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Forbes
13-07-2025
- Forbes
The Best New Hotels In Charleston Right Now
Charleston's coolest small inn has a pool and parking. 86 Cannon Charleston may be known for its historic charm, but it's not stuck in the past. The city is in the midst of a wave of openings—new restaurants, new shops, and, notably, new hotels. These four recently opened properties, offering both riverside retreats and design-forward pied-à-terres in the heart of downtown, cater to all types of travelers. The Dunlin has beautiful common areas inviting an afternoon of leisure. The Dunlin, Augerge Collection Resorts The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection Who it's for: Nature lovers and design fans looking for a peaceful Lowcountry stay with organic spa treatments, delicious food, and riverfront views. Hugging a peaceful bend of the Kiawah River, The Dunlin sits 35 minutes southwest of Charleston on a 2,000-acre stretch of protected marshland. Opened in August 2024 on John's Island, this Lowcountry retreat from Auberge Resorts Collection offers 52 guest rooms and 20 suites designed by Amanda Lindroth. Interiors evoke a vintage coastal summerhouse, with four-poster beds, cane furnishings, antique birding books, and soaking tubs. MoThe guest rooms include screened porches that overlook either oak trees or tidal waterways. The property was built to immerse guests in the surrounding ecosystem. An on-site outpost of Coastal Expeditions leads naturalist-guided kayak trips, creek paddles, and boat tours focused on the flora and fauna of the saltmarsh. Cycling trails, wildlife sightings, and firepit gatherings are part of the daily rhythm. Guests can book facials and bodywork at the Aster Spa, where treatments feature organic and plant-based products. Dining centers around regional seafood and produce. Linnette's, the main restaurant, serves dishes like warm blue crab dip, shrimp and Carolina Gold rice, and buttermilk-fried oysters. At In The Willet Room, cocktails highlight local spirits and herbs, with curious guests able to opt in for informal porch-side mixology classes led by the bar team. Despite its proximity to Charleston, The Dunlin functions as a standalone destination for those seeking quiet, nature, and regional character. The property's design prioritizes slow days and early nights over urban-style luxury, showcasing preserved marshland views, seafood-forward menus, and low-impact nature-based activities. Spacious apartment-like rooms at Hotel Richemont. Hotel Richemont Hotel Richemont Who it's for: Independent travelers who value design, space, and a central location over extra services. Opened in June 2025, Hotel Richemont is a 25-room boutique property on Society Street, just off King Street in downtown Charleston. Developed by Indigo Road Hospitality with interiors by B. Berry and architecture by Neil Stevenson, the hotel blends contemporary design with a spacious, residential atmosphere. Guestrooms range from standard kings to bi-level suites featuring balconies, full kitchens, and separate living areas. Custom furnishings, soft neutral tones, and artwork by local artists like Blakely Made and Whitney Stoddard create a polished yet relaxed aesthetic. Guests arrive through a courtyard layered with climbing vines, flickering gas lanterns, and a central fountain. Inside, curated bookshelves, handmade mirrors by Charleston artisan Robert Hines, and a mural by artist Jess Kollar lend texture and character to the communal spaces. A preserved vault door in the lobby nods to the building's former life as a neighborhood bank, one of several thoughtful details that connect the new project to Charleston's layered past. The on-site Two Bit Club, from Chef Jelo Tria, offers Vietnamese-inspired dishes—think pho, turmeric-fried fish, and chili crisp noodles—and cocktails with makrut lime and lemongrass. Guests can order coffee and pastries here in the morning. While Richemont provides essential services—including 24-hour front‑desk support, concierge assistance, and daily housekeeping—you won't find a full-service spa, pool, or room service. The 24/7 front desk provides support when needed, while the spacious suites and central location offer a comfortable, independent base in the heart of Charleston. The Nickel Hotel Lobby has a similar aesthetic to related projects like Lowland Tavern. The Nickel Hotel The Nickel Hotel Who it's for: Seeking space and function of a high-end apartment right in the center of the action. Opened in June 2025, The Nickel is the second Charleston property from Philadelphia-based Method Co., following the debut of The Pinch just off King Street in 2022. Developed in partnership with Capital Square and Morris Adjmi Architects, the five-story new build sits directly on King Street in the Cannonborough neighborhood. The hotel