Top 10 best One&Only Resorts in the world

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One&Only stands out as one of our top hotel brands globally. Established in 2002 by Solomon Kerzner, a renowned South African accountant and business magnate, One&Only caters exclusively to the luxury resort market. It boasts some of the highest-rated resorts in stunning locations like the Maldives, Mexico, Montenegro, Rwanda, and Cape Town. Each resort in the One&Only collection is distinguished by its unique design and ambiance, which harmoniously blend with the local environment, and a steadfast dedication to delivering the finest experiences. Guests enjoy opulent accommodations, exceptional service, exclusive wellness centers, vibrant entertainment, diverse activities, and gourmet dining prepared by some of the world’s top chefs. Here are my top 10 favorite One&Only Resorts worldwide.

1. ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

ONEONLY CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA

This urban chic resort, situated in a prime location at the fashionable Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, redefined South African hospitality standards upon its opening in 2009. One&Only Cape Town appeals to both international visitors and discerning locals, offering tropical seclusion close to the city’s prime dining and entertainment district. Guests are greeted with stunning views of Table Mountain through the grand lobby’s expansive windows. The hotel comprises two sections: Spa Island, featuring 40 suites on a man-made island with a lagoon-shaped pool, and Marina Rise, with 91 rooms. Each room includes oversized bathrooms and decor inspired by the warm, muted tones of Africa. Embracing a relaxed resort ambiance, One&Only Cape Town is known for its signature ethos and warm hospitality. Notably, it is home to Africa’s only Nobu restaurant.

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

ONEONLY THE PALM DUBAI UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Chic and glamorous, One&Only The Palm is a stunning low-rise boutique oasis situated on the lush, landscaped private peninsula of the Palm Island crescent. Combining Moorish and Andalusian architecture with contemporary chic interiors, this property offers 90 rooms and four exclusive beachfront villas. At One&Only The Palm, you can escape from the everyday and bask in the sun by the shimmering pools or on the private white-sand beach. Experience tranquility at the Guerlain Spa, surrounded by ponds, fountains, and open courtyards, and indulge in a remarkable selection of bars and restaurants led by three-Michelin-star Chef Yannick Alléno. Across the water, you’ll find One&Only Royal Mirage, the equally stunning sister resort, where discerning travelers enjoy a warm welcome, understated luxury, and discreet, attentive service.

3. ONE&ONLY DESARU COAST, MALAYSIA

ONEONLY DESARU COAST MALAYSIA

Discover the unspoiled wild flora, lush rainforests, and secluded pristine golden sands at One&Only Desaru Coast, the first One&Only resort in Asia. Situated on Malaysia’s south-eastern shoreline and designed by the acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects, this resort blends the destination’s architectural heritage with a contemporary take on the traditional Malaysian ‘kampung’ (‘village’). Spanning 128 acres, One&Only Desaru Coast offers an intimate collection of just 42 junior suites, two expansive two-bedroom grand suites, and an exclusive four-bedroom Villa One. Each accommodation features private plunge pools, generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, luxurious bathrooms, and thoughtful Malaysian-inspired design elements. Guests can enjoy world-class dining, a secluded spa, a stunning infinity pool, and a vibrant beach club.

4. ONE&ONLY AESTHESIS, ATHENS, GREECE

ONEONLY AESTHESIS ATHENS GREECE

One&Only’s inaugural resort in Greece is located in the chic neighborhood of Glyfada, nestled within a tranquil 21-hectare beach and forest reserve. Overlooking the stunning sapphire waters of the Aegean Sea, the resort captures the essence of a private island, just 30 minutes away from Athens’ ancient wonders. The property offers an array of accommodations, including rooms, bungalows, suites, residences, and villas, all redefining the concept of outdoor living. Expansive outdoor areas provide exceptional tranquility and privacy, featuring private pools, fragrant gardens, atmospheric showers, and fireplaces. The architecture, bathed in sunlight, honors mid-century design with local marble, native timbers, woven leather details, and muted tones. One&Only Aesthesis combines historical treasures, world-class dining, and transformative wellness in an elegant beachfront setting. This sparkling coastal retreat evokes the vibrant Hollywood Grecian era of the 60s, for which Glyfada is renowned.

5. ONE&ONLY PALMILLA, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

ONEONLY PALMILLA LOS CABOS MEXICO

Perched at the edge of the Baja Peninsula, the renowned One&Only Palmilla resort has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most exclusive ultra-luxury destinations. Originally established in 1956 by Don Abelardo Rodriguez, son of the then-President of Mexico, as a 15-room luxury retreat, the resort was rebranded as One&Only Palmilla in 2004 after a $90 million USD refurbishment. The resort is thoughtfully designed for privacy, with majestic suites opening onto expansive outdoor living areas, and award-winning service ensuring every need is met. Guests can immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences, seek adventure on land and sea, or simply relax in tranquil serenity. The resort offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including surf lessons, whale-watching, fishing excursions, and Jeep safari desert tours, fostering an active lifestyle. Meanwhile, private cabanas and floating daybeds on one of the only swimmable beaches in Los Cabos provide peaceful sanctuaries.

