Castle Hotel Sonnenburg, in St. Lorenzen, Valley Pustertal, Italy was awarded Historic Hotels of Europe’s Best Castle Historic Hotel 2016.
Castles, a convent, elegant country houses and a former tobacco store are among the 10 luxury hotels named winners of Historic Hotels of Europe awards for 2016.
Guests voted for their favorite hotels in 10 categories, including romance, legend, fine dining, and spa facilities.
Historic Hotels of Europe (HHE) chairman Barbara Avdis said: ‘These awards are an opportunity to reward the outstanding effort that the staff at our member hotels put in to ensure their guests are happy.
“It’s also a celebration of the commitment our members make to maintain the incredibly rich heritage and stories encapsulated in these buildings – and to recognize their constant striving to provide an excellent service for their guests.”
HHE is a not-for-profit umbrella company championing more than 500 of Europe’s most historically-significant hotels.
Each member hotel is unique and each is wrapped inextricably into the history of their location – and of Europe beyond. That’s why the organization selected ten separate categories for the judging.
“The HHE members are so diverse in location, history and type, so having one common measure would be unfair to all,” Barbara Avdis commented.
The winners of the fourth HHE awards were announced in November at a gala dinner at Château de l’Epinay in Saint-Georges-sur-Loire, France.
Winners include Chesa Salis in Bever, Switzerland. Owners Jurg and Sibylla Degiacomi describe their hotel as ‘your home in the Engadin’, so they were delighted to take home the award for best customer care. Little wonder Chesa Salis is a frequent retreat for celebrities escaping the bustle of nearby St Moritz.
Another winner is Aigialos Hotel, in Santorini, Greece. The 16 renovated neoclassical houses that make up the hotel were originally the homes of the island’s noble captain families. Named best historic hotel with a story to tell, the Aigialos charms visitors with its cobbled walkways, overlooking deep blue seas and the island’s volcano.
Winner of the most romantic hotel is Vadstena Convent Hotel, in Sweden. The property has a remarkable history: originally a royal palace, in the 1300s it was the scene of lavish parties thrown by King Magnus Eriksson and his wife Blanche. But the place underwent an abrupt change of fortune when it was transformed into a monastery and convent so austere that log fires, even in a Swedish winter, were strictly forbidden. Vadstena has even been a nursing home for wounded soldiers during wartime – but today it’s a luxury hotel packed with historic charm.
“Our historic hotels are eclectic and authentic, and we aim to take our guests on a journey of inspiring experiences beyond the expected,” Avidis commented
Nayara Hotels has two properties set in Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park and is opening a third, exclusive accommodation, Nayara Tented Resort.
The award-winning Nayara Hotels, with two existing properties set in Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park, is growing its collection with the announcement of a third, exclusive accommodation, Nayara Tented Resort. The resort will be the first of its kind in the Americas to offer year-round accommodations.
A sister property to Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens and Nayara Springs, this new resort will consist of 24, 945-sq.-ft. tents, each made up of a master suite and en-suite bathroom as well as an adjoining tent that can be arranged as a lounge or a second bedroom, perfect for families. Each tent will sit on its own platform furnished with an outdoor living area and a plunge pool filled from nearby hot springs. The three resorts are located 2-3 hours by car from the capital, San Jose and once there, guests will have easy access between the properties via golf cart.
“We loved the beautiful tented camps in Africa and Asia, and recognized that there was nothing in Costa Rica, or even Central America, as spectacular, especially nothing that was open year-round. We have access to the highest mountain in the area with 360-degree views. It is a magical setting for an ultra-luxury tented camp,” said Leo Ghitis, of Nayara Hotels.
In developing the accommodations, Nayara has partnered with Luxury Frontiers, known for its roster of top-ranked tented camps in Africa, among them Chief’s Camp in Botswana, Swala Camp in Tanzania, and Olonana Camp in Kenya as well as others in the works around the world. The partnership reflects Nayara’s intent to make the experience of the Costa Rican rainforest at Nayara Tented Resort akin to that of an African safari camp. With wildlife surrounding the resort including 400 species of birds in the Arenal Rainforest, this tented experience promises to be extra immersive.
