Auberge Collection Unveils its 2026 Extraordinary Year Calendar:

A First Look at the Most Anticipated Experiences of the Year

This month, Auberge Collection unveils its third annual Extraordinary Year Calendar, a thoughtfully curated lineup of singular moments and immersive offerings worth booking a trip around. Released each January, the calendar offers an early look at the year’s most extraordinary offerings and the defining moments that shape each season. From restorative wellbeing immersions with globally renowned wellness experts to one-of-a-kind cultural collaborations, Auberge invites guests on rare and unforgettable journeys across its destinations worldwide.

“At Auberge Collection, we believe that extraordinary experiences and unforgettable moments define luxury travel,” said Christian Clerc, President and CEO, Auberge Collection. “Extraordinary Year reflects that philosophy—a thoughtfully curated calendar of experiences designed to enrich the soul, foster connection and celebrate the art of living well.”

Highlights of the 2026 Extraordinary Year calendar include the precision-crafted cocktails and Japanese influence of Honolulu’s revered Bar Leather Apron during its residency at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection in Hawai’i, and the Baja Lab Kitchen Series at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Collection in Los Cabos, featuring award-winning chefs Manoella Buffara of Manoella, Val Cantu of Californios, Justin Cogley of Aubergine, and Tomás Bermúdez of La Docena. At The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection guests can take part in a transformative wellbeing retreat led by Gabby Bernstein, while an intimate cultural moment takes center stage at a mountainside concert with Noah Cyrus. Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection celebrates its fourth season with The Bluebird Cafe - Nashville’s legendary listening room. In Florence, winter festivities abound at Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection, where the historic hilltop retreat transforms its gardens into an ice-skating destination, complemented by festive chalets, artisan markets, and seasonal dining.

Each Auberge destination brings together food, wellbeing, adventure, and culture through experiences rooted in place. Together, these moments set the tone for an Extraordinary Year with Auberge.

The Art of Food, Wine & Spirits

iritMauna Lani, Auberge Collection in Hawai’i invites guests to experience a limited-time residency from Honolulu’s James Beard Award–winning Bar Leather Apron. Founded by Justin and Tom Park, the acclaimed bar brings its precision-driven approach to cocktail craftsmanship to the Kohala Coast, showcasing rare spirits, meticulous technique, and storytelling inspired by Hawai’i’s evolving cocktail culture. From March 20th to April 11th, the residency invites guests to immerse themselves in an elevated, Hawaiian-inspired drinking experience recognized among North America’s Best Bars.

At Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Collection in Los Cabos, the celebrated Baja Lab Kitchen returns for 2026, reaffirming the resort’s role as one of Mexico’s most dynamic

culinary destinations. Led by Executive Chef Yvan Mucharraz, the residency brings globally recognized chefs to Los Cabos for intimate, experimental dining experiences based upon Baja’s terroir and shaped by global perspectives. The 2026 lineup features Chef Manoella Buffara on March 5th, and Chef Val Cantú on April 4th, each presenting exclusive dinners and masterclasses designed to spark dialogue, creativity, and collaboration around food. The series will also feature Chef Philip Tessier, renowned Bocuse d’Or champion and French Laundry alumnus, for an intimate cooking masterclass and culinary event.

For three unforgettable nights, The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection welcomes The Modern, New York’s two Michelin-starred culinary icon, for an intimate residency from March 12th to 14th. Guests will embark on a culinary journey crafted by Executive Chef Thomas Allan, whose refined and unexpectedly playful dishes highlight exceptional ingredients and seasonality, paired with curated wines from one of the country’s most celebrated programs and set against a thought-provoking art installation by artist Nick Turner.

In April, White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection welcomes two Michelin-starred New York City restaurant Crown Shy for a coast-to-coast culinary weekend. Guests can savor menus that merge Crown Shy’s bold, technique-driven cooking with Maine’s seasonal bounty, featuring one-of-a-kind dinners and an interactive cocktail experience inspired by the restaurant’s innovative beverage program. The collaboration highlights the meeting of refined New York flavors and the warmth of New England hospitality.

At Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Collection, Chef Mark Lundgaard of Copenhagen’s two-Michelin-starred Kong Hans Kælder arrives in Austin for an extraordinary culinary residency at Lutie’s. From May 18th to 24th, guests are invited to experience tasting menus that blend classical French foundations with modern Scandinavian influence, presented within Lutie’s intimate, garden-inspired dining room. The collaboration unites two icons of hospitality for a rare series of transporting evenings in Austin.

