Benchmark Hospitality to develop, manage new Florida resort

Benchmark Hospitality is developing a new resort near Orlando.

The Grove Resort & Spa is an 878-suite hotel in Lake Austin, five minutes from Walt Disney World in Orlando. The property is scheduled to open its first phase fall 2016 with up to 292 two- and three-room residential-style guest suites. The hotel will be part of Benchmark's brand portfolio.

"We are thrilled to announce the addition of The Grove Resort & Spa to our signature Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio," Alex Cabanas, CEO of Benchmark Hospitality, said in a statement. "This unique and extraordinary resort will be one of the most inspiring additions to the Orlando market in decades. The Grove will offer something for every guest, whether visiting for a leisure travel experience, enjoying the legendary theme parks, attending an intimate social gathering or celebration, or participating in a productive and rewarding meeting experience."

The hotel includes a Safari Water Park with a lazy river, three swimming pools and a surf simulator. The property also has a spa and multiple dining options including a 221-seat indoor/outdoor restaurant.

The Grove is owned by a joint venture between affiliates of Westport Capital Partners and BTI Partners, and BTI partners is also serving as the development partner. Benchmark Hospitality International will manage the resort.