From private island escapes to tented retreats and savvy urban hideaways, these are our favourite new hotels and resorts for 2024.
It’s an exciting year for travellers and hoteliers alike as a host of exciting new projects open, from ultra-exclusive beach clubs and pool villa resorts to sophisticated urban hotels, tented hideaways, and wellness enclaves. Combining elegant, intuitive designs, sustainable construction, and world-class hospitality, these are the hotels, lodges, resorts and retreats that will help define your travel memories for the years ahead.
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Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, Thailand
Located in the serene Nai Lert Park in central Bangkok, the Aman Nai Lert Bangkok will feature just 52 suites, wreathed by landscapes tropical gardens, as well as 50 refined Aman Residences, and an exclusive Aman Club. Designed by renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy, who drew upon the rich tapestry of influences at Nai Lert Park Heritage Home while also applying Aman’s signature aesthetic, the property seamlessly combines local cultural influences with Aman’s elegant aesthetic.
Janu Tokyo, Japan
Opening next month, Janu Tokyo is located in the vibrant heart of Azabudai Hills, a new development that features Japan’s tallest skyscraper as well as over 150 luxury retail and dining outlets. Situated in a tower designed by architects, Pelli Clarke & Partners, the new Janu (sister brand to Aman) will feature 122 light-filled rooms and suites, each with timeless Asian-inspired interiors, double vanities, rain showers and bespoke soaking tubs.
Elevating the neighbourhood’s dining scene, Janu Mercato, one of eight dining outlets, is a lively, all-day emporium celebrating Italian culinary culture, best enjoyed on the Parisian-inspired terrace; while two Japanese restaurants include Ligura, which reinterprets the centuries old tradition of Edomae sushi, and Sumi, which serves as a modern interpretation of the traditional sumibiyaki grill, with organic seasonal ingredients cooked over charcoal and paired with premium wine and sake.
Also look out for the 4,000 sqm state-of-the-art Wellness Centre, which boasts one of Tokyo’s largest gyms as well as five movement studios, an extensive hydrotherapy and thermal area, and a 25-metre heated lap pool.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, United States
Set to fling its doors open on July 1, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, located on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, is the latest incarnation of its iconic namesake, which has been reimagined to draw inspiration from the history of the site and local culture.
Spearheaded by Hawai’i-raised architect Greg Warner of Walker Warner Architects, and designed by San Francisco-based interior design firm NICOLEHOLLIS, this Kohala Coast retreat will include 150 guest hale (a traditional Hawaiian beach bungalow); five restaurants and bars, including the original resort’s beloved Shipwreck Bar and Talk Story Bar; and a full-service Asaya wellness concept, complete with a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and will be powered 100 per cent by solar energy.
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Chevel Blanc Seychelles
Located in one of the Indian Ocean’s most romantic destinations, and opening in autumn 2024, the hotly anticipated Cheval Blanc Seychelles by designer Jean-Michel Gathy is located on the southwestern coast of Mahé Island, overlooking Anse Intendance beach.
Designed as an ode to creole traditions and paying homage to its natural surroundings, the new contemporary refuge will offer 52 villas spanning 220 to 1,950 square meters, each with a private swimming pool, beautiful beachfront, hillside, or tropical jungle views, and wall murals by Madagascan artist Joël Andrianomearisoa.
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The culinary arts are revealed in a five-part creative composition by the Cheval Blanc team: Mizumi, the Asian restaurant by the lake; Vivamento, the vibrant Italian facing the pool; and Sula, a Mediterranean beach club by the ocean are joined by the brand’s signature concepts, Le 1947, the emblematic French gastronomic restaurant, and Le White, with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The Seychelles Maison also offers a collection of Guerlain well-being rituals at the Spa Cheval Blanc, a pool, a fitness room, a surf simulator and two tennis and padel courts.
Santo Mine, Greece
A new all-suite luxury hideaway carved into the cliffs of Oia, a village on Santorini, Santo Mine is named for the site’s old stone mine and offers sensational views over the Aegean Sea from its 37 individual suites, each of which comes with a private pool or jacuzzi.
