Sanctum Inle debuts on Myanmar Lake
Sanctum Inle will debut on 1 October 2016 on the shores of Myanmar’s Inle Lake.
The resort, designed by Brigitte Dumont de Chassart, flaunts architectural flourishes that invoke monastic traditions, such as Spanish-style arches and minimalist, modern room designs. New features also include an Olympic-sized swimming pool overlooking the lake, a presidential Sanctuary Suite and The Refectory restaurant that combines both Shan and international cuisine.
“In a region long closed off to the wider world, we’re opening the doors on an experience of accommodation that celebrates removal and contemplation,” says Philippe Arnaud, the resort’s general manager. “Our location invites this sort of mind-set, and our design does, as well.”
The 94-room resort offers four room categories, including a pair of suites with full vistas of the lake, and a window looking out on markets, pagodas and stupas. While the rooms range in size from 40-150 m2, all feature lofty ceilings, natural wood floors, plush beds, air-conditioning and cable TV.
The Refectory offers a full complement of Shan and Western dishes, while Cloister Bar boasts a selection of Myanmar-brewed beers, international wines and Cuban and Dominican cigars. Meanwhile, the resort’s Chapter House is a quiet venue with books and board games that can be transformed into a meeting space.
Totalling 170m2, Sanctuary Spa is home to five treatment rooms and offers a multitude of therapies including its signature Tamarind Scrub with tamarind harvested from the property, as well as hot stone massages and facials. In addition to the saltwater swimming pool, the hotel will also feature a fully-equipped gym.
At 120km2 and 800m above sea level, Inle Lake is renowned for its stilted wooden homes, floating vegetable gardens and fishermen, who propel their boats across the water with a singular, one-legged rowing style. To encourage exploration of the area, the resort’s team has developed eight tours ranging from a half-day cycling excursion to Red Mountain Estate winery to a full-day trip to Kakku’s ancient temples.
