NEWPORT, R.I. , April 13, 2011 -- Grace Hotels (www.gracehotels.com), the family-owned award-winning hotel group is delighted to announce the opening of Vanderbilt Grace in Newport, Rhode Island.

The property was acquired in late 2010 and is the first Grace hotel in the USA. The former Vanderbilt Hall now opens its doors as Vanderbilt Grace, an exquisite mansion hotel which in recent years has been restored to its former glory. Grace Hotels promises to deliver its signature style, elegance, attention to detail and consummate service.

A Newport landmark, the Vanderbilt Grace comprises 33 luxurious rooms and suites, two restaurants, a cocktail bar plus a spa and fitness centre with indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The building dates from 1909 and has a rich and glamorous history: it was one of many mansions in the area owned by the Vanderbilt family and today carefully combines original Beaux Arts features with the elegant simplicity that is a hallmark of Grace Hotels.

This summer will see the opening of the hotel's new gourmet restaurant Muse by Jonathan Cartwright , a fine dining experience created by celebrated New England chef, Jonathan Cartwright. Recently appointed as Grace Hotels' Group Chef de Cuisine, Jonathan Cartwright is developing exciting menus at Muse that promise a subtle combination of New England ingredients with a modern take on traditional European cuisine. Chef Cartwright is best known as Grand Chef Relais & Chateaux at Vanderbilt Grace's sister hotel, The White Barn Inn in Kennebunk, Maine.

Guests can expect local favorites, such as New England Clam Chowder alongside classic Cartwright creations including Pan Roast New England Pheasant Breast with Mushroom and Cranberry Puree, Braised Red Cabbage and Madeira Sauce. Locally sourced ingredients are central to the dining experience with lobster and other New England signatures taking centre stage.

Boasting a pretty colonial beach town location, Vanderbilt Grace is the perfect retreat for families and couples. Just minutes from the waterfront, Newport Rhode Island will satisfy those in search of culture and sporting pursuits such as tennis, golf and sailing. The Vanderbilt Grace is not only a stylish venue for conferences, parties and special celebrations, but for romantic weddings. The sophisticated feel and elegance of this hotel provides the perfect backdrop.

SOURCE Grace Hotels