Virginia, US-based Salamander Hotels and Resorts (SHR) has been selected to operate the 176-suite Sanctuary Cap Cana resort in the Dominican Republic with immediate effect.

The property, owned by Corporacion Hotelera Internacional (CHI), will join the operator's Grand Resorts of Cap Cana collection alongside Fishing Lodge and Ocean Club.

Facilities at Sanctuary Cap Cana include a 20,000sq ft (1,858sq m) spa, with three treatment rooms in the main spa building and a further six exterior private spa suites.

Other spa facilities include a thermal hydrotherapy circuit with a sauna and steam bath; cold rain showers; a whirlpool; a cold plunge bath; a swimming pool; and a tubular air lounger.

Outdoor relaxation gardens; a fitness centre; a yoga and Pilates studio; a beauty boutique; a juice bar; and a full-service salon also feature as part of the resort's spa.

Elsewhere at Sanctuary Cap Cana are five restaurants and bars; swimming pools; the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf experience at Punta Espada Golf Club and meeting space.

SHR chief executive officer Sheila C Johnson said: "The Sanctuary is one of the most stunning hotels in the Caribbean and is a jewel of the Dominican Republic."

CHI Juan Pelayo added: "The Sanctuary is a very special resort and provides the type of luxury experience which is rare to find."