11 Inspiring Female-Owned Hotel Brands We Love

The world of hospitality is filled with stories of women who have redefined luxury, sustainability, and innovation in the hotel business. These trailblazing hoteliers not only own and run some of the most exquisite properties but also inspire us through their creativity, resilience, and dedication to making hotel stays a transformative experience. Here are 11 female-owned hotel brands that we admire for their passion, vision, and commitment to empowering others.  

1) Joali Maldives and Joali Being, Maldives – Esin Güral Argat

Joali, founded by Esin Güral Argat, is more than a luxurious retreat—it’s a haven for art lovers and wellness seekers. These properties celebrate female artistry, featuring art installations by women from across the globe to admire the feminine spirit. Joali Being takes it a step further, focusing on well-being with immersive wellness programmes tailored to empower the mind, body, and soul.  

2) The Asa Maia, Bali, Indonesia – Martha Booke

The Asa Maia, created by female entrepreneur Martha Booke, is a sanctuary for the mindful traveller. This boutique property harmonises with its surroundings, offering holistic wellness experiences inspired by traditional Balinese healing. Booke's vision fosters a connection between guests and the local community, making every stay meaningful.  

3) COMO Hotels and Resorts – Christina Ong

Christina Ong, often referred to as the "Queen of Bond Street," established COMO Hotels to redefine contemporary luxury. With properties like COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali and COMO Parrot Cay in the Turks and Caicos, Ong combines understated elegance with a focus on wellness and sustainability, empowering guests to reconnect with themselves.  

4) The Roundtree, Amagansett, New York – Sylvia Wong

Sylvia Wong’s boutique property on Long Island is a love letter to modern hospitality. The Roundtree blends minimalist design with home-like comfort, offering travellers a place to escape and recharge. Wong’s hands-on approach ensures that every detail reflects warmth and care, inspiring others to lead with intention.  

5) Stonefield Villa Resort, St. Lucia – Anista Brown

Anista Brown transformed her family’s cocoa plantation into a serene luxury retreat. Stonefield Villa Resort is a celebration of local culture, with private villas that overlook the Caribbean Sea. Brown’s journey exemplifies the power of heritage and how women can create spaces that honour their roots while fostering global appeal.  

6) Hotel Manapany, St. Barts – Anne Jousse

Owned by Anne Jousse, Hotel Manapany is a beacon of eco-conscious luxury. The property is dedicated to sustainability, using solar energy and locally sourced materials. Jousse’s commitment to protecting the environment while delivering an unparalleled guest experience serves as a powerful reminder of the impact women can have on the industry. 

7) The Mansion Bali, Ubud, Indonesia – Laetitia Andrioli

This opulent property, co-founded by Laetitia Andrioli, is an oasis of creativity and wellness. The Mansion Bali blends traditional Indonesian design with contemporary comforts. It hosts art exhibitions, wellness retreats, and cultural events, showcasing Andrioli’s passion for empowering both guests and local artists.  

8) The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Newport, Rhode Island – Lenore Muroff

This iconic mansion hotel, owned by Lenore Muroff and partners, epitomises timeless elegance. Overlooking the Atlantic, The Chanler offers guests a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Muroff’s meticulous attention to detail inspires travellers to embrace the beauty of slow, intentional travel.  

9) Angama Mara, Maasai Mara, Kenya – Nicky Fitzgerald

Co-founded by Nicky Fitzgerald, Angama Mara offers breathtaking views of the Maasai Mara. Fitzgerald’s dedication to community-driven tourism ensures that the local Maasai people benefit from the property’s success. Her story highlights how female leaders can create meaningful impact through thoughtful hospitality.  

10) Loire Valley Lodges, Loire Valley, France – Anne Caroline Frey

Parisian art dealer Anne Caroline Frey’s Loire Valley Lodges offer a one-of-a-kind experience in luxury treehouses. Each lodge features artwork from contemporary artists, blending nature with creativity. Frey’s innovative approach redefines what it means to connect with nature while celebrating female artistry.  

11) Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, Amalfi Coast, Italy – Bianca Sharma

Bianca Sharma turned a 17th-century monastery into a breathtaking luxury hotel. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, this property exudes tranquillity and grace. Sharma’s ability to blend history with modern indulgence is a testament to the transformative power of women in hospitality.