Hilton to Launch Conrad Hotel Brand in South Africa

Dubai (UAE) – 28 June 2012 – Hilton Worldwide today announced Pezula Resort & Spa, one of South Africa’s leading resorts, is set to join the luxury portfolio of Conrad Hotels & Resorts following the signing of a management agreement with resort owners, Alderney Establishment.

Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa, which is expected to rebrand in November 2012, will be located in Knysna, a popular tourism hotspot, located in the Western Cape, between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth on the picturesque Garden Route Southern coastline. Recently named as one of the Top 100 Destinations in the World, Knysna is famous for its picturesque forests, lakes and mountains, its rich cultural heritage and sheltered, unspoiled beaches. It is an ideal setting to see many forms of wildlife in their natural habitats including rhinos, leopards, giraffes and monkeys as well as exotic marine life such as whales, great white sharks and dolphins.

John T A Vanderslice, global head, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands for Hilton Worldwide said: “By combining Conrad’s signature style and service standards with such a superior Resort property and location, we will create an exceptional and memorable guest experience. For 25 years Conrad has epitomised the definition of smart luxury and our arrival in South Africa represents a key milestone in the brand’s ongoing global expansion.”

The Hotel Resort itself offers sweeping views of Knysna Lagoon and beyond to the Indian Ocean and features an abundance of amenities for hotel guests including a championship golf course and a ‘Field of Dreams’ sports complex boasting four tennis courts, archery, a sports oval and golf range. Guests can also enjoy horse riding, nature trails through the estate’s indigenous forest, canoe trips on the clear waters of the Noetzie River as well as the peaceful seclusion of Noetzie’s exclusive beach, recently voted one of the top three beaches in South Africa.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, Development, Hilton Worldwide, Europe & Africa said: “I’m very excited at the prospect of our luxury Conrad brand making its debut in South Africa with such an outstanding and well known resort property. Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa will be a valuable addition to our growing international hotel portfolio and helps to underline our position as one of the leading hospitality providers in the continent.”

The hotel will host 78 stylish suites housed in detached villas and five larger, architecturally designed family villas, all with spectacular views, and linked by short landscaped pathways to the main building. One unique addition to the resort accommodation is Pezula’s award winning private castle, built into the cliff face and overlooking Noetzie Beach, the castle has been described as one of the most exclusive destinations in Africa. Further guest amenities at the property include executive boardrooms, a business centre, an award winning spa and health club and the hotel’s main restaurant, Zachary’s is a winner of 12 different gourmet-led awards and also features one of the area’s largest wine cellars.

Keith Stewart of owners Alderney Establishment said: “We sought an internationally recognised brand that matches our strategy to provide world class facilities and service. Conrad’s established global credentials makes for a compelling partnership and will help us to deliver a truly exceptional guest experience.”

About Conrad Hotels & Resorts
CONRAD® HOTELS & RESORTS is Hilton Worldwide’s global luxury brand and the choice for today’s modern, sophisticated traveler. By focusing on the individual, Conrad offers guests genuine and personalized experience and a world of style, service and connection. Each Conrad is a dynamic reflection of its city and culture, as well as a showcase for striking design and distinct surroundings. Across five continents, in the world’s gateway cities and most sought-after resort destinations, Conrad invites each guest to enjoy The Luxury Of Being Yourself®. For information on Conrad, please visit http://www.conradhotels.com/ . Conrad Hotels & Resorts is one of Hilton Worldwide’s ten market-leading brands.

About Hilton Worldwide
Hilton Worldwide is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For 93 years, Hilton Worldwide has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. The company is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Its brands are comprised of more than 3,800 hotels and timeshare properties, with 630,000 rooms in 91 countries and include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages the world-class guest reward program Hilton HHonors®.

Media Contact:
Heather Shaw
Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa
Tel: +971 (0)4 365 4886