The adults-only boutique retreat’s interiors create a soothing and cocooning atmosphere of Mediterranean simplicity with the use of warm and cream colour tones and natural raw materials from local suppliers such as stone, ceramics, wood, marble, and copper in their purest form. The property will also include a new restaurant and all-day bar, a wine cellar serving local and international wines, a spa, and an outdoor gym.
Palazzo Cordusio, Italy
Residing within an icon of nineteenth century Italian design, Palazzo Cordusio, a flagship property for Gran Meliá ushers in a new era of luxury for the city of Milan. Providing a gateway to the city’s rich culture and iconic landmarks, the hotel will also be a new gourmet hotspot and social hub thanks to a partnership with Dubai’s Sunset Hospitality Group, who have been tasked with creating inspired fine dining concepts.
Palazzo Cordusio, A Gran Meliá hotel, housed within the historic Palazzo Venezia – jewel of the Assicurazioni Generali insurance company’s heritage and for over a century the company’s Milanese headquarters – and has been renovated by Studio Marco Piva, who has consciously conserved as much of the building as possible, including its grand staircase.
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The hotel’s 84 rooms and suites are characterised by imposing windows, Rubelli fabrics, soft furnishings, and in some cases private balconies with views of Piazza Cordusio. Leave time for a negroni at Giardino Cordusio, an Italian cocktail bar located in hotel’s internal courtyard in a joint project with award-winning consulting barman Giancarlo Mancino.
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, Austria
The legendary Hotel Schloss Fuschl will become Rosewood Schloss Fuschl in the summer of 2024. Idyllically situated on the banks of Lake Fuschl, the graceful, historic property, reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle, has welcomed illustrious guests for centuries. Under the Rosewood banner, the property’s deep heritage will be preserved while modern touches are applied across its 98 guest rooms, which include 46 suites and six chalets. Also look out for world-class restaurants and lounges, an Asaya spa, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
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InterContinental Auckland, New Zealand
A luxury city-central haven overlooking the city’s iconic Waitematā Harbour (making it a great base from which to watch the America’s Cup in October), guests at InterContinental Auckland, which opened in January, will enjoy an unrivalled location on the city’s waterfront, which is also home to Auckland’s newest shopping, dining, and social hub.
The new hotel features 139 luxurious guest rooms and suites, many of which take advantage of those stunning views, while Club rooms will have access to the coveted Club InterContinental lounge. Be sure to welcome home the Cup winners with a cocktail at the bar, planned for the 21st floor.
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The Eve, Australia
Opening in September 2024 in Sydney’s inner city, amidst the laneways that link Redfern with Surrey Hills, The Eve will be operated by TFE Hotels and designed by architect Adam Haddow. Boasting 102 rooms at the centre of a new lifestyle precinct called Wunderlich Lane, which is set on the site of Sydney’s original Wunderlich Ltd factory and which will feature boutique shopping, al-fresco dining and design-led commercial and event spaces, The Eve Hotel Sydney will also offer guests a lavishly landscaped roof top deck, swimming pool, bar and restaurant with a fully operable glass roof and walls designed by leading Australian interior architect George Levissianis.
Maison Albar – Le Victoria, France
Opening this month, a stone’s throw from Nice’s quaint old town, and with views of the surrounding hills and Mediterranean, Maison Albar, a member of Preferred Hotels, is a luxurious 132-room resort that pays homage to the Côte d’Azur coastline with chic nautical interiors. Design elements include art deco touches, crystal lighting, marine stripes, azure colors, and brown leather finishes.
The jewel in the crown of the hotel is the tranquil spa, where guests can relax and rejuvenate following a day of sightseeing, comprised of a marble indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi adorned with mosaics, hammam, sauna, and a wide range of wellness treatments. Guests can also enjoy a drink and sample fresh, local flavours at the rooftop restaurant, with its panoramic views; take a dip in the rooftop pool; or and explore a range of boutique shops in the prestigious shopping gallery at the foot of the property.
