News

New ownership plans significant brand investment and hotel expansion program in UK

DENVER – De Vere Group and KSL Capital Partners, LLC (KSL), are pleased to announce that an affiliate of KSL has acquired Village Urban Resorts (Village) from De Vere Group. KSL, headquartered in Denver, Colorado with an office in London, is a U.S. private equity firm dedicated to investing in travel and leisure businesses.

With 25 existing properties and three new properties under development, the transaction will further Village’s position as a leading hotel and lifestyle company within the UK. KSL is committed to growing the business by both reinvigorating the existing portfolio and expanding into new markets. Three new Village locations are scheduled to open shortly in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Village is known for providing an array of amenities for business and leisure travelers, its members and the community, from hotel accommodations and health and fitness centers to business services, dining options and meeting and event space.

“Village occupies a unique position in the UK market because of all it has to offer consumers,” said Coley Brenan, a principal at KSL. “With a very strong following and thousands of loyal members, we believe Village has tremendous potential for future growth. We are very pleased to add Village to KSL’s portfolio of investments in the UK.”

Gary Davis, who previously served as CEO of Malmaison and Hotel du Vin, will serve as CEO of Village. Davis previously oversaw the expansion of Village from 2007 to 2011 and the global expansion programs at Hard Rock Café and Planet Hollywood.

For more information, please visit www.village-hotels.co.uk.

ABOUT VILLAGE‍

Founded in 1995, Village Urban Resorts has 25 locations throughout the UK, with an additional three properties scheduled to open shortly. The company caters to both locals and travelers alike through its extensive food and beverage offerings and health and fitness club amenities. Each of the company’s properties was designed to serve multiple customers across multiple day parts with (i) a modern hotel; (ii) food and beverage outlets that consist of one or more pub-style restaurants and a Starbucks; (iii) extensive meeting and events space, including a banqueting room for up to 200 people; and (iv) large, comprehensive health and fitness facilities. For more information, please visit www.village-hotels.co.uk.

ABOUT KSL CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC‍

KSL is a private equity firm specializing in travel and leisure enterprises in five primary sectors: hospitality, recreation, clubs, real estate and travel services. KSL has offices in London; Denver, Colorado; and Stamford, Connecticut. KSL’s current portfolio includes some of the premier properties in travel and leisure. In the UK, KSL owns The Belfry in the West Midlands and the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin hospitality chains. In the United States, KSL owns The James Royal Palm, Miraval Resort and St. Regis Monarch Beach. KSL also owns premier recreation businesses, including Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, two of the leading ski resorts in North America; and is the majority owner of ClubCorp, one of the world’s largest owners of private golf and business clubs. For more information, please visit www.kslcapital.com.

WASHINGTON, DC and DENVER, CO (June 23, 2014) -Revolution Places (Revolution) and KSL Capital Partners, LLC (KSL) today announced that they have entered into an agreement to jointly own the world-renowned Miraval Resort & Spa, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. Together, KSL and Revolution will seek to expand Miraval from its current Tucson location to new destinations in the US, Europe and elsewhere.

“For many years, we have been working to grow Miraval, to bring it to new locations and new people.  Partnering with KSL – one of the most accomplished resort and spa investors in the world – allows us to accelerate these efforts, build on our success in Tucson, and take Miraval to new locations around the country and the world,” said Steve Case, Chairman of Revolution.

“Miraval is a breathtaking place, not only because of its extraordinary setting in the high Sonoran Desert, but also because of its groundbreaking approach to the experiences it offers its guests. Miraval is a true pioneer in spa and wellness. There is no other place like it. We are thrilled to join forces with Revolution in overseeing this resort, ” added Mike Shannon, Managing Director of KSL.

Miraval Resort & Spa in Tucson is a wellness luxury spa resort with a mission of “opening eyes, minds and hearts.” Miraval's focus on sustainable living, casita-style guest accommodations and the spectacular new Life in Balance Spa contribute to it being recognized as one of the world’s top destinations by SpaFinder, Travel+Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler year after year.

About KSL Capital Partners, LLC‍

KSL is a private equity firm specializing in travel and leisure investments in five primary sectors: hospitality, recreation, clubs, real estate and travel services. KSL has offices in Denver, Colorado, Stamford, Connecticut and London, England. In addition to the property being acquired, KSL’s current portfolio includes some of the premier properties in travel and leisure. In the United Kingdom, funds advised by KSL own The Belfry in the West Midlands and the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin chains. In the United States, funds advised by KSL own The St. Regis Monarch Beach, The James Royal Palm, a majority interest in ClubCorp, one of the world’s largest owners of private golf and business clubs, and Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, two of the leading ski resorts in North America. For more information, please see kslcapital.com.

