Celebrating the Art of Hospitality with Forbes Five Star Ratings

What makes a ‘five-star’ experience? Between seamless hospitality and indulgent surroundings, Forbes Travel Guide knows a thing or two about luxury service. As the only independent rating system for international luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas, we are delighted that five of our hotels are amongst the winners of its 2025 Five-Star Awards. Read on to uncover some of the highlights… 

Discover timeless luxury at The Balmoral, Edinburgh’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel and an enchanting landmark in its own right. Located on Princes Street, one of the city’s most iconic thoroughfares, The Balmoral sits amidst the beating heart of the Scottish capital. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh castle, or take their afternoon tea at Palm Court following a busy morning of exploring. With decadent suites and soaring ceilings, to the world-class SCOTCH bar brimming with over 500 varieties of Scottish whiskey, each experience is an ode to Scotland’s beauty and rich heritage. 

Said to be London’s oldest hotel having first opened in 1837, Forbes also considers Brown’s Hotel to be one of the capital’s most luxurious. Located amid the elegant boutiques and galleries of Mayfair, Brown’s Hotel personifies old-school style and sophistication – of particular note is the charmingly quirky Sir Paul Smith Suite, designed in close collaboration with the esteemed British designer. After dark, slink into Donovan Bar for an expertly crafted cocktail, or indulge in the warm and familiar ambience of Charlie’s restaurant. 

Within the Eternal City, where ancient treasures are found around every corner, Hotel de la Ville continues to evoke a sense of wonder. Perched above the Spanish Steps, it provides a haven amongst the bustling Roman streets below. Forbes rightly highlighted Hotel de la Ville’s artistic soul, steeped in the influence of the Grand Tour, alongside the unmissable sunset aperitif served at Cielo Bar, overlooking St Peter’s Basilica. 

Also in Rome, a hidden jewel within the city’s historic heart, lies Hotel de Russie where a discreet entrance located near the grand Piazza del Popolo leads to a tranquil palazzo. Dubbed “one of the most romantic spots in the city”, the hotel’s verdant terrace, Le Jardin de Russie, is the perfect spot to while away an afternoon, while the variety of restorative treatments at Irene Forte Spa are a firm favourite. 

With exquisite interiors courtesy of Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, Hotel Savoy embodies Florence’s timeless character. But it was the hotel’s dedicated concierge team that was singled out for praise by Forbes for their ability to grant every request with ease, from exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences to tickets to sell-out shows. After a day of exploring, return to Irene restaurant and savour a taste of Tuscany, where Rocco Forte Hotel’s Creative Director of Food, Fulvio Pierangelini, has crafted a seasonal menu to delight both guests and locals alike. 

Under the scrutiny of Forbes’ incognito inspectors, each awarded destination has been subject to their exacting standards, amongst a quest for bespoke encounters and unrivalled experiences. What unites the six individual Rocco Forte Hotels celebrated by Forbes Travel Guides, is a deep-rooted connection to their surroundings – their purpose proudly goes beyond that of a traditional hotel, rather serving as the key to unique and exclusive adventures. 

Explore our wonderful destinations and learn what makes each of our Rocco Forte Hotels so unique.