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In this section, we regularly publish official press releases and media coverage about our hotel group, our renowned sub-brands, and our valued partners around the globe. Follow our journey across luxury hospitality, innovation, and timeless elegance.
The Swiss Hospitality Collection has specialized in the field of special hotels and offers a collection of very individual hotels. The Hotel Collection is an affiliation brand for successful independent hotels.
Maison Villeroy has once again been honored with the prestigious Three MICHELIN Keys, placing it among the most exceptional hotels worldwide for 2025. This recognition reaffirms our position alongside France’s most renowned luxury properties and celebrates our unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality.
With this addition, the group welcomes a collection of remarkable properties that, like all members of the Grand Metropolitan family, embody genuine hospitality, quality, and individuality.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels continues its mission to preserve places of character and history while offering guests authentic experiences combined with international comfort.
The integration of VELA Hotels brings new perspectives and enriches the portfolio with unique destinations full of charm and inspiration.
Annika Bretschneider has been named Group Revenue Director at Grand Metropolitan Hotels. With more than 16 years of international hospitality experience and strong expertise in data-driven pricing strategies, she will be responsible for advancing the group’s revenue management approach. Her proven track record and leadership skills are set to drive sustainable growth and strategic innovation across the portfolio.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels takes a decisive step in shaping the future of independent hospitality. With the acquisition of a 51% stake in Private Selection Hotels & Tours, GMH combines Swiss boutique excellence with international reach. The partnership with the Swiss Hospitality Collection integrates loyalty programs, technology, and back-office solutions – strengthening individuality while creating global opportunities. GMH proudly supports the expansion of one of Switzerland’s most authentic hotel brands onto the world stage.
New head chef Hannes Fussel continues Karner’s star-level journey with inventive cuisine rooted in the Chiemgau region. The Michelin star remains – thanks to fresh local ingredients, precise craftsmanship, and a true passion for flavor.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels takes a decisive step in shaping the future of independent hospitality. With the acquisition of a 51% stake in Private Selection Hotels & Tours, GMH combines Swiss boutique excellence with international reach. The partnership with the Swiss Hospitality Collection integrates loyalty programs, technology, and back-office solutions – strengthening individuality while creating global opportunities. GMH proudly supports the expansion of one of Switzerland’s most authentic hotel brands onto the world stage.
The historic Hotel Weissenstein in Switzerland has joined the Swiss Hospitality Collection. Perched on Solothurn’s local mountain, the hotel stands out for its quality, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality—making it a perfect fit for the Collection’s growing portfolio.
Castlewood Hotels & Resorts breathes new life into the 600-year-old Hotel Krone in Oettingen. Following an extensive renovation, the listed half-timbered building shines in new splendor—combining traditional architecture with modern comfort. With 40 stylish rooms, an elegant restaurant, conference facilities, and a wellness area, Hotel Krone will offer a unique experience starting in spring 2025 for guests who appreciate history and contemporary hospitality.
Discover more about the reopening of this historic property under the management of Castlewood Hotels & Resorts.
Brionj Hotels proudly announces the expansion of its luxury portfolio with the addition of the Plant Villas on the picturesque island of Pag, Croatia. Nestled among fragrant fields of immortelle and offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, these private villa residences redefine coastal luxury. Each villa blends contemporary architecture with nature’s serenity and features bespoke services such as private chefs, tailored wellness experiences, and discreet transfers. A new chapter of indulgent escape begins – exclusively with Brionj.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels has acquired the prestigious Voile d’Or Hotels and Resorts, a legendary luxury collection with iconic proerties in Paris, London, New York, and beyond. This strategic move marks a major expansion of the group’s global footprint and commitment to timeless elegance and exceptional guest experiences.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels strengthens its procurement strategy with the appointment of Björn Lösch as Group Procurement Manager. With extensive experience in supplier relations and operational efficiency, Lösch aims to enhance sustainable purchasing processes and drive innovation. Learn more about his vision for the future of procurement in the hospitality industry.
The renowned Fürstenhof Hotel in Bad Bertrich has entered a new chapter as ownership transitions from the Häcker family to the Swiss Castlewood Hotel Group. With a rich history and a unique Glauber’s salt thermal bath, the hotel remains a wellness retreat while embracing new visions. Discover what’s next for this iconic four-star superior destination.
