Loren’s Plans To Redevelop Elbow Beach Hotel
The Loren Hotels has submitted an In-Principle Planning Approval application to redevelop the Elbow Beach Hotel into a ”luxury resort comprising 76 guestrooms and 22 detached villas that will operate as part of the resort’s rental inventory, with an anticipated opening in 2029 following extensive reconstruction.”
A spokesperson said, “The Loren Hotels has submitted an application for In-Principle Planning Approval to revitalize the historic Elbow Beach Hotel into a thoughtfully designed five-star luxury resort, marking a significant milestone in the restoration of one of Bermuda’s most cherished hospitality landmarks.
“Despite its enduring place in Bermuda’s tourism heritage, the historic property is structurally deficient and has been closed since 2020. The Loren’s proposal seeks to breathe new life into the site through a carefully considered redevelopment that respects its legacy while creating a sustainable, world-class destination for future generations.
“The proposed development will feature a luxury resort comprising 76 guestrooms and 22 detached villas that will operate as part of the resort’s rental inventory, with an anticipated opening in 2029 following extensive reconstruction.
“Designed to reflect both Bermuda’s character and today’s luxury traveler, the resort will include a full-service spa, fitness centre, wellness programming, racquet sports, and a collection of elevated dining experiences. Planned food and beverage venues include a rooftop restaurant, pool bar, lounge, casual beachside food truck, and the reopening of Mickeys beachfront restaurant.”
“Our vision is to restore Elbow Beach as one of Bermuda’s premier destinations while creating a resort that is environmentally responsible, economically sustainable, and deeply connected to the local community,” said Stephen King, Founder and CEO of The Loren Hotels. “This project represents an opportunity to preserve the legacy of Elbow Beach while positioning it for long-term success.”
A More Mindful Resort
The spokesperson said, “The former hotel, the proposed development, has been intentionally scaled to better align with today’s hospitality market and the surrounding neighborhood.
“Key planning objectives include:
- A smaller-scale, lower-density development footprint, designed to be more appropriate for the property and surrounding community.
- A landscape-led master plan designed to preserve the site’s historic Russell Page-inspired gardens and retain mature, healthy vegetation wherever possible.
- Architecture inspired by Bermuda’s natural limestone formations and traditional residential design.
- Improved circulation throughout the property, minimizing vehicle traffic across much of the site and creating a more pedestrian-friendly guest experience.
- Restoration and enhancement of public access and amenities along Elbow Beach.
Meaningful Benefits for Bermuda
“Beyond revitalizing an iconic property, the project is expected to generate lasting benefits for the island.
“The proposal includes:
- New public changing rooms and restroom facilities along Tribe Road, to be maintained and serviced by the hotel.
- Public access to the resort’s restaurants and food and beverage venues.
- A lower-profile hotel building that preserves ocean views for neighboring residents at the adjacent Ocean Hills [formerly Fritholme Gardens] development.
- Significant construction employment opportunities during redevelopment.
- Long-term hospitality employment with a commitment to a primarily Bermudian workforce supported by dedicated training and professional development programs.
Environmental Stewardship
“Environmental responsibility has been a central consideration throughout the planning process.
“The redevelopment will replace the property’s outdated wastewater system—which discharged treated effluent into the ocean—with modern infrastructure that eliminates ocean discharge. The project will also remove asbestos and other hazardous materials remaining within the existing structures.
“The Loren also intends to integrate sustainability initiatives through its partnership with Roots Climate and participation in its affiliated nonprofit program, “2 Percent is Less Than 2 Degrees,” supporting carbon sequestration and broader environmental initiatives.
Planning Process
“The current submission seeks an In-Principle Planning Approval, effectively serving as a master plan for the redevelopment. The application establishes the proposed land use, building density, height, massing, conservation strategy, access, parking, and historic preservation approach.
“Subsequent planning and building applications will address the detailed architectural, engineering, landscape, coastal stabilization, and other technical components of the project.
“Prior to submission, The Loren and its consultants engaged extensively with the Department of Planning, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, neighboring property owners, and other governmental, environmental, and cultural stakeholders. Feedback from these consultations has been incorporated into the proposal.
Project Team
“The redevelopment is being led by an experienced team comprising:
- The Loren Hotels
- Sardis Developments
- OBMI Architects
- Onsite Engineering
- Adwick Planning
- Rego Sotheby’s International Realty
- Additional Bermuda-based consultants and specialists
“The Loren looks forward to continuing dialogue with the community as the planning process advances and remains committed to delivering a development that honors the legacy of Elbow Beach while creating a sustainable future for Bermuda tourism.
“For additional information or to submit questions and comments, please contact: elbowbeach@thelorenhotel.com.”
