Marking the close of 2023 with the acquisition of a 17th century estate in Mexico, the brand is announcing plans for next year that include the selective expansion and enhancement of its portfolio.
Italian increase
Belmond will be strengthening its presence in Italy, where it already operates 10 properties. In Q2 2024, the firm will expand to Sardinia with Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda. Sardinia’s original beach hotel will offer 100 guestrooms including suites and villas, two blue pools and an array of restaurants.
Plus the multi-year renovation of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, designed by Martin Brudnizki Studio, will complete its second phase and re-open for the 2024 season with new guestrooms, joining the swimming pool, Splendido Grill restaurant and the Baronessa Suite that were revealed in 2023.
Historic hacienda
Reinforcing its cluster in Mexico, Belmond has acquired Hacienda Katanchel, formerly a hacienda dating back to the 17th century situated near Merida, Yucátan. With an expanse of 220 hectares, the estate is home to a cenote (underground river), a sacred well, native flora and fauna, and the remains of an ancient Mayan pyramid, in addition to the historic hacienda.
The vegetation, the property’s history and the Yucátan peninsula’s cultural expressions will all come together at Katanchel to create the setting for Katanchel, A Belmond Hotel, which is planned to open in 2027 with 35 independent suites, upon completing a comprehensive restoration programme.
Mexican commitment
The acquisition of Katanchel is aimed at bolstering Belmond’s commitment to Mexico, joining three other properties. The existing pair comprise Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Rivera Maya, on the Caribbean coast, which re-opened in August 2023 following a complete renovation; and in the country’s heartland, Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, a former convent built in the 16th century in San Miguel de Allende.
Looking ahead, on the Pacific Coast, Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Nayarit, will open in 2025 after being conscientiously and sensitively built from the ground up. The hotel will have 57 guest pavilions, including junior suites, one-bedroom suites, jungle suites and three-bedroom villas, alongside six culinary options, a wellness centre and four outdoor swimming pools.
Pushing boundaries
Dan Ruff, CEO, Belmond, said: “With our purpose to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, we will continue to push boundaries. 2024 will be a year of transformation as we further seek out remarkable properties, exceptional journeys and experiences.
“We will celebrate local culture, launch new experiences that connect our guests to the art of travel, curate contemporary culture and go even deeper with our environmental and social responsibility efforts.”