In Napa Valley, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Collection welcomes Michelin-starred chef Christopher Kostow’s Loveski Deli, as it takes over The Window for a limited-time collaboration celebrating handcrafted sourdough bagels and spreads. Launching on May 22nd and featuring the deli’s classic lineup alongside an exclusive creation available only at Stanly Ranch, the pop-up blends culinary tradition with the season’s harvest from the Grange, offering guests a playful yet craft-driven morning ritual in wine country.

Experience the soul of Mexico through a multi-sensory journey beneath the mangrove forest of the Riviera Maya. This March - May, Etéreo, Auberge Collection partners with Shhh, one of Mexico City’s most compelling listening bars. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the ethos of Shhh through a curated vinyl selection, thoughtfully paired with a vibrant cocktail program and a fresh, cold menu crafted by Etéreo’s own Chef Carlos Segura. Set within the cozy library of El Nicho, this intimate listening experience weaves together sound, food, and mixology, an immersive evening designed for presence, discovery, and connection.

Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Collection welcomes the arrival of warmer days with its seventh-annual Rosé All May celebration, centered around the release of the hotel’s private-label rosé. Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in curated tastings and seasonal experiences that celebrate the art of rosé and the relaxed elegance of Napa Valley living. Later in the year, the property hosts its third-annual Gathering in the Grove: Olive Harvest, inviting guests to explore the estate’s historic olive groves through tastings, storytelling, and a special olive-inspired menu at The Restaurant.

Returning for its sixth year, Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection’s Epicurean Passport Weekend once again transforms the iconic landmark into a gathering place for inspired gastronomic moments and meaningful connections from June 18th - 21st. Long known as the social hub of Aspen, the storied property hosts an extraordinary three-day activation where acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs, renowned vintners, and creative collaborators come together for a series of immersive epicurean experiences ranging from intimate master classes and once-in-a-lifetime tastings to lively celebrations, offering guests a rare opportunity to indulge in transformative one-of-a-kind moments, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rockies. The Joy of Wellbeing

The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection sets the tone for the year ahead with globally renowned spiritual teacher and bestselling author Gabby Bernstein, who’ll lead her first-ever, deeply immersive, multi-night retreat set across 4,000 private acres in the Wasatch Mountains on May 1-3rd. Designed as a sacred weekend for personal transformation, the experience blends guided meditation, group and private coaching sessions, and reflective practices that invite guests to reconnect with their inner wisdom and cultivate lasting change. Framed by Utah’s expansive landscape, the retreat offers a powerful pause for clarity, healing, and renewal.

Set across 140 pastoral acres in the Hudson Valley, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Collection presents its Visiting Master Retreat Series—an evolving collection of immersive wellbeing experiences guided by leading voices in movement, mindfulness, and personal growth. The 2026 series unfolds with the Time Under Tension Retreat with Kelly Cole (Sunday, February 1 – Tuesday, February 3), followed by the PYRO TINGS Retreat with Kirsty Godso and Krissy Jones (Sunday, February 22 – Tuesday, February 24). Spring continues with the Reformer Pilates Retreat led by Chelsea DeLay and Stefani Bertoncini (Monday, March 30 – Wednesday, April 1), and concludes with the Align Retreat with Neeti Narula (Sunday, April 26 – Tuesday, April 28). Together, these experiences invite guests to slow down, recalibrate, and return to self—carrying the impact of each moment long after the retreat has ended.

At Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Collection, ONDA’s Sculpt Series invites guests into a holistic approach to revitalization through tailored movement, restorative massage, and advanced facial treatments. Guided by visiting masters Alexandra Wagner (February 3–16) Sabrina Sweet (March 2–15) and Lia Bartha (April 2–10) and many more, the series is grounded in presence and precision—designed to sculpt the body from the inside out while fostering a deeper sense of alignment and renewal. Each experience reflects ONDA’s commitment to intuitive care and elevated wellness practices, offering guests a distinctly personal path to feeling restored.

Blending adventure with recovery, The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection hosts an exclusive backcountry retreat March 26-29 in partnership with professional athletes Chris Davenport and Ted Ligety alongside premium ski brand DPS Skis. The multi-day experience combines guided skiing, equipment fitting, wellness treatments, and access to both resort and backcountry terrain. Designed for guests seeking exhilaration balanced by restoration, the retreat offers unparalleled access to the mountains and the experts who know them best.

