Sensing the Extraordinary: Six Senses' Worldwide Wonders
Since its inception in 1995, Six Senses has been on a mission to redefine transformative travel by posing a simple yet profound question: What if we could take people beyond destinations and reawaken their senses? This visionary ethos has guided the brand from its early properties on the pristine beaches of Southeast Asia, Maldives and Oman to its current status as a global leader in mindful hospitality. The journey took a new turn in 2015 when Six Senses ventured into Europe, reimagining a 19th-century quinta in Portugal's Douro Valley and setting the stage for a global expansion that would see the brand embrace alpine resorts, urban sanctuaries, and even a 14th-century fort in the cultural heart of India. By repurposing historically and culturally significant buildings for many of their latest properties, while incorporating cutting-edge, sustainable design innovations, Six Senses demonstrates its ongoing commitment to sustainability, resourcefulness, and imagination, creating a unique hospitality experience that truly embodies the concept of extraordinary travel.
At the heart of Six Senses lies a commitment to reconnection - with oneself, others, and the world around us. This ethos is woven into every aspect of their properties, from sustainable design to bespoke hospitality and community engagement. The brand's core values, which align beautifully with our own Y Factors, include ‘Local Sensitivity, Global Sensibility’, ‘Responsible and Caring’ practices, ‘Crafted Experiences’, ‘Pioneering Wellness’, ‘Emotional Hospitality’ and finally, the importance of play, by adding elements of ‘Fun and Quirky’ into the guest experience.
As the Six Senses portfolio continues to grow, with future openings planned in London, Bangkok, the Peloponnese, Lisbon, and Napa Valley (and beyond), let's explore six of their most captivating properties that embody the spirit of purposeful travel.
SIX SENSES ROME
What We Love: Situated in the heart of ancient Rome, mere footsteps from the Trevi Fountain, the Six Senses Rome breathes new life into the restored Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini. This urban oasis seamlessly blends wellness, gastronomy, and sustainable design with the Eternal City's rich history. While the hotel’s street level serves as a vibrant social hub, the lower-ground floor is home to Six Senses Spa and Roman Baths, offering a contemporary take on the timeless ancient bathing ritual. Crowning it all is a spectacular rooftop terrace, NOTOS bar and restaurant, offering 360° panoramic views and an organic garden—perfect for recreating a Roman feast as you gaze across to the surrounding historical landmarks. History buffs will delight in the Palazzo's treasures, from the monumental marble staircase to the 600-year-old columns and the fourth-century baptismal bath visible through glass floor tiles in the BIVIUM Restaurant-Café-Bar.
Y Factor Experience - ARTISTRY: The Footsteps of Caravaggio
Enjoy a private half-day walking tour of Rome, guided by expert art historians, as you explore galleries like the Borghese, Barberini, and Doria Pamphilj. After a morning of inspiration from Italian masters, unleash your inner artist with the unique 'Catching the Light' painting class, where you'll receive expert guidance in a scenic Roman setting to create your own masterpiece as a lasting memory.
SIX SENSES IBIZA
What We Love: Tucked away in the secluded Cala Xarraca on the northern tip of the island, Six Senses Ibiza is a year-round haven for creatives and culture seekers. This thoughtfully designed resort offers a holistic experience that captures the essence of Ibiza's bohemian spirit. The property features 116 guest rooms and suites influenced by the natural surroundings, including extraordinary cave suites built into the cliffs. With a range of experiences on offer reflecting Ibiza’s many facets, foodies can enjoy organic farm-to-table dining, adrenaline junkies can indulge in cliff jumping, seekers of enlightenment can partake in local rituals and spiritual ceremonies, and fashionistas can get their retail therapy fix with fashion styling sessions at the in-house Agora boutique.
