Luxury Hotel Destinations in Sri Lanka

Beachside Haven, Tea Estate Retreat, Sumptious Fort Hotel & More

Feb 22, 2009

Sri Lanka boasts a number of upmarket and unique hotels for the discerning globetrotter. Current trends show an increase in boutique hotels catering to wealthy tourists.

The local hotel industry is tapping into global trends towards eco tourism and boutique destinations. Affluent travellers appreciate hotels that exude ambience either in terms of cutting edge design or historical references in the case of older hotels. Following is a list of some premier Sri Lankan hotels that offer maximum pampering and indulgence for their guests:

A number of the island's best hotels are located within or near the historic Dutch Fort in Galle, southern Sri Lanka. The Fortress, a luxury resort developed by the Maldivian Per Aquum group, is one of these. It has just under 50 rooms. Facilities include a full service spa, yoga pavillion and fitness centre. Room style is modern retro and includes such luxuries as Bose home theatres and individual espresso machines.

This is the revamped former New Oriental Hotel located within the Galle Fort. Previously a tired colonial hotel in dire need of renovation, Amangalla is now owned by international chain Amanresorts and has been sumptiously refurbised by Australian architect Kerry Hill. It's contemporary classic decor pays homage to the hotel's colonial history.

Understated luxury and privacy is what this small complex is about. 30 traditional wooden bungalow style suites face a crescent shaped, coconut palm fringed beach. Rooms are modern and include plunge pools, private terraces and freestanding tubs.

This little gem is located on 7 acres of secluded forestland. As the hotel's name suggests, it's a house with just 5 private suites with verandhas. The atmosphere is one of tranquility and relaxation.

The Light House's imposing design was the one of the last achievements of the late Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's greatest architect. This is a large resort with spacious rooms and suites all of which overlook the Indian Ocean. Relaxing in the first class spa, rainforest excursions and exploring the nearby Galle Fort are some of the activities you could indulge in.

This comprises of 4 plantation bungalows spread over a valley high up in Sri Lanka's remote hill country. Each bungalow is divided into a number of suites or can be booked entirely by one party. The decor is mix of contemporary and colonial style. The all inclusive rate includes bed tea, four course dinner and late night cocktails. Outdoor activities include kayaking,mountain climbing and tours of the tea estate and factory.

Yet another masterpiece by late architect Geoffrey Bawa, Kandalama is located near Dambulla, central Sri Lanka. This area is known for its historic buddhist temples and archaelogical sites. The hotel itself is unobtrusive, snaking along a steep cliff face. It's the view from within towards the surrounding jungle and Kandalama lake that makes this hotel remarkable and a feat of eco-architecture.

Literally your very own island retreat, Taprobane Island was created in the 1920's by a French pseudo-aristocrat and later inhabited by literary figure Paul Bowles. The 5 bedroom house, perched on a rocky outcrop in Weligama Bay, rents as a whole. It's romance is enhanced by the fact that it can only be reached by a short wade into the sea or on elephant back during high tide.

These are just a few of Sri Lanka's growing number of exotic hotels and retreats. Tablet Hotels is a good source of information on these and other boutique destinations on the island.

The copyright of the article Luxury Hotel Destinations in Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka Travel is owned by Varunika Ruwanpura. Permission to republish Luxury Hotel Destinations in Sri Lanka in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.