Arts, Style & Cultural Gatherings

On February 27th, The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Collection welcomes Grammy-nominated, multiplatinum singer-songwriter Noah Cyrus to Park City, who’ll take the stage for an exclusive concert set in the mountains. Held in an intimate lounge overlooking the surrounding landscape, the performance brings guests up close to Cyrus’s soulful vocals and the stories behind her music. The evening offers a rare opportunity to experience live music in a setting defined by scale, serenity, and connection.

Music continues to anchor the calendar at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection in Santa Fe, where Nashville’s legendary The Bluebird Cafe returns for the fourth consecutive year. The celebrated In the Round format brings three world-class songwriters together to perform and share the stories behind their chart-topping songs on January 16, February 20, and March 20. Set within a warm Southwestern setting, the experience offers guests rare access to career-defining voices in contemporary music.

At Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Collection interior designer Ariel Okin’s Fenimore Lane returns for its third annual summit and design bazaar from June 5-7. Convening a curated community of creatives, makers, and tastemakers, the multi-day gathering celebrates contemporary design through conversation, craftsmanship, and curated shopping experiences. Spanning interiors, décor, textiles, accessories, and fashion, the event transforms the Connecticut countryside into a vibrant destination for style and creative exchange.

In Deer Valley, Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Collection partners with J.Crew, the official partner of U.S. Ski & Snowboard January 16-18th. Over three days, guests can explore a J.Crew pop-up at Après Chalet, enjoy VIP gifting at The Residences, and borrow best-selling outerwear from a seasonal “Puffer Bar” available throughout ski season. The collaboration blends alpine sport, style, and après-ski conviviality in the heart of Deer Valley.

Bowie House, Auberge Collection kicks off the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo season with an elevated celebration in partnership with Garden & Gun and Blade and Bow. Featuring live music, specialty cocktails, and a lively mix of locals and guests, the evening honors one of Fort Worth’s most iconic traditions while showcasing Bowie House as a modern Western gathering place.

In the rolling hills of Massignac, France, Domaine des Etangs, Auberge Collection invites guests to an intimate Opera Evening set on March 21st within the property’s historic château. Featuring a spring-inspired repertoire performed by soprano Amandine Sanchez and accompanied

by piano, the experience pairs the closeness of live music with the elegance of its surroundings. A complimentary cocktail reception precedes the performance, creating a refined cultural moment suspended in time.

Kennebunk, Maine’s White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection welcomes Underwater Weaving Studio from May 15-17 for a weekend celebrating craft and design. Guests are invited to take part in a hands-on rattan weaving workshop, creating their own basket to take home, alongside curated meals and conversation led by the studio’s founder. The studio will also curate a bespoke “Where to Take Your Basket” guide, highlighting local shops, farms, and coastal sights that reflect the character of White Barn Inn.

At Esperanza, Auberge Collection, the resort marks a milestone with the 10th annual EsperanzArte Festival, a family-friendly celebration of Día de Muertos. Contemporary artists create vibrant altars that blend traditional Mexican crafts with modern design, while curated food and beverage experiences bring the celebration to life. Honoring art, heritage, and community, the festival offers guests an immersive cultural experience rooted in Mexican tradition.

Discovery, Adventure & the Outdoors

Through January 31 in Florence, Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection brings a winter spectacle to Florence with Collegio on Ice: A Winter Wonderland. The historic hilltop retreat transforms its gardens into an ice-skating destination, complete with festive chalets serving cocktails and caviar. Guests warm up in the Frette Lounge, wrapped in bespoke blankets by Frette, while artisan markets, holiday dining, and New Year’s Eve celebrations complete the season.

Exhilarating adventure meets culinary creativity at the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Collection. Ride & Dine is a multi-sensory experience hosted in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef and competitive cyclist Matthew Accarrino. Beginning with an invigorating road ride through the rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley, guests return to The Tavern for a seasonal brunch crafted by Accarrino alongside Executive Chef Kevin Malone. Held on February 4th, this experience captures the bold rhythm of California living, uniting physical challenges, connection to place, and thoughtful cuisine.

Along the Lowcountry coast, The Dunlin, Auberge Collection hosts The Seafarer’s Table, an immersive evening celebrating the region’s natural bounty in partnership with the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition - the nation's premier celebration of wildlife art and the great outdoors, held annually in Charleston. Set riverside on February 15, the experience features live-fire cooking stations, local purveyors, craft cocktails, fly-tying demonstrations, and curated shopping, bringing together conservation, cuisine, and storytelling.

