Since it was founded in the 1960s, Four Seasons has established itself as one of the world’s most esteemed hospitality brands. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, the company now operates 133 properties across every habitable continent, with more developments planned in the coming years. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to sophistication, each Four Seasons address embodies a certain standard of elegance. Yet some properties go beyond expectation, setting new benchmarks for refinement and standing out as true gems within the brand’s illustrious portfolio. Read on to discover the best Four Seasons hotels in the world.
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
As rural retreats go, Golden Triangle is right up there with the very best. Nestled in the far north of Thailand, separated from Myanmar only by the Ruak River – which flows into the Mekong just a couple of kilometres downstream – this magical escape allows visitors to relax, rejuvenate and recharge while enjoying the verdant greenery which surrounds the property.
The luxurious tent and lodge accommodations are sanctuaries carved out of the Thai jungle, featuring decking areas nestled in nature. While the property offers a variety of “tent” options, these are as far removed from a traditional tent as possible without losing the essence of the term. Spanning 54 sq m, each space is well-appointed with king-sized beds, rustic wooden furniture, and décor inspired by the rich culture of northern Thailand.
For those seeking a slightly more elevated experience, the Explorer’s Lodge unfolds across 232 sq m, offering a serene retreat complete with a private infinity pool, framed by lush greenery. A lamplit veranda and tranquil decking area further enhance the sense of peace, creating the ideal environment for relaxation and immersion into nature.
Of course, the property also features the world-class amenities guests have come to expect from the Four Seasons brand. The Nong Yao restaurant offers the finest of Thai, Laotian and Burmese cooking, while Burma Bar invites guests to sink into leather seats and enjoy a refreshing cocktail. The property also affords access to its very own wine cellar, with daily tasting sessions and an impressive selection of vintages complementing a private wine pairing dinner. The hotel also offers a range of elevated, off-site dinners, such as the Riverside Dinner and the Elephant Camp Dinner.
Ideal for guests seeking an authentic connection with local culture, Four Seasons Golden Triangle offers a variety of refined tours and experiences, including the Jungle Trails safari-style expedition. Furthermore, cultural immersion activities extend to fishing and traditional weaving alongside local artisans, providing a hands-on insight into the heritage of the region. For those wishing to engage more closely with nature, the resort offers workshops in tree planting, as well as bamboo and rattan crafting, leaving a lasting impression on both guests and locals alike.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Hawaii, USA
A refined waterfront retreat set within one of Hawaii’s last remaining unspoiled wilderness areas, Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers the ideal setting to experience the very essence of what most envision when they think of Hawaii.
Guests can unwind in some of the most exquisite accommodations across the brand’s entire portfolio, with a range of rooms and suites providing expansive spaces, high-end fixtures and fittings and incredible views across the serene expanses of Hulopoe Bay. Decor is cool and contemporary while incorporating aspects of Hawaiian history and culture, in addition to unique features like the Japanese wooden soaking tub and private gardens.
One of the highlights of Four Seasons Resort Lanai is undoubtedly the breadth of experiences on offer. Given the influence of the ocean in daily Hawaiian life, the property showcases a range of aquatic adventures, from snorkelling and a catamaran tour to the bespoke ‘Sail Away With Me’ experience, an expertly curated experience specifically designed for those who wish to pop the question.
Back on land, guests can become a member for the week at the impeccable Jack Nicklaus signature Manele Golf Course. With a variety of other sports experiences on offer, including racquet sports, archery, hiking, equestrian and biking, those with an active lifestyle enjoy an abundance of opportunities to stay energised and engaged amid the resort’s spectacular natural surroundings.
Day trips to Lanai’s hidden gems and nearby islands, along with private cultural lessons and immersion experiences, showcase the resort’s exceptional offerings. A particular highlight is the Lanai Observatory, a world-class celestial viewing experience located on the Four Seasons property itself. Together, these experiences help position Four Seasons Resort Lanai as one of the most well-equipped properties in the entire Four Seasons portfolio.
Of course, participation in activities is entirely optional – this is your break, after all. For those who prefer to holiday at a slightly slower pace, the exceptional Lanai Spa awaits, offering a range of signature Four Seasons therapies and treatments inspired by the island’s pristine natural surroundings.
Furthermore, this sprawling resort boasts some of the best dining on the island. With no fewer than six outstanding restaurants and bars, guests can enjoy a versatile culinary selection, the highlight of which may be the irresistible Osteria Mozza Lanai – a classic Italian offering bold flavours and heavenly views across the bay.
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Mexico
Located on the Punta Mita Peninsula, just an hour’s drive from the tourist hotspot of Puerto Vallarta, sits Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. A double-gated sanctuary, the retreat offers the perfect setting to reconnect with family and friends while celebrating the rich culture of Mexico, all amid the breathtaking beauty of the country’s Pacific coast. Additionally, guests who prefer an adults-only experience can enjoy the nearby Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort – a boutique getaway with just 15 luxury tented bungalows.
Back at the main Punta Mita resort, accommodations are nothing short of spectacular. The undisputed highlight is Casa Tesoro – a 5,000 sqm private haven perched atop a clifftop, gazing out over the Pacific Ocean. This one-of-a-kind retreat embodies everything one could wish for in a Mexican hideaway.
Designed to host up to 14 guests, the villa features striking modern architecture, expansive indoor–outdoor living spaces, and a serene infinity pool. Throughout, graceful décor and understated furnishings in soft, natural hues create an atmosphere of refined elegance. Among its many exceptional amenities are a Studio 54-inspired speakeasy, an oversized jetted tub, a private fitness centre, a heated multilevel infinity pool, and two four-seat golf carts for guest use – each detail crafted to deliver a truly world-class in-residence experience.
The resort itself boasts its own suite of outstanding amenities, each one crafted with the comfort of guests in mind. Exceptional dining experiences span Mexican, Asian, and American cuisines, while the sumptuous steakhouse Bahia by Richard Sandoval offers a decadent journey through a menu of masterfully prepared cuts. The resort also features an array of bars, including The Shack, a laid-back beachfront venue where the spirit of Mexico’s coastal charm comes vividly to life – perfect for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail.
Curated experiences allow guests to sample the real Mexico, such as the Sea Turtle Release – a once-in-a-lifetime experience where guests can help baby turtles find their way to the ocean. The Viva La Dance private villa experience is another must-do; a personalised salsa class featuring a live Cubano band in the comfort of your own residence.
With an abundance of further sophisticated pursuits – including golf at the renowned Punta Mita Golf Club, home to the iconic “Tail of the Whale” third hole – alongside a variety of racquet sports, land-based adventures, and aquatic experiences, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita stands as a haven for recreation, relaxation, and refined leisure on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, French Riviera
Perched on the southern tip of the Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat Peninsula just outside Nice, one of the French Riviera’s most iconic hotels casts a protective gaze over the Mediterranean Sea. The site on which Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat sits has been an iconic resort on the French Riviera for over a century; nowadays, the Four Seasons brand has taken over the mantle, showcasing the ultimate in elevated sophistication in one of Europe’s most refined addresses.
Where the previous entries on this list have showcased more contemporary accommodations – including the adventurous tents of the Golden Triangle – Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat offers a more traditional experience: the type of suites that instantly evoke the elegance and grandeur of classic, old-world European grandeur. At the zenith of these offerings is almost certainly Villa Rose Pierre, a private residence boasting unobstructed Mediterranean views and serene private gardens. This exceptional villa accommodates up to ten adults and elevates the experience with a private pool, tennis court, indoor fitness studio and sauna, and the attentive service of a personal attendant available around the clock.
This lavish address is well-appointed with a range of exceptional amenities, not least the array of dining options. Club Dauphin takes advantage of the Mediterranean, with a fantastic range of seafood dishes, while La Veranda is another exquisite Mediterranean restaurant, showcasing the best of French and Italian fare. This being France, the hotel would be remiss to not draw guests’ attention to its collection of top-class wines, inviting them to explore and savour some of the finest vintages. With the dedicated, award-winning Wine Director Alessandro Nigro Imperiale on hand to guide visitors through their oenophilic journey, the chances of merriment are more probable than possible.
The Grand-Hôtel, Cap Ferrat Spa forms a serene retreat for those who wish to take a more leisurely approach to their getaway. This stunning spa boasts a range of wellness services such as the tranquil floating awakening experience, in addition to bespoke spa treatments, fitness facilities and even a hydrotherapy circuit. The complimentary morning yoga is another welcome touch.
Thanks to its location in one of the world’s most iconic addresses, the hotel also boasts access to a number of elevated off-site experiences. The Boat Day to Saint Tropez represents a popular choice, while auto-enthusiasts can take advantage of the authentic Vintage Car Rental service, with an abundance of classic brands on offer. Of course, there are many, many more experiences on offer depending on your taste.
Four Seasons remains one of the world’s most coveted hospitality brands. With an extensive collection of refined properties across the globe, guests can be confident that whichever resort they visit, an unforgettable experience awaits. Yet, a select few properties stand out for unique reasons: whether it is connecting with nature at the Golden Triangle, embracing island life in Lanai, indulging in the old-world European elegance of the French Riviera, or savouring the exquisite flavours of coastal Mexico, these exceptional resorts represent some of the very best within the Four Seasons’ vast portfolio.
