Filenews 12 July 2022
Berengaria, the most important historic hotel in Cyprus, finally abandons the stone years of abandonment and decline and is revived by entering the new era as an important reference point in the natural, architectural and business landscape of the island. The long-awaited rebirth of the legendary hotel will become a reality thanks to a colossal investment of € 35 million and the management of the experienced Thanos Hotels & Resorts.
The architectural study was undertaken by Marios Economides Maria Akkelidou Architects LLC which took into account the enormous cultural, architectural and historical importance of the building and with respect to the surrounding area and the forest. Berengaria Luxury Boutique Hotel will consist of the listed Berengaria Hotel, which will be maintained to reopen as a high standard hotel with 28 rooms, 4 suites, 12 apartments and a state-of-the-art, brand new spa and the wooded surrounding area where 14 residential apartments and 12 independent villas will be erected.
The source of inspiration for the design was the pine-covered landscape with the intense elevation differences, the Berengaria that dominates the highest point of the hill, the textures and coloirs of the local stone, the characteristic aroma of the pine trees and the silence of the forest, the diffused light and the distant visual escapes that reach the sea of Morphou and Tilliria.
The aim of the architectural design is the overall remodelling of the hill of Berengaria and the creation of an important project, which will regenerate the community of Prodromos and the mountain resorts, keeping them alive throughout the year. The most important goal for the BBF Group is the perfect restoration of the historic building and its restoration to its original form and glamour, through its careful study and maintenance, but at the same time the creation of a modern hotel of high standards, which will make the development alive, in the long term. Careful planning ensures the maintenance and restoration of Berengaria to its original form and at the same time achieves the integration into it of all the necessary spaces and facilities, which will transform it into a modern hotel, with excellent accommodation and hospitality services.
The new Berengaria at a glance
THE STRUCTURE
The outer shell of the building is preserved and regains its former glory. Grey stone dominates the facades, the windows remain in their original form, the roof is rebuilt, following its older geometry. Additions to the shell are individual and distinct. They concern only the balconies on the floors, the breakfast areas and bars on the ground floor and two new escape staircases.
THE ENTRANCE
In the footsteps of the existing road, the road leading to the entrance of the hotel is drawn. The visitor ascending, first sees the cluster of old cypress trees, which are preserved and ends up at the majestic entrance of the hotel that is restored in its original form. At the entrance, the central staircase familiar to all is maintained and dominated. Near the reception area, an addition accommodates the new elevators, which connect the ground floor level with the rest of the floors.
THE GROUND FLOOR
From the entrance area the visitor can head to the restaurant, the cafeteria, the billiards area and the living room, with the fireplace and the reading room. The two old fireplaces of the hotel are maintained and reused, creating familiar and warm living spaces. The large glass doors in the breakfast and bar area allow visual contact with the outdoor areas of the hotel and the forest, while in the summer the doors remain open, connecting them indoors with the outdoor areas of the ground floor.
THE OUTDOOR AREAS
In place of the old pool area, a large outdoor area of social gathering and activities is formed, which hosts the new outdoor pool, comfortable seating areas, outdoor breakfast area and bar. This important area is the extension of the interior spaces of the ground floor and functions as a large platform that overlooks the forest.
THE SPA
Below the level of this area is created the new luxurious spa of the hotel, which includes a large heated pool, gym, yoga area, massage areas, sauna, jacuzzi and extensive outdoor areas of exercise and relaxation. The large glazing of the premises connects the spa with the surrounding area, offering guests unobstructed views and unique relaxation experiences in the forest.
THE FLOORS
On the first and second levels of the hotel are the condo suites and apartments, all have the amenities of a modern hotel of very high standards. The majority of the suites have balconies with unobstructed views of the forest and the seas of Morphou and Tilliria.
THE TOWERS
The characteristic edge towers and the dominant tower above the entrance are maintained and accommodate the most comfortable and privileged Condo suites and apartments.
THE VILLAS
In the surrounding area of the hotel there are independent villas, maisonettes and studios. Residential development remains discreet and construction is low. The houses are located sparsely, following the natural topography of the soil. bbf: with careful planning and absolute respect for the surrounding wooded area ensures the preservation of the vast majority of trees. Pedestrian streets, shared organized seating areas and parking spaces enrich the development. All villas have large terraces and a courtyard in the wooded area. Their common morphological characteristics and materials achieve the creation of a single composition, which fits harmoniously, without dominating, into the surrounding area.
The project is expected to be completed by the bbf Group: in mid-2026. The cost is EUR 20 million. euros for the new hotel and 15 million euros for the new hotel. euros for the apartments and villas in the surrounding area.
Thanos Hotels & Resorts Group has undertaken an advisory role (Technical Services) at Berengaria Luxury Boutique Hotel regarding the way the hotel is designed and the facilities. Thanos Hotels & Resorts Group manages The Anassa, Annabelle, and Almyra hotels, as well as the all-day venue Antasia Beach Club. In collaboration with the bbf Group: and the architects of the project, the experienced company will provide consulting services, with emphasis on the best possible operation of the hotel and the provision of a unique experience for the guests.
This is how Berengaria will become