features 50 rooms and suites, many designed for longer stays thanks to full kitchens, marble countertops, and in-room washers and dryers, as well as dining and lounge areas. The guest rooms offer private balconies, and the penthouse suites include up to three bedrooms and large private terraces. The hotel layout centers on a leafy, three-story interior courtyard with wrought-iron balconies, a fountain, and a wood-burning fireplace. Additional common spaces include a library, the guest-only cocktail bar Bar Daniel, and a rooftop lounge with city views, Rosemary Rose, which is open to the public. The Nickel offers thoughtful extras—complimentary bike rentals, welcome cocktails at check-in, and access to a nearby gym—but skips the full-service trappings of larger hotels. Just be warned: the central King Street location comes with street noise, especially on weekends. For light sleepers or travelers seeking a more tranquil setting, this property may not be the best fit. But for those who want apartment-style independence in the thick of it, The Nickel offers a polished home base. The Bungalow Suite at 86 Cannon. Katie Charlotte 86 Cannon Who it's for: Stay-like-a-local with a pool and parking without the noise of King Street. Set within a meticulously restored 1860s Charleston single house in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, 86 Cannon offers an elegant alternative to the city's larger hotels. The adults-only, 10-room inn spans three historic structures—the Main House, Carriage House, and Garden Suites—each featuring heart pine floors, original fireplaces, and sweeping piazzas. InThe interiors balance classic architecture with contemporary finishes, including Frette linens, Malin+Goetz bath products, mid-century furnishings, and curated bookshelves that create a warm, personal feel. No two rooms at 86 Cannon are the same—each is individually styled with its layout, furnishings, and architectural details, from vaulted ceilings to antique mantels; balconies to small terraces; or kitchenettes and wet bars. While 86 Cannon has front-desk staff during daytime hours, it functions more like a private inn or upmarket B&B. There's no restaurant or spa, but guests are welcomed with a drink on arrival. Breakfast is European in style with fresh fruit, yogurt, and warm, local pastries. Each evening, a wine and cheese hour invites guests to unwind on the piazza or in the parlor. A saltwater plunge pool sits behind the house, framed by brick walls and greenery. It's an uncommon perk for a property of this size in Charleston—even many larger hotels don't offer one—making it a welcome place to cool off or relax after exploring the city on foot or with one of the complimentary cruiser bikes. Another welcome feature: a private parking lot behind the inn. While many Charleston hotels rely on valet service or require guests to hunt for metered or paid-lot parking, 86 Cannon offers free on-site access. Being able to pull in, unload your bags, and come and go without hassle is a rare convenience in this space-limited city. With King Street just a few blocks away, 86 Cannon is well situated for travelers who want walkable access to downtown without sacrificing a sense of calm. It's best suited to couples or solo travelers who appreciate thoughtful design, historic character, and the feel of staying in a well-run private home.
The Independent
09-07-2025
- The Independent
From Lake Garda to the Savannah, these are the world's best hotels with swimming pools
Whether it's an infinity pool that appears to melt into the Caribbean landscape, a snaking cliffside affair in Greece or one which looks out across the African Savannah, a refreshing dip in a memorable swimming pool can tip a hotel stay from brilliant to unforgettable. Some swimming spots float on shimmering lakes, some slosh over infinity edges towards a sea view, blurring the edges of the horizon, while others are set in jungly surrounds soundtracked by lilting birdsong. Whatever the surroundings, nothing says luxury travel like a beautifully appointed swimming pool. From a lap pool for a brisk front crawl session while basking in seriously spectacular views, to those where geothermal waters and spa treatments make for an extra restorative soak, we've scoured the globe for the standout hotel swimming pools for some of the most spectacular swims the planet has to offer. And for something closer to home, explore our guide to the best hotels with swimming pools in the UK. Best hotels with swimming pools in Europe Best hotel for romance: Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection Location: Santorini, Greece Famed for its whitewashed architecture and blue-domed churches, Santorini's best swim-with-a-view comes courtesy of the Grace Hotel's cliffside infinity pool. With far-reaching views of the volcanic caldera and craggy headland