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Rosewood Doha, Qatar
Another exciting opening for the brand, Rosewood Doha and Rosewood Residences Doha will consist of an ultra-luxury hotel with 155 exquisite guestrooms and sumptuous suites, 162 serviced apartments for longer-term stays, and 276 residences available for purchase. The hotel is set to be one of the city’s most dynamic culinary destinations with a collection of innovative outlets, including a bistro, cigar lounge, specialty Chinese restaurant, and grab and go market. There will also be Asaya, Rosewood’s integrative well-being concept for soothing treatments after a long day bargaining in the souks.
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InterContinental Lifou Wadra Bay Resort, New Caledonia
For those looking for something off the beaten path, this seductive new South Seas resort features luscious green gardens and an untouched tropic forest – all on the white sandy beach of Wadra Bay. Located approximately 50 minutes away from the airport, the resort, which is slated to open in the second quarter of 2024, offers an extraordinary palette of colours, crystal clear waters, exquisite beaches, and local Melanesian culture. Choose from resort rooms, Forest Bungalows, Lagoon Bungalows or Beach Villas, which offer direct access to the tropical waters – each boasts a king-sized bed, ensuite with freestanding bathtub, and a private balcony.
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Dar Tantora, Saudi Arabia
An upscale eco-lodge launched by The House Hotel in Saudi Arabia’s historic AlUla Old Town, Dar Tantora boasts just 30 guest rooms, each featuring traditional decor and minimal modern technology, and was created by restoring and repurposing historical mud-brick buildings using modern engineering in tandem with traditional materials and techniques.
Named after AlUla’s famous sundial, the rustic chic hotel will also host Entrecôte, a classic Parisian-style eatery, and Suhail, which showcases the timeless flavours of the Arabian Peninsula.
COMO Alpina Dolomites, Italy
COMO Alpina Dolomites, a luxury year-round resort located in Northern Italy’s South Tyrol, is situated amongst the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site and nestled within a landscape characterised by towering peaks, sprawling valleys and alpine meadows. Featuring 60 thoughtfully designed rooms, the new alpine retreat offers sweeping views of some of the most famous peaks in the Dolomite range.
With Val Gardena being a jewel in the Dolomiti Superski circuit, all ski levels are welcome on the slopes at this ski-in/ski-out resort and expert instructors are on hand to ensure an exhilarating skiing experience. For those looking to venture beyond the slopes, the area also provides a plethora of year-round activities including hiking and mountain biking in warmer seasons and snowboarding and cross-country skiing in winter.
Guests can choose from a variety of dining options, including the bright and casual Alpina Chalet in the fresh mountain air, or the intimate Mountain Restaurant which is dedicated to the art of healthy dining by COMO Shambhala, which offers an expansive wellness program that includes indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness centre, and a beauty sanctuary.
Domes Novos Santorini, Greece
Another newbie for Santorini, Domes Novos will provide guests with a sophisticated, calm retreat near the island’s north-western coastline. Mixing Cycladic luxury with a sustainable approach, the resort’s design by Kiros Pagkalidis Architects uses local materials such as volcanic stone and blonde oak for a neutral, relaxed palette.
A total of 50 suites and two villas, each boasting its own private pool, will offer guests a glamorous experience and uninterrupted privacy, while the signature Vatanee restaurant will serve traditional and authentic Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist in a setting atop a rooftop garden where guests can enjoy a fine-dining experience paired with Santorini’s renowned sunsets. Leave time to visit the SOMA Spa, which will pay homage to ‘Ef Zeen’ living, the Greek concept of living well.
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Silvestre Nosara, Costa Rica
Opened last month, Silvestre Nosara is a luxury beachfront surf living destination, just steps away from one of the most consistent surf breaks in the world, in Nosara, Costa Rica. Bringing an unprecedented level of luxury to this remote coastline, Silvestre seamlessly interweaves the opulence of a hotel with the privacy, space and freedom of a private home, with spacious residential-style, design-forward accommodations and public spaces that blend seamlessly into the jungle surroundings.
Featuring just nine master suites including a four-bedroom rooftop penthouse, a tropical rooftop lounge serving cocktails and small bites, family-friendly amenities, and an expansive Studio space hosting world-class speakers, curated classes and extensive wellness programming, Silvestre has been designed to help travellers forge authentic connections, recharge and self-discover. Included in each stay is a complimentary airport transfer, a choice of performance surfboard, two classes at the Studio and an electric bike for exploring this breath-taking setting.
