Press Releases
Sale of Historic Rosario Resort on Scenic Orcas Island Completes
New steward of the Iconic Rosario Resort
Redmond, Washington (April 11, 2024) –Phase 1 of the sale of the historic Rosario Resort, located in the Pacific Northwest’s scenic Orcas Islands, was completed. The property’s new owner is Empower Investing, its founder is a local Orcas Island resident and is excited about the opportunities the property offers with its rich history and long-time established business. Empower plans to create a plan and implement some of the features of the county-approved master plan.
The property’s operations ceased on February 20th in preparation for the sale and to accommodate the renovations. The mansion will be closed to accommodate the renovations; however, the resort’s guest room accommodations and marina moorage are scheduled to resume on April 15.
The property was listed for sale by Land Advisors Organization’s Washington office co-founding principals Scott Cameron and Wes Falkenborg and carries with it a master plan for future development that was approved by the community. The master plan paves the way for a significant redevelopment of the beautiful waterfront property on Orcas Island in the San Juan Archipelago, approximately 70 miles from Seattle.
Known as the Gem of the San Juans, Rosario is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the iconic Rosario Mansion was built between 1906-1909 by Seattle Shipbuilder and Mayor Robert Moran. The Mansion is located on Orcas Island, the largest island in the San Juan Archipelago in northwestern Washington, and is a favorite of locals for its scenic beauty and mild weather. The property offers incredible vista views and shimmering blue water of the Cascade Bay and East Sound, complemented by the snow-capped Olympic Mountains. The Washington State Ferry serves four islands year-round, including Orcas Island.
As the torch of stewardship to this property passes from one to another, we must recognize the past 16 years of stewardship and operations by the Barto family, and express gratitude for the many wonderful accomplishments they completed to the property during their time of stewardship.The Barto family wishes to thank all of their Rosario guests and dedicated staff from over the years and the residents of Orcas Island for their patronage and support.
RosarioVillage.com, Reservations@rosariovillage.com, 360-317-0699
Media Contact: Patty Johnson, Connections Marketing & Communications
PattyJohnson@Connections-marcom.com or 602.402.2965