The Mandarin Oriental hotel group is set to make its mark on Budapest's hotel landscape with the announcement of the opening of the Mandarin Oriental Gellert, Budapest, scheduled for 2027. It will breathe new life into the Hotel Gellért, an Art Nouveau architectural gem, following a complete renovation and rebranding.
Inaugurated in 1918, the Hotel Gellért is located on the Buda side of Budapest, near the Liberty Bridge. Acquired by the BDPST Group, this property will undergo a transformation under the management of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, known for restoring properties including the Mandarin Oriental Ritz in Madrid, the Mandarin Oriental Savoy in Zurich and the Mandarin Oriental Palace in Lucerne.
Laurent Kleitman, Managing Director of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, emphasises the commitment to preserving local craftsmanship and Hungarian cultural heritage while integrating the modern luxury, comfort and sustainability standards for which the brand is renowned.
István Tiborcz, owner and president of the BDPST Group, emphasises the company's responsibility to preserve the history of the building and its importance to Budapest. The collaboration with Mandarin Oriental, known for its expertise and respect for cultural roots, aims to restore the former glory of the Hotel Gellért for future generations.
Mandarin Oriental Gellert, Budapest will focus on wellness, drawing inspiration from Budapest's renowned spa culture, which dates back to Roman times. The hotel will feature a spa destination with seven experiential spaces, blending Asian therapies with Eastern European beauty and spa treatments.
London-based interior design studio Alexander Waterworth will oversee the transformation of rooms, suites, wellness areas and public spaces. The hotel will feature an indoor swimming pool with a retractable glass ceiling, a fitness and movement studio, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the Danube.