European luxury hospitality is experiencing a surge in recognition, with several hotels receiving top accolades from leading industry authorities. Forbes Travel Guide recently unveiled its 2026 Star Awards, recognizing four European hotels with the coveted five-star rating: the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona, Spain; the Mandarin Oriental Savoy in Zurich, Switzerland; One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro; and The Maybourne Riviera in France. This comes alongside continued recognition for established luxury destinations, as highlighted by the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2026 and Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Forbes Travel Guide, an independent global rating system for luxury properties, awarded a total of 2,422 stars across hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise ships in 2026, with 343 properties earning the five-star designation. Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, noted that the newest winners are showcasing an “exciting evolution” in luxury, delivering “consistent and reliable world-class experiences.”
Barcelona and Zurich Shine with Mandarin Oriental Recognition
The Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, described by Forbes as a “modern, luxurious retreat,” is situated on Passeig de Gràcia, a prime location offering easy access to Barcelona’s attractions. The hotel provides a “serene oasis” with a world-class restaurant, rooftop pool, spa, and a garden area for relaxation. The Mandarin Oriental Savoy in Zurich also received the five-star award, further solidifying the brand’s presence in the European luxury market.
Montenegro and the French Riviera Enter the Five-Star Realm
One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro represents a new entry point for luxury travel in the Adriatic region. The Maybourne Riviera, located on the French Riviera, completes the quartet of new five-star hotels recognized by Forbes. These additions signal a broadening of the European luxury landscape beyond traditional hubs like London and Paris.
Castelfalfi: A Tuscan Village Resort Garners Continued Praise
Further illustrating the strength of the European luxury hotel sector, Castelfalfi in Italy continues to receive accolades. Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2026 and previously earning Readers’ Choice Awards in 2021, 2022, and 2023, Castelfalfi offers a unique experience. The resort, sprawling across 2,700 acres, encompasses a restored village with a 13th-century church, boutiques, gelaterias, and pizzerias, alongside two hotel buildings. The property features a mix of repurposed 19th-century structures and modern additions, offering valley views, multiple restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and a Montessori children’s club.
Castelfalfi distinguishes itself through its extensive activity program, offering over 40 experiences ranging from archery and beekeeping to truffle hunting, falconry, and culinary classes. The resort also includes woodland adventure centers, wine and olive oil tastings, and private villas with pools, catering to a diverse range of traveler preferences.
A Changing Landscape in Luxury Travel
The Forbes Travel Guide’s assessment that luxury travel is “moving into a new era” suggests a shift in expectations and offerings. The emphasis on “consistent and reliable world-class experiences” indicates a demand for not just opulent surroundings, but also impeccable service and curated experiences. The recognition of hotels in emerging luxury destinations like Montenegro reflects a growing interest in exploring beyond established tourist hotspots.
Classic Vacations, a luxury travel supplier, highlights the increasing demand for curated European experiences, offering access to exclusive deals and resources for travel advisors. The company’s investment in technology, including a multi-destination booking platform, demonstrates a commitment to streamlining the planning process for luxury travel.
Implications for the Travel Sector
These awards and recognitions are likely to influence travel decisions, with discerning travelers increasingly relying on independent ratings and recommendations. The heightened competition among luxury hotels will likely drive further investment in service quality, unique experiences, and sustainable practices. The expansion of luxury offerings into new regions, such as Montenegro, could also stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities in those areas. The continued success of established brands like Mandarin Oriental, alongside the emergence of new contenders, underscores the dynamism of the European luxury hospitality market.
The recognition of properties like Castelfalfi, which integrate a broader cultural and experiential component, suggests a trend towards immersive travel, where guests seek authentic connections with the local environment and community. This shift could lead to a greater emphasis on sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices within the luxury sector.
