Spanish hotel brand Gran Meli? Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its first property in Africa, Gran Meli? Arusha.
Based in the heart of Arusha within Northern Tanzania, the East African resort, opened on September 1, is suitable for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of some of Africa?s striking landscapes, including the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro.
The new hotel is a 45-minute drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport and a 20-minute drive from Arusha Airport. The property also caters to business travellers as it offers a state-of-the-art conference centre and meeting facilities in the diplomatic hub of Tanzania. Gran Meli? Arusha will feature 171 rooms and suites designed with earthy interiors and contemporary furniture. The rooms are complete with private balconies, offering panoramic views over Mount Meru and the hotel?s surrounding gardens.
The hotel has been created with environmentally friendly materials and a plastic-free commitment. It will bottle guests? water on-site and is complete with its own spice and vegetable garden which will supply the resort?s restaurants with seasonal produce.
The hotel will also have a wide range of dining options, including the exotic Yellow Chilli. This signature restaurant from renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor will take diners through the unique cuisine of India, inspired by the Punjab region and the traditional dishes of the Mughal Empire. The all-day dining option, Saba Saba, offers a varied menu, featuring local seasonal recipes and fresh dishes with international influences, prepared in front of diners in open kitchen design. Guests of the hotel will be able to enjoy hot beverages at The Coffee Shop, created from the coffee and tea plantations surrounding the hotel, as well as cocktails and Peruvian-Spanish fusion cuisine at the rooftop terrace, complete with live shows.
The team at the resort has designed a series of 'Exceptional Experiences' for guests to see what Tanzania has to offer, from visiting Tarangire National Park, a hot air balloon ride to watching the migration of the Serengeti?s wildlife or hiking up to the highest summit in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. Guests can also enjoy a private guided tour of Arusha National Park, with the chance to see hundreds of Africa?s animals in the wild.
The property will include a state-of-the-art Spa & Wellness Centre, offering a selection of detox and anti-stress therapies. The spa features a heated outdoor pool and other hotel facilities will include a gym, hairdressing salon, and shopping boutique.
Guests have the option of upgrading to the exclusive RedLevel Service, at a supplementary cost, designed to provide a boutique experience within the hotel. It includes private check-in, an exclusive lounge and butler service.
The lead-in rate is ?207 on a bed & breakfast basis.