At The Lodge at Primland, Auberge Collection, the third annual Highland Wine & Golf Classic returns for Memorial Day weekend, pairing championship golf with acclaimed vintages and exceptional cuisine. The exclusive three-night experience includes winemaker dinners and events with acclaimed estates Heitz Cellar, Stony Hill, Ink Grade and Burgess, guest chefs, and

partner play on The Highland Course—ranked among Virginia’s finest—marking the unofficial start of summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

From immersive culinary residencies and transformative wellbeing retreats to intimate performances and outdoor discovery, Auberge Collection’s Extraordinary Year invites guests to experience travel as a series of defining moments. Across destinations worldwide, each property becomes a stage for creativity, connection, and exploration—ensuring that every stay offers something singular, meaningful, and unforgettable. For more information or to explore the Extraordinary Year calendar, please visit auberge.com.

An Extraordinary Year At a Glance: Calendar of Events

Through Jan. 31: Ice Skating Rink at Collegio alla Querce (Florence, Italy)

Jan 8-12: Becoming You Retreat with Leading Mind Coach Manjit Devgun at Hacienda AltaGracia (Costa Rica)

Jan 11-12: A Taste of Geneva: The Woodward at Hotel Jerome (Aspen, Colorado)

Jan 16-17: The Bluebird Cafe at Bishop’s Lodge (Santa Fe, New Mexico)

Jan 16-Feb 7: Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo at Bowie House (Fort Worth, Texas) Jan 16-18: J.Crew x Après Winter Pop-Up at Goldener Hirsch (Deer Valley, Utah)

Jan 24: Guest Bartender Simone Caporale at Esperanza (Los Cabos, Mexico)

Jan 24: In Conversation with New York Times Bestselling Author Elise Loehnen at Auberge du Soleil (Napa Valley, California)

Feb: Sculpt Series at ONDA at Susurros del Corazón (Punta de Mita, Mexico)

Feb-April: Visiting Master Retreat Series at Wildflower Farms (Hudson Valley, New York)

Feb 4: Cycle Ride + Dine hosted by Matt Accarrino at The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern (Los Olivos, California)

Feb 6-7: Michter’s at The Lodge at Primland (Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia)

Feb 12-15: The Rose Room at Stanly Ranch (Napa, California)

Feb 13-14: Inslee Fariss at The Lodge at Primland (Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia)

Feb 15: The Seafarer's Table in Partnership with Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) at The Dunlin (Kiawah River, South Carolina)

Feb 20- 21: The Bluebird Cafe at Bishop’s Lodge (Santa Fe, New Mexico)

Through Feb 21: Mezcalería Amarás at Bishop’s Lodge (Santa Fe, New Mexico)

Feb 27: Noah Cyrus at The Lodge at Blue Sky (Park City, Utah)

March-May: Shhh… at Etéreo (Riviera Maya, Mexico)

March 1-29: Moody Tongue Omakase in the Wintergarten Alpenglobes at Goldener Hirsch (Deer Valley, Utah)

March 5: Baja Lab Kitchen Series: Manoella Bufarra At Chileno Bay (Los Cabos, Mexico)

March 8-13: World Champion Craig Alexander’s Triathlon Camp at Mauna Lani (Island of Hawai’i)

March 12-14: The Modern at The Lodge at Blue Sky (Park City, Utah)

March 20-April 12: Bar Leather Apron Speakeasy at Mauna Lani (Island of Hawai’i)

March 20-21: The Bluebird Cafe at Bishop’s Lodge (Santa Fe, New Mexico)

March 21: Opera Concert Evening at Les Combles at Domaine des Etangs (Massignac, France)

March 26-28: DPS Ski Weekend with Chris Davenport & Ted Ligety at The Lodge at Blue Sky (Park City, Utah)

March 31-April 4: Master in Residence: Simone De La Rue at Chileno Bay (Los Cabos, Mexico)

April 4: Baja Lab Kitchen Series: Chef Val Cantu at Chileno Bay (Los Cabos, Mexico)

April 17-19: Crown Shy dinner series at White Barn Inn (Kennebunk, Maine)

May: Rosé All May at Auberge du Soleil (Napa Valley, California)

May 28: Baja Lab Kitchen Series: Justin Cogley at Chileno Bay (Los Cabos, Mexico)

May 1-3: Gabby Bernstein Retreat at The Lodge at Blue Sky (Park City, Utah)

May 15-17: Underwater Weaving Studio Baskets Retreat Weekend at White Barn Inn (Kennebunk, Maine)

May 18-24: Culinary residency with two-Michelin-starred Kong Hans Kælder and Chef Lundgaard at Commodore Perry Estate (Austin, Texas)

