Tucked in coconut groves, fringed by fine sands, Sri Lanka luxury resorts offer traditional décor and modern comfort in lush tropical settings. The drive from the airport is soon forgotten when guests step into these peaceful oases, lulled by the sound of waves and the breeze rustling through the palms. Sunsets are spectacular.
Sri Lanka Aman Wella Hotel
Located on a secluded crescent beach near Tangalle, the Amanwella is a contemporary hotel where muted colours enhance relaxation. All 30 suites have plunge pool and terrace, combined living and sleeping space, and bathroom with twin vanities and separate shower. Guests can choose hillside or ocean suites.
The restaurant serves Asian and Mediterranean cuisine and has seating on two levels plus outdoors. There is a panoramic lounge and bar, pool terrace for al fresco dining, library, boutique and spa with treatments based on local herbs, flowers and plants.
The Amanwella is close to the National Park and turtle nesting grounds. High waves can make swimming difficult in summer.
Sri Lanka Taj Exotica
Ninety km from the airport, the Taj Exotica, Bentota, is set in lush landscaped gardens. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with garden or sea view, partial or uninterrupted. The Orchid Rooms on the 6th floor have Asian furnishings in vibrant colours and the Presidential Suite has a private Jacuzzi for VIP indulgence.
The Taj Exotica offers a choice of bars and restaurants, casual or formal, serving Asian or international cuisine. Guests can enjoy elephant rides and cultural shows. The Jiva Spa has open verandas where Ayurveda and Indian aromatherapy massage are available.
Sri Lanka Eden Resort
The Eden Resort and Spa, Beruwela, claims 158 rooms and suites with king or twin beds. Superior rooms open out on gardens and pool while the spacious Paradise Deluxe rooms have a balcony with sea view and a four-poster bed. The Paradise suites offer in–room dining and butler service and the rooftop penthouses add panoramic views and private sundeck.
Three restaurants provide a choice of Sri Lankan, Chinese and international cuisine from the casual Chameleon Café to the Garden of Eden, reputed for its sumptuous buffets and themed evenings, or the elegant Temptation, Eden’s signature restaurant. There is a shopping arcade and a spa and Ayurveda centre. Water sports are available in the nearby Confifi Marina (free shuttle), including windsurfing and diving. The Eden Resort caters for weddings and honeymoons.
Sri Lanka Hotel Mount Lavinia
Just 12 km from Colombo, Mount Lavinia is the romantic escape per excellence, once the love nest of British Governor Maitland and a local dancing girl. Today the hotel remains an integral part of Sri Lanka’s heritage, combining colonial architecture with modern amenities. Most of the 275 rooms have balcony and sea view, among them the luxurious Governor’s Wing Room and Suites.
Dining includes the Seafood Cove and the 24 hour Governor’s Restaurant serving traditional Asian and western cuisines. Quoted by Newsweek as one of ‘the world’s best gathering places’, the Terrace is the perfect spot to watch the sunset while indulging in the Governor’s high tea or sipping a specialty cocktail aptly named Dancing Lavinia.
