Best Luxury Hotels to Stay at in 2026

If you’re already dreaming about where to go next year, 2026 is the perfect time to treat yourself to the world’s very best Luxury Hotels. Whether you picture Michelin-starred tasting menus, private plunge pools or butler-drawn bubble baths, there’s a hotel out there that feels as if it was designed just for you.

In this guide I’ll walk you through five standout Luxury Hotels for 2026 – from sun-drenched Mediterranean shores to the soft sands of the Maldives and a glamorous Asian city skyline. I’ll also explain how Jamie Wake Travel protects your booking and helps you choose the right stay, so you can simply relax and enjoy the moment.

What Makes Luxury Hotels in 2026 So Special?

The world of Luxury Hotels never stands still. Each year, properties raise the bar with new suites, fresher ideas and more imaginative experiences. In 2026 you can expect:

• More “all-included” indulgence – fine dining, premium drinks and local experiences, all bundled into one simple price at resorts like Ikos. 
• Thoughtful sustainability – from reef-friendly practices in the Maldives to green energy and local sourcing. 
• Hyper-personal service – guest experience teams who remember your coffee order, favourite pillow and anniversary date.
• Immersive design – hotels that feel like an art gallery, private club or beach house rather than a traditional resort.

Staying in one of these Luxury Hotels isn’t just about a beautiful room. It’s about how you feel from the moment you arrive – calm, looked after and a little bit spoiled.

How We Chose These Luxury Hotels for 2026

There are hundreds of wonderful Luxury Hotels around the world, so how did we choose just five? We looked at:

• Recent awards and global rankings – such as the World Travel Awards and The World’s 50 Best Hotels list. 
• Guest feedback and independent reviews – to make sure the experience matches the glossy photos.
• Location and ease of travel from the UK – because a luxury break shouldn’t be a logistical marathon.
• Range of experiences – beach, city, spa, family-friendly and adults-only styles, so there’s something for every kind of traveller.
• Value for money at the top end – not always cheap, of course, but delivering real substance for the price.

Every hotel on this list pairs serious style with warmth and personality – the sweet spot we look for when we recommend Luxury Hotels to our clients.

Jamie Says:

“For me, true luxury isn’t about gold taps or having a different pillow for every day of the week. It’s about feeling completely relaxed the second you walk through the door. The hotels below all have that magic – the moment when you think, ‘Yes… this is exactly where I was meant to be.’”

Ikos Andalusia, Costa del Sol – All-Inclusive Mediterranean Magic

Ikos Resorts have quickly become legends in the world of Luxury Hotels, snapping up awards for being some of the best all-inclusive properties on the planet. Ikos Andalusia, on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is one of the brightest stars.

First Impressions & Location

Set on a golden stretch of beach near chic Marbella and Estepona, Ikos Andalusia feels contemporary and airy, with low-rise white buildings, swaying palms and shimmering pools. From the UK it’s an easy flight into Málaga followed by a short transfer – ideal if you want luxury without long-haul.

The resort’s philosophy is “Unconditional Luxury”, which sums things up well. Almost everything is included, from à la carte dining to 24-hour room service, branded spirits and even a complimentary Mini drive experience so you can explore the local area. 

Suites, Rooms & Private Pools

Rooms at Ikos Andalusia are bright and elegant, with neutral tones, light woods and splashes of turquoise that echo the Mediterranean. Many suites come with private gardens or plunge pools, and the upgraded Deluxe Collection adds concierge perks, beachfront spots and a dedicated pool and bar.

Families love the spacious one- and two-bedroom suites, while couples often opt for sea-view rooms with extended balconies for sunset drinks.

Dining, Drinks & Dine-Out

One thing that makes Ikos stand out from other Luxury Hotels is the dining concept. Menus are curated by Michelin-starred chefs, wines are carefully chosen, and you can dine à la carte as often as you like.

On top of that, the unique Dine Out programme lets you enjoy meals in selected local restaurants at no extra cost, giving you a taste of authentic Andalusian cuisine beyond the resort gates. 

