Condé Nast Johansens Reveals Top European Hotels for 2027
Prestigious guide highlights exceptional properties across Europe, ranging from historic monasteries to modern resorts.
1Annual Excellence Awards
Condé Nast Johansens has unveiled its Annual Awards for Excellence 2027, recognizing 44 top properties across Europe and the Mediterranean. The selection process relies on annual visits by local experts, combined with verified guest reviews and reader votes. This guide has maintained its industry prestige for over 40 years of operation.
2Best New Hotel Contenders
The guide identified Andaz Lisbon in Portugal and Aethos London Shoreditch as the premier new hotels. Andaz Lisbon was lauded for its retro design and proximity to major sights, while Aethos London Shoreditch earned praise for its strong sense of place and a comprehensive wellness area available to guests around the clock.
3Design-Led Historic Renovations
The Lince Santa Clara Historic Hotel in Portugal and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh were highlighted for their exceptional interiors. The Lince occupies a 14th-century monastery, utilizing a minimalist aesthetic to emphasize original architecture. Meanwhile, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh secured the best design award, building upon its previous success as the UK's best new hotel.
4Top City Hotel Selections
Palacio Gran Vía in Granada and Middle Eight in London were named the best city hotels. Palacio Gran Vía is situated within the former Rodríguez-Acosta bank headquarters, directly opposite the city's cathedral. Middle Eight is located in Covent Garden, offering convenient access to the British Museum, Leicester Square, and the Thames river.
5Resort Excellence and Amenities
Bahía del Duque in Tenerife and Mount Juliet Estate in Ireland were recognized as the leading resorts. Bahía del Duque features 63,000 square metres of tropical gardens, ten distinct dining options, and a thalassotherapy circuit. Mount Juliet Estate offers diverse leisure facilities, including an 18-hole golf course and a private 12-seat cinema.
6Evaluation Methodology Standards
The awards process is structured to ensure objectivity by utilizing a multi-layered evaluation system. By combining professional onsite inspections with direct consumer feedback, the guide aims to provide a balanced perspective on luxury hospitality. This dual approach helps distinguish properties that excel in both aesthetic design and the actual guest experience.
7Regional Market Segmentation
The guide categorizes winners into two primary geographical segments: the UK and Ireland, and the broader Europe and Mediterranean region. This segmentation allows for a more nuanced recognition of local hospitality trends and architectural styles, ensuring that diverse property types, from urban boutique hotels to expansive rural resorts, receive appropriate industry acknowledgment.
8Industry Impact and Trends
These awards reflect a growing consumer preference for properties that blend historical preservation with modern luxury amenities. As travelers increasingly seek unique, design-led experiences, guides like Condé Nast Johansens continue to influence market standards. The 2027 list highlights how heritage buildings are being successfully repurposed into high-end accommodations across the European continent.
Original article: Euronews – Travel — Condé Nast Johansens Reveals Top European Hotels for 2027