Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris is planning an oceanfront resort on the Florida Keys' Valhalla Island. Valhalla Island is the largest resort property in the Florida Keys and includes more than 175 acres. Plans for the resort involve maintaining more than 50 percent of the property’s green space.
Much of the inspiration to develop the resort came from the Long Key Fishing Camp, founded in 1908 by Henry Flagler and credited with establishing the Florida Keys’ position of prominence on the sportfishing landscape.
Set upon an island environment, the project is an extension of Morris’ Signature Nature Resort experiences. To bring the vision to life, Morris and his daughter Megan have partnered with architecture firms Hart Howerton and Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects. Using ecologically sensitive design techniques and working with the natural ecology of the Florida Keys, plans for the 110-unit nature resort call for an intimate setting that preserves 50 percent of green space throughout. Valhalla Island Resort will be vehicle-free and all surfaces will be permeable.
Accommodations consist of a collection of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom cottages, in addition to a master lodge and general store. Other amenities include restaurants, a spa, swimming pools, fishing marina and gathering spaces.
The development, previously approved by the city of Marathon, is designed to be carbon neutral with a minimal footprint and low impact to preserve the natural integrity of the land while leveraging the latest sustainable strategies. Conservation-based practices inform all aspects of the resort’s design and operation with a goal of enhancing the natural ecosystem. Sustainable design techniques will be used, including onsite renewable energy via solar and geothermal power, rainwater harvesting and storage, and orienting buildings to enhance natural ventilation.
Morris and his team are working closely with area conservation partners and local community officials to ensure the resort not only meets but enhances the existing character of the community.
Beyond the footprint of the resort itself, plans call for an extensive transformation of nearby hotel properties acquired by Morris into apartment buildings to accommodate workforce housing, with shuttle service reducing any potential congestion.
Construction of the Valhalla Island Resort is scheduled to be completed within the next two years.