AFTER opening its doors in March 2012, guests at the Shangri-la’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives can look forward to the official launch of the country’s first nine-hole recreational golf course at the resort. The Villingili Golf Course sits on seven and a half hectares of previously undeveloped land at the southern end of Villingili Island and is the only five star resort in the Maldives with its own private executive terminal just five minutes away by speedboat. The venture is the result of the excellent cooperation between the resort and Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll.
“We are excited to offer a new experience to the Maldives traveller,” said Rene D. Egle, general manager at the hotel.
“Apart from our other recreational options, the Villingili Golf Course will add a new and unique activity for our guests – a game of golf amid expansive views of the Indian Ocean and the tropical landscape.”
Spectacular sights await guests at each of the nine holes, mostly par three and averaging 123.4 yards in length. Designed to be a fun course for golf aficionados and beginners alike, the Villingili Golf Course was developed with the island’s natural beauty in mind, enhancing existing flora to highlight the gleaming ocean and turquoise lagoon along a scenic walking path. A diversity of palms, pandanus and various exotic plants are dotted along sandy beach coves on the east and west shorelines.
To mark its official opening, the resort is offering an introductory golf package valid until May 2013. For a minimum stay of four nights, guests can enjoy one complimentary green fee for two persons for bookings in a Pool Villa, Deluxe Pool Villa, Water Villa, Ocean View Villa and waived daily green fee for bookings in a Beach Villa, Tree House Villa, Two Bedroom Beach Villa, Villa Muthee or Villa Laalu.
The golf course is exclusive to guests of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives. Facilities include a clubhouse, refreshment bar and a pro shop carrying an assortment of golf apparel, gear and merchandise. The introductory green fee of $80 per adult includes a set of clubs, golf balls and unlimited rounds per day. Children play free on golf activities scheduled by Cool Zone, the children’s club at the resort.
The hotel was recently voted by Condé Nast Traveller United Kingdom as the best beach hotel for 2013.