MCLEAN, Va. – Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) today announced the signing of the Hotel Saranac to Curio – A Collection by HiltonTM. As Hilton Worldwide's rapidly-expanding global collection of distinctive upscale and luxury hotels, Curio caters to passionate travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences. Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton, is slated to open in 2017.
Located in the village of Saranac Lake, a rural escape in New York State's Adirondacks region, the Hotel Saranac's design will incorporate both the rustic setting and the refinement of a city hotel when it reopens in 2017 following a complete transformation and renovation. The re-imagined Hotel Saranac will be a historic, upscale, full-service property situated in one of the country's most picturesque locations.
"We're pleased to bring Hotel Saranac into the collection in partnership with Roedel Companies. Hilton is excited to be a part of their passion for the local community and the future of this local landmark," said Matt Wehling, senior vice president, development – North America, Hilton Worldwide. "Its rich history and unique character are exactly what Curio looks for in its properties."
Originally opened in 1927, the property eventually became a training center for the hospitality school of Paul Smith's College. After various changes in ownership, Roedel Companies acquired the property in December 2013 and was awarded a $5 million grant to return the hotel to its former glory.
The hotel's main tower features a contemporary design and 80 guestrooms. An additional 20 rooms will be added to the hotel's inventory after renovations this year. Upon reopening, the resort will be home to Ampersand, a luxury spa, salon and fitness center, as well as a retail shop, historic lobby bar and terrace overlooking Main Street. Campfire, Adirondack Grill & Bar will feature ingredients indigenous to the Adirondacks, while offering a warm dining atmosphere that evokes the experience of meals shared around a campfire.
Hotel Saranac's fully restored Florentine-style Grand Hall, designed in the style of an Italian castle, will provide a unique events and meetings space.
"We are thrilled to be joining Curio, a collection that allows Hotel Saranac to maintain its independence, while introducing even more guests to its unique experience through Hilton's millions of Hilton HHonors members," said Chief Financial Officer Fred Roedel of Roedel Companies. "Hotel Saranac will continue to be a great economic driver, as well as a social hub, for the local community."
Guests of the hotel will have ready access to Saranac Lake's picturesque downtown and local culture, including a booming arts scene, locally grown food and beverages, and vibrant Pendragon Theatre. The property's location will allow for easy access to hiking, biking, boating, fishing and golfing, as well as great skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ice fishing in the winter. Winter will also bring the popular Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which began in 1897 and today features 10 days of sports, performances, parades, fireworks and ice sculptures.
"Hotel Saranac has a reputation as a beloved cornerstone in the community, giving guests a unique opportunity to discover the special charm of the Adirondacks," said Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head of Curio – A Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton. "The hotel's design will reflect the natural beauty of the Adirondacks while also providing the comfort and luxury our guests want while traveling."
As part of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio, Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton participates in Hilton HHonors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide's 13 distinct hotel brands. Hilton HHonors Members always get the lowest price with the Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, free standard Wi-Fi, digital check-in and no booking fees only when they book directly through Hilton.