The Ritz-Carlton swings into Hainan Island with first golf resort in China

Posted in News on 18 January, 2017

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has teed off 2017 with the opening of its first golf resort in China, ideally located in the golfer’s paradise of Hainan Island. The Ritz-Carlton, Haikou ushers in a new era of luxury leisure experiences, situated on the world-class golf resort of Mission Hills which boasts ten 18-hole championship courses designed by golf’s greatest architects.

“Hainan Island is one of the most exciting emerging destinations in Asia-Pacific today. With our partners, Mission Hills Group, we have created one of the most immersive golf and leisure travel experiences anywhere in the world,” said Hervé Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “The island is rich in culture and off-the-beaten track experiences that reflects a China many have not seen, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to travel and explore.”

Located in Hainan Island, often called the Hawaii of China, the 175-room, 16-suite hotel enjoys year-round tropical sunshine for perfect days on the legendary 350-acre Blackstone Course that weaves its way around the world-renowned Mission Hills Golf Club. Built on top of a bedrock of ancient lava from extinct volcanos, the dramatic landscape features rocky outcrops with striking variations of jungle vegetation, expansive lakes and wetlands which can be viewed from every room.

The Ritz-Carlton, Haikou pays homage to the heritage of golf throughout. The architects AECOM, with interior designers HBA Los Angeles, have playfully created a design reminiscent of an elegant golf clubhouse. Guestrooms feature fabrics and patterns inspired by vintage golf elements, ensuring no two spaces are alike. Wall panels and light fixtures incorporate stitching that evokes handmade golf shoes, while antique leathers make references to a vintage golf bag. Tartan flooring remind guests of Scotland, the birthplace of golf.

Stories of holes won or lost can be enjoyed at sunset on the private patio of the hotel’s rooftop Flair Bar which overlooks the golf course. Cocktails feature local fruits, including lychees from the ancient trees that dot the grounds of Mission Hills. A Scottish bagpiper’s lament signals the end the day, or if you prefer, salutes the triumphs of the day, before dinner in Flair’s private dining room which offers a selection of single-malt whiskies and cigars.