Banyan Tree Hangzhou introduces priceless tranquility in China's first wetlands reserve
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Banyan Tree Hangzhou introduces priceless tranquility in China's first wetlands reserve
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Category: Asia Pacific - China - Industry economy
- Hotel projects
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on 2009-06-02
Award-winning Asian hospitality brand, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts is slated to soft launch Banyan Tree Hangzhou this October, located in the historic Xixi National Wetland Park in southeast China. This is the Group’s fourth resort in China since 2005, following the success of Banyan Tree Ringha, Banyan Tree Lijiang and Banyan Tree Sanya.
Banyan Tree has partnered with Hangzhou Westbrook Investment Co., Ltd to manage Banyan Tree Hangzhou, which comprises 72 suites and villas. Banyan Tree Hangzhou is part of an integrated complex comprising high-end hotels and conference centre, retail and entertainment, and residential facilities. The development is within a 50-minute drive from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, and 15-minute drive from downtown Hangzhou and the famed West Lake.
The flourishing gateway city of Hangzhou is a natural choice for Banyan Tree, owing to its reputation as one of the ten most scenic cities in China, as well as one of the most popular in-bound travel destinations for domestic travellers. The historic Xixi region in particular was noted for natural beauty in the writings of eminent Tang Dynasty poets, and was also the birthplace of the famed Dragon Boat Festival in 1465. Today, the Xixi National Wetland Park offers a unique retreat to city dwellers from within China as well as to international travellers, with its diverse offerings of ecology, culture and entertainment.
Priceless Tranquility
Designed by Architrave Design and Planning, the in-house architecture arm of Banyan Tree, Banyan Tree Hangzhou comprises 36 suites and 36 villas that are the most spacious to be found in Hangzhou. The resort is designed in Jiang Nan style, giving an authentic sense of place and priceless tranquillity. Starting from 122 square metres, each suite or villa reflects both the hallmarks of oriental design as well as contemporary amenities within a chic living space. The interiors are replete with dark wood floors, delicately carved furnishings and accented by splashes of vivid silk brocades, embroidered fabrics and detailed tapestries.
Each villa is also complemented by an outdoor heated jet pool, in a landscaped courtyard,to accentuate the peace and tranquillity of the natural environment. With a total area of 386 square metres, the Presidential Villa is the single most luxurious abode, with exclusive amenities such as separate kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, dedicated spa treatment room and sunken jet-pool.
A World of Facilities
The award-winning Banyan Tree Spa features 10 indoor treatment pavilions, complemented by wellness facilities such as beauty salon, gymnasium, swimming pool and yoga studio. The therapists are specially trained at Banyan Tree Spa Academies in Lijiang, China and Phuket, Thailand to deliver Banyan Tree’s signature series of spa treatments that are inspired by traditional Asian remedies. In addition, the Spa will introduce Japanese-inspired Onsen treatments which aim to replenish body, mind and soul.
Small meeting groups are also well catered for at Banyan Tree Hangzhou. Divisible meeting rooms allow for multiple meetings to take place, and are specially suited for brainstorm sessions and corporate meetings. The resort also features three signature food and beverage venues, which include international favourites at the all day dining restaurant, and authentic Cantonese cuisine at Bai Yun located in a grand dining hall. A bar lounge, equipped with a glowing fireplace, is the place to meet friends and take in the views of the lake.
Surrounded by Nature
With four graceful seasons, Hangzhou offers a different experience for year-round visitors. As the capital of Zhejiang Province, it is also an important transportation hub and centre for economic development. Its prime location ensures its popularity as a choice for weekend retreats or short getaways, being less than two hours’ drive from Shanghai and easily accessible by rail and air as well. One of Hangzhou’s most popular sites is West Lake, which encompasses historical pagodas built into the sweeping environment of lakes and hills.
Within Xixi National Wetland Park, a ‘living water park’ has been preserved by recovery of wetland areas and restoration of ecological systems, paving the way for the establishment of fish ponds and reedbeds, and reintroduction of 270 biological specie such as persimmon, mulberry, bamboo, willow and camphor trees. Guests may visit various attractions, including the Plum Villa, Autumn Snow Temple, Yanshui Fishing Villa, and Xixi Family House, which are located within the reserve, which provide the historical and cultural stories of the Hangzhou region.
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