Larimar City & Resort, an ambitious new mixed use development, will be home to Sonesta International Hotels Corporation‘s first hotels in the Dominican Republic.

Sonesta today announced that the development would be anchored by two of its luxury and lifestyle brands, The Royal Sonesta and The James. The company is partnering with real estate development firm CLERJP on both hotel properties and residences. It is expected that the first phase of the Larimar City & Resort will be completed in late 2025 or early 2026.

“This development leverages two of our premier brands, The Royal Sonesta and The James, to grow our footprint in Latin America and the Caribbean, which is a strategic priority for Sonesta,” said Brian Quinn, Sonesta’s chief development officer. “Sonesta’s dedicated lodging development team and enhanced regional presence will allow us to capitalize on the demand for the Caribbean market, especially among luxury travelers, as an avenue for continued growth.”

The development will include several entertainment venues including a retail mall, several dining options, a fitness center, a spa, a country club with 18-hole golf course, an outdoor sports facility, and a kid-centric activity center.

“Larimar City & Resort will be a destination designed with comfort, quality and luxury offering a unique living and travel experience and easy air access from major North American and European markets,” said Juan Andrés Romero, CEO, CLERHP. “The project has garnered support from international investors who view this mixed use development, the first of its kind in the Dominican Republic, as a compelling investment opportunity.”

Larimar City & Resort is will be 25 minutes from the Punta Cana airport and 15 minutes from the Bavaro beaches. Located on a cliff more than 100 meters above sea level and offering 180° views, it is being developed as a garden city–the first smart city in the Caribbean. The project emphasizes renewable energy, reduced energy consumption and optimized water resources through technologies like AI, Big Data and IoT.

Larimar City & Resort anticipates a population of between 35,000 to 55,000 residents and tourists. In addition to sustainability, it prioritizes sports, nature, leisure and wellness experiences with amenities like a country club with golf course, healthcare clinics, wellness center and sports facilities.