Indagare’s Ultimate Bucket List Hotels: The 57 Most Luxurious Hotels in the World

There are select hotels that are so spectacular that they have become destinations in and of themselves. These are the properties that we dream of on rainy days and flag for future celebrations. They are coveted for their exceptional level of service, beautiful design, enchanting history, pampering amenities and the unparalleled access that they provide to out-of-this-world adventures, untouched landscapes or monumental works of man. These are our Indagare staff’s top 57 bucket list hotels, to help inspire your next epic getaway.

Heckfield Place, Hampshire, England: An immaculate 18th-century estate-turned-countryside hotel in Hampshire (only a 45-minute drive from London), the sophisticated Heckfield Place is a pastoral haven and a true passion project for owner Gerald Chan. We especially love the Scandinavian-inspired culinary program and room décor (with perfectly appointed bathrooms).

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes, France: Part of the Oetker Collection, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of two of the French Riviera’s most iconic properties (the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat is the other). We especially love the pool, lounge area and two restaurants, all of which offer direct sea views.

Ritz Paris, France: This legendary Parisian property has hosted such esteemed guests as Marcel Proust and Coco Chanel and today maintains its historic, Belle Époque feel—think Empire-style furnishings, gilded moldings and original oil paintings, all with facilities like a full-service spa and salon.

Villa La Coste, Provence, France: A modern art wonderland in a blissfully remote corner of Provence, Villa La Coste is a boutique hotel and open-air museum that packs a punch with sleek, sophisticated rooms, an on-property vineyard and hundreds of acres studded with works of art by the likes of Tadao Ando and Renzo Piano.

Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, Versailles, France: Unmatched access to the palace of Versailles combined with the wholly immersive experience crafted by the costumed staff make this property a dream for the history buffs and French-obsessed. There are only 13 highly coveted rooms, so snagging one feels all the more special.

Amanzoe, Kranidi, Greece: Just over a two-hour drive from Athens, Amanzoe commands a position atop a hill like a modern-day acropolis. Hills planted with olive groves lead up to the property, which is more in keeping with the Parthenon than a hotel. Spotless columns and arcades line a central agora that steps down to aqua pools and sun-soaked terraces—as well as the 38 pavilion rooms, 10 villas and private beach club. Here, one moment invites daydreams of Helen and Achilles, and the next skips to modern-day luxuries, including sunrise yoga and herb-forward cocktails around the fire pit.

Eleven Deplar Farm, Iceland: Owned by pioneering adventure travel company Eleven Experience, the 13-room Deplar Farm has access to some of the world’s best heli-skiing and fly-fishing—and guides. Don’t miss a dip in the swimming pool, which has a swim-up bar and built-in lounge chairs and is the ideal place to view the Northern Lights.

Ballyfin Demesne, County Laois, Ireland: There might not be a more luxurious stay in Ireland than at Ballyfin (just a 90-minute drive from Dublin). This ultimate country house is rich in personality and history, and it sits on a lush and peaceful 610-acre property. Each of the 20 lavish bedrooms are unique and foster a distinct feeling of traveling back to a more civilized era.

Passalacqua, Lake Como, Italy: An 18th-century villa restored on the banks of Lake Como, Passalacqua was a passion project for the owners of nearby Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and it shows. This intimate property—with only 24 rooms—is a study in detail, from the terraced gardens to the artisan-focused design to the secret tunnel connecting the spa to the lake.

Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli, Lake Garda, Italy: Set on eight acres on the edge of Lake Garda, Villa Feltrinelli was originally built in 1892 as an extravagant family palazzo, and it was lavishly restored and transformed into a jewel of hotel in 2001. The property’s romantic atmosphere and attentive staff are unmatched.

Storfjord Hotel, Alesund, Norway: Tucked amid 88 bucolic acres, the rustic-chic Storfjord Hotel stands out for its access to the surrounding fjords, luxe but not overly styled décor and culinary program that highlights seasonal produce. Treat yourself to some time in the wooden sauna and massage rooms, both of which are great places to unwind after a day hiking, kayaking or biking.

