Mandarin Oriental to open first Caribbean property

The group will rebrand what is the island’s sole existing property, as of November 1, when it will be known as Mandarin Oriental, Canouan.

Canouan Island is just five square miles but includes an 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed golf course, while the hotel itself – previously Pink Sands – includes 26 suites, infinity pool, spa and health club and 12, three- and four-bedroom villas, each with a private pool.

The group will also brand and manage a portfolio of new Residences at Mandarin Oriental close to the hotel and scheduled to be available in 2020.

Around 1300 acres of land in the north of the island are being developed by real estate company Canouan Development Corporation, whose portfolio also includes the L’Ance Guyac beach club and other restaurants, tennis and water sport facilities.

“We are delighted to be introducing the Mandarin Oriental brand to the Caribbean, and to be bringing the group’s legendary service and quality standards to the beautiful island of Canouan,” said James Riley, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “We believe this will become the Caribbean’s most exclusive luxury getaway.”

The resort is situated on the east coast of the island and is reached by a 20-minute flight in one of the hotel’s private jets from Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and other Caribbean gateways.

Mandarin Oriental currently operates 30 hotels in 20 countries and territories.