The Lana, Dubai
The Dorchester Collection’s first hotel in the Middle East, The Lana has opened in the heart of Dubai, overlooking the vibrant Business Bay area and the waters of the Dubai Canal. The striking 30-story tower is designed by award-winning architects Foster + Partners and the thoughtful interiors by celebrated Parisian design-duo Gilles & Boissier, who combine traditional elements with contemporary touches. The Lana’s Royal Suite will be the crown jewel of the new urban resort, packing in 180-degree views of the city and marina.
Eight world-class dining experiences include several concepts helmed by globally renowned chefs Martín Berasategui, with Jara serving a bold menu of Basque cuisine, curated by the master craftsman himself who has collected 12 Michelin stars throughout his career; Jean Imbert; and pastry chef Angelo Musa. Look out for the expansive and exquisite designer spa, opening soon, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views with food from High Society by Jean Imbert.
Rosewood Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Rosewood Amsterdam will open this year as the brand’s first property in the Netherlands. Housed in the former Palace of Justice, a building of great architectural, historical and social significance that overlooks the Prinsengracht (the Prince’s Canal), in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Amsterdam Canal District, the hotel offers close proximity to many of Amsterdam’s finest attractions.
With its central location and an intuitive design carefully conceived to offer an inviting and amiable atmosphere, the property will offer 134 guestrooms and suites, with many boasting spectacular views across the two adjoining canals. Amenities will include three restaurants and bars; the Asaya Spa; a state-of-the-art fitness centre; and an indoor swimming pool.
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91 Athens Riviera, Greece
Another new concept for Domes and the destination itself, 91 Athens Riviera will be situated in the coastal area of the Greek capital and will boast a private lifestyle members club persona that provides guest with an ultra-luxe glamping – that’s right, glamping – experience across 28 spacious and chic ‘tents’, most of which have their own private plunge pools.
Designed by Chadios Architects, the property has been styled to offer exceptional restaurants including Barbarossa, serving traditional Aegean cuisine, vibrant bars, and modern sporting facilities with eight tennis courts.
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Romer Waikīkī, Hawai’i
Following an extensive, multimillion dollar reinvention, Romer Waikīkī, formerly known as The Ambassador Hotel Waikīkī, debuts on the island of Oahu this year. Centred around Waikīkī’s creative culture, the new resort features an array of room types, unique programming, lively dining and entertainment at Waikīkī Swim & Social Club, and easy access to the island’s legendary outdoor activities.
The 368 guest rooms, which feature private lanais, lounge space and noteworthy touches, such as locally sourced and roasted Big Island coffee, offer a variety of layouts complemented by a muted pastel colour palette peppered with the texture, shades, and shapes of Oahu’s scenery.
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Downstairs, Waikīkī Swim & Social Club serves up all-day drinks, light bites made with local ingredients and a laid-back ambiance while the third-floor pool is vibrant and playful with striped cabanas, patterned umbrellas featuring Romer’s exclusive brand print, and colourful bean bags for lounging. Pool attendants keep guests cool with hourly face mists, sunglasses cleanings, cold towel cooldowns, sunscreen reminders, cold water shots, sunset viewing preparations, and more. Be sure to sample classic Hawai’ian dishes at all-day eatery TableOne.
Scorpios Bodrum, Turkey
Renowned Mykonos beach concept Scorpios will open a new outlet on the Turkish Med this May. The upcoming location will be home to the celebrated Scorpios experience, new gastronomy and event spaces, and in a brand first, exclusive accommodation.
Leveraging off the success of Scorpios Mykonos, which redefined the beach experience when it opened in 2014, a decade on, Scorpios Bodrum will be home to a new Ritual Temple, a multidisciplinary stage for artistic exploration and well-being rituals, as well as 12 stunning private suites, each featuring contemporary yet down-to-earth designs, contemporary interiors, and verdant gardens. Each also comes with a private pool and spacious terrace for those end-of-day contemplation sessions.
