The Leading Hotels of the World reveals its Winter Collection with ten new luxury hotels across Africa and Europe, from safari lodges to alpine retreats
The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) has introduced its highly anticipated Winter Collection, adding ten new independent luxury hotels to its portfolio of more than 425 distinctive properties worldwide. From South Africa’s dramatic coastline to Europe’s snow-draped peaks, these newcomers shine a spotlight on unique design, cultural character, and immersive experiences—a signature LHW hallmark.
Deniz Omurgonulsen, Vice President of Member Experience at The Leading Hotels of the World, highlights the brand’s growing diversity: “This intake comprises a renovated grain silo in South Africa, a nature lodge in Reunion Island, a re-imagined monastery in the Dolomites and a cutting-edge mountain spa in Switzerland… All have the ‘Leading Hotels of the World DNA’ including family-led vision, cultural integrity and joyful hospitality.”
Africa: Wild Coastlines, Mountain Vineyards & Luxury Safaris
Birkenhead House, Hermanus – South Africa
A boutique oceanfront escape perched above Walker Bay, Birkenhead House offers panoramic views, seasonal menus, whale watching, and intimate rooms showcasing contemporary African art. Activities range from foraging with the chef to wine touring in the famed Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, while the spa delivers deeply restorative treatments inspired by local wellness traditions.
La Residence, Franschhoek – South Africa
Set within a private 30-acre wine estate, La Residence effortlessly blends vineyard glamour with Cape Winelands serenity. With bespoke interiors, a curated art collection, and opulent suites, guests enjoy personalised dining, Chef’s Table experiences, spa rituals, and scenic cycling among orchards and rose gardens—plus access to award-winning wine estates.
Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger – South Africa
A world-class safari destination, Royal Malewane combines refined lodge design, unparalleled wildlife encounters, and award-winning guiding. Guests choose from four distinctive lodges and exclusive villas, enjoy inclusive dining led by multiple Executive Chefs, and discover impressive wellness offerings—including an 80-foot lap pool and African baths—set amid Greater Kruger’s extraordinary wilderness.
The Silo Hotel, Cape Town – South Africa
A dramatic transformation of a historic grain silo above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, The Silo Hotel is an architectural icon on Cape Town’s waterfront. Each room features bold interiors and curated African artworks, while dining spans rooftop views, creative menus, and award-winning cocktails—plus access to the city’s top cultural and culinary districts.
Diana Dea Lodge, Reunion Island
Set in a former hunting reserve on Reunion Island’s eastern highlands, Diana Dea Lodge immerses guests in forests, volcanic landscapes, and ocean-view wilderness. Built using natural materials and surrounded by free-roaming deer, the lodge offers island-inspired cuisine, spa rituals overlooking dense forest, and access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and Creole heritage.
Europe: Castles, Alpine Sanctuaries & Inspired Design
Argos in Cappadocia – Türkiye
A one-of-a-kind restoration of caves, monasteries, and tunnels into a living “village-within-a-village,” Argos blends sustainable philosophy with Anatolian cuisine and local craftsmanship. Guests explore Cappadocia’s dreamlike valleys, sunrise balloon rides, and traditional culture while staying inside a carved historical landscape.
Castel Badia – Dolomites, Italy
Opening December 2025, this millennium-old castle has been reimagined by the creators of Borgo Egnazia into a modern alpine haven with only 29 rooms and a private chalet. Expect a refined blend of Tyrolean culinary culture, firelit conversation, historic architecture, and skiing just five minutes away from the iconic Plan de Corones slopes.
Grand Resort Zürserhof – Austria
A prestigious family-run landmark in the Alps, Zürserhof delivers ski-in, ski-out luxury with panoramic mountain views, a 34,000-sq-ft spa, elegant dining, and direct access to nearly 200 miles of interconnected ski terrain. Wellness rituals, refined menus, and warm hospitality define its long-established alpine reputation.
Huus Quell by Appenzeller Huus – Switzerland
Newly opened in October 2025, Huus Quell is a next-generation alpine wellness retreat set among pristine mountains, featuring 30 suites, two restaurants, and an extraordinary wellness and longevity programme including cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Watsu, and holistic treatments across 24,000 sq ft of dedicated wellbeing space.
The Florentin – Frankfurt, Germany
Opening in 2025, The Florentin transforms the historic 1901 Villa Speyer into an elegant, contemporary destination in Frankfurt’s sophisticated Sachsenhausen district. The hotel offers 49 suites, two dining experiences, a tranquil spa, curated services, and beautifully restored salons designed for private gatherings and refined urban living.
At a Glance
- 10 new luxury properties worldwide
- Now part of Leading Hotels of the Wrold’s 425+ independent hotels
- Featuring castles, safari lodges & wellness retreats
- New destinations across Africa & Europe
- Highlights include Cape Winelands, Dolomites & Greater Kruger
- Strong focus on sustainability, culture, and unique design
- Openings span 1999 to late 2025
Also read LHW 2025 Annual Convention: Leading with Purpose in a New Era of Luxury Hospitality
