Discover this year’s hottest new hotels, resorts and travel experiences, selected by the editors at Robb Report Monaco & Côte d’Azur.
BEST LUXURY CRUISE COMPANY: EXPLORA JOURNEYS
Explora Journeys redefining the luxury cruise experience, positioning itself as the world’s leading luxury ocean travel brand through a seamless blend of refined elegance, immersive travel and bespoke service. As the ocean travel arm of the prestigious MSC Group, Explora Journeys was conceived to offer a new style of transformative sea travel—one that caters to discerning travellers who seek quiet indulgence, cultural depth and intuitive comfort.
With a growing fleet of ultraluxurious boutique hotels at sea, each designed with a European sensibility and a focus on spaciousness, privacy and understated chicness, Explora Journeys delivers a yachting-inspired atmosphere at sea. Suites are expansive, cuisine is curated by world-class chefs and wellness is integral. Every journey is crafted to immerse guests in the spirit of each destination, with unique onshore experiences and a relaxed onboard atmosphere that eschews formality without sacrificing sophistication.
A prime example of exclusive offerings was Explora’s presence at the 2025 Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix, where guests enjoyed an unmatched vantage point to one of the world’s most iconic sporting events. Moored in prime position within Port Hercule, Explora’s ships offered direct access to the race, paired with curated events, private dining and exceptional views of the circuit, providing a guest experience that fused high-octane racing with glamour. Explora Journeys is not simply a cruise —it is a reimagining of ocean travel.
BEST PRIVATE ISLAND HOSPITALITY: JUMEIRAH THANDA ISLAND
Cradled within Tanzania’s Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve—the country’s largest protected marine sanctuary—Jumeirah Thanda Island is an invitation to a different way of life. A perennial award-winner, this five-hectare Indian Ocean hideaway fuses natural beauty with a sense of local culture—and the kind of Arabian hospitality which is synonymous with Jumeirah hotels around the world. Available exclusively to one group at a time, the private island offers five beachfront villa suites and two traditional Swahili Bandas, surrounded by endless ocean views. It is a sanctuary of barefoot luxury, where every detail is tailored. Getting there is part of the experience —choose a sleek speedboat, fixed-wing plane or private EC155 helicopter, complete with a pilot who also doubles as your personal host.
On arrival, you’re greeted with the island’s signature warmth and seamless service. By day, dive into the vibrant marine life of the surrounding reserve, sail a traditional Swahili dhow, opt for yoga, tennis and beach volleyball, or simply savour the art of doing nothing. Dining is a highlight, with East African-inspired dishes, fresh seafood and tropical fruits served with heart. Guests can also enjoy immersive experiences such as a Swahili feast or a castaway-style picnic on a nearby sandbank. As evening falls, the island transforms with an intimate charm: picture candlelit seaside baths and bespoke dinners beneath the stars.
While Zanzibar and the Serengeti continue to draw the spotlight, Jumeirah Thanda Island remains one of East Africa’s best-kept secrets. Now is the time to discover it—before the rest of the world does.
BEST HOSPITALITY GROUP: SOCIÉTÉ DES BAINS DE MER MONTE-CARLO
As the proprietor of many of Monaco’s finest establishments, including the iconic Hôtel de Paris, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) has been instrumental in shaping the Principality’s luxury hospitality landscape. Beyond its world-renowned hotels, SBM’s restaurants now hold an impressive record of 10 Michelin stars, making it the most Michelin-starred resort globally under a single brand. Year after year, the leading hospitality group continues to expand and elevate its offerings, ranging from new restaurants and members’ clubs to high-profile events throughout Monaco.
In the first half of 2025 alone, SBM unveiled three new dining destinations: Marlow, Maona Monte-Carlo and Jondal at La Vigie, alongside the launch of the exclusive Monte-Carlo Cigar Club. The Group has also been actively renovating rooms at various properties, including Hôtel Hermitage and Monte-Carlo Bay. Following extensive refurbishments, Monte-Carlo Beach reopened in the spring with a refreshed and vibrant new aesthetic: look out for Jacquemus’s iconic yellow and black-and-white-striped beach furniture.
