Mantra has increased its property numbers in Tasmania with two new acquisitions in a bid to get a bigger share of the state’s growing tourism sector.
Over the last year, Tasmania has quickly become one of Australia’s favourite domestic destinations, receiving 914,000 Aussie visitors to the year ending September 2014. This was an increase of three percent from the 884,900 the previous year.
International arrivals also climbed year-on-year from 155,300 to 167,800.
However, for hoteliers the most important figure was the eight percent increase in total nights spent over the same period.
This increase has driven the Mantra Group to purchase the Hotel Collins in Hobart and the Hotel Charles in Launceston.
Both properties will be rebranded on 30 April this year, as Mantra Collins Hotel Hobart and Mantra Charles Hotel Launceston.
With the two new hotels, the number of Mantra Group properties in Tasmania will rise to six, joining Mantra One Sandy Bay Road in Hobart and the three regional Peppers properties – Peppers Seaport Launceston, Peppers York Cove and Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
Mantra Group CEO Bob East said the new hotels were a significant addition to the Mantra portfolio.
“Hobart and Launceston are strong markets and with forecasted domestic leisure visitation growth, future market conditions are favourable for each.”
Bob East, Mantra Group CEO
Hotel Collins was constructed in 2009 and boasts an enviable location in the heart of Hobart‘s waterfront district. Rising from the building’s original 1950’s facade, the modern hotel tower consists of 80 guest rooms and apartments, all stylishly furnished with a contemporary design, with views of Mt Wellington, Queens Domain or the waterfront.
A Boardroom is available for small meetings and a 50 seat restaurant is open seven days for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Hotel Charles opened in July 2010 as part of an iconic Launceston redevelopment.
While the interior has been completely rebuilt, the art deco facade of the building has been carefully retained.
The hotel has 99 contemporary rooms and an extensive range of facilities including a 60 seat restaurant, conference room for up to 60 delegates, guest lounge, and private dining room and boardroom.
Last month, APT said it was expecting 2015 to a be a ‘strong year’ for Tasmania.