Skaros Rock, which juts into the azure Aegean Sea, this 22m heated pool is the centrepiece of the 23-room, adults-only hotel, which spills down seven levels in the rock face in Imerovigli. A favourite with couples, thanks to its secluded feel and crisp, minimalist-luxe rooms, Grace is within easy reach of Fira and Oia, and sunsets here are unrivalled, whether enjoyed from the pool, seafood restaurant Varoulko Santorini, or with a tiki cocktail at 363 Bar. Complimentary guided hikes up Skaros Rock, Greek Aperitivo hours where signature cocktails are accompanied by tales of island life, and poolside frozen sorbets and mini mastiha spritzes add further appeal. Location: Umbria, Italy Enjoy views of Umbria's olive groves, ancient vineyards and cypress-peppered landscapes while soaking in Reschio's gorgeous oval-shaped pool. Flanked by umbrella pines, it's designed so it seems to melt into the manicured lawns of the 10th-century castle turned heritage-led boutique hotel. Plus, there's a unique poolside bar for cocktails and gelato, Il Torrino, the castle's former watchtower. Done with swimming? Make for the wine-cellar-turned-spa for subterranean hammams; feast on farm-to-table food (with most produce coming straight from the 1,560-hectare estate's beehives, kitchen garden and vineyards); take a riding lesson, explore the nearby medieval hilltop towns of Perugia and Assisi, or gen up on Umbrian crafts during fabric dye, or paper marbling workshops. A two-night minimum stay applies. Location: Blue Lagoon, Iceland If you've cash to splash, the most stylish way to experience the Blue Lagoon's steamy, electric-blue, geothermal waters is with a stay in one of The Retreat's 62 suites. Its series of terraced pools are open only to hotel guests, and those who snag a handful of day passes, meaning you can enjoy unhurried relaxation in the famed mineral-rich waters, minus the hoopla and selfie sticks of the busy main lagoon. In the next-level spa, slather up with algae masks and lava scrubs, then relax back in bedrooms in lichen-green and duck-egg blue hues with views out to moss-carpeted lava fields. Don't miss fine dining at One Michelin-starred restaurant Moss, and be sure to turn on your 'northern lights wake-up call' before you sleep. Location: Skåne, Sweden Nailing LA-meets-Scandinavian pool club cool, this former castle-meets-countryside estate turned swish hotel in southern Sweden's Skåne has four vibey pools. Most happening is the soundtracked by summery beats, 22 metre, 34C indoor-outdoor number. Extending from a glass-ceilinged conservatory, a suspended disco ball rubs up against floral chaise longues, Art Deco-style lampshades, and bartenders whipping up aperitivo-hour spritzes. For laps there's a cooler, 260-square-metre freeform resort pool (26C) where green-and-white striped daybeds sit beside foxglove-filled flowerbeds. Another two pools sit in the estate's grounds, one sea-facing, beside the lawn of grand manor Hill House, while another, steamy and heated to 35C, is tucked next to the hotel's newer Sugar Club building. As well as beautiful bedrooms, playful lounges with flickering fires and pool tables, there are padel courts and three atmospheric restaurants to discover. Location: Mykonos, Greece Stretching for 130 metres — that's over double the size of an Olympic pool — and following the natural curve of a cliff edge, Cali Mykonos' heated pool is a showstopper. Set on the eastern side of the Cycladic isle extra flair, thanks to the hotel's first fashion collaboration, sees poolside loungers — and parasols and daybeds at the forty villa property's petite, private golden sandy beach below — dressed in turquoise Missoni prints, which mirror the shade of the Aegean Sea vistas. A DJ spinning tunes whilst dippers enjoy tzatziki-zucchini fries, kaimaki ice cream and frosé adds poolside magnetism, as do bookable at-your-lounger foot, head, neck and scalp massages. In addition to bedrooms, white with marine and earthy-hued accents, all luxe villas have private pools, ranging from plunge to more spacious, with sea views. Location: Lake Como, Italy Appearing to merge with the glittering waters of Lake Como, the Herzog & de Meuron-designed 40 metre-long floating infinity pool at Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como is a dream. Not only is one of the world's largest floating, infinity pools equipped with clever anti-wave technology to keep it from swaying even if the lake's waters are a-ruffle, a steel structure and dark Cardoso sandstone clad interior, creates an optical illusion blurring the pool's edge into the blues of the freshwater lake. Backdropped by arched colonnades, it's flanked on one side by a wooden terrace. Enjoy post-dip lazes on cloud-white sunbeds and parasols, or relax in wicker chairs at poolside NAMI Cafe whilst dining on maki rolls or forkfuls of truffle