DoubleTree by Hilton opens 2nd hotel in Spain

Hilton Worldwide confirmed the signing of a franchise agreement with Layetana to open its second DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Spain.

The deal will see the conversion of the existing La Mola Hotel & Conference Center to the upscale DoubleTree by Hilton brand, with the renovated property set to open at the beginning of 2013. The news follows the announcement earlier this month of the brand’s launch into the Spanish market with the signing of its first hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Emporda.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “The DoubleTree by Hilton brand has experienced unprecedented growth in Europe with more than 55 hotels operating or in development across the region and we’re delighted to be announcing our second DoubleTree in quick succession. This hotel already has an excellent reputation in Spain and internationally, and when you combine that with the benefits of Hilton Worldwide's global systems and our Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program, it is a winning formula.”

The 186-guestroom DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center La Mola will feature the brand’s signature welcome with the legendary warm chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in; an array of upscale amenities and guest services, and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

Designed with low environmental impact, sophisticated energy-use and recycling systems and natural-lighting throughout, the hotel’s 4,500sqm of meeting space also features state-of-the-art equipment. This superb conference and events facility holds 26 meeting rooms with a combined capacity for over 250 people, two ballrooms, two 54 seat auditoriums and a specialist video conferencing room. The property also features an adjoining 17th century Manor House which provides a charming venue for weddings, celebrations and corporate events.

Rob Palleschi, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, said, “DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center La Mola is an exciting conversion that will exemplify the brand. With a picturesque location just north of Barcelona, a stunning spa offering, superb conference facilities and an excellent restaurant, the property will be a welcome addition to our portfolio Spain – which is one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations.”

Set at the foot of the Prelitoral Mountain range and inside the grounds of Sant Llorenc del Munt nature reserve, the hotel’s charming surrounds and the adjacent 45-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course also make it an ideal countryside retreat. Despite its idyllic location, the hotel is readily accessible and lies just five kilometers from Terrassa city center and 28km away from the Catalan capital of Barcelona.

The hotel also features a spa with five treatment rooms, a fitness room with cardiovascular equipment, an indoor swimming pool and a large outdoor swimming pool with an extensive landscaped area to enjoy during the warmer months. A fine-cuisine all-day restaurant is also included on-site.

Santiago Mercadé, CEO, Layetana, said, “We are delighted to be working with Hilton Worldwide to further develop the extraordinary possibilities of this hotel under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. The conversion will allow us to become part of a rapidly expanding global brand with a unique sense of style that fits perfectly with the offering we want to develop for both business and leisure guests at La Mola.”

Hilton Worldwide currently operates five hotels in Spain, in Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo and Palma in Mallorca. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center La Mola will become the brand’s second hotel in Spain with its debut signing at Emporda set to open by the end of the year.