Ground was broken as Government officials heralded the "first new tourism accommodations in 27 years'' yesterday.

Daniel's Head Village in Sandys Parish, will feature 96 tented cottages, 17 of which will be built on stilts over the water -- with the furthest being 150 feet from land. In addition, several will feature glass viewing platforms over the water.

Premier Jennifer Smith turned the first sod of earth at the former Canadian Naval forces base, which will be transformed by next summer into an $11 million eco-resort.

She said it was important with the new Millennium that Bermuda was about to have a new type of tourism accommodation.

"While it is new it doesn't mean it is not up to the quality and standard that Bermuda has always been known for,'' she said.

Scattered around the property, the cottages will have canvas-style walls and Bermuda roofs while some will be solar powered.

Carrying on the "green theme'', the only motorised vehicles allowed will be to deliver, and guest service transport will be solar powered.

Watersports will be non-motorised and a Bermudian arts and craft centre will be established -- giving local artisans the opportunity to practise their crafts.

Destination Villages vice-president Mike Nelson highlighted the company's intention to include as much of the Bermudian identity into the project, which will be managed by former Reefs employee Richard Quinn.

Mr. Quinn said: "It will utilise the beauty of the Island, its natural resources, its people and its heritage as part of the guest experience.'' Bermuda Land Development Company Limited operated the site and chief executive Carl Musson said the resort would help establish Bermuda as an eco-tourism destination.

"The BLDC worked hard to get Destination Villages to come to Bermuda, because we believe their philosophy will protect and improve the environment, while providing opportunities for the people of Bermuda, particularly in Somerset,'' he said.

Tourism Minister David Allen said the resort reflected the new cultural and heritage tourism experiences offered on the Island, where guests would take educational tours and get close to the Bermudian identity.

"They will be more discerning visitors, looking for a richer holiday experience, to broaden their horizons whilst having a wonderful time here,'' he said.