Business Forum • 10 September, 2024 at 11:47 AM
The Romanian multi-business company Paval Holding, in partnership with the Lithuanian group Apex Alliance, proudly announces the signing of an agreement to acquire the Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort, a renowned luxury destination located in the Swiss Alps. With this acquisition, Paval Holding will mark its second high-profile international investment, following the acquisition of the historic Grand Hotel Gardone in Italy in 2023. Meanwhile, Apex Alliance will expand its portfolio to 17 hotels across Europe, including esteemed global brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and Radisson.
The future owners have announced plans for improvements to the Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort, with the goal of re-opening it as a luxurious 5-star property and welcoming its first guests in 2025. Scheduled to commence in 2024, this investment plan will enhance the resort's facilities and elevate the guest experience while preserving its rich heritage and timeless charm.
"We are pleased to announce the acquisition of the renowned Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort, a strategic addition to our portfolio of properties with deep heritage and distinctive character. We see tremendous potential in revitalizing this iconic resort to meet the increasingly sophisticated demands of modern travelers. Together with Apex Alliance, we are committed to transform Waldhaus Flims into a premier destination that harmonizes luxury, relaxation, and adventure amidst the stunning alpine landscape of Flims-Laax-Falera," said Karina Paval, Vice President of Paval Holding.
Apex Alliance Hotel Management, one of the Apex Alliance group's companies, has been announced as the official hotel operator. The company's portfolio will include 19 hotels by the end of 2024, with two new hotels scheduled to open in Venice, Italy, and Tallinn, Estonia.
"Acquiring the Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort is a significant milestone for Apex Alliance,“ said Vytautas Drumelis, Partner of Apex Alliance. „This landmark property will not only strengthen our presence in the European hospitality market but also set a new standard for luxury and excellence in the Swiss Alps. Our goal is to maintain the resort's historical essence while introducing modern amenities that provide an unparalleled guest experience year-round."
The Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort boasts six distinct buildings, including The Grand Hotel, The Villa, The Pavilion, and the renowned SPA & Wellness Center, along with extensive facilities such as tennis courts, event spaces and diverse dining options. The resort is planned to feature 143 rooms and suites, each designed to offer spectacular mountain views and ultimate comfort.
Established in 1877 as "Hotel Waldhaus," the hotel initially focused on summer business for 70 years. In 1947, after extensive renovations, it opened for its first full winter season. Rebranded in 2008 as "Waldhaus Flims Mountain Resort & Spa," the hotel is now known as Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort. Nestled in the picturesque Swiss Alps, it is a premier destination for both winter and summer tourism. The resort is renowned for its exquisite spa treatments, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, and cycling in the summer, and skiing in the extensive 200-mile surrounding ski area during the winter. The multiple restaurants and bars offer a diverse culinary experience with gourmet and locally inspired dishes.
Apex Alliance is a Lithuania-based international hospitality group excelling in hotel development and management. The group investment portfolio reaches €530 million. The recently acquired Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort expanded the group hotel portfolio to 17 hotels in Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. The group luxury hotel portfolio comprises 5 hotels. The group company Apex Alliance Hotel Management is an official franchisee representing world-class brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and Radisson.
Paval Holding is the investment vehicle for the Paval family, one of Romania's largest and most influential entrepreneurial entities. The company boasts a diverse multi-billion-euro portfolio across several sectors, including retail (with Romanian DIY market leader Dedeman), real estate, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and other key economic areas. Committed to long-term growth, Paval Holding continually seeks strategic opportunities both within Romania and on the international stage.