Top 10 best One&Only Resorts in the world

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best One&Only Resorts in the world

One&Only is one of my favorite hotel brands in the world. One&Only was created in 2002 exclusively for the luxury resort market by Solomon Kerzner – a South African accountant and business magnate – and now features some of the highest-rated resorts in the most idyllic spots in the world, such as the Maldives, Mexico, Montenegro, Rwanda and Cape Town. Each resort in the One&Only collection not only offers a unique design and ambiance which embraces the local surroundings, but also an unparalleled commitment to the finest experience on every possible level. Luxurious accommodation is complemented by impeccable service, exclusive wellness sanctuaries, lively entertainment and a host of activities, as well as exquisite culinary adventures from some of the world’s most accomplished chefs. Here’s my selection of my 10 favorite One&Only Resorts in the world.

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10. ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

This urban chic resort, located in an enviable spot in the city’s fashionable Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, set a whole new standard for South African hotels when it opened in 2009. One&Only Cape Town speaks to international travelers and discerning locals alike, proffering tropical seclusion near the city’s hotspot area for dining and entertainment. The hotel impresses its guests upon arrival with breathtaking Table Mountain views through the massive windows of the spectacular lobby. There are two sections in the hotel, one being the Spa Island (built on a man-made island and centered around a lagoon-shaped pool) with 40 suites and the other the Marina Rise with 91 rooms. All rooms feature oversized bathrooms and are adorned with fabrics and furnishings recalling the warm, muted tones of Africa. Offering a laid-back resort vibe, One&Only ethos and warm hospitality, the property is also home to Africa’s only Nobu restaurant.

Hotel website: One&Only Cape Town
Other accolades: One&Only Cape Town also features in my top 10 list of the best hotels in Cape Town.
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, welcome gift, daily breakfast breakfast, early check in, late check out, and $100 USD resort credit).
Review: read my review of One&Only Cape Town here.

9. ONE&ONLY THE PALM, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Chic and glamorous, One&Only The Palm is an exquisite low-rise boutique oasis located on the lush, landscaped private peninsula of the Palm Island crescent. Blending Moorish and Andalusian architecture with contemporary chic interiors, the property consists of 90 rooms and four exclusive beachfront villas. At One&Only The Palm, you can hide away from the everyday and soak up the sun beside shimmering pools and the private, white-sand beach; capture the calm of the day in the Guerlain Spa, set amidst ponds, fountains and open courtyards; and tantalize your palate with an enviable selection of bars and restaurants under the culinary guidance of three-Michelin-stars Chef Yannick Alléno. Across the water is One&Only Royal Mirage, the property’s equally stunning sister resort, where the world’s most discerning travelers are also assured of a warm welcome, understated luxury and discreet, attentive service.

Hotel website: One&Only The Palm
Other accolades: One&Only The Palm also features in my top 10 list of the best hotels in Dubai.
Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one dinner for two).

8. ONE&ONLY DESARU COAST, MALAYSIA

Unspoilt wild flora, lush rainforests and a secluded coastline of pristine golden sands await at One&Only Desaru Coast, the first One&Only resort in Asia. Nestled on the south-eastern shoreline of Malaysia and designed by the award-winning Kerry Hill Architects, One&Only Desaru Coast celebrates the destination’s architectural heritage with a modern interpretation of the traditional Malaysian ‘kampung’ (‘village’). Spread across 128 acres, the resort has an intimate collection of just 42 junior suites, two expansive two-bedroom grand suites and an exclusive four-bedroom villa one. All boast private plunge pools, abundant indoor and outdoor living spaces, decadent bathrooms and thoughtful Malaysian-inspired design features. Guests have access to world-class restaurants, a secluded spa, spectacular infinity pool, and a buzzing beach club.

Hotel website: One&Only Desaru Coast
Travel tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one dinner for two).

7. ONE&ONLY AESTHESIS, ATHENS, GREECE

One&Only’s debut resort in Greece is situated in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Glyfada, ensconced within a serene 21-hectare beach and forest reserve. Overlooking the sapphire waters of the Aegean Sea, the hotel evokes the essence of a private island, just 30 minutes from the ancient marvels of Athens. The resort boasts a collection of rooms, bungalows, suites, residences and villas that redefine the concept of al fresco living. Expansive outdoor living spaces offer unparalleled peace and seclusion, featuring private pools, fragrant gardens, and atmospheric showers and fireplaces. Bathed in sunlight, the architecture pays homage to mid-century design with local marble, native timbers, woven leather details and muted tones. One&Only Aesthesis blends historic treasures, world-class culinary experiences, and transformative wellness in an elegant beachfront setting. The glittering coastal hideaway recalls the 60’s vibrant Hollywood Grecian era, that Glyfada is most known for.

Hotel website: One&Only Aesthesis
Other accolades: One&Only Aesthesis features in my list of the best new luxury hotels of 2023.
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, welcome gift, daily breakfast breakfast, early check in, late check out, and $100 USD resort credit).

6. ONE&ONLY PALMILLA, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

Situated at the edge of the Baja Peninsula, the iconic One&Only Palmilla resort has been long known as one of the world’s most exclusive ultra-luxury resorts. Originally built in 1956 as a 15-room luxury hideaway by Don Abelardo Rodriguez, son of the then-President of Mexico, the resort officially became One&Only Palmilla in 2004 following a $90 million USD refurbishment and continues innovation at the resort. Naturally designed for seclusion, majestic suites open onto expansive al fresco living spaces, while award-winning service ensures every desire is catered to, leaving guests to discover enriching cultural experiences, chase adventure on land and sea, or relax in complete serenity. An abundance of outdoor activities such as surf lessons, whale-watching, fishing excursions, and Jeep safari desert tours inspire an active mindset, while private cabanas and floating daybeds – on one of the only swimmable beaches in Los Cabos – are restful sanctuaries.

