Atlantic Equity Partners has selected Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH) to operate its newest asset, The Wentworth: A Country Inn in Jackson, N.H.
Previously owned by Fritz and Eleanor “Ellie” Koeppel for 30 years, the 59,000-square-foot nineteenth-century inn sits on 10 acres and features 61 guestrooms, an upscale farm-to-table restaurant, a piano bar/cocktail lounge, a spa, meeting rooms, wedding/event space, on-site condominium rentals and more. Family-owned and operated for 44 years, Meyer Jabara Hotels will carry on the traditions of The Wentworth for future generations to enjoy. The inn is one of the last remaining historic hotels in New England. MJH will continue to operate The Wentworth as it presently stands, with a renovation refresh planned for 2022.
“We are delighted to be managing yet another property for Atlantic Equity Partners, this time with a historic hotel at the base of New Hampshire’s White Mountains,” said Justin Jabara, president of Meyer Jabara Hotels. “Ellie Koeppel has built quite a legacy for herself and this grand resort, and we plan to preserve its heritage with elegant and timeless accommodations, ongoing community involvement, and engaging corporate culture. With Jackson Falls cascading at its front door, and adjacent outdoor activities such as golf, cross-country ski trails, hiking trails, canoeing, horseback riding, ice skating and more nearby, The Wentworth is performing exceptionally well despite the pandemic. With just a few upgrades planned to attract next-generation guests, we anticipate this landmark hotel will continue to thrive for years to come.”
A popular draw to The Wentworth is Executive Chef Brian Gazda, renowned for his locally-sourced New Hampshire cuisine. Gazda and his team will continue to serve guests and locals authentic dining experiences in the restaurant, as well as support business meetings and social events. Koeppel has stepped down as General Manager; a search for her replacement is underway.
Jonathan Hoenig, managing partner with Atlantic Equity Partners, said Meyer Jabara brings generations of management experience and a broad knowledge of independent hotel operations to the table. The company’s focus first and foremost is on guests. MJH is known industrywide for attracting and retaining the best people; associates who have become exceptional leaders and who are remarkable human beings eager to deliver frictionless experiences and see the hotel industry return to its pre-pandemic glory.
“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to carry on the legacy of The Wentworth,” Hoenig said. “We have worked hand in hand with Ellie Koeppel to ensure a smooth transition of operations over the past few weeks. Being a New England native myself — as well as an avid skier having grown up traveling, skiing, and hiking in the White Mountains since a young age — it is very exciting to be able to now own and operate a property in this market. Jackson and The Wentworth are very special places. We intend to build upon the amazing history of the property over the months and years to come.”
Koeppel had this to say: “Having spent my entire career in Jackson, this transition is bittersweet. I have been waiting for the right person to come along, and owner Jon Hoenig together with the Meyer Jabara Hotels management team, are the perfect fit to continue my vision. I could not be more pleased. They are an extension of me; both are family oriented and proud to be part of the community. I want our loyal guests to know that The Wentworth will have the continued warmth and welcoming feel it always had. I wish Jon and Meyer Jabara Hotels the absolute best success. I am confident that the village of Jackson will welcome them as they did me. Moving on, I look forward to spending time with my family in Ireland, and finally having the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful area that I worked in for so long.”