tagliolini. Inside Neoclassical marvel Villa Roccabruna, the former home of opera soprano Giuditta Pasta, expect lounges with restored coffered ceilings and gilded boiserie, and restful suites with marble bathrooms. Location: Adelboden, Switzerland While the pool at The Brecon might be small (5 metre x 3 metre) the views it affords to the wraparound-rugged Swiss mountains and slopes are mighty. Set just above pretty Adelboden (45 minutes from Bern), the hotel's open-to-guests-only spa is a knockout spot to unwind after days spent taking on pistes aplenty in winter, or hiking and biking trails during the summer. Kept at 34C year-round, the pool's built-in bubbling Jacuzzi jets, and close-by sauna and steam room make things extra restorative. Sip wine, or herbal tonic, as you dip, then sprawl in a fireplace-filled relaxation room scented by Aesop candles. The hotel's recent reimagining as The Brecon, brings fresh, earthy allure and cosseting bedrooms to former sixties darling-of-the-Alps, The Waldhaus. Think tactile timber, wool and stone-rich interiors by Nicemakers, vintage and contemporary-mix furnishings, and artwork from Bisou Gallery. Plus, for lap swimmers, just a three-minute walk away, is Adelboden's very Accidentally-Wes-Anderson Olympic-size public pool, with pastel-pop curved pavilions, diving board and similarly impressive Alpine scenery. Best hotel for tropical elegance: Capella Singapore Location: Sentosa, Singapore Few swimming setups are as pretty as Capella Singapore's three lava stone, turquoise-tiled pools, which tumble down a forested hillside, punctuated by grassy steppes with architecture inspired by Balinese rice fields and jungly vistas set against the South China Sea. Pick from a romantic infinity-edged number where peacocks often perch poolside, one suited to family-friendly frolicking, or skinny lap pool. Friendly staff proffer iced fruit smoothies and sunhats. Elsewhere, expect a combination of terracotta-roofed, verandah'd heritage buildings (from the property's former life as British Royal Artillery base) in lipstick-palm filled gardens, the contemporary curves of a Foster+Partners'-designed wing, suites with mid-century modern decor by André Fu, and Fiamma, an Italian restaurant with menu masterminded by Mauro Colagreco. Location: Rajasthan, India Deep in the western Aravalli mountains in slow-paced Ajabgarh is Amanbagh's fit-for-a-maharaja pool. Flanked by mint-green parasols and gnarly-trunked date palms, the spacious 33 metre x 12 metre pool reflects the ultra-luxe property's rose-coloured Mughal-style architecture, domed roofs, scallop-edged doors and jali latticework screens beautifully. Soundtracked by chirruping birds, it's serene by day and even more enchanting when illuminated by twinkly lights at night. Warmed naturally in summer months and heated during winter, as it sits adjacent to a smaller wading pool – and as guests at the 40-room property are often unwinding in the spa – it never feels crowded. Other attractions include grounding fire meditations at dusk and dosha-specific meals. Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia Fringed by landscaped gardens and knotty-limbed frangipani trees, the 35-metre lap pool at this hotel takes inspiration from Angkor's ancient royal bathing pools. It's long enough to do a proper workout, but also a lovely spot to simply luxuriate in the marvellous architecture of the alabaster-hued, French Art Deco-style hotel. Everyone from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama has checked into the opulent suites here, which are kitted out with writing desks and vintage rotary phones. While it retains masses of old-world charm – not to mention its original wrought iron and teak lift – the concierge knows the of-the-minute bars in town, and can arrange unique Vespa tours of Angkor's temples, which are just a 20-minute drive away. Location: Beijing, China Clad in stainless steel, with jewel-box hues and a ceiling studded with fibre-optic lights, the 22-metre basement swimming pool at Beijing's The Opposite House looks like something from a James Bond villain's lair. Its edgy look is in keeping with the creative energy that flows through the property, designed by architecture whizz Kengo Kuma. This hotel-meets-living-art-gallery is home to an ever-changing roster of installations, which has included tiled waves by Zen-In and wire sculptures by Huang Yiwei. From its origami-look lobby to the 99 wooden-floored, zen-feel guest studios and Michelin-starred Jing Yaa Tang, a stay here is a real work of art. Location: Windhoek, Namibia Omaanda's 15-metre infinity pool not only looks out to a 7,500-hectare nature reserve, all greeny-gold savannah and acacia trees with the Auas Mountains rippling in the distance, it's also the ideal vantage point to spy on a nearby watering hole. This means, after days spent