Calistoga Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection is pleased to announce the appointment of hospitality veteran Avinash “Avi” Haksar as General Manager and Regional Vice President. In his new position, Haksar will oversee all operations for the 50-room resort including The Lakehouse restaurant, award-winning spa and the 22 owner lodges all situated on a 157-acre site marked by ancient oaks, majestic hills, a rock-hewn stream and private lake.
“We are delighted to welcome Avi to Calistoga Ranch and the Auberge Resorts Collection family'”, said Mike Minchin, Chief Marketing Officer, Auberge Resorts Collection. “With his warmth, passion for the culinary arts, extensive background in luxury hospitality, he is a natural fit for Calistoga Ranch.”
Haksar has travelled the world, spending time in India, France, Bangkok and the US to name a few destinations before landing in the idyllic Napa Valley. His experience with luxury brands paired with an extensive culinary background makes him the perfect fit for California’s wine country and Auberge Resort Collection.
Most recently, he was the Managing Director for the Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park, Cali., where he oversaw all areas of the property including the luxury hotel, award-winning restaurant and spa. Before that, he served as the Managing Director at Rosewood Crescent in Dallas and Hotel Manager at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok in Thailand. Haksar has also held management positions at notable hotels including the Four Seasons Los Angeles, MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas and the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco. Known to be a warm and nurturing leader, Haksar will focus on continuing to build Calistoga Ranch’s success with the help of Auberge’s strong and inspired team.
Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Haksar was initially interested in marine life and received a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of Miami and a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Chemistry at St. Xavier’s in Mumbai, India. After a few years in France, he redirected his focus and found a passion within hospitality and returned to school to obtain a certificate in Hotel Management, Operations and Sales from Les Roches in Switzerland.
“Calistoga Ranch is recognised as more than just a resort, but a destination unto itself celebrated by discerning travelers and the hospitality world alike,” said Haksar “I look forward to leading the incredible team at Calistoga Ranch.”
During his free time, Haksar fulfils his love for marine life by searching for the best diving destinations and has already travelled to over 30 locations across the world. He also enjoys cooking for his family and friends, especially Southeast Asian cuisine, collecting cookbooks and spending time with his family.
Calistoga Ranch is an award-winning resort nestled in a secluded canyon amidst 157 wooded acres and features 50 beautifully appointed guest lodges. The resort offers luxury accommodations, spa services, and private The Lakehouse restaurant and lounge. The property’s contemporary architecture is inspired by its natural surroundings and created to fit the landscape, with a focus on an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. In keeping with the rich heritage of Napa Valley, Calistoga Ranch features an on-site vineyard and mountain wine cave, where owners and guests can share in the process of winemaking and immerse themselves in the wine culture. Owners and resort guests also enjoy a number of recreational activities including an adult pool and a separate family pool overlooking the vineyards and oak groves and hiking on one of the property’s numerous trails.
