Forbes Gave a Cape Cod Hotel Five Stars

Photo courtesy of Wequassett Resort and Golf Club

Cape Cod is officially home to a five-star hotel.

In its newly released list of winners, Forbes Travel Guide gave Harwich’s Wequassett Resort and Golf Club a five-star ranking. Wequassett is the first resort on Cape Cod to receive the award, and is one of six newly named five-star hotels in the country.

Forbes Travel Guide invented the five-star rating system, and has awarded standout players in the travel industry since 1958. According to Forbes’s standards, five-star properties are “outstanding, often iconic properties with virtually flawless service and amazing facilities.” They must be in desirable locations and have top-quality amenities.

Wequassett occupies 27 acres on the Pleasant Bay waterfront, boasting 120 guest rooms as well as pools, boating, tennis, and championship golf at Cape Cod National. The resort is home to four restaurants led by executive chef James Hackney, an alum of Back Bay’s L’Espalier. Wequassett opened as the Wequassett House in 1925—its current owners joined in 1977.

Wequassett managing partner Mark Novota says the resort’s culture has played a role in its five-star distinction, as it focuses on customer intimacy.

“What we essentially do is work hard to customize all of our services and connect with all of our guests ideally in an emotional way,” Novota says.

Employees attend a Wequassett training academy where they take courses in subjects like management, information technology, and customer intimacy, as well as several electives.

“A front desk agent might have an interest in wine knowledge, so they can take an elective course in wine,” Novota says.

In addition to excellence in service, Novota notes the resort has developed its facilities so guests can have an authentic and luxurious Cape Cod experience.

“We’re proud to have this new distinction,” says Novota. “And we’re going to work harder then ever to continue to earn it.”

Wequassett Resort and Golf Club has joined a list of 75 five-star hotels in the United States.