Kempinski Hotels’ European expansion continues with an exciting golf resort project near the holiday destination of Mount Pelion / Volos in Central Greece.
Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group has signed an agreement with Dolphin Capital Investors, to manage the Lavender Bay Golf Resort in Nies Village in the Magnesia region. According to Greek mythology, Achilles set off for his expedition against Troy from the village of Nies, which has been known since ancient times for its artistry in shipbuilding. Dolphin’s development is expected to be among the first integrated leisure resorts of this kind to be launched in the Greek tourism market. It is also anticipated to become one of the leading golf resorts in Greece.
Kempinski Hotel Lavender Bay will be situated on 3 square kilometres of land on a secluded peninsula of unspoilt natural beauty with undulating hills, fronted by two kilometres of beach and surrounded by forest. It will comprise a hotel unit with 250 guestrooms as well as numerous villas with residences. Additionally, the complex will offer an 18-hole Gary Player Signature Championship Golf Course and a Beach Club. Extensive spa, wellness and conference facilities as well as four restaurants and two bars will complement the offer of this new 5 star property scheduled to open in 2011.
Miltos Kambourides, Managing Partner of Dolphin Capital Partners, commented: “Dolphin creates exclusive resorts in South Eastern Europe, partnering with the most capable and respected operators and developers. Kempinski is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel brand, and we are delighted to have signed this agreement with them. This marks an important milestone in the successful delivery of our development, and also underlines Lavender Bay’s significance within the Greek and Southern European tourism market.”
“We are happy to be back in Greece with this fantastic luxury resort project which will bring the highest international standards to this beautiful Mediterranean region”, said Reto Wittwer, President & CEO of Kempinski Hotels. “The region, rich in culture, nature and breathtaking beaches, is the ideal destination for leisure activities and pure relaxation”, added Rupert Simoner, Regional Vice President Southern Europe.
The Magnesia region can be reached within a two-hour drive from both Athens and Thessaloniki. The destination is renowned for its numerous cultural and nature-related attractions, the most famous being Mount Pelion.
The region offers endless treks in lush forests, sparkling crystal clear beaches, a ski resort and numerous traditional villages for sightseeing and leisure. Volos is the capital of the region, built on the Pagasetic Gulf and the foothills of Mount Pelion. It is one of Greece’s major commercial ports, which also connects the mainland to the well known tourist destination of the Sporades Islands. In addition, the prefecture of Thessaly has won the bid to host the 2013 Mediterranean Games, staging the Golf competition on the grounds of Lavender Bay.
The relatively easy access to the resort for tourists through the international airports of Athens and Thessaloniki together with the fact that its location is considered as one of unique beauty, will distinguish Lavender Bay Golf Resort as an integrated leisure destination of extraordinary culture and service.