The legendary Cal Neva, known for its glitzy heyday during the 1960s, was a favorite haunt of celebrities, dignitaries, and adventurers, including Marilyn Monroe, JFK, and Frank Sinatra. Originally built in 1926 and later redeveloped by Sinatra in 1960, the Cal Neva has long awaited a revitalizing transformation. Now, the time has come to reimagine this iconic property.
The vision for a newly revitalized Cal Neva will honor and preserve its storied history and culture while ushering in a new era of vibrancy and timeless elegance to Crystal Bay. With 216 hotel rooms in the tower and villas, the project aims to offer something for everyone. The villas will provide lodging options for families and groups, ensuring that all visitors find a comfortable and luxurious place to stay.
Embracing Modern Amenities
The revitalized Cal Neva will feature a state-of-the-art wellness center, complete with a full spa and indoor pickleball courts. Imagine unwinding in the spa after a day of skiing or exploring, or challenging friends to a game of pickleball indoors. The beautiful outdoor spaces will be adorned with native landscaping, creating a serene and picturesque environment for all guests.
A Commitment to Preservation and Sustainability
One of the guiding principles of this project is historic preservation. While some of the original cabins, including the one frequented by Marilyn Monroe, will need to be torn down, new cabins will be built to maintain the charm and appeal of the property. These cabins, along with the hotel rooms, will be available for reservation, offering guests a chance to experience the rich history of the Cal Neva.
Environmental stewardship is also at the forefront of this project. The team is working tirelessly to create sustainable recreation and transportation options. McWhinney, known for its Proper brand hotels, is committed to collaborating with local agencies to achieve environmental enhancement and protection in the basin. This includes reducing stormwater pollution, creating fire defensible space, and ensuring seamless transportation and accessibility in and around the site.
A Community-Centric Approach
“We don’t want the community to be burdened, and we also don’t want the people staying here to be burdened,” said Cal Neva representative Nick Exline. “So we want to create a really seamless transit environment in which people are kind of moving through the system, not bogging it down.”
The team is dedicated to being a part of the community and giving back. Throughout the planning process, community members have been invited to offer their opinions and feedback on the project. This collaborative approach lead by McWhinney ensures that the revitalized Cal Neva will be a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.
Preserving the Washoe Tribe’s History
The “Indian Room” will be preserved on the property, and the McWhinney team is working closely with the Washoe Tribe to ensure their history is respectfully and accurately represented. This commitment to cultural preservation is a testament to the project’s dedication to honoring the past while embracing the future.
Looking Ahead
The revitalization of the Cal Neva is a shining example of how change can be good for developments in Tahoe. By preserving its rich history, enhancing modern amenities, and committing to sustainability and community involvement, the new Cal Neva promises to be a beacon of elegance and vibrancy in Crystal Bay.
To learn more about the revitalization of the Cal Neva, visit their website and join in celebrating this exciting transformation. Change is coming, and it’s going to be spectacular!
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