Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel Set to Open in Early 2025

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel Set to Open in Early 2025

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 6, 2024

Minor Hotels has announced the launch of Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel, set to open in early 2025. This new property will be part of Tivoli Hotels & Resorts’ expansion in Portugal, marking another milestone for the brand in its home country. Located on the south bank of the Douro River, in Gaia, the hotel will offer scenic views of Porto.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel will be located in an old Port Wine cellar, honoring the legacy of Kopke, the oldest Port Wine House in the world, founded in 1638. The hotel aims to blend Tivoli’s heritage with the wine tradition of Kopke, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the northern region of Portugal.

The hotel will feature 150 guest rooms, including 10 suites, and provide facilities for both business and leisure travelers. Amenities will include two restaurants, three bars, two swimming pools, a Tivoli Shape fitness center, six meeting rooms, and 9,000 square meters of garden space for gatherings and events. The Tivoli Spa will offer therapies inspired by the natural elements of the region, further enhancing the guest experience.

image

Dining options at the hotel will include a fine-dining restaurant led by a renowned chef, an all-day-dining restaurant, a wine bar, and a rooftop bar offering views of the Douro River and Porto city. The hotel’s location, within walking distance from Porto and other local attractions, makes it an ideal spot for travelers to explore Gaia’s vibrant riverfront, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Devesas train station is nearby, and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is just a 30-minute drive away.

The construction of the hotel has been planned to celebrate the history of Kopke. The Kopke Port Wine cellar, located next to the hotel, will be one of the highlights of the property, providing guests with an immersive experience in the world of port wine.

Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels, stated, "We are delighted to announce this exciting upcoming addition to the Tivoli portfolio in the Porto region with a truly special partnership with Kopke. With a beautiful and privileged location, this property will offer exceptional facilities to both business and leisure guests, connecting them with the world of port wine in a very exclusive way. We are honored to be working with the team at Kopke to bring this property to fruition."

Pedro Braga, CEO of Sogevinus, the parent company of Kopke, added, "We’re very proud to present our first hotel in partnership with the Tivoli brand. This collaboration reflects our ambitions for the property, and we believe that the partnership with Minor Hotels will be able to create a new world-class hotel that celebrates luxury and wine in a stunning location surrounded by unique world heritage, and paying homage to centuries of history."

Tivoli Hotels & Resorts, founded in Lisbon in 1933, has built its reputation on its cultural heritage and connection to each location. From Portugal, the brand expanded to Brazil, Qatar, and China, and recently opened properties in Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. The new Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia will be the ninth Tivoli property in Portugal, reinforcing the brand’s legacy in its home country.


WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

WGH Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., the hospitality wing of the diversified World Group, recently hosted Hon. Minister for Industries, Government of Kerala, P. Rajeev at the site of its upcoming flagship project in Kochi. The high-profile visit underlines the significance of this luxury development, which was also featured at the Kerala Global Investment Meet, reinforcing the state's push for sustainable and experiential tourism.

With a legacy that began in 2012 through the acquisition of World Backwaters Alleppey, WGH now boasts a strong presence in Kerala with operating properties in Alleppey, Munnar, and Thekkady. The group is now expanding ambitiously with new developments in Kochi, Varkala, Trivandrum, and Ashtamudi, including a signature wellness resort—all designed to meet international standards while staying true to Kerala’s heritage.

During the ministerial visit, WGH presented the master plan and design vision for its Kochi project, set for launch on January 1, 2028. The development aims to redefine luxury tourism in Kerala by fusing modern architecture with authentic, culturally immersive experiences.

image

Mr. J. Jayakrishnan, Director of World Group and WGH Hotels & Resorts, thanked the government for its proactive support, stating:

“Kerala’s infrastructure development and progressive tourism policies are perfectly aligned with our vision. Our projects aim to promote responsible and sustainable tourism while gifting guests an immersive experience of Kerala’s unique lifestyle and traditions.”

image

The World Group, with nearly four decades of business leadership across mining, logistics, agriculture, DRI, and consulting, has already invested INR 250 crores in Kerala's hospitality sector over the past two years. An additional INR 500 crores has been earmarked for future ventures—including the flagship resorts, a hospitality college in Kochi, and a chain of vegetarian restaurants throughout the state.

