeed, Belmond invites guests to step back into a more maximalist glamour (as one observer quipped, Belmond is the “anti-Aman” for its love of rich décor and historic detail over minimalist zen).
Iconic properties & experiences: Belmond’s collection is unparalleled. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, perhaps the world’s most famous train, is a Belmond centerpiece – its midnight-blue 1920s carriages still ferry guests from London or Paris to Venice and Istanbul in lavishly restored art deco comfort. In Italy, Belmond owns Hotel Cipriani in Venice (a storied hideaway on Giudecca Island accessible by private launch) and Splendido in Portofino (a former monastery turned jet-set retreat overlooking the Ligurian Sea). Further afield, there is Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro (glamour since 1923), Belmond Mount Nelson in Cape Town (the pink Grand Dame of South Africa), and Belmond Hotel das Cataratas at Brazil’s Iguaçu Falls. Each property is a living legend, often the most historic hotel in its locale, lovingly updated to meet modern luxury standards without losing an ounce of character. Under LVMH’s stewardship, Belmond has embarked on careful restorations – like the recent revamp of Maroma in Riviera Maya and ongoing enhancements to its African safari lodges – ensuring these icons shine brighter than ever.
Culinary and cultural achievements: Belmond’s experiences extend beyond rooms to remarkable dining and cultural journeys. Many Belmond hotels house Michelin-starred restaurants: Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons (a Belmond hotel in Oxfordshire) has two Michelin stars and is famed for its organic gardens and cookery school, while Belmond’s Il Pellicano (recently joining the portfolio in Tuscany) and Splendido both celebrate Italian cuisine with locally sourced excellence. In a nod to its travel roots, Belmond appointed Chef Dominique Crenn – the first female chef in America to earn three Michelin stars – as its first “Culinary Curator” for 2025, crafting exclusive menus aboard its trains and river cruises. Picture dining on the Orient-Express with dishes designed by Crenn, or enjoying a supper club on the Belmond British Pullman hosted by rotating celebrity chefs. Belmond also champions slow, immersive travel: multi-day journeys that pair, for example, the Eastern & Oriental Express train through Southeast Asia with stays at Belmond’s historic Raffles Singapore (now managed by Accor but historically linked) or river cruises in Myanmar.
Design & sense of place: Rather than imposing a unified style, Belmond embraces the local heritage of each asset – from the colonial splendor of Charleston’s Belmond Charleston Place to the Inca textiles and alpaca blankets at Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado in the Sacred Valley of Peru. This approach keeps experiences authentic and unique. You might find yourself sipping a Negroni in a 15th-century cloister garden in Florence (Belmond Villa San Michele) or sleeping under Egyptian cotton in a tented camp near Angkor Wat (Belmond’s La Résidence d’Angkor). And always, there is a sense of theater: arrive by vintage boat, dress for dinner on the train, or simply savor the unhurried pace where every moment becomes a memory.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: Belmond represents “the legendary art of travel,” something no other brand delivers with such flair. In an age of rapid commoditized trips, Belmond’s meticulously crafted journeys – enhanced by new investments, sustainability efforts, and partnerships (like Dior spas at select hotels) – feel both nostalgic and novel. For travelers seeking the romance of yesteryear coupled with modern comfort, Belmond is the ultimate choice in 2025.
8. One&Only Resorts
As its name suggests, One&Only Resorts are singular, ultra-luxury escapes that each stand alone as a pinnacle of their destination. Created in 2002 by South African hotel magnate Sol Kerzner, One&Only was born from an independent spirit and a desire to raise the bar for resort experiences around the world. Over the past two decades, One&Only has indeed been a pioneer in resort design and experiential luxury, transforming remote locales into sought-after playgrounds for the elite. Back in 2005, One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives redefined Indian Ocean hospitality, turning the archipelago from a scuba diver’s haven into a byword for over-the-top villa luxury. This resort’s sprawling size, private pools, and personal butlers set a new benchmark and solidified One&Only’s reputation for bold, expansive luxury.
