The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 announces two special accolades

21 July 2026 – Badrutt’s Palace, standing above Lake St. Moritz in the Swiss Engadin valley, has been named winner of the SeiBellissimi Art of Hospitality Award as part of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026. This award is the result of votes from the 800-plus-strong Academy, who were each asked to name the hotel where they received their single-best hospitality experience within the newly extended three-year voting period.

This award celebrates the indefinable and invaluable magic that goes towards ensuring guests feel taken care of. It is designed to reward a property and its entire staff for the hotel’s outstanding service and attention to detail, from the reception desk to housekeeping, amenities and food and beverage teams. Voters were asked to consider factors including – but not limited to – the ambience created in the hotel, the delivery of unique experiential elements and the overall warmth of the hospitality and environment.

Badrutt’s Palace was founded by Caspar Badrutt in 1896 and has since been referred to as the living room of St. Moritz thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and stunning panoramic views. The hotel has played a defining role in putting St. Moritz on the map, transforming a mountain village to a global institution.

Please see full press release HERE

4 August 2026 – The Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York City, USA, has been named the winner of the American Express Travel One To Watch Award. This award recognises a rising star hotel that has made a strong impression on the 800-plus Academy and the wider industry, and has been identified by the 50 Best team as having the potential to break into the 1-50 ranking in a future edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels.

The Fifth Avenue Hotel is built on the former estate of Mrs. Charlotte Goodridge, a legendary hostess whose home was the epicentre of culture and discourse in 19th-century New York City. Today, following a 10-year restoration by Flâneur Hospitality, the original brick and limestone Renaissance-style palazzo is complemented by a 24-story modern glass tower. The two impressive edifices embody the marriage of classic luxury and sophisticated innovation.

Since opening, The Fifth Avenue Hotel has captivated New Yorkers and travellers alike with its singular service style, striking interiors, and award-winning culinary experiences – quickly earning its place as one of America’s most celebrated independent hotels.

Please see full press release HERE

The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards ceremony will take place in Paris, France on Tuesday 15 September at Les Salles du Carrousel, where Badrutt’s Palace and The Fifth Avenue Hotel will be formally awarded with their awards.