Aitken Spence Hotels to elevate Rainforest Ecolodge as global model of sustainable tourism

Friday, 6 September 2024 00:51 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s leading hospitality chain, Aitken Spence Hotels, announced this week its latest venture: the takeover of the management of Rainforest Ecolodge, the first classified ecolodge in the country.

This partnership is more than just a management agreement; and represents a continuation of a visionary legacy and a profound commitment to sustainable tourism and innovative hospitality solutions.

Rainforest Ecolodge is a unique tourism project initiated by industry stakeholders and similar investors, spearheaded by the respected industry stalwart Prema Cooray. This initiative was also part of a USAID-sponsored study aimed at positioning Sri Lanka as a global leader in eco-friendly hospitality. The lodge exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between development and environmental stewardship, enhancing the destination’s biodiversity and community.

The lodge, which holds the prestigious LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum certification, is a trailblazer in the hospitality industry. It is the first hotel in Sri Lanka, fourth in Asia, and fifth in the world to receive this accolade, reflecting its unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability. The property features 20 eco-chalets ingeniously constructed from reclaimed shipping containers and decks made from repurposed railway sleepers, demonstrating a commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while providing guests with a unique blend of comfort and eco-consciousness.

Nestled discreetly within the expansive 500-acre Enselwatte Tea Estate in Deniyaya, bordering the Sinharaja Rainforest, the Rainforest Ecolodge offers a serene, off-grid haven of tranquillity. Guests can experience complete seclusion and total immersion in the lush, wildlife-rich surroundings. The ecolodge boasts picturesque treks and trails leading to hidden waterfalls, guided by knowledgeable resident naturalists, ensuring a truly immersive and educational experience.

Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC Jt. Deputy Chairperson and Jt. Managing Director Stasshani Jayawardena, shared her enthusiasm for this partnership, stating: “Welcoming Rainforest Ecolodge into the Aitken Spence family of properties marks a significant step in the journey towards sustainable tourism. In line with Aitken Spence Hotels’ commitment to eco-friendly practices, the goal is to integrate this rich biodiversity into the guest experience, fostering a deep appreciation for nature in its most pristine form. The ultimate objective is to reinforce a dedication to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, ensuring that guests leave with a profound respect for the environment and a lasting impression of its untouched splendour.”

The Company invites all nature enthusiasts and green advocates to visit Rainforest Ecolodge for an enriching experience, featuring insightful educational treks and immersive learning opportunities.

The Ecolodge aims to provide a unique hospitality experience that highlights the area’s diverse ecosystem while minimising environmental impact and supporting the local community. The partnership with Aitken Spence Hotels is focused on elevating the lodge to new heights of excellence, leveraging Aitken Spence’s industry expertise to enhance and reposition Rainforest Ecolodge as a premier eco-tourism destination and a global eco-tourism model.