A pioneer in luxury travel for more than 40 years, Belmond has announced plans for 2024 that include a heightened focus on train travel, the development of exceptional new experiences and a deeper focus on its environmental and social responsibility.
Reinforcing its presence in Mexico, Belmond has acquired Hacienda Katanchel, formerly a hacienda dating back to the 17th century situated near Merida, Yucátan. Set in 220 hectares, the extraordinary estate is home to a cenote (underground river), a sacred well, native flora and fauna and the remains of an ancient Mayan pyramid. Following a comprehensive restoration programme, Katanchel, A Belmond Hotel, is planned to open in 2027 with 35 independent suites.
Belmond will continue to strengthen its presence in Italy, where it operates ten iconic properties. The brand will expand to Sardinia with Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda, while multi-year renovation of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, designed by Martin Brudnizki Studio, will complete its second phase and re-open for the 2024 season. It will feature new guest rooms, alongside the swimming pool, Splendido Grill restaurant and the Baronessa Suite, which all made their debut in 2023.
EASTERN ORIENTAL EXPRESS A BELMOND TRAIN
The brand will also introduce new routes, new suites and new experiences across its six trains and seven barges in response to growing demands for more Belmond slow travel journeys around the world.
For the first time in its history, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe will embark on a new journey connecting two iconic destinations: Paris and Portofino. The legendary train will also add a second Paris to Istanbul return journey, in addition to its regular August itinerary. Its first alpine journey will head to the French Alps on 21 December 2023, and it will be repeated in December 2024.
COQUELICOT A BELMOND BOAT CHAMPAGNE
Southeast Asia’s Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, has appointed Michelin-starred Andre Chiang as its new chef. The train is set to return in February 2024 with two seasonal routes out of Singapore to Malaysia.
Closer to home, the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, will see the unveiling of two new Grand Suites in May 2024, designed by Paris-based interior designer Tristan Auer. The British Pullman, A Belmond Train, will launch The Carriage Club Dinners in May – a series of immersive evening journeys.
BARONESS SUITE AT SPLENDIDO A BELMOND HOTEL PORTOFINO
Meanwhile, the official launch of Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne, in April 2024 will welcome guests to the latest addition to its fleet of river boats gliding across the scenic canals of France. Designed by French architects Humbert & Poyet, this intimate river boat features three cabins, an indoor salon with a bespoke champagne bar, and an extensive outdoor deck with open-air kitchen and dining area.