Naramata Heritage Inn now owned by acclaimed chef Ned Bell, Kate Colley, Paul Hollands and Maria Wiesner
The Naramata Heritage Inn will open in May under the ownership of some of the most influential people in B.C.'s culinary community.
The Naramata Hospitality Limited Partnership – Ned Bell, Kate Colley, Paul Hollands and Maria Wiesner – will take over the gorgeous inn that was build in 1907 near the shores of Lake Okanagan by J.M. Robinson.
Over the years it has represented a beloved base of community and become a destination for visitors. With 12 vintage rooms above and a dining room and bar below, the inn is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
The new owners bring world-class culinary experience to the kitchen with renowned Chef Bell, also an executive and ambassador for the Ocean Wise sustainability brand, who is all about sourcing and celebrating local.
The Inn will deliver a proudly “Naramatian” experience. From produce to proteins, the menus will be built around the best local growers and artisans in Naramata and the Valley. It will showcase the true depth and breadth of award-winning wines produced by British Columbia’s winemakers.
“The opportunity to reimagine a legacy property like the Naramata Inn is a real gift,” Hollands said.
"We are looking forward to creating something that will have such a positive impact on the community, the Okanagan Valley and ultimately guests from all over the world.”
A little more about the new owners:
Ned Bell
Ned is one of the country’s leading chefs, he has used his voice, outgoing personality, and indomitable spirit to stand up for the world’s lakes, oceans and rivers. Ned has earned many honours over the years, most recently: Fellow of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society (2019), Honorary Doctorate in Technology from Vancouver Island University (2019), SeaWeb Seafood Summit Global Champion Award (2017), and author of best selling cookbook Lure: Sustainable Seafood Recipes from the West Coast.
Kate Colley
Kate is a marketing communications specialist with a passion for wellness, who is incredibly excited to return to the Valley, employ her expertise, talents and work ethic, and lay down roots in the place she most loves – Naramata.
Maria Wiesner
Maria will lead the design and landscaping elements of the project, Maria is committed to the creation of something truly special and memorable that will inspire.
Paul Hollands
After 35 years building one of Canada’s largest food services businesses, Paul retired as CEO of A&W Food Services of Canada in 2018. A&W has been recognized as one of the fastest growing, most innovative restaurant chains in Canada.
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