Today’s international traveller is drawn to so much more than just a beautiful room at a resort. In fact, we’re drawn to beauty, intention, unique experiences and elevated living. Not to mention wellness, luxury, incredible culinary journeys and escapes that give back. The LUX Collective continues to redefine modern luxury with all these things in mind.

The group’s flagship brand, LUX* Resorts & Hotels, has once again been honoured with four coveted Five-Star Awards by the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide in 2026. This evidently reinforces its position as a global leader in luxury hospitality, wellness and experiential travel.

FIND MORE TRAVEL, FOOD AND WINE STORIES HERE

A Celebration of Excellence Across Iconic Destinations

Among this year’s exceptional achievements, both LUX* South Ari Atoll and LUX* Belle Mare received Five-Star recognition for the third consecutive year – a testament to their consistent delivery of world-class guest experiences.

Leading the portfolio is the ultra-luxury LUX* Grand Baie alongside the LUX* ME Spa at LUX* Grand Baie, both of which continue to set the benchmark for contemporary luxury, earning their own Five-Star accolades.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY NEWSLETTER

The LUX Collective: Where Luxury Meets Purpose

Further to this, LUX* Grand Baie has also been awarded the 2026 VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality Badge by Forbes Travel Guide – for the second time. As the first hotel in Mauritius to receive this recognition, it joins an elite global group of properties committed to the highest standards of sustainability, environmental stewardship and holistic wellbeing.

Aligned with global frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the resort speaks to a deeper shift in luxury travel. This includes conscious living, community impact and refined experiences that coexist seamlessly.

Design, Dining and Destination-Led Experiences

Set along Mauritius’ sought-after northern coastline, LUX* Grand Baie reimagines the luxury resort experience through bold architecture by Jean-François Adam and interiors by celebrated designer Kelly Hoppen. Here, travellers can expect rooftop experiences, panoramic ocean views and a unique, contemporary design language that feels deeply connected to place.

Naturally, the culinary experiences are equally compelling – from the Asian-inspired Ai KISU to the Moroccan-Lebanese flavours of Walima by Bisou. In essence, it offers a journey for discerning food and wine lovers.

Wellness takes centre stage at the multi-level LUX* ME Spa, where advanced hydrothermal facilities, personalised treatments and cutting-edge fitness experiences. It also includes the Indian Ocean’s first rooftop track! Ultimately, it invites guests to slow down and reconnect.

Island Escapes with Distinct Personalities

On Mauritius’ tranquil east coast, LUX* Belle Mare offers a softer, more serene escape, defined by its light-filled design, beachfront beauty and immersive dining experiences, including modern Chinese cuisine at Duck Laundry and refined Indian flavours by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia.

LISTEN: EXPLORING LUXURY TRAVEL WITH THE LUX COLLECTIVE’S CARLOS LUIS

In the Maldives, LUX* South Ari Atoll captures a more vibrant energy – where barefoot luxury meets marine adventure. From overwater villas to year-round whale shark encounters, this resort invites travellers to explore a seamless blend of sustainability and an effortless, social island lifestyle.

A New Era of Intentional Luxury at The LUX Collective

With recognition based on over 900 rigorous, anonymously assessed standards, Forbes Travel Guide’s Five-Star Awards remain the gold standard in global hospitality. For The Lux Collective, these accolades are more than mere awards – it reflects a philosophy rooted in purposeful travel, meaningful experiences and a commitment to creating what the brand calls Life Extraordinary.

For South African travellers seeking island escapes that balance indulgence with intention – whether through food, design, wellness or sustainability – The Lux Collective continues to offer a compelling invitation to travel differently.

• The Luxury of Connection: A Slow Family Escape to Val du Charron
• Wine Beyond the Glass: 5 Unexpected Ways to Enjoy South African Wine
• The Adventure Edit: What to Wear on a South African Road Trip
• Le Manoir: Facades and Flavours That Transport You to France
• LION: A Four-Part Series Documenting a Cub Becoming King