12 Grand Hotel Entrances That Know How to Make an Entrance
A great hotel entrance does more than welcome you. It sets the mood, hints at what lies inside and, sometimes, becomes a destination in its own right
From grand European palaces to contemporary desert retreats and Art Deco icons, these 12 hotels understand the power of a spectacular arrival. Here are the entrances that know exactly how to make a first impression.
1. Badrutt's Palace, St. Moritz, Switzerland
Few hotel arrivals are as instantly recognisable as Badrutt's Palace. Perched above St. Moritz with its grand historic façade and unmistakable tower, the entrance has all the drama you would expect from one of the world's legendary alpine hotels.
2. Desert Rock Resort, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Carved into the dramatic landscape of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast,Desert Rock takes a very different approach to the traditional grand entrance. The entrance emerges from the surrounding mountains, creating an arrival that feels cinematic and connected to its desert setting.
3. The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida, USA
The Breakers makes its presence known from the moment you arrive. Inspired by the grand villas of the Italian Renaissance, its imposing entrance, sweeping drive and elaborate architecture deliver the old-world glamour that has defined Palm Beach for generations.
4. Miramonti Boutique Hotel, South Tyrol, Italy
At Miramonti Boutique Hotel, the entrance feels like stepping into a secluded alpine retreat. Surrounded by mountains and forest, its understated architecture lets the jaw-dropping South Tyrolean landscape take centre stage.
5. The Jaffa Hotel, Tel Aviv, Israel
Set within a beautifully restored 19th-century convent and hospital, The Jaffa blends historic character with contemporary luxury. Its entrance is a fitting introduction to a hotel where ancient stone, modern design and the atmosphere of Jaffa come together.
6. The Ned Doha, Doha, Qatar
The Ned Doha brings a sense of occasion to one of Doha's most striking waterfront locations. Housed in the former Ministry of Interior building, its grand entrance combines monumental architecture with the glamorous, theatrical style for which The Ned is known.
7. Aman Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
Aman Tokyo takes grandeur in a Japanese direction. The arrival is defined by soaring spaces, natural materials and a sense of calm that separates you from the intensity of the city below.
8. The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, USA
A Nashville landmark since 1910, The Hermitage Hotel welcomes guests with the elegance of a bygone era. Its grand Beaux-Arts architecture and detailed entrance make arriving here feel like stepping back into history.
9. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Japan
At Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, the entrance offers a sophisticated introduction to the hotel and its extraordinary views across the city. Contemporary Japanese design, elegant detailing and understated luxury create an arrival that feels polished.
10. Faena Miami Beach, Miami, Florida, USA
Faena Miami Beach doesn’t blend into the background; from its bold red-and-white aesthetic to its Art Deco-inspired architecture, the entrance ensures you enter somewhere to be experienced - not simply somewhere to stay.
11. Párisi Udvar Hotel, Budapest, Hungary
Párisi Udvar is one of Budapest's architectural treasures, and its entrance immediately reveals why. Elaborate Neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau and Moorish influences come together beneath an extraordinary glass-covered arcade, creating a grand arrival.
12. Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, Toronto, Canada
In the heart of Yorkville, Four Seasons Toronto offers a contemporary interpretation of the grand hotel arrival. Sleek architecture, polished interiors and a sense of luxury create an entrance that feels sophisticated and modern.