“It is exciting to work with a company that shares similar goals and values to create an outstanding, immersive experience for guests,” said Luca Franco, Managing Partner and Founder, Luxury Frontiers. “We are thrilled to partner with Nayara on their newest luxury hotel, one in which the new lodging becomes an unforgettable experiential journey.”
In addition to the accommodations, Nayara Tented Resort will offer a 16-table restaurant and two additional private dining pavilions, a pool with a swim-up bar, cabanas, a fire pit, and a Wellness Oasis with three spa treatment rooms and a relaxation room. Spa treatments will incorporate local elements such as volcanic mud. The kids’ club will be an interactive learning center focused on rainforest ecology.
Nayara Hotels is a collection of two properties set in Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens and Nayara Springs. Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens is a tranquil, five-star oasis set amongst 15 acres of lush gardens and Costa Rican rainforest overlooking the Arenal Volcano, the world’s third most active volcano. An exclusive and luxurious retreat, Nayara features just 50 spacious and private casitas (bungalows), all with private terraces with outdoor showers and Jacuzzi tubs for two. Nayara Springs offers 16 luxury villas with views of the Arenal Volcano. Each villa is equipped with a private pool fed by mineral hot springs and an expansive private garden with exterior shower, sleek four-poster bed wrapped in soft cottons, and indoor and outdoor sitting areas. Nayara Springs is connected to its sister hotel Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens by footbridge. In January 2016, Nayara Springs will be adding 19 additional villas.
Luxury Frontiers is a market leader in conceiving, designing and developing luxury tented suites and creative tree-top experiences for the global traveler. The accommodations are created to the highest standards and are designed and operated to provide exciting, authentic and memorable experiences without compromising guest expectations for luxury comfort and quality. Its skilled leadership team has deep experience in the African safari camp business and has worked with leading luxury hospitality brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Abercrombie & Kent, Six Senses, Belmond, Wilderness Safaris, Explora and Aman. For more information, visit www.luxury-frontiers.com.
o The Conrad Indianapolis has a fleet of Conrad Cruisers available for guests to use complimentary during their stay.
Biking can be a marvelous activity to enhance a stay at a hotel or resort, to let you get out and explore the destination. Hilton Hotels are highlighting some of the bike rentals and tours available at their properties:
Hilton Burlington Vermont
Located on a wonderful bike trail that runs along Lake Champlain, the hotel holds 25 bikes that are free for guests to sign out with our Bell Staff. The hotel has covered bike parking with a built in repair station with pumps and tools. Not too far from the hotel there is a bike ferry that can take guests across the lake to continue your exploration. Photo
Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resortand The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
The Key Lime Bike Tour, bookable through the resort’s concierge, is a recommended guided bike tour of Key West to learn the history of the island. The tour visits top destinations like Ernest Hemingway’s House, Mallory Square, Key West’s Historic Seaport, the Famous Key West Cemetery and the Southernmost point of the United States. Guided tours cost $39 per person which includes a bicycle and helmet, a bottle of water at departure, a stop at the Key West Lime Pie company for a slice of Key Lime Pie. Photo
Hilton Bogotá
Every Sunday from 8:30am to 2:00pm, the hotel offers guests to join a local Sunday tradition. Every Sunday, locals and tourists take to the “Ciclovía,” or cycleway, when certain streets close for automobiles and exclusively open for cyclists and pedestrians. During these hours, guests can enjoy 120 Km of cycleway across the city.
Conrad Centennial Singapore
Cycle @ Conrad is a complimentary unique fitness program for all hotel guests by the Conrad Centennial Singapore. In house guests are invited to join for a ride around town during pre-dawn hours on recommended and customizable routes (around 20-30km) starting from and ending at the hotel. The guide for the trip would be any team member who is passionate about cycling. Photo
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam offers complimentary bikes, on a first come first serve basis, which have to be returned before 10pm. The hotel can also arrange private guides to show guests the highlights of Amsterdam, Broek in Waterland or down along the Amstel to Oudekerk.
Grand Wailea
Grand Wailea guests can borrow one of 12 adult road bikes at the property and head out for an island adventure. Take a ride down La Perouse Bay, named for the French explorer, and the site of Maui’s most recent volcanic activity formed 900,000 years ago. Located at the valet desk in front of the hotel, bikes are available first-come, first-served daily from sunup to sundown.