Adrére Amellal, Egypt: Sitting at the edge of the Great Sand Sea, this eco-lodge is a lesson in remoteness, with rooms set in kershef built of mud and rock salt and done up with authentic furniture and rugs—including oil lamps, as there is no electricity or phone service here. The focus is entirely on the place, whether you’re surfing the desert sands or soaking in the spring-fed pool among the olive groves.

La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco: For decades, La Mamounia was where all the luminaries stayed. Winston Churchill roamed the orange groves, and Catherine Deneuve lounged by the pool. Then the landmark grew tired—until designer Jacques Garcia was given carte blanche to create what is now a truly couture palace. Almost every inch of the vast property was handcrafted and feels distinctly Moroccan. Don’t miss the 27,000-square-foot spa or the magical gardens.

Dar Ahlam, Ouarzazate, Morocco: Tucked away in a remote oasis in southern Morocco, Dar Ahlam (the “House of Dreams”) is an exquisite hideaway. Highlights of a stay range from lying by the pool and dining on some of the best gourmet food in Morocco, to visiting a remote region inhabited by Berbers and Bedouin and exploring a traditional side of the country.

Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman: This eco-resort blends seamlessly into the rugged surrounding mountains, with views over the ocean. Its 82 villas offer private plunge pools and butler service—but guests can venture out for snorkeling, diving, mountain biking, paragliding and 4x4 tours. Plus, the mountaintop fine-dining restaurant has been called the best in the Middle East.

Segera Retreat, Kenya: Located on a 50,000-acre conservancy on Kenya’s Laikipia plateau, Segera Retreat is a ranch-turned-design-focused hotel that offers incredible conservation activities. Here, you can find works from emerging contemporary artists alongside antique pieces, including safari artifacts like a letter from Ernest Hemingway.

Wilderness Bisate, Rwanda: Wilderness, the Botswana-based, pioneering conservation/tourism company, brought a new level of luxury to gorilla-viewing with its first lodge in Rwanda, a high-design property that opened in 2017 on a stunning hillside near Volcanoes National Park and remains a dream to visit.

Chem Chem Lodge, Tanzania: Chem Chem’s northern Tanzanian lodge has eight luxurious tented suites and a main house outfitted with a gourmet restaurant and chic bar. Just beyond lies a deck and pool with Lake Manyara in the distance. Activities thrust guests into a real African experience, with the option to track animals on foot or go for a jog with a Maasai warrior.

Singita Sasakwa, Tanzania: Of the three camp options on the Grumeti Reserves, Sasakwa commands the highest perch and price, overlooking the Serengeti plains. Most guests, no matter how well traveled, will be struck virtually dumb at the setting and the splendor of this opulent manor house, which offers unparalleled pampering and game-viewing, in the midst of 350,000 acres of pristine natural reserve.

Wilderness Mombo, Okavango Delta, Botswana: Mombo Camp occupies space on Chief’s Island, a concession so rich in wildlife (both variety and sheer number) that it was at one time reserved as a private hunting area for the great chiefs of Botswana.

La Residence, Franschhoek Valley, South Africa: Originally designed as the private home of Phil and Liz Biden (a South African power couple and hotel royalty), La Residence is centered on a Provençal courtyard, with ochre stucco walls and a pool surrounded by wildflowers. There are just 11 highly personalized guest rooms, each unique and over-the-top fabulous.

Sterrekopje Farm, Franschhoek, South Africa: Sterrekopje offers a different side of the South African winelands, with a focus that falls less on the wine and more on slow living and wellness. Here, enjoy leisurely walks in the vegetable gardens, swims in the pool with mountain views and complimentary daily spa treatments.