Pools, Beach & Activities

There are multiple pools, including quiet zones and family-friendly areas, plus a long beach with full waiter service. Non-motorised water sports, kids’ clubs, live music and evening shows are all part of the package. In 2025/26 Ikos is also hosting football academies with ex-Premier League players – great for sporty youngsters.

Who It’s Perfect For

Ikos Andalusia is one of the best Luxury Hotels in Europe for families, couples or groups who like the idea of a five-star resort where nearly everything is sorted in advance. You get all the pleasures of a high-end hotel with the relaxed feel of an all-inclusive price.

For a deeper look at what makes this brand stand apart, explore our guide on why Ikos Resorts are redefining luxury all-inclusive holidays across Europe.

Tempted by Ikos Andalusia or another Ikos property? Jamie Wake Travel works with the full Ikos portfolio and can help you pick the right resort and room type, often with special offers you won’t find by booking direct.

For more sun-soaked inspiration, explore our round-up of the best island holidays perfect for luxury travellers.

Savoy Palace, Madeira – Atlantic Island Glamour

Madeira has quietly transformed into one of Europe’s most stylish year-round destinations, and Savoy Palace in Funchal has twice been named Europe’s Leading Luxury Hotel at the World Travel Awards. It’s a show-stopping property that brings together island charm and contemporary glamour.

Location & Atmosphere

Set just above the seafront promenade, Savoy Palace has sweeping views of the Atlantic and Funchal’s harbour. The hotel’s design blends Art Deco inspiration with botanical flourishes – think soaring ceilings, statement chandeliers and lush greenery.

Despite its size, there are lots of pockets of calm: rooftop corners for a quiet cocktail, hidden gardens, and serene spa areas.

Rooms, Suites & Pool Retreats

Rooms start generous and scale up to lavish suites with plunge pools, walk-in wardrobes and oversized terraces. The décor mixes rich jewel tones with soft neutrals and polished wood, giving everything a polished but cosy feel.

For the most exclusive experience, choose a Laurea Suite in the adults-only area, where you’ll get access to private pools, a rooftop lounge and butler-style service.

Dining & Rooftop Sunsets

Savoy Palace is a foodie’s dream. There are multiple restaurants ranging from refined fine dining to relaxed poolside bites, all celebrating Portuguese flavours and fresh island produce.

The rooftop bar is the star of the show – it’s where you’ll watch the sun melt into the Atlantic with a glass of Madeiran wine or a creative cocktail in hand. On New Year’s Eve, guests have front-row seats for Funchal’s legendary fireworks.

Wellness & Experiences

The Laurea Spa, inspired by Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, is one of the most impressive spa spaces in any of Europe’s Luxury Hotels. Expect sensory showers, hydrotherapy pools, botanical treatments and couples’ rituals.

Away from the hotel, you can explore levada walks, whale-watching trips and quaint villages. Jamie Wake Travel can package private tours or self-drive days to help you see more of the island between spa sessions.



Love the idea of island chic with year-round warmth? Ask us about combining Savoy Palace with a stay in rural Madeira for a twin-centre luxury holiday with a difference.

Rosewood Hong Kong – Sky-High City Sophistication

If you like your Luxury Hotels with a serious sense of occasion, Rosewood Hong Kong delivers. Sitting on Victoria Harbour in the buzzy Tsim Sha Tsui district, this striking tower has topped global rankings in recent “World’s 50 Best Hotels” lists. 

Harbourfront Setting & Design

From the moment you step into the lobby – all dark marble, curated art and flickering candlelight – Rosewood feels like a contemporary private members’ club. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the harbour, and you’re just a short stroll from luxury shopping, galleries and the Star Ferry.

Rooms with a View

Even entry-level rooms are generous, with deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers and tech-smart controls. Higher categories add dressing rooms, dining spaces and jaw-dropping corner views across the skyline.

For the ultimate city break in 2026, consider a Harbour Corner Suite or a Club-level room with access to the Manor Club lounge – a discreet space for gourmet snacks, cocktails and personalised service throughout the day.

