Other liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Interest rate swaps (see Note 21)	$ 1,054	$ 1,733
Long-term accrued interest on subordinated debt at Charleston Center LLC (see Note 10)	0	16,540
Deferred gain on sale of Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond	1,350	1,950
Deferred lease incentive	162	247
Tax indemnity provision on extinguishment of debt (see Note 10)	2,800	0
Total other liabilities	$ 5,366	$ 20,470