About Revolution Places

Revolution Places invests in unique real estate and hospitality opportunities, creating a new model for travel and tourism that promotes and encourages a healthy lifestyle and establishes a consumer brand that reflects those values. Revolution invests in differentiated properties that have significant long-term development potential, and also in branded, lifestyle hospitality companies that have the opportunity to scale. Revolution Places is a division of Revolution LLC, the Washington, DC-based investment firm founded by Steve Case in 2005. For more information, visit revolution.com/places.

About Miraval Resort & Spa

Situated in the warm shade of the Santa Catalina Mountains in northern Tucson, AZ, on 400 acres of idyllic land, Miraval is a top-rated all-inclusive destination resort and spa dedicated to helping guests live life in the moment. Since 1995 the property has been consistently ranked as one of the world’s top destination spas by Travel + Leisure, SpaFinder and Condé Nast Traveler. Offering an array of dynamic growth and development programs, one-of-a-kind, luxurious spa treatments, authentic, flavorful and healthful cuisine as well as an expert staff of renowned wellbeing specialists, Miraval helps to open eyes, minds and hearts. In 2012, the resort unveiled the Miraval Life in Balance Spa with Clarins, a state-of-the-art oasis designed to transform guests both physically and emotionally. For more information visit miravalresorts.com

Denver (May 21, 2014) – KSL Capital Partners, LLC (KSL), a leading private equity firm, today announced the closing of the purchase of the St. Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point, California. The seller was an affiliate of Washington Holdings. The resort will continue to be managed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts as part of the St. Regis brand.  Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

The St. Regis Monarch Beach is a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond destination resort, located along the pristine shores of the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point, California. The resort features 400 luxury rooms and suites across 169 acres, with six ocean view restaurants -- including the Stonehill Tavern featuring Chef Michael Mina -- three swimming pools, the championship Monarch Beach Golf Links, and the award winning Spa Gaucin.

“The St. Regis Monarch Beach is one of a handful of properties that has it all -- luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, in an irreplaceable location steps from the Pacific Ocean, all in an easy drive from Southern California or flight via three major airports located nearby” said Bernard Siegel, Principal of KSL. “Despite all that the resort has to offer, we are planning to bring it to an even higher level.  We could not be more pleased to be part of the resort and its surrounding community.”

About KSL Capital Partners, LLC‍

KSL is a private equity firm specializing in travel and leisure investments in five primary sectors: hospitality, recreation, clubs, real estate and travel services. KSL has offices in Denver, Colorado, Stamford, Connecticut and London, England. In addition to the property being acquired, KSL’s current portfolio includes some of the premier properties in travel and leisure. In the United Kingdom, funds advised by KSL own The Belfry in the West Midlands and the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin chains. In the United States, funds advised by KSL own The James Royal Palm and a majority interest in ClubCorp, one of the world’s largest owners of private golf and business clubs. KSL also owns other premier recreation businesses, including Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, two of the leading ski resorts in North America; and The Bay Club Company, the owner and operator of luxury fitness clubs in California. For more information, please see www.kslcapital.com

Luxury Hotel Brand Purchases Sixth Iconic Property from KSL Capital Partners

DALLAS (January  7, 2014) – Omni Hotels & Resorts and KSL Capital Partners, LLC, a leading private equity firm, today announced the closing of the purchase and sale of the Montelucia Resort & Spa. The resort will be reflagged under the Omni brand as the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, extending the Omni’s Resort Collection in the Western United States. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

The Montelucia Resort & Spa is a top-rated luxury Scottsdale hotel that features 253 luxuriously appointment guestrooms, 38 suites and two presidential suites. The property’s distinctive architecture is inspired by the rich history, white-washed villages and sun-drenched hills of Spain’s Andalusia region. The enchanting destination also includes the award-winning Moroccan inspired Joya Spa, three resort pools, and five tempting dining options including the critically acclaimed restaurant, Prado. Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Camelback Mountain in the exclusive enclave of Paradise Valley, and adjacent to the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, this extraordinary resort’s premier location offers easy access to golf, recreation, nightlife and entertainment.