Trianon Palace Versailles
Discover the Palace of Versailles by bicycle going down the Grand Canal to the Domaine of Marie-Antoinette, the Grand and the Petit Trianon, cycling through groves and hundred years old trees. Guests can pay for guided bike tours throughout the park of the Palace on weekends and public holidays. Photo
Boca Raton Resort & Club
Guests staying at Boca Raton Resort & Club are able to enjoy the coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and historic Mizner Village with the ease and breeze of its four neighboring bicycle routes. From 6 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. guests can rent bicycles from the resort’s Health Club and cycle at their own leisure around the resort’s 356 acres, or along any of the four designated bicycle routes ranging from one to eight miles long. The Youth Friendly route is 1-1.5 miles long and stretches along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing a scenic, short and sweet rides even the youngest cyclists will enjoy. Bicycles costs $15 per person per hour and have no age restrictions.
Conrad Indianapolis
The Conrad Indianapolis has a fleet of Conrad Cruisers available for guests to use complimentary during their stay. Located just outside the Conrad’s front doors is the renowned Indianapolis Cultural Trail, an 8-mile urban bike trail that connects all six of Indy’s vibrant cultural districts. Flanked with public art installations, the Cultural Trail is the best way for guests to explore the city. Photo
Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa
Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa offers multiple ways for guests to bike around the city. At our on-site sport rental outlet, Action Sport Rentals, guests can rent beach cruisers, kid’s bikes, surreys and more and enjoy 28 miles of Mission Bay’s beautiful boardwalk. The resort also works with city-wide DecoBike, a company that provides bicycle sharing services. There is a DecoBike station in front of the resort where anyone is welcome to rent bikes and take a cruise around the city. Photo
Historic Hotels of America has launched a new Super Site that lets you follow your American Dreams and choose from a variety of different vacation ideas, including family getaways, road trips, national parks and lands, culinary destinations, urban adventures, and more (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/index) featuring more than 260 historic hotels across the United States from Puerto Rico to Hawaii.
“Exploration has always driven the American Dream. It’s this inquisitive spirit that has helped write our history books, shape America’s iconic landmarks and pave new roads to make way for memorable journeys,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director – Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “In honor of 350 years of travel, Historic Hotels of America has launched an all-new Super Site — American Dreams. This second Super Site follows on the heels of the Romance Super Site, which Historic Hotels of America launched in early February.”
When visiting the American Dreams Super Site homepage, a number of navigational tools help travelers peruse the site’s many inspirations. The main navigation: The site is divided into six content sections — Family Vacations, Road Trips, Heritage & Culture, Culinary Destinations and Urban Adventures — with each of these pages showcasing article thumbnails. When a consumer clicks on the image, they navigate to that feature story. These stories include hotel advertorials, which solely feature participating hotels, and topical editorials, which highlight select destinations based on editorial content.
Focus your family vacations in and around historic hotels. Most historic hotels include family-fun recreation and kid-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a family vacation, Historic Hotels of America offers up everything from family beach vacations to amusement park thrills.
Travel to Hershey, Pennsylvania, experience and Explore Hershey Park, an amusement park full of candy land thrills. After a day of fun, check into Hershey Park’s official resort, The Hotel Hershey®, built by chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey in 1933. Or, travel to Tennessee and hop on board at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a train-themed hotel. Once an operating train station in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the 106-year-old terminal station was converted into a beautiful hotel in 1973, where guests can opt to sleep in one of 48 authentic Victorian train cars.
Pack up the car for a road trip, or scenic drive and stay in a historic hotels (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/road-trips). For example and long before the “interstate” was born, road trippers looked to Route 66 to venture across America. This 2,448 mile stretch is among America’s most famous roads, connecting a number of states between Chicago to California, with historic hotels along the way. Every road trip, whether spontaneous or planned, needs a few essential items — an adventurous route, road trip music and a reservation at Historic Hotels of America.
