Nestled on 33 acres on the west shore of the quaint coastal town of Safety Harbor, Florida, overlooking the peaceful waters of Tampa Bay, this iconic estate-like resort is home to Florida's only Natural Mineral Spring Spa.
LAS VEGAS – Ascend Hotel Collection from Choice Hotels International, Inc. announced the addition of the stately and historic Safety Harbor Resort and Spa to its rapidly expanding and impressive list of distinctive upscale hotels.
Ascend Hotel Collection is an international portfolio of independent hotels that uniquely reflect the character of its host city. For guests, Ascend hotels deliver a richly local experience. For hoteliers, the great appeal of Ascend is that the Collection allows operators to maintain their individuality while giving them access to the firepower of Choice Hotels International’s robust distribution system, industry leading Choice Privileges loyalty rewards program and support from a vast network of other member hotels around the globe.
As a National Historical Landmark and Florida Heritage Landmark, Safety Harbor Resort and Spa offers guests a unique experience that embodies the essence of Ascend Hotel Collection’s tagline – let the destination reach you.
“Safety Harbor is truly a remarkable addition to the Ascend Hotel Collection. This upscale, historic property offers guests an authentic experience delivered by a staff committed to the highest standards of service,” said Michael Murphy, senior vice president of upscale brands at Choice Hotels International. “We are proud to call this property a member of the Ascend Hotel Collection.”
A Rich History
Nestled on 33 acres on the west shore of the quaint coastal town of Safety Harbor, Florida, overlooking the peaceful waters of Tampa Bay, this iconic estate-like resort is home to Florida’s only Natural Mineral Spring Spa. The spring was once heralded the legendary “Fountain of Youth,” which earned it a reputation as Florida’s first spa and a place “where healing waters flow.”
The mineral spring has inspired folklore and wonder for centuries. Believing the springs held mystical powers to maintain youth and heal the sick, Indians inhabited what is now the Safety Harbor area almost 12,000 years ago. In 1539, Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto reached the shores and believed that he had found the celebrated “Fountain of Youth.” The natural spring water was eventually bottled and shipped to eager consumers worldwide who believed it was a remedy for physical ailments with restorative properties. In 1926, the Safety Harbor Sanatorium opened and, nearly two decades later, the springs and sanatorium were sold and converted to a health spa that still stands today.
“We are extremely proud of our history and nearly 90 years of exemplary hospitality and wellness that Safety Harbor Resort and Spa has provided to discerning travelers from across the globe,” stated General Manager Ajith Dissanayake. “We offer a one-of-a-kind destination steeped in history, health and hospitality and look forward to a long lasting relationship as part of the Ascend Collection.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