Y Travel Experience: NATURE & SUSTAINABILITY / THE UNEXPECTED - ‘Memories Underwater’
Dive into an ethereal underwater photo shoot, capturing the interplay of light and movement while learning about the crucial role of Posidonia sea grass in Ibiza's crystal-clear waters, creating lasting memories of your aquatic adventure.
SIX SENSES KYOTO
What We Love: Located within the tranquil, temple-filled Higashiyama district of Japan's cultural capital, Six Senses Kyoto offers a serene sanctuary inspired by the Heian era's flourishing art and culture. The hotel's design pays homage to traditional Japanese aesthetics while incorporating modern elements, creating a unique and elegant ambiance. From the lobby's hand-crafted Rakuyaki tiles to the whimsical take on ancient manga, every detail tells a story. Sustainability remains at the core of the hotel's ethos, with eco-centric design and interactive workshops at the Earth Lab inviting guests to connect deeply with local culture and sustainable practices.
Y Factor Experience: CULTURE - ‘Beyond Sand and Rocks – into the World of Zen Gardens’
More than just sand and rocks, the meditative art of Zen garden creation embodies the core values of Zen culture. Create your own Zen landscape alongside Sone Zoen, master custodian of many of Kyoto's temple gardens, followed by a tranquil guided meditation session.
SIX SENSES FORT BARWARA
What We Love: Six Senses Fort Barwara in the heart of the Indian state of Rajasthan, stands as a testament to thoughtful conservation, transforming a 700-year-old fort into a luxurious 48-suite resort. Each suite showcases contemporary Rajasthani style while incorporating state-of-the-art technology. The property, which includes two original palaces and two temples within its walls, serves as an ideal base for exploring Rajasthan. Its proximity to Ranthambore National Park offers guests the chance to encounter the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
Y Factor Experience: ADVENTURE - ‘Ranthambore Tiger Safari’
Ranthambore National Park, once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, now beckons nature enthusiasts and photographers eager to glimpse the legendary Bengal tiger. Only a 30-minute drive from the Fort, guests can opt for an early morning or afternoon safari, where expert naturalists will guide you through lush landscapes in luxury jeeps, on the lookout for the park’s diverse wildlife.
SIX SENSES DOURO VALLEY
What We Love: Perched high on a hill overlooking the Douro River, this beautifully restored 19th-century manor house seamlessly blends Portuguese heritage with Six Senses' signature sustainability, wellness, and culinary offerings. The contemporary interiors feature natural materials and authentic Portuguese design, while generous windows frame stunning vineyard and river views. Guests can immerse themselves in the region's rich wine culture through various activities, from gourmet river cruises to becoming a winemaker for a day, complete with grape stomping during harvest season.
Y Factor Experience: TASTE - ‘Portuguese Kitchen Tales’
More than just another cooking demonstration, embark on a culinary journey through Portugal's rich gastronomic heritage, with guests helping harvest ingredients from the hotel’s own garden, guided by expert chefs who then bring each dish to life with fascinating historical insights, culminating in a delicious lunch in the open kitchen.
SIX SENSES CRANS-MONTANA
What We Love: Perfectly positioned high in the Swiss Alps, Six Senses Crans-Montana offers a prime ski-in/ski-out location just above the main gondola of this vibrant and stylish resort town. The resort's 47 hotel suites and 17 residences blend authentic Swiss chalet charm with contemporary design, maximising connections to the surrounding pine forests and breathtaking Alpine views. Winter sports enthusiasts will revel in the 140 kilometres of slopes, descending from the 3,000-meter-high Plaine Morte glacier. Come summer, the area transforms into an outdoor playground with activities ranging from paddle boarding on the lake to paragliding and mountaineering.
Y Factor Experience: ADVENTURE - ‘Sun Salutations at the Summit’
Embark on an invigorating hike to the mountain peaks for a uniquely Swiss experience. Having sufficiently worked up an appetite, and depending on the time of day, indulge in a sunrise breakfast, or sunset fondue, while surrounded by unparalleled Alpine views.