Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, has announced the addition of 13 new member properties to its global portfolio between October 1 and December 31, 2023.
Ranging from an opulent Sicilian resort boasting old world charm, to an Argentinian vineyard retreat at the foot of the Andes Mountains, each of these distinct properties offer a host of memorable guest experiences to inspire travellers as they embark on new adventures across the world in 2024 and beyond, said a statement. Highlights Azul Hotel & Retreat (Guanacaste, Costa Rica) – Lifestyle Collection Situated on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast in the vibrant area of Playa Azul, part of one of the world’s seven Blue Zones celebrated for the vitality of its residents, the resort is surrounded by lush jungle and a palm-fringed beach. Guests can enjoy a host of adventurous sea and land activities including surfing, snorkelling, biking, horseback riding, turtle conservation experiences, and ATV jungle tours, as well as access to the nearby Diria National Park and Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary. The 23 accommodations, ranging from spacious rooms to luxurious suites and private villas, benefit from on-site amenities including two restaurants and a bar, complimentary surfboard rental, exclusive beach access, a fully equipped gym, in-room spa treatments, pool and jacuzzi, workspaces, and a yoga platform. Camp Creek Inn (Inlet Beach, Florida, the US) – L.V.X Collection Surrounded by native forest of oak, pine, and cypress, the Louisiana French Creole-inspired escape is composed of 75 rooms and suites, all of which benefit from exclusive access to the Watersound Beach Club white-sand beach and two beautiful beachfront pools. For golfers, the Camp Creek Golf Course and Shark’s Tooth Golf Course provide two challenging options, and additional private club amenities range from a wellness centre with sauna and steam rooms, to tennis and pickleball courts and three dining venues – 1936, Bark ‘N Brine and ANR – all helmed by Executive Chef Joseph Truex, a classically trained, award-winning chef. Almar Giardino di Costanza (Mazara del Vallo, Italy) – L.V.X Collection Tucked between fields, vineyards, and orchards just minutes from Sicily’s crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea, Almar Giardino di Costanza combines classical European design and charm with ultra-luxe modern amenities. The 86 all-suite accommodations offer either a private balcony or terrace alongside luxurious features such as elegant baths, velvet upholstery, marble tiles, and ceramic décor. Other guest highlights include a sensory-rich spa offering treatments based on classic Chinese medicine, a palatial pool surrounded by towering palms, and a private beach with complimentary transportation, while classic Sicilian dishes are on the menu at the hotel’s main restaurant, lounge and pool bar. Entre Cielos Wine & Wellness Hotel (Mendoza, Argentina) – L.V.X Collection With a name that translates as “between skies”, Entre Cielos Wine & Wellness Hotel is located in one of the great wine capitals of the world, nestled among Malbec vineyards with views of the towering snow-capped Andes Mountain range. Each of the property’s 24 modern rooms and suites feature unique designs accented by wine-inspired scents, while benefiting from a private terrace overlooking the hotel’s very own vineyard. It features a spa, on-site fine arts museum, traditional dinner at the farm-to-table bistro, and local wineries. The Editory Boulevard Aliados Porto (Porto, Portugal) - Lifestyle Collection Set in the heart of historic Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Editory Boulevard Aliados Porto is well situated to explore the city’s wide array of sights, landmarks, monuments, shops, and dining options. With a bold yet playful interior design incorporating local artists and featuring colourful artwork that ranges from avant-garde sculptures to engaging murals, the 68 rooms and suites span seven accommodation types. Additional highlights include a chic outdoor heated pool, modern innovative dishes at Ilícito Restaurant, and a circus-themed bar serving classic cocktails. “We are delighted to welcome these 13 new member properties to our global portfolio of luxury independent hotels,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “Presenting a multitude of options for travellers seeking the finest, most authentic independent hotel experiences, these exciting new additions mark continued growth and development of the brand’s global footprint in key markets – including five new members from Catalonia Hotels & Resorts, increasing our already-extensive offering in Spain to more than 30 distinctive properties.” Other member properties to have joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ global portfolio from October 1 through December 31, 2023, include:- Grand Hotel Djibloho (Ciudad de la Paz, Equatorial Guinea) – L.V.X Collection
- Tembo Barcelona (Barcelona, Spain) – Lifestyle Collection and Preferred Residences
- Catalonia Passeig de Gracia (Barcelona, Spain) – Lifestyle Collection
- Catalonia Las Cortes (Madrid, Spain) – Lifestyle Collection
- Hotel Catalonia Ronda (Ronda, Spain) – Lifestyle Collection
- Hotel Catalonia Donosti (San Sebastián, Spain) – Lifestyle Collection
- Catalonia Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) – Lifestyle Collection
- SoHo Residences Toronto (Toronto, Canada) – Preferred Residences