Royal Malewane, South Africa: Liz Biden’s über-stylish bush camp is more like a luxurious six-star hotel than a safari lodge. The property is located in Thornybush, a private 11,500-acre game reserve on the southwest edge of Kruger National Park, and is made up of a main lodge and a private six-bedroom villa. Don’t miss the award-winning spa.

Miavana by Time + Tide, Madagascar: Designed by the masterminds behind the Seychelles’ North Island, Time + Tide Miavana presents the peak of luxury in Madagascar. The 14 sprawling, open-air villas have direct beach access on the private island of Nosy Ankao—where guests can trek to see endangered lemurs or go deep sea fishing, scuba diving and ATV driving.

Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe: Undisputedly one of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa, Singita Pamushana sits in the Malilangwe Reserve, which is home to lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and both black and white rhinos. It has become a model for its conservation and community programs—and yet, it remains somewhat of a hidden secret because of its remote location in a country where tourism is not yet as booming as it is in neighbors like South Africa.

Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia: Arrive to this jungle paradise via zipline and revel in the pure luxury of your tents, especially the alfresco bathtubs. Hosting only 30 guests at a time, the staff are dedicated to each and every need, with a private butler for each group customizing the itinerary, whether you’re more interested in expert-led orchid walks or kayaking the river.

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, India: The direct views of the Taj Mahal from every room leave little question as to why this is a dream hotel in India. A true Oberoi extravaganza, the property is palatial in every way, from its Mughal-style rooms to its ample gardens and pavilions.

Sujan Sher Bagh, Ranthambore, India: An authentic tiger safari experience in Ranthambore, Sujan Sher Bagh is owned by local Jaisal Singh, whose godfather is tiger specialist and well-known conservationist Fateh Singh Rathore. The tents embrace simple comfort, and days on safari complement nights spent dining on delicious cuisine and sitting by the fire beneath flickering lights.

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India: Set on 30 acres of wildlife conservancy overlooking Lake Pichola, the Udaivilas brings to life the splendor of the Indian subcontinent. Inspired by the traditional palaces of Rajasthan, the Udaivilas is a feast for the senses, with sprawling courtyards and gardens, where wild peacocks preen atop exotic trees. The interiors, embellished with marble, hammered gold, hand-painted frescoes and intricate mosaics, create an ambience fit for royalty.

Capella Ubud, Bali, Indonesia: The Bill Bensley-designed Capella Ubud offers a luxurious take on what it would have felt like to be an explorer at the turn of the last century in Bali, transporting guests in stilted tents (some of which sit 200 feet above the ground and have hanging rope walkways) filled with antiques and equipped with plunge pools.

NIHI Sumba, Sumba Island, Indonesia: The only resort on an undeveloped island, Nihi Sumba sits on 560 acres of unspoiled land, with 1.5 miles of private beach. Originally built for surfers seeking Sumba’s exclusive wave break, the property was transformed under the helm of Chris Burch into a villa-style resort with exciting beach activities and a deep connection to the local community, with chances for cultural immersion that cannot be found elsewhere.

Aman Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan: One of the world’s best hotels, Aman Tokyo has some of the most visually striking architecture in all of Tokyo. Built above the Otemachi Tower on floors 33 to 38, the Aman has the height one wants from a stay in this densely-packed metropolis—and it capitalizes on its Mt. Fuji view with glass windows at every turn. Overall, the hotel exudes a light, Zen quality that can be described as both Aman and Japanese—a minimalist marriage of true luxury.

Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives: Set in the Noonu Atoll, the 46-villa Cheval Blanc Randheli is an intimate and contemporary haven. LVMH Hotel Management developed the property in harmony with the island’s lush surroundings and lagoon views. In addition to water sports like diving, snorkeling, dolphin cruises and yacht trips, don’t miss the tennis courts and the Cheval Blanc Spa—with exclusive treatments from Guerlain—both on their own islands.

Three Camel Lodge, Mongolia: Experience the steppes of the South Gobi Desert from this unique camp in Mongolia, where guests sleep in traditional gers, or Mongolian yurts. Dine on unforgettable food after days climbing the dunes, seeking dinosaur bones and trekking the Alta Mountains.