May 22: Michelin-starred chef Christopher Kostow’s Loveski Deli pop-up at Stanly Ranch (Napa, California)

May 22-25: The 3rd Annual Highland Wine & Golf Classic at The Lodge at Primland (Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia)

June: Baja Lab Kitchen Series: Tomás Bermudez at Chileno Bay (Los Cabos, Mexico)

June 5-7: Fenimore Lane Design Summit at Mayflower Inn & Spa (Washington, Connecticut)

June 18-21: Epicurean Passport at Hotel Jerome (Aspen, Colorado)

June 20: Summer Solstice Celebrations with Laurent Perrier at The Lodge at Primland (Blue Ridge Mountains)

For more information or to book, please visit auberge.com/one-of-a-kind-experiences/.

About Auberge Collection Auberge Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine, innovative wellbeing, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With 30 one-of-a-kind hotels, resorts, and residences, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations.

For more information: auberge.com

Connect with Auberge Collection on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn @Auberge and #AlwaysAuberge

About Friedkin

Friedkin is a privately held family of global brands spanning automotive, entertainment, hospitality, investments, and sports.

Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company is led by Chief Executive Dan Friedkin, and united by a mission to build breakthrough brands that redefine the status quo.

The Friedkin portfolio includes Gulf States Toyota, 30WEST, Accelerated Solutions Group, AS Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond

Creek, Everton Football Club, GSFSGroup, Imperative Entertainment, Legendary Expeditions, NEON, Northside Lexus, Pursuit Sports, The Friedkin Group International, USAL and Westside Lexus.

For more information, please visit www.friedkin.com.

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by George Denning

The Newman Hotel in London’s Fitzrovia Is Now Open

The Newman, the first hotel by international hospitality management company Kinsfolk & Co, has officially opened in London’s Fitzrovia.

Thoughtfully created by a team of like-minded hoteliers and restaurateurs who have spent decades working in the capital, The Newman brings together some of the most respected names in the hospitality scene, including Corbin and King, The Standard, The Beaumont and The Goring – spearheaded by Kinsfolk & Co’s Founder Paul Brackley and The Newman’s General Manager, Oliver Milne-Watson.

With a concept inspired by and deeply rooted in the charm and character of Fitzrovia, the hotel has been designed by London based studio Lind + Almond, known for creating spaces with an understated yet worldly eclecticism. Every space within The Newman carries the distinct essence of Fitzrovia. With an aesthetic personality nodding to the area’s inspiring characters, such as Nancy Cunard – once Fitzrovia's bohemian queen – whose iconic bangles and polka dots subtly permeate the design narrative.

‘We are delighted to be open and equally humbled by the warm welcome we have received from our neighbours. The team and I look forward to welcoming everyone in the days, months, and years ahead - your new old friend is here and waiting for you.’

Looking locally when it came to recruitment, The Newman partnered with Saira Hospitality to create the first ever pop-up hospitality school inside an unopened hotel. The programme, which ran over summer 2025, supported individuals with barriers to employment from the local community, providing them with the knowledge and skills to build a career in hospitality and creating life-changing opportunities for those who need them most, with The Newman recruiting team members from the pool of candidates.

The Newman offers 81 spacious and refined guest rooms, suites, and apartments, some with private balconies. All rooms showcase a contemporary Art Deco aesthetic. The rooftop floor comprises a Penthouse Suite that comes with its own terrace, sauna and ice plunge, and can be taken as a whole to transform into a beautifully appointed and spacious four-bedroom suite with exclusive use of the floor. Rooms feature innovative wellness mini-bars packed with CBD sleep patches, essential oils, and anatomē scents, with the Penthouse Suite including LED face masks and yoga mats for the terrace, as well as the more traditional minibar stocked with drinks by British brands.

Destined to become a favourite with the vibrant neighbourhood, Brasserie Angelica and Gambit Bar also opened on 1^st February 2026 as part of The Newman; an elegant, European all-day restaurant and intimate underground bar. The brasserie is a contemporary, all-day restaurant, serving a menu of classic comfort dishes with generous Northern European influences threaded through the menu. A bespoke sandwich trolley also graces the floor throughout lunchtimes, offering a quick bite for guests, with a side of theatre. Gambit Bar is a destination bar in its own right, influenced by the energy of the surrounding locale, where guests can steal away a moment of escapism from daily life, and enjoy carefully crafted cocktails. It has been inspired by the timeless allure of iconic bars from across the globe, with the intention to create a warm and welcoming space where attention to detail and heartfelt hospitality sit at the core. There is also a dynamic events programme at Gambit Bar, where guests can while away the hours discovering in-house DJs or mastering strategic game playing at regular chess nights.

