Crowne Plaza Resort Petra opens gateway to Jordan's rose red city as old as time

The rebranding of the former Petra Forum Hotel follows a multi-million dollar renovation programme spanning almost three years. It has created a landmark hotel property, the first in Petra - Jordan's "rose red city as old as time" - to carry an international brand name and the first to offer guests upscale service and facilities.

Managed by Six Continents Hotels, the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra becomes the tenth Crowne Plaza hotel in the Middle East and Africa. Two more new Crowne Plaza properties open in Egypt and Lebanon in the next few months.

The Crowne Plaza Resort Petra enjoys a superb location adjacent to the entrance of the world famous archaeological site of Petra, which dates back aproximately 3,000 years. Just a short stroll from the resort are Petra's remarkable tombs and temples, built by the ancient Nabataeans. The Visitors' Centre is only steps away, and the hotel gives superb views of the dramatic Petra landscape from its pool terrace.

Among the resort's biggest assets are 31 completely renovated and re-opened 'Hillside Chalets', which have immediately become the most sought after rooms in Petra. Tucked into the Petra rockface and overlooking the main entrance to the site, they have been elegantly refurbished to the highest standards and are connected by a series of terraced walkways.

Expanded and renovated, the resort's 178 deluxe rooms, some with private terraces, are elegantly designed in harmony with their stunning setting overlooking the Petra valley. Natural woods, marble tops and hand made mosaics are complimented by stylish lighting and large mirrors which create an impression of space and light. Marble bathrooms with mosaic motif add to the local and historical flavour

Room facilities include direct-dial telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, trouser press, bathroom scales, mini-bar, satellite TV with movie channels, and in-room safes.

The hotel now offers the widest and most unique selection of food and beverage outlets in Petra. The Basin Restaurant is located inside the Old City, the unique and unusual 'Cave Bar' is set in a 2,000 year old Nabatean tomb carved out of the rock face and furnished with locally designed and built wrought iron chairs and tables, while the main building contains an evening cocktail lounge with dance floor and two other restaurants.

Now heated for year-round swimming, the hotel's outdoor pool has been joined by a swedish sauna, while the tennis court, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, and a children's playground, have been extended. The quality of the hotel's recreational and leisure facilities are heightened by its many acres of landscaped gardens which create a superb resort setting in this magical and timeless region.

Situated in the heart of South Jordan, the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra is the perfect base for visitors to discover many of the historical features which make Jordan such a unique travel destination.

The Castle of Shobak is just a 20-minute drive away. Day trips can include visits to the nature reserves of Wadi Rum and Wadi Dana, the Neolithic village of Beidha, the first ever-recorded human settlement, and the coral reefs of Aqaba, attracting divers from around the world.

Like all Crowne Plaza properties, the resort offers a complete meetings package, "Meeting Success", for organisers of conferences, conventions, meetings, and other corporate occasions. The Araba Meeting room, and excellent outside catering services, can help to create a stunning impression and a memorable event.

The Crowne Plaza Resort Petra offers several shops, its own museum, an internet room and ample parking, along with 24 hour room service, laundry and valet services. A shoe shine boy, and an Arabic coffee man, are permanently on standby in the lobby.