Opening on Sri Lanka’s stunning southern coastline on 1 June 2016, Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa will offer unrivalled amenities and experiential activities and set a new standard for hospitality in the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.” Spanning 145 acres, the 300-room beachfront resort will boast lush tropical gardens, an 18-hole golf course, an artisan village and a wide array of innovative dining, event and entertainment options.
“Sri Lanka is one of the fastest-growing destinations in the Indian Ocean and a beautiful country with incredible natural attractions, wonderful people and more than 2,000 years of culture. We are delighted to be opening the first international luxury resort in Hambantota and look forward to bringing Shangri-La’s hallmark hospitality from the heart to this exciting destination,” said Shangri-La President and CEO Greg Dogan.
Guests arriving to Colombo International Airport can enjoy Shangri-La’s private luxury coach transfer, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. Seating up to 25 people, resort guests will enjoy the five-star service and facilities for which the hotel group is renowned, with refreshments, cold towels and snacks served during the drive along the scenic coastal route.
In addition to Shangri-La’s luxury coach transfer, Fly Dubai and Abu Dhabi-based Rotana Jet, fly direct to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which is 35 kilometres from the resort. Local-based Cinnamon Air and Sri Lankan Airlines also run regular domestic flights from Colombo.
Discover a Destination within a Destination
Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa’s guestrooms include 26 suites with private butler service and range from 48 to 240 square metres. The spacious rooms enjoy expansive views of lushly landscaped gardens; calming neutral tones and carved-wood fixtures are accented by sophisticated, cool turquoise hues, fusing together a contemporary yet original Sri-Lankan style. Each luxury hideaway has a secluded balcony or terrace affording a sense of privacy.
Sri Lanka’s rich culture is honoured throughout the resort and in particular at “The Village”, where guests can explore and interact with local artisans and craftsmen. The Village is dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s traditional artisan communities and features four traditional huts where the craftsmen skilfully create, exhibit and sell their items, from pottery and ceramics, to wood carvings and weavings. In the evening, the village transforms into an entertainment venue, showcasing Sri Lankan music and dance performances of Angampora (Sri Lanka’s indigenous martial art and one of the oldest fighting disciplines in the world).
Inspired by Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, the resort’s culinary collection brings a multitude of superior tastes and gastronomic adventures to the table. A talented team of international chefs create a vibrant dining scene, including all-day dining restaurant, Bojun Hala, which boasts a buffet of international and Sri Lankan specialities. Sera, meaning lemongrass, is inspired by the famous hawker-style stalls of Southeast Asia, whilst the neighbouring Beach Grill serves dishes straight from the fire pit and comfort food in an extraordinary setting from old local fishing boats. Giman Hala, which translates as “‘a place to rest”, and The 19th Hole Bar and Lounge both provide a fine selection of refreshments throughout the day.
The Lobby Lounge is programmed day and night. Guests can enjoy healthy fresh food along with a large selection of local teas after an awakening morning yoga session. Later in the day, the Lobby Lounge transforms into a romantic spot for sunset Champagne and cocktails by candlelight.
Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa is the first of two Shangri-La hotels under development in Sri Lanka and the group’s third resort in the Indian Ocean. The second hotel – Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo – is slated to open in 2017.
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