Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.
Today: Top 10 best luxury beach hotels in Europe
Each year, discerning travelers seek the best luxury beach hotels in Europe for their perfect summer escape. While the Mediterranean Sea may not have wide sandy beaches due to its unique geography, it offers stunning natural beauty—from ancient pine forests to charming bays. Europe’s top luxury beach resorts combine this breathtaking scenery with exceptional service, privacy, and indulgence. From the private coves of Crete and sun-drenched shores of Sicily to the glamorous Turkish Riviera, here’s my carefully curated list of the 10 best luxury beach hotels in Europe. These exclusive destinations promise unforgettable seaside vacations for families, couples, and discerning travelers alike.
There is more info below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Share your favorite beach resort in Europe in the comments section.
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10. VERDURA RESORT, A ROCCO FORTE HOTEL, SICILY, ITALY
Verdura Resort, a luxury property by Rocco Forte, is located on Sicily’s beautiful southern coast. This expansive estate offers private beach access, championship golf courses, and lush Mediterranean gardens — everything you need for a perfect getaway. The resort’s rooms, suites, and villas blend classic Sicilian style with modern comforts. Many feature panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. Verdura’s private sandy beach is a peaceful spot where guests can soak up the warm Sicilian sun and swim in crystal-clear waters. The resort also features several gourmet restaurants and a luxurious spa. Whether you want to stay active or simply unwind by the sea, Verdura Resort is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a perfect balance of leisure and luxury.
- Hotel website: Verdura Resort, a Rocce Forte Hotel
- Other accolades: Verdura Resort, a Rocce Forte Hotel, also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Sicily.
- Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
- Review: read my review of Verdura Resort here.
9. DAIOS COVE LUXURY RESORT & VILLAS, CRETE, GREECE
Daios Cove is a stunning five-star beach hotel located in a private bay on Crete’s northeastern coast, one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines. It’s known for breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and a private sandy beach tucked beneath dramatic cliffs. Guests can choose from spacious suites and private villas, many with infinity pools. The accommodations combine modern comfort with traditional Greek elegance. The resort offers several gourmet restaurants, a luxurious spa, and a variety of water sports. Whether you want to relax or seek adventure, Daios Cove has it all. Thanks to its exclusivity and attentive service, it’s a top choice for couples and families looking for privacy and luxury.
- Hotel website: Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas
- Other accolades: Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Crete.
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit or one complimentary lunch or dinner for up to two people per room).
- Review: read my review of Daois Cove Luxury Resort & Villas here.
8. BORGO EGNAZIA, PUGLIA, ITALY
Nestled in the heart of Puglia on Italy’s stunning Adriatic coast, Borgo Egnazia is a masterpiece of luxury hospitality inspired by traditional Apulian architecture and culture. The resort resembles a charming historic village, complete with cobbled streets, whitewashed walls, and terracotta rooftops. Guests can choose from elegant rooms, suites, and spacious villas, many with private pools and lush garden views. Borgo Egnazia features a private beach club nearby, offering soft sandy shores and crystal-clear Adriatic waters for the ultimate seaside relaxation. The resort boasts several exceptional restaurants serving authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, a world-class spa with signature treatments, and numerous leisure activities such as golf, tennis, and cooking classes.
- Hotel website: Borgo Egnazia
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
7. VILA VITA PARC RESORT & SPA, PORTUGAL
Vila Vita Parc is a celebration of Portugal’s finest, offering guests an ultra-luxurious seaside oasis filled with every imaginable service and amenity. Perched majestically on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the resort is near the charming village of Porches. Its Moorish-inspired architecture blends beautifully with the Algarve coastline’s natural landscape. The 170 airy, sea-themed rooms and villas provide guests with exceptional privacy and comfort. At Vila Vita Parc, you can relax with rejuvenating spa treatments, take a cruise on a private yacht, or savor a six-course tasting menu at the two Michelin-starred restaurant, Ocean.
- Hotel website: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
- Other accolades: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa also features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Portugal.
- Tip: get complimentary benefits when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD resort credit, and a bottle of wine, seasonal fruit and mineral water on arrival).
