From remote private islands to jungle-shrouded hideaways and iconic city escapes, the world’s most luxurious resorts blend natural beauty, impeccable design, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Below, we explore the crème de la crème of global luxury resorts, where comfort meets exclusivity at its finest.

1. North Island – Seychelles

North Island is the epitome of barefoot luxury. Located on a private island in the Seychelles, this eco-conscious sanctuary offers only 11 handcrafted villas surrounded by lush forest and pristine white sand beaches. Guests enjoy total seclusion, personal butlers, bespoke dining, and marine-based activities in a setting that feels like an untouched paradise. It’s a favorite among royalty and celebrities seeking privacy without compromising on indulgence.

2. Viceroy Bali – Ubud, Indonesia

Perched above the dramatic Petanu Valley in the heart of Ubud, Viceroy Bali is a luxury resort for travelers seeking refined opulence in the jungle. With only 40 private pool villas, each designed with traditional thatched roofs and elegant interiors, the luxurious resort blends Balinese charm with contemporary comforts.

What sets Viceroy Bali apart is its exceptional attention to detail. Each villa offers sweeping jungle views, heated infinity pools, and 24-hour butler service. Guests can unwind at the world-class Akoya Spa, dine at the renowned Apéritif Restaurant, or partake in curated experiences like Balinese cooking classes, yoga sessions, and helicopter tours from the resort’s private helipad.

Romantic, serene, and luxuriously appointed, Viceroy Bali delivers a sensory journey that is deeply immersive and unforgettable. It has consistently earned global accolades and remains one of the top honeymoon and wellness destinations in Asia.

3. Amantaka – Luang Prabang, Laos

Located in the historic heart of Luang Prabang, Amantaka occupies a graceful French colonial building offering suites with soaring ceilings, four-poster beds, and some with private pools. This resort is ideal for travelers seeking cultural depth combined with serene luxury. Guests can engage in Buddhist rituals, river cruises, and personalized wellness programs while experiencing understated elegance and warm Lao hospitality.

4. Atlantis, The Palm – Dubai, UAE

Dominating the crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis is a marvel of design and scale. With over 1,500 rooms and suites, including underwater accommodations that look directly into a marine lagoon, it’s a playground for luxury seekers. Atlantis also features world-class dining, a record-breaking waterpark, designer boutiques, a sprawling spa, and nightlife venues, making it an all-in-one destination for families and couples alike.

5. The Brando – Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

Accessible only by private plane, The Brando is a luxurious eco-resort on Marlon Brando’s former private atoll. The resort offers exclusive beachfront villas with private pools and access to a turquoise lagoon. Designed with sustainability in mind, The Brando runs on solar energy and supports coral restoration and cultural preservation. Guests enjoy Polynesian-inspired spa treatments, fine dining, and personalized experiences like lagoon excursions and traditional rituals.

6. Bellagio – Las Vegas, USA

Bellagio remains a symbol of refined sophistication on the Las Vegas Strip. Its Italian-inspired design includes an elegant lobby, the iconic Fountains of Bellagio, and botanical gardens that change seasonally. The resort features a fine art gallery, luxury shopping, and some of the city’s best dining experiences, including restaurants by world-renowned chefs. Bellagio offers a blend of grandeur and intimacy, perfect for those who want high-end excitement with timeless class.

7. Hôtel Ritz – Paris, France

One of the most legendary hotels in the world, the Ritz Paris stands for timeless luxury. Nestled in the prestigious Place Vendôme, it has hosted luminaries like Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway. The rooms and suites are opulent, with antique furnishings, chandeliers, and gold accents. Guests can relax at the Ritz Club spa, sip cocktails at the famed Bar Hemingway, and dine at Michelin-starred L’Espadon. It’s old-world glamour redefined for the modern traveler.

8. Cali Mykonos – Greece

Cali Mykonos is a sophisticated newcomer that brings Cycladic charm and contemporary elegance to Greece’s most glamorous island. Located on a private cove, it features 40 designer suites and villas, each with panoramic sea views and luxurious terraces. The property boasts a sprawling infinity pool, private beach access, wellness facilities, and fine Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a boutique gem ideal for romantic getaways and stylish escapes.

9. Mihir Garh – Rajasthan, India

Rising like a mirage from the desert near Jodhpur, Mihir Garh is a fortress-style boutique hotel built from local materials. This ultra-private retreat offers lavish suites with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and plunge pools, surrounded by vast sand dunes and rolling countryside. Guests can embark on horse safaris, explore nearby villages, or dine under the stars in a setting straight out of a royal fairytale. It's heritage hospitality at its most majestic.

10. Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The Icehotel is a true work of art, rebuilt each year using snow and ice from the nearby Torne River. Located in Swedish Lapland, it offers individually designed ice suites, ice bars, and ice chapels, all sculpted by international artists. Guests sleep in thermal sleeping bags on ice beds and enjoy Arctic adventures like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and viewing the Northern Lights. It's a surreal experience that blends wilderness with creative luxury.

11. Singita Ebony Lodge – South Africa

Set along the banks of the Sand River in Kruger National Park, Singita Ebony Lodge is a premier safari destination. Combining contemporary comfort with African authenticity, its suites are suspended in the treetops and feature private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor showers, and fireplaces. Guided game drives offer encounters with Africa’s Big Five, while the lodge’s farm-to-table cuisine, curated wines, and personalized service make every moment unforgettable.

12. Amanpulo – Philippines

Amanpulo is set on the private Pamalican Island in the Sulu Sea. This ultra-exclusive resort is only accessible by private plane and offers casitas and villas built in traditional Filipino style, scattered along the beach and nestled in the hills. Guests can snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, unwind in holistic wellness programs, and enjoy gourmet dining inspired by local flavors. Amanpulo embodies the Aman brand’s signature blend of tranquility, culture, and minimalist luxury.

What Makes These Resorts Truly Luxurious

Luxury today is more than thread counts and gourmet cuisine. It’s about immersive experiences, personalized service, and places that transport guests emotionally, culturally, and spiritually. The most luxurious resorts share several common elements:

The 12 Most Luxurious Resorts in the World