Small Luxury Hotels of the World Smashes Records with 38 New Signings in Q3 2025

Published on November 28, 2025

The appetite for intimate, independent, and character-rich travel experiences shows no signs of slowing down. Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has announced a blockbuster third quarter for 2025, adding 38 new properties to its portfolio. This latest surge brings the total number of new signings this year to 87, putting the brand firmly on track to achieve a record-breaking year in its 35-year history.

With a portfolio that now encompasses over 650 hotels across 90 countries, SLH is not just growing; it is evolving. The new additions reflect a strategic pivot toward “coolcations,” unchartered territories, and a deepening commitment to sustainability, proving that in the world of luxury, small is indeed beautiful.

Charting New Waters: From the Caribbean to the Vietnamese Jungle

The Q3 expansion is defined by its geographic diversity. SLH is planting its flag in entirely new destinations, offering travelers access to regions previously underserved by the luxury boutique sector.

A standout addition is the Sanctuary Rainforest Resort and Spa in Dominica. Set to open in August 2026, this will be SLH’s first foray into the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean. Nestled within a lush rainforest, the property promises 72 rooms designed to immerse guests in the island’s raw, volcanic beauty—a direct response to the growing trend of eco-conscious adventure travel.

In Asia, the brand continues to dig deeper into cultural landscapes. The Jiva Hoa Lu Retreat in Northern Vietnam is a prime example. Located in the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex—often called the “Ha Long Bay on land”—this property offers a secluded escape amidst limestone karsts and emerald rice paddies. It joins SLH’s prestigious Considerate Collection, a curated portfolio of hotels that adhere to the strictest standards of sustainability and social responsibility.

Europe: The Old World Reimagined

While new frontiers are exciting, Europe remains the spiritual heart of the boutique hotel movement. The new signings here are a mix of historic restorations and modern marvels.

In Portugal, the Palacio de Tavira has officially opened its doors. Housed in a 19th-century aristocratic residence in the Algarve, the 36-room hotel blends traditional Portuguese architecture with Moorish influences, offering a sophisticated alternative to the region’s larger beach resorts.

Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts have two major reasons to celebrate. Dunluce Lodge in Ireland, located near the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club, and Seaton House in St Andrews, Scotland—the “Home of Golf”—have both joined the collection. These properties cater to a specific breed of traveler: one who demands world-class sport by day and intimate, personalized luxury by night.

For those seeking solitude, the Lilløy Lindenberg in Norway offers the ultimate escape. Perched on a private island, this retreat captures the essence of the “Nordic cool” trend, providing raw nature, silence, and minimalist design.

Sustainability as a Standard, Not a Gimmick

A recurring theme in the 2025 growth strategy is sustainability. It is no longer enough to just offer high thread counts; today’s luxury traveler wants to know their stay is making a positive impact.

The inclusion of properties like Jiva Hoa Lu Retreat into the Considerate Collection highlights SLH’s “eco-first” approach. These hotels are vetted not just for their aesthetics but for their carbon footprint, community engagement, and cultural preservation. This aligns with the broader industry trend where “green” credentials are becoming as important as star ratings.

The Human Touch in a Digital World

Behind the numbers and the glossy brochures is a clear philosophy. Richard Hyde, Chief Operating Officer of SLH, has consistently emphasized that the brand’s growth is driven by a demand for “authentic and intimate luxury stays.”

In an era of AI concierges and contactless check-ins, SLH bets big on the human connection. The new properties—whether a family-run palazzo in Italy or a tribal-inspired lodge in Vietnam—are united by their independence. They are often owner-operated, ensuring that the hospitality is personal, quirky, and deeply rooted in the local culture.

What This Means for Travelers in 2026

As we look toward 2026, the message from SLH is clear: the era of the “cookie-cutter” luxury hotel is fading. Travelers are voting with their wallets for places that have a soul.

With 87 new options on the map this year alone, the hardest part for the global wanderer will be choosing where to go next. Will it be a private island in Scandinavia, a golf retreat in the Scottish Highlands, or a jungle sanctuary in the Caribbean? The world just got a little smaller, and a lot more luxurious.