The historic Forest Park hotel in Platres is set to undergo a grand revitalization with a €25 million investment from XM, aiming to elevate the hotel to “Swiss standards” by merging its rich history with modern luxury. This transformative project will not only restore the hotel to its former glory but also create a contemporary version that promises to captivate a diverse and discerning clientele for another 90 years of storied existence.
What is the future plan for Platres’ historic Forest Park hotel?
The Forest Park hotel in Platres is set for a grand revitalization with a €25 million investment from XM. Plans include a comprehensive renovation to elevate the hotel to “Swiss standards,” merging its rich history with modern luxury to recreate the elegance of prestigious Swiss alpine resorts.
A New Chapter Begins
The renowned Forest Park hotel in the quaint mountain village of Platres is embarking on a transformative journey. Acquired by XM, a leading foreign exchange and CFD brokerage company, this landmark hotel has been secured for a sum of €10 million. XM has committed to a “comprehensive renovation plan” that includes a robust investment of an additional €15 million to refurbish the hotel’s facilities. The vision is to reach the distinguished “Swiss standards,” akin to the prestigious St Moritz resorts.
This project symbolizes a broader revival of Platres, according to Panayiotis Papadopoulos, the local mukhtar. He believes that while a single hotel’s renovation can spark interest, the comprehensive modernization of several area hotels, coupled with other initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism and infrastructure, can significantly elevate the image and appeal of Platres.
Legacy and Luxury
The tale of the Forest Park hotel is a storied one, with its inception dating back to 1932. Designed by Israeli architect Sam Barkai and constructed under civil engineer Benzian Ginsburg, the hotel officially opened its doors in 1936. At the time, it was a beacon of luxury, being the only hotel on the island to offer individual bathrooms in all of its 70 bedrooms. The hotel also boasted a variety of amenities, including a large ballroom, dining rooms, a bar, a spacious lounge, library, billiards room, and a tennis court.
The hotel’s allure attracted celebrities and dignitaries alike. British novelist Daphne du Maurier penned part of her renowned novel “Rebecca” while staying at Forest Park. Over the years, the hotel witnessed expansions and additions, such as 30 new rooms post-World War II, an Olympic size swimming pool in 1963, and the construction of seven chalet suites in the 1980s. With 137 rooms today, the hotel has been praised by the Telegraph for its “timeless beauty” and “extraordinary views of pine trees and extensive gardens.”
A Storied Past Meets a Promising Future
The Forest Park hotel’s history is not just about luxury and literature. It has played a pivotal role during significant historical moments. During the Second World War, the British armed forces requisitioned it as a military hospital from 1941 to 1943, and once more in 1956 during the Suez Crisis.
Beyond its historical significance, the hotel has also been a cultural hotspot. It is said that the brandy sour cocktail, now a Cypriot favorite, was concocted here to enable King Farouk of Egypt to enjoy a spirited beverage without public scrutiny. The hotel’s ballroom and poolside “tea dances” were a Sunday tradition, frequented by Cyprus’s avant-garde.
A Vision of Elegance and Excellence
The ambition for the Forest Park hotel is not just to restore it to its former glory but to create a contemporary version that resonates with the elegance and excellence of the Swiss alpine experience. The extensive renovation might bring a temporary closure, but it sets the stage for a rebirth that will integrate the hotel’s rich history with modern luxury, aiming to captivate a diverse and discerning clientele.
XM’s investment and the planned renovation are a testament to their belief in the potential of this historic establishment to reclaim its status as a premier destination. The hotel, once a witness to history, is now poised to be an active participant in Platres’ vibrant future, welcoming guests for what could be another 90 years of storied existence.
What is the significance of the renovation project at the Forest Park hotel in Platres?
The renovation project at the Forest Park hotel in Platres is significant as it aims to elevate the hotel to “Swiss standards” by merging its rich history with modern luxury. This transformative project not only restores the hotel to its former glory but also creates a contemporary version that promises to captivate a diverse and discerning clientele for another 90 years of storied existence.
How much is XM investing in the revitalization of Platres’ Forest Park hotel?
XM is investing €25 million in the revitalization of Platres’ Forest Park hotel. This investment includes a comprehensive renovation plan to refurbish the hotel’s facilities and elevate it to distinguished “Swiss standards” akin to prestigious Swiss alpine resorts.
What is the historical significance of the Forest Park hotel in Platres?
The Forest Park hotel in Platres has a rich historical significance dating back to its inception in 1932. It was once the only hotel on the island to offer individual bathrooms in all of its 70 bedrooms. The hotel has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and played a pivotal role during significant historical moments, such as being requisitioned as a military hospital during WWII.
How will the revitalization of Platres’ Forest Park hotel impact the local area?
The revitalization of Platres’ Forest Park hotel is expected to spark interest and contribute to a broader revival of Platres. The comprehensive modernization of several area hotels, along with other initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism and infrastructure, can significantly elevate the image and appeal of Platres as a tourist destination.
