When it comes to luxury, exclusivity, and world-class hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton brand reigns supreme. Synonymous with opulence, elegance, and prestige, The Ritz-Carlton embodies the pinnacle of indulgence for the world’s elite travelers. But when you seek an even higher echelon of luxury, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties take center stage. These ultra-exclusive sanctuaries offer guests a more private, immersive experience where every whim is anticipated and every detail is personalized.
Luxury travel expert Christopher Parr, a celebrated travel journalist and connoisseur of elite destinations, has curated a list of the top 5 Ritz-Carlton hotels in the world. If you’re ready to indulge in life’s most extraordinary experiences, grab your credit card and check these dream destinations off your bucket list. Prepare for unforgettable memories, unparalleled privacy, and journeys to the most remarkable places on Earth.
1. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Bali, Indonesia)
Category: Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Starting Rate: $1,500 – $4,500 per night (Villas can exceed $10,000 per night)
Why It’s Exceptional
Nestled in the heart of Bali’s spiritual and cultural hub, Ubud, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a lush retreat that blends luxury with tranquility. Located alongside the Ayung River, this resort feels like a mystical jungle sanctuary. Guests stay in opulent pool villas surrounded by rice paddies, with personal butler service at their beck and call. Each guest is assigned a personal “Patih” (butler) who ensures every aspect of the stay is tailored to perfection.
Exclusive Features
- Private pool villas with panoramic views of lush rice paddies or the Ayung River
- 24/7 personal butler service (known as a “Patih”)
- Farm-to-table dining at the famous Kubu Bamboo Restaurant
- Bespoke wellness experiences, including yoga, meditation, and spa treatments
Why It’s Expensive
With secluded, expansive villas and 24-hour butler service, every moment feels like a private VIP experience. Villas featuring multiple bedrooms can surpass $10,000 per night, particularly those with private infinity pools overlooking the jungle. If privacy, seclusion, and wellness are your priorities, Mandapa delivers on all fronts.
2. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Los Cabos, Mexico)
Category: Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Starting Rate: $1,800 – $6,500 per night (Larger residences up to $15,000 per night)
Why It’s Exceptional
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sea of Cortez, Zadún combines sleek modern architecture with authentic Mexican artistry. This beachfront retreat is a minimalist’s dream, featuring stylish villas with infinity plunge pools, sun decks, and outdoor showers. The property’s dedication to personalized service is evident, with each guest receiving a dedicated “Tosoani” (concierge) who curates every detail of their experience.
Exclusive Features
- Private villas with infinity pools, sun decks, and sea views
- Personalized “Tosoani” service for each guest (like a personal assistant)
- Private access to pristine, white-sand beaches
- Access to Spa Alkemia, known for its unique and locally inspired wellness treatments
Why It’s Expensive
Zadún’s fusion of contemporary elegance, natural beauty, and elite-level privacy makes it one of Mexico’s most expensive resorts. Villas with multiple bedrooms, infinity plunge pools, and direct beach access can cost over $15,000 per night. This property epitomizes a “barefoot luxury” experience, with total privacy and bespoke service for every guest.
3. Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Puerto Rico)
Category: Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Starting Rate: $2,000 – $8,000 per night (Estate residences can exceed $20,000 per night)
Why It’s Exceptional
Once a private estate for the Rockefeller family, Dorado Beach is steeped in history and prestige. Today, it’s a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offering elite travelers a beachfront escape in Puerto Rico. Boasting estate-style residences, private infinity pools, and direct beach access, this sanctuary is a haven for celebrities, CEOs, and royalty. The property’s expansive grounds include golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., adding to its exclusive appeal.
Exclusive Features
- Private beachfront residences with infinity pools and private gardens
- Concierge services tailored to each villa’s guests
- Secluded beaches with unobstructed views of the ocean
- Direct access to a five-star Spa Botánico and multiple golf courses
Why It’s Expensive
The most exclusive residence, “Su Casa”, is a 1920s-era estate that has been meticulously restored. It can command nightly rates of up to $20,000 or more. Guests booking this experience enjoy the privacy of a fully staffed villa with butlers, chefs, and concierge services on demand. The location, exclusivity, and Rockefeller legacy all combine to make Dorado Beach one of the most expensive Ritz-Carlton Reserves in the world.
4. Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Krabi, Thailand)
Category: Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Starting Rate: $900 – $4,000 per night (Premium villas up to $8,000+ per night)
Why It’s Exceptional
Situated on the Andaman Sea, Phulay Bay offers an ethereal escape with views of limestone karsts rising from the water. The resort is designed to provide a sense of seclusion, serenity, and ultimate luxury. Guests can stay in lavish overwater villas or beachfront retreats, each with private infinity pools and expansive sun decks. Private island-hopping tours on longtail boats are among the most sought-after experiences.
