TORONTO, June 11, 2012-- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has signed a long term management agreement with the owners of Encantado, an acclaimed resort in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to operate it as a Four Seasons resort. Following a short transition period, the property will be renamed Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe in the coming weeks.

"This is an exceptional property, one that we are very proud to add to our growing portfolio," says Craig Reid, president, hotel operations for the Americas at Four Seasons. "With its outstanding location in the unspoiled wilderness of the Sangre de Cristo foothills, its highly regarded restaurant and a spa inspired by the unique healing traditions of the area, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce Four Seasons guests to a new destination, and to offer the resort's many long-time fans in the community a Four Seasons-style experience in Santa Fe."

Effective immediately, Cindy Racco is appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe. The 14-year Four Seasons veteran joins the team from the historic Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara in California, where she was Resort Manager.

"Santa Fe has so much to offer to those who appreciate art, natural beauty and the great outdoors, and I can't wait to be part of it all," says Racco, who grew up in San Antonio, Texas. "Rancho Encantado is a magical place, and in many ways, I feel like I'm already home."

Located just outside the city on 57 acres (23 hectares), Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe is an intimate 65-casita property that includes the popular Terra restaurant; a serene spa sanctuary offering both modern therapies and indigenous treatments as well as a fitness program and pool; and meeting spaces that are ideal for corporate retreats and weddings.

The resort is minutes from the area's flourishing arts community, including 200 art galleries and a dozen museums. Santa Fe is the country's second largest art market, annually attracting thousands of art connoisseurs to its world famous markets including the Santa Fe Indian Market, the Spanish Market and the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market. Performing arts thrive in the city, highlighted by the summer season at the prestigious Santa Fe Opera, and the area is also home to countless artists, performers and writers. In addition, the mountains and desert surrounding the resort offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.

About Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Four Seasons is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. From elegant surroundings of the finest quality, to caring, highly personalised 24-hour service, Four Seasons embodies a true home away from home for those who know and appreciate the best. The deeply instilled Four Seasons culture is personified in its employees - people who share a single focus and are inspired to offer great service. Founded in 1960, Four Seasons has followed a targeted course of expansion, opening hotels and residences in major city centres and desirable resort destinations around the world. With 86 properties in 35 countries, and more than 50 projects under development, Four Seasons continues to lead the hospitality industry with innovative enhancements, making business travel easier and leisure travel more rewarding. For more information on Four Seasons, visit http://press.fourseasons.com.