At just 22 years old, Felipe M. Smura took over the management of Hotel Royal Lucerne and has been setting fresh accents ever since. The graduate of César Ritz Colleges Switzerland impresses with innovative ideas, international experience, and a clear vision: excellent guest service, sustainable management, and a motivated team. Discover how this 23-year-old successfully blends tradition with modernity.
Starting January 1, 2025, Castlewood Hotels & Resorts will take over the 4-star Superior Wellness Hotel Fürstenhof in Bad Bertrich. Renowned for its unique Glauber’s salt thermal bath and extensive wellness facilities, the historic property enhances the group’s offerings in the Eifel spa town. In spring 2025, Castlewood will also assume operations of the local Festhalle, further strengthening Bad Bertrich as a premier destination.
With the acquisition of shares in Top International Hotels, Grand Metropolitan Hotels is advancing its expansion in the affiliation business. Over 400 owner-managed hotels will now benefit from enhanced sales and marketing support, boosting their competitiveness in global markets. Hans R. Müller, founder of Top International Hotels, has sold his shares to the Swiss-based Grand Metropolitan Holding to support this partnership. Together with an experienced team and innovative technologies, the brand aims to grow its international presence. Discover what this collaboration means for the future of the hospitality industry.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels is bolstering its Supervisory Board with a distinguished addition. Dr. Philipp Rösler will actively support the management of the international hotel group and play a key role in shaping its global growth strategy.
Opening in 2027, Le Willmann will continue the 125-year tradition of well-being and healing established by Albert Willmann in 1898. Located in Freland with breathtaking views of the Vosges, the resort will feature a Pure Elements signature spa, Medical Wellness services, and a rich culinary offering that celebrates local products and wines. Managed by Grand Metropolitan Hotels upon its launch, the historic property will offer a unique blend of luxury and tradition.
Castlewood Hotels & Resorts has extended its lease agreement in Switzerland, solidifying its presence in the region. This move underscores the brand’s long-term commitment to offering high-quality hospitality services in the Swiss market. Discover more about this significant development and its impact on the brand’s expansion strategy.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels and the Porcelain Manufactory Meissen have become members of the German National Tourist Board (DZT). This collaboration enhances the international visibility of both brands, highlighting their commitment to exceptional hospitality and German craftsmanship. Learn more about this strategic partnership and its significance for promoting tourism worldwide.
Joy Fischer is the new Director of Affiliations at the Swiss Hospitality Collection SHC. The experienced hotelier brings fresh energy and a passion for the hospitality industry to the Swiss private hotel cooperation. With her expertise and network, she will strengthen collaboration within the SHC and drive innovative projects forward.
We are pleased to announce the ‚Krone in Oettingen im Ries‘ as a new member of Castlewood Hotels & Resorts. The hotel is currently in an extensive construction and renovation phase, where 600 years of Oettingen’s city history, three individual monuments, and modern architecture are being merged together. With the targeted start of the hotel and restaurant operations in the spring of 2025, 40 hotel rooms will be available for overnight stays in Oettingen.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels Adds Over 130 Hotels to its Portfolio. With the establishment of its own brands for the African market and the inclusion of Rainbow Hotels, Grand Metropolitan Hotels now becomes one of the leading providers in Africa. The company is also promoting the development of talent in hospitality by founding a hotel management school on the continent.
Grand Metropolitan Hotels and the Rainbow Tourism Group have launched a strategic partnership to strengthen Africa’s tourism industry. Through investments, knowledge transfer, and the development of an expanded hotel network, the partnership aims to enhance the quality of hospitality on the continent and attract international travelers.
At this year’s 101 Executive Summit of the „101 Best Hotels in Germany“ at Lake Tegernsee, the CEOs of leading hotel companies discussed the compatibility of luxury and sustainability. Following the industry summit, the 101 Soirée with an award ceremony took place in the evening of November 19th. We are delighted that Grand Metropolitan Hotels was also honored as the „World’s Finest Upcoming Hotel Company.“
A star is shining in the Chiemgau gourmet sky. Once again – our „Restaurant Karner“ at Landgasthof Karner receives its Michelin star 2024 under chef de cuisine Manuel Wimmer. With this, the gourmet restaurant was able to defend its star for the second year in a row.
