GBP
Amanwella
PRICE: Worth maxing out for
If ever there was a hotel designed to front a postcard this would be it. Without doubt, Amanwella, in Tangalle, is the leading luxury beach hotel in Sri Lanka. Located about 20 minutes from Tangalle on an almost private beach, Amanwella is the ultimate place to recuperate after a blistering tour of Sri Lanka or to jet into to escape the rat race of the daily grind.
As always with Aman, the minimalistic trademark shines through. Understated elegance is found in spades at this luxury Tangalle hotel. A refreshing wander through the modernist air-conditioned library leaves the main restaurant on one side and the sunken bar and lounge on the other. Both sit high above the main pool overlooking the crescent-shaped bay in the distance. Down on the sand, the beach club restaurant is lit by flaming torches in the evenings, with the sublime smells of the barbecue wafting on the evening breeze.
Inspired by modernist Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, the suites are constructed from stone, timber and clay tiles of local origin. Each opens onto a private plunge pool.
The suites are situated in a tasteful blend of contemporary pavilions, nestled amongst the coconut palms, in a crescent shape facing the ocean. The oversized rooms, complete with their own plunge pools, are every bit as perfect as you would expect. Textures of wood, marble and fabric are woven together to offer a soft and intimate environment.
The suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors on both sides, one side opening to an entrance courtyard with private plunge pool, the other to an expansive terrace with twin sun loungers, a dining table and chairs, and views of the coconut grove, beach and ocean.
Inside, there are sliding hardwood screens between the bedroom and bathroom, allowing for the full room to be opened up to create a huge area. And lest we forget the loo… the throne looks out through a full-height glass panel over the swaying palms and the beach and the crashing waves beyond. It’s the best seat in the house!
The main pool is firmly established in our Instagram Pools category. The infinity edge seamlessly drops away into the ocean beyond. The tall palms offer contrast and perspective on this architectural feat. And you’ll be in great company if you want to strut this season’s Vilebrequins.
Amanwella: The Gallery
Yonder Insight
If you are a seafood fiend, you’ll love the beach restaurant’s barbecued langoustines lightly drizzled with olive oil and a smattering of garlic.
On your doorstep
Let your inner yogi shine through and join the 7am yoga class at the beach pavilion. The crashing waves, cool sea breeze and expert tuition make this a yoga session like no other.