wandering among elephants and cheetahs on safari, you can continue the wildlife spotting as you swim – perhaps catching a glimpse of warthogs gambolling by the water. After sunset, dip underneath a sky spangled with stars, relax by the fireside boma on comfy scatter cushions, hit the rustic wooden bar, or retreat to one of 10 soulfully decorated thatched cottages inspired by local Owambo architecture. Location: St Lucia Placed to take in sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and St Lucia's Pitons, Jade Mountain's swimming pools are legendary. As well as a kaleidoscope-mosaic-tiled communal pool at the Jade Mountain Club, each of the 24 infinity pool suites has its own 'vanishing edge' pool in lieu of each room's exterior wall. Ensuring a connection to nature at all times, they're ideal for bathing a deux, and combine shallow lounging areas with a larger swimming area. Surfaced with iridescent glass tiles in varying bright shades, at night there's added chromotherapy, thanks to coloured lights. Pools aside, Jade Mountain's private beaches, chocolate laboratory and 242-acre tropical estate will keep you busy. Location: Miami, Florida A trio of three 24-metre-long infinity pools set at different temperatures – a 23C lap pool, a central pool at 29C and a warmer family pool at 35C – hold court in the palm-fringed gardens of this Art Deco hotel. Orientated east to west, to capitalise on sunrise and sunset, the series of pools leads towards a private stretch of sugar-white sand on South Beach, with day beds and parasols for all-day lounging. Suites have Asian touches – think glossy dark woods, mother of pearl mosaics and ancient artefacts. There's excellent Asian fare at Jaya restaurant, the Sunday jazz brunch is not to be missed and service here is unfailingly five-star slick.
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The Best Resort in California Is Nowhere Near the Beach—but Travelers Love It for the Farm-fresh Food and Wine
When it comes to California resorts, it's clear that T+L readers love the state's wine countries, from Napa Valley down to the Central Coast—and the beaches lining the Pacific. And it's no wonder. All of these regions have become synonymous with an idealized, laid-back version of life in the Golden State, where the sun shines over neat rows of vineyards, surfers catch endless waves, and where natural beauty is everywhere you look. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. A courtyard in a Suite at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection. Auberge Resorts Collection In Montecito, near Santa Barbara, San Ysidro Ranch (this year's runner-up) has gained icon status, having opened in 1893. It's played host to everyone from Winston Churchill to John and Jackie Kennedy on its sprawling, cottage-dotted property. One reader, when visiting with her mother, noted, 'Every staff member treated us with kindness and respect. From the moment we entered the property, we were amazed at all the small details." Further up the coast, the natural beauty of Big Sur is complemented by another reader favorite, Alila Ventana Big Sur (No. 11), an excellent adults-only resort. "It's all-inclusive, and the food is incredible, as is the service at the restaurant,' said one reader. And down near San Diego, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa (No. 5) in Rancho Santa Fe had particularly enthusiastic fans. As one repeat visitor to the property put it: 'Rancho Valencia is hands-down my favorite resort in the U.S.. It kind of feels like a secret, but arriving at the gate and being greeted by one of the impeccably mannered staff, you know exactly where you are. It's heaven!' The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection Exterior view of The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection. Auberge Resorts Collection 'The rooms are beautiful and the tavern and restaurant have been fabulously restored to showcase all of the history of the property.' — T + L Reader While it only opened in 2023, this year's winner, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, has quickly become a reader favorite. 'A fantastic, understated, luxurious hotel,' is how one reader described this 6.5-acre property, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards in the little town of Los Olivos, a two-hour drive north of Los Angeles. 'The rooms are beautiful and the tavern and restaurant have been fabulously restored to showcase all of the history of the property.' Being in the heart of Central California's agricultural land, the culinary offerings are naturally a big part of the draw here. The hotel's primary restaurant, The Tavern, is an ode to regional produce and ingredients, many of which are grown on-site, and as you'd expect, there's a wide-ranging wine list showing off the best of California. 