This yr, we’re craving for the easy manifestation of joie de vivre—that ineffable “pleasure of residing” present in life’s tender moments. It’s the fun of discovery, the calm of reflection and the quiet delight of being within the second. The winners of our 2025 Kiwi Assortment Resort Awards have mastered this artwork of exuberant residing, creating areas the place pleasure feels easy and infinite. No matter your private bliss could also be, these locations know how one can deliver it to life—whether or not via breathtaking settings, considerate particulars or recollections that linger lengthy after you’ve left. The journey of choosing our 12 winners was made much more particular this yr because of you. For the primary time, you topped the winner of our inaugural Finest Resort Instagram class, proving that the magic of those locations may be felt far past their partitions. So, step into their world and discover your pleasure.
WOW PICK OF THE YEAR
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Within the Emirates, grandeur is a given—however some locations redefine it completely. You’ll know you’ve arrived at such a spot if you spot 114 mosaic-clad domes glinting below the solar. Rising like a modern-day mirage towards futuristic skyscrapers, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental rewrites the foundations of opulence. Its terracotta façade, impressed by the Arabian Desert, stretches gracefully alongside Abu Dhabi’s Gulf shores, with a personal marina on one aspect and a 1.3-kilometer white sand seashore on the opposite. Step inside, and let the fantastic thing about each element take your breath away. Double-width pillars, marble in each shade, grand chandeliers and extra gold than you possibly can rely (over a million sq. meters of 24-carat gold leaf) greet you at each flip. It’s the sort of place the place you’d usually inform children to not contact the shiny issues—however right here, the entire household is inspired to bask within the opulence. With a waterpark, children’ membership, two swimming pools and even horse-riding alongside the Arabian Sea, little ones and grown-ups can dive into luxurious with out limits. And as for eating? The lodge boasts 12 world-class eating places, together with two Michelin-starred venues: Hakkasan and Talea by Antonio Guida. A spot the place indulgence is the rule and nobody is ignored.
BEST NEW HOTEL
Janu Tokyo
TOKYO, JAPAN
Now and again, a lodge arrives on the scene with such attract that it turns into a legend even earlier than opening its doorways. Janu Tokyo, Aman’s daring new sister model, debuted in March 2024, buying and selling its signature stillness for an ethos alive with vitality and neighborhood. Aptly named—Janu means “soul” in Sanskrit—this visionary retreat finds its stage in Azabudai Hills, Tokyo’s vibrant new neighborhood, the place gradients of greenery—orchards, vegetable gardens and an unlimited 6,000-square-meter Central Inexperienced—create an city sanctuary. The truth that it’s the one lodge within the neighborhood speaks to its ambition. Each element displays the experience of longtime Aman collaborator Jean-Michel Gathy, whose minimalist design defines the 122 serene rooms, full with deep soaking tubs and personal balconies completely framing Tokyo Tower’s iconic silhouette. At its coronary heart, the fifth-floor reception brims with life, anchored by the Janu Lounge & Backyard Terrace, the place lingering over afternoon tea is inspired. Wellness, an everlasting cornerstone of Aman’s philosophy, takes on a brand new type right here: one in all Tokyo’s largest gyms, a 25-meter indoor pool and a sprawling 4,000-square-meter spa with boxing and spin studios, hydrotherapy zones and conventional hammams. It’s an intimate refuge from town’s hum but profoundly entwined with its rhythm.
BEST MINDFUL LUXURY
Kasbah Tamadot
MARRAKECH, MOROCCO
In 1998, Sir Richard Branson’s ballooning journey took him to Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Naturally, he fell in love—and who wouldn’t with Kasbah Tamadot? Persuaded by his late mom, Eve, he acquired the property in 2005, inheriting a shocking kasbah stuffed with uncommon artwork and treasures. Eve’s affect reached deeper, sparking a dedication to the local people that thrives at this time via the Eve Branson Basis. Based in 2006, the Basis collaborates with close by villages to drive lasting financial and social transformation via initiatives like artisanal coaching and academic applications. Free English courses, initiated through the lodge’s early days, proceed empowering residents, with many now a part of the completely Moroccan employees—a testomony to the kasbah’s dedication to uplifting neighbors. After the 2023 earthquake, the Basis joined the Earthquake Emergency Aid Fund, elevating over $1 million for restoration efforts. Absolutely restored after the devastation, the kasbah reopened in October 2024 as a beacon of resilience. Its six brand-new Riads, adorned with Berber artistry, and the reimagined Asayss restaurant, the place homegrown elements shine, stand as a testomony to Eve’s enduring imaginative and prescient. Because the kasbah thrives as soon as extra, so does its neighborhood—Eve’s legacy lives on in each brick, artisan’s contact and act of kindness.
