Somerset County, New Jersey, is now home to a new 12,000sq ft nature-inspired spa, following the debut of Pendry Hotels & Resorts’ latest venture, Pendry Natirar, set on a historic countryside estate.

The 66-key resort, which has been in development for more than five years, is anchored by a restored 1912 Tudor-style brick mansion once owned by the King of Morocco. The sprawling 500-acre estate was purchased by Somerset County from the Moroccan monarchy for US$22 million in 2003, with 90 acres later leased to local developer Robert Wojtowicz.

Working in collaboration with Pendry, Wojtowicz has sought to transform the property into a world-class destination.

A retreat in nature

At the heart of Pendry Natirar is Spa Pendry, a two-floor wellness facility designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, from dense forests to meandering rivers.

The light-filled space has been designed to keep guests connected to nature throughout and features 12 treatment rooms, some of which include private terraces overlooking the countryside.

Guests have access to separate-sex locker rooms each equipped with rainfall showers, eucalyptus steamrooms, cedarwood saunas, and Pendry’s signature bathing amenities, complemented by healthy bites and refreshments.

Meanwhile, the co-ed offering consists of a heated indoor tranquillity pool surrounded by loungers, a 24/7 Technogym-equipped fitness centre and a Himalayan salt room. Signature mud rasuls are also available to be booked for self-guided experiences for an additional price.

Spa Pendry’s treatment offering reflects the estate’s natural environment, with a selection of rituals that aim to enhance relaxation and wellbeing.

Beyond wellnessPendry Natirar's leisure amenities also include a private members’ club, four farm-to-table dining outlets, event spaces, a cooking school and a 10-acre working farm. In addition, 24 branded residences will soon be added to further elevate the resort experience.

Pendry has also curated an array of activities for guests, including kids' programming, bee tours and honey tastings at the on-site apiary, guided e-bike tours, archery, hiking, fly-fishing and horseback trail rides.

“Pendry Natirar’s rich heritage combined with the natural beauty of Somerset County make this an incredibly exciting opening,” said Alan J. Fuerstman, founder, chair and CEO of Montage International – parent company of Pendry.

“Having grown up in New Jersey, I’ve always held a deep appreciation for the state’s unique blend of history, natural beauty and the charming countryside. I’m delighted to introduce Pendry’s unique brand of hospitality to this remarkable destination.”

Previously earmarked to be transformed into a Miraval destination, the property marks Pendry’s ninth hotel worldwide.

Design inspiration

Designed by CosciaMoos Architecture with interiors by DesignAgency, Pendry Natirar draws inspiration from its picturesque countryside setting and the traditions and styles of old-world England’s grand country manor homes, reinterpreted with a modern sensibility.

DesignAgency captured the Tudor mansion’s historic charm by first preserving and restoring its original limestone foyer, stone fireplaces, ornate plaster ceilings, warm wood panelling and oak flooring.

New layers of richly textured materials, contemporary furniture, art, lighting and elegant finishes create a distinctive design intended to respect the building’s heritage while signalling a new era of contemporary luxury.

Former mansion of the King of Morocco to become expansive wellness resort