Belmond continues to elevate its global portfolio, guided by the ethos of Slow Luxury, with a pipeline inviting guests to discover a new pace of travel as they savour time, engage with local culture, and connect with nature and people…
In 2026, Belmond will present new rail experiences and the reimagining of global heritage icons that have shaped the cultural imagination of modern journeying and define the spirit of their destinations – from a Florentine Renaissance masterpiece to a Carioca Art Deco legend. Through Belmond’s long-term stewardship, storied properties are thoughtfully reinterpreted by today’s most compelling creative talents, while regional cultures and local environments are honoured and celebrated, forging a contemporary heritage of lasting significance. The brand will also strengthen its immersive signature journeys, built on the pioneering pairing of legendary hotels and heritage rail experiences.
Dan Ruff, CEO, Belmond, commented: “We continue to strengthen our distinctive global portfolio, celebrating the vibrancy of each property’s Slow Luxury identity and driven by our passion for crafting the future of legendary travel. By skilfully reimagining our hospitality icons, we build contemporary heritage that blends relevance with legacy. Through exceptional journeys, mindful experiences, and new spas and restaurants, we further nurture a deeper appreciation for taking time to truly connect with each destination.”
Elevating Legendary Stays
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Villa San Michele – Florence’s most legendary retreat makes its much-anticipated return and unveils its first spa in April 2026
An emblem of Renaissance architecture and a peaceful sanctuary with the most iconic view of Florence, Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel reopens on 28 April 2026 following a meticulous 18-month renovation led by Florentine architect Luigi Fragola. Inspired by its storied heritage and idyllic hillside setting, the reimagination sees an emphasis on Tuscan craftsmanship, cultural curation and harmony with nature. The former 15th century monastery with its cascading gardens spanning nearly 10,000 sqm reveals 39 completely redesigned suites and rooms exuding indulgence and grandeur.
Long a place of spiritual wellbeing and mindful living, the property will proudly introduce its first-ever spa, Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain, along with nature-immersive experiences and an energy-raising programme led by La DoubleJ founder JJ Martin. Marking the next era, the hotel will now open from spring through winter – an invitation to embrace slow luxury year-round.
Copacabana Palace – a new chapter for the Carioca legend starts in November 2026
Following its centenary in 2023, the legendary Copacabana Palace will enter a landmark chapter in November 2026 with the renovation and reinvention of its Pool Wing and pool area. The Pool Wing is the hotel’s Art Deco building, originally launched in 1948, overlooking the iconic blue pool and expansive lounging terrace, the vibrant social heart of the hotel. A meticulous redesign will introduce interiors inspired by Brazil’s rich inland artistry, materials and artisanal techniques, infusing the Carioca legend with a renewed sense of place, cultural cachet, and Brazilian creativity.
The transformed wing will become an all-suite experience, with every suite featuring a balcony, and most overlooking the famed pool and the illustrious Copacabana Beach. The revitalised Pool Wing will also debut one of the most incredible wellness destinations in Rio, with five floors dedicated entirely to wellbeing. This new chapter will also see the reimagination of the pool area, introducing a new hotel bar – set to elevate the Copacabana poolside experience. Guests will also enjoy a new boutique, and a reimagined contemporary Italian restaurant.
Image credit: Matthieu Salvaing
Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice – a renewed wellness and gastronomy destination designed by Peter Marino, slated for April 2026
Hotel Cipriani continues its masterful multi-phase renovation by Peter Marino Architect, capturing Venice’s multicultural spirit and dolce vita allure. The initial phase of renovation earlier this year introduced a luminous double-height lobby and 13 artfully reimagined suites. In Spring 2026, the hotel will reveal two major debuts designed by Peter Marino: the first Dior Spa in Venice and a reimagined Michelin-starred Oro restaurant. The new Dior Spa will invite guests into an atmosphere of refined well-being, inspired by the grandeur of Venetian balls and Christian Dior’s passion for art, beauty, and celebration. Guests can choose from signature treatments, including advanced high-technology facials and beauty rituals, as well as holistic treatments and wellness therapies.
Alongside the spa, the Michelin-starred Oro restaurant will open for lunch for the first time, offering an elevated all-day dining experience with a new menu curated by Chef Vania Ghedini under the culinary direction of Massimo Bottura.
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Villa Timeo, Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina – an ultimate Sicilian noble home reenchanted by Laura Gonzales, opening May 2026.
Honouring vibrant Sicilian heritage through a soft, contemporary lens, Villa Timeo is an exclusive 21-room residence opening its doors in May 2026, following a sumptuous redesign by acclaimed interior designer Laura Gonzalez. Just steps from the legendary Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina, Villa Timeo offers exceptional views over the Mediterranean, Taormina and its ancient Greek amphitheatre.
Its 21 accommodations, mainly suites, can be booked individually or for complete buyout, for private getaways or larger gatherings. The charm of Sicilian hospitality and sophisticated ease of a noble residence infuse every space, with the comfort and privacy of a home-from-home. Complete with an opulent indoor bar, private infinity pool, terrace bar and lounge, Villa Timeo gives guests full access to the hotel’s amenities, including the Michelin-starred Otto Geleng restaurant and terraced gardens.
Celebrating the Journey
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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express :Villeggiatura by train – uniting global travel legends via rail, including the first-ever route from Paris to Pompei in Sprin 2026
In 2026, Belmond launches its ‘Villeggiatura by Train’ series, uniting a global icon of the rails with legendary hotels as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journeys to four of its most celebrated Italian properties: Villa San Michele, Splendido, Caruso, and Hotel Cipriani. Trips combine the magic of slow travel with the essence of villeggiatura, the art of the leisurely Italian summer holiday. Each curated itinerary extends the train’s timeless glamour into refi ned cultural and culinary immersion at storied destinations: Florence and its Renaissance heritage; Portofino and the Italian Riviera; Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast in a first-ever route for 2026; and Venice’s iconic lagoon.
Redefining Legends Through a Cultural Lens
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One of South Africa’s most revered talents, fashion designer Thebe Magugu will make his debut in luxury hospitality in January with the launch of the Thebe Magugu Suite at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town. The suite marks Magugu’s first venture into interior design – an elegant reflection of South African culture, artistry, and storytelling – and an invitation to delve into his imagination. Adjacent to the suite, Magugu House Cape Town will open as a hybrid concept store and cultural institute, showcasing Magugu’s collections alongside works by leading African artists. The collaboration underscores Mount Nelson’s commitment to championing contemporary African creativity while establishing Magugu’s creative home in Cape Town.
Belmond continues to champion the future of travel through Slow Luxury, with an expansive, curated and elevated portfolio in outstanding destinations, setting the benchmark for distinction and cultural depth. With a strategy rooted in epic journeys, wellness in nature, creative terroir, contemporary heritage, and local stewardship, Belmond delivers immersive and authentic experiences that forge deeper connections, inspire meaningful exploration.
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