MOST ROMANTIC HOTEL
Awasi Patagonia
TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE
“I’d journey to the ends of the earth for you” feels much less like a saying and extra like a promise at Awasi Patagonia. Nestled in one of the crucial distant and majestic corners of the planet, this can be a place the place distance actually makes the center develop fonder. Perched inside a personal reserve overlooking Chile’s iconic Torres del Paine Nationwide Park, it’s as intimate as it’s extraordinary. With simply 14 villas scattered throughout the wilderness, privateness turns into your fixed companion. Every villa, impressed by Patagonian ranching outposts, incorporates a cozy wood-burning range, plush sheepskin rugs and an out of doors scorching tub—good for soaking in views of turquoise Lake Sarmiento and the towering peaks past, all with that particular somebody. The romance right here isn’t confined to consolation inside. Together with your private information and 4WD car, each journey is tailored. Stargaze below the clearest skies on Earth, hike glaciers or share a sundown picnic in landscapes so huge they really feel like a dream. Whether or not savoring wine by the lodge’s hearth, having fun with a candlelit dinner beneath the celebs or sneaking away for solitude, this retreat permits you to set the tempo. Romance isn’t staged—it’s woven into each second.
BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL
The Royce Resort
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
In 1928, Melbourne’s first status automobile showroom opened its doorways on St. Kilda Highway, providing the epitome of luxurious—the Rolls-Royce. At the moment, that very same spirit of sophistication and glamour is captured in a brand new type: The Royce. After a meticulous two-year refurbishment, this iconic lodge has returned to the boutique scene, reviving its timeless Golden Age opulence with a contemporary twist. Step into the foyer, and also you’re greeted by echoes of the previous with a nod to Artwork Deco class—arched ceilings shimmering in hammered gold and chandeliers restored to their authentic splendor. But, the design is firmly within the now, with glossy mirrored partitions bringing a recent edge. Its 100 rooms and suites vary from intimate areas to two-level suites with sweeping bay home windows. The hideaway matches seamlessly into Melbourne’s culinary scene, with the Showroom Bar providing vaulted ceilings, membership chairs and a crackling open hearth, whereas The Terrace serves dreamy brunches amidst lush greenery. Nestled within the coronary heart of town, the lodge is steps from Melbourne’s lush oases—The Royal Botanic Gardens and Fawkner Park—with energetic South Yarra a brief stroll away. To name this the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of boutique accommodations isn’t simply becoming—it’s well-deserved.
BEST GOURMET GETAWAY
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp
ANTWERP, BELGIUM
What do you get when 5 of Belgium’s prime cooks come collectively below one roof? Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. Tucked behind historical partitions, this Twelfth-century monastery is now a culinary sanctuary—so come hungry—with 5 eating places, three boasting Michelin stars. First, there’s High-quality Fleur, a refined spot run by Jacob Jan Boerma and Thomas Diepersloot. Het Gebaar is an Antwerp establishment, the place Michelin pastry chef Roger van Damme elevates afternoon tea into artwork. Then, there’s Hertog Jan, the place two Michelin stars shine brightly below the management of Gert De Mangeleer and maître-sommelier Joachim Boudens. The “Omakase” tasting menu is a three-hour journey, with elements plucked straight from its greenhouse, herb beds and hives. Shock is essential, so visitors are kindly requested to depart telephones behind. From the identical duo, head to Bar Bulot, a masterclass in Flemish and French delicacies, with a sister location in Bruges that holds a Michelin star. Henry’s Bar & Bistro shifts from an intimate bar to a sunlit conservatory, whereas deep within the cellars, The Unprecedented invitations choose visitors to the unique Scotch Whisky Buyers Membership. In case that wasn’t sufficient, 17 Michelin-starred eating places are close by. In Antwerp, it’s clear: nobody goes hungry.
