Belize City is better known as a business center and a stop en route to Belize’s lush rural destinations, but Fort George Hotel & Spa promises to change things up and reframe the nation’s capital as a destination in its own right. Located in the city’s Fort George neighborhood, the hotel debuted as the first luxury hotel in Belize City, boasting sophisticated design, elevated culinary offerings, expansive guestrooms and an inspiring wellness program. The hotel also features a branded fitness center, plunge pool and K’IN Spa.

© Fort George Hotel & Spa

The location, a 30-minute drive from the airport (BZE), is perfectly located for exploring Belize City and downtown attractions such as the waterfront and a local artisan market. There is also easy access to activities such as walking tours of Mayan ruins like Altun Ha; or a diving tour of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Western Hemisphere.

While Fort George Hotel & Spa today has décor, appointments and amenities that establish it as a wholly modern accommodation, the building dates back to 1953. The reinvention and opening marks the first step in the redevelopment of this historic hotel and, by extension, the neighborhood, with more enhancements to be unveiled later in 2024. When the refurbishment is completed, the hotel will include an additional 110 rooms. The 34 Courtyard Deluxe rooms and suites currently available are rendered in a contemporary design concept integrating natural woods and a light color palette throughout. Furnishings and in-room amenities are designed for comfort and convenience. The top-tier penthouse suites feature full kitchens and living rooms with views of the Caribbean Sea.

© Fort George Hotel & Spa

The Treehouse, the property’s full-service restaurant, bar and lounge, offers food and drink menus that merge bold international flavors and local tastes crafted with fresh, organic ingredients. A creative tapas menu features healthy options such as fresh-caught seafood and all-natural juices and smoothies named after local hot spots like Blue Hole and Caye Caulker. Three distinctive private dining spaces are available, including an intimate, glass-enclosed private dining room for 12 guests; main dining room with seating for 20; and an indoor lounge where towering trees create an ambiance reminiscent of a whimsical treehouse for 30 guests. The Treehouse serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

© Fort George Hotel & Spa

K’IN Spa has its own menu of head-to-toe spa experiences including facials, body polishes, wraps, massages and nail services, as well as a health-focused snack and drink menu tailored to meet wellness needs. Signature treatments inspired by the surrounding local terrain include the Seaside Symphony Facial and the Revitalizing Sea and Sun Recovery Body Wrap. Indulgent two- to three-hour experiences, such as the Fort George Serenity that includes the Serene Flow Massage, Seaside Symphony Facial and Exfoliating Coco-Coastal Wrap, provide an unforgettable spa experience combining the most popular experiences, services and treatments.