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Six Senses Kyoto, Japan
An apt destination in the heart of Japan, Kyoto, is known for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, traditional architecture and striking cherry gardens. The new Six Senses Kyoto, opening this year, is within walking distance of the Gion district and surrounded by tranquil gardens with meandering paths.
The property, which sits in front of the Myoho-in temple and Tokyokuni-Jinja shrine, will house 81 guest rooms that celebrate authentic Japanese décor. Guests will experience unique spa facilities that focus on Zen culture with tea ceremonies and signature ritual treatments at the hotel, as well as a curated sushi dining experience and an immersive children’s programme to teach young guests Japanese customs.
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KAI Akiu, Japan
Opening this month, this intimate hot spring ryokan, located in Akiu Onsen in Miyagi, around 90 minutes north of Tokyo by Shinkansen bullet train, will boast river valley vistas from each of its 49 guest suites.
In addition, exquisitely crafted Sendai glass ornaments will adorn every guest room and communal space. Akiu has a 1,500-year history as a hot spring destination, and two on-site hot springs will feed the baths at KAI Akiu, which include a foot bath set upon a wide terrace where guests can relax and soothe tired feet after a day exploring the region’s breath-taking gorges and magnificent Akiu Otaki waterfall. The dining options will include sumptuous multi-course Kaiseki menus featuring seafood, beef and seasonal vegetables.
Nobu Hotel and Residences Toronto, Canada
Rising 45-stories in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant Entertainment District, Nobu will make its Canadian debut in 2024 with the opening of Nobu Hotel, Restaurant and Residences Toronto.
Situated above the historic Pilkington Glass Factory, two dramatic residential towers housing 660 units, with the hotel located atop the west tower offering dazzling, panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline. The 36-suite urban resort features a private hotel lounge, wellness facility with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and the highly anticipated 1,395 sqm, two-level Nobu restaurant with separate bar and lounge, two private dining rooms, sushi bar and outdoor terrace.
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Six Senses London, United Kingdom
Residing in and preserving the classic detailing of the former art deco Whiteleys department store, Six Senses London is located near Hyde Park and will open with 110 guest rooms and suites, including 14 branded residences, when it opens later in the year. In a space reminiscent of an age-old London underground station, guests will have access to social and wellness clubs, a central bar and lounge, co-working spaces, a restaurant, wellness and treatment rooms.
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Soneva Secret, Maldives
Leading sustainable resorts operator Soneva will open the new, ultra-bespoke Soneva Secret in the Haa Dhaalu, the Maldives’ most remote atoll, this month. Thirty years in the making, the Soneva Secret resort features just 14 beach and overwater villas, including lagoon Crusoe Villas, accessible only by boat, and the Castaway, the Maldives’ first floating villa, each with its own water slide.
Each villa is designed in perfect harmony with the untouched natural setting, with direct access to the white sand beach or sparkling lagoon. Other amenities at the new hideaway include in-villa gyms and spa treatment rooms, bedrooms with retractable roofs for stargazing, an organic garden, an observatory, and a wine cellar you can zip line to.
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Ta’aktana, Indonesia
Scheduled to open in March, Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, will add a new level of luxury to Labuan Bajo, gateway to the acclaimed Komodo Marine Park. Surrounded by lush forests and the pearlescent shores of the Flores Sea, the new resort will serve as a haven for adventurous explorers and sea enthusiasts. With 70 luxuriously appointed suites and villas, the Ta’aktana caters to guests seeking relaxation and discovery, and will feature an Olympic-sized swimming pool, kids’ club, and overwater bar providing breathtaking sunset views. The property also embraces the traditions and culture of Flores, with a strong commitment to environmental conservation and partnerships with local communities.
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Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, Japan
Nestled in the Gion and Higashiyama district, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will feature 52 luxurious rooms and offer breath-taking views of the city. Its location makes the property, designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio (HYDS) and Wilson Associates (now part of Design Worldwide Partnership), especially interesting as it is secluded, yet in the city centre – the resort is located next to the Kiyomizu Temple, right on the hill beside the bamboo forest.
A unique feature of the resort will be its Noh stage, which will showcase the traditional dance drama performed since the 14th century, making the Banyan Tree the first and only hotel in Kyoto city to have such an attraction.
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