Amanwella Hotel, Sri Lanka
Located on the sun-baked coast of Sri Lanka, near the fishing town of Tangalle, the stunning Amanwella is a gem, hidden by 27 acres of coconut trees and warm, golden sand.
190km south of Colombo, the hotel’s exterior and guest suites are inspired by the famed Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa; combining modernist lines and unique materials, the entire space is flooded with light, with suites opening up too private plunge pools and terraces that overlook the Indian Ocean. Just 3.5km from the seaside community of Tangalle, the hotel is close to temple visits and tea plantations, all just a small part of Sri Lanka’s unique and rich heritage.
Aside from the palm-shaded beach club and 47 metre pool, the terracotta-roofed suites feature hand-hewn stone walls and terrazzo floors, with floor-to-ceiling glass and lattice panels opening on two sides to a private courtyard, a terrace and a six-metre pool. Living and sleeping quarters are divided by large sliding doors and a number of suites are large enough to accommodate a large group or family.
The restaurant boasts beautiful views and offers a wonderful blend of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, emphasising on local seafood. The lounge bar is open until 11pm, is close to the restaurant and serves drinks, snacks and cigars.
Perhaps the greatest joy of a holiday so far away from home, is the ability to truly get away and de-stress. The relaxation and fitness at Amanwella is exemplary, with guided meditation yoga sessions, an 800 metre beach for snorkelling and long walks as well as surfing and nature walks that involves local wildlife like monkey, deer, birds and lizards.
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