6. ONE&ONLY PORTONOVI, MONTENEGRO

ONEONLY PORTONOVI MONTENEGRO

Situated at the entrance of Boka Bay, a fjord-like haven on Montenegro’s Adriatic Coast, One&Only Portonovi is a year-round retreat in Europe’s newest fashionable riviera. With its dramatic coastline and stunning mountains, guests can enjoy a nautical playground, explore fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites, or unwind by the resort’s sparkling pools and private sandy beach. The property features 123 guest rooms, suites, and villas and is home to Chenot Espace, which offers innovative treatments designed to enhance vitality and optimal health. The culinary offerings, led by executive chef Chris Mare, include refined Italian cuisine at Sabia, contemporary Japanese dishes at Tapasake, and fresh Montenegrin farm-to-table fare. Tapasake is the vibrant heart of the resort, where guests can relax by the pool and experience an energetic atmosphere that builds throughout the day, culminating in performances by legendary DJs.

7. ONE&ONLY NYUNGWE HOUSE, RWANDA

ONEONLY MANDARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT MEXICO

Nestled at the edge of the ancient Nyungwe rainforest within the lush greenery of a working tea plantation, One&Only Nyungwe House in Rwanda offers guests a unique opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary natural environments. Surrounded by awe-inspiring jungle views, every aspect of the resort is meticulously crafted, featuring inspired farm-to-table dining and exceptional spa and wellness offerings. Situated in the mountainous southwest of the country, this captivating resort provides an exclusive glimpse into Rwanda’s rich wildlife and culture, adjacent to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest mountain rainforests. After adventurous days exploring the park, guests can retreat to the resort’s modern suites and villas, each adorned with traditional African accents and expansive private decks with fireplaces.

8. ONE&ONLY MANDARINA, RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO

OneOnly Mandarina Signature Villa 02 Bedroom.jpg

One&Only Mandarina is set within an exclusive, chic coastal community on a pristine stretch of the Riviera Nayarit in Mexico. Perched on a spectacular cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with dramatic vistas and a lush rainforest backdrop, this ultra-luxury beach resort features 105 architecturally stunning villas and treehouses designed by Studio Rick Joy and Studio Caban. Each accommodation comes with a private plunge pool and views of either the ocean or jungle, offering exceptional privacy and seclusion. The resort provides a perfect blend of thrilling activities and peaceful tranquility, with unique family offerings, immersive nature experiences, spiritual wellness journeys, and interactive culinary workshops, all designed to immerse guests in the essence of the destination and foster reconnection.

9. ONE&ONLY LE SAINT GERAN, MAURITIUS

ONE&ONLY LE SAINT GERAN, MAURITIUS

After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation in 2017, the remarkable One&Only Le Saint Géran Resort – undoubtedly one of the finest beach resorts I’ve experienced – has emerged as the ultimate homage to its unparalleled Mauritian location. Nestled on a private peninsula, the property grants access to over 2 km (1.2 miles) of pristine white sand beaches along two breathtaking coastlines: to the east, the Indian Ocean bordered by swaying palms, and to the west, scenic views of sugarcane-covered mountains and a serene lagoon. Guests can delight in opportunities for family bonding while enjoying the idyllic beaches, two sparkling pools, the serene One&Only Spa, and Club One – a new focal point for all things active. The resort’s array of renovated and newly added restaurants showcases exceptional culinary offerings and captivating theater-style cooking.

10. ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH, MALDIVES

ONE&ONLY LE SAINT GERAN, MAURITIUS

The ultra-luxurious One&Only Reethi resort set a new standard for elegance and sophistication upon its opening in 2005, and it continues to uphold its reputation as the premier destination in the Maldivian archipelago. Situated on a partially man-made, octopus-shaped island in the North Male Atoll, the resort boasts an impressive 6 km (3.7 mi) of coastline, adorned with white sand coves and turquoise bays. Each of the 128 spacious villas is carefully positioned amidst lush landscaping, offering its own secluded stretch of sandy shore or private deck overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon. The culinary experience is characterized by innovative dishes of the highest quality, prepared in a variety of inspiring ways, while the attentive staff caters to the individual needs of every guest. Tucked away from the main resort area, the spa is nestled within serene gardens and well-maintained lawns. One&Only Reethi Rah remains a favored destination among royalty and A-list Hollywood celebrities.

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Urvashi

With a focus on luxury hotels, resorts and villas, I deliver premium travel planning service to both leisure and business clients who appreciate value over cost.
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