Wellness at The Newman embraces Nordic simplicity with a design inspired by the Swedish grace movement, blending minimalism with innovation and functionality. The wellness offering includes a medical-grade halotherapy room, an Ice Lounge, Finnish sauna and steam room for contrast therapy rituals, multi-sensory experience showers and a hydrotherapy plunge pool. Every spa treatment has been designed exclusively for The Newman with wellness partners ranging from Scandinavian clean beauty brand Nuori – marking their first London hotel presence, Moss of the Isleswhich uses nature's most active ingredients from Ireland and the British Isles, and science-led CBD brand KLORIS. In line with Wellness at The Newman’s long-term results led approach is a partnership with Hyperice, a global leader in recovery technology that provides innovative tools such as Normatec compression boots and a ‘Venom’ heat therapy belt. Further enhancing the experience is a collaboration with Déesse PRO, providing guests with access to advanced, medical-grade LED light treatments.

Opening rates at The Newman start from £695 per night. 

For more information, please visit www.thenewman.com and www.kinsfolk.co

For all offers, please visit Exclusive Offers at The Newman Hotel | Fitzrovia, London. 

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by George Denning

Case Study: RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining's Solar Success

Client Overview:

RUBY Pub,Hotel & Dining offers a remarkable venue for gatherings, boasting exceptional amenities and accommodations. However, maintaining such an exquisite establishment requires substantial electricity, with an annual consumption of approximately £56,500.

Solar4Good Solution:

Recognizing the need for cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions, Solar4Good proposed a 13.8kWh solar system for RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining. This solution aimed to reduce their electricity bills while ensuring the provision of top- notch facilities for their customers.

Results: The implementation of solar power yielded significant benefits

Cost Savings:

RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining experienced a substantial reduction in their electricity bill, decreasing from £56,500 to approximately £15,820 annually over the years.

Business Growth:

With savings on operational expenses, RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining could invest in enhancing customer experiences, maintaining their reputation as a premier destination for hospitality.

Sustainability Leadership:

By adopting solar energy, RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with the values of their eco-conscious clientele.

Summary:

In summary, the collaboration between RUBY Pub, Hotel & Dining and Solar4Good showcases the potential of solar solutions to drive cost savings, support business growth, and promote sustainability within the hospitality industry.

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by George Denning

TRIBE LONDON CANARY WHARF COLLABORATES WITH THIRD SPACE RECOVERY SPA TO LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE WELLNESS STAY PACKAGE FOR JANUARY 2026

Design-led hotel TRIBE London Canary Wharf announces collaboration with Third Space Recovery Spa to launch a wellness-led stay package.

Available from January 2026, the package provides hotel guests with access to the Third Space Recovery Spa, a holistic recovery and wellness spa providing state of the art longevity services. The package includes an overnight stay at the four-star hotel, and two restorative treatments: Cryotherapy and Vibroacoustic Therapy.

As the first hotel to open in the area TRIBE London Canary Wharf played a key role in shaping the evolution of Canary Wharf from a corporate hub into a thriving lifestyle district. TRIBE London Canary Wharf guests will now have the opportunity to enjoy a wellbeing offering with access to next-generation recovery tools, featuring state-of-the-art technology tried and tested by elite athletes and wellness specialists.

The design-led hotel offers the perfect base for a rejuvenating stay with each room offering sweeping views over Canary Wharf and an abundance of natural light. The rooms were meticulously designed to include everything guests need for a comfortable stay, featuring plush bedding, a ChromeCast TV, Kevin Murphy bathroom amenities, and a rainfall shower.

Next-Generation Recovery at Third Space Recovery Spa

Third Space’s Recovery Spa responds to a rising consumer appetite for longevity in the wellness sector, a trend highlighted in Euromonitor’s Global Consumer Trends report. The spa offers a range of premium wellness services including Cryotherapy, Red Light Therapy, Acupuncture, Cupping, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Sensory Sleep Massage and its signature Vibroacoustic Bed.

Cryotherapy: A Modern Evolution of Cold Therapy

Rooted in the same principles as traditional cold therapy, the treatment offers a modern and time-efficient way to support the body and mind. Whole-body cryotherapy exposes the body to temperatures as low as -110°C and -140°C for short bursts using dry, super-cooled air. This triggers the body’s natural survival response, causing blood to rush towards the core to protect vital organs, while oxygen and nutrient levels increase. On exiting the chamber, this enriched blood returns to the extremities aiding recovery and repair and reducing inflammation.

