Amanwella

Coconut palms sway above the golden sand beach at Amanwella, a tranquil hideaway set in a cove on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The seaside town of Tangalle is nearby and Sri Lanka’s diverse flora and fauna is ready to be explored. Within reach of Colombo airport (CMB), the resort is located near a heliport and Dickwella Airport (DIW), where local flights land. Amanwella’s clean, serene lines frame the untamed landscape. Inspired by modernist Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, Suites are constructed from stone, timber and clay tiles of local origin. Each opens onto a private plunge pool.

Open to the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka’s spectacular south coast, Amanwella’s contemporary suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors on both sides. One side opens to an entrance courtyard with a 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. Offering uninterrupted views of the sea, beach and coconut grove, the 100-square-metre Ocean Suites feature plunge pools in private courtyards and expansive terraces. Offering lofty views of the sea and treetops, the 100-square-metre Suites feature plunge pools in private courtyards and expansive terraces.

Looking out over the palm-fringed bay from its elevated platforms and terrace, the Restaurant serves up the catch of the day, delivered fresh from the local fishermen’s boats. Locally-grown produce also features prominently on the menu at both the Restaurant and Beach Club, including curry leaves and spices, which the chef finds at nearby markets and uses to create colourful, well-balanced dishes that can be tailored to guests’ tastes. Massages and body treatments, using all natural products, are available in the privacy of your Suite. Amanwella’s secluded jungle setting creates an intimate, celebratory atmosphere suited to occasions large and small.

Amanwella’s golden-sand beach is ideal for activities ranging from surfing and snorkelling to whale watching and fishing in the Indian Ocean. Nearby, the jungled coast is home to the cultural riches of southern Sri Lanka and infinite natural treasures such as those at the Yala and Udawalawe national parks, where leopards and elephants can be seen, as well as the Bundala Bird Sanctuary.