von Essen, the privately owned collection of hotels with properties in England, Scotland and Wales, has expanded into Continental Europe with the acquisition of the Ch”teau de Bagnols in Lyon (France). The property, which is currently managed by Rocco Forte, was bought from Lady Hamlyn, widow of publisher Lord Hamlyn, for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition marks the 23rd property for the company.
The 13th century ch”teau is set in the heart of the Beaujolais countryside in south-eastern France, 12 miles from the City of Lyon and its international airport. The hotel is to have 21 rooms and suites, all boasting antique furniture and original works of fine art.
”We have planned to expand into Continental Europe for sometime and are naturally delighted to be able to acquire one of the Continent”s most outstanding luxury hotels,” commented von Essen chairman Andrew Davis.