For Immediate Release
May 1, 2007

LODGE AT OLD EDWARDS INN
RECEIVES AAA FOUR-DIAMOND AWARD

Highlands, NC--The Old Edwards Hospitality Group in Highlands, North Carolina is pleased to announce that The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn has received the Four-Diamond Award from AAA for 2008. According to the prestigious Association, The Lodge is one of an exclusive group of establishments that has successfully passed a thorough evaluation and is worthy of the coveted mark. The property is one of only two properties in Highlands, NC that has been awarded 4-diamonds (Old Edwards Inn and Spa is the sister property to The Lodge).

AAA Diamond Ratings represent a combination of overall quality, range of facilities, and the level of services offered by a property. These widely recognized and trusted symbols help travelers choose lodgings that will meet their needs and expectations.

“This is an incredible honor and achievement for the Old Edwards Hospitality Group,” said CEO Mario Gomes. “This accreditation and affiliation reaffirms all of the hard work we have put into making the Old Edwards experience one to treasure.”

The overall rating by AAA is determined by averaging the individual ratings for six key areas including management and staff; housekeeping and maintenance; exterior, grounds and public areas; room decor, ambiance and amenities; bath rooms and guest services.

The Association says, “A Four-Diamond establishment is upscale in all areas. Accommodations are progressively more refined and stylish. The physical attributes reflect an obvious enhanced level of quality throughout. The fundamental hallmarks at this level include an extensive array of amenities combined with a high degree of hospitality, service, and attention to detail.”

Gomes went on to say, “A high level of guest services is indicative of the Four Diamond Rating, and that is what we offer here at The Lodge. We are delighted to be recognized for that effort.”

AAA Publishing will include content about The Lodge in all of its publications and on its Web site

After nearly one year and a substantial renovation, The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn debuted its new look and upgraded, more luxurious accommodations in August 2005. After extensive renovations to the main lodge and grounds along with other enhancements, the property was completed in March 2007. For more than 115 years, guests have been visiting this discriminating destination, formerly Kelsey and Hutchinson Lodge. The Lodge boasts 29 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites. The Lodge is a sister property to Old Edwards Inn and Spa which opened in July 2004.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located at 445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741, 828-526-8008 or 1-866-526-8008. The Old Edwards Hospitality Group, LLC, founded in 2003, includes the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, The Farm special events facility, Acorns retail shop; The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn, Rib Shack, The Laundry and Dry Cleaners at Old Edwards Inn and Miss Priss-Charlotte at Stonecrest.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a AAA-Four Diamond award winner; a member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America and a member of Boutique-the newest brand within Preferred Hotel Group. The property is a Recommended Hotel in Condé Nast Johansens Recommended Hotels, Inns and Resorts Guide for 2005, 2006 and 2007 and was nominated for Most Excellent Inn 2006 and 2007. Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden received Wine Spectator magazine’s Award of Excellence in 2005 and 2006.

For more information, contact:
Elizabeth McDonald
McDonald Media
404-822-3788 or lizzie@mcdonald-media.com