Exclusive Features
- Overwater bungalows and private pool villas with stunning sea views
- Private floating spa treatment rooms at the resort’s wellness center
- Exclusive island-hopping tours on private longtail boats
- Secluded beachfront location with sunset views of limestone karsts
Why It’s Expensive
The villas at Phulay Bay deliver a cinematic experience, especially at sunset. Rates for the Royal Beach Villas can climb beyond $8,000 per night, with world-class spa experiences and private access to secluded beaches. This resort is a paradise for honeymooners, celebrities, and wellness enthusiasts.
5. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands (Maldives)
Category: Ritz-Carlton Ultra-Luxury
Starting Rate: $2,500 – $10,000 per night (Overwater villas up to $20,000+ per night)
Why It’s Exceptional
If there’s one place synonymous with luxury, it’s the Maldives. But Ritz-Carlton Maldives takes it to another level with overwater villas that seem to float in the turquoise sea. Each villa features a private infinity pool, sun deck, and ocean views. The resort’s sustainability efforts are also noteworthy, as it prioritizes marine conservation and environmental initiatives.
Exclusive Features
- Iconic overwater villas with expansive sun decks and private infinity pools
- Private yacht transfers to and from the resort
- Direct access to the Fari Marina Village for luxury shopping and dining
- Marine conservation programs and eco-friendly initiatives
Why It’s Expensive
With overwater villas commanding over $20,000 per night, guests are treated to the finest in contemporary design, luxury, and technology. Privacy is paramount, as each villa offers unobstructed 360-degree views of the sea. The Ritz-Carlton Estate is the most exclusive accommodation, featuring multiple bedrooms and a personal chef, butler, and concierge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ritz-Carlton Reserves
1. What is a Ritz-Carlton Reserve?
A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a more exclusive, ultra-luxury version of a standard Ritz-Carlton hotel. While traditional Ritz-Carlton hotels offer five-star luxury in major cities and tourist hubs, Ritz-Carlton Reserves are intimate, remote sanctuaries that focus on privacy, personalized service, and connection to the local environment. Each Reserve is uniquely designed to reflect the local culture, nature, and spirit of the destination.
Unlike standard Ritz-Carlton hotels, Reserves have fewer rooms and suites, often consisting of private villas and estate-style residences with private pools, personal butlers, and secluded locations. Guests at Reserves receive a deeper, more immersive experience with tailored wellness programs, private excursions, and activities that connect them with the local community and landscape.
2. How is a Ritz-Carlton Reserve different from a regular Ritz-Carlton hotel?
While both types of properties offer exceptional luxury, there are some key differences:
| Feature | Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Regular Ritz-Carlton |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Remote, exotic, nature-driven settings | Urban hubs and popular tourist locations |
| Accommodations | Private villas, pool suites, estates | Standard hotel rooms, suites, and residences |
| Privacy | Complete seclusion and privacy | High-end luxury but less seclusion |
| Personalized Service | 24/7 dedicated personal butlers | General concierge and guest services |
| Capacity | Fewer rooms (20-50 private villas) | Large properties with 100+ rooms |
| Experiences | Tailored cultural, wellness, and nature-based experiences | Luxury spa, dining, and on-site activities |
| Price | Significantly higher rates ($1,500 – $20,000+/night) | Premium luxury ($500 – $3,000/night) |
3. Where are Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties located?
Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties are strategically placed in some of the most remote, unspoiled, and picturesque locations in the world. They are typically located far from bustling city centers, allowing guests to experience peace, seclusion, and immersive nature. Here are some of the most iconic Ritz-Carlton Reserves:
- Mandapa, Bali, Indonesia (Tropical jungle, riverside tranquility)
- Zadún, Los Cabos, Mexico (Beachfront paradise with Sea of Cortez views)
- Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico (Historic beachfront estate with Rockefeller legacy)
- Phulay Bay, Krabi, Thailand (Overwater villas and limestone karst views)
- Higashiyama, Niseko Village, Japan (A winter retreat with ski-in/ski-out access)
These destinations are chosen for their natural beauty, seclusion, and cultural richness, offering travelers a unique sense of escape.
4. How do I make a reservation at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve?
Booking a stay at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve can be done in several ways:
- Via The Ritz-Carlton Website
- Visit www.ritzcarlton.com
- Click on the “Destinations” tab and select “Ritz-Carlton Reserve” from the available options.
- Choose your desired Reserve location, select your dates, and book directly online.
- Through Marriott Bonvoy
- As a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can search for Ritz-Carlton Reserves on the Bonvoy app or website.
- Note that not all Reserves participate in Marriott Bonvoy points redemptions due to their ultra-luxury status.
- Call Ritz-Carlton Reservations
- For special requests (like booking estate villas) or personalized assistance, you can call Ritz-Carlton’s reservation line.
- Through a Travel Advisor
- Working with a luxury travel advisor gives you access to exclusive perks like room upgrades, breakfast credits, and personalized concierge services.
5. Can I use Marriott Bonvoy points to book a Ritz-Carlton Reserve?
In most cases, no, you cannot use Marriott Bonvoy points to book a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. While regular Ritz-Carlton hotels are part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, most Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties do not participate in points redemptions. This is because Reserves operate at a higher level of exclusivity and privacy than typical Marriott properties.
However, you may still earn points for stays if you book directly with Marriott Bonvoy. For clarification, it’s best to check the specific property’s eligibility when booking.
6. What is the price range for a night at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve?
Staying at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a premium, ultra-luxury experience, and the prices reflect that. Here’s a general idea of the rates:
- Low Season: $1,500 – $3,000 per night (for entry-level pool villas)
- High Season: $4,000 – $8,000 per night (for upgraded suites, estates, or larger villas)
- Premium Villas & Estate Residences: $10,000 – $20,000+ per night
These prices may vary depending on the location, room type, and time of year. Peak seasons, such as holidays and special events, often come with higher rates.
7. What amenities and services can I expect at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve?
Every Ritz-Carlton Reserve goes above and beyond traditional luxury. Some of the unique amenities and services include:
- 24/7 Personal Butler Service: Also called a “Patih” (at Mandapa) or “Tosoani” (at Zadún), this is your personal assistant, concierge, and guide all in one.
- Private Villas and Residences: Most Reserves have expansive, secluded villas with private infinity pools, sun decks, and ocean or jungle views.
- Personalized Wellness & Spa Experiences: Enjoy world-class wellness treatments, holistic healing, and private spa experiences.
- Private Dining & Chefs: Dine privately in your villa or enjoy farm-to-table cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chefs.
- Exclusive Local Experiences: Each Reserve offers tailored experiences like island-hopping tours, cooking classes, and exclusive nature-based adventures.
The philosophy of Ritz-Carlton Reserves is to deliver personalized luxury at every level. Unlike a standard luxury hotel stay, each guest’s experience is customized from start to finish.
8. Do Ritz-Carlton Reserves have dining options?
Yes, but dining at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is an experience in itself. While each Reserve offers on-site dining, they prioritize farm-to-table concepts, using local ingredients to showcase the region’s culinary heritage.
- Kubu Restaurant (Mandapa, Bali): Dine in a private bamboo pod with river views.
- Lae Lay Pavilion (Phulay Bay, Thailand): Enjoy oceanfront dining with Thai specialties.
- Su Casa (Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico): Eat at the estate-style dining room with fresh Caribbean flavors.
Private dining is also available, allowing guests to enjoy personalized tasting menus or meals prepared by private chefsin the comfort of their villa.
9. What are the most exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties?
While all Ritz-Carlton Reserves are elite, a few stand out as truly one-of-a-kind:
- Dorado Beach (Puerto Rico): Historic Rockefeller estate with beachfront luxury.
- Mandapa (Bali, Indonesia): Tranquil riverfront villas surrounded by rice paddies.
- Zadún (Los Cabos, Mexico): Ultra-modern beachfront villas with private infinity pools.
- Phulay Bay (Krabi, Thailand): Overwater villas with views of limestone karsts.
These properties offer an unparalleled mix of privacy, exclusivity, and local immersion.
10. Is a stay at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve worth it?
If you value privacy, personalization, and world-class service, then yes, a stay at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is absolutely worth it. Unlike standard luxury hotels, you’ll receive:
- 24/7 personal butler service
- Unmatched privacy (most accommodations are standalone villas)
- Bespoke experiences (customized excursions and wellness treatments)
These properties are for travelers seeking seclusion, luxury, and cultural immersion. For honeymooners, VIPs, and elite travelers, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve stay is often considered a “bucket-list experience.”
Luxury travel expert Christopher Parr has curated this list of the top 5 Ritz-Carlton hotels in the world. Each of these exceptional properties is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering privacy, exclusivity, and grandeur. Whether you crave the tranquil rice paddies of Bali or the crystalline waters of the Maldives, there’s no doubt that these Ritz-Carlton Reserves offer the pinnacle of ultra-luxury.