ALILA Hotels & Resorts is mining for adventures – reportedly the top travel trend for 2018. With its bespoke collection of immersive, active and educational experiences, Alila will be diving into more experiential travel escapades throughout its portfolio.
Drawing on the inspiring destination landscapes, local cultures and traditions, Alila Experiences range from swimming with the Whale Sharks in Indonesia and trekking the Via Ferrata in Oman to tailored diving trips to explore the marine splendors of East Bali, all in the company of the local Leisure Concierge team.
Best for Water Based Adventure:
Alila Anji, China
In June 2016, Alila Anji made its debut as the brand’s first China property. Guests are made to feel at home with a stay in one of the 74 stately villas and rooms, each designed to provide understated comfort within a peaceful oasis. With the resort situated on a hillside overlooking a lake, adventure also abounds.
Ideal for water sport enthusiasts, Alila Anji offers guests the opportunity to river raft on Tianmu Mountain. Flowing downstream through the heart of nature, both adults and children will experience true excitement and exhilaration whilst winding past incredible scenery.
The Alila Anji ‘Go Rafting’ experience starts from US$20 per person. Rates at Alila Anji start from USD 232 per night for a Lake View Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis. For more information or to book visit http://alilaanji.cn/go-rafting
Alila Purnama- Indonesia
The 46-metre-long Alila Purnama consists of three decks and has been built by hand in the traditional style of a Phinisi, as used by the Bugis seafarers from south Sulawesi in Indonesia. Each destination is hand-picked and includes adventure filled activities for all guests.
Alila Purnama has just launched its latest Alila Experience – swimming with Whale Sharks. During this once in a lifetime experience, guests will be guided by the boat’s resident marine-biologist and master dive instructor to swim alongside these majestic mammals. Adrenaline junkies can choose to embark upon this journey either during the day or night time.
The Alila Purnama’s ‘Diving with Whale Sharks’ experience is included in the package cost. A 7day/6-night Cendrawasih Bay Expedition costs from USD 2,835 per night, based on two guests sharing. For more information or to book visit https://www.alilahotels.com/purnama/cendrawasih-bay-west-papua
Alila Manggis – Bali
Alila Manggis is a secluded, stylish seaside resort in Manggis, East Bali. Set amidst a coconut grove, the resort nestles between the sea and the majestic Mount Agung, Bali’s most sacred mountain. Famed for its dive sites, guests can choose from a range of diving activities to explore the hidden underwater world.
Alila Manggis has collaborated with Zen Dive to offer the perfect gateway to the world class marine splendours of East Bali. Alila Manggis can create a custom experience for divers whether it’s experiencing scuba diving for the first time, embarking on an underwater journey in Bali or completing a PADI Diver certification.
For non-certified divers, the ‘Discover Zen Harmony Diving’ package starts from US$705. This includes 3-nights’ accommodation at Alila Manggis on a Bed & Breakfast basis, a private dive class with a PADI licensed instructor, 1 yoga class and 2 scuba dives. Also included are return airport transfers, 1X 3-course dinner at Seasalt Restaurant and lunches at local restaurants on diving days. For more information or to book visit https://www.alilahotels.com/campaign/alila-manggis-dive-by-design/
Best for Adventure on Wheels:
Alila Fort Bishangarh – India
Opened in July 2017, Alila Fort Bishangarh is a warrior fort that has been in restoration for seven years. Built upon a granite hill, the resort offers a wide array of adventurous journeys to guide guests through the Rajasthani landscape and immerse them in culture.
The new Aravalli Hills Biking Trail offers an exclusive adventure, cycling through the serene landscapes and happenings of rural life. Guests will have the chance to take in a range of sights, from locals drinking chai under trees to spectacular temples and fruit plantations.
The Alila Fort Bishangarh ‘Aravalli Hills Biking Trail’ experience starts at USD 47 per couple. Rates at Alila Fort Bishangarh start from USD 356 per night for a Heritage Room on a Bed & Breakfast Basis. For more information or to book visit http://www.alilahotels.com/fortbishangarh
Alila Ubud – Bali
Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat that sits high up on the edge of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali’s central foothills, in the Balinese village of Payangan. Offering a plethora of traditional and thrill-seeking activities, guests will leave fully immersed in rich Balinese rituals.
The Quad Bike Adventure navigates guests through the ‘sawah’ paddy fields, rainforest and traditional villages. Those looking for a more intense adventure can ride alone along less travelled routes.
The Alila Ubud ‘Quad Bike Adventure’ starts at USD 85 per person. Rates at Alila Ubud start from US$ 225 per night for a superior room on a Bed & Breakfast Basis. For more information or to book visit http://www.alilahotels.com/ubud
Best for Adventure on Foot:
Alila Jabal Akhdar – Oman
Alila Jabal Akhdar lies 2,500 metres above sea level and overlooks a dramatic gorge and spectacular mountain range. Offering several activities and experiences including nature walks, hiking trails, mountain biking and off-road drives, guests looking for adventure, won’t be disappointed.
The new ‘Via Ferrata trek’ means thrill-seekers can now explore the Jabal Akhdar Canyon (Green Mountain) from new heights. The challenging walk places guests into a harness and takes them along a section of Via Ferrata. Crossing an exposed 20-metre high rope, guests can walk across a cave mouth, traversing along the side of the canyon and ascending into a steep gully. The adrenalin-pumping route is interspersed with gentle hiking through the wild olive trees and mountain greenery and is led by expert guides who share stories of the local region whilst assisting with the climbing.
The Alila Jabal Akhdar ‘Via Ferrata Trek’ starts at US$130 per person for a 2-hour experience. Rates at Alila Jabal Akhdar start from US$651 per night for a Mountain View Suite on a Bed & Breakfast basis, excluding tax. For more information or to book visit https://www.alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar/alila-experience/introduction-via-ferrata. [traveltextonline.com]