National Park Service Greenlights Concessions

BEDFORD, Va., Oct. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Park Service sent a letter to Delaware North Companies today permitting the concessioner to re-open Peaks of Otter Lodge just in time for the Blue Ridge Mountains' fall colors. Peaks of Otter is one of just four concessions nationwide within the park system open for tourists during the government shutdown.

Just two weeks ago, Peaks of Otter hosted a grand opening celebration with Virginia Tourism Corp. and local, state and federal officials supported by Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA). Governor Bob McDonnell issued a state proclamation recognizing Peaks of Otter for creating new jobs and economic development in the Blue Ridge region. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) offered a letter congratulating the company for re-opening the once dormant Virginia "treasure" for hiking and outdoor activity.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge http://www.peaksofotter.com/Accommodations.aspx on the Blue Ridge parkway has 63 rooms and accommodations available now through December 1. The dining room offers a full service menu and Sunday Brunch starting Sunday, Oct. 13. Visitors may make reservations by calling 866-387-9905.

According to DNC, all of the 72 employees furloughed during the shutdown were called back to work today. General Manager Robert Peters said Peaks of Otter employees are very loyal to the mountain lodge and "our camaraderie and spirit has never been higher. We welcome our guests back and our chef and kitchen staff are preparing amazing rustic fare for families to enjoy." Peaks of Otter Lodge does a majority of its annual business during the fall colors season from October into early November so re-opening in the first year of Peak's operation was critical, he added.

Delaware North was awarded a 10-year contract for management of Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant, as well as its retail stores and shuttle service earlier this year.  The company plans a six figure investment in the lodge and rooms. New TVs and coffee makers have already been installed.

Delaware North Parks & Resorts has over 20 years of experience in a variety of venues, including Yosemite National Park, Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex and Yellowstone National Park. This is Delaware North's first season operating Shenandoah National Park, which is located 2.5 hours north of Bedford, Va.

About Delaware North Companies Parks & ResortsDelaware North Companies Parks & Resorts is an industry leader, providing Stewardship and Hospitality in Special Places SM with hotel, retail, food service, recreation and transportation operations at historic and scenic properties in North America and Australia. To learn more about Delaware North Companies' hospitality management expertise, visit http://www.delawarenorth.com/parks-and-resorts-home.aspx.

Visit Peaks of Otter Lodge on Facebook or follow us on Twitter

SOURCE DNC Parks & Resorts

RELATED LINKShttp://www.delawarenorth.com/parks-and-resorts-home.aspx