The Reefs has purchased an adjoining plot of prime South Shore land and is set to expand, The Royal Gazette has learned.

Reefs' owner David Dodwell said acquiring neighbouring Christian Bay, Southampton, had been a long-time dream, but he has not finalised plans about what to do.

He said last night he was considering a range of options from traditional rooms, a residents' club to allow for longer stays, leaseback units, and a small spa.

Mr. Dodwell bought the one acre site earlier this summer from the family of the late Conrad Engelhardt, who died last year and had been trying for years to build luxury tourist apartments on the land.

"It's been a dream of mine for more than 20 years to acquire this site,"Mr. Dodwell told The Royal Gazette.

"It is right next to The Reefs, it is a continuance of the property, it has the same views and terrain, and it is a beautiful location for an expansion of our property.

"I have no firm plans at all yet. I am going through the critical thinking of what to do with it, but clearly it is going to be something allied to the hotel that will provide a level of accommodation.

"I am looking at all the combinations in the marketplace right now, but I am looking to create something unique to Bermuda, that is innovative, benefits Bermuda, and clearly benefits The Reefs."

Mr. Dodwell, the shadow Tourism Minister, said he will need to look at upgrading and expanding the dining room and kitchens to accommodate expanding the property further west into the new site.

He would not disclose how much he paid the former owners, the Christian Bay Beach Club, but said it was a "fair price".

The Reefs was voted best hotel in Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Caribbean in this year's Travel and Leisure magazine, and 23rd best resort in the world.