Hilton has announced the opening of Hilton Santa Marta, which will become the group’s second hotel in Colombia’s oldest Hispanic city, showcasing a design inspired by its surroundings…
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the contemporary 261-key Hilton Santa Marta is within striking distance of the beach and overlooked by the mountains of Sierra Nevada. The newly constructed hotel features five unique dining experiences, more than 3,000 square metres of flexible meeting and event space and an array of amenities.
“The opening of Hilton Santa Marta is an exciting addition to our rapidly growing portfolio of more than 200 hotels in the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Jorge Giannattasio, Senior Vice President and Head of Operations, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton. “We are thrilled to open our second hotel in Santa Marta and offer an elevated experience and Hilton’s friendly service in this unique destination in Colombia that blends beaches, mountains and exuberant nature.”
Image credit: Hilton International
Hilton Santa Marta’s contemporary design takes inspiration directly from its locale and creates an elegant and warm ambiance through elements of stones, woods, metals and crystals. The hotel’s main entrance features a water mirror made of Tayrona stone and a façade composed of a metal structure inspired by the nearby coral reefs, allowing for seamless integration of the interior with the exterior through a harmonious passage of natural light. The design concept spans into the corridors, decorated with woodwork engraved by local artisans and showcasing the area’s diverse marine wildlife, including manta rays, lionfish and turtles. Spacious guestrooms offer balconies with ocean or mountain views, ample closet space and a large shower. For those seeking more spacious accommodations, suites with a separate living area with a sofa bed allow travellers to spread out, notably the Ocean Front Suite and its oversized furnished balcony with a hot tub, sizeable living room and spacious dining room.
“We are delighted to expand the footprint of Hilton’s flagship brand in this spectacular destination with the debut of Hilton Santa Maria,” said Leonard Gooz, Global Brand Head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. “Hilton Hotels & Resorts will continue to set the benchmark for hospitality at this new property with intuitive service and world-class amenities, including an array of dining options, contemporary design with local influences and exceptional event experiences.”
Image credit: Hilton International
The hotel features five unique culinary concepts that showcase local cuisine and international flavours, with restaurant names honouring the native Arhuaco language. Nuggu Restaurant and Bar, meaning ‘salt’ pays homage to Colombia’s rich history with Latin soul food and Caribbean Creole authentic dishes. Located on the second floor near the hotel’s spa and fitness centre, Waku, or ‘fish’ in Arhuaco, offers a selection of seafood and catch of the day in a vibrant atmosphere.
The highest rooftop lounge and bar in the city, Sikunu, or ‘slingshot’, is located on the hotel’s 16th floor. The Creole menu is influenced by prehispanic cultures and based on the flowers of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Signature cocktails are inspired by the Arhuaco, including clove and aniseed maceration.
In addition to the extensive F&B offerings, Hilton Santa Marta shelters more than 1000 square metres of flexible event space, including eight meeting rooms and a ballroom that can hold up to 450 guests. With a terrace on the 16th floor, the hotel is the perfect venue for an outdoor event with fantastic views.
Hilton currently has a portfolio of more than 20 hotels in Colombia, including Hilton Bogota Corferias, Hilton Bogota and Hilton Cartagena. The company is actively pursuing additional growth opportunities and currently has a robust development pipeline of more than 100 hotels in various stages of design and construction throughout the region.
Main image credit: Hilton International