Global iconic resorts: One&Only’s portfolio reads like a bucket list of dream vacations. In the Caribbean, One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico (a classic since the 1950s, reborn under Kerzner) blends hacienda-style romance with one of the region’s best spas and Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s acclaimed steakhouse. One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai evokes an Arabian Nights fantasy with its courtyards and spires, offering a tranquil counterpoint to the city’s bustle. In the Indian Ocean, aside from Reethi Rah, One&Only Le Saint Géran in Mauritius is legendary – an intimate colonial-inspired retreat often visited by royalty and celebrities for its idyllic beaches and service. The brand has also expanded into nature-centric resorts like One&Only Nyungwe House and Gorilla’s Nest in Rwanda, where guests can track mountain gorillas by day and enjoy five-star comfort by night, and into alpine luxury with the forthcoming One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana (its first venture in the US ski scene). What unites these diverse resorts is an emphasis on idyllic locations, sumptuous accommodations, and curated guest experiences that capture the best of each locale.
Culinary and wellness highlights: One&Only resorts are known for “award-winning dining from the world’s best chefs, and revitalising spas” that harness local traditions. Many resorts partner with celebrity chefs: Nobu Matsuhisa chose One&Only Cape Town for his eponymous Japanese-Peruvian restaurant (his first in Africa), and that hotel’s other restaurant, Ochre, celebrates Cape Malay flavors. In Australia, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley (set on a vast conservation reserve in the Blue Mountains) sources produce from its surroundings for farm-to-table gourmet meals, while One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro brought in chef Giorgio Locatelli to create an Italian Riviera-inspired culinary experience on the Adriatic. Spas at One&Only are equally notable – often sprawling wellness temples offering treatments from global brands like ESPA or Chenot, alongside indigenous treatments (think coconut massages in Maldives or ancient African rituals in Rwanda). One&Only also excels in bespoke activities: guests can sail on the resort’s private yachts, have tailor-made adventures like desert dune dining in Dubai, or partake in cultural immersions such as cooking classes and art tours, ensuring a well-rounded journey.
Design & atmosphere: Each One&Only resort’s design is unique – from the thatch-roofed villas of Reethi Rah to the sleek modernist suites of One&Only Cape Town – but all exude a sense of glamour and relaxation. The brand fosters both family-friendly environments (with KidsOnly clubs and teen activities) and ultra-romantic settings for couples, striking a balance that few ultra-luxury brands manage. With recent expansions into urban (the new One&Only One Za’abeel in Dubai, a futuristic city resort) and mountain resorts, One&Only continues to broaden its horizon.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: By “bringing the best of each destination to life” through curated cultural experiences, top-tier dining, and sublime wellness, One&Only has become a byword for exotic luxury. Its enduring commitment to quality and its flair for unveiling the world’s most spectacular locations make it a standout choice for 2025’s most discerning travelers.
9. Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
In the realm of experiential luxury and wellness, Six Senses has emerged as a trendsetter, proving that “luxury today is about well-being, authenticity, and sustainability.” Founded in the mid-1990s by spa pioneers Sonu and Eva Shivdasani, Six Senses began in Southeast Asia and the Maldives with a vision of barefoot luxury that reconnects guests with nature and themselves. Now part of IHG (since 2019), Six Senses has retained its boutique ethos and gone global, expanding from remote island resorts to European retreats and even urban sanctuaries, all while maintaining an unwavering focus on sustainability and holistic wellness.
Distinct approach: Six Senses’ core philosophy centers on what it calls “emotional hospitality” and sustainability. This means every resort is designed and operated with respect for the environment and local communities, without compromising on comfort. Six Senses was among the first luxury brands to eliminate single-use plastics and implement self-sustaining practices like on-site organic farms, solar power, and water bottling plants. The architecture of Six Senses properties embraces local materials and styles – whether it’s the rustic-luxe bamboo villas at Six Senses Fiji, the restored 14th-century monastery that houses Six Senses Douro Valley in Portugal, or the slick eco-modernism of Six Senses Singapore’s pair of boutique hotels. Yet a consistent design thread is harmony with nature: open-air spaces, natural lighting, and panoramas that bring the outside in.
