Farah Shammas: Renovated St Raphael Resort is entering a new era of luxury and sustainability

The five-star St Raphael Resort & Marina has entered a new era, undertaking a series of renovations aimed at further enhancing the guest experience and blending timeless elegance with the new age of luxury hospitality.

The changes include, among other things, updates to both the exterior and interior design of the hotel, upgrades to the culinary offering, and the implementation of sustainable and green practices.

Speaking to InBusinessNews, Farah Shammas, Managing Director of St Raphael Resort & Marina, explains that this year’s renovations mark a new era of luxury and sustainability.

“For over 38 years, St Raphael Resort & Marina has stood as a beacon of hospitality in Cyprus, offering guests a blend of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service.

In 2025, we began a journey of transformation to further elevate our guests’ experience, introducing a series of renovations that seamlessly combine contemporary luxury with sustainability,” she said.

Fresh look with glass balconies and panoramic views

One of the most striking changes involves the brand-new exterior of the resort, with glass balconies replacing the iconic, ornate stone structures that had adorned the hotel for nearly four decades.

The new balconies not only modernise the resort’s appearance but also offer uninterrupted sea views, enhancing the overall guest experience.

“The transformation highlights our beautiful stone façade and unique architectural style, offering a fresh, contemporary look while preserving the resort’s timeless charm,” notes Shammas.

New kitchens, menus, and a pastry revolution

As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering an elevated culinary experience, the hotel has introduced exciting new menu concepts.

“Our culinary team has taken innovation to the next level, creating refined dishes that cater to a variety of palates,” emphasises Shammas, highlighting the expansion of the pastry team as a standout feature. This expanded team is redefining the art of dessert with impressive designs and delightful creations.

Looking ahead to summer 2025, the resort is also launching a specialty burger joint, offering gourmet creations in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Additionally, Seashells—the hotel’s and Cyprus’ only 100% vegan restaurant—will be enriching its flavourful menu for vegans, further promoting healthy living and sustainable food choices.

A refined lobby experience

Guests now enjoy an enhanced experience and refreshed layout in the hotel lobby, designed to ensure seamless comfort and service.

“Whether arriving for a stay or simply stopping by, visitors can enjoy tea throughout the day, while the lobby serves as a welcoming space for relaxation and connection,” says Shammas.

Sustainability at the heart of the hotel

Beyond the visually impressive upgrades, the luxury hotel has also invested in sustainable practices aligned with its commitment to eco-friendly hospitality.

Initiatives include, among others, new UV-protection panels in the lobby to enhance energy efficiency; energy-efficient kitchen equipment that reduces environmental impact; advanced inventory software to streamline operations and minimise waste; the replacement of printed materials with interactive digital displays at the hotel entrance; more drinking water stations providing guests with easy access to fresh water while reducing plastic waste; and the achievement of ISO 14000 certification—a significant milestone in the resort’s sustainability journey.

Enhanced connectivity and entertainment

Guests will also benefit from upgraded WiFi across all outdoor areas, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the resort.

In addition, the entertainment programs have been refreshed to offer more engaging and dynamic experiences for all ages.

“The three Atrium Conference Rooms—ideal for both local and international business gatherings—have been upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment, taking the meeting experience to the next level,” notes Shammas.

At the same time, the hotel continues to set an example of how even large resorts can reduce their environmental footprint, with all small single-use toiletry bottles in guest bathrooms now replaced by sustainably sourced products in eco-friendly packaging.

Timeless Hospitality and Luxury

The renovations at St Raphael Resort & Marina mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter, where contemporary elegance meets sustainability and innovation.

“Whether relaxing on the brand-new glass balcony, indulging in exquisite pastries and modern high-tech comforts, or exploring the resort’s new culinary concepts, guests can expect an upgraded experience like never before,” Shammas concluded.