Kerzner International Holdings Limited, which through its subsidiaries represents a top international developer and operator of destination resorts, casinos as well as luxury hotels, has signed an agreement with Triangle Investment and Development Limited, to develop and operate a new One&Only resort in Kumbor, Montenegro overlooking Tivat Bay.
Triangle is acting as representative for the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (“SOCAR”), which has been appointed by the Government of Montenegro as the preferred bidder of this mixed-use development Project following a public tender process.
“As the Minister responsible for tourism, urban planning, real estate and the environment, I am extremely gratified to have such a serious investor like SOCAR and an operator such as One&Only for the first time in Europe in Montenegro. This proves that the sustainable development concept that Montenegro has committed to is becoming a reality,” said Branimir Gvozdenovic, Minister of Sustainable Development and Tourism. “Projects like this mean a lot to Montenegro, bringing world-class standards, new employment opportunities and incredible experiences to the destination.”
With approximately 150 luxurious guest rooms and villas, a prestigious One&Only residential component and world-class Marina, tennis academy, health spa, dining and retail options, the property is expected to attract travellers from around the world. Strategically located at the most narrow part of the entrance to Tivat Bay, the 60-acre project will command an enviable position between mountain and sea and will overlook 1.2 km of pristine coastline of the Adriatic Sea. This will be One&Only’s first resort in Europe and is located less than an hour from Dubrovnik International Airport.
“Montenegro is a perfect location for the first One&Only experience in Europe. The location is remarkable and I am very confident the resort will be well received by our many loyal One&Only guests and new guests alike,” says Sol Kerzner, Chairman, Kerzner International. “I am excited about this project and looking forward to designing and managing this new world-class resort.”
Tivat Bay offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, which will inform the design of both the public and private spaces of the resort. True to the brand’s heritage, One&Only Montenegro will offer a variety of world-class cuisines showcasing regional specialties in restaurants overseen by internationally-acclaimed chefs. The resort will also house an indulgent One&Only Health Spa, honouring the region’s heritage by utilising ancient Mediterranean traditions and holistic practices fused with modern spa therapies. In addition, event and meeting space will be available for bespoke gatherings, whether for business or personal pleasure.
“We are excited about this new development and its expected contribution to the continued growth of the infrastructure and economy of the region,” commented Gafar Gubanov, Executive Board Member, Triangle Group. “One&Only Resorts are found in the most beautiful locales in the world and this location in Montenegro is just that.”
Like all of the resorts within the collection, One&Only Montenegro will place an emphasis on privacy while evoking a ‘sense of place,’ using materials that showcase the natural elements of Montenegro. The country’s rich history will be reflected throughout the resort by highlighting the natural juxtaposition of elements from snow-capped mountains to undiscovered lakes and pristine coastline. As with all One&Only properties, this resort will also boast innovative programming for families, including the celebrated KidsOnly and OneTribe club for ‘tweens’. Guests will also have access to a host of unique sporting and entertainment facilities on-site.
“With so many guests from Europe already experiencing One&Only resorts worldwide, it made perfect sense for our next resort to be in Europe,” says Alan Leibman, CEO, Kerzner International. “I am thrilled we were able to partner with Triangle to develop this amazing area and know our guests from all over the world will be anxious to discover it. Montenegro is the perfect place for us to create an extraordinary new One&Only ‘playground’ for the most influential and well-travelled people around the globe. I know One&Only Montenegro will set a new level of guest experience not only for our brand, but for the industry.”
One&Only Resorts are conceived as hallmarks of excellence. Set in some of the most beautiful locations in the world, each award-winning resort offers guests a distinctive style and personality borne of its local culture, a genuine hospitality and a lively energy that is unparalleled. These seven properties include the iconic One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives; One&Only Le Saint Géran in Mauritius; One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai; One&Only Ocean Club in The Bahamas; One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico; One&Only Cape Town in South Africa and One&Only The Palm in Dubai. One&Only has also announced plans to develop a resort in Sanya, China.