Shangri-La to manage luxury Resort in the Seychelles

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has signed an agreement with TriGránit Development Corporation to manage the Shangri-La Resort and Spa, Seychelles, scheduled to open in 2007.

The luxury resort will occupy its own private island, the nine-hectare (23-acre) Long Island off the coast of Mahe in Northeast Seychelles. The resort will be just 25 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes by boat to the capital city of Victoria.

Not only will Long Island be dedicated to Shangri-La guests, further exclusivity is assured by Shangri-La's boutique hotel size of 55 villas, with a total of 100 spacious suites. Located on the Western side of the island will be 32 one-bedroom villas; seven two-bedroom villas; 15 four-suite villas; and a presidential villa.

All villas, by Budapest-based Fazakas Gyorgy Architects and Dubai-based Interior Motives interior designers, will feature infinity-edged plunge pools facing the ocean, spacious sundecks and outdoor showers, all set amidst meandering pathways through lush island foliage.

A funicular will transport guests to the CHI spa, poised on the island's central hilltop. CHI, Shangri-La's signature spa brand, is designed to create a sanctuary of tranquility inspired by the legend of Shangri-La. Therapies are based on the ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals of China and the Himalayas.

The funicular will also stop at the island's hilltop wedding chapel, accommodating up to 30 people for weddings, vow renewals and blessing ceremonies. Both spa and chapel will offer 360 degree Indian Ocean views.

Waterborne guests will arrive at an open-air lobby with panoramic ocean views. Dining options will include a lobby lounge and bar, all-day coffee shop, specialty restaurant and poolside bar. Additional facilities will include a kids' club, internet room and fitness centre. An island library will be available for solitary, leisurely reading or small gatherings of up to 75 people.

Shangri-La Resort and Spa will be ideally located to take advantage of Seychelles' clear, warm, turquoise waters. Long Island is part of acclaimed Sainte Anne Marine National Park; a resort dive centre will outfit first-time and expert divers. Water enthusiasts can also indulge in boating, fishing, motorized water sports, swimming in the infinity-edged pool or exploring the multiple beach coves that ring the island. Tennis buffs are not forgotten with an ocean-view tennis court.

"We selected Shangri-La to manage this very special property due to its record of delivering superlative standards of service, nothing less would suit this ultra-luxury Seychelles island-resort," said Todd Cowan, chief executive officer, TriGránit Development Corporation.

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