The Fortress Hotel is perhaps the grandest hotel in Sri Lanka of all. Owned by reputedly the richest family in Sri Lanka, it is part of the Per Aquum group of resorts, who also have a large presence in the Maldives and the Seychelles. The Fortress only opened its doors in 2007 and has certainly started with a bang, often being fully booked (especially for weddings and large functions) despite the negative news coming out of the Sri Lankan tourism industry.
The hotel is in a glorious location, set right on the Indian Ocean seaside and close to Koggala Lake, about a 20 minute drive from Galle. What sets apart the hotel from many of its competitors is not just its location, though, but its magnificent architecture and ambience, both outside and inside. We don’t often like to quote off a hotel’s own website, but in this case they have it spot on: More »
Written by Antonella on May 4th, 2011 | Comments Off
Filed under Ayurveda, Beach Holidays, Hotels, Luxury, Luxury Travel, Sri Lanka, Tea, Tips
This fabulous beachside property 7km from Galle certainly lives up to its name. Ambalama means ‘resting place’ in Sinhalese and it is an ideal villa in which to live out dreams of a relaxing tropical holiday. The construction of the villa celebrates its exotic location, seamlessly merging the indoors with the out. Highlighted by many fascinating antique pillars and doorways this villa may takes its inspiration from Bali, but its warm hospitality and glorious setting confirms its authenticity as Sri Lankan.
Ambalama offers plenty of luxe for the traveller. Its four equitable bedrooms are highlighted by comfortable four-poster beds adorned with the highest thread count linen to be found in Sri Lanka. With multiple sets of doors opening onto the front sea view verandah, louvers provide the rooms with enough of a breeze for you to hardly ever need to use the air conditioning or fan, although both are available. With two of the modern bathrooms featuring an enclosed open air shower surrounded by a soothing tropical garden, this is barefoot luxury at its best. More »
Written by Antonella on November 8th, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Beach Holidays, Ceylon, Cuisine, Galle Fort, Luxury, Luxury Travel, Tips, Villas
Some people like to travel to experience new adventures; to get out of their comfort zones. Then again, there are those who expect only the most luxurious things on vacation. If you belong to the second type of traveler, and you are looking for only the finest, I should let you know all about Serene Pavilions.
I have to thank one of our readers, Richard, for bringing my attention to this resort. Serene Pavilions can be found at No. 20, Upali Mawatha, Wadduwa, Sri Lanka; and it promises you one of the most luxurious experiences you’ll ever have in your life. It is considered a boutique hotel with 12 pavilions.
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Written by georgie on April 18th, 2010 | 2 Comments »
Filed under Beach Holidays, Boutique Hotels, Ceylon, Luxury, Luxury Travel
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.
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Written by Antonella on April 29th, 2009 | Comments Off
Filed under Aman Hotels, Beach Holidays, Eco-friendly, Hotels, Sri Lanka, Tangallle
For families looking for an unforgettable beach or lakeside holiday, the South Point Villas come highly recommended for their superb service, food, location and comfort.
Luxurious yet simple, South Point Villas are comprised of three properties, all with it’s own swimming pool, each with its own special charm. The South Point Villa on the beach is the largest, has three bedrooms and is the most elegant, adorned with period furniture and all the mod cons, including wireless internet. If rustic charm is more your style, try the South Point Abbey, an old Dutch house restored lovingly with two bedrooms, a study, and an infinity pool with jacuzzi. And lastly, those seeking complete privacy, the South Point Cottage on the banks of Koggala Lake has been called the perfect place for writers to be inspired! With expansive views of hills and the tranquil lake, this cozy retreat is in close proximity to a the charming local village and Buddhist temple.
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Written by Antonella on February 13th, 2009 | Comments Off
Filed under Beach Holidays, Charity, Galle Fort, Hotels, Luxury, Villas