Hotel website: One&Only Palmilla
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $150 USD resort credit).

5. ONE&ONLY PORTONOVI, MONTENEGRO

Located at the entrance of Boka Bay, a fjord-like idyll on Montenegro’s Adriatic Coast, One&Only Portonovi is a year-round haven in Europe’s most fashionable new riviera. Surrounded by dramatic coastline and spectacular mountains, guests can explore a nautical playground, discover fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites, or escape to the resort’s sparkling pools and private sandy beach. Boasting 123 guest rooms, suites and villas, the property is home to Chenot Espace, offering pioneering treatments scientifically designed to enhance guests’ vitality and optimum health. The culinary experience, led by executive chef Chris Mare, includes refined Italian dishes at Sabia, contemporary Japanese dining at Tapasake and farm-to-table fresh Montenegrin cuisine. Tapasake is the energetic soul of the resort, where guests can lounge by the pool and experience the atmosphere building during the day, culminating in performances by legendary DJs.

Hotel website: One&Only Portonovi Resort
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
Review: read my review of One&Only Portonovi here.

4. ONE&ONLY NYUNGWE HOUSE, RWANDA

Nestled on the edge of the vast and ancient Nyungwe rainforest, within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation, One&Only Nyungwe House in Rwanda offers guests the opportunity to go where few have gone before, with once-in-a-lifetime experiences in one of the world’s most exceptional natural locations. Immersed in wild beauty surrounded by awe-inspiring jungle views, every element of the resort has been carefully considered, with inspired farm-to-table dining, spa and wellness offerings. Located in the country’s mountainous southwest, the captivating resort offers guests an exclusive window into Rwanda’s fascinating wildlife and culture, positioned alongside the Nyungwe National Park, one of the oldest mountain rainforests in Africa. After full days out in the park, guests can retire to the resort’s modern suites and villas, each featuring decor accented with traditional African touches and vast private decks equipped with fireplaces.

Hotel website: One&Only Nyungwe House–
Other accolades: One&Only Nyungwe House features in my list of the best hotels in Rwanda.
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD resort credit, and two complimentary activities per person, per day).
Review: read my review of One&Only Nyungwe House here.

3. ONE&ONLY LE SAINT GERAN, MAURITIUS

Following a multi-million dollar renovation in 2017, the phenomenal One&Only Le Saint Géran Resort – one of the best beach resorts I’ve ever stayed at – has risen again as the greatest celebration of its unrivaled Mauritian setting. The property is located on a private peninsula, which offers access to more than 2 km (1.2 miles) of white sand beaches along two stunning coastlines: on the east, the Indian Ocean, fringed by swaying palms; on the west, sugarcane-covered mountain views and a tranquil lagoon. Enjoy opportunities to connect with family while experiencing idyllic beaches, two sparkling pools, the blissful One&Only Spa, and Club One – a new hub for all things active. The resort’s collection of renovated and brand-new restaurants features exceptional gastronomic displays and theater-style cooking.

Hotel website: One&Only Le Saint Geran
Other accolades: One&Only Le Saint Geran features in my top 10 list of the best luxury resorts in Mauritius.
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
Review: read my review of One&Only Le Saint Géran here.

2. ONE&ONLY MANDARINA, RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO

One&Only Mandarina is nestled within an intimate, chic coastal community set upon a rare undeveloped stretch of coastline along the Riviera Nayarit in Mexico. Located on a spectacular cliff-side overlooking the Pacific Ocean with dramatic vistas and a lush rainforest setting, the ultra-luxury beach resort boasts 105 architecturally stunning villas and treehouses designed by Studio Rick Joy and Studio Caban, each with a private plunge pool and views overlooking the ocean or jungle, offering unparalleled privacy and seclusion. The phenomenal property offers both thrilling activities and secluded tranquility, with unparalleled family offerings, mindful experiences in nature, spiritual wellness journeys and hands-on culinary workshops, all designed to take guests to the heart of the destination in an environment crafted for reconnection.

Hotel website: One&Only Mandarina
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast for two, early check-in, late check-out, and $150 USD resort credit).

1. ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH, MALDIVES

Ultra-luxe One&Only Reethi resort offered a level of style and sophistication unsurpassed in the world when it opened in 2005 and it still delivers as the Grand Dame of the Maldivian archipelago. Set on a partly man-made, octopus-shaped island in the North Male Atoll, the resort is blessed with an extraordinary 6 km (3,7 mi) of coastline, dotted with white sand coves and turquoise bays. All 128 spacious villas are discreetly placed amidst beautiful landscaping, each occupying its own secluded piece of sandy shore or private deck over the lagoon’s crystal clear waters. Food is innovative and of the finest quality, prepared in an inspiring variety of ways, and staff are always receptive to the personal requirements of each and every guest. Set apart from the rest of the resort, the spa is located within tranquil gardens and manicured lawns. One&Only Reethi Rah is a favorite among royals and A-list Hollywood celebrities.

Hotel website: One&Only Reethi Rah
Other accolades: One&Only Reethi Rah also features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives, the world’s best hotel spas, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, the best luxury hotels in the Maldives that can be reached without a seaplane, and luxury hotels loved by celebrities.
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. villa upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
Review: coming soon