These developments underscore SBM’s unwavering commitment to maintaining Monaco’s position as a premier destination for luxury and exclusivity. Looking ahead, the Group is broadening its international footprint with ambitious projects such as its first ski residence, Monte-Carlo One Courchevel, and Monte-Carlo Club 1863 in Dubai.
BEST NEW WELLNESS RESORT: ZEM WELLNESS CLINIC ALTEA
Nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea in Spain has officially opened its doors, offering a pioneering approach to wellbeing that blends cutting-edge medical science with the Mediterranean philosophy of longevity. Rooted in the belief that living to a ripe age is not merely a goal but a way of life, the clinic invites guests on a personalised journey towards vitality and balance. Through seven integrative programmes—ranging from three to 21 nights—ZEM combines cognitive diagnostics, tailored nutrition based on the Mediterranean diet, stress-reducing rituals, physical regeneration and immersive nature experiences.
The state-of-the-art medical centre, led by a world-class team, offers 25 specialities and 32 practices, including innovations such as Exosomes E-50 and advanced genetic profiling. The 85-room and 10-suite hotel is also home to SALVIA restaurant serving seasonal, organic cuisine sourced from the clinic’s own 75,000 m² farm; and the ZEMness & Spa, a 4,000 m² wellness sanctuary offering treatments and facilities such as cryotherapy, a daily snow cabin and Europe’s first Gharieni Metawell centre. ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea marks a bold new chapter in the art of living well—and living longer.
BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL: PORTO ZANTE VILLAS & SPA
We are about to unveil one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Arguably the continent’s most private villa resort, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is designed for those seeking absolute seclusion and serenity. Tucked into a cliffside on Zakynthos’s sunlit shores, this retreat features just nine opulent beachfront villas, complemented by two fine dining restaurants, a waterfront spa and a water sports club. A favoured hideaway for presidents, royalty, captains of industry and cultural icons, guests may choose from exquisitely appointed one-bedroom villas to expansive four-bedroom residences, each enveloped in lush private gardens awash with bougainvillea. Every villa is positioned for complete privacy, featuring temperature-controlled infinity pools and round-the-clock butler service. Some enjoy direct access to private beaches.
Guests may dine in-villa or visit the Club House for refined Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, served with flair, or Maya for exceptional sushi and Asian-fusion dishes. The award-winning spa offers treatments inspired by Ancient Greek rituals, while the watersports club provides a range of non-motorised activities. For a broader adventure, private yachts await to explore the Ionian Islands in style. For those who value discretion as much as decadence, Porto Zante remains the ultimate Ionian idyll.
BEST HERITAGE PROPERTY: CASTELFALFI
Widely regarded as one of Italy’s most enchanting villages, Castelfalfi is a place where history, beauty and luxury converge. Set against a backdrop that could have been painted during the Renaissance, this once-abandoned Tuscan hamlet—dating back more than 2,000 years—has been magnificently revived following a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2023. Today, Castelfalfi stands proudly among Italy’s top luxury destinations. The 1,100-hectare estate features a five-star resort, organic vineyards and olive groves, and a charming medieval borgo.
The latest jewel in its crown is the Stefano Ricci La Rocca suite —a 307 m², two-level penthouse set within the historic castle. Complete with a rooftop terrace, private hot tub and bespoke interiors by renowned Florentine designer Stefano Ricci, the suite exemplifies Italian craftsmanship and elegance. Other standout accommodations include the Castelfalfi Suite and Terrace Suite, offering panoramic views and outdoor living spaces. With Michelin-quality dining, a RAKxa spa and curated local experiences, Castelfalfi redefines authentic Italian luxury.
