As Kiwi Collection celebrates its 20th anniversary, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the special properties that have graced our collection since the very beginning. These hospitality icons, each possessing a unique character and enduring appeal, have withstood the test of time. They’ve continuously reinvented themselves, constantly improving their offerings and remaining relevant in their respective markets. These 20 hotels are truly timeless, each offering a unique experience in their own way.
Historic Gems in Vibrant Cities
Our journey begins with storied hotels nestled in the hearts of iconic cities. Perched high above Old Quebec in Canada’s second oldest city, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac stands as a majestic grand dame. Built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, it now holds the status of a National Historic Site, boasting themed suites honoring illustrious guests like Queen Elizabeth II. Just across the border, The Plaza Hotel in New York City also embodies the Château Style. A New York institution since its opening in 1907, it has graced the silver screen in numerous films, including “North by Northwest,” “Home Alone 2,” and “The Great Gatsby.”
On the other side of the Atlantic, Hôtel Plaza Athénée Paris holds a special place in our hearts, particularly for fans of “Sex and the City.” This 110-year-old French hotel embodies a couture spirit in every aspect, from its Michelin-starred cuisine to its luxurious Dior Spa. In London, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park boasts two Michelin stars for its exquisite Dinner by Heston Blumenthal restaurant. Over its 121-year history, this iconic hotel has hosted a diverse array of distinguished guests, including Rudolph Valentino, Mahatma Gandhi, and members of the British Royal Family, who enjoy the privilege of a separate Royal Entrance.
Flying east, we arrive at the oldest urban hotel on our list, Raffles Hotel Singapore. Established in 1887 and designated a national monument in 1987, this legendary hotel has welcomed luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling, Noël Coward, and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel’s famed Long Bar is credited with creating the iconic Singapore Sling cocktail. Approximately 1,600 miles away, The Peninsula Hong Kong has stood proudly since 1928, making it the oldest hotel in the harbor city. This five-star property is known for its fleet of luxury cars, all painted in the distinctive Peninsula Green, available for airport pick-ups and drop-offs.
Beachside Bliss and Urban Escape
There’s a unique category of big-city hotels that seamlessly blend urban excitement with the tranquility of the beach. Built in 1932 to celebrate a century of Brazilian independence, Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, overlooks the iconic stretch of Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach. This year, the hotel celebrates its own 100th birthday.
In Oman’s capital city, The Chedi Muscat, which opened the same year Kiwi Collection launched, provides guests with a private beach on the Gulf, alongside 21 acres of lush gardens and three sparkling pools. Set on the shores of Dubai Creek, the palatial Park Hyatt Dubai boasts a 100-meter infinity lagoon that opens onto a private sandy beach.
Coastal Retreats for Every Taste
Stepping away from the urban bustle, we find a collection of exceptional beachside escapes. Spanning 140 acres, The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, has been welcoming guests to its shores since 1926. This iconic hotel continues to evolve its offerings, now featuring four pools, a 6,000-square-foot oceanfront fitness center, and a host of engaging activities. In the vibrant beach town of Los Cabos, Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, has been a symbol of quiet luxury since 2002. All its rooms face the stunning Sea of Cortés, offering breathtaking views of the sand and surf. The hotel’s allure has attracted celebrities like Naomi Watts, who enjoyed a three-night stay last year.
Escape to the secluded paradise of the Seychelles, where the 30 Bill Bensley-designed villas of Anantara Maia Seychelles are tucked away on 30 acres of a private peninsula, fringed by pristine white sands. The hotel’s “Beyond All Inclusive” concept elevates the experience, providing à la carte dining at any time. On the French Riviera, Cap Estel has been a haven of chic since the 1950s. First established by a friend of Oscar Wilde in 1900, this iconic hotel has attracted a glamorous clientele, including the Beatles, with Paul McCartney famously playing his guitar by the oceanfront pool. Its petite private beach, adorned with a raised deck of lounge chairs, epitomizes charm.
Scenic Splendor and Luxurious Retreats
For those who prefer breathtaking views, we venture to the stunning Amalfi Coast, where Le Sirenuse sits perched on the cliffside of Positano. In 1951, siblings transformed their 18th-century family villa into this exceptional hotel. Its striking red exterior is impossible to miss, and the vibrant colors throughout complement the captivating views of the Amalfi Coast. For those seeking freshwater serenity, we travel to India, where Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is a mesmerizing sight. Completed in 1746, this magnificent palace is surrounded on all sides by Lake Pichola, giving it the appearance of a floating mirage. Its captivating beauty led us to feature it on the cover of our 2007 coffee table book, “Overnight Sensations – Asia Pacific.”
From the tranquil waters of Udaipur, we journey to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Here, in the enchanting Chanti wine region, COMO Castello del Nero resides within a restored 12th-century castle. Preserved frescoes beautifully contrast with the modern Paola Navone-designed interiors. The hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Torre, and a truly sublime spa experience, now managed by COMO. This is pastoral perfection at its finest.
Enchanting Retreats and Wildlife Adventures
Approximately 800 kilometers southwest of Tuscany, nestled in the Mallorcan village of Deià, La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel occupies two manor houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. This charming hotel, established in 1984, has hosted a diverse range of distinguished guests, including Princess Diana, Sting, and Gwyneth Paltrow. This year, La Residencia received our prestigious Most Romantic Hotel award. Climbing higher into the Swiss Alps, we encounter another icon with a long list of notable guests: Gstaad Palace. This fairytale-style hotel, envisioned by a village teacher and owned by the same family for 110 years, is a premier ski destination. The skiing is exceptional, but the après-ski activities are truly extraordinary, ranging from the cozy fondue restaurant to the expansive 1,800-square-meter spa.
In the breathtaking Red Rock Country of Arizona, Enchantment Resort stands surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. Reopened in February of this year following a $40 million renovation, this 36-year-old resort is renowned for its extensive range of experiences, including mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor adventures all run out of its Trail House. It’s no wonder Enchantment Resort received our 2023 Best Family Hotel award. For adventure enthusiasts, a safari in South Africa is a dream come true. Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sands Reserve has been offering unforgettable game viewing since 1998. The eight-suite lodge, situated on a hilltop overlooking a watering hole, provides guests with a front-row seat to the wildlife spectacle. However, no safari is complete without a Land Rover expedition in search of the Big Five, a thrilling experience that allows you to witness these icons of the savannah in their natural habitat.
Kiwi Collection’s 20th anniversary is a testament to the enduring power of exceptional hotels. These timeless icons, each with its unique character and enduring appeal, offer unforgettable experiences, reminding us of the magic that awaits us when we explore the world.
