Discovering hidden gems across Africa and the Middle East can transform any journey into an unforgettable adventure. From the serene beaches of Tanzania to the lush landscapes of Morocco, each location offers unique experiences. This year’s Gold List showcases premier hotels and resorts where elegance meets exceptional service.
Our team of editors has carefully selected places that redefine luxury, promising not only comfort but also authenticity. As you explore these stunning destinations, let the intricate details and charming atmospheres inspire your next escape. Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, these accommodations ensure a memorable stay.
Ellerman House — South Africa
Perched above Cape Town’s iconic coastline, Ellerman House is a masterclass in Edwardian elegance. Built in 1906, it offers breathtaking views of boulder-strewn coves and mesmerizing sunsets.
Nestled in Bantry Bay, this luxurious boutique hotel features 11 rooms and two contemporary villas that offer comfort with a touch of exclusivity.
Guests are treated as houseguests, with personalized services like bubble baths and expertly paired wines. The art-filled space boasts a collection of South Africa’s finest artworks, making each stay a cultural journey.
Singita Ebony Lodge — South Africa
Known for spearheading the luxury safari experience, Singita Ebony Lodge blends heritage with modernity. It sits along the leopard-rich Sabi Sands Game Reserve, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.
An elegant redesign in 2024 brought the lodge closer to nature with large glass windows and flowing spaces. Immerse yourself in private sightings of tree-climbing leopards and experience true tranquility by the river.
A luxurious plunge pool and a personal butler cater to guests’ whims, ensuring the lodge remains a timeless classic.
Kasbah Tamadot — Morocco
Kasbah Tamadot is a masterpiece of luxury nestled in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Its name evokes serenity with the gentle breezes that weave through the property.
This fortress, now part of the Virgin Limited Edition, was a governor’s residence. It offers lavish decor featuring Venetian antiques and Berber tents for guests seeking an extra degree of opulence.
Post a recent earthquake, it has reopened with enhanced elegance, offering guests secret passageways, reflecting pools, and ornate gardens. Rooms are atmospheric, offering a blend of history and modern comforts.
The resort’s gardens host intimate paths under jasmine-laden trellises leading to a serene pool, fringed with espaliered apple trees. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from their private terraces.
The unique blend of old-world charm and rich Moroccan culture makes this resort a captivating choice for travelers.
andBeyond Mnemba Island — Tanzania
A private island retreat, Mnemba is synonymous with seclusion and luxury in East Africa. Its pristine beaches have long captivated those seeking privacy.
Twelve quaint bandas designed like nautilus shells bring the natural beauty indoors, providing a harmonious retreat for guests wishing to bask in serenity.
Delight in indulgent dining, from lobster ravioli to Kenyan beef, all served on candlelit beaches. Guests revel in the tranquility of romantic dinners under star-lit skies.
Adventure seekers can explore turquoise waters by catamaran or discover vibrant marine life while scuba diving.
This beloved island haven hosts repeat visitors year after year, allured by its unparalleled charm and beauty.
Jack’s Camp — Botswana
Set amid the vast Makgadikgadi salt pans, Jack’s Camp exudes traditional safari allure. This 1940s-style camp remains a retreat of nostalgia and adventure.
Founded by safari icon Ralph Bousfield, it captures the spirit of bygone eras. Each canvas tent is meticulously decorated with intricate artifacts and plush furnishings.
The camp offers thrilling excursions like 4×4 safaris or quad biking across the salt pans. This unique landscape teems with wildlife, promising awe-inspiring encounters.
A 36-seat table invites guests to share stories over an exquisite meal. Afternoon teas in Persian tents provide the perfect respite amidst desert adventures.
For a quintessential safari experience, Jack’s Camp ties heritage with exploration seamlessly.
Matetsi Victoria Falls — Zimbabwe
Nestled along the mighty Zambezi River, Matetsi is a lodge that combines luxury with raw nature. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
Each suite and villa overlooks the river’s expanse, home to hippos and crocodiles, enveloped in the sounds of the wild. The interiors blend local art with modern amenities, ensuring a refreshing stay.
The lodge presents diverse activities, from Victoria Falls tours to exhilarating bungee jumps and relaxed river cruises.
Guests relish local dishes beneath starlit skies and candle-lit settings. For those adventurers seeking immersion in nature, Matetsi offers the perfect escape.
Six Senses Zighy Bay — Oman
In a secluded bay, hidden by soaring mountains, Six Senses Zighy Bay offers a serene escape reminiscent of an Omani village.
Rustic villas with palm-thatched roofs blend seamlessly into the landscape, reflecting traditional architecture. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations.
Explore nearby coves on private boat tours, offering a view of the region’s untouched beauty. Spot marine wonders like dolphins or eagle rays, adding to the allure.
With on-site facilities providing fresh produce and luxurious relaxation, this resort marries elegance with environmental consciousness. Each visit promises idyllic memories amidst Oman’s natural splendor.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah — United Arab Emirates
Standing tall on its island, Burj Al Arab is a symbol of opulence in Dubai. Celebrating 25 years, this hotel defies the trends with its extravagant luxury.
Each duplex suite greets guests with grand staircases and gold-trimmed interiors, epitomizing lavishness.
Indulge in diverse culinary delights across eight on-site restaurants, or unwind at the Talise Spa with a mosaic-lined indoor pool.
Experience Dubai’s ambitious spirit and grandeur at the Burj Al Arab, a masterpiece on the Gulf coastline.
The 2025 Gold List takes you on a journey of elegance from Africa to the Middle East. These top hotels and resorts promise unforgettable stays, blending luxury with breathtaking backdrops. Let these destinations be the gateway to your next adventure.
