Spicer Mansion, New Ultra Luxury Hotel in Historic Mystic, Connecticut

Ocean House Management, LLC, owner and operator of the famed Ocean House, the only Forbes Triple Five Star rated hotel on the Eastern Seaboard, announced today that it has been appointed by Gates Realty Holdings to oversee the final renovations, opening and on-going operations of the new Spicer Mansion in Mystic, Connecticut.

A landmark since 1853, the freshly restored Spicer Mansion will make its debut on May 4, 2016, welcoming guests seeking refined dining, exceptional levels of personalized service, and a destination rich in culture. The hotel's grand Victorian-era décor and first-class food and beverage program is the answer to family-friendly Mystic's call for adult-oriented, luxury accommodations. Spicer Mansion resembles a timeless, yet elevated version of what seasoned guests have come to expect, value, and treasure about the Ocean House, located just 25 minutes away in Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

“Mystic is a remarkable community, with Spicer Mansion bringing a unique set of qualities and characteristics to the Ocean House Management collection,” said Daniel A. Hostettler, President and Group Managing Director of Ocean House Management, LLC. “Our intention with Spicer Mansion is to cater to a well-heeled traveler in a destination that, up until now, has been dominated by the family market. Our reputation for service is at the forefront of this property's DNA.”

With panoramic views overlooking manicured gardens and the historic Main Street of downtown Mystic, Spicer Mansion's prime location provides business and leisure guests with easy access to all of Mystic and Stonington, including the Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium and local shops and boutiques.

The interior design for the intimate eight-room hotel was conceptualized by the Ocean House Design Group, in collaboration with the Gates family. Spicer Mansion's guestrooms pay tribute to luxurious, Victorian-era architecture while providing every modern convenience. Master craftsmanship is evident at every turn of the gracious interiors, from the intricate parquet floors to the grand moldings, and each spacious room is richly appointed to reflect the feel of a sprawling estate. Timeless pewter, blue and gray tones are carried throughout the hotel and into the individually designed guestrooms, which have been crafted to resemble elegant private residences.

Open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday to hotel and invited guests only, Spicer Mansion's restaurant will offer diners an unparalleled culinary experience. Helmed by Chef Jennifer Backman, The Restaurant will offer a seasonal six-course tasting menu that changes daily and features artisanal meats, the finest fresh seafood and memorable tableside preparations. Ingredients will be sourced locally and the contemporary American cuisine will feature stunning flavors and presentations. Bringing a resurgence to the traditional fine dining experience of yesteryear, guests will enjoy handcrafted cocktails and canapés in a grand salon while reviewing the menu, before being escorted into one of three dining rooms for their gourmet meal. From plate to glass, ambiance to service, The Restaurant experience will appeal to all the senses. Tables will be set with Italian hemstitch linens and Baccarat Crystal.

Located behind a bookcase and down a set of stairs, the hotel's bar, playfully named Room No. 9 Speakeasy as a nod to the hotel's eight guest rooms, is reserved for hotel and invited guests only. Featuring a premium cigar lounge, rare rye whiskeys, carefully composed cocktails and a specialty menu of creative bar fare, Room No. 9 is designed as an inviting, yet exclusive, gathering place. Rich mahogany, leather and velvet furnishings, original 150-year-old handmade brick floors, copper ceilings, and the soft melodies of the vintage upright piano will illuminate the subterranean space and create an intimate stop for an aperitif or nightcap.

In keeping with the Ocean House Management model, the hotel's philosophy will be focused on providing a high level of comfort in guestrooms, with ample living and workspace, plush furniture, modern amenities, Matouk linens, high-speed technology and guest services. Guests will be cared for by an attentive mansion concierge, and will receive complimentary soft refreshments, laundry and pressing service of up to five pieces per stay. High-speed Wi-Fi and destination-based programming ensure that guests are fully connected, but also immersed in Mystic's rich cultural offerings. Special curated services include private after-hours tours of the Mystic Seaport and helicopter tours.

Guests of Spicer Mansion will also have access to all of the amenities afforded to Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn guests, including unrestricted access to resort dining, private beaches, fitness and spa facilities. They can enjoy recreational amenities such as boat charters, nature tours, fishing charters, bike and kayak rentals and sailboat instruction, in addition to food and beverage and art programming.

“After seeing the success of their other three properties, and the demonstrated dedication to uphold the history and sense of place of each one, Ocean House Management was the clear choice when deciding to employ a hotel management company,” said owner Brian Gates.

For more information, visit www.spicermansion.com. Rates start at $400 per night and reservations will be accepted starting February 15, 2016. Visit the hotel on Facebook and Instagram for progress updates and historical facts on the property.