International luxury travel network Virtuoso announced the winners of its annual Best of the Best awards, honoring the top hotels and hoteliers of the year.
To select this year’s recipients, Virtuoso gathered input from more than 800 travel agency partners and over 16,000 professional travel advisors, who evaluated properties on criteria such as dining, wellness, design and guest experience.
“This year’s Best of the Best winners are truly renowned properties. They constantly redefine modern luxury by proactively reimagining the guest experience and inspiring others within our own industry to think bigger. In that sense, they mirror Virtuoso’s own philosophy regarding innovation and we proudly recognize these great partners,” said Albert Herrera, senior vice president of global product partnerships at Virtuoso.
Named Virtuoso’s Hotel of the Year, Palazzo Seneca in Norcia, Italy, stands out not only for its refined accommodations and service but also for the owners’ deep commitment to their local community and ongoing charitable efforts.
Six Senses Douro Valley in Lamego, Portugal, earned Best Achievement in Design for the elegance and charm of its country manor, set amid rolling hills and vineyards that enhance the guest experience.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples © Don Riddle
“There’s a prevailing sense of quiet, calm and relaxation as soon as you enter,” said Linda Zelisko of Travel Expert, a Virtuoso agency partner, describing the atmosphere at one of the honorees.
La Terrazza at Hotel Eden Rome won Best Dining Experience for its inventive cuisine and memorable service, while Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris received Best Bar for its authentic, timeless ambience.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, in Florida was recognized for Best Family Program, thanks to immersive educational offerings such as guided visits to museums, bird sanctuaries and local artisans that engage guests of all ages.
Best Wellness Program was awarded to Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, which was celebrated for its comprehensive approach to physical, emotional, spiritual and medical wellness, anchored by a world-class spa.
Special distinctions included Best Virtuoso Experience, presented to Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen, and Best Virtuoso Newcomer, awarded to Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown.
Areli Guzman of Viajes Terranova praised Andaz Mayakoba, saying, “From the moment you arrive in the Sanctuary Lounge and make a wish by throwing a little stone in the cenote, you know you are in a special place. Everything in the hotel is an experience, which makes it unique.”
Virtuoso also honored Cavallo Point – The Lodge at Golden Gate in Sausalito, California, for Sustainable Tourism Leadership, and named Susanne Hatje of Mandarin Oriental, New York, Hotelier of the Year.
These awards highlight properties and individuals who elevate hospitality through design, service, sustainability and authentic experiences, reflecting Virtuoso’s commitment to exceptional travel and meaningful partnerships.