“The Montelucia is an exquisite addition to our already impressive collection of high-end resort properties,” said Michael J. Deitemeyer, president of Omni Hotels & Resorts. “The property is a top attraction for guests seeking a blend of gracious hospitality, personalized service and innovative cuisine. We are proud to add this incredible resort to our expanding Resort Collection.”

The resort is the sixth property Omni has acquired from KSL Capital Partners, LLC. Last July, Omni acquired five iconic resorts from KSL Capital Partners, LLC, including the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, TX; Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, CA; Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, CA; The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC; and The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA.

For additional information please visit omnihotels.com  or call 1-800-The-Omni. Travelers or media can also follow Omni Hotels & Resorts at www.Facebook.com/OmniHotels and Twitter.com/OmniHotels.

About Omni Hotels & Resorts‍

Omni Hotels & Resorts creates genuine, authentic guest experiences at nearly 60 distinct luxury hotels and resorts in leading business gateways and leisure destinations across North America. From exceptional golf and spa retreats to dynamic business settings, each Omni showcases the local flavor of the destination while featuring four-diamond services, signature restaurants, Wi-Fi connectivity and unique wellness options.  Known for its award-winning, personalized service, Omni leaves a lasting impression with every customer interaction, with a heightened level of recognition and rewards delivered through its Select Guest loyalty program and the company’s “Power of One” associate empowerment program. The brand is frequently recognized by top consumer research organizations and travel publications. To get additional information or book accommodations, visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni.

About KSL Capital Partners, LLC

KSL is a private equity firm specializing in travel and leisure investments in five primary sectors: hospitality, recreation, clubs, real estate and travel services. KSL has offices in Denver, Colorado, New York and London. In addition to the property being sold, KSL’s current portfolio includes some of the premier properties in travel and leisure. In the United Kingdom, funds advised by KSL own The Belfry in the West Midlands and the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin chains. In the United States, funds advised by KSL own The James Royal Palm and ClubCorp, one of the world’s largest owners of private golf and business clubs. KSL also owns other premier recreation businesses, including Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, two of the leading ski resorts in North America; and Western Athletic Clubs, the owner and operator of luxury fitness clubs in California. For more information, please see www.kslcapital.com

Properties Have Been Rebranded Under the Omni Flag

IRVING, Texas (July 1, 2013) – Omni Hotels & Resorts and KSL Capital Partners, LLC, a leading private equity firm, today announced the closing of the purchase and sale of five distinguished resort properties. The five iconic resorts have been reflagged under the Omni brand, representing a significant expansion of Omni’s already-robust Resort Collection.

The reflagged properties are the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, TX; Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, CA; Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, CA; The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC; and The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA.  The acquisition extends Omni’s resort portfolio to the West Coast and adds other strategically important locations like the Texas Hill Country.

“We could not be more proud to assume the ownership and management of each of these iconic resorts,” said Mike Deitemeyer, president of Omni Hotels & Resorts. “KSL positioned each of these properties not only as appealing destinations for guests but as integral parts within each of their surrounding local communities.  We look forward to carrying on the tradition of excellence exemplified by each of these properties and their employees and welcoming both new and returning guests for years to come.”

KSL had acquired the resorts over a period of years, and had recently invested heavily in the properties.  New additions under KSL include the Canyon Ranch SpaClub and the new Allegheny Springs family pool complex at The Omni Homestead; a nearly complete, expansive renovation of historic The Omni Grove Park Inn to restore the grandeur of the resort as part of its centennial celebration; upgrades to the guest rooms and meeting spaces at Omni Barton Creek; a nearly $50 million renovation of Omni La Costa to the guestrooms, public spaces, golf courses, an entirely new adult pool facility and membership lounge; and the addition of the Splashtopia family water playground at Omni Rancho Las Palmas.

“It has been our privilege to be a part of the storied history of each of these extraordinary resorts,” added Mike Shannon, Managing Director of KSL Capital Partners.  “The success of these resorts has been, and will continue to be, made possible by rich traditions, fabulous locations and amenities, and the dedication of over 4,000 employees.  We have no doubt that the skill and resources that Omni Hotels & Resorts will bring to each of these properties will only help to further their celebrated legacy.”

The Omni portfolio expansion adds 2,362 guestrooms, 304,000 square feet of meeting and function space, 34 dining options, 48 retail locations, 12 golf courses, three family water complexes, a ski facility and five spas.

