InterContinental announced the signing of a management agreement with Elysian Hotel Management Company Limited, for a unique new property near Khao Yai National Park in central Thailand.
Set to open in 2020, InterContinental Khao Yai Swan Lake Resort will be an integral part of the Swan Lake mixed use project which is being positioned as a ‘destination retreat’. The resort creates a genuine sense of connection to nature with stunning views over seven man-made lakes, mountain views, and over 50,000 trees in the 100-acre site.
Guests at the 61-key resort will enjoy the features they expect from an InterContinental Resort with a Club Lounge and Resort Centre, pool and gym. In early 2021 facilities will be expanded to include a train-inspired spa, as well as a kids’ club and wedding chapel, making the resort a dream wedding venue for nature lovers.
Designed by award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, InterContinental Khao Yai Swan Lake Resort takes historical inspiration from the area’s gateway for rail transportation to north-east Thailand during King Rama V’s reign.
Opening with 45 luxury rooms, unique train-car suites will be added as its premium accommodation in 2021. These 16 luxurious 80 sqm suites will be repurposed from heritage train cars to recreate the romantic history of luxury rail travel in the heart of the national park.
Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular countryside retreat for Thai and international visitors. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Bangkok, the area is perfect for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, diverse flora and fauna, as well as cooler weather and clearer air. It’s also home to a number of world-class golf courses. Links to the resort will be improved with the opening of Thailand’s new Motorway M6 in 2020.
Commenting on the signing, Serena Lim, Vice President, Development for South East Asia and Korea, IHG said: “The signing represents the strong growth momentum of the InterContinental brand in Thailand and Southeast Asia. With our strong brand positioning and presence in Thailand, we are excited to unveil the extraordinary experience with this unique luxurious property. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai National Park, is perfectly positioned for our guests to soak in nature and enjoy the wildlife, providing rich and memorable guest experiences.”Rena Udomkunnatum, Managing Director of Elysian Hotel Management Co., Ltd, added, “We are delighted to find a partner in InterContinental Hotels Group that shares our vision of bringing a world-class mountain resort destination to this historic and scenic area. Khao Yai is a long-time favourite getaway for local nature lovers, and being part of the InterContinental Hotels Group portfolio and loyalty programme will pave the way for more international visitors to experience the delights of this stunning location.”
IHG currently has 29 hotels in Thailand, across six brands in Thailand, with plans to double our portfolio in the next 3-5 years.