There are plenty of historic hotels located along Route 66, with comfortable lodging and fantastic amenities. In Oklahoma City, Skirvin Hilton provides respite for the weary road traveler. This 1911 beauty was named after its founder, oil tycoon William Balser “Bill” Skirvin. Meanwhile, Colcord Hotel, the city’s first skyscraper, is another overnight stop in Oklahoma City. For a one-of-a-kind Historic Hotel experience, stray an hour away from Route 66 to stay at La Fonda in Santa Fe. Well worth the extra miles, you’ll experience an authentic Pueblo-style inn.
Discover and Explore parks, lands, and heritage sites in and around historic hotels across the nation (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/national-parks). America is filled with innumerable treasures. Here’s a nod to the many parks, forests, monuments and byways that have long captured the hearts of the American traveler. For example, he Appalachian Mountains offer up the east’s breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway and a myriad of national parks, protected forests many with nearby historic hotels. Scattered throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, quant towns greet America’s road trippers, like Banner Elk, North Carolina, where the population barely peaks 1,000. In Banner Elk, The Mast Farm Inn provides a historic country retreat for travelers. The main inn features charming rooms with four-posters beds, claw-foot tubs and endless farmhouse charm.
At the other end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the boarder of North Carolina and Tennessee. Just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in Asheville, North Carolina, one of the country’s most celebrated resorts calls the Blue Ridge Mountains home — The Omni Grove Park Inn. This AAA Four Diamond Property is listed on Fodor’s “Top 10 Luxury Spa Resorts” and in Travel + Leisure’s rankings of “Top Spa Resorts” in the world.
Interested in ghost stories and the paranormal? Make your vacation truly memorable. Add a little heritage and a dash of culture by visiting one of many attractions near Historic Hotels of America (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/heritage-culture). Take in a nostalgic festival, visit a national monument or explore a historic battlefield. Your adventure awaits. We have legendary stories to share at Historic Hotels of America.
Many historic hotels are rumored to have played host to more than just their paying customers. Whether or not you believe these ghosts stories, one thing is certain — these friendly hauntings leave guests talking about their hotel experience for years! Known as “America’s most haunted hotel,” the ghost stories are plentiful at 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. It’s said that one of the Irish stonemasons, known as “Michael,” plunged to his death after falling from Room 218 during hotel construction. Guests report a number of strange activities from this room.
The inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” The Stanley has lots of haunting appeal, especially when guests tour the creepy underground tunnel that runs beneath the hotel. But that’s not the hotel’s most haunting aspect. The hotel’s original owner, F.O. Stanley is known to haunt the hotel. He and his wife have been seen dressed in formal attire on the main staircase and in other public areas, and Flora’s piano occasionally echoes in the ballroom.
Experience culinary destinations, spirits, wine, food, festivals and trails throughout the country (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/culinary-destinations). There’s nothing like local flavor to add a little extra zing to your trip. From food festivals to fine dining, from Sonoma’s Wine Country to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Historic Hotels of America tips its glass to these culinary destinations. Interested in the latest vintages in the heart of Napa Valley? Nestled into the heart of Napa Valley, the Napa River Inn stands out as an upscale boutique hotel. The inn adjoins the historic Napa Mill, which offers dining, shopping and 7,300 square feet of outdoor reception space in the Riverbend Performance Plaza for wine-induced celebrations.
For more then 200 years, generations of Bourbon brewers handed down secret-family recipes and time-honored processes that shaped today’s legendary Kentucky distilleries. Experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and check into a Historic Hotel of America to enjoy more Kentucky history. Not far from the Bourbon Trail is The Seelbach Hilton, the height of Kentucky luxury. During the roaring 1920s, The Seelbach was the most glamorous spot for cards, attracting infamous gangsters, like Al Capone and the Beer Baron of the Bronx, during Prohibition.
Urban Adventures
Bustling city centers located throughout the United States from New York to San Francisco are a great way to experience famous cultural icons, museums, and history while staying at nearby historic hotels (http://americandreams.historichotels.org/urban-adventures). Choose from 11 hotels in Washington, DC. The Jefferson, DC is a luxury hotel that celebrates and embodies the spirit of one of our founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson. Just four blocks from The White House, this downtown hotel affords a treasured account of its significant history alongside thoughtfully appointed accommodations, opulent meeting rooms, and gracious hospitality and service.
