From luxury island villas in the Maldives to secluded, off-grid resorts in Australia, 2026 is set to be a landmark year for global hospitality. As travel demand reaches new heights, the focus has shifted from mere “Instagrammable” aesthetics to deep, restorative experiences.
According to Rena Shah, head of lodging and experiences at Chase Travel, the best new hotels opening in 2026 aim to be an extension of their guests’ lives.
“Things like sleep quality, wellness that’s built-in rather than optional, and spaces that work whether you’re traveling for fun or fitting work into a busy schedule feel more important than ever,” Shah explains.
Here are the six most anticipated hotel openings of 2026 that embody this “grounded” luxury.
1. Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi (Maldives)
Bvlgari brings its signature Italian glamour to the Raa Atoll in the Maldives. This resort is far more than a beach escape; it’s a design-led sanctuary featuring 54 exclusive keys, including a private island villa.
- The Vibe: Sophisticated Italian craftsmanship meets Maldivian barefoot luxury.
- Why we’re excited: The resort will house four signature Bvlgari dining concepts, including Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, bringing 3-Michelin-star heritage to the Indian Ocean.
2. Amanvari (East Cape, Mexico)
Nestled on the untouched shores of the Baja Peninsula, Amanvari is Aman’s newest North American masterpiece.
- The Design: Architecturally stunning “Casitas” stilted over lush estuaries and sand dunes.
- The Focus: Longevity-focused wellness. The property features a contemporary temazcal (sweat lodge) and a spa designed around the seasonal bounty of the East Cape.
3. Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli (Venice, Italy)
Opening in April 2026, this 15th-century Venetian palace has undergone an eight-year restoration to become an Orient Express hotel.
- The Highlight: The “Wagon Bar,” a tribute to the golden age of rail travel.
- The Location: Situated in the Cannaregio district, it offers a quieter, more authentic Venetian experience away from the tourist crowds of St. Mark’s.
4. One&Only One Za’abeel (Dubai, UAE)
While technically welcoming its first guests in early 2026, the full launch of One Za’abeel marks a new architectural era for Dubai.
- The Link: The world’s longest cantilevered building, perched 100 meters above the city.
- The Culinary Edge: Home to Nobu One Za’abeel, which features a global first for the brand: a late-night lounge format with curated DJ sets.
5. Six Senses London (United Kingdom)
Opening in the former Whiteleys department store in Bayswater, this is Six Senses’ first foray into the UK.
- The Concept: An “urban sanctuary” with a heavy emphasis on biohacking and high-tech wellness.
- The Draw: A 20-meter indoor pool and a “social club” that brings the brand’s sustainable ethos to the heart of London.
6. Southern Ocean Lodge 2.0 (Kangaroo Island, Australia)
While Australia sees many new “off-grid” retreats, the total reimagining of this iconic resort on Kangaroo Island is the standout for 2026.
- The Experience: Ultra-luxury that is 100% self-sufficient and integrated into the rugged coastal cliffside.
- The Focus: “Eco-consciousness without compromise.” Guests enjoy world-class Australian wines and local produce while being entirely disconnected from the digital world.