BEST PRIVATE JET HOLIDAY: THE GREATEST SAFARI ON EARTH BY ROAR AFRICA
Luxury safari specialist Roar Africa presents “the greatest safari on Earth”, an exclusive curated journey for just 10 adventurous guests. Travelling by private plane, guests visit four of Africa’s most iconic destinations: Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Kenya to witness the Great Migration, and Rwanda for close encounters with gorillas. Guests fly aboard a privately chartered Emirates Executive Private Jet, combining private aviation service with the space of a commercial aircraft. The custom-designed Airbus A319 features 10 private suites, spa-like bathrooms and elegant dining and lounge areas where flyers are served gourmet menus paired with curated wine lists. At each destination, guests stay in the finest available accommodation, with itineraries timed to match ideal weather and peak wildlife activity and led by expert guides.
This one-of-a-kind expedition is the creation of luxury African travel specialist Deborah Calmeyer, who will personally host trips departing from Dubai from August 10th-22nd and August 25th-September 6th. Priced at around €150,000 per person, this safari is the very definition of “haute voyage”.
BEST HOTEL SUITE: LE NEGRESCO JEANNE & PAUL PENTHOUSE SUITE
An icon of the Côte d’Azur, Le Negresco owes its legendary status in part to a museum-worthy collection of art, furniture and antiques meticulously curated by its former owner, the late Jeanne Augier. In tribute to Augier—one of France’s most flamboyant hoteliers—the renowned Nice hotel has reimagined its sixth floor and unveiled a new suite within what was once her private residence. The extraordinary Jeanne & Paul Penthouse Suite has been redesigned by architect and interior designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. It features two striking bedrooms, a salon beneath the hotel’s iconic dome and elegantly appointed bathrooms clad in Carrara marble.
From its furnishings and materials to the curated artworks, the suite is a celebration of French artistry, seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary sophistication. Spanning an impressive 400 m², the suite is attended by a dedicated butler and includes a private kitchen, along with three panoramic terraces offering over 200 m² of breathtaking sea views —ideal for exclusive events, private gatherings or an indulgent stay on the Riviera.
BEST CITY HOTEL: CORINTHIA LONDON
Nestled in the heart of Whitehall, Corinthia London is a world-class hotel where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary luxury. Just steps from Trafalgar Square and the River Thames, it offers unmatched access to London’s cultural and political landmarks. Inside, classic elegance blends with modern sophistication, from lavish flower displays to discreet, attentive service. Highlights include the renowned ESPA Life spa, acclaimed dining at Kerridge’s Bar & Grill and comfortable suites, some of which have views of the London Eye.
In January, Corinthia unveiled 26 refurbished suites—12 Deluxe Junior, six Trafalgar, four Whitehall and four new Garden Suites—designed by the G.A Group. These updated accommodations reflect a refined aesthetic tailored to today’s discerning traveller. Emphasising individuality and sustainability, existing furnishings were reconditioned by British artisans, complemented by bespoke furniture and local artwork. This thoughtful redesign enhances Corinthia’s identity as a luxurious yet welcoming “home away from home” in the heart of the city.
BEST ADVENTURE SPORTS COMPANY: CMH HELI-SKIING AND SUMMER ADVENTURES
CMH Heli-Skiing and Summer Adventures stands as a paragon of alpine excellence and pioneering spirit. Established in 1965 by legendary mountaineer Hans Gmoser, CMH is the birthplace of heli-skiing—a bold sport that transformed remote mountain access forever. CMH, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, has perfected the craft, offering guests access to 1.2 million hectares of sublime wilderness in Canada’s British Columbia region.
Eleven unique lodges serve as gateways to powder-laden peaks, glacier descents and secluded tree runs, guided by seasoned experts whose commitment to safety is as unwavering as their passion. From the camaraderie among guests to the curated alpine hospitality— fine wines, gourmet cuisine and spa indulgence—each element is thoughtfully composed. Whether you choose the exclusivity of Valemount, the legendary deep snow of Bobbie Burns or the expansive alpine terrain of the Bugaboos, CMH delivers a holiday to remember, blending adventure, luxury and mountain soul.