Iconic resorts & new frontiers: Six Senses made its name with remote paradises like Six Senses Yao Noi in Thailand, set in phang nga bay with a view of limestone karsts that’s straight off a postcard, and Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman, where guests can arrive by paraglider off a cliff to a hidden beach cove. In the Maldives, Six Senses Laamu is beloved for its rustic overwater villas and a world-class house reef. The brand has also excelled beyond the beach: Six Senses Bhutanis a circuit of five high-altitude lodges letting guests trek across the Himalayan kingdom in luxury, and Six Senses Ibiza(opened 2021) introduced wellness and spirituality to the famous party island. By 2025, Six Senses has opened an ultra-luxury resort in Crans-Montana, Switzerland (blending Alpine chic with a state-of-the-art spa) and is planning urban Six Senses hotels with private clubs (Six Senses Place) in cities like London and New York.
Wellness and culinary: The Six Senses name is practically synonymous with spa and wellness. Each property features a Six Senses Spa offering an array of treatments that combine ancient traditions (Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, Thai healing) with cutting-edge wellness tech and “biohacking” therapies. Guests can typically consult on-site nutritionists, yogis, or even resident astrologers or sleep doctors. Tailored wellness programs—sleep improvement, detox, fitness, yoga retreats—are a signature offering. In dining, Six Senses emphasizes local, organic, and healthy cuisine. Menus often include plant-based and wellness options alongside indulgent fare, and many resorts have their own organic gardens and farms. For instance, at Six Senses Zighy Bay, guests dine on produce from the resort’s garden under starry desert skies, and at Six Senses Krabey Island (Cambodia), the restaurant’s Khmer dishes use herbs from their farm. This focus doesn’t preclude culinary sophistication: Six Senses has hosted gourmet festivals and visiting celebrity chefs, ensuring that while the food may be healthy, it is also delicious and memorable.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: Six Senses exemplifies the evolution of luxury for the modern era – a changemaker brand that proves sustainability and sumptuousness can coexist. By offering transformative experiences (think “no news, no shoes” digital detoxes and culturally immersive activities) in spectacular settings, Six Senses engages travelers on a deeper level. In 2025, as travelers seek meaning and wellness in their journeys, Six Senses stands out as a luxury brand with soul, making it an obvious choice for our curated list.
10. St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
Blending Gilded Age glamour with modern luxury, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts carries forward a legacy of opulence that dates back to 1904, when John Jacob Astor IV opened the original St. Regis Hotel in New York City. That Beaux-Arts masterpiece on Fifth Avenue set new standards for luxury in its day – telephones in every room, a devoted butler on every floor, and a level of service previously unseen in America. Fast forward 120 years, and the St. Regis brand has expanded worldwide, yet it remains steeped in the distinctive rituals and heritage that made the original hotel an icon. Each St. Regis hotel strives to “define modern glamour and sophistication” as a leading luxury hospitality brand with an uncompromising commitment to excellence.
Heritage & rituals: St. Regis is perhaps best known for the celebrated traditions born at its New York flagship. The most famous is the Bloody Mary cocktail, invented in 1934 by bartender Fernand Petiot at The St. Regis New York’s King Cole Bar. To this day, every St. Regis around the world creates its own signature version of the Bloody Mary – from the “Siam Mary” in Bangkok spiced with Thai chili to the “Downhill Snapper” in Aspen with local horseradish, these unique takes pay homage to the original while celebrating local flavors. Another cherished ritual is the Champagne sabrage: each evening at sunset, St. Regis hotels invite guests to gather as a butler theatrically opens a bottle of Champagne with a saber, a tradition dating back to Astor’s era of lavish parties. Following the saber’s swoosh, guests toast with complimentary bubbles, ushering in the night in style. And of course, St. Regis Butler Service remains a hallmark – a dedicated butler available to all guests (or at least suite guests, depending on the property) to unpack luggage, press garments, deliver fresh coffee with your wake-up call, and fulfill any request with seamless aplomb. This high-touch service, born of Astor’s original vision to provide the comforts of a private home, sets St. Regis apart in personalization.
