The Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) 2025 awards are out, and the five-star Breidenbacher Hof, in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Old Town, has taken out the top gong as SLH Hotel of the Year.
The Hotel of the Year award recognises a property that “embodies what it means to be part of SLH: independent, exceptional, unforgettable”.
Small Luxury Hotels of the World Chief Operating Officer Richard Hyde says the award winners represent the very best in its collection.
“They are standout performers who embody individuality, excellence and an unwavering commitment to unforgettable guest experiences.
“These hotels and people not only shine in their own destinations, but set a benchmark for boutique luxury on the global stage.
“It is an honour to celebrate them at such a significant moment in our history.”
SLH 2025 stars
Other winners included Tokyo Station Hotel, Tokyo, Japan, which took out the SLH Spirit Award, awarded to a property that “deeply embodies the spirit of the brand.”
A 1915-vintage property, it sits in the heart of Tokyo overlooking the Imperial Palace.
Resort Hotel of the Year went to Desa Hay, Bali, Indonesia. The award recognises a property where “a getaway epitomises unforgettable settings, effortless service and unique experiences”.
The eco-sanctuary was inspired by the owners’ son’s travels to Bali and a subsequent family holiday to the Indonesian island and is “a nature-immersed resort designed with the considerate traveller in mind”.
Germain Duchanaud, Concierge at Grand Hotel du Palais Royal, Paris, France, took out the Hotel Hero Award.
He was recognised for “setting the benchmark for excellence, going above and beyond in the brand’s spirit”.
Other winners include:
- The Club by SLH Award: Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen, Denmark for guest survey feedback and top booking data from the brand’s club and loyalty programme.
- The Mystery Inspectors’ Excellence Award: Punta Tragara, Capri, Italy. Voted on by SLH’s expert mystery inspectors and awarded to a property that exceeds the highest standards of review.
- The withIN Award: Forestis, Brixen, Italy. Reflecting the most-booked and highly recommended property by withIN agencies, SLH’s preferred travel agent programme.
- City Hotel of the Year: Lanson Place Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
- Country House of the Year: Stein Eriksen Residences, Park City, United States.
- Most ‘Liked’ Hotel: The Retreat Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand. Presented to the property whose posts on SLH’s channels captured the most love over the past year.
- Considerate Hotel of the Year: Dar Ahlam, Ouarzazate, Morocco. For a property that embraces sustainability with elegance while also continuously raising the bar
- Hilton Honors Award: The Terrace Club Wellness Thalasso at Busena, Nago, Japan. Based entirely on guest feedback, recognising an SLH property which is part of the exclusive Hilton partnership, with the highest volume of 100% Hilton Honors reviews.
For more information, see SLH.
