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Tintagel
PRICE: Punchy but doesn’t blow the budget
Tintagel Colombo is the most exclusive address in Sri Lanka’s capital. The former residence of the world’s first female prime minister oozes elegance, opulence and style. It is now the leading Colombo boutique hotel and you’ll quickly realise why. A sensational mix of classic deco Sri Lankan architecture, liberally dressed in dark mood colours, and discrete service make these digs some of the sexiest in the Indian subcontinent.
From the moment you step into the old mansion that is the Tintagel hotel, you will be aware that this is something special. Walk through the door and the dimly lit bar is on the right, the small lounge area in front of the reception with deep sofas, driftwood tables and tall marble columns hide the staircase to heaven… the Tintagel’s ten suites.
They are splendidly appointed but all different, with everything from four-poster beds draped in ephemeral netting to oversized armchairs. Then there are the sumptuous bathrooms with huge rain showers, separate baths and towels which envelop you with fluffiness. No wonder recent guests at the Tintagel Sri Lanka include the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.
Food at the Tintagel hotel Colombo is every bit as perfect as you would expect. There are overtones of nouvelle cuisine – pared back minimalist presentation and tiny portion sizes – but the flavours pack a punch.
Breakfast in the courtyard of the Tintagel hotel surrounded by lush wall climbers is reason enough to get out of bed.
And rather surprisingly for such a small property, there is an excellent lap pool in the inner courtyard, a small but well appointed gym and even a spa room.
Tintagel: The Gallery
Yonder Insight
As guests at Tintagel Colombo, you’ll get a 10 per cent discount at the Paradise Road flagship store opposite the old parliament building.
On your doorstep
The streets surrounding Rosmead Place are the Mayfair of Colombo. Or take an easy 10-minute stroll to Victoria park where middle class Sri Lankan gather with their kids, to exercise and hang out.