Discounts from Historic Hotels Worldwide
National Trust for Historic Preservation members save up to 30% off best available rates at participating Historic Hotels Worldwide. HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com promotes heritage and cultural travel by featuring a prestigious collection of historic treasures, including historic hotels, castles, chateaux, palaces, monasteries, haciendas and other historical lodging properties spanning twelve centuries.
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America was founded in 1989 by the National Trust for Historic Preservationwith 32 charter members. Today, Historic Hotels of America has more than 260 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated properties. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
For more information, visit HistoricHotels.org. To receive the free Discover & Explore e-newsletter each month with advance notice about Insiders Savings, special discounts, epic package, and up and coming events in historic hotels in 30 countries, plus free or reduced rate admission to historic and cultural sites, click here.
To view the Historic Hotels of America 2015 Annual Directory eBook, click here or visit HistoricHotels.org/Directory to download the app.
The Lodge at Verbier, a mountain hideaway in the Swiss Alps, is one of the Virgin Limited Edition retreats.
Sir Richard Branson, the British entrepreneur famous for Virgin Records and Virgin Air and a host of daring and innovative initiatives, has introduced the Virgin Limited Edition collection of unique retreats.
In 1998, during one of Sir Richard Branson’s famous ballooning expeditions in Morocco, his parents found a stunning Kasbah at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, close to Marrakech, and dreamed of turning it into a romantic Moroccan retreat. Richard Branson fulfilled their dream and bought the fairy-tale palace, inclusive of the antiques and art collections from an Italian designer and antiquary. Guests of the Kasbah Tamadot enter a colorful place that seems from “1001 Arabian Nights”. A 3-night package for Christmas and New Years includes all meals and drinks as well as entertainment, treks in the local area and excursions to nearby villages as well as activities for kids; priced from 1.443 Euro per person (www.kasbahtamadot.virgin.com).
The African bush – just the thought of it conjures up some fascinating images of breathtaking wilderness, sunrise safaris and a retreat far away from the city. At Ulusaba, Branson and his team set out to create the most beautiful game reserve in Africa. The Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is in the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve, close to Kruger National Park. The family friendly Rock Lodge can accommodate 25 guests in its ten rooms. Only 500 meters away there is the Safari Lodge, built along the banks of a dry riverbed. The Safari Lodge can accommodate 22 adults in its 11 rooms. Most of the Ulusaba staff are from surrounding villages, so guests benefit from authentic South African hospitality. Ulusaba promotes from within and supports the local community through their charitable project “Pride ´n Purpose.” The Ulusaba family of 119 individuals includes some of the most qualified rangers and trackers in the reserve, who guarantee the experience of a lifetime on a game drive (www.ulusaba.virgin.com).
When thinking of going on safari in Kenya, one of the first things that come to mind is the Great Migration. Words just cannot describe the majesty of this awe-inspiring spectacle. At Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson’s Kenyan Safari Camp which opened in summer 2013, guests have a front row seat, not just to the migration, but also to the abundant game guests can see all year round (www.mahalimzuri.virgin.com).
The Lodge at Verbier, a mountain hideaway in the Swiss Alps. In winter, the chalet is hired exclusively and but individual rooms can be booked during the summer months (www.thelodge.virgin.com).
The Virgin Limited Edition includes also the private island Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands, luxurious 100 foot catamaran Necker Belle in the Caribbean, The Roof Gardens and Babylon Restaurant in London, and Mont Rochelle in South Africa, which opened in September 2014.
Historic Hotels of America welcomed 24 historic hotels into membership in 2014. Hotels nominated and accepted into the prestigious Historic Hotels of America program range in age from 51 to 389 years old. These new additions represent historic hotels from 14 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. The oldest new member hotel dates to 1625. Six of the hotels were adapted from a previous use including a former bank and courthouse. Of the 24 new members, five have reported hauntings from friendly ghosts.