1. The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, Los Olivos Reader Score: 99.27 2. San Ysidro Ranch, Montecito Reader Score: 98.76 3. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection, Calistoga Reader Score: 97.83 4. The Ranch at Laguna Beach, Laguna Beach Reader Score: 97.25 5. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, Rancho Santa Fe Reader Score: 97.02 6. Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection, Rutherford Reader Score: 96.29 7. Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection, Napa Reader Score: 96.20 8. Mission Pacific Beach Resort, Oceanside Reader Score: 96.00 9. The Seabird Resort, Oceanside Reader Score: 95.35 10. The Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Jolla Reader Score: 94.29 11. Alila Ventana Big Sur, Big Sur Reader Score: 94.23 12. Alisal Ranch, Solvang Reader Score: 93.93 13. Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego Reader Score: 93.38 14. Terranea, Rancho Palos Verdes Reader Score: 93.29 15. Bernardus Lodge & Spa, Carmel Valley Reader Score: 92.70
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The 10 Best Resorts in Central America of 2025
Trips to Central American resorts always seem to start with a big exhale. After all, there's something about the region's unspoiled natural beauty, superlative hospitality, and easygoing pace that instantly prompts shoulders to relax and stress to melt away. For Travel + Leisure readers, it's tough to beat the quiet luxury exemplified by hotels in Costa Rica, but properties in Nicaragua, Belize, and Honduras capitalize on their pristine waters in increasingly compelling ways. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica 20 Best Things to Do in Belize The Casona con Piscina guest room at Hacienda AltaGracia. Auberge Resorts Collection No matter where in Central America they traveled, T+L readers sought out resorts that champion nature and wellness. All three properties in Belize are well-positioned for guests who want a luxe home base for snorkeling or diving excursions to the country's renowned barrier reef. The highest ranked—No. 6 Matachica Resort & Spa—is nestled on Ambergris Caye, which T+L readers consistently vote as one of their favorite islands in Mexico and Central and South America. When guests aren't lounging in the hammock of their thatched-roof casita or villa, they're likely sipping cocktails and basking in sea views at Danny's Tree Bar or out on the water. Snorkel gear and kayaks are complimentary, and a section of the reef is just offshore. The resort can also arrange a boating excursion to snorkel or dive in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where more than 150 fish species and roughly 40 types of coral are thriving. Half the honorees on this year's list (including this year's No. 1) are located in Costa Rica, which was T+L's 2024 Destination of the Year. Whether they're in the surf hub of Nosara (No. 5 Tierra Magnifica Boutique Hotel) or the cloud forests of Monteverde (No. 3 Hotel Belmar), each one embodies the sentiment of pura vida , with a reverence for nature and some of the warmest hospitality you'll encounter throughout the world. Astute readers will notice this year's list marks the end of Nayara Tented Camp's four-year winning streak. Though it slips to No. 2, WBA voters raved about their stays at the secluded glamping resort set against the backdrop of Arenal volcano. 'Unforgettable experience and memories from this place,' shares one guest. 'We were truly blown away by the service, the views, the location, food, and everything.' Another person thought the staff was particularly impressive, writing that they've 'been to several high end hotels in the world, and by far, this hotel has the best trained and knowledgeable staff.' Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection: Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica Casa Grande, a two-bedroom guest room at Hacienda AltaGracia. Auberge Resorts Collection Tucked into the verdant foothills of Costa Rica's Talamanca Mountains, this 50-casita hideaway centers the guest experience on immersive adventure, cultural discovery, and soul-centering wellness. The property's 180 acres encompass a coffee farm, horse stables, an organic culinary garden, and a holistic spa. Active adventures include zip-lining through the jungle, scaling giant ficus trees, or venturing out into the pitch-black night to search for nocturnal animals with a wildlife guide. For fun that's equally invigorating but lower adrenaline, there's a variety of culinary options, including a hands-on Tico baking class, cocktail workshops, and visits to family-owned farms nearby. Casa de Agua offers a range of signature treatments that incorporate Central American wellness practices, as well as Eastern modalities like Reiki. As T+L readers will attest, no matter how guests choose to spend their time, they'll find a restorative experience worth flying for. 1. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection: Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica Reader Score: 98.89 2. Nayara Tented Camp: Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 97.89 3. Hotel Belmar: Monteverde, Costa Rica Reader Score: 97.66 4. Rancho Santana: Tola-Rivas, Nicaragua Reader Score: 97.39 5. Tierra Magnifica Boutique Hotel: Nosara, Costa Rica Reader Score: 96.36 6. Matachica Resort & Spa: Ambergris Caye, Belize Reader Score: 96.20 7. Victoria House: Ambergris Caye, Belize Reader Score: 96.00 8. Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa: West Bay Beach, Honduras Reader Score: 95.20 8. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef: Hopkins Village, Belize Reader Score: 95.20 10. Nayara Springs: Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica Reader Score: 94.83
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The Best Resort in the South Has New Mountaintop Tree Houses With Hot Tubs and Outdoor Showers—See All the 2025 Winners
It would be a disservice to the best resort hotels in the South to simply call them exemplary models of Southern hospitality—they're much more nuanced than that. These are destinations that blend gorgeous natural scenery and home-away-from-home comforts with unique narratives, impeccable service, and a plethora of outdoor activities. The result? Memorable experiences that are equally restful as they are entertaining, and a competitive list of resort hotels that impress Travel + Leisure readers year after year. Editor's note: Florida, Texas, and South Carolina resort hotels were excluded, as each has their own separate rankings and list. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. An exterior view of Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection with the observatory. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Mountain resorts dominated this year's list, with appearances from reader favorites like The Inn on Biltmore Estate (No. 3), Old Edwards Inn & Spa (No. 7), and Blackberry Mountain (No. 4)—all of which made appearances on the 2024 World's Best Awards list. High Hampton, which jumped from No. 13 to No. 2 this year, also falls under this category. Described by one reader as a 'nice, quaint inn in a lovely mountain resort town,' the Cashiers Valley getaway is a year-round destination with a host of activities for the whole family, from golf and canoeing to croquet and fishing. Although The Cloister at Sea Island's waterfront location is vastly different from the views you'll see in the Blue Ridge Mountains, its amenities (including an on-site pool and private beach club access) and 'outstanding services' earned it the No. 9 spot this year. 'Everything is spectacular, and our visit was peaceful,' said one reader. '[It's] a wonderful destination for families or couples.' Everything is spectacular, and our visit was peaceful. — T+L Reader Read on to find out which property was voted the best resort hotel in the South in 2025. Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection: Meadows of Dan, Virginia Cozy seating for guests in the Great Hall. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Tucked high up in the Virginia mountains and spread out across 12,000 acres, Primland Resort was described by our readers as 'one of the nicest resorts on [the] East Coast' and the 'best hotel in Virginia.' While the Meadows of Dan property most recently appeared at No. 11 in the 2023 World's Best Awards, a handful of renovations, refurbishments, and new additions sent it to the top spot this year. Most notably, the resort added two magical Mountain Top Tree Houses, both of which have a spacious tree-level deck, an outdoor shower, and a hot tub. One reader said that they appreciated the resort's 'world-class service,' while another called it a 'beautiful venue' with 'many things to do to keep you busy.' Golfers can spend all day on Primland's Highland Course, while active travelers can explore the onsite hiking paths and ATV trails. And for those who want to take it easy, there's even a spa and indoor swimming pool. 1. Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection: Meadows of Dan, Virginia Reader Score: 99.40 2. High Hampton: Cashiers, North Carolina Reader Score: 95.29 3. The Inn on Biltmore Estate: Asheville, North Carolina Reader Score: 94.00 4. Blackberry Mountain: Walland, Tennessee Reader Score: 93.71 5. Blackberry Farm: Walland, Tennessee Reader Score: 92.80 6. Salamander Middleburg: Virginia Reader Score: 92.68 7. Old Edwards Inn & Spa: Highlands, North Carolina Reader Score: 92.20 8. The Williamsburg Inn: Virginia Reader Score: 90.58 9. The Cloister at Sea Island: Georgia Reader Score: 90.35 10. The Omni Homestead Resort: Hot Springs, Virginia Reader Score: 89.85
