Flat Iron Hotel Recognized as One of the World’s Best New Hotels

Exterior view of the Flat Iron Hotel in Asheville, North Carolina.

News Summary

The Flat Iron Hotel in Asheville, North Carolina, has been awarded a spot on a prestigious travel magazine’s list of the best new hotels globally. Opened recently, this beautifully renovated property combines art deco charm with modern amenities, featuring a restaurant that highlights local flavors. The hotel reflects Asheville’s resilience, especially following the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, and emphasizes sustainability in its operations. Perfectly situated in downtown Asheville, it serves as a gateway to the area’s cultural and culinary delights.

Asheville’s Flat Iron Hotel Shines Bright on World Stage

Asheville, North Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as its very own Flat Iron Hotel has just been named one of the world’s best new hotels by a prestigious travel magazine. It’s not every day a local place gets such a noteworthy accolade, especially so soon after its grand opening! This newly minted gem has nestled itself on the global “It List”, a fabulous collection of 100 must-visit hotels, honoring those unique spots worthy of travelers’ attention this year.

From Old Charm to Modern Wonder

The Flat Iron Hotel truly is a feast for the eyes, adorned with art deco features that reflect its rich history. The hotel pays homage to its past with fascinating artifacts like the original brass letterbox and a stunning 1939 red Steinway piano displayed in the lobby. Once a towering figure in the Asheville skyline, the building originally opened its doors back in 1926, and after extensive renovations costing around $44 million, it now offers 71 beautiful rooms for guests to unwind in.

With room rates starting at $249 per night, this hotel is not only a piece of history but also an inviting destination for those looking to explore Asheville. The past comes alive within the hotel’s walls, which once housed a variety of businesses from a bustling salon to a quirky detective’s office, all celebrated through charming plaques that tell the stories of characters who once roamed its halls.

Savoring Local Flavors

Food lovers will also find plenty to celebrate at the Flat Iron. The hotel boasts an incredible ground-floor restaurant named Luminosa, which puts a delightful twist on local Appalachian foodways. By sourcing ingredients from nearby farmers, the team here showcases not just the goods of the season, but the essence of the community itself. Additionally, the hotel bar takes things a step further by creating cocktails infused with foraged ingredients and scraps from the kitchen, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

Resilience After Adversity

Recently, Asheville faced the challenges brought on by Hurricane Helene, which rocked the region in late September. However, the spirit of community has shone brightly through this adversity. After the storm, the Flat Iron Hotel quickly swung into action, arranging job placements and housing for employees affected by the hurricane, with around 80% of the staff finding new opportunities within the hotel management group’s other properties during recovery.

Despite the hard-hit hospitality industry suffering loss of revenue in Buncombe County estimated to reach up to 70%, the hotel and its team displayed strength and camaraderie as they resumed operations, reuniting with an unwavering dedication to serving guests and supporting the local area.

Going Green and Planning for the Future

The Flat Iron Hotel doesn’t just excel in hospitality, but also leans heavily toward eco-friendly practices. Initiatives, like using compostable water bottles and implementing in-house waste reduction strategies, reflect a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility. Looking ahead, enthusiasts can expect exciting expansions, including joining a loyalty program to reward their guests along with introducing local craft beers at check-in, enhancing that community connection even further.

A Perfect Location for Exploring Asheville

Situated right in the heart of downtown Asheville, the Flat Iron Hotel provides unmatched access to the city’s vibrant landmarks, charming restaurants, and incredible cultural sites. For anyone looking to experience the best that Asheville has to offer, staying at this award-winning hotel is sure to create lasting memories.

The Flat Iron Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a testament to resilience, community values, and a love for local culture. As more travelers learn about its commendable reputation, this exquisite hotel is all set to be an excellent choice for those adventuring to Asheville.