The resorts include:

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa: Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, the resort combines impeccable service with its own classic brand of casual elegance in a luxurious setting. Heralded as the number one golf resort in Texas, the Omni Barton Creek boasts four nationally acclaimed championship courses as well as the state's only Callaway Performance Center. The resort features 318 spacious and beautifully appointed guestrooms, a recently renovated full-service spa, superior dining options, and fine meeting and wedding facilities.

Omni La Costa Resort and Spa: Fresh from a $50 million renovation and nestled among the beautiful coastal foothills of Carlsbad, CA, Omni La Costa boasts a new look including 611 newly appointed guest rooms, suites and villas, an adult-only pool venue, the Coastal Events Center, an expanded Athletic Club as well as two redesigned signature golf courses. Honored as the #1 Wellness Spa in the Nation by Spa magazine, the 43,000-square-foot Spa at La Costa includes a private pool, café and therapeutic reflexology path. Acclaimed restaurants – Legends Bistro and BlueFire Grill – present an updated take on locally inspired cuisine and culinary delights.

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa: The 444-room Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is classic Rancho Mirage re-imagined for the 21st-century traveler. The resort’s new offerings include stylish guestrooms, the signature bluEmber restaurant, R Bar lounge, and Splashtopia, an exciting water playground complete with water slides, lazy river and sandy beach. The resort also features a 20,000-square-foot spa, a 27-hole Ted Robinson-designed golf course, a 25-court Peter Burwash International tennis center, and 41,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.

The Omni Grove Park Inn:The AAA Four-Diamond Omni Grove Park Inn is currently undergoing a $25 million dollar restoration and renovation scheduled to be complete by summer 2013, which coincides with the property’s centennial. Noted for understated elegance and southern charm, ten U.S. Presidents and countless luminaries from the worlds of art, entertainment, sports and politics have stayed at this hotel. Guests may relax in one of 514 guestrooms and themed suites, enjoy a drink by one of two extraordinary 14-foot fireplaces or watch the sunset from a rocking chair. The property offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, delectable restaurants, a Donald Ross golf course, tennis and fitness center, award winning 40,000 square-foot spa and spacious convention facilities.

The Omni Homestead Resort:The Omni Homestead Resort is one of America's most storied resorts, offering unparalleled hospitality in a 2,000-acre setting within the Allegheny Mountains of southwestern Virginia. In summer 2013, the hotel will complete a $26 million renovation that will culminate with its new Canyon Ranch SpaClub. The Homestead is distinguished by 483 luxurious guest rooms and suites, 72,000 square feet of meeting space, a wide array of fine and casual dining choices, championship golf courses that include one of the nation's finest mountain courses (The Cascades), Allegheny Springs, a two-acre family-friendly water attraction complete with lazy river, and water play zone. The resort also offers the South's first downhill ski area, Equestrian Center and show ring, top-rated Shooting Club, Back Country Driving School, off-road Segway tours and a wealth of other recreational attractions.

For additional information please visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni. Travelers or media can also follow Omni Hotels & Resorts at www.Facebook.com/OmniHotels and Twitter.com/OmniHotels.

About Omni Hotels & Resorts‍

Omni Hotels & Resorts creates genuine, authentic guest experiences at nearly 60 distinct luxury hotels and resorts in leading business gateways and leisure destinations across North America.  From exceptional golf and spa retreats to dynamic business settings, each Omni showcases the local flavor of the destination while featuring four-diamond services, signature restaurants, Wi-Fi connectivity and unique wellness options.  Known for its award-winning, personalized service, Omni leaves a lasting impression with every customer interaction, with a heightened level of recognition and rewards delivered through its Select Guest loyalty program and the company’s “Power of One” associate empowerment program.  The brand is frequently recognized by top consumer research organizations and travel publications. To get additional information or book accommodations, visit  www.onmihotels.com  or call 1-800-The-Omni.

About KSL Capital Partners, LLC

KSL is a private equity firm specializing in travel and leisure investments in five primary sectors: hospitality, recreation, clubs, real estate and travel services. KSL has offices in Denver, Colorado and New York.  In addition to the properties being sold, KSL’s current portfolio includes some of the premier properties in travel and leisure.   In the United Kingdom, funds advised by KSL own The Belfry in the West Midlands and the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin chains.  In the United States, funds advised by KSL own Montelucia Resort & Spa, The James Royal Palm and ClubCorp, one of the world’s largest owners of private golf and business clubs. KSL also owns other premier recreation businesses, including Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, two of the leading ski resorts in North America; and Western Athletic Clubs, the owner and operator of luxury fitness clubs in California.  For more information, please see www.kslcapital.com