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservationfor recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
Historic hotels inducted into Historic Hotels of America members YTD in 2014 include:
Le Méridien Tampa (1905) Tampa, Florida Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, converted to a hotel from century old federal courthouse
Hilton Hawaiian Village® Waikiki Beach Resort, Honolulu (1961) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
The Drake Hotel (1920) Chicago, Illinois Listed in the National Register of Historic Places
Seelbach Hilton (1905) Louisville, Kentucky Listed in the National Register of Historic Places
Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center (1927) Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue (1926) New Orleans, Louisiana
Southern Hotel (1907) Covington, Louisiana, converted from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana’s Masonic Temple
The Westin Portland Harborview (1927) Portland, Maine
Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall (1928) Boston, Massachusetts, converted from Boston’s first Art Deco skyscraper office building
Hilton President Kansas City (1926) Kansas City, Missouri
Hilton St. Louis Downtown at the Arch (1888) St. Louis, Missouri, converted from former Merchant Laclède National Bank and office building.
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza (1625) Santa Fe, New Mexico, converted from 300 year old hacienda
Hilton Manhattan East (1931) New York, New York
Chateau at the Oregon Caves National Monument (1935) Cave Junction, Oregon Designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark
Abraham Lincoln Reading Hotel (1930) Reading, Pennsylvania
Caribe Hilton San Juan (1949) San Juan, Puerto Rico
The Condado Plaza Hilton (1963) San Juan, Puerto Rico
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel (1919) San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hilton Fort Worth (1921) Fort Worth, Texas
Airlie (1892) Warrenton, Virginia, converted from picturesque farm
Capital Hilton (1943) Washington, DC
The Edgewater (1948) Madison, Wisconsin
“Historic Hotels of America is pleased to honor these noteworthy and iconic historic hotels,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “From Puerto Rico to Hawaii, each hotel represents a unique aspect of the heritage, history, and culture of the United States of America including one from more than 150 years prior to 1776. Several hotels are listed in the National Register of Historic Places and one hotel that has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark. We are delighted to welcome adaptive reuse historic hotels that previously were built as unique buildings ranging from a hacienda to a public court house.”
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America was founded in 1989 by the National Trust for Historic Preservationwith 32 charter members. Today, Historic Hotels of America has more than 260 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 46 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated properties. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
Washington, D.C. – The Palmer House Hilton of Chicago, the Inn at the Presidio of San Francisco, Portland Regency Hotel & Spa in Maine, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa in Pennsylvania and The Lord Baltimore of Baltimore were among the Historic Hotels of America 2014 Awards of Excellence winners announced at a gala ceremony at The Hotel Hershey® (1933) in Hershey, Pennsylvania on Thursday, October 2.
Honors were given in multiple categories ranging from Hotelier of the Year and Hotel Historian of the Year to Best Historic Resort and Historic Hotelier of the Year.
From more than 160 nominees, the following Historic Hotels of America hotels and hoteliers were honored with these prestigious awards:
Historic Hotels of America Lifetime Achievement Award
Terry Richey, National Trust for Historic Preservation
Historic Hotels of America Historian of the Year Award
Stanley Turkel, Author and Consultant
“Historic Hotels of America is proud to congratulate the 2014 Awards of Excellence winners,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “These historic hotels and hoteliers represent the pinnacle in historic hotels and their achievements from Portland, Maine to Waikiki Beach.”
The hotels were nominated by fellow members, past award recipients, and honorees. A panel of experts judged and weighed the nominees in each category in order to determine a winner. As the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Historic Hotels of America provides the recognition to travelers, civic leaders, and the global cultural, heritage and historic travel market that the members hotels are among the finest historic hotels across America.
To find more information about award winners from previous winners, click here.
Historic Hotels of America was founded in 1989 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation with 32 charter members. Today, Historic Hotels of America has more than 260 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated properties, however, more than 30 of the world’s major hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; be designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance. For more information, visit HistoricHotels.org.
The Edgewater in Madison, Wisconsin has joined Historic Hotels of America®, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Edgewater is one of more than 250 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture and ambiance. The Edgewater is the only Madison-based property to be included in the portfolio.
“We are delighted to induct The Edgewater, a storied lakefront hotel in the Midwest, to Historic Hotels of America prior to the hotel’s grand reopening after a $100-million renovation this September 2014.” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “We welcome The Edgewater’s Owner Robert Dunn and leadership team into Historic Hotels of America.”
To be selected for membership in Historic Hotels of America, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark; listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized locally as having historic significance.
“We are extremely honored to be a member of the Historic Hotels of America,” says Ronald E. Morin, general manager and senior vice president of The Edgewater. “The people of Madison have pride in the hotel as a civic asset, a gathering place and a destination that defines the best of the city. Therefore, we are committed to honoring The Edgewater’s legacy as we enter the next chapter of the hotel’s history.”
The Edgewater is rich in history and architectural integrity. The hotel opened in Madison, Wisconsin 65 years ago and quickly became one of the city’s main attractions. Almost overnight, the hotel became the signature location for local residents and visiting guests to enjoy all things that define Madison. With an extraordinary location right on the shore of Lake Mendota, the new Edgewater, just as the previous structure, will service as a gathering place for significant family events from casual waterfront relaxation to fine dining.
Visiting celebrities stayed at the hotel from Elvis Presley to Sammy Davis Jr. and Elton John to Bob Marley, as well as many visiting notables. Local developer Robert Dunn, with a passion to recreate the unique destination, acquired The Edgewater with an ambitious plan to develop the property and return it to its cultural significance in the city.
After a multimillion-dollar expansion and renovation, The Edgewater will reopen in September 2014 at 1001 Wisconsin Place in Madison, Wisconsin, as a portal to Madison’s waterfront in the heart of Wisconsin’s capital city. A project of Madison developer Robert Dunn, the revitalization of the historic hotel property includes the construction of a new hotel tower as well as the preservation of the two original buildings erected in the 1940s and 1970s. The Edgewater will feature more than 200 guest rooms, new food and beverage concepts, a state-of-the art fitness and wellness center, a multitude of indoor and outdoor event spaces (including two rooftop spaces), an outdoor public plaza and even an outdoor skating rink in winter.
Historic Hotels of America® is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Founded in 1989 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation with 32 charter members, today, Historic Hotels of America has more than 250 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 46 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated properties. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance. For more information, visit HistoricHotels.org.
Historic Hotels of America has just announced the nominees for its 2014 Awards of Excellence, recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels and hoteliers. The 2014 Annual Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner will take place at The Hotel Hershey® (1933) in Hershey, Pennsylvania on Thursday, October 2 at 7 pm where the final award winners will be announced.
Award recipients were selected from nominees received from across America from historic hotels, historic preservation supporters, and leadership from Historic Hotels of America. As the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Historic Hotels of America provides the recognition to travelers, civic leaders, and the global cultural, heritage, and historic travel market that member hotels are among the finest historic hotels across America. Historic Hotels of America Awards of Excellence recognize the pinnacle of this distinct group of nominees in a number of categories.
The 2014 award nominees are:
Historic Hotels of America New Member of the Year
o Abraham Lincoln Reading Hotel (1930) Reading, Pennsylvania
o Airlie (1892) Warrenton, Virginia
o Benbow Inn (1926) Garberville, California
o The Edgewater (1948) Madison, Wisconsin
o Lake McDonald Lodge (1914) Glacier National Park, Montana
o Many Glacier Hotel (1915) Glacier National Park, Montana
o The Buccaneer (1653) St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
o Castle Hotel & Spa (1910) Tarrytown, New York
o Grand Hotel (1887) Mackinac Island, Michigan
o Hotel El Convento (1651) San Juan, Puerto Rico
o Jekyll Island Club Hotel (1886) Jekyll Island, Georgia
o Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa (1901) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
o Ojai Valley Inn & Spa (1923) Ojai, California
o The Omni Homestead Resort (1766) Hot Springs, Virginia
o Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa (1806) Bedford, Pennsylvania
o The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort (1927) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Hotel Historian of the Year
o Danielle Deschamps, The Mast Farm Inn (1792) Banner Elk, North Carolina
o Ken Price, Palmer House Hilton Hotel (1871) Chicago, Illinois
o Les Sossaman, The Wigwam (1918) Litchfield Park, Arizona
o Steven LaCasse, Lord Jeffery Inn (1926) Amherst, Massachusetts
o Thelma Kehaulani Kam, The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort (1927) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii and Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa (1901) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
o William Defibaugh, Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa (1806) Bedford, Pennsylvania
Historic Hotels of America Sustainability Champion
o Airlie (1892) Warrenton, Virginia
o Boone Tavern Hotel of Berea College (1909) Berea, Kentucky
o Cavallo Point (1901) Sausalito, California, Golden Gate National Park
o The Fairmont Hotel San Francisco (1907) San Francisco, California
o Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa (1847) Point Clear, Alabama
o The Heathman Hotel (1927) Portland, Oregon
o Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza (1931) Cincinnati, Ohio
o Inn at the Presidio (1776) San Francisco, California, Golden Gate National Park
o Jekyll Island Club Hotel (1886) Jekyll Island, Georgia
o The Lenox (1900) Boston, Massachusetts
o Lord Jeffery Inn (1926) Amherst, Massachusetts
o Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa (1901) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
o Paso Robles Inn (1891) Paso Robles, California
o The Strater Hotel (1887) Durango, Colorado
Historic Hotels of America Ambassador of the Year (Quarter Century Service)
o Bob Louis, Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza (1931) Cincinnati, Ohio
o Brian LaFountain, The Omni Homestead Resort (1766) Hot Springs, Virginia
o Charles Schumacher, The Strater Hotel (1887) Durango, Colorado
o Crystal Brandt, The Hotel Hershey® (1933) Hershey, Pennsylvania
o Mike Childs, Paso Robles Inn (1891) Paso Robles, California
o Patty Henning, Jekyll Island Club Hotel (1886) Jekyll Island, Georgia
o Stephani Bann, Lancaster Arts Hotel (1881) Lancaster, Pennsylvania
“Historic Hotels of America congratulates all the 2014 award nominees,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “The nominees exemplify the finest historic hotels and their hoteliers from across America. The Historic Hotels of America Awards of Excellence Committee is delighted to announce the 2014 nominees and looks forward to awarding winners at the historic and beautiful Hotel Hershey® on October 2. From San Juan, Puerto Rico to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, all the nominees represent inspiring, captivating, and distinctive hotels.”
Tickets for The Historic Hotels of America 2014 Annual Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner are available. The dinner will take place at The Hotel Hershey® on Thursday, October 2 at 7 pm. Tickets for the dinner are $160 for one seat and $1,250 per table (for 8 seats). Contact the Historic Hotels of America +1 202 772 8000 or [email protected] to reserve tickets.
The 2013 Annual Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner was held at the historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Please click here to view award winners.
Historic Hotels of America® is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Founded in 1989 with 32 charter members, Historic Hotels of America now has more than 250 members. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 46 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated properties. More than 30 of the world’s major hospitality brands, chains and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark, or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as having historic significance. For more information, visit www.HistoricHotels.org, where you can also make reservations.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, is renewing its call to lawmakers, advocates, and supporters of the rights of women and LGBT people in New York to speak out against the Sultan of Brunei’s multi-billion dollar offer to purchase the iconic Plaza Hotel as well as the Dream Downtown hotel in New York.
The Sultan has faced an international backlash following his decision in May to begin implementing a horrific series of new laws that could lead to the stoning of women and LGBT Bruneians. New reports indicate that some hotel guests as well as organizations that host annual events at The Plaza Hotel would refuse to return if a deal with the Sultan goes through. According to some industry experts, his potential ownership could impact the hotel’s business prospects and global brand.
“The Sultan of Brunei could start executing women and LGBT people in Brunei as soon as next year,” said Ty Cobb, HRC’s Director of Global Engagement “The American profit stream that flows from his hotels back to his regime needs to stop. We urge all New Yorkers to have one simple and straight-forward message for the Sultan: take your business elsewhere.”
HRC strongly condemned Brunei’s decision to introduce laws that allow for capital punishment to be used against women and LGBT people, and called on Americans to avoid his hotels. Brunei’s decision has been widely condemned by the international community. In April, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights condemned Brunei’s penal code reforms, saying it was “deeply concerned” and that stoning was considered to be “torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment” under international law.
The Sultan currently owns two hotels in the United States—The Beverly Hills Hotel and the Hotel Bel-Air, both of which are in California. The Sultan of Brunei has offered more than $2 billion to purchase three hotels––The Plaza Hotel and the Dream Downtown hotel in New York, as well as The Grosvenor House Hotel in London––from the Sahara’s Group chairman, Subrata Roy.