Vibroacoustic Therapy: Low-Frequency Sound for Deep Restoration

The spa’s vibroacoustic bed, a vibrational and binaural sound treatment, uses low-frequency sound waves and vibrations to stimulate relaxation. Designed to synchronise the body and mind, vibroacoustic treatments range from breathwork to sleep wave sessions, supporting users in their physical and mental wellbeing.

Package Details

Guests booking the recovery stay package at TRIBE London Canary Wharf will receive:

• Overnight stay at TRIBE London Canary Wharf
• Guest Pass to access Third Space Recovery Spa (with gym and pool access)
• Cryotherapy Session
• Vibroacoustic Bed Session

Priced from: £220

This collaboration furthers Canary Wharf’s evolving position as a lifestyle destination providing a strong offering for wellness-driven travellers, prioritising longevity and stress reduction.

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by George Denning

GLENEAGLES TOWNHOUSE WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF ELLIOT HILL TO THE SPENCE

Edinburgh’s decadent all-day dining restaurant introduces a fresh culinary vision rooted in modern Scottish cooking

           

Gleneagles Townhouse, Edinburgh has appointed Elliot Hill as the new Executive Chef. He is now heading up the food offering at the hotel and private members club, including its all-day restaurant and bar, The Spence. Known for his produce-led approach, Elliot brings a menu that celebrates Scotland’s seasonal larder, combining comfort, refinement and a modern take on classic dishes.

Elliot arrives from The Chester Grosvenor Hotel, where he oversaw multiple dining outlets, elevated Restaurant Arkle to three AA Rosettes within six months, and earned Michelin Guide recognition, as well as numerous regional awards such as Chester Chef of the Year.

Set within the former Victorian banking hall of Gleneagles Townhouse - the Edinburgh outpost of The Gleneagles Hotel that opened in 2022 on St Andrew Square - The Spence is instantly recognisable for its glass-domed ceiling and spectacularly stylish interiors.  Elliot’s debut menu looks to showcase the very best Scottish produce, incorporating game and cold-water seafood as well as shining a spotlight on heritage vegetables and locally produced dairy. New signature dishes include the Spence onion soup with truffled Anster cheese, halibut ‘Cullen Skink’ with smoked haddock, potato and seaweed and Highland venison with red cabbage, deer stalker pie and hedgerow preserve.  For something sweet, the heather honey baked Alaska to share can’t be missed, with Scotch, oats and pistachio – finished tableside for a touch of theatre.

The new à la carte menu compliments the hotel's other refreshed offerings, including a Spence Sunday Roast, Afternoon Tea, group dining and in-room dining menus, ensuring guests can experience Elliot’s culinary vision throughout the Townhouse.

“I'm incredibly excited to have joined Gleneagles Townhouse, a hotel that's quickly becoming an institution in Edinburgh. The Scottish larder is absolutely world-class, from game to seafood, berries and foraged mushrooms. I can't wait to work closely with the team, suppliers and guests in creating dishes that do justice to the phenomenal produce across the Townhouse.”

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by George Denning

The UK Spa Association has hit the ground running this year by issuing a brand new Mission Statement and declaration of their work focus for 2026 plus a very exciting announcement.

Following the successful launch of their online Suppliers Directory in Mid-December, the UKSA has set out a fresh agenda and clear intention for their focus for 2026.

‘Uniting and empowering the UK spa industry through support, education, collaboration, national advocacy and an ongoing drive for positive change within the wellness sector’  - UKSA Mission Statement

’Our updated mission statement makes clear our agenda and commitment to the industry and we have some incredible projects and developments to reveal in 2026. The board is a fantastic and talented cross -section of specialists from across our industry and they’ve been working incredibly hard behind the scenes to build the foundations for what is to come. We can’t wait to share our 2026 initiatives, over the coming months.’

Our key work streams for 2026 will be:

• Education – specifically highlighting industry pathways including Apprenticeship schemes, which are still not fully understood or utilised.

We believe education doesn’t just stop once you’ve left college or formal learning and so we’ll also be working to share more best practice and showcase how therapists can further develop themselves once they are in the industry, assisting retention, which is a huge challenge at present.