Dining, Bars & Nightlife

Rosewood Hong Kong is home to some of the city’s most desirable dining venues, from stylish Chinese restaurants to sleek European brasseries. Many have earned serious critical acclaim, making the hotel a destination in its own right for food lovers.

On the upper floors, chic bars serve inventive cocktails, often with live music and an elegant, grown-up atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you might start with a pre-dinner drink and end up lingering until the early hours.

Wellness, Pool & Art

The hotel’s spa and wellness facilities are among the finest in Asia, with a striking outdoor infinity pool that seems to hover above the harbour. There’s also a strong focus on art, with galleries and installations woven throughout the building.



Considering a long-haul adventure? Jamie Wake Travel can build Rosewood Hong Kong into a wider itinerary – perhaps pairing it with a beach stay in Thailand or Bali – so your time in one of Asia’s finest Luxury Hotels becomes the glittering city highlight of a longer trip.

Soneva Fushi, Maldives – Barefoot Luxury at Its Dreamiest

The Maldives and Luxury Hotels go hand-in-hand, but Soneva Fushi still manages to stand out. Frequently appearing in lists of the world’s best resorts, it’s the original barefoot-chic hideaway, set on a lush private island ringed by powder-soft sand and clear lagoon. 

Villas in the Jungle & Over the Water

Instead of a high-rise hotel, Soneva Fushi offers vast villas scattered through the jungle or standing on stilts over the lagoon. Many have private pools, waterslides, outdoor bathrooms and direct beach or reef access.

The style here is rustic-luxury: think driftwood, soft linens, thatched roofs and open-air lounges rather than polished marble. It feels natural, relaxed and very exclusive.

Dining Under the Stars

Food is a huge part of Soneva’s appeal. There are multiple restaurants, pop-up concepts and chef residencies, along with organic gardens, chocolate rooms and ice-cream parlours that are open all hours.

You might have breakfast on the beach, lunch in a treetop restaurant reached by rope bridge, and dinner on a sandbank under a canopy of stars. Wine lists are exceptional, and dietary needs are taken very seriously – luxury for everyone, not just some.

Experiences & Sustainability

Soneva pioneered many of the eco-conscious ideas that other Luxury Hotels now follow. The resort runs impressive recycling and waste-to-wealth programmes, protects its coral and marine life, and works closely with local communities. 

Guests can enjoy snorkelling with marine biologists, sunset dolphin cruises, outdoor cinema screenings and evenings at one of the world’s most advanced over-water observatories. It’s difficult to imagine a more romantic or memorable place for a honeymoon or big celebration.

If your dream luxury stay includes overwater villas and crystal-blue lagoons, discover our curated collection of holidays to the Maldives.

Dreaming of those Maldivian blues? Talk to Jamie Wake Travel about the best time of year for your stay, flight options from your preferred UK airport and whether to combine Soneva Fushi with a few days in Dubai or Singapore.

To compare premium experiences at different price points, our guide to luxurious Maldives breaks reveals surprisingly affordable five-star options.

Estelle Manor, Cotswolds – A Country Escape with Star Power

Sometimes the most indulgent Luxury Hotels are closer to home. Estelle Manor, a grand country estate in Oxfordshire, has become one of the hottest names in British hospitality, winning places on influential global lists of the world’s best hotels. 

Historic House, Modern Clubhouse

Set within 85 acres of parkland, Estelle Manor combines a Grade II listed mansion with stylish new wings and woodland cabins. The interior design is sumptuous yet playful, mixing velvet, marble and antiques with bold artworks and cosy corners.

The vibe is somewhere between stately home and exclusive members’ club, but the welcome is warm rather than stuffy. Think roaring fires, hidden bars and staff who greet you as if you’re regulars, even on your first visit.

Rooms, Cabins & Cottages

Choose from rooms in the main house, each individually decorated, or retreat to cabins and cottages scattered through the grounds. Many feature freestanding baths, four-poster beds and garden terraces, perfect for slow mornings with room-service breakfast.

Dining, Baths & Country Pursuits

Estelle Manor’s restaurants celebrate seasonal British produce, with menu highlights changing regularly. There’s also a striking spa complex – Eynsham Baths – inspired by ancient Roman and Turkish bathing traditions, complete with atmospheric pools and ritual-led treatments. 