BEST HOTEL VIEW
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
HOF BEI SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
“The music isn’t within the notes, however within the silence between,” stated Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. At Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, this sentiment rings true—the place the stillness of nature turns into its personal symphony. You’ll discover this Fifteenth-century fort outdoors of Salzburg, the birthplace of the composer himself, on an evergreen-ringed, emerald-hued Lake Fuschl. As soon as a searching lodge for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg, the schloss (“fort” in German) operated largely seasonally till 2022, when Rosewood Lodges & Resorts acquired the property and commenced a restoration. In July 2024, it reopened with 98 visitor rooms, together with six lakefront chalets. These rooms, impressed by native forests and the realm’s 4 seasons, provide majestic views of the Salzkammergut mountains. One of the simplest ways to take all of it in? A swim at The See Membership, the property’s lakeside retreat, the place the Austrian Alps meet Mediterranean-inspired tranquility, because of a ban on motorboats. There’s additionally the indoor-outdoor pool: begin your swim inside, then seamlessly transition outdoor, framed by the lake’s breathtaking surroundings. Whereas The Sound of Music’s legacy lives on right here, the true magic is within the magnificence that surrounds you—a spot the place the view is at all times value a thousand phrases.
BEST WELLNESS RETREAT
SHA Mexico
COSTA MUJERES, MEXICO
It began as a private journey—a household affair fueled by transformation. After well being struggles and a analysis, Alfredo Bataller Parietti and his sons reclaimed their well being via nourishing meals and holistic therapies. Their mission? To show that true well being—rooted in vitamin, conventional therapies and Western drugs—transforms lives. They dubbed it “The SHA Methodology,” and SHA Wellness Clinic was born in Alicante, Spain. It turned a hotspot for celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Mick Jagger—an indication that getting well being proper makes the world take discover. Impressed by their success, the household opened SHA Mexico in Costa Mujeres in early 2024. Subsequent to the most important coral reef within the northern hemisphere, the clinic affords transformative wellness applications starting from 4 to 21 days. Applications like Rebalance & Energize, Chief’s Efficiency, Effectively-aging & Prevention and Intensive Detox & Optimum Weight goal distinctive wellness objectives. Upon arrival, visitors endure a well being evaluation, adopted by a session with a nutritionist who crafts a customized plan. Remedies embrace IV infusions, digital actuality exercises and hormone screenings, set towards infinity swimming pools, zen gardens and ocean-view terraces. The structure mimics nature’s blueprint, with curves echoing the class of a DNA molecule. Right here, well being is the final word luxurious.
BEST IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
GRINDAVÍK, ICELAND
In her 1997 music “Jóga,” Icelandic icon Björk sings of “emotional landscapes,” craving to seize Iceland’s uncooked, untamed vitality—earthquakes, snowstorms, volcanic eruptions, geysers. As she says, “In Iceland, all the things revolves round nature, 24 hours a day.” Nowhere is that this connection extra palpable than at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, a 60-suite sanctuary nestled inside an 800-year-old lava subject, an hour from Reykjavík. Right here, the geothermal lagoon meets world-class wellness, immersing visitors within the delicate dance of science and nature. The lagoon surrounding the lodge is a personal sanctuary, separate from the primary lagoon, providing peace amidst volcanic rock and steam. Every suite affords breathtaking views of the milky blue waters. Nevertheless it’s not solely the lagoon that captivates; The Retreat’s underground spa blends uncovered lava partitions with glossy Scandinavian design, creating an area disconnected from the world outdoors. Visitors bask in remedies harnessing the therapeutic energy of geothermal seawater, wealthy in silica, algae and minerals. Slate greys and earthy moss tones seamlessly fuse with the panorama, creating concord between the interiors and nature. This stability continues at Michelin-starred Moss, the place a seven-course tasting menu mirrors the island’s terrain, shifting from peaks to sea. Emotional landscapes, certainly.
BEST FAMILY HOTEL
Sonnwies Dolomites
SOUTH TYROL, ITALY
It’s no shock this family-run lodge feels so heat and welcoming—in spite of everything, it began as a house. Sonnwies Dolomites, with roots courting again to 1400, nonetheless carries the allure of its authentic barn, home and herb backyard. When the Hinteregger household acquired the property in 1983, they introduced their ardour for hospitality to life. Fifteen years later, eldest son Hans and his spouse, Angelika, remodeled it into an enthralling mattress and breakfast. At the moment, after considerate renovations, it’s a cherished sanctuary. The resort’s 70 rooms and suites are designed with households in thoughts—spacious, vibrant, pure wooden suites with child furnishings and Dolomite views. A five-pool aquapark, petting zoo with 30 furry associates, 10,000-square-meter journey playground, using college and ice skating rink are just the start. Mother and father, rejoice: with childcare, babysitting, a teens-only lounge and applications for each age group, you’ll have the ability to loosen up—bonus factors for the household wellness spa, the place even children get pampered. Meals are crafted from natural elements grown on their farm, making certain even choosy eaters are happy. And don’t overlook Ferdi, the beloved lodge mascot—a brown pony in a blue South Tyrolean apron—typically discovered on the children’ membership. The Hintereggers know how one can make each household really feel at dwelling.