Contract signing for the Hotel Krone in Oettingen (from left to right): Mayor of the city of Oettingen Thomas Heydecker, Dr. Peter Fiedler (CFO of Grand Metropolitan), and Deputy Mayor of the city of Oettingen Markus Eisenbarth. The historical Hotel Krone in Oettingen becomes part of Castlewood Hotels & Resorts.
The 101 Executive Summit, organized by Carsten K. Rath and David Rath, founders of „Die 101 besten Hotels,“ was held at Tegernsee. This event also marked the first presentation of a new award for luxury hotels, recognizing „Die 101 besten Hotels Deutschlands 2023/2024“ and the world’s best hotel companies for their excellence in luxury, innovation, and continuous development in comfort, cuisine, and culture.
Walter C. Neumann, the outgoing Chief Executive Director of Seetelhotels, will become the Chief Executive Officer of the Swiss company Grand Metropolitan Hotels beginning in January 2024. Grand Metropolitan Hotels, with over 80 properties and 5400 rooms under contract, is a prominent White-Label operator in the hospitality sector. Walter C. Neumann will also serve as CEO for Castlewood Hotels & Resorts, previously led by Kateryna Smura.
In the heart of Germany, in the “hessischen Wetterau” at the foot of the volcano hill Vogelsberg and not far from Frankfurt, you will find the city Nidda with the small place called Bad Salzhausen – known for its spa and health characteristics. The Kurhaushotel Bad Salzhausen does not only impress with a very exquisite position located at one of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful spa gardens, but it is also considered a cultural monument due to its artistic and historical meaning. Our own hotel restaurant “Johann’s” and our bar “just-us” will treat you to various culinary delights and fine wines. The hotel, featuring 7 event spaces, is not only a popular conference hotel but also a sought-after wedding venue with its spacious Kursaal.
Our hotel Schwarzwald Freudenstadt welcomes you in one of Germany’s most popular holiday areas. Explore Germany’s largest low mountain range. More than half of its area consists of a giant nature park with a diversity of scenery like no other, waiting to be explored. In the middle of the Black Forest, on the high plateau, you find its largest city – Freudenstadt. Whether it’s a family holiday, a hiking- or mountain biking trip, a wellness weekend or simply a much-needed getaway – the Black Forest awaits you with a diverse leisure program as well as the needed peace in order to leave your everyday life behind.
The Hotel Ahornhof, in Lindberg, located in the Bavarian Forest, is right by the border to the Czech Republic. Europe’s biggest forest landscape welcomes you not only with the biggest and oldest national park and the only jungle of Germany, but also with two nature parks, an incomparable cultural range and various sights. The Hotel Ahornhof lies within the most beautiful panoramic position and offers its guests a wellness area with swimming pool and sauna, an outside pool with sunbathing lawn during the summer months, professional spa treatments, a bar and a restaurant.
The Hotel Kammweg am Rennsteig is the ideal starting point for your holiday in the Thuringian Forest. Located right by the popular hiking paradise Rennsteig, it offers a magnificent scenery. The Rennsteig is a 170 km (110 miles) long ridge walk as well as an historical boundary path. The long-distance trail is one of the oldest and most popular hiking trails of Germany. With its own restaurant, wellness area and a view overlooking the biosphere reserve Thuringian Forest, the hotel is a beloved holiday destination. Cities like Jena, Weimar and Erfurt are close by.
Nestled in an impressive mountain panorama, Lucerne is situated on Lake Lucerne, also known as the Vierwaldstättersee. The city is renowned not only for its picturesque lake but also for its historic old town, numerous attractions, and its iconic mountains, the Pilatus and the Rigi. The Hotel Royal is located on a hill overlooking Lake Lucerne and offers breathtaking views of the Central Swiss Alps. Built in 1910 in the Art Nouveau style, the Hotel Royal features 46 rooms and is situated in a tranquil yet central location.
The Hotel Riesberghof, in Lindberg, located in the Bavarian Forest, is right by the border to the Czech Republic. Europe’s biggest forest landscape welcomes you not only with the biggest and oldest national park and the only jungle of Germany, but also with two nature parks, an incomparable cultural range and various sights. The Hotel Riesberghof is the ideal starting point for hiking tours and to explore the wilderness of the Bavarian Forest.
For press inquiries regarding Grand Metropolitan Hotels and its sub-brands, please contact our communications team. We are happy to provide statements, interview opportunities, and background information.
