Belmond unveils plans for 2025

Pipeline includes brand’s first private villa, opening in Portofino, and a secret tea room on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Luxury hospitality group Belmond is set to redefine travel in 2025 with its ambitious ‘slow travel’ strategy, emphasising mindful experiences and deeper connections with destinations.

The company's vision aims to elevate its portfolio of hotels, trains and river cruises.

A cornerstone of Belmond's 2025 plan is the launch of the Britannic Explorer, England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train.

Scheduled to begin operations in July 2025, the train will offer three-night journeys through Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales. The 18 cabins comprise 15 suites and three grand suites, complemented by a wellness area, two restaurants and an observation car with Victorian-styled bar.

Belmond is also enhancing its existing rail offerings. The Royal Scotsman will introduce a new seven-night ‘Grand Tour of Scotland’ and add a Grand Suite carriage, while the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is set to unveil a new carriage designed by French artist JR. Inspired by astronomical observatories and Renaissance cabinets of curiosities, this standout suite will include secret compartments, skylights that open for stargazing, a library stocked with hundreds of books and a secret tearoom concealed behind a bookshelf.

In a significant property development, Belmond will debut its first private villa, Villa Beatrice, in Portofino, a three-storey palazzo with five suites and sweeping bay views. Simultaneously, the iconic Splendido hotel in Portofino will reopen following an extensive renovation by designer Martin Brudnizki.

Splendido in Portofino

Culinary experiences are receiving substantial Belmond investment, with Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn appointed as the first culinary curator for Les Bateaux Belmond in France, and chef Simon Rogan crafting distinctive dining experiences for the Britannic Explorer. As well as championing seasonal ingredients, the menu will feature the finest specialities from each region the train travels through.

Sustainability remains a critical focus, with Belmond partnering with Parley for the Oceans to raise environmental awareness. The initiative begins at Maroma, A Belmond Hotel in Riviera Maya, with plans to extend to more coastal properties throughout 2025.

Commenting on Belmond’s slow travel strategy, CEO Dan Ruff said: "In 2025, we will elevate this further by inviting guests to discover a new pace of travel, allowing for deeper connections with the destination".

Belmond's 2025 strategy reflects a growing trend in the luxury travel sector towards more immersive, sustainable and culturally rich experiences.

For more information, visit www.belmond.com

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