Sarnia Hotels celebrates 70 years of investment in Guernsey

Sarnia Hotels, the family-owned group behind Best Western Moores Hotel, Best Western Hotel de Havelet and Les Rocquettes Hotel, is celebrating its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of family ownership, investment and contribution to Guernsey’s hospitality industry.  

Sarnia Hotels was founded in 1956 by Jack and Ella Parker, alongside their daughter and son-in-law, Sheila and Andre Sendlhofer, while they managed Moores Hotel. The group has since expanded its presence on the island, acquiring Hotel de Havelet in 1971 and adding Les Rocquettes Hotel to the portfolio in 1996. 

The hotel group is committed to Guernsey’s hospitality and tourism industry, as well as the wider community. Last year, Sarnia Hotels completed a series of renovations and upgrades across all three hotels, with all work carried out by local contractors. 

Community engagement remains a key priority for Sarnia Hotels with charitable green initiatives, such as the sustainable housekeeping scheme. It encourages guests to opt out of daily room cleaning in return for a charitable donation. In its two years, the scheme raised more than £14,000 for its chosen charity, Guernsey Trees for Life, and now raises funds for At Home in Guernsey and The Tsunami Fund.  

Sarnia Hotels remains a proudly family-owned business, led by Karel Harris, Andre and Sheila’s daughter. The group’s family heritage appears throughout the hotels, with JB Parkers named after Jack Parker, and Anni’s Hideaway at Moores named after Andre’s niece.  

Managing Director Karel Harris said:

‘Over the past 70 years, my parents and grandparents have poured their hearts into these hotels, creating distinctive guest experiences that showcase how special Guernsey is.  

‘Whether you’re experiencing the heart of St Peter Port at Moores Hotel, the incredible views over the islands offered at The Hotel de Havelet, or honouring Guernsey’s military history with our connections to the local military and veteran community events at Les Rocquettes Hotel, our hotels aim to embody all that is unique and great about Guernsey. 

‘I am incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone and to continue to build on the legacy they’ve created, and I look forward to what we can build within the island community over the next 70 years.’