Outside, you’ll find classic country pursuits like clay pigeon shooting and woodland walks. It’s easy to see why the hotel has become a favourite of A-list guests.

Planning a special occasion closer to home? Jamie Wake Travel can secure stays and packages at Estelle Manor and other standout UK Luxury Hotels, ideal for mini-moons, birthdays or “just because” weekends.

How to Choose Between These Luxury Hotels

With so many tempting options, how do you decide which of these Luxury Hotels is right for your 2026 escape? Start by asking yourself a few simple questions:

• Do you want sun-drenched beach days or a vibrant city break?
• Are you travelling as a couple, with friends, or with children in tow?
• Do you prefer the simplicity of all-inclusive or the flexibility of pay-as-you-go dining?
• Is a world-class spa or wellness offering important to you?
• How long do you want to be away, and how do you feel about long-haul flights?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Choose Ikos Andalusia if you want all-inclusive ease and family-friendly fun without compromising on style.
• Choose Savoy Palace if you like the idea of island warmth, spa time and great food within a four-hour flight of the UK.
• Choose Rosewood Hong Kong if you crave a glittering city skyline and cutting-edge luxury.
• Choose Soneva Fushi if barefoot beach perfection and sustainability are your top priorities.
• Choose Estelle Manor if you’d rather slip away for a decadent long weekend in the British countryside.

Of course, you don’t have to choose just one; we can help you design an itinerary that links two or more Luxury Hotels into one extraordinary holiday.

Booking Your Luxury Hotels with Protection & Peace of Mind

When you’re investing in Luxury Hotels, you deserve full peace of mind. As a UK-based independent agency, Jamie Wake Travel offers strong booking protections and support:

ATOL-Protected Package Holidays

Many of our flight-plus-hotel combinations are ATOL protected. That means if an airline or a key supplier fails, you won’t lose your money or be left stranded abroad. Your funds are protected under the UK’s Air Travel Organiser’s Licence scheme, giving you extra reassurance when booking higher-value Luxury escapes.

Supplier Failure Insurance

We also work with partners who include Supplier Failure Insurance on many bookings. This is an extra safety net covering elements like hotels or transport providers that aren’t part of the ATOL scheme.

Trusted, Carefully Vetted Partners

The Luxury Hotels and tour operators we use are trusted, established names with strong track records and excellent guest feedback. We continuously review performance and guest comments so that you benefit from up-to-date insight, not just glossy brochures. 

Ongoing Support Before, During & After Your Trip

From the moment you enquire until you’re safely home, you have a real person to turn to. If flights change, weather disrupts plans or you simply want to adjust a dinner reservation, we’re here to help. That’s something a generic booking engine can’t match.

Why Book Your Luxury Hotels with Jamie Wake Travel?

Booking directly with a hotel might seem easy, but when you’re planning a stay at top-tier Luxury Hotels, having an expert on your side makes all the difference. Here’s what you gain when you plan your 2026 holiday with Jamie Wake Travel:

• Personal advice – we listen carefully to what you like (and don’t like), then suggest hotels that genuinely fit your style and budget.
• First-hand insight – we constantly review new openings, refurbishments and guest feedback, so we know which hotels are truly wowing guests right now.
• Added value – from early-booking offers and complimentary upgrades to resort credits or spa treatments, we often unlock extras that aren’t available to the general public.
• Tailor-made itineraries – we can build complex holidays that combine multiple Luxury Hotels, flights, transfers and experiences into one seamless package.
• Flexible ways to book and pay – with staged payments on many packages and secure options for settling your balance.

You can reach us on 01495 400005 or via our online enquiry form, where you can tell us as much (or as little) as you like about your ideal trip. Our website also features a powerful holiday search tool, helping you explore ideas before we fine-tune them into a bespoke holiday that’s as unique as you are.



If this guide has inspired you, why not share it with the person you’d most love to travel with – and start planning which of these incredible Luxury Hotels you’ll be waking up in next year?

Frequently Asked Questions:  5-Star Luxury Hotels