• We’ll be working closely with our exclusive partner charity, Look Good Feel Better, to educate our member sites on awareness and ensuring accessibility for all, including those living with Cancer and we’ll be sharing how our Suppliers and Operators can help with the incredible work the charity delivers offering an ever growing selection of free face to face workshops to help anyone living with cancer to re-gain their confidence through skin, nail and make-up tuition tailored to their needs.
• We’ll be introducing some further member benefits for our Operators and Suppliers and of course, aim to continue delivering our networking events and smaller Regional Operators meet -ups to encourage and grow the spa community within the UK.
• Finally we pledge to increase and improve our communication within the industry, as there are still people who don’t really understand what we do or why. So we will be proudly sharing more of who we are this year and what progress we are making on behalf of all UK spas.

A key part of who the UKSA is and what we stand for is growing and supporting our colleagues in the industry, so today we are delighted to announce the creation of a UK Spa Association Industry Jobs board which will be launching shortly, to be housed on our UKSA website. We will be reaching out to our members imminently with instructions on how to set up their accounts.

’We are excited to begin the year with the roll out of our new Industry Jobs Board, which we believe will be a huge benefit to our many members. It is integral that we actively support the continued growth and development of our industry through initiatives such as these.’

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by George Denning

Dean Culpan takes the helm at Miiro Templeton Garden

Dean Culpan has been named general manager of Miiro Templeton Garden, marking a new chapter in his career after more than three years at South Place in the City of London.

Dean joins the Earl’s Court hotel from the Evolv Collection’s South Place, where he served as general manager in Moorgate. He now moves to Miiro Templeton Garden, which opened in April last year as the first UK property for lifestyle brand Miiro. The group launched simultaneously in several European destinations, including Paris, Barcelona and Gstaad.

He succeeds Nicola James, who led the opening of the 156-room hotel. Templeton Garden also features a café and deli, a modern British restaurant, a cocktail bar and the brand’s signature Refresh Room.

“After a long and thoughtful search, it was essential to find a culture that truly aligns with my values – a shared moral compass, clear ambition and a genuine commitment to people and purpose. Templeton Garden feels like home, and I’m incredibly pleased to be joining a business whose ethos and vision resonate so strongly with what I want to achieve.”

Dean brings wide-ranging international experience to the role, having previously worked at properties including Atlantis in the Bahamas, the Royal Mirage in Dubai, Chelsea Harbour Hotel, and across IHG Hotels & Resorts.

Miiro is led by chief executive Neena Gupta, formerly executive director of group strategy and international hospitality at InterGlobe Enterprises, the owner of the Miiro brand.

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by George Denning

Harbour Hotels Marks Exceptional Year of CSR Impact UK hotel group delivers 21 breaks for volunteers and raises over £47,000 for Room to Reward

UK hotel group Harbour Hotels has marked ten years of partnership with hospitality charity Room to Reward (R2R), concluding 2025 with one of its most impactful years of support to date. Over the past decade, Harbour has played a central role in advancing the charity’s mission to recognise and reward the UK’s Hidden Heroes through restorative hotel breaks.

In 2025 alone, Harbour Hotels provided 21 complimentary breaks for volunteers nominated by charities and community organisations nationwide. The initiative directly supported individuals working across health and social care, grassroots sports, environmental protection, crisis response, hospice care, education, mental health, youth services, homelessness support and more. Each break offered a well-earned moment of rest and appreciation for individuals whose work often goes unseen.

Alongside hosting volunteer stays, Harbour Hotels supported three major Room to Reward fundraising events during the year:

• Sail to Reward Regatta, Southampton - £25,000+ raised
• Golf to Reward Tournament, Christchurch - £14,000+ raised
• The Great Western Menu, Bristol - £8,500+ raised

The group also continued its annual Dish Donations initiative, donating 50p from every fish and chips sold between May and September, raising an additional £5,000 for Room to Reward in 2025.

Harbour Hotels also contributed venues, prizes, operational teams and auction items, helping drive a combined fundraising total of more than £32,885.

“We are incredibly proud to support Room to Reward and the extraordinary volunteers whose work strengthens communities across the country. Hospitality is at its best when it gives back, and we look forward to continuing this partnership.”

2025 also marked a milestone moment for Room to Reward, which celebrated 10 years since becoming a registered charity. Over the past decade, the organisation has arranged breaks for nearly 4,000 volunteers, nominated by more than 1,000 charities, working with over 900 hotel partners across the UK.

Harbour Hotels remains one of Room to Reward’s most committed and foundational supporters, playing a key role in enabling its growth and amplifying the impact it delivers across the voluntary sector.

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by George Denning