Belmond acquires iconic Caribbean Resort – Cap Juluca, Anguilla

#TravelMail ( #www.travelmail.in ) #TravelNews #TourismNews #DailyNews #BreakingNews
Belmond announces that it has signed agreements to acquireCap Juluca, a luxury beach resort on the Caribbean island of Anguilla, British West Indies. The addition of the elegant, 96-room resort marks an important milestone in the strategic development of the Belmond brand, which is committed to doubling the size of its portfolio by 2020. Belmond is enhancing its unique blend of iconic hotels, trains and cruises; offering luxury travellers an exceptional range of experiences across the world, from outbound adventures to once in a life time journeys and the ultimate choice in chic, beach hideaways.
Upon completing the acquisition towards the end of May 2017, the Company will immediately operateBelmond Cap Julucaand will be ready to welcome guests.
Authentic Anguilla
Belmond Cap Julucacomplements the brand’s personality of authentic escapes that blend perfectly with nature, local culture and inspire a sense of wellbeing. Set on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, overlooking the aquamarine waters of Maundays Bay, the unspoilt setting encourages guests to unwind to the slow rhythm of Caribbean island life.
The multiple award-winning property features Greco-Moorish architecture spread over two crescent-shaped coves with ocean view suites and villas that offer secluded privacy set within lush tropical gardens. There are four restaurants and bars, a large salt water pool, tennis courts, a fitness centre, a library and private screening room. The property was developed by Linda and Charles Hickox, the current resort owners, nearly 30 years ago.
The laid-back island of Anguilla boasts some of the best beaches in the Caribbean with the softest white sand and clear blue waters where dolphins swim in the surf. There is a well-developed pioneering food scene and colourful beach bars; the island is a haven for those wishing to escape and disconnect from everyday distractions.
Complimentary water sports are available on the beach including scuba diving excursions, water skiing on Maundays Bay, wake boarding, sea kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, Sunfish and Hobie Cat catamaran sailing.
Restoring an icon
Roeland Vos, President & Chief Executive Officer, commented, “I am thrilled to announce the addition of the legendary Cap Juluca to Belmond; our third hotel in the Caribbean builds upon our heritage of creating exceptional travel experiences in extraordinary locations.”
Mr. Vos continued, “We believe this one-of-a-kind resort presents a compelling opportunity to build on our experience of restoring iconic status to properties with exceptional heritage and stories to tell. As one of the most recognized resorts in the Caribbean, Cap Juluca is a natural fit for the Belmond portfolio and we look forward to continuing Linda and Charles Hickox’s inspiring legacy.”
After planning and obtaining all necessary permits in 2017, the Company expects to carry out a top to toe renovation and develop a further 25 new beachfront villas or suites, bringing the resort’s total inventory to 121 rooms. The renovation will be respectful of the surroundings, maintaining the authentic charm of the iconic resort.
The refurbishments, starting after the end of the 2017/18 festive season, are expected to include interior furnishings of all suites and villas; the introduction of new culinary concepts that celebrate the local food culture; enhancements to the spa; and new and renovated public areas. After refurbishment, which it expects to complete by the end of 2018, Belmond will have invested a total of approximately $121 million in the acquisition and subsequent renovation and expansion of the resort.
Building Global Travel Experiences
Belmond is now firmly on the path to doubling the size of its portfolio of properties, from beach and mountain resorts, to city hotels, safaris, luxury trains and cruises in some of the world’s most inspiring locations.
The news of Belmond Cap Juluca follows the most recent launches of Belmond Andean Explorer, South America’s first luxury sleeper train, and the addition of the Belmond Las Casitas hotel in Colca Canyon, Peru.
Belmond Cap Juluca is Belmond’s third Caribbean resort, joining Belmond La Samanna on the neighbouring island of St Martin and Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa in Riviera Maya, Mexico.