The prestigious Prix Versailles, a series of architectural competitions celebrating outstanding contemporary projects globally, has announced the most beautiful new hotels in the world for 2026. These properties combine jaw-dropping design with a deep connection to their surroundings, creating unforgettable stays. Surprisingly, a night at one of these stunning establishments doesn't necessarily require a fortune, with prices starting from just £134 per night.
Asia's Finest
The ArcadiaPlace, Lugu Lake, China
Overlooking an Alpine lake in Sichuan, China, the ArcadiaPlace Hotel is enveloped by lush mountains and nestled beside two ancient Mosuo villages. Its rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the verdant landscape. A mountain view twin room for one person costs 2,630 CNY (£286.42) per night (August 8-9), complete with a balcony and minimalist interior in natural muted tones.
The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou, China
Located on the UNESCO-listed West Lake, this hotel is designed around a silk merchant's home, blending modern luxuries with traditional elements. A garden view room costs £429 per night (August 8-9), featuring a mini bar, coffee maker, standalone bathtub, and 24-hour personal host service for tailor-made experiences.
European Elegance
Sir Prague, Czechia
Beside the Vltava River, Sir Prague boasts 76 elegant rooms and a grand library, inspired by the city's Bohemian spirit. A Sir Boutique room starts at 4,400 CZK (£156.46) per night (August 8-9), with a king-size bed overlooking a courtyard or cobblestone street. Suites begin at 7,900 CZK (£280.90) for the Sir Corner River View option.
Chiemgauhof Lakeside Retreat, Übersee, Germany
On the shores of Lake Chiemsee in Bavaria, this retreat by Milanese architect Matteo Thun embraces minimalism and nature. Rooms start at €1,980 (£1,714.30) for a two-night minimum stay (August 8-10), equating to £857.15 per night.
La Fondation, Paris, France
This five-star hotel in Paris offers views of the Eiffel Tower and the city, self-described as an 'urban cocoon' with a rooftop area. A deluxe double room with a king-size bed costs €361 (£312.56) per night in August, featuring an Italian shower or bathtub.
Les Roches, Le Lavandou, France
Originally opened in the 1930s, Les Roches offers sweeping sea views with cobbled brickwork exteriors and expansive windows overlooking the Mediterranean. A superior room with a balcony costs €1,030 (£891.80) per night, including breakfast.
The Telegraph Hotel, Tbilisi, Georgia
Housed in a former post office on Rustaveli Avenue, this luxurious hotel combines modern touches with mid-century Soviet brutalism. With 239 rooms, a classic room with a king-size bed costs $181 (£133.90) per night in August.
Villa Dubrovnik, Croatia
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, near Lokrum island and close to the Old Town, this hotel features timeless decor. A superior sea view room costs €3,050 (£2,641.47) for two nights (August 8-10), or £1,320.73 per night, including a la carte breakfast.
Indian Opulence
The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, Khajuraho, India
Set beside Panna National Park, this five-star palace was originally built 350 years ago and restored to reflect Bundelkhand traditions. A premier room with a private garden costs ₹44,000 (£340.45) per night, featuring opulent interiors and a sheltered veranda.
Italian Splendour
Orient Express La Minerva, Rome, Italy
This 17th-century palace in Rome features Roman columns, sculptures, and Art Deco blended with Roman architecture. A classic room with a shell-shaped sink in Rosso Verona marble and walk-in shower costs €1,173 (£1,015.70) per night (August 8-9), with bespoke Italian linen.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, Italy
Set in the hills overlooking the sea in Portofino, this hotel has hosted Winston Churchill, Grace Kelly, and Walt Disney. A junior suite costs €4,564 (£3,952.10) per night (August 8-9).
African Retreat
Kasbah d'If, Marrakech, Morocco
Near Marrakech, this retreat uses natural materials and embodies local culture, with each suite designed for a slower pace. A junior suite with a balcony starts at MAD 5,634.30 (£456.42) per night (August 28-29).
American Hideaways
Naboa, Tulum, Mexico
Tucked in the Tulum jungle, Naboa is a resort amidst greenery. The Nest Suite costs $2,914.20 (£2,158.40) per night (August 8-9), with natural textures and gentle light for full jungle immersion.
Southeast Asian Gems
Soori Penang, Malaysia
Restored from 15 shophouses by architect Soo K. Chan, this boutique hotel retains original features, blending old Penang with modernity. A Clan House Suite costs MYR 3,699 (£696.21) per night (August 8-9), including breakfast.
Maison Mystique, Khao Yai, Thailand
This boutique hotel offers uniquely decorated rooms and suites, each telling a tale of intrigue. The Rosey's Curiosities room with a courtyard view costs THB 16,100 (£368.10) per night.
Middle Eastern Marvel
Desert Rock, Umluj, Saudi Arabia
A luxury mountain resort spread across 30,000 square metres of rock and sand, each suite and villa has a private pool. A one-bedroom Wadi Villa costs SAR 8,452.50 (£1,663.28) per night.
All prices, unless stated otherwise, are for August 8 and 9, correct as of May 13, 2026.
