Exciting Leading Hotels openings are on the horizon in Switzerland and China, following
debuts in Greece, Italy, Russia, Canada and Korea within the past year
The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd is pleased to
announce the addition of eight new members to its collection of over 375 independent, luxury hotels. Of
these, six are also new to the hospitality scene in 2017. Spanning the globe from Canada to Spain to
Korea, these distinguished properties offer varied styles of architecture and design, and immersive
cultural experiences delivered by passionate hoteliers.
“We are delighted to welcome these celebrated new members to The Leading Hotels of the World,” said Deniz
Omurgonulsen, Vice President, Membership, The Leading Hotels of the World. “Our guests are in search of
quality and distinctiveness when staying with us and these global properties deliver both seamlessly. With
the exciting new additions, our travelers can stay in a Venetian palace on the Grand Canal, a shikumen
lanes home in Shanghai, a historic mansion in Montreal or St. Petersburg, or the fifth tallest high rise
in the world in Seoul.”
Le Mount Stephen (Montréal, Canada)
Le Mount Stephen opened its doors in
May 2017, proudly embracing the dynamism of today’s
Montréal, while paying homage to the city’s rich heritage. The property is in the Golden Square Mile and
the entrance and dining venues are within the George Stephen House, a historical monument and mansion
built by Lord G. Stephen, the first president of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Beyond the entry the
present is celebrated in a sleek contemporary tower that houses 90 prestigious rooms and sky-loft suites
which all feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The interiors exude timeless elegance, showcasing a unique
style and character while offering state-of the-art amenities.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Spend a leisurely night in Le Mount Stephen’s
historic mansion before retiring to the modern guest rooms. Order the Golden Square Mile Sour or Lady
George No. 1 at the hotel’s Bar George, set within the property’s historic mansion.
Bürgenstock Hotel (Obbuergen, Switzerland)
The newly built Bürgenstock Hotel will officially open
September 15, 2017, boasting
modern architecture, contemporary design and incomparable views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps. The
property is part of the legendary Bürgenstock Resort, located in Central Switzerland, 500 meters above
Lake Lucerne. Hospitality is a tradition here and famous guests like Audrey Hepburn and Charlie Chaplin
have visited since the first Grand Hotel opened in 1873. Explore the expansive grounds, that include a
10,000-square-meter spa, a healthy living center, 12 restaurants, numerous boutiques, and a 9-hole golf
course. Opportunities for active recreation also await, with tennis, golf, curling, water sports, hiking
and bike trails all nearby.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Travel in style to the hotel via the legendary
Bürgenstock Railway that stops directly on-property. Opened in 1888, it was the first electric funicular
railway in Switzerland. Bürgenstock Hotel will help arrange arrivals/departures or daily excursions for
guests on the recently restored train.
Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort (Zakynthos, Greece)
True to its name, Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort is surrounded by spectacular views of the Ionian Sea,
offering privacy and peace of mind to the experienced traveler. The property opened in
May
2017, with 65 guestrooms all facing the sea. Lesante Blu’s “it’s all about you” mentality is
exhibited through its adults-only concept, private pools, state-of-the-art suites and discreet staff. Fine
dining restaurants with Mediterranean flavors prepared by the Executive Chef George Plotas enhance the
culinary offerings, while complete tranquility and rejuvenating moments can be enjoyed in the Essence Spa
with a Germain de Cappucini treatment. For a picturesque arrival and departure, guests can arrange a
helicopter transfer directly with Lesante Blu and take in all the sights of the Greek islands.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Explore awe-inspiring Zakynthos and surrounding
islands by private yacht. Lesante Blu will organize an exciting outing that includes stops at Zakynthos’
famous blue caves, secluded beaches, and even venture to further Ionian islands, like Kefalonia or
Lefkada. Dive into the magic waters of Marathonissi, have a lunch on board and close the day admiring the sunset.
Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel (Venice, Italy)
The stunning Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel began welcoming guests through its 16th-century doors in
August 2016, following a nearly 50-year closure of the historical edifice. The property
is centrally located right on the Grand Canal and each of its 18 fastidiously decorated rooms and suites
is based on an aspect of Venetian history and culture. Original features, including Renaissance frescoes
and marble fireplaces, have been expertly restored by local specialists and are complemented with antiques
and custom furnishings to display the Palazzo’s noble past. Helmed by an award-winning chef, Enrico
Bartolini, GLAM Restaurant serves exclusive menus designed by the exceptionally talented culinary
artist.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Enjoy a morning cappuccino in the Palazzo’s private
garden which opens directly onto the Grand Canal. The garden is a rare find in Venice where historical
palazzi, churches and museums sit right on the water's edge. Following time in the garden, take the
hotel’s private water taxi straight from the property’s exclusive mooring to explore the romantic City of
Water.
