Bermuda's newest and most exclusive spa and resort, The Lantana Spa & Resort in Sandys Parish, hopes to open its doors by late autumn 2007, according to developer Laird Bunch.

He said the licence Lantana Resort recently applied for is for subdivisions for use of the property which requires government and board approval.

The Lantana development team consists of American principals Don Burkett, David Wilk and Laird Bunch who acquired the property in June 2004.

Mr. Bunch said the redeveloped 9.6 acre Lantana Resort would offer residents and guests exclusive luxury accommodation to include: six private residences, six yacht club and six beachfront villas (six month leasebacks), 11 residence club villas, four executive suites and 40 hotel spa suites. The world class amenities will feature a 25,000 sq. ft spa and conference centre, a 25 slip marina with gourmet restaurant and yacht club, a tennis club and enlarged beach.

Phase One construction started in February this year with the redevelopment of six private residences and 14 hotel spa suites.

"The private residences have been pre-sold, and marketing has started on the yacht club and beachfront leaseback villas at the new sales office located at the Lantana property," said Mr. Bunch.

He added the long range goal was to make Lantana a brand name, and to develop a portfolio of spa resorts at special one-of-a- kind properties such as Lantana in Bermuda, at island, desert and mountain venues world-wide.