The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) has added eight new members to its worldwide portfolio. This “Summer Collection” marks LHW’s entrance into a number of new destinations, including Zman, Croatia; Antwerp, Belgium; Park City, Utah; and San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.
“We are delighted to welcome this group of new members to our collection,” said Deniz Omurgonulsen, vice president of membership for LHW. “Our travelers are in search of hotels that offer ample space, fresh air and privacy in this moment. We have seen tremendous spikes in demand for beach, countryside, lakeside, and mountain destinations. Beach destination bookings have doubled from 2019, with similar growth for mountain, lake and country destinations. This group of new members delivers on the desires of our travelers, from a private seaside villa vacation in Bodrum, Turkey to a French countryside chateau retreat in the Loire Valley. When guests are ready to travel again, these new Leading Hotels are eager to welcome them with open arms.”
Washington School House Hotel: Located in Park City, Utah this high-design boutique hotel is housed in one of the last surviving original schoolhouses in the United States, dating back to 1889 and now a National Historic Registry landmark. The 13-room hotel is exquisitely designed and feels like a private home with all the Rocky Mountain amenities travelers crave. Find a chic ski lounge, ski valet, 24-hour concierge, heated mountainside outdoor pool, fireside apres-ski, and locally sourced, organic dining for in-house guests. The hotel also is the perfect location for mountain lovers, only minutes from the base and just steps from Park City’s Main Street.
Nayara Alto Atacama: Located in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile between Cordillera de la Sal and below the ancient fortress of Pukara de Quitor, this hotel is a hideaway that blends seamlessly into its natural desert surroundings. The eco-friendly resort with 52 rooms connects guests with the planet and themselves. Whether guests are in search of a cultural immersion or adrenaline-pumping experience, curated excursions led by a team of guides provide entertainment and knowledge. Back on property, guests can enjoy R&R at the spa, soak in the sun poolside or meditate at Lake Tilo. As night falls, take in the clearest view of the famous star-filled Atacama Desert skies from a private outdoor observation deck or by a bonfire.
Villa Nai 3.3: Located in Zman, Croatia and opening this month, this property on Dugi Otok Island off the Dalmatian coast is completely immersed in nature, embraced by beaches and cliffs. Architect, Nikola Bašić created the hotel, the oil mill and tasting room inside a 100-year-old organic olive grove. The hotel’s eight rooms are built from stone harvested from the olive grove and the interiors feature designer furniture perfectly in sync with nature.
ARIA Retreat & Spa: Located in Cima di Porlezza, Italy, and opening in August 2021, this new architectural masterpiece is set within a subtropical 60-acre park on the shores of Lake Lugano. It was inspired by the beauty of the surrounding mountains and lake and is located halfway between Lake Como and the city of Lugano. The 30-suite property boasts a private beach, expansive spa, gourmet restaurant and terrace, infinity pool and a wealth of outdoor activities—boating, hiking, climbing and biking.
Sumahan on the Water: Located in Istanbul, Turkey, on the coast of Çengelköy, this waterfront property is an intimate retreat of 13 rooms with all the comforts of a grand hotel. It occupies an Ottoman-era distillery that is now is one of the last examples of 19th century Ottoman industrial architecture. The building was transformed into a hotel by the Butler family, a husband-wife architect duo and two designer daughters. They carefully preserved the industrial spirit of the property that had been in their family since the 1930s. Along with the thoughtfully designed accommodations, a restaurant and garden, cozy library and space provide guests with a taste of Istanbul and warm Turkish hospitality.
Bodrum Loft: Located in Bodrum, Turkey, this hotel is located at Demirbükü Bay in Bodrum, one of Turkey’s most popular summer destination for local and international visitors. The hotel was designed as a modern Aegean village that balances simplicity and luxury. The 64-room property—including multi-bedroom villas—is located on nearly 15 acres with uninterrupted sea views. It features unique design, ultimate privacy and bohemian luxury.
Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé: Located in the Loire Valley, France, this exclusive enclave of royal proportions was the former country home of the Baron Jacques Pineau de Viennay. Since its inception in 1760, it has played host to some of the greatest philosophers and minds from the Age of Enlightenment—Voltaire, Mozart, Rousseau. This neoclassical French icon of 17 rooms and suites has been exquisitely restored with opulent chic interiors as a tribute to its rich history. Hotel Château features reimagined accommodations, a ballroom and salons, intimate spa, signature restaurant, classical gardens and 80 acres of grounds.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: Located in Antwerp, Belgium, this 12th century monastery will make its debut in September 2021. Situated within Antwerp’s Botanic Garden, it features 108 rooms, including dedicated spa suites. The botanical garden is integral to the spa, reflecting a devotion to healing plants and herbs. Dining ranges from a Belgian bistro and sophisticated international bar to fine dining led by Michelin-starred chefs.
When guests are ready to travel again, they can enjoy an exclusive “First-Look” at LHW’s newest members through Leaders Club First Look. The offer enhances travelers stay with round-trip airport or rail station transfers, guaranteed upgrade at check-in, and flexible check-in and check-out. To be eligible to book, a guest must be a member of LHW’s guest loyalty program, Leaders Club, which provides enhanced benefits and exclusive access at the collection’s properties worldwide.
Now comprised of more than 400 hotels in over 80 countries, LHW is the largest collection of independent luxury hotels. www.lhw.com
- By Nancy Radlauer, Editor-in-Chief, editor.InboundMagazine@gmail.com
