Yalong Bay in Sanya on Hainan Island, is set to be the home of the first Grand Mercure resort in the country when the Grand Mercure Yalong Bay, Sanya opens late 2007.

Part of a lush 133-acre site directly across from Yalong Bay Beach, the resort is adjacent to the National Mangrove Nature Reserve and overlooks Yalong Bay Golf Course.

Grand Mercure Yalong Bay, Sanya will feature 120 tropical style villas each with private plunge pools and spacious interior designs measuring between 70sqm to 300sqm.

An additional 80 suites will be part of a cluster of low-rise building that will also include the resort's public areas.

This very exclusive and private resort will also feature an extensive Spa and Wellness treatment centre, swimming pool, fitness and recreational centre, plus one multi-purpose meeting area. Guests will be able to enjoy the best of Grand Mercure's renowned food and beverage service with two restaurants and two bars to choose from.

Almost half way across the world on the same 21-degree latitude, Hainan is quickly developing a reputation as China's Hawaii. With its pristine white sand beaches, tropical blue waters and a lush green interior Hainan is a dream destination for leisure travellers. Sanya is the marquee beach resort on the island, know for its beaches, coconut palms, ubiquitous seafood restaurants and water sports.

Accor Asia Pacific Managing Director Mr Michael Issenberg said Grand Mercure was poised to become one of the fastest-growing 4? - 5 star luxury hotel brands in Asia with a diverse collection of new resorts and city hotels.

"We are very excited to announce Grand Mercure Yalong Bay, Sanya as the first of what we hope will be a fast growing collection of luxury resorts in prime leisure destinations around Asia," Mr Issenberg said.

"Accor is preparing to launch Grand Mercure resorts in other Asian beach destinations, and we also have just announced the addition of Grand Mercure Suites in Bangkok. We expect Grand Mercure Yalong Bay, Sanya to attract considerable interest from both domestic Chinese and intra-regional leisure travellers looking for new beach destinations. The rapid increase of low-cost carriers both in mainland China and around the region, combined with Hainan's two international airports, make it a natural choice as a new island get away.

"When it opens late 2007, Grand Mercure Yalong Bay, Sanya will join Sofitel Boa and the soon to open Sofitel Fizi Hainan as Accor's third hotel in Hainan, building on Accor's already substantial presence on the island."

Accor currently manages 16 Grand Mercure hotels and resorts around Asia Pacific, with another seven Grand Mercures committed to development and opening before the end of 2007.