BEST ESCAPE FOR FRIENDS
The Lafayette Resort and Membership
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
“You’ve Misplaced That Lovin’ Feelin’” croons via the air as Tom Cruise’s Maverick serenades Charlie, Goose harmonizing whereas the group eats it up. The scene? Iconic. The setting? The Lafayette Resort and Membership—a San Diego landmark famed for cinematic moments and off-key singalongs—reimagined after a $31 million facelift, cementing its standing as the final word gathering place the place tales are shared and recollections linger lengthy after final name. Lou Lou’s Jungle Room, the place that High Gun magic occurred, nonetheless steals the present. With its Forties clamshell stage and sunken dance flooring that hosted legends like Sinatra and Simone, it’s prepared on your encore. Since opening in 1946 with Bob Hope as its first visitor, it’s been a mixture of Hollywood glamour and on a regular basis hangout. Crank up the enjoyable at The Gutter, a two-lane bowling alley with shuffleboard and pool tables. Then, loosen up on the Foyer Bar with classic cocktails below a hovering atrium. Fulfill starvation on the 24-hour Newbie’s Diner, serving up Americana classics. Retreat to a 4-Bed room Bungalow with boudoir-inspired décor, and finish your day with a dip within the almost Olympic-sized pool, surrounded by striped umbrellas and palms. It’s the proper spot for making recollections—and belting a couple of off-key classics with your personal Goose.
BEST HOTEL INSTAGRAM
Casa Angelina
PRAIANO, ITALY
The standard lemon is greater than a fruit in Italy—it’s an emblem of Mediterranean life. Image vibrant lemon stands, refreshing granitas, zesty limoncello and cheerful lemon-printed fashions. Naturally, Casa Angelina’s Instagram feed embraces this spirit, typically sprinkled with lemon emojis. Their sun-drenched lemon pergola is a photo-ready haven perched above Positano, virtually shouting, “Want you have been right here!” Chances are high, you’ve scrolled previous this iconic setting in a video or two—it’s change into synonymous with the property. This citrus-filled paradise is a feast for the senses: golden lemons ripening amidst shades of blue and inexperienced, framed by the Amalfi Coast. Simply steps away, pristine white umbrellas, a glowing azure pool and Positano’s dramatic cliffs full the scene. Inside, Casa Angelina’s 36 white-on-white rooms are the epitome of class, every with personal terraces and uninterrupted sea views. Eating right here is equally spectacular. Michelin-starred Un Piano nel Cielo (“A Ground within the Sky”) elevates contemporary, just-caught seafood, whereas Seascape Cocktail Bar, cantilevered over the bay, affords 10 variations of the Italian Aperol Spritz basic. When life arms you lemons, discover the very best seat—and don’t overlook to snap a photograph.
BEST HOTEL INSTAGRAM | RUNNERS UP
Whereas your votes topped a winner, the outpouring of enthusiasm impressed us to have a good time a couple of extra standout favorites. Amongst them is @therebellohotel, which calls itself ‘the brand new lodge with an previous soul’—and it actually delivers. Nestled on Porto’s riverbank, its impeccably curated Instagram feed appears like a love letter to the great life—golden Douro sunsets, artfully plated native dishes and interiors that honor the constructing’s storied previous, all wrapped in fashionable sophistication. And as for uplifting lodge manufacturers, @zannierhotels turns strange journey into extraordinary journey. Cambodia. Namibia. Vietnam. France. From jungles to deserts, coastlines to countryside, every Instagram publish is a sneak peek right into a world the place serene luxurious meets unforgettable discovery—completely curated for individuals who search a deeper reference to each vacation spot.
For extra handpicked locations that encourage, comply with @kiwicollection. Your subsequent journey awaits.