Global footprint & design: From the historic St. Regis Rome (housed in a palatial 1894 building steps from the Piazza Repubblica) to the beachfront St. Regis Bali Resort (where swaying palms and lagoons create a tropical paradise), St. Regis properties embrace their locales’ essence while upholding the brand’s elegant style. Many St. Regis hotels occupy landmark buildings – The St. Regis New York remains a Manhattan landmark and recently underwent a meticulous restoration, and The St. Regis Florence resides in a 15th-century Renaissance palace on the Arno. Newer builds like St. Regis Mexico City (an ultramodern Cesar Pelli-designed tower) and St. Regis Shenzhen (soaring atop one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers) show the brand’s contemporary side, yet all feature refined interiors with art, crystal chandeliers, and plush materials that nod to the Astor heritage. Art collections are another theme – the New York flagship’s Maxfield Parrish mural “Old King Cole” is legendary, and many St. Regis hotels commission local artists to decorate their walls, reinforcing a sense of place. The brand’s footprint has grown steadily, with over 50 hotels in nearly 25 countries as of 2025, including recent openings like St. Regis Kanai Riviera Maya and St. Regis Chicago – and a much-anticipated St. Regis London slated to open in a historic Mayfair address, marking the brand’s return to its founder’s homeland.
Culinary excellence: St. Regis Hotels often serve as dining destinations in their own right. The Astor family’s legacy of fine dining endures in restaurants such as L’Envol at St. Regis Hong Kong, a contemporary French restaurant led by Chef Olivier Elzer that has earned critical acclaim, and J&G Grill (Jean-Georges) at St. Regis Mexico City which brings Michelin-starred technique to a modern grill menu. The St. Regis New York’s Astor Court continues to be a power-lunch spot in Midtown, and its King Cole Bar remains one of the city’s great cocktail bars. St. Regis invests in bringing top-tier chefs to their hotels; for example, St. Regis Bangkok originally opened with a restaurant by Joël Robuchon, and more recently St. Regis Dubai Palm has welcomed modern steakhouse concepts. In addition to the Bloody Mary, the afternoon tea at St. Regis (another Astor tradition) is a beloved ritual – often served with local twists on the sandwiches and pastries, in lounges that recall a genteel private residence.
Why Pursuitist Preferred: St. Regis seamlessly marries timeless glamour with contemporary luxury. It is a brand that guards its heritage – the jazz music, the butlers, the midnight supper events – while continually elevating the luxury experience through modern amenities, innovative cuisine, and bold new properties. As one of the most storied hotel brands in history and yet one of the most forward-looking (with new resorts in locales like Bora Bora and Marsa Arabia), St. Regis in 2025 represents the apex of luxury hospitality. For connoisseurs who appreciate both legacy and innovation, St. Regis remains a defining Pursuitist Preferred choice, where every stay feels like living in a chapter of hospitality history, with a very pampered pen.
Pursuitist Final Take:
These ten iconic hospitality brands – Four Seasons, Aman, The Ritz-Carlton, Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood, The Peninsula, Belmond, One&Only, Six Senses, and St. Regis – comprise the upper echelon of global luxury hospitality in 2025.
Curated by Christopher Parr and the Pursuitist team of luxury travel insiders, this list reflects not only enduring legacies of excellence but also the dynamic, credible relevance of each brand today. They are “Pursuitist Preferred” for their ability to continuously reinvent luxury without losing their soul: be it through recent openings and grand renovations, sustainability initiatives, or visionary culinary and design programs. Each delivers an experience that transcends mere accommodation – offering instead a lifestyle of genuine hospitality, heritage, and adventure in equal measure. In a world of many options, these brands stand as the ultimate arbiters of refined travel, assuring that wherever in the world a Pursuitist reader travels, the pinnacle of comfort, service, and style awaits.
