Historic Rosario Resort set for transformative revitalization, community enrichment

||| FROM HEIDI STAUB for THE GUDGELL GROUP |||

Rosario on Orcas Island is on a transformative journey as Empower Investing, a Washington Company founded by local Orcas Island residents, becomes the new steward of the iconic property with the first of several purchases closing Monday, April 8, 2024.

Empower will begin immediate operations of lodging, the marina, weddings and the event center with new reservations open and being accepted now. Empower is focused on plans to add many other amenities to the property and will announce them as they are ready.

Empower was represented by Kevin Ranker, a partner in the Gudgell Group, who skillfully assisted to navigate the details of this complex sale. This marks a new chapter for both the historic estate and the picturesque Orcas Island it calls home.

As a beloved landmark with roots deeply embedded in the Orcas Island community, the Rosario estate holds sentimental value for many people, both tourists and residents alike. 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. Empower is committed to continuing this legacy of preservation and improvement to this rich piece of history on Orcas Island where many people will come to the property and connect and create stories and memories.