Kindred Hotels & Resorts debuted new group activities and specialized programs at its properties throughout North America. As a collection of hotels and resorts focused exclusively on the group and meetings market, experiences range from organic gardening to offering gluten-free dining.
The Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock, Vt., partnered with the renowned New England Falconry to add to its signature outdoor group offerings.
Located in the resort’s historic 10,000-square-foot Rutherford Barn, surrounded by a 50-acre meadow, the program allows meeting or group guests to get “up close and personal” with birds of prey.
Also at the resort, guests are invited to explore the art and techniques of gardening at its 2.5-acre Kelly Way Gardens, certified organic by the Vermont Organic Farmers Association.
Classes can be customized for groups and cover a variety of topics, such as floral arranging, organic gardening fundamentals and seasonal gardening techniques. Produce from the gardens provide culinary inspiration for the resort’s menus, and the group classes share a behind-the-scenes look at the partnership between the chef and gardener.
The Saybrook Point Inn & Spa, located in the coastal community of historic Old Saybrook, Conn., and just two hours from New York City and Boston, is offering group guests the opportunity to golf at the prestigious Old Lyme Country Club. With more than 8,500 square feet of meeting space, the hotel offers a variety of conference center facilities ideal for meetings, conventions and corporate retreats.
Beginning this winter season at the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail, Colo., meeting attendees will have the option to enjoy and offer a new menu consisting entirely of gluten-free dishes. Created by chef Florian Schwarz, the new menu will be featured at Ludwig’s restaurant, which is available for group buyouts and features artfully crafted and creative European cuisine. Every dish on the menu, from the sauces and house-made pastas to the breads and desserts, is gluten-free.
Also in Colorado, the Madeline Hotel and Residences, in Telluride, now features an on-site Dylan’s Candy Bar as part of an overall $15 million enhancement currently underway. Groups can replace a traditional coffee break with a Dylan’s Candy Bar Break, offering signature items that include thousands of curated candies from around the world, or use the ice cream counter as an unconventional, fun spot for corporate gatherings. The property is also adding a new Club Room offering 3,000 square feet of function space.