/UCWE/ - The Old Edwards Hospitality Group is pleased to announce that the Old Edwards Inn and Spa was recently invited to become a member of Boutique-A Preferred Hotel Group Partner.

Based on meeting key criteria and rigorous quality assurance guidelines, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa was selected to join this exclusive portfolio of more than 50 member hotels from around the world. Boutique-Preferred celebrates the distinctive travel experience by emphasizing exceptional style, service and personality on an intimate scale. Member properties are some of the world’s premier independent hotels and resorts typically no larger than 150 rooms.

“We are honored to be associated with Boutique-Preferred,” said General Manager and CEO, Mario Gomes. “The Boutique division of Preferred Hotel Group celebrates the distinctiveness of its members while uniting us through quality standards and personal service. This is another accomplishment for our talented staff and the vision we all embrace for Old Edwards Inn and Spa.” The Old Edwards Inn and Spa re-opened in July 2004 as a luxury destination spa resort after more than $50M and three years of renovation, restoration, and expansion.

Accommodations at the Old Edwards Inn and The Lodge consist of 59 individually designed guestrooms, suites and cottages, which have period antiques, Frette linens and the finest contemporary amenities. The 10,000 square foot Spa features an exclusive collection of the world’s finest products and an extensive menu of signature body, skin care and relaxation therapies in a luxurious European setting. Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, the resort’s fine dining restaurant, offers seasonally inspired Carolina High Country cuisine and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

More information about Boutique-A Preferred Hotel Group Partner may be found online at www.preferredhotelgroup.com.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located at 445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741, 828-526-8008 or 1-866-526-8008. The Old Edwards Hospitality Group, LLC, founded in 2003, includes the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, The Farm special events facility, Acorns retail shop, Miss Priss-Highlands, Miss Priss-Charlotte at Birkdale & Stonecrest; The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn, Old Creek Lodge, Rib Shack and The Laundry and Dry Cleaners at Old Edwards Inn.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a AAA-Four Diamond award winner; a member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America and a member of Boutique-the newest brand within Preferred Hotel Group. The property is a Recommended Hotel in Condé Nast Johansens 2005 and 2006 Recommended Hotels, Inns and Resorts Guide. Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden is a 2005 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner.

For more information, or photos to accompany publication, contact:   
Elizabeth McDonald
McDonald Media
404-822-3788