In private clubs, exclusivity, luxury, and discretion are paramount. These venues are a sanctuary for the world’s elite to network, and unwind with maximum privacy. With strict rules for memberships and no social media posts, these clubs offer secrecy like no other. Here are some of the most exclusive members-only clubs globally and a glimpse into what makes them so sought after.
Zero Bond
Located in the heart of NoHo, Zero Bond is a New York City hotspot that is all about luxury and privacy. Known for its neo-modern interior design and an atmosphere of casual elegance, this club has become a favourite among celebrities and high-profile business people. Regulars include Elon Musk and Tom Brady making it a melting pot of the city’s elite. Membership is by invitation only.
Apollos Muse
Apollo’s Muse stands out for its emphasis on intellectual and artistic pursuits, often hosting exclusive art exhibitions, book readings and intimate concerts. The club’s luxurious lounges and dining rooms are decorated with contemporary artworks, creating a unique ambiance. The club’s close-knit community of members includes not only celebrities and high-net-worth individuals but also upcoming artists and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of London’s cultural landscape.
Apollos Muse takes its name from the Greek god Apollo, symbolising creativity and the arts, which are at the heart of the club’s philosophy. Membership is strictly by referral and you have to give an interview with the membership committee.
Dracula Club
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Dracula Club is as mysterious as it sounds. Established in 1974 by Gunter Sachs, the club was originally a private hideaway for his friends, including luminaries like Gianni Agnelli and Mick Jagger. With its wood-paneled walls and dimly lit interiors, the Dracula Club embodies old-money charm. Membership grants access to various events, from winter sports competitions to intimate dinners and exclusive parties. The club is legendary for its secrecy; guests are often sworn to confidentiality. As a result, it has become a playground for the European aristocracy, rock stars, and billionaires looking to socialise away from the public eye.
Yacht Club de Monaco
Membership at the Yacht Club de Monaco not only provides access to its elegant facilities but also entry into one of the world’s most prestigious yachting communities. Founded by Prince Rainier III in 1953, the club’s iconic clubhouse, designed by Sir Norman Foster, overlooks the glamorous Port Hercule. The club organizes high-profile events such as the Monaco Yacht Show and the Classic Week, drawing influential guests from around the globe. Members can dock their yachts at the exclusive marina, dine at world-class restaurants, and participate in high-level networking events with some of the wealthiest individuals in the world.
The Yacht Club de Monaco has hosted everyone from royalty to Formula 1 drivers. Membership requires sponsorship by an existing member and approval by the club’s committee.
Yellowstone Club
Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana, is the ultimate retreat for those who crave privacy and the great outdoors. This private ski and golf community is a go-to for billionaires like Bill Gates. Members enjoy exclusive access to over 2,200 acres of ski terrain, an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, and luxury homes that blend into the rugged landscape.
The Yellowstone Club is the world’s only private ski and golf community, making it a unique destination for those who seek both adventure and exclusivity. Membership is by invitation only, with property ownership within the club being a prerequisite.
San Vicente Bungalows
The club was founded by Jeff Klein, who’s known for his discerning taste in luxury. Membership is by invitation only, and even once you’re in, the club’s discretion is paramount with no social media posts allowed.
San Vicente Bungalows is where Hollywood’s elite goes to escape the paparazzi. Located in West Hollywood, this ultra-private club is a sanctuary for stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Lady Gaga. With its lush gardens, luxurious bungalows, and a strict no-photos policy, it’s no wonder the waiting list is years long.
Silencio
Silencio was co-designed by David Lynch himself, making it a must-visit for fans of his work. Membership is by application, and once accepted, you’ll find yourself in the company of Paris’s most influential creatives.
Inspired by David Lynch’s surreal worlds, Silencio is Paris’s most avant-garde club. Located in the city’s 2nd arrondissement, this subterranean space is more than just a club—it’s an art piece. With its moody lighting, plush interiors, and a calendar packed with cultural events, Silencio attracts artists, filmmakers, and the fashion elite. Membership is selective, with an emphasis on creative professionals.
1930
If you can find it, 1930 in Milan offers a step back in time to the Prohibition era. This ultra-secret speakeasy is so exclusive that it doesn’t even have a website. Known for its impeccable cocktails and vintage ambiance, 1930 is frequented by Milan’s fashion elite and celebrities who prefer their night out to be under the radar.
The only way to gain access to 1930 is by knowing someone who’s already a member. Even then, the club’s secrecy is paramount, making it one of the hardest memberships to secure in the world.
Casa Cipriani
Casa Cipriani is all about classic Italian sophistication, featuring rooms designed by renowned architect Thierry Despont, each offering stunning views of the Hudson River. The club’s restaurant and bar are favourite spots for business meetings and intimate gatherings, serving Cipriani’s signature Italian cuisine. It also includes a private ballroom and terrace, where members can host or attend exclusive events. Regulars include CEOs, artists, and celebrities who prefer an environment that combines privacy with a touch of New York glamour.
Casa Cipriani has attracted a star-studded membership, including Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian. Membership is by invitation, and the club’s exclusivity ensures that even in the heart of Manhattan, privacy is the top priority.
5 Hertford Street
Located in the heart of Mayfair, 5 Hertford Street is the ultimate London members’ club. Known for its extravagant interiors and A-list guest list, this club is where Prince Harry met Meghan Markle on their first date. The club’s secretive nature and intimate setting make it a favorite among the city’s elite, from politicians to movie stars.
The club’s founder, Robin Birley, comes from a long line of socialites, and his discerning eye for detail is evident in every corner of 5 Hertford Street. Membership is by invitation only, and the process is as exclusive as it gets.
These clubs are the gateways to a world of luxury and exclusivity, where privacy is the ultimate currency. If you find yourself lucky enough to secure membership, you’ll be joining the ranks of the world’s most powerful and influential individuals, all of whom appreciate the finer things in life.