Our Habitas AlUla, Saudi Arabia: A glimpse of another world, the Mars-like setting of Habitas AlUla, complete with warms sands and rippling canyons, is only one of the many highlights. Here, enjoy the stillness of the Bedouin-style property, whether you’re relaxing in the infinity pool, admiring the art installations or venturing to the nearby UNESCO site of Hegra.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai, Thailand: Scattered across expansive grounds along the Thailand-Myanmar border, with views of Laos, this wonderland camp has 15 roomy tented suites, designed by architect Bill Bensley, that are ultra-private and luxe, plus a two-bedroom Explorer’s Lodge with its own private pool. The main attraction here is the chance to meet the resident elephants on-property.

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The luxury of Lizard Island lies in the appreciation of privilege, as it is not only the only property permitted in the national park, but one of only two island resorts from which you can swim straight off the beach and over the Great Barrier Reef. Accessible via the resort’s plane, the property allows you to disconnect from the material world and reconnect with the natural, with the ability to visit the on-island research center where scientists work year-round to better understand and protect the reefs.

Longitude 131°Uluru, Australia: Set in an UNESCO World Heritage site in the Australian Outback, Longitude 131°’s safari tents allow guests to appreciate the nature of Uluru. Tours are done safari-style to account for the day’s heat; Guests have the chance to explore the sites that hold so much significance to the Aboriginal people and to meet with those people themselves, so they can tell their own story.

Laucala Island, Fiji: COMO Laucala Island, formerly owned by Malcolm Forbes, has been turned into a fantasy island—with total seclusion—by the founder of Red Bull, Dietrich Mateschitz. Activities here include playing an 18-hole golf course by David McLay Kidd, hiking, horseback riding, and a host of water sports providing access to the spectacular reefs ringing the island.

The Brando, Tetiaroa Island, French Polynesia: Marlon Brando’s private island paradise, just 33 miles from Tahiti, has been transformed into an eco-luxury resort, and every element of The Brando, from the sumptuous villas to the beautiful landscape and warm local staff, is top-notch.

Huka Lodge, Lake Taupō, New Zealand: Occupying an unbeatable location on Waikato River, just upstream from Huka Falls, the recently renovated Huka Lodge is a premier destination in New Zealand, especially for fly fishers. The service is of the highest quality, as is the cuisine, which makes the most of locally sourced produce, but it is the abundance of outdoor activities—white-water rafting, mountain biking, cultural experiences, heli trips to Tongariro National Park and so on—that puts the experience over the top.

Minaret Station, Wanaka, New Zealand: One of New Zealand’s most epic wilderness experiences is set on 65,000 acres of private farmland in the remote Fiordland and is accessible only by helicopter. Visitors can stay in one of four alpine-style chalets and explore by foot, boat, helicopter, ski or ATV.

Eleven Rio Palena Lodge, Los Lagos, Chile: “With a remote location on the banks of the Palena River in Chile’s mostly unexplored Northern Patagonia region, the lodge offers unparalleled solitude and access to all the area has to offer,” says Indagare trip designer Sam Doran. Hike to remote waterfalls, fly fish, heli to hard to reach glaciers for hiking and retreat to the cozy lodge where the local staff feel like family.

Awasi PatagoniaTorres del Paine, Chile: Overlooking the wonder that is Torres del Paine National Park, Awasi Patagonia is a must for adventure travelers. The sleek, Scandinavian inspired cabins are the ideal home base from which to explore the region with the property’s expert guides, on foot or horseback.

Cuixmala, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: The late billionaire Sir James Goldsmith bought the 25,000-acre parcel of pristine Pacific Coast just to the south of Costa Careyes and fashioned his own private reserve (complete with zebras), which is now a lavish hotel, with whimsical rooms and villas for rent.

Sol y Luna, Machu Picchu, Peru: Sol y Luna, part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, blossomed into the luxury property the Sacred Valley needed as Peru continues to rise to the top of travel wish lists. For sophisticated travelers traversing the Inca Trail, Sol y Luna is the definitive choice—plus, the ranch-meets-resort has enough activity to hold a traveler’s attention for days, without ever mentioning Machu Picchu.

Estancia Vik, José Ignacio, Uruguay: Situated on 4,000 acres of farmland in Jose Ignacio, Estancia Vik is a Spanish colonial ranch with exquisite interiors crafted by local Uruguayan artists, providing prime access to the chic beach town of José Ignacio.

Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla: Since opening in the 1980s, Cap Juluca has gained a steady following among well-heeled travelers who appreciate its authentically Anguillan feel. Situated on 179 acres of land, the 108-room Cap Juluca has one of the island’s most beautiful beaches and a warm staff, some of whom have been on property for decades.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands: The private estate of billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island is a famously exclusive hideaway in the British Virgin Islands. The 74-acre property, which can be rented as a takeover for up to 48 guests, includes multiple private beaches, exotic wildlife (including flamingos and ring-tailed lemurs), infinity pools, beachside hot tubs, tennis courts and a spa. The staff of 100 is top notch, including a private chef, a tennis pro, and kiteboarding instructors.

Cheval Blanc St-Barth, St. Barth’s: Set on Flamands Beach—one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean—this Cheval Blanc property has a wide range of tailor-made experiences for guests to explore on property, such as a poolside fashion show every Tuesday evening, Mini-Moke races through the heart of the island or private dinner on the beach.

Eden Rock, St. Barth’s: This legendary resort, an Oetker Collection property, is the place to come for an island scene within steps of sand and sea. A Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant and the British Colonial-style Rémy Bar—plus a spot for drinks on the beach—make it impossible to lack for food (or drink) for long. To be sure you’re well attended through it all, Eden Rock villas on- and off-property come with VIP butlers and access to many of the resort’s amenities and beachside services.

COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos: COMO Parrot Cay is exclusive (located on its own cay, a 35-minute boat ride from Provo) and expensive, but in design and ambience, the resort evokes the castaway beach feel more readily associated with resorts in the Maldives or Bali. COMO Parrot Cay is one of the most recognizable names in the Caribbean, with a loyal following of longtime guests including high-profile celebrities.

Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: An architectural marvel, the Fogo Island Inn is über-remote—sitting on the edge of a bluff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean—and offers guests an otherworldly experience. Activities range from hiking, stargazing and boating expeditions, to furniture-making workshops, cooking and foraging experiences and visits to the island’s art studios and galleries—plus there is seasonal viewing of iceberg movement.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, Vancouver Island, Canada: Situated on 600 acres where the Bedwell River meets the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by 1.5 million acres of UNESCO-protected wilderness, Clayoquot was founded in 2000 and can only be accessed by seaplane, boat or helicopter. It was a pioneer in the glamping movement and is still one of its very best practitioners, with 25 luxury tented suites.

Sheldon ChaletAlaska, United States: Accessible only by helicopter, this stylish five-bedroom chalet sits on the only privately-owned land in the mountains of Denali National Park and is a dream escape for active adventurers looking to unplug and connect with nature.

The Ranch at Rock CreekMontana, United States: Come here for 6,600 acres of pure Big Sky Montana: soaring mountain views, vast plains and pine forests that provide endless opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, shooting, skiing, fly-fishing and more. The Ranch’s accommodations vary from plush rooms in the main lodge to seven freestanding one- to five-bedroom homes—making for a personalized interpretation of a Wild West adventure that is especially family-friendly.

Amangiri, Utah, United States: The Amangiri spa is close to the famous Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument and blends seamlessly into its magnificent surroundings. Here, a serious 25,000 square-foot spa beckons, with a watsu pool offering water shiatsu, complimentary yoga and more.