Meet our partners: Belmond

Belmond’s origins date back to 1976, when it took over Venice’s legendary Hotel Cipriani. Just a year later, Belmond extended its travel offerings by collecting carriages for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which became the most stylish way to travel to La Serenissima when launched in 1982.

In the decades following Belmond’s formation, the company has gone from strength to strength, opening one-of-a-kind hotels, river cruises, safari lodges, and trains in some of the world’s most incredible destinations, ranging from thriving inner cities to tranquil beachside resorts. In 2019, Belmond became a part of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, a testament to Belmond’s reputation for representing the pinnacle of luxury. Despite being at the forefront of high-end travel, Belmond is dedicated to corporate social responsibility, with a mission to keep our world wonderful for future generations.

One of the standout features of Belmond is the diversity of experiences it offers. Its hotels are designed to provide you with a personal sanctuary on the doorstep of fantastic places that include sandy strips, urban hubs, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From ancient palaces and country manors to beachside villas, Belmond has properties to suit all luxury travel preferences.

Just as luxurious as Belmond’s hotels are its river cruises, trains, and safari experiences. With Belmond, you can navigate the rivers of France and Myanmar, follow historic rail routes through rural and urban paradises in Europe, spot big game such as elephants in Botswana, and much more.

Consider yourself a food connoisseur? We wholeheartedly recommend reserving a table at one of Belmond’s Michelin-starred restaurants in nations that include Italy, England, Brazil, and Madeira.

Belmond now offers a range of signature train journeys across Asia, Europe, and South America. Expect stylish cabins bursting with premium fixtures, 5-star diners complete with elegant white tablecloths, and drinks served in crystal glassware at the onboard bar.

For the first time from June 20–23 in 2024, Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will connect Paris and Portofino via the Ligurian Coast, a journey that takes guests through the French countryside, by the French and Italian Rivieras, and onto Belmond’s Splendido hotel in Portofino. During the trip, you can feast on delicacies from the custom menu by Jean Imbert.

One of our favorite Belmond train journeys takes place on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express between France and Italy. You’ll ride on a lovingly restored train with vintage, midnight-blue carriages that allow you to experience a bygone era. During the trip, you’ll have access to onboard amenities that include 24-hour cabin stewards, surprise evening entertainment, tasty diners, and much more. You’ll also have the option of spending two nights at the Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice. Each year, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express transforms into an LGBTQ+ wonderland as part of Belmond’s Travel with Pride celebrations.

Another popular Belmond train is the British Pulman, which departs from London and takes travelers on a day trip of enchanting sights and dazzling fine dining. Prefer to enjoy luxury in a slightly warmer destination? The Hiram Bingham travels from Cusco to Machu Picchu in Peru. On top of spectacular views, the Hiram Bingham offers guests cozy living quarters in 1920s-style carriages complete with polished wood and brass finishes, not to mention furnishings such as vintage armchairs.

Besides being a revered name in the luxury hospitality industry, Belmond goes above and beyond for the LGBTQ+ community, exemplified by its status as a Gold Global Partner of IGLTA, the world’s leading network of LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism businesses.

In 2022, the British Pulman for the first time embarked on a special Brighton Pride trip, which was such a success that it ran again in 2023. This was just one initiative overseen by Parker Smith, Belmond’s Account Director, LGBTQ+ and Entertainment in North America since 2021. Going forward, Belmond plans to hold more events for the LGBTQ+ community at its properties and train routes throughout the world.

Parker Smith also represents Belmond at a range of summits and conferences that focus on promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. He has spoken at Moët Hennessy’s Pride and Inclusivity Summit, champions for charities such as Not A Phase, and organizes LGBTQ+-focused experiences that include Belmond’s Travel with Pride train journeys on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. As a result of his efforts, Parker has been shortlisted for the TTG Travel Pride Champion Award.

One of the most inspiring Belmond properties is the one where it all started – the Hotel Cipriani in Venice. Overlooking the lagoon from St Mark’s Square, the Hotel Cipriani is home to Michelin-starred dining, private gardens, a luxurious pool, and superb guest rooms that have hosted cultural elites since the 50s. For an extra special stay, consider reserving the Serenissima Suite, which celebrates its Venetian heritage with style touches such as Murano chandeliers and terrazzo floors, or the Dogaressa Suite, a decadent retreat complete with Rubelli and Fortuny fabrics.

Down in Mexico’s Riviera Maya is the Maroma hotel, where ancient mysteries and natural refinement meet joyful exhilaration and modern revelations. Expect delectable Mexican dining, pioneering wellness facilities, and pristine wild surrounds. The Oceanfront Suite is a true treat, which has been renovated according to timeless principles that pay homage to Mayan culture.

South of the equator in South Africa’s stunning Cape Town is Belmond’s Mount Nelson, which sits at the base of Table Mountain. Occupying a historic homestead-turned-luxury-hotel with a history dating back to 1843, Mount Nelson is a storied landmark complete with paradisical gardens, delicious restaurants, and a premium spa.