The proposed hospitality college is envisioned to train 200 professionals annually, building a strong local talent pool to meet global industry standards. Meanwhile, the Varkala and Ashtamudi resorts are scheduled to open by 2027, further anchoring WGH’s role in shaping Kerala’s tourism future.

WGH Hotels & Resorts remains deeply committed to supporting Kerala's growth as a world-class tourism hub, guided by principles of sustainability, cultural authenticity, and community development.


Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, where lavish experiences often steal the spotlight, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa stands out by leading with a deeper mission — purpose. For Clarks, hospitality is not just about the scenic views and impeccable service; it’s about building a culture rooted in values, unity, and community responsibility.

At the core of Clarks' success is a people-first philosophy — a belief that genuine service begins with a strong, supported team. Under the leadership of Nilisha Ghuliani, Vice President, the resort has cultivated a workplace that feels less like a job and more like a purpose-driven family.

Honouring National Pride: #OperationSindoor

One of Clarks’ standout initiatives this year was #OperationSindoor, a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Employees dressed in red and pink — symbols of strength, unity, and gratitude — and came together to honour those who serve the nation.

This was more than just a ceremony. It was a collective expression of patriotism, creating a sense of purpose and solidarity among team members. “At Clarks, patriotism is not a moment — it’s a mindset,” shares Nilisha Ghuliani.

image

Nurturing the Earth: Earth Day Tree Planting

Sustainability isn’t just a policy at Clarks — it’s a practice. On Earth Day, employees participated in a tree-planting initiative at the Clubhouse Lawn, reflecting the resort’s long-standing commitment to the environment.

From water conservation to green operations, Clarks has consistently invested in planet-positive action, ensuring that everyday efforts contribute to long-term impact.

Empowering People: Culture of Care

Employee wellbeing and growth are central to the Clarks ethos. Through training programs, internal recognition, and continuous engagement, the resort empowers its team to lead, grow, and evolve. Whether it's supporting career advancement or celebrating small wins, Clarks ensures that its people feel seen, heard, and valued.

"Every initiative — whether for the nation, the environment, or our people — is designed to deepen connection and build meaning," Nilisha explains.

Clarks Exotica is proving that a great workplace isn't just built with policies — it's built with heart. Here, service excellence begins within, and each action is a step toward a more unified, compassionate, and conscious world.


Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

Elevate your monsoon experience at The Machan Lonavala with The Cocoon, a stunning 2,500+ sq. ft. villa nestled high among the treetops. Crafted as a dome-shaped sanctuary, this is the brand's most luxurious and architecturally distinct offering — designed for those who seek the perfect blend of indulgence and nature.

Timed perfectly for the rains, The Cocoon immerses guests in forest serenity with panoramic views from a soaring foot ceiling and a sprawling private deck. Whether you’re enjoying the misty monsoon air or stargazing at night, the elevated setting delivers tranquility at every turn.

The villa offers four unique sleeping zones: a cozy loft, a main-level space, and two suspended bedrooms on the lower floor. From elegant copper bathtubs to an open-to-sky His & Hers shower, and a modern multi-tiered bath, the bathing options alone are an experience in themselves.

image

Step onto the private deck to discover a heated plunge pool, sunken seating, and an alfresco dining spot — all overlooking the lush, green canopy of Lonavala.

Sustainability lies at the heart of The Cocoon. Powered entirely by solar energy and constructed using eco-sensitive materials, this retreat reflects The Machan’s commitment to luxurious yet conscious living.

Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or friends' reunions, The Cocoon is more than just a villa — it’s a retreat where skies meet serenity.

Bookings are now open on www.themachan.com.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.