Hyatt Hotels Corporation is moving into the ski resort market with an Andaz-branded property planned for Heber Valley, Utah, set to open in January 2029. This marks the first mountain resort under the Andaz name, a lifestyle brand that has faced declining momentum in recent years. The project represents a significant expansion within the rapidly growing Deer Valley area, which is already home to major luxury brands like Grand Hyatt, Four Seasons, and Waldorf Astoria.
Location and Development
The Andaz Heber Valley will be part of “The Slope,” a large mixed-use development led by Angstrom Development Group. Its location offers easy access to both Sundance Resort and Park City, roughly a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The resort’s proximity to Deer Valley East Village, just five minutes away, positions it as an extension of that luxury corridor.
The resort will feature 85 guest rooms and suites, but the majority of the development consists of private residences: 62 condos and 140 villas. These residences will come with dedicated amenities and exclusive access within the resort.
Brand Strategy and Market Trends
Hyatt’s decision to bring Andaz into the ski resort sector is notable, given the brand’s recent struggles with consistency and recognition. While many luxury hotel brands are expanding into resort destinations, the choice to use Andaz suggests an attempt to revitalize the brand’s identity in the high-end travel segment.
The Deer Valley area has seen explosive growth in hotel development, with more capacity potentially leading to competitive pricing. The addition of major loyalty program properties, such as Hyatt’s, is also a benefit for travelers seeking to earn and redeem points.
Culinary Focus and Design Philosophy
The Andaz Heber Valley will emphasize a “mountain-to-table” culinary experience, sourcing local ingredients with a focus on sustainability and seasonal menus. The resort’s design aims to blend global influences with the character of the American West, drawing inspiration from destinations like the Dolomites and Niseko.
“Heber Valley embodies the spirit of the American West in a perfectly understated way,” says Amar Lalvani, President and Creative Director of The Lifestyle Group at Hyatt. “In keeping with the Andaz brand, the hotel will be firmly rooted in that spirit while bringing a global sensibility.”
The Slope’s Vision
Angstrom Development Group’s vision for The Slope is to create a year-round mountain village, fostering a sense of community and connection to the surrounding landscape. The Andaz will play a central role in shaping The Slope as a destination for both visitors and locals.
“Collaborating with Hyatt allows us to introduce a new kind of alpine hospitality to Heber Valley,” explains Neil Goldman, Managing Partner at Angstrom Development Group. “One that is design-forward, wellness-driven and rooted in a strong sense of place.”
Conclusion: The Andaz Heber Valley represents a strategic move by Hyatt to tap into the luxury ski resort market while attempting to reinforce the identity of its underperforming lifestyle brand. The development’s scale, with over 200 residences alongside the 85-room hotel, highlights a focus on long-term revenue streams and community integration in the expanding Deer Valley area.