6. CAP ST GEORGES HOTEL & RESORT, CYPRUS
Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort sets a new standard for luxury hospitality in Paphos, Cyprus. Surrounded by lush gardens and centuries-old olive trees, the resort offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Its architecture beautifully reflects the island’s rich culture and landscape. The property features 202 spacious rooms and suites, most with sea views. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed with modern comforts and upscale amenities. Guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities, including a 130-meter (430 ft) private beach, three outdoor pools, a heated indoor pool, and a children’s playground. The resort also boasts a luxurious spa, 10 restaurants and bars, a vibrant nightclub, a high-end boutique, a shop specializing in bio-organic Cypriot products, and a jewelry store — everything you need for a perfect luxury getaway.
5. CALILO, IOS, GREECE
Carved from native rock and nestled within 1,000 acres of protected land, Calilo offers a serene escape by the shimmering cerulean sea. Located in a quiet corner of unspoiled Ios, in the heart of the Cyclades, it’s just a short distance from the lively islands of Mykonos and Santorini. This secluded sanctuary is perfect for those seeking peace away from the crowds. Surrounded by ancient olive groves, Calilo blends nature and art in perfect harmony. Every detail, from its architecture and interior design to the striking artworks and installations, reflects the vision of a family dedicated to preserving and nurturing this enchanting island. Calilo invites guests to share in their dream and experience the island’s mesmerizing magic.
4. MANDARIN ORIENTAL BODRUM, TURKEY
Located on the stunning Turkish Riviera, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum perfectly combines natural beauty with refined luxury. Set on a lush hillside, the resort offers direct access to a pristine private beach along the Aegean Sea. Its design blends modern elegance with local architectural touches, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Guests can stay in spacious rooms, suites, or private villas—many featuring infinity pools and breathtaking panoramic sea views. The resort boasts multiple world-class restaurants serving Mediterranean and international cuisine. A tranquil spa offers holistic treatments, while wellness programs include yoga and Pilates sessions. With its secluded cove, crystal-clear waters, and impeccable service, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is ideal for travelers seeking privacy, indulgence, and spectacular surroundings in one of Turkey’s most glamorous beach destinations.
3. ONE&ONLY PORTONOVI, MONTENEGRO
One&Only Portonovi is the newest gem on Europe’s luxury coastline, located in the breathtaking Bay of Kotor. This ultra-luxurious resort – one of Europe’s best beach hotels – combines stunning Adriatic scenery with elegant, contemporary design. Guests can choose from spacious rooms, suites, and private villas, many offering spectacular views of the sea and surrounding mountains. The resort’s private beach features crystal-clear waters, exclusive cabanas, and flawless service. With multiple fine dining options serving Mediterranean and international cuisine, a world-class spa, and a marina, One&Only Portonovi offers a refined and exclusive seaside experience. It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking privacy, adventure, and five-star comfort in a truly unique setting.
- Hotel website: One&Only Portonovi
- Other accolades: One&Only Portonovi also features in my list of the best One&Only Resorts in the world.
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
- Review: read my review of One&Only Portonovi here.
2. MANDARIN ORIENTAL COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE
Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino is located on the southwest coast of the Peloponnese, one of the Mediterranean’s most unspoiled and breathtaking landscapes. This beachfront resort is part of Costa Navarino, a well-known upscale destination. The ultra-luxurious property has 99 guest rooms, including 48 pool villas. All accommodations feature outdoor terraces with stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy five restaurants and bars, plus wellness facilities that include a beautiful indoor-outdoor pool overlooking the bay. As Mandarin Oriental’s first property in Greece, it offers a back-to-nature experience with mesmerizing views of the countryside, the deep blue sea, and spectacular sunsets. The resort also provides easy access to a wide range of activities, including water sports, biking, rock climbing, and four signature golf courses designed by legends Bernhard Langer, Robert Trent Jones II, and José María Olazábal.
1. AMANZOE, GREECE
Perched high on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the azure Aegean Sea, Amanzoe – Europe’s best luxury beach hotel – offers a peaceful escape inspired by classical Greek architecture and modern design. The resort’s spacious villas and pavilions are beautifully decorated, many featuring private pools and stunning views of the sea and nearby olive groves. Amanzoe’s private beach club is located at Porto Heli, just a short drive or boat ride away. Here, guests can relax on soft sandy shores and swim in crystal-clear waters. The resort also features a world-class spa, a dedicated yoga pavilion, and fine dining venues that highlight the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Amanzoe is the perfect sanctuary for travelers seeking exclusivity, tranquility, and holistic wellness in a magnificent setting.
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