Classic Comebacks

What’s New: Prior to the spring 2018 reopening, all rooms and villas were revamped by Frankfurt-based Bergit Grafin Douglas of MM Design to feel lighter and brighter, with natural wood floors and fabrics from Pierre Frey, Manuel Canovas, Colefax and Fowler, and others. The La Prairie spa and Le Saint-Martin restaurant have been renovated, and a slew of new programs—culinary and nature-oriented biking and hiking through olive groves—have been added as well. Says General Manager Duarte Bon de Sousa, “We strive to introduce our guests to local artists and delicious local traditional food with a modern twist, all in a restyled contemporary French art de vivre.” oetkercollection.com

What’s New: The property’s Kulm Country Club has undergone a $12.15 million renovation overseen by architect and local resident Norman Foster. A $7 million rooms revamp by Pierre-Yves Rochon in the New Kulm Wing yielded a clean and contemporary feel without losing the original hotel’s rustic and luxurious charms. kulm.com

What’s New: The property reopened with the first North American Spa Alila, a redesigned Social House, 59 refreshed rooms by Brayton Hughes Design Studio, the Glass House art gallery, an expanded terrace for chef Paul Corsentino’s Sur House restaurant, outdoor fireside seating, Redwood Canyon Glampsites, and a list of discovery-based experiences including wild foraging hike, falconry, a circle of life meditation, and an organic garden tour. ventanabigsur.com

What’s New: Reopening in fall 2019, the latest face-lift by HRV Hotel Partners and Auberge Resorts is extensive. “We’re being good stewards of its old magic, soul, and history, while adding new experiences and signature events,” says developer Richard Holland. There will be a new wellness and spa facility designed by Sylvia Sapielli, new food and beverage concepts overseen by Chef Dean Fearing, expanded outdoors programs, an art gallery, an artist-in-residence program, renovated stables and chapel, and 120 new and restyled guest suites and residences. Nunzio De Santis, the architect spearheading the renovation, describes the project as remaining “very true to the authenticity, language, and spirit of Bishop’s Lodge—albeit a little eclectic, with some contemporary furnishings that live and breathe next to one-of-a-kind pieces that are authentic to native Mexican and Indian cultures.” bishopslodge.com

What’s New: Reopened in January 2018 by Soho House Group, the hotel underwent a total overhaul of public spaces, now in an Anglo-French style. Refurbished rooms feature antique sinks, velvet furniture, and William Morris wallpaper. There’s also a magnificent collection of works by primarily British and Scottish artists, including Rachel Howard, France-Lise McGurn, Sara Beazley, Cornelia Parker, and Danny Augustine. At the restaurant, find a modernized menu featuring lighter fare and locally sourced ingredients. “Kettner’s has always been about having fun and being a bit naughty,” avers General Manager Conor Sheehan, “whether it was through the excitement of being one of the first French restaurants in London, the parties of the 1920s, or the boozy lunches of the 1990s.” kettnerstownhouse.com

What’s New: The Belmond Group, owners of other historic properties like El Encanto in Santa Barbara and Hotel Splendido in Portofino, purchased the property in 2017, closing for a major refurbishment and sinking $121 million into relocating the pool (which now overlooks the beautiful bay), building a new spa and fitness center, and ramping up the décor while retaining the tropical exoticism of the original design. New drinking and dining options include Cap Shack bar (featuring live music) and CIPs by Cipriani (serving dishes inspired by Belmond’s famed Venetian hotel in a casual setting). At Pimms restaurant, the newly hired British Chef Andy Gaskin (a veteran of Michelin-starred kitchens) is planning a nine-course chef’s table experience. belmond.com