Hilton recently announced the opening of Hilton Santa Marta, the brand’s second hotel on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the contemporary 261-room property is within walking distance from the beach. It is also located near the mountains of Sierra Nevada and the ancient ruins of Tayrona National Natural Park.
“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 Hilton Caribbean and Latin America senior vice president and head of operations Jorge Giannattasio in a press release.
“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,” he added.
The hotel is just eight miles from Santa Marta’s historical downtown and four miles from Simon Bolivar International Airport. The first Spanish settlement established in 1525, Santa Marta is the gateway to Tayrona National Natural Park. The park is a natural reserve with more than 37,000 acres of white-sand beaches with crystalline waters nestled against a lush, hillside forest.
The hotel’s main entrance features a water mirror made of Tayrona stone and a façade composed of a metal structure. The design allows seamless integration of the interior with the exterior through a harmonious passage of natural light.
The hotel’s design concept spans the guest room corridors. Their decoration has woodwork engraved by local artisans and also showcases the area’s diverse marine wildlife, including manta rays, lionfish, and turtles. Spacious guest rooms offer balconies with ocean or mountain views, ample closet space, and a large shower.
Dining Experiences
For those seeking more spacious accommodations, suites with a separate living area with a sofa bed allow travelers to spread out, notably the Ocean Front Suite Terrace and its oversized furnished balcony with a hot tub, sizeable living room, and spacious dining room.
Hilton Santa Marta offers five culinary concepts. They showcase local cuisine and international flavors, with restaurant names honoring the native Arhuaco language.
Nuggu Restaurant and Bar pays homage to Colombia’s rich history with Latin soul food and authentic Caribbean Creole dishes. Guests can also stop by for a cocktail or glass of wine throughout the day.
Located on the second floor near the hotel’s spa and fitness center, Waku, or “fish” in Arhuaco, serves a selection of seafood, including the catch of the day, in a vibrant atmosphere.
Guests lounging by the pool can enjoy a casual globally-inspired lunch. They can also enjoy refreshing drinks honoring local fruits at the pool bar Uzu.
The highest rooftop lounge and bar in the city, Sikunu, or “slingshot,” is located on the hotel’s 16th floor. The Creole menu honors prehispanic cultures and is based on the flowers of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Also, signature cocktails are inspired by the Arhuaco, including clove and aniseed maceration.
Guests can enjoy the beach and the famous Santa Marta sunset from the hotel’s beach club.
Entertainment
Whether traveling for business or leisure, Hilton Santa Marta offers a range of activities for all ages. Guests can soak up the sun at the beach club or the family pool on the second floor. For breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Colombia’s Caribbean coast, head to Sikunu Sky Bar, the highest rooftop bar in the city, to enjoy the infinity adults-only pool or relax in the hot tub. Later this year, the hotel will introduce a Kids’ Club. A spa with six treatment rooms, a beauty salon, and an exclusive lounge for Hilton Honors members and suite guests will also be offered soon.
Whether hosting a meeting or a social event, the hotel offers more than 11,000 square feet of flexible event space. This includes eight meeting rooms and a ballroom that can hold up to 450 guests. In addition, the hotel has a terrace on the 16th floor for outdoor events.