Gran Meliá de Mar (Mallorca, Spain)
Set in its own exclusive cove, Gran Meliá de Mar is surrounded by a magnificent garden of pine trees under
the beautiful blue palette of the Mediterranean sky. Unique to Mallorca, Gran Meliá de Mar is an adults-
only resort. It is inspired by an indulgent culture of relaxation where exquisite service and contemporary
elegance meet. Guests will find spacious rooms and exceptional suites, all with balconies and spectacular
views overlooking the sea. Fine dining with surprising Majorcan cuisine is available at four dining
venues, and a Luxury Spa by Clarins offers the latest beauty and well-being treatments.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Savor a night of romance with the ultimate
dinner for two in Gran Meliá de Mar’s private cove. An intimate evening on a breathtaking private beach
can be arranged, with a candle-lit atmosphere and exquisite creations made by the resort’s celebrated
chef, paired with premium wines.
Lotte St. Petersburg (St. Petersburg, Russia)
Lotte Hotel St. Petersburg is located on St. Isaac’s Square with an enviable view of the city’s famous
cathedral, the Moika River, the Blue Bridge, and in walking distance to the Hermitage Museum, Nevsky
Prospect and Mariinsky Theatre. The hotel opened in
July 2017 and is a piece of history
unto itself, occupying a mansion built for the honorary citizen Mrs. Yakunchikova. The first traces of the
building appeared in the beginning of 19th century. John Quincy Adams, the first ambassador of the U.S. to
Russia and the sixth President of the U.S., lived in the house from 1810 to 1811. The hotel features 150
classic and modern rooms, including seven suites. It features smart technology, state-of-the-art
facilities and haute cuisine. Enjoy a meal at the Lounge restaurant or the premium Japanese MEGUmi
restaurant. Two banquet halls and a Balinese Mandara Spa are also on site.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Order a cocktail with a view at Lotte Hotel
St. Petersburg! During summer months make sure to visit the hotel’s rooftop bar, L Terrasa, that offers
marvelous views of the “Venice of the North.”
Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li (Shanghai, China)
Located in the cultural preservation zone of Xuhui District, Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li will open in
September 2017, following a highly anticipated restoration and conversion project. The
compound houses 22 rows of shikumen lanes, connecting more than 200 two-story houses dating back to the
1930s. Set against the glistening skyscrapers of Shanghai, original shikumen houses, which first appeared
in the 1860s are a cultural rarity. Sensitively restored for discerning modern travelers, the striking
buildings blend traditional Shanghainese and French architectural styles. The hotel portion of the luxury,
urban resort consists of 55 three-level villas. The property will also be home to three-Michelin star chef
Pierre Gagnaire’s only restaurant in Mainland China, Le Comptoir.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Guests are welcomed to Capella Shanghai, Jian
Ye Li, by a Capella personal assistant who is skilled in the fine art of preferential service. The
assistant will help fashion a custom-crafted stay, from venue booking, to finding the best seat at one of
Shanghai's most popular restaurants.
Signiel Seoul (Seoul, Korea)
Set in the greater Gangnam area, the Signiel Seoul opened in
April 2017 and is located in
the landmark Lotte World Tower, the fifth tallest high rise in the world. Soaring above the city, all
rooms offer mesmerizing skyline views and combine classic and contemporary design, harmoniously blending
influences of East and West. Guests can indulge in cuisine created by Michelin-starred chefs or sip on
some bubbly at BAR 81 with the largest champagne collection in Korea, both located 342-meters up in the
air. An impressive Evian spa, fitness center and a swimming pool are also available for some rest and
relaxation after a bustling day in Seoul.
An uncommon experience not to miss: Take wellness practices to new heights at
Signiel Seoul. Relax above the clouds in the dry and wet sauna, located on the 85th floor. Negative ions
emitted from sauna stones, and the “Ice Fountain” increase blood circulation and metabolism, offering a
one-of-a-kind wellness experience. For early risers, Sunrise Yoga class is offered weekend mornings on the
118th floor, complete with stunning city views.
Reopening after renovations:
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet's Paris (Paris, France)
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet's Paris reopened in July following a six-month renovation. The 81 spacious rooms
and suites boast refined materials and delicate fabrics and lighting, reflecting the distinctive signature
of interior designer Jacques Garcia. Fouquet's famed brasserie is also back on center stage on the Avenue
des Champs-Elysées, with Chef Pierre Gagnaire reinvigorating bistro cuisine.
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About The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. (Leading Hotels)
Comprised of more than 375 hotels in over 75 countries, Leading Hotels is a collection of uncommon luxury
hotels. Rooted in the locations in which they are found, members embody the very essence of their
destination. Through varied styles of architecture and design and distinct cultural experiences enhanced
by passionate people, the collection is for the curious traveler looking for their next discovery.
Established in 1928 by several influential and forward-thinking European hoteliers, Leading Hotels has an
eight-decade-long commitment to providing remarkable, authentic travel experiences. The company selects
only hotels that meet its high standards for quality and distinctiveness, resulting in a curated portfolio
of hotels united not by what makes them the same, but the details that make them different. Leaders Club
is the company’s exclusive two-tiered guest loyalty program, consisting of like-minded travelers seeking
uncommon travel experiences. The program provides its members with personalized service and exclusive
travel benefits to enhance their stays at any Leading Hotel around the world. For more information visit:
www.lhw.com, Facebook at
www.Facebook.com/LeadingHotels and
Instagram @leadinghotelsoftheworld
