Accommodation
All 30 suites at Amanwella – the Pool Suites and the Pool Ocean Suites – are identical in layout and design and fall into two categories based on their location and views. Suites are linked by pathways and are interspersed along the hillside. Most are within comfortable walking distance and a small resort vehicle is available for transport to the more elevated levels. The suites are contemporary in design yet blending local material and styles like the distinctive terracotta roof tiles and hand-hewn stonewalls. The suites open on both sides letting in cooling sea breezes. The floor-to-ceiling glass and latticed panels form two sides of the dwelling, one opening onto a private walled-in courtyard and pool. The terrace side affords open views. The private pool measures six by four metres and the courtyard features a banquette for lounging and dining. Timber sliding doors and panels reveal the interior spaces of the suite. There is a combined sleeping and living room with a king-size bed, writing desk, armchair, and a credenza featuring a personal bar with refreshments. Sliding screens divide this area from the open-plan bathroom featuring a freestanding bathtub, twin vanities, dressing area, shower and toilet. Access to the spacious terrace is again via sliding doors from the living areas and the bathroom. The terrace includes a dining table with two chairs and a double sun lounge. Terrazzo floors are finished in muted, sandy tones that reflect the beach setting. Pool Suites:Situated mostly on the hillside, the Pool suites enjoy varying views of the coconut grove and ocean. Here three sets of suites share an outdoor terrace and connecting doors. These are ideal for families or couples traveling together. Ocean Pool Suites:Ocean pool suites are situated on the lower levels of the hill and enjoy uninterrupted views of the coconut grove and beach. They are identical in design to the Pool suites and are only differentiated by their location. Most are freestanding, although two sets of pool ocean suites share an outdoor terrace and connecting door. These are ideal for families or couples traveling together. Facilities
Amanwella’s courtyards, reflecting pools, sun terraces all add to a tranquil and relaxing ambience. The restaurant, perched eight metres above sea level, offers stunning views across the pool towards the coconut grove and beach. Inside the restaurant, doors open onto an internal courtyard landscaped with frangipani trees and reflecting pools. The cuisine is Asian and Mediterranean with an emphasis on local seafood from the Indian Ocean. Adjacent to the restaurant is the lounge and bar which also enjoys panoramic views. Here drinks and light lunches are served along with exotic sundowners. A selection of cigars and post-prandial drinks is also available until late. The Terrace adjacent to the swimming pool is ideal for alfresco dining. During the day, simple lunches as well as fresh young coconuts and local fruit are served. In the evening guests can dine on antipasti and home-style dishes while relaxing on the day beds and bolsters. Located close to the beachfront, amidst coconut trees and away from the main building, is the Beach Club providing an alternative venue for lunch and private dinners. The menu here includes simple Asian salads, Mediterranean classics using the local seafood, granitas and freshly churned ice cream. Seafood is cooked over a coconut charcoal barbeque and served with garden fresh salads and local relishes. Amanwella’s unique, rectangular 45-metre infinity swimming pool is spectacular. Sun loungers are available on two terraces and there are changing rooms with private outdoor showers. There is a library with a variety of books on Sri Lankan history, arts, culture and wildlife, magazines, newspapers, audio CDs and board games as well as a gift shop selling Sri Lankan artifacts, jewellery, textiles and antiques. Internet access is available at the library. Excursions
Tangalle and the surrounding areas are renowned for its superb unspoiled and undeveloped beaches but there are other attractions nearby, including Yala National Park, one of the largest national parks in the island where elephant and leopard can be seen, a short 90-minute drive away. Sinharaja Rainforest, a magnificent strip of virgin rainforest now protected by UNESCO, also provides for a rewarding day out. |
