Recent Five-Star Openings
Spring 2026

At the beginning of 2026, The Vineta opened its doors—the first US property of the Oetker Collection and a new chapter for Palm Beach. Just steps from the legendary Worth Avenue, the historic 1925 estate blends Mediterranean Revival architecture with a contemporary interpretation by Tino Zervudachi. Flooded with light, serene, and detail-oriented—here, history and modern elegance merge naturally.

With only 41 rooms, including four suites and a presidential suite, the property preserves intimacy and calm. The color palette is soft, the materials carefully chosen—every space speaks of the island’s relaxed luxury, of peace, comfort, and a subtle lightness in every detail.

At the heart of the house lies the restaurant, where authentic Mediterranean cuisine meets selected classics from Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc. The courtyard, lushly planted and bathed in light, invites you to linger—over afternoon tea, light dishes, or drinks to end the day. In the evening, it transforms into an atmospheric space where stories unfold in dimmed light. The Bar at The Vineta, formerly the legendary Leopard Lounge, is once again a salon for neighbors, friends, and guests—aperitifs, post-gala drinks, and refined bar snacks define its relaxed elegance. The Pool House, surrounded by palms and bougainvillea, radiates casual glamour. The historic pool, preserved in its original layout, remains exclusively for guests—a quiet promise of discretion, zeitgeist, and cultivated luxury.

On the quiet banks of the Zambezi, Mpala Jena Private Villas open a new chapter in safari experiences—intimate, secluded, and deeply connected to Zimbabwe’s untamed nature. Five kilometers upstream from the original Mpala Jena Camp, two villas have been created—each with three bedrooms blending Mediterranean elegance with African safari character. Thatched roofs, gentle arches, and open layouts provide natural cooling and effortless indoor-outdoor flow.

Inside, natural stone, wood, and a palette of sand, green, and terracotta tones reflect the surrounding landscape. Handcrafted textiles, textured rugs, and natural fibers add depth and warmth without breaking the spaciousness. Each villa accommodates up to six guests, and offers a private pool, butler and guide service, and three luxurious suites overlooking the Zambezi—with a view over a waterhole or a quiet river arm where impalas and zebras wander by in the afternoon.

Life here is a fine balance of adventure and retreat. Private safari vehicles, motorboats, and individually curated experiences make each day unique, while the villas remain a sanctuary of calm. The atmosphere is subtly luxurious, slow-paced, and deeply sensual—a place where time, space, and nature merge in perfect harmony. Mpala Jena is not a hotel. It is a home in the wilderness—a place where moments, memories, and encounters with nature become stories that linger long after.

 Castel Badia began a new chapter. The thousand-year-old fortress near St. Lorenzen in the Dolomites, once a Benedictine convent and spiritual center of the valley, is now a place where time regains meaning. History is not staged here but continued—quietly, thoughtfully, and with feeling. Careful restoration has preserved frescoes, vaults, and medieval windows, blending them with a contemporary alpine aesthetic of natural woods, warm earth tones, and fine textiles. The 29 individually designed rooms and suites are flooded with light and offer views of the valley, village, or courtyard. Many bathrooms are conceived as living spaces—with panoramic bathtubs, private saunas, or hammams.

The ensemble is complemented by a chalet in the greenery, offering absolute privacy. Well-being is a given at Castel Badia. The spa is located in the historic convent vaults and is inspired by the knowledge of the former abbesses and the restored apothecary garden. Heated outdoor pools showcase views of the Dolomites, while culinary excellence is shaped by Alberto Toè, who brings a modern, regionally rooted cuisine to the house.