I have been a huge fan of Belmond ever since my career in luxury travel began. The brand has long been synonymous with timeless elegance, impeccable service and exceptional destinations across the globe.
I have been fortunate enough to experience their hospitality many times over the years, most recently at an intimate showcase in Chester, where I reconnected with friends and colleagues from some of their most iconic properties and journeys. The evening unfolded with exquisite dishes crafted by Chef Roberto Toro, Executive Chef at Otto Geleng, the Michelin‑starred restaurant at Grand Hotel Timeo. Paired with thoughtful drinks and energising conversations about new developments across the collection, it was a celebration of everything that makes Belmond so distinctive.
This year, Belmond marks 50 years since acquiring their very first property, Hotel Cipriani in Venice, so there seemed no better moment to introduce (or reintroduce) you to this legendary brand and the diverse experiences it offers.
From grand hotels to iconic trains, serene river journeys and soulful safari experiences, Belmond’s collection invites travellers to discover the world through a lens of effortless elegance.
Belmond Hotels
With an impressive collection of 43 properties across 24 countries, it is impossible to cover every Belmond hotel in a single sitting. Instead, I’m sharing a handful of personal favourites that have stayed with me long after checking out.
Maroma, Riviera Maya
Reopened in 2023 after a complete transformation, Maroma captures the soul of a traditional Mexican hacienda whilst embracing a fresh, modern elegance. Set along one of the Riviera Maya’s most spectacular stretches of white sandy beach, it offers spacious beachfront rooms and suites, refined dining and a deep connection to nature. The holistic spa is a highlight, especially the Mayan‑inspired treatments. I’ll also never forget the Temezcal ceremony set right on the beach – an experience you won’t want to miss.
Villa San Michele, Florence & Hotel Splendido, Portofino
These two iconic properties make a perfect twin‑centre escape, taking you from city to sea with effortless ease. Villa San Michele brings Renaissance charm, panoramic views over Florence and the chance to enjoy its meticulous renovation. Whilst Hotel Splendido embodies Portofino’s understated glamour. Travelling between the two by train is simple, seamless and surprisingly scenic.
Villa Sant’Andrea & Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina
Taormina, Sicily offers a beautiful choice of Belmond icons – the serene, beachfront setting of Villa Sant’Andrea or the dramatic hilltop perch of Grand Hotel Timeo with its sweeping views of Mount Etna. The cable car makes moving between the two easy, giving guests access to the pools, restaurants and facilities of both properties. The ability to charge back to your room from either hotel also creates a wonderfully flexible and seamless stay.
Belmond Trains
Belmond has long been a pioneer of slow luxury travel and their collection of trains (spanning Europe, Asia and South America) offer some of the world’s most evocative rail experiences.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Winding through the lush landscapes of Malaysia, the Eastern & Oriental Express introduces guests to an exotic world of rainforests, wildlife and cultural heritage. Itineraries include time in Taman Negara, the world’s oldest rainforest, with the chance to spot the elusive Malaysian tiger, an unforgettable highlight for wildlife lovers.
Andean Explorer & Hiram Birmingham, Peru
As South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Andean Explorer charts a dramatic course through the Peruvian Andes on 1 or 2 night journeys. Routes link Cusco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, with guests in Cusco able to pair their adventure with a journey on the Hiram Bingham, gliding through the Sacred Valley toward a once‑in‑a‑lifetime visit to Machu Picchu.
Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express, Europe
Belmond’s first foray into luxury rail, the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express remains undeniably iconic. Its modern voyages still capture the glamour and romance of the golden age of travel, with itineraries ranging from classic overnight journeys like Paris to Venice to multi‑night adventures such as Paris to Portofino or the spectacular Istanbul to Paris route. Expect indulgent dining, lively onboard entertainment and evenings that stretch joyfully into the early hours – midnight brunch anyone?
Journeys Closer to Home: British Isles
For those staying within the UK, Belmond offers three distinctive options: British Pullman, Britannic Explorer and Royal Scotsman. Each offers a different window onto the landscapes of the British Isles.
A day aboard the British Pullman brings quintessential English countryside views paired with Champagne Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch or even an immersive Murder Mystery journey. For longer explorations, the Britannic Explorer offers 3 or 6 night trips to some of Britain’s most breathtaking regions; from the wild Pembrokeshire coastline and Snowdonia National Park to the dramatic Cornish peninsula and the tranquil lakes of Cumbria.
In Scotland, The Royal Scotsman is the ultimate way to discover the Highlands. Itineraries start with the two‑night Taste of the Highlands route through the Cairngorms – soon to feature special culinary editions with celebrated Scottish chefs Tom Kitchin and Lorna McNee. Guests looking to venture deeper can join the seven‑night Grand Highland Tour, celebrating 40 years of the train’s inaugural journey. Highlights include a private tasting at the Glenmorangie Distillery, a serene cruise on Loch Lomond and an exclusive gala dinner at Drumlanrig Castle.
Belmond Boats
Les Bateaux Belmond
Belmond’s fleet of stunning boats offer an intimate and indulgent way to explore the waterways of France. These beautifully appointed barges feel more like floating private villas – a world away from more traditional counterparts. Sailing through regions such as Burgundy, Champagne, Provence and the Canal du Midi, each vessel has its own personality and charm. Guests can expect exceptional cuisine and a pace that invites you to slow down and savour each moment.
Days unfold with scenic cruising, private wine tastings, market visits, chateau tours and alfresco lunches prepared by onboard chefs. Recently introduced, Marguerite brings a brighter, modern design to the Burgundy waterways while staying true to Belmond’s effortless elegance.
With capacities typically between four and twelve guests, these journeys feel deeply personal. Whether chartered exclusively for families and groups, or booked by the cabin on select sailings, they offer a wonderfully relaxed approach to luxury. Perfect for travellers who want to immerse themselves in French culture away from the crowds.
Belmond Safaris
Belmond’s safari lodges in Botswana offer an intimate, conservation focused way to encounter some of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes and wildlife. Their two lodges, Eagle Island Lodge in the Okavango Delta and Savute Elephant Lodge in Chobe National Park, combine immersive wilderness experiences with the refined comfort Belmond is known for.
Eagle Island Lodge
Set on palm dotted Xaxaba Island, Eagle Island Lodge is a sanctuary of water‑based exploration. Imagine Mokoro rides, guided walks and photographic safaris that reveal the Delta’s rich ecosystem. Whilst the lodge’s spacious tented suites and outdoor showers embrace the tranquility of their surroundings.
Savute Elephant Lodge
This lodge sits in one of the best wildlife viewing regions in Africa – overlooking a bustling watering channel, guests have front-row seats to gatherings of elephants, lions and zebras. Blending contemporary design with an authentic safari spirit, it’s the perfect place to soak up the raw drama of the Savute marshlands.
For guests looking to extend their adventure, a stay at Mount Nelson in Cape Town pairs beautifully with a Botswana safari. Positioned at the foot of Table Mountain, this iconic pink‑hued hotel offers a soothing counterpoint to the bush. Expect world‑class dining, lush gardens and the ideal base for exploring the city, peninsula and winelands.
Belmond’s world is vast, diverse and endlessly inspiring. Whether drifting along French waterways, crossing continents by rail, relaxing on sun‑kissed shores or uncovering the soul of the African bush, each Belmond moment invites travellers to slow down, savour and truly connect with the places they visit.
If this has inspired you to plan your own Belmond journey, I’d be delighted to help you create the perfect itinerary – simply get in touch to begin.
