GM in the spotlight

The art of living well

We ask Enrique Valero, general namager of Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, how the destination’s layered approach to wellness hospitality enables next-level service

How would you say Abadia Retuerta is different from other wellbeing destinations?

We are, of course, in the business of wine, hospitality and wellness, but we are trying to do things in a different way to attract the best talent. In turn, that talent will attract the right guests. This approach is sustainable and builds on the whole experience people leave with.

In business today there is much short-term thinking for a fast return. In hospitality and tourism, I like to think of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs – we need to take a layered approach. Once you have the basics, you have achieved confidence and safety because you have your financials solved. The next level is to think higher – speaking to the values and purpose of what we do.

Tell us more about these layers of value and why they are important to wellness hospitality

Sustainability is very important in hospitality and every business. It serves as the base layer to everything. Our three watchwords are environment, social and governance. How we work, how we treat our employees and how we serve the community is fundamental.

The second layer is art. Our art collection is a witness to the different periods of the story of Spain. The third layer is wellbeing and this is becoming increasingly important. It is how our unique property and all its surrounding nature meld together, to help our guests and team to feel better.

Enrique Valero General manager, Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine

How important is the spa to the future of this property? When we began the restoration and design of this place 15 years ago, it was key for me that we had a spa. People really want a retreat – to stop for three or four days – and we can offer that. It’s not just about gastronomy and wine – wellness and wellbeing are the reason why people will come. They don’t see a hotel here; they see a destination. Secondly, the spa’s capture rate started at around 15%. Last year we achieved 30% and it will rise. People want to enjoy themselves and the disconnection we provide. It’s not just spa treatments – they are actively asking for wellbeing experiences.

How are you looking to invest for the future?

We want to open up new wellbeing activities to groups, that’s why we are restoring some gardens and planting more than 90 acres of forest. We are also looking to develop more three-day dedicated wellness programmes, We will offer the opportunity to disconnect, exercise, meditate and enjoy extraordinary food and wines. We are also looking at producing our own well-living products.