Beachside Luxury at Amanwella

The last time we wrote about the Aman Resorts was back in 2009, and till now our awe at this super luxurious group of hotel resorts hasn’t diminished. The Aman group continues to not only open one spectacular hotel property after another, but also manages to keep their “old” resorts and hotel at the top of the luxury list all over the world.

Our review of the Amangalla was definitely positive, but we have failed to extol the equally luxurious Amanwella, a seaside resort that is the epitome of opulence.

Courtyard at Amanwella

Amanwella, is a beachfront resort that boasts of 30 contemporary suites all with its very own private walled-in entry courtyard that features a plunge pool and banquette, as well as individual terraces with open views. Each suite is reminiscent of Sri Lanka’s famous architect, Geoffrey Bawas, style; seamlessly meshing Western modern sensibilities with his country’s culture and style.

The suite's private terrace at Amanwella

A visit to Amanwella will also find you not lacking in things to do since they can arrange special activities for you from the sedate to the more adventurous kind. You can relax and get a spa treatment anywhere in the resort, from your suite to a secluded garden in their coconut grove, or you can opt to get wet while whale watching in Mirissa Harbour, which is a mere 90 minute drive from Amanwella. Food lovers can also not just taste, but learn how to cook authentic Sri Lankan meals courtesy of the resort’s in-house chefs. Of course, you can also just do the usual things you would do on a beach resort, from sunbathing to snorkelling and surfing.

A visit to Amanwella will set you back at least $400 per night during off-peak seasons. A substantial amount that anyone who’s ever stayed in this resort will tell you is worth every penny you spend.

Amanwella: A Chic and Modern Beach Retreat

amanwella

In our opinion, there are few hotels more luxurious than those of the Aman group, and luckily in Sri Lanka, you have a choice of two fantastically luxe places to visit. Previously, we talked about the colonial-inspired gem that is Amangalla in Galle Fort, and now we bring you another slice of Aman-heaven, this time in minimalist splendor on the pristine beaches of Tangalle.

Guests staying at Amanwella will enjoy the way the modern design blends seamlessly with the eco-friendly surroundings (think of sea turtles, waterfalls and coconut groves) creating a comfortable feeling of tranquility with stone, timber and clay touches.

The restaurant, for instance, is perched eight-meters above sea level and thus has excellent views toward the ocean and the coconut trees by the idyllic pool. Inside there is also a grass-covered courtyard awash with frangipani trees and reflecting pools – the perfect setting for a meal any time of day. If al fresco dining is more your style, you can also opt to dine in the Beach Club area, where homemade churned ice cream and coconut charcoal barbecues are a specialty.
More »

Amangalla: Luxury in Galle Fort

Amangalla

Perhaps one of the most luxurious places to stay in Sri Lanka, Amangalla is an oasis of colonial refinement in charming Galle Fort. Unlike most of the Aman group’s properties which have a resort-like feel, Amangalla is decidedly a town hotel, where the visitor can experience the architectural splendor of yesteryear first hand.

Previously the New Oriental Hotel, the building has always been of historical significance to the town of Galle, founded in 1885 by the Sarkie Brothers, the Malay (of Armenian origin) hoteliers who built the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore.

Amangalla has respected, down to the finest detail, the heritage and natural appeal of its legendary predecessor by skilfully unveiling and restoring original features, furnishing the polished jack-wood floors with fine antiques and period-styled reproductions, the culmination of which